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This website uses cookies. By continuing to use this website you are giving consent to cookies being used. Visit our Privacy and Cookie PolicyLA CRESCENT, Minn.  A northeast Iowa driver was involved in a three-vehicle collision Saturday night.

The Minnesota State Patrol says it happened in Houston County around 9:30 pm near the intersection of Highway 16 and Kistler Drive. Sara Jane Rucker, 31 of Onalaska, Wisconsin, was northbound on Highway 16, crossed the center line, and hit the southbound vehicles driven by Victoria Fay Grosz, 25 of Cresco, IA, and Ashley Kay Oldenburg, 25 of La Crescent.

Grosz and a passenger, Dylan Christopher Keen, 23 of Cottage Grove, MN, suffered non-life threatening injuries and were taken to Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse, WI, for treatment. Rucker and Oldenburg were not hurt. The State Patrol says all three drivers were wearing their seat belts.

La Crescent police and fire, Caledonia police, and Tri State Ambulance assisted at the scene.CHARLES CITY, Iowa  A plea deal has been reached in a 2017 summer drug bust.

Jamison Tyler Zirbel, 20 of Charles City, was arrested in July 2017 after authorities said a search of his home turned up scales, baggies, and 67.36 grams of marijuana.

Zirbel was charged with possession with intent to deliver but pleaded guilty to possession of marijuana-2nd offense, an aggravated misdemeanor.

Hes been sentenced to 30 days in jail and must get a substance abuse evaluation and follow all treatment recommendations.GARNER, Iowa  A second man has now been arrested in connection with a string of storage unit burglaries in Hancock County.

Christopher Michael Hoeft, 39 of Forest City, was picked up on Thursday. Hes charged with eight counts of 3rd degree burglary, four counts of 2nd degree theft, and two counts of 3rd degree theft.



Kristen Nelson Kristen Nelson

Kristen Nelson of Forest City was arrested on July 24 and accused of repeatedly burglarizing a storage facility in the 100 block of Industrial Drive in Forest City between January 10 and January 21. Law enforcement says thousands of dollars worth of items were stolen.

Investigators say Nelson initially said Hoeft was involved in the burglaries but later took that statement back through an attorney. However, court document state that when Hoeft was interviewed about these crimes on Wednesday, he admitted he was involved and had some of the items stolen from the storage units.

Nelson is charged with nine counts of 3rd degree burglary, one count of attempted 3rd degree burglary, four counts of 2nd degree theft, and two counts of 3rd degree theft.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.Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, left, and South Korean President Moon Jae-in proclaim the "Panmumjom Declaration" at the inter-Korean border village of Panmumjom in Paju, Gyeonggi Province, on Apr. 27, 2018. Korea Times file





Site logo of Uriminzokkiri, North Korea's state-controlled site that provides news from Central News Agency.

North Korean media on Sunday pointed a finger at Seoul for what Pyongyang claims is lack of progress on realizing the Panmunjom Declaration reached by leaders of the two nations in April.



The declaration was adopted on April 27 during a historic summit between South Korean President Moon Jae-in and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. The two sides agreed to work toward lasting peace and economic cooperation.



Uriminzokkiri, a North Korean external propaganda website, argued that South Korea should work harder to improve inter-Korean relations in light of the spirit of the Panmunjom Declaration, arguing that Seoul's "blind obedience" to the U.S.-led sanctions was a big hurdle to fulfilling the declaration.



"It's been more than 100 days since the April 27 Panmunjom Declaration was adopted, but no fruit or progress has been produced. It is because of America's sanctions and the South's unfair participation in them," it argued.





By Kim Hyun-bin





Park Neung-hoo, Health MinisterBy Yi Whan-woo





Cuckoo rice cookerThree local firms imported North Korean coal



The Moon Jae-in government has laid bare the truth about allegations that North Korea exported coal to South Korea after transshipping it at Russian ports. Three domestic trading firms brought in 35,038 tons of North Korean coal and pig iron worth 6.6 billion won ($5.86 million) in seven shipments between April and October last year.



On Friday, the Korea Customs Service (KCS) announced the finding -- an inconvenient truth that the liberal administration had to accept belatedly after 10 months of investigation. Yet the discovery is unlikely to end the controversy over how the authorities failed to detect and prevent the coal and pig iron imports. Conservative opposition parties are calling for a National Assembly probe into the government's poor handling of the cases.



The announcement shows the South's disdain for U.N. Security Council Resolution 2371 that was adopted in August 2017 to punish the North for test-firing intercontinental ballistic missiles. The resolution bans the Stalinist country from exporting coal, iron ore and other minerals.



For starters, South Korea will inevitably lose its credibility in enforcing international sanctions. It should not have created any loophole in the sanctions regime. Regrettably, the South has emerged as a violator of the U.N. resolution. This might have negative implications for the denuclearization and peace process on the peninsula.



The Seoul government should not dismiss the violations as only a simple scheme in which the domestic firms sought to profit from the illegal imports. The KCS referred the firms to the prosecutors' office for allegedly forging customs documents and bringing in North Korean materials. They were found to have transshipped the materials at Kholmsk and other Russian ports, and to have manipulated documents to look as if the imports originated from Russia.



Those firms should be subject to harsh punishment for violating the U.S.-led sanctions. But the government should not close the case by holding only the importers culpable. It must try to find why it took such a long time for the KCS to conclude its investigation after getting tips from the U.S. last October.



The authorities need to take punitive action against anyone found responsible for the failure to detect the illegal activities as well as the delay in the probe.



On Saturday, the government decided to ban four vessels, which carried the coal and pig iron to the South, from visiting the country's ports. The ships are the Jin Long and the Shining Rich both registered with Belize, the Sierra Leone-flagged Rich Glory and the Panama-registered Sky Angel.



It is necessary to prepare for possible independent U.S. sanctions, or a secondary boycott against some domestic entities, including Korea South-East Power Co., which purchased and used the coal to generate power. Seoul officials are playing down the possibility of such punishment, but they should not be too optimistic because the U.S. Congress might try to take some action.



Most of all, the Moon administration should go all-out to prevent such a breach of U.N. sanctions happening again. It should not spare any effort to restore its credibility in faithfully implementing them. It also needs to step up cooperation with the U.S. and other allies in achieving the shared goal of denuclearizing the North.













By Tong Kim





It is hard to know exactly what caused the current stalemate on the issue of North Korea's denuclearization. Yet, from sporadic reports, we can reconstruct what has happened since the dramatic U.S.-DPRK summit in June, when North Korean leader Kim Jong-un reaffirmed his commitment to complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.



U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton revealed last week that Kim had told President Moon Jae-in that he would finish "complete denuclearization within a year." Apparently on this assumption, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo unsuccessfully pressed the North for a list of Pyongyang's nuclear arsenal and a timeline for its denuclearization.



An American news website called Vox reported on Aug. 8 that Pompeo presented a proposal on his July visit to Pyongyang that North Korea would turn over 60 to 70 percent of its nuclear bombs to the U.S. or to a third country, as a starting point within six to eight months. If true, it should have been unthinkable to expect the North to accept such a proposal. The North rejected it, calling it later a "gangster-like" demand. Vox reported the U.S. has repeated the same demand to no avail.



Since Pompeo's unsuccessful rush on denuclearization, President Donald Trump has said, "no rush," "no speed limit," and "no time limit," but we will go through the process of denuclearization. Trump thanked Kim for returning 55 sets of remains of U.S. soldiers killed during the Korean War.



Pyongyang says some officials of the Trump administration are acting on the contrary to the upbeat spirit and vague substance of the Singapore agreement reached by the top leaders of the two countries. In reaction to recent U.S. moves on strengthening sanctions with no clear prospect of a declaration to end the war in Korea, the North Koreans are attempting to create a divide between the U.S. president and his hardliner advisers.



It appears as if Trump plays a good cop and his advisers a bad cop. Yet, there is no evidence that this division of the roles is based on a coherent policy. The DPRK's foreign ministry spokesman issued a special statement on Aug. 9 denouncing the pressure of sanctions as a policy that has failed in the past. The statement confirmed the Vox report that Pompeo "insisted on unilateral denuclearization first during the high-level talks in July."



The North Koreans are now saying, "We have done our part enough for the time being  stopping nuclear and missile tests, destroying the nuclear test sites, returning the remains of the war dead, and undertaking the dismantling of the missile test ground." From Pyongyang's media outputs, "Now, it's the U.S.'s turn to respond by issuing a declaration ending the war."



Pyongyang claims, and Washington does not deny, that Trump agreed in Singapore to end the war, as the two Koreas did in Panmunjeom in April. Implementation of this agreement may contribute to creating a new atmosphere of building trust required for undertaking the next step in the denuclearization process.



There is no short cut to denuclearization, no better peaceful ways than going through a phased but assured and verifiable process. Washington should study and prepare what concessions it should offer for positive actions that the North will be willing to make at the different phases of denuclearization. The idea of denuclearization first, rewards later, would not work because the North will never accept it.



Negotiation is not making a unilateral demand from either side. Proposals can be made or rejected. Counter-proposals can be presented to see if the differences can be narrowed for possible adoption on each step of negotiation. It is not clear at this point what Trump will decide about North Korea. But it is clear that the policy pursued by his advisers is not working.



The good news is that neither side is giving up its hope to improve mutual relations and realize a nuclear-free North Korea. Inter-Korean relations seem to be proceeding constructively. The two sides are holding high-level talks at Panmunjeom on Aug. 13 to discuss the next North-South summit and to check on the implementation of the April 27 declaration. Moon and Kim agreed on ambitious objectives, including complete denuclearization, ending the state of war and building a durable peace regime, as well as promoting economic cooperation for co-prosperity.



In the meantime, peace continues as long as talks are under way. Protracted peace is better than tension and instability.





Tong Kim (tong.kim8@yahoo.com) is a Washington correspondent and columnist for The Korea Times. He is also a fellow at the Institute of Corean-American Studies.

The Juvenile Court at Eastern Court building. Photo from South China Morning Post



By Alvin Lum



We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on!

Go to formKendallville, IN (46755)

Today

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Tonight

A steady rain this evening. Showers continuing overnight. Low 47F. Winds NNE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80%.Dear Liz: I am in my mid-80s and in declining health. I want to advise my beneficiaries about possible taxation on the sale of my home after I expire. I bought the place in 1995 for $152,000. It now has a market value of about $400,000. The issue is whether that gain is taxable upon the sale after my death. I also have a $57,000 long-term capital loss carry-forward in my income taxes, which is being written off at a rate of $3,000 each year.

Answer: The gain in your homes value wont be taxable at your death. Instead, the home will get whats known as a step up in basis. That means its new value for tax purposes will be its market value when you die. So if its worth $400,000 when you die and your heirs sell it for $400,000, no capital gains taxes will be owed on the sale.

The news isnt so good for your capital loss, however. Any unused carryover expires at your death and cant be transferred to your estate.

As you know, capital losses  losses on investments or assets that you sell  can be used to offset capital gains and reduce your tax bill. If your losses exceed your gains, you can offset up to $3,000 of ordinary income each year. Any capital loss remaining after that can be used the next year in the same way: first to offset capital gains, then to offset up to $3,000 of ordinary income.

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Often when taxpayers have such a loss, theyre encouraged to sell investments that have increased in value to help use up the loss faster, but you should talk to your tax pro and estate planning attorney to see if that makes sense in your case.

Auto dealers must abide by credit check limits

Dear Liz: I have loans and have paid my credit cards in full for over 30 years. My FICO score is 829. I dont really care as I dont plan to borrow in the future. I check my score and reports occasionally to check for a possible error or scam. Other than this, is there any reason at all that I should care?

I did notice a car dealership checked my score when recently I submitted a down payment check to order a car for which I would pay in full. I dont believe they would refuse to sell me the car for cash if I had a lousy credit score, so they probably wanted some measure of reassurance about whether I have a lifestyle that could afford completing the deal.

Answer: You have many FICO scores, not just one, but if any one of them is 829, then the rest of them are probably pretty good, too.

Credit scores are used for more than borrowing decisions. In most states (but not California), insurance companies can use credit information to set premiums. Cellphone companies, landlords and utilities use them as well.

Car dealerships, however, arent supposed to pull your credit scores without your permission. Thats a violation of the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act.

If the dealership got your permission by telling you a credit check was necessary for a down payment (or an all-cash deal, for that matter), then it misled you.

To prevent money laundering, dealerships are required to ask for identification and a Social Security or Tax ID number from buyers who are purchasing a car for more than $10,000 in cash. Thats it.

But some dealers pretend the anti-terrorism Patriot Act requires them to check your credit when you pay cash, which is nonsense. Typically, dealerships run credit checks to see if they can make an extra buck by financing the deal. Those checks are coded as hard inquiries that can damage peoples credit scores. (Thats in contrast to what happens when you check your own credit, which creates soft inquiries that dont affect scores.)

Your scores are high, so the credit check probably didnt ding them much. But the dealership was accessing information about you that it didnt need to have. Plus, the more outfits that have your credit information, the greater your risk of identity theft.

If you didnt give your OK, you could file a Fair Credit Reporting Act lawsuit to collect up to $1,000 from the dealership. If you did give your permission, strongly consider withholding it the next time if youre not interested in financing your vehicle.

Liz Weston, certified financial planner, is a personal finance columnist for NerdWallet. Questions may be sent to her at 3940 Laurel Canyon, No. 238, Studio City, CA 91604, or by using the Contact form at asklizweston.com. Distributed by No More Red Inc.Saudi Arabias sovereign wealth fund is in talks that could see it becoming a significant investor in Tesla as part of Elon Musks plan to take the electric car maker private, according to people with knowledge of the funds plans.

The Public Investment Fund, which has built up a stake just shy of 5% in Tesla in recent months, is exploring how it can be involved in the potential deal, said the people, who asked not to be identified talking about the matter. Discussions began before the controversial Aug. 7 tweet by Musk, who is Teslas co-founder and chief executive officer, saying he was weighing a plan to take the company private.

The Public Investment Fund sees its investment in Tesla as a strategic way for the worlds biggest crude producer to hedge against oil, the people said. The Saudi fund hasnt made any firm decisions on whether to increase its stake, or by how much, but talks are ongoing, they said. It wasnt immediately clear how much the fund would invest in Tesla.

Musks tweet stunned investors, with many raising questions about his claim that funding for the venture had been secured. While the entrepreneur owns 20% of Tesla, more than $60 billion would be needed to buy the business from public shareholders.

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The Public Investment Fund and Tesla didnt respond to requests for comment.

Wall Street is awash with speculation on who might team up with Musk to do a deal. Musk and his advisors are seeking a wide pool of investors to back a potential take-private of the automaker to avoid concentrating ownership among a few new large holders, according to people familiar with the matter. Musk has said he still expects to own about 20% of Tesla after any transaction, and that he hopes all shareholders will remain owners of a private company.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which has been gathering information about Teslas public pronouncements on manufacturing goals and sales targets, is intensifying its scrutiny of the companys public statements in the wake of Musks tweet, people familiar with the matter have said.

Discussions over taking Tesla private have failed before. Musk and SoftBank Groups Masayoshi Son held talks last year that touched on taking Tesla private, two people with knowledge of the discussions have said. The discussions failed to progress due to disagreements over ownership. The Public Investment Fund is also a major backer of SoftBanks Vision Fund.

Reuters reported on Aug. 11 that the Public Investment Fund has shown no interest so far in financing Musks proposed deal.

The Saudi wealth funds stake in the company is valued at about $2 billion. The government is planning to turn the fund into a $2-trillion powerhouse to help diversify the kingdoms oil-dependent economy.Hello! Im Mark Olsen. Welcome to another edition of your regular field guide to a world of Only Good Movies.

Dennis Hoppers 1971 film, The Last Movie, is as much a chronicle of its own creation as anything else. Though it was long thought of as a legendary career wipeout for Hopper following the epochal success of Easy Rider, it can now be seen as a monumental inflection point between the idealism of the 1960s and the disillusionment of the 1970s. It is a wild incantation at the beginning of the big bummer.

A new 4K restoration from the original camera negative and sound elements will play at the American Cinematheques Egyptian Theatre on Thursday. Actress Illeana Douglas will be there with original cast members. The film is playing as part of Hopper series that also includes Apocalypse Now, Blue Velvet and Rivers Edge.

This week, the Los Angeles Times will have two free screenings and Q&A events. On Monday well have Isabel Coixets The Bookshop with a special guest, actress Emily Mortimer. On Thursday, well show Skate Kitchen followed by a talk with writer-director Crystal Moselle. For info and updates, go to events.latimes.com.

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John David Washington, right, and Adam Driver star in Spike Lees BlacKkKlansman. (David Lee / Focus Features)

BlacKkKlansman

Ever since its premiere this year at the Cannes Film Festival, Spike Lees BlacKkKlansman has been one of the most talked-about, most anticipated movies of the year. Directed by and co-written by Lee and produced by Jordan Peele, the movie is the true story of how Ron Stallworth (played by John David Washington), the first black police officer in Colorado Springs, Colo., hatched a scheme to infiltrate the KKK with the help of a white colleague (played by Adam Driver). The film is a period action buddy-cop comedy and a searing take on bigotry and hatred that is directly in line with themes that appear throughout Lees career.

In The Times, Kenneth Turan wrote that with his new film, Lee is not only still on fire but has found a story that allows him to be as excited and involved as he was when it all began. And all that experience allows Lee to be as skilled a filmmaker as he is a committed polemicist, an artist as well as a provocateur who doesnt want us to get too comfortable even as we are entertained.

The Times Sonaiya Kelley interviewed Laura Harrier, who plays a student leader in the film who becomes romantically involved with Washingtons Stallworth. On working with Lee, Harrier said, At first, it was definitely intimidating and really surreal to just be on set. But once you get to know him, and he gets to know you, hes really nurturing as a director. I felt really comfortable. Hes collaborative too; everyones ideas are welcome.

The Times Amy Kaufman spoke to both Washington and the real-life Stallworth for a story that will be publishing soon.

In the New York Times, A.O. Scott wrote, BlacKkKlansman is a furious, funny, blunt and brilliant confrontation with the truth. Its an alarm clock ringing in the midst of a historical nightmare, and also a symphony, the rare piece of political popular art that works in all three dimensions.

At Film Comment, Teo Bugbee explored the meaning of Lees decision to conclude the film with images of the hateful violence from one year ago in Charlottesville, Va., by saying, Were BlacKkKlansman only to include the 1979 story, it would still be a major achievement for Lee. But in the films coda, the director adds a grace note that reframes everything that came before it, giving one last insight into why it matters that this story about the Klan, the police, and racism in America should be told through a contemporary lens.

At RogerEbert.com, Odie Henderson wrote, This is not only one of the years best films but one of Lees best as well. Juggling the somber and the hilarious, the sacred and the profane, the tragedy and the triumph, the director is firing on all cylinders here. BlacKkKlansman is a true conversation starter, and probably a conversation ender as well.

Jon M. Chu, center, director of the film Crazy Rich Asians, poses with lead actors Henry Golding and Constance Wu, right, at the Beverly Wilshire hotel on Aug. 5. (Mel Melcon / Los Angeles Times)

Crazy Rich Asians

Based on the novel by Kevin Kwan and directed by Jon M. Chu, Crazy Rich Asians is a fizzy, glamorous romantic comedy about a young woman (Constance Wu) who discovers that her fiance (Henry Golding) is impossibly wealthy when they go to visit his family in Singapore. The movie is also the first contemporary story from a major Hollywood studio in 25 years centered on an all-Asian cast.

Reviewing the film for The Times, Justin Chang wrote that the film, is many things: a tour de force of lifestyle pornography; a slick, enjoyable divertissement; a surprisingly trenchant study of class and cultural difference. Most of all, its a concerted effort by a long-neglected Hollywood minority to storm the big-studio citadel and possibly even beat it at its own game.

The Times Jen Yamato spoke to Chu, Kwan and much of the films cast about the importance of the project and what it means to them.

In a separate story, Yamato also looked at what a single movie like Crazy Rich Asians can mean within the larger landscape of Hollywood.

One cannot represent the whole, Wu said. I feel for the people who keep hearing that this is the movement for Asian Americans and feel left behind, because there isnt even a reference to somebody who looks or feels like them. Thats why were making this movie  so that other people make movies that reflect them.

At Vulture, Emily Yoshida digs into the movies examination of wealth and privilege, noting The film is less about their romance and more about the breadth of experience between old money in the old country and those whove scraped by for a piece of the American dream and been forever changed by it. The stakes of Rachel and Nick weathering the Crazy Rich storm and ending up together is more about reconciling those experiences than about True Love.

Chloe Grace Moretz in a scene from The Miseducation of Cameron Post. (Jeong Park / FilmRise)

The Miseducation of Cameron Post

Winner of the grand jury prize at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, The Miseducation of Cameron Post is a gently comedic drama set in the early 90s about a teenage girl (Chloe Grace Moretz) who is sent to a gay conversion therapy camp called Gods Promise. Directed and co-written by Desiree Akhavan, the film has a strong cast that also includes Sasha Lane, Forrest Goodluck, John Gallagher Jr. and Jennifer Ehle.

Reviewing for The Times, Glenn Whipp wrote a sincere, gentle coming-of-age story about first love, friendship and, yes, hope At Sundance, Akhavan introduced the movie saying she hoped to make a queer John Hughes comedy. On that count, she most certainly succeeded.

I spoke to Akhavan and Moretz for a story about the film and its reception since Sundance. On winning the grand jury prize, Akhavan said, Its a lot of weight off my shoulders, actually. You worry, especially in the current climate for films, its such an oversaturated market that you make something and its a drop in an ocean.

At Time, Stephanie Zacharek said the film doesnt feel like a period piece. You stop thinking of the Gods Promise detainees as misunderstood gay kids and more as misunderstood kids, period: Most of them feel pretty comfortable in their own skin; its the cloistered world around them that fails to accept them as they are.

Email me if you have questions, comments or suggestions, and follow me on Twitter @IndieFocus.Working a Saturday shift in the stuffy Immigration and Naturalization Service office in downtown Los Angeles in the 1970s, Carl Shusterman came across a rap sheet.

A man recently sworn in as a United States citizen had failed to disclose on his naturalization application that he had been arrested, but not convicted, in California on rape and theft charges.

Shusterman, then a naturalization attorney, embarked on a months-long effort to do something that rarely happened: strip someone of their American citizenship.

We had to look it up to find out how to do this, he said. Wed never even heard of it.

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Forty years later, denaturalization  a complex process once primarily reserved for Nazi war criminals and human rights violators  is on the rise under the Trump administration.

A United States Citizenship and Immigration Services team in Los Angeles has been reviewing more than 2,500 naturalization files for possible denaturalization, focusing on identity fraud and willful misrepresentation. More than 100 cases have been referred to the Department of Justice for possible action.

Were receiving cases where [Immigration and Customs Enforcement] believes there is fraud, where our systems have identified that individuals used more than one identity, sometimes more than two or three identities, said Dan Renaud, the associate director for field operations at the citizenship agency. Those are the cases were pursuing.

The move comes at a time when Trump and top advisors have made it clear that they want to dramatically reduce immigration, both illegal and legal.

The administration granted fewer visas and accepted fewer refugees in 2017 than in previous years.

Recently, the federal government moved to block victims of gang violence and domestic abuse from claiming asylum. White House senior advisor Stephen Miller  an immigration hawk  is pushing a policy that could make it more difficult for those who have received public benefits, including Obamacare, to become citizens or green card holders, according to multiple news outlets.

Shusterman, now a private immigration attorney in L.A., said hes concerned denaturalization could be used as another tool to achieve the presidents goals.

I think theyll  find people with very minor transgressions, he said, and theyll take away their citizenship.

Dozens of U.S. mayors, including L.A.s Eric Garcetti, signed a letter sent to the citizenship agencys director in late July, criticizing a backlog in naturalization applications and the agencys commitment of resources to stripping citizenship from naturalized Americans.

The new measure to investigate thousands of cases from almost 30 years ago, under the pretext of the incredibly minimal problem of fraud in citizenship applications, instead of managing resources in a manner that processes the backlogs before them, suggests that the agency is more interested in following an aggressive political agenda rather than its own mission, the letter stated.

Attorney Carl Shusterman in his Los Angeles office. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

But Mark Krikorian, executive director of the Center for Immigration Studies, which supports tighter controls, said denaturalization, like deportation, is an essential tool to use against those who break the rules.

Its for people who are fraudsters, liars, he said. Weve been lax about this for a long time, and this unit thats been developed is really just a question of taking the law seriously.

From 2009 to 2016, an average of 16 civil denaturalization cases were filed each year, Department of Justice data show. Last year, more than 25 cases were filed. Through mid-July of this year, the Justice Department has filed 20 more.

Separately, ICE has a pending budget request for $207.6 million to hire 300 agents to help root out citizenship fraud, as well as to complement work site enforcement, visa overstay investigations, forensic document examination, outreach programs and other activities, according to the agency.

The stage for increasing cases of denaturalization was set during the waning days of the Obama administration.

In September 2016, a report released by the inspector general for the Department of Homeland Security showed that 315,000 old fingerprint records for immigrants who either had criminal convictions or deportation orders against them had not been uploaded into a database used to check identities.

It turned out that because of incomplete fingerprint records, citizenship had been granted to at least 858 people who had been ordered deported or removed under another identity. USCIS began looking into cases.

John Sandweg, who headed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement under Obama, said that when it came to denaturalization, officers considered it on a case-by-case basis, looking at the seriousness of the offense and then deciding if it made sense to dedicate the resources.

It was looked at more in that context  lets look for serious felons who may have duped the system because we didnt digitize fingerprints yet. Not so much  lets just find people where theres eligibilities to denaturalize because we want to try to reduce the ranks of naturalized U.S. citizens.

Even during the communist scare of McCarthy era, citizenship revocation was so rare that often the cases made the news.

The constant surveillance of communists in this country is a 24-hour, seven-days-a-week, 52-weeks-a-year job, President Eisenhower declared in 1954, according to a Los Angeles Times article headlined: Eisenhower cites U.S. war on reds.

The government in 1981 took citizenship away from Feodor Fedorenko, who had worked as a guard at a death camp in German-occupied Poland, fled to the U.S. and illegally obtained citizenship by omitting references to his Nazi service. After he was denaturalized, he was deported to the Soviet Union and executed as a war criminal.

Its always taken expertise and finesse to bring those cases to court and successfully finish, said Bruce J. Einhorn, former litigation chief for Justice Departments Office of Special Investigations. I think an office like this, in theory, could do a great deal of good, depending also on their exercise of prosecutorial discretion.

Citizenship and Immigration Services began training officers last year on how to review cases and on the burden of proof necessary to revoke a persons citizenship. About a dozen people are in the L.A. unit  a number expected to rise to about 85 with the addition of support, analyst and administrative staff.

The case of Baljinder Singh, of India, is among those the agency referred to Justice officials.

Nearly three decades ago, Singh arrived in San Francisco from India without any travel documents or proof of identity, claiming his name was Davinder Singh. He was placed in exclusion proceedings but failed to show up for an immigration court hearing and was ordered deported.

He later filed an asylum application under his true name but withdrew it after he married a U.S. citizen who filed a visa petition on his behalf, according to the Justice Department. He became a citizen on July 28, 2006.

In January, a federal district judge revoked Singhs citizenship.

I think that if individuals saw these cases and really took time to understand the length to which some of these individuals went to fraudulently obtain immigration status, they too would want us to pursue these cases, Renaud said.

Einhorn said that what many view as the Trump administrations anti-immigration agenda makes it hard to see denaturalization and the citizenship agencys role in it in a neutral way.

The immigration law and the civil rights community are understandably going to be very suspicious of an office like this in the age of Trump, he said. The question will be: Is this office simply trying to apply the law in a bad way or in an unsound way just to effectuate the extremist views of the president? Or is it in fact going to be a professional group of people who are going after serious offenders of the naturalization law?

brittny.mejia@latimes.com

For more California news, follow @brittny_mejiaA number of San Diego city and county agencies worked together Sunday to recover the body of a 12-year-old girl who presumably drowned after falling from a boat into San Vicente Reservoir late Saturday afternoon.

Police officials said the girl was in the bow of a vessel that was towing people on a tube when those individuals fell into the water about 6 p.m. The boat slowed down and the girl went over the side and into the water in front of the boat.

Investigators suspect the vessel continued to move, possibly running her over, police Lt. Bryan Brecht said. She was wearing a life jacket, but it was later found in the water.

A search was immediately launched until night fell.

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On Sunday, the driver of the boat helped crews narrow their search zone, and divers and lifeguards focused their efforts in an area of about 300 to 400 yards.

The divers, who stayed in the water 23 minutes, went down to about 120 feet, said Monica Munoz, a spokeswoman for the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department. Sonar technology was also used.

San Vicente Reservoir was closed Sunday while crews worked.

andrew.dyer@sduniontribune.com

UPDATES:

4:05 p.m.: This article was updated with new information from San Diego police.

2:15 p.m. This article was updated with new information from San Diego lifeguard officials.

This article was originally posted at 11:15 a.m.They arrived early, eagerly awaiting something that had eluded them for years: keys to a home of their own.

Carla McCue and her husband, Lawrence  a 75-year-old Marine Corps veteran  lived for years first in a motor home and then in their beat-up Jeep Grand Cherokee. Their story, like so many other homeless veterans and homeless senior citizens, was one of financial deprivation, health struggles and the inability to find a stable and sustainable living arrangement.

It all culminated this year, when Carla retired from her job and the couple moved from the neighborhood near Los Angeles International Airport that was close to her job to the parking lot of the Department of Veterans Affairs West Los Angeles campus. With the help of a caseworker, they began the process to receive housing and waited for months, only to learn that their application for the apartment had been rejected.

The Los Angeles Times recently detailed the McCues story of hardship, and the response was swift. Days after the story was published, Antoinette Monts, a case manager from the People Concern, a social services agency, received a call from her boss who had a simple message: Lets help the McCues get a home.

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Monts quickly reached out to the couple, did an intake interview and helped them get a housing voucher through a different program that had previously helped them. In about a week, Monts set the McCues up in a one-bedroom apartment in the complex next to the one from which they had been rejected.

Carla McCue, 62, raises her arms after moving into her new apartment on Aug. 9, 2018. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

On Thursday, the McCues moved into their new home.

This is their day, Monts said, as new arrivals waited in the community room to sign their leases and get their keys. They should be excited.

Lawrence purchased new white-leather Stacy Adams shoes for the occasion, and Carla bought new earrings. They drove two cars to the new apartment  their beat-up Jeep and a 2004 blue Ford Expedition gifted to them by a fellow veteran who read their story. The McCues hope to refurbish the Jeep and donate it to another veteran.

Pat Cohen, founder of Safe Parking L.A., has been helping the McCues keep track of the goodwill coming their way. Cohen, whose organization allows homeless people to sleep in their vehicles without worrying about being arrested, says she sees people like the McCues all the time.

Most of our veterans are older in the lot, and they are really amazing, considering the hardship they go through, she said.

There are only 12 spots on the VA campus, but Cohen expects that number to jump to 50 soon. If she can raise more money, shell open more lots around the city.

As the couple waited in the new building, Carla could barely contain her excitement, fidgeting and planning what needed to get done. She asked her husband if he needed his oxygen machine and kept an eye on their dog Oreo, who sat between her legs. At one point, she asked if they could move in that day. The answer was yes.

We are just stoked, so thrilled, she said.

Eventually, the property manager took them to their third-floor unit for a quick inspection before they signed the lease. A broad smile overtook Carlas face when she saw the boxes of cutlery and plates on the table. Then she saw her new bedroom and immediately flopped down on the mattress. Oreo jumped on the couch and began rubbing himself against the pillows, acclimating to his new home. And Lawrence moved from his scooter to a chair, quietly watching the scene.

Its our little slice of heaven, he said.

Then they went downstairs to sign the lease, and the apartment, which will cost roughly 30% of their income of about $1,700, was theirs.

The McCues now have a place to call home.

The McCues in their apartment on Aug. 9, 2018. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

benjamin.oreskes@latimes.com

@boreskesFor years, James Petersons secrets were safe in the courtrooms of Los Angeles.

The L.A. County sheriffs deputy, who trawled a stretch of the 5 Freeway for drug traffickers, often testified in the state court system about his arrests. No one knew to ask about his troubled past.

Then one of Petersons cases landed in federal court.

Prosecutors in the U.S. attorneys office delved into the deputys personnel records for black marks that could call his credibility into question. They found records alleging dishonesty and other misconduct, and they turned the information over to attorneys defending two accused drug traffickers, according to court documents reviewed by The Times.

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The case  along with several others built on Petersons work  collapsed, and the deputy became a pariah in federal court.

The different treatment of Petersons past in state and federal courts wasnt happenstance. It was just one example of how special privacy protections granted to Californias police officers prevent defendants, prosecutors and jurors from learning about information that could undermine an officers credibility. Those special privacy protections dont apply in federal court.

California is the only state in the nation that blocks prosecutors from directly accessing the personnel files of law enforcement witnesses. Defendants who want to find out about an officers past must navigate a Byzantine legal process that limits disclosures about previous wrongdoing or blocks the release of information altogether.

A Times review of recent state court cases in which Peterson was a potential witness found that only two of 170 defendants facing felony charges tried to obtain information about past complaints against him  and, even in those cases, the defense came away with little to show for it. Most of the others accepted plea deals offered by prosecutors before Peterson was called to testify.

The findings, defense attorneys and some legal experts say, highlight how Californias laws risk denying defendants fair trials by preventing them from learning about evidence that could lead judges and jurors to doubt an officers truthfulness.

A state appellate court ruled last year that Sheriff Jim McDonnell cannot tell prosecutors the names of about 300 deputies disciplined in the past for dishonesty, tampering with evidence or similar misconduct. Al Seib / Los Angeles Times

The stakes are far too high to play a shell game with this kind of material, said Jonathan Abel, who studied law enforcement privacy laws across the country as a fellow at the Stanford Constitutional Law Center. Innocent people will serve time in prison  because police misconduct evidence is not disclosed.

But Gregory Palmer, an attorney who advises police departments across the state, defended the privacy laws, arguing that they do allow defendants to learn about a law enforcement witness past if there is legitimate reason. Without the laws, he said, defense attorneys would be able to malign a police witness regardless of whether it was relevant to their case.

As long as California recognizes a police officers right to privacy, we have to have a way to balance that right against a defendants right to a fair trial, said Palmer, who specializes in instructing law enforcement agencies on how to oppose legal attempts to open an officers disciplinary file. Californias law does that.

A Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department spokeswoman said she could not discuss Petersons disciplinary history, citing state law. The deputy also declined to comment.

California lawmakers this month are weighing a proposal that would allow the public to see some law enforcement misconduct records. Disclosure of internal discipline would mark a dramatic change.

The states confidentiality laws are so strict that an appellate court ruled last year that L.A. County Sheriff Jim McDonnell could not give prosecutors the names of about 300 deputies disciplined for dishonesty, tampering with evidence or similar misconduct.

The Times identified dozens of deputies on a 2014 version of the Sheriffs Departments list of problem officers. Among them was a deputy convicted of filing a false report and another suspended after he pulled over a stranger and received oral sex from her in his patrol car. Both kept their jobs.

The California Supreme Court has agreed to consider McDonnells appeal in the case. But even a decision in the sheriffs favor would not come close to matching the disclosure rules in federal court.

There, prosecutors are required to give the defense any material from officer personnel files that reflects upon the truthfulness or possible bias of potential witnesses, according to Department of Justice policy. And if they are unsure whether something should be handed over, the policy instructs prosecutors to err on the side of disclosure.

The rules are designed to ensure federal prosecutors meet their so-called Brady obligations, named after the U.S. Supreme Courts landmark 1963 decision in Brady vs. Maryland. In it, the justices ruled that the Constitution requires prosecutors to tell defendants about evidence that might be favorable to them. In later cases, the high court expanded the obligation to include information about government witnesses that calls into question their credibility.

But under Californias Pitchess laws, named after a former L.A. County sheriff who fought to keep police disciplinary records sealed, local prosecutors are barred from looking at that information. Instead, the burden falls on defendants to persuade judges to examine officers files.

Swetha Kannan / Los Angeles Times

To do so, they must make a specific allegation that a police officer lied about an arrest, used excessive force or committed some other serious breach. The judge then looks at the officers records in private for complaints about similar conduct and determines whether it should be disclosed to the defense.

The law does not allow complaints of misconduct more than five years old to be disclosed. If a judge decides something should be turned over, typically only basic information is released, such as the names and contact information of people who previously accused the officer.

In a San Fernando courtroom last year, a state court judge, David Walgren, went through Petersons file at the request of a defense lawyer.

L.A. County Superior Court Judge David Walgren is seen during a murder trial in 2014. Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times

Peterson had pulled over Ramon Mercado and his father in November 2016 and discovered a gun and some drug residue inside a hidden compartment in the trunk of the car. In his arrest report, Peterson wrote that Mercado had said the car belonged to him and gave Peterson permission to search it.

Mercado, however, insisted he was innocent, telling his attorney that he had borrowed the car from a friend and had known nothing about the hidden compartment and gun. Mercado wrote in a sworn statement to the judge that he never told Peterson he owned the vehicle.

The cars owner corroborated the story, telling an investigator that he lent the vehicle to Mercado and did not mention the secret compartment, defense attorney Jeffrey Vallens said.

Later, Vallens received a tip from a prosecutor in the case that there might be something incriminating in Petersons past. Vallens asked the judge to review Petersons file, arguing that if the deputy had lied about Mercado, he may have been caught lying about other things.

Judge Walgren limited his search to episodes of dishonesty and did not consider any incident more than five years old, court records show. Vallens said he received only the name and phone number of a prosecutor in the U.S. attorneys office in Los Angeles. The judge ordered him not to disclose the name to anyone else.

Vallens then had to figure out what the prosecutor knew about Peterson.

He called the federal prosecutor and left a message. A different prosecutor called back but declined to say anything about Peterson, telling Vallens he needed to submit a formal request in writing.

Its very frustrating, Vallens said. My client arguably was illegally arrested and prosecuted, but when I tried to investigate Peterson, I hit a wall.

Ramon Mercado was pulled over on the 5 Freeway and arrested by L.A. County Sheriffs Deputy James Peterson. He said the deputy lied in his arrest report. Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times

The case, he said, highlighted why he rarely tries to extract information about cops through Californias Pitchess laws. He estimated that he attempts to get material on officers in less than 5% of his cases.

It is a common sentiment among defense attorneys, who say the little information they get from judges often leads to dead ends as people cannot be found or refuse to cooperate. The process can take weeks or longer to play out. The pace and marginal payoff, several defense attorneys said, are strong deterrents to filing such motions  especially if a client is being held in jail and could be freed by taking a plea deal.

Californias Supreme Court has concluded that the Pitchess laws do not violate the constitutional rights guaranteed to defendants under the Brady decision.

On the same day in May 2017 that Walgren was reviewing Petersons records in his state court chambers, U.S. District Judge Christina A. Snyder held a far different hearing about Petersons record in her downtown L.A. courtroom.

I want to make clear that if theres something that hasnt been produced, then I expect it to be produced. U.S. District Judge Christina A. Snyder

Attorneys for Cesar Castillo Flores and Manuel Moreno, whom Peterson had caught with nearly 9 pounds of methamphetamine and a gun, were arguing that the drugs and weapon should be thrown out as evidence. Peterson, they contended, had violated the mens constitutional rights by stopping and searching their car without justification.

At that hearing, and a similar one a few weeks earlier, Snyder questioned whether the government had provided the defense all the information about Peterson that the law required.

Saying Petersons credibility was on the line, the federal judge told prosecutors, I want to make clear that if theres something that hasnt been produced, then I expect it to be produced.

Because federal prosecutors must adhere strictly to the rules set out by the Brady case and are not beholden to a states police privacy laws, they can review an officers personnel records.

In a nod to Californias strict rules, the judge barred any public discussion of Petersons disciplinary history. But at the hearing and in a written order, she referenced two incidents in Petersons file that had resulted in punishment  one from 1998 and another in 2002.

In one of the incidents, Snyder said, Peterson had been suspended for breaking a department rule and being less than truthful in some way. The judge did not describe the other instance of misconduct, but defense attorneys claimed in a court filing that Peterson had been found lying to his supervisors regarding the  misconduct in both episodes.

A prosecutor assured Snyder the government had handed over the records from the two incidents. The government also disclosed documents from an investigation into whether Peterson had lied about a 2014 traffic stop.

In that case, Peterson wrote a report saying he obtained consent from a driver to search a car that turned out to be carrying 3 pounds of methamphetamine. But after the deputy twice amended his account amid questions over how he got permission for the search from the Spanish-speaking motorist, the prosecutor asked the judge to dismiss the charges, according to law enforcement records reviewed by The Times.

Afterward, Sheriffs Department officials opened an investigation into whether Peterson had committed perjury, district attorney records show. The district attorneys office decided against charging Peterson, concluding that there was no evidence he knowingly falsified his report and that the deputys accounts were not necessarily inconsistent. A Sheriffs Department spokeswoman said appropriate administrative action was taken after the investigation, but she did not say what discipline, if any, was imposed.

After disclosing the personnel reports about Peterson, federal prosecutors in the case against Flores and Moreno opted not to call the deputy to testify about the traffic stop. Instead, they argued that footage from the camera in Petersons car showed he had been justified in stopping and searching the mens vehicle.

Snyder disagreed, saying the video was inconclusive. She tossed out the drugs and gun as evidence, and prosecutors dismissed the case.

The government dismissed seven of the 10 federal cases based on Petersons arrests and has not filed a new case involving the deputy in more than a year.

Shortly after Petersons last two federal cases were dismissed in October, Sheriffs Department officials removed him from his specialized assignment patrolling the 5 Freeway for drug traffickers. He was reassigned to a post ticketing truck drivers on city streets in Santa Clarita.

Back in state court, however, Petersons past behavior remained largely unknown.

Attorney Jeffrey Vallens said that within a few days of the publication of a Times report on Deputy James Peterson last year, a county prosecutor called with an offer to reduce charges against a client of his who was arrested by Peterson. Mel Melcon / Los Angeles Times

The case against Mercado  the man Peterson arrested after finding the secret compartment  had yet to go to trial when The Times published a story last year detailing some of the federal drug cases that had fallen apart due to questions about the deputys credibility.

Vallens, Mercados attorney, said that within a few days of the article, a county prosecutor called with an offer to reduce the gun and drug trafficking charges against his client to a minor traffic violation that came with no jail time. The deal was made because of an insufficiency of evidence, a spokeswoman for the district attorneys office told The Times.

Mercado, who works as a plumber in Stockton, insists he was innocent and said he remains angry that he was ever prosecuted.

I could have lost everything, for what? Nothing, the 24-year-old said.

His attorney never learned why, after seeking information on Peterson, he was given the name of a prosecutor in the U.S. attorneys office. But he said one thing was clear: Had the case gone to trial, Vallens would have known little, if anything, about the deputys disciplinary history.

Those are the rules, he said.

Times staff writer Ruben Vives contributed to this report.

joel.rubin@latimes.com

Twitter: @joelrubinOn Thursday, Arthur Lien  who uses the handle @courtartist  tweeted, Melinda James was an impressive witness today.

Lien was spot-on. James, a mortgage assistant at Citizens Bank, had just given testimony in the bank and tax fraud trial of Paul Manafort, President Trumps former campaign manager. While being questioned by Assistant U.S. Atty. Uzo Asonye, she told jurors that Manafort had lied to her about two of his properties. He claimed his daughter lived in one; really, he used Airbnb to rent it out. He said he owned another place outright. In fact, he had a mortgage on it.

Summaries of this testimony appeared far and wide in reporting on the highly publicized trial. Analysts suggested that it showed the jury the relentlessness of Manaforts lies.

But Lien is not a legal analyst. Hes the courtroom artist assigned to represent the Manafort trial because cameras are banned.

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Lets get one thing out of the way: Art Lien has a treasure of a name. If Manafort collected art as he collected ostrich jackets and over-leveraged real estate, wouldnt there be an art lien on it by now?

But Liens name is not his only virtue. A courtroom artist since 1976, Lien is now best known for his work in the Supreme Court, where cameras are likewise forbidden. Hes at the top of his courtroom-artist game. And hes doing a public service.

Lien repeatedly captures Manafort at his least self-conscious. Hes not squirming, which would imply he believes that he has a chance of escape.

Liens sensuous and slightly wry pictures accompany almost every story about the trial, and they are plastered all over cable news. His choice of whom to depict, and how to depict them, helps frame the news. His commitment to painting seeming peripheral characters, including court employees, is moving. Its only during camera-free trials like this one that consumers of media are treated to  and must rely on  so much traditional visual art.

To render a portrait of James on the stand, Lien had to study her closely.

Courtroom artists take about 10 minutes with their sketches, which eventually get brought to life, sometimes quite vividly, with watercolors. Lien uses a graphite pencil, a tiny notepad and a modest box of watercolors. Others, such as Christine Cornell, who sketches celebrity trials, use pastels.

Liens vignette of James shows her on the stand being questioned by Asonye, while a bunch of men sit by, including the eccentric judge, T.S. Ellis III, who earlier in the day apologized to member of the prosecution for snapping at them in front of the jury. Liens image is striking. Ellis head is bowed over some papers, almost penitent. Asonyes arm is outstretched, pointing his fingers at James. The jaccuse posture is odd since shes a government witness.

Prosecutor Uzo Asonye questions CitizensBank loan officer Melinda James (Art Lien)

But James looks impressive indeed. She appears in an almost perfect profile. Its just her head and left shoulder; the rest of her body is submerged in the witness box. She has a steady, open gaze and a stunning square jaw. She is speaking. A white binder with her name in capital letters on it obscures a bare shoulder and bare upper arm; we can see a single black spaghetti strap.

The men in the foreground wear dark suits. If Liens sketch were a work of imagination and not reportage, the contrast between their armor and James exposure might be played as a power imbalance. Thats not how it comes across here.

Instead, James looks as though shes dressed entirely for her comfort, and indifferent to everyone elses. Its August. Weve been told that the governments most notorious witness, Manaforts former running buddy Rick Gates, perspired the week away. Even Asonye, in Liens picture, shines with sweat. James is plainly not making their mistake.

Her short hair is combed hard away from her face, with not a strand touching her face. This is the holy grail of August hairstyles.

Looking closer, because the sketch invites it: James eyes are maybe a tiny bit fatigued. Her graceful physicality, that jaw, her bearing  this is coming easily to her, but it also seems as though shes telling a simple, honest story that shes told a dozen times before, and shes getting tired of repeating it.

Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute from L.A. Times Opinion 

Ever since 2015, when the freshly leaked Panama Papers exposed decades of global fraud and tax evasion by the rich, Ive wanted a hard look at the greedy high-flyers who slip the knot of sanctions and taxes. Smug Manafort, greedy high-flyer par excellence, is accused of disguising more than $30 million in income earned overseas, funneling it through offshore accounts, lying to banks and evading taxes.

If Im honest, Ive wanted to see him squirm.

Photographs and film of Manafort can be misleading. Hes posey. He seems to whistle in the dark during his walks into and out of the courtroom, and his uncanny chestnut hair and expensively architected teeth make his face look unnatural, illegible. He needs to be seen in an unguarded moment, with an artists eye.

So how does Lien depict the leading man?

On Wednesday, Lien rendered Manafort, too, in almost a perfect profile. But if James chin is held high, Manaforts is in his hands, and seemingly sunk down into the pad of pink fat below it. Theres no other way to put it, and you can see for yourself (@courtartist or courtartist.com, though the website may not have all the latest images). James jawline is brave and clean. Manaforts seems broken, weak.

Surely Manaforts keeps his chin up sometimes. But Lien repeatedly captures Manafort at his least self-conscious. Hes not squirming, which would imply he believes that he has a chance of escape.

Unaware that hes under the sweet and only gently ironic eye of Art Lien, Manafort seems resigned. Almost defeated.

Twitter: @page88

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinionand FacebookThose of us who live in canyons of kindling are jumpy these days. California is in flames, the stories are ghastly, the pictures astonishing and terrifying. Cooking smells are alarming, as are helicopters and sirens. Nights are the worst. What if were sleeping when the fire starts? What if my husbands snoring and the fan on high drown out the warnings and alarms? What if there are no warnings and alarms?

The first time we evacuated, in 2009, our canyon walls were popping and cracking like a campfire. I dont know why I was surprised that big fires sounded like big little fires. I remember standing in my living room, in a numb emergency-calm-trance-panic looking at my everything. I knew I was supposed to take the computer and insurance documents and deeds and maybe birth certificates and what else? Passports? All that paperwork was theoretically grabbable, in a readily accessible envelope marked URGENT & ESSENTIAL GROWN-UP STUFF!

But what about the paintings by my friends and dead relatives? The kids first drawings and their stories? The Mothers Day cards they gave me? The soup tureen I inherited from my grandma? My favorite coffee cup?

I knew I was supposed to take the computer and insurance documents and deeds and maybe birth certificates... But what about the paintings by my friends?

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I called my kids and asked what three of their possessions theyd most like to see again: Musical instruments, and Diana, the sacred cow my daughter still sleeps with every night. I didnt need to be told about Diana. Shed hopped into the car with my first armload of photo albums. I had also mashed the guinea pig and the bunny into one small cage and put the turtle in a pot for easy transport. Then our dog, Sweetie, and I drove to meet the rest of the family at a friends house.

Sleeping there that night, all of us and our menagerie, I wondered what we do if all was lost in a roar and a flash. How long could we couch surf? What would we miss the most? The only upside  all that simplifying and tidying and downsizing I was supposed to be doing would have been handled. But what if the one or two artifacts left in the char were precisely the things I had meant to throw out?

We were lucky: We returned to an unharmed home, put the photo albums back on the shelf, released the beasts, replaced the essential grownup stuff, and felt a little silly for having been so scared.

Since then weve had the occasional quickly extinguished brush fire or car fire in our canyon. Weve smelled the smoke stench and cleaned up the ash-fall from infernos in neighboring foothills. One fire blocked our canyon exit and for several hours the only way out was on foot, but it was contained before we had to load our pets into our pockets and the essential envelope into a backpack.

A recent house guest from Minnesota flicked his cigarette butt to the ground and was surprised when I freaked out. Folks from rainy, snowy, wet places dont know  yet  from red flag warnings. They think fires are hard to light. A one- match campfire is an accomplishment where they live. Not so once for those of us whove gathered in a hospital parking lot to witness the spectacular destruction of acres of neighboring hillsides.

Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute from L.A. Times Opinion 

It will happen again, and what will I take? When I was a kid, I would have saved my Barbie. A bit older, my Carole King, James Taylor, Laura Nyro, Marvin Gaye and Joan Baez albums. Later still, my journals, notebooks, and love letters. In 09 I recall surveying my living room for what I feared was the last time and deciding: photos.

But between then and now I have dismantled my parents and my mother-in-laws homes, sorting and scattering their possessions. In doing so, I encountered several photo albums full of unidentified strangers. What was my responsibility to them? Were they to take up room in my car next time I had to flee? Would my children or my childrens children one day wish Id saved something from the flames other than photos of people theyd never met or barely remembered? What did my grandparents carry away from their shtetl when they escaped the pogroms?

Now, as this fire season rages, besides the old URGENT & ESSENTIAL envelope, it may come down to the pets, my antidepressants, eyeglasses, lip balm, phone and charger and library card. All else will or wont be intact in memory. And in the end, doesnt anything saved from a fire stand for all that is lost?

Amy Koss writes often for Opinion.

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinionand FacebookI have never met Avi Katz, the illustrator and editorial cartoonist fired by the Jerusalem Report in late July for a politically controversial drawing. In fact, Ive never even spoken to Katz on the phone. Yet we have the intimate relationship that grows out of artistic partnership. For more than 10 years, once every four weeks, I have published a piece of short fiction in the Report, and Katz has drawn the accompanying illustrations.

When Katz was fired, I quit. I notified the Report that I no longer wish to be associated with the magazine.

As a translator and author who has lived in Israel for nearly 40 years, my monthly Necessary Stories column were a welcome change in my routine and a chance to tell the kinds of stories that used to be the backbone of the popular magazines I grew up with in America. I never missed a deadline; my 132nd story appears in the current issue, with a picture by Katz that adds, I believe, considerably to the experience of those who read it.

As is so common these days, I first learned of Katzs dismissal not from him or from the editor of the Report, but on Facebook. I fired off an email to the editor asking if it was true. He said that he regretted the action but that hed been placed under heavy pressure from management  management meaning the publishers of the daily Jerusalem Post, which bought out the once-independent biweekly Report a decade and a half ago, promising that it would remain editorially independent.

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The magazine and its publishers could have stood behind their cartoonist and his freedom to make fun of the high and powerful... Instead, they buckled.

The decision to terminate Katzs freelance work for the magazine was the result, the editor wrote, of a series of complaints from readers about Katzs cartoons.

Katz is a cartoonist with strong opinions and a wild imagination. Many of his editorial cartoons have played off tropes from popular culture, famous works of art and great literature. While we agree on many of the issues facing Israel today, I differ with him on some. Sometimes I dont get the point of a given cartoon, and sometimes I think he veers in the direction of bad taste, especially when it comes to issues of religion. (Im an observant Jew, hes proudly secular). Nearly every one of his cartoons is provocative and guaranteed to get some people angry. Thats how satire works  it forces people to stop short and take a second look at deeply held beliefs and assumptions. And that can be very unpleasant.

To the credit of editors of the Report over the years, the magazine has printed his cartoons and let the chips fall where they may. Until the most recent issue, that is.

The offending cartoon went viral. In it, members of the Israeli parliament celebrate the passage of the so-called Jewish nation-state bill, which codifies Israels Jewish nature in the countrys equivalent of a constitution. (Among other things, it demotes Arabic from its status as an official language to that of a special language.) Many Israelis  myself included  believe the law to be discriminatory and a gratuitous slap by the Jewish state against its minority citizens. Katz depicted the legislators as the pigs from George Orwells Animal Farm and, for a caption, borrowed that storys most famous line: All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others.

(Avi Katz)

Predictably, the legislators were apoplectic, as were many of their supporters. They charged that the cartoon was anti-Semitic, on the grounds that anti-Semitic cartoonists have at times depicted Jews as pigs.

The magazine and its publishers could have stood behind their cartoonist and his freedom to make fun of the high and powerful and to slaughter sacred cows (or pigs). They could have responded to the attackers by suggesting they write a letter to the editor. Instead, they buckled and announced that there would be no more cartoons from Katz.

Thats the wrong message to send. In this moment, powerful politicians in Israel, Europe and the United States are seeking to suppress criticism of their actions not through government censorship but through delegitimization. Any expression of opinion or even report of fact that they dont like gets labeled as anti-Semitic, fake news or treason. (And lets not forget, from the other end of the political spectrum: micro-aggression). Its no longer kosher to get people mad by making fun of their beliefs  but thats exactly what good satire does, and good satire is essential to pluralist democratic societies.

So I quit in support of Avi Katz. Maybe, now that we have less to do, well have a chance to meet.

Haim Watzmans most recent book is Necessary Stories. He translates the work of many of Israels leading writers and scholars into English. His website, with an archive of all his stories, is southjerusalem.com.

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion or FacebookIt was one year ago this weekend that hundreds of neo-Nazis and white supremacists descended on Charlottesville, Va., for the now-infamous Unite the Right rally. We all know what happened next. Counter-protesters showed up to condemn their hateful message and the rally descended into violence, leading to the senseless death of Heather Heyer, a 32-year-old activist and paralegal. Afterward, unbelievably, President Trump placed blame on both sides.

Many prominent Republicans denounced the presidents remarks. There is no moral relativism when it comes to neo-Nazis, House Speaker Paul D. Ryan said at the time. Rep. Mark Meadows, who chairs the House Freedom Caucus, also issued a rebuke: We must stand united in opposition to this hate in no uncertain terms. Sen. Cory Gardner, R-Colo., addressed Trump directly: Mr. President, we must call evil by its name.

But in the year since Charlottesville, Republicans in Congress have increasingly turned a blind eye to the presidents racial animus. They also appear to have lost interest in a host of urgent policy issues related to racial inequity: enforcing the Voting Rights Act, reforming the criminal justice system, finding a real fix on immigration.

Meanwhile, their partys candidates exhibit ever more blatant racism. Seth Grossman, a Republican nominee for Congress in New Jersey, has called the idea of diversity a bunch of crap. Corey Stewart, the Senate nominee from Virginia, flaunts his ties to an organizer of the Charlottesville rally and displays the Confederate flag at his campaign events. Arthur Jones and John Fitzgerald, House nominees in Illinois and California, respectively, are proud Holocaust deniers.

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Trump, in turn, is embracing candidates like Grossman, who has stated that he believes minorities, immigrants, young women and elites are waging a war on white men. And as Trump slowly turns the GOP into a white identity party, congressional Republicans continue to do nothing.

Their cowardice stands in stark contrast to Republican leadership during the racial turmoil of the 1960s. Without Republican support, there would have been no Civil Rights Act of 1964, no Voting Rights Act of 1965 and no Fair Housing Act of 1968.

America has lost a Republican Party that was willing to work on racial division.

Its almost as if Republicans have forgotten the central role they played in civil rights history. Heres a reminder.

To pass the Civil Rights Act, President Johnson needed the support of Republicans in the Senate. He knew that Democrats from the South, strong segregationists, could block the bill. So he asked top Democrats in Congress to reach out to influential Republicans. The bill cant pass unless you get Dirksen, Johnson told Senate Majority Whip Humbert Humphrey, referring to Senate Minority Leader Everett Dirksen.

Dirksen came from a conservative Illinois town where few blacks lived, but he admired the legacy of his partys founder, Abraham Lincoln. He agreed to pull in Republican support for the bill.

Dirksen saw to it that the phrase pattern or practice was inserted before discrimination in the text of the bill, ensuring that Washington could not shut down private businesses unless they were systematically engaging in discrimination. He also added language to guarantee that when allegations of employment discrimination came up, state and local governments had time to take action before the Justice Department stepped in.

The strategy worked. Dirksen got enough Republicans to invoke cloture, and the Civil Rights Act was passed. Republican support proved equally critical to the Voting Rights Act and the Fair Housing Act.

In the decades that followed, Republicans made it clear that there was no place in their party for racists, even as white segregationists fled the Democratic Party.

When, in 1981, members of the Ku Klux Klan lynched a black teen named Michael Donald in Alabama, President Reagan condemned them in a speech to the NAACP, saying they perverted notions of what America is about.

In 1996, Bob Dole, then the Republican presidential nominee, told his convention crowd that any bigots in the audience should be aware: The exits, which are clearly marked, are for you to walk out of.

Even in recent years, some Republicans have led bipartisan efforts to address racial inequality. Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, introduced legislation in 2015 to reform the criminal justice system, which imprisons black men at alarmingly disproportionate rates, by reducing mandatory minimum sentences for nonviolent crimes. When President Obama said he would sign the bill if it came to him within the year, Grassley joked that he was not used to the president calling for the rapid passage of my bills.

Although both parties backed the legislation, the election of Trump and other factors got in the way. Grassley re-introduced the bill in 2017. After Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions called it a grave error, Grassley responded that he was incensed by the remark. Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., also criticized Sessions, explaining that mandatory minimum sentences have unfairly and disproportionately incarcerated a generation of minorities.

Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute from L.A. Times Opinion 

The party is continuing to hold back well-meaning individuals within it. Paul and another Republican senator, James Lankford of Oklahoma, joined three Democrats  Dick Durbin, Bob Casey, Cory Booker  to re-introduce a bill last year that would eliminate juvenile solitary confinement. But Republicans in Congress have left the bill for dead.

And Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner, a Republican from Wisconsin, joined Rep. John Conyers, a Democrat from Michigan, to re-introduce the Voting Rights Amendment bill. The legislation would update the formula used to determine which states need to get federal permission before changing registration and voting practices. The bill has gone nowhere.

During the final stretch of his presidential campaign, Trump posed a condescending question to African Americans: By voting for him, What the hell do you have to lose?

We now know a very important part of the answer.

America has lost a Republican Party that was willing to work on racial division. We have lost a GOP that, less than a decade ago, was capable of issuing a report calling for more outreach to black, Latino and Asian voters. We have lost a party that once knew how to reject racial bigotry and heinous shows of force by white supremacists.

According to a poll conducted in June by Quinnipiac University, 55% of Americans agree that President Trump has emboldened people who hold racist beliefs to express those beliefs publicly. Another recent poll found that 64% of Americans think racism is a major problem, and that 45% think race relations are getting worse.

This country was once capable of uniting against racism. If we want that America to return, we will need the efforts of both parties.

Juan Williams is a columnist for the Hill and a co-host of Fox News Channels The Five. He is the author of a forthcoming book, What the Hell Do You Have to Lose: Trumps War on Civil Rights.

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion or FacebookTo the editor: Enough already! The continuedwhining about the beaches at Hollister Ranch is detracting from the more pertinent issue of access to readily accessible beaches.

It is simply not reasonable to expect the public to pass from a public road through a manned gate, onto a private road for several miles that leads to a beach area with no parking, no restrooms, no facilities, no security and no lifeguards. And that entrance gate is about a 45-minute drive from Santa Barbara, the nearest large city.

To all those upset about the California Coastal Commissions deal with the Hollister Ranch property owners, save your ammunition for a fight that you can win, one that will allow not just a few hardy beachgoers but many, many people to enjoy a day on the sand and in the surf.

Let us get our priorities in order and start with fights that can be won.

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Hugh Smart, Santa Barbara

..

To the editor: With our current Coastal Commission in the grip of the very rich, more beaches will belong to the wealthy property owners who block public access.

If the sea level increases, as predicted, those same homeowners will come to the taxpayers to save the land beneath their homes. Blame will fall on everything other than their own greedy deeds.

The Hollister Ranch owners are only the tip of the iceberg.

Gary Maxwell, Rancho Mirage

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and FacebookTo the editor: Its no surprise that ALADS, the union representing Los Angeles County Sheriffs deputies, has endorsed retired Lt. Alex Villanueva over incumbent Jim McDonnell.

McDonnell was made responsible for changing the culture of the largest sheriffs department in the country when he was elected in 2014. Change can result in resistance from the old guard.

ALADS complains that deputy morale is low under McDonnell. Thats not surprising since he has focused on creating a new, more transparent and accountable culture that requires deputies to get out of their comfort zone. He is in the process of implementing needed changes that increase accountability and public confidence in the department.

I dont know Villanueva and am in no position to suggest he was in part responsible for the problems in the department. But I do know McDonnell, as we worked together in the Los Angeles Police Department. He is an intelligent, ethical leader who wants nothing more than to make the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department the best it can be.

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He has my support and endorsement for reelection.

Dan Watson, Glendale

The writer served as police chief in South Pasadena and Mammoth Lakes.

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and FacebookTo the editor: Vice President Mike Pence detailed a plan for the Trump administrations creation of a so-called space force, a new military branch that would be tasked with fighting adversaries in space and spreading American values beyond Earth.

Pence said that both Russia and China were building weapons that may pose a threat to U.S. satellites and targets on the ground. The idea of space being an emerging battleground strikes me as typical of President Trumps combative style. I see it as a way to change the subject from the continuing Russia probe.

I am a retired Air Force captain who worked on the Global Positioning System in its infancy. I know that the Air Force is more than capable of handling whatever may need to be done to protect and advance our position in space.

The expense of setting up a new department to perform this function amounts to wasted resources, and Congress should slap it down.

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Doug Tennant, Dana Point

..

To the editor: The Pentagon is reportedly creating a new command for fighting in space. Instead of this Star Wars fantasy, lets add a branch that directly serves us.

Imagine a national non-military branch, full of trained and skilled personnel who could jump right in to the never-ending emergencies in our country. Architects and construction specialists could plan and reinforce buildings to limit damage from natural disasters.

Experts could set up evacuation centers when needed. Emergency medical staff could manage triage facilities. Teachers could set up temporary classrooms. Firefighters would be ready to go where needed. Builders could work on reconstruction. Biologists could handle reforestation and wildlife management after disasters. Business experts could help people rebuild their financial lives. Police could help restore order.

Imagine if these skilled people had been ready and in place in New Orleans, Puerto Rico and now California.

Perhaps this branch could serve as a training ground for young adults just out of trade school or college, putting their new skills to use as they enter their careers. What a wonderful opportunity for individual service to our country doing work of national importance.

Margaret Davis, La Verne

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook.Newsoms budget proposes $3 million for Alzheimers research, brain task force By Melody Gutierrez Amyloid plaques, shown here in human brains, are a hallmark of Alzheimers disease. (UCLA School of Medicine) Gov. Gavin Newsom will call for the creation of a brain health task force and dedicate $3 million annually from the states general fund to Alzheimers disease research in the budget proposal he will release Thursday, a source close to the administration said. The money for Alzheimers research would target the new grants at understanding why the disease is more prevalent in women and people of color. Former California first lady and Alzheimers activist Maria Shriver pushed for the funding to be included in the state budget. Shriver said in a statement Wednesday that the funding would make California the first state to make understanding our brains a priority. The states former first lady, whose late father Sargent Shriver was diagnosed with Alzheimers, founded the Womens Alzheimers Movement, an advocacy group raising awareness about womens increased risk for developing the disease. In 2011, she wrote a comprehensive assessment on the disease, to which Newsom  then mayor of San Francisco  contributed a portion called What one city is doing. This is personal to me, just like it is to millions of California families, Shriver said. Alzheimers is one of the largest medical, social and economic crises in our state, and of our time. I am so proud that, once again, California is leading the way. Wiping out Alzheimers is going to require bold thinking, and there is no doubt in my mind that California is home to bold thinkers who can make this happen. Facebook

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Gov. Gavin Newsom orders reinvention of troubled California DMV By Patrick McGreevy A line of people stretches around the South L.A. location of a California Department of Motor Vehicles Office on Aug. 7. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times) Gov. Gavin Newsom on Wednesday ordered an overhaul of the California Department of Motor Vehicles, which has been plagued by hours-long wait times at field offices, computer crashes and voter registration errors involving tens of thousands of customers. Just a few days after taking office, Newsom appointed a top advisor to a new DMV Reinvention Strike Team to revamp the beleaguered agency over the next six months. By any metric, California DMV has been chronically mismanaged and failed in its fundamental mission to the state customers it serves and the state workers it employs, Newsom said in a statement, adding Its time for a reinvention. The governor appointed state Government Operations Agency Secretary Marybel Batjer to lead the strike team with a goal of modernizing the agency and enacting changes that improve customer satisfaction, employee performance and transparency. Newsom also ordered an accelerated review of initial findings of an ongoing audit ordered last year by Gov. Jerry Brown. The action was welcomed by lawmakers who have been critical of the DMV, including Assemblyman Vince Fong (R-Bakersfield). The egregious management failures of the DMV have been self-evident, which is why I have been calling for new leadership and a comprehensive independent audit of this troubled state agency over and over again as the problems grew significantly worse, Fong said. Last summer, Californians seeking new driver licenses complained of wait times of four to six hours at DMV offices, which the agency blamed partly on snafus caused by a rush of people trying to get Real IDs, a new identification card design required for airline passengers starting in late 2020. Delays were also blamed on computer crashes at DMV offices as the agency struggled to update its aging automation systems. The DMV also admitted that there were an estimated 23,000 errors as people either were unknowingly registered to vote or mistakes were made in their registration status as part of the states new motor voter program. The agency registered to vote as many as 1,500 people with legal U.S. residency but no citizenship. Last month, DMV Director Jean Shiomoto retired from the agency. Legislators were angered earlier this week when the DMV said it needed an additional $40 million to prevent the return of long lines at its field offices. In addition, the agency has been under fire for issuing driver licenses in the last year that do not comply with the federal Real ID standards requiring two forms of identification by applicants. Facebook

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California police unions are preparing to battle new transparency law in the courtroom By Maya Lau Just as a landmark police transparency law is going into effect, some California police agencies are shredding internal affairs documents and law enforcement unions are rushing to block the information from being released. The new law, which begins to unwind Californias strictest-in-the-nation protections over the secrecy of law enforcement records, opens to the public internal investigations of officer shootings and other major uses of force, along with confirmed cases of sexual assault and lying while on duty. But the lawsuits and records destruction, which began even before the law took effect Jan. 1, could tie up the release of information for months or years, and in some instances, prevent it from ever being disclosed. The fact that police unions are challenging this law is on some level not surprising, said Peter Bibring, director of police practices at the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California, one of the principal supporters of the new law. They have a long history of fighting tooth and nail against transparency. Read More Facebook

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Secretary of State Alex Padilla begins second term with challenge to ensure every Californian is counted By Jazmine Ulloa Secretary of State Alex Padilla takes the oath of office as his family stands by his side on Monday in Sacramento. (Jazmine Ulloa / Los Angeles Times) Secretary of State Alex Padilla was sworn in for a second term on Monday, saying he would continue the battle to protect the right to vote at a time when voter suppression efforts, online disinformation campaigns and interference from foreign adversaries have polarized the public and threatened to undermine trust in U.S. elections. I am doubling down on our fight here in Sacramento and in Washington, D.C., to defend our democracy, he said. Working on the front lines with so many of you, I know that our collective resolve has never been stronger. But the loudest applause came when Padilla promised to fight back against the Trump administrations changes to the U.S. census, saying he will ensure every Californian gets counted. Padilla, a former state senator and Los Angeles City Council member from the San Fernando Valley, led the cause for a new motor voter registration law in 2015, and a new system for online business registrations. But the programs have had experienced problems: More than 23,000 Californians were registered to vote incorrectly by the state DMV, the agency reported last year. On Monday, Padilla said he would continue to push back against false claims of voter fraud in California and pointed to the states voter turnout as proof that his office was involving more people in the democratic process, a promise he made when he was first sworn in four years ago. More than 12.7 million voters cast ballots in the Nov. 6 midterm election, representing roughly 65% of the states registered voters, the highest number of any midterm election since 1982, according to state certified results. I made that promise based on a shared belief that we are a stronger democracy and a better California when we hear all voices from all corners of California, and when those voices are not just heard but counted, Padilla said. Facebook

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Ricardo Lara, Californias first statewide officeholder to come out as gay, sworn in as insurance commissioner Ricardo Lara on the floor of the state Senate in 2016. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times) Ricardo Lara took the oath of office as California insurance commissioner on Monday, pledging action to boost healthcare coverage and combat climate change. Lara, a Democrat from Bell Gardens, is the first elected statewide officeholder in California who has come out as gay. He began his speech in downtown Sacramento by thanking LGBTQ leaders who came before him and celebrated the occasion. Today, because of you, weve shattered the pink ceiling, Lara said. In his inaugural speech, Lara announced the creation of an executive position in his office to address climate change. There is no other industry that has the necessary expertise to ensure that California is prepared to mitigate and reduce risk to our communities and our environment, Lara said. Our planet cant wait. Im ready, and I hope you are too. Lara served as a state legislator and in 2017 introduced a bill to create a single-payer healthcare system in the state. He promised to work with new Gov. Gavin Newsom to expand coverage across California. Lara was sworn in by retired U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker, who declared unconstitutional Californias Proposition 8 gay marriage ban. State Sen. President Pro Tem Toni Atkins (D-San Diego) was on hand for the ceremony along with multiple other state lawmakers. Facebook

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New California Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis says she will help expand access to universities in the state New Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, center, is shown in June talking with attendees at the Power to the Polls rally in Sacramento. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) More Californians should be given access to public universities, Eleni Kounalakis said as she took the oath of office Monday to become the states first woman elected lieutenant governor. Kounalakis was given the oath of office by Gov. Gavin Newsom, her predecessor in the job, who pledged they would work together. As lieutenant governor, Kounalakis serves on the University of California Board of Regents and the California State University Board of Trustees, she noted in a speech at her swearing-in ceremony at the main Sacramento Library. In that role, she said, she will be committed to expanding access to affordable public higher education here in our state. Its wise, its smart and it is the best way to address our rapidly changing digital economy. Kounalakis is former president of a development company founded by her father, Angelo Tsakopoulos, and served during the Obama administration as the U.S. ambassador to Hungary. In November, she won her first run for statewide office. Also attending the ceremony were House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm. Facebook

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California meets Dutch Newsom, who steals the show at his fathers inauguration By Taryn Luna Gov. Gavin Newsom gives his inaugural address while holding his youngest son, Dutch. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times) In the California political world, all eyes were on Gov. Gavin Newsom on Monday until his 2-year-old son stole the show. Dutch, the youngest of four children in the Newsom brood, climbed onstage in the middle of his fathers inaugural address in a tent outside the Capitol on Monday. The unplanned moment saw the 51-year-old governors big day interrupted by the toddler, bringing levity to the ceremony. Newsom was recounting Gov. Jerry Browns last inaugural speech and reference to the Sermon on the Mount, a biblical story about two men who built separate homes on sand and rock, when Dutch approached his father, a pacifier in his mouth and blanket in hand. Now more than ever we Californians know how much a house matters and children matter, Newsom said, improvising as he scooped the boy into his arms. The governor kissed Dutch on the cheek and held him for several minutes as he continued with the speech. This is exactly how it was scripted, Newsom joked. Newsom eventually put his child down and Dutch walked to the edge of the stage before retreating behind the podium to hide from his mother, First Lady Jennifer Siebel Newsom. The crowd roared. Siebel Newsom was able to briefly divert her son only for him to return to the stage minutes later. She grabbed him again and this time, the crying toddler did not reemerge. When fires strikes, when kids cry and the earth shakes, well be there for each other, Newsom said. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, who said the moment humanized Newsom, threw cold water on any theories that Dutchs cameo was planned. No, I know it was not, Garcetti said with a laugh after Newsoms speech concluded. I could see that look of absolute abject terror [on Newsoms face]. Weve all been there. Kids always think its about themselves and theyve proved it. California Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) agreed. I worked in early childhood education for 20 years and theres no way you can ever get a child to do anything when you want them to do it, Rendon said. Facebook

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Fiona Ma takes oath as Californias new treasurer By Liam Dillon State Treasurer Fiona Ma. Fiona Ma took the oath of office in Sacramento on Monday as the states 34th treasurer, promising to boost Californias economy. Ma previously served on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, in the state Assembly and on the California Board of Equalization. I want to thank everyone for entrusting me with this important job. I understand my role here as your state treasurer is to build that financial wall around California so that we will remain the fifth-largest economy, Ma said in brief remarks. That is my promise to you. California Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye administered the oath to Ma. Following the ceremony, Ma held an ice cream social for guests. On Wednesday, she will host a public event in San Francisco to celebrate her swearing-in. State Treasurer Fiona Ma takes the oath of office. (Liam Dillon / Los Angeles Times) Facebook

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Expectations are high for newly sworn-in state schools chief Tony Thurmond Tony Thurmond shakes hands with retired Alameda County Superior Court Judge Gordon Baranco after taking the oath of office. (Melody Gutierrez / Los Angeles Times) Tony Thurmond took the oath of office as Californias state superintendent of public schools on Monday, promising a labor-friendly agenda before the teachers, students and Democratic officials who filled an auditorium at McClatchy High School in Sacramento to watch him being sworn in. We cant close the achievement gap without a great teacher at the head of every class, Thurmond said Monday to applause. We have to make sure we provide quality compensation and support to our teachers and our classified staff and all the educators who support our kids. Thurmond, a Bay Area Democrat who served in the state Assembly, won a hotly contested and expensive race with the help of labor leaders against charter school executive Marshall Tuck. The race took several days to sort out after Tuck held an initial lead in early returns on election night before falling behind thereafter. Thurmond was sworn in Monday by retired Alameda County Superior Court Judge Gordon Baranco. He was joined on stage by labor rights leader Dolores Huerta and Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Paramount). Thurmonds former colleagues in the state Assembly took turns praising him and promising to be an ally in improving schools. Many said they expected Thurmond would be a strong leader focused on improving student outcomes. We know we are going to work hard to give you the money you need and the budget you need to fully fund education and our schools so we can put our money where our mouth is and make sure our children have everything they need, Assemblywoman Connie Leyva (D-Chino Hills) said. As state superintendent, Thurmond will oversee the education of 6.2 million students at 10,000 schools. Thurmond was a member of the West Contra Costa County School Board and a Richmond city councilman before he was elected to the state Assembly. Tony is the right man at the right time to fight the federal, Donald Trump, Betsy DeVos anti-child, anti-education, anti-civil and -human rights agenda, U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) said. Tony is going to do that for us. Facebook

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State Controller Betty Yee takes oath of office with call for more affordable housing and healthcare State Controller Betty Yee California Controller Betty Yee took the oath of office Monday for a second term, saying she still has work to do addressing problems that include a lack of affordability in housing, healthcare and higher education. A San Francisco native, Yee is the chief financial officer of California  the fifth-largest economy in the world  having first won election to the post in 2014 before winning reelection in November. No region is spared from the widening inequality and increased poverty that plague our state, fueled by the lack of affordable, stable housing, the cost of healthcare and transportation, limited educational opportunities, student loan debt, displacement caused by disasters and more, she said. Yee was administered the oath of office by California Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye at the Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento before an overflow crowd that included state Senate leader Toni Atkins (D-San Diego), state Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra and San Francisco Mayor London Breed. As a public official it is about governance that delivers results and stays accountable while upholding the underlying value of dignity for all, Yee said. Facebook

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California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra begins new term promising to fight Trump policies California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra ( (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press)) California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra on Monday took the oath of office for a new term, saying he would continue his role as a leading challenger to Trump administration actions that he believes are counter to the states interests. Becerra, a former 12-term congressman, has become a national opposition figure to Trump, having sued the federal government 45 times since he was appointed as the states first Latino attorney general in 2017. Weve been a little busy stopping the dysfunction and insanity in Washington, D.C., from infecting California, Becerra told an audience during a swearing-in ceremony at the California Museum in Sacramento. Whether its the criminals on our streets or the conman in the boardrooms or highest office of the land, Becerra said, the California Department of Justice, well, weve got your back. Becerra won his first statewide election as the states top cop in November, two years after he filled the post vacated when predecessor Kamala Harris was elected to the U.S. Senate. He has peppered the Trump administration with lawsuits challenging federal policies on healthcare, the U.S. census, the environment and immigration. Our state builds dreams, not walls, he said in a direct criticism of Trumps proposal to build a wall at the U.S.-Mexico border. Just last week, Becerra led a coalition of 17 Democratic attorneys general in announcing an appeal of a federal judge in Texas that ruled the Affordable Care Act unconstitutional. The ACA has been the law for nearly a decade and is the backbone of our healthcare system, Becerra said last week. This case impacts nearly every American  workers covered by employers, families, women, children, young adults and seniors  so we will lead the ACAs defense as long and far as it takes. Facebook

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California Democratic Party Vice Chairman Daraka Larimore-Hall announces bid to lead group By Christine Mai-Duc Daraka Larimore-Hall. (Dominic Parisi / Courtesy of Daraka Larimore-Hall) Daraka Larimore-Hall, a top official at the California Democratic Party, said Monday hes running to replace former chairman Eric Bauman, who resigned abruptly in November after being confronted with allegations of sexual misconduct. Larimore-Hall, a longtime state party activist and former chairman of the Democratic Party of Santa Barbara County, was one of the party leaders who urged Bauman to resign following the allegations. In an email to supporters announcing his bid, he urged both structural and cultural change at every level of our Party. He also repeated his call for a top-to-bottom investigation of the allegations, the party and its culture. In a Times investigation, 10 party activists and staff members said Bauman made crude sexual comments and engaged in unwanted touching and physical intimidation in professional settings. In order to be where we need to be for 2020, we have to confront the culture of abuse and fear that allowed someone to behave in such a vile way for so long, Larimore-Hall said in an interview. We cant brush it aside or think that our activists or our candidates or our donors are going to forget about this overnight. Larimore-Hall said his first priority would be to fully investigate the allegations and restore rank-and-file confidence in the partys leadership. The second would be to refocus the party on political priorities as the 2020 presidential election nears. The Bauman episode, Larimore-Hall said, threatens to derail the Democrats plans to help defeat President Trump and keep the seven congressional seats gained in the midterm elections. Its definitely a crisis, Larimore-Hall said. But the component parts  the energy, the enthusiasm, the volunteers, the infrastructure  its still there. We just need to direct it toward something. Larimore-Hall was elected vice chairman of the state party in February following Baumans razor-thin victory over Bay Area activist Kimberly Ellis. Ellis has announced another bid for the chairmanship and former state Senate leader Kevin de Leon is also mulling a run. The vote will take place at the partys May convention in San Francisco. Facebook

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Newsom will vow to seize this moment, and swipe at Trump in Monday inaugural address By Melanie Mason Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom and his family attend an Inauguration Family Event at the California Railroad Museum in Sacramento on Jan. 6. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times) Building on the theme of California exceptionalism that defined his campaign, Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom will depict the state as a guardian of progressive values and a counterweight to President Trump in his inaugural address Monday, according to excerpts of his prepared remarks. What we do today is even more consequential, because of whats happening in our country, read the excerpts obtained by The Times. Peoples lives, freedom, security, the water we drink, the air we breathe  they all hang in the balance. The country is watching us. The world is waiting on us. The future depends on us. And we will seize this moment. The speech casts Californias political stakes in a decidedly national scope, promising an agenda that will unify and be an example to the rest of the country. It contrasts the governing goals of Newsom, a Democrat, with that of Trump, the incoming governors perennial foil. We will offer an alternative to the corruption and incompetence in the White House, the excerpts say. Our government will be progressive, principled, and always on the side of the people. Newsom campaigned on an ambitious and wide-ranging platform, promising sweeping solutions on housing, healthcare, education and other issues that rank among Californians top concerns. In the weeks after his election, he struck a more muted tone, taking pains to emphasize his fiscal caution and need for patience in achieving those goals. The inaugural excerpts indicate a return to lofty pledges. While Newsom will vow to prepare for uncertain times ahead by building budgetary reserves and paying down debt, the prepared remarks quickly turn to a vow to be bold. Newsom has already floated several proposals for his first budget that carry significant price tags, including a nearly $2-billion plan to boost early childhood development for low-income families and a dramatic expansion of paid family leave from six weeks to six months. When asked for a preview of his inauguration speech during a news conference Sunday evening, Newsom predicted pundits would criticize his address as short on specifics. Well, of course, Im at an inaugural, Newsom said. But Ill be very detailed in the budget, a few days later. And then we will architect, in much more nuance and detail, in state of the state. I really see this as three opportunities  to communicate over the next few weeks our agenda, our vision for the state. Times staff writer Taryn Luna contributed to this report. Read More Facebook

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Newsom-hosted benefit concert raises nearly $5 million for wildfire victims By Taryn Luna Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom speaks at a concert to benefit wildfire victims at the Golden 1 Arena in Sacramento on Jan. 6. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times) On the eve of the gubernatorial inauguration, Californias political class rubbed elbows in Sacramento for a benefit concert hosted by Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom and headlined by the rapper Pitbull. Newsom told the crowd gathered at the Golden 1 Center on Sunday evening that the fundraiser brought in nearly $5 million for the California Wildfire Foundation, a 501(c)(3) that supports the families of fallen firefighters and communities affected by wildfires. You know, a lot of folks feel anxious about not just politics, but government, Newsom said on stage before introducing the rapper and activist Common. But those firefighters, they are the antidote to the fear and cynicism; they are the manifestation of why government matters and why you should care. Top sponsors, including Salesforce, Kaiser Permanente and other interest groups, paid up to $1 million each to support the cause and curry favor with the new administration. Nathan Click, a spokesman for Newsom, said organizers sold more than 7,000 tickets. Several state lawmakers attended the concert alongside Capitol staff, lobbyists and business types, who mingled on the floor of the arena and offstage in private VIP areas. The rock band X Ambassadors and a duo called the Cold Weather Sons from the town of Paradise, which was destroyed by fire in November, were among several performers who entertained the crowd during the four-hour event. The California Rises concert is the final in a series of festivities held Sunday to celebrate the inauguration of Californias 40th governor. Earlier in the day, Newsom attended a private brunch at Sacramentos Crocker Art Museum and his inaugural committee hosted a free party for families at the California State Railroad Museum at the Old Sacramento Waterfront. Newsoms inauguration is set to begin at 11 a.m. Monday on the steps of the Capitol. Facebook

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Inauguration fever hits Sacramento as Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom prepares to take office By Phil Willon Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom holds his son, Dutch, as he and his family attend an inaugural event at the at the state Railroad Museum Sunday. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times) Incoming Gov. Gavin Newsom doesnt officially take the oath of office until Monday, but the parties celebrating his inauguration were in full swing all day Sunday. Newsom and his family were mobbed by well-wishers at the California State Railroad Museum at the Old Sacramento Waterfront in the afternoon, where his inaugural committee hosted a free party for families. He just has charisma. Hes able to really connect with people, said Rosielyn Pulmano, an attorney from Elk Grove who came to see Newsom with her husband, two sons and her niece. I think he cares about working Californians and a lot of their issues. Newsom arrived with his wife, documentary filmmaker Jennifer Siebel Newsom, and their four young children, and the governor-elect spent a good deal of his time wading through crowds, taking selfies with supporters and signing autographs as music boomed in the background. As the family toured the inside of the museums locomotives and the bevy of exhibits, Newsoms two-year-old son, Dutch, was wide-eyed, impressed by all the train cars and seemingly a little overwhelmed by the crowd. Newsom said that for his son, all that was missing from the museum was Thomas the Train, popular fictional locomotive in childrens books and cartoons . If theres one thing I can contribute to Sacramento maybe its getting a Thomas the Train exhibit for the two years olds, Newsom joked when talking with reporters afterward. Newsom said he wanted to include such an event in his inaugural festivities to highlight families and children, whose wellbeing will be among the top priorities of his administration. Youll see that not only as a preamble to the inaugural and the budget that well be submitting next week, but I think itll be a big part of the administration, Newsom said. The museum event followed a private, high-dollar brunch at Sacramentos Crocker Art Museum. A steady rain failed to dissuade as many as 200 guests who sipped wine and dined on chicken and salmon while waiting for a photo with Californias new first couple. Seen at the event were representatives of some of the states most powerful political interests, among them organized labor, healthcare companies and tribal gaming interests. A few other high-profile guests attended, too, including Larry Baer, CEO of the San Francisco Giants, and Erika Jayne, a singer and cast member of the reality TV show The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Im excited to see someone like Gavin  young, vibrant  taking over the state and leading us into the future, Jayne said after attending the brunch with her husband, attorney Tom Girardi. Hes got a lot of great plans. Attendees said the event, which was closed to reporters and held under a tent in the museums outdoor atrium, did not include prepared remarks by Newsom. Among those seen leaving the event were representatives of AT&T, the California Medical Assn., Uber, Kaiser Permanente and the State Building and Construction Trades Council. A fundraising invitation obtained by The Times offered bundled tickets to all of the inauguration events, including those on Sunday and the Monday ceremony, ranging in price from $25,000 to $200,000. The money will be collected by a committee specifically organized to pay for Newsoms inaugural weekend. Sundays festivities are scheduled to end with a benefit concert headlined by Pitbull at the Golden 1 Center, home of the NBAs Sacramento Kings, to raise money for the victims of Californias recent deadly wildfires. Among the attendees at @GavinNewsoms pre-inaugural leadership brunch: Real Housewife of

Bev Hills @erikajayne. Im excited to see someone like Gavinyoung, vibranttaking over the state and leading us into the future. Hes got a lot of great plans. pic.twitter.com/561NHiy2XQ  Melanie Mason (@melmason) January 6, 2019 Facebook

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As Newsom inaugural events begin, he unveils more state budget promises on education and paid family leave Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom, seen here last April, will propose new state budget efforts on paid family leave and education subsidies. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) Californias incoming governor, who must send his first state budget plan to the Legislature this week, has already signaled a significant new focus on programs to help families and children from infancy to college. Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom campaigned on a platform that included a number of child-focused efforts specifically aimed at helping lower-income families. The price tag for the initial efforts is expected to approach $2 billion  a cost paid out of an unrestricted tax revenue windfall that could be one of the largest in state history. Newsom may also seek help for families through new subsidies paid by California employers. The governor-elect is expected to propose a dramatic expansion of paid parental leave  from six weeks to six months  according to an internal document provided by a source close to the Newsom transition team, first reported on Sunday by the New York Times. The document doesnt offer a full explanation for how the program will be funded, saying instead that the budget will set a goal of ensuring that all newborns and newly adopted babies can be cared for by a parent or a close family member for the first six months. Employers across the state are currently assessed a payroll tax that helps offer a subsidy to parents who temporarily leave their job to care for a newborn. Newsoms plan, according to the document, would pay for some of the new costs by shrinking the mandated cash reserve of the state fund that administers the program, allowing more of the money to be paid in benefits. The increase in paid leave would not all happen at once but instead be phased in over a multi-year period. A task force to help implement the expanded care plan is also envisioned, according to the document. It would determine whether two parents could split the six months of paid leave and whether an extended family member could be enlisted to help care for the child of a single parent over the six-month period. The incoming administrations focus on young children will also include $1.8 billion in new spending on early childhood education programs, with a particular focus on training childcare workers and pushing for more California schools to offer full-day kindergarten. Those costs, according to an overview memo obtained by the Los Angeles Times, are considered to be a one-time expense while leaving the long-term costs of the effort to be determined later. More community college students would get free tuition under a third initiative expected in the new governors budget plan. Newsom will propose spending $40 million to offer a second year of tuition-free college to California students, according to an outline provided by a transition official, first reported by Politico. Students are already eligible for a single year of paid tuition under a plan agreed to by Gov. Jerry Brown and lawmakers in 2017. The incoming governor embraced the idea of free community college during the 2018 campaign as part of a broader focus on additional investments in higher education. Education is an economic development strategy, Newsom said at a higher education forum last spring. We need to significantly increase the investment from the general fund of this state on higher education. Theres no greater higher return on investment. Whether the proposal would be targeted to students based on a familys financial need is unclear. Many low-income students are already eligible for fee waivers at community colleges. The new governor must submit his full state budget plan to lawmakers no later than Thursday. Facebook

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Gavin Newsom and his family decide Sacramento is the place to be The Old Governors Mansion State Historic Park in Sacramento. Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom will move his family into the mansion. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom and his family will give up the Marin County life and move to the Victorian-style governors mansion in Sacramento after he takes the oath of office Monday. Newsom and his wife, documentary filmmaker Jennifer Siebel Newsom, had debated whether or when to relocate to the state capital since his election in November. The couple have four young children and expressed reservations about moving in the middle of a school year. To best serve the people of California while also maximizing family time together, the Newsoms have therefore decided to move to Sacramento, said Newsoms spokesman, Nathan Click. On Monday, they will move into the Governors Mansion  along with their four children, their two family dogs, and their family bunny rabbit  and reside there for the immediate future. The Newsoms currently live in Marin County. Gov. Jerry Brown and his wife, Ann Gust Brown, moved into the grand house in 2015 after it underwent $4.1 million in renovations to update electrical and plumbing systems, as well as to remove lead-based paint and install a fire sprinkler system and other security features. The mansion was built in 1877 and has been home to 14 governors, but before Brown it had not housed a California governor for nearly half a century. The state bought the mansion from a wealthy Sacramento hardware merchant, Albert Gallatin, in 1903 for $32,500. It was one of the few California homes at that time to have indoor plumbing. Facebook

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Newsom announces top labor, business liaisons as he prepares to take office Julie Su will be secretary of the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency for Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom. (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times) Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom on Friday named two advisors on issues related to the California economy, each recognized for their expertise on business and labor. The incoming governor will appoint Julie Su as secretary of the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency and Lenny Mendonca as chief economic and business advisor and director of the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development. Su, 49, has served as state labor commissioner under Gov. Jerry Brown since 2011 and has led an office tasked with the enforcement of Californias labor laws. She won a MacArthur Foundation genius grant in 2001 and previously worked as a civil rights attorney representing low-wage workers. In her new position, Su will be tasked with coordinating the work of several workforce departments in state government, including those that administer unemployment benefits and oversee the relationship between agriculture workers and employers. Mendonca, 57, has been a longtime advocate for rethinking government operations as co-chairman of the nonprofit organization California Forward. Previously, he was partner at McKinsey & Co., a global management consulting firm. While he will be a key advisor to Newsom on the states economy, Mendonca will also lead the office often referred to as Go-Biz, designated as a high-level way to encourage job growth and economic development. In his new role, Mendonca will help ensure that California is rolling out the welcome mat to current and future California businesses and growing a sustainable economy for every Californian, said a statement from the Newsom transition team. Newsom will take the oath of office as governor Monday. He has previously selected key advisors on the state budget, legislative affairs and the executive branchs wide array of agencies and departments. Facebook

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Joshua Groban, aide to Gov. Jerry Brown, sworn in to California Supreme Court By Taryn Luna California Supreme Court Justice Joshua Groban gives remarks after he is sworn into the court by Gov. Jerry Brown on Thursday. (Taryn Luna) California Supreme Court Justice Joshua Groban, a lawyer and longtime aide to Gov. Jerry Brown, was sworn into the states highest court Thursday in Sacramento. The ceremony marked Browns fourth appointment to the state Supreme Court and gave the seven-member bench a Democratic majority. We live in a highly chaotic, ever-changing and ever-confusing world, Groban said in prepared remarks at the Stanley Mosk Library and Courts Building. But Im happy to report that Im joining an institution whose fundamental purpose, at core, is to provide stability and consistency amidst this chaotic place we live. I look forward to doing that with a sense of reflection, respect, fidelity to the law and compassion. None of Browns appointees, Groban included, have judicial experience. Groban served as legal counsel to Browns 2010 gubernatorial campaign and joined the administration as a senior advisor to the governor, overseeing the appointments of some 600 judges over the last eight years. Prior to working with Brown, Groban, 45, practiced law for more than a decade. In perhaps his final public appearance before his successor, Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom, takes office next week, Brown pushed back on notions that he stacked the court. I dont want this to be known as a Brown court, the governor said before administering the judicial oath of office. First of all, the so-called Brown appointments do not agree with themselves and nor should they. They are individuals. They will differ. Its not anybodys court. The governor called the court a high calling and said Groban possesses the values for the job. Probably, next to my wife, Ive talked to no person as much as Ive talked to Josh Groban, Brown said. I think youve talked to him more, Californias First Lady Anne Gust Brown interjected. I cant tell you what the hell hes going to do, Brown later quipped. I warned him, dont screw up, at least not at first. Facebook

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California campaign watchdog agency seeks law barring use of campaign funds to fight harassment claims Former state Sen. Tony Mendoza (D-Artesia). ( (Steve Yeater / Associated Press)) Elected officials accused of harassment or discrimination would be barred from using political contributions to cover their legal defense costs under legislation proposed by Californias campaign watchdog agency. The state Fair Political Practices Commission has agreed to pursue a law change to clear up confusion after an attorney for one former state lawmaker argued political funds could be used in such legal defenses. Commission Chairwoman Alice Germond said putting a prohibition into the law would provide some much needed clarity. As chair, I would like to show the public their lawmakers are held to a standard that is above reproach, Germond said in a statement. People dont give money to campaigns for lawmakers to use it to defend their own bad behavior, so lawmakers shouldnt be able to use it in that manner. The issue came up a year ago when an attorney for former Sen. Tony Mendoza (D-Artesia) sought a formal opinion from the FPPC after the Senate launched an investigation that later concluded Mendoza likely engaged in a pattern of harassment against female aides. Mendoza resigned in February under threat of expulsion by the Senate. In a Jan. 10, 2018, letter, Cassandra Ferrannini, an attorney for Mendoza, wrote to the FPPC that she believed Mendoza should be allowed to establish a legal defense fund able to defray his legal expenses in defending himself against the allegations. The use of campaign funds for attorneys fees under these circumstances would fall squarely within the scope of legislative matters, since it involves the alleged conduct of a legislator with regard to legislative staff that he supervised, Ferrannini wrote. The commission staff originally issued an advice letter that said Mendoza may use campaign and legal defense funds to defend himself from claims of sexual harassment that arose directly out of his activities or status as a candidate or elected officer. But the panel later rescinded the letter after some members questioned using campaign funds to fight sexual harassment claims. That left uncertainty about what was allowed, which Germond said could be cleared up by a new law. The FPPC is still looking for a legislator to carry the bill, a spokesman said. Facebook

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Californias landmark police transparency law takes effect after court denies police union effort to block it California Supreme Court building (Eric Risberg / Associated Press) A new state law allowing the public disclosure of internal police shooting investigations has gone into effect after the California Supreme Court on Wednesday denied a bid by a police union to block it. The law opens to the public for the first time internal investigations of officer shootings and other major uses of force, along with confirmed cases of sexual assault and lying while on duty. The San Bernardino County Sheriffs Employees Benefit Assn. challenged the law last month, asking state Supreme Court justices to decide that the law only apply to incidents that occur in 2019 or later. The court rejected that request Wednesday, allowing members of the public to seek all applicable records held by police departments. Union president Grant Ward said in a statement that his organization was disappointed with the decision and is now seeking other legal options. We feel this is a statewide issue and should be considered accordingly, Ward said. Last month, the city of Inglewood authorized the destruction of more than 100 police shooting investigations and other records in advance of Jan. 1, when the disclosure law was scheduled to take effect. California law requires police departments to keep such records for five years, and Inglewood City Council voted to destroy records older than that. Mayor James T. Butts has said the decision had nothing to do with the new law. In Los Angeles, Police Chief Michel Moore has said that complying with the new disclosure rules could take hundreds of thousands of hours of work. State Sen. Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), the author of the transparency law, has said she has no immediate plans to propose changes to it. Facebook

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Few complaints of racial profiling are sustained by police agencies in California, state panel finds CHP Officer J. Nelson stands outside the office of Gov. Jerry Brown as activists in 2015 support requiring the tracking of police stops. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) Law enforcement agencies in California sustain few citizen complaints of racial or identity profiling, according to a report Wednesday by a state panel set up to help reduce bias in policing. The states Racial and Identity Profiling Advisory Board recommended in its annual report that law enforcement agencies improve training and adopt clear guidelines for tracking and reporting data on who is stopped by officers. The panel said that 453 law enforcement agencies in the state received 9,459 civilian complaints in 2017, including 865 complaints alleging racial or identity profiling. Of the racial and identity complaints that reached a disposition that year, 1.5% were sustained, 14.6% resulted in officers being exonerated and 83.9% of complaints were not sustained or were determined to be unfounded, the report said. A clearer picture of the issue is expected from a 2015 law that requires police agencies to report demographic data on all detentions and searches. The first reports by the eight largest agencies, including the Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department, are due to be submitted in April. California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra, whose office oversees the board, said tracking of all detentions and searches will be helpful to understand the scope of the issue. The Boards recommendations will help make our law enforcement agencies more transparent and promote critical steps to enhance, and in some cases, repair the public trust, Becerra said in a statement Wednesday. Facebook

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California housing crisis podcast: What Minneapolis decision to end single-family zoning might mean for California A view of downtown Minneapolis in 2014 (Stephen Maturen / Getty Images) Theres a national movement brewing to roll back zoning rules in cities that only allow one house on a plot of land. The epicenter of that movement is Minneapolis, which passed a plan last month to eliminate single-family zoning citywide and let landowners build duplexes and triplexes on residential property. On this episode of Gimme Shelter: The California Housing Crisis Podcast, we talk about the reasons why Minneapolis leaders took this action, including their desire to combat a history of racial exclusion and spur more housing density to fight climate change. We also debate how Minneapolis decision might affect housing politics in California. Our guest is Minneapolis City Council President Lisa Bender, who helped shepherd the new zoning rules to passage and a former San Francisco city planner. The episode also crowns 2018s Avocado of the Year  the most ridiculous story exemplifying Californias housing woes  and includes our predictions for the most under-the-radar important themes in housing politics in 2019. Gimme Shelter, a biweekly podcast that looks at why its so expensive to live in California and what the state can do about it, features Liam Dillon, who covers housing affordability issues for the Los Angeles Times Sacramento bureau, and Matt Levin, data and housing reporter for CALmatters. You can subscribe to Gimme Shelter on iTunes, Stitcher, Soundcloud, Google Play and Overcast. Facebook

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How young immigrant Dreamers made flipping control of the House a personal quest By Jazmine Ulloa Gabriela Cruz, who was brought to the U.S. illegally when she was 1, couldnt vote, but in the final hours before the Nov. 6 election, she was making one last run to get people to the polls. The sun was setting in Modesto when she found Ronald Silva, 41, smoking a cigarette on a tattered old couch behind a group home. He politely tried to wave her off until she reminded him he had a right that she as an immigrant without citizenship didnt have. It could really make a change for us, said Cruz, 29. Read More Facebook

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Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom will propose almost $2 billion for early childhood programs (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) Seeking to frame his new administration as one with a firm focus on closing the gap between children from affluent and poor families, Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom will propose spending some $1.8 billion on an array of programs designed to boost Californias enrollment in early education and child-care programs. Newsoms plan, which he hinted at in a Fresno event last month, will be a key element in the state budget proposal he will submit to the Legislature shortly after taking office Monday, a source close to the governor-elects transition team said. The spending would boost programs designed to ensure children enter kindergarten prepared to learn, closing what some researchers have called the readiness gap that exists based on a familys income. It would also phase in an expansion of prekindergarten and offer money to help school districts that dont have facilities for full-day kindergarten. The fact that hes making significant investments with his opening budget is really exciting, Ted Lempert, president of the Bay Area-based nonprofit Children Now, said Tuesday. Whats exciting is the comprehensiveness of it, because its saying were going to focus on prenatal through age 5. A broad overview document reviewed by The Times on Tuesday shows that most of the outlay under the plan  $1.5 billion  would be a one-time expense in the budget year that begins July 1. Those dollars would be a single infusion of cash, an approach favored by Gov. Jerry Brown in recent years. Most of the money would be spent on efforts to expand child-care services and kindergarten classes. By law, a governor must submit a full budget to the Legislature no later than Jan. 10. Lawmakers will spend the winter and spring reviewing the proposal and must send a final budget plan to Newsom by June 15. Though legislative Democrats have pushed for additional early childhood funding in recent years  a key demand of the Legislative Womens Caucus  those actions have typically come late in the budget-writing season in Sacramento. Quite frankly, to start out with a January proposal that includes that investment in Californias children reflects a new day, state Sen. Holly J. Mitchell (D-Los Angeles) said. The governor-elect will propose a $750-million boost to kindergarten funding, aimed at expanding facilities to allow full-day programs. A number of school districts offer only partial-day programs, leaving many low-income families to skip enrolling their children because kindergarten classes end in the middle of the workday. Because the money would not count toward meeting Californias three-decades-old education spending guarantee under Proposition 98, which sets a minimum annual funding level for K-12 schools and community colleges, it will not reduce planned spending on other education services. Close behind in total cost is a budget proposal by Newsom to help train child-care workers and expand local facilities already subsidized by the state, as well as those serving parents who attend state colleges and universities. Together, those efforts could cost $747 million, according to the budget overview document. An expansion of prekindergarten programs would be phased in over three years at a cost of $125 million in the first year. The multiyear rollout would, according to the budget overview, ensure the system can plan for the increase in capacity. Lempert said the Newsom proposal is notable for trying to avoid the kinds of battles that in recent years pitted prekindergarten and expanded child care against each other for additional taxpayer dollars. The reality is we need to expand both simultaneously, he said. Another $200 million of the proposal would be earmarked for programs that provide home visits to expectant parents from limited-income families and programs that provide healthcare screenings for young children. Some of the money would come from the states Medi-Cal program, and other money from federal matching dollars. Funding for the home visits program was provided in the budget Brown signed last summer; the Newsom effort would build on that. Emphasizing a policy area with broad appeal in his first state budget could reflect Newsoms political sensibility about the challenges ahead. Democratic lawmakers and interest groups will be especially eager to see how Newsom addresses the demand for an overhaul of healthcare coverage in California  especially after a 2017 effort to create a single-payer, universal system fizzled. The path forward on healthcare is complex and costly, making early childhood education a more achievable goal in the governor-elects early tenure. Newsom is likely to face considerable demands for other additional spending. In November, the Legislatures independent analysts projected that continued strength in tax revenues could produce a cash reserve of some $29 billion over the next 18 months. Almost $15 billion of that could be in unrestricted reserves, the kind that can be spent on any number of government programs. Kim Belshe, executive director of the child advocacy organization First 5 LA and a former state health and human services secretary, said the initial Newsom budget proposal suggests the next governor will focus on a comprehensive approach to improving outcomes for children from low-income families. School-ready kids deserve quality early learning, strong and well-supported families, and access to early screening services, Belshe said. Newsom understands the whole child, multifaceted needs of our kids and is clearly ready to lead. Mitchell, the chair of the Senate budget committee, said shes eager to see the details of the governor-elects proposal to determine whether it might signal the beginning of an even broader expansion of early education efforts. Similar efforts have been hindered by a lack of money and ongoing debate over which services to help children 5 and younger need state funding the most. Universal preschool, in particular, has been debated for more than a decade. California voters rejected a ballot measure to fund a full prekindergarten system in 2006. Its clear theres a new movement afoot trying to engage on investment for universal preschool, Mitchell said. How we invest, and how we prioritize that investment, is going to be a great conversation for the coming months. Facebook

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California Politics Podcast: A final conversation with Gov. Jerry Brown No Californian has served longer as governor, signed more laws, granted clemency to more felons or waged more high-profile campaigns than Gov. Jerry Brown. Brown will leave behind a unique legacy when he packs his last belongings for the trip from the governors mansion in Sacramento to his Northern California ranch. His final two terms in office could be his most consequential. The governor reviewed some of the more notable moments from the past eight years in a far-reaching interview with The Times on Dec. 22. This weeks podcast episode includes extended portions of that conversation. Facebook

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A sagging economy could doom a 2020 ballot measure to raise commercial property taxes, Gov. Jerry Brown says Gov. Jerry Brown, at his Colusa County home on Saturday, said a ballot measure to raise commercial property taxes could struggle in 2020. (Randall Benton/For The Times) An effort to remove commercial property in California from the tax limits imposed by the landmark Proposition 13 could be felled by an economic slowdown, Gov. Jerry Brown said. In a Saturday interview with The Times at his Northern California ranch, Brown said liberal activist groups that have successfully placed the proposal on the November 2020 statewide ballot shouldnt read too much into early poll numbers showing support for the plan. That isnt as easy as you think, Brown said. Because youre going to be in a downturn of the business cycle. And youre talking many kinds of business. And the cost of doing business in California is already high. The ballot measure would allow counties to more frequently assess the market value of commercial property in California than allowed under Proposition 13, a 1978 ballot initiative that amended the state constitution to place strict limits on assessing property values and taxation for both homeowners and businesses. An analysis of the new measure, which qualified in October for the 2020 ballot, estimates it could bring in some $10.5 billion a year in new tax revenue. The business community will fight it, Brown said. And the minimum wage, the family leave, the environmental rules  business[es] have left California, thats going to be the big argument. And I think thats something you really have to think a lot about. The governor, who leaves office early next month due to term limits, declined to either endorse or oppose the ballot measure. He said Californias economic health in two years time could be a key factor in how voters weigh the proposal. Well be in a recession by then, Brown said. So its anybodys guess. Facebook

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Inglewood to destroy more than 100 police shooting records that could otherwise become public under new California law By Jack Dolan Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts (Maria Alejandra Cardona / Los Angeles Times) The city of Inglewood has authorized the shredding of more than 100 police shooting and other internal investigation records weeks before a new state law could allow the public to access them for the first time. The decision, made at a City Council meeting earlier this month, has troubled civil liberties advocates who were behind the state legislation, Senate Bill 1421, which takes effect Jan. 1. The law opens to the public internal investigations of officer shootings and other major uses of force, along with confirmed cases of sexual assault and lying while on duty. The legislature passed SB 1421 because communities demanded an end to the secrecy cloaking police misconduct and use of force, Marcus Benigno, a spokesman for the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California, said in a statement. Inglewood PDs decision to purge records undermines police accountability and transparency against the will of Californians. California law says police departments must retain records of officer shootings and internal misconduct investigations for five years. The city of Inglewood, however, had kept records longer than that, including case files of police shootings dating to 1991. State Sen. Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), the author of SB 1421, intended for her bill to allow public access to all qualifying records held by a department, no matter the date of the incident. Inglewood City Council approved the destruction of records that have been in the police departments possession  more than 100 cases  longer than required by law. The city staff report and council resolution describing the action makes no mention of the new police transparency law. Instead it says the affected records are obsolete, occupy valuable space, and are of no further use to the police department. It added the traditional method of destroying such records is to shred them. It is unclear whether the records have since been destroyed. A spokesman for the Inglewood Police Department along with Inglewoods city manager, attorney, clerk, four council members and Mayor James T. Butts, a former Santa Monica police chief, did not respond to requests for comment. Inglewoods City Hall is closed the last two weeks of December. The Inglewood Police Department has a reputation for secrecy and using excessive force. In 2008, the departments officers fatally shot four men in as many months, three of whom turned out to be unarmed. The U.S. Department of Justice launched a civil rights probe and found significant flaws in the way the department oversaw use-of-force cases and investigated complaints against officers. Civil rights advocates still question why Inglewood police opened fire on a couple found sleeping in a car in 2016, killing them both. California police have a long history of shredding records to avoid scrutiny of their actions. In the 1970s, the LAPD famously destroyed more than four tons of personnel records after defense attorneys began requesting them as part of criminal cases against their clients. The move resulted in the dismissal of more than a hundred criminal complaints. In response, the Legislature demanded that records be preserved but then took other measures, supported by police unions, to ensure the public had very little access to them, making California the most secretive state in the nation when it comes to police misconduct. Skinners legislation begins to unwind those laws, which have been on the books since 1978. No video or audio of the Dec. 11 council action is available on the citys website and neither are meeting minutes or any record of the decision. A city spokeswoman, Courtney Torres, confirmed that the council had voted in favor of the police records purge, and said all the relevant reasons for the decision were included in the city staff report. The Jan. 1 implementation for SB 1421 has prompted other police officials to act. A police union in San Bernardino is asking the state Supreme Court to determine that Skinners bill only applies to incidents that occur in 2019 or later. Los Angeles Police Department Chief Michel Moore sent a letter to Skinner earlier this month warning that complying with the law in regard to older records in the departments possession could take hundreds of thousands of work hours. Facebook

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Federal officials question California DMVs process for issuing Real IDs (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times) The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has notified the California Department of Motor Vehicles that its process for providing residents with federally recognized identification cards is not adequate. DMV spokesman Armando Botello said Friday that 2.3 million residents who received Real IDs under the current process will have to submit additional documentation when their cards are renewed in five years but will be able to use them in the meantime. The DMV is developing a way for residents to submit more documentation online or via email to comply with the stricter federal requirement, he said. But some state legislators are upset about delays in notifying them of the problem and say Homeland Security could eventually require additional documentation provided by current holders. The DMV has known for a month that millions of Real IDs theyve been dolling out are potentially invalid, Assemblyman Jim Patterson (R-Fresno) said. The DMVs only hope is that the Department of Homeland Security takes pity on California and gives the DMV more time to fix this mess. Real IDs are a new kind of driver license and identification card that federal law will require legal residents to present when boarding domestic flights or visiting military bases and other federal facilities starting Oct. 1, 2020. The DMV has only been requiring one form of documentation, including a current lease or utility bill, to verify the residence of a card applicant. But the federal government said in a Nov. 21 letter to the agency that two such documents are needed. On Friday, DMV Director Jean Shiomoto released a letter defending the current process but said her agency will start requiring a second document to prove residency in April. In order to minimize confusion among our customers, the CADMV will work to inform individuals who have been issued a Real ID under the current process that their card will be accepted for official federal purposes, even if their renewal occurs after the October 1, 2020, final enforcement date for Real ID, Shiomoto wrote to the federal agency. Legislative officials worry there is still a possibility that those issued Real IDs in the past might be required to present a second document to have their cards designated as compliant. The more complex process for obtaining Real IDs has led to hours-long waits for customers at DMV field offices this year, although wait times have been reduced recently by an increase in staffing. Shiomoto last month announced that she is retiring amid problems with the motor voter registration system and after the governor ordered an audit of her agency in response to the long wait times. On Friday, Assembly Republican Leader Marie Waldron of Escondido blasted the DMV for waiting a month to tell legislators of the problem. This is unacceptable and flies in the face of security for our citizens, which is what Real ID was created for in the first place, she said in a statement. Facebook

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Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom taps Keely Bosler to be his finance director Keely Bosler, the director of the California Department of Finance, will continue in that role under Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom. (California Department of Finance) Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom on Friday appointed Keely Martin Bosler as director of the California Department of Finance, continuing the role she has served under Gov. Jerry Brown since August. Bosler will become Newsoms chief fiscal advisor, and will play a pivotal role in shaping Newsoms spending plan for the state that will lay the foundation for his top policy priorities. Newsom must roll out his first budget plan within days of taking office on Jan. 7. Californias brighter future depends on a strong, stable fiscal foundation, Newsom said in a statement released Friday afternoon. Keely is an accomplished public servant of sound fiscal judgment. She understands that state budgets are more than numbers on a page  they are value statements affecting the fate and future of millions of families reaching for the California Dream. We are fortunate to have her on our team. Prior to being appointed finance director, Bosler served as Browns cabinet secretary for two years and, before that, as the chief deputy director for budget in the Finance Department for three years. Earlier this year, Brown picked Bosler to lead an audit of the Department of Motor Vehicles, which had come under fire for long wait times at DMV field offices and numerous computer problems, including errors in the new motor voter program that registered Californians to vote. As we have discussed, long wait times at the Department of Motor Vehicles do not reflect the high standards of service that Californians expect from their state government, Bosler wrote in a letter in September to DMV Director Jean Shiomoto. The audit is still ongoing, but Shiomoto has since announced she will retire at the end of the year. Facebook

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Californias legislative analyst, after decades of nonpartisan research for lawmakers, calls it a career Legislative Analyst Mac Taylor, who has led the state research unit since 2008, will retire on Dec. 31. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) Only five people have led the independent research office of the California Legislature since its creation in 1941. And each of them has had a pretty simple mantra to live by in reviewing public policy proposals and government programs: Call it like you see it. The job of any analyst, to me, is you maintain that nonpartisanship, Legislative Analyst Mac Taylor said. Taylor, 65, will retire from the post at the end of December after a four-decade career with the research team that began, as he likes to tell it, just after the passage of the landmark property tax rollback, Proposition 13, in 1978. He became the leader of the office, with the title of legislative analyst, in October 2008. Two months later, state government found itself in arguably the worst fiscal crisis in its history  a projected shortfall that ultimately grew to $42 billion by the following winter. There were forces beyond our control, Taylor said of that time. But dont underestimate the policy changes that were made afterward. Those changes, most notably a boost in taxes paid by high-income earners and a robust state budget cash reserve fund, have helped lead to successive years of fully funded government services. The state is projected to have some $24 billion in reserves by the end of the current fiscal year. Taylor announced his intention earlier to step down this year. Leaders from both houses of the Legislature select the analyst, who leads a staff of almost five dozen researchers. The office provides in-depth reports on pending legislation, as well as on broader policy topics like education and healthcare, and produces an independent analysis for every proposed ballot measure. A succession of lawmakers and governors alike have praised or panned the work of the Legislative Analysts Office based on their own political worldview. Taylor said his staff is mindful that they work for legislators, but try to ignore the rhetoric that follows the release of a major report. People are going to do what theyre going to do with our information, he said. They dont always like it, but they appreciate that we give them our best advice. Taylor oversaw a transformation in the way the Legislative Analysts Office distributes its information, embracing the release of research reports through social media instead of relying on traditional printed copies and journalist roundtable events. But he said the work of the researchers has remained largely unchanged through the decades. Having an independent take on things, I think, is good for the Legislature, he said. No replacement for Taylor has been announced, which means a short transition for his eventual successor before Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom sends his first budget proposal to lawmakers in early January. Taylor, who lives in the Sacramento suburbs, said he will honor the tradition of his predecessors in stepping away from public policy debates in order to give the new analyst space to lead the team as he or she sees fit. He said he hopes to travel in the coming years and spend time with his children who have moved to the East Coast. Forty years in state government, Taylor said in why he was stepping aside now. Isnt that enough? Facebook

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Gov. Jerry Brown sues to save California sentencing laws By Don Thompson, Associated Press (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) Outgoing Gov. Jerry Brown sued Thursday to protect one of his signature actions in office, a voter-approved measure that allows most prison inmates to seek earlier release and participate in rehabilitation programs. His administration filed a lawsuit challenging a pending 2020 initiative that seeks to toughen criminal penalties as part of an effort to roll back reforms adopted by voters within the last decade. Browns lawsuit in Sacramento County Superior Court contends the measure lacked enough valid signatures to overturn a previously approved constitutional amendment. County officials and California Secretary of State Alex Padilla certified the signatures in July but said they were submitted too late to qualify for last months election. The lawsuit names Padilla and the ballot measures official proponent, Nina Salarno Besselman, president of the advocacy group Crime Victims United. Padilla said the measure exceeded the required roughly 366,000 valid signatures, equal to 5% of votes cast for governor in 2014. Browns lawsuit says he used the wrong threshold. It says changing the state Constitution requires 8%, or more than 585,400 signatures. That makes the pending initiative more than 150,000 signatures short, the lawsuit says. Hes wrong, said Jeff Flint, a spokesman for the campaign backing the measure. He predicted a judge will be reluctant to reject a measure that already has qualified for the ballot. The secretary of state told us how many signatures are required, and thats how many we collected, Flint said. Padillas office did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The measure would reverse reforms adopted by voters through Proposition 47 in 2014 and Proposition 57 in 2016. Proposition 57 allows most inmates to seek earlier paroles, and Proposition 47 reduced some drug and property crimes from felonies to misdemeanors. The combination has helped keep Californias inmate population below a population cap set by federal judges. Corrections department spokeswoman Vicky Waters said the measure gives corrections and parole officials broad discretion to protect our communities and fashion a rational system of rehabilitation and punishment. This new initiative unlawfully seeks to supplant the departments constitutional authority to implement these critical reforms to our criminal justice system. The pending initiative would shorten the list of crimes that qualify for earlier parole and change some theft crimes from misdemeanors back to felonies. It would also increase the number of crimes for which DNA is collected, a list that was limited when some crimes went from felonies to misdemeanors. Those supporting the tougher penalties say easing criminal penalties has increased the number of dangerous criminals on the streets, but those backing the changes say they have helped reduce mass incarceration and rehabilitate convicted criminals. Facebook

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California Supreme Court orders records unsealed in pardon of ex-state Sen. Roderick Wright Former state Sen. Roderick Wright (Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times) The California Supreme Court has granted a request to unseal court records involving Gov. Jerry Browns decision last month to pardon former state Sen. Roderick Wright for felony convictions involving lying about living in his legislative district, officials said Thursday. The court order was in response to a request by the nonpartisan First Amendment Coalition, which argued that the public has a right to know what information went into the governors decision to grant clemency to Wright. This is an important victory for public access to court files involving the exercise of executive clemency, said coalition spokesman Glen A. Smith. We are gratified the court has recognized that these decisions should be subject to the same public access rules that apply to other judicial records under California law. The court gave Browns office until Jan. 2 to redact confidential material before giving the court documents that can be released to the public. The court files submitted by the governors office include letters of support for a pardon and an internal review of Wrights case. The court denied a motion to unseal the records of all clemency cases but left open consideration of requests on other individual cases. Browns office is currently evaluating the courts decision, said spokesman Brian Ferguson. The governor argued against unsealing records in a recent court filing that said confidentiality is consistent with historical practice and is supported by state law. In pardoning Wright on Nov. 22, the governor wrote: He has shown that since his release from custody, he has lived an honest and upright life, exhibited good moral character, and conducted himself as a law abiding citizen. Facebook

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California political watchdog agency fines BART, urges prosecution over using public funds for campaign A Bay Area Rapid Transit train leaves the station in Oakland in this 2013 file photo. (Ben Margot / AP) Californias state political watchdog agency on Thursday imposed a $7,500 fine against the Bay Area Rapid Transit District and called for a possible criminal or civil prosecution over allegations the district used public resources to campaign for a 2016 bond measure. The state Fair Political Practices Commission levied an administrative fine against BART for its failure to disclose spending on YouTube videos, social media posts and text messages to promote Measure RR, which authorized $3.5 billion in general obligation bonds. Though the panel lacks authority to seek criminal charges over the misuse of public funds, it also urged county district attorneys in the BART service area and the state attorney general to pursue possible criminal or civil charges over the spending of taxpayer dollars for campaign purposes, Commission Chairwoman Alice Germond said. It is the concept of misusing public funds that I think we all here are very disturbed about, and we want to send a warning and not create a precedent that is a minor, little slap on the wrist, Germond said, adding that the referral to criminal prosecutors would further send a message that this is wrong. Commissioner Brian Hatch also called for the state Legislature to consider granting the FPPC power to go after public agencies that spend taxpayer money on campaigns. Sen. Steve Glazer (D-Orinda) called on the agency to increase the fine to the maximum level of $33,375. The proposed $7,500 fine represents a slap on the wrist for a very serious violation of the law and the publics trust, Glazer said in a letter to the panel. In supporting the fine recommended by the staff, Germond said BART has agreed to pay the penalty. Somebody did something wrong and they have admitted it, she said. A staff report said there were factors in favor of a fine below the maximum. Although the Commission considers BARTs violations to be serious, the absence of any evidence of an intention to conceal, deceive, or mislead; the voluntary filing of the delinquent campaign statement; and the absence of a prior record are mitigating, the report said. Facebook

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California police union seeks state Supreme Court review of new law disclosing internal investigation records Los Angeles Police Department officers. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) A police union is asking the California Supreme Court to block the release of internal officer investigations before a new state law takes effect next year. The San Bernardino County Sheriffs Employees Benefit Assn. filed a petition Tuesday asking justices to rule that only investigations of incidents that occur after Jan. 1 would be available under the law  and not those the department has on file from years prior. The litigation comes after this years passage of Senate Bill 1421, which opens to the public for the first time internal investigations of officer shootings and other major uses of force, along with confirmed cases of sexual assault and lying while on duty. The law goes into effect Jan. 1, and the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department has told the union it intends to make available in response to public records requests all the information it has. The union is very concerned about any plans to retroactively apply Senate Bill 1421, Grant Ward, the unions president, said in a statement. We believe retroactive application violates our members rights and we hope the California Supreme Court will consider the serious issues raised by our legal challenge. The bills author, Sen. Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), does not agree with the unions interpretation. She has said her legislation should apply to all the records in a police departments possession because the law simply declared that affected records were no longer confidential. If the record exists, its disclosable, Skinner said. A decision on what records will be available under the law is key to how far-reaching it will be. If the court restricts access to incidents that occurred prior to 2019, those cases will not be subject to public scrutiny. The police union in San Bernardino County is not the only one raising concerns about the law. Earlier this month, Los Angeles Police Department Chief Michel Moore sent a letter to Skinner expressing concern that his agency would be overwhelmed if the law required the department to disclose older incidents. Even if the law only applied to the previous five years, Moore wrote, it could take nearly 300,000 hours of work to comply with its provisions. The LAPD operates with a guiding principle of Reverence for the Law; as such, we will diligently comply with SB 1421, Moore wrote. We maintain, however, that a retroactive implementation of SB 1421 will be exceptionally burdensome and would require significant reallocation of front-line investigative personnel. Skinner said if complying with the law becomes untenable for law enforcement agencies that maintain records for a long time, she would consider modifications. But she said agencies did not raise this concern during discussion over the bill. SB 1421 went through multiple committee hearings, multiple floor debates, extensive opportunity for all parties to weigh in on concerns with its structure, she said. That was not an issue that was raised by law enforcement at the time. Facebook

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Gov. Brown warns of backlash for Republicans in 2020 if Obamacare repeal is upheld Gov. Jerry Brown at the National Press Club in April. (Alex Wong / Getty Images) Gov. Jerry Brown warned Republicans on Tuesday that repeal of the Affordable Care Act would devastate the partys political chances in the 2020 election. Brown, speaking at a Sacramento Press Club event moderated by Los Angeles Times columnist George Skelton and Brown family historian Miriam Pawel, said a federal judges ruling last week to strike down the 2010 law  if upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court  will build such a backlash that the Democrats will not only take over the Senate, theyll win the presidency and will win with the kind of momentum, particularly on the issue of healthcare, that [the law] will be replaced probably with something even better. The governor, who leaves office in less than three weeks, said he did not believe the ruling by a Texas judge would ultimately prevail. I think the decision will probably be overturned, Brown said. Few states have embraced the law championed by former President Obama more than California, both through its healthcare exchange, Covered California, and by expanding access to government-funded services under Medi-Cal. Some 12 million Californians now receive healthcare through Medi-Cal, and Brown said a final ruling affecting the federal dollars that subsidize that care would be a serious blow. California would not be able to afford it without the subsidy, the governor said. Facebook

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Bars in Los Angeles, San Francisco could stay open until 4 a.m. under new bill A bar in Sherman Oaks (acuna-hansen) For the third year in a row, a California lawmaker is trying to keep bars open until 4 a.m. State Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) is reintroducing legislation that would allow Los Angeles, San Francisco and seven other cities to extend the sales of alcohol in bars, clubs and restaurants by an additional two hours. Nightlife brings people together, fosters creativity and innovation, supports small businesses, and creates middle-class jobs, Wiener said in a statement. Its time to embrace our nighttime economy and give our cities the tools they need to foster the best nightlife possible. Last year, Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed a similar bill by Wiener, writing: I believe we have enough mischief from midnight to 2 without adding two more hours of mayhem. Should this years measure, Senate Bill 58, advance through the Legislature, Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom would decide whether to sign it into law. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti has endorsed SB 58, saying the city should have more flexibility than it does now. Every community has its own needs, and cities should be able to make informed decisions about what nightlife hours make sense for residents, visitors, and neighborhoods, Garcetti said in a statement. The bill would create a five-year pilot program where Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland, Sacramento, West Hollywood, Long Beach, Coachella, Cathedral City and Palm Springs could decide to allow restaurants and bars within their cities to serve alcohol until 4 a.m. with the approval of the state Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. Facebook

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Bars in Los Angeles and San Francisco could stay open until 4 a.m. under new bill A bar in Sherman Oaks. (Acuna-Hansen) For the third year in a row, a California lawmaker is trying to keep bars open until 4 a.m. State Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) is reintroducing legislation that would allow Los Angeles, San Francisco and seven other cities to extend the sales of alcohol in bars, clubs and restaurants by an additional two hours. Nightlife brings people together, fosters creativity and innovation, supports small businesses and creates middle-class jobs, Wiener said in a statement. Its time to embrace our nighttime economy and give our cities the tools they need to foster the best nightlife possible. Last year, Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed a similar bill by Wiener, writing: I believe we have enough mischief from midnight to 2 without adding two more hours of mayhem. Should this years measure, Senate Bill 58, advance through the Legislature, Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom would decide whether to sign it into law. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti has endorsed SB 58, saying the city should have more flexibility than it does now. Every community has its own needs, and cities should be able to make informed decisions about what nightlife hours make sense for residents, visitors and neighborhoods, Garcetti said in a statement. The bill would create a five-year pilot program where Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland, Sacramento, West Hollywood, Long Beach, Coachella, Cathedral City and Palm Springs could decide to allow restaurants and bars within their cities to serve alcohol until 4 a.m. with the approval of the state Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. Facebook

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Californias DMV director announces retirement amid problems with motor voter program (Kent Nishamura/Los Angeles Times) The director of the California Department of Motor Vehicles will retire at years end with a number of questions unanswered about the implementation of a major voter registration system and long wait times experienced by customers for much of the past summer. Jean Shiomoto will not continue in her current role as Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom takes office, and announced to staff several weeks ago her intent to retire at the end of the year after 38 years in state service, spokesman Armando Botello said in an email to The Times on Friday. Newsoms transition team did not immediately respond to a request for comment on who might lead the department in 2019. Shiomoto was appointed DMV director by Gov. Jerry Brown in the fall of 2013, having served in prior leadership roles with the department. DMV officials have been sharply criticized by lawmakers in recent months for delays in serving customers at its field offices across the state. Last week, DMV officials revealed errors in registering California voters for the November election  mistakes that followed a series of problems in the rollout of the states new motor voter registration system. Secretary of State Alex Padilla last week said he had lost confidence in Shiomotos leadership as a result of the voting registration problems. Facebook

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New law could break the stalemate over housing on the site of a near-vacant Cupertino mall By Liam Dillon For more than a decade, developers have tried to build new housing on the site of an all-but-empty mall in Cupertino, a city in the heart of Silicon Valley and home to Apple headquarters. A well-organized group of neighbors, upset about traffic, building heights and the potential loss of the communitys suburban lifestyle, turned away every plan. Now, for the first time, the stalemate might be broken  thanks to a decision made in the state Capitol. In an effort to address Californias housing affordability problem, legislators passed a law last year that requires cities and counties to approve housing projects if they comply with local zoning rules and other standards, forcing some resistant communities to agree to new homebuilding. In September, the city of Cupertino, citing the state law, approved developer Sand Hill Property Co.s proposal to build an office park and more than 2,400 homes where the Vallco Shopping Mall sits. Read More Facebook

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Local government was a last bastion for struggling California Republicans. Not anymore By Mark Z. Barabak Theres no shortage of watery metaphors to describe the disaster that befell California Republicans this midterm election. A blue wave. A Democratic tsunami. But the most apt may be a flood, with the casualties steadily rising as the vote count climbed in the days and weeks following Nov. 6. Eventually half the GOP congressional delegation was washed away, along with the entire slate of statewide Republican candidates. In Sacramento, Democrats claimed 29 of 40 state Senate seats and seized three-quarters of the 80-member Assembly  the largest number since 1883, when Chester A. Arthur was serving in the White House. Read More Facebook

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For the Republicans left in Californias Legislature, fewer lawmakers will have to do more work By John Myers From January to late summer every year, the California Legislature is a perpetual motion machine. And in the new year, the people most likely to struggle in keeping up will be Republicans, vastly outnumbered but still responsible for representing millions of the states residents. There are 22 standing committees in the state Senate, plus at least a dozen more subcommittees or special committees. And after Novembers election, only 11 Republican senators will be left to divvy up the work. To the victors go the spoils. To the vanquished go the extra assignments. Read More Facebook

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Californias DMV failed to finish registering 329 new voters before November election (Los Angeles Times) Officials at the California Department of Motor Vehicles said Friday that the agency failed to send information for 329 new voters to state elections officers in time for the November election, the latest revelation in a string of mishaps regarding voter registration. Secretary of State Alex Padilla responded with a blistering letter, calling on Gov. Jerry Brown or Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom to replace Jean Shiomoto, the DMV director. The Director of DMV has lost my confidence and trust, Padilla wrote. In all, the agency revealed that 589 mailed voter registration records that should have been processed under election deadlines werent sent to Californias secretary of state until late November, including forms from 260 drivers who had intended to update their address on existing voter registration records. The DMV had been instructed to not send registration forms that came in after Oct. 22, but the voters in question had forms that were postmarked before the deadline. In some cases, when the postmark wasnt legible, the agency said, documents inside indicated the voter had intended to finish their registration in time for the Nov. 6 election. The DMV recognizes the pause in transmittals was an error and affected the timing of the registration of the 589 individuals referenced above relative to the November election, Shiomoto wrote in a letter to Padilla on Friday. The pause was due to a misunderstanding on the part of the department, for which we take responsibility. Those who were trying to update their address for voter registration would not have been blocked from casting ballots. But officials said its unclear whether any of the 329 new voters were able to participate in the election. Shiomoto said in her letter that DMV will work with elections officials. The errors were not related to previous DMV mistakes about registering voters, problems associated with the rollout of the states new motor voter law. In those cases, multiple registration forms were sent to local elections offices for some voters, some people were assigned the wrong political party preference and others who are noncitizens were incorrectly placed on the list of registered voters. DMV officials have yet to respond to questions posed by The Times over the last several weeks about who knew of those mistakes and when. Facebook

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Newsom appoints a labor advocate and a former staffer as his chief deputy Cabinet secretaries By Taryn Luna A labor advocate and a San Francisco political operative have accepted positions in Gov.-elect Gavin Newsoms new administration. Angie Wei, a Capitol insider with deep ties to organized labor in California, will serve as a chief deputy Cabinet secretary with a focus on policy development. As a legislative director and chief of staff at the California Labor Federation, Wei has represented more than 1,200 unions and 2.1 million workers in Capitol fights over a host of policy issues, including drug-pricing transparency and paid family leave. The governor-elect also tapped Jason Elliott, a policy advisor to Newsom during his time as mayor of San Francisco and a chief of staff to San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee, as another chief deputy Cabinet secretary overseeing executive branch operations. Elliott and Wei will serve under Ana Matosantos, Newsoms previouslyWith so many battles being waged over these final weeks of the California Legislatures session  contentious issues including wildfire liability rules and net neutrality  a crowd of Sacramento political watchers last week seemed surprised by the topic thats on the top of the to-do list for legislative leaders.

Bail reform, Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Paramount) said in remarks to the Sacramento Press Club. Its something I consider to be not only a criminal justice issue, but an economic justice issue.

Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins (D-San Diego), who was sitting beside him, quickly chimed in.

This has been a long discussion, and I couldnt agree more, she said.

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Changes to the rules governing pretrial release  when bail is offered as a way to ensure someone doesnt skip town  have been considered, and rejected, in the Legislature for decades. Each time, the status quo prevailed.

This time, advocates for revamping the money bail system have some heavy hitters on their side, including Gov. Jerry Brown and state Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye. The chief justices working group last year called the existing rules unsafe and unfair and urged reforms focused less on who has money, and more on who poses a danger to the community if released while awaiting trial.

Millions of Californians are poor, and they dont always live where youd expect 

The proposal now on the table, Senate Bill 10, would require counties to establish a new system to evaluate the release of defendants and would limit the amount of money posted for bail to the least restrictive level needed to ensure the person shows up for court. The bill would give prosecutors the power to ask a judge to block the pretrial release of a person deemed too dangerous and would require those risk assessments to be done in a matter of hours.

While the effort is driven by a desire to prevent lack of money from being the primary reason an arrestee is kept in jail before trial, its also seen as a way to tackle the high cost of cash bail to local governments.

The current system takes up bed space at a cost of our governments between $116 a day in Los Angeles County and $215 a day in Santa Clara County, said state Sen. Bob Hertzberg (D-Van Nuys), the author of SB 10, in a hearing last summer. And theyre there for one reason, and one reason alone and one wrong reason: They cant afford to leave.

But critics worry about making it harder to find defendants whove been released and dont show up  especially if theres no bail agent involved with an incentive to track the person down and recoup costs. Others have criticized a one-size-fits-all statewide standard that doesnt take into account conditions that vary by community.

Historically, efforts to change the money bail rules have placed criminal justice reform groups on one side  led by those who believe serious economic and racial disparities are at play  and law enforcement organizations on the other, aligned with crime victims and the bail bond industry.

Private discussions over the fate of the bail system have lasted most of the current legislative session, and the specific bill language of SB 10 hasnt been touched in nine months. That means were likely to see important changes as soon as this week, when the proposal faces a do-or-die moment in the Assembly Appropriations Committee.

The stakes are high and criminal justice debates in Sacramento are often a messy mix of partisanship and interest group arm-twisting. With so many prominent leaders engaged on the topic of bail reform, this month may be the time when the issue finally gets its moment on Californias political center stage.

john.myers@latimes.com

Follow @johnmyers on Twitter, sign up for our daily Essential Politics newsletter and listen to the weekly California Politics PodcastHello, my name is John Cherwa and welcome back to our horse racing newsletter as we wonder if its too early to make Instagrand the Kentucky Derby favorite.

Were in the second half of the Del Mar meeting, which will be followed by Los Alamitos before we return for a short meeting at Santa Anita. In order to get ready, Santa Anita has put in a lot of new grass on its turf course.

The track has put down new turf on the downhill course and in the stretch, which continues to about midway into the first turn. The thinking is thats the most heavily used part of the course. Yup, every race goes through the stretch.

The announcement was a good excuse to check in with the personable Rick Hammerle , the racing secretary and VP at Santa Anita. We wondered if he had any idea how many turf races are scheduled for the next meeting.

I do not know the exact number of turf races we will run, but I kind of have a ballpark idea, Hammerle said. I never have an end number that I shoot for. I generally try to card two or three on weekdays, four-ish on Saturdays and three-ish on Sundays. It all depends how each day goes and what type of races they are as I have to watch the purse account as well.

Santa Anita doesnt have a second turf course around the oval like some tracks but they do have the hillside course, which has the only right turn in U.S. racing. But managing it can be challenging.

I try and be careful not to write too many hill races per week as it can get a little cut up up there on the hill without a break, Hammerle said. We do have a temp rail we will use when necessary.

That leads me to the one question I get asked a lot. What does it mean when they say the rail is at 30 feet, or 20, or 10 or 0? Weve discussed it before but a refresher is good, especially for new readers.

When you think about it, the part of the turf course next to rail gets a real pounding because thats where most of the horses are running because its the shortest way around the track. So, in order to keep that one area from a constant pounding the rail can be moved, usually in increments of 10 feet up to 30 feet.

Besides having the best turf crew in the country, the best thing we did was get the lightweight temporary rail [three years ago] that we now use for the turf course, Hammerle said. It allows us to move the rail daily [sometimes even during the races]. If the fields are smaller we can keep the rail out and preserve the inside for the bigger fields and the stakes. Its generally outside on the weekdays and inside during the weekend when the better races are run.

While typing in Bob Ikes winning pick of Cordiality in Saturdays newsletter, I accidentally sent the horse through gender reassignment. Shes a mare. I did get it right in the Del Mar Review. So, my goof, not Bobs.

Wow. Thats all you can say about Instagrands win in the Grade 2 $200,000 Best Pal Stakes over six furlongs. Hes two for two but the owners did pay $1.2 million for the colt. He won by 10 1/4 lengths under a total hand ride by Drayden Van Dyke . He won his first race by 10 lengths.

It was a small field of five but it was clear this horse is something special. The Best Pal is often a prep for the Grade 1 Del Mar Futurity on Labor Day.

There was no money to be made on Instagrand as he paid $2.20, $2.10 and $2.10. There was a $572 minus place pool and a $76,911 minus show pool, although the damage to the track is never even close to that.

I havent been getting on him in the morning but they told me he was ready, Van Dyke said. I just threw a couple of crosses at him today. Thats all. Cadillac. I wanted to see if hed change leads on his own, but in the end I just gave it a little weight shift and he made a perfect change. Hes got the mind of a 4- or 5-year-old. Professional.

The racing starts at 2 p.m. for Sundays nine-race card. The feature is moved once again up in the card, no doubt because of the six-horse field. But, the Grade 3 $100,000 Rancho Bernardo Handicap, for fillies and mares going 6  furlongs, is a pretty strong race.

The slight favorite, at 8-5, is Anonymity for trainer Richard Mandella and jockey Flavien Prat . She has won three of four races and the last race, an allowance, by 8  lengths. This is a big step up in class for her, running against horses that have run in the Breeders Cup.

Skye Diamonds is 9-5 for Bill Spawr and Tiago Pereira . She is nine for 21 lifetime and is two of three at Del Mar. She ran fourth in the Breeders Cup Filly and Mare Sprint.

Shes training well and her last race was the best shes run this year, Spawr told Hank Wesch of Del Mar. She was hooked on the lead and put away a couple and fought down the stretch before [Marleys Freedom] got past her late.

The 3-1 third choice is Moonshine Memories for Simon Callaghan and Mike Smith . She is four of seven lifetime including wins in the Del Mar Debutante and Chandelier Stakes at Santa Anita. She was seventh in the Breeders Cup Juvenile Fillies.

Sophomore colt from the Doug O'Neill stable had no chance last time when marooned in the 12 post and racing wide throughout when facing stronger allowance foes. He shortens up to a mile, drops in class and has drawn much better, so expect a top effort today.

She is a 14-time winner who can flash much early speed when she doesnt break slow as she did in her last third-place try in which she was only beaten one-half length. I liked the progress she made from between horses midway on the far turn of last outing and her versatility to win from on/off the pace is a plus. In addition, she retains the services of high-percentage distance rider Vinnie Bednar .

Always looking to add more subscribers to this newsletter. Cant beat the price. If you like it, tell someone. If you dont like it, then youre probably not reading this. Either way, send to a friend and just have them click here and sign up . Remember, its free, and all we need is your email, nothing more.

Any thoughts, you can reach me at johnacherwa@gmail.com . You can also feed my ego by following me on Twitter @jcherwa

Del Mar Charts Results for Saturday, August 11. Copyright 2018 by Equibase Company. Reproduction prohibited. Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, Del Mar, California. All finishes confirmed by Plusmic USA. Official program numbers may not correspond with post position. 18th day of a 36-day meet. Clear & Fast

FIRST RACE. 5 Furlongs. Purse: $23,000. Claiming. 3 year olds. Claiming Prices $12,500-$10,500. Time 22.34 46.61 58.95 1:05.50

Pgm Horse Wt PP St  3/8 Str Fin Jockey $1 1 Don't Stalk Me 119 1 4 5hd 51 11 12 Roman 2.50 7 Memorable Election 119 6 1 43 3hd 21 22 Mn Garcia 1.50 5 Michael Mundo 119 5 3 6 6 51 32 Mt Garcia 13.90 4 Colormemoney 120 4 5 2hd 2hd 3hd 4 Desormeaux 2.60 2 Quad 112 2 2 1hd 1hd 41 58 Payeras 11.90 3 Ghostly Who 119 3 6 3hd 42 6 6 Maldonado 10.10

1 DON'T STALK ME 7.00 3.20 2.60 7 MEMORABLE ELECTION 3.20 2.40 5 MICHAEL MUNDO 4.20

$1 EXACTA (1-7) $9.50 $2 QUINELLA (1-7) $8.20 10-CENT SUPERFECTA (1-7-5-4) $9.18 50-CENT TRIFECTA (1-7-5) $25.05

WinnerDon't Stalk Me Dbb.g.3 by Kafwain out of Silent Stalk, by Petionville. Bred by Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, LLC (CA). Trainer: Doug F. O'Neill. Owner: WestSide Racing, Bello, Stephen, Rothblum, Steve and Sarno, Russell. Mutuel Pool $214,958 Exacta Pool $99,257 Quinella Pool $5,082 Superfecta Pool $35,711 Trifecta Pool $64,140. ClaimedDon't Stalk Me by Diana Citarella. Trainer: Ronald Ellis. ClaimedColormemoney by ERJ Racing LLC, Westside Racing Stables, Keh, L. Steve and O''Neill, Doug. Trainer: Doug O'Neill. ScratchedOur Tiger's Boy.

DON'T STALK ME saved ground stalking the pace, slipped through along the fence into the stretch to gain the lead in upper stretch, inched away under urging in midstretch and won clear. MEMORABLE ELECTION a bit fractious in the gate, dueled four wide then five wide into the stretch, drifted in some in the drive and clearly bested the others. MICHAEL MUNDO chased off the rail then outside the winner, continued off the inside on the turn, came out into the stretch and again in upper stretch and picked up the show. COLORMEMONEY dueled three deep between horses then four wide into the stretch, drifted in and weakened. QUAD dueled a bit off the rail then inside, came out a bit to be between foes into the stretch, also drifted in and weakened. GHOSTLY WHO had good early speed and dueled between horses, was fanned out three deep into the stretch and had little left for the drive.

SECOND RACE. 5 Furlongs Turf. Purse: $42,000. Claiming. Fillies and Mares. 3 year olds and up. Claiming Prices $40,000-$35,000. Time 22.09 44.68 56.95

Pgm Horse Wt PP St 3/16 3/8 Str Fin Jockey $1 3 Red Shelby 112 3 2 13 12 12 1hd Figueroa 3.30 6 Dis Smart Cat 119 6 1 4hd 2hd 21 2hd Roman 4.90 1 Holy Mosey 118 1 4 7 6hd 61 31 Pedroza 11.00 2 Lori's Attitude 119 2 3 3hd 54 52 41 Bejarano 2.70 4 Jeweled 113 4 7 6 7 7 5hd Espinoza 8.50 7 Laynee 119 7 6 53 4 4 6ns Prat 2.50 5 Emmy and I 119 5 5 2 31 3hd 7 Talamo 19.80

3 RED SHELBY 8.60 5.20 4.00 6 DIS SMART CAT 6.00 4.20 1 HOLY MOSEY 4.80

$2 DAILY DOUBLE (1-3) $35.40 $1 EXACTA (3-6) $21.20 $2 QUINELLA (3-6) $25.60 10-CENT SUPERFECTA (3-6-1-2) $26.85 50-CENT TRIFECTA (3-6-1) $59.80

WinnerRed Shelby Ch.f.4 by Greatness out of Rehocracy, by Adhocracy. Bred by Tom McCrocklin, Frank Mermenstein &Craig Rounsefell (FL). Trainer: Peter Miller. Owner: Rockingham Ranch. Mutuel Pool $299,525 Daily Double Pool $56,528 Exacta Pool $162,755 Quinella Pool $9,030 Superfecta Pool $53,062 Trifecta Pool $97,486. ClaimedLaynee by Roper, James L. and Ilene A. Trainer: Eddie Truman. Scratchednone.

RED SHELBY sped to the early lead, set the pace inside, drifted out some in the stretch despite right handed urging and held gamely between foes late. DIS SMART CAT stalked three deep between foes then outside a rival on the turn, came three wide into the stretch and finished willingly. HOLY MOSEY saved ground chasing the pace to the stretch, split horses in deep stretch and rallied inside. LORI'S ATTITUDE stalked the pace inside, continued along the rail on the turn and in the stretch and was outfinished. JEWELED settled outside a rival to the stretch, came out some in the drive and split horses on the wire. LAYNEE stalked four wide on the backstretch and outside a rival on the turn, came out four wide into the stretch and lacked the needed late kick. EMMY AND I close up stalking the pace between horses on the backstretch and a bit off the rail on the turn, was between foes again in midstretch and did not rally.

THIRD RACE. 6 Furlongs. Purse: $200,000. 'Best Pal Stakes'. 2 year olds. Time 23.00 46.54 58.17 1:10.27

Pgm Horse Wt PP St   Str Fin Jockey $1 1 Instagrand 118 1 1 1hd 11 17 110 Van Dyke 0.10 5 Sparky Ville 120 5 2 34 41 31 23 Stevens 14.50 3 Synthesis 120 3 4 4hd 3hd 44 3hd Desormeaux 19.00 2 Owning 118 2 3 22 23 2 45 Gutierrez 7.90 4 Mason Dixon 118 4 5 5 5 5 5 Prat 8.10

1 INSTAGRAND 2.20 2.10 2.10 5 SPARKY VILLE 4.80 3.60 3 SYNTHESIS 4.20

$2 DAILY DOUBLE (3-1) $11.00 $1 EXACTA (1-5) $5.60 $2 QUINELLA (1-5) $10.20 50-CENT TRIFECTA (1-5-3) $14.00

WinnerInstagrand B.c.2 by Into Mischief out of Assets of War, by Lawyer Ron. Bred by Stoneway Farm (KY). Trainer: Jerry Hollendorfer. Owner: OXO Equine LLC. Mutuel Pool $792,932 Daily Double Pool $32,337 Exacta Pool $164,752 Quinella Pool $7,813 Trifecta Pool $136,025. Scratchednone. $1 Pick Three (1-3-1) paid $23.00. Pick Three Pool $73,917.

INSTAGRAND quickly sprinted to the front, dueled a bit off the rail then inside, inched away leaving the turn and drew off in the stretch under a brisk hand ride and a hold late. SPARKY VILLE stalked the pace off the rail, went outside a rival in midstretch and was clearly second best. SYNTHESIS reluctant to load, was a bit awkwardly into stride, chased off the rail then angled in for the turn, continued along the inside in the stretch and edged a rival for the show. OWNING dueled outside the winner then stalked a bit off the rail leaving the turn and into the stretch and was edged for third late. MASON DIXON a bit reluctant to load, turned his head and was straightened then broke a bit slowly, chased outside a rival, went three deep on the turn and into the stretch and weakened.

FOURTH RACE. 1 Mile. Purse: $20,000. Maiden Claiming. Fillies and Mares. 3 year olds and up. Claiming Price $20,000. Time 22.85 47.44 1:13.19 1:25.86 1:39.40

Pgm Horse Wt PP St    Str Fin Jockey $1 1 K P's Smokin 120 1 2 21 21 11 18 110 T Baze 2.30 2 Tengs Rhythm 120 2 4 43 31 44 44 2hd Desormeaux 2.30 3 Veiled Heat 119 3 6 5hd 52 3hd 2hd 34 Payeras 7.00 6 Stella Sweeper 124 5 5 61 61 5hd 51 4 Pena 22.80 8 Eurasia 120 6 1 12 11 23 31 53 Pereira 12.50 5 Dianka 115 4 3 7 7 61 65 64 Espinoza 7.40 9 Star of Kobol 120 7 7 3hd 41 7 7 7 Bejarano 3.40

1 K P'S SMOKIN 6.60 4.20 3.00 2 TENGS RHYTHM 3.40 2.60 3 VEILED HEAT 3.40

$2 DAILY DOUBLE (1-1) $6.80 $1 EXACTA (1-2) $7.90 $2 QUINELLA (1-2) $8.40 10-CENT SUPERFECTA (1-2-3-6) $21.94 50-CENT TRIFECTA (1-2-3) $13.30

WinnerK P's Smokin Grr.f.3 by Archarcharch out of Holy Smokie, by Holy Bull. Bred by Meadow Lane Stables LLC (KY). Trainer: Jeff Mullins. Owner: Karl Pergola. Mutuel Pool $246,941 Daily Double Pool $27,964 Exacta Pool $128,652 Quinella Pool $7,985 Superfecta Pool $55,446 Trifecta Pool $99,677. ScratchedCurlina Curlina, Western Mongolia. $1 Pick Three (3-1-1) paid $24.00. Pick Three Pool $36,709.

K P'S SMOKIN had speed inside then stalked along the rail or a bit off the fence, bid outside the pacesetter on the second turn to gain the lead, inched away leaving that turn and drew off in the stretch under urging then a long hold late. TENGS RHYTHM pulled a bit off the rail then chased inside, went outside a rival leaving the second turn, came out into the stretch and just got the place. VEILED HEAT saved ground chasing the pace, came out into the stretch and was edged late for second. STELLA SWEEPER three deep into the first turn, chased outside a rival, was between foes into the stretch and lacked a rally. EURASIA had speed outside then alongside the winner, kicked away and angled in on the first turn, set the pace inside, offered little resistance when that one challenged again on the second turn and weakened in the stretch. DIANKA pulled her way between horses then a bit off the rail, angled in and chased inside on the backstretch and second turn and into the stretch and also weakened. STAR OF KOBOL three deep early, chased outside a rival, dropped back on the second turn, came three wide into the stretch and had little left for the drive.

FIFTH RACE. 1 1/16 Mile Turf. Purse: $62,000. Allowance Optional Claiming. Fillies and Mares. 3 year olds and up. Claiming Price $40,000. Time 23.52 47.59 1:11.91 1:34.99 1:40.85

Pgm Horse Wt PP St    Str Fin Jockey $1 2 Meal Ticket 122 2 5 52 3hd 31 12 14 T Baze 1.30 6 Siberian Iris 122 5 6 6 6 6 3hd 2nk Prat 2.90 1 Wind Tartare 124 1 4 41 5hd 5hd 42 32 Franco 6.80 5 Jazaalah 122 4 3 31 22 2 2 46 Desormeaux 4.80 3 Goseecal 122 3 1 2 41 4 5hd 5nk Stevens 8.00 7 Beautiful Becca 124 6 2 11 11 1 6 6 Talamo 9.20

2 MEAL TICKET 4.60 2.80 2.40 6 SIBERIAN IRIS (IRE) 3.20 2.60 1 WIND TARTARE (FR) 3.40

$2 DAILY DOUBLE (1-2) $17.40 $1 EXACTA (2-6) $7.30 $2 QUINELLA (2-6) $8.00 10-CENT SUPERFECTA (2-6-1-5) $8.61 50-CENT TRIFECTA (2-6-1) $16.80

WinnerMeal Ticket Dbb.f.4 by Malibu Moon out of Rainbow's Song, by Unbridled's Song. Bred by Glen Hill Farm (FL). Trainer: Matthew Chew. Owner: Aulds, Chris, Jeong, Peter and Johnston, Keith. Mutuel Pool $384,825 Daily Double Pool $29,022 Exacta Pool $178,406 Quinella Pool $8,631 Superfecta Pool $58,039 Trifecta Pool $107,074. ClaimedWind Tartare (FR) by J. Robison. Trainer: Peter Miller. ScratchedSaburai. $1 Pick Three (1-1-2) paid $11.20. Pick Three Pool $80,110. 50-Cent Pick Four (3-1-1/4-2/4) 4 correct paid $46.00. Pick Four Pool $203,014. 50-Cent Pick Five (1-3-1-1/4-2/4) 5 correct paid $173.20. Pick Five Pool $607,648.

MEAL TICKET stalked outside a rival, bid three deep on the second turn, took the lead into the stretch and drew off under a crack of the whip inside the eighth pole and steady handling while drifting in through the final furlong. SIBERIAN IRIS (IRE) bumped at the start, angled in and settled a bit off the rail then three deep into and on the second turn and into the stretch and edged a rival for the place. WIND TARTARE (FR) stalked inside then between foes leaving the backstretch and on the second turn, continued a bit off the rail in the stretch and was edged for second. JAZAALAH broke out and bumped a rival then pulled and stalked outside a foe, bid between horses on the second turn and nearing the stretch and weakened in the final furlong. GOSEECAL pulled her way along to stalk the pace inside, continued inside on the second turn and into the stretch and also weakened. BEAUTIFUL BECCA had speed outside then inched away and angled in, set the pace inside, dueled from the rail on the second turn, dropped back into the stretch and also weakened.

SIXTH RACE. 5 Furlongs. Purse: $60,000. Maiden Special Weight. Fillies. 2 year olds. Time 22.22 45.97 59.30

Pgm Horse Wt PP St 3/16 3/8 Str Fin Jockey $1 2 The Aurelia Factor 120 2 5 1hd 1hd 1 1nk Van Dyke 0.70 1 Claudelle 120 1 6 62 41 31 21 Desormeaux 5.70 8 Vangogo 115 8 1 21 25 24 3 Figueroa 11.70 3 Lesley's Song 115 3 2 31 31 41 4hd Espinoza 13.90 6 Shes All Woman 120 6 4 51 61 5 51 Roman 31.10 4 Calf Moon Bay 120 4 3 4 5 6hd 61 Prat 4.80 9 Be a Shero 120 9 8 9 72 75 74 T Baze 17.10 5 Bev's Humor 120 5 7 71 84 82 82 Smith 17.20 7 Discrete Stevie B 120 7 9 81 9 9 9 Pereira 63.20

2 THE AURELIA FACTOR 3.40 2.60 2.40 1 CLAUDELLE 4.80 4.40 8 VANGOGO 6.20

$2 DAILY DOUBLE (2-2) $9.20 $1 EXACTA (2-1) $5.70 $2 QUINELLA (1-2) $8.60 10-CENT SUPERFECTA (2-1-8-3) $18.71 50-CENT TRIFECTA (2-1-8) $20.80

WinnerThe Aurelia Factor Grr.f.2 by The Factor out of Another Romance, by Saint Anddan. Bred by Gunpowder Farms LLC (KY). Trainer: Bob Baffert. Owner: Stonestreet Stables, LLC and Bolton, George. Mutuel Pool $451,572 Daily Double Pool $36,274 Exacta Pool $233,479 Quinella Pool $11,464 Superfecta Pool $102,826 Trifecta Pool $161,592. Scratchednone. $1 Pick Three (1-2-2) paid $20.20. Pick Three Pool $70,195.

THE AURELIA FACTOR had good early speed and dueled inside, inched away past midstretch and just held under urging. CLAUDELLE a bit crowded behind the winner early, stalked inside then a bit off the rail leaving the turn, came out into the stretch and surged late to just miss. VANGOGO sped to the early lead off the rail, angled in and dueled outside the winner, fought back in the stretch then held third. LESLEY'S SONG between horses early, stalked a bit off the rail, continued toward the inside in the stretch and was outfinished for the show. SHES ALL WOMAN stalked outside a rival then three deep on the turn, came four wide into the stretch and put in a late bid at a minor award. CALF MOON BAY between horses early, stalked outside a rival, came out into the stretch, was between foes through much of the drive and lacked the needed late kick. BE A SHERO settled off the rail, angled to the inside on the turn, continued along the fence in the drive and also lacked the necessary response. BEV'S HUMOR allowed to settle off the inside, came four wide into the stretch and lacked a further response. DISCRETE STEVIE B chased off the inside, dropped back and angled in some on the turn and also lacked a response in the stretch.

SEVENTH RACE. 1 Mile Turf. Purse: $62,000. Allowance Optional Claiming. Fillies. 3 year olds. Claiming Price $80,000. Time 22.98 47.14 1:10.88 1:22.83 1:34.90

Pgm Horse Wt PP St    Str Fin Jockey $1 4 Pulpit Rider 123 4 4 10 9hd 91 4hd 1 Conner 11.50 9 Camino Song 120 9 5 51 5hd 5hd 21 2hd Franco 13.90 3 Luminoso 120 3 8 61 6 7hd 5hd 3hd Bejarano 2.80 10 Hey Negrita 120 10 7 41 2hd 1hd 12 4 Gutierrez 9.30 7 Ladybug 120 7 3 7 8 8hd 7hd 51 Desormeaux 8.90 8 Whirling 120 8 10 8 71 61 3hd 6 Van Dyke 16.10 1 Kodiak West 120 1 9 9hd 10 10 9hd 74 Prat 1.50 5 Smiling Tigress 120 5 6 3hd 41 4hd 10 8 T Baze 44.30 6 Silken Spy 115 6 1 21 3 2hd 6hd 95 Espinoza 17.60 2 Classy Atlantic 120 2 2 11 11 31 81 10 Talamo 17.00

4 PULPIT RIDER 25.00 9.40 6.00 9 CAMINO SONG (IRE) 12.80 5.80 3 LUMINOSO 3.00

$2 DAILY DOUBLE (2-4) $55.20 $1 EXACTA (4-9) $122.00 $2 QUINELLA (4-9) $171.80 10-CENT SUPERFECTA (4-9-3-10) $421.10 50-CENT TRIFECTA (4-9-3) $202.20

WinnerPulpit Rider B.f.3 by Lucky Pulpit out of Lady Railrider, by Ride the Rails. Bred by Mr. & Mrs. Larry D. Williams (CA). Trainer: Mike Puype. Owner: Williams, Mr. and Mrs. Larry D.. Mutuel Pool $420,726 Daily Double Pool $56,847 Exacta Pool $230,746 Quinella Pool $10,502 Superfecta Pool $101,684 Trifecta Pool $166,111. Scratchednone. $1 Pick Three (2-2-4) paid $61.10. Pick Three Pool $94,134.

PULPIT RIDER settled outside a rival, went up three wide leaving the second turn and four wide into the stretch, rallied under urging to get up in the final strides. CAMINO SONG (IRE) chased outside a rival then between foes on the second turn, came out into the stretch and rallied between horses late. LUMINOSO saved ground chasing the pace, waited for room leaving the second turn, came out some in the stretch, split rivals in midstretch and rallied inside. HEY NEGRITA stalked three deep, bid three wide to gain the lead on the second turn, kicked clear in the stretch and was caught late. LADYBUG chased between horses, came three deep into the stretch, continued between foes in the stretch and was outfinished. WHIRLING hopped slightly then bobbled some in a bit of a slow start, stalked three deep, came four wide into the stretch and also was outfinished. KODIAK WEST (IRE) saved ground, awaited room inside leaving the second turn to just past the eighth pole, split rivals past midstretch and could not quite summon the needed late kick. SMILING TIGRESS angled in and stalked inside, came out into the stretch, steadied in traffic in midstretch and lacked the needed rally. SILKEN SPY stalked off the rail then between foes leaving the backstretch, bid between horses on the second turn and into the stretch and weakened in the final furlong. CLASSY ATLANTIC sped to the early lead, set the pace inside, fought back on the second turn and into the stretch and weakened in the final furlong.

EIGHTH RACE. 6 Furlongs. Purse: $26,000. Claiming. 3 year olds and up. Claiming Prices $16,000-$14,000. Time 22.59 46.02 58.14 1:10.55

Pgm Horse Wt PP St   Str Fin Jockey $1 7 Ninety Nine Proof 119 7 2 11 11 14 13 Pedroza 2.40 4 Bow and Arrow 119 4 7 7hd 61 3hd 24 Fuentes 8.70 2 Papa Turf 120 2 5 5hd 5 5hd 3hd Desormeaux 3.80 3 Baby Bear's Soup 114 3 8 41 3 2hd 4nk Figueroa 11.30 6 Burn Me Twice 119 6 1 2hd 2hd 41 52 Delgadillo 4.80 5 Braddock 116 5 4 3 41 64 61 Espinoza 4.50 8 Rate for Me 121 8 6 9 8hd 7 71 Ceballos 36.10 1 Twirling Tiger 119 1 9 81 9 9 84 Elliott 11.80 9 Bernin Sensation 119 9 3 62 74 82 9 Maldonado 18.10

7 NINETY NINE PROOF 6.80 4.00 3.60 4 BOW AND ARROW 7.00 5.20 2 PAPA TURF 3.60

$2 DAILY DOUBLE (4-7) $127.00 $1 EXACTA (7-4) $32.00 $2 QUINELLA (4-7) $36.00 10-CENT SUPERFECTA (7-4-2-3) $86.20 50-CENT TRIFECTA (7-4-2) $65.05

WinnerNinety Nine Proof B.c.4 by Idiot Proof out of Seattle Avenue, by Capsized. Bred by Judi Garfi-Partridge & Serenity OakFarms, LLC (CA). Trainer: Andy Mathis. Owner: Shane Thompson Racing, Begley, J., Begley, P., Panian, L. and Schott, M.. Mutuel Pool $430,573 Daily Double Pool $38,429 Exacta Pool $245,650 Quinella Pool $10,907 Superfecta Pool $102,673 Trifecta Pool $160,265. ClaimedNinety Nine Proof by Bartlett, Charles and O''Neill, Doug. Trainer: Doug O'Neill. ClaimedBaby Bear's Soup by Steve Aichle. Trainer: Adam Kitchingman. ClaimedTwirling Tiger by Paymaster Racing LLC. Trainer: Jack Carava. Scratchednone. $1 Pick Three (2-4-7) paid $130.80. Pick Three Pool $79,206.

NINETY NINE PROOF sped to the early lead, angled in and set thee pace a bit off the rail then inside, drew away under urging in the stretch and proved best. BOW AND ARROW chased outside a rival then off the rail on the turn, came four wide into the stretch and gained the place. PAPA TURF stalked inside then pulled and steadied off heels and came out a bit into the turn, entered the stretch three deep and just held third. BABY BEAR'S SOUP saved ground stalking the pace throughout and was edged for the show. BURN ME TWICE stalked three deep then outside a rival into the stretch and was edged for a minor award between foes late. BRADDOCK close up stalking the pace between horses, dropped back a bit off the rail into the stretch and weakened. RATE FOR ME settled off the rail on the backstretch and turn, came four wide into the stretch and lacked a rally. TWIRLING TIGER chased inside then a bit off the rail, came out into the stretch and weakened. BERNIN SENSATION chased outside a rival then off the rail leaving the turn and three deep into the stretch and also weakened.

NINTH RACE. 1 Mile Turf. Purse: $62,000. Allowance Optional Claiming. Fillies. 3 year olds. Claiming Price $80,000. Time 23.33 47.14 1:11.09 1:23.13 1:35.26

Pgm Horse Wt PP St    Str Fin Jockey $1 3 One Fast Broad 123 2 4 71 71 6 31 12 Stevens 4.10 7 Nice Ice 123 6 2 1hd 11 12 12 2 Pereira 3.60 9 Dulce Ride 120 8 8 31 2hd 2hd 2hd 3nk Bejarano 6.80 1 Miraculously 123 1 9 91 94 71 6 42 Franco 22.10 6 Nonna Gianna 120 5 7 4 4hd 51 4hd 5 Van Dyke 14.50 8 Sappho 120 7 6 5hd 63 4hd 51 6 T Baze 2.80 5 Pacific Strike 120 4 5 81 8 96 85 73 Talamo 8.60 4 Klosters 120 3 3 21 31 31 72 89 Roman 46.70 10 Highland Lass 120 9 1 63 5hd 8hd 94 91 Prat 6.20 11 Sum Reward 120 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 Pedroza 72.80

3 ONE FAST BROAD 10.20 4.60 3.20 7 NICE ICE 4.80 3.80 9 DULCE RIDE 5.20

$2 DAILY DOUBLE (7-3) $39.00 $1 EXACTA (3-7) $21.00 $2 QUINELLA (3-7) $21.00 10-CENT SUPERFECTA (3-7-9-1) $102.81 50-CENT TRIFECTA (3-7-9) $63.35

WinnerOne Fast Broad Dbb.f.3 by Decarchy out of Awesome Broad, by Mr. Broad Blade. Bred by Richard Allen Kritzski and AGR Racing (CA). Trainer: Mick Ruis. Owner: Ruis Racing LLC. Mutuel Pool $482,058 Daily Double Pool $53,974 Exacta Pool $254,572 Quinella Pool $11,445 Superfecta Pool $121,588 Trifecta Pool $174,367. ScratchedPursuing The Dream (IRE). $1 Pick Three (4-7-3) paid $294.60. Pick Three Pool $45,687.

ONE FAST BROAD chased inside then a bit off the rail, split rivals on the second turn, came out four wide into the stretch, rallied under some urging to the lead in deep stretch and won clear. NICE ICE angled in and dueled outside a rival then inched away and set the pace inside, kicked clear on the second turn, held well to deep stretch and saved the place. DULCE RIDE stalked the pace outside a rival to the stretch and held third between foes late. MIRACULOUSLY saved ground chasing the pace, came out into the stretch and again nearing midstretch and was edged for the show. NONNA GIANNA (IRE) close up stalking the pace along the inside, came out a bit for room into the stretch and lacked the needed rally. SAPPHO (IRE) pulled between foes and was in tight into the first turn, stalked between rivals, came three deep into the stretch and did not rally. PACIFIC STRIKE chased a bit off the rail then outside a rival on the backstretch, came out leaving the second turn and three deep into the stretch and could not summon the necessary late kick. KLOSTERS (IRE) angled in and dueled inside then stalked along the rail to the stretch and weakened. HIGHLAND LASS stalked three deep, came four wide into the stretch, drifted in and weakened. SUM REWARD angled in outside a rival then found the rail on the backstretch and second turn, came out into the stretch and lacked a further response.

TENTH RACE. 6 Furlongs. Purse: $30,000. Maiden Claiming. 2 year olds. Claiming Price $50,000. Time 22.60 46.92 59.90 1:13.10

Pgm Horse Wt PP St   Str Fin Jockey $1 10 Hey Sal 120 10 1 2 1hd 11 1nk Franco 2.20 4 Irish Terrier 120 4 4 4hd 52 3hd 23 T Baze 3.90 6 Handsome John 120 6 5 52 3hd 44 31 Bejarano 1.50 7 Silent Alarm 115 7 2 32 21 2hd 42 Figueroa 7.80 1 Red Clem 115 1 6 82 74 5 53 Espinoza 32.60 2 Small Town Boy 120 2 7 62 62 62 62 Conner 38.20 3 Lucky General 120 3 9 10 82 810 72 Elliott 23.60 9 Warrensdirtydancer 115 9 3 1hd 4hd 72 823 Payeras 32.50 8 Empirical Data 122 8 8 91 92 98 918 Pena 37.50 5 Cyprus Souljah 120 5 10 71 10 10 10 Delgadillo 47.00

10 HEY SAL 6.40 3.60 2.60 4 IRISH TERRIER 4.00 2.80 6 HANDSOME JOHN 2.20

$2 DAILY DOUBLE (3-10) $50.60 $1 EXACTA (10-4) $12.20 $2 QUINELLA (4-10) $14.60 10-CENT SUPERFECTA (10-4-6-7) $11.62 $1 SUPER HIGH FIVE (10-4-6-7-1) $560.50 50-CENT TRIFECTA (10-4-6) $16.85

WinnerHey Sal Dbb.c.2 by Empire Way out of Clawpuccino, by Forest Wildcat. Bred by Terry C. Lovingier (CA). Trainer: Gary Sherlock. Owner: Lovingier, Terry C. and Sherlock, Gary. Mutuel Pool $446,166 Daily Double Pool $154,824 Exacta Pool $238,622 Quinella Pool $11,152 Superfecta Pool $133,500 Super High Five Pool $195,175 Trifecta Pool $173,341. ClaimedHandsome John by Featherston, Roger, Lambert, Jeff and Pritchard, Pete. Trainer: Robert Hess, Jr. Scratchednone. $1 Pick Three (7-3-10) paid $125.40. Pick Three Pool $239,142. 50-Cent Pick Four (4-7-3-10) 4 correct paid $852.60. Pick Four Pool $687,084. 50-Cent Pick Five (2-4-7-3-10) 5 correct paid $2,373.35. Pick Five Pool $590,860. $2 Pick Six (2/4-2-4-7-3-10) 6 correct paid $6,361.40. Pick Six Pool $151,930. $2 Pick Six (2/4-2-4-7-3-10) 5 out of 6 paid $72.80. $2 Pick Six Jackpot (2/4-2-4-7-3-10) . Pick Six Jackpot Carryover $39,389. $1 Place Pick All 10 correct paid $2,376.50. Place Pick All Pool $38,987.

HEY SAL dueled three deep then outside a rival leaving the turn, continued a bit wide into the stretch, inched away under urging and held. IRISH TERRIER stalked inside, came out in upper stretch, split rivals in midstretch bid inside the winner in deep stretch and just missed. HANDSOME JOHN broke in a bit, stalked outside a rival then three deep leaving the turn and four wide into the stretch and bested the others. SILENT ALARM went up inside to duel for the lead, fought back leaving the turn and weakened in the final furlong. RED CLEM saved ground chasing the pace, came out some on the turn and into the stretch and lacked the needed rally. SMALL TOWN BOY chased a bit off the rail, angled to the inside into the stretch and weakened. LUCKY GENERAL broke a bit slowly, settled just off the rail to the stretch and did not rally. WARRENSDIRTYDANCER had good early speed and dueled between horses, stalked between foes leaving the turn and weakened in the drive. EMPIRICAL DATA settled off the inside to the stretch, gave way and was eased. CYPRUS SOULJAH briefly loose during the post parade, bobbled in a slow start, chased three deep then outside a rival, dropped back on the turn, also gave way and was eased in the stretch.You dont need to be ultra-rich to find a hotel room in Santa Barbara, but if your platinum card is smoking hot, its an excellent place to use it.

The regions sophisticated charm, miles of sun-swept beaches and to-die-for ocean views have long made Santa Barbara County attractive to celebrities and wealthy travelers. Now, a high-end hotel boom is churning through the region, offering new luxuries and rooms with price tags as steep as $9,000 a night.

This is an unprecedented time, said Kathy Janega-Dykes, president of Visit Santa Barbara. The luxury industry is coming into its own.

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Some of the high-end hotel rooms are the products of long-awaited new builds, others from renovations caused by last winters fires and floods, still others from hotels undergoing extensive makeovers because of brand changes.

I visited Santa Barbara County three times in the last few months, touring six hotels that promise travelers new high-end choices.

What can guests expect to find? Historic locations, plush accommodations, standout restaurants and stellar views.

THE GROUNDBREAKERS

Rosewood Miramar Beach

The sand in front of the Rosewood Miramar Beach hotel, under construction in Montecito. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)

If youve wanted to take a look at Santa Barbara Countys newest luxury hotel, youre going to have to wait a little longer. Rosewood Miramar Beach, once scheduled to open this summer, has pushed the date to late 2018.

Last winters storms, which closed many roads in the hotels Montecito neighborhood, caused major delays. But Rosewood Miramar is beginning to come together. The resort, spearheaded by Rick Caruso, developer of the Grove and other Los Angeles area projects, is being built on the site of the Miramar by the Sea Hotel, which opened in 1889 and closed in 2000.

The new resort, with 161 rooms, spans 16 acres and shares a slice of coastline with a handful of beach homes.

The downside? Like its predecessor, it has an active railroad line running through the property. I was told that a 24-hour guard will keep guests from crossing the tracks at the wrong time, removing the need for wailing train whistles. But earplugs might be a good idea when the tracks begin to rumble.

The upside is that Miramar Beach will again be open to the public  at least that segment willing to pay $825 to $7,500 a night for a room.

At the top end, guests will have butler service and an 1,885-square-foot suite with a panoramic ocean view. But guests who can afford only the $825 tariff will have a sizable room  530 square feet with a patio or lanai.

Hotel Californian

Library sitting area at the Hotel Californian in Santa Barbara. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)

The Hotel Californian is basking in new-kid-in-town popularity  with good reason. This grand Spanish Colonial Revival project is a glam combination of Moorish, Moroccan and Spanish influences that is credited with beautifying downtown Santa Barbara.

The 121-room hotel, like the Rosewood Miramar, is built on a historic site. The original Hotel Californian collapsed less than a month after its 1925 opening when a 6.8 earthquake destroyed it and most of the citys historic downtown.

Today the location is excellent for visitors  at the edge of the citys trendy Funk Zone and across the street from popular Stearns Wharf. Many rooms have balconies and ocean views; theres also a rooftop pool offering panoramic vistas.

The Californian complex is beautiful inside and out, with lavish furnishings and custom-made patterned tiles; more than 1 million pieces were imported from Morocco. Stop and take a look at the lobbies even if youre not staying there.

The hotels restaurants are another reason to visit. Blackbird, its fine-dining venue, and Goat Tree, a cafe open all day, are under the direction of Alexander la Motte, formerly of Napa Valleys French Laundry.

The hotel is racking up awards, even though its been open only since September. It recently made Conde Nasts Hot List for 2018.

THE RENOVATIONS

Four Seasons Resort the Biltmore Santa Barbara

A room at the Four Seasons the Biltmore in Montecito. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)

Its back and better than ever. The Four Seasons Biltmore, one of the states premier grand hotels, reopened its doors in June, five months after a wall of water and mud swept though the Montecito resorts grounds.

The January flood came just a month after the Thomas fire burned much of the area above Montecito. When a major rainstorm followed, mudslides destroyed more than 100 homes and caused multiple fatalities.

At the hotel, guests with ground-level rooms were relocated to the second floor at 3:30 a.m., avoiding injuries.

Then the hard work began, with cleanup that included extensive landscaping and restoration of some guest rooms and administrative areas.

The Biltmore, built in 1927, is known for its Spanish Colonial architecture and picturesque location on Butterfly Beach.

Im a longtime fan of the hotel  especially its jungle-style tropical landscaping  so I was happy to see that its lush grounds and 100-year-old trees were as beautiful as ever.

I also liked the snazzy new rooms that debuted recently. The hotel added four bungalows equipped with plunge pools and fire pits. Rates for the 900-square-foot rooms are $4,000 to $6,000 a night, double occupancy. Another new bungalow, the Anacapa Suite, will join the roster later this year.

San Ysidro Ranch

The historic San Ysidro Ranch in the Montecito hills is being repaired after damaging mudslides earlier this year. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)

Montecitos other iconic hotel has a long way to go.

San Ysidro Ranch, a longtime Hollywood A-list favorite, was heavily damage in the January mudslides. It isnt expected to open until early next year, but its well-known restaurant, the Stonehouse, may reopen in October.

I visited with Maxine Rutledge, the general manager, as she worked at the Ranchs home-away-from-home  a warehouse in downtown Santa Barbara where everything from coffee-table knickknacks to lobby-sized couches have been stored. The furnishings have been carefully cleaned; to keep them that way, theyve all been sealed in plastic.

At the Ranch site, six miles northeast, crews are hard at work. We did the digging up and cleaning out first; now were rebuilding, she said.

Most of the damage occurred on the edges of the resort near the creek, she said, adding that the heart and soul of the Ranch were just touched lightly.

The Ranch, at the edge of the Santa Ynez Mountains, has had a string of owners in the last century or so, including actor Ronald Colman, who urged his Hollywood friends to visit.

Among its illustrious guests: Winston Churchill and John F. and Jacqueline Kennedy, who honeymooned here. It consistently wins best hotel awards from Travel & Leisure and Conde Nast.

People who come to the Ranch do so for specific reasons, and they dont want it to change, Rutledge said. So were trying to keep changes to a minimum while still making upgrades that will modernize utilities and add amenities.

THE REBRANDS

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

The Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)

You might know it as the Fess Parker Hotel. But today, the Fess Parker name is gone  replaced by Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort.

The late Parker, best known for his portrayals of Davy Crockett in the 50s and Daniel Boone in the 60s, was also a wine entrepreneur and hotelier. (Theres still a Fess Parker Wine Country Inn in Los Olivos.)

When Parker family members were asked whether theyd be interested in having the Santa Barbara hotel become the first Central Coast Hilton resort, they agreed, said Gary Griggs, the hotels director of sales and marketing.

The beachfront hotel dropped its association with Doubletree and went to work on a $16-million renovation that upgraded its 360 rooms and made changes to its meeting rooms and lobby.

There are new colors, flooring and a lighter touch.

We wanted to give the hotel more of a boutique feel, Grigg said.

Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Goleta. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)

Ritz-Carlton is a relative newbie in the Santa Barbara area, having added the Bacara Resort & Spa late last year when the hotel was purchased by a new investment group.

The 78-acre resort, about 15 miles northwest of downtown, is in an undeveloped area, which gives it a rural look and feel as you approach on country roads.

The facilities are impressive, with three saltwater swimming pools, a 42,000-square-foot spa and six dining venues.

But change is coming later this year, with plans for upgrades and new activities. Management isnt releasing details yet but says renovations will be complete by December.

If you go

Four Seasons Resort the Biltmore Santa Barbara, 1260 Channel Drive, Santa Barbara; (805) 969-2261. This West Coast favorite is set within 22 acres of lush tropical grounds at the edge of Montecito. It was closed for five months after the winter floods. Rates from $845 to $9,000.

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort, 633 E. Cabrillo Blvd., Santa Barbara; (805) 564-4333. This Hilton, across the street from Cabrillo Beach, has renovated rooms and public areas. Doubles from $288 a night.

Hotel Californian, 36 State St., Santa Barbara; (805) 882-0100. The new kid on the block is an elegant Spanish Colonial Revival hotel one block from the beach. Great restaurants, large rooms and friendly ambiance. Made the Conde Nast Hot List for 2018. Rates from $484.

Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara, 8301 Hollister Ave., Santa Barbara; (805) 968-0100. This beachfront resort, near Goleta, about 15 miles northwest of downtown Santa Barbara, has just changed to Ritz-Carlton management. The company promises to make renovations. Doubles from $399 to $7,000 per night.

Rosewood Miramar Beach, 1555 S. Jameson Lane, Montecito; (214) 880-4292, rosewoodhotels.com. New oceanfront hotel hopes to open in January. Many of its 161 rooms will have ocean views. Doubles from $825.

San Ysidro Ranch, 900 San Ysidro Lane, Santa Barbara; (805) 565-1700. The Ranch, rated by Forbes Traveler as the No. 1 resort in America, was dealt a blow by last winters storms. It hopes to reopen early next year.

TO LEARN MORE

Visit Santa BarbaraEvery morning at 6:30, Joaquim dos Santos walks across his farm in Parelheiros, a rural neighborhood that feels out of place deep in the southern part of this crowded metropolis.

His best sellers are root vegetables. Ginger, yams, purple sweet potatoes, carrots and a yellow root known as mandioquinha dot his 57 acres.

Dos Santos, 69, is teaching his grandson how to work the land  just like his father taught him.

But unlike his father, Dos Santos no longer uses pesticides.

Growing organics is the future, Dos Santos said. It has so much potential.

Joaquim dos Santos, 69, harvests fresh organic yams. Gui Christ / For The Times

But many Brazilian lawmakers disagree and have resuscitated pro-pesticide legislation that had languished well over a decade.

The main proposal was dubbed the poison package by environmentalists when it was introduced in 2002. It would severely reduce the role of health and environment authorities in authorizing new pesticides, leaving the job to the Agriculture Ministry. The bill sat dormant for 16 years until a special commission of Congress in June. It is now being debated in the lower house of Congress.

A second bill would ban the sale of organic foods to supermarkets and other major retail outlets. It was approved in early July by an agriculture commission in the lower house but must get through another congressional commission before a full vote.

The revival of the old legislation comes as a result of the increasing power of the ruralistas  a faction of legislators who now hold a majority in Congress and are allied with Brazils pro-business president, Michel Temer, and Big Agriculture, which is driving the countrys economy.

"In the midst of the recession and a political crisis that weakened the left, the ruralists became even more important, said Mauricio Santoro, a political science professor at Rio de Janeiro State University. If it were not for the impact of agribusiness on the economy, Brazil would still be in recession."

Proponents of pesticide deregulation say that the current process for getting approval for pesticides is too cumbersome and that streamlining it would increase crop production.

The use of pesticides is paramount to guarantee large-scale production, which feeds Brazil and the world, said Cesar Halum, a congressman. Without these substances we would have plantations losses and food shortages.

Monica dos Santos, right, sells produce at Agua Branca Park's organic products fair. She is selling ginger, yuca and yam produced by her father, Joaquim dos Santos. Gui Christ / For The Times

But environmentalists and other opponents of the proposed changes say that deregulation would increase a range of health problems linked to pesticide exposure  including cancer and infertility  and contaminate soil and water.

"More poison on our plates, less health for the population, food insecurity and destruction of the environment is exactly what the 'poison package' represents," said Marina Lacorte, who heads Greenpeace Brazil's agriculture and food campaign. "What has been called modernization and de-bureaucratization is, in fact, a true dismantling of the current law of pesticides."

Brazils health and environmental agencies as well as the countrys national cancer institute have also attacked the legislation.

[The bill] does not contribute to the improved availability of safer foods or new technologies for farmers, or even to the strengthening of the pesticide regulatory system, thus failing to address who should be the focus of this legislation: the Brazilian population, the health regulatory agency known as ANVISA said in a statement. The use of pesticides affects not only agriculture, but also poses clear risks to human health and the environment.

Proponents of the legislation say that it would actually improve health by allowing newer, safer pesticides to be approved more quickly, allowing Brazilian farmers to discontinue the use of older chemicals that are more toxic to people and less effective at controlling pests.

"That way, we'll have even safer food," Halum said.

The proposed ban on selling organic produce in major supermarkets is ostensibly aimed at fighting fraud  the labeling of items as organic when theyre not. But opponents of the bill say its meant to keep the market for organic produce small and reduce the competition for traditional produce grown with the help of pesticides.

Dos Santos doesnt sell to big-box stores, so does not expect to be hurt by the legislation if it passes. In fact, passage could help his business expand as more people begin to worry about pesticides.

What [legislators are] doing is ignorant, he said. My business will do just fine because more people will come to me for their produce when they realize whats in what they usually buy. Im going to keep planting this way because its what a lot of people want, and I want to be the one to provide it.

Zundi Murakami, an 80-year-old organic banana farmer, says he doesnt expect big agribusiness will ever stop using pesticides: They would lose too much money without them.

He started farming organically in 2008, after two of his nieces died of cancer in their early 50s.

Now, he harvests over 4,400 pounds of bananas every week.

Conventional bananas take about 70 days to be ready for harvest and organic bananas take 120, he said. You cant be in a hurry.

Joaquim dos Santos, 69, with a primitive spring-tooth harrow and his donkey Moleque. Gui Christ / For The Times

Langlois is a special correspondent.It took two years to build the Grand Mosque of Weizhou, with its four towering minarets and nine onion-shaped domes.

On Aug. 3, officials in Tongxin county in northern China ruled the all-white structure had been built without proper permits and ordered that it be razed in seven days or the government would tear it down.

The choice of the deadline was unfortunate: It fell on a Friday, a day of prayer for Muslims. That same day, Chinas record on racial discrimination was being reviewed by a U.N. committee in Geneva.

Gay McDougall, an American human rights attorney and vice chairwoman of the U.N.s Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, on Friday cited credible reports that over 1 million people from Muslim minorities have been detained in camps in western China.

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The demolition order, according to activists, was part of a larger pattern of China repressing Muslim minority groups, particularly Uighurs and Kazakhs  hundreds of thousands of whom have been detained in reeducation camps that human rights groups liken to prisons. The Chinese government denies such camps exist, but researchers say evidence of their use is persuasive.

On Friday, a joint submission by Chinese Human Rights Defenders and other nongovernment organizations to the U.N. committee called on the Chinese government to clarify details about disappearing individuals to force them to undergo ideological reeducation.

Around 660,000 people may have been detained in camps in Xinjiang, an autonomous region in northwest China, the groups said. Another 1.3 million have been forced to attend mandatory day and evening reeducation classes.

When Chinese Human Rights Defenders interviewed people in Xinjiang this year and last, one resident told researchers that entire villages  have been emptied of young and middle-aged people, all rounded up into reeducation classes, and that only the elderly and the very docile are left.

Human Rights Watch said Muslims have been held for months at a time, unable to contact family or lawyers, and subjected to extensive lectures on Xi Jinping thought  a reference to the Chinese president  and forced to make expressions of loyalty to the Chinese government. Chinese authorities require some Uighurs to give DNA samples and other bio-data to obtain passports, and also confiscate Uighur passports as a means of arbitrarily punishing them, the group wrote.

The submission to the U.N. said that possessing halal products, wearing a long beard or a full-face head scarf and refusing to tune into state television or radio were all grounds for detention in reeducation camps.

The Weizhou mosque was built by ethnic Huis, a Muslim minority that typically is subjected to less scrutiny by authorities than Uighurs and Kazakhs because they speak the Chinese language and are more integrated with the Han ethnic majority.

It is holy Jummah today. Hui muslims tear off the seal of #china government and crowd into #Weizhou mosque for prayer. The protestors express they will protect this great masjid from governments demolition throughout night.

Allah akbar!

May Allah bless all muslims.# pic.twitter.com/YtxiMNQOfv    (@ismaelan) August 10, 2018

The demolition threat came following the introduction of a 2015 policy to Sinicize religion  to fuse it with Chinese culture, which has led to crescents, domes and Arabic script being removed from mosques.

Chinese authorities concerns about extremism and radicalization increased after a 2014 stabbing attack that killed 31 people at a railway station in Yunnan province. The government described the culprits as separatists from Xinjiang province.

Radio Free Asia cited a Uighur source in 2014 claiming the attackers came from Hanerik township in Hotan prefecture, where 15 people died after a mosque closure led to protests and police action.

The Uighur and Kazakh populations in Xinjiang and the Tibet population have been hardest hit by the Sinicization campaign, according to activists. Human Rights Watch last year reported on a group of more than 100 Tibetan Buddhist monks and nuns forcibly expelled from a monastery before their living quarters were destroyed and the nuns were humiliated and reeducated by officials.

In Xinjiang, there is an intensive security presence  with police checkpoints, mobile phone checks, surveillance cameras and digital facial recognition. Media access to the region is extremely limited. Recent government figures indicated that those arrested in Xinjiang province accounted for 21% of total national arrests, although the population accounts for less than 2% of the national total.

James Liebold, an expert on Chinese politics and ethnic policy at La Trobe University in Melbourne, Australia, has studied how China treats its diverse Muslim population. In a paper for the Jamestown Foundation, a nonpartisan global research group, he wrote:

China has a long tradition of dividing its Muslim population into two camps: the good Muslims, like the Hui, who speak the Chinese language, abide by core elements of its culture, and thus can be trusted; and the bad Muslims, like the Uighurs, who continue to resist the inevitable process of assimilation and thus are susceptible to the Three Evil Forces of separatism, terrorism and extremism.

In Weizhou, the threatened demolition prompted demonstrations on Thursday and Friday, with some of the protests documented in social media. One Hui Muslim who posted videos on Twitter from the scene said locals were determined to protect the mosque and would stay all night.

The protests worked  to an extent. Local authorities on Friday backed down from threats to raze the mosque. A local government official refused to comment, referring the matter to the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region government, which could not be reached Friday.

Though authorities withdrew the demolition threat, they instead demanded that the mosques grand design be drastically scaled down, including the removal of the spectacular domes. The larger pattern of abusing the rights of minorities remains, said Maya Wang, the Human Rights Watch spokeswoman on China.

The demolition of the mosque as well as the crackdown in Xinjiang that is taking place right this moment  where over hundreds of thousands of Muslims are being held unlawfully without charge  does show Chinas utter disregard for its human rights obligations, Wang said. Keep in mind that the Hui tended to be the more tolerated group of Muslims. The fact that even their mosques face demolition shows the increased restrictions on religion are broadening.

The Global Times, a Communist Party newspaper, acknowledged in a Saturday editorial that demolishing the mosque would upset local people, but said religions must be governed by law. If the local government does not react to the illegal act, it will fuel the idea that religions are superior over Chinas laws, it wrote.

Chinas delegation at the U.N. committee Friday did not respond to McDougalls concerns over what she termed a sort of no rights zone.

The review continues Monday.

robyn.dixon@latimes.com

Twitter: @RobynDixon_LATCrafts, Arts, Hobbies Grenada Carnival live stream Spicemas from St George's



12.08.2018 13:04:15 - Watch live streaming of the Grenada Carnival from St George's. Spicemas live stream.



(live-PR.com) - The Grenada carnival returns once again this year, bringing the usual combination of Caribbean carnival events, such as the Soca Monarch, Dimanche Gras, Monday Night Mas and Parade of the Bands.



For live streaming of the carnival:



www.myworldevents.com/parade/grenada-carnival.html



Event background



The Grenada Carnival is one of the most popular annual Caribbean carnivals, although not on the scale of the Trinidad and Tobago carnival, it - The Grenada carnival returns once again this year, bringing the usual combination of Caribbean carnival events, such as the Soca Monarch, Dimanche Gras, Monday Night Mas and Parade of the Bands.For live streaming of the carnival:Event backgroundThe Grenada Carnival is one of the most popular annual Caribbean carnivals, although not on the scale of the Trinidad and Tobago carnival, it still draws huge crowds to this small destination for a solid week of parties, celebrations, live music, dancing and of course the always popular Parade of the Bands. The Grenada carnival is also commonly known by it's alternative title of Spicemas.



Carnival History



Grenada's French colonists brought along their culture, as did the African slaves they brought across the Atlantic for agricultural work. The combination of these cultures is what you will find on this island. Indians have also influenced the island culture in more recent years.



Special dishes reflect the cultural diversity of Grenada. The national dish, Oil Down is a combination of breadfruit, coconut milk, turmeric (misnamed saffron), dumplings, callaloo (taro leaves), and salted meat such as saltfish, smoked herring or salt beef. It's often cooked in a large pot commonly referred to by locals as a karhee, or curry pot. Popular street foods include aloo pie, doubles, and dal puri served wrapped around a curry, commonly goat, and bakes and fish cakes. Sweets include kurma, guava cheese, fudge or barfi, tamarind balls, rum, raisin ice cream, currant rolls, and Grenadian spice cake.



Location information



Grenada is a sovereign state in the southeastern Caribbean Sea consisting of the island of Grenada and six smaller islands at the southern end of the Grenadines island chain. It is located northwest of Trinidad and Tobago, northeast of Venezuela and southwest of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Its size is 348.5 square kilometres (134.6 sq mi), and it had an estimated population of 107,317 in 2016. Its capital is St. George's. Grenada is also known as the "Island of Spice" due to its production of nutmeg and mace crops, of which it is one of the world's largest exporters. The national bird of Grenada is the critically endangered Grenada dove.



About 2 million years ago, Grenada was formed as an underwater volcano. Before the arrival of Europeans, Grenada was inhabited by Arawaks and, subsequently, Island Caribs. Christopher Columbus sighted Grenada in 1498 during his third voyage to the new world.



The island of Carriacou is the largest island in the Grenadines. It is located between the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, north of Trinidad and Tobago. Smaller islands are Petite Martinique, Ronde Island, Caille Island, Diamond Island, Large Island, Saline Island, and Frigate Island. Most of the population lives on Grenada, and major towns there include the capital, St. George's, Grenville and Gouyave. The largest settlement on the other islands is Hillsborough on Carriacou.



Grenada is a leading producer of several different spices. Cinnamon, cloves, ginger, mace, allspice, orange/citrus peels, wild coffee used by the locals, and especially nutmeg, providing 20% of the world supply, are all important exports. Grenada is the world's second largest producer of nutmeg (after Indonesia), with nutmeg depicted on the Grenadian flag.

still draws huge crowds to this small destination for a solid week of parties, celebrations, live music, dancing and of course the always popular Parade of the Bands. The Grenada carnival is also commonly known by it's alternative title of Spicemas.Carnival HistoryGrenada's French colonists brought along their culture, as did the African slaves they brought across the Atlantic for agricultural work. The combination of these cultures is what you will find on this island. Indians have also influenced the island culture in more recent years.Special dishes reflect the cultural diversity of Grenada. The national dish, Oil Down is a combination of breadfruit, coconut milk, turmeric (misnamed saffron), dumplings, callaloo (taro leaves), and salted meat such as saltfish, smoked herring or salt beef. It's often cooked in a large pot commonly referred to by locals as a karhee, or curry pot. Popular street foods include aloo pie, doubles, and dal puri served wrapped around a curry, commonly goat, and bakes and fish cakes. Sweets include kurma, guava cheese, fudge or barfi, tamarind balls, rum, raisin ice cream, currant rolls, and Grenadian spice cake.Location informationGrenada is a sovereign state in the southeastern Caribbean Sea consisting of the island of Grenada and six smaller islands at the southern end of the Grenadines island chain. It is located northwest of Trinidad and Tobago, northeast of Venezuela and southwest of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Its size is 348.5 square kilometres (134.6 sq mi), and it had an estimated population of 107,317 in 2016. Its capital is St. George's. Grenada is also known as the "Island of Spice" due to its production of nutmeg and mace crops, of which it is one of the world's largest exporters. The national bird of Grenada is the critically endangered Grenada dove.About 2 million years ago, Grenada was formed as an underwater volcano. Before the arrival of Europeans, Grenada was inhabited by Arawaks and, subsequently, Island Caribs. Christopher Columbus sighted Grenada in 1498 during his third voyage to the new world.The island of Carriacou is the largest island in the Grenadines. It is located between the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, north of Trinidad and Tobago. Smaller islands are Petite Martinique, Ronde Island, Caille Island, Diamond Island, Large Island, Saline Island, and Frigate Island. Most of the population lives on Grenada, and major towns there include the capital, St. George's, Grenville and Gouyave. The largest settlement on the other islands is Hillsborough on Carriacou.Grenada is a leading producer of several different spices. Cinnamon, cloves, ginger, mace, allspice, orange/citrus peels, wild coffee used by the locals, and especially nutmeg, providing 20% of the world supply, are all important exports. Grenada is the world's second largest producer of nutmeg (after Indonesia), with nutmeg depicted on the Grenadian flag. Author:

Martin Kerrigan

e-mail

Web: http://www.myworldevents.com

Phone: 0035799813173 12.08.2018 13:04:15 -

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.As Marshall prepares to return from its bye week, Marshall head coach Charles Huff wants his team to remember the lessons of the season's first half - good and bad - in preparation for the final five weeks of Conference USA play.Country

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United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of ZimbabweMajor Nepali and English broadsheet dailies published from Kathmandu on Sunday have given priority to a host of issues from various sections and sectors. Many newspapers have given the top priority to a meeting held between Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and medical education reform activist Dr Govinda KC. Likewise, some newspapers have published reports on their front pages about new civil and criminal codes that come into effect from August 17.

Meanwhile, various financial issues including suspected corruption in Sikta Irrigation Project, the World Banks assurance of increasing support in Nepal and proposed amendments to Nepal-India trade treaty.

Few other sociocultural issues have also been featured on the front page of major newspapers published from Kathmandu today.

Important

Dr KC warns of another strike

Medical education reform activist, who recently broke his 15th fast-unto-death that he had recently stated, held a meeting with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Saturday. Whereas Prime Minister Oli requested Dr KC to take the lead in implementing the agreement that the government signed with him, the activist warned of staging another round of strike the implementation remained elusive, according to newspaper reports.

During the meeting, Oli said the government was sincere about implementing the nine-point agreement, and proposed forming a joint inspection committee for the purpose, to be headed by Dr KC himself, Republica reports. Dr KC, however, expressed his reluctance to take the lead claiming he was not fit for the administrative job, according to Naya Matrika.

Meanwhile, he warned of staging the 16th round of hunger strike if the agreement was not implemented, according to the report.

Annapurna Post observes that Dr KC was happy as he entered Baluwatar, but quite confused while returning after the meeting.

Provincial govts denied of secretary transfer right

Kantipur reports on its front page that the federal government has decided to restrict the authority to mobilise and transfer senior government staff including those working for provincial and local governments within itself.

A Cabinet meeting held on Friday decided that provincial governments could transfer staff upto the level of undersecretary only whereas the federal government held the right to transfer secretaries and joint secretaries, according to the report.

Ignored

Supreme Court order on fast track court not implemented

In August 2009, the Supreme Court issued an order in the name of the government to establish a fast track court to deal with crime committed against women, that includes women judges and lawyers, so that the cases related to violence against women would be solved more effectively. However, the verdict has not been implemented yet, according to Naya Patrika.

Moreover, the court order on forming a special police unit to deal with such cases has also not been implemented, according to the report.

BIMSTEC to open development fund, investment bank

The Bay of Bengal Initiatives for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), a group of Southeast Asian countries including Nepal, is planning to establish its own development fund and investment bank so as to give a financial support to its activities, reports Gorkhapatra.

A meeting of high officials of the member states held in Kathmandu yesterday made the decision.

BIMSTECs fourth summit is being held in Kathmandu in the last week of August.

Traffic congestion a challenge in Singhadarbar

Nepal Samacharpatra reports that haphazard parking and lack of sufficient parking spaces in Singhadarbar, the countrys central administrative complex, has resulted in traffic congestion within the complex during the peak hours.

Around 1,500 four wheelers and 2,000 two wheelers go to the place every day whereas the number of visitors is 3,500, the report informs.

Meanwhile, police have proposed using different gates for entry and exit, the report informs.

Nepali Congress mahasamiti meeting delayed

The main opposition party, Nepali Congress, while reviewing its performance in last years elections some months ago, decided to organise a mahasamiti meeting by mid-September. However, the meeting is now likely to be held only after the Tihar festival in November, according to Rajdhani.

The party wants to amend its statute through the meeting, but it is yet to form a statute amendment suggestion committee to begin the process, the report adds.

20 probe teams fail to produce result

The Himalayan Times publishes a report from Dhangadhi that police are yet to book the guilty even two weeks have been passed since the rape and subsequent murder of 13-year-old Nirmala Pant of Bhimdutta Municipality in Kanchanpur district.

The report claims that more than 20 investigation teams are engaged in probing the incident, but their outcome continues to be nil.

Meanwhile, protests have continued every day in Mahendranagar since the body was found and irate women have accused police of trying to shield the guilty, according to the report.

Interesting

World Bank to double assistance to Nepal

Karobar reports in a one-page snippet that Finance Minister Yubaraj Khatiwada said the World Bank was going to double the assistance to Nepal.

Khatiwada, who recently returned home after taking part in a World Bank meeting in Washington, said the assistance amount double from 2019.

Meanwhile, the Bank has agreed to channelise its assistance to Nepals priority sectors, according to Khatiwada as discussed in the report.Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2018 > Pranab Mukherjee at RSS Headquarters

COMMUNICATION

Our erstwhile President Pranab Mukherjee visited the RSS headquarters at Nagpur on June 7, 2018. He did so at the invitation of the RSS sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat. Bhagwat had visited Rashtrapati Bhavan several times when Pranab was the President (and if press reports are not incorrect, he even spent a night there on one occasion as the guest of our former head of state).

Much has been written about his visit to Nagpur after he had demitted the office of the President and the speech he delivered there. He spoke well and as was mentioned in the columns of the Political Notebook in this journals June 9, 2018 issue,

He recalled the contributions made by Tilak, Gokhale, Gandhi, Nehru and other stalwarts of the freedom movement. He emphasised that the soul of India lay in the spirit of assimilation, of pluralism, in its multi-religious and multi-cultural entity.. He underlined the need for tolerance, drew attention to atmosphere of increased violencephysical as well as verbalprevailing around us and counselled that the multiplicity of opinions can be resolved only through dialogue.

However, one point needs to be brought into focus.

In his speech at Nagpur, Pranab quoted four lines from Rabindranath Tagores famous poem Indian Pilgrimage (Bharat-Tirtha):

No one knows whence and at whose call

came pouring endless waves of men

rushing wildly along

to lose themselves in its (Indias) sea;

But the next three lines were missing in his speech. These were:

Aryans and non-Aryans, Dravidians and Chinese,

Scythians, Huns, Pathans and Moghuls

all have merged and lost themselves in one body.

Nor did he recite the last stanza of the poem that reads:

Come ye Aryans, come non-Aryans,

Hindu, Muslim, come all;

come ye English, come ye Christian,

come Brahmin, cleanse your mind

and hold others by the hand,

come ye outcaste, come ye lowly ones,

fling away your load of shame!

Come, one and all, to the Mothers crowning come,

fill the sacred bowl and let all unite

and consecrate the waters

on the shore of vast humanity

that is India.

Had he recited that stanza he could have touched the soul of India as we know heran India which is vastly different from the one the RSS worships.

There is ample room for speculation as to why he did not do so. But the fact remains that had he done so, he would have clearly demarcated himself, Citizen Pranab Mukherjee, the quintessential Congressman, from the RSS philosophy.

A golden opportunity missed? Or was it a deliberate slip on his part?

The answer perhaps lies in the womb of the future.

Mansoor Ahmed

PatnaNew York: In a new move, the Unicode Consortium, organisation that regulates emojis has shortlisted 179 candidates, for the 2019 release. According to the Verge, new emojis including Hindu temple, auto rickshaw, ringed planet, kneeling person, service dog were included in the short list.

The list of draft candidates will be reviewed and finalised in the next meeting in September, Unicode Consortium said in a blog post.

A variety of emojis including ninja, military helmet, mammoth, feather, dodo, magic wand and a screwdriver have also been added for the 2020 release.The textile, garments and other wearable industries predicted a combined export growth of 20 percent this year to $1.22 billion from $1.02 billion in 2017. The Confederation of Wearables Exporters of the Philippines said it was anticipating a surge in wearable exports, currently dominated by China, as the trade war between the US and China would likely escalate. Were hoping there will be a surge, even just for a little bit [in exports] from the tariff imposed by America in the ongoing trade war, said CONWEP executive director Maritess Agoncillo. She said the difficulty of China penetrating the US market at this point might prove to be an advantage for other trading partners of the US such as the Philippines. A number of garment manufacturers are preparing to close shop in China with their sights set on the Philippines as an alternative manufacturing site in Asia, said Agoncillo. If this happens, exports from the Philippines will increase with expectations of a surge in the US demand for more wearables as it closes its doors from imports direct from China, she said. Chinese manufacturers are still assessing the current labor situation and the taxation policies in the Philippines. These are two major points the Chinese companies consider when locating out of China, she said.She said Philippine labor was just as competitive. The Philippines moved on from producing cheap, colorless shirts to more meticulous products, mostly for top-of-the-line and expensive brands. Wearable exports from the Philippines hit $2.9 to $3 billion in 2005, before it gradually declined to a third of its value over the succeeding years. Agoncillo said other industry groups were proactively promoting the Philippines as a safe and secure destination for manufacturing industries. Among these groups as the Textile Producers Association of the Philippines, Marikina Shoe Industry Development Office and the Garment Manufacturers Association of the Philippines. These groups are supporting an upcoming promotional event called the 1st Philippine Garment, Leather Goods Industries and Fabric Expo on Aug. 23 to 26 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. Participating countries such as China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Korea, India, Pakistan and Malaysia are seen to contribute to boosting the potential of the local garments, leather, goods and fabric for export.Kue Lumpur, mud cake topped with chocolate or cheese.

Lemper, banana-wrapped sticky rice stuffed with chicken meat.

Mallgoers had the rare opportunity to savor authentic Indonesian spices and specialties, as well as modern food concepts during the recently concluded two-day Indonesian Food Festival at the SM Megamall Event Center. A joint project of the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia  Manila and SM Megamall, the event featured Indonesian culinary specialties from different restaurants and brands. His Excellency Sinyo Harry Sarundajang, Ambassador of the Indonesian Embassy in Manila, led the ceremonial gong during the event launch. Gibran Rakabuming Raka, son of Indonesian President Joko Widodo was also present. SM senior vice president for marketing communications Millie F. Dizon and SM Megamall assistant mall manager Tiffany Tanjoined the esteemed guests.Guests enjoyed both traditional Indonesian cuisine such as Nasi Goreng, Indonesias signature stir fried rice; Telur Pindang or cracked hard boiled eggs boiled again in spices; Sate Ayam or grilled chicken served with peanut sauce; Lemper or sticky rice stuffed with chicken meat and wrapped in banana leaves; and Bakwan Sayur or vegetable fritters. The food festival also served sweet delicacies like Kue Lumpur or mud cake with chocolate or cheese toppings; Cendol or green rice flour jelly with palm sugar and coconut milk; and Klepon or rice cake stuffed with palm sugar. Guests were also delighted to try out new concepts. Martabak Manis or pancake topped with chopped chocolate or cheese was a favorite among foodies. Food franchise Markobar, owned by Gibran Rakabuming Raka, featured unique varieties of Martabak Manis with either chopped Kit Kat Chocolate, Kit Kat Green Tea, Nutella, or cheese toppings.Indonesian restaurants and companies that participated in the food fest included Arema Tempe, Bakmi Nyonya, Bali Ayu, Fridas Kitchen, Gorengan Indonesia, H&H Bakso, Indonesian Christian Fellowship Makati, Mayora, Omas Kitchen, Pempek Cek Evi, Reddimart Multi-Resources, Inc., Restoran Garuda, Unitry Masakan Padang, and Warung Kapitolyo. Companies based in Indonesia such as Markobar, Niners Kitchen, O3-IPB Bogor, and Pondan Foods also joined the event. The food festival also highlighted Indonesias rich culture with performances of Tari Pendet or Welcome Dance and Tetengkoren Dance with accompaniment of traditional musical instrument called kolintang. Meanwhile, children from the Rosalie Rendu Development Center performed Philippine folk dance Bakya. Proceeds from the event will go to Rosalie Rendu Development Center, Inc., a community-based social welfare agency in Paranaque City and Madrasah Darul Firdaus, an Islamic School in Maharlika Village, Taguig.MEMBERS of the House of Representatives welcomed the reported plan of the US Defense Department to return the historic Balangiga bells to the Philippines. We welcome the endorsement of the US Secretary of Defense for the return of the Balangiga Bells. They rightfully belong to us as a symbol of freedom and justice, Eastern Samar Rep. Ben Evardone said. Earlier, Evardone filed a resolution for the recovery of the bells for the 127th anniversary of the Balangiga massacre on Sept. 28. The return will... finally erase the remaining irritant or vestiges of the Philippine-American War, he said. The news agency Reuter earlier reported that US Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis has already notified the Houe of Representatives of plans to return the bells to the Philippines. But the turnover date has not been determined. The Balangiga bells were church bells taken by the US Army from the town church of Balangiga, Eastern Samar, as war trophies after reprisals for the Balangiga massacre in 1901. Northern Samar Rep. Raul Daza said he is hoping the plan to return the bells is for real. If the bells are indeed returned to us, it would finally, rectify a grievous historical wrong inflicted by the Americans not only on the Samarenos but...on the Filipino nation, he said. He said the bells are an eloquent symbol of the courage and patriotism of the Filipino to remind the present generation that they should resist foreign domination in any form. On the other hand, Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate said the US Defense Department should walk the talk and issue an apology for the atrocities they committed. These bells are emblematic of the continuing injustice committed against our country and people in the name of the hegemonic and imperialist greed of America, he said. He said the US must not give Filipinos false hope. We have long been asking for the Balangiga bells return but until now, [they have not been returned], he said.American forces took three bells from the Catholic church of Balangiga town on the eastern island of Samar in 1901 as war booty in what historians said was a particularly brutal military operation in the new US colony. President Rodrigo Duterte and previous Philippine governments had urged Washington to return the bells, with the president often raising the issue in his anti-American tirades as he builds closer ties with China and Russia. The US had initially given a non-committal response to Dutertes demands but on Sunday said it would return the bells. The Secretary of Defense has notified Congress that the Department (of Defense) intends to return the Bells of Balangiga to the Philippines, said Molly Koscina, spokeswoman for the US embassy in Manila. Weve received assurances that the bells will be returned to the Catholic Church and treated with the respect and honor they deserve, she added, saying there was no date scheduled for the move. Dutertes spokesman welcomed the announcement. Two of the bells are installed at a memorial for US war dead in the state of Wyoming, while the third is with US forces in South Korea. Some US politicians oppose the dismantling of the memorial, and the issue had sparked an emotional response from the descendants of American soldiers who served in the Philippine campaign. The Philippines, a Spanish colony for centuries, was ceded to the United States in 1898 at the end of the Spanish-American War. The country gained independence from the US in 1946. The brutal Samar campaign was launched about a month after Filipino rebels killed 34 US troops in Balangiga on Sept. 28, 1901, according to a US Army War College research paper. Seven other American soldiers perished during the escape from Balangiga, and US reinforcements razed the town the day after, it added. Then-Philippine president Fidel Ramos first sought but failed to recover the bells during a 1998 Washington trip. Duterte, who took office in mid-2016, demanded the return of the bells during his State of the Nation address last year: Give us back those Balangiga bells. They are not yours. They are ours. They belong to the Philippines. They are part of our national heritage. With AFPSenate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto

INFLUENTIAL business groups on Sunday called on lawmakers to carefully weigh the costs and risks associated with the proposed shift to a federal system of government. In a joint statement, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, The Employers Confederation of the Philippines, the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines, The Management Association of the Philippines, the Philippine Exporters Confderation Inc., The Makati Business Club and the Cebu Business Club threw their support behind Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III and Economic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia, who have expressed reservations about the draft federal constitution prepared by the Consultative Committee (Con-Com) created by President Rodrigo Duterte. We, too, believe in the need to adhere to the public finance principle funds follow function, the groups said in their statement. Accordingly, we echo the concerns of fiscal and economic experts about the ambiguous provisions on the division of revenue and expenditure responsibilities between the proposed federal government and its federated regions. They said the shift to a federal form of government would cost from P72 billion to P130 billion, and result in a fiscal deficit of 6.7 percent of gross national product (GDP), which is far beyond the sustainable 3 percent target set by the countrys economic managers. We worry about the dire consequences that such fiscal imbalance could have on the economy and the flagship Build Build Build program of the current administration. We commend the economic managers in the Department of Finance, the Department of Budget and Management, the NEDA, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, as well as the researchers in the PIDS for their transparency in openly sharing their analysis and airing their concerns to the public, they said. The business groups said they support the call for a more detailed analysis of the fiscal impact of federalism to serve as basis for the deliberations in Congress. They also also encouraged a full, open, and dispassionate dialogue on the proposed shift in form of government, keeping in mind its long-term impact on future generations of Filipinos. Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto, meanwhile, said the countrys economic managers were integral and indispensable to the national conversation on federalism.You dont shut them out of the discussions; you bring them in--because the cost of federalism is front and center of the issue, Recto said. Recto said those who raise revenues and manage the economy can provide a reality check if a proposal is financially feasible and fundable.Before we communicate what federalism is, can we not first calculate what its cost will be? he added. Every proposal has a cost. Scratch the surface of every provision of a bill, and there is a price tag underneath. We are often told the benefits of a project but not the price, he said. While he himself does not often see eye to eye with the views of the economic managers on many issues, I listen to them, value their views, and appreciate where theyre coming from. Because at the end of the day, it is they who will raise the revenues in implementing proposals we politicians love to sponsor, Recto said. In the case of Finance Secretary Dominguez, he must raise P10 billion a day to finance the operations, the programs of this government. And collecting this P10 billion daily quota from the people is a thankless job, Recto said. Thats why when the Finance secretary says, wait, lets see how much this is going to cost, lets listen to him. He could be wrong, but it is to our benefit [to] listen to him, Recto said in a mix of English and Filipino. Recto said every proposal, like federalism, should undergo a fiscal responsibility check. Theres a four-way test. What is the cost to implement it? Do we have the money for it? Do we have to raise taxes or impose fees or create savings or borrow money? What is the per capita burden it will impose? Running the numbers is a politics-free exercise. You cannot bend it to suit ones position. If it is financing federalism, then the results of the studies and simulations should be the basis of how to move forward, Recto said.Home  Just In  Nepali Congress to condole Bharat Shamsher Ranas death for three days

Kathmandu, August 12

Nepali Congress says it will flow its flag half-mast for next three days to condole the death of its former leader Bharat Shamsher Rana.

Rana, 90, had breathed his last in Kolkata of India on Saturday.

Though he was the leader of main opposition party in Nepals first Parliament in 1959, Rana had joined the party later, after the beginning of Panchayat Era.

The Congress party says it will shut down its offices across the country on Monday in mourning. Likewise, a condolence assembly will be organised on the 13th day of his departure, on August 22.

The loss caused by Ranas death to the party is reparable as he had contributed to promoting the message that democracy can change the society, the party said in a statement today.Single mom crowned Miss Global Philippines 2018

posted August 12, 2018 at 06:00 pm by Eton B. Concepcion August 12, 2018 at 06:00 pm

Mary Ann Mungcal crowns Miss Global Philippines 2018 Mary Eileen Gonzales Twenty-two-year-old Mary Eileen Gonzales was crowned Miss Global Philippines 2018 besting 18 other aspirants during the Finals Night held recently at Cove Manila, Okada in Paranaque City. Gonzales, a mother of a one-year-old boy, is the first ever single mom winner of the pageant.Gonzales, who hails from Cavite, also won Best in Evening Gown and earlier voted Darling of the Press. She was crowned by last years winner Mary Ann Mungcal and earned the right to compete at the 2018 Miss Global pageant later this year.A Star Magic talent, the 5-foot-5 beauty was competing for a second time in the pageant that allows single or unmarried mothers after her 2nd runner up finish in 2015. She represented the country in the 2015 Face of Beauty International in Taiwan. In 2017, Gonzales gave birth to a baby boy with boyfriend, actor Johan Santos, a former housemate and 4th Placer of Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) in 2009. Gonzales court of honor are: 1st runner-up Cheska Vinas of Marilao, Bulacan; 2nd runner-up Nicole Dichoso, an Architecture student from Olongapo City; 3rd runner-up Charlene Duran of Laguna; and 4th runner-up Alexandra Moraga, a Tourism student from Meycauayan, Bulacan.

COMMENT DISCLAIMER: Reader comments posted on this Web site are not in any way endorsed by Manila Standard. Comments are views by manilastandard.net readers who exercise their right to free expression and they do not necessarily represent or reflect the position or viewpoint of manilastandard.net. While reserving this publications right to delete comments that are deemed offensive, indecent or inconsistent with Manila Standard editorial standards, Manila Standard may not be held liable for any false information posted by readers in this comments section.Which UK Best Theme Park - Alton Towers vs Thorpe Park vs Lego Land vs Chessington World

We are now well into the school summer holidays so families are very busy planning where to go next, that usually includes many trips to Britain's Theme parks where the king of UK attractions is Merlin with it's 32 theme parks spread out across the UK. With many asking which is Britians' best theme park as this video compares the results of multiple visits to Merlin's largest and most popular theme parks i.e. Alton Towers, Thorpe Park, Chessington World of Adventures and of course probably the most known of the lot Lego Land Windsor.

Furthermore we rate the theme parks both from a child's perspective and an teen / adult perspective so as to give a better view of which theme parks are suitable for which demographic as well as how well each theme park has managed to stand the test of time in keeping up with park visitor demand.

So watch our video to find out which is Britians' best theme park to visit Summer 2018

https://youtu.be/7s-JTroSY5Y

And ensure to subscribe to our youtube channel for new UK theme park videos.

By Anika Walayat

http://www.walayatfamily.com

Copyright  2005-2018 Marketoracle.co.uk (Market Oracle Ltd). All rights reserved.

Disclaimer: The above is a matter of opinion provided for general information purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. Information and analysis above are derived from sources and utilising methods believed to be reliable, but we cannot accept responsibility for any trading losses you may incur as a result of this analysis. Individuals should consult with their personal financial advisors before engaging in any trading activities.

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A federal judge has ruled unconstitutional a Wyoming law that bans the use of robocalls by political organizations.

The Casper Star-Tribune reports that the ruling was handed down Monday in U.S. District Court in Cheyenne by Judge Alan Johnson.

The ruling sided with Grand Rapids, Michigan-based Victory Processing, which uses automated phone calling for political information.

Johnson concluded the states ban was overly restrictive because it completely prohibits political speech through robocalls while allowing certain commercial robocalls.

http://www.kulr8.com/story/38863374/wyoming-political-robocall-ban-ruled-unconstitutional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.Kathmandu, August 12

Minister for Foreign Affairs Pradeep Kumar Gyawali says non-resident Nepalis will be allowed to invest in Nepali capital market soon.

During a meeting with capital investors in Kathmandu on Saturday, Gyawali said the government was preparing to formulate laws and regulations so as to let members of the diaspora invest in the homeland.

A team of Nepal Capital Market Investors Association had gone to the Ministers residence in Kathmandu demanding that he take initiatives to facilitate the investment of non-resident Nepalis in the capital market.

Responding to the delegation, the Minister said he was positive about the demand and assured to meet it soon, according to the Associations President Radha Pokharel.Its Halloween, which means we must be talking about Christmas. And one of the most enduring songs of the season, Jose Felicianos bilingual classic Feliz Navidad. Since last year was completely shut down, now is the time to celebrate the...West Rockhill supervisor requests another look at township resolution regarding bridgesLetter to editor: Congress can get this rightYathiraju By

Express News Service

BENGALURU: A Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike revenue inspector was convicted in a graft case after he was caught demanding a bribe on a spy camera. The demand was recorded by city-based entrepreneur Dolfy DCunha, who took the tech route as he was not ready to pay a bribe for khata bifurcation of an industrial site.

Lokayukta Special Court Judge Ravindra Hegde convicted B S Sriram, then revenue inspector, Lakshmidevinagara, Ward 38, RR Nagar zone of BBMP. The court sentenced Sriram to simple imprisonment for four years and to pay a fine of `3 lakh for the offence punishable under the Prevention of Corruption Act.

According to the prosecution, Sriram had demanded `2 lakh bribe from DCunha, proprietor of Alfa Engineers, and had received `20,000 as advance on October 7, 2013.

DCunha had purchased a shed from one Ramesh Ghada on September 17, 2012, in Peenya Industrial Estate. He applied for the bifurcation of khata on September 5, 2013, and this was pending before Sriram. DCunha contacted him over the phone on October 3, 2013 and was told to meet Sriram at his office.

Sriram told DCunha that there are arrears of tax and penalty amounting to `6 lakh and asked him to pay `2 lakh to get the work done. DCunha recorded this on a spy camera and produced the recording before the Lokayukta police. Lokayukta inspector P G Anil Kumar and team nabbed the accused on October 7, 2013.By Express News Service

BENGALURU: The CCB police on Friday arrested two people, including a woman, for cheating many people on the pretext of offering jobs in the military. The duo had issued fake appointment letters to 20 youngsters.

The accused are Krishnarajan (63), a resident of Hebbal, and his friend Sujatha (42), a native of KGF. Police officials from CCB said the accused promised the victims to help them get posts of jawan, driver, clerk and technical staffers. They also claimed to know some senior officials in the Army and demanded `2 lakh from each person.

They had collected `40,000 as advance and some of the youngsters were taken to Ooty and Madhya Pradesh for a fake medical test two months ago. Later, they issued fake medical letters stating that they were unfit for military duty.

The scam came to light when fake job letters were issued to some aspirants who reported for duty for jobs with Defence. This is when they realised that they had been conned. The case was recently transferred to the CCB. Police seized mobile phones, fake job cards, appointment letters and medical certificates from their houses. Sujatha had earlier been arrested by Ulsoor police for a similar crime, police added.By Express News Service

CHENNAI: Chennaites are experiencing their best weekend. Mercury dipped over seven degrees below normal on Saturday, with overcast conditions prevailing for most part of the day. The day started with a mild drizzle and it persisted. The average maximum temperature for the month of August is 34.4 degrees Celsius and the temperature this August has been consistently between 37-38 degrees, although there were evening rains daily.

But on Saturday, Nungambakkam weather station recorded a maximum temperature of 27.1 degrees Celsius, which is 7.3 degrees below normal and Meenambakkam registered 27.8 degrees Celsius, which is 6.8 degrees below normal. The dip which started Friday and Saturday saw a further downward slide. S Balachandran, Deputy Director-General of Meteorology (DDGM), Regional Meteorological Centre, told Express that a low pressure is brewing over northwest Bay of Bengal and the upper air circulation over south Odisha and north Andhra Pradesh coasts is influencing the weather here.

Sky may get clearer on Sunday, but it would be another below-normal temperature day, he said. Weather blogger Pradeep John said the low pressure is likely to form over northwest Bay of Bengal in the next two days, which means the Western Ghats belt would be battered again. More rain is expected in the already flooded regions in Kerala.Express News Service

KOCHI: With water receding from flooded areas, people have slowly started trudging back towards their homes. However, what awaits them back home are danger and misery in equal parts. A woman in Eloor was bitten by a snake which had entered her house and stayed back even when the water left the premises. The authorities had indeed been warning of the presence of snakes in the area.

A more subtle threat comes from African snails which feed on buildings, thus weakening them. The snails, which remains dormant in the summer, grow at an alarming rate during the monsoon. Contact with them are also said to cause meningitis in kids.

There are hundreds of eggs and the snails are sticking to the walls, said Viswambharan, a resident of Panchayat Colony in Eloor. Already, the buildings are in a bad condition. Now, they are being leached. The snails are usually seen in large numbers near the container yard area.

Five wards in Eloor face the issue, with the menace spreading to Kalamassery too. Five years ago, Puthalath ward in the 16th division of Eloor Municipality had faced a similar predicament.

It was a novelty at first, said Naseera Razak, the councillor from Puthalath.

Then, during monsoon, they started entering the houses and their numbers started increasing rapidly. This became a serious issue and we have received instructions from KMFRI in Peechi and salt in large quantities was used to halt their march. We have also used tobacco syrup to drive the snails away. We will take every step to ensure that the snails dont do much damage.By PTI

LOS ANGELES: Actor Adam Devine says he will surely consider returning to play Bumper Allen in "Pitch Perfect" if the script is ''funny'' enough.

The actor said he had a great time working on the 2012 film and would love to reunite with co-stars Rebel Wilson and Anna Kendrick.

"If the script is funny enough. That is what it is. It has to be really funny. But I love working with Rebel and obviously, I love working with Anna. Everyone in that movie I feel like I'm going to work with 30 more times," he told PeopleTV's Chatter.

Devine's statement comes after director Trish Sie defended her decision not to include its male stars in "Pitch Perfect 3", as she felt it was the perfect ''time to make a fresh start''.By Online Desk

Malayalam director Ranjith says, he doesn't have to apologise for the misogynistic characters he had created in films.

Ranjith, speaking to The Times of India, was asked about his comment on contemporary screenwriter Ranji Panicker apologising for the misogynistic dialogues and characters he had written in the past.

Ranjith, who was recently seen in 'Koode', argues that the line a character says in a film shouldn't be considered as the original thought of the writer--it is just the character, in his state of mind.

Ranjith goes on to quote how Mohanlal's character makes a rape joke at Kaniha's character in 'Spirit', which the latter dismisses with a laugh. He compares that joke to a different situation from his personal life.

He tells his wife that she gives 'false hope every time' when she is admitted into a hospital, but she will be okay soon. The director says that if the comment was uttered in a movie, it would be taken as misogyny, but his wife just laughed over it because she had the humour sense to understand the joke.

A scene from Mohanlal starrer 'Spirit':

"Everyone has the right to express their opinion. The writer might have the justification that a character who speaks crassly grew up in such circumstances," says Ranjith.

ALSO READ | More actresses and South Indian film bodies support WCC stand

He cites the examples of Captain Thomas in 'Koodevide' and Chanthu in 'Oru Vadakkan Veera Gadha' to show that it is the character's experiences that made them misogynistic.

The 'Devasuram' writer also says that the younger generation lacks the ability to tackle high-intensity emotions. He also says that family relationships and romantic relationships have become less intense these days.

Ranjith made his screenwriting debut with Kamal film 'Orkkappurathu'. His first film as a director was 'Raavanaprabhu', starring Mohanlal.

Malayalam cinema has recently seen a review of past films, deconstructing them in terms of gender equality and representation of caste.

ALSO READ | Misogyny matters: When Parvathy commented on Mammootty's Kasaba

In another interview, filmmaker and 90s hotshot scriptwriter Ranji Panicker had expressed regret writing dialogues portraying women in poor light. In a scene in 'The King', Mammootty's character is seen telling Vani Viswanath's character, an IAS officer, that "you are woman, JUST a woman".

Panicker, whose movies are famous for high-voltage dialogues by lead characters, infused with toxic masculinity, said, "If a woman who sits in a crowd finds that my dialogues in the film is degrading her gender or has offended her, I agree that it was a mistake from my side. But I would like to make it very clear that I have never intended to demean anybody. I acknowledge it."Sudhir Srinivasan By

Express News Service

Karunanidhi isnt exactly subtle about infusing Dravidian pride into Parasakthi. He sets the stage, literally, very early, when an artist sings, Valamaa enadhu Dravida naadu vaazhgave. The lyrics also mention Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada with pride, with special status, of course, accorded to Tamil. Soon as the song ends, a character graces the stage to express sadness over Tamils languishing in countries like Sri Lanka and Rangoon. This is when you get the first example of Karunanidhis imaginative writing: Kadal neer yen uppaaga irukku endru karpanaiyil sonnaal, sondha naatile pizhaikaamal, ange vadiththa kanneeraal.

Parasakthi is the story of a family whose lives become informed, and consequently enlightened, when they are pushed into poverty and suffering. This is especially true of Gunasekaran, played by Sivaji Ganesan with magnetism that belies his experience. Its a story of how a man who enjoys the luxury of having bed coffee  Thambikku sooryodhayam paakardhu pidikaadhe  realises how few people are fortunate to have that liberty, after fate deals him a disgusting hand. As the beautiful Pandari Bai puts it, Ezhaiyaakka padavillai enraal, ezhai ulagathai ninaithu kooda paathirukka maataai.

Its one of many, many incisive lines in the film, and one of many, many instances when characters from speaking everyday Tamil suddenly switch to writerly Tamil. Its how Karunanidhi makes his points, and it also serves to highlight his oft-professed love for the language. In a song, a girl, while talking about her attraction for her beloved, says, Kanivaana mozhiyil ennai kavarndheere.

How wonderful to have a woman express that she is attracted to a man on account of his ability to communicate  not his physicality, not his good looks, not his fighting prowess, but the way he can string words together. Karunanidhi writes some very interesting women into this film, and sidesteps several pitfalls.

When a pregnant Kalyanis father shares the desire that the child be a boy and that the parents have decided to name him Panneerselvam, his son-in-law quips, Penn pirandhaa Nagamma num theermanam pannirkom. This 1952 film even features a femme fatale, who spikes Gunasekarans drink.

I also love it that its a woman, played by Pandari Bai, who opens Gunasekarans eyes to his selfishness. It is through her that Karunanidhi indicates that the need of the hour is a revolution: Samudhaaya valarchi, kilayai aruppadhalla. Aani verai paerpadhu.

Its not hard to understand why this films dialogues are still thought of in awe. Karunanidhi hits top form once Gunasekaran and family hit rock bottom. And again, he isnt exactly subtle about how he unleashes destruction on Gunasekarans family. Kalyanis husband dies in an almost farcical accident. Her father learns of this and almost comically, dies of shock. You can see that its all just Karunanidhi getting people out of the way, so he can examine poverty and societys reaction to it. In a way, a strangers words in the beginning foreshadows all these horrible occurences: Innum enna laam aaga pogudho.

Once Karunanidhi unleashes death and disaster on Gunasekarans family, his writing truly comes to the party. Kalyani, unable to manage a meal for herself and her infant, sings, Paravai koottil nee pirandhirundhaalum, pasi neengave unavum parandhodi vandhidum. Ooo, kodaana kodi ezhai maandhar vaadum, seemangal vaazhum naatil pirandhaai. The description often explodes with imagination, like when Gunasekaran talks about how the poor have been neglected: Gudhirai ku badhilaa narambu therikka therikka rickshaw izhuthu kooni poirukaane. Naayaipola surundu nadaipadhayil kudumbathodu thoongugiraane. Naalu kaal praaniyaai aaka patta manidhanai sonnen.

Its suggested more than once that death is preferable to a life in poverty. Varumayil vaazha viduvadhu dhaan paavam, says Gunasekaran. His sister, Kalyani, of course, eventually tries to commit suicide. The idea of death as the final solution brought in my head some visuals of Naan Kadavuls climax. In that sense, a viewing of Parasakthi today constantly conjures up visuals of many other contemporary Tamil films. When Gunasekaran first arrives to Chennai, the car hes in gets surrounded by beggars.

I couldnt but get reminded of a similar scene in Rajinikanths Sivaji. Shankars Sivaji too is the story of a rich man whos reduced to a pauper before he strives for the upliftment of the trampled. Perhaps that famous Rajinikanth dialogue  Parasakthi hero da!  could then be a lot more than just a punchline. Another scene that shows Gunasekaran opening a tap to get no water gets you thinking of that famous Vivek joke in Run.

Returning to the politics of this film, its hard to miss Karunanidhis not-so-nice portrayal of migrants in this film, especially those who are shown to speak Hindi or bastardised Tamil. A Hindi-speaking Tamilian gets rudely interrupted when he apologises: Maaf karojiyaavadhu, mannaankatti karoji aavadhu. In another scene, Gunasekarans begging a Marwari businessman to give him some money to aid his travel to Madurai.

The latter responds, Nimbal Bombaai poraan, Madurai poraan. Nambalki enna vandhaan? You also spot the not-so-nice depiction of Brahmins in the film, who are mostly shown to be timid and malicious. The priest who attempts to abuse Kalyani is a shining example.

In a film about such serious themes, Karunanidhis humour makes some sparkling cameos. When Gunasekaran, whos sleeping on the pavement, gets rudely woken up by a policeman who splashes water on him, he calmly asks for some soap as its been a while since he washed himself. It gets even better.

Policeman: Enna muzhikkara?

Gunasekaran: Thoongaravana ezhuppina muzhikaama enna panradhu?

Policeman: Pickpocket thaane nee?

Gunasekaran: Illa, empty pocket.

Its hysterical, as is the scene where Gunasekaran steals murukku. Karunanidhis fiery lines benefit largely from the delivery by Sivaji Ganesan.

Karunanidhis atheism is a feature of his writing too. Theres constant mockery of gods apparent inability to step in and save the situation. When Gunasekaran steals fruit and the hawker pleads to god, the former says, Dheivam thaan kekkaliye. Avar manasu thaan kalla poche. In a more famous scene, Gunasekaran dramatically steps out from behind the idol of a goddess by saying, Ambaal endha kaalathil pesinaal? The irreverence couldnt be clearer. Karunanidhi also looks to expose the hypocrisy of seemingly noble believers whose actions indicate otherwise, when Gunasekaran questions the priest: Parasakthi unakku thaai, aanaal en thangai unakku dasi ya? Theres further evidence of derision for rituals when a priest chants, Om kreem kreem yung mung sing.

You also learn that Mahanaadu was the once-preferred word, not Maanaadu. Quite fittingly, its with a Mahanaadu that the film ends; a function that features visuals of Karunanidhi, Periyaar, and Anna. Anna is referenced quite earlier on in the film when Pandari Bais character is asked how she became so literate and socially conscious. She says, Elaam anna thaan, and goes on to talk about her brother. This film though is all Karunanidhi. And as long as this film continues to remain relevant, the artist in Karunanidhi will continue to live on.

Sudhir Srinivasan

Twitter@sudhirsrinivasn

The writer is the Entertainment Editor of the organisationBy PTI

NEW DELHI: Celebrated for his extensive commentary on both, colonisers and colonised, in fiction and non-fiction, V S Naipaul walked the controversy tightrope, admired for his prose but scorned by those who perceived him as an apologist for imperial powers.

Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul, or Sir Vidia, as he was sometimes known died at his London home at the age of 85 today, leaving behind a legacy of lucid prose and unapologetic narratives strewn across dozens of works that earned him both applause and brickbats, say experts.

Looking back at the Nobel Laureate's elaborate literary career of over five decades, Patrick French, the author of his biography "The World is What It Is", remembered him as a "very funny and witty" person who was "always conscious of his Indian family background".

Born to an Indian family in Trinidad, Naipaul's portraits of Africa, India, West Indies and the Islamic faith brought him hostility for his views.

"In his books, he tried to describe the best and the worst of India as it changed between the 1960s and the 1990s. His conclusions were insightful, even when they were harsh," French told PTI.

After his first three comedic novels, he explored the questions of identity and belonging to a family, a place in "A House of Mr Biswas", which was inspired by his father's life.

While the book won him accolades in the literary world, the novel "destroyed some memories", according to the biography.

This February 21, 2002 file photo shows Nobel Laureate, British author V.S. Naipaul speaking during a literary festival in Neemrana, in Rajasthan state, India. (Photo | File/AFP)

Naipaul's prose were strung around the themes of loss, identity, oppression and exile, said author Chanchal Sanyal, describing him as an "unapologetic author" who was not writing to please an audience.

"Naipaul, not only in his writings but also in whatever he said, was completely unapologetic. For example, his views on Islam, on colonisation, immigration, or even his writings about his visits to prostitutes, he was his own man. We all are pleasing an audience, he was courageous and unapologetic," he said.

Sanyal's "The Glass House" can be compared to "A House for Mr Biswas", both following the theme of a man aspiring to own a home.

"Honestly, I have read a lot of Naipaul, but I don't think anything moved me as much as House for Mr Biswas. But I did read with great interest his writings on America's deep south. In some of his short stories in his early writings, there was a certain style they were not completely finished and you could make out the writer was a bit raw, but you certainly felt he showed promise," he added.

Naipaul's views against the commonplace perception towards colonised countries and their people were not the only thing controversial about the famed author.

In an interview in 2011, Naipaul raised eyebrows when he said he did not consider any female author to be his equal.

And then there were also reports of him physically abusing his mistress Margaret Gooding.

Looking at him as a "flawed genius", international publishing consultant Jaya Bhattacharji Rose said Naipaul will nonetheless be "remembered as a giant among writers".

"V S Naipaul was a titan of 20th century English literature, who made visible a landscape beyond the canon that held sway when he began writing. His life experiences frequently appeared as thinly disguised vignettes in his writing, and his references to Trinidad added diversity and depth to his oeuvre," Rose said.

His 1971 book, "In a Free State", won him the Man Booker prize.

In "An Area of Darkness", "India: A Wounded Civilization", and "India: A Million Mutinies Now", Naipaul commented extensively on subjects varying from politics to religion, from business to films in the country.

According to Saugata Bhaduri, professor at School of Language Literature and Culture Studies, JNU, his critics loved him too despite the general perception of his writing as a "problematic rightist kind of politics".

"He has been somewhat of a trigger in making Indian writing in English become so global, and all Indian writers in English, in spite of him not being an Indian technically, looked up to him. His writing style, general mode of characterisation was so good and it often has been perceived as problematic rightist kind of politics. So he transcended it, and his greatness is mocked by that. His art is so good, his craft is so good that even his harshest critique would read him with lot of love and passion," Bhaduri said.ICT ministry to come up with measures to prevent incidents like KT outage The Ministry of Science and ICT on Friday said it will come up with measures restricting the concurrent update of routers to prevent recurrence of a network outage that crippled th...Medha Dutta By

Express News Service

Raw foods are whats cooking in the Indian restaurant business now. In the Noughties, sushi and sashimi went from being the urbane Indian travellers cuisine choice to touch the heart of mass Oriental cuisine, which believes in the fresher the better. Au naturel is no more confined to sushi bars in Shibuya, as the impatient mistress of taste constantly pushes the buttons of experimental chefs in India; satiation remaining just beyond the ladles reach.

At the turn of the century, sushi and sashimi led the Japanese wave in eating out in the cities. Chefs began to look beyond just nori sheets, fermented vegetables, sticky rice and soy. Suppose fish in its glorious freshness cured with a dash of lemon and spiked with a sprinkling of herbs makes the cut?

It did, and how!

Arroz De Chaufa; Pappas Rellenos

The luxurious bar and fine dining restaurant Nueva in Sangam Courtyard, Delhi, gets real with customers, transporting them to Peru, literally. The restaurant compliments its exotic menu with muted decor, edgily mod crockery and suspended glass globes.

Eating here is embarking on a gastronomic foray into seeking out Latin America's best tables in haciendas and open cafes of Peru, Chile and Argentina. The exotic ceviche is Perus possibly most famous export to the world. A suitable accompaniment is traditional Pisco Sour made from grapes; a potent South American spirit with a history of over 400 years and a passionate following.

Traditional ceviche is made with raw fish and cured in lemon juices before being served cold; or hardly warm. On the lines of the Japanese sashimi, ceviche has its devotees who argue its better than its Oriental cousin, thanks to the flavours of lime, cilantro, raw onion, etc. At Nueva, the range of ceviches is wide: the Peruanito, comprising white fish and sweet potatoes, the Cilantro and Shrimp, and of course, the Scallop Picante from raw scallops for the more adventurous.

Latin America doesnt get many air miles from Delhis travelling classes, but Nueva blurs the geographical distance with its wonderfully authentic tastes. Besides the usual suspectssandwiches, burritos, and corn on the cobexotica comes in the form of Papas Rellenas comprising potatoes with talarines verde (green noodles) and a grilled vegetable salad that ticks all the right boxes for healthy eating.

Tea-infused Chicken

The Peruvian homemade delicacy Chicken Limon Piccata (a buttery chicken dish) is a must-try. The Lamb Osso Bucco a La Cacerola (a traditional recipe with lamb shanks) which comes with a side of mash and beans aims to warm the non-vegetarians culinary cockles.

Discusing the similarity between the Indian palate and Peruvian food, Chef Ashish Singh says, Peruvian cuisine contains spices and chillies. It is often made with spices like raw onion and fresh chillies as the people of Peru prefer spicy food like Indians.

An observation illustrated perfectly in Arroz De Chaufa, Peruvian-style chicken fried rice that comes with scrambled eggs, green onions and soy sauce. The desserts may vary a bit from the strict Peruvian ideal of sweethearts, but the Andean Mountain Dreams, saffron-infused quinoa, panacotta and edible flowers make a sugary argument. At Nueva, service is full of Latino charm; special mention goes to Diego, who acts as the best guide to a culinary cruise through Latin American food. He is a true aide and raconteur, listening to your preferences and ordering the perfect dish, followed by a little history of its provenance, a true WikiPeru. If Diego is acting fresh, rest assured, he means it.Medha Dutta By

Celebrated Bharatanatyam exponents, Vannadil Pudiyaveettil Dhananjayan and Shanta Dhananjayan, known as the Dhananjayans, were in the capital to perform at Kamani Auditorium on August 11. The duo, now famously known as the Vodafone couple, was part of the Natya Tarangini that celebrated the 22nd edition of Parampara Series: The National Festival of Music and Dance organised by legends Dr Raja and Radha Reddy.

Do you remember your first performance together? How was it?

Dhananjayan: That was way back in 1957. We performed as Rama and Seetha in Rukminidevis Seetha Swayamvaram staged in Coimbatore. We had to share a small seat during the wedding sequence and Shanta sulked because she had to sit close to me.

She called me a Lousy Rama and I did not talk to her for months.

You have performed with legends. What is that one moment that has stayed with you?

Dhananjayan: Every such moment stays with you forever. Being with legends is a learning process. My first performance with Rukmini Devi always plays through my mind. Even in her 50s, she appeared as if she was just an adolescent. The legendary Kathakali guru, Asaan Chanduppanikkar, is another fond memory. Performing with Kalamandalam Krishnan Nair and Durgalal was an experience in itself.

Shanta: I will always remember this one instance when I was playing the lead role in Jayadevas Geeta Govindam. My teacher Sarada Hoffman played one of the supporting dancers, thus helping me to excel. Besides, performing alongside greats such as Pt Hariprasad Chaurasia, Mallika Sarabhai, Sanjukta Panigrahi, Dr Paul Heins, Gloria Mandelik, and more has been a mesmerising experience.

You have achieved a lot together. Did the journey ever seem long and hard?

Dhananjayan: Well, it never felt long. It was hard, but pleasant.

Shanta: We always shared the hardships together.

What is the biggest roadblock to the making of an artist in India?

Dhananjayan: Artists need funding and patronage without favouritism and nepotism. As far as the government is concerned, art is the least of their priorities, and that is the biggest hurdle.

How was the experience of doing an ad film with Vodafone? Any more such adventures on the anvil?

Shanta: Oh, it was a wonderful experience. We got a chance to learn a different genre. It also added a fillip to our energy levels since we were shooting for up to 18 hours a day. We did almost 10 episodes. Recently, we did another shoot for an oil company. I have also finished shooting for a feature film with legendary Malayalam actor Nedumudi Venu.

Dhananjayan: I am half-way through shooting for a thriller with actor Vikram. Its fun doing such things once in a while.

You have been together for over 50 years, whats the secret?

Dhananjayan: Perfect understanding, a give-and-take attitude, recognising each others advantages and disadvantages, and upholding gender equality and dignity are the key.

How difficult is it being in the same profession?

Shanta: As far as we are concerned, theres no difficulty at all. We complement each other. Once you understand each others strengths and weaknesses, its a win-win situation. That is how it works.

You are performers and teachers. If you had to choose one?

Dhananjayan: A performer, for sure.

Shanta: Teaching is my passion.

Quick TAKE

What do you dislike about each other?

Dhananjayan: Shantas diplomacy

Shanta: His outspokenness

One adventure you would like to go on.

Dhananjayan: None

Shanta: Parasailing or paragliding

One place you like in Delhi.

Dhananjayan: Red Fort

Shanta: Rashtrapati BhawanShevlin Sebastian By

From a small seed grows great ideas as trends are written with the ink of change. Biodegradable is the new karma and social entrepreneur Lakshmi Menon is scripting transformation in green ink. When she presented a Green Pen to actor Amitabh Bachchan at a studio in Mumbai in 2016, he stared at it curiously and asked, What is it? Menon replied, Sir, this is an environment-friendly paper pen. At one end is a seed. After you finish using the pen, the seed can be planted in a pot or in the ground. It will grow into a tree.

Amitabh nodded and said, Its a great idea, especially for India where we have an alarming plastic problem. I will publicise it. Menon felt gratified. Over two years ago, in a blaze of publicity, Mollywood superstar Mammootty planted a seed. Now it has become a 16-ft tree, Menon says.

Her favourite is the hummingbird tree because of its medicinal benefits, since the leaves and flowers are used in thyroid treatments. It is a multipurpose tree. Its seeds are the main ingredient in many Ayurvedic medicines. Its tender portions are used as cattle fodder, and corks can be made from its white bark,says 44-year-old Menon. The seeds can go into curries and salads, too. Priced at `12, Menons green pens are hand-made by a collective of over a dozen women at Menons home in Kanjiramattom, 25 km from Kochi. Every day, they make over 2,500 pens, which are sent across India and countries such as the UAE, Sweden, and Malaysia.

Her regular customers include Wipro, National Thermal Power Corporation and the Tatas. We are their CSR partners. They have bought a few lakh pens in the past couple of years. The companies believe the instruments give a feel-good factor because they contribute to women empowerment and saving the environment.

Nithin Choudhari, Senior Executive-Operations, Tata Business Excellence Group, says, Since the seed pen is always in demand, we maintain a regular stock.The idea of inventing her pen came to Menon when she came across a disturbing statistic. There are 45 lakh school students in Kerala. If each student discards two pens every month, over one crore non-recyclable pens end up in the ground.

She became eco-conscious first while working as a designer at an art gallery in San Fransisco a decade ago. I was amazed at how people there take care of the environment. They will beautify even a small stream by growing flowers along the banks. I felt I had to do something, too,  she says.Menon pushes hard for students to use eco-friendly pens. Thanks to her efforts, the Kerala government has adopted a Green Protocol for schools. As part of it, schools are banned from using disposable water bottles, styrofoam, plastic cups, plates, and food packaging, including aluminium and plastic bags.

Some schools are slow in adopting this protocol because of the lack of complete awareness among students and teachers about the damage plastic can do to the environment, she says.Escalating her efforts to make Malayalis conscious of protecting the earth, Menon approached the organisers of the Kochi Muziris Biennale and, inquired about the possibility of creating a sculpture made of discarded plastic pens. Founders Bose Krishnamachari and Riyas Komu agreed.

I needed 10,000 pens, but did not know from where I could get them. So I went to meet the states Finance Minister Thomas Isaac and requested him to post a request on Facebook asking people to send their discarded pens to the Biennale office in Fort Kochi.

The response was unexpectedly stupendous. In the space of a single month, the office received seven-and-a-half lakh pens. In January, this year, 40 cyclists from Kozhikode brought along bags which contained one lakh pens. The sculpture will be put up soon, says Menon.

Meanwhile, every now and then she gets a request that gladdens her heart. The pen is bonding families together. One such request was from a family in Coimbatore, which wanted to present her pens to their pregnant daughter-in-laws family, who were coming to take her home. (As a ritual in Kerala, a family takes their daughter home in the seventh month of pregnancy where she delivers the child.) They bought 700 pens. Another family, which was preparing for a wedding, designed the wedding card in the shape of a tree. In it was a slot to put a green pen. The message read, Let love grow like a seed.Menon plants the seed of love in humanity and the environment as she pens the lines of change across Kerala. India is next.

Elsewhere when pens grow into tree

Ngangom Monalisa Chanus love for nature led her to make the ubiquitous pen serve dual purpose: writing and taking care of the environment. The 29-year-old Manipuri woman entrepreneurs firm, Chanu Associates, has been producing biodegradable pens with seeds and pencils, under the brand name Envi, since March. While studying in Panjab University, Chanus idea had germinated. She crafted one, before setting up her venture in 2007.

Vrundan Bawankar aspired to fly fighter planes, but she ended up piloting a project which not only aims to empower women but also expand the earths green cover. Women in her village located near Nagpur in Maharashtra make and supply paper pens, which carry tulsi seeds in their caps, and when disposed a plant is born. The women are now supplying the pens, priced at `5-7, across the country.

In May, Shaji NM, a farmer from Wayanad district of Kerala, was in Hyderabad to receive an

award by the National Biodiversity Authority. But his return gift at the award function was what amazed everyone. He presented the dignitaries, including Governor ESL Narasimhan from whom he received the prize, with unique pens. Made of paper, these disposable pens contain seeds which can grow into trees.Just when the Middle East seemed to be stabilising a bit, President Trump delivered another hammer blow by withdrawing the US from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, 2015 (JCPOA), also known as the Iran Nuclear Deal. That occurred a few months ago but the events since seem to give the US President an idea that coercion in international politics is a sure winner. His meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un at Singapore after a series of nuclear threats and counter-threats that looked ugly appears to reinforce Trumps belief that talking tough gets the others to wilt.

So, are the recent threats by the US President to go to war with Iran just empty rhetoric or something more serious? On another note, whats there for India in all this? Responding to constant US rant on regime change in Iran, President Hassan

Rouhani responded with: Mr Trump, dont play with the lions tail, war with Iran is the mother of all wars. But he hastened to add, Peace with Iran is the mother of all peace.

Through July ran a series of exchanges with US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, likening the Iranian leadership to the mafia and accusing Supreme Leader Khamenei of a personal hedge fund of $95 billion. Trump added presidential weight by tweeting: Never, ever threaten the US again or you will suffer consequences the likes of which few throughout history have ever suffered before. General Gholamhossein Gheybparvar of Irans Republican Guard described Trumps remarks as psychological warfare.

The one man who knows what war is all about kept out of all this verbal banter. Defence Secretary James Mattis, increasingly losing advisory space to National Security Advisor John Bolton, only mentioned before a Senate sub-committee that the US was prepared for war with Iran but never said that it needed to go into such a war. People like Bolton have forgotten that the US military professionals such as Mattis have deeply analysed the last few military deployments of the US and are aware of the limitations of asymmetric wars.

Iran may be divided over the rule of the Ayatollahs but it is not an ideologically divided nation. Shiaism exhorts its followers to follow the principle of sacrifice in a perceived just cause and 98 percent of Iranians are Shia. The US does not possess the capability to fight a boots on ground type war. It has to be a war of missiles and an air campaign aided by a naval blockade to prevent exit of energy and trade from Iran. That is fine and a war may still be winnable through that mode but not without its grim consequences for the world and perhaps for the US itself.

The simplest thing would be a phenomenal rise in the price of oil adversely affecting the global economy but probably bringing a bounty for Russia. Oil price rise would be factored in Irans counter-blockade of the flow of Arab oil bringing China, India and Japan into the scenario, as they would be worst hit. The Shia crescent carefully nurtured by Iran in the Levant and some percentage of the Shia in Iraq could rise and create further turbulence in the Middle East giving impetus to mass migration towards Europe and making the entire swathe of Middle East to Europe vulnerable to terror.

The situation would almost inevitably draw Israel into the conflict which would be forced to battle the Shia strength in Lebanon and Syria. More than just a localised conflict targeting Iran, this war would probably consume much of the majorly strategic parts of the Middle East. The eastern Saudi territory centred on Damam is essentially Shia and it could cause an internal chaos within Saudi Arabia the likes of which have not been witnessed there.

It is from the destruction and chaos of such complex conflicts that entities such as the Islamic State (Daesh) rise. The power of Daesh is not yet extinguished and the envisaged turbulence would help to revive it, adding to the complexity and creating more adversaries for the US. The lessons of Iraq and Afghanistan are well-known to the US military; it is the inexperienced civilian leadership which has its head in the sand.

For India there is too much at stake and not just energy. Approximately 11 percent of Indias energy import is from Iran and with Arab supplies also under threat, the overall energy flow would be adversely affected. Major implications on the economy would be immediately felt. Secondly the future of Indias ambitious connectivity through Chabahar Port would be adversely affected.

Already some serious connect with Afghanistan has been achieved but India is looking for more and that comes in terms of the connect with the north-south corridor to Eurasia. None of this can progress if Iran is unstable.

Lastly, for India Iran is not just another nation from whom it buys gas and oil; the civilisational connect is deep. This is something we have been unable to work on and take to a higher level. Equally our relationship with Saudi Arabia and Israel is outstanding. As one of the few nations who have a balance in relationships in the region, it is incumbent on India to play a more proactive role in defusing potential conflict here.

Lt Gen (retd) Syed Ata Hasnain

Former Commander, Srinagar-based 15 Corps

atahasnain@gmail.comPrasanta Mazumdar By

Express News Service

GUWAHATI: The husband of an Assam woman, who had filed an FIR alleging she was sexually exploited by Union Minister Rajen Gohain, appealed to the media as well as the people on Saturday to not drag the issue further.

Without going into details, he said it was a shut case as his family had "withdrawn" the FIR on August 6. It was not immediately known what made the family to take such a stand. But, the police in Central Assam's Nagaon, where the FIR was lodged, said it would go by the law as the case had already reached the court.

Superintendent of Police, Nagaon, SB Rai Medhi, confirmed the receipt of a letter from the complainant requesting withdrawal of the case. He, however, said the police would go ahead with the investigation as the case was already registered and the complainant's statement recorded.

Also Read: Union Minister of State for Railways Rajen Gohain denies rape allegation

On August 2, the 24-year-old woman had filed an FIR with the police accusing Gohain, the four-time BJP MP from Nagaon, of raping her. Subsequently, a case under IPC Sections 417 (cheating), 376 (rape) and 506 (criminal intimidation) was registered. On the same day, Gohain had also filed a complaint of blackmailing against the woman and her family.

The police said the woman had named herself and her sister as victims in the FIR. The complainant alleged that her sister was lured with a job offer in the Railways and both were sexually exploited about seven to eight months ago.

Gohain and the woman apparently knew each other for a long time. In an audio clip, Gohain is purportedly heard abusing a man, who is said to be the woman's husband.

Meanwhile, the opposition Congress in Assam has demanded a high-level probe into the case and immediate sacking of the Minister of State for Railways. "Rail mantri Rajen Gohain accused of rape. Photo and audio viral on social media. Demand high-level independent probe. But first, sack him. He's dealt a body-blow to 'Beti bacchao'. #Caesar's wife must be above suspicion @INCIndia @BJP4India @harishrawatcmuk," Congress leader Debabrata Saikia tweeted.Harpreet Bajwa By

Express News Service

CHANDIGARH: The six-member team of Kerala Police did not visit the Bishop House to question Father Franco, against whom serious allegations of rape have been levelled by a senior nun but recorded the statement of the nuns.

Sources said that the police team on the second day of it's visit to Jalandhar today visited St. Mary's Cathedral Church situated in Jalandhar Cantonment and there visited the staff quarters of the nuns and recorded their statements.

Thereafter, the police team visited the main Church building and met nuns who had assembled thereupon knowing that the police in the Church. Confirming that the Kerela police team has today visited the Church, Chief Public Officer of Jalandhar Bishop House, Father Peter said, "the police hadn't visited the Bishop House today and that there is no information available with him as to when it shall be visiting.''

Having arrived in Jalandhar led by Vaikom DSP K Subhash on Friday afternoon, a Kerala Police team had met some ex-nuns at Bias village near Bhogpur and today met the Jalandhar Police Commissioner Parveen Sinha at his residence before proceeding towards the congregation centre at Mall Road, Jalandhar Cantonment.

The Jalandhar centre of missionaries of Jesus is the headquarters of all centres under the congregation in India. The complainant nun was earlier serving as Superior General in the congregation. The team is likely to question the Bishop at Bishop House on Sunday. The nun had on June 28 lodged a complaint against the Bishop that he had raped her thirteen times during his visit to a Jalandhar Diocese centre in Kerala between 2014-16.By PTI

KOLKATA: The Congress is not opposed to the NRC but to the way it was being implemented in Assam, AICC spokesperson Pawan Khera said here today and accused BJP President Amit Shah of doing politics over the citizens' register.

"Amit Shah does not know the history of NRC. The 1985 Assam Accord was signed by Rajiv Gandhi and the Congress after coming to power. The party initiated the NRC process in 2005," Khera told a press conference.

He claimed that 80 per cent of the NRC work in Assam was done by the Congress and the rest by Bharatiya Janata Party after the Supreme Court's directive.

"Also during the tenure of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led NDA government, there was no work on the NRC in Assam," Khera said.

"Now people like Amit Shah are doing politics over the NRC.

The NRC draft does not have the names of the family members of a former president of the country (Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed) and a former vice-chancellor among others.

"Doing politics over the NRC is very dangerous," he said.

"We never think about vote bank. We think about the entire country. The Government of India told the Supreme Court in November 2017 that there will be a law and order problem if the NRC is implemented in Assam. The BJP government is saying something to the court and something else to the public," he said.

To a question on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's comment about bloodbath if the NRC was implemented, Khera said, "No responsible party should utter such words."

"No political party has the right to politicise the issue," he added.

Asked about Shah's call for a "Congress-mukt Bharat in 2019," he said, "First they (BJP) talk about Congress-mukt Bharat. Then they will give a call for democracy-mukt Bharat, removing all democratic institutions."

West Bengal Congress president Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said that the Centre should have talked to the Bangladesh government before publishing the NRC.

There is no deportation pact between India and Bangladesh, he added.By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and BJP president Amit Shah visited AIIMS in the capital on Saturday to enquire about the condition of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee who has been hospitalised at the institute since June 11 for various health issues.

Hospital authorities, however, said that there is no change in Vajpayee's condition and he is stable. "We have kept him in the hospital to constantly monitor him and ensure that he is prevented from any infections," a senior AIIMS official said.

The former PM admitted to AIIMS with the complaints of kidney tract infection, chest congestion, lower urine excretion and urinary tract infection. Sources in the hospital said that he only has one functional kidney and he has had low cognitive abilities since 2009 after he suffered a major stroke.By PTI

NEW DELHI: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) plans to contest the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in a focused manner, restricting itself to fielding candidates in around 100 seats, primarily in Punjab, Haryana and Delhi among the states in north India.

This is in contrast with the 2014 general elections, where the party had fielded over 400 candidates across the country, but managed to win just four seats in Punjab.

"The party feels that there is no point fighting in all seats. So, plans are to contest around 80 to 100 seats where we are in a better position to influence the results," said AAP's Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh, who is also the in-charge of party's Uttar Pradesh and Bihar units.

Punjab, Haryana and AAP's home turf Delhi will be where the party would focus to win maximum seats in 2019, he said.

The party will also field candidates for some Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

In Bihar and Uttar Pradesh too, AAP plans to field candidates in some seats. In Uttar Pradesh, the party is looking to contest in 10 to 15 seats, Singh said. In Delhi, the AAP has announced in-charges for five of the seven Lok Sabha constituencies.

They have already actively engaged with local cadre in organising meetings and campaigns there.

The fate of two parliamentary constituencies -- New Delhi and West Delhi -- for which no one was named as in-charge amid rumours of a tie up with the Congress, is yet to be decided as AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal, during his visit to Haryana recently, ruled out the party's participation in any alliance.

In Punjab, where the AAP managed to win four Lok Sabha seats in the last Lok Sabha elections and is the main opposition in the state Assembly, efforts will be made to enhance the influence of the party, Singh said.

"We would like to increase our footprint in Punjab by winning more than four seats, this time," the AAP leader said, adding the party may also contest in some seats in Gujarat where the organisation is strong.

Haryana is another state where the AAP aspires to open its account in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Party leaders believe that voters of Haryana, which is home state of Kejriwal and where local leader Navin Jaihind has been involved in grassroots organisational work, are ready to respond favourably to AAP in the coming general elections.By PTI

BHOPAL: Religious leaders in Madhya Pradesh are preparing to jump into the political fray and contest the state Assembly polls due later this year.

This comes against the backdrop of the state government according the Minister of State (MoS) status to five such 'godmen' in April this year.

Some of these religious leaders are ready to contest as Independents, if no political party offers them tickets.

Swami Namdev Tyagi, popularly called as 'Computer Baba' by his followers, who was accorded the MoS status in April, says he will fight the polls only if MP Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan asks him to do so.

"If Chouhanji asks me to fight the Assembly polls, I am ready for it," he told PTI.

However, a source close to Tyagi claimed that he is doing hectic lobbying to contest the election from Indore.

Tyagi had announced to take out the 'Narmada Ghotala Rath Yatra' in April this year to expose the alleged scam in planting saplings on the banks of the Narmada river and to demand a ban on illegal sand mining.

But soon after getting the MoS status, he cancelled the campaign, saying the state government had fulfilled his demand to form a committee of saints and seers for protection of the Narmada river.

Baba Avdeshpuri (47), who holds a doctorate degree in 'Ram Charit Manas' (an epic poem composed by Tulsidas), is inclined to enter the electoral fray from Ujjain district on the BJP's ticket.

"I am close to the VHP and the Sangh Parivar and have helped the BJP in the past," he claimed.

But, Avdeshpuri said he was not going to put pressure on the BJP to give him the ticket.

"I am not going to do what some babas did to become MoS. I don't believe in such pressure tactics," he said.

He said his followers want him to fight the polls to ensure that encroachments at the site of Simhastha Kumbh Mela held in Ujjain are removed.

"So, even if the BJP does not give me a ticket, I am prepared to contest as an Independent candidate," he said.

He said the BJP should not forget that its senior leader Uma Bharti (now a Union minister) brought the party to power in Madhya Pradesh in 2003.

"The BJP came to power in MP just because Umaji, the saffron-robed sadhvi, was projected as the chief minister," he said.

Religious leader Maharaj Madan Mohan Khadeshwari, 45, also expressed his willingness to contest from Keolari seat in Seoni district as a BJP candidate.

"If the BJP doesn't give me a ticket, I am going to fight as an Independent. I am 101 per cent sure of my victory. I have been tirelessly working for the people of Seonifor the last 30 years," he said.

Yogi Ravinath Mahiwale from Raisen district has also started his campaign for the Assembly polls.

"Come what may, I am going to contest the election on 'save Narmada' plank as the river is being ruined due to illegal sand mining," the 42-year-old religious leader said.

Mahiwale, who is keen to get a ticket from the Udaipura Assembly seat in Raisen, says, "I won't mind contesting from the Congress, if the BJP does not field me."

Similarly, Mahant Pratap Giri, 35, also wants to contest from Silwani seat in Raisen.

He said if the BJP does not field him, he would contest as an Independent.

"I am running a campaign against pictures of Gods and Goddesses being used forcommercial products. I will fight the election to serve people. Serving people is like serving God," he added.

In April, the BJP government in MP had accorded the MoS status to five Hindu religious leaders -- Narmadanand Maharaj, Hariharanand Maharaj, Computer Baba, Bhayyu Maharaj and Pandit Yogendra Mahant.

Seeking to downplay the controversy over grant of the MoS status to the 'godmen', the chief minister had then said that his government wanted to rope in people from all walks of life for welfare and development.By PTI

BENGALURU: India's second moon mission Chandrayaan-2 will now be launched in the January-March window in 2019 instead of later this year as the design was changed to enable it land on the lunar surface, a top ISRO official said here today.

"We have planned to launch Chandrayaan mission in January 3. We are fixing with that (date) and targeting that. But that is an open window. We can go up to March also. As we are coming closer (the date), we may miss the target," ISRO Chairman K. Sivan said.

The reason for postponing the mission was that there were certain important changes made in the design so that it could easily land on the lunar surface, he said.

He was speaking on the sidelines of a function, where bust of Dr Vikram Sarabhai, the architect of the Indian space mission, was unveiled.

Asked why the weight of Chandrayaan-2 was increased by 600 kg, he said ISRO noticed during experiments that after the moon lander was ejected, the satellite would shake.

So they decided that the design modification was required for landing and mass has to be increased.

"We also realised that the orbiter required more phases, which required more fuel," he told reporters.

On the space agency's future missions, Sivan said ISRO also plans to launch 50 satellites in the next three years. The space agency would launch 22 satellites in 2019, the maximum in any year in the history of ISRO, he said.

"Next year from February to December we plan to have 22 missions with almost two missions per month, which is a very important activity. This tight schedule of programmes we are doing for the first time. We have set a target. We may not be able to achieve but we are targeting it. So many missions in a year is a huge target for the first time in the history of ISRO," Sivan said.

The remaining months of 2018 would also be very hectic for ISRO as it plans to launch at least two missions every month, he said.

"Our next mission is PSLV C42, which will launch NOVASAT and S1-4. These two satellites are commercial satellites from the U.K. It is a commercial mission and is planned in September.

Subsequently, we have two missions each month," the ISRO chief said.

In October this year ISRO would launch GSAT29 for the Digital India programme and hyper spectrum imaging satellites along with 30 commercial satellites, Sivan said.

The following month GSAT-7A will be launched, while in December there would be two missions,GSLV-F11 launching AMISAT and GSAT-31, a replacement for INSAT 4CR, whose life will get over by January, he said.

ISRO would have two missions Chandrayan-2 by GSLV Mark 3 and the PSLV P45 launching RA-SAT 2B next year.

The focus area of these launches was to enhance the communication so that rural India gets high bandwidth data connectivity, somewhere between 80 GBPS to 100 GBPS, he said.

Asked about GSAT 6A, with which communication had been lost after its launch in March 31 this year, he said ISRO has not given up hope and was still trying to establish radar contact with the satellite.

"We have not given up hope. We will wait till a year," he said when asked how much time ISRO would take to announce that the GSAT 6A was a failed mission.Namita Bajpai By

Express News Service

LUCKNOW: In a major industrial push to Uttar Pradesh, and in a bid to promote the state as a defence manufacturing hub, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and CM Yogi Adityanath launched the first phase of projects under the ambitious UP Defence Corridor in Aligarh on Saturday.

Aligarh is one of the six nodal points identified for the defence corridor, which was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at UP Investors Summit in February this year. The other five points are Agra, Lucknow, Kanpur, Chitrakoot and Jhansi.

Stakeholder interactions have already been held in Lucknow, Kanpur, Agra and Jhansi. As per state government sources, 32,000 hectares of land has been earmarked for the corridor, which will come at a cost of Rs 20,000 crore and is likely to create jobs for at least 2.5 lakh people.

Launching the projects under defence corridor, the defence minister exhorted the manufacturers not only to cater to the requirement of the three wings of the Indian armed forces but also tap global markets to increase the export of defence equipment.

Inviting investors and MSMEs to come forward and be a part of an industrial revolution in UP, Sitharaman said: There is a global demand for world-class defence equipment and products. I urge all of you to increase your defence export potential. We are willing to work with you to reach this goal.

Calling on start-ups and MSMEs to market innovative products, the defence minister said industries could offer suo motu proposals for defence solutions.

Aligarh Innovative Manufacturing will set an example for finding innovative ways to defence solutions. If you give us good quality products, we will give you orders for the next 10 years, the defence minister told the manufactures and potential investors.

Meanwhile, CM Yogi Adityanath requested the defence minister to allow Uttar Pradesh to host the Aero India Show, which is slated to be held in October this year.

I request the defence minister to hold the Aero India show in UP this time. I promise to provide all facilities and proper arrangement for the mega event. I request the defence minister to make the announcement in this regard soon, said the CM.

As per reports, the Central government has decided to advance the Aero India show by at least five months this time, perhaps due to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

As per the normal schedule, the air show was to be held in Bengaluru in February 2019.

If held in Uttar Pradesh, it would be the first time since its inception in 1996 that Aero India would shift out of its home venue at Yelahanka airbase in Bengaluru.By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Looking at the recent incident of rape of a minor girl rape inside premises of a school in Central Delhi, the government has issued a circular to school principals stating that in case of any such untoward incident like -molestation, violence, injury in school campus it should be immediately reported to the education directorate headquarters.

"In certain cases, the reports of such incidents are received at the headquarters through media or other sources instead of the head of school due to which appropriate action cannot be taken in time. Therefore, all such occurrences must be brought to the notice of senior officers without any delay,-" the circular says.

Following the rape of the class 2 girl last week where the Delhi Commission For Women (DCW) and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) had issued notices to Delhi Police demanding details of the case while questioning the whether the guidelines issued in regard with the safety of students are being followed or not? The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) the agency which manages the school taking strict action suspended four of its officials including the headmistress suspected in the case.

"In order to ensure better monitoring of any untoward incident and take preventive measures at higher administrative levels, all heads of schools are directed to report immediately any untoward incident like violence, accident, dharna, quarrel, fire, protest, demonstration, theft, stampede, molestation, serious injury, suicide attempt or death to senior education department official whosoever is available at the moment," added the circular sent to the school principals by the Directorate of Education (DoE) said.

The government further warned that of the necessary information is not provided immediately regarding the incident through a telephone by the head of the school, an action deemed fit will be initiated against the person. Earlier the AAP government issued fresh guidelines following recommendations from a high-level committee formed in the wake of the murder of a seven-year-old boy in a Gurgaon.Richa Sharma By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: RJDs Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Kumar Jha asserts he did good to the Prime Minister by getting his remarks about Congress leader BK Hariprasad expunged since derogatory statements should not be a part of Parliamentary history.

It was a rare instance in Parliament on Friday when Rajya Sabha Chairman Venkaiah Naidu expunged remarks made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, after Jha flagged the matter promptly in the House.

While congratulating Harivansh Narayan Singh, the NDA candidate who won the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairperson election, Modi had made the remark that involved a wordplay on BK Hariprasads name.

I am a new member of the Rajya Sabha, but I have followed Parliament for long. I know that Parliamentary interventions are permanent. I did a good to the PM as his remarks should not become permanent. Our future generations should not think that such derogatory remarks were made by our PM and that people (MPs) were silent, the RJP MP says.

Although other MPs did not raise the matter, Jha says, many of his colleagues felt the episode involving Modi has further lowered the bar of the House.

MPs cutting across party lines came and complimented me for taking it up with the Chair. I would have done so had it been against any member of the House irrespective of political affiliation. I raised the matter, and I am thankful to Chair for accepting it, he says.

The senior RJD leader feels that his move has set a bar for anybody to follow and cites the example of Hiren Mukherjee, who is considered as one of the finest Parliamentarians.

The CPI MP was a big critic of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and he wrote a book about him. The PMs remarks troubled me, and the connotation was incriminatory for the House. I was sure that I must raise it. "

"What disturbs me that since they (BJP leaders) have come to power and even in the run-up to the 2014 elections, the use of language has gone down, he asserts.

Congress MP Hariprasad, who was the target of the PMs remarks, is critical of him.

PM refers to the Prime Minister of this great nation. PM also refers to a panchayat member, from where political activists begin their career. Even a panchayat member would be ashamed of the language which PM Modi used against me! the Opposition leader asserts.By PTI

KHUNTI: Her eyes sunk deep in their sockets, Suggi Mundain stares blankly at the wall of her bare-bones hut, her vacant gaze speaking of a once happy family torn apart by grinding poverty, and telling a societal tale of migration and exploitation.

The 60-year-old, her face wrinkled beyond her years, sits despairing and devoid of hope in her home in the village of Jabra in Jharkhand's Khunti district, 50 km from state capital Ranchi, and a world away from its promise of development and progress.

With multiple deaths, a daughter who is missing and another who has just returned after 12 years, Suggi's is a story that finds wide echo across the state, home to one of the poorest populations of the country.

According to the state's Labour Department, the number of immigrant women labourers from Jharkhand in 2017 was 10,879.

However, NGOs working in the state say this could be much higher as there are no proper records.

Many of these women are lured by touts into becoming domestic workers in cities, a sector where there is little or no accountability and they are often reduced to bonded labourers.

Suggi Munda, 60, and her son Mangal Munda sit outside their hut in the Jabra village in Khunti district of Jharkhand. (Photo | PTI)

Jharkhand is a source state for trafficking.

The government is working on these issues but still there's a lot to do as girls are moving outside and getting trapped due to the unavailability of livelihood, opportunities and poverty," Action against Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation of Children (ATSEC) State Coordinator Sanjay Mishra told PTI.

He said girls are trafficked for the purpose of forced labour and commercial sexual exploitation.

In Khunti alone, there are 4,691 migrant labourers, of which 1,128 are women, according to official data.

One of them is Suggi's eldest daughter Saniyaro Dhan, who has been missing for 15 years.

A tout from nearby Ghorpenda village had lured the family to send Saniyaro to Delhi promising employment. And that was the last the family heard of her.

Suggi's son Mangal Munda was lured to Assam in 2000 by touts, again with the promise of a job. The family never saw him again. Two years ago, news came of his death.

But the family had no money and could not go to Assam to perform his last rites or bring his body back.

Another daughter Lali Dhan died of sickness and poverty as did Suggi's husband Ono Munda.

Two children survive -- daughter Manhi Munda, now 18, who has returned home after 12 years of working with a family in Kanpur and getting no money for it, and son Mangal Munda who ekes out a bare existence as a farmhand and has four children of his own.

Suggi Munda sits inside her hut in Jabra village in Khunti district of Jharkhand. (Photo | PTI)

"To search for my eldest daughter Saniyaro, I travelled all the way to Delhi two years ago but returned with no hope, realising the futility of the exercise. We could catch hold of the tout but my daughter was not found on his register," Suggi told PTI.

"Having lost one son and one daughter, I somehow caught hold of a tout from nearby Ghorpenda village, who on persistent coaxing agreed to bring Manhi back from the clutches of a Sikh family in Kanpur," she said.

Manhi, only six when she was sent to Kanpur, recounts her days her years in domestic servitude.

Asked, how much she earned during the 12 years she served the family, Manhi said, "They used to give me food in return of the entire household work that included cooking, cleaning the house and other chores."

She doesn't even know the address.

"I was seldom taken out of the house. I don't know the address. They used to call me Mary (perhaps the name given by the tout)."

All she has is a phone number.

She dials the number, a man picks up and, when asked about her payment for working for 12 years, says, "We have calculated. It comes to Rs 16,000. Send your account. We will deposit the money."

When Manhi dials again, a woman picks up. Manhi recognises her as the wife of the employer.

The woman starts abusing her, accusing her of eloping with a boy and insisting that Mansi worked for her for seven years, not 12.

The narrative is repeated in village after village.

Jabra, Karra, Jurdag ,Larta, Dodma, Kudlum, the list is long, the characters different and the story same.

Suggi Munda and her son Mangal Munda sit outside their hut in the Jabra village in Khunti district of Jharkhand. (Photo | PTI)

The villages lack the most basic amenities, including roads and drinking water, defying the tall claims of development, prosperity and welfare schemes promised by the government.

In Karra village, which has a little over 100 huts, Harun Munda said his sister Angela Dhan went to Odisha three years and has not returned.

His neighbour Niranjan Dhan said girls from the village are lured by touts in groups to Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Odisha.

"Some come back and some don't," he said in a matter of fact tone.

A questionnaire on the plight of migrants from the state and government action sent to Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das remained unanswered for more than two weeks.

Former chief minister Arjun Munda admitted the gravity of the situation.

"This is a grave situation of human rights violation in Jharkhand and it is time for Delhi to also wake up to the issue. The government should not become a mere witness to the exploitation of low cost labour power," he told PTI.

"There is need to create a mechanism to keep a record of people migrating by linking it through Aadhaar card," he suggested.

Jharkhand Chief Secretary Sudhir Tripathi said the government has adopted standard operating procedures (SOP) to bring back immigrant labourers.

"A toll free number -- 18003456526 -- is operational in the state to complain and steps are being taken by the district administration to bring them back," he said.By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Political leaders cutting across party lines have mourned the death of the Nobel prize winning author V S Naipaul. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recalled the works of Naipaul on history, culture, colonialism, politics and more, while offering condolences to the writers family.

Sir V S Naipaul will be remembered for his extensive works, which covered diverse subjects ranging from history, culture, politics, and more. His passing away is a major loss to the world of literature, Modi said in a tweet.

Union Minister for Defence Nirmala Sitharaman also mourned the death of the author of A House for Mr Biswas. Agree or disagree with him, Naipaul wrote beautiful prose. Sad, hes no more. The world of words loses an artful master, Sitharaman said in a tweet.

Odisha Chief Minister Navin Patnaik, who is known to be an avid book reader, and Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, who is known to be a connoisseur of literature, also mourned the death of Naipaul.By PTI

YAVATMAL: A 32-year-old farmer allegedly committed suicide today by drinking pesticide in Krishnapur village near Yavatmal, police said.

The family members of the deceased, identified as Prakash Nikhade, claimed that he was frustrated since he had lost cotton crop on four acres of land due to flood this monsoon.

They also alleged that the farmer was denied fresh crop loan by a bank.

However, the police said the cause behind Nikhade taking the extreme step is being investigated.

A Shirpur police station official said they have registered a case.

The incident occurred this evening at the house of the farmer in the village in Wani taluka, he said.

His family members rushed him to Wani rural hospital, where he died during treatment, the official said.

Nikhade is survived by his mother, pregnant wife and a minor daughter.By ANI

NEW DELHI: Countering the picture projected by Opposition of a gloomy economic situation and claims of rising unemployment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that more than one crore jobs have been created in the last one year, hence, the campaign of lack of jobs needs to stop now. In an exclusive interview to ANI, Prime Minister also touched upon various other important issues including the National Register of Citizens (NRC), Goods and Services Tax (GST), women empowerment and India-Pakistan relations.

He allayed concerns that the NRC will exclude Indian citizens and assured all opportunities will be given to people to get their concerns addressed. The Prime Minister also talked about Mahagathbandhan. On India-Pakistan relations, Prime Minister hoped that under the new government, Pakistan would work for a safe, secure, stable and prosperous region, free from terror and violence.

Here is the full transcript of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's interview with ANI,

ANI: You have mentioned in previous interviews that the methodology of computing job numbers is outdated and the true reflection is contrary to the present data available. What in your opinion is the present employment scenario in India and how will you increase employment opportunities?

Prime Minister: I have already given a detailed reply in the Lok Sabha during the debate on No Confidence Motion. In short, the point which needs to be understood is that: When economy is growing at a faster pace, in fact fastest among the major economies, how will the jobs market not expand? When investment into and the pace of execution of infrastructure projects like making roads, laying down rail lines, setting up power generation including solar parks and transmission lines is at all-time high, how come the jobs will not be created. Similarly, if there is significant growth in sales of commercial vehicles and passenger vehicles, does it not mean that jobs are being created? When FDI inflows are at an all-time high, will it not translate into manufacturing and job creation?

From just 2 mobile manufacturing units in 2014 we have grown to 120. When such development in electronic manufacturing is taking place, will it not create jobs? Today, India has emerged as one of the top hubs of start-ups. Are they not creating jobs? App-based aggregators are flourishing in India across food, logistics, e-commerce, mobility solutions and many more such sectors. Are they not creating jobs? We all know the potential tourism has in creating jobs. Foreign tourist arrivals in India grew by 14% last year. Domestic tourism has also grown. Will this not result in job creation?

Today, India is seeing a historic boom in the aviation sector. Last year, over 10 crore people took a flight. Through UDAN scheme, we have put many places, particularly Tier-II and III cities on the aviation map. Will this not create jobs and opportunities across the board? More than 13 crore MUDRA loans have been given to our hardworking entrepreneurs. I have been told that over 3.5 crore of these loans have been given to first time entrepreneurs. Does every loan not create additional employment opportunities?

These are only a few examples. Employment generation is also evident from 45 lakh new Subscribers in the Employee Provident Fund and 5.68 lakh people joining the New Pension Scheme in the last nine months. All this has led to creation of more than one crore jobs only in the last year. Thus, the campaign that jobs have not been created must come to a halt now. People are not going to buy it any more.

Your critics claim that you made a U-Turn on GST from your opposition as the CM. The Opposition calls GST a Gabbar Singh Tax while you call it the Good Simple Tax. 1 year down the line, can you please explain what benefits have GST brought?

I would urge you to do some research on the U-Turn claims. Why was there opposition to GST under the UPA Government? The 'Know It All' Finance Minister refused to listen to the concerns of the various state governments and adopted a 'my way or the highway' approach. Not only Gujarat, but most states did not trust the UPA Government to be fair with them. They had not paid the GST compensation to the states which were promised. They were also unwilling to provide GST compensation to the states if they suffered losses in the first 5 years. It is only when the NDA Government discharged the liability of the past GST Compensation and agreed to pay compensation in the event of loss for the first 5 years that the GST was possible.

Our GST model was acceptable to the states, because we were sensitive to their concerns. But why let facts come in the way of a good 'U-Turn narrative'? Opposition to GST is not from all the Opposition Parties. Only a few who have been continuously rejected by the masses are making baseless points. They not only want to misguide but also indulge in opposing for the sake of opposing. Whether it is Yoga, Ayushman Bharat, Swachh Bharat, NRC, surgical strikes, their conduct is for everyone to see. As for Gabbar Singh Tax, people who have seen only dacoits around them will naturally think of dacoits only!

Have they ever thought why people accepted GST wholeheartedly? The Congress President spoke about Surat in Parliament. He tried his best to provoke people against GST during Gujarat elections, why did the people reject him? It must not be forgotten that people of this country particularly, the business community have supported GST and adopted it whole-heartedly. They deserve all compliments. Being a sensitive Government, we are also taking into account the feedback which comes from people and we are doing corrections wherever required. That is why GST has acquired full faith of people and has made life easier for many of us. People have responded positively as it brings lot of benefits to them and to the economy.

The number of enterprises registered from Independence until now was 66 lakh. In just one year after the introduction of GST, the number of new enterprises registered is 48 lakh. Around 350 crore invoices were processed and 11 crore returns were filed in 1 year. Doesn't this show wide-spread public acceptance?

The recent implementation of the Supreme Court mandated NRC has created controversy, with Mamata Banerjee saying it could lead to "civil war". What are your thoughts on this?

Only those who have lost faith in themselves, fear loss of popular support and lack faith in our Institutions can use words like 'civil war', 'blood bath' and 'Desh Ke Tukde Tukde.' Evidently, they are disconnected from the pulse of the nation. As far as Mamata ji's stand is concerned, she should remember what she said on the floor of the Parliament in 2005. Was that Mamata ji correct or is this Mamata ji correct?

The Congress is also playing politics over the NRC. The roots of the NRC go back three decades, when Mr. Rajiv Gandhi had to bow to public pressure and sign the Assam Accord. Since then Assam voted Congress several times but the party did nothing about it and kept misleading the people. Congress knew a problem exists but allowed it to fester for decades because they were guided by vote bank politics. I want to assure the people that no citizen of India will have to leave the country. As per the due process, all possible opportunities will be given to get their concerns addressed. The NRC was a promise of ours, which we are fulfilling under the guidance of the Honourable Supreme Court. It is not about politics but about people. If someone is making it about Rajaneeti, it is extremely unfortunate. Our job in the political class is to work according to the will of the people and do what they have given us the mandate for.

The Opposition has raked up the issue of crime against women and incidents of lynching. Your critics say you have not spoken about them. Your comments?

It would be a great travesty to reduce these incidents to mere statistics and then indulge in politics over them. That shows a kind of perverse mindset that looks at violence and criminality as something to be milked, instead of unitedly opposing. Even a single incident is one too many and deeply unfortunate. Everyone should rise above politics to ensure peace and unity in our society. My party and I have spoken in clear words, on multiple occasions against such actions and such a mindset. It is all on record. Also, we are people who go beyond just words. Look at the actions of our Home Ministry to see how we have acted against violence.

Soon after I assumed office, I had said from the ramparts of the Red Fort that it is everyone's responsibility to ensure the dignity of women, whether Government, Society, Family or Individual. At the level of Government, we have gone to the extent of making provisions of capital punishment in certain category of crimes against women. You might have noted that results in terms of quick disposal of such cases leading to even capital punishment have started coming in. Let there be no doubts about the will of my Government to implement the Rule of Law in its true letter and spirit.

Is women empowerment only a slogan or has there been any real progress?

Prime Minister: No country can progress if its women are not equal partners in the development process. Going a step ahead of women development, we are working towards women-led development. 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao', was among the first programmes that this Government launched aimed at addressing the issue of declining Child Sex Ratio and educating the girl child. 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' has led to significant improvement in the Child Sex Ratio in various parts of India. It has taken the shape of a vibrant mass movement that is changing mindsets all over. This is the first time in the history of independent India that we have two women in the Cabinet Committee on Security -- the Minister of External Affairs and the Minister for Defence. Women have, for the first time, been inducted as fighter pilots in combat roles in the Indian Air Force.

Construction of toilets in millions under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan both in rural and semi-urban areas augments women safety and security. Separate toilets for girls constructed in all government schools in mission mode will help reduce dropout of girl students. The newly amended Maternity Benefit Act statutorily increases maternity leave to 26 weeks and makes it mandatory for every establishment that has more than 50 employees (whether male or female) to offer creche facilities. This will ensure that working women are not compelled to drop out of the workforce. Mission Indradhanush and Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana is ensuring the good health of the mother and the child.

Under the Ujjwala Scheme, free LPG connections have revolutionized the lives of poor women. It heralds freedom from smoky chulhas and persistent coughs. More than 5 crore LPG connections have been released to poor women so far. There is a sizeable and rapid growth in financial inclusion of women, which paves the way for irreversible and institutional progress. Through the Jan Dhan Yojana, more than 16 crore accounts of women have been opened. We have not only focussed on financial inclusion but also financial empowerment of women. Thanks to the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY) over 13 crore loans have been given of which more than 70% have been given to women. Under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission, there is a massive increase in access to credit by women SHGs. You would be glad to know that the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana gives preference to allotment in the name of the women in the family. This is a major step in furthering the dignity and empowerment of women.

This Government has never shied away from tough measures to ensure gender justice. The Triple Talaq bill is in response to a long standing injustice done to Muslim women in India. The Anti-trafficking Bill, that has just been passed by the Lok Sabha, attempts to address one of the most pervasive crimes affecting women and children, especially the most vulnerable.

According to the new Haj policy, for the first time, women above the age of 45 years can go for the pilgrimage without a `mehram', or a male escort. This also is a harbinger of substantial change. I think all the points mentioned give a glimpse of this Government's consistent commitment to women empowerment. You can judge whether this is just a slogan or there is concrete action.

What is your stand on caste-based reservations? Is it true that your Government is waiting for the right time to abolish reservations?

The objectives of our Constitution and dreams of Dr. Babasaheb are still incomplete. It is the responsibility every one of us to fulfill his dream and reservations are an important tool to achieve this. Reservation is here to stay. Let there be no doubts about this. The dreams of Babasaheb are the strength of this nation and we are committed to fulfilling them. Our Mantra is Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas and to achieve this, it is most important to protect the rights of the poor, marginalized, downtrodden, Dalits, Tribals and OBCs.

Before any crucial election, there are vested interest groups who will raise a bogey that BJP will abolish reservations and sections of the media will amplify this. Those who are constantly spreading canards on the issue and politicizing it are the same people who have always crushed Babasaheb's dreams. They are trying to sow seeds of doubt and mistrust among the weaker sections of society. But, the people of India are wise and they will not believe this propaganda.

Look across the length and breadth of India, maximum MPs from SC, ST and OBC communities are from BJP. Maximum MLAs from SC, ST and OBC communities are from BJP. I would request you all to see the kind of things our former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi said about the Mandal Commission. On the floor of the Parliament he opposed it tooth and nail. The situation in his party is no different today.

Why are the smaller allies of the BJP losing faith in the coalition? Some have quit, some say they will not fight alongside your party in 2019, instead of adding to your kitty due to the stunning victory of 2014, you are seen as a party that is a difficult magnet to attract allies.

Two events of the recent past will answer your question- the No- Confidence Motion in the Lok Sabha and the election for the Deputy Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha. The outcome of both these events should indicate which coalition is intact and which is falling apart. In fact, we got support even from those parties which are not our allies. BJP has consistently expanded its base over the recent years among the people and welcomed more allies to the NDA family.

The political impasse in Jammu and Kashmir continues to be unresolved with the coalition collapsing and Governor's rule seemingly being continuous. Do you think your party made a mistake in forming govt with the PDP? Would you do it again if there is a hung verdict again?

The people's mandate during the State Assembly elections was towards formation of Government jointly by BJP and PDP. Also, in that situation, there was no other alternative. That is why, to fulfil the people's expectations, we formed the Coalition Government. However, after the sad demise of Mufti Sahab, there were hurdles in fulfilling those expectations. For BJP, people's interest is above political interests and that is why without casting any aspersions, we opted out of power. BJP is always with the people of J&K and is ready to fulfil their dreams. This importantly includes deepening the roots of Democracy in the State right down to the Panchayat and Village level. We made efforts to strengthen local self-government at the village level but in that coalition Government it was becoming increasingly tough to do so. Central Government is committed to holistic development of Jammu and Kashmir across the regions of Jammu, Ladakh and Kashmir Valley.

During No confidence motion in this session, we saw some unusual scenes? Rahul Gandhi walks up to you and hugs you...What went through mind when this played out? Congress claimed victory while others say it was a childish act by Rahul Gandhi? What is your conclusion?

It is for you to judge whether it was a childish act or not. And if you are unable to decide, watch the wink and you will get the answer. I am a humble Kaamdaar. I am nothing compared to the Naamdaars of this country, who have their own unique style of conducting themselves. They decide whom to hate, when to hate and whom to 'love' and how to make a show of it. In all this, what can a Kamdaar like me say.

Are you and your party concerned with Modi vs all syndrome? How are you planning to combat this 'Mahagathbandhan' in 2019?

The Opposition parties are so convinced about our Government's popularity that they have no faith in their ability to fight us individually. These parties had lots of time to prove their worth to the people. But they indulged in corruption, nepotism and mis-governance. Now they know that their electoral arithmetic based on caste, class, community and religion cannot withstand the chemistry of development. This happened because of people's unflinching trust in BJP's politics of development and their validation of the work the government is doing. Election after election and in state after state, people are repeatedly choosing the BJP to fulfill their aspirations. People have witnessed firsthand the change in their lives through the efforts of the Central Government. They have also seen that our Government is incorruptible and hard-working.

People have clearly recognized the difference between these parties and the BJP and hence the opposition has no option but to make it an 'All versus One' fight to even think about winning. Today, those who resisted the Emergency are standing with those who imposed it. Those who went about trying to fight corruption are with the party that has institutionalized corruption at all levels. Parties with a visceral hatred towards the Left ideology and parties espousing Left ideology are sharing stage. Parties whose very existence depended on fighting each other are now friends.

Let us understand the true character of the Mahagathbandhan. The Mahagathbandhan is for personal survival, not for ideological support. The Mahagathbandhan is for personal ambitions, not for people's aspirations. The Mahagathbandhan is purely about power politics, not about people's mandate. The Mahagathbandhan is about dynasties, not about development. The Mahagathbandhan is not about any union of minds or ideas, but about rank opportunism. The only question is whether they will break up before the election or after!

Imran Khan's Tehreek-e-Insaaf party will be assuming office in Pakistan soon, you spoke to Imran Khan and congratulated him. In his first speech he offered to hold talks with India...are you open for dialogue with the new dispensation of Pakistan? Is there any hope for India participating in SAARC?

I have always said that we wish to have good neighbourly relations. We have also taken various initiatives in this regard. I recently congratulated Mr. Imran Khan on his victory in the elections. We hope that Pakistan would work for a safe, secure, stable and prosperous region, free from terror and violence.Abhijit Mulye By

Express News Service

MUMBAI: Dubbing IITs as Indias Instrument of Transformation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed the IIT pass outs on Saturday to innovate and enrich the startup potential of India.

Innovations and Enterprise are going to be the foundation stone for making India a developed economy. A long term sustainable technology-led economic growth is possible on this foundation, Modi said at the 56th convocation ceremony of the IIT-Bombay.

Dozens of start ups all over the world have been started by the IIT alumnae.

India has emerged as the second largest ecosystem in the field of startups where over 10,000 startups were being nurtured, Modi said, adding that a grand system for funding was in the offing as a part of the Atal Innovation Mission.We must make India the most attractive destination for innovation and enterprise. This will not happen through government efforts alone.

It will happen through youngsters like you. My appeal to you and many other youngsters is: Innovate in India, Innovate for humanity. From mitigating climate change to ensuring better agricultural productivity; from cleaner energy to water conservation; and from combating malnutrition to effective waste management. Let us affirm that the best ideas will come from Indian laboratories and from Indian students, he said.

Be it broadband technology, AI, blockchain technology or machine earning, these are techniques that will play an important role in the vision of smart cities.

Symbolic gesture

Modi began his 32-minute speech by paying respects to Bengal revolutionary Khudiram Bose. He had joined the nationalist movement at the age of 15 and hanged In 1908.

The reference to the young martyr is in sync with the NDAs patriotism card.By PTI

NEW DELHI: Raising the heat on the Modi government over the Rafale jet deal, the Congress today accused it of promoting crony capitalism and its own "self interests" and ignoring national interests.

Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi asked why Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government is not answering why Rs 41,205 crore more out of the public money was paid for the Rafale fighters and accused the prime minister of violating the 'defence procurement procedure'.

The opposition party alleged that Reliance Defence was chosen as the local partner for offset contracts worth crores, as per the 2016 annual report of Dassault Aviation and a press statement of Reliance Defence.

Reliance Defence and Aerospace, in a statement, said that it or any other Reliance group company has not received any contract from the Defence Ministry till date, relating to the 36 Rafale aircraft.

"This is absolutely unfounded and incorrect," the company said.

It also claimed that there is no violation of any rule or preferential treatment to Dassault Reliance Aviation Ltd (DRAL), the joint venture company formed to fulfil the offset contracts in the Rafale deal.

ALSO READ | Rafale deal conflict explained: Here's what Congress and BJP said over the past three years

The Congress leader, however, accused the prime minister of making the announcement of "off-the-shelf" purchase of 36 fighter jets in Paris at a much higher rate than that negotiated by the UPA government.

"Rafale is a scam and the government is in scam. Indians feel deprived while the BJP ensured that crony capitalism thrived. Instead of protecting India's interest we have the Modi government protecting its self-interests," Chaturvedi said in a statement. The prime minister announced off-the-shelf purchase of 36 Rafale aircraft in Paris on April 10, 2015 for euro 7.5 billion (Rs.1670.70 crore per aircraft which is Rs.60,145 crore for 36 aircraft," Chaturvedi said.

India signed an inter-governmental agreement with France in 2015 for 36 Rafale fighter jets in 'fly-away' condition.

The president of the ruling BJP, Amit Shah, on Friday rejected allegations of corruption in the Rafale deal, saying credence should be given to Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's statement instead of others.

Shah said Sitharaman has said the base price of Rafale fighters negotiated by the government is less than what was finalised by the previous UPA dispensation.

But the Congress leader said when the international bid opened on December 12, 2012 for Rafale jets, the price negotiated by the UPA government was Rs.526.10 crore per aircraft for 126 aircraft.

As per the UPA deal, the price of 36 aircraft would have been Rs.18,940 crore.

Chaturvedi demanded an explanation on why an extra amount of Rs.41,205 crore of the public money is being paid for the jets.

She asked why the prime minister and the defence minister were averse to placing the details of the commercial purchase price before Parliament.

The government has said that a secrecy clause in the 2008 pact between India and France prohibits it from disclosing the pricing details in the purchase of the Rafale fighter jets.

Experts describe the Rafale as a twin-engine "air-dominance" aircraft.

In French, "Rafale" means a gust of wind.By Express News Service

BHOPAL: Ashwini Sharma, the head of private girls hostel arrested in Bhopal on Thursday for raping a deaf and mute tribal girl, was booked on Saturday evening for raping another speech and impaired tribal girl.

A 23-year-old tribal girl, who too is speech and hearing impaired, lodged a case of rape, unnatural sex and molestation under Sections 376, 377 and 354 of IPC against Sharma at Hira Nagar police station in Indore late in the evening.

The girl who hails from Dhar district (the other alleged rape survivor girl also hails from Dhar) alleged in the complaint that Sharma raped and committed the unnatural sexual act with her during her stay at the private hostel run by him at Crystal Ideal City residential township. She alleged that Sharma raped her while she was undergoing vocational course at an Industrial Training Institute (ITI) in Bhopal during 2017-18.

While confirming that another case was registered against Sharma at Hira Nagar police station of Indore, the police station in-charge MS Bhadauria told The New Indian Express that the accused has also been booked under provisions of SC/ST Atrocities Prevention Act. After lodging the case in Indore, it will be transferred to Bhopal for further investigations, said Bhadauria.

This is the third case to have been registered against Sharma at Hira Nagar police station in Indore, as two other inmates of the private hostel (both deaf and mute tribal girls from Dhar district only) had lodged cases of molestation against him at the same police station on August 9.

Prior to that the 19-year-old tribal girl had lodged a case of rape against Sharma at Dhar Kotwali in her native Dhar district on August 8, which had led to Sharmas arrest in Bhopal on August 9. The accused is presently in Bhopal police remand till Sunday.

The two alleged rape survivor girls and two molestation victims, all have been students of an ITI in Bhopal.

All four cases, including two rape-molestation cases and two molestation cases lodged against Sharma over the last four days will now be probed by the special investigation team (SIT) constituted to probe these cases in Bhopal.By Express News Service

HYDERABAD: Two youngsters were arrested from the city by the National Investigation Agency on Sunday for allegedly having links with ISIS operatives and their handlers in Syria. The accused, including a teenager, were allegedly in touch with Adnan Hassan, who was arrested by the NIA in 2016 on charges of radicalising Indian Muslim youngsters. The arrests have come just ahead of the Independence Day.

The accused are Md Abdullah Basith(24) of Hafiz Baba Nagar and Md Abdul Qhadeer(19) of Chandrayangutta. They were among the 20 suspects who were questioned earlier for allegedly pledging allegiance to ISIS. Now, the sleuths are trying to find out if the duo hatched any conspiracies or planned any terror attacks in the country.

Two others were arrested by the NIA in 2016 along with Adnan Hassan  Sheikh Azhar ul Islam and Mohammed Farhan Shaikh. They were accused of motivating and radicalising Indian Muslim youngsters on the behalf of ISIS to carry out terrorist activities. They were charged under Section 120B of IPC and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.

While Sheikh Azhar ul Islam and Mohammed Farhan Shaikh pleaded guilty and were sentenced to 7 years of imprisonment, the trial against Adnan Hassan is still going on. It was then that NIA received a fresh input that one Abdullah Basith based in Hyderabad was in touch with Hassan and a few others.

Based on this tip-off, the agency conducted searches across seven places Hyderabad on August 6. Sleuths claimed to have seized certain incriminating materials which they have sent to Central Forensic Science Laboratory in Hyderabad for analysis and data extraction.

Who is Basith?

In December 2015, three youngsters were arrested for allegedly planning to run away to Syria and join the ISIS. They had just Rs 90,000 cash in hand. They planned to ride to Nagpur via Adilabad; then take a flight from Nagpur to Kashmir; then cross over to Afghanistan and proceed to Syria. Md Abdullah Basith was one of the three accused.

The trios plans were busted by Telangana police who got in touch with Maharashtra ATS and nabbed them from the Nagpur airport.

Basiths Syrian dream

In 2014, Basith along with two friends was caught in Kolkata while they were trying to reach Bangladesh as part of their plan to proceed to Syria. That time, they were counselled and let off

Who funded their plans?

Sleuths claim to have found that their plan to reach Syria was funded by Adnan Hassan. Basith is also the nephew of SIMI ex-president Syed Salahuddin who died in a road mishap in Nalgonda in October 2014.By IANS

NEW DELHI: A youth leader was arrested from Haryana on the charge of burning a copy of the Constitution of India and shouting slogans against Dr BR Ambedkar at a protest here, police said on Sunday.

Police said accused Deepak Gaur, said to be a member of Arakshan Virodhi Party, was arrested from his hideout in Faridabad on Saturday night for committing the crime during the protest on Parliament Street in Central Delhi on Thursday.

On a complaint of Anil Tanwar of Akhil Bharatiya Bheem Sena, the Delhi Police on Friday registered a case against the Youth for Equality organisation at the Parliament Street police station regarding the crime.

"Leaders of Youth for Equality (Azad Sena) and Arakshan Virodhi Party held a joint protest on the Parliament Street. The protesters led by Deepak Gaur and Abhishekh Shukla were involved in the burning the copy of the Constitution and shouting slogans against Dr Ambedkar," Deputy Commissioner of Police Madhur Verma said.

The teams raided their hideouts in Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh and arrested Gaur from Faridabad. A manhunt for Shukla and others is on.

"During interrogation, Gaur said that he and Shukla conspired to burn the pages of the Constitution to create a sensation to attract government attention to opposition to amendments in the law pertaining to scheduled castes and tribes," the officer added.

Gaur told police that they along with their supporters burnt a bare act of the Constitution of India and later put on social media a press note on the issue.Ramananda Sengupta By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe handed over some 404 houses built for Sri Lankan plantation workers of Indian origin on Saturday at the Dunsinane Estate in Punduloya, Nuwara Eliya District, in a special ceremony which was addressed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi via video conferencing.

The new houses, along with land ownership documents, were handed over to the beneficiaries by Wickremesinghe in the presence of Indian High Commissioner Taranjit Singh Sandhu and several senior Sri Lankan ministers, including Minister for Hill country New Villages, Infrastructure and Community Development, Palani Digambaram, Minister of Plantation Industries Navin Dissanayake, and Minister of Lands and Parliamentary Reforms Gayantha Karunathilake. Earlier, a Letter of Exchange for construction of additional 10,000 houses in the plantation areas was signed by High Commissioner Sandhu and Palani Digambaram, as per Modis pledge during his visit to Sri Lanka in 2017.

Several MPs and members of the Central Provincial Council, senior government officials as well as officials from Plantation Human Development Trust, regional plantation companies and almost 1,500 people from the Dunsinane Estate also attended the function.

In his address, Modi congratulated the owners of the newly built independent houses.

Highlighting the uniqueness of the participatory owner-driven approach of the Indian housing project, where beneficiaries actively participate in building the houses, he pointed out that the Indian housing project in Sri Lanka, with a grant of over $350 million, was the largest Indian grant assistance project in any country.

Of the total commitment of 60,000 houses by India, close to 47,000 houses have already been built.

He also noted that the expansion of the pre-hospital emergency ambulance service all over Sri Lanka last month, and commencement of Air India flights from Colombo to Varanasi in August 2017.

PM Wickremesinghe thanks Modi

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said: I thank the Prime Minister Modi. He has kept the promise he made last year. During his visit to Sri Lanka in 2017, Modi had pledged to have the houses built.Shankkar Aiyar By

It always seems impossible until its doneNelson Mandela August 15, 1947. This week, India will observe 71 years of Independence.

Milestones are markers that commemorate how far the nation has travelled. It is an occasion, to paraphrase the legendary Madiba, when one must reflect and remember to celebrate milestones as we prepare for the road ahead. So how is India doing?

A people convinced by Mahatma Gandhis idea fought for freedom. The nation became a republic with the adoption of the Constitution. India adopted an audacious template. At the dawn of independence, barely 20 per cent of the populace was literate and eight of ten persons were below the poverty line. Yet the founding fathers chose universal suffrage. In tribute Indians lived up to the faith and sustained the idea and democracy.

In 2018, India is the fastest growing democracy and, at $2.6 trillion, among the top five economies of the world. For sure it has invalidated Churchill and his ilk. The contentious question anniversaries provoke is, Could it have been done better? Assessment requires review of whether the points of inflection were seized upon and leveraged.

One way of auditing the past is to examine how well fellow travellers did. In a competitive globalized world, referenced comparisons are inescapable. The post-war period saw nearly a dozen countries liberated as people wrenched freedom from despots and occupiersthese included Indonesia, India and sibling Pakistan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, South Korea, Jordan, Israel, China, Japan from post-war occupation, followed by Malaysia and Singapore in the next decade.

The basis for evaluation and comparison is context and legacy. Indonesia, India and South Korea as also Malaysia and Singapore share a similar context. They are different but democracies, multicultural societies, were colonized and were born in August as free nations and it turns out that more than 30 countries qualify for the tag of August Republic.

How well did they do? India trails Indonesia, South Korea, Malaysia and Singapore as also Sri Lanka on the global human development indexIndia trails at 131 of 168 countries. Life expectancy in India, at 68, is what all of them had achieved in 1981. Each of them does better than India, which is ranked 100 in the global hunger indexstrife-torn Iraq does better and some states in India are in the company of Sub-Saharan nations.

Yes, at $2.6 trillion, Indias GDP is twice that of Indonesia and several times that of the others. How does this translate at the granular level? Indias per capita income, at around $1,900, is half of Indonesias, one-fifth of Malaysias, a tenth of Koreasand Singapores per capita income is over 25 times that of India. Malaysia has the lowest poverty ratio in Asia and India the highestby various estimates, around 18 per cent live below the poverty line.

In fact, Indonesia and India share many commonalities. Indonesia, which got freedom in 1945, was led by Sukarno and India by his friend Jawaharlal Nehru. Both reigned for two decades. In 1966, Indira Gandhi took charge of India as Prime Minister and Suharto as President of Indonesia in 1967, and both are described as authoritarian regimes. In the late sixties, India and Indonesia had similar poverty levels and similar human development indices. By 1990, Indonesia had invested in education and health and brought down its poverty level from 59 per cent to less than 10 per cent, while India was still at 45 per cent.

In 1964, shortly after the debacle against China, Nehru appointed a committee under Homi Bhabha to assess Indias competitive advantages. The Bhabha committee listed hardware and software development as areas in which India could forge ahead. India missed the hardware bus and caught the software train in the 1990s. Between them, South Korea and Malaysia hold over 26 per cent of the global share of integrated circuit exports.

What did the Tiger EconomiesKorea, Indonesia and Malaysiado differently? They chose to be outward-looking and India was inward-looking. While India persisted with a closed economy till 1991, they embraced trade and investments to build their economies. The Koreans came to India to observe steel-making at Bhilai when C Subramaniam was steel minister. Singapore Airlines had sought help in training and systems from Air India when JRD Tata was at the helm. Steel-maker POSCO and Singapore Airlines grew to be global giants.

Sure, Indias population is more than three times that of all four countries put together, but size and scale, which weigh on both sides, didnt daunt China. In the seventies, India and China had similar per capita incomes. In 2018, Chinas GDP is six times that of India and per capita income, at nearly $9,000, is over four times that of India. Between 1991 and 2017, Indias per capita income rose six times while that of China went up 26 times.

You could argue that China is an autocracy, not a democracy. The question is, can democracy be the fall guyand the autocracy beats India on most human development indicators? Current life expectancy at birth and literacy in India are what China had achieved in the eighties.

In the end, the lament about India is not about what it could not do but what it could but did not do! Nobel laureate and author of Administrative Behaviour, Herbert Simon, once said: The choices we make lead up to actual experiences. It is one thing to decide to climb a mountain. It is quite another to be on top of it. What is true for individuals and corporations is equally true for nations.

Shankkar Aiyar

Author of Aadhaar: A Biometric History of Indias 12 Digit Revolution, and Accidental India

shankkar.aiyar@gmail.comManish Anand By

Admitting that the Bharatiya Janata Party has come out stronger from the monsoon session of Parliament, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Bhartruhari Mahtab said his partys support for the Janata Dal(U) candidate in the election for the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman does not mean it is a support for the BJP. In an interview to Manish Anand, Mahtab stressed that the saffron party was not invincible. Arguing that the BJD provides constructive opposition, Mahtab noted that the next eight months would shape up the course of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections even while emerging political discourses around personalities give an edge to the BJP.

What sense do you make out of the first no-confidence motion against the Narendra Modi government in which the BJD didnt participate?

It was relating to the posturing of the BJP and the Congress-led alliances for 2019. The no-confidence motion that was moved in the second half of the budget session was accepted on the first day (of the monsoon session) for deliberations which none of the parties comprehended. So, Ive heard from leaders of some parties asking how it happened. Ultimately, we didnt take part in the process. Our stated position has been that neither the 10 years of the UPA nor the four years of the NDA have been beneficial in any way to Odisha. It was a pointless exercise.... The result was known to everyone.

The BJP-led NDA had the numbers. Our participation in the debate would have been a fruitless exercise. Therefore, we walked out. After the motion was defeated, the NDA created an impression that theyre invincible. Actually, they arent.But the BJD actually voted for NDA nominee Harivansh Narayan Singh in the election for the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman In the last four years, the BJP-led NDA had been trying to push many Bills as money Bills because they dont have the strength and adequate support. But when this election for the deputy chairperson was declared, the NDA did its homework well though the Congress-led alliance had started the preparation early. We supported the JD(U) candidate. From the beginning, our effort was for a consensus candidate. Our attempt was not to have election.

Do you sense an effective Opposition unity taking shape against the BJP in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections?

There are eight months more for the general elections. Many things may happen in between. This reminds me of HD Deve Gowdas statement who had said that those who had come on the platform during the oath-taking ceremony may not form a morcha to fight against the BJP. Hes an experienced public figure. In the next eight months, many things may happen... But the term mahagathbandhan has to be tested first in Uttar Pradesh.

Do you think that the Congress is currently in a position to lead a united Opposition against the BJP?

Ill put it in a different way. Today most of the political parties are personality driven, and it helps the BJP if the elections for 2019 is held on personality. The Congress itself is both a personality and family led party, and thats why the outfit is failing at the national level. The alternative to personality-led elections is ideology-led elections. If certain political parties, and that is a big if, come together on ideologies, then only one can counter personality-led campaigns. ...What I find in 2018 is that the most of the political parties are personality oriented. And thats the advantage of Narendra Modi.

But you said that the BJP isnt invincible.

To make it more clear, lets see what happens in Maharashtra. The BJP during the last four years has formed governments in various states through support from others, including the North-east and Maharashtra. They couldnt form a government in Karnataka. Wheres the BJP in Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu? Even in Gujarat, where there was a multi-cornered contest, the NCP candidates were the reason for the defeat of the Congress in certain seats and the margin of votes was quite les in 10-15 seats.

The BJD continues to be a unique political outfit which bails out the BJP in Parliament even while it remains in a competitive politics with the saffron outfit in Odisha so much so that youre loosely said to be NDA Plus. What do you have to say on this?

I cannot explain the perception people have about our party, but the fact is that the Congress withdrew in the last panchayat elections and gave space to the BJP. The non-BJD votes which used to be divided between the Congress and BJP got consolidated. The Congress was nowhere during the campaigning in the panchayat polls. I think that will not happen in the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections. But were far ahead of the BJP on the ground both in the state and general elections. In Parliament, we dont oppose the government for the sake of opposition. Our first priority is development of Odisha. We provide constructive opposition. We support the government on issues which are good for India and our state.

How do you assess the performance of the Modi government on the economic front?

Two things stand out among number of steps this government has taken. During the last four years, adequate measures have been taken to curb black money and also to crack down against the flow of black money. The laws enacted in the last four years have started giving results and in another year or two, the country will benefit. The second aspect for which I will give credit to this government is that it built a system of collective wisdom to implement the GST. That state chief ministers are taking

unanimous decisions is something which is great. But ultimately, the result will be felt after the completion of five years of the implementation of the GST.

There are incidents like mob lynching in the name of protection of cows. What youve to say on this?

The first lynching by cow vigilantes which drew national attention was in 1999 in Manoharpur of Odisha when there was a Congress government in the state after which the chief minister was changed. Graham Staines along with his two children were burnt to death. The main culprit, Dara Singh, was from Uttar Pradesh. Cow vigilantism and mob lynching are north Indian phenomena. But its a heinous crime and strong action needs to be taken. Mob violence needs to be dealt with full force, and if theres necessity to amend the IPC and CrPC that also needs to be done.

Now that four years have gone by since the Planning Commission was replaced by NITI Aayog, how do you evaluate Narendra Modis decision?

Im yet to understand what NITI Aayog is actually doing. Is it an advisory body or is it an extended organ of the PMO or a think tank? To me, I think its all of these put together. Initially, the role of the Planning Commission was very specific, which should have been the ideal role to maintain. But slowly it acquired certain powers which should have been with the Finance Ministry, which led to other problems. The Constitution provides that states lagging behind for historic reasons need to be supported so that they can come on a par with developed states. This should have been the objective of the Union government. How far NITI Aayog is doing this job is yet to be seen.

How is the BJD preparing for the 2019 state elections?

The BJD improved its seats in the Assembly from 103 in 2009 to 117 in 2014. The historic high in the Odisha Assembly was seen in 1990 when the Janata Dal won 123 seats. The BJD will be aiming to go past the historic high in the 2019 Assembly elections.By Express News Service

VISAKHAPATNAM: Most of the metabolic and psychiatric disorders are triggered by delayed sleep and other sleep-related problems, according to renowned biologist and geneticist Michael Warren Young.

A professor at Rockefeller University in the USA, Michael Warren Young, who received Nobel prize in Physiology for his discovery of molecular mechanisms controlling circadian rhythms, was presented with GITAM Foundation Annual Award - 2018 during the 38th GITAM Foundation Day celebrations at GITAM (Deemed to be) University here on Saturday. GITAM Founder-President MVVS Murthi, GITAM

Chancellor Prof K Ramakrishna Rao and others honoured Young and his wife.

The award comprises a citation, plaque and cheque for Rs 10 lakh. It is given every year to distinguished persons for their exemplary service to society as per the suggestion of GITAM Founder-President MVVS Murthi from interest accrued on Rs 3 crore donated by him to the corpus fund.

Michael Warren Young, who isolated a gene which controls the normal daily biological rhythm, explained his research findings, in his endowment lecture to the students.

Young said that life on earth is adapted to the rotation of our planet and it is found that living organisms, including humans, have an internal biological clock that helps them anticipate and adapt to the regular rhythm of the day. Young said that his laboratory is studying a syndrome called Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder (DSPD). His team is focussing on a single family with several members displaying DSPD.

He said that DSPD is affecting about 5 per cent of the US population from clinical studies. He said that they found the presence of Cryptochrome mutation in DSPD individuals.

He said using fruit flies as a model organism, his team isolated a gene that regulates the normal daily biological rhythm. They showed that this gene encodes a protein that accumulates in the cell during the night, and is then degraded during the day. Subsequently, they identified additional protein components of this machinery, exposing the mechanism governing the self-sustaining clockwork inside the cell. We now recognise that biological clocks function on the same principles in cells of other multi-cellular organisms, including humans, he added.

Young said that large proportions of human genes are regulated by the biological clock and, consequently, a carefully calibrated circadian rhythm adapts physiology to different phases of the day. He said the seminal circadian biology has developed into a vast and highly dynamic research field with implications on public health. GITAM Founder-President MVVS Murthi, expressing happiness over 38 years of GITAMs journey, said the university still has a lot to learn from other old universities in the State. GITAM is honoured to present the Foundation Day award to Young and his presence on the campus would definitely inspire research scholars as well as students.

GITAM Chancellor K Ramakrishna Rao observed that true greatness of an educational institution consists in its achieving excellence in quality and standards of teaching, advancements in research, innovation and application of knowledge. GITAM Vice-Chancellor MS Prasada Rao said that GITAM is one of the very few multi-campus, multi-faculty universities accredited with A+ grade. He also announced that MHRD/UGC recently graded GITAM as Category-I University and granted graded autonomy under UGC Regulations-2018.

The university felicitated the teaching and non-teaching staff during the celebrations.

GITAM President MVVS Murthi presented the Best Teacher Award to R Gyana Prasuna (Microbiology), PVY Jayasree, P Trinadha Rao, Maju Jose (English), Best Supporting Staff Awards to K Chandra Sekhar (Sr. Assistant), A Narasinga Rao (Technical Assistant), K Govindarajulu (Attendant), Outstanding Student Speaker Awards to A Annapurna, Fathima Zohra and Jagruthi Jaiswal. District Collector Pravin Kumar were among those present.By Express News Service

BENGALURU: Here on, in order to claim reimbursement, state government officers will have to submit certified copy of the bills for hot beverages served to their departments.

With the existing system, officers are allowed to draw an advance amount for coffee and tea served at their departments. However, there have been allegations that some of the officers are drawing excessive amount. This is why the Department of Finance has issued a circular asking the officers to claim the bills only after submitting certified copies of the same.

An official from the Finance Department said, There is a fixed amount meant for tea, coffee and snacks to be served during meetings and events for each department. However, this is being misused and many departments are spending double the amount.By Express News Service

BENGALURU/ALIGARH: Amid speculation that aerospace exposition Aero India will be moved from Bengaluru to Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday made a formal request to Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to host the next edition of the show in that state.

Speaking after launching projects under the UP Defence Corridor in Aligarh, Yogi Adityanath requested the defence minister to allow UP to host the air show.

We will provide every type of facility. In this context, I request her to announce this at the earliest so that we can proceed with the preparations, the UP Chief Minister said.

However, Nirmala Sitharaman made no announcement in this regard.

Karnataka, however, still hopes to retain the biennial event in Bengaluru which has been hosting it since its inception in 1996. Sources in Karnataka CMO on Saturday told The New Sunday Express that during her recent visit to Bengaluru, the defence minister had categorically told the CM that there is no proposal to move the show out of the state.

Refusing to react to Yogi Adityanaths request to host the event, the CMO official said the CM will react only after the Ministry of Defence makes a formal announcement.

During his meeting with the defence minister, Kumaraswamy had requested that it should be continued in Bengaluru. However, while addressing a joint press conference with the Chief Minister, the defence minister had stated that MoD has not taken any decision on the date and venue of the event.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara and Revenue Minister R V Deshpande said that reports of Aero India being moved out of Bengaluru are very unfortunate.

We have been a defence hub since independence, but under the NDA we are constantly losing key defence projects and flagship programmes, Parameshwara said. He urged the defence minister to clarify her stand on the issue.

Deshpande, who was in Delhi on Saturday, took up the issue with Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh. Karnataka is the aerospace capital of India, a pioneer in the contribution of high tech ecosystem to the Indian aerospace industry by attracting 65 per cent of aerospace investments and producing a quarter of Indias aircraft and spacecraft, he said.

Deshpande urged the defence minister to continue the show in Bengaluru, which has been hosting the biennial Airshow successfully for the past 20 years.

Meanwhile, Congress, which is part of the coalition government headed by JD (S) leader H D Kumaraswamy, slammed the MoDs plans to shift the event to UP. Well done @nsitharaman ji. Youve served Karnataka well for electing you to RS. In the #RafaleScam our HAL was sidelined to help a private individual & and now Bengalurus pride, the #Aero India is being shifted to Lucknow. Keep up the good work KPCC president Dinesh Gundu Rao tweeted reacting to reports about MoDs plans to move the show to UP.

Rao and other Congress leaders from the state have earlier written to the defence minister urging her not to shift the show from Bengaluru. The air show that first started in Bengaluru in 1996 has grown into one of the major aerospace expositions in Asia. A number of foreign and domestic firms take part in the biennial event held at the Air Force station Yelahanka.

According to aerospace experts, Bengaluru is the best venue to host the show as a number of defence and aerospace firms are located in the city.Manoj Viswanathan By

Express News Service

The handling of the water release from the dam was perhaps one of the best in recent history. At the same time, there is a school of thought that feels it is necessary to probe whether the flashpoint that occurred on August 9 could have been avoided had the KSEB taken certain proactive actions. Express weighs the pros and cons

KOCHI: The rain has subsided. The water level in Idukki dam has started dipping. After three days of panic and anxiety, the water has started retreating at Aluva as well. Around 10,000 people have been shifted to downstream relief camps. No life is lost but many houses got damaged. The crisis is over, but the threat of another flash flood looms large as the Met Department has predicted heavy rains in the next couple of days.

READ | Replenish wetlands, paddy fields or perish

But the opening of 22 dams on a single day leading to flash flood has triggered a debate. Did the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) delay the release of water from Idukki dam until the eleventh hour hoping for nature's mercy? While the Board claim they were well prepared and everything went as per the plan, activists allege lack of a proper coordinated approach in an era where satellite map and remote sensing tools are available to gauge the aggregate impact led to the crisis. They say it was the Board's greed to generate maximum electricity that put the lives of thousands living on the banks of Periyar in danger.

"The water was released in five phases and the situation was reviewed before increasing the outflow from Idukki each time. We had intimated the district administration and chalked out a plan in coordination with the Disaster Management team. We didn't waste water and averted a crisis," KSEB Chairman and MD N S Pillai told Express.

READ | Water recedes, yet overcast sky, rain forecast cause for concern

KSEB Chairman and Managing Director N S Pillai said it was the torrential rain on August 8, 9 and 10 that aggravated the crisis. We had decided to conduct the trial run a week ago. But as the rain subsided, we decided to wait. Our generators were running at maximum capacity.

Unexpectedly, the water level at Idamalayar crossed the Full Reservoir Level (FRL). We released 600 cumecs of water from Idamalayar. Meanwhile, the water level at Idukki crossed 2,400 feet. It was a consolidated effort. We decreased the water release from Idamalayar while increasing the outflow from Idukki. The total discharge was 1,050 cumecs. Though people feared the water will rise by two metres, the actual rise in water level was less than one metre, he said.

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Disaster Management Chief Muralee Thummarukudy said globally, all the reservoir and dam managers are against wasting water.

READ | Kerala should have a micro-watershed programme, says Finance Minister Dr TM Thomas Isaac

They tend to hold the water till the situation become alarming, affecting the stability of the dam. In Kerala, if the water was released from Idukki Dam in small quantities right from the moment the level was inching towards maximum capacity, things wouldnt have been this worse, said Thummarukudy.

Dismissing KSEBs claims, activist C R Neelakandan said it was conflict of interest that led to the crisis which could have been averted.

The purpose of the dams are power generation, irrigation, potable water, flood management and dam safety. The KSEB gave priority to saving maximum water for power generation and ignored the important purpose of flood management. Had the rain lasted for one more day, it wouldve led to a disaster. They couldve started releasing water a week ago. Similarly, had they released more water from Idamalayar and Neriyamangalam, they could have averted flooding in downstream areas, he said.

Kerala Dam Safety Authority chairman V N Ramachandran Nair said the KSEB has managed the crisis well.

READ | Joint action on cards to make flood-hit areas habitable

I had visited the dam one week ago and reviewed the situation. The KSEB maintained a balance between the release of water from Idukki and Idamalayar. This approach helped avert a crisis. We received 40 cm rain within three days. That was the highest in 50 years. Still there was no loss of life and we averted a situation where the operations of CIAL could be affected, he said.

Everything was under control until KSEB intervened, said N K Premachandran MP.

Initially Minister Mathew T Thomas was in control of the situation. But later KSEB intervened and they delayed the decision to release water with an aim to save maximum water. If the rain did not subside on Friday, it wouldve ended in a disaster. There was no professional management, he said.By Online Desk

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today made an aerial survey of the rain-ravaged Ernakulam and Idukki districts of Kerala and said the situation in the state was "very serious".

He assured the state government of all help from the Centre to meet the challenges posed by the unprecedented floods in Kerala, while addressing affected people at a relief camp at Elanthikkara in Paravur Taluk in Ernakulam district.

"Today we conducted an aerial survey of flood affected areas with the Chief Minister and I reached the conclusion that the situation is very serious in Kerala due to floods," he said.

"And I would like to assure the state government that all sorts of support will be provided by the central government to meet the challenges of the flood situation," he said. The Central government stands firmly with the state government in this situation, added the union minister. He also heard the grievances of people who lost their homes and land in the floods.

HM Shri @rajnathsingh conducting the aerial survey of flood affected areas in Kerala. He is accompanied by the Chief Minister of Kerala Shri Pinarayi Vijayan and the MoS Tourism Shri @alphonstourism pic.twitter.com/mqy8FFeAfo

 HMO India (@HMOIndia) August 12, 2018

Rajnath Singh told the media that the state has witnessed the worst ever situation since 1924 and there has been all round damage caused to crops, homes, properties besides tourism activities and the lives of one lakh people have been affected.

The minister said that considering the grave situation, "I have made an immediate release of Rs 100 crore" and a new central team would be sent soon for the assessment of the damages.

Rajnath Singh also met a delegation of the Congress-led opposition besides leaders from his party also.

SEE PHOTOS | Life comes to a standstill in Kerala due to incessant rains

CLICK HERE: Life comes to a standstill in Kerala due to incessant rains

Some relief as water levels in reservoirs subside

The rains started lashing several parts of Kerala this morning hampering the relief operations undertaken by multiple agencies in the flood and landslides hit regions.

However, the water level in the Idukki and Idamalayar reservoirs have further reduced, bringing some relief, with the authorities saying there was no need for any panic for people living downstream, officials said.

There were no fresh casualties reported since yesterday and the toll in the rain-related incidents since the current monsoon fury from August 8 stood at 37, they said.

CM Vijayan announces ex-gratia compensation

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had earlier reviewed the situation and announced Rs 10 lakhs for victims who lost their land and house, Rs 4 lakh ex-gratia to the next of kin of the deceased, Rs 6 lakhs for people who lost land and Rs 3,800 for those in camps to buy ration. He has also made a personal contribution of Rs one lakh to the Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF).

Saving their lives was our priority. Now it is our duty to help them rebuild it. Contribute generously to the Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund. #KeralaFloods #KeralaFloodRelief pic.twitter.com/eNHjyENt8d  CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) August 11, 2018

More rains predicted

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) had on Saturday warned that heavy to very heavy rains were expected in 16 states, including Kerala, till tomorrow.

At present, all the five floodgates of the Idukki dam are open and in a second, 7.50 lakh litres of water are being sent out to the Periyar river which touches parts of Thrissur and Ernakulam districts, causing floods resulting in the evacuation of over 10,000 people.

But officials in Ernakulam and Thrissur on Sunday said the situation was under control and the water level of the river has come down which may allow some people to return to their homes.

"As the first step for the families to return, various volunteers along with health officials will first reach the homes and clean up," a government official at a relief camp in Ernakulam said.

ALSO READ: NDRF officer Kanhaiya Kumar wins praise on social media for daring rescue

The situation in the hilly district of Wayanad, which has seen the massive destruction to crops and properties, on Sunday looked a bit grim with intermittent heavy rains pounding the region.

The day's forecast points to more rains with chances of landslides and mud-slips.

(With inputs from agencies)By Express News Service

KOCHI: Taking into account the gravity of the natural calamities Kerala is witnessing in the wake of incessant rain and the opening of dam shutters, the Union Government will provide Rs 100 crore as immediate relief to the state.

Briefing media persons at CIAL here on Sunday, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said the Centre would consider the state governments request for more funds to tide over the crisis.

Earlier, the Centre had allocated Rs 80.25 crore each in two instalments to the state. A team from the Centre will soon visit Kerala to assess the damage caused by the natural calamities. It will also look into the request of the state to allot more funds. The team will submit its report before the high-power committee which will decide on further financial aid, said Singh.

The state government had requested the Centre to allocate Rs 1,200 crore as immediate relief. As per the state government, Kerala has so far incurred a loss to the tune of Rs 8,000 crore.

After visiting the flood-affected areas, I understood the damage caused to Kerala is drastic, said Singh. The infrastructure, power supply and roads have been severely hit, directly affecting the lives of around 1 lakh people. The tourism sector has also been hit in a big way. The Centre is closely monitoring the situation. The national disaster relief force is already here to help the state. If necessary, more force will be deployed.

Earlier, Singh visited the relief camp at Elanthikkara Government LP School. Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju, who visited here 10 days ago had pointed out the condition of the state. So, we are extending our full support to the state government, he said.

UDF demands K4,000 cr relief from Centre

Kochi: Welcoming the J100 crore immediate relief declared by the Centre, the Opposition UDF has demanded J4,000 crore to compensate the total loss caused by the floods. UDF convener Ramesh Chennithala submitted a memorandum citing their demands to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh. The memorandums demands included, in the backdrop of the huge agricultural losses, the loans concerned in nationalised banks be written off, compensation for the deceased, funds to repair houses and roads.

Chennithalas donation

Chennithala will donate one months salary to the CMs relief fund meant for helping victims.

Pillai seeks Central help

TPuram: BJP state president P S Sreedharan Pillai submitted a memorandum to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, requesting Central help to deal with the flood havoc in the state. In the memorandum, he requested the home minister to provide immediate assistance.

Azad Moopen pledges K50 lakh for relief fund

Kochi: Aster DM Healthcare MD Dr Azad Moopen has pledged to contribute D50 lakh to the CMs Relief Fund. The Aster Disaster Support Team has been mobilised to provide humanitarian aid to the flood victims. Consisting of more than 200 medical and non-medical volunteers from Aster DM Healthcares network of hospitals in India and led by Aster Volunteers Global Programme, the Aster Disaster Support Team has started working with local government relief centres in Wayanad, Ernakulam, Kozhikode and Malappuram districts to conduct medical camps, provide health check-ups and essential materials for sustenance.

Jyothy Laboratories to contribute L1 cr

Kochi: Jyothy Laboratories (Ujala) will contribute D1 crore to the relief and rehabilitation efforts of the state government. The amount which will credited to the CMs disaster relief fund will be handed over to the CM on August 14 in Thiruvananthapuram.

Yusuffali donates K5 cr to CMs relief fund

Kochi: LuLu Group chairman and managing director Yusuffali M A has donated D5 crore towards the Chief Ministers Relief Fund in the wake of the devastating floods and rain that wreaked havoc on the state. This apart, LuLu Group had last week donated D2 crore to the initiatives of two newspapers for helping the flood-affected people, taking the groups total contribution to the relief activities to D7 crore. This is one of the worst times for Kerala. The group will do whatever it can to bring some solace to the lives of millions of our brothers and sisters, said Yusuffali.Dhinesh Kallungal By

Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Exporters from Kerala breathed a sigh of relief as West Asian nations such as the UAE and Kuwait lifted a ban on the import of fruits and vegetables imposed in the wake of the Nipah virus outbreak in May. But a ban imposed by other countries on the import of agri products such as shrimp, prawn, chilli and uncultured fish remain in place.

A senior officer with the Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine and Storage said that Saudi Arabia and Bahrain are yet to lift the ban on fruits and vegetables imported from Kerala, even though there are no restrictions on imports from other parts of the country.

Saudi Arabia had recently imposed a ban on the import of cultured fish from India since 1 February following adverse reports. Besides, a Saudi ban on the import of chilled and frozen shrimp after the emergence of white spot syndrome virus on 14 December 2016 continues.

Though Kuwait had lifted a ban on the import of fruits and vegetables from Kerala, it is yet to lift a ban imposed on frozen shrimp imports from India since 5 January 2017. Thailand had also temporarily suspended the import of shrimps from the country from 22 September after reports of infectious myonecrosis virus disease.

Agricultural Products and Processed Food Exporters Association president Abraham Thomas said exports have increased considerably after the UAE lifted the ban. The import ban on prawns and shrimp has not affected Keralas exporters in a big way.

A senior officer with Cochin International Airport Ltd said the export volume of fruits and vegetables from Kerala, which fell to 30 tonnes from 120 tonnes a day, has picked up considerably after the UAE lifted the ban. The Union Commerce Ministry informed Parliament it will take all steps to get the ban lifted at the earliest. The matter has been taken up with relevant authorities in the respective countries through Indian embassies. Corrective action will be taken to address the causes of the ban.

According to the Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics, agriculture exports constitute around 12.76 pc of the total export revenue. In 2017-18, agri exports earned $38.72 billion against the total export revenue of $303.37 billion.By Express News Service

BHUBANESWAR: The Capital City is all set to host the International Conference on Aluminium (INCAL) from January 31 to February 3, 2019. Organised by Aluminium Association of India (AAI), the mega industry carnival will bring international aluminium fraternity together on one platform, where the current issues pertaining to the sector will be discussed and ideas on growth and development will be exchanged. Secretary of Union Mines Ministry Anil Mukim has launched the official website of INCAL-2019 in the presence of Chairman of AAI Tapan Kumar Chand during the All India Partners Summit here.

The four-day conference is being planned to focus on 'Think Aluminium: Think Odisha' to promote the State as a destination for aluminium industries and Bhubaneswar as aluminium capital of the country. Chand said the event will provide a mega platform to brainstorm ideas on latest technological advances, Aluminium Roadmap 2030, upstream and downstream integration, discover new opportunities, extensive networking and B2B meetings besides challenges and opportunities in the sector. A world class exhibition on the theme 'Aluminium India' will be organised by Germany-based Reed Exhibitions in association with AAI during the global conference.

The aluminium giants of the country - Nalco, Vedanta and Hindalco - have come together to make the global event a grand success. The conference besides having a world class programme with the theme 'Making Aluminium - Driving Growth and Development' will deliberate on several key topics and issues of aluminium industry with a special session on downstream prospects and emerging applications of aluminium. ALCAN of Canada, ALCOA of USA, CHALIECO and CHINALCO of China, EMAL of Emirates, DUBAL of Dubai, Rio Tinto of London, RUSAL of Russia, Norsk Hydro of Norway and equipment suppliers like FL Smidth of Denmark, SMS of Germany, Danielle, ALMEX, Properzi of Italy and Carbone Savoie of France are expected to participatBy PTI

COIMBATORE: Twenty seven resorts constructed on the elephant corridor in Nilgiris district were sealed by the authorities today in compliance with a Supreme Court order directing a crackdown on illegal structures in the area.

The process of sealing 27 resorts began at 10 am amid a tight police security, while action against the remaining 12 would be taken after getting an explanation from the owners and verifying the documents, official sources said.

A committee formed to review the functioning of these resorts was expected to submit its report before the apex court in October, they added.

The process of sealing the resorts was completed by 8 PM, the sources said.

The top court had, on August 9, directed the Tamil Nadu government to seal or close down the 27 resorts constructed on the elephant corridor within 48 hours.

The court gave the direction after perusing the report placed before it by the Nilgiris district collector, which said resorts with restaurants were operating in the area without approval.

The Supreme Court had observed that elephants were a "national heritage" and expressed displeasure as to how constructions had come up on the elephant corridor of Nilgiris.

Meanwhile, traders in and around Masinagudi area decided to down their shutters for three days in protest against the closure of the resorts.

They claimed that the move to seal the resorts would adversely affect their livelihood.By Express News Service

CHENNAI: KS Radhakrishna, DMK spokesperson, who was associated with Karunanidhi for over four and half decades.

I was fighting for interlinking of national rivers. The prayer in SC was to nationalise all the rivers in our country and to formulate a scheme to ensure equitable distribution of water from west-flowing rivers from Kerala to Tamil Nadu. We got a vital order for inter-linking of national rivers on February 27, 2012. Kalaignar knows about the number of trips I undertook to Delhi for this cause. The SC gave its order when Sankarankoil by-election was being held.

I had to be present in the constituency to look after election works. But amidst campaign, Kalaignar called me over the phone and congratulated me.

"You are neither minister nor holding any post. Still out of hard work, you have obtained this verdict. The news has appeared in newspapers as DMK spokesperson and you have brought laurels to the party," Karunanidhi said.

"This is one of the unforgettable moments in my life."

Radikaa Sarathkumar

He always placed his Tamil pride above even his party, and that was something I adored about him. The film industry was like a family to him. I recall a particular instance when he met Sivaji sir. Until that time, I had never seen two men cry so much.

This was the time when Sivaji sir launched his own party and Kalaignar had decreed that none of us should campaign against him.

Unfortunately, Sivaji sir lost and he came to meet Kalaignar to congratulate him when the entire party was celebrating DMKs victory. They hugged and cried for a really long time.

It showed how much he valued friendship. He was also tough. Even after DMK had lost the election post-Rajiv Gandhis death, he remained calm and greeted me with a smile when I visited him

Director SA Chandrasekhar, who worked with Karunanidhi on three films, Neethikku Thandanai, Sattam Oru Vilayaattu, and Ithu Engal Neethi.

I always thought of him as an artist. I first met him in 1983 and since then, Ive always called him anna. I think Im the only director for whom he has written dialogues for three films. He wrote dialogues in green ink and at the end, there would always be a postscript in red ink saying, Ninaithal maththikollalam (change if you wish). Thats how much he respected directors.

When he said the words En uyirinum melana anbu udanpirapugale, he truly meant it. During the late 80s, they arrested him and I thought that was wrong. In fact, that was the inspiration for the title of my film Neethikku Thandanai

Actor Prabhu, son of the late Sivaji Ganesan

The friendship that my father and he shared predates the coining of the name Sivaji. If we mentioned him by name, appa would hit us on our head and ask us to call him periappa. At my fathers wedding, periappa was the best man. We still cherish the picture which has them alongside MGR sir, Kannadasan sir and PA Perumal Mudaliar (producer). Appa would often speak about his days with periappa, and the latter too would talk about their relationship with fondness. He would say that despite a difference of opinion when it came to politics, they shared a lot of affection. Just like we miss Sivaji appa, we all miss our Kalaignar appa too. I believe he and appa are still with us

Arivumani, Tiruchy, (former sub-editor, Murasoli)

I worked as a sub-editor in Murasoli daily for three years from 1975 to 1978. My birthday falls on 29 April. And I was christened by Karunanidhi, as my father was a staunch loyalist of DMK. On the first birthday when I was working at Murasoli, I met Karunanidhi and sought his wishes and I recalled that I was christened by him. Following which, he wished me that I would become a poet as I was born on poet Bharathidasans birthday. And I showed my lyrics book because at that time, I used to write lyrics and poems about various political issues. After seeing that, he fondly called me as Kavingare (poet). After this, fellow employees also gave me a lot of respect. Even though I was one of the junior staff members, he treated me like one of the famous writers and encouraged me very much

P Wilson had been advising the DMK patriarch on legal matters since 1994

I had the opportunity to interact with him when he both in and out of power. Just out of long years of experience, he would be able to take quick decisions concerning legal matters spontaneously, said Wilson. One particular case that proved Karunanidhis faith in the legal system was regarding change in venue for one of Tamil Eelam Supporters Organizations (TESO) meetings.

One day before the meeting was supposed to be held in YMCA grounds, theAIADMK Government denied permission. Kalaignar could have arranged for another place, but told me to take up the issue in court.

Finally, we won the case and the meeting happened as planned, he said, adding, When the Anna Library was being converted into a hospital, he called me around 11 pm and told me to file a case. He called me again at 5am to check if the case file was ready. He was very keen on fighting for the librarys cause.

Suresh Krissna, director of Ilaignan, Kalaignars 75th film

Kalaignar got up at 4 and before beginning his official duty, he would write dialogues for my film and send it in before 9. Similarly, whenever he had a break, he would turn up at the sets, and we would discuss all aspects of filmmaking. At one point, I hesitantly asked him if I could change part of the screenplay. He told me that as the director, I was the captain of the ship, and that if I wasnt satisfied, I should ask my writer (him in this case) to change whatever needed changing. After work on the film got over, he told me that he had expected me to make a film, but instead, I had made a kaaviyam (epic). There can be no bigger praise. He was always lavish with compliments

Pa Vijay, lyricist

The relationship I share with Kalaignar goes back several years. I learned two things from him: Stay the same regardless of success or failure, and always learn new things as an artist. I can recall at least two instances that illustrated the former. When he was elected as the Chief Minister in 2006, I met him right before his swearing-in ceremony. He greeted me with a smile. He also took the time to ask me about my son, amidst all the crowd and celebration. A few years later, I went to his house when DMK had lost an election. He was still the same cheerful person after that defeat. He was playing with his dog and greeted me with the same iconic smile. Only a man with an amazing understanding of life can do this

M Subramanian, DMKs south secretary and former Mayor

Subramanians favourite memory is of the time when the movie Kannamma was shot, around 2004, for which Karunanidhi was screenwriter. As DMKs youth wing deputy general secretary then, I brought 200 of my men for shooting a song. After we completed the filming, the director asked me if I would also don the role of a police officer. After some persuasion, I agreed, and we filmed the scene. The dialogue was 18 lines long, remembers Subramanian. When I went to seek Kalaignars blessings the next day as it was Pongal, he asked me to recite the 18-line long dialogue. I did, but I left out a line. He immediately spotted it. I was stunned because he had written the dialogues three months ago

Kavithai Piththan of Pudukkottai, former MLA

Karunanidhi loved me very much than I loved him because of my poetry skills. Many used to say that he collects donation from cadre for party development. But, he gave me Rs 10,000 for my marriage expenses. And he solemnised my marriage also for free. It is a strict rule that DMK cadre should pay a fee for Karunanidhi to attend a function of their family. And he offered an MLA ticket for me thrice only because of my Tamil skills and he campaigned for me in 1996 despite it not being in his campaign schedule. In 1995, I met with an accident and was hospitalised at Pudukkottai district hospital. At that time, I was keeping a low profile in the party. But, on coming to know I was unwell, he came straight to meet me. I considered him my Gnanaththagappan (father of knowledge)Shobasakthi By

Express News Service

Sri Lankan Tamil writer Shobasakthi writes about late Tamil Nadu chief minister and DMK president M Karunanidhi and his contribution to the Eelam Tamil movement.

I had dedicated my compilation of short stories Kandy Veeran, released three years ago, to Kalaignar (late Tamil Nadu chief minister and DMK president M Karunanidhi). I had mentioned there that I gained knowledge of Tamil through Kalaignar's film dialogues.

At the end of the 1940s, had begun Kalaignar's fiery rise in Tamil cinema and politics. The impact of Kalaignar's words and films, along with that of the DMK, was soon felt across the sea in Sri Lanka. In Sri Lankan Tamil households, photos of Arignar Anna (late DMK founder and Chief Minister C N Annadurai) and M Karunanidhi began to find a place.

It was at this time that notions of Tamil nationalism and calls for a separate Eelam began to arise. Tamil nationalist leaders of Sri Lanka and their passionate cadres modelled their politics on that of the DMK. DMK's demand for a sovereign state and later, for State autonomy, to achieve which they espoused the ideas of linguistic and Dravidian pride while also harking to the glories of the ancient Tamil kingdoms, its use of an elaborate form of Tamil in stage speeches and fiery writings were all absorbed into the politics of Tamil Nationalism in Sri Lanka.

At the same time, the Sri Lankan Tamil nationalists consciously avoided the progressive politics of the DMK - abolition of caste, atheism, social justice, self-respect marriages and so on. The reason being, from then till date, the positions of power in Tamil Nationalist Parties of Sri Lanka have rested with those belonging to the same caste- the Vellalars. They took from the DMK, only the idea of Tamil Nationalism, that was essential to their political fortunes. The swan is said to separate milk from the water; they took the water from the milk, instead.

In the 1970s, in the unelectrified village I come from, that had neither cinema hall nor newspaper, Kalaignar's film dialogues would boom from the loud speakers during temple functions and weddings. The dialogues of Parasakthi, Manogara, Poombuhar reverberated through our village. From the cone speakers tied atop the palm trees, calls for caste abolition, atheism, the chorus of the working class, women's rights were heard in the voices of Sivaji Ganesan, SS Rajendran and the likes. Kalaignar's film dialogues were performed in their entirety in village dramas. Of the many who borrowed their voices from Kalaignar, I, too, was one. In a village that had no progressive movements, my first brush with Tamil literature, social justice and atheism was through Kalaignar's film dialogues. This gratitude led me to dedicate one of my works to Kalaignar. But for this, I have never dedicated my work to a living person.

The first attack on Tamils in Sri Lanka took place in 1956. Against every attack that has followed since, the first voice raised from India, was that of Kalaignar. Till his last breath, Kalaignar wished for autonomy of the Lankan Tamils and a dignified political solution.

Kalaignar did not lend his support merely through announcements and on stages. He and his party men have held numerous protests and rallies in support of Tamil Eelam. Eelam protesters were sheltered in their own homes and in government-run hostels. They saved the Tigers from tight situations, at times, by even bending the law. One of DMK's main leaders, Subbulakshmi Jagadeesan and several others have even spent time in jail for this.

Unlike Vaiko and Seeman, Kalaignar never condoned the fratricide of these groups. Neither did he attempt to justify the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi. But when the Tigers murdered Padmanabha (leader of Eelam People's Revolutionary Liberation Front) and his party men in Chennai, Kalaignar's government was dissolved. Following the Rajiv Gandhi assassination, the DMK was targeted. It was a great setback for the party. In the following election, DMK was routed.

Kalaignar always had cordial relations with important leaders like S. J. V. Chelvanayakam, A Amirthalingam. In a letter that Prabhakaran once wrote to Kalaignar, he had referred to the latter as the guiding star. Prabhakaran's first rendezvous with Kalaignar was at the Marina. He was 23 years old then. Kalaignar held continuous dialogue with all Eelam leaders and did not merely indulge in patronising the Tigers, like MGR who had no knowledge about Eelam.

Kalaignar understood the Eelam issue from its foundation. He condemned and opposed the Tigers whenever necessary. But, the opposition never turned to hatred. When the Tigers' political leader S. P. Tamilselvan was killed, Kalaignar wrote a condolence poem. He buried Eelam propaganda in the dialogues in his movies. He wrote an epic on Pandara Vanniyan, who is akin to Kattabomman, in Sri Lanka.

TESO (Tamil Eelam Supporters Organisation), that Kalaignar founded in 1985, held various protests in the State in support of Eelam Tamils. In May 1986, a massive conference supporting Sri Lankan Tamils was held in Madurai. (Atal Bihari) Vajpayee, NT Rama Rao and other national leaders participated.

Kalaignar consistently condemned the excesses of the Indian peace keeping force (IPKF), that included murders of civilians, rapes and aerial attacks on civilian villages, in 1987. To top it off, Kalaignar refused to welcome the IPKF as per protocol when they returned in Chennai in 1990. At that time, he was even labelled an anti-national. He did not falter under such criticisms. Instead, he clandestinely welcomed Anton Balasingham (LTTE strategist & negotiator) to the city.

By holding talks with Balasingham and Varadaraja Perumal (co-founder of Eelam People's Revolutionary Liberation Front), he attempted to broker a deal between various groups fighting for the Tamil cause. It didn't happen. The Rajiv Gandhi assassination followed. After this, not only the Indian government, but its citizens also started seeing Eelam fighters in a different light.

Many countries were determined to finish off the Tigers. After 9/11, the Tigers were targeted internationally. They were banned in, at least, 30 countries. The things were beyond the reach of Kalaignar, leader of a State party.

Until the final straw was drawn at Mullivaikkal, Kalaignar made every effort to end the war. The Tigers were in touch with certain leaders of the DMK until the very end. Kalaignar's fast at Marina, that lasted a few hours, seeking a ceasefire has been ridiculed. I do not agree with that.

When he was fasting, the Sri Lankan government agreed to cease attacks by heavy artillery and air strikes. A photocopy of the confirmation order stating the above was handed over to Kalaignar through (then Union Minister) Pranab Mukherjee. It was only after that he decided to end his fast.

Kalaignar was not in a position that he needed to gain political mileage by expressing unwavering loyalty to the Tigers. His political strength and the foundation of his party was beyond the frivolous Tamil Nationalism of other leaders. His politics was built on democratic principles.

Kalaignar is considered a forebear of the Dravidian movement, Tamil literature and cinema. Likewise, history will remember him as a leader who was with the Eelam Tamils in their good and bad times and as a man who had a deep impact on the politics, arts and literature of us Eelam Tamils.

Translated from Tamil by Nirupama Viswanathan

About the author: Shobasakthi is the pen name of Anthonythasan Jesuthasan, a Sri Lankan Tamil writer, actor and former child soldier. He is based in Paris.VV Balakrishna By

Express News Service

HYDERABAD: The state government is not in a hurry to ask the Central government to start the second phase of NTPC power plant, as the State is self-sufficient in power. Though the state is fighting for the implementation of the assurances given in the AP Reorganisation Act, 2014, the state government is not insistent on one demand  setting up of 5X800MW (4,000 MW) power plant by the NTPC.

As per the assurance, the Centre started 2X800 MW power plant in the state, which will be commissioned in 2019. The remaining three units 3X800 MW i.e. 2,400 MW may not start soon, as the state has adopted the wait and watch policy.

We have identified the land for the second phase of the NTPC plant, but we did not give our nod to the NTPC to start the unit, official sources in the energy department said. The reason is that the state is comfortable in power generation today. In open access, the power is also readily available for cheaper prices. Meanwhile, the state started constructing 4,000 MW Yadadri power plant, which will be commissioned in 2020-21.

As and when the state government decides to have 3X800 MW power, it will give the go to NTPC. But, there are no such plans as of now, official sources said. The sources added that in the era of power-sufficient state in Telangana, the plant load factor (PLF), indicating the performance of each power plant, became redundant. The state is tapping solar, hydel powers and is even coming out with wind power policy. When solar power is available, then the thermal power plants will be slowed down. Thus, one cannot rate the performance of the power plants by their PLF, official sources said.

As the country is power surplus now, the average PLF has come down to between 65 to 75 per cent, sources explained.

Reversible pump saved money

According to officials, the TS Genco started operating reversible pumping facility at Nagarjuna Sagar hydel generating station for the first time in January this year. Using reversible pumping facility so far, about 12.75 tmc (70 million units) of water has been pumped back to the main reservoir.Amit Agnihotri By

NEW DELHI: The Congress is planning a major NRI outreach ahead of the 2019 national polls to tap into their votes and build up Rahul Gandhis image as a global leader. Sources said the Indian Overseas

Congress under the guidance of technocrat Sam Pitroda was planning to set up chapters across the US, Europe and West Asia, which will help mobilise the local Indian communities in favour of the grand old party.

Already, a move has been started by the party managers to enlist the NRIs after the government allowed them voting rights. The outreach will also help the Congress hardsell Rahul as a global leader and fight the negative perception created by the BJP, a senior AICC functionary told The Sunday Standard.

Party strategists said West Asia has the largest concentration of NRIs. Also, this is the region with the biggest remittances coming back home. As part of the groundwork in the US, a big cutout of Rahul might be included in the Independence Day parade taken out by the Indians in New York.

A review of the contributions made by party representatives in 18 EU countries would also be undertaken to firm up strategies for the region ahead of the polls. Once a significant network of NRIs is created, the Congress hopes to bring hundreds of them to campaign for the party in various states. NRIs played a key role in the Punjab and Karnataka Assembly polls. We will deploy at least 29 busloads of them in the states for the elections, a party insider said. Dedicated teams across states will also be set up to ensure smooth coordination.

Congress chief to go on Europe trip

Rahul is visiting Germany and London during August 21-25 where he will interact with NRIs and professionals, on the lines of similar programmes in the US last year and in Bahrain this January.Abjijit Mulye By

MUMBAI: Whenever the Maratha agitation gains momentum, rumours of the Brahmin Chief Minister being replaced with a Maratha start doing the rounds in Maharashtra. During this weeks agitation, too, such speculations started again. A national conclave of astrologers in Thane earlier this week predicted that Fadnavis would be elevated to the Centre while Amit Shahs blue-eyed boy Chandrakant Patil would become CM if the BJP managed to retain power in the state post 2019 Assembly polls.

However, party insiders say that Devendra Fadnavis, with his non-controversial image and closeness to the RSS and well as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has cemented his position in the state politics. In fact, these were the factors that catapulted him to the CMs chair in 2014. After assuming charge, he has been credited with fast-tracking a large number of infrastructure projects. All this, coupled with his humble nature, have made him indispensable for the BJP in the state, say his loyalists.

He enjoys complete trust of PM Modi. More than that, there is nobody in the state BJP who can reach near him in terms of popularity, impact or clean image. There is no alternative to him, said a senior minister.Some party insiders feel the humble image makes Fadnavis docile due to which ally Shiv Sena could gain strength. This perception had even made a section within the party initiate a process to replace him about two years back, allegedly with Shahs backing. Fadnavis reportedly scuttled the plot using his clout in Delhi.

The faction opposed to Fadnavis accuses him of not letting others grow in the party. They also suspect that several of the corruption charges against his ministers were based on information leaked by his office. But senior BJP leaders dismiss this. Why would a CM want corruption charges against his own ministers? And if that was true, how would one explain the Opposition charges that he is a clean chit CM (who instantly gives a clean chit to his ministers during controversies)? asked a senior BJP leader.

The BJPs electoral victories in the state in the past four years have further strengthened the hands of Fadnavis. Even if party leaders want to replace him, they will have to identify a face that can match him, said the minister adding, that the TINA (there is no alternative) factor would help Fadnavis remain firmly in his seat.S Kumaresan By

CHENNAI: With the death of DMK chief M Karunanidhi, the major question among a section of cadre and the public is who will lead the party. Karunanidhi, who was president of the party since July 27, 1969, slowly inducted his younger son MK Stalin by offering state organiser post for the youth wing of the party in the early 80s.

Stalin was then accepted by only a small section of cadre even though he was arrested and remanded under MISA during the Emergency. He gradually emerged as a frontline leader of the party by virtue of his hard work. In this situation, Karunanidhis elder son MK Alagiri was made the organisational secretary of south zone of the State in January 2009. Later, he was made a union minister.

Likewise, Karunanidhis daughter MK Kanimozhi was initially made the secretary of art and literary wing of the party. Later, she was elevated as womens wing secretary in 2015. In this background, Alagiri, a former union minister, was expelled from the party as he frequently made comments against his younger brother MK Stalin, who was widely considered as the political heir of Karunanidhi.

Meanwhile, Alagiri made efforts to rejoin the party with the help of his father Karunanidhi, towards which other family members made some efforts.

However, it was prevented due to the stiff opposition of Stalin. Subsequently, Alagiris efforts proved futile. Following this, at Madurai recently, Alagiri is said to have indirectly attacked Stalin.

Though Stalin was accepted by most of the district secretaries and MLAs of the party, the cadre allegedly had difference of opinion about Stalins capacity.

The big question is what Alagiri will do to regain his influence in the party? Likewise, Alagiri is also keenly looking to induct his supporters in parties key posts in various districts.

DMKs future depends on Stalins decision about how he is going to settle the issues with his brother and co-sister. It would be a Herculean task for Stalin. No one can get any post in DMK without the partys general body approval. However, most of the general body members are now Stalin supporters. Hence, now the ball is in Stalins court.

DMK to condole Karunas death

Chennai: The DMK executive committee will meet on August 14 to condole the death of party president M Karunanidhi. All members of the committee have been asked to participate in the meeting without fail. A similar meeting was held when party founder and former chief minister C N Annadurai passed away in 1969, a party leader said.Richa Sharma By

NEW DELHI: Many cities in India faced an acute water shortage this summer, with authorities in Shimla going to the extent of requesting tourists to stay away due to the crisis. According to the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) analysis, the situation will worsen in the future as groundwater levels across India have fallen by 0 to 2 metres in a decade.In order to assess the fall in water level on a long-term basis, pre-monsoon water level data collected by CGWB during pre-monsoon 2018 was compared with the decadal average from 2008-2017.

About 52 per cent of the wells monitored have registered decline in groundwater levels, mostly in the range of 0-2 metres. The states in which the problem is more acute are Chhattisgarh, Delhi, Dadar & Nagar Haveli, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu, CGWB data revealed.The report attributed this to withdrawal of groundwater in excess of the annual recharge from various sources and destruction of natural waterbodies like lakes and ponds which in turn results in a decline in natural recharge of groundwater.

A recent NITI Aayog report had also warned that the country could face its worst water crisis ever as 21 cities will run out of groundwater by 2020. The Aayogs Composite Water Management Index revealed that with nearly 600 million Indians facing high-to-extreme water stress and about 200,000 people dying every year due to inadequate access to safe water, the situation is likely to worsen as the demand for water will exceed supply by 2050.

Water being a state subject, Ministry of Water Resources has circulated a Model Bill to all States/UTs to enable them to enact suitable groundwater legislation for its regulation and development that includes provision for rain water harvesting.So far, only 15 States/UTs have adopted and implemented the groundwater legislation on the lines of the Model Bill, said Nitin Gadkari.

The countrys groundwater levels are being monitored four times in a year by CGWB through a network of 22,339 monitoring wells during the months of January and the pre-monsoon months of March, April and May.Groundwater monitoring began in 1969 and at present the CGWB has a network of 22,339 observation wells, out of which 16,190 observation wells are dug wells and 6,149 are piezometers. Data has been collected from all states except for Mizoram, Sikkim and UT of Lakshadweep where water level monitoring is not done.

Monitoring the dip

The countrys groundwater levels are being monitored four times in a year by CGWB through a network of 22,339 monitoring wells during the months of January and the pre-monsoon months of March, April and May. The monitoring began in 1969 and at present the CGWB has a network

of 22,339 observation wells, out of which 16,190 are dug wells and 6,149 are piezometersDonita Jose By

HYDERABAD: The term public space loses meaning if a large chunk of population feels unsafe venturing there. According to a recent study, one in three girls in India, aged 11 to 18, felt unsafe while venturing into public spaces. The study, WINGS 2018A Study on the Perception of Girls Safety in Public Spaces, was conducted by the NGO Save the Children.

About 5,400 girls living in six states, including Telangana, were surveyed. Shockingly, one in two girls surveyed in Telangana said they found travelling by public transport unsafe. So was the case across the other five states. Public transport was perceived as the most unsafe space by adolescent girls.

This was followed by other places like narrow bylanes in the neighbourhood, local markets, roads leading to tuition centres or schools and even places of open defecation. We already know that the situation is bad for women, but with this study, we wanted to understand what young girls felt about safety, said Vikas Gora, regional head of Save the Children.

Its a kind of feedback from the girls about the existing safety mechanisms we have put in place. For instance, many children do not know about the 1098 helpline. If they do, they dont really know how its to be used, said Gora. The report also tried to draw a link between parental fears of girls getting harassed or molested and early marriages and school dropouts.

Interestingly, the study also tried to understand what young boys think of womens safety in public places. A whopping 44 per cent of the boys and parents of young girls surveyed felt that if a girl was harassed, she was probably asking for it. They did not think public spaces were unsafe for women.

The most problematic part of the report is that 49 per cent adolescent boys think the government is only worried about womens rights. This prejudiced mentality is what we need to work on. In my capacity, I will push for serious gender sensitisation concepts to be embedded in our curriculum, said Tripurana Venkata Ratnam, advisor to National Commission of Women.

All these data on crimes against women are just the tip of an iceberg, warned Inspector General of Police (Womens Safety) Swati Lakra. We need a multi-pronged action, starting from educating our children about safe and unsafe touch and what to do in such situations, she said.Ritwika Mitra By

Seema is about 15-16 years old, says her mother Resamvati. She does not go to school anymore. For about two years, she occasionally assisted her mother in cleaning dry latrines of upper caste families in their village, Mahmadpur in UPs Hathras district. Now, that is her job.

In Nanau village in Akrabad block, years of picking human waste has left 60-year-old Bisanbati with a failing health. I have to clean the latrines even when I am ill. Otherwise, members from Thakurs families come to call us, she says.

Bisanbati cleaning a dry latrine of an upper caste family in Nanau village | Express

On the days it rains, the task of these women becomes messier and dirtier. I cant even drink a glass of water after cleaning the faeces. I have to take bath first, says Rani at Nadrai village.

When it comes to cleaning dry latrines, manual scavenging is not only a caste-based but also a gender-based occupation with mostly women being engaged to do this work.

In a survey being conducted by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, around 53,000 people have come forward and identified themselves as manual scavengers, according to the National Safai Karamchari Finance Development Corporation (NSKFDC) -- the nodal agency conducting the survey. However, the government has taken cognisance of over 15,000 people so far.

Historically, the untouchables have been forced to do the dirty work in villages in India. The Valmiki community, which is at the bottom of the caste hierarchy, is engaged in manual scavenging of various forms. When urbanisation started and people started making toilets at their houses, cleaning excreta fell on the Valmiki community, which was considered the most untouchable even among the other lower castes, says Ashif Shaikh, covener, Rashtriya Garima Abhiyan and member of national monitoring committee of the Ministry.

According to the 2011 Census, there are 2.6 million insanitary latrines in the country,which requiree physically removing human excreta. Under the Swachh Bharat scheme, toilet blocks have come up, but many states continue to have dry latrines, which is why manual scavenging has still not been eradicated despite being banned in law.

In the ongoing survey, being carried out in 170 districts across 18 states, the biggest lacunae is that the data does not include those employed by the Ministry of Railways, says B Wilson of Safai Karmachari Andolan (SKA).

At Seemas house, Manju, a community worker with SKA, tries to negotiate with her parents to send her back to school. The government will provide them with one-time compensation  cash incentive of Rs 40,000  once their names are approved in the survey, Manju tells the family. It all looks good on paper. Do we have any other means of income in this village? At the end of the day, we need ration for the house, retorts Seemas father Jai Prakash.

Rajvati, 30, recounts how she found it difficult for years to reconcile with the fact that she was cleaning human faeces. She quit the work three months back. For most, however, it is not easy.

This practice could have been removed more easily had it not been for the economics behind it, Shaikh explains. The compensations for the work come in the form of rotis, used clothes, some incentives during festivals or marriages, utensils, yearly ration etc.. The dependency of the lower caste people on the upper castes is such that they are not in a position to negotiate. It would mean they would starve, he says.

Pinky, 25, who left her husband after repeated torture, dreams of owning a sewing machine and seeking a different future for her daughter. For now, aur koi jugaad nahi hain (There is no alternative), she sighs.

In the absence of other livelihood options, many see this job as a necessary evil. I have cleaned toilets for 40 years. Ive not known a life beyond it, says Bimla Devi, 50. The building of toilets has meant receiving less wheat. Shes worried how shell sustain once toilet blocks replace dry latrines. The one-time cash payment will not be enough, she adds.

Munni Devi in Kasaganj gets a paltry `100 from five households. Otherwise they will push the excreta with water towards the drain from which I have to clean it anyway for free.

Holding promises for the future, K Narayan, managing director of the National Safai Karamchari Finance and Development Corporationthe nodal agency for the surveysays: There is a self-employment loan scheme for manual scavengers and skill development programme where they will be imparted training. It will take a while before their rehabilitation falls in place. It will take up to one or two years.

Men are employed to clean septic and sewer tanks. Private contractors do not provide them with glove or headgear. Workers are not given any training or safety gear before they go inside the septic tanks. The people cleaning the tanks are not educated and do not question the authorities, says Prashant Prasad, district coordinator, SKA, Aligarh.

Deepak, 26, went to clean a septic tank one evening five years ago and never returned. We had no idea cleaning a septic tank is so dangerous, says his wife Komal, 24. In many cases, families of those who lose their lives cleaning fail to get compensation from the government.

Why do they go inside to clean the tanks knowing the dangers? We have to bring up our kids, says Sunil of Kasaganj district.

Its a sham survey

I doubt the intention of the survey. It is just a show-off...In several instances, women are being threatened by district officials and police on why they still clean dry latrines. So we are missing out on counting a big chunk of people... The government has to put in place necessary mechanism to stop this practice. How can people come out of this profession when theres no rehabilitation package? This is an unscientific approach... B Wilson, founder, Safai Karmachari Andolan

What is an insanitary latrine?

A latrine which requires human excreta to be cleaned or otherwise handled manually, either in situ, or in an open drain or pit into which the excreta is discharged or flushed out, before the excreta fully decomposes. According to the 2011 Census, dry latrines exist in all states/UTs except in Goa, Sikkim, Chandigarh and Lakshadweep. This points to the existence of manual scavenging.By AFP

BAMAKO: Mali's security services said Saturday they had disrupted a plot to carry out "targeted attacks" in the capital Bamako on the eve of a runoff in a presidential election marred by security breaches.

Sunday's second round is likely to return Ibrahim Boubacar Keita to the helm of Mali despite fierce criticism of his handling of the country's fight against jihadist violence and ethnic attacks.

The first round, held last month, was peppered by violence and threats from armed groups that led to several hundred polling stations being closed, mainly in the lawless central region.

Security will be tightened for the second round, an aide in the prime minister's office said on Saturday, with 20 percent more soldiers on duty.

This means 36,000 Malian military will be deployed, 6,000 more than two weeks earlier, with a particular focus on the Mopti region in the centre of the country where voting stations had been closed, Cheick Oumar told AFP.

Security forces in Bamako said Saturday they had arrested three members of a "commando" cell who were planning attacks in the capital this weekend.

The three men, suspected of involvement in a robbery which left three people dead in 2016, are accused of "plotting targeted attacks" over the weekend, the security services said in a statement.

"They were in the planning stage," it said. "We are not currently going to provide too many details in terms of arms and munitions seized, but obviously during the election period it's better to have them arrested than still at large."

'Torn nation'

Sunday's vote is a rerun of a 2013 faceoff that Keita won by a landslide over former finance minister Soumaila Cisse.

Keita, 73, was credited with 41.7 percent of the July 29 first-round vote while Cisse, 68, picked up 17.78 percent.

Cisse insisted on Friday he could turn things around on polling day -- warning the status quo would only bring "chaos" in a "torn nation."

But he failed to unite the opposition behind him, and first-round challengers have either backed the president or refused to give voting instructions.

Few Malians attended a string of planned marches and protests called for by opposition leaders in the capital Bamako ahead of the run-off.

As a result, Keita, commonly named "IBK" after his initials, is clear favourite.

The three main opposition candidates mounted a last-ditch legal challenge, alleging ballot-box stuffing and other irregularities. But their petition was rejected by the Constitutional Court.

Outside Mali, the hope is that the winner will strengthen a 2015 accord that the fragile Sahel state sees as its foundation for peace.

The deal brought together the government, government-allied groups and former Tuareg rebels.

But a state of emergency heads into its fourth year in November.

Jihadist violence has spread from the north to the centre and south of the vast country and spilled into neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger, often inflaming communal conflicts.

Voting will be open from 0800 to 1800 GMT. Turnout was low in the first round of voting at around 40 percent.By AFP

GHAZNI: The fight for the eastern Afghan city of Ghazni entered its third day as Taliban militants and security forces engaged in heavy clashes Sunday, despite Kabul's claim that the city was firmly under government control.

An AFP reporter on the ground said Taliban fighters continued to roam the city, torching government offices, and were in control of several police checkpoints, as reinforcements deployed from Kabul slowly entered the area to confront the insurgents.

Residents hid in their homes or attempted to flee the fighting, with basic provisions increasingly scarce and expensive, according to residents and officials.

"The situation is chaotic," Amanullah Kamrani, deputy head of the Ghazni provincial council, told AFP from Kabul.

"In Ghazni, only the police headquarters, governor's office and a few departments are under Afghan forces' control -- the rest are under the Taliban fighters' control," he added.

Ghazni resident Rahmatullah Andar described similar scenes in an interview with broadcaster Tolonews, saying fighting continued to rage in large swathes of the city and outlying districts.

"There are not sufficient forces to repel the Taliban fighters. We have not witnessed such a large scale attack by the Taliban before," said Andar.

Mobile services in the city remained down after militants damaged a telecommunication tower and targeted several media offices in Ghazni, making information difficult to verify.

The descriptions stood in stark contrast to statements from Afghan and US officials, who said government forces were firmly in control of the city and vowed that Ghazni was in no danger of being seized by the Taliban.

The Afghan military said a clearance operation targeting Taliban fighters was ongoing, insisting they remained in control of key government offices.

"The Taliban are hiding in people's houses and shops... to avoid civilian casualties our forces are moving in slowly," said General Sharif Yaftali, Afghanistan's top military official, during a press conference Sunday.

Ghazni -- around two hours by road from the capital Kabul -- has been under increasing danger from massing Taliban fighters for months, with reports suggesting insurgents had infiltrated the city at will.

The onslaught was the latest attempt by the Taliban to overrun an urban centre and comes as pressure increases on the insurgents to begin peace talks with the government to end the nearly 17-year-old war.

The attack was the largest tactical operation launched by the Taliban since an unprecedented truce in June brought fighting between security forces and the Taliban to a temporary pause, providing war-weary Afghans some welcome relief.By AFP

RABAT: Moroccan authorities have forcefully relocated hundreds of migrants in recent days from camps and homes in the kingdom's north, a local official and a rights group said Saturday.

"This is an operation that is part of the fight against illegal immigration," said an official speaking on behalf of local authorities in Tangier.

The official estimated that between 1,600 and 1,800 people had been "moved to cities where living conditions are better".

But a representative of a Moroccan human rights organisation told AFP authorities detained and forcefully relocated the migrants, calling the move "illegal".

"The authorities continued Saturday to drive migrants by bus from Nador and Tangier to the town of Tiznit, near Agadir" in the country's south, Omar Naji of the Moroccan Human Rights Association said.

"The operations began on Tuesday and the authorities arrested hundreds of migrants in camps near Nador or in homes in the city," he said.

He was unable to specify how many migrants had been expelled from Tangier.

"There arrests are illegal because they are without judicial warrants" and Morocco, Spain and the European Union are "responsible", said Naji.

The US State Department in a recent report said that while Rabat "drastically decreased forced deportations over the last couple of years, it continued to regularly conduct forced internal relocations of irregular migrants, particularly in Nador".

Spain surpassed Italy this year as the first point of entry for Europe-bound migrants.

Since January, Spain has taken in more than 23,000 migrants -- more than the total number of migrants last year -- after they crossed the Mediterranean, according to the International Organization for Migration.

The European Commission and Spain want to develop an "enhanced partnership" with Morocco on migration issues, including aid for border management.

Most of the migrants transiting through Morocco are of sub-Saharan origin.By AFP

BUCHAREST: Tens of thousands gathered Saturday in the Romanian capital Bucharest for a second straight day after more than 450 people were hurt and around 30 arrested in a huge anti-corruption protest.

Police came in for criticism after they used water cannon and tear gas on Friday to disperse protesters calling on the leftwing government to resign.

Many demonstrators needed treatment after inhaling pepper spray and tear gas, while others suffered blows, hospital sources said.

Around 30 police were also injured, 11 of whom were taken to hospital.

Massive crowds gathered in downtown Bucharest on Saturday night, watched by security forces as they chanted: "Down with the government" and "Justice, not corruption".

"I came after seeing what happened on Friday on television -- the brutality of the police against peaceful people," said Floarea Toader, 64, the national yellow, blue and red flag draped across her shoulders.

"My children work in Spain and they would like to come back. But for now that's not possible as the politicians are only interested in themselves and do nothing for anyone else."

Around four million people have left the country -- one of the European Union's poorest -- in the last 15 years, seeking a better life than that offered by Romania's average monthly wage of just 520 euros ($590).

Police rejected criticism from the centre-right opposition that its officers had used excessive force on Friday, saying its response to violence by dozens of protesters had been "gradual and proportionate".

Criticism of violence

Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, whose country currently holds the EU rotating presidency, criticised the violence, in which a cameraman for Austria's public broadcaster was also hurt.

"We strongly condemn the violent clashes in Bucharest where numerous demonstrators and journalists were injured. We expect full explanations," he said on Twitter.

Local media said up to 80,000 people had taken to the streets, among them many Romanian expatriates who returned home to show their anger at the graft in one of the EU's most corruption-plagued member states.

About 1,000 officers in riot gear intervened to clear the crowds assembled in a central square outside the main government building after some protesters tried to break through the police cordon.

Eugene, a 62-year-old construction worker, travelled specially to Bucharest on Friday to protest at what he said was "endemic corruption".

"But things quickly turned bad: they fired tear gas at us, it was unbearable."

Medical staff evacuate an injured person during protests outside the government headquarters in Bucharest, Romania. (Photo | AP)

Another demonstrator, Madalina, 22, said of Friday's clashes: "We couldn't breathe and we had to seek shelter in the surrounding streets."

Romania's centre-right President Klaus Iohannis, a critic of the government, said he "strongly condemned the brutal intervention of the police, which was disproportionate to the attitude of most demonstrators" but added that "any form of violence is unacceptable".

Prime Minister Viorica Dancila, in turn, accused Iohannis of "inciting the population against the authorities".

Waves of protests

In a controversial move last month, Romania sacked top anti-graft prosecutor Laura Codruta Kovesi -- considered a symbol of the country's fight against corruption.

With Kovesi at the helm, the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (DNA) had led a crackdown on corruption among local and national elected officials, earning the enmity of many in Romania's political class and prompting critics to accuse it of abuse of power.

Before Kovesi's sacking, thousands of protesters took to the streets in support of her. There have also been long-running waves of protests against judicial reforms -- at their peak drawing an estimated half a million people nationwide in February 2017.By PTI

NEW YORK: US Attorney General Jeff Sessions has erroneously referred to Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla, who was shot dead in a hate crime at a suburban Kansas City bar last year, as a Sikh.

A US Navy veteran was last week awarded three consecutive life sentences on federal hate crime charges for killing Kuchibhotla and wounding two others at a suburban Kansas City bar last year.

Adam Purinton of Olathe shot and killed 32-year-old Kuchibhotla, and wounded two others Indian national Alok Madasani and Kansas resident Ian Grillot at Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas, in February 2017.

Sessions, America's top law enforcement official said this while addressing the Alliance Defending Freedom's Summit on Religious Liberty on August 8, a day after Purinton was awarded three consecutive life sentences.

"Yesterday, we obtained a life sentence for a man who murdered an Indian-American man, a Sikh as it turned out, because he thought he was a Muslim," Sessions said in his remarks at the summit.

"This is the kind of horrible things we do not need to allow in this country," Sessions added in his speech, the video of which is available online.

While Sessions did not name Kuchibhotla, the reference was to the August 7 sentencing of Purinton when he was handed down three consecutive life terms for killing the Hyderabad native.

The mistake of wrongly identifying Kuchibhotla as a Sikh was pointed out by PTI here to the Department of Justice's Office of Public Affairs.

Later, an official from the public affairs office, responding to PTI's email seeking comment on the error, said that an updated speech has been uploaded on the Department of Justice's website.

In the updated version of Sessions' remarks, the error has been rectified.

The updated version of Sessions' remarks removed the Sikh reference and now states that "yesterday, we obtained a life sentence for a man who murdered an Indian-American man because he thought he was Muslim.

It mentions at the end of the remarks that "The original version of this speech mistakenly identified the victim of a hate crime as Sikh."

Kuchibhotla hailed from Hyderabad and had worked at Garmin as a senior aviation systems engineer in Kansas.

He and Madasani were sitting in the Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe when Purinton approached them and demanded to know where they were from and how they entered the country.

Purinton poked Kuchibhotla in the chest, called him a "terrorist" and an epithet disparaging persons of Middle Eastern descent, and shouted, "Get out of my country!" Aiming at Kuchibhotla and Madasani, Purinton had fired eight rounds from his semi-automatic pistol, at least four of which struck Kuchibhotla, who died from his injuries, and one of which struck Madasani, who was injured.

Hours after the shooting, Purinton stated over the phone to a friend, and later in person to a bartender, that he had just killed some "Iranians.

In his remarks, Sessions also said the Department is aggressively enforcing the country's civil rights laws, hate crimes laws, and laws protecting churches and faith groups.

Since January 2017, the Department obtained 11 indictments and eight convictions in cases involving arson or other attacks or threats against houses of worship.

The Civil Rights Division has also obtained 13 indictments in other attacks or threats against people because of their religion.

"And we are not slowing down. Three weeks ago, we obtained a jury verdict against a man who set fire to a mosque in Texas and a man from Missouri for threatening to kill members of a mosque," he said.Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Cloudy with rain developing this afternoon. High 57F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Steady light rain this evening. Showers continuing overnight. Low 51F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 70%.Columnist

Tom Kacich is a columnist and the author of Tom's Mailbag at The News-Gazette. His column appears Sundays. His email is tkacich@news-gazette.com, and you can follow him on Twitter (@tkacich).And so Zanu-PFs triumph in the just-ended harmonised elections is a clear message to this generation and generations upon generations to come that no matter what happens, you must never forget the price that was paid. Not only the heroes of the Second Chimurenga, but going back to the First Chimurenga, which was fought again by the entire people of Zimbabwe, from the west to the east.Pilot at LAX: 'We Believe There

Is a Shooter in the Terminal'(Newser)  A Florida GOP candidate appears to be in trouble after producing a university diploma that doesn't look quite right, the Herald-Tribune reports. Melissa Howard, running in the state House District 73 primary, showed reporters a bachelor's diploma from Miami University in Ohio after Florida News Online claimed she "appears not to have the academic credentials she's claiming." The site pulled down the story and apologized, but reposted when the university said it had no record of her receiving a "bachelor of science in marketing" degreein fact, there's no such program. "Miami University's degree for Marketing majors then, as it is now, was a Bachelor of Science in Business," writes Robin Parker, the university's general counsel.

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Parker says Howard did pursue a "science in family and consumer services" degree at the school from 1990 to 1994 and never graduated, per the Washington Post. Howard, 46, wasn't available for comment; her campaign consultant Anthony Pedicini says her husband had a "cardiac event" Friday and they were at a Florida hospital. "Melissa is focused on her familynot fake news this morning," says Pedicini. Howard's primary rival, Sarasota attorney Tommy Gregory, quickly responded to the news: "Voters deserve nothing less than the truth," he says, and "unfortunately, it seems that Melissa Howard has failed that test." Gregory had already questioned Howard's claim of receiving an A-rating from the NRA; the gun group's Florida lobbyist says she actually has a "B." (Read more GOP candidates stories.)(Newser)  The saga of Omarosa's departure from the White House and subsequent transformation into a Donald Trump critic continued Sunday as the former Apprentice contestant released what she claims is a secret recording of her being fired by chief of staff John Kelly. Per USA Today, Omarosa claimed on "Meet the Press" that the firing was presented as a threat. "The chief of staff," Omarosa told Chuck Todd, "under the direction of the president of the United States threatening me on damage to my reputation and things getting ugly for me. That is downright criminal." Omarosa, who rose to fame as the Trump apprentice you loved to hate, was given the post of Director of Communications for the Office of Public Liaison when the current administration first took office. She was famously booted from the White House back in December.

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In the audio obtained by NBC News, a voice Omarosa says is Kelly's can be heard referencing her reputation. "If we make this a friendly departure we can all ... look at your time here in the White House as a year of service to the nation without any difficulty in the future relative to your reputation, the voice says. Omarosa on Sunday also reaffirmed her assertion that President Trump is a racist "con" who doesn't care about minorities. She's currently making appearances ahead of her White House tell-all, which officially hits shelves Tuesday. Also ahead of the release, Trump and company have hit out at the book they claim is nothing but a lot of hooey, with the president himself referring to Omarosa as a low-life. (Read more Omarosa stories.)(Newser)  A Chinese tourist was fatally bitten by a hippo while taking photos of it on a lake in Kenya over the weekend. Per BBC, the 66-year-old, identified as, Chang Ming Chuang, was trying to get a glimpse of the giant mammal at a wildlife resort outside Nairobi when it attacked. The victim suffered serious wounds, while his companion reportedly suffered minor wounds. Chuang was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to the injuries. Chuang's death is one of two hippo-related fatalities that occurred on Lake Naivasha within hours of one another. In the other case, a local fisherman suffered a bite to the chest and died just minutes after rescuers pulled him from the water, per the AP.

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At least in the case of the Chinese tourist, area authorities point toward particularly high water levels that have pushed hippos closer to resorts in search of land to graze. In a statement posted Twitter on Sunday, the Kenya Wildlife Service said the hippo believed to have killed Chuang is being tracked. The two deaths, and the four other deadly hippo attacks on Naivasha so far this year, underscore just how deadly the animals can be. Wildlife service spokesman Paul Udoto told the AP that hippos and lone buffalos pose the greatest danger to humans in the region. The hippo in particular is considered to be the world's deadliest large land mammal. (Read more hippopotamus stories.)Chennai:

An actors body, the South Indian Artistes Association on Saturday said it would hold a memorial meet on August 13 to pay tributes to departed DMK chief M Karunanidhi.

SIAA, hailing Karunanidhi as a doyen of Tamil film industry, said the meet will be held by 5 pm at Kamarajar Arangam in Chennai.

In a statement, SIAA President M Nasser exhorted all the members and office-bearers to take part in the event.

Also Read | Karunanidhi Funeral | An era ends as Kalaignar is laid to rest at Marina Beach in Chennai

Karunanidhi was a distinguished screen writer who began his career in Tamil film industry with the movie Rajakumari (1947).

The DMK patriarch had breathed his last at a hospital in Chennai on August 7 after fighting for life for 11 days.Mumbai:

Diana Penty may not be the leading lady in "Happy Phir Bhag Jayegi", a series that was started with her in 2016, but she is happy to take it ahead with its sequel.

Diana says she is proud of the fact that "Happy Bhag Jayegi" is the first female-led comedy franchise in Bollywood.

"It is an interesting fact. I am happy. It makes me feel proud that the first film did well and it made the makers think of part two. It is a matter of great pride to take it forward. As an actor it makes me fulfilled," Diana told PTI.

The sequel "Happy Phir Bhag Jayegi", for which the makers have roped in Sonakshi Sinha, is based on the case of mistaken identity and this time the story moves to China.

ALSO READ: REALLY! Shah Rukh Khan and Kasautii Zindagii Kay 2 connection

"This film has two Happy. The first part was the story of Happy, the character that I played. The sequel is Sonakshi's film and we all help her take the film forward. Sonakshi plays the perfect Happy. I feel good about the film."

Diana, 32, says the sequel just like the first part is a complete entertainer.

"The second installment is keeping in line with the first part, that is, happy, fun and out-an-out sweet, endearing comedy film."

The most special part in this series, according to Diana, is that the comedy is all there in the writing.

"It is fun, pure and innocent and not something that was derogatory or poking fun at someone. The titular role is of Happy but it was the rest of the cast like Jimmy Shergill, Abhay Deol, Ali Fazal, Piyush Mishra sir, that made this film so lovable."

ALSO READ: Bollywood Celebs send warm birthday wishes to Jacqueline Fernandez

For the "Parmanu" actor, it was relatively easy to reprise the role of Happy as she thinks it was "deeply embedded" in her.

"When I came on the sets, I became Happy again, got into the character fast, maybe because it was deeply embedded in me. I did one drama film 'Lucknow Central' then I did 'Parmanu' that had a bit of action in it. Coming back to this film was, organic for me."

For Diana, who made her debut with Saif Ali Khan-Deepika Padukone starrer "Cocktail", the Aanand L Rai backed movie was an opportunity to showcase her versatility.

"People were surprised to see me in this role. After 'Cocktail' everybody had put me into that compartment of shy, girl-next-door person and it is somewhere still ingrained in the minds of people.

Also Read | Shah Rukh Khans daughter Suhana Khan to debut with Sanjay Leela Bhansali?

"People still remember me for my first film more than the other films. And which is why I felt doing 'Happy Bhag Jayegi' will help me break the mould and it did, as the audience was not expecting this from me."

Directed by Mudassar Aziz, the film is set to release on August 24.

For all the Latest Entertainment News, Bollywood News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.Melbourne:

Director Rajkumar Hirani has defended his latest film "Sanju", saying he made the biopic only after being convinced of controversial Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt's innocence.

Delivering at a masterclass on 'The making of 'Sanju'', being held as a part of the ongoing Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), Hirani said he made the film only after an extensive research.

"All his life, he (Dutt) has been accused that he had stored RDX in his house...I have been through every Supreme court judgement, every judge and he has not been accused of that at all.''

"So where in this universe has this thing come up that he kept this thing. I made this film because I believed in it and after tremendous research, we stepped into this movie. If there was a speck of a doubt that he was involved in that, we won't have made this film," Hirani told the audience in Melbourne.

In November 2006, Dutt, 59, was acquitted under the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA) but convicted under Arms Act for illegal possession of weapons.

ALSO READ: REALLY! Shah Rukh Khan and Kasautii Zindagii Kay 2 connection

Hirani is a guest at the festival along with Vicky Kaushal and Abhijat Joshi, who co-wrote 'Sanju' with the director.

Hirani said he was very surprised after his film was criticised by a section of people and media who described the movie as a "whitewash".

"There are always two reactions. One from the filmmakers and within the industry and there is another reaction from the real people who are viewers,'' Hirani said.

The 55-year-old filmmaker also said despite the negative reception from the industry people, the film has been appreciated by the viewers.

"I can just gauge from what people are saying about their kids who are into drugs and also father-son relations," Hirani said, adding that he has been getting positive and good reactions.

ALSO READ: Bollywood Celebs send warm birthday wishes to Jacqueline Fernandez

Talking about the reaction from the media about the film, Hirani said the word "whitewashing" has been thrown a lot.

"At some stage, I wanted to address that what have I done. I was very surprised by the reaction I have received. I want to ask where have I whitewashed Sanju," Hirani said.

"I am not defending Sanju. I am defending our film and I want to ask what was Sanju's crime... We have shown that he kept a gun. We have shown he destroyed a gun. We have shown that he was given five years for the jail and we have shown that he realises it was a mistake that he made. We have shown he took drugs to this extreme."

"If we wanted to whitewash we would have shown him in good taste. So where have I whitewashed," he added.

Joshi supported Hirani and said he was humbled by the "intelligence of the audiences".

"There is another kind of whitewash going which nobody is talking about and which is that question mark journalism," Joshi said.

"We have the highest regards for our journalists but the problem is that a section of media is doing this kind of sensationalising," he added.

For all the Latest Entertainment News, Bollywood News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

While the nation reels in horror at the rape and sexual abuse of 34 girls in Muzaffarpur shelter home, Bihar, another chilling incident from Patna's Aasra Shelter Home has been unravelled on Saturday. A renewed surge of horror rattled the country after two inmates of Aasra Shelter home died last evening in Patna.

As per the latest report, a team of Forensic Science Laboratory has reached the shelter home for to investigate the matter.

Speaking to the reporters, Patna District Magistrate and Senior Superintendent of police Kumar Ravi said, "Prima facie they seemed to have fever and diarrhoea. Further details will be revealed after a medical report comes. Matter is being investigated. We'll also look at their medical history and post-mortem reports".

"One of the bodies has not been disposed yet, we have requested for another post-mortem. People in the organisation are being questioned, action will be taken against those at fault," Ravi added.

Read | Another Muzaffarpur! Hostel girls 'Forced to watch porn, raped for six months' in Bhopal

Ravi was at the Rajeev Nagar police station to question the five people who were detained in connection with the death of the women. A medical board was also constituted on Sunday to investigate the death of the inmates at the state-run 'Aasra Home'.

On Friday two women were taken to Patna Medical College and Hospital but were declared dead on arrival. Quite surprisingly, an insider from the home called the police on Sunday, two days after the mysterious deaths of the inmates.

In a blame game, the shelter home claimed that both the inmates died during treatment at the medical college while the authorities has rubbished such allegation, saying they were brought dead to the hospital.

Read | Minor victims of sexual abuse should not be interviewed: Supreme Court to journalists

However, the police is still awaiting the post-mortem report of the women, which will possibly unfold the mystery behind the suspicious deaths. The two inmates who died were a 40-year-old woman and a 16-year-old girl, respectively.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

A policeman has been killed while three security forces personnel were injured in an encounter between security forces and terrorists in the Batamaloo area of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, the police said.

"On a specific information about presence of terrorists in a hideout, an operation was launched in Batmaloo Srinagar leading to exchange of fire, one SOG boy martyred, one JKP & 2 CRPF Jawans sustained injuries, operation continues," Director General of Police (DGP) S P Vaid wrote on Twitter.

On a specific information about presence of terrorists in a hideout, an operation was launched in Batmaloo Srinagar leading to exchange of fire, one SOG boy martyred, one JKP & 2 CRPF Jawans sustained injuries, operation continues: J&K DGP SP Vaid pic.twitter.com/2C3TxtXjTT  ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2018

The Jammu and Kashmir state police head did not share any further details.

Acting on a tip-off about the presence of militants in Diyarwani in Batamaloo area, the security forces launched a search operation on Sunday morning, a police official said.

ALSO READ: PM Modi slams Mamata Banerjee 'civil war' comment

Srinagar: Encounter broke out between terrorists and security forces near Batamaloo area early morning today. (visuals deferred by unspecified time) #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/u5FRM02Gr5  ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2018

Following retaliation fire by the terrorists, the search operation turned into an encounter.

ALSO READ: TMC calls for 'Dhikkar Diwas' on Amit Shah's rally day

However, the gunfight was still on, the official said.

Meanwhile, the mobile internet services have been cut off in the city, the official said, adding that more details regarding the operation is awaited.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Even as the horror of Muzaffarpur Rape case is still fresh in our minds, another ghastly incident from Bhopal had almost all newsrooms in the country in a tizzy on Sunday. Ashwini Sharma, director of a government-run hostel in Bhopal, who allegedly raped a deaf-mute inmate and molested several others, seized the attention of millions.

Meanwhile, Indore police on Saturday registered a fresh FIR against Sharma after a fourth girl from the city came forward to approach the police. She accused the director of keeping her in captive and raping regularly for six months.

"I was kept in custody, made to watch porn films and was raped for six months," the 23-year-old woman from Dhar district said in her statement to police.

Last week, Sharma, the director of the Bhopal hostel was arrested after a 19-year-old deaf-mute tribal girl filed a rape complaint against him. Post that, two other women accused Sharma of various criminal charges including rape, intimidation, wrongful confinement and a law to prevent atrocities against Dalits.

Read | Muzaffarpur Shelter Home case: Manju Verma resigns as Bihar social welfare minister

According to reports, a total of four girls were kept in a separate house allegedly by Ashwini Sharma in Crystal Ideal City in Awadhpuri. Though, Sharma has confessed to raping the hearing and speech impaired girl, he denied assaulting or raping other inmates.

Mirroring the Bihar shelter shame, the dreadful incident in the Bhopal hostel has also raised significant questions regarding government's connection to the case.

Accusing the BJP of having a close relation with Sharma, state Congress spokesperson Shobha Oza on Saturday released a video, in which Sharma is seen standing close to Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and touching his feet.

According to the Congress, Ashwini Sharma is an activist of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and has been enjoying the blessings of Chouhan over the years.

BJP spokesperson Rahul Kothari, on the other hand, denied the allegation, saying "The Congress is just playing politics in such a sensitive matter, the accused is arrested and investigations are on".

Read | Shelter Home Sexual Assault: Maneka Gandhi asks states to build central facility to prevent misuse by NGOs

However, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) is currently probing the case and looking for the details of all 21 girls who lived in the private hostel over the last three years. Earlier in the day, they have recovered ATM cards, register and documents related to the victims.

The the investigation team will also contact the owners of the house, who gave it Sharma on rent and if any kind of negligence is found from their side, a case will be registered against them too. The SIT team has sent Sharma's phone for forensic test.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday handed over the first lot of houses constructed in tea plantation areas under Indian Housing Project for estate workers in Sri Lanka. Addressing the ceremony via video conference the prime minister said, "We're crafting new future together and Sri Lanka will always remain special for us".

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe along with several other ministers and Indian officials was present at the ceremony, which took place at Dunsinane estate, Nuwara Eliya.

"These aren't just physical structures but realisation of your and our dreams. We've dreamt of peaceful and secure future for Sri Lanka where aspirations for development are met," PM Modi said.

Out of the committed 60,000 houses in Sri Lanka, around 47,000 houses are built so far while the additional 10,000 houses would be constructed in shortest possible time, the prime minister said.

Read | From NRC issue to lynching incidents to Indo-Pak relations: Top 5 takeaways from PM Modi's interview

The "innovative Indian Housing Project with grant of over $350 million is one of the largest Indian grant assistance project across the globe, Modi added .

Meanwhile, remembering the historical links between India and Sri Lanka, PM Wickremesinghe said, I thank Prime Minister Modi. He has kept the promise he made last year". Earlier Modi had promised to keep Sri Lanka in a special place in its neighbourhood first policy.

People of Sri Lanka brave the rain and come together to celebrate the moment of handing over the houses, as Hon PM @RW_UNP and High Commissioner H.E. Taranjit Singh Sandhu arrive at Dunsinane estate pic.twitter.com/tNDQce2u4r  India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) August 12, 2018

Read | Delhi Metro timings and parking details for Independence Day

On Sunday, Sri Lanka has also embraced PM Modi's suggestion to establish direct air links between Colombo and Varanasi to facilitate lakhs of pilgrims from the island nation.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday spoke about unemployment, job creation and touched upon the issues of Goods and Services Tax (GST), National Register of Citizens (NRC), crime against women, and Indo-Pak relations and wished for a safe, secure, stable and terror-free relations in an interview to a news agency. Modi gave assurance that no Indian citizen will get excluded from the NRC draft. He also spoke about the Mahagathbandhan for the upcoming 2019 general elections in the interview to ANI.

ALSO READ: PM Modi wishes for 'good neighbourly relations' with Pakistan

Here are the top 5 takeaways from the Narendra Modi's latest speech:

1. On employment creation

PM Modi: When economy is growing at a faster pace, in fact fastest among the major economies, how will the jobs market not expand? When investment into and the pace of execution of infrastructure projects like making roads, laying down rail lines, setting up power generation including solar parks and transmission lines is at all-time high, how come the jobs will not be created. From just 2 mobile manufacturing units in 2014 we have grown to 120. When such development in electronic manufacturing is taking place, will it not create jobs?

Today, India has emerged as one of the top hubs of start-ups. Are they not creating jobs? More than 13 crore MUDRA loans have been given to our hardworking entrepreneurs. I have been told that over 3.5 crore of these loans have been given to first time entrepreneurs. Does every loan not create additional employment opportunities?

2. On Goods and Services Tax (GST)

PM Modi: Opposition to GST is not from all the Opposition Parties. Only a few who have been continuously rejected by the masses are making baseless points. They not only want to misguide but also indulge in opposing for the sake of opposing. Whether it is Yoga, Ayushman Bharat, Swachh Bharat, NRC, surgical strikes, their conduct is for everyone to see. As for Gabbar Singh Tax, people who have seen only dacoits around them will naturally think of dacoits only!

Have they ever thought why people accepted GST wholeheartedly? The Congress President spoke about Surat in Parliament. He tried his best to provoke people against GST during Gujarat elections, why did the people reject him? It must not be forgotten that people of this country particularly, the business community have supported GSTand adopted it whole-heartedly. People have responded positively as it brings lot of benefits to them and to the economy. Around 350 crore invoices were processed and 11 crore returns were filed in 1 year. Doesnt this show wide-spread public acceptance?

3. On NRC issue and Mamata Banerjee

PM Modi: Only those who have lost faith in themselves, fear loss of popular support and lack faith in our Institutions can use words like civil war, blood bath and Desh Ke Tukde Tukde. Evidently, they are disconnected from the pulse of the nation. As far as Mamata jis stand is concerned, she should remember what she said on the floor of the Parliament in 2005. Was that Mamata ji correct or is this Mamata ji correct?

The Congress is also playing politics over the NRC. The roots of the NRC go back three decades, when Mr. Rajiv Gandhi had to bow to public pressure and sign the Assam Accord. Since then Assam voted Congress several times but the party did nothing about it and kept misleading the people. Congress knew a problem exists but allowed it to fester for decades because they were guided by vote bank politics. I want to assure the people that no citizen of India will have to leave the country. As per the due process, all possible opportunities will be given to get their concerns addressed.

4. On crime against women and lynching

PM Modi: It would be a great travesty to reduce these incidents to mere statistics and then indulge in politics over them. That shows a kind of perverse mindset that looks at violence and criminality as something to be milked, instead of unitedly opposing. Even a single incident is one too many and deeply unfortunate. Everyone should rise above politics to ensure peace and unity in our society. My party and I have spoken in clear words, on multiple occasions against such actions and such a mindset. It is all on record. Also, we are people who go beyond just words. Look at the actions of our Home Ministry to see how we have acted against violence.



Soon after I assumed office, I had said from the ramparts of the Red Fort that it is everyones responsibility to ensure the dignity of women, whether Government, Society, Family or Individual. At the level of Government, we have gone to the extent of making provisions of capital punishment in certain category of crimes against women. You might have noted that results in terms of quick disposal of such cases leading to even capital punishment have started coming in. Let there be no doubts about the will of my Government to implement the Rule of Law in its true letter and spirit.

5. On Indo-Pak relations and Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf

PM Modi: I have always said that we wish to have good neighbourly relations. We have also taken various initiatives in this regard. I recently congratulated Mr. Imran Khan on his victory in the elections. We hope that Pakistan would work for a safe, secure, stable and prosperous region, free from terror and violence.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Congress president Rahul Gandhi might be in some serious trouble as the Income Tax Department has raised red flags for his returns for the assessment year 2011-12. Gandhi did not reveal his role in the Young India company, a major accused in the National Herald case.

"It was observed that even though the assessee Sh. Rahul Gandhi held shares of Young India and was also one of its directors yet in the statement of assets and liabilities as on 31st March 2011 furnished by the assessee during the course of assessment proceedings for the relevant assessment year, this ownership of shares of Young India was not disclosed by the assessee," read the income tax notice issued to the Congress president reads.

ALSO READ: PM Modi wishes for 'good neighbourly relations' with Pakistan, slams Mamata Banerjee over NRC issue

According to the IT department, the stakes that Gandhi holds in Young India would lead him to have an income of Rs 154 crore and not around Rs 68 lakh, as assessed by the Income Tax department earlier.

However, Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday threw an open challenge for the opening of his 2011-12 assessment case. The matter has been listed for further hearing on August 14 by a bench of justices S Ravindra Bhat and AK Chawla, after Tushar Mehta, Additional Solicitor Genral (ASG) opposed against the issuance of interim order.

ALSO READ: Jammu and Kashmir: 1 policeman killed, three injured in encounter between militants and security forces

Meanwhile, Tushar Mehta has given his assurance that no step would be taken by the tax department against the Congress president Rahul Gandhi till the next hearing.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

In an anti-Khalistan movement, Indian-origin people, living in the United Kingdom, on Sunday took to streets and celebrated India's Independence Day to protest against Referendum 2020 in London. The event was planned to counter a pro-Khalistan rally at Londons Trafalgar Square on Sunday.

Referendum 2020, the pro-Khalistan campaign, is a desperate attempt to liberate Punjab, which is currently a part of India. Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a Punjab based Sikh group in UK has been instigating people for a 'London Declaration', which seeks the Independence of Punjab from India with an aim to re-establish it as a nation state.

Punjab Referendum 2020, however, has witnessed a massive failure on Sunday as pro-India groups took over the rally at the iconic Trafalgar Square, London.

Meanwhile, reacting to such fringe activities, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Naresh Gujral termed the 'Referendum 2020' campaign an attempt by Pakistans ISI to "foment trouble in Punjab".

"Pakistan and ISI have been trying hard for a long time to create problems in Punjab. They failed in Kashmir and want to move the stage to Punjab," Gujral said.

"Very miniscule Sikh population settled abroad is participating in this. No Sikh in India has sympathy for this as Sikhs are loyal Indians. They've made more sacrifices for India than any other community," he added.

It's an attempt by ISI to foment trouble in Punjab. It is financed by ISI. Pak&ISI have been trying hard for a long time to create problems in Punjab. They failed in Kashmir&want to move the stage to Punjab: N Gujral, Shiromani Akali Dal on Referendum 2020 (pro Khalistan groups) pic.twitter.com/XklnRjmehN  ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2018

Read | Spanish Mosque in Hyderabad to open for all on Independence Day

On August 10, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh also lashed out at the pro-Khalistan group and directed the Punjab Police to deal with any attempts to revive terrorism with a strict hand.

"If these elements think they can come and disturb the peace in my country and my state, they are mistaken," Singh told PTI.

In recent past, India has issued a demarche to Britain in connection to 'Referendum 2020', in response to which the British High Commission said, there is no harm if a group of people is protesting on an issue until they are not violating the law and order in the country.

Read | NN Exclusive | Imran Khan will lead Pakistan towards development: Pervez Musharraf

"Should a protest contravene the law, the police have powers to deal with activities that spread hate or deliberately raise tensions through violence or public disorder," the Commission added.

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Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi is all geared up for the launch of its co-owned brand Pocophones new handset Pocophone F1 in Europe and India alongside with its other global markets. As per latest reports, the device is to be called Pocophone F1 and has recently received certification from an FCC website after being certified by the Taiwanese certification agency NCC.



Pocophone announced its partnership with Qualcomm for powering the first Pocophone F1 on Twitter. We are very proud to partner with Qualcomm, the world leader in smartphone performance. Get ready for a whole new level of real world speed. #GoPOCO, the company tweeted.



ALSO READ | Jio GigaFiber to kick off on August 15; Know price, plans and more

Pocophone F1 Specs:



Pocophpne F1 will come to India in three storage and RAM variants.



The base model with 6GB RAM+64GB storage.



The mid-range model with 6GB RAM+128GB storage.



The high-end variant will be 8GB RAM+256GB storage model.



Pocophone F1 will be powered by Qualcomms latest Snapdragon 845 processor. Pocophone F1 will come with the advance Liquid cooling system, a thermal technology that will help the phone from heating, especially during heavy gaming sessions.



On the camera front, Pocophone F1 is expected to sport AI-powered dual cameras. The paired with dual pixel autofocus. The smartphone is said to come with a 20-megapixel camera coupled with IR face unlock feature.



Pocophone F1 will be packed with 4000mAh battery paired with Qualcomms Quick Charge.



As far as the colours of the phone are concerned, the 64GB/128GB storage variant will be available inBlue, Gradient, Grey, and Red colours. While the 256GB storage model of the Pocophone F1 will be available in four coloursBlue, Gradient, Grey, and Kevlar.



ALSO READ | PUBG Mobile Lite version for low-end smartphones finally released

Pocophone F1 price:



Pocophone F1 price is expected to be around Rs 33,000 in India. However, there is no official confirmation from the company.Beirut:

Syrian opposition activists said an explosion in the country's north has killed at least 18 people and wounded many others. The cause of the blast wasn't immediately known.

The opposition-run Syrian Civil Defence, also known as White Helmets, said the blast occurred on Sunday in the village of Sarmada near the Turkish border and "killed and wounded dozens".

Due to the explosion, a five-story building collapsed, burying many of the victims.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights put the death toll at 18. It's unclear if the casualties are all civilians.

The Observatory said an arms depot in the basement of a building had detonated.

The depot was run by an arms dealer close to the al-Qaida-linked Levant Liberation Committee, it added.

Meanwhile, Syrian government forces are fighting rebels in Idlib province.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Sir Vidiadhar Surajprasad "Vidia" Naipaul or VS Naipaul, the Trinidad-born Nobel Laureate, an anti-social yet fragile personality, the writer of majestic novels such as A House for Mr. Biswas and A Bend in the River that made him a renowned and one of the most controversial writers, died on Saturday at his London bungalow at the age of 85.

VS Naipauls writing was all about his journey from Trinidad to London and his pits and stops in the developing countries as his books unearthed the controversial topic of colonialism and decolonization banishment and the struggle of a common man in the ever evolving world.

The legendary writer was awarded the Nobel award for Literature in 2001 for having united perceptive narrative and incorruptible scrutiny in works that compel us to see the presence of suppressed histories.

His controversial and offensive remarks often made headlines! Once he called India a slave society, said Africa has no future, and even said that Indian women wear Bindi to say my head is empty.

However, a fellow Trinidadian writer, CLR James once wrote that Naipaul says what white people want to say but dare not.

Naipauls father was a self-taught novelist whose dreams were crushed by lack of opportunities. But, Naipaul left his homeland as soon as he could to complete his dreams as he moved to England after being awarded a rare scholarship to begin his English literature at University College, Oxford.

ALSO READ: Former Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee on ventilator support, condition 'extremely critical'

I was born there, yes, he said of Trinidad to an interviewer in 1983. I thought it was a great mistake.

In England, Naipaul met his first wife and married her without informing anyone.

On completion of his graduation, he was completely dependent on his wife as he suffered poverty and unemployment for a short period.

Naipauls major breakthrough was in 1957 after his first published novel The Mystic Masseur  based on the lives of poverty-stricken people in a Trinidad slum.

ALSO READ: Scorecard at stumps as brilliant Woakes-Bairstow power England

Naipauls work triggered the anger of Indians and Muslims, for example, Salman Rushdie, who thought he was promoting Hindu nationalism.

He received the much-coveted knighthood in 1990 and was honoured with the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2001.

His one-time old friend and American writer, Paul Theroux once described him as a racist, sexist miser who beat up women and throw tantrums.

Naipauls later books lost the Midas Touch as he spent his later life living quietly in an isolated area in Wiltshire, England.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.Bahrain has become a global platform for MMA talent development, something which no other country or organisation has managed to do, according to a senior Brave Combat Federation official.

Through the mixed martial arts organisation Brave Combat Federation founded by HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Bahrain has earned a reputation for being a place for nurturing young MMA talents, Brave Combat Federation President Mohammed Shahid told Tribune. He said that HH Shaikh Khalids vision of creating a platform to help talents around the world reach their potential is coming true through Brave which is now the fastest growing MMA promotion.

According to him, no other MMA promotion has been able to create a platform to support talents from around the world in the way that Brave has.

MMA is the fastest growing sport in the world and when you have a sport that is growing at this pace you expect to have a platform that the whole world can rely on. Today in MMA we have promotions that are so big, multi-billion dollar promotions, but they are not truly global despite having global attention, because they lack a platform for worldwide talent to come and make a name for themselves.The Kingdom yesterday strongly condemned the terrorist explosion that targeted a joint patrol conducted by the Gendarmerie and Public Security forces in Fuheis in Jordan.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its deep-felt condolences and consolation to the martyrs relatives and family while wishing a speedy recovery to those injured in the blast.

The ministry affirmed Bahrains full support to Jordan in its efforts to combat violence and terrorism and backed all the measures it took to reinforce security and stability.Flouting the convention that diplomats are not supposed to talk tough, Bangladesh Ambassador to the Kingdom Mominur Rahman has demanded death penalty to his fellow national if he gets convicted of murdering the Bahraini imam.

The imam - Shaikh Abdul Jaleel Hamood - was allegedly murdered by a Bangladeshi national last week, who left the body inside a garbage bag after cutting it into pieces near a scrapyard in Askar.

The murder has spoiled the reputation of our nation as well as the community in the Kingdom. There are many Bangladeshi nationals in the Kingdom who are hard core criminals and they should be punished according to the legal system of this country.

Mr Rahman stressed that the Bangladesh Embassy in the Kingdom wouldnt defend any criminals.

Criminals are criminals and they should get the punishment they deserve. I urge Bahraini authorities to take strict action against all criminals.

Mr Rahman said that he is aware of the fact that Bangladeshi nationals were running many violent gangs in the Kingdom.Real Search, Bahrains largest property and facilities management services company, has announced a water saving campaign to preserve water by using the scarce resource wisely on a daily basis.

As part of the campaign, Real Search has launched a #SaveEveryDrop competition to motivate and inspire residents of all Bin Faqeeh properties managed by Real Search to conserve water.

For this purpose, Real Search has invited all residents to save as much water as possible for the month of August 2018.

The residents water usage for the month of August will be compared with the usage in July, and the resident who saved the highest percentage of water will be announced as the winner.Qatar to lose its status as richest place to Macau

Qatar to lose its status as richest place to Macau

Qatar is on track to lose its status as the richest place in the world to the Chinese gambling enclave of Macau.

The global casino hubs economy will reach the equivalent of about $143,116 per person by 2020, according to projections from the International Monetary Fund.

That will put Macau ahead of the current number one Qatar, which will reach $139,151 in the same time frame.

A former Portuguese outpost on the southern tip of China, Macau has become a gambling mecca since returning to Chinese control almost two decades ago.. -        -,     .            ,     ,       .       ,          2017 .         , ...We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription.News and commentary on organized crime, street crime, white collar crime, cyber crime, sex crime, crime fiction, crime prevention, espionage and terrorism.Government is working hard to build a strong and resilient economy to avoid returning to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for financial bailout after the exit of the current programme by the end of the year.



President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo who made the announcement, said his government was doing everything possible to successfully wean the country off the IMF and run the economy independently of the Bretton woods institutions.



He was speaking at the St. Peter's Cathedral Basilica in Kumasi at a thanksgiving mass held in his honour as part of his five-day tour of the Ashanti Region.



The President is in the region to cut sod for the commencement of various projects, inspect on-going ones and engage the people to know their felt needs to aid government in its development agenda.



He said he owed Ghanaians a duty to learn at first hand their problems and had resolved to visit all the ten regions each year.



He noted that government was pursuing policies that would guarantee inclusive and coherent society for a peaceful and stable country and called on everybody including the church to play their roles to build a prosperous and peaceful nation.







Source: GNA









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Featured VideoAnother Savings and Loans Company, Commerz Savings and Loans has denied having any link with embattled former Managing Director of collapsed Capital Bank, William Ato Essien.



According to the company, Capital Bank just acted as a clearing bank for Commerz from February 2017 until it was taken over by the GCB Bank.



A statement issued by the solicitors of the company, stated categorically that Mr Ato Essien is not and has never been a related party to Commerz Savings and Loans.



Nordea Capital Limited



Meanwhile, the management of Nordea Capital Limited has also dissociated itself from Mr Ato Essien.



The company also states that it only acted as an arranger for commercial paper issued by MC Management Services and Breitling Services with Capital Bank as the investor.



It clarified that the role the companies played fall within the authorized business of Nordea Capital as an Investment Banking and Asset Management Firm.



Earlier media report suggested that Mr. Essien injected 65 million cedis into Nordea hence is one of his numerous companies. But the company refutes the assertion.



Background



The management of defunct Capital Bank used liquidity support given by the Bank of Ghana as capital to secure a license for another collapsed bank, Sovereign Bank.



A report seen by Citi News said an emergency board and Executive Committee meeting on October 13, 2015, noted concern with the manner in which the Ghc 610 million liquidity support to the struggling bank was being used.



The monies were moved by a member of the Board, Ato Essien into companies believed to be owned by him and others.



The rest of the money was used to set up the Sovereign Bank.



Funds raised through the commercial paper issuance by MC Management Services Limited and Breitling Services were used as capitalization for the establishment of the Sovereign Bank Limited.



The placement of GHc 130 MC to Alltime Capital and GHc with Nordea Capital, was a round-tripping of the liquidity support from Bank of Ghana to set up Sovereign Bank, the report said.



The report also indicated that Dr. Mensa Otabil may have been party to the misuse of liquidity support given the bank by the Bank of Ghana.



Among the flagged transactions were GHc 27.5 million used for business promotion and handled by a board member; transfers to IFS amounting to GHc 23.9 million, transfers to Nordea Capital amounting to GHc 65 million, and transfers to Alltime Capital amounting to GHc 130 million.



Concerning Alltime Capital, the report noted that Mr. Ato Essien stated that the placement of GHc 130m with Alltime Capital was strategic and funds would be paid back by March 2016.



Dr. Otabil also assured management that he would ensure the funds were returned by March 2016.

Source: Citi









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Featured VideoThe Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) has said it will not interfere in the work of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) or shield any of its members found to have engaged in any irregularities regarding the collapse of seven local banks.



It also urged the public not to lose confidence in local banks or generalise the development, but rather continue to do business with the remaining local banks.



Even though this development may undermine the integrity of local banks, AGI believes there are similar local banks that measure up to expectation and must be encouraged to keep to standard, the President of AGI, Dr Yaw Adu Gyamfi, said at a news conference in Accra last Thursday.



The association presented the second quarter Business Barometer Report for 2018 and discussed issues confronting businesses in the country at the conference.



On Wednesday, August 1 this year, the BoG revoked the licences of five banks and subsequently merged them into a new bank  the Consolidated Bank Ghana Limited  to be headed by Mr Nii Amanor Dodoo of KPMG.



The entities  the uniBank, the Royal Bank, the Sovereign Bank, the Construction Bank and the BEIGE Bank  were found to have committed various regulatory and financial breaches that made them insolvent and unfit to continue operations.



In August last year, the UT and Capital banks suffered similar fates after they were found to have been insolvent.



Saddened



Throwing more light on the position of the association on the collapse of the banks, Dr Gyamfi said the association was saddened by the collapse of the seven local banks because the issues that caused the collapse could have been avoided.



Weak corporate governance structures and the lack of adherence to the BoGs regulations as reported to be root causes for the collapse were avoidable, he said.



However, Dr Gyamfi commended the BoG for the ongoing reforms in the banking sector to streamline operations to forestall any future insolvency of other local banks and expressed the hope that the reforms would ultimately lead to a fall in lending rates.



Business Barometer



Presenting the second quarter report, the Chief Executive Officer of AGI, Mr Seth Twum Akwaboah, said the associations business barometer conducted for the period of April to June this year indicated that there was a surge in business confidence.



He attributed the improvement to the reduction of electricity tariff which impacted positively on many businesses.



Mr Akwaboah also mentioned that the depreciation of the countrys currency against the worlds major trading currencies was affecting businesses.



AGI is urging the government to quickly institute corrective measures to prevent further erosion of the gains made in quarter one, he stated.



Mr Akwaboah added that businesses came under intense pressure as a result of the depreciation of the cedi and the speculations about new taxes emerging from the mid-year budget review negatively impacted business confidence.



He also bemoaned the influx of imports, saying that issue continued to pose huge challenges to the growth of industries in the country.



Other issues



Raising issues with the new straight levy regime, Mr Akwaboah said the current regime as introduced in the mid-year budget review, where manufacturers could only claim 12.5 per cent of Value Added Tax (VAT), leaving five per cent as cost burden passed on to consumers was a serious concern to businesses.



This makes manufacturers less competitive. The three per cent VAT Flat Rate Scheme (VFRS) operators (retailers/traders) will not suffer such unclaimed VAT ( five per cent) under this new straight VAT regime, he indicated.



In addition, Mr Akwaboah said AGI would request for a months grace period to allow businesses to align their system or books to the new straight levy regime.

Source: Graphic.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A financial autopsy report into the collapse of UT bank has linked the indigenous bank's demise to Ibrahim Mahama, brother of then-President John Mahama.



He owed the bank 302m, a facility that was extended to his four companies in ways that required UT Bank to bend over backwards.



His persistent defaulting payments exposed the bank to great risk and put shareholders in great pain.



That was why the Board called an emergency meeting on 20th May 2016 to discuss how to deal with a politically exposed person who has paid and is not paying his loans.



Minutes of that meeting, as told from a member of the Board, mentioned that they were disappointed "[Ibrahim Mahama] had made no effort to honour any of the assurances he gave when he met them on 29th March 2016."



But writing off the loan meant writing of the bank. If they wrote off the loan anybody would be writing anything as the bank would be closer to collapse. And so the Board directed Management "to exert more pressure."



Q: How do you apply pressure to a politically-exposed person?



A: Meet his political ties.



In December 2013, Myjoyonline.com reported that then-Vice-President Mahama sat in a June 2012 meeting with Board members of Merchant Bank over his brother's defaulting loans.



Ibrahim Mahama's Engineers and Planners company had a $38 million debt, which constituted 30% of the struggling bank's 50% non-performing loans.



Merchant Bank chased the businessman who was forced to petition the Presidency for an intervention. Merchant Bank was sold off to Fortiz and renamed Universal Merchant Bank (UMB).



Fast forward to March 2016, another bank with the same defaulting client, Ibrahim Mahama, mulled at meeting his brother.



The Board planned to have its chairman Mr. P.K Amoabeng meet President Mahama, his brother, Ibrahim Mahama and a deputy Finance Minister "to discuss the way forward."



At another meeting where the Board was expecting to meet Ibrahim Mahama, the businessman sent an emissary instead: Mr. Adi-Ayitevi.



The Board, according to the report, "felt slighted and disrespected by his actions" and "questioned his credibility as a businessman."



But it was still in the mood to meet him at another emergency meeting on June 3, 2016. The Board's plan was to collect their monies before December 2016 when the country would have gone to the polls.



At this third meeting over Ibrahim Mahama's non-performing loans, the businessman assured the Board he was "making every effort to pay the amounts outstanding from related companies."



Thirteen months after this Board meeting, the licence of UT bank was withdrawn. The Bank of Ghana said the local bank had an irredeemable liquidity crisis.



One of the things that led to this liquidity crisis is the decision of UT Bank to give 261.4m to four of Ibrahim Mahama's companies.



They are Dzata Cement, Holman Brothers Ltd, MBG Ltd and Engineers and Planners.



UT Bank requested that BoG waive the rule that limits the amount of money a bank can give a client. BoG waived it and UT gave four different loans to four companies all owned by Ibrahim Mahama.













Source: myjoyonline.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Founding President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe has said Pastor Mensa Otabil, who was a Board Chairman of the collapsed Capital Bank might have been misled by the Chief Executive Officer of the Bank.



In a Facebook post published on his wall, Franklin Cudjoe believed the then CEO of Capital Bank misled former Board Chairman and renowned pastor, Mensa Otabil into agreeing to some of the deals the bank engaged in.



Read his full post below



I am tempted to believe that Pastor Otabil was misled by his CEO. It does seem Pastor didn't quite posess the financial 'spirit' and eye to detect that the financial engineering his CEO engaged in was beyond normal limits of risk. Is there evidence that other board members probably more experienced warned board chairman pastor about the varied seeds his CEO was sowing all over the lands that created a hole of Ghs 610m? As I have said, there is no evidence that board chair pastor actively colluded with his CEO to embezzle Ghs 610m so we cannot accuse him of wrong doing.



However, as board chairman he must now take ultimate responsibility and ensure that we redeem the Ghs 610m by not only selling assets of his CEO and others, but also some of his own to make up. Then of course, he must cooperate with state investigative officers in the hope that evidence so gathered will lead to his CEO facing the full force of the law. Should Pastor be found culpable beyond ignorance of the deals, he should also face the law. Finally, he must pray for everyone to be guided by these very bad examples and never to repeat same.



It is in the same spirit that I extend a hand of coperation to the President of the land and his to his Finance Minister to simply cause a withdrawal of the KelniGVG grand scheme to deliberately upset the coffers of the state without returning any value. They should be guided by the observations of one, Kofi Nkulenu who recently wrote about the KelniGVG scheme ".. the company (KelniGVG) has not connected to monitor anything but here are the facts. The Ghana Revenue Authority says shortage on Communications Service Tax (CST) is less than 5million from January to June 2018 and it is normal because their targets are either ambitious or consumers are truly spending less today with increased data usage.



But as we have been told the shortage was only about 5million by the Revenue Authority, the Government has paid over 43m to look for 5million shortage of revenue. This 855million deal over 10yrs is one of the greatest procurement scams ever performed in this countrys history. The company Kelni is unknown with shady partnerships to another crooked entity called GVG (google them) and the Nation watches gleefully as we dissipate national funds to dark accounts without any work".



Mr. President, KelniGVG may be your nemesis. We won't stop talking about it until it is withdrawn. When it is eventually done, we must prosecute all involved for wasting our time talking about it and for causing fiancial loss to the state. Have a great weekend everyone.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Featured VideoThe National Youth Authority (NYA) has declared war on the abuse of Tramadol among youth in the country, as the world marks the 2018 International Youth Day (IYD) on August 12.



In this regard, a campaign has been launched a nationwide targeting the unscrupulous activities of some importers and peddlers of the pain relieving drug in the country.



With active involvement and support from the EIB network, operators of GHOne TV, and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the campaign seeks to control the abuse of the drug, as well as identify and help rehabilitate those addicted to the drug.



Addressing the opening session of a youth summit organised by the NYA, Mr Emmanuel Sin-Nyet Asigri, the Chief Executive Officer of the NYA, said very soon a national rehabilitation centre would be established in the country for those addicted to the drug.



Attended by more than 2,000 youth, ministers of state, Members of Parliament, traditional rulers, and representatives from state institutions and agencies, the summit would mark this year's IYD on the theme: "Safe spaces for the youth".



The IYD, instituted by the United Nations falls on August 12, every year to draw attention to the governing set of cultural and legal issues surrounding the youth.



Mr Asigri said the issue of Tramadol abuse has become not only a huge national concern, but a continental issue which requires concerted efforts from African governments.

He said the campaign would achieve useful results if stakeholders and all relevant institutions play active and proactive roles for intensified advocacy.



Mr Isaac Asiamah, the Minister of Youth and Sports, commended the NYA for the campaign saying Tramadol abuse among the youth remains a national crisis which requires urgent attention.



He said due to the harm being caused by the drug, it is imperative for the country to classify it as dangerous and harmful.



He affirmed his Ministry's determination to support the campaign by pushing relevant state institutions to declare the drug as a national health emergency.

Mr Asiamah urged the Food and Drug Authority and the Pharmacy Council to collaborate effectively and help control the sale of the drug.



Security agencies must also up efforts to clamp down on illegal peddlers of the drug in the country, he said.



Dr Nsiah Asare, the Director General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), said the combination of Tramadol and alcohol abuse has a serious health implication on users.

It could cause chronic headaches and heartaches, slow heart rates, infertility, sexual problems, drowsiness, depression and convulsions.



Dr Asare said though Tramadol is a prescribed drug, reduction in supply and high price for the drug would be an effective remedy to halt the abuse.



He also called on the legislators to pass a law that would not only reduce quantities of importation but also check and control the sale of the drug in society.



Mr Evans Opoku Bobie, the Brong-Ahafo Regional Minister designate, said the uncontrolled abuse of the drug among the youth remains a wake-up call among all stakeholders in the campaign.



Mr Bobie, who is currently the Deputy Brong-Ahafo Regional Minister and Member of Parliament for Asunafo North, expressed concern on the rise of alcoholism, drug abuse and sexual promiscuity among the youth.



He expressed the hope that with the inauguration of the campaign, the youth would become more aware, exhibit a high sense of discipline and shun unhealthy lifestyles that would ruin their future.

Source: GNA









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There was some confusion at the Hajj Village in Accra on Saturday morning as prospective pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia demanded answers from the Hajj Board over delays in their flight.



The anxiety of prospective pilgrims continue to heighten as the airports in the two Holy Cities of Saudi Arabia, Makkah and Medina, are expected to be closed on Thursday, August 16, 2018, to any flight carrying prospective pilgrims from any part of the world.



The pilgrims, who were supposed to be airlifted that Saturday morning vented their frustrations on the Hajj Board with some accusing Board members of incompetence and lack of proper planning.



The situation has since not been solved, as the Board could not charter a bigger aircraft to airlift the pilgrims to embark on the pilgrimage. Additionally, no information has been communicated to the prospective pilgrims, as they have remained in darkness for the past five days.



The Board, instead of contracting a bigger airplane which could fly about 506 passengers on a single manifest as done by the previous regime, opted for a 174-passenger aircraft for this years operations.



The Board also requested Saudi Authorities to reduce Ghanas quota of 6,700 pilgrims to 5,500, which created a lot of tension within Hajj Agents and prospective pilgrims.



This has compelled some of the Agents travelling as far as to Nigeria to seek consideration from partner Agents for their passengers to embark on the Holy Journey.



Some passengers (names withheld) accused the Board of favouring market women who are embarking on the trip for commercial purposes and not for prayers (Pilgrimage).

The accusations started when the passengers saw their names on the manifest and checked-in their luggage, but were later dropped in favour of the business women.



The passengers called on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to dissolve the Board as soon as possible to protect the governments credibility within the Muslim circles, as some Muslims have started blaming the government for lack of dedication to the Muslim community.



Many of the passengers who are known to the Board members pointed fingers at the Chairman of the Hajj Board, Sheikh I.C. Quaye; Directory of Finance, Alhaji Umar Farouk; and Director of Operations, Alhaji Sumaila, of being the cause of the mess.



They noted that the gang of three have hijacked the Board by taking the role of all Board members which has been too much on them. This has been a big disgrace to the government of President Akufo-Addo, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, Sheikh Imam Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, and the entire Ghanaian Muslim community, they added.



Explaining the reason for the flight delay, a member of the Board and some members of the Hajj Agents Association who spoke on condition of anonymity, reiterated the passengers call on the President to dissolve the Board to save Ghanas international image.



The Agents recounted their ordeal at the hands of the Board. They claimed that they were not consulted on issues regarding preparations towards the pilgrimage. Buttressing their claim, they cited the deadline for payment as one of the issues in which they were not consulted.



The Board unilaterally set June 30, 2018, as the deadline for payment, but stopped receiving payment on June 26, 2018, without any communication to the Association, they agents revealed.



The 2018 Hajj officially begins from Sunday, August 19 to Friday, August 24, with three million Muslims expected to gather in the Holy City of Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

Source: GNA









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 National Communications Authority (NCA) has promised it will soon make the 4G spectrum available to mobile network operators that do not currently have access to the technology due to the regulators constraints.



Currently, MTN is the only telco that offers 4G to its customers  having purchased the spectrum in excess of US$67 million at an auction in 2015 by the NCA before rolling out a year later.



Rolling out the 4G service made MTN the only mobile telecom operator to run the service, further entrenching its position as the market leader in both data and voice subscription.



After a clamour by the other telecom operators to be granted some sort of access to deploy the 4G technology, the regulator  led by Joe Anokye as Director-General  has promised an equitable distribution of the 4G resource.



Speaking at a send-off party organised by the Ghana Chamber of Telecoms for ex-AirtelTigo boss Roshi Motman and ex-MTN Ghana boss Ebenezer Asante, Mr. Anokye said very soon the other telcos will be granted permission to deploy the fourth-generation technology.



One of the hallmarks of a good regulator is predictability  making sure that there is equity in the ecosystem. There are things we are working on. I know that 4G spectrum has been a challenge, but we promise you that not too long from now you will hear from us.



We will make sure there is equity or equitable access to 4G spectrum, Mr. Anokye said at the gathering attended by top management of all the mobile network operators, as well as other heads of department under the Communication Ministry.



The move by the NCA suggests that MTN, which paid US$67.5million for the 4G licence, will still be granted some advantage over use of the technology for the sake of fairness.







Source: The Finder









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 recent reshuffle by President Akufo-Addo does not meet the expectation of Ghanaians, according to the Managing Editor of the Insight newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr.



The President released his first reshuffle on Thursday.



The reshuffle saw Gender Minister Otiko Djaba being transferred to Italy as an Ambassador.



Prior to the release, there were reports of a massive shake-up in the ruling government. However, after the release, some critics who thought the President was going to reduce his 110 appointees felt disappointed.



Kwesi Pratt, who was contributing to a panel discussion on Saturday's edition of Radio Gold's "Alhaji and Alhaji" programme said instead of the "earth-shaking" reshuffle, the President rather added one more appointee.



"There is nothing earth shaking about what has happenedit appears the number has even been increased by one because we have a minister of state at the office of the Vice President. If care is not taken we will have minister of state at the office of the chief of staffso public expectations has not been met with this reshuffle" he indicated.





Meanwhile, Below is a copy of the statement issued by the presidency announcing the changes



The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has made the following changes to the composition of his government, with immediate effect:



1. John Peter Amewu, former Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and acting Minister for Energy, Is now Minister for Energy;



2. Kwaku Asomah-Cheremeh, former Brong Ahafo Regional Minister, Is now Minister for Lands and Natural Resources;



3. Hon. Kofi Adda, Member of Parliament for Navrongo constituency and former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, is now Minister for Aviation;



4. Cecilia Abena Dapaah, former Minister for Aviation, Is now Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources;



5. Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid former Minister for Information, Is now Minister for Inner City and Zongo Development;



6. Hon. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Member of Parliament for Ofoase/Ayirebl constituency and former Deputy Minister for Information, Is now Minister for Information designate;



7. Hon. Cynthia Morrison, Member of Parliament for Agona West constituency, is now Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection designate;



8. Paulina Tangoba Abayage, former Ambassador to Italy, is now Upper East Regional Minister designate;



9. Hon. Evans Opoku Bobie, Member of Parliament for Asunafo North constituency and former deputy Brong Ahafo Regional Minister, is now Brong Ahafo Regional Minister designate;



10. Hon. Martin Oti Gyarko, Member of Parliament for Techiman North constituency, is now Deputy Brong Ahafo Regional Minister designate;



11. Hon. Boniface Abubakar Saddique, Member of Parliament for Madina constituency and former Minister for Inner City and Zongo Development, is now Minister of State at the Office of the Vice President;



12. Rockson Bukari, former Upper East Regional Minister, is now Minister of State at the Office of the President;



13. Pius Enam Hadzide, former deputy Minister for Youth and Sports, is now Deputy Minister for Information;



14. Perry Curtis Okudzeto, former deputy Minister for Information, is now Deputy Minister for Youth and Sports; and



15. Otiko Afisa Djaba, former Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, is now Ambassador-designate to Italy.



The statement signed and issued by Mr Eugene Arhin, Director of Communications at the Presidency said: "President Akufo-Addo is hopeful that Parliament will expedite the vetting of the Ministers-designate for Information, and Gender, Children and Social Protection, and the Regional Ministers-designate for Upper East and Brong Ahafo, as well as the deputy Regional Minister-designate for Brong Ahafo, so they can assume their respective offices as quickly as possible."

Source: Rebecca Addo Tetteh/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 complexity of human behaviour can be experienced poignantly in the field of politics.



Much as human nature can hardly be predicted, in this game called politics, the narrative departs widely from what the world out there experiences.



A few weeks ago, the NDC flooded social media networks with a video pointing to a convoy of the President touring the three northern regions in which many appointees in the zone were following in their V8 vehicles.



They exaggerated the convoy as having constituents of 40 vehicles, and this was circulated across many networks.



Some media persons who feel pained that their beloved John Mahama was humiliated at the polls also publicized these videos and accompanied them with messages all geared towards sullying the image of the Presidency of Akufo-Addo.



The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has embarked on a region-wide tour of the Ashanti Region.



As a listening leader, the President saw the need to change that negative notion of his government and, therefore, asked all appointees including CEOs who would accompany him on the trip to join in two STC buses provided.



This is being hailed by Ghanaians as a great step towards changing the status quo but for reasons yet to be deciphered, a section of the populace has questioned the rationale behind the move. They say it is populist and is intended to douse the bad perception people harbour against the government.



The NDC appears to have been licensed to see evil even when good deeds are being done. They see Satan even when Angel Gabriel or Michael comes down and is in NPP colours.



This cost cut-cutting measure should rather invite boatloads of praises upon President Akufo-Addo not these criticisms which cannot be justified in any way.



The NDC sees in Akufo-Addo what they did not see in Mahama. The virtues being showcased by President Akufo-Addo eluded Mahama, and this, they see to be a recipe for disaster in the 2020 elections. Disater looms large and that is the cardinal reason behind their attacks on this noble initiative.

Source: P.K.Sarpong/email: [email protected]









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured VideoThis image made from video taken on Thursday, Aug. 9, 2018, shows a child injured in an airstrike resting at a hospital in Saada, Yemen. Yemen's Shiite rebels are backing a United Nations' call for an investigation into a Saudi-led coalition airstrike in the country's north that killed dozens of people the previous day, including many children. Read more

It must have been a moment of unspeakable shock, terror and pain. But it's hard to know exactly what it was like at the moment last Thursday when a school bus packed with Yemeni schoolchildren  summer campers coming back from a picnic  was struck from the skies by a powerful bomb, because so few of these innocent kids survived to tell about it, and because those who did are mostly clinging to life, maimed or badly burned by the blast.

Instead, we can only gape at pictures of a twisted metal frame that hardly resembles the bus that was once filled with happy, singing children, or watch the widely circulated video of the aftermath of what happened in the market district of Saada in northern Yemen, in which a distraught, failing man raises the blue tarp of a pickup truck to reveal a tangle of young bodies as he lifts up the limp arm of one of the dead schoolkids.

At least 29 people  according to the International Committee of the Red Cross  and quite possibly 40 or 50, according to Yemeni estimates, were killed in the airstrike by jets in the Saudi-led coalition that's been waging a brutal war against the Saudis' next-door neighbor on the Arabian Peninsula for the last four years.

A spokesman for the Saudi coalition called it "a legitimate military operation" in its campaign against Houthi rebels that operate in northern Yemen  a claim that was scoffed at by most of the rest of the world, alarmed at the growing humanitarian crisis in the region.

"Does the world really need more innocent children's lives to stop the cruel war on children in Yemen?" asked Geert Cappalaere, the regional director for the Middle East and Northern Africa of the aid group UNICEF. Many of the kids killed or wounded in the attack were carrying bright blue UNICEF school bags, now shredded and burned.

The merciless Saudi-led war in Yemen  which has not only claimed 13,500 lives but triggered a humanitarian crisis in which some 20 million Yemenis, out of a nation of just 29 million, are scrambling for food and other basic necessities and as many as 900,000 people are suffering from cholera  is what it is today because of help from the United States.

America offers the Saudis and its allies in the region the intelligence used to carry out the nonstop airstrikes and other military operations. The planes that conduct the bombing runs are refueled by American forces in the region. And many of the bombs that have been dropped on Yemen  including those that have struck hospitals and other civilian targets  were manufactured and supplied by the United States.

It's very likely the bomb that obliterated the school bus last week was an American bomb; a Pentagon spokesman conceded that, because of the lengths to which U.S. forces go to avoid operational knowledge of the war for which we otherwise provide such critical support, it officially doesn't know whether we supplied these particular munitions. "We may never know if the munition [used] was one that the U.S. sold to them," Army Maj. Josh Jacques, a spokesperson for U.S. Central Command, told Vox  a classic case of American plausible deniability. But people on the ground in Yemen say they can link American-made bombs to Thursday's airstrike and other attacks on innocent civilians.

Thursday's school bus bombing did accomplish one thing: The unavoidable carnage forced American media  which has all but ignored the conflict in Yemen, and our role in supporting it  to pay at least a little bit of attention, cramming a few minutes of coverage into the end of the hour, after all the latest inane tweets from the Madman Across the Fairway had been regurgitated and dissected. It shouldn't have taken so long. There was no outcry a week earlier when a Saudi airstrike devastated one of Yemen's largest hospitals, which houses a large cholera treatment center, or after scores of other attacks that have killed so many civilians, including  according to the UN  some 2,400 children, with an additional 3,600 who've been maimed for life.

This blood is on America's hands, as long as we keep sending the bombs that kill so many Yemenis, and as long as we give the Saudis our unqualified diplomatic support in a messy regional conflict. And yet there's been no public debate about the murky U.S. role out of this, and no clarification from the White House or the Pentagon over what we hope to accomplish by our support of the mayhem. There are, however, a few members of Congress demanding answers.

But efforts by Congress to end America's role in the seemingly endless conflict have gone nowhere. In March, a bipartisan group of senators sought to invoke the Vietnam-era War Powers Act to limit U.S. involvement  "The Founding Fathers gave the power to authorize military conflicts to Congress, the branch most accountable to the people, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders declared  but were blocked on a procedural move. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell insisted that American involvement is somehow limiting civilian deaths, a ridiculous claim that defies all available information, not to mention logic.

America's entanglement in Yemen is so emblematic of the broader debacle that was once known as "the war on terror" but now has simply become the "forever war," spanning the globe from Africa to the Middle East to Asia, with America firing missiles from drones or going on secret raids or lining up with butchering autocrats like the Saudis for nebulous and sometimes shifting aims. This all happens without legal authorization from Congress, or anything resembling an open democratic debate, and with seemingly no expiration date.

Like the rest of the "forever war," Yemen is the fault of both parties  Democrat Barack Obama was the president who launched it, reportedly to keep the Saudis on board as he negotiated the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Republican Donald Trump, who rabidly favors all things Saudi Arabia while opposing all things Iran, even if that risks World War III, is only escalating matters. Like other military engagements, we were told it would only last months, only to see it drag on for years.

Indeed, civilian deaths linked to U.S. involvement in the "forever war" on a variety of fronts, most notably in parts of Syria and Iraq, have spiked dramatically since Trump became president  but few Americans even know this, because there is such little news coverage of what is being done in our name. We also don't know how much of Team Trump's pronounced tilt to the Saudis  including moving to kill the Iran deal  is the result of legitimate American geopolitical interests and how much is the result of corruption, given reports that an emissary of the Saudis and its close ally, the United Arab Emirates, came to Trump Tower in 2016 promising support for Trump's campaign.

The best role for the United States in Yemen would be as honest broker for peace between the warring factions  seeking an end to a humanitarian crisis that not only could ultimately hurt American interests in the long run but which is flat-out immoral. And yet that's the role we've shown zero interest in taking on.

You can judge a society on how much it cares for children  and America is failing abysmally right now. It's impossible to look at the picture at the top of this post, of a badly wounded child in his tinfoil blanket, and not think of the hundreds of kids sleeping in cages, in those exact same blankets, in detention centers on America's southern border. With cuts to the social safety net from Obamacare to food stamps  some proposed, some successfully carried out  we're not doing much better by American-born kids. Saada, Yemen, may be halfway around the world, but it's as good a place as any to stop the shameful treatment of God's children.

We all can do better. The news media needs to do a much better job keeping American citizens informed about what's happening in Yemen  and all the other outposts of "the forever war"  and how U.S. dollars and U.S. bombs are making these conflicts happen. The midterm candidates for Congress  from both parties  need to address this issue and tell voters how they plan to make this carnage stop, and be prepared to use the War Powers Act to block this administration from waging a war that's not just ill-advised but which should be considered illegal. If the American people can take back control of what is being done in our name, maybe we can finally begin washing away this spreading moral stain.Mayor Jim Kenney annoyed that the relocation of the controversial statue of former mayor Frank Rizzo which sits on Thomas Paine plaza will be delayed. ED HILLE / Staff Photographer. Read more

Violent protests a year ago in Charlottesville, Va. left three dead, 33 injured, and the country stunned at the ugliness of white nationalists carrying tiki torches protesting the removal of a Confederate statue of Robert E. Lee. More disturbingly, Charlottesville was a flash point for the suspicion, hatred, violence, and racism that our president  through words and actions  has encouraged since his election. Trump's rhetoric around immigrants, people of color, and others created a space for white supremacists to dominate last year's protests, and his comments immediately following Charlottesville gave comfort to those who hate.

Confronting that underbelly of hatred and racism that has larded our history for decades was still shocking. We were forced to address a tough question: Did Charlottesville show us what we've become, or what we've always been?

We can find part of the answer in an investigation that occurred 50 years ago following a series of riots in U.S. cities. The Lyndon Johnson administration assembled the National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders, known as the Kerner Commission, to investigate the riots and provide answers for the future. What's striking is how familiar it still sounds:

"Our nation is moving toward two societies, one black, one white  separate and unequal.

"Reaction to last summer's disorders has quickened the movement and deepened the division. Discrimination and segregation have long permeated much of America life; they now threaten the future of every American.

"This deepening racial division is not inevitable. The movement apart can be reversed. Choice is still possible. Our principal task is to define that choice and to press for a national resolution.

"To pursue our present course will involve the continuing polarization of the American community and, ultimately, the destruction of basic democratic values.

"Violence cannot build a better society. Disruption and disorder nourish repression, not justice"

It's sobering to realize these words were written 50 years ago. By some measures, we have evolved. But, as Charlottesville showed us, ugliness remains.

One ray of hope amid the divisiveness in this country has been the actions of cities stepping forward to push back against violence, racism, and fear.

Philadelphia in particular has taken pains to stand its ground against immigration policies and to speak out against racism. The city has steadfastly remained, through court battles, a sanctuary city and recently ended an arrangement with ICE that would no longer grant them access to arraignment data. And when the national conversation focused on Confederate statues, the city and Mayor Kenney were quick to begin a process of review following councilwoman Helen Gym's suggestion that the Frank Rizzo statue be moved from the Municipal Services Building. That's why last week's report revealing that the Rizzo statue won't be moved anytime before 2021 or 2022 is such a disappointment.

Mayor Kenney has taken pains to publicly underscore the value of our city as welcoming and diverse. That's a message undercut by the delay in moving the controversial statue that for some stands for oppression. That it was confirmed so near the anniversary of Charlottesville is sadly tone-deaf  especially at a time when better listening is critical.Firefighters battle a three alarm junkyard fire at Tulip and Somerset streets in Kensington, Tuesday, July 10, 2018. STEVEN M. FALK / Staff Photographer Read more

A Kensington junkyard that caught fire last month has been permitted to reopen  again  after addressing code violations.

The city's Department of Licenses and Inspections had ordered the junkyard at Somerset and Tulip Streets, Philadelphia Metal & Resource Recovery, to close last month. L&I required the facility's owners to reduce scrap piles to 10 feet and create clear fire lanes between piles.

Karen Guss, an L&I spokeswoman, said Saturday afternoon that the owners met those requirements.

Earlier this month, Common Pleas Court Judge Paula A. Patrick had rejected a request by the junkyard to reopen, saying it first had to resolve multiple code violations. She gave owner David Feinberg a week to prepare for an inspection.

"We believe that aggressive use of cease-operations order was key factor in owner getting the work done so quickly," Guss said in an email Saturday.

>> READ MORE: Kensington junkyard: Site of spectacular fire, violations, reopens for business

The July 1 fire grew to four alarms and sent thick, acrid smoke through the neighborhood. Feinberg told news outlets he believed heroin users had started it. He could not be reached for comment Saturday afternoon.

The junkyard, which reopened for the first time just two weeks after the blaze, was then hit with a cease-operations order by L&I.

>> READ MORE: Fire-damaged junkyard ordered to shut down

Guss said L&I would continue to monitor and reinspect the property. The city has a hearing in an ongoing case against Philadelphia Metal & Resource Recovery on Aug. 30. Guss said the city would be asking for "hundreds of thousands of dollars" in fines. L&I has cited the facility multiple times for violations in the last 10 years.In November 2017, Mayor Jim Kenney announced that the controversial statue of former mayor Frank Rizzo which sits on Thomas Paine Plaza will be moved. Read more

From 1992 until 2015, Jim Kenney sat in his City Council office across the street from the Frank Rizzo statue in front of the Municipal Services Building, and it wasn't racist.

Kenney was in office when private funds were raised for the 10-foot bronze statue, and he was in office when it was placed on the steps of Thomas Paine Plaza on Jan. 1, 1999  and it wasn't racist.

It wasn't racist in 1993, when Mayor Ed Rendell and District Attorney Lynne Abraham co-chaired a $75-a-plate dinner Oct. 29 at Palumbo's in South Philadelphia to help raise almost $75,000 for the statue.

The city approved the location, selected by the Art Commission, and for almost 20 years it stood across from City Hall, in which black mayors and Council people worked. It wasn't racist.

Then came the white nationalist march in Charlottesville in 2017. Councilwoman Helen Gym, the bloodhound of imagined insult, found the statue was racist, equivalent to Confederate statues around the country that were being removed. The councilwoman, who previously unsuccessfully attacked an Asian food truck as being racist, found more traction with the massive memorial. The statue had become racist.

She tweeted that it should come down and a citywide debate was on.

After a noisy few months, Kenney said he would let the Art Commission decide what to do. But in November he made a U-turn and said he had decided the statue would be moved, and the Art Commission would only get to say where.

Things quieted down until Friday, when the "Clout" column in the Inquirer and Daily News reported that Kenney was going to delay moving the statue until at least 2020.

This may have come as a surprise to some, but not to Frank Rizzo, or his statue, anyway, which I interviewed in May. He said, and I quote, "He's yellow. He's gonna delay until after the election."

Prophecy fulfilled.

Kenney denies a political component in the decision to delay the statue's move, which is like denying water is wet.

"It's a political decision," says longtime Rizzo loyalist Jody Della Barba. "There must have been a poll where he's not too good with Rizzo supporters."

Center City lawyer George Bochetto has the statue as a client. "I think that the whole idea of moving the Rizzo statue is bad politics and bad business for government," he says. If a decision to move it gets made, he'll go to court to block it, he says.

Frank Rizzo Jr. says the decision is political and moving the statue is wrongheaded. "As police commissioner, he served the entire city. As mayor, he served the entire city," he says. "My dad loved South Philadelphia, but he served all of Philadelphia."

He adds that his father integrated two-officer police cars (we had two-man cars back then), he trusted his life to his security team led by African American officers Tony Fulwood and Jimmy Turner, and he found funding for the African American Museum.

If Mayor Kenney, who once co-sponsored a bill to rename the Municipal Services Building for Frank Rizzo, actually believes that the late mayor's legacy is nothing but racism and police brutality, why delay moving that despicable monument? Wouldn't Justice call for immediate action (unless the politics were bad)?

Since he's changed his mind a couple of times on the statue  not to mention reversing himself on where Made in America would be staged  Kenney might as well do another about-face and leave the statue where it always has been.White nationalist Jason Kessler walks alongside a small group of supporters to the White House to rally on the one year anniversary of the Charlottesville "Unite the Right" rally, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018, in Washington. Read more

Just a small number of white supremacists and members of other far-right groups showed up at a park just north of the White House on Sunday afternoon to rally for "white civil rights" a year after deadly violence broke out following a rally involving neo-Nazis and Ku Klux Klan members in Charlottesville, Va.

Unite the Right II, which was being billed as a "white civil rights rally," was scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. in Lafayette Square. But white nationalist Jason Kessler, the event's organizer, arrived about 3 p.m. with what were reported to be about two dozen allies, far fewer than the 400 Kessler expected to attend. Kessler and other attendees, far outnumbered by reporters covering the event, spoke and exited the park about 5:15 p.m.

Kessler was behind last year's rally in Charlottesville, which included neo-Nazis and members of the Ku Klux Klan chanting "Jews will not replace us" while carrying tiki torches in front of a statue of Confederate war hero Robert E. Lee. Heather Heyer, a 32-year-old paralegal and activist, was killed amid last year's violence. And Virginia state troopers H. Jay Cullen and Berke M.M. Bates lost their lives when their helicopter crashed as they were monitoring the rally.

Kessler's event was dwarfed by counter-protesters from at least 40 anti-racism groups, including the leftist anti-fascist group Antifa. Many white nationalists who supported and attended last year's violent rally, such as Mike "Enoch" Peinovich, a top neo-Nazi shock jock whose father is a retired University of Pennsylvania professor, have publicly distanced themselves from Kessler this time around.

White nationalists leave park early

Kessler and the attendees exited Lafayette Square around 5 p.m, about the time the event was scheduled to begin. Kessler told reporters that his rally was poorly attended by other white nationalists because of alt-right infighting and leaders within the movement telling followers not to travel to Washington to attend today's event.

Police: Man arrested for spitting on two state troopers

Despite the anger and tense atmosphere, so far there's only been one arrest. According to Fairfax County Police Chief Edwin Roessier, a man was arrested at the Vienna Metro Station around 2:30 p.m. after he allegedly spit on two Virginia state troopers.

It's unclear whether the man arrested was a counterprotester or a member of Kessler's group of white nationalists who took the Metro to Foggy Bottom before their rally at 5:30 p.m.

Anytime, any place, punch a Nazi in the face

Antifa antiprotesters have arrived, and according to reporters on the ground, they far outnumber the small group of white nationalists that have shown up in Washington on Sunday afternoon. Members of Antifa, donning black shirts and bandannas covering their face, could be heard chanting, "Anytime, any place, punch a Nazi in the face."

Small group of white nationalists arrive with rally organizer

A small group of "Unite the Right" attendees arrived in Washington around 3 p.m. led by Kessler, who organized today's rally. According to reporters, the group is much smaller than the 400 or so that were expected to promote "white rights" in a park near the White House.

"A band of racists outnumbered by the police officers who are there to protect their free speech rights," CNN Reliable Sources host Brian Stelter wrote on Twitter.

Counter-protesters out in force ahead of white nationalist rally

Hours before white nationalists were expected to begin their rally, hundreds of counterprotesters filled Lafayette Square and Freedom Plaza in Washington to offer their own message against racism and white supremacy.

"We represent the majority sentiment in this country," Brian Becker, the executive director of the A.N.S.W.E.R. Coalition, told the Washington Post. "Nazis and the KKK do not represent America."

Antifa protesters get rough in Charlottesville

Members of Antifa led a tense march from the University of Virginia campus through Charlottesville on Saturday night, shouting at police, "Last year they came with torches. This year they come with badges," and chanting "Why are you in riot gear? We don't see no riot here." NBC News correspondent Cal Perry and his camera crew were roughed up last night when protesters became very aggressive with members of the media.

"Charlottesville police deserve a lot of credit for keeping it under relative control," Perry wrote on Twitter early Sunday morning. He also shared more videos of the tense crowd of protesters, which drew widespread condemnation from members of the media.

"Totally unacceptable and not at all out of the norm for antifa," wrote CNN host Jake Tapper.An inmate who police said escaped from the custody of Cumberland County Department of Corrections officers Friday was arrested Saturday in Baltimore and his father was charged with aiding in his getaway.

New Jersey State Police announced Sunday morning that David Riley, 34, of Bridgeton, Cumberland County, was apprehended by U.S. Marshals at a bus terminal in Baltimore and was being held in a city detention center awaiting extradition back to New Jersey.

Investigators said Riley's father, David Carty, 58, also of Bridgeton, drove his son to Baltimore and bought him a bus ticket to Atlanta. State police arrested Carty at a motel in Vineland, and he was charged with hindering apprehension, obstruction of justice, and aiding another in an escape. As of Sunday morning, Carty was being held at Cumberland County Jail and awaiting a bail hearing.

Police said Friday that Riley escaped from custody shortly before 10:30 a.m., fleeing on foot, without handcuffs and wearing only a T-shirt and boxer shorts near Cornwell Drive and Old Deerfield Pike in Upper Deerfield Township, Cumberland County. He was considered armed and dangerous.

Information on why Riley has been in jail was not immediately available Sunday, though court records show he was sentenced in 2010 on kidnapping charges.MBARARA  Residents of Bubaare SubCounty in Mbarara District have petitioned the Inspector General of Police, Martins Okoth-Ochola, President Museveni and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations at Kibuli over the rampant theft of their cows.

In the petition, the residents accuse the police in Mbarara of mishandling investigations into cases of livestock theft.

Since 2017 to date, the residents have lost over 300 cows and more than 2000 goats and the most annoying thing is that the suspects are known and when they are arrested, they either get their way out at Police or court, read the petition signed by Mr Dickens Kagarura, one of the 19 residents who reported cases of theft of their cows.

Sir, the craziest part of this cattle rustling scam in my sub-county is that the stolen cows were loaded on lorry a kilometre away from the Police post of Anti Stock Theft Unit on 7 miles Mbarara-Ishaka Road which was established a few months back to curb the scam, reads the complaint in part.

Mr Kagarura, who is also the chairman of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) for Bubaare Sub County, said victims have been reporting the complaints to Mbarara Police Station and other police posts but little has been done to arrest the accused persons.

The residents requested the Police to deploy Flying Squad Unit officers to help the suspects and curb the theft and also to reprimand the officers who mishandled the investigations and others be transferred since they have overstayed on their current stations.

This scam of stealing animals without any remedy threatens the livelihood and security of the residents and in the short run, it is going to encourage mob justice as people would seem not to be trusting the investigating and justice system. It is as if the Police Criminal Investigations Directorate soothes the criminals and that is why when they are released or when some are still in detention, the vice re-occurs, reads part of the letter.

RelatedBut the former FDC President Dr Kizza Besigye on Wednesday, July 8, advised the dropped leaders to accept the new changes made by the party president, saying failure to leave power is the biggest problem of the country.

These claimed that replacing Ms Kiiza was unfair to the people of Kasese who have always voted FDC.

Mr Ntabose Gideon Sanyu, the FDC vice chairperson said; We are not convinced with the way the party president acted to chase our own before her term of office expired. He lied to us and we feel betrayed as people who voted 100% at national level and 80% at district level. We have given him five days to respond to us or else we shall walk up to Najjanankumbi for action.

On Tuesday, July 8, Ms Kiiza was joined by a section of FDC party leaders in Kasese District who threatened to march up to the national party offices in Najjanankumbi, Kampala if party president Patrick Amuriat does not explain why Ms Kiiza was removed from the position.

She also accused some party members of using the party to advance their interests saying that changes are healthy and normal but should be in a transparent manner, signing out bitterly.

Replaced by Gulu Woman MP Betty Aol, Ms Kiiza said that she was disappointed to learn of her predicament through the media and protested the spirit of the changes.

The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) controversial mid-term reshuffle in their parliamentary leadership dominated the early news agenda of the week with Kasese Woman MP Winfred Kiiza, dropped as Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the spotlight.

In the same week, the decision by the Vatican to suspend activities of the Apostles of Jesus congregation came to the fore. The drastic action was ordered by Joao Braz Cardinal de Aviz, the Prefect in charge of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life who also appointed Rev. Fr. Raphael pOmony Wokrach from the MCCJ  Comboni Missionaries (Missionarii Comboniani Cordis Jesu) to head a Pontifical Commission, that will take over all the duties of the leadership of the society and conduct a further investigation into priests misbehaviour.

Police spokesperson Emilian Kayima on Tuesday confirmed during a press conference that some traffic officers are under investigation but did not state the number.

The changes came as traffic officers, especially those from Kampala Metropolitan districts of Kampala, Wakiso and Mukono, are under investigation over extortion. Cyclists accuse traffic officers of extorting from them money ranging from Shs50,000 and Shs150,000 whenever their motorcycles are impounded on traffic offences.

The changes saw KMP traffic operations commander Julius Luyima named officer-in-charge [OC] of traffic in Masindi District. Israel Wambesyo, who was deputy to KMP traffic commander Norman Musinga, was moved to Ssezibwa as Regional Traffic Officer. Grace Kiberu moves from Ssezibwa takes his place among other changes.

Still, on Monday, August 6, The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Martins Okoth-Ochola reshuffled 23 traffic commanders countrywide in what was seen as a response to allegations of extortion against the officers, especially those in the Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP) area.

The suspended students are Mr Jobs Dhabona of School of Psychology, Mr Daniel Kituno, Bachelor of Commerce External a and Mr Samuel Kigula of School of Medicine. However, PML Daily has learnt that students have since filed an application before the High Court civil division, claiming the decision by the university to suspend them was reached at in utter disregard of principles of natural justice and as such its mired with illegalities.

Prof. Nawangwe said the three disrupted a Guild Representative Council (GRC) session on Sunday, August 5, and caused damage to University property.

Earlier On Monday, August 6, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Makerere University Vice Chancellor indefinitely suspended three students for engaging in what he termed as acts of inciting violence at the University.

[This Dicastery] prohibits the admission of new members to the novitiate and to temporary and perpetual religious profession, and the suspension of diaconal ordinations, Cardinal de Aviz announced.

On Tuesday, August 7, Jinja Town was the scene of pain, tears and frustration after traders lost millions of shillings in property that was gutted by fire in Madhvani market. Traders at the scene said the fire started at around 2 am and burnt half of the market to ashes. The traders said the Jinja Police fire brigade was unable to extinguish the fire because they lacked enough water, which allowed the fire to spread until fire brigade from Kakira came and saved a section of the market on Gokhale Road from being burnt. It was not immediately clear what caused the fire but the Jinja Central Division Councillor, Mr Zein Abdullah, said it could have been started by electrical appliances which had not been switched off on Monday after a power outage. The police have embarked on investigations to ascertain the cause of the fire. Still on Monday, police confirmed the preparations to install CCTV cameras on along roads and busy places are underway. Mr Kayima said that over 3000 cameras will be installed in Kampala though other regions will also benefit in this cause. Also on Tuesday, The Kigezi bishops Rt. Rev. Benon Magezi, the Bishop of North Kigezi Diocese in Rukungiri district and Rev. Dan Zoreka, the Bishop of Kinkiizi Diocese in Kanungu district were in serious disagreement over the ownership of Rugandu church. Following the wrangles, Bishop Magezi closed the church about four months ago after its members failed to know where they fall. However, on Monday, Rev Zoreka forcefully re-opened it, saying that his North Kigezi Diocese colleague had acted randomly. Bishop Magezi, condemned Bishop Zorekas action of reopening the church and threatened to drag him to court for trespass Still on Tuesday, there was drama at the General Court Martial when a lawyer representing the embattled Boda Boda 2010 Association patron, Abdallah Kitatta was thrown out of court for disrespecting proceedings. The court was in the middle of the cross-examination of the prosecution witness, Pte. Richard Kasaija over his May testimony that pinned Kitatta on being in unlawful possession of three guns and 55 rounds of ammunition. However, Kitattas lawyer, Jimmy Muyanja, banged the table in anger, accusing the prosecutor, Maj Raphael Mugisha, of signalling answers to the witness, whose cross-examination had lasted four hours. Muyanjas actions angered the court chairman, Lt Gen Andrew Gutti, who ordered Military Police to escort him out, with a warning never to set foot in the court again for being stupid. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, the Rwandan army detained its long-serving former intelligence chief, Lt. Gen. Karenzi Karake, a move that has since rattled the countrys top security echelons. The 57-year-old, who worked as the director general of the National Intelligence and Security Services, was detained at an unknown location on yet-to-be unspecified charges. Rwanda Investigations Bureau (RIB) spokesperson Modeste Mbabazi however, denied Karenzis arrest and the countrys Defence Ministry has since refused to comment on the matter but sources in the military said the arrest is linked to his alleged negative remarks about deteriorating diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Uganda. On Tuesday, August 7, The state minister for lands Persis Namuganza defended dubious payments on the disputed Mubende land and told the commission of inquiry into land matters that she was working on orders of president Yoweri Museveni. The minister also said that she could not defy presidents directives who is also the appointing authority of the land commission. Namuganza was summoned on allegations that she led a delegation to State House after she allegedly deceived the said families that President Museveni was going to compensate them. She also has denied the payment of Shs4 billion saying that no one can be paid in Statehouse. Still on Tuesday Finance minister Matia Kasaija revealed that government has injected Shs100 billion to buy off excess maize stock that has resulted into falling corn prices.

The minister said funds will be accessible to all interested traders in the maize business, who have requisite storage, cleaning and drying facilities in order to allow the maize to be stored for at least six months when prices are expected to recover. On Wednesday, August 8, Makerere university urged the new students to openly defy the sexual harassment vice and stand strong for their academic rights. Dr. Baine Mugisha, The Director of Makerere University Gender and Mainstreamingencouraged students to acquaint themselves with the University policy and regulations against sexual harassment. She said that the policy clearly defines sexual harassment and provides its various forms. It provides details on whom you should contact and where to go in case you are harassed. Still, on Wednesday, the Minister of State for Primary Health Care Dr Joyce Moriku Kaducu was perturbed by the rate at which diabetes has increased in Uganda.

The minister was shocked by the report that in just two days the medical camp organised by Indo Africa and Uganda Medical Mission at Pece war memorial stadium in Gulu town on August 7th, had diagnosed 70 children with diabetes 50 with high blood pressure. Dr Joyce Kaducu urged the community of Gulu district to intensify fight against non-communicable diseases arguing that such diseases still remains a big problem in Uganda and its on the rise among the urban population.

In the same week, businessman Amos Nzeyi faced a tough time before the land probe as he laboured to explain how he acquired a 366-acre piece of land at Temangalo in Wakiso District, which he later sold to the National Social Security Fund (NSSF). Mr Nzeyi was appearing to defend allegations that he fraudulently acquired the land on Plot 20 in Busiro in 1993 while it was registered in the names of M/s Temangalo Tea Estate, a company owned by the family of Muhammad Hassanali Moosa before they were expelled by the Idi Amin regime. But he said Mawandas former lawyers of Sebalu and Lule Company Advocates carried out due diligence on the land before he bought it. Meanwhile on Wednesday President Museveni launched the Motorized Infantry Conversion facility at Maga Maga Army Barracks in Mayuge District and praised the late Gen. Aronda Nyakairima, the former Internal Affairs Minister, for the initiative. Mr Museveni said that the late Gen. Aronda brought the idea to him of acquiring the new technology in the army adding that the plant that will manufacture and assemble military Nyoka 44 mine and ballistic-protected vehicles. On Thursday, August 9, Trailblazers Mentoring Foundation (TMF) programmes director Ms Josephine Pedun called on government to take action on the alarming rate of child marriages and teenage pregnancies in the country. She said that child marriage and early childbearing remain common especially in the eastern districts despite legislation against them. Despite governments effort to offer free primary and secondary education, the rampant cases of early marriages have derailed the primary school completion rate among girls in most regions of the country. TMF revealed other emerging challenges such as high levels of drug abuse among youth out of school in the districts of Kamuli, Lira and Moroto. Still on Thursday, members of the ICT Parliamentary Committee tasked UCC to carry out a countrywide sensitisation of the public, urging the body to consider dedicating a two-month awareness campaign over the ban on the use of airtime scratch cards. Despite the defence of the decision to ban the use of airtime scratch cards by ICT MinisterMr. Frank Tumwebaze, the MPs insisted the ban should be suspended. On Friday 10, Dr James Ocita a senior lecturer at Makerere Universitys department of Literature blasted the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe over irresponsible statements and conducting personal attacks on lecturers telling him off  the office of the Vice Chancellor existed before you. Dr Ocita, in an e-mail circulated on the staff mailing list, accused, Prof Nawangwe of allegedly making statements that were concealed in reference to him of recruiting his wife on a PhD programme. Still, on Friday, Ugandan youths petitioned Speaker Rebecca Kadaga, asking Parliament to review the nomination fees for both Presidential and Parliamentary candidates saying the current fees are so high and locking them out of public office. The request was made during the National Youth Parliament, where they argued that the decision by Parliament to increase the nomination fees is discriminatory and intended to keep incumbent MPs hold onto power, at expense of youths who would like to throw their weight to represent their people. Kadaga concurred with the youths noting that there is need to reduce the nomination fees, so as to give chance to all Ugandans. Meanwhile on Friday, Ms Beatrice Ikilai, a senior official in the Ministry of Finance, in a letter to Mr Keith Muhakanizi, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance Planning and Economic Development claimed she had confirmation of her appointment withdrawn at the last hour and has blamed her PS for acting heartless by ordering her to hand over office. In the letter, seen by PML Daily, Ms Ikilai refers to herself as an innocent sacrificial lamb. I am an innocent sacrificial lamb. Its only God who knows the plight of people in my situation; in this world, without a tall relative you feed on your saliva, she spat more fire. Still, on Friday, Prime Minister Dr Ruhakana Rugunda broke the silence on the continued detention of the former Inspector General of Police Gen. Kale Kayihura saying he is being handled in the right procedure. Dr Rugunda told Parliament that Gen. Kayihura is to be handled according to procedure befitting of a military general. This was while responding to a question raised by Mr. Latif Ssebaggala the Kawempe North Member of Parliament, on government plans to present Gen. Kayihura before court. Meanwhile, on Friday, August 9 Finance Minister Matia Kasaija revealed that he is ready to withdraw the nomination of Ms Justine Bagyenda to serve as a board member of the Financial Intelligence Authority (FIA) should Parliament decline to vet her on moral grounds being that, she is still under investigations. Mr Kasaija nominated Bagyenda, the underfire former Executive Director Supervision at Bank of Uganda, to serve a second term on the FIA board despite having been embroiled in a string of illicit enrichment schemes Investigations on Ms.Bagyendas source of wealth were triggered off by a whistleblower after leaking her fat bank account details showing she had over Shs19 Billion in three different Banks and 17 properties in prime areas. On Saturday, Kampala Capital City Authority threatened to sue some followers of Phaneero Ministries over the destruction of the property around the city ahead of their forthcoming anniversary at Kololo. KCCA gave warning note on their official twitter handle, We have noted with great displeasure the continued destruction of green belts. Be cautioned that trespass is an abuse of the law & undermines the beautification efforts undertaken in the City. Following a series of sensitization against this vice, prosecution will ensue. Phaneero Ministries led by Grace Lubega is set to celebrate their fourth anniversary since establishing a footprint in Uganda. Still, on the same day, The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) has released the timetable for the Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) exams. UCE students will start their examinations first, on October 12, with the briefing of candidates across the country. The students will sit for their first paper, Physics Practice, on October 15.KAMPALA  President Yoweri Museveni has urged the youth in the country to wake up and contribute to the development of Uganda so that they are able to come out of poverty and joblessness.

I want the youth to wake up so that we develop our country in order to come out of poverty and joblessness, he said.

The President was addressing the National Youth Council meeting at the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) Conference Hall at Lugogo in Kampala at the weekend.

He passionately advised them to continue understanding the ideology and strategy of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) as this will make easy for them and him to work together. He, at this juncture, assured them in particular and all Ugandans in general that nobody will disturb the prevailing peace and the security in the country.

Mr Museveni told the meeting that the NRM government`s foresighted planning has prescribed solutions to the challenges facing the youth such as lack of property, jobs and skills. He appealed to the youth to support the government to increase the Youth Fund so that they are further empowered to form groups to undertake different production activities with a view to adding value to products made locally in the country as a way of reducing import expenses.

He assured the youth that Government will provide maize processing machines in different areas of Masindi District, among others, where a lot of maize is produced. He, therefore, called on the youth to undertake the commercialisation of agriculture and also move interest their parents in the same ventures of commercial production.

President Museveni advised the Youth Secretariat to engage scientists from Makerere University so as to get scientific explanations on what to do to improve production ventures. He proposed to the youth in the country to have action plans geared towards stopping the haemorrhage of their countrys annual expenditure on imports worth US$7 billion.

You are very lucky in a very rich country and your parents are rich because they spend money to enrich others by importing these things. I want an action plan by the youth so that we stop this haemorrhage of spending US$7 billion on imports every year, he said.

The President further asked the youth to know how to defend their interests and what is good for them so that the government can support them better. He also warned them against land fragmentation practices and only work to consolidate families pieces of land keeping in mind that they should embrace of shares and parcel out the monetary proceeds from the activities carried on other then parcelling out land into uneconomic units.

The President, on a strong note, challenged the youth to help their parents to embrace commercial farming by encouraging them to abandon subsistence farming that is still a big problem. He noted that 32 percent of Ugandans are currently in money economy while the remaining 68% are mere spectators.

RelatedAHMEDABAD, India, August 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

Anant National University, India's first Design University, located in the Heritage city, Ahmedabad, welcomes its new batch of Design and Architecture students. The orientation day organised on August 12, 2018, follows the massive makeover AnantU underwent during the summer break. The university has revamped its curriculum across all programmes to become more interdisciplinary, and upgraded its infrastructure to be in sync with its pedagogical philosophy.

(Logo: http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/625509/Anant_National_University_Logo.jpg )



The incoming batch of students will collectively go through a foundation year that emphasises on unlearning pre-conceived notions of self and surroundings, and builds critical life skills of collaboration, communication, problem solving, and critical thinking. Their academic journey will continue with a choice based credit system wherein each student will have the freedom to design his/her own learning path.

Principles of sustainability, and real-life cases relevant to the subject form a major component of all modules taught at Anant National University along with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning through workshops, studio work, field trips, research projects, and internships during the programme. To further support progressive academic modules and provide students with a holistic learning experience, the campus site has been rebuilt to provide students with a Makers' Hub for conducting in-session, summer, and winter workshops, Learning Commons as a replacement to the traditional library, and Collaborative Classrooms to facilitate interdisciplinary learning.

Students of AnantU will also benefit from the guidance they receive under the university's accomplished faculty members like Hemen Sanghvi, Sonal Beri, Amit Sheth, Jeroen van Erp from TU Delft, Rodolphe el-Khoury from University of Miami, and more, and from its collaborations with eminent global institutes like the University of Pennsylvania, Tel Aviv University, and Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design. With practices and pedagogy at par with leading global universities, and new programmes being added every year, AnantU is well on its mission to becoming a leading University in India and the world.

About Anant National University

Anant National University is committed to nurturing solutionaries who design, build and preserve a more equitable and sustainable India. It envisions to become India's leading private teaching and research university in the fields of built environment, design, and sustainability.

Anant National University, located in the sprawling Sanskardham campus in Ahmedabad, is led by a cadre of eminent people from academia, business, and government, each of whom is a leader in their respective fields. Some members of AnantU's Governing Board: Mr Ajay Piramal, President, Anant National University (Chairman, Piramal Group and Shriram Group); Dr. Pramath Raj Sinha, Provost, Anant National University (Founding Dean, Indian School of Business; Founder & Trustee, Ashoka University); Mr. Abhishek Lodha (Managing Director, Lodha Group); Mr. Adil Zainulbhai (Chairman, Network18; Chairman, Quality Council of India; Former Chairman, McKinsey & Co., India); Ms. Indira Parikh (Founder President, FLAME University); Dr. Sudhir Jain (Director, IIT Gandhinagar) and several others.

SOURCE Anant National UniversityIf you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this





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For transfer instructions to GoDaddy, please click here.'The Opposition has no option but to make it an 'All versus One' fight to even think about winning.'

Photograph: Issei Kato/Reuters

In an exclusive interview to ANI, Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi touched upon various important issues including the National Register of Citizens, the Goods and Services Tax, women empowerment and India-Pakistan relations.

He allayed concerns that the NRC will exclude Indian citizens and assured all opportunities will be given to people to get their concerns addressed.

Modi also spoke of the Mahagathbandhan which will face off against him in the 2019 general elections.

On India-Pakistan relations, the PM hoped that under the new government, Pakistan would work for a safe, secure, stable and prosperous region, free from terror and violence.

The recent implementation of the Supreme Court mandated National Register of Citizens has created controversy, with Mamata Banerjee saying it could lead to 'civil war'. What are your thoughts on this?

Only those who have lost faith in themselves, fear loss of popular support and lack faith in our institutions can use words like 'civil war', 'blood bath' and 'desh ke tukde tukde.' Evidently, they are disconnected from the pulse of the nation.

As far as Mamataji's stand is concerned, she should remember what she said on the floor of Parliament in 2005. Was that Mamataji correct or is this Mamataji correct?

The Congress is also playing politics over the NRC.

The roots of the NRC go back three decades when Rajiv Gandhi had to bow to public pressure and sign the Assam Accord.

Since then Assam voted for the Congress several times, but the party did nothing about it and kept misleading the people.

The Congress knew a problem exists, but allowed it to fester for decades because they were guided by votebank politics.

I want to assure the people that no citizen of India will have to leave the country.

As per the due process, all possible opportunities will be given to get their concerns addressed.

The NRC was a promise of ours, which we are fulfilling under the guidance of the honourable Supreme Court.

It is not about politics, but about people.

If someone is making it about rajaneeti, it is extremely unfortunate.

Our job in the political class is to work according to the will of the people and do what they have given us the mandate for.

IMAGE: People protest against lynchings across India and the recent mob attack on Swami Agnivesh in Mumbai. Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters

The Opposition has raked up the issue of crimes against women and incidents of lynching. Your critics say you have not spoken about them. Your comments?

It would be a great travesty to reduce these incidents to mere statistics and then indulge in politics over them. That shows a kind of perverse mindset that looks at violence and criminality as something to be milked, instead of unitedly opposing.

Even a single incident is one too many and deeply unfortunate.

Everyone should rise above politics to ensure peace and unity in our society.

My party and I have spoken in clear words, on multiple occasions against such actions and such a mindset. It is all on record.

Also, we are people who go beyond just words.

Look at the actions of our home ministry to see how we have acted against violence.

Soon after I assumed office, I had said from the ramparts of the Red Fort that it is everyone's responsibility to ensure the dignity of women, whether the government, society, family or individual.

At the government level, we have gone to the extent of making provisions of capital punishment in certain category of crimes against women.

You might have noted that results in terms of quick disposal of such cases leading to even capital punishment have started coming in.

Let there be no doubts about the will of my government to implement the rule of law in its true letter and spirit.

Is women empowerment only a slogan or has there been any real progress?

No country can progress if its women are not equal partners in the development process.

Going a step ahead of women development, we are working towards women-led development.

Beti Bachao Beti Padhao was among the first programmes that this government launched aimed at addressing the issue of declining child sex ratio and educating the girl child.

Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao has led to significant improvement in the child sex ratio in various parts of India.

It has taken the shape of a vibrant mass movement that is changing mindsets all over.

This is the first time in the history of independent India that we have two women in the Cabinet Committee on Security -- the minister of external affairs and the minister for defence.

Women have, for the first time, been inducted as fighter pilots in combat roles in the Indian Air Force.

Construction of toilets in the millions under Swachch Bharat Abhiyan both in rural and semi-urban areas augments women safety and security.

Separate toilets for girls constructed in all government schools in mission mode will help reduce the dropout of girl students.

The newly-amended Maternity Benefit Act statutorily increases maternity leave to 26 weeks and makes it mandatory for every establishment that has more than 50 employees (whether male or female) to offer creche facilities.

This will ensure that working women are not compelled to drop out of the workforce.

Mission Indradhanush and Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana is ensuring the good health of the mother and the child.

Under the Ujjwala Scheme, free LPG connections have revolutionised the lives of poor women. It heralds freedom from smoky chulhas and persistent cough.

More than 5 crore (50 million) LPG connections have been released to poor women so far.

There is a sizeable and rapid growth in financial inclusion of women, which paves the way for irreversible and institutional progress.

Through the Jan Dhan Yojana, more than 16 crore accounts of women have been opened. We have not only focussed on financial inclusion, but also financial empowerment of women.

Thanks to the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana over 13 crore (130 million) loans have been given of which more than 70 per cent have been given to women.

Under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission, there is a massive increase in access to credit by women SHGs.

You would be glad to know that the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana gives preference to allotment in the name of the women in the family.

This is a major step in furthering the dignity and empowerment of women.

This government has never shied away from tough measures to ensure gender justice.

The triple talaq bill is in response to a long standing injustice done to Muslim women in India.

The anti-trafficking bill, that has just been passed by the Lok Sabha, attempts to address one of the most pervasive crimes affecting women and children, especially the most vulnerable.

According to the new Haj policy, for the first time, women above the age of 45 years can go for the pilgrimage without a mehram, or a male escort. This also is a harbinger of substantial change.

I think all the points mentioned give a glimpse of this government's consistent commitment to women empowerment.

You can judge whether this is just a slogan or there is concrete action.

What is your stand on caste-based reservations? Is it true that your government is waiting for the right time to abolish reservations?

The objectives of our Constitution and the dreams of Dr Babasaheb (Ambedkar are still incomplete.

It is the responsibility of everyone of us to fulfill his dream and reservations are an important tool to achieve this.

Reservation is here to stay. Let there be no doubts about this.

The dreams of Babasaheb are the strength of this nation and we are committed to fulfilling them.

Our mantra is sabka saath, sabka vikas and to achieve this, it is most important to protect the rights of the poor, marginalised, downtrodden, Dalits, tribals and OBCs.

Before any crucial election, there are vested interest groups who will raise a bogey that the Bharatiya Janata Party will abolish reservations and sections of the media will amplify this.

Those who are constantly spreading canards on the issue and politicising it are the same people who have always crushed Babasaheb's dreams.

They are trying to sow seeds of doubt and mistrust among the weaker sections of society. But the people of India are wise and they will not believe this propaganda.

Look across the length and breadth of India, maximum MPs from the SC, ST and OBC communities are from the BJP.

Maximum MLAs from the SC, ST and OBC communities are from BJP.

I would request you all to see the kind of things our former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi said about the Mandal Commission.

On the floor of Parliament he opposed it tooth and nail. The situation in his party is no different today.

Why are the smaller allies of the BJP losing faith in the coalition?

Some have quit, some say they will not fight alongside your party in 2019.

Instead of adding to your kitty due to the stunning victory of 2014, you are seen as a party that is a difficult magnet to attract allies.

Two events of the recent past will answer your question -- the no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha and the election for the deputy chairperson of the Rajya Sabha.

The outcome of both these events should indicate which coalition is intact and which is falling apart.

In fact, we got support even from those parties which are not our allies.

The BJP has consistently expanded its base over the recent years among the people and welcomed more allies to the National Democratic Alliance family.

The political impasse in Jammu and Kashmir continues to be unresolved with the coalition collapsing and Governor's Rule seemingly being continuous.

Do you think your party made a mistake in forming the government with the Peoples Democratic Party?

Would you do it again if there is a hung verdict again?

The people's mandate during the state assembly elections was towards formation of a government jointly by the BJP and the PDP.

Also, in that situation, there was no other alternative.

That is why, to fulfill the people's expectations, we formed the coalition government.

However, after the sad demise of Mufti Sahab Mufti Mohammed Sayeed), there were hurdles in fulfilling those expectations.

For the BJP, the people's interest is above political interests and that is why without casting any aspersions, we opted out of power.

The BJP is always with the people of J&K and is ready to fulfill their dreams.

This importantly includes deepening the roots of democracy in the state right down to the panchayat and village level.

We made efforts to strengthen local self-government at the village level, but in that coalition government it was becoming increasingly tough to do so.

The central government is committed to holistic development of Jammu and Kashmir across the regions of Jammu, Ladakh and the Kashmir valley.

IMAGE: 'The people of this country, particularly the business community, have supported GST and adopted it whole-heartedly. They deserve all compliments,' says the PM. Photograph: Adnan Abidi/Reuters

You have mentioned in previous interviews that the methodology of computing job numbers is outdated and the true reflection is contrary to the present data available.

What in your opinion is the present employment scenario in India and how will you increase employment opportunities?

I have already given a detailed reply in the Lok Sabha during the debate on the no confidence motion. In short, the point which needs to be understood is that: When the economy is growing at a faster pace -- in fact, fastest among the major economies -- how will the jobs market not expand?

When investment into and the pace of execution of infrastructure projects like making roads, laying down rail lines, setting up power generation including solar parks and transmission lines is at an all-time high, how will the jobs not be created?

Similarly, if there is significant growth in sales of commercial vehicles and passenger vehicles, does it not mean that jobs are being created?

When FDI inflows are at an all-time high, will it not translate into manufacturing and job creation?

From just two mobile manufacturing units in 2014 we have grown to 120.

When such development in electronic manufacturing is taking place, will it not create jobs?

Today, India has emerged as one of the top hubs of start-ups. Are they not creating jobs?

App-based aggregators are flourishing in India across food, logistics, e-commerce, mobility solutions and many more such sectors. Are they not creating jobs?

We all know the potential tourism has in creating jobs.

Foreign tourist arrivals in India grew by 14 per cent last year. Domestic tourism has also grown. Will this not result in job creation?

Today, India is seeing a historic boom in the aviation sector. Last year, over 10 crore (100 million) people took a flight.

Through the UDAN scheme, we have put many places, particularly Tier-II and III cities on the aviation map. Will this not create jobs and opportunities across the board?

More than 13 crore (130 million) MUDRA loans have been given to our hardworking entrepreneurs.

I have been told that over 3.5 crore (35 million) of these loans have been given to first time entrepreneurs.

Does every loan not create additional employment opportunities? These are only a few examples.

Employment generation is also evident from 45 lakh (4.5 million) new subscribers in the Employee Provident Fund and 5.68 lakh (568,000) people joining the New Pension Scheme in the last nine months.

All this has led to creation of more than one crore (10 million) jobs only in the last year.

Thus, the campaign that jobs have not been created must come to a halt now. People are not going to buy it any more.

Your critics claim that you made a U-turn on GST from your opposition when you were chief minister. The Opposition calls GST a Gabbar Singh Tax while you call it the Good Simple Tax.

One year down the line, can you please explain what benefits have GST brought?

I would urge you to do some research on the U-turn claims. Why was there opposition to GST under the UPA (United Progressive Alliance) government?

The 'Know It All' finance minister refused to listen to the concerns of the various state governments and adopted a 'my way or the highway' approach.

Not only Gujarat, but most states did not trust the UPA government to be fair with them.

They had not paid the GST compensation to the states which were promised.

They were also unwilling to provide GST compensation to the states if they suffered losses in the first five years.

It is only when the NDA (National Democratic Alliance) government discharged the liability of the past GST compensation and agreed to pay compensation in the event of loss for the first five years that the GST was possible.

Our GST model was acceptable to the states because we were sensitive to their concerns.

But why let facts come in the way of a good U-turn narrative?

Opposition to GST is not from all the Opposition parties. Only a few who have been continuously rejected by the masses are making baseless points.

They not only want to misguide, but also indulge in opposing for the sake of opposing.

Whether it is yoga, Ayushman Bharat, Swachh Bharat, NRC, surgical strikes, their conduct is for everyone to see.

As for Gabbar Singh Tax, people who have seen only dacoits around them will naturally think of dacoits only!

Have they ever thought why people accepted GST wholeheartedly?

The Congress president spoke about Surat in Parliament. He tried his best to provoke people against GST during Gujarat elections, why did the people reject him?

It must not be forgotten that people of this country, particularly the business community, have supported GST and adopted it whole-heartedly. They deserve all compliments.

Being a sensitive government, we are also taking into account the feedback which comes from people and we are doing corrections wherever required.

That is why GST has acquired full faith of people and has made life easier for many of us.

People have responded positively as it brings lot of benefits to them and to the economy.

The number of enterprises registered from Independence until now was 66 lakh (6.6 million). In just one year after the introduction of GST, the number of new enterprises registered is 48 lakh (4.8 million).

Around 350 crore (3.5 billion) invoices were processed and 11 crore (110 million) returns were filed in 1 year. Doesn't this show widespread public acceptance?

During the no confidence motion in this session, we saw some unusual scenes.

Rahul Gandhi walks up to you and hugs you...What went through your mind when this played out?

The Congress claimed victory while others say it was a childish act by Rahul Gandhi?

What is your conclusion?

It is for you to judge whether it was a childish act or not.

And if you are unable to decide, watch the wink and you will get the answer.

I am a humble kaamdaar. I am nothing compared to the naamdaars of this country, who have their own unique style of conducting themselves.

They decide whom to hate, when to hate and whom to 'love' and how to make a show of it.

In all this, what can a kamdaar like me say?

IMAGE: 'The Mahagathbandhan is not about any union of minds or ideas, but about rank opportunism,' says Modi. Photograph: Adnan Abidi/Reuters

Are you and your party concerned with the Modi versus all syndrome? How are you planning to combat this Mahagathbandhan in 2019?

The Opposition parties are so convinced about our government's popularity that they have no faith in their ability to fight us individually.

These parties had lots of time to prove their worth to the people. But they indulged in corruption, nepotism and mis-governance.

Now they know that their electoral arithmetic based on caste, class, community and religion cannot withstand the chemistry of development.

This happened because of the people's unflinching trust in the BJP's politics of development and their validation of the work the government is doing.

Election after election and in state after state, people are repeatedly choosing the BJP to fulfill their aspirations.

People have witnessed firsthand the change in their lives through the efforts of the central government. They have also seen that our government is incorruptible and hard-working.

People have clearly recognised the difference between these parties and the BJP and hence the Opposition has no option but to make it an 'All versus One' fight to even think about winning.

Today, those who resisted the Emergency are standing with those who imposed it.

Those who went about trying to fight corruption are with the party that has institutionalised corruption at all levels.

Parties with a visceral hatred towards the Left ideology and parties espousing Left ideology are sharing the stage.

Parties whose very existence depended on fighting each other are now friends.

Let us understand the true character of the Mahagathbandhan.

The Mahagathbandhan is for personal survival, not for ideological support.

The Mahagathbandhan is for personal ambitions, not for people's aspirations.

The Mahagathbandhan is purely about power politics, not about the people's mandate.

The Mahagathbandhan is about dynasties, not about development.

The Mahagathbandhan is not about any union of minds or ideas, but about rank opportunism.

The only question is whether they will break up before the election or after!

Imran Khan's Tehreek-e-Insaaf party will be assuming office in Pakistan soon. You spoke to Imran Khan and congratulated him.

In his first speech he offered to hold talks with India.

Are you open for dialogue with the new dispensation of Pakistan?

Is there any hope for India participating in SAARC?

I have always said that we wish to have good neighbourly relations. We have also taken various initiatives in this regard.

I recently congratulated Imran Khan on his victory in the elections. We hope that Pakistan would work for a safe, secure, stable and prosperous region, free from terror and violence.Celebrated for his extensive commentary on both, colonisers and colonised, in fiction and non-fiction, V S Naipaul walked the controversy tightrope, admired for his prose but scorned by those who perceived him as an apologist for imperial powers.

IMAGE: Naipaul's portraits of Africa, India, West Indies and the Islamic faith brought him hostility for his views. Photograph: Chris Helgren /Reuters

Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul, or Sir Vidia, as he was sometimes known died at his London home at the age of 85 on Sunday, leaving behind a legacy of lucid prose and unapologetic narratives strewn across dozens of works that earned him both applause and brickbats, say experts.

Looking back at the Nobel Laureate's elaborate literary career of over five decades, Patrick French, the author of his biography The World is What It Is, remembered him as a 'very funny and witty' person who was 'always conscious of his Indian family background'.

Born to an Indian family in Trinidad, Naipaul's portraits of Africa, India, West Indies and the Islamic faith brought him hostility for his views.

"In his books, he tried to describe the best and the worst of India as it changed between the 1960s and the 1990s. His conclusions were insightful, even when they were harsh," French told PTI.

After his first three comedic novels, he explored the questions of identity and belonging to a family, a place in A House of Mr Biswas, which was inspired by his father's life.

While the book won him accolades in the literary world, the novel 'destroyed some memories', according to the biography.

Naipaul's prose were strung around the themes of loss, identity, oppression and exile, said author Chanchal Sanyal, describing him as an 'unapologetic author' who was not writing to please an audience.

"Naipaul, not only in his writings but also in whatever he said, was completely unapologetic. For example, his views on Islam, on colonisation, immigration, or even his writings about his visits to prostitutes, he was his own man. We all are pleasing an audience, he was courageous and unapologetic," he said.

Sanyal's The Glass House can be compared to A House for Mr Biswas, both following the theme of a man aspiring to own a home.

"Honestly, I have read a lot of Naipaul, but I don't think anything moved me as much as House for Mr Biswas. But I did read with great interest his writings on America's deep south.

"In some of his short stories in his early writings, there was a certain style they were not completely finished and you could make out the writer was a bit raw, but you certainly felt he showed promise," he added.

IMAGE: Naipaul was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001 'for having united perceptive narrative and incorruptible scrutiny in works that compel us to see the presence of suppressed histories'. Photograph: Reuters

Naipaul's views against the commonplace perception towards colonised countries and their people were not the only thing controversial about the famed author.

In an interview in 2011, Naipaul raised eyebrows when he said he did not consider any female author to be his equal. And then there were also reports of him physically abusing his mistress Margaret Gooding.

Looking at him as a 'flawed genius', international publishing consultant Jaya Bhattacharji Rose said Naipaul will nonetheless be 'remembered as a giant among writers'.

"V S Naipaul was a titan of 20th century English literature, who made visible a landscape beyond the canon that held sway when he began writing. His life experiences frequently appeared as thinly disguised vignettes in his writing, and his references to Trinidad added diversity and depth to his oeuvre," Rose said.

His 1971 book, In a Free State, won him the Man Booker prize.

In An Area of Darkness, India: A Wounded Civilization, and India: A Million Mutinies Now, Naipaul commented extensively on subjects varying from politics to religion, from business to films in the country.

According to Saugata Bhaduri, professor at School of Language Literature and Culture Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, his critics loved him too despite the general perception of his writing as a 'problematic rightist kind of politics'.

"He has been somewhat of a trigger in making Indian writing in English become so global, and all Indian writers in English, in spite of him not being an Indian technically, looked up to him.

"His writing style, general mode of characterisation was so good and it often has been perceived as problematic rightist kind of politics.

"So he transcended it, and his greatness is mocked by that. His art is so good, his craft is so good that even his harshest critique would read him with lot of love and passion," Bhaduri said.

***

Why Naipaul never wrote his autobiography?

Naipaul never attempted his autobiography saying it can distort facts.

According to Naipaul, fiction never lies and reveals a writer totally.

But an autobiography, he felt, 'can distort; facts can be realigned'.

In 2008, Patrick French came out with The World is What it Is: the Authorized Biography of V S Naipaul, in which he examined among other things the legendary author's life within a displaced community and his fierce ambition at school.

He then describes how, on scholarship at Oxford, homesickness and depression struck with great force; the ways in which Naipaul's first wife helped him to cope and their otherwise fraught marriage; and Naipaul's struggles throughout subsequent uncertainties in England, including his 25-year-long affair.

Vidyadhar was named for a Chandela king, the dynasty which built the temples at Khajuraho.

His name means 'giver of wisdom'.

"Back in the early 11th century, King Vidyadhar had fought against Mahmud of Ghazni, the first of the infamous Muslim invaders of India. It was an apposite name for the boy. Years later, as V S Naipaul, he would say, 'It's such a grand name, a very special name -- I cherished it for that reason. I think great things were expected of me'," French writes in his book.

Naipaul came to India quite a number of times, the last being for the Jaipur Literature Festival in January 2015.

At the JLF session, he narrated what his mother had to say to him on writing about India.

"The only Hindi word my mother carried from India was beta and she said beta please leave India to the Indians'."

"I came to India first because of curiosity about my ancestral land. My publisher had agreed to pay me an advance for anything I would write on India. Although it was a petty amount even then I felt at peace to get it. I didn't know how to move in India but eventually I had to find my way," he had said.

In India, A Million Mutinies Now, Naipaul among other things writes about his ancestors and overseas Indian groups.

They were miniature Indias, with Hindus and Muslims, and people of different castes. They were disadvantaged, without representation, and without a political tradition. They were isolated by language and culture from the people they found themselves among; they were isolated, too, from India itself (many weeks away by steamboat from Trinidad and the Guianas).

In these special circumstances they developed something they would never have known in India: a sense of belonging to an Indian community. This feeling of community could override religion and caste.All photographs: Umar Ganie for Rediff.com IMAGE: Brother of constable Parvaiz Ahmad, who was martyred in an encounter with terrorists at Batmaloo, mourns during the wreath laying ceremony in Srinagar.

A policeman was killed while four security forces personnel were injured during an encounter with terrorists in the Batmaloo area, following which two ultras were arrested on Sunday, police said.

Security forces launched a cordon and search operation at Diyarwani in Batamaloo area of Srinagar in the pre-dawn hours on Sunday following specific information about the presence of terrorists in the area, Additional Director General of Police (Security and Law and Order) Munir Khan told reporters.

IMAGE: Security personnel in action during the operation.



He said while the house, where the terrorists were hiding, was zeroed-in, the ultras opened firing upon the forces which was retaliated, resulting in an encounter.

"A group of five militants were there They lobbed a grenade and opened firing and then escaped because of darkness. The area is very congested and forces exercised restraint so that there is no collateral damage as the houses there are roof to roof," the ADGP said.

IMAGE: A terrorist has also suffered injuries and managed to flee the encounter site, but the security forces have maintained the cordon of the area and the searches were underway.

He said a selection grade constable, Parvaiz Ahmad, was killed and two policemen and three Central Reserve Police Force personnel received injuries in the initial indiscriminate firing by the terrorists.

"The security forces retaliated and it has been learnt that two militants have been injured, but they managed to flee. Two other militants were arrested and their questioning is on," Khan said.

IMAGE: Security personnel rescue the locals from the encounter site.



The ADGP said the arrested militants have revealed many things but which cannot be divulged right now as the operation would continue further.

Mobile internet services were temporarily suspended in Srinagar in the wake of the operation, police said.

IMAGE: A search op being carried out at the house where terrorists were supposed to be hiding.

A police official said the service was barred as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order and to stop rumour-mongering.

The official said the mobile internet was then restored in the afternoon after the gunfight ended.

Earlier, a police spokesman had said, two accomplices of the terrorists have been detained, while incriminating material was recovered from the site of encounter.

IMAGE: Security personnel gather at the encounter site.



The spokesman said a massive search operation is underway in the area.

He said police have registered a case and investigation has been initiated in the matter.

IMAGE: Senior police officers paid tributes to the slain cop in Srinagar.



Meanwhile, a wreath laying ceremony was held at DPL Srinagar where senior officers from civil administration, police and other security forces paid rich tributes to Ahmad, a resident of Dandote village in Rajouri district, the spokesman said.

"Senior civil and police officers paid rich tributes to the martyr and laid floral wreaths on the mortal remains for his supreme sacrifice made in the line of duty," he said.IMAGE: Soldiers clear the debris off a road in a flooded affected area at Wayanad on Saturday. Photograph: PTI Photo

Terming the flood situation in Kerala following heavy rains as something never witnessed by the state since Independence, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday announced Rs 100 crore as immediate central relief.

The minister, who made an aerial survey of badly affected areas in Idukki and Ernakulam districts, said the rains and floods had caused 'massive damage' to the farm sector and infrastructure like roads and power.

"Kerala is facing an unprecedented flood situation. It is unprecedented because never before in the history of independent India has Kerala witnessed such massive floods," he told reporters in Kochi.

He was speaking after reviewing the situation with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Minister of State for Tourism Alphons Kannanthanam, state ministers and senior officials.

Singh assured all help from the Centre to meet the 'very serious situation'.

"I understand the suffering of the people of Kerala from the present crisis. Since assessment of the damage will take time, I hereby announce immediate relief as advance of Rs 100 crore," the minister said.

The state government submitted a memorandum to Singh, seeking urgent sanction of Rs 1,220 crore from the National Disaster Relief Fund to meet the situation.

In the memorandum, the chief minister said preliminary estimates suggested that Kerala suffered a loss of Rs 8,316 crore in the rains, floods and landslides.

Singh recalled the flood situation in Kerala last month and said that just before he came to the state today, he sanctioned release of the second instalment of Rs 80.25 crore in advance for the State Disaster Relief Fund.

The first instalment of a similar amount of the Central share of SDRF for 2018-19 was released last month, he said.

"The Centre is extremely sensitive to the needs of the Kerala at this critical juncture," he said.

The minister said three teams of NDRF had been pre-positioned in Kerala during the current monsoon season.

'Eleven more NDRF teams have been deployed in the state, taking the total number of NDRF teams to 14. If needed we will press in additional teams,' Singh said in a tweet.

Earlier, Singh visited a relief camp at Elanthikkara in Paravur Taluk in Ernakulam district.

"Today we conducted an aerial survey of flood affected areas with the Chief Minister and I reached the conclusion that the situation is very serious in Kerala due to floods," he said.

"And I would like to assure the state government that all sorts of support will be provided by the central government to meet the challenges of the flood situation," he said.

Singh also heard the grievances of people who lost their homes and land in the floods.

The minister made an aerial survey of areas affected by landslides and rains in Idukki and Ernakulam districts.

He was accompanied by Vijayan, Alphons, Chandrasekharan and Additional Chief Secretary P H Kurian.

After a brief lull, rains started lashing several parts of Kerala since Sunday morning, posing problems to relief work by multiple agencies in flood and landslide hit regions.

However, water level in Idukki and Idamalayar dams reduced, bringing some relief, with authorities saying there was no need for people living downstream to panic.

No fresh casualties were reported since Saturday and the toll in the rain-related incidents since the current monsoon fury from August 8 stood at 37, officials said.

Thousands of people have been accommodated in relief camps set up in different areas, including in Wayand, where over 14,000 people had been sheltered.

10 columns of the Army, a unit of Madras Regiment along with personnel of the Navy, Air Force and National Disaster Response Force are engaged in relief and rescue work in badly-hit districts, including Kozhikode, Idukki, Malappuram, Kannur and Wayanad, Defence sources said.

The National Disaster Management Authority had on Saturday warned that heavy to very heavy rains were expected in 16 states, including Kerala, till Monday.

The weather department has issued a 'Red alert', asking people to be cautious as there was a possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall in most places in Idukki, Wayanad, Kannur, Ernakulam, Palakkad and Malappuram districts.IMAGE: The new houses along with land ownerships were handed over by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, High Commissioner of India Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Ministers Palani Digambaram, Navin Dissanayake and Gayantha Karunathilake. Photograph: @IndiainSL/Twitter

India on Sunday handed over the first lot of houses built under a $350 million (Rs 2,400 crore) project for Indian-origin people, mostly Tamils, in Sri Lanka's tea plantation areas.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined the special ceremony through video conferencing at Dunsinane Estate in Nuwara Eliya city to hand over the houses constructed under the Indian Housing Project, the largest one by India in any country.

He said that 'we have always dreamt of a peaceful, secure and prosperous future for Sri Lanka where aspirations of all for growth and development are met'.

Some 404 houses were handed over to the Indian-origin people, mostly Tamils.

The new houses along with land ownerships were handed over by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, High Commissioner of India Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Ministers Palani Digambaram, Navin Dissanayake and Gayantha Karunathilake, India's High Commission in Colombo said.

"More than 1,500 people attended the function despite inclement weather and rain," the Indian mission tweeted.

Modi said that India continues to keep Sri Lanka in a special place in its neighbourhood first policy.

Out of the 60,000 houses, close to 47,000 have been completed so far, Modi said, adding that the $350 million grant to build the houses was one of the largest grants by India in any country.

"Sri Lanka has been special for us, and it will remain special," he said.

Addressing the beneficiaries, Modi said that 'your roots are in India, they have grown in Sri Lanka. You have not connected just two countries, but also touched the hearts and strengthened the hands of two great nations'.

"Today, we are crafting a new future together, a new high in India-Sri Lanka friendship".

Prime Minister Modi said that 'we are signing the agreement for the construction of the additional 10,000 houses at a cost of 12 billion Sri Lankan Rupees'.

The land has already been identified for building the new 10,000 houses, he said.

'Continuing people oriented developmental assistance, Letter of Exchange for construction of additional 10,000 houses was signed, increasing India's grant commitment in the plantation areas to 14000 houses,' the Indian mission said in a tweet.

Wickremesinghe appreciated India's commitment to partner with Sri Lanka in development projects including in building houses for upcountry areas.

"I thank the Prime Minister, Modi. He has kept the promise he made last year," Wickremesinghe said.

Wickremesinghe, recalling the historical links between India and Sri Lanka, also welcomed Modi's suggestion to establish direct air links between Colombo and Varanasi to facilitate pilgrims from Sri Lanka.

Air India flights between Colombo and Varanasi started in August 2017.

Indian-origin Tamils, mostly employed in tea and rubber plantations in Sri Lanka, lack proper housing.

The Tamils, mostly residing in the central hill areas of the country, were brought from India by British rulers during the 19th century to work in coffee plantations in Sri Lanka.

More than a million are still associated with tea and rubber plantations.

Though they have been given the Sri Lankan citizenship, housing remains a major issue for these workers employed as daily wagers.

Sri Lanka's new government led by President Maithripala Sirisena formulated a national plan of action for the plantation workers and planned for construction of 55,000 houses till 2020.IMAGE: Kanhaiya Kumar ran across the bridge, grabbed the child and rushed back moments before the bridge got submerged, unmindful of his safety. Photograph: ANI

A National Disaster Response Force officer rescued a sick child by sprinting across a bridge moments before it got submerged in gushing flood waters in rain-ravaged Kerala, with an image of his daring act going viral on the social media.

The NDRF team member, later identified as Kanhaiya Kumar, saw a man with a child asking for help from the other side of the narrow Cheruthoni Bridge near the Idukki Dam in the district, which was opened last week after a gap of 26 years.

He responded in a flash, ran across, grabbed the child and rushed back, unmindful of his safety.

A photograph of Kumar snapped while scurrying across the bridge with the child two days ago, has gone viral on the social media with people showering praise on him.

"As the waters were rising, I saw a man waving asking for help with a young child from the other side of the bridge. I crossed the bridge, grabbed the girl child and sprinted back as soon as I could to the other side," he said later.

The NDRF also rescued a man, two women and three children who had got stranded in the Kabini river at Orapally village of Waynad district.

'Passionate concern for all needy. Be it humans or animals,' the NDRF tweeted posting pictures of its personnel rescuing some people and a dog.

IMAGE: Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh conducted an aerial survey of the flood affected regions of the state. CM Pinarayi Vijayan and Union Minister K J Alphons also accompanied him. Photograph: ANI

Around 14 NDRF teams, comprising 100 members, 10 columns of Army, besides personnel and helicopters from the Air Force and Navy are engaged in rescue and relief operations in different parts of the state.

Kerala has been hit by unprecedented floods with almost all the 40-odd rivers in spate following heavy rains since last week.

As the Cheruthoni bridge was the lifeline of the local people on the two banks of the Cheruthoni River, they have been put to great difficulty now as they have to take a detour of at least 15 km to reach the other side.

Meanwhile, a Defence release said the Army personnel restored connectivity to Virinjapara under Mankulam panchayat near Munnar in the district after a concrete bridge was washed away in floods, bringing relief to 800 families of the area.

Army personel from Pangode military station at Thiruvananthapuram and the Madras regiment were also involved in the reconstruction of a road damaged at Kochukodakallu- Machiplavu area in Idukki, it said.

They also distributed food and medicines at a camp at Adimali in Idukki, the release added.

After a brief lull, rains started lashing several parts of Kerala since sunday morning, posing problems to the relief operations undertaken by multiple agencies in the flood and landslides hit regions.

However, the water level in the Idukki and Idamalayar reservoirs reduced, bringing some relief, with the authorities saying there was no need for any panic for people living downstream, officials said.

There were no fresh casualties reported since Saturday and the toll in the rain-related incidents since the current monsoon fury from August 8 stood at 37, they said.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh undertook an aerial survey of some flood-hit areas and held discussions with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, camping in Kochi, on Sunday.

More than 60,000 people have been accommodated in relief camps set up in different areas, including in Wayand where over 14,000 people had been sheltered.

Mananthavady and Vythiri in the hilly Wayanad district have been totally cut-off, with roads washed away and houses marooned by water.

Water level in the Idukki dam, the biggest arch dam in Asia which was opened after a gap of 26 years, marginally declined to 2399.16 ft at 10 am today, after hovering close to its maximum of 2,403 feet in the past few days, officials said.

There was a brief respite from the rains on Saturday in several parts of the state, but the fresh heavy downpour was making relief works difficult now, authorities said.

The National Disaster Management Authority had on Saturday warned that heavy to very heavy rains were expected in 16 states, including Kerala, till Monday.

The weather department has issued a 'Red alert',asking people to be cautious as there was a possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall in most places in Idukki, Wayanad, Kannur, Ernakulam, Palakkad and Malappuram districts.

Around 1,500 houses were damaged partially and 101 have been destroyed completely in rain fury in the state during the last few days, according to the disaster control room officials Thiruvanthapuram.

'Heading to Kerala to take stock of the situation in the state. Shall conduct a survey of the flood affected areas and also visit the relief camp sites', Rajnath Singh tweeted.

The chief minister on Saturday undertook an aerial survey of rain ravaged areas of Idukki and Wayanad and said Kerala was in the midst of an unprecedented flood havoc and that the calamity has caused 'immeasurable misery and devastation'.

DMK announces Rs 1 cr flood relief to Kerala government

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam Working President M K Stalin on Sunday announced Rs one crore flood relief to the Kerala government, on behalf of his party and expressed his condolences to the bereaved families.

A DMK statement said, 'Unprecedented floods in Kerala have affected many people and has caused damage to properties worth crores. The party's working president M K Stalin has decided to contribute Rs 1 crore to Kerala Chief Minister's Relief Fund.'

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami had on August 9 announced a contribution of Rs 5 crore to rain ravaged Kerala as a mark of support to the neighbouring state.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had on Saturday announced Rs 10 lakh as compensation to those who lost their houses and land in the rain, and Rs 4 lakh to those who lost a member of their family.

Dog saves life of master, family from landslip

A pet dog turned out to be the saviour of its master and his family when the animal woke them up at 3 am, minutes before their house collapsed in a landslip at a hamlet in Idukki district of Kerala.

As 'Rocky' yelped and made disturbing sounds, Mohanan and his wife woke up and tried to find out what was wrong.

They soon heard a thunderous noise and ran out of their house, only to find to their horror their dwelling unit collapsing at picturesque Keerithode on Thursday, Mohanan told a television channel.Caught in a political storm over the Rafale fighter aircraft deal, billionaire Anil Ambani's Reliance Group on Sunday denied receiving any contract from the Defence Ministry and said 'unfounded and incorrect' allegations are being deliberately made to 'mislead people and cloud the issue'.

Answering questions ranging from lack experience to state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited being overlooked for the deal, the group said Dassault, the French firm that is to supply 36 Rafale fighter jets, choose Reliance Defence Ltd to meet its 'offset' or export obligation in the contract and the Ministry of Defence has no role in the selection of Indian partners by the foreign vendors.

Reliance Defence Ltd Chief Executive Officer Rajesh Dhingra said the government-to-government deal requires all 36 aircraft to be delivered in a 'fly-away' condition which means 'they are to be exported from France by Dassault' and 'HAL or anyone else cannot be the production agency for the simple reason that no aircraft are to be produced in India'.

He said HAL was a nominated production agency for the 126 Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) programme, which never reached the contract stage.

"Reliance Defence or any other Reliance group company has not received any contract from the MoD till date, related to 36 Rafale aircraft. This is absolutely unfounded and incorrect," he told PTI over phone.

Opposition Congress last week demanded a Joint Parliamentary Committee in the deal and its president Rahul Gandhi has been attacking the government for inking the deal at a much higher price than the one the previous United Progressive Alliance regime had negotiated.

He has accused the government of changing the deal to benefit 'one businessman'.

On allegations of the firm getting the contract because of Ambani's reported proximity with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said: "As per Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP), the Ministry of Defence has no role in the selection of Indian partners by the foreign vendors. This has been the position right from 2005 when offsets were first introduced in the country."

In the more than 50 offset (export obligations) contracts signed in the country till date, the same process has been followed, he said. "Therefore, this is a deliberate attempt to mislead people and cloud the issue."

On the issue lack of experience in making fighter aircraft, Dhingra said no company in India, except HAL, has the experience of making fighter planes.

"This would mean that we will never create any new capability beyond what exists and will continue to import more than 70 per cent of our defence hardware," he said.

Dhingra added that Reliance will be participating in the offset programme through Dassault Reliance Aerospace Ltd (DRAL) in which Dassault holds a 49 per cent stake bringing in its 90 years of aerospace manufacturing experience, making it the 'most qualified vendor'.

He termed as 'absolutely wrong' allegation of Reliance benefiting with a Rs 30,000 crore contract, saying, "Dassault's share of offsets is about 25 per cent, with the remaining offset obligations being shared by Thales, Safran, MBDA and others."

"Therefore, the basic premise of Dassault giving Rs 30,000 crore worth of offset contracts to Reliance is totally unfounded," he said, adding Dassault and its other Tier-I suppliers have already indicated more than 100 Indian companies which will participate in the offset contracts.

This includes joint ventures with Public Sector Units like HAL and Bharat Electronics Limited.

"We can also not lose sight of the fact that up to 30 per cent of total offsets can be discharged through transfer of technology to DRDO, as per DPP," he said.

Asked about Reliance Defence being incorporated days before announcement of the Rafale deal, he said three companies were incorporated in December 2014 and Reliance Group's entry into defence sector was announced at Aero India in February 2015.

"Also there are reports in the media of as late as end-March 2015 where Dassault officials were on record to say that the MMRCA deal is 95 per cent done. If this is correct, what is the linkage with the date of incorporation of Reliance Defence?" he asked.

The deal to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets was signed when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited France in April 2015.

On the question of presence of Ambani at the time of announcement of the deal by the Prime Minister, Dhingra said Anil Ambani is part of the CEOs' Forum for France and also many other countries.

"He was in Paris because there was a meeting of the CEOs' Forum on the sidelines of the prime minister's visit. More than 25 other CEOs from the Indian companies were also present, including the Chairman of HAL," he said.

Offset obligations are to be discharged during September 2019 to September 2023, as per the contract.

Asked about allegations that Reliance actually got contracts worth Rs 1.3 lakh crore and not Rs 30,000 crore, he said the amount may be coming from projections of Rs 30,000 crore for offsets and another Rs 1,00,000 crore towards the lifecycle cost over 50 years.

"There cannot be anything further from truth... To the best of my knowledge, the government has not signed any lifecycle contract for 50 years with Dassault. Therefore, the very question of Reliance getting a contract does not arise," he said.

On the issue of Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman denying knowledge of the contract, he said as per DPP 2016, the foreign vendor has a choice to submit the details of its offset partners at the time of claiming offset credits.

"In this case, offset obligations are due only after September 2019. It is, therefore, possible that the Ministry of Defence has no formal communication from Dassault Aviation about the choice of its partners for the offsets," he said.

Asked if it was correct that under DPP a joint secretary-level official is required to countersign the contract, he said: "The offset contract is signed between the MoD and the foreign vendor. MoD does not sign any contract with the Indian offset partners."McDonald's Corp. (MCD) is giving away one McGold Card away in a contest that assures the winner "free food for life." The campaign is intended to get more people to download and use its McDonald's mobile app.

The campaign starts on August 10 and runs through August 24. The contest is open only to residents of the U.S., aged 13 or older.

To enter the contest, customers can place a mobile order on the McDonald's app during the two-week period, or alternately, enter via email without making a purchase.

According to the contest website, the winner will receive the new McGold Card that will entitle him to receive McDonald's free food for life, up to two meals per week for 50 years. The prize is valued at $52,350.

According to McDonald's, the odds of winning a prize "will be determined by the number of eligible entries received." The potential winner will be selected in a random prize drawing on or about August 29, 2018.

In addition to the free food, the winner will also receive a custom gold-plated phone case.

In late July, McDonald's unveiled MacCoin, a limited edition global currency, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the iconic Big Mac burger.

MacCoin has no cash value and is only redeemable for one free Big Mac at participating McDonald's restaurants through 2018. Customers can receive a MacCoin with the purchase of a Big Mac.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business NewsThe Swiss stock market ended Friday's session with a substantial loss. After getting off to a weak start, the market weakened further as the day progressed.

Like the rest of Europe, the Swiss market was hit by concerns stemming from the banking crisis in Turkey. The Turkish Lira nose-dived against the U.S. dollar in the European session on Friday, plunging to an all-time low, following a news report that the European Central Bank has raised concerns over the impact of a weak lira on European banks.

The Swiss Market Index decreased by 1.25 percent Friday and finished at 9,031.33. The Swiss Leader Index dropped 1.35 percent and the Swiss Performance Index lost 1.25 percent.

Bank stocks were under heavy pressure due to the turmoil in Turkey. Credit Suisse sank 2.4 percent, UBS dropped 2.2 percent and Julius Baer lost 2 percent.

Zurich Insurance fell 1.2 percent, Swiss Life surrendered 1.1 percent and Swiss Re slid 0.7 percent.

The index heavyweights all finished in negative territory. Nestle declined 1.5 percent, Novartis fell 0.9 percent and Roche lost 0.8 percent.

The luxury goods companies were under pressure due to ongoing trade concerns. Swatch Group dropped 2.5 percent and rival Richemont fell 1.6 percent.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Market AnalysisTreasuries showed a strong move to the upside during trading on Friday, extending the upward move seen in the previous session.

Bond prices moved higher early in the session and climbed steadily as the day progressed. Subsequently, the yield on the benchmark ten-year note, which moves opposite of its price, tumbled by 7.8 basis points to 2.857 percent.

The strength among treasuries came amid concerns about rising tensions between the U.S. and Turkey due to the Turkish detention of U.S. pastor Andrew Brunson.

The Turkish lira has shown a sharp decline to a record low, contributing to considerable weakness in the overseas .

In response, Turkish President Recep Erdogan has urged Turks to sell dollars and gold and buy the lira.

"There are various campaigns being carried out. Don't heed them," Erdogan said. "Don't forget, if they have their dollars, we have our people, our God."

President Donald Trump subsequently announced that he has authorized the doubling of steel and aluminum tariffs on Turkey.

"I have just authorized a doubling of Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum with respect to Turkey as their currency, the Turkish Lira, slides rapidly downward against our very strong Dollar!" Trump said in a post on Twitter.

The president added, "Aluminum will now be 20% and Steel 50%. Our relations with Turkey are not good at this time!"

In U.S. economic news, the Labor Department released a report showing a modest increase in consumer prices in the month of July.

The Labor Department said its consumer price index rose by 0.2 percent in July after inching up by 0.1 percent in June. The increase in prices matched economist estimates.

Excluding food and energy prices, the core consumer price index also edged up by 0.2 percent in July, matching the increases seen in the two previous months as well as expectations.

Next week's trading may be impacted by reaction to reports on import and export prices, retail sales, industrial production, housing starts, and consumer sentiment.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Market AnalysisRihanna is set receive an honorary degree from the University of the West Indies. Rihanna will accept her degree "for eminence in the arts," her second such honor since receiving The Harvard Foundation award for Humanitarian of the Year in 2017.

According to Nation News, Rihanna will receive her diploma alongside Justice Adrian Dudley Saunders, and Professor Ebenezer Oduru Owusu, who will receive Honorary Doctor of Laws and a Honorary Doctor of Science respectively. The awards are given to those who "have made outstanding regional or international contributions."

The honorary degree will be presented to her at a special ceremony that is scheduled for October 20 at the Cave Hill Campus in Barbados. The 2018 graduation ceremonies will see Chancellor Robert Bermudez presiding over the ceremonies and conferring degrees to the honorary graduates.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Entertainment NewsIn the SEC filing late Friday, Microsoft Corp. (MSFT) announced that its Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella has sold 328,000 shares valued at $35.9 million.

Nadella now holds 778,596 Microsoft shares. Microsoft closed down 0.61% to $109 during the regular trading session. In after hours, the stock up less than 0.1%.

The stock divestitures made today were for personal financial planning and diversification reasons, according to media reports. Satya is committed to the continued success of the company and his holdings significantly exceed the holding requirements set by the Microsoft Board of Directors, the reports added.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business NewsIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday said Israel will continue to fight Hamas in Gaza before a "complete cease-fire" is achieved.

"We are in the midst of a campaign against terror in Gaza. It entails an exchange of blows," Netanyahu told his weekly cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, adding that the recent flare-up of violence "will not end in one strike," Xinhua reported.



He said that during last week's massive airstrikes in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli air force has "destroyed hundreds of Hamas military targets." He added that "in each round, the Israel Defense Forces exacts an additional heavy price."





He stressed that Israel is ready to continue the strikes. "I will not reveal here our operational plans, they are ready," he said.



"Our demand is clear -- a complete cease-fire. We will not suffice with less than this," he said. "Our objective is to restore the quiet to residents of the south and the area adjacent to the Gaza Strip; this goal will be achieved in full."



Last week, Israel and Hamas exchanged blows, with Israel striking hundreds of sites in Gaza, killing three people including a woman and her baby, while Gaza militants launched dozens of rockets towards southern Israel.



The fire was largely ceased on Thursday, as an unofficial truce was achieved following efforts by the United Nations and Egypt.Young people have been encouraged not to give up on their dreams.

But to achieve those dreams, creating a safe space for youths to engage in activities relating to their diverse needs and interests and allowing them to participate in the decision-making process is important.

The point was highlighted by the United Nations Resident Coordinator/United Nations Development Resident Representative, Simona Marinescu, during the closing of the Youth Week on Friday.

Ms. Marinescu commended the Government, especially the Ministry of Women Community and Social Development (M.W.C.S.D.) for supporting the young people of Samoa.

I would like to reiterate the importance of our partnership with you under the Youth Employment Programme and commend you on the great work you do across the community, she said.

As we go this week to celebrate the International Youth Day and Fathers Day, we must never forget our mandate to ensure no one is left behind. The theme for this years International Youth Day Safe Spaces for Youth, has been adopted in consultations with the Youth Assembly and together with our partners, we contextualized for the Youth/Business Expo in Samoa.

Your responsibility is to never stop learning and never give up on your aspirations, and aim high, she added.

Minister for Women, Community and Social Development Faimalotoa Kika Iemaima Stowers said creating a safe space for all is about the future.

We have shown this week, that with such a space, people were able to sell and buy, information was shared and gifts were given away. This is all possible because of you as government cannot do much without you.

We therefore acknowledge with sincere gratitude the United Nations family in Samoa, especially United Nations Development Programme (U.N.D.P.), International Labour Organization (I.L.O.), United Nations Fund for Population Activities (U.N.F.P.A.) and Food and Agriculture Organization (F.A.O.) for youth farmers in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (M.A.F.) and Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa (S.R.O.S.), as well as DFAT Australia.

Thank you also to Samoa Youth Climate in Action Network, the Samoa Stationery and Books (S.S.A.B.), Bluesky Samoa and all our partners and stakeholders.When people talk about raising families, the role of mothers is often the first thing they think about.

Which is natural given that mothers raise children and spend time nurturing them.

But without fathers, a childs life can be quite difficult.

Today, as Samoa celebrates Fathers Day, the role of fathers like 53-year-old Sasala Tauaneai Moemoe, of Salesatele, Falealili, will be brought to the fore.

He is among the many fathers in Samoa who work tirelessly every day to develop their families.

Speaking to the Village Voice yesterday, Sasalas wife, Tupito Moemoe said she is grateful for her husband and the father of their children.

He is a father and a mother at the same time, said Mrs. Moemoe.

He does all the chores around our house even chores that belong to a mother like cooking, collecting of pandanus (laufala) to weave fine mats and mats, doing the laundry, washing dishes and even building a roof for them to live under and all that, he does it all.

The only thing he doesnt do is weaving.

Mrs. Moemoe added they have six children but her husband would rather do all the chores.

I know everyone is different especially fathers but for my husband that is the kind of person he is, she said.

Our whole village knows what hes like.

For Sasala, the word father means being a pillar for his family.

He is the backbone of any family, church and village as a whole. I know the Bible says fathers are the head of the family, they are the breadwinner but most families nowadays the mothers are the breadwinner.

So I believe that is the true meaning of the word father because of the work that he does within the family. He also sets a pathway for his children and family to follow, he is the provider and most especially the protector of his family.

That is what I am doing; I am basically setting an example as well as a pathway for my children to follow so when I am no longer around they know that this is the pathway that I have setup for them.

Sasala said none of his family members are employed.

This is our way of earning money, through my wifes weaving and my plantation, he said.

This has always been our way of earning and this has help put my children through school, now that they have their own family it is still continuing.

Its hard work and life is so hard, but the Bible says if we dont sweat, we dont deserve to eat and that is basically it. Life is and always will be hard but its how we are able to get through it that matters the most.

If we just sit around and complain we get nothing, but if we work hard we might not be able to see the blessing, but surely our children will reap from our hard work.

Sasala dreams of nothing special to celebrate Fathers Day because he is grateful for the gift of life.

This is the greatest gift and that is the strength and the life that God has given me, he said.

I am thankful that I have made it to another year of commemorating Fathers Day. There is nothing more that I want, I have my family and I am strong.

He is encouraging fathers in Samoa to be thankful for what they have.

Whether it is little or many, you just have to be thankful because there are people around the world who dont have what we have and that is the love from our family.samoa

Women village leadership positions lacking: report

A United Nations report has put the spotlight on the limited number of women in leadership positions at the village level, saying it is an area Samoa needs to improve in.As the reality sunk in late Thursday afternoon inside City Council chambers that prospects for a long planned expansion of San Diegos convention center appeared doomed, it felt like deja vu.

The on-gain, off-again civic priority has been a part of San Diegos political landscape for at least the last decade as hotel industry leaders and politicians dating back to former Mayor Jerry Sanders have tried unsuccessfully to launch the more than half-billion dollar project.

For sure, the particular circumstances this time around are different from past aborted efforts.

It would be hard to match the explosive drama that unfolded last week as a well-funded, high-powered alliance of business and labor surprised everyone when it failed to qualify for the November ballot an initiative that would have bankrolled a convention center expansion, plus fund homeless services and road repairs. Then a day later, City Council members, in a split vote, rebuffed a last-ditch plea by the mayor to place a nearly identical measure on the ballot despite strict policies requiring multiple public hearings and more advance notice.

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Furious, Mayor Kevin Faulconer quickly lashed out at the four City Council Democrats who voted no, blaming them for yet another convention center failure.

Drama aside, what remains unchanged from past efforts is that a larger bayfront center, which tourism leaders have long insisted is crucial to keeping San Diego competitive with its rivals, is on hold yet again with no clear path forward for resuscitating it.

While San Diegos convention officials say they are looking at creative ways to maximize space to hold onto larger meetings and trade shows  think more outdoor tents -- they worry that roomier convention centers in places like Anaheim and San Francisco will poach their business.

Meanwhile, several San Diego providers of services and shelter for the citys homeless population now worry that they can no longer count on what they believed would be a steady, reliable stream of funding  nearly $2 billion over 42 years. An estimated $3.5 billion would have gone toward the convention center and $515 million was dedicated for road repairs.

Longtime political observer Carl Luna remains hopeful, although he acknowledges the political minefields that await when it comes to the convention center project, he said.

This doesnt mark the final chapter in convention center expansion history  no doubt either the current citizens initiative or another version of it will eventually make it to the ballot, said Luna, who teaches political science at San Diego Mesa College. Mayor Faulconer, like Mayor Sanders, has found the siren song of convention center expansion can lead to political shipwrecks. While the idea of a convention expansion sounds appealing in general, hotel tax increases turn off conservatives and spending that benefits business interests first and foremost turns off progressives.

He also suspects that linking the convention center expansion project to funding for the homeless and affordable housing came off as a cynical ploy that potentially weakened support among some for the measure.

That doesnt mollify homeless advocates like Deacon Jim Vargas and Bob McElroy of the Alpha Project who were counting on what would have been a tripling of the citys general fund contribution for homeless programs. This years count of the homeless in San Diego County found about 8,600 people without a permanent place to live.

Its extremely disheartening, said Vargas, president of Father Joes Villages. As I got the news, it just broke my heart knowing Im going to turn away people who need help because the funding that could have helped them isnt going to be there.

McElroy said he is seeing increased anxiety among those in his shelter about losing a roof over their heads.

I talked to some people there (Friday), and theyre scared that at any time their shelter could be shuttered, he said. I thought it was a no-brainer. And I dont care if its just 50 bucks. Its 50 bucks more than we have today.

Even had the mayor prevailed last week, backers of the hotel tax hike measure would have been facing a very high hurdle to win over a two-thirds majority of the electorate.

Help for housing for the very poor and unsheltered, though, could still come in 2020. Supporters of a $900 million housing bond had earlier agreed to postpone their measure until then in response to pressure from backers of the convention center initiative. They said Friday they plan to regroup and develop language for a 2020 housing proposal.

The citizens initiative also may yet qualify for a ballot in 2020 once a full verification of signatures is completed by the county registrar. But by then theres a strong possibility that the expansion site could be unavailable because a development team is waiting in the wings with a $300 million hotel project proposed for the bay side of the convention center.

Although an agreement was negotiated in June that would allow the city to regain control of the site held by the developer of the Fifth Avenue Landing project, as it is known, that pact was dependent, in part, on the initiative qualifying for the November ballot.

Longtime Port of San Diego tenants Ray Carpenter and Art Engel, who were promised an up-front payment of $5 million even if the measure failed to qualify, declined to comment Friday, leaving open the question of whether they still plan to pursue the project in light of the latest developments.

Like Sanders before him, Faulconer made the convention center expansion a top priority. Each would address it every year in their annual state of the city addresses, and both joined with the hotel industry and business community in support of a financing plan that relied on a substantial increase in the citys room tax.

Sanders miscalculation was believing that a tax increase voted on by the hoteliers was a fail-safe alternative to asking the electorate to sign on. Inevitably, that strategy blew up when a court ruled several years ago that the tax hike was unconstitutional because it did not go before the voters.

When Faulconer restarted efforts last year to revive the project, he, too, miscalculated when he thought he could persuade the council to approve a special election for a ballot proposal that at the time did not have the wide support of the labor unions and homeless advocates

And now, with no vote this year on an initiative that Faulconer was sure would be the citys last, best hope of finally getting an enlarged center, the mayors office is largely mum about what steps now will be taken.

Matt Awbrey, the mayors chief of civic and external affairs, would say only that its clear expansion supporters need to regroup.

He also said the city has been in contact with the Port and Fifth Avenue Landing since last Thursdays vote, and were looking at the settlement to determine where we go from here.

It appears that Carpenter and Engel are still due a little more than $5 million, although the City Attorneys office had previously issued a statement saying that if the citizens initiative did not qualify for the ballot, the city would not be making the payment. But with the developments of last week, that now remains unclear, and the City Attorneys office would not comment.

The Port of San Diego, also a party to the agreement, said Friday that its general counsel will be scheduling a closed session for Tuesday to discuss the issue with its board now that the initiative is not moving forward.

Also saying little is Comic-Con International, which long ago outgrew the convention center and continues to push for an expansion. After it learned the initiative would not make it onto the November ballot, it issued a statement saying, We anxiously look forward to any movement that can address this issue.

For now, Convention Center Corp. CEO Rip Rippetoe is not waiting around for a hoped-for expansion, instead looking at ways to entice business to San Diego even if space is tight for larger conventions like the American Society of Hematology, which will bring 36,000 attendees here in December.

Theyll be using high-end tent structures outside to accommodate meeting space in our plaza park, and theyll have meals out on our terraces instead of in meeting rooms, Rippetoe said. Cisco, the big tech company, has leased space in the back of the building for pavilions for food and beverage.

He said hes also been in preliminary discussions with the San Diego Symphony about the possibility of letting convention groups use its planned summer pops venue that it hopes to eventually build on the waterfront. The center is also upping its technology game, installing much more robust WiFi, a top priority of meeting planners.

But all of this is bridging the gap between where we are and where we need to be with additional space, Rippetoe said.

While San Diego is regularly ranked as a top convention destination, it will no doubt face growing competition as cities around the country increasingly launch major expansions from Seattle and San Francisco to Louisville.

Anaheim recently finished enlarging its center, San Franciscos Moscone Center is in the midst of construction on its project, and the operator of the Los Angeles center has proposed a $1.2 billion expansion that would include an 850-room hotel tower.

San Diegos plan envisioned adding 400,000 square feet of exhibition and meeting space to its center.

All those projects, though, come at a time when supply across the country is outstripping demand. Over the last 13 years, trade show industry attendance has increased by only about 2 million, and revenues to convention organizers are only just starting to approach pre-recession levels, according to the Center for Exhibition Industry Research.

Just because centers are adding a whole lot more space, that doesnt necessarily guarantee rich profits, says Heywood Sanders, a professor at the University of Texas at San Antonio and author of the book, Convention Center Follies. According to Sanders, there has been a 37 percent increase in exhibit floor space from 2000 to 2016.

In a highly competitive, overbuilt market, San Diego will struggle for business, he said. Thats why its doing rent credits and discounts, as are all of its competitors. Expansion is no magic route to increased business.

As city leaders move beyond last weeks debacle, homeless advocate Michael McConnell, often a vocal critic of the citys approach to homelessness, said that while he did not support the initiative hes hopeful theres a way forward.

I hope this spawns opportunity and not division in the people who need to be involved, said McConnell, who had been troubled by how homeless funding was handled in the initiative. Im going to be reaching out. We cant wait. We see what leaving things to the last minute does.

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lori.weisberg@sduniontribune.com

(619) 293-2251

Twitter: @loriweisbergCITY COUNCILS

CARLSBAD

Commission vacancy

The city of Carlsbad has a vacancy on its Planning Commission. To apply, fill out an application at https://bit.ly/2AxKSp9 and submit to the City Clerks Office at clerk@carlsbadca.gov, or in person at the clerks office, 1200 Carlsbad Village Drive, by noon Aug. 31. Email planning@carlsbadca.gov; call (760) 602-4600.

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DEL MAR

In September 2018, the Del Mar City Council will consider whether to adopt the package of Local Coastal Program Amendments and technical documents relating to the citys Coastal Resiliency/Sea Level Rise Planning program. Draft documents are available for review at www.delmar.ca.us/498/Sea-Level-Rise-Local-Coastal-Program-Ame. Public meetings are being held in the Town Hall at 1050 Camino del Mar: Planning Commission, 6 p.m. Tuesday; City Council, 4:30 p.m. Sept. 4 and 17. Contact Principal Planner Amanda Lee at alee@delmar.ca.us or (858) 755-9313, ext. 1167.

ENCINITAS

The Encinitas City Council will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday in council chambers, 505 S. Vulcan Ave., when it will review the certification of an initiative petition authorizing commercial cannabis activities including retail sales, cultivation, manufacturing, cannabis kitchens and distribution, and personal use cultivation. The council will also review the proposed ballot rebuttal argument for its Housing Element.

ESCONDIDO

The Escondido City Council will meet in closed session to discuss property negotiation and litigation at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday in council chambers, 201 N. Broadway. In regular session at 4:30 p.m., the council will hold a public hearing on the rezoning and tentative subdivision map for the Wohlford subdivision, which comprises 55 residential lots and eight open space lots on 40.62 acres on the east side of Bear Valley Parkway, across from Encino Drive; and a hearing to amend the zoning code to define drive-through businesses and to allow drive-through restaurants in the Gateway Transit and Centre City Urban districts, and to approve a conditional use permit for a drive-through restaurant at 350 W. Valley Parkway.

SAN MARCOS

The San Marcos City Council will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall, 1 Civic Center Drive, when it will consider a resolution authorizing time-restricted parking in the Rosemont neighborhood to two hours from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, excluding holidays.

VISTA

The Vista City Council will meet in closed session to discuss labor negotiation at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday in City Council Chambers, 200 Civic Center Drive. In regular session at 5 p.m., the council will hear reports from the Vista Village Business Association, and on the two new code enforcement positions that will be patrolling city parks and open space.

SCHOOL DISTRICTS

CARLSBAD

The Carlsbad Unified School District board will meet in closed session to discuss litigation at 5 p.m. Wednesday at the district office, 6225 El Camino Real. In regular session at 6 p.m., the board will review its Comprehensive Safety Audit, which was completed in early summer. Changes to the updated Facility Use Fee Schedule will also be reviewed.

ENCINITAS

The Encinitas Union School District board is scheduled to meet in special session at 6 p.m. Tuesday in the district board room, 101 S. Rancho Santa Fe Road, to approve an affiliation agreement with CalState Teach University. A closed session will follow to discuss ligitation and the superintendents evaluation.

ESCONDIDO

The Escondido Union School District board will meet in closed session to discuss litigation and personnel at 6 p.m. Thursday at the district office, 2310 Aldergrove Ave. In regular session at 7 p.m., the board will hear an update on the summer school program, and approve contracts for various services.

OCEANSIDE

The Oceanside Unified School District board will meet in closed session to discuss litigation and labor negotiation at 5 p.m. Tuesday at the district office, 2111 Mission Ave. In regular session at 6 p.m., the board will discuss a California Energy Commission School Bus Replacement Grant that will allow the district to buy seven electric school buses. The comission would provide up to $60,000 per bus or electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

RAMONA

The Ramona Unified School District board is scheduled to meet at 6 p.m. Thursday at the district office, 720 Ninth St., and in open session at 7 p.m.

SAN DIEGUITO

The San Dieguito Union High School District board is scheduled to meet in closed session at 6 p.m. Thursday at the district office, 710 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas, and in regular session at 6:30 p.m.

SAN MARCOS

The San Marcos Unified School District board is scheduled to meet in closed session at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at the North County Regional Education Center, 255 Pico Ave., Suite 250. In regular session at 6:30 p.m., the board will discuss budget revisions.

SAN PASQUAL

The San Pasqual Union School District board is scheduled to meet at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at Trussell Hall, 15305 Rockwood Road, Escondido.

VALLECITOS/RAINBOW

The Vallecitos School District board will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the district office, 5211 Fifth St., Rainbow, to discuss a board policy update in response to immigration enforcement, and adoption of the 2018-19 instructional calendar. A closed session will follow to discuss litigation and personnel.

VISTA

The Vista Unified School District board is scheduled to meet at 6 p.m. Thursday in the Morris Vance Community Room, 200 Civic Center Drive, and in open session at 6 p.m.

laura.groch@sduniontribune.comOceansides City Council voted 3-2 this week to allow two medical cannabis delivery services that, if approved, could be the first legal dispensaries in North County.

Oceanside approved an ordinance in April to allow the cultivation, manufacturing, testing and distribution of medical marijuana, but not dispensaries, and has been fine-tuning the measure ever since.

The delivery-only services added to the ordinance Wednesday are technically dispensaries, city officials said.

Its a brick-and-mortar storefront, Community Development Director Jonathan Borrego told the council. However, there would be no customer traffic within that facility. It would simply be used as a distribution point for medical cannabis deliveries.

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If the ordinance is approved after a second reading, probably in a few weeks, the city would begin accepting applications for the two available licenses on Oct. 1.

The decision attracted no public speakers and went quickly compared to the long, crowded cannabis discussions at meetings earlier this year.

Its time to move forward, Councilman Chuck Lowery said Wednesday. He and Jerry Kern served as the councils representatives on an ad hoc committee that worked with residents and staffers to write the citys medical cannabis ordinance.

Council members Jack Feller and Esther Sanchez, who voted against the dispensaries, have consistently opposed legalization, saying it would be a bad influence on young people and could lead users to other drugs.

Emergency services will be burdened by legalization, Sanchez said Wednesday, and the police and fire departments should be better prepared for it.

Cannabis sales should be taxed to pay for the additional police officers and other services that will be needed, she said. However, any new tax would have to be approved by the citys voters, and so far that hasnt happened.

Other council members said those kinds of details can be worked out in the future.

Oceanside has allowed deliveries of medical marijuana from legal sources outside the city since 2016. Many of those come from a dispensary in Santa Ana.

Some of the biggest names in Oceansides farming community, and the San Diego County Farm Bureau, have backed cannabis cultivation. They see marijuana as a potential replacement for traditional crops such as strawberries, tomatoes and avocados that are being pushed out of the region by the high costs of water and labor.

Vista voters will have two initiatives on their November ballot that would allow medical marijuana retailers and testing laboratories.

One of those initiatives, proposed by the city, would permit up to three retailers to sell medical marijuana by delivery only, not in storefronts, and only in manufacturing and industrial zones.

The other Vista initiative, proposed by a citizens group and backed by the marijuana industry, would allow 10 storefront dispensaries or more, based on population, across a wider area of the city, including commercial districts.

Most other North County cities have passed ordinances that supersede state law and prohibit any commercial cultivation or sales of cannabis and cannabis products.

The city of San Diego has about 18 permitted cannabis dispensaries.

Illegal dispensaries, delivery services and related marijuana businesses frequently pop up across the county. Proponents of legalization say it will help control those activities.

philip.diehl@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @phildiehlCITY COUNCILS

DEL MAR

The Del Mar City Council met in closed session Monday to discuss litigation. City Attorney Leslie Devaney reported on the case of Pat Vergne, the citys former chief lifeguard and director of community services, vs. the city. She said the defamation cause of action had been dismissed and the city had been awarded $9,670. A wrongful termination in violation of public policy cause was also dismissed. A demurrer hearing to dismiss the rest of the causes is scheduled for Aug. 31. In regular session, the council approved on first reading a change to city regulations regarding dogs on certain parts of the beach. The change allows off-leash dog use north of 29th Street from dawn to 8 a.m. year-round, and allow off-leash dog use from 25th to 29th streets from dawn to 8 a.m. only in the off-season. An initiative petition to amend development regulations for beachfront properties was discussed. The council voted 3-1 to put it on the November ballot, and also went on the record, 4-0, as opposing the initiative. The council also approved a ballot measure to adopt the 941 Camino Del Mar Specific Plan.

ENCINITAS

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The Encinitas City Council met Wednesday and voted 4-1 to approve its housing element, which would include allowing three-story buildings; and to put it on the November ballot. The council also approved a Caltrans Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant of $210,000 to develop the Encinitas Rail Corridor Cross Connect plan, and approved a budget appropriation of $90,000 to provide the local match. The council also met Friday to review and approve its proposed ballot argument in favor of the housing element.

ESCONDIDO

The Escondido City Council met Wednesday and agreed to assume loans by Cobblestone Village Apartments L.P. to enable a major rehabilitation of Cobblestone Village Apartments, 360 E. Washington Ave. The council also approved a rent increase application for Green Tree Mobile Estates, 1301 S. Hale Ave., averaging $20.48.

OCEANSIDE

The Oceanside City Council met in closed session Wednesday to discuss labor negotiations and litigation. In regular session, the council approved updated salary schedules for executive and senior management employees. The council held a hearing and approved on first reading an ordinance amending its rules on medical cannabis facilities to allow delivery establishments. It also adopted an ordinance changing zoning code to no longer limit medical cannabis cultivation facilities and medical cannabis nurseries to 22,000 square feet per legal lot. The council decided to support a state law to make plastic drinking straws available only by request, and asked staff to draw up an ordinance to ban the distribution of plastic straws in the city.

POWAY

The Poway City Council met Tuesday for a hearing and agreed to renew the Fire Protection Special Tax for fiscal year 2018-19, which collects roughly $637,000.

SOLANA BEACH

The Solana Beach City Council canceled its regularly scheduled meeting for Wednesday.

SCHOOL DISTRICTS

BONSALL

The Bonsall Unified School District board met in closed session Thursday to discuss the superintendents contract. In regular session, the board tabled a revision to a previously passed resolution ordering an election to issue general obligation bonds. The Bonsall Womens Club presented a $5,000 donation for the elementary teachers wish lists.

CARDIFF

The Cardiff School District board met Thursday and approved amended classified and classified management salary schedules, job title assignment and a proposed increase to the substitute teacher rate from $120 to $125 per day. The board also heard a bond implementation update.

DEL MAR

The Del Mar Union School District board met in closed session Monday to discuss personnel and labor negotiations. In regular session, the board approved a resolution to put $186 million in general obligation bonds on the November ballot.

ESCONDIDO

The Escondido Union High School District board met Tuesday and approved revised board policies, including those dealing with student discipline, chronic absence and truancy, employee use of technology, and high school graduation requirements. The board also welcomed Amanda Phillips as the new assistant superintendent for business services.

FALLBROOK

The Fallbrook Union Elementary School District board met Monday and approved contracts for various services, and approved the new school year calendar. The board also approved the purchase of 2.28 acres of coastal California gnatcatcher/sage scrub credits from Buena Creek Conservation Bank for $91,200 to compensate for the loss of habitat at the San Onofre new school construction project.

The Fallbrook Union High School District board met Monday in closed session to discuss labor negotiations and litigation. In regular session, the board approved an agreement with Dr. Irene Villanueva for $16,650 to help reach out to bilingual parents to establish a parent center at Fallbrook High School for the 2018-19 school year. The board heard a report on its homeless students and how the district supports them, with services such as free lunch and bus passes, and directing families to community services. Last year, 88 students were homeless, with 86 of those describing themselves as temporarily doubled up for housing.

VALLEY CENTER

The Valley Center-Pauma Unified School District board met in closed session Thursday to discuss personnel and litigation. In regular session, the board heard reports on the districtwide Welcome Back event, the summer programs, and the 2018-2019 budget. The board approved a job description for special circumstance instructional assistant, and welcomed Matt Evans as the new director of technology and information services.

laura.groch@sduniontribune.comLa Jolla Music Societys SummerFest may be associated with Beethoven, Brahms and Mozart, but under the curation of Cho-Liang Jimmy Lin, its also been a showcase for some of our best living composers.

On Thursday and Friday evenings in Conrad Prebys Concert Hall, the Flux Quartet premiered two intriguing string quartets by Toshi Ichiyanagi and UC San Diego professor Rand Steiger.

Ichiyanagi was well known in American contemporary music circles in the 1960s as John Cages foremost Japanese disciple. But in the 70s, he returned to traditionally notated music and in due time incorporated literal repetition into his music  a cardinal sin for Modernism. Perhaps not coincidentally, his music received fewer performances in the United States.

Commissioned for SummerFest, his String Quartet No. 5 made its world premiere Friday evening  performed by the Flux Quartet and making a guest appearance in a concert with ultra-conservative compositions by Dvorak and Max Bruch. Its a substantial work: three movements in roughly 18 minutes.

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Ichiyanagis language emphasizes tonal centers without being tonal. His rhythms are underpinned by a clear pulse, but the meter shifts unpredictably. His gestures  often two-part writing  are immediate and clear, but their meaning less so.

String Quartet No. 5 is forceful but ambiguous. It may sound traditional on the surface, but its underlying grammar is unpredictable. These contradictions are the works strength, although for some listeners it may have seemed more frustrating than fascinating. It made me curious to seek out more of Ichiyanagis recent works.

Steigers Tropes was inspired by regional differences in the intonation of the Hebrew Bible. Each musician played from their own corner of the hall to surround the audience with sound.

Tropes began with a unison D that traveled around the auditorium. This gave way to instrumental transcriptions of the cantillation of the opening sentences of Genesis, as it might be sung in Syria, Morocco, Hungary or England. In its densest moments, Tropes projected four variations of the melody at once, enveloping us within a diverse yet united sensibility.

The real power of Steigers work was in hearing how each string quartet member influenced the others musical material. The melodies transformed before us in a mystical evocation of a forgotten ancestral theme evolving into the local variants that exist today.

Steigers colleague at UCSD, Lei Liang, was also inspired by traditional materials. Liangs Serashi Fragments celebrated the power of the traditional Mongolian fiddler Serashi, whose recordings almost vanished during the Chinese Cultural Revolution. Liangs work zeroed in on different aspects of Serashis playing  the bite of his bow on the strings, powerful glissandos, or dramatic tremolos. It was a compelling tribute that evoked Mongolian music in an uncompromisingly modern fashion.

The Flux Quartet is one of the finest new music string quartets today. No matter the idiom, violinists Tom Chiu and Conrad Harris, violist Max Mandel, and cellist Felix Fan were devoted to the composers intent.

Playing the same melody in four different speeds at once, as Conlon Nancarrow specified in his String Quartet No. 3? No problem.

Capturing the post-bop groove of Oliver Lakes Hey Now Hey? and making the most of their opportunities for improvisation? Easy.

Navigating the mercurial mood shifts of Earle Browns rarely encountered String Quartet and converting literal squiggles on staves into compelling music? Piece of cake.

Curator Lins determination to challenge his audiences as well as to commission a significant body of work set a very high bar during his 18-year tenure. We hope future SummerFest directors continue that commitment.

Hertzog is a freelance writer.As an educator for more than 30 years, Matt Doyle has learned a lot, and whats repeatedly been revealed to him is that students make excellent teachers, too. As assistant superintendent of innovation for the Vista Unified School District, hes been part of a team working with the community to improve learning and achievement in their local schools.

As we were completing this process, the superintendent and I personally met with more than 2,000 students to discuss what school meant to them. We kept detailed notes from those meetings (and) I took all of the notes and put them into a computer program to identify the most used word, he says. The word used most frequently by students interviewed was irrelevant! This was a bit of a gut-punch for us to be faced with the prospect that students interviewed did not think that their school experience meant much to them, personally.

From that realization, he was driven to work collaboratively with students, parents, teachers and staff to reimagine how to educate students in ways that were more relevant to their future careers and focused on their individual strengths, interests and passions.

Doyle, 52, lives in Vista with his wife and they have three children. He took some time to talk about the importance of innovation in education and about the school districts work with researchers from UC San Diego and the San Diego Workforce Partnership on their International Center for Educational Research and Practice, which is collaborating on more personalized learning programs for students.

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Q: Why is working in education important to you?

A: There is something magical about education that draws me in. Every student comes with an infinite capacity to learn. It is fulfilling to create an environment where students are inspired to unlock their potential.

Q: What exactly does it mean to be the assistant superintendent of innovation?

A: It has been a dream come true to have the opportunity to create this new position. Thanks to an extremely supportive school board and a forward-thinking superintendent, my role can be described as the curator of tomorrow. I focus my attention on creating the conditions for students, parents and staff to adopt a new mindset about school and shifting from a primarily teacher-driven, one-size-fits-all approach to a learner-driven model that actively builds on the personal strengths and interests of each student.

Q: Tell us about the school districts work with UC San Diego and the International Center for Educational Research and Practice.

A: The International Center for Educational Research and Practice is intended to closing the largest gaps in education and society. Representing a partnership between the University of California at San Diego, the San Diego Workforce Partnership and the Vista Unified School District, the center is a global space promoting intersectionality of thought and focus on the lifelong learner. This new center is focused on elevating and amplifying work in three key areas of education: early childhood education, personal learning and relevant connections to the world of work.

What I love about Vista ...

I love North County, and Vista in particular, because it is a constantly changing region that includes an incredibly diverse mix of people. This robust mixture of people and cultures makes for a very vibrant, rich living experience for my family. We love the people, the restaurants, the ocean and the mountains.

Q: What kind of innovation do you think is necessary to help kids succeed?

A: Innovation needs to be a product of students strengths, interests and values. In other words, our goal is not to produce innovation, but rather, to create the conditions for students to become inspired learners who are eager to take control of their learning pathway because they see value and relevance to their own aspirations for life. All students have incredible capacity to realize their potential. Our focus on innovation is intended to open up space in the learning environment for students to realize their potential. Moving away from transition rows and standard assignments, towards a more personalized pathway will more authentically engage students as learners.

Q: What have you found challenging about your work?

A: People, in general, are not super enthusiastic about change. The idea of promoting innovation in a very traditional profession that was built upon a structure more than 100 years old makes for some uncomfortable, even awkward, situations. I think that the most challenging aspects of this work is to go slow with the change; meet people where they are and patiently support them through the change process. I have found that as people begin to digest the concept of innovation as a method for continuous improvement in education they start to open up to the possibilities. Honestly, the most difficult opponents of innovation have become some of the strongest proponents once they saw that an innovative mindset can unlock hidden potential that they did not think they had.

Q: Whats been rewarding about this work?

A: The most rewarding aspect of this journey to promote innovation in education is the liberation of the learner. I have seen students who came to school with a scowl on their face and did not utter a single word all day completely transform once they were given the space to explore, co-create assignments and discover their strengths, interests and passions. In some ways, it is a little counter-intuitive. In order for education to get to the next level, educators need to plan less and allow more space for creative thinking about what is possible in the classroom.

Q: What has it taught you about yourself?

A: I have learned that I have more patience than I thought I had. Initially, I wanted to control the push for innovation. I quickly learned that our movement as a district into the innovative space happened faster when I practiced more patience with people.

Q: What is the best advice youve ever received?

A: The best advice I have ever received is never to think you have all of the answers and ideas. Indeed, I have discovered time and time again, at astonishing early ages, that students can come up with absolutely brilliant ideas and solutions.

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to find out about you?

A: I am a professional musician. For over 25 years, I performed as a Mariachi with my family at parties, weddings and quinceaneras around San Diego. In fact, my group, Mariachi Del Sol, was the ESPN House Band for the Super Bowl XXXVII held in San Diego in 2003.

Q: Describe your ideal San Diego weekend.

A: My ideal weekend is sailing on San Diego Bay with my wife Alex.

Email: lisa.deaderick@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @lisadeaderickAugust 12, 1989 Evening Tribune

The San Diego Union-Tribune will mark its 150th anniversary in 2018 by presenting a significant front page from the archives each day throughout the year.

Friday, August 12, 1898

On August 12, 1898, the front page of The Evening Tribune carried breaking news of the end of hostilities in the Spanish-American War.

The United States had declared war on Spain two months after the mysterious Feb. 15, 1898, sinking of the Battleship Maine in Havana harbor. The war was formally ended on December 10, with the signing of the Treaty of Paris, and America gained control over Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam and the Philippines.

San Diego, which was settled and once controlled by Spain, rallied behind the American flag during the war. Coastal defenses here were strengthened, a precursor to the citys future as a major military base.

Here are the first few paragraphs of the story:

PROTOCOL SIGNED

Full Authority Give the French Ambassador

HOSTILITIES STOPPED

The Spanish Government Now Busy in an Effort to Pacify the Malcontents at Home

Associated Press Special Leased Wire

Madrid, August 12The Spanish government this morning notified the French minister for foreign affairs, M. Del Casse, of its acceptance of the protocol and asked the French government to transmit to M. Cambon, the French ambassador at Washington, such power as in conformity with President McKinleys expressly formulated desire, will authorize him as ambassador of France at Washington to sign the protocol.

AUTHORITY RECEIVED

Washington, August 12At 12:30 oclock the French ambassador received a dispatch giving him full authority to sign the protocol. The dispatch is long and its deciphering will take some time; 4 oclock has been set for the signing of the protocol and undoubtedly it will be signed later in the day.

TWO COMMISSIONS

The protocol provides for two commissions, first the peace commission, which will meet in Paris, and second, the military commission, which will meet in Havana province within fifteen days.

The military commission will be created immediately on the signing of the protocol.

THE PROTOCOL PROVIDES

1. That Spain will relinquish all sovereignty over and title to Cuba.

2. That Porto Rico and other Spanish islands in the West Indies and an island in the Ladrones shall be ceded to the United States.

3. That the United States will occupy and hold the city and bay of Manila pending the conclusion of a treaty of peace, which shall determine the control, disposition and government of the Philippines.

4. That Cuba and Porto Rico and other Spanish islands in the West Indies will be immediately evacuated and that commissioners to be appointed within ten days shall within thirty days from the signing of the protocol meet at Havana and San Juan respectively to arrange and execute the details of the evacuation.

5. That the United States and Spain will each appoint not more than five commissioners to negotiate and conclude a treaty of peace. The commissioners are to meet at PAris, not later than the first of October.

6. On the signing of the protocol hostilities will be suspended and notice to that effect will be given as soon as possible by each government to the commanders of its military and naval forces.

SIGNED TODAY, WAR OVER

The above is the official statement as prepared and given to the press by Secretary Day. The protocol was signed at 4:23 p.m. by Secretary of State Day, representing the United States, and M. Cambon, the French ambassador, representing the Spanish government.

STOP THE FIGHTING

Washington, August 12Secretary Alger has cabled orders to all military commanders that the protocol of peace has been signed and to cease hostilities.

PACIFYING THE POPULACE

Madrid, August 12The question of the acceptance of the protocol having been finally settled and its signature explicitly ad definitely authorized, the government is now considering the domestic situation for the best means of allaying the excitement and propagation of the idea that Spains surrender is not so complete as indicated by the terms of the protocol. As the last step in this direction, a

SEMI-OFFICIAL NOTE

has been issued. It is as follows:

The government is of the opinion that the most critical period of the peace negotiations has now arrived and it depends upon the arrangement of details as to whether peace will be more or less advantageous.

View anniversary front pages online at sandiegouniontribune.com/150-years. For more from the Union-Tribune digital archives, go to newslibrary.com/sites/sdub. Searching is free, with registration. A fee is required to view full stories.It is not illegal to be homeless in the United States.

It is illegal, however, to pitch a tent on public property, to sleep on the sidewalk, to live in a vehicle parked on a street and to do other things homeless people routinely do to survive.

On paper, the laws are equitable, applying to all people and intended to keep cities safe, clean and peaceful.

In practice, many of the laws apply mostly to the homeless, and advocates for the poor say enforcement can be arbitrary and intended only to keep people on the move without really solving any problems.

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San Diego has essentially doubled-down on the criminalization of homelessness, said attorney Scott Dreher, who has reached settlements with the city in landmark lawsuits about homelessness.

San Diego Police Capt. Scott Wahl, who oversees a new neighborhood policing division that includes the departments homeless outreach team, takes exception with that perception that police are targeting the homeless.

Observing one of his officers interact with a homeless man, Cpt. Scott Wahl heads the SDPD Homeless Outreach team and helps bring together officers and various homeless outreach agencies together. (Nelvin C. Cepeda / San Diego Union-Tribune)

This isnt about criminalizing homelessness, he said. Its disheartening to hear that kind of rhetoric.

The new division includes a homeless outreach team and a team that focuses on quality of life crimes, which often involve homeless people. Together, he said the division attempts to balance the communitys need for safe, clean neighborhoods and societys need for long-term help for the homeless.

Wahl said he believes citations and even arrests can have a positive effect on some homeless people by spurring them to change their behavior and get help, but he does not see enforcement as a viable solution for ending homelessness.

Hes not alone. Several cities in the county have followed San Diegos lead by creating homeless outreach teams that try to get people off the street and into shelters or programs rather than behind bars.

The District Attorneys Office also is on board. Since 1989, it has participated in homeless court and agreed to drop some charges against people who have entered shelters and are in programs.

We cant legislate our way out of homelessness or arrest people out of homelessness, said retired attorney Steve Binder, who helped create homeless court in 1989 while in the San Diego County Public Defenders Office.

Despite what seems to be a consensus that citing and arresting homeless people alone will not solve homelessness, however, San Diego and other cities in the county still enforce several laws that are mostly associated with the homeless.

In the most notable example, many homeless people are cited or arrested for violating a San Diego law against encroaching on a public right-of-way with their possessions, and Dreher is representing several homeless people in a class action lawsuit to stop the practice.

Responding to citizens call, Mark Erickson with the SDPD Homeless Outreach Team makes contact with a woman sleeping in her car at local business parking lot in City Heights. (Nelvin C. Cepeda / San Diego Union-Tribune)

A typical month last year saw about 200 citations and 30 arrests for encroachment violations, according to Freedom of Information Act requests made by several parties.

While enforcement of the encroachment law remains active, enforcement of some laws associated with homelessness have tapered off.

Wahl said enforcement of laws is done progressively, beginning with warnings and only leading to arrests after repeated contacts.

Dreher is skeptical about the claim and said progressive enforcement is meaningless when people with no place else to go are warned to move away from certain public places.

Theyre doing that in name only, he said. Theyll say, Get out of here, dont put this on the sidewalk, but wheres the guy going to go? So in the space of a day, hes got a warning, then a ticket, then hes going to jail.

John Brady, who was homeless for two years, said he was harassed multiple times by police officers and ticketed once for having possessions on a sidewalk.

I had been warned, but the reality is, there wasnt any place to go, he said. This is a new level of enforcement. 

SDPD Homeless Outreach team along with outreach workers speak with Ronald Foster who is living on the sidewalk in City Heights. (Nelvin C. Cepeda / San Diego Union-Tribune)

Brady said there is a constant police presence in areas with homeless people downtown, and the aggressive enforcement have pushed some people into other neighborhoods or canyons, and away from services.

Robert Stevenson has been homeless for three years and said hes had several run-ins with police officers.

Certain ones, I respect, he said. They dont come up with that macho-type attitude. Youve got to have an open dialogue with at least one or two of them.

Stevenson had been arrested for having a tent in Balboa Park and said he doesnt remember any warning before being taken in. He also showed marks on his wrists he said were left from handcuffs and a damaged finger from being manhandled in jail.

Some, theyre going to rough you up, he said. Not in a Rodney King way, but theyre going to rough you up.

Standing next to his bicycle on a downstreet street one recent morning, Stevenson watched as several police cars cruised by.

Do you see all these police officers? he said as a patrol car passed. The level of police here is constant throughout the day. For what? For being homeless? Come on, man.

Dreher said he believes San Diego is behind other cities in dealing with with homeless people. Two studies, however, show San Diego is hardly alone in having laws that focus on homeless people.

The National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty included San Diego in its 2016 study Housing Not Handcuffs, which referred to what it called a troubling increase in laws that criminalize homelessness.

In a study of 187 cities, 33 percent prohibit camping in public, 50 percent prohibit camping in particular places, 18 percent prohibit sleeping in public, 47 percent prohibit sitting and lying down in public and 61 percent prohibit panhandling in certain public places.

Jonathan Alatorre from Vista Hill makes contact with a man who was sleeping on the sidewalk with his shopping carts. (Nelvin C. Cepeda / San Diego Union-Tribune)

The report tracked cities from 2006 to 2015 and found a 69 percent increase in citywide camping bans, a 52 percent increase in bans on sitting and lying down in public and an 88 percent increase in bans on loitering and vagrancy.

City-wide bans on panhandling were up 43 percent, and there was a 143 percent increase on laws against living in vehicles.

The Housing Not Handcuffs report included a chart listing 11 laws tracked in the study, and San Diego had only four: camping in certain places, sitting or lying in certain areas, living in vehicles and loitering anywhere in the city.

El Cajon also was in the report and had seven anti-homeless laws, including ones about camping, sleeping, loitering and panhandling.

San Diego County also was in a study by the Western Regional Advocacy Project in San Francisco, which found cities across the country have similar laws against sleeping, sitting and even standing still in public places.

The nonprofit worked with the UC Berkeley School of Law in 2015 and researched 82 California cities, including several in San Diego County, and found 802 different laws and more than 1,000 municipal codes relating to activities common to homelessness such as sharing food, camping, loitering and panhandling.

Oceanside had more anti-homeless rules than any other city in the county, with 15 laws detailed in the report. Carlsbad, Chula Vista, Escondido and San Diego also were cited.

Oceanside City Attorney John Mullen defended his city.

We dont have a single law against homelessness because homelessness is not a crime, he said. These laws apply to everybody.

The report also seemed to take a broad definition of what qualified as an anti-homeless law. Rules against swimming in lakes and restrictions on what time public parks are open were among the laws referred to as anti-homeless, for instance.

Oceanside does have two laws restricting panhandling  the report said it had five  but Mullen said the city has filed only two cases in the last five years.

Mullen said his office mostly deals with violations against the citys law prohibiting illegal camping. Most of those cases are in the San Luis Rey River area, and the laws are intended to keep people away from heavy earth-moving equipment and to stop wildfires that sometimes start from encampments.

Theres a lot of good reasons we have those laws, he said. Theyre not just to harass homeless people.

Mullen said Oceanside filed 76 misdemeanor complaints about illegal encampments last year but has filed seven so far this year, a decline he said may be related to the citys emphasis on its homeless outreach team to connect people to services rather than enforcing laws.

In Carlsbad, Deputy City Attorney Marissa Kawecki also said in an e-mail that she couldnt square the citys ordinances with what the report claimed.

The city has laws against offering food without a permit and soliciting money from people in vehicles, but she said those are rarely enforced. Police do, however, cite people for illegal camping, Kawecki said.

Carlsbad has a homeless outreach team that is more likely to issue warnings and help connect people with services rather than cite or arrest them, she said.

In another step away from citations and arrests, Carlsbad adopted a homeless response plan last October to take a multi-tiered approach to connect people on the street with housing and programs while still enforcing the laws, she said.

While many cities say theyre taking a more compassionate approach to homelessness, however, some have introduced new laws.

El Cajon had a temporary law earlier this year that focused not on the homeless, but on people feeding them in public places.

Mayor Bill Wells said El Cajons feeding ban was a response to an outbreak of hepatitis A, a virus found in the stool of infected people and spread orally. The outbreak hit the homeless population the hardest because of a lack of public toilets and hand-washing stations, and he said it was risky to prepare and serve food in parks where the homeless congregate.

Several people were arrested for feeding people in a city park in January, but the law was dropped later that month when the county ended its health emergency declaration

Oceanside briefly considered a law that would have prohibited anyone from sitting or lying on a downtown public sidewalk during business hours last year. Although the proposed rule didnt mention homeless people, it was seen as anti-homeless, and the idea was abandoned.

In June, Oceanside took another approach and expanded a contact it has with Interfaith Community Services to add a second social worker to deal with the citys homeless population, which is the largest in North County.

Many cities have laws against aggressive panhandling, but those sometimes are challenged as a violation of free speech.

Most recently, the city of Sacramento reversed an ordinance it adopted late last year against aggressive panhandling after being sued by the American Civil Liberties Union.

San Diego has an ordinance against aggressive panhandling, but it is seldom enforced. Only five arrests for aggressive panhandling were made between 2010 and 2016 and about five citations are written each year.

Enforcement of the encroachment law, however, has steadily increased in recent years.

Originally intended to keep businesses from putting trash bins and large planters on sidewalks, the law was first used against people during the Occupy San Diego protests in 2011, a Voice of San Diego analysis found.

Only 11 people were arrested during the protest that year, but enforcement of the encroachment law began to increase in following years. By 2015, police were issuing about 1,600 citations a year.

San Diego also issues about 200 citations a year for illegal camping, although enforcement of the law has fluctuated over the years.

In 2010, there were 106 citations for illegal camping or sleeping in public, and the number dropped to 50 in 2011.

It may not be a coincidence that the city settled a lawsuit with Dreher and the American Civil Liberties Union in 2011. The lawsuit was filed on behalf of homeless people whose possessions had been seized and thrown away by city crews in 2009.

The settlement resulted in the city allowing people to sleep in public places between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. if no shelter beds were available.

Citations for illegal camping began to creep back up in 2012, the same year that the county saw a 6.4 percent growth in the number of unsheltered people, which reached about 5,300.

The number of unsheltered homeless people has increased by 9 percent countywide since 2013.

Citations for the violation seem to have tapered off this year, with about 60 tickets issued as of June.

San Diego police also issue about 300 citations a year for people for living in their vehicles.

Only 11 citations have been issued so far this year, and San Diegos laws against living in vehicles and parking over-sized vehicles on public streets are facing a lawsuit that claims they are unfair to the disabled and homeless.

Countywide, every local city has a law against camping on public land, while laws against sleeping in cars are in Carlsbad, Chula Vista, Coronado, Encinitas, Imperial Beach, La Mesa, National City, Oceanside, Poway, San Marcos and Solana Beach.

Chula Vista, El Cajon, National City, Oceanside, Santee and Vista also have laws against panhandling or aggressive soliciting.

In San Diego, homeless advocate Michael McConnell agrees with Dreher that the city has become more aggressive in its enforcement of laws against that affect the homeless.

Theres no doubt about that, he said. What Ive seen progress over these last two years is this strategy to just keep people on the move.

Since 2016, McConnell has patrolled downtown San Diego streets about twice a day and chronicled police interactions with homeless people for his Facebook page, Homeless News San Diego.

A former vice president for the Regional Task Force on the Homeless, McConnell said he began his mission after seeing police and a city crew clearing homeless people and their possessions out of 17th Street downtown just before a rainstorm hit.

Thats when I started, he said. What are we doing here? I started watching it every week, over and over.

While McConnell is on his morning rounds, officers from the police departments homeless outreach team often are in another neighborhood talking with homeless people about shelter opportunities, rehabilitation programs and medical assistance.

Wahl said the HOT patrols show the citys commitment to helping homeless people find long-term solutions to improve their lives.

At the end of the day, however, Wahl said a police officers job is to enforce the law.

Homeless Playlist  On Now San Diego hepatitis outbreak continues to grow: 481 cases On Now Homeless entrenched in booming tent city along Santa Ana River On Now San Diego mayor agreed to homeless hub, then delayed, advocates say On Now Homeless outreach in San Diego On Now Video: Street Art: Portraits of San Diego's Homeless #8 On Now In poverty himself, 'Water Man Dave,' is the fearless saint of San Diego's homeless 5:41 On Now Video: Homeless living in cars find safe havens 2:21 On Now Street Art: Portraits of San Diego's Homeless #7 On Now Pitching a tent plan for San Diego's homeless On Now Homeless efforts get $80M boost for various services

gary.warth@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @GaryWarthUT

760-529-4939As a police vehicle pulled up and an officer stepped out, the man huddled in a blanket on a sidewalk off El Cajon Boulevard had reason to be concerned.

But then, officer Mark Erickson said something unexpected.

Good morning, sir, he said. If youre interested, were the homeless outreach team.

Erickson didnt question his sobriety, tell him he couldnt sleep on the sidewalk or order him to pick up possessions and move along. Instead, he asked if he needed anything, and said he could connect him with a shelter, a treatment program or other services that morning.

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The encounter represented the new approach to how the San Diego Police Department deals with homeless people, Erickson said.

Were here to help, he said. The last thing we want to do is criminalize homelessness.

The approach also involves teaming up weekly with nonprofits who offer a variety of services, including shelter, sobriety, psychiatric care and drug rehabilitation.

Carlsbad, El Cajon, Escondido, Oceanside and Santee are among cities in the county that also have homeless outreach teams in their police departments.

In San Diego, the homeless outreach team is under a neighborhood policing division that formed about four months ago and is led by Capt. Scott Wahl.

In community meetings around the city, Wahl said complaints about homelessness overwhelm all other issues.

Weve heard from community group to community group, business group to business people, and people are fed up with the problems theyre dealing with, he said.

While HOT officers do outreach in one neighborhood, other officers in another area confront homeless people about violating laws including sleeping on sidewalks, blocking sidewalks and camping illegally.

Around 7 a.m. one day downtown, Lucinda Shearer, 66, was among the homeless people rousted from a sidewalk near Petco Park.

We didnt have our things picked up and off the sidewalk by 5:30 a.m., said Lucinda Shearer, 66, referring to a city curfew as she struggled to carry a few plastic bags that held all her belongings. They said, Pack your stuff up and move.

Disheveled, tired and weighed down by her bags, Shearer stood across the street from the Central Library, wondering where she could put her things and find a quiet place to rest.

I havent eaten, she said. I dont know where were going to go.

Erickson used to be among the officers who confronted people like Shearer for violating certain laws, but after four years he said he wanted a change.

I used to think arrest, arrest, arrest would solve the problem, he said. But Ive actually seen people I knew from multiple arrests and multiple tickets cleaned up and become productive, and it was because of the homeless outreach team and these services. I realized there were two sides to it, and I wanted to see what the other side was like.

Officers assigned to the new division were plucked from all nine divisions throughout the city to create a new city-wide division. The consolidation meant an officer was always on duty to address a complaint from anywhere on any day.

Among the 55 officers in the new division, the homeless outreach team has six full-time officers and four provisional part-time officers. The team also includes two specialists with the countys Health and Human Services Department and two county Psychiatric Emergency Response Team officers also are on hand when needed.

The officers we have over here have compassion in their hearts, Wahl said, adding that one officers father was homeless when he died.

On a recent Thursday morning, Erickson and other HOT officers met at Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park in City Heights with workers from the Alpha Project, Father Joes Village, Friend to Friend, the McAlister Institute, Veterans Village of San Diego and PATH, or People Assisting the Homeless.

A mobile clinic from La Maestra Community Health Center offered free medical and dental services in the park while other workers sat under a canopy at a nearby station to meet with homeless people looking to gain access to other services.

Erickson said offering a variety of services at once is a way to answer any excuse a homeless person may give about why they are declining help.

Three or four HOT vehicles patrol different neighborhoods each day in 10-hour shifts. On the Thursday morning patrol in City Heights, Erickson hit the streets with workers from Father Joes Village and Vista Hill Bridges, a drug and alcohol outpatient clinic.

Sometimes he runs into homeless people he had cited or arrested when working as an enforcement officer.

Its funny, he said. Ill get out of the van and theyll look kind of suspicious. But Ill say, Im not here to arrest you. Lets talk about whats really going on.

Continuous encounters with a person on the street can build trust and a rapport that Erickson said may eventually pay off.

The best thing is when you pull up and they say, Oh, Ive been waiting for you, he said.

One this particular day, some people accepted vouchers for California state identification cars, saving them $29. The ID card sometimes is needed to get certain services.

Several people he encountered waved off offers for shelters or other help, but thanked him for taking the time to stop and talk, which Erickson said was encouraging.

Back at the park later that morning, several homeless people were taking advantage of the mobile clinic, and one woman was waiting to be taken to a shelter.

Jessica Miller was nine months pregnant and said she had been laying in a dirt lot behind a building on University Avenue when someone from the Alpha Project met her that morning.

Ive turned a lot of opportunities down, she said. I just dont feel comfortable being around a lot of people. But this is very important. I want us to be able to keep our child this time.

Miller said she lost her last child, but she felt that God wanted her and her partner to keep this one.

I made a decision, she said. Im ready to go inside now.

People from different agencies huddled to discuss who could help her. PATH offered her a bed at Connections Housing downtown, and Father Joes Village agreed to take in the family after the birth.

She nearly cut her decision to accept an offer too close. A few hours after she left, Wahl said she had given birth to a healthy baby.

Homeless Playlist  On Now San Diego hepatitis outbreak continues to grow: 481 cases On Now Homeless entrenched in booming tent city along Santa Ana River On Now San Diego mayor agreed to homeless hub, then delayed, advocates say On Now Homeless outreach in San Diego On Now Video: Street Art: Portraits of San Diego's Homeless #8 On Now In poverty himself, 'Water Man Dave,' is the fearless saint of San Diego's homeless 5:41 On Now Video: Homeless living in cars find safe havens 2:21 On Now Street Art: Portraits of San Diego's Homeless #7 On Now Pitching a tent plan for San Diego's homeless On Now Homeless efforts get $80M boost for various services

gary.warth@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @GaryWarthUT

760-529-4939He had all the proper security credentials. He had been working his shift and was believed to still be in uniform. The baggage handler didnt seem out of place at all  until he was taxiing down the runway and taking off in a stolen passenger plane.

Richard Russell sparked a combination of amazement and fear as he flew  alone  a 76-seat Horizon Air Q400 plane for more than an hour before it crashed on a wooded area on Ketron Island south of Seattle.

He did a barrel roll. A daring swoop. Officials said they didnt believe he even had a pilots license.

Incredible, Horizon Air President and Chief Executive Gary Beck said Saturday.

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But investigators are still trying to understand why the man nicknamed Beebo decided to take the plane for a what appeared to be joy ride Friday evening from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

Mike Matthews, a family friend, read a statement on behalf of Russells family Saturday night that said relatives were still trying to process what happened.

We are stunned and heartbroken, he said. It may seem difficult for those watching at home to believe, but Beebo was a warm, compassionate man. It is impossible to encompass who he was in a press release. He was a faithful husband, a loving son, and a good friend.

The statement also said: As the voice recording show, Beebos intent was not to harm anyone and he was right in saying that there are so many people who loved him.

The act also reignited discussions about airport and aviation security, with Alaska Airlines Chairman and Chief Executive Brad Tilden repeating several times Saturday that passenger and employee safety was  and is  the companys primary concern. Horizon Air is a subsidiary of Alaska Air Group.

The FBI special agent in charge in Washington state, Jay Tabb, said Saturday that dozens of investigators were combing the crash site, where it is believed the man died. Officials at the Pierce County medical examiners office confirmed Sunday they have Russells body. He was 28.

We are diligently investigating this matter, Tabb said. We will get to the bottom of it.

It is believed the man was the only one in the plane, but Tabb said that investigators hadnt confirmed that at the crash site. Officials with Horizon Air said the plane had not been scheduled to fly and was parked at a cargo parking area at the airport.

The man was authorized to tow aircraft. Officials said he rotated the plane 180 degrees, using a push-back tractor to position it for takeoff at 7:32 p.m.

During the flight the renegade pilot bantered erratically with air traffic controllers, who pleaded with him to land the plane, according to officials and dispatch. Officials said they lost contact with him at 8:47 p.m.

This is probably jail time for life, huh? said the man, according to dispatch audio reviewed by the Seattle Times. I would hope it is for a guy like me.

Oh, Richard, said an air traffic controller, Were not going to worry or think about that. But could you start a left turn, please?

Paul Rinaldi, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Assn., on Saturday praised the controllers who dealt with the man in the air.

In a statement, Rinaldi said of one of the controllers: The recordings of the incident display his exceptional professionalism and his calm and poised dedication to the task at hand that is a hallmark of our air traffic controller workforce nationwide.

Michael Ehl, Seattle-Tacoma International Airports director of operations, said 75 flights were delayed, nine flights were diverted to other airports and five flights were canceled due to the incident.

Ehl said the man who took the plane was authorized to be in the vicinity of the parked aircraft.

He was totally credentialed, Ehl said. He had access to that area legitimately.

Jeff Price, professor of aviation at Metropolitan State University in Denver, said the incident would probably be a wake-up call for closer scrutiny and tighter security at airports and among airlines, and would require reworking the way employees report pre-incident behaviors that might point to a problem.

Price said that as more time has passed since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, security at airports and among airlines and the Transportation Security Administration has gotten more lax. He noted reports that have shown dangerous objects clearing security systems. The Horizon plane theft, he said, would probably force the airline industry to take a closer look at screening and identifying employees within the secure area that might be a danger.

Price said the airlines and airplane manufacturers may also look at adding layers of security to keep anyone but the flight crew from taking off in a specific plane. Special encrypted passcodes could be a part of that process, he said.

But he also said Fridays heist of the aircraft falls low on the risk scale and that the threat of a rogue pilot crashing a plane had always been present. This incident, he said, would probably make it more difficult for those who might have similar thoughts or plans about taking a plane.

Thats always been a risk, Price said. But now theyll find it harder to navigate the process because now people will be watching for it. Its possible for a terrorist to become a pilot, but theres a lot of water between that and what happened in Seattle.

In this long-exposure photo, smoke and an orange glow are seen on Ketron Island after a stolen plane crashed. (Ted S. Warren / Associated Press)

At one point, the pilot said: Im gonna land it, in a safe kind of manner. I think Im gonna try to do a barrel roll, and if that goes good, Im just gonna nose down and call it a night.

Two F-15 fighter jets were scrambled from Portland, Ore., during the unauthorized flight. The fighter jets were traveling so quickly that at least one of them broke the sound barrier, setting off a sonic boom that some people in the vicinity mistook for an explosion.

Video posted by witnesses on social media showed the plane making a barrel roll over what appears to be Puget Sound, with some people crying out in terror as the plane exited the roll in a dive toward the water, before barely pulling up in time and flying away.

Oh, my God! Oh, my God! Hes OK? Hes OK, one woman said in a video posted on Facebook, which showed at least one of the military jets in pursuit.

Debra Eckrote, Western Pacific regional chief of the NTSB, said agents were looking for flight data recorders and the remains of the airline employee.

The cockpit voice recorder could prove useful, Eckrote said. We already have the air traffic and pilot communications, but he might have been talking to himself in the cockpit, she said.

The plane went down in a heavily forested area with thick underbrush. First responders cleared a path to the wreckage Friday night, she said. A fire sparked by the crash was out by daylight.

The plane did not hit any structures, according to an Alaska Airlines statement. Ketron Island is primarily undeveloped, with a few homes toward the north end of the island, according to a Pierce County website.

Whether the crash was intentional is among the many questions facing investigators. According to the dispatch audio reviewed by the Seattle Times, the man told air traffic controllers: Ive got a lot of people that care about me. Its going to disappoint them to hear that I did this. I would like to apologize to each and every one of them. Just a broken guy; got a few screws loose, I guess. Never really knew it, until now.

Jimmy Thomson, deputy editor of Canadian investigative environmental news outlet the Narwhal, compiled portions of the air traffic recording. In one clip, the man says he wouldnt know how to land the plane. I wasnt really planning on landing it, he says.

On a blog belonging to Russell, created last year for a communications class at Washington State University, he wrote that he lives in Sumner with his wife, Hannah. He said he was born in Key West, Fla., and moved to Wasilla, Alaska, at age 7.

Russell said he and his wife ran a bakery for three years in Oregon before moving to Washington in 2015 to be near her family. He said he got the job at Horizon so he could travel to Alaska more easily to visit his family.

In one post, he says he never imagined himself as a ground services agent because it seemed like miserable work. I always felt bad for the guys and gals who handled luggage, he wrote.

But later, he said, he was glad to have been turned down after an interview for a customer service agent position. Ive since learned that angry people can be much more exhausting than heavy bags, he wrote.

andrea.castillo@latimes.com

Twitter: @andreamcastillo

david.montero@latimes.com

Twitter: @davemontero

matt.pearce@latimes.com

Twitter: @mattdpearce

UPDATES:

Sunday, 1 p.m.: This story has been updated with a statement from Russells family.

8:20 p.m.: This article has been updated with comments from security experts and biographical details on the man identified in multiple media reports as the one who piloted the stolen plane.

This article was originally published at 2:45 p.m.Several agencies worked together Sunday to recover the body of a 12-year-old girl who is presumed to have drowned after falling from a boat into San Vicente Reservoir late Saturday afternoon.

Police officials said the girl was in the bow of a vessel that was towing people on a tube when they fell into the water about 6 p.m. The boat slowed down and the girl went over the side and into the water in front of the boat.

Investigators suspect the vessel continued to move, possibly running her over, said police Lt. Bryan Brecht. The girl was wearing a life jacket, which was found in the water.

A robust search for the child was immediately launched but was suspended when night fell. The search resumed the next morning.

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On Sunday, the driver of the boat helped crews narrow their search zone, and divers and lifeguards focused their efforts in an area of about 300 to 400 yards.

The divers, who stayed in the water 23 minutes, went down to about 120 feet, said Monica Munoz, a spokeswoman for the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.

Sonar technology was also being used in the search.

San Vicente Reservoir was closed Sunday while crews worked.

Contact Andrew Dyer via email or Twitter.

UPDATES:

12:40 p.m.: This article was updated with additional details.

The article was originally published at 9:20 a.m.A girl reported fallen from a boat into San Vicente Reservoir near Lakeside was not found Saturday evening despite an intense search, authorities said.

Sheriffs deputies, park rangers, a San Diego life guard dive team, two helicopter crews and Cal Fire crews combed the area for two hours by air, shore and water, sheriffs Lt. Arnold Aldana said.

Authorities got a 911 call at 6 p.m. saying a 12-year-old had fallen from a WaveRunner-type of watercraft and then was struck by a boat, San Diego police said.

A lifeguard later told NBC 7 that the girl fell from a ski boat that wasnt being powered at the time, but was moving with the wind and waves. Adults were in the boat with her.

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San Diego lifeguard Lt. Rich Stropky said the girl was in the boats bow, wearing a life jacket, when she fell overboard, the news station reported. The life vest later was found in the water, he said.

Stropky said there are a lot of large rocks, trees and debris underwater that made diving conditions dangerous.

Search efforts by the various law enforcement agencies continued until about sunset, then were suspended for the night.

pauline.repard@sduniontribune

Twitter: @pdrepardMonths before the city of San Diego purchased a failed indoor skydiving center in East Village for $7 million in cash, city officials determined that they needed to secure a use permit before completing the sale.

But the approval process would have taken months and the seller was in a hurry. So officials changed their mind and bought the property without a permit to operate the place as a homeless-services center, according to emails obtained by The San Diego Union-Tribune.

The city also relied on the sellers agent to determine how much the building was worth, the emails show.

Do you have any appraisal you can provide as that will likely be the largest hurdle time-wise, Cybele Thompson, the citys real estate assets director, wrote to the agent Nov. 27. Can you please clarify the price you are asking and what time constraints you are dealing with? Thanks so much!

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The building at 14th Street and Imperial Avenue is scheduled to open later this year as a housing navigation center  an intake facility to guide homeless people into services and housing.

More than 50 pages of internal emails obtained by the newspaper show city officials making numerous concessions to acquire the 26,000-square-foot building, which still has two three-story wind turbines dominating an atrium and taking up much of the interior floor space.

Some of the emails show the sellers agent saying the property was worth more than $20 million, but that his client would let the property go for half that amount  then rebate the city $3 million.

The price we are asking is $10M. However  they agreed to accept $7M net ($10M sales price and make a $3M charitable contribution, agent Jon Rodrigue of Aspen Growth Properties wrote to Thompson in November. The beneficiaries were OK selling well below appraisal value because of a year-end closing.

Thompson said in December that the purchase would not be completed without a conditional use permit.

We will make it contingent on upon both City Council and CUP approval prior to closing, she wrote.

On Friday, city spokesman Arian Collins said the city has not changed its mind about the requirement to obtain a permit.

The city will address any land use questions as part of the upcoming council hearing regarding the operating agreement, arrangement between the City and SDHC (San Diego Housing Commission) for administration of the program and related issues, he said.

City leaders have said for months that the housing navigation center will improve the quality of life downtown by directing homeless people into housing, job-training, mental-health treatment and other services.

The biggest flaw in our regional care network is that San Diego doesnt have a universal entrance point to access homeless services and start the journey to permanent housing, Mayor Kevin Faulconer said in a February statement. The housing navigation center will change that and serve as a model for the rest of the region.

The mayor and others at City Hall have previously said this years sale price was well below a 2016 appraisal and a brokers opinion of value that estimated the property value at between $15 million and $22 million.

The fact that we are buying it for less than half of what experts say it would cost on the open market makes this deal a no-brainer, Faulconer said.

At the time of sale, the Imperial Avenue property was assessed by the county for tax purposes at $5.8 million. It was reassessed at $7 million after the sale.

Rodrigue was asked in a telephone call Friday whether he would recommend that one of his clients buy a property for $7 million without a current appraisal, but said he could not hear the question. He asked to be sent the questions by email but did not respond.

Besides forsaking an independent appraisal, city officials agreed to a speedy escrow. They took title to the property in early February, barely a week after winning approval from the San Diego City Council.

The seller insisted on a close date not later than Feb. 6, 2018, Collins said.

A section of the San Diego Municipal Code prohibits social-services centers within one mile of other such facilities, emails show. Father Joes Villages has been serving homeless people at its complex one block east of the former skydiving center for decades.

Officials did not explain how the housing navigation center will get around the ordinance prohibiting similar social-services facilities within one miles.

The citys acquisition of the indoor skydiving center was controversial from the start.

Nearby residents complained that it was an inappropriate location and two real estate professionals told the Union-Tribune that the property was worth barely $3 million because of the turbines and other skydiving-related equipment.

Im going to say its worth $325 a square foot -- the dirt on that lot -- or $3.25 million, real estate broker Sam Patella told the paper in April. The building is basically not worth anything.

In June, dozens of residents attended a workshop at the Central Library to describe the proposed center -- and many were upset with the city for opening the navigation center in their neighborhood.

East Village shoulders the burden of caring for a large percentage of the citys homeless and mentally ill citizens due to the concentration of social service facilities and supportive housing in the communitys footprint, they wrote in a letter to elected officials.

In addition to Father Joes, the neighborhood also features the Neil Good Day Center and a pair of massive tents serving as temporary shelters for homeless people.

The email exchanges between city officials ahead of the purchase show that they were well aware of community concerns about the prevalence of social services clustered in the East Village.

We understand there will likely be community resistance to this new center and the escrow closing will be contingent on obtaining a (use permit) for this purpose, Thompson wrote to the Civic San Diego executive overseeing the permit process in early December.

By January, city officials hired a mapping service to determine everyone that had to be legally notified about the navigation center.

I could provide the radius maps you need with owner and occupant list and labels and delivery for a fee of $475, Michael Higgerson of DataPro Mapping Solutions wrote to the city Jan. 5. As far as timing, I believe I could get to you tue or wed at latest if ordered today. You said you were in a hurry, let me know if that meets your needs.

The city accepted the offer 25 minutes later.

This looks great, Thompsons assistant replied. Please proceed with the work right away.

By the middle of January, city officials decided to outsource the permitting process and use federal community-development grants to pay for the work and the real estate. Critics began complaining that the city could rent an office for much less and use the balance of the funds for direct services.

At the same time, Rodrigue alerted city officials that his client was running out of patience and would walk away if a deal was not reached soon.

The owner has been receiving BOVs (brokers opinions of value) from between $10-$15 M and is willing to wait for the additional cash, Thompsons aide told the city real estate assets chief in a Jan. 11 email.

Rodrigue believes the only way she would reconsider delaying the close until a (use permit) is issued is if we increase the sale price, the aide added. Her interest in selling to the city for a good cause has changed. Shes now basing her decisions on price and timing.

Thompson replied a short time later. Thanks for the heads up -- I will advise (chief operating officer) Kris Michell.

Within days, the real estate assets team and others presented the arrangement to the City Council, which quickly approved the purchase.

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jeff.mcdonald@sduniontribune.com (619) 293-1708 @sdutMcDonaldChew on this, Omarosa.

Michael Cohen, the former personal lawyer to President Trump, took to Twitter to shoot down claims from the former Apprentice star that Trump once chewed up a piece of paper after a meeting with Cohen.

LTo (sic) the many dozens of #journalists who called me, questioning @OMAROSA claim in her new book that @POTUS @realDonaldTrump took a note from me, put it in his mouth and ate it...I saw NO such thing and am shocked anyone would take this seriously, he tweeted Sunday afternoon.

The odd anecdote came from Omarosa Manigault Newmans new book, Unhinged: An Insider Account of the Trump White House, which is out Tuesday.

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LTo the many dozens of #journalists who called me, questioning @OMAROSA claim in her new book that @POTUS @realDonaldTrump took a note from me, put it in his mouth and ate it...I saw NO such thing and am shocked anyone would take this seriously.  Michael Cohen (@MichaelCohen212) August 12, 2018

In the book, the former White House aide reportedly writes that she saw Trump chomping on a piece of paper shortly after Cohen left a meeting between the two in the Oval Office in early 2017.

I saw him put a note in his mouth, she wrote, according to an excerpt obtained by the The Washington Post. Since Trump was ever the germaphobe, I was shocked he appeared to be chewing and swallowing the paper. It must have been something very, very sensitive.

Omarosa wrote she was surprised to see Trump chewing the piece of paper, as he is a germaphobe. (Evan Agostini /Invision/AP)

Omarosa, meanwhile, made headlines herself Sunday after revealing that she taped the moment she was fired by White House chief of staff John Kelly in December.

This is a White House where everybody lies . . . you have to have your back, she said on Meet the Press of her decision to record the incident, a taping of which aired on the show.

The former Celebrity Big Brother contestants upcoming book has made waves for a number of shocking claims, including an alleged $15,000-a-month payout she was offered to keep quiet after her ousting, and a recording she claims to have once heard that allegedly features Trump using the N-word.

Trump, for one, is no fan of the newly minted author, and slammed Omarosa on Saturday as a lowlife.Instagrand had just cruised to a gate-to-wire win in Saturdays $200,000 Best Pal Stakes at Del Mar and was making his way around the winners area when one excited race fan leaned over a railing and shouted a prediction.

Or perhaps a premonition?

Triple Crown 2019 baby! the fan yelled. You got it in you!

That may sound aggressively optimistic for a 2-year old with a 2-0 record but given the way he ran Saturday, another shining performance in the Del Mar Futurity on Sept. 3 could lead to the Breeders Cup Juvenile.

Advertisement

A strong showing there would generate Kentucky Derby buzz around a colt purchased for $1.2 million by Larry Bests OXO Equine in March and has since been trained by Jerry Hollendorfer.

Saturdays victory as the 1-9 favorite was all the more impressive because it came after a three- or four-minute delay in the gate area when Synthesis and Sparky Ville were reluctant to enter their stalls.

At one point, Synthesis jockey, Kent Desormeaux, hopped off, allowed his colt to calm down a bit and then remounted.

Despite the commotion and nervous energy around them, Instagrand and jockey Drayden Van Dyke kept their cool and from their position near the rail, burst to the front quickly, briefly dueled with Owning and then steadily pulled away leaving the turn.

A smooth strider, Instagrand beat Sparky Ville by 10 lengths.

Said Sparky Ville rider Gary Stevens: He beat em all, but one. Dont ask me if I could see the winner.

Synthesis took third.

I was a little bit worried (after the delay), said Hollendorfer, who also trains the talented 2-year-old filly Brill. Some of the colts were acting up, but then they got them in there. He broke good even though he had been standing in there awhile, then Drayden got his colt to relax and he did his thing. ... Well look at the Futurity for him, for sure.

Van Dyke, who continued his strong meet with his 16th and 17th victories Saturday, also rode Instagrand to a 10-length debut win on June 29 at Los Alamitos.

This time, Instagrand came in a heavy favorite and Van Dyke hardly needed to nudge his mount along as they covered the final quarter in less than 24 seconds while eliciting the days loudest cheers.

I havent been getting on him in the morning (since Los Alamitos) but they told me he was ready, Van Dyke said. Oh yeah. I just threw a couple crosses at him today; thats all. Cadillac, I wanted to see if hed change leads on his own, but in the end, I just give it a little weight shift (to the inside) and he made a perfect change.

Hes got the mind of a 4- or 5-year old. Professional.

Title defense?

One horse to watch in todays $100,000 Grade II Rancho Bernardo Handicap sprint for older fillies and mares is Skye Diamonds, who is back to defend her title and ridden by Tiago Pereira.

However, trainer Bill Spawr has seen her go 0-for-5 since the 2017 Rancho Bernardo with four defeats in 2018. Anonymity, ridden by Flavien Prat, is the morning-line favorite (8-5).

Skye Diamonds (9-5) will also face Deer Valley, Moonshine Memories, Turkish and Yuvetski.

Weve got no excuses, Spawr said. Were hoping this race can really get her back on track and in the winners circle.

Notable

Van Dyke now trails only leader Prat, who has 20 wins, in the jockey standings. Tyler Baze won twice Saturday to move to 16 wins.

A total of 10 different trainers won races on Saturday including Peter Miller, Hollendorfer and Doug ONeill.

Carter is a freelance writer.

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.Press Release

August 12, 2018 De Lima urges Senate honor for late Carmen Guerrero-Nakpil Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima has urged the Senate leadership to honor the late national artist Carmen Guerrero-Nakpil for her profound legacy and admirable work in shaping and nurturing the fields of Philippine literature and history writing. De Lima has filed Senate Resolution No. 826 which seeks to bestow esteemed recognition to Guerrero-Nakpil - touted as the Grand Dame of Philippine letters and Grand Old Lady of Public History -- following her demise last July 30 at the age of 96. "It is fitting for the Senate of the Philippines to give due recognition to Carmen Guerrero-Nakpil, whose work and legacy have significantly promoted and advanced the nationalism and patriotism of the Filipinos, and have fostered and inspired the artistic and creative avocations of our people, especially among the youth," she said. De Lima noted that as a journalist, memoirist and historian, Guerrero-Nakpil's works not only reflected her personal experiences, but also mirrored the rich history of Manila and what it was like to be a Filipino during the 20th and 21st centuries. With Guerrero-Nakpil's unparalleled contributions and impact in Philippine Literature, De Lima said the former earned the Gawad Pambansang Alagad ni Balagtas (National Disciple of Balagtas Prize), Lifetime Achievement from the Unyon ng mga Manunulat ng Pilipinas (Umpil) in 1988, and SEA (Southern Asian) Writer Award in 1990. "Aside from her journalistic prowess, Guerrero-Nakpil also held important leadership positions in government," De Lima shared. Among these leadership positions include her being the Chairperson of the National Historical Commission, the Chairperson for the Cultural Committee of the Philippine Commission for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Education, and the Director General of the Technology Resource Center. The Senator from Bicol maintained that the outstanding and unrivalled feat of Guerrero-Nakpil in Philippine literature, journalism and history writing has infused nationalism and pride in every Filipino. "She pioneered in bringing history closer to the Filipino people through the creation of profound literature partnered with the ardent understanding and exploration of Philippine's diverse heritage and culture," she said. Guerrero-Nakpil's most remarkable works were Woman Enough and Other Essays (1963), The Philippines and the Filipinos (1977), The Philippines (1989) and Rice Conspiracy (1990). Guerrero-Nakpil, who finished her Bachelor of Arts Degree in St. Therese College 1942, was also known for a trilogy based on her life comprising Myself, Elsewhere (2006), Legends and Adventures (2007) and Exeunt (2009).The sales process for Fletcher Building's Formica unit is about to get underway, and is most likely to attract the interest of private equity buyers, the Australian newspaper reported.

Flyer documents are being sent out to buyers who will receive information memorandums for the business next month, with the hope a sale is finalised by Christmas, the newspaper said without detailing where it got the information. The newspaper named buyout funds such as Lone Star, which owns building materials firm Arclin, Bain Capital and Platinum among potential buyers.

The Auckland-based construction and building products company announced plans in April to sell its Formica and steel roofing tiles businesses after a strategic review under new chief executive Ross Taylor which will see it retreating to its main New Zealand and Australian markets following losses in its construction business. In February, Morningstar valued the international division at $1.36 billion and Formica alone at $730 million. Fletcher paid US$700 million to buy Formica Corp from private equity owners Cerberus Capital Management and Oaktree Capital Management in 2007.

The Australian newspaper report suggested Formica, which makes high pressure laminates used on desks, and for interiors such as kitchen tops, cupboard linings and display units, could be worth about A$1 billion.

Fletcher shares last traded at $6.92 and have fallen 8.7 percent over the past year. Of analysts polled by Reuters, eight rate the stock as a 'hold', one a 'sell' and one a 'strong sell'.

(BusinessDesk)

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Trump's trade beef with China may backfire on meat



Shanghai, Aug 12 (AFP) Aug 12, 2018



A key objective of President Donald Trump's trade war is to pressure Beijing to "buy American", but when it comes to millions of dollars of US meat imports, China may simply take its business elsewhere.

Beijing's retaliatory tariffs on US pork and beef are making them prohibitively expensive and Chinese importers are simply turning to other sources, a trend expected in other sectors as well.

"When the US prices go so expensive after the duties... we will source from other origins," said Zhang Lihui, Shanghai manager for global meat company PMI Foods.

"Like for beef, we will buy more from Australia, we will buy more from South America, and maybe a little bit more from Canada."

PMI Foods has already ceased importing cuts of US pork meat into China after Beijing's tariffs -- imposed last month in response to Trump's initial duties on Chinese goods -- drove prices up.



- Shifting patterns -



Shifting trade patterns caused by the tariff battle will "definitely" benefit other countries at the US's expense, Zhang said.

"The Chinese market will certainly look for replacements," she said.

The outcome of the trade battle, spread across a range of sectors, remains hard to predict. But analysts warn that US exporters will lose significant China business.

The US exported around $140 million worth of pork, beef and related by-products to China in June, before tariffs kicked in, according to the US Meat Export Federation, about 10 percent of all US beef and pork exports.

China is clearly targeting imports of commodities such as meat, soybeans, wheat and petrochemicals that are easily replaced in the global market, said Julian Evans-Pritchard, a China economist with Capital Economics.

"That's the idea of tariffs: you are trying to hurt the other side while not hurting yourself too much," he said.

"I think (the trade war) could lead to some quite significant shifts in the flow -- which country getting what from where."

The impact on prices of imports, however, will be largely negligible as "the global trade system is quite flexible," he added, and because suppliers on both sides will absorb much of the tariff costs themselves to maintain their exports.

That is the case with Lin Zhengu, chef and owner of Shanghai's upscale Stone Sal steak restaurant, which serves mainly high-end American and Australian beef.

Costs of prime US beef cuts are already up 30-40 percent due to the trade war, Lin said, but he and his US suppliers are eating the losses themselves rather than pass them on to customers.

"The only way we will switch to other (non-US) beef is if the gate is totally closed. For now, we still want to work with our suppliers and farms," he said.



- Filling the gap -



Trade experts say some of the most valuable US exports to China such as Boeing aircraft and American-made cars are threatened as China can instead import Airbus jets or autos from Europe and Japan.

Even US soybeans, seen as a key American leverage point due to the massive quantities China imports, might not be irreplaceable.

The head of Chinese state grain trading giant Cofco said it was looking at increasing imports of soybeans from Brazil, and other grains from places such as Ukraine and Russia.

Shanghai Xinshangshi International Trade Co, a major formerly state-owned Chinese food importer, brought in $40 million worth of US beef and pork in 2017 and had planned to raise that to $100 million this year.

But due to the trade war, its general manager Xu Wei is turning to Europe, Australia and South America instead.

"The gap will be filled very soon," Xu said.

"So for the trade war, if we Chinese importers still want to maintain our trade volumes, it would hurt the US suppliers and exporters the most."

kwa-dma/mtp/ceb

BOEINGTaliban delegation visits Uzbekistan to talk peace, security



Kabul, Aug 12 (AFP) Aug 12, 2018



A Taliban delegation travelled to Uzbekistan earlier this month to discuss the Afghan peace process and withdrawal of foreign forces, officials said Sunday, as fighting between insurgents and security forces raged near Kabul.

The meetings in Afghanistan's northern neighbour follow recent reports that the Taliban sent similar delegations to China, illustrating the group's rising ambitions to engage in independent talks with foreign governments as momentum for a peace settlement in the country builds.

The head of the Taliban's political office in Qatar Sher Muhammad Abbas Stanekzai met with Uzbek Foreign Minister Abdul Aziz Kamilov over a four-day period from August 6, and discussed the "prospects of the peace process in Afghanistan", the Uzbek foreign ministry said in a statement.

The Taliban said in a separate statement they discussed the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan, peace and "future national projects such as security for railroad and power lines".

Uzbekistan's special envoy for Afghanistan Ismatulla Irgashev also attended the meetings, officials said.

The talks follow an earlier trip to Uzbekistan by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in late March.

The move was welcomed by some in Kabul, where pressure is mounting to engage the insurgents and end the nearly 17-year-old war.

The Taliban have continued to push for direct negotiations with the US -- rather than the government in Kabul, which the insurgents see as illegitimate -- but have also attempted to build independent contacts with other governments.

"These kind of meetings are going to continue until the real talks begin," Sayed Ehsan Taheri, a spokesman for the Afghanistan High Peace Council, told AFP.

The Taliban have repeatedly rejected overtures from the Afghan government to join a peace process, as they intensify attacks across the country.

Late Thursday Taliban fighters launched a major assault on the provincial capital of Ghazni, just a two hour drive south of Kabul.

Anticipation had been mounting about the possibility of a government ceasefire announcement for the Islamic holiday of Eid-al Adha later this month.

An unprecedented truce in June brought fighting between security forces and the Taliban to a temporary halt, giving war-weary Afghans some welcome relief from violence.

The June ceasefire sparked hopes that an opportunity for peace talks between the government and Taliban may be opening.

Later in the month Washington indicated a change in its longstanding policy when US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the United States was prepared to "support, facilitate and participate" in talks, opening the way to militants to meet US officials in Qatar.

Pompeo also said the role of foreign forces in Afghanistan would be on the table.Iraq PM cancels visit to sanctions-hit Iran



Baghdad, Aug 12 (AFP) Aug 12, 2018



Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has cancelled a visit to Iran, his press office said Sunday, days after Baghdad announced it would comply with US sanctions against Tehran.

Abadi will still go ahead with a planned visit to Turkey on Tuesday but has scrapped the Iran leg of the trip "because of his busy schedule", the office told AFP.

The previous day an Iraqi official who did not want to be named had said Abadi would also visit neighbours Turkey and Iran to discuss economic issues.

According to Iraqi political sources who spoke on condition of anonymity, Iran initially agreed to the visit but changed its mind because it was unhappy about Abadi's remarks.

The premier said last Tuesday that Iraq -- which relies on neighbouring Iran as a source of cheap imports -- would reluctantly comply with US sanctions against Tehran that took effect the same day.

It came after US President Donald Trump withdrew from a landmark 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers.

"We don't support the sanctions because they are a strategic error, but we will comply with them," said Abadi, whose country is an ally of both Tehran and Washington.

An Iranian foreign ministry spokesman, asked about a possible visit by Abadi, said that he had "so far not received any official news or information whatsoever about this trip," the semi-official ISNA news agency reported.'Time has come' to create US Space Force, sixth military branch: Pence







Washington (AFP) Aug 9, 2018





Vice President Mike Pence on Thursday unveiled details of plans to build a US Space Force that would become the sixth branch of America's massive military, saying the "time has come" to prepare for "the next battlefield." President Donald Trump ordered the creation of Space Force in June, arguing the Pentagon needs it to tackle vulnerabilities in space and assert US dominance in orbit. Its creation however is not a done deal, as it needs to be approved by Congress, and the concept has met with s ... read moreAlgiers, 12 August 2018 (SPS)  Secretary General of Algerian National Alliance Party, Belkacem Sahli, has reiterated his party's unconditional support for the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination and independence, during a special reception to Ambassador to Algeria Abdelkader Taleb-Omar.



Mr. Sahli stressed the need to find a solution to the Sahrawi issue in line with the principles of the United Nations and international law, calling on international organizations to intensify efforts to achieve this goal, taking into account the right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination and independence.



For his part, the Sahrawi ambassador paid tribute to the position of the Algerian National Republican Alliance Party, which is Algeria's position in general towards the Sahrawi issue, pointing out that the two countries are united by common struggle and action in order for the region to live in peace and freedom. (SPS)



062/SPS/TRAI am offering the solution to a problem most Republicans don't know they have -- that they can be outmaneuvered and thrown on the defensive endlessly, on nearly any issue, because they accept as true Democrat lies about the Republican Party. To correct that misperception and to help the Republican Party get 'back to basics' is why I'm a man on a mission.

A few years ago, after one of my speeches, a man told me "Do you know what your problem is? You're too far ahead of your time!" My efforts to show Republicans how they would benefit from celebrating the heritage of our Grand Old Party have been arduous, but if this were easy someone else would have already done it.

Among my speech topics are Reconciling the Tea Party and the GOP; Barack Obama, the Worst President Ever; Socialism, the new Slavery; Appreciating the Heritage of our Grand Old Party; Returning to the Founding Principles of the United States; The Womens Rights Achievements of our Grand Old Party; Abraham Lincoln, Republican; Frederick Douglass, Republican; Martin Luther King and the Republican Civil Rights Legacy.Mohammed bin Salman Abdulaziz Al Saud, the 32 year old son of the current king of Saudi Arabia, is seen as one of the brightest (he has a degree in law) of the top Saudi royals. Hes currently the deputy crown prince and, since January 2016, the youngest Minister of Defense ever. Mohammed bin Salman is ambitious and has proved himself capable of handling the Saudi bureaucracy. For the last four years, he has been working on a plan to move Saudi Arabia away from dependence on oil income. In April 2016 he announced that his plan has been accepted and he will implement it. That has turned out to be extremely difficult even though getting away from oil dependence is recognized as a matter of life or death because within 50-90 years the oil will be gone. This has been known since the 1970s and ever since the government has tried several plans to develop the non-oil side of the economy and none have worked. Currently, oil income is nearly half the GDP. Take away the oil income and most of the rest of the GDP disappears as well.

There are still elderly Saudis who remembered what life was like before the oil wealth began pouring in during the 1970s. When the kingdom was founded in the 1930s oil was just being discovered in Arabia. At that point, the economy was described as subsistence and per-person GDP was about half the world average. By 1950 per-person GDP was a little above the world average (the U.S. was nearly five times average). After OPEC (the oil cartel) was created in the early 1970s per-person GDP soon grew to three times the world average (U.S. was four times). That was the peak (in terms of per-person GDP) for the Saudis because all that sudden wealth sparked a population explosion. Saudi per-person GDP shrank to about twice the world average (which had doubled since 1950) in the 1980s (U.S. still four times). By 2013 Saudi per-person GDP was about at the world average and the population was still growing while oil income was not and there was not much growth at all in the non-oil part of the economy. Saudis noted that the U.S. was now nearly five times the world average in per-person GDP. And many countries with no oil, and that were as poor as the Saudis in the 1930s, are doing better than Saudi Arabia.

Mohammed bin Salman (or MBS for short) is seen as the last, best hope. But when you get into the details you see that known problems pile up faster than workable solutions. For example, he wants to have half of the Saudi military purchases to be made in Saudi Arabia by Saudi firms. Currently, Saudi Arabia has the third largest annual defense budget ($57 billion) and nearly all military equipment is imported. That is not going to change soon but the composition of the Saudi defense forces is because right now the Saudi military still depends on a lot of foreigners to do key jobs (technical and management.)

An example of why Saudi Arabia is so dependent on defense imports was seen in early 2016 when MBS was present when a munitions factory in Saudi Arabia was opened (but not yet in production). The facility was built by German-South African defense firm (Rheinmetall Denel) and it will produce artillery (60mm, 81mm and 120mm mortar and 105mm and 155mm howitzer) shells and aircraft bombs (of up to 909 kg/2,000 pounds). The new plant, financed by the Saudis and jointly run by them and Rheinmetall Denel can produce up to 300 artillery and 600 mortar shells a day. Apparently, most of the ammo is for the Saudi military although some may be exported. However, the Saudis tried this before, in the 1980s. Back then South Asian workers were used and quality control was poor. This was kept quiet until 1990 when during a skirmish with Iraq (on the Kuwaiti border) it was found that the Saudi built ammo was defective (the 90mm shells would not explode). The plant was quietly closed, the ammo produced there was discarded and replaced with ammo purchased from a European manufacturer.

Rheinmetall Denel has been told to avoid a repeat of the 1990s fiasco but the Saudis have been quietly informed that finding enough Saudis willing and able to do the exacting work has proved, as in the past, impossible. The munitions plans are still not in full production and never will be if it has to rely on a largely Saudi workforce. This is the essential problem throughout the economy although when it comes to manufacturing ammo its a matter of life or death.

MBS wants Saudis to work at skilled jobs and manage this new non-oil economy. He faces formidable challenges. The official Saudi Arabian unemployment rate is 12-13 percent but for a long time, the government tried to pretend that the unemployment rate for Saudis was less than half that. Another problem is that many Saudis seek no show jobs or are unemployed by choice. Saudi men tend to have a very high opinion of themselves, and most jobs available, even to poorly educated young men, do not satisfy. Thus most Saudi prefer a government job where the work is easy, the pay is good, the title is flattering and life is boring. In the non-government sector of the economy, 90 percent of the jobs in Saudi Arabia are handled by foreigners. These foreigners comprise 30 percent of the Saudi population, mostly to staff all the non-government jobs Saudi men disdain. While those foreign workers send over $20 billion home each year over 80 percent fill unskilled jobs. These unskilled workers do not make enough to bring their families to Saudi Arabia and over 90 percent of them spend less than six years working in Saudi Arabia. Basically taking a job in Saudi Arabia (or any other oil-rich Arabian state) is a way to make enough money to start a business or otherwise improve your life back home. The Saudis are fine with that.

This means most young Saudi men have few challenges. Past efforts to replace foreign workers with Saudis have failed in practice although many of these Saudi employees were declared a success because many foreigners were officially replaced with Saudis who were often so ineffective that companies had to find ways to hire foreigners to actually get the work done while Saudis were still on the payroll. Currently, about 80 percent of the non-government workforce is foreign-born. This includes most of the managers and skilled personnel. Since the 1990s the Saudis have made some progress because it used to be that 90 percent of the non-government workforce were foreign-born. The problem is not just the inability, or unwillingness, of Saudis to do many of these jobs but the fact that the foreigners are informally organized and resist reducing their numbers. Nearly all the foreign workers come from relatively poor nations with Moslem majority populations or large Moslem minorities. Most of these foreign workers are from South Asia (Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka). Note that India has more Moslems than Pakistan and those Indian Moslems have made themselves indispensable when it comes to keeping the commercial sector going.

While oil accounts for 45 percent of the Saudi GDP, the rest is largely in private hands. There are few foreign owners but the Saudi owners would see their companies fall apart quickly if their foreign workers were gone. The Saudis depend on foreign entrepreneurs to obtain a steady supply of mainly poor, mainly unskilled and mainly Moslem workers to serve less than six years in Saudi Arabia to do the dirty work (according to Saudi standards) and keep things working. In 2012 the Saudis confronted the suitability problem and carefully examined it. They found that most Saudis consider about 86 percent of the jobs expatriates do as unsuitable for Saudis.

This made it clear that a major problem was the absence of a suitable work ethic among Saudis. Many Saudis openly complain about this and often blame the government for creating a culture of dependence to ensure the survival of the monarchy. As a result, foreign workers are much more effective, its as simple as that. This is in part a self-inflicted problem. Since all of the oil states in Arabia are monarchies, the rulers quickly found that the most effective way to remain in power was to keep their subjects pampered and happy. In other words, spread the oil money around and pay attention to public opinion. Most of the public backs the use of foreigners and the continued use of oil money to make life easy for the locals.

For example, foreign workers are brought in to handle most jobs (like training pilots and maintaining weapons) that require high skill levels, a lot of effort, and lots of experience. This importation of foreign experts for piloting warplanes and maintaining them is very common in the Arab oil nations because the locals tend to avoid heavy physical or mental labor. While many Arab men see being a fighter pilot as glamorous and worthy of some effort, the training required discourages most who attempt it. Some Gulf Arab states insist that Arabs occupy those fighter plane cockpits no matter what so the foreign trainers and maintainers are ordered to do what has to be done to keep the pilots alive and the planes in one piece. Pilot skill and capability has a lower priority. There are some exceptional Arab fighter pilots but just getting by is tolerated among the fighter pilot community. Yet due to these pilots being constantly exposed to ridicule by allied (Western) foreign the Saudi pilots got better. They established a subculture that was encouraged allied pilots who said nothing but once at the controls showed how it was done. Over decades similar exposure to competent fighters created a growing number of Saudis capable and willing to do jobs like maintaining warplanes and other high-tech military gear. Progress in this area is slow and as much as MBS and many other Saudis would like to speed it up no one has figured out how.

Another problem MBS is quietly trying to address is what Islamic conservatives have had control of the education system for decades in return for remaining loyal to the Saudi family. This meant emphasis was placed on religion and not literacy, math, science, critical thinking and anything seen as too Western. This placed Saudi students at all levels near the bottom of educational rankings when Saudi students took standardized tests. Saudi Arabia was not producing students who could handle many of the jobs they were importing Moslems from other countries to do. The other Gulf oil states, particularly the UAE, did a much better job and produced graduates who could more easily handle technology, business and managing a modern economy. Saudi parents were increasingly willing to pay for additional education for their children so they could qualify to attend a foreign university and become competitive. This was increasingly popular but backfired when a lot of the Saudis who got a Western education, especially those who went to college in the West, decided that Saudi Arabia was not the best place to get a good job and live as they had become accustomed to in the West.

MBS has looked at the problem more intently than anyone before him and openly admitted that he personally knew a lot of trained and capable Saudis who emigrated to seek better career opportunities elsewhere. What a lot of these expatriate Saudis would never make a lot of noise about (so as not to offend the Saudi government) was that the strict enforcement of Islamic lifestyle rules was not popular with a lot of Saudis and especially not with their Saudi wives (who were educated and knew what was going on in the rest of the world). MBS correctly concluded that relaxing many of these rules (like allowing women to drive automobiles) would keep some able Saudis in Saudi Arabia. Many of the Saudis working in government jobs did so out of desperation because the commercial sector was not just staffed by foreigners (who held nearly all the management and supervisory jobs) but unofficially controlled by them. The foreigners are organized and realize that it is in their interest to keep Saudis dependent on the foreign workforce. Saudis like to quip about their foreign slaves but the reality is rather different and it is unclear who has actually enslaved who. One thing has become clear; more Saudis are now aware of how backward and uncompetitive they are and are willing to accept all manner of reforms.

MBS is probably aware of how neighboring UAE (United Arab Emirates) has gone about establishing military industries. Since the 1990s the UAE has invested heavily in defense manufacturers inside the UAE and the Middle East. One of these firms is Adcom Systems United which has been around since the 1980s and produces a wide range of military equipment. It does this by licensing a lot of technology and forming partnerships with high-tech firms in the West. Adcom has been working on UAVs since 2003 and has delivered several models for both military, police and commercial use.

The UAE has been encouraging local companies to develop weapons for use by local forces and export markets. So far this has resulted in UAE firms manufacturing military trucks, guided missiles, and small arms. Despite this since 2008 UAE has become the third largest importer of weapons in the world and the largest in the Middle East. The other two big spenders worldwide are India and China. In the Middle East, the UAE imports 50 percent more weapons than Israel.

Note that the UAE makes this work by doing most of the manufacturing in foreign countries, usually other Arab states that have little or no oil income and a better work ethic. MBS is going right to the heart of the issue in an effort to see if Saudis can support themselves without the economic crutch oil has provided for the last two generations.What is wrong with the German military? Apparently quite a lot. Consider this; the German Navy has six modern Type 212 submarines and at the end of 2017 it became a major news that none of them were available for service. One damaged its steering mechanism on December 19th when U-35 struck a rock off Norway. The other five 212s are either undergoing repairs or maintenance or waiting for a dry dock to become available for essential work. There were other problems, similar to those that have kept many German warplanes and armored vehicles out of action since the 1990s. One that was frequently mentioned was a lack of spare parts. While that was true, and a common problem throughout the German armed forces, it soon became apparent that there was a larger and more serious problem; poor leadership in the Defense Ministry and among the senior officers (generals and admirals).

This became obvious when analysts and journalists compared German performance in developing and building warships to what other nations were doing. Germany is a major shipbuilder, one of the top five in the world. But its own navy, when given a choice, selects designs that look good on paper but do not perform in reality. That is not a new problem and not unique to Germany. The extent of the incompetence, however, is surprising. Politicians saw building new warships for the German Navy as more about providing jobs and paid little attention to the practicality of the designs selected. This was particularly evident with German surface warships. As Germany replaced its aging Cold War designs the navy sought out and accepted designs that were more suitable for peacekeeping than warfare and now Germany finds itself with a surface fleet of warships that are not only incapable of fighting but often have a hard time remaining capable of going to sea.

For twenty years after the Cold War ended in 1991 German defense planners did not consider the possibility that Germany would again face a military threat. But after 2008 Russia became more and more aggressive and now Russia, with much less efficient shipyards, is building more effective warships. This is particularly embarrassing because the primary combat zone for German warships is the Baltic Sea and Germanys new NATO partners in East Europe (Poland and the Baltic States) are openly critical of Germany not being able to handle its share of the defense burden in the Baltic.

Its not just ineffective surface warships but also naval aviation, including ASW (anti-submarine warfare) aircraft, that are, to put it mildly, inadequate. For decades Germany did not seriously consider the need for modern ASW aircraft because; who would they be used against? Now there is a real threat in the Baltic and North Sea and Germany must depend on other NATO nations (and non-NATO nations like Sweden and Finland) to protect German access to the shipping lanes in the Baltic and North Sea.

In one area of warship construction; submarines, Germany remained a world leader and major exporter. To remain competitive German subs had to be designed and built for combat operations. But when the German Navy purchased German-built subs these boats were misused and poorly administered. It was more than lack of spare parts that left Germany with no combat ready subs in late 2017 and into 2018. It was extremely poor leadership and planning at the top.

Some things were obvious. Defense spending was sharply cut in the 1990s. This was the peace dividend, the expected savings from the demise of the Soviet Union and its enormous military (including the second largest fleet on the planet.) The German Type 212s entered service during this period and the failure to buy sufficient spare parts soon led to subs being sidelined until the spares could be manufactured. In some cases spares were obtained by taking components from subs sidelined for something else so that two subs would not be out of action. But this was more expensive and the situation just kept getting worse until there were no subs available for service and that situation wont be rectified until early 2018 and wont improve much until the navy gets a lot more money for spares and maintenance. Note that export users of the Type 212s werent having these problems. More Germans began to notice that.

Germany could use its U-Boats right now because they provided a major threat to increasingly aggressive Russian warships in the Baltic and North Sea. That was always the intent, even though the 212s were developed simply to replace the Cold War era Type 209s and keep a prosperous export business (subs) going. In late 2005 Germany commissioned its first Type 212 submarine, U-31. This was quickly followed by U-32 and two more in 2006 and 2007. Two more entered service in 2015 and 2016. Another two were planned but never ordered. Italy also has four Type 212s.

Type 212s are special boats, as they were among the first use fuel cells (for AIP, or Air Independent Propulsion), which enable them to quietly operate underwater for weeks at a time. They still have diesel propulsion, but this is only used for surface travel when the batteries are recharged. The 212's are also very quiet, quieter than most nuclear boats in service. This makes them an even match for a current nuclear boat equipped with better sensors. The 1,450 ton 212's are much smaller than nuclear boats (57 meters/188 feet long, compared to twice as long and 6,200 tons for the new U.S. Virginia class SSNs). The nuclear boats are used for a lot more than hunting other ships and subs.

While the 212's are mainly attack boats, and well designed and equipped for it, they can, because of their AIP, be used for intelligence collection and landing commandos. While Germany is an American ally, their development of fuel cell technology for subs, and use of these boats in their own navy, helped this technology mature, and eventually available to many more nations. These 212 boats are, expensive (about half a billion dollars each), but that's less than a third the cost of a nuclear boat. The 212's are also highly automated, requiring a crew of only 27. But with six torpedo tubes, and a dozen torpedoes (plus anti-ship missiles, launched from the tubes, as well as mines), they could be, in the wrong hands, a major threat to the U.S. fleet. Cheaper to buy, cheaper to run (you don't need as many skilled sailors for the crew) and very lethal. American admirals always paid attention to who the Germans export these boats to. Most of the exports are the less expensive Type 2014, which are 212s without a lot of the highly classified tech. For export customers, the 212s were reliable and worked as advertised. But the German navy, or at least the senior admirals, refused to read, or pay attention, to the users manual.

American admirals see new German surface warship designs as more examples of what not to do. These German designs were dysfunctional to begin with and supervision of their construction (by the navy) so incompetent that these ships failed sea trials (a relatively uncorrupted process in which navy crews take the new ships to sea and compare their performance to what the design promised and what was needed to stay alive out there). You can try and fake sea trials but it is very difficult especially when you have a free press and many sailors willing to talk about a ship design that could get them killed.

Germany remains a major exporter of high tech gear. Meaning that German defense industries design and export electronics, weapon systems and other military gear that is competitive on world markets. Their own armed forces are not looking for competitive but for politically correct so German manufacturers concentrate on their export markets. Since the 1990s the home market for defense items has, in many sectors, become poisonous and source of much stuff that German manufacturers keep quiet about because the German Defense Ministry was seeking unsatisfactory weapons and equipment for German forces.

The inability of the German Navy to keep six German built submarines in service was all about poor leadership and planning, both on the political side (Defense Ministry) and the military side (the senior officers.) But the problems went far beyond submarines. Pass the schadenfreude, it is one thing the German military has plenty of these days.Ben Bishop and the ring that he found that could fetch 10,000 at auction.

A young factory worker who has found lots of rubbish during years as a metal detector was not surprised when his machines digital display indicated he had found a drink can ring-pull.

It was in fact a ring that has since been identified at a valuation day in Stratford-upon-Avon as Elizabethan and dates back to between 1550 and 1650 - that means it could be nearly 500 years old.

The gold signet ring, featuring a double-headed eagle, was found last August in a farmers field, near Glastonbury, Somerset, where Ben Bishop, a metal detector for seven years, had permission to dig.

It will now be sold at Hansons Auctioneers in Derbyshire on 27th September with an estimate of 7,500 to 10,000.

Thirty-year-old Ben, from Bridgwater, Somerset, said: I thought it was another Coke can ring-pull  Ive found tons of those over the years along with lots or rubbish. I lifted up the turf and started digging, expecting to find another one. But I saw something shining and, when I broke off the mud, it was an ancient gold ring.

Its the first gold Ive ever found. I was so gobsmacked I just sat down on the ground staring at it for about 40 minutes.

Ben added: I did lots of research on the ring and immediately registered it as Treasure Trove. I thought it may have been Eastern European but it turns out that the Eagle symbol was used on lead tokens when Elizabeth I was on the throne

The ring was taken away for a couple of months to be examined and the British Museum did a report on it. No museums wanted to buy it so it was returned to me as the finder.

I had an agreement with the owner of the field that if I found anything of high value I would sell it and split the proceeds. Its a mans ring and fits my finger really well, but I have to part with it.

I have no idea who it originally belonged to but it would have been a person of wealth and importance. Glastonbury Abbey, an old monastery, isnt far away.

Ben took the ring to show jewellery expert Kate Bliss, a familiar face on TVs Bargain Hunt and Flog It! She was at a free jewellery valuations events organised by Hansons Auctioneers at The Malt House, The Rookery, Alveston, Stratford-upon-Avon.

She said: This gold signet ring bowled me over. What an amazing find. Ben is an avid and experienced metal detector. Its been assessed by the Portable Antiquities Scheme.

Depicting a double headed eagle on a flat oval bezel with beaded border, the ring weighs in at an unusually heavy 17grams. This is a rare find and one which will appeal to jewellery enthusiasts and historians alike.News

Saudi Crown Prince announces Riyadh submitted formal request to host Expo 2030

Mohammed stressed that this candidacy is an important and symbolic challenge for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, expressing his confidence in the Kingdom's ability and commitment to establishing a historic version of the World Expo with the highest levels of innovation, and to provide an unprecedented global experience in the history of organizing this global forum.Take A Mulligan: The Big 7-0

Here is the $64,000 question. Just exactly how old is old? In my teens, I figured it was about 35 but when I was getting close to that age, it ...The content herein, unless otherwise known to be public domain, are Copyright 1995-2018 - Space Media Network. All websites are published in Australia and are solely subject to Australian law and governed by Fair Use principals for news reporting and research purposes. AFP, UPI and IANS news wire stories are copyright Agence France-Presse, United Press International and Indo-Asia News Service. ESA news reports are copyright European Space Agency. All NASA sourced material is public domain. Additional copyrights may apply in whole or part to other bona fide parties. Advertising does not imply endorsement, agreement or approval of any opinions, statements or information provided by Space Media Network on any Web page published or hosted by Space Media Network. Privacy StatementThe federal governments adoption of ASIC chair James Shiptons proposal to embed ASIC supervisors in the banks is an important initiative. The Global Financial Crisis and the procession of corporate and financial scandals since then have led to what Shipton calls a trust deficit. The move to embed regulators in banks aims to drive much-needed cultural change and rebuild lost trust.

The scandals and further evidence of misconduct uncovered at the Hayne Royal Commission have turned the spotlight on the failures of senior executives, corporations and also regulators to combat white-collar crime. Increasingly, commentators identify defective culture as a prominent cause of corporate and financial misconduct. Certainly, ASIC identifies corporate culture as being a key driver of conduct.

That is the reasoning behind embedding ASIC supervisors in banks. But such action is not without its risks and problems.

What are the risks?

One such risk is regulatory capture. Shipton has said he is attuned to this, but it remains a very real issue.

In the United States, for example, monitors have been embedded under deferred prosecution agreements to ensure compliance with such agreements. Under these agreements, regulators suspend prosecution conditional upon specified terms, typically requiring the corporation to pay fines, compensate victims and reform their corporate governance. Indications are that monitors have become too close to those corporations and organisations.

The result is that the formal governance structures (often documented in codes of conduct and mission statements) may have improved, so that there is box-ticking of regulatory requirements, but substantive compliance remains wanting. In other words, there is a disconnect between stated and lived values.

Many of the scandals that have engulfed Australian banks highlighted this problem even before the royal commission began. The Commonwealth Bank of Australias response earlier this year to the criminal case brought against it by AUSTRAC is but one example.

Another problem is the difficulty of creating a consistent culture throughout an organisation. Shipton has made it clear that ASIC supervisors will start with the banks chief executive officers. That reflects the thinking that tone from the top sets the culture.

This is a positive step. While top management may not themselves perpetrate the wrongdoing, they have often been complicit in encouraging, condoning or, in some cases, concealing it.

However, there is a danger that the banks might see the embedding of ASIC specialists as just another imposition of bureaucratic burdens from outside. Thats how the banks have responded to previous attempts to scrutinise their operations.

In the first place, they, and the federal government, resisted calls for a banking royal commission until the pressure for one was overwhelming. Second, despite clear evidence, and some acknowledgement, that systemic failings have been at the heart of many, if not all, of the scandals that dog them, the banks overall remain in denial that systemic cultural issues are at play.

For example, Westpacs attitude to the outcome of the case against it for the alleged rigging of the Bank Bill Swap Rate (BBSW) is telling. In April 2018, when the Federal Court found that Westpac employees acted unconscionably (albeit a less serious finding than market manipulation), the bank claimed it as a victory.

A sign of more robust enforcement

Nevertheless, the significance of embedding ASIC staff in the banks cannot be overstated. It signals a changed regulatory landscape  a more intrusive style of regulation  based on the conclusion that the banks cannot be left to regulate themselves. The hope is that ASIC has resolved to pursue more robust enforcement, including civil penalties and criminal proceedings against suspected wrongdoers.

In recent years ASIC has relied almost exclusively on enforceable undertakings in relation to wrongdoing by the banks. The only exception seems to be the BBSW rate-rigging case, in which ASIC launched civil penalty proceedings against Westpac, ANZ, NAB and CBA. All but Westpac reached settlements with ASIC.

It has been argued that enforceable undertakings avoid the uncertainty, time and expense associated with court action. They also arguably have the potential to work for prevention  by requiring corporations to change future behaviour, improve corporate governance and end wrongdoing cultures. But there is no reliable evidence to support such arguments.

In fact, the opposite seems to be the case. There is clear evidence of recidivism and other noncompliance by organisations that are subject to enforceable undertakings.

For example, in 2006 ASIC entered into an enforceable undertaking with AMP after it had been caught overcharging customers by switching them onto expensive and poorly performing products. This did not prevent AMP from engaging in further misconduct, notably the fee for no service scandal explored in the royal commission hearings.

ASIC, armed with tougher jail terms and penalties (both civil and criminal), should bring criminal proceedings in appropriate cases not just against corporations or organisations, but against their top executives as well. In this way, ASIC will show that it is not asleep at the wheel and is serious about tackling corporate crime.

The government, having restored ASICs budget following previous cuts, needs to ensure the regulator is properly resourced to do so. Only then will the fight against corporate wrongdoing be meaningful, because the most potent deterrent for white-collar criminals is jail.

Published by The ConversationAuthor: Vicky Comino, Lecturer in Corporations Law and Regulation of Corporate Misconduct, The University of Queensland

>> BACK TO THE NEWSLETTER: Click here to read other articles from this weeks newsletterThe Trump administrations economic policy is rapidly breaking down the World Trade Organisation (WTO) system and shattering the rules-based international order. On top of imposing tariffs, the United States is blocking the appointment of new judges to the body that interprets and enforces WTO rules, decisions and agreements.

If this continues, the WTO will virtually cease to function by the end of 2019.

This will cause a gradual breakdown of the multilateral trading system and lead to a new international economic order that is no longer anchored in liberal democratic values, nor fully constrained by the rule of law.

Australia must plan for a change in the globalised economy that has underpinned our 27 years without a recession.

In other words, Australia urgently needs a plan B should Donald Trumps trade agenda lead to further protectionism.

This could include a so-called border adjustment tax  a flat tax on imports with a corresponding rebate on exports  or more emphasis on trade with noncompetitive economies such as India and Indonesia.

Breaking the World Trade Organisation

The US blocking of new judges to the WTOs Appellate Body has caused a large backlog of disputes.

The Appellate Body is an international trade court of appeal typically composed of seven judges. They have the final say on the interpretation and enforcement of WTO rules, decisions and agreements.

The WTO is a member-driven, consensus-based organisation. Thus, the appointment of new Appellate Body judges can only occur if no Member, present at the meeting when the decision is taken, formally objects.

This is not exactly an equal veto power for all WTO members from mighty China to tiny Vanuatu. The larger economies can easily sway the minnows. The reverse is not true.

In practice, it takes the opposition of only one very powerful country to block any WTO process.

From October 2018 there will be only three Appellate Body judges left, the minimum required to form a valid dispute settlement panel. Crucially, two more judges will conclude their quadrennial term in office on December 10 2019, thus reducing the Appellate Body to only one member.

This effectively means the WTO rules can no longer be implemented and enforced. A paralysed Appellate Body is the death knell for the multilateral trading system.

This is what Trump really meant when he said that trade wars are good and easy to win. They are indeed for countries allowed to act unilaterally without the constraints of enforceable multilateral rules.

An anti-globalisation strategy

Diminishing the Appellate Body is just the latest in the smash-and-grab tactics used by the Trump administration to counter globalisation.

It appears to be a two-pronged plan. First, break the WTO system. Second, implement sweeping tax changes to rebalance Americas trade accounts, using measures prohibited by the WTO.

The WTO Appellate Body crisis is a canary in the coalmine. Australia must act without delay to limit any damage from disrupted trade flows and to chase opportunistic gains from trade diversions in emerging regional value chains.

For example, Australian beef producers will be much more competitive in exporting to China as their American competitors have to grapple with a 25% tariff on their beef.

On the other side, Japan recently struck a deal with the European Union to drop tariffs on food imports in exchange for concessions on car exports hit by the US-China trade war. Australian food exporters will face stiffer competition from the EU in the Japanese market.

Life after the WTO

With the United States planning adjusting border taxes post-WTO, Australia must consider similar measures to keep the economy stable and competitive.

Australia should refocus diplomatic efforts towards bilateral ties within the Indo-Pacific region rather than the developed economies that are further away.

A new generation of bilateral trade and investment partnerships is better suited than dwindling WTO instruments to maximise Australias economic and security outcomes in a less-than-liberal international order.

Strengthening Australias bilateral ties in the Indo-Pacific is especially necessary in a securitised trade environment that is pivoting to shorter yet knottier supply chains within regional clusters.

We can already spot the initial signs that Australian policymakers are repositioning to navigate life after the WTO. During recent discussions in Buenos Aires between Group of 20 finance ministers, Treasurer Scott Morrison called for a revamp of the WTO system, as it failed to deal with long-standing issues and was built for a different time.

Morrison didnt spell out what changes he thought were needed to ensure Australia is better off in the next trading system. This is a debate we need to have sooner rather than later.

Published by The ConversationGiovanni Di Lieto, Lecturer of international trade law, Monash Business School, Monash University

>> BACK TO THE NEWSLETTER: Click here to read other articles from this weeks newsletterJacqueline Kennedy wears the sunburst brooch in her hair during the Luxembourgish state visit, 30 Apr 1963 (National Archive/Newsmakers)

When you think of American style icons of the last century, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis almost has to be on your list. But she didnt just have impeccable taste in clothing  she also had a pretty impressive jewelry collection. Today, were looking at one of the workhorse pieces from Jackies White House days: her diamond sunburst brooch.

Kennedy wears the brooch during a White House press conference, 9 April 1962 (National Archive/Newsmakers)

Jackie reportedly spotted the brooch during one of her trips to London; Ive seen people claim it was the June 1961 visit and others suggest it was the March 1962 trip. The nineteenth-century brooch, which is made of diamonds set in silver and gold, was being sold by Wartski. The piece immediately caught Jackies eye, but the price tag  reported variously at $50,000 or even $100,000  was a bit out of reach. To acquire the sunburst brooch, Jackie ended up selling the diamond leaf brooches that her parents-in-law, Joe and Rose Kennedy, had given her as a wedding present. (She had copies of the leaf brooches made, so they didnt completely exit her collection.)

Kennedy wears the brooch in her hair during the Iranian state visit, 11 April 1962 (Wikimedia Commons)

Jackie began wearing the brooch very regularly in the spring of 1962. Above, she nestles the brooch in her hair for a state dinner in honor of the Shah of Iran in April 1962. Jackie wore the brooch several times in her hair when the Kennedys hosted royalty, perhaps a nod to the tiaras that her guests inevitably sported. (Thats the Seven Emeralds Tiara on Empress Farahs head.)

Kennedy wears the brooch for a gala dinner in honor of the Minister of State for Cultural Affairs of France, Andre Malraux, 11 May 1962 (Kennedy Library Archives/Newsmakers)

A month later, Jackie wore the brooch in her hair again for another gala dinner. This time, the guests of honor were Andre Malroux, the French Minister of Cultural Affairs, and his wife, Marie-Madeleine Lioux.

Kennedy wears the brooch for a gala dinner in honor of the Minister of State for Cultural Affairs of France, Andre Malraux, 11 May 1962 (Wikimedia Commons)

Heres another view from the Malraux visit that shows the scale of the brooch in Jackies hair. Malraux and Jackie had hit it off during the Kennedys visit to Paris the previous year, and during this remarkable state dinner, he made an intriguing promise: he would have the Mona Lisa sent to the United States for a special exhibition. (You can read more about Jackie, Malraux, and La Joconde in a very good book on the subject, Mona Lisa in Camelot.)

Kennedy wears the brooch during a Foreign Ministry Reception in Mexico City, 30 June 1962 (Wikimedia Commons)

As the summer went on, Jackie continued to wear her new sunburst brooch proudly. The Kennedys made a visit to Mexico City at the end of June, and Jackie pinned the sunburst brooch to her blue gown for a reception at the Foreign Ministry.

Kennedy wears the brooch in her hair during the Luxembourgish state visit, 30 April 1963 (National Archive/Newsmakers)

The brooch made another appearance in Jackies hair the following year, when she wore it for another visit from royalty. Grand Duchess Charlotte of Luxembourg arrived in Washington in April, accompanied by Luxembourgs Prime Minister, Pierre Werner, and Charlottes son, Hereditary Grand Duke Jean. (For the state dinner, Charlotte did wear a tiara: the diamond floral tiara that had belonged to her aunt, Grand Duchess Hilda of Baden.)

Caroline Kennedy wears her mothers sunburst brooch at her waist during the annual Kennedy Center Honors ceremony, December 2012 (CBS)

In the years since Jackies death, some of her jewelry has been sold at auction, while other pieces are on loan to the Kennedy Presidential Library. But the sunburst brooch has had a different fate: it now belongs to Jackies daughter, Caroline Kennedy. She occasionally brings the sunburst out for various important events, including the annual Kennedy Center Honors. At a dinner related to the Honors, one reporter recognized the brooch and asked Caroline about it. She reportedly replied, simply, My mother gave it to me.

Replicas of Kennedys jewels, including the sunburst brooch, are offered for sale at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, 29 September 2011 (PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP/Getty Images)

The sunburst brooch is iconic enough that, when a company decided to sell affordable replicas of Jackies jewelry, it was one of the major pieces that they recreated. The costume versions of the brooch are no longer being made, but for years, they were even sold by the Smithsonian.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Endy Bayuni (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, August 13, 2018 08:33 1173 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df529eb01 1 Opinion #2019PresidentialElection,presidential-election,Maruf-Amin,Sandiaga-Uno,civil-society,Jokowi,Prabowo-Subianto,2019-presidential-election Free

Why is everyone making such a big deal out of the running-mate choices of Joko Jokowi Widodo and to a lesser extent of Prabowo Subianto? The real contest as far as voters are concerned, come April 17, is between the two presidential candidates.

Rarely did voters make their choices because they liked or disliked the VP candidate. Lest we forget, once in office, a VP will just be a spare tire to be used at the presidents convenience.

How much of an influence or power a vice president enjoys is ultimately determined by the president and by his working relationship with his deputy. Ask past and present vice presidents. They were always the number two. Maybe even a distant number two.

Incumbent Jokowi on Thursday came under a lot of criticisms for his choice of Maruf Amin, the chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) who has some questionable track records on religious tolerance. On a much lesser scale, challenger Prabowo, too, was attacked by his supporters for opting businessman Sandiaga Uno. He, too, if elected, will not become numero uno.

A quick glance at the role of Jusuf Kalla, current VP to Jokowi, could shed light on just how powerful, or not, the number two job in the country is.

Kalla, who like Maruf was imposed on candidate Jokowi against his will in 2014, turned out to have served him well in the campaign, particularly in the three presidential debates, and in no small measure contributed to the election victory.

Once in office, Jokowi gave Kalla all the ceremonial functions but completely cut his deputy off from the daily grind of palace power-play, including in the three Cabinet reshuffles made in the first two years of his presidency. There were even times when their relations were strained and their differences exposed in the media.

Kalla was brought back into the center of power in late 2016 when Jokowi needed help to fight the 212 Movement launched by Muslim conservatives to shake and undermine his presidency. Kalla, who is close to the Muslim conservatives, did a great job. But his power was still limited by how much Jokowi allowed.

The 75-year-old Maruf, who had a hand in the 212 Movement, will likely find his influence confined to what functions the President assigns him. Like Kalla, he will find Jokowi using him when it is convenient, but keep him at bay when not.

Any concerns that Maruf will have such a huge influence on Jokowis policies are just hyperbole. Jokowi's records on human rights, tolerance and freedom (speech, religion, association, etc) and on almost all issues are his alone to set. Any shortcomings on his part will be pinned down on him and not on the VP.

Can we seriously blame Kalla for the shortcomings of Jokowis first-term presidency? On the economy? On religious tolerance? On freedom and democracy? Hardly. The President takes all the credit as well as all the blame.

Understandable, many people are angry at Jokowis choice of Maruf. Traditional supporters in the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) are angry and friends in civil society organizations have denounced him.

But Muslim conservatives are even furious at Jokowi for having effectively defanged the 212 Movement. They are also angry at Prabowo for defying their demand to pick an ulema for his running mate. There sure was a lot of angry people this weekend.

Social media amplified and lengthened the anger. Everyone wants to say their piece. The stronger their denouncement, the more likely their opinion will go viral. Some are talking about boycotting the election or about giving their votes to the other camp.

But thats the beauty of free speech and free and democratic elections.

Since voting is voluntary (although registration is mandatory), it is not uncommon for people to sit out elections; in 2014, more than 30 percent of registered voters did. They did so for many reasons. Some took advantage of the national holiday on voting day, thinking their voters mattered not; others did it out of apathy, and some because they were unhappy with the limited choices of candidates or even with the electoral system.

It is against the law however to advocate others to boycott the elections. Social media users, watch what you post.

Sooner or later, the nation has to get back to the real issues in the presidential election.

Voters need to know the personality, characters, background, leadership and managerial skills as well as the track records of the presidential candidates, and not so much of the running mates.

The running mates made the trending topics on social media this weekend. But we should not misplace our focus. The nation will be voting for a president, not a vice president.The town of Ungaran in Semarang regency, Central Java, has an active yoga community made up of women of different ages. It was a quiet Sunday morning when they gathered on the terrace at The Wujil Resort & Conventions, which has Mount Ungaran as a backdrop.

Initiated by the Elise Ladies Gym, the Morning Yoga at The Wujil event was attended by around 70 women who performed a few sequences led by three teachers. The event aims to promote yoga and a healthy lifestyle among the women of Ungaran. It also offers a more refreshing yoga experience as it is conducted in a semi open-air venue.

Pictures of the event, which were posted on the gyms social media platform, showed relaxed participants sitting on mats, breathing mindfully and listening to calming music under the guidance of their teacher.

Another video shows the Humble Warrior sequence, said to remind us of looking inward, be humble and value the moments of self-introspection.

Helena Eliestyanie, the gyms founder, said it was the first time that it had conducted an open class, and many people seemed to find it appealing.

The popularity of yoga is growing, not only as a form of exercise, but also as a way to heal.

A yoga instructor from the gym, Dyan Lita, said most of the students she worked with were housewives.

They are diligent. Usually they come to the yoga class after sending their children to school, added Dyan.

Read also: Yoga: Indian practice turned global phenomenon

Yoga has had a positive impact on the women of Ungaran and its surrounds.

Yani, a mother of two, told The Jakarta Post that she practiced yoga almost every day, moving from one gym to another, adding that it made her feel healthier. She has also made new friends along the way.

Meanwhile, Ratna, who hails from Ngaliyan, Semarang, said yoga made her feel younger and more beautiful. As for Evi, she said it had cleared up the pain in her back. (mut)It has been a week since Art Jakarta ended, but the festivals impacts linger, thanks largely to the charity auction held on its closing day.

The event sold three Masterpiece Refrigerators, offered by domestic appliances brand Modena in collaboration with artists Darbotz, Indra Dodi and Naufal Abshar.

Bidding for each refrigerator started at Rp 20 million (US$1,381.70) and all three brought in a total of Rp 170 million. Proceeds from the auction will be donated to a floating hospital project conducted by doctorSHARE.

Also on sale at the charity auction were 10 Art Carpets, a collaboration that involved home decor brand Mohoi and 10 artists, namely Indieguerillas, Aditya Novali, Abenk Alter, Darbotz, Radi Arwinda, Wedhar Riyadi, Bambang Toko, Roby Dwi Antono, Mujahiddin Nurrahman and Hendra Hehe Harsono.

Auction of these carpets raised more than Rp 300 million to be donated to Yayasan Mitra Museum Jakarta (Jakarta Museum Partner Foundation).

Read also: Art Jakarta 2018: Present art for all

This years Art Jakarta, which charged an entrance fee for the very first time, attracted 32,473 visitors, according to the committee. The figure was a slight drop from 47,000 visitors in 2017.

However, organizers had anticipated the decline, but decided to focus instead on improving the quality of the annual exhibition.

Galleries participating in this years Art Jakarta sold 60 to 80 percent of their artworks on display.In the swampy wetlands of southern Mexico, officials and researchers are struggling to explain the deaths of dozens of manatees, the chubby marine mammals once confused with mermaids by ancient mariners.

Fishermen who navigate the muddy waters inland from the coast of Tabasco state have discovered since May at least 28 dead West Indian manatees, also known as sea cows, along the Bitzal River and nearby streams.

The cause of the deaths remains a mystery. Locals report deaths of fish in the river and blame polluted water in an area that is near onshore and offshore drilling projects operated by national oil company Pemex.

The company says tests show no contamination in the area.

Other scientists wonder if the deaths of the placid animals, which divide their time between the ocean and inland rivers, are related to wider changes in the climate and rising sea levels.

"Whenever you see a die-off like this of a long-lived animal, it can be a canary in a coal mine," said David Gonzalez-Socoloske, a tropical mammal ecologist at Andrews University, a small private college located in Berrien Springs, Michigan.

"Beyond the concern for the species, it tells you that something is going on with the environment," he said.

Across the Gulf of Mexico in Florida, 92 manatees have died since January within an area where the growth of microscopic algae has caused a harmful "red tide," according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

But the same type of algae, which only grows in sea water, cannot grow in Tabasco's fresh water where manatees have been perishing, said Ricardo Aguilar of Mexican wildlife advocacy group AZCARM. "The only relation is that the animals dying are manatees," Aguilar said.

Desperate to prevent more deaths while they investigate the cause, wildlife authorities in Mexico have vowed to capture and transfer about 30 of the gentle herbivores to a nearby nature reserve.

But capturing a manatee, which can weigh up to 1,100 pounds (500 kg), is difficult, said Leon Olivera-Gomez, a marine specialist at the Autonomous University of Tabasco and the rescue mission's lead scientist.

Before the capture, Olivera-Gomez said scientists use sonar to locate the animal. Then, a group of some 20 people on wooden boats surround and trap it with large fishing nets.

So far, the scientists have caught just two adults and a calf.

Read also: W. Kalimantan declares 'extraordinary event' over sea turtle deaths

Vulnerable population

Olivera-Gomez said around 500 manatees, which are distantly related to elephants, are believed to live in Tabasco's waterways. The International Union for Conservation of Nature, a leading wildlife conservation group, describes the population as vulnerable.

Past efforts in Mexico to save threatened marine mammals have seen mixed results.

In a bid last year to save the vaquita, a pint-sized porpoise that swims in the Gulf of California, two of the critically endangered animals were placed in a breeding program, but one died in captivity.

The manatee deaths highlight threats to the Gulf's lowland wetlands, which have historically been defined by seasonal rains and dry spells that scientists say will grow more extreme as global sea levels rise.

Climate swings, Gonzalez-Socoloske added, can make animals like manatees less resilient to disease-causing pathogens.

Tests around the district of Macuspana, the birthplace of President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, plus waterways in Centla and Jonuta, have not shown any spills from oil activity, Pemex said in a statement on Tuesday.

Last month, Mexico's water authority CONAGUA collected samples from the Bitzal lagoon and said the water did not contain high enough levels of oil, metals or pesticides to explain the deaths.

However, Dennis Potenciano, 43, the leader of the fishing cooperative in Macuspana, home to around 700 fishing families, said oil contamination has killed numerous fish and made the water undrinkable.

"The government doesn't tell us anything," he said. "They treat us as if we are illiterate."

"We aren't catching anything because the river is so contaminated," he said, on the grassy edge of a shallow waterway where he and friends found 12 dead manatees, flies swarming around their stiff, upturned flippers.They may feel aggrieved at not obtaining an official seal of approval, but traditional Romanian dressmakers are riding a wave of demand for their folk designs after a top fashion house inadvertently showcased their craft.

Clothes makers from the northwestern Bihor region were more than a little bemused when they got wind of a 2017 Dior collection.

Their jaws notably dropped when they saw an embroidered folk coat which looked strikingly similar to the "cojocel binsenesc" waistcoat their region has been producing for around a century.

A Romanian version of the garment, historically worn on important occasions, sells at home and abroad for around 500 euros ($580) -- almost a month's salary in one of the European Union's poorest countries.

The Dior coat did not go unnoticed among the wider population either, after a resident of the regional city of Beius spotted it in a Singapore shop and posted it on Facebook, sparking a strong response from users which was picked up by the media.

"That day, I posted my first comment on Facebook, thanking the Dior fashion house for appreciating this beautiful item," Dorina Hanza, a 52-year-old embroiderer who cottoned on to the similarity, told AFP.

La Blouse Roumaine, which promotes the Romanian blouse to encourage women to wear it, juxtaposed the different versions side by side on Twitter, adding #givecredit.

Yet Dior, which did not respond to AFP's requests for comment, may well have done the Bihor designers a favour.

Demand has soared since the social media posts pointing out the similarities between both versions of the heavily embroidered, multicolour, sheepskin sleeveless jacket with black fur edging.

"Since then, everybody wants one" from the traditional source, enthused Ana Florea, who runs a designers' group in Beius, near the Hungarian border.

"This waistcoat is 100 percent ours," she insisted.

Hanza, while happy to see the Romanian version in the limelight, said she just wished Dior could have given a nod to their apparent inspiration.

"They could have said, 'we borrowed this from the Romanian people'," said Hanza, adding "the tradition might have been lost" had the current controversy not emerged.

- 'Thanks Dior' -

Diana Naprodean, 44, also sees an upside to the Dior garment.

"That proves it's really pretty," said the librarian, a hobbyist crocheter and embroiderer who has just produced her own first attempt at the traditional waistcoat.

"Thanks Dior. Thanks to you we have begun to love our traditional costume again," said Diana Herdelo, 33, another from the Beius group who is weaving one of her own.

The waistcoat is made from local Bihor sheepskin after a tanning process of around three weeks. It is then tailored and decorated with local style embroidery and worn by both men and women, although the length and motifs differ.

With traditional regional costumes being worn by fewer and fewer people, demand for the clothes had almost died out until the controversy over the Dior jacket reignited interest.

One important detail on the Dior version did not escape the notice of Bihor residents though -- the jacket worn by the fashion model was adorned with motifs -- a phallic symbol -- strictly worn only by men.

"Tradition doesn't allow a woman to wear a man's cojocel or the other way around," Hanza said.

With interest piqued, Romania's Beau Monde magazine and the McCann advertising agency have launched an ad campaign entitled Bihor Couture, along with a website where fans can order a jacket and other traditional items.

The site has already taken around 1,000 orders.

"Our goal is to help people in this region and showcase their work and their traditions which were in danger of dying out," says Beau Monde's former editor-in-chief Roxana Dobrita.

Read also: Large and comprehensive Christian Dior exhibition to run in UK

- 'Culture is a living thing' -

McCann's creative director for Romania Catalin Dobre said he believes that "the fashion industry should do more to support traditions.

"Across the globe, the leading brands take their inspiration from different cultures without recognising it," he told AFP in an email.

Horatiu Ilea, curator of the Romanian Peasant Museum, said he believes any accusations against Dior in this case are unjustified.

"Culture is a living thing. Ideas get bounced around, you can't stop that," he told AFP, adding that "cultural appropriation" has been going on since ancient times.

Rather than demand some form of redress, Ilea urged Romania "to benefit from this incident, by, for example, launching a campaign promoting traditional and artisanal work."Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sat, August 11 2018

Two suspected robbers who resisted arrest were shot by the local police at a slaughterhouse in Tangerang, Banten, on Friday.

Tangerang Police chief Sr. Comr. Harry Kurniawan stated on Friday that the two were shot in the chest after they attacked officers with a cutting tool, wounding one policeman in the head.

The police also arrested five others suspected to have been involved in the Rp 800 million (US$ 55,248) robbery in Batu Ceper district on Thursday.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Sita W. Dewi (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sat, August 11 2018

After months of speculation, weeks full of red herrings and last-minute changes on all sides, President Joko Jokowi Widodo was the first to reveal his cards, announcing his coalitions final decision to endorse the nations top cleric, Maruf Amin, as his vice-presidential candidate, a day before the candidate registration deadline.

Later, before midnight, Jokowis challenger, Gerindra Party chief patron Prabowo Subianto, introduced outgoing Jakarta deputy governor Sandiaga Uno as his running mate at his residence in South Jakarta, a decision that upset Democratic Party elites but left them with no better option than to stay in the coalition.

The elites of nine political parties backing Jokowis candidacy and journalists had gathered at an upscale Indonesian restaurant in Menteng, Central Jakarta, since Thursday afternoon, but rumor had it since the morning that Jokowi had made up his mind and had picked former Constitutional Court chief Mahfud MD, who is associated with of the countrys largest Muslim organizations, Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), as his running mate.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Istanbul, Turkey  Sun, August 12, 2018 21:32 1174 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df52ab42d 2 World Turkey,Recep-Tayyip-Erdogan,economy,crisis Free

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday slammed the crash of the lira amid a widening spat with the United States as a "political plot" and said his country would instead seek new markets and new allies.

"The aim of the operation is to make Turkey surrender in all areas from finance to politics. We are once again facing a political, underhand plot. With God's permission we will overcome this," Erdogan told his party members in the Black Sea city of Trabzon.

Erdogan said if the United States sacrificed its relations with Turkey, his country would answer by seeking "new markets, new partnerships and new allies."Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (Agence France-Presse) Ghazni, Afghanistan  Sun, August 12, 2018 18:00 1174 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df52a6957 2 World #Afghanistan,Taliban,attack,Afghanistan Free

The fight for the eastern Afghan city of Ghazni entered its third day as Taliban militants and security forces engaged in heavy clashes Sunday, despite Kabul's claim that the city was firmly under government control.

An AFP reporter on the ground said Taliban fighters continued to roam the city, torching government offices, and were in control of several police checkpoints, as reinforcements deployed from Kabul slowly entered the area to confront the insurgents.

Residents hid in their homes or attempted to flee the fighting, with basic provisions increasingly scarce and expensive, according to residents and officials.

"The situation is chaotic," Amanullah Kamrani, deputy head of the Ghazni provincial council, told AFP from Kabul.

"In Ghazni, only the police headquarters, governor's office and a few departments are under Afghan forces' control -- the rest are under the Taliban fighters' control," he added.

Ghazni resident Rahmatullah Andar described similar scenes in an interview with broadcaster Tolonews, saying fighting continued to rage in large swathes of the city and outlying districts.

"There are not sufficient forces to repel the Taliban fighters. We have not witnessed such a large scale attack by the Taliban before," said Andar.

Mobile services in the city remained down after militants damaged a telecommunication tower and targeted several media offices in Ghazni, making information difficult to verify.

The descriptions stood in stark contrast to statements from Afghan and US officials, who said government forces were firmly in control of the city and vowed that Ghazni was in no danger of being seized by the Taliban.

The Afghan military said a clearance operation targeting Taliban fighters was ongoing, insisting they remained in control of key government offices.

"The Taliban are hiding in people's houses and shops... to avoid civilian casualties our forces are moving in slowly," said General Sharif Yaftali, Afghanistan's top military official, during a press conference Sunday.

Ghazni -- around two hours by road from the capital Kabul -- has been under increasing danger from massing Taliban fighters for months, with reports suggesting insurgents had infiltrated the city at will.

The onslaught was the latest attempt by the Taliban to overrun an urban centre and comes as pressure increases on the insurgents to begin peace talks with the government to end the nearly 17-year-old war.

The attack was the largest tactical operation launched by the Taliban since an unprecedented truce in June brought fighting between security forces and the Taliban to a temporary pause, providing war-weary Afghans some welcome relief.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Nethy Dharma Somba (The Jakarta Post) Jayapura  Sun, August 12, 2018 15:48 1174 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df52a00bb 1 National #Papua,Papua,gold-mining,protests Free

Papuan authorities have closed a gold mine in Korowai in the southern part of Papua, following uproar among residents who protested the hiring of newcomers over local tribe members.

The mine was closed on Friday by Papua Governor Soedarmo, Papua Police chief Insp. Gen. Boy Rafli Amar and Cendrawasih Military Commander Maj. Gen. George E. Supit by sealing two helicopters at Tanah Merah airport in Boven Digoel regency.

The helicopters were said to be used to transport workers to the mining site, which is located close to where the Korowai tribe lives.

Some 3,000 miners reportedly work at the mine.

We closed the mining site by closing access to the location. Two helicopters at Tanah Merah airport are sealed, as well as a helicopter at Nop Goliat Dekai in Yahukimo regency. Those helicopters were being used to transport miners and equipment to the mining site, Papua Energy and Mineral Resources Agency (ESDM) acting head Fredi Boray said on Sunday.

He added that authorities would also close access to the mines waterway.

Separately, Papua Councillor John Jose Gobay said the mine should be managed by the local residents of Korowai, as stipulated in the 2014 law on local administrations.

He urged the Papua governor to propose to the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry to hand over the mining site to the local tribe. (vny)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Rizal Harahap (The Jakarta Post) Pekanbaru, Riau  Sun, August 12, 2018 17:38 1174 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df52a67b7 1 National #Indonesia,hotspots,Riau,Asian-Games-2018 Free

A spell of unusual heat in Riau has seen the number of hot spots rise from zero to 55 in only two days, according to official data.

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) said on Sunday that the hot spots were spread out across eight municipalities of the province. The regency of Rokan Hilir recorded the highest number with 33 hot spots, while Bengkalis, Siak and Pelalawan recorded eight, six and three hot spots, respectively. Rokan Hulu, Dumai, the Meranti Islands and Kuantan Singingi each had one hot spot.

Thirty-two of the 55 hot spots have a level of certainty above 70 percent, meaning there are ongoing fires in the forests there, Pekanbaru BMKG head Sukisno said, adding that the hot spots began to emerge on Saturday afternoon.

Hot spots across the entire island of Sumatra have increased from just two on Saturday morning to 120 by Sunday morning, including in Aceh, North Sumatra, West Sumatra, Riau, Jambi, South Sumatra, Lampung and Bangka Belitung--with Riau recording the most hot spots.

Separately, National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) secretary-general Dody Ruswandi said the agency had deployed six helicopters to fight fires in Riau through water bombing. Ten more helicopters were used to eliminate fires in other provinces of Sumatra, including Jambi and South Sumatra.

Authorities across Sumatra are working hard to prevent hot spots from escalating into conflagrations that could disrupt the Asian Games, the opening ceremony of which will be held on Aug. 18 in Jakarta and Palembang, South Sumatra. (vny)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Jon Afrizal (The Jakarta Post) Jambi  Sun, August 12, 2018

It takes more than three hours to reach Pulau village from the city of Jambi, the capital of Jambi province. After passing through some difficult and damaged roads, the journey is continued with a 15-minute motorboat ride across the Batanghari River.

The residents of this quiet village, which is surrounded by palm oil plantations where its residents work for a living, were recently shocked by an incest rape case, and their harsh response has sparked nationwide and even global outrage.

A pungent smell in a plantationShare this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sun, August 12, 2018 20:02 1174 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df52a9de8 2 City deputy-governor,Sandiaga-Uno,Sandiaga-resignation,Jakarta-administration,anies-baswedan,Gerindra-Party,PKS Free

The head of Jakartas chapter of the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS), Sakhir Purnomo, said he expected the replacement of departing Jakarta deputy governor Sandiaga Uno to have a good chemistry with Governor Anies Baswedan.

Anyone replacing Sandiaga should have a good chemistry with the governor, he said on Sunday, as quoted by tempo.co, adding that input from Anies would be taken into account.

He said he expected an immediate meeting between his party and Gerindra, the party that had backed the pair during the gubernatorial election last year, to determine who should fill the vacant position, after Sandiaga decided to run as a vice-presidential candidate in the 2019 presidential election.

The final determination of the candidates would rest with the partys executive board, he said.

Hopefully there will be a discussion between PKS and Gerindra leaders in the near future, Sakhir said.

Previously, PKS president Sohibul Iman said his party should have a big chance to fill the deputy governor position, as it had let Gerindras chairman Prabowo Subianto choose a vice-presidential candidate from Gerindra.

[Gerindra] should give priority to a PKS [cadre] to become the deputy governor, Sohibul said.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sun, August 12, 2018 12:16 1174 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df529ceef 4 National komodo-dragons,Komodo-National-Park,ecotourism,conservation,Environment-and-Forestry-Ministry Free

The Environment and Forestry Ministry has stated that the development of infrastructure and facilities within the Komodo National Park in East Nusa Tenggara was being conducted by a private company to support tourism.

The statement was made in response to protests against the development on Monday, which led to construction being halted.

Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) director general Wiratno said the development was intended to support tourism.

Infrastructure and facilities within nature tourism located in the national park are needed to support the tourism side, such as toilets, restaurants, etc., he said in an official statement on Thursday.

PT Segara Komodo Lestari and PT Komodo Ecotourism Wildlife, the developers, were given permits to build infrastructure and facilities such as an inn and a restaurant on Komodo Island, Rinca Island and Padar Island, all within the national park area.

West Manggarai Tourism Rescue Society Forum chairman Rafael Todowela said the project was against the concept of ecotourism and also damaged the habitat of the komodo dragons that lived in the park. The function of the Komodo National Park has to be returned to its original function, he said on Tuesday as quoted by tempo.co.

The protesters staged a rally in front of the Marbar Council building in the regency and the national park management office to protest the project on Monday, as reported by kompas.com.

Wiratno said the government halted the construction to give time to the protesters to examine facts about the project.

Wiratno said the developers had followed procedures, including in regard to conservation and the management of the local community. (sau)The number of tourists visiting Cuba is rising, despite US "campaigns" to curb economic activity on the communist island, Cuban officials announced Friday.

Some three million tourists traveled to the Caribbean nation between January 1 and August 9, and authorities forecast that number could jump to five million by the end of the year, compared to 4.5 million in 2017.

Cuba's Tourism Ministry said the positive statistics come "despite campaigns organized and directed by the US government to reduce the flow of US visitors to our country."

Destruction wrought by Hurricane Irma last year, which impacted many hotels, seems to have also left the tourism industry unscathed.

Read also: Despite hurricanes and Trump, Cuba retains charm for foreign tourism firms

Cuba's white sand beaches, colonial charm and natural beauty all draw millions each year.

But the United States has called on its citizens to avoid traveling to Cuba, as the Donald Trump administration severely curtailed steps toward normalization with Havana that were begun in 2015 under Barack Obama.

Last year, the island attracted 619,523 American visitors, more than triple the number of 2016.Pyongyang will suspend Chinese tour group visits to North Korea ahead of a high profile anniversary next month, according to news reports Saturday.

The North's Korea International Youth Travel Agency told a Chinese tourist agency that hotels in Pyongyang would be closed for renovations for 20 days starting Saturday, according to South Korean media reports.

Another North Korean travel agency informed their Chinese partner that an unspecified "state decision" meant they had to stop receiving Chinese tour group package travellers until September 5, the reports said.

North Korea has in the past restricted entry to foreigner tourists as the country prepares for significant events, giving a variety of reasons for the moves, Yonhap reported.

The latest measures come as the North prepares to mark the 70th anniversary of the foundation of the government.

In his New Year speech in January, leader Kim Jong Un said North Korean people would "greet the 70th founding anniversary of their Republic as a great, auspicious event".

In part thanks to a recent diplomatic thaw, the number of Chinese tourists visiting the North has rapidly increased.

Between 1,000 and 2,000 tourists are currently visiting popular sites such as the North's side of the demilitarized zone in a single day, NK News, an online news provider, said.

The surge in Chinese tourism may have been seen by North Korean authorities as straining Pyongyang's limited hotel infrastructure ahead of the anniversary, it added.

Read also: 5 things you need to know before traveling to North Korea

The North has been preparing for the arrival of foreign delegations and thousands of North Korean citizens have reportedly been practicing choreographed movements in Pyongyang for the official celebration of the anniversary.

YTN TV quoted a military official as saying that soldiers and weapons were converging on Mirim military airport near Pyongyang to practice a military parade.

A satellite picture showed massive camouflage hangars have been put up, sparking speculation that the North might be hiding long-range missile transport and launch vehicles.

Similar camouflage hangars were seen in January when the North was preparing for a military parade to mark a military anniversary the following month.

The North at that time showcased what appeared to be its two newest intercontinental ballistic missiles, the Hwasong-14 and Hwasong-15.

"The hangars look large enough to conceal ICBMs" Shin Jong-woo, a defence analyst, told YTN.

The 70th anniversary comes during a rare diplomatic detente on the Korean peninsula.

At a historic summit with President Trump in June in Singapore, Kim made a vague commitment to denuclearisation -- although it was far from the longstanding US demand for the complete, verifiable and irreversible dismantling of Pyongyang's atomic arsenal.

Although Trump touted his summit with Kim as a historic breakthrough, the nuclear-armed North has since criticised Washington for its "gangster-like" demands of complete, verifiable and irreversible disarmament.

The US has urged the international community to maintain tough sanctions on the isolated regime.realise

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The Golden Retriever has become a social media star thanks to his love for taking things from his owners and running joyfully away with them.As you can see, for five-year-old Archie its all about the thrill of the chase, and the items dont tend to get damaged either. He usually ends up giving the item back when we offer him a small treat, owner Dawn Barbacci, 45, told the Press Association. Which probably reinforces his naughty habit. The dog is super smart!Dawn and her husband, from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, have had Archie since he was eight weeks old. Stealing kind of grew into a game for him after he started stealing the remote control as a puppy, said Dawn.It was cute to chase him around, and we didnthow smart he was.The bigger and faster he got, the more he loved to play keep away with us!Archie has shot to fame with Dawns catsand Vince, who lends his name to their Instagram account my_cat_vince_stagram  which has almost 40,000 followers. Archie definitely isin ourwhen we go for walks, said Dawn. Especially by the kids in the! Since hiswe have been able to meet up with some followers and are happy to see them smile when they meet him!Archies playful nature doestoo, as Dawn is about to start taking him for visits to sick and elderly patients to brighten their day. All that grabbing might come in handy when you need something too.He NEEDS to have something in his mouth like most retrievers do, said Dawn. Shes not wrong. If youd like to see more from Archie, check him and his pals out on InstagramMatt Hayward, University of Newcastle

The translocation of wild animals is becoming an increasingly important conservation strategy and is happening more and more frequently around the world.

An elephant successfully translocated by SAN Parks from Kruger National Park to Addo Elephant National Park. Author supplied

The Australian Wildlife Conservancy has translocated 20 species (13 of them threatened) to its reserves around Australia. Similarly, the Conservation Land Trust in Argentina has translocated a suite of native mammals including the giant anteater, tapir and jaguar to restore the Ibera Wetlands in Corrientes Province. The Red Squirrels Trust Wales is restoring the Ogwen Valley by eradicating invasive grey squirrels, and translocating native red squirrels and pine marten.

How its done

Need for relocation

Translocation for the future

Translocations have become more frequent in Africa, too; elephants are the biggest animals to be moved. In places where species have historically been wiped out, but where managers have now removed the causes of those declines, translocation is an important tool. One of the biggest elephant translocations ever undertaken is underway as part of an attempt to rebuild Mozambiques elephant population. The global mining company, De Beers Group, in partnership with with Peace Parks Foundation , has initiated a project to move 200 from their nature reserve in northern South Africa to Zinave National Park in Mozambique  a distance of 1500 km. The process has already started. The animals will be moved in safe batches over the course of a 2-year project, the plan being to have all elephants moved by the end of next years translocation season.The movement of elephants is a major mission. First, helicopters are used to direct herds of elephants to a capture area so they can be darted from the air. The elephants legs are bound by strong, soft tethers capable of supporting several tonnes of animal. A crane attached to the loading trucks then lifts each animal and lowers them gently into crates. The elephants remain immobilised and sleeping as it were, are then woken before they start their long journey to their new home. For 200 elephants, this sounds like a monumental task. But South African conservation managers have vast experience with wildlife restoration projects on this scale. As long ago as 1979, 6000 animals (including elephants) were reintroduced into the newly established Pilanesberg National Park . In 1991, Madikwe Game Reserve took the title of the worlds biggest translocation when 8000 individuals from 28 different species, including elephants, were translocated . Expertise is critical with translocations because they can go horribly wrong. For example, a Kenyan Wildlife Service translocation of 11 black rhinos this year led to 10 dying because the water at the translocation site was too salty . Lessons have also been learnt over the years. The elephants translocated to Pilanesberg were youngsters orphaned following culling in Kruger National Park. These youngsters grew up in the absence of adults and the unruly males ended up attacking and killing rhinos. Once adults were returned to Pilanesberg (and the offending elephants were removed), this aberrant behaviour ceased. Now entire herds are translocated, including adult bulls.Rampant poaching has afflicted Africas elephant populations over the past 8 to 10 years . Some poaching happens in South Africa, but elephant populations in the country are generally well managed and protected. Some populations have even increased beyond carrying capacity . For example, the reserve in Limpopo thats home to the elephants being moved to Mozambique can carry 60 elephants but has a population of 270.For decades elephant populations in South Africas Kruger National Park were held in check by culling . Rangers would shoot entire herds to keep numbers in check, and mobile abattoirs would fleece the carcass and give or sell the meat and products. But this was stopped in the 1990s . Since then the elephant population in Kruger has more than doubled and there are concerns that they are damaging the parks vegetation to such an extent that other wildlife species are going extinct . Translocation has been increasingly used to manage this growth in numbers  not just in Kruger but in reserves across the country. Until recently, elephants were moved to establish new populations elsewhere in South Africa. But this option has started to run out because almost all reserves are now well stocked. As a result, South African conservation managers have begun to look elsewhere. Mozambiques elephant population was decimated during decades of civil war . With the return of peace, and better governance and security, wildlife populations can be restored in a number of different places. Because elephants are such slow breeders, populations in Mozambique have not returned to their previous levels. As a result, translocation and dropping the fences between Kruger in South Africa and Parque Nacional do Limpopo in Mozambique are being implemented.With the swathes of free space in the world and the improved ability to manage threats to species, translocations should become more common as a way to reverse the wildlife declines humans have caused.But government conservation agencies dont take part in translocations as much as they should because theyre risky operations. Its time governments reviewed their approach to active and innovative conservation interventions and show that theyre prepared to take risks to improve the bleak plight of the worlds biodiversity. Matt Hayward , Associate professor, University of Newcastle This article was originally published on The Conversation . Read the original articleLocated on a hill-top overlooking the Portuguese countryside, Obidos is the kind of town youd expect to find on the pages of a fairy-tale book. Crowned UNESCO City of Literature in 2015, the charming historical village rivals even the most popular of romances sold in its bookshops, casting a spell over those who stroll its cobbled streets.

For a village with 3,000 residents, there are a startling number of bookshops and libraries to be discovered in Obidos. Project Obidos Literary Town, initiated by bookshop Ler Devagar and Obidos City Hall, kickstarted the towns culture of reading and writing through the creation of festivals, concerts, and organised literature classes.

A selection of old and rare books can be purchased from the Obidos Biological Market housed in the former refectory of the town hall. Alternatively, one of the towns most iconic buildings, The Church of Santiago, houses the Grande Livraria de Santiago bookshop where customers can attend film viewings, book releases, and exhibitions inside the renovated 13th-century temple.

The Literary Man hotel in Obidos.

Credit: Katie Treharne

One of the most unique hotels in Portugal and Europe is The Literary Man, a four-star establishment where visitors are free to browse the 45,000 books lining the walls of the hotel. Complete with a fashionable (and book-lined) gin bar, open-kitchen , and reading room complete with a large fireplace, guests at The Literary Man can pay homage to the towns literary culture from the comfort of their own rooms.

Outside of the cornucopia of bookshops, one of the best ways to absorb the towns atmosphere is from the medieval walls encircling Obidos. Accessible by stone staircases, the towns entire parameter can be walked in approximately one hour with spectacular views over clusters of white-and-blue houses with terracotta rooves on the one side, and, on the other, sweeping views of vineyards, windmills, and grassy expanses.

Splashes of colour , as though from the flick of a paintbrush, bloom within the web of cobbled streets: bundles of bright pink bougainvillea and climbing honeysuckle. Aside from the plant life, the narrow walkways are lined with old-fashioned streetlamps and open up into small squares where people congregate in the evenings.

Rua Direita

Credit: Katie Treharne

The main street, the Rua Direita, is lined with shops and stalls selling traditional gifts such as the local delicacy Ginja de Obidos, a cherry-flavoured sweet liqueur. On the main street, you can step inside Bar Ibn Errik Rexto to sample the Ginja, unique to the region and traditionally served in small Willy Wonka-esque chocolate cups which complement its sweet aroma.

For two weeks in July, out of nowhere, the natural babble on the Rua Direita is interrupted by echoes of distant drums, followed swiftly by a parade of locals dressed in medieval costumes. For five minutes, every shopper must flatten into a doorway as the street is transformed into a medieval marketplace. Young men carrying heraldic flags and billowing banners make way for a torrent of jugglers, horseback soldiers, and young girls twisting rhythmically to the beat of the drums.

The medieval parade winds its way down the Rua Direita.

Credit: Katie Treharne

This recreation of the spirit of medieval Europe enhances the medieval ambience which seems to be permanently settled over the village like a light mist. Medieval history is integral to the essence of the town, which was originally captured from the Moors by the first King of Portugal, D. Alfonso Henriques, in 1148. Since then, Obidos has been lovingly named The Wedding Town , having remained the property of the Portuguese Queens until 1883 following its initial gifting to the Queen Santa Isabel as a wedding gift. Obidos remains a well-preserved medieval town, with its 12th-century fortress still standing impressively at the head of the Rua Direita, nowadays housing a luxury pousada hotel.

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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.A little known code governing smart meters includes details of sweeping powers that could take over customer accounts.

It reveals that technology is available to the meter network that could enable suppliers to raid credit balances built up by consumers, turn off supplies remotely, raise prices and even switch problem customers on to a pre-payment scheme. Authority to use these functions has yet to be granted.

Nick Hunn, a wireless technology expert with London-based firm WiFore, fears this might eventually give energy suppliers the ability to act like the fictional Big Brother in the classic novel Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell.

Privacy concerns: An expert fears smart meter technology might eventually give energy suppliers the ability to act like the fictional Big Brother

He says: No one is telling us about all the extra features hidden within smart meters that grant control to suppliers.

'As well as the scope for them to adjust charges, it provides an opportunity to spy on when energy is being used and on what  for example, if you take a shower or bath  and when.

'The industry is forcing households to spend billions on devices that benefit the supplier more than the customer. It seems a bit Big Brother.

THE BIG ROLL-OUT

News of the potential extra powers comes in the wake of a critical report on the roll-out of smart meters from the British Infrastructure Group of Parliamentarians (BIG).

Chaired by Grant Shapps, Conservative MP for Welwyn Hatfield, it says the nation is spending 11billion on obsolete meters.

The all-party group, backed by 93 MPs, also believes the annual savings customers make from paying for gas and electricity via a smart meter has fallen from 26 to just 11.

It wants energy regulator Ofgem to ensure suppliers pass on any savings from the rollout of smart meters to customers instead of pocketing cash themselves.

Campaign: TV star Maxine Peake is the voice of adverts

Widespread anxiety over the smart meter programme and the controlling role that energy firms are playing in the process has not deterred Government-funded lobby group Smart Energy GB.

It has spent millions of pounds on advertising, including in recent weeks TV voiceovers from acclaimed actress Maxine Peake, in an attempt to stem the rising tide of hostility against the project.

The target is to install 53million smart meters in homes and small businesses by the end of 2020.

Smart meters enable a supplier to talk remotely to them by radio waves. They benefit customers as the technology includes a separate hand-sized monitor kept in the home.

Linked to a meter, it shows how much electricity and gas is being used in near real-time.

It is hoped that the monitor, usually kept in the kitchen, will help households cut utility bills as they become aware of when electrical devices are unnecessarily consuming energy, such as when electronic items are left on standby. Smart meters also put an end to estimated bills and the need for customers or suppliers to take a reading.

TAKING CONTROL

The Mail on Sunday has discovered the meters are not all about saving money.

They have the potential to enable suppliers to take control of a customers account  details of which are in an industry-backed code of conduct for energy suppliers known as the Smart Energy Code.

It can already be used to add credit to a customer account. But additional functionality that could be switched on in the future includes enabling suppliers to cut off a households electricity or gas without visiting the property. Suppliers might also add debt to a meter, remove credit on an account, change the charge being levied or turn the meter into a pre-payment device.

Protest: The Mail on Sunday's reports showing devices are not as smart as they might seem

Energy companies state that although smart meters already installed might be able to use some of these functions, they are not switched on. But smart meters offering pre-payment options could be installed as early as next year.

Industry regulator Ofgem is also exploring time-of-use surge pricing where energy tariffs could change half hourly, depending on National Grid demand. This could be monitored and controlled by smart meters. Findings will be published next year.

An Ofgem spokesman says: Smart meters can help consumers control their energy use. A time-of-use tariff could allow households fitted with a smart meter to save money by using electricity at a cheaper time of the day such as during the night.

Energy suppliers insist they will not turn on any of these extra functions without permission from the regulator  and that in many cases the technology is not in place to do it. Moving customers on to pre-payment will only be a measure of last resort.

Keith Anderson, chief executive of Scottish Power, says: Smart meter functions such as taking half-hour data have the potential to benefit consumers by offering savings based on real-time.

THE PROBLEMS

Opportunity: Switching expert Jane Lucy

Currently, first generation smart meters are being rolled out.

Known as SMETS 1  with SMETS standing for Smart Metering Equipment Technical Specification  they have been widely criticised. Up to 10 per cent do not work due to poor mobile reception while as many as half go dumb if someone switches to another provider  with them losing remote access features.

The much-heralded replacement  SMETS 2  is supposed to work across all suppliers, so customers can keep the same meter.

But it has been plagued with problems. Only 9,000 have been installed  and not all work.

Jane Lucy is founder of energy switching service Labrador. She says: The industry is being tight-lipped about the real reason for the delays with SMETS 2. My view is the technology is not yet robust enough.

She also believes that the additional functionality options demanded by energy suppliers  a modification proposal for the code  add to the complexity and may delay new meters.

Lucy says: The potential for suppliers to take control of households energy accounts needs to be carefully policed. With a dispute  perhaps if moving home  a smart meter could be used to let a supplier take money even when it is not you that owes the outstanding debt.

She adds: Of course smart meters can provide an opportunity for households to take control of energy bills and save money, but they are less cost effective than simply switching to a more competitive supplier.

The Government stated in 2009 that all homes in Britain should be fitted with a smart meter by 2020 at the latest.

Yet despite a huge advertising budget of 224million, focused on promoting its positive features, this deadline is now unrealistic.

So far just over a third of all households  about 11million  have had a meter installed. It is expected that the deadline will be extended  a recommendation made in the parliamentary report.

Last week Citizens Advice suggested that 2023 would be more realistic.

The Government Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy is responsible for smart meter policy. It confirmed a proposed change to the Smart Meter Code was raised in February last year to allow suppliers to add additional functions. It stated it will make a decision on the proposal in due course.

Citizens Advice says: You do not have to accept a smart meter if you do not want one. An option is to have a meter installed but ask for the smart functionality to be switched off.

Robert Cheesewright of Smart Energy GB, the organisation promoting the meter rollout, says: Smart meters mean an end to estimated billing and give people a greater understanding of energy use.Tony Hetherington is Financial Mail on Sunday's ace investigator, fighting readers corners, revealing the truth that lies behind closed doors and winning victories for those who have been left out-of-pocket. Find out how to contact him below.

Ms J.J. writes: I ventured on to Aviva's website on March 20 to open an Isa  but what a calamity that turned out to be. Three days later I received an email saying I had failed Aviva's security checks on my identity and bank details. But, unknown to me, Aviva had already taken my money. This was despite the email stating that Aviva could not accept payments before security checks were successful. Now Aviva will not return my money without carrying out the same security checks that I have already failed.

Relaxed: Aviva's website makes taking out an Isa appear stress-free

The timing of this is significant, because you applied to invest 20,000 before the end of the tax year on April 5.

If Aviva accepted your money and opened the Isa, that was fine. If it turned you down but gave you back the money promptly, you could have applied elsewhere for a new Isa.

But if Aviva turned you down for an Isa, but held on to your cash, you would have lost the opportunity to use your tax-free Isa allowance for 2017-18.

At first, it seemed the problem had arisen because you had paid such a large sum with your bank debit card. Aviva's systems were not supposed to be able to take this, but your payment went through anyway. Aviva told me this was an error and it has apologised to you.

Further investigation brought to light a more basic issue. At the time you applied to make the investment you were moving house. You gave Aviva your new address but not a single record was found that would confirm you were living there.

This threw up a red flag under anti-money laundering rules that all investment firms must follow when they check identities.

After finding that you were still moving home in March, Aviva carried out its checks using your old address. Those checks have been successful and Aviva has offered to set up your Isa, backdated to March, so you do not lose a year's tax-free allowance.

You have agreed and have left your 20,000 with Aviva.

A spokesperson told me: 'We are sorry for the issues in setting up Ms J's Isa. We have successfully confirmed her identity and have set up the Isa, backdated to when we received the money. We have also paid her 150 as a gesture of goodwill.'

Excellent outcome.

Your catalogue of refund problems has a happy ending

R.B. writes: I received two letters addressed to my wife from catalogue firm JD Williams, both with cheques attached for PPI refunds. One was for 244 and the other for 297. But my wife died in 2015 and our joint account no longer exists. The bank asked me to contact the firm and ask for payment to be made to me. So I contacted JD Williams and was asked to return the cheques, which I did, but have heard nothing since.

Model behaviour: JD Williams' catalogue features TV presenter and model Lisa Snowdon

When I contacted them, staff at JD Williams went the extra mile in tracking down what went wrong.You had tried to deposit the cheques at your bank. It had tried to get the mail order firm's bank to honour them before it returned the cheques as they were made out to your wife not you.

But JD Williams' bank believed your bank had accepted the cheques and you had been paid.

You have now been given this explanation, plus a goodwill payment to make up for the delay.

You told me: 'I received a cheque for the full amount, plus 8 per cent interest and a further 100. This was totally unexpected. You have achieved in one month what I failed to do in six months. I am most grateful.'

You are welcome.

Do you want the good news or better news on tax bill? K.C. writes: In 2009, having turned 60, I took early retirement. Since then my income has been from a modest teacher's pension, a personal pension from Canada Life and some small income from savings. Being 68 now, I have also received the state pension for the past three years. This was all declared to Revenue & Customs in 2009. But I have recently received a tax coding notice which shows I owe an estimated 2,440. The tax office says this is because my Canada Life pension was not taxed. This increase in my tax is causing considerable anxiety. There is good news  and then there is better news. I asked staff at the Revenue's headquarters to look into what had gone wrong and, with commendable frankness, they told me: 'To be honest, we do not know what has gone awry.' Their records show that you did declare your Canada Life pension and your tax office did know about this in 2009. Revenue staff believe they had asked for it to be taxed at the basic rate of income tax. But full Revenue records do not go back that far, so officials cannot be certain that the right instructions were sent to Canada Life or, if they were sent, that they were received. The good news is that a check has shown the outstanding tax to be only 219, not 2,440. The better news is that your tax office is going to write off the 219. The best news is that, even though I did not suggest this, the Revenue has awarded you 35 as a goodwill gesture to make up for your worry over the whole issue of tax arrears.

If you believe you are the victim of financial wrongdoing, write to Tony Hetherington at Financial Mail, 2 Derry Street, London W8 5TS or email tony.hetherington@mailonsunday.co.uk. Because of the high volume of enquiries, personal replies cannot be given. Please send only copies of original documents, which we regret cannot be returned.Pipe dreams of a quick and easy route to financial freedom are being used to lure a new generation into risky, home-based foreign exchange trading.

Job ads and social media posts are sweeping the country, telling Britons they can earn four-figure sums every month by spending just half an hour a day trading on the currency markets. Those tempted are invited to free workshops or webinars, which are used as a platform to sell expensive training courses.

Accompanying software, said to help customers learn strategies to pinpoint profitable trades, is also sold as part of the package.

I attend two seminars to find out what is involved.

High ambition: 'Flying Trader' Greg Secker owns Learn to Trade

FREE WORKSHOP

A job advert inviting me to start out as a 'forex' trader  with no experience of foreign exchange needed, sounds great  if unlikely.

I can earn a second income straight away, become my own boss in six months  and build a 'concrete and reliable' income using 'recession-proof strategies'. I give it a go, as it seems I have nothing to lose  the advert says initial training is free.

When I click on the apply button I am taken to a web page where I sign up for a free two-hour workshop with Learn to Trade.

My session takes place at a hotel in Stratford, East London. Our group of 18 men and women of all races and ages enter the doors of one of the hotel's suites to the dramatic and rousing soundtrack of Rob Dougan's Clubbed To Death.

When the music stops a brief risk warning message is played over the speakers. We are then shown a slick video about the origins of Learn to Trade and its founder  businessman and 'Flying Trader' Greg Secker, who is known for completing trades while flying in a helicopter and donating commissions to charity. We are told his opinions are much sought after, alongside those of Donald Trump and Bill Clinton.

The video then cuts to footage of Greg the philanthropist  in a jubilant mood at a ceremony in which a hundred new homes in the Greg Secker Foundation Village were formally handed over to their new residents in the Philippines.

The properties were built for families displaced by Typhoon Haiyan in 2013. After the video, presenter Gurdas tells us that joining Learn to Trade was a 'no brainer' for him and that the money to be made is very attractive.

Buzz: The sites claim to bring the energy of the trading floor into homes

He asks the attendees why they are here today. One, Dwaine, wants a better life for his family. We are all assured that trading can fit around our family commitments.

Gurdas then says he can put us in the same buzzy environment as professional traders in the City  though I imagine this would require some suspension of disbelief.

As an added sales push, Gurdas says he is overseeing a 'special project' and wants to recruit 50 people for it. He has been presenting a few seminars around the country in a break from his usual routine, we are told, because normally other people are hired to deliver these presentations.

A search on the internet later suggests this is a tried and tested line.

The workshop focuses on everything that most of us desire  more time with family, less time in the office, financial freedom from the mortgage and bills, a bigger home, money to pay for a wedding, enough to meet children's school fees, secure futures and more holidays. The implication is that forex trading will make the necessary cash.

There follows an introduction to foreign exchange trading. It covers 'pip'  a measure of movement in the exchange rate between a pair of currencies  chart trends when prices move up or down and how Learn to Trade's 'buy, hold or sell' system works.

Stop losses  used to limit losses when a trade does not go your way  are also discussed.

Then it is back to the hard sell. Apparently the word 'job' stands for 'just over broke'  and aspiring to a salary of 40,000 a year only serves to cap our ambitions. That figure is unlikely to be enough for us to achieve our goals.

The next video is of offices around the world where the company's traders gather on the trading floor. Every now and again I spot the logo 'Unlimited Wealth' on screen  the name of another course offered to pupils willing to pay for it.

Dramatic music is played as we see people in an office poring over computers and chatting.

Gurdas tells us that as part of the 'special project' he is overseeing we can access heavily discounted training, mentoring and software for 1,997 plus VAT, a reduction on the usual price of 6,995 plus VAT. This is our only financial commitment, we are told, though we do need to fund a trading account to get started.

Hard sell: The seminars focus on participants' desire for wealth

The account it recommends is with Capital Index  a broker also owned by Secker. When I check its website later I find it admits 79 per cent of its retail clients lose money.

Gurdas says he will not be repeating his offer as 45 places have already been filled  meaning there are just five spaces available for the 18 of us in the room.

The select few will also be asked to participate in a charity event and share their progress over 12 months with a few words to 'inspire others' for a new marketing campaign.

I decide not to take up the offer but, as I leave, I see Dwaine, the earnest young man who said he wanted a better life for his family, make a beeline for the forms and start filling them in purposefully.

I am not convinced and turn my attention to the wealth of other firms offering trading software and forex training via job listings, pop-up ads and Facebook posts.

One pop-up advert comes from Trendsignal, which suggests I can earn a four-figure sum monthly from forex trading  and this time I do not even need to leave the house to get started.

There are a wealth of firms offering trading software and forex training via job listings

A FREE WEBINAR

I take part in Trendsignal's free online webinar to find out more about its 'Sniper trading strategy'.

This is a less slick production than the workshop, but towards the end transformed into the kind of upbeat sales pitch you hear on TV shopping channels.

A 'complete package' costs 3,300 plus VAT. Refunds are allowed for those who change their minds in the first two weeks. Traders can also choose their own broker. But rather than part with my cash, I contact a former pupil whose testimony is on Trendsignal's website.

Lisa Beaney says she is satisfied with the package and claims to have earned a supplementary income from trading. The professional photographer says: 'It gives you a set of rules to follow and overall it made me money.

'You do have months where you make a loss but the other months make up for it and Trendsignal is quite open about this before you start trading.'

She says the downside is that while Trendsignal got her interested in trading and she found the software useful, she had to put in a lot of time and effort herself  swotting up on brokers, the markets and charting options.

Trendsignal boss Adrian Buthee says: 'We teach a specific set of rules for people to follow and cautious risk management techniques. We make sure to do things in an appropriate and fair way.'

He describes advertising via job websites as 'inappropriate' and says this is not something his firm does.

But he adds: 'We use webinars as a way to reach individuals across the world who are interested in learning to trade the markets. Our customers tend to be aged around 55 to 60 and have one eye on retirement.'

James Mathews, head of Learn to Trade said: 'In the past year we have taught hundreds of people at our trading centre a range of strategies and tools to help them start trading the market.'

The firm says traders never risk more than 2 per cent of their account on a single trade. A spokeswoman adds: 'People do turn up and lose money but it is usually those who have not followed risk management rules.'

WHAT IS ACTUALLY BEING TRADED?

What many home-based forex traders are entering into are contracts for difference, or 'CFDs'.

At my Learn to Trade workshop, the risks arising from CFDs were mentioned only briefly, just before the presentation began.

But this is perhaps the most important information. No currencies are physically owned and traded  the customer is essentially betting on the price movements on a currency pair.

So they may be putting a wager on whether the price of sterling will rise or fall against the US dollar in a set period.

They place their 'trades' with a broker, who takes a cut. They can also add a 'stop loss' to limit potential losses if the price of a currency falls too low. European regulators recently stepped in to protect novice customers from the downsides of CFD trading.

Restrictions brought in this month include preventing customers from losing more money than they put into their trading account. This safeguard will be in place for three months and could be extended or adopted more permanently.

The Financial Conduct Authority, which oversees financial services in the UK, 'fully supports' the new rules, which aim to stop customers from unknowingly taking on too much risk.

It comes after research showed that up to 89 per cent of customers across Europe lose money on CFD trades, with losses ranging from 1,400 to 26,000 per account.

WHO SHOULD RISK IT?

Laith Khalaf is senior analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown  a broker for traditional, long-term investors who want to invest in Isas, funds and shares. It does offer CFDs, but only to 'active and experienced investors'.

Khalaf says: 'Currency movements are notoriously difficult to predict with any accuracy and that applies in spades at a time when Brexit, politics and the potential for trade wars are causing ructions in global markets.

'Buying and selling currencies is a risky business. This isn't an area for first-time investors.

'Getting rich slow is a far more reliable strategy than getting rich quick, which can often lead to rags rather than riches.'

Moreover, 'buy before you try' courses are a costly outlay for novices who go on to realise that trading is not for them.

My verdict: Buyer beware!British Gas owner Centrica handed top bosses performance-linked incentives worth almost 2million this summer, as the Big Six pushed through controversial price hikes for customers.

Iain Conn, Centrica's chief executive, split a 1.9million jackpot with fellow senior executives Mark Hanafin, Mark Hodges and Jeff Bell.

The four are also in line to share a further long-term incentive award that could pay out up to 8.2million over the next two years.

Bonanza: Centrica boss Iain Conn

British Gas last week announced its second price rise in six months and blamed rising wholesale costs. This was despite Prime Minister Theresa May's pledge to crack down on 'ripoff' tariffs by introducing a price cap by the end of the year.

The utility firm lost 340,000 customers in the first half of the year. Profits plunged 16 per cent to 321million during the same period.

Centrica shareholders previously rebelled against executive pay and the 1.9million 'golden hello' for Conn when he joined from BP three years ago.

No executive directors received a bonus last year. Their total pay fell by 40 per cent to 5.6million  down from 9.4million in 2016.

A Centrica spokesman said: 'Long-term share awards were granted to a value of 8.2million in 2016 and 2017.

'These are the maximum awards that could be released.'Mutiny: Ian Malouf says he is seen as a threat to yacht brokers

Australian businessman Ian Malouf is suing the organisers of the Monaco Yacht Show for allegedly barring him from the industrys biggest networking event.

Yacht broker Malouf  who made his fortune through his industrial waste firm Dial A Dump  is understood to have paid around 45,000 for a berth for his 22million super-yacht Mischief at the 2018 show in September.

The organisers confirmed his booking but then cancelled it abruptly and without good cause, Malouf claims.

A lawsuit filed in Monaco last month alleges a breach of contract.

Malouf believes he has been excluded from the show because the industry is controlled by a cosy bunch of superyacht brokers. Ahoy Club, the online charter platform which he founded, undercuts traditional brokers by charging 7 per cent commission instead of 20 per cent.

Malouf is hoping to find a buyer for Mischief at the event, said to be the ultimate showcase for industry influencers.

Around 120 superyachts will be on display, with a quarter for sale. Spokesmen for the organisers declined to comment ahead of a second hearing later this month.City advisers are in line for 580million of fees in the take-over of Sky as the 26billion bidding battle nears its climax.

Advisers to Rupert Murdoch's 21st Century Fox will be paid as much as 242million for their work on the deal for the pay-TV giant, whose hit shows include Stan Lee's Lucky Man starring James Nesbitt.

Fox holds a 39 per cent stake and wants to buy the part of Sky it does not already own.

High rolling: Sky TV hits include Stan Lee's Lucky Man, starring James Nesbitt and Thekla Reuten

The sums were revealed in Fox's offer document when it officially lodged its 24.5billion bid. Fox faces competition from Comcast, which has tabled a 26billion offer. The Murdoch camp has until September 22 if it wants to match or trump the Comcast offer.

Comcast, which owns the NBC channel in the US and Universal Studios, revealed in its offer document that it is to pay 243million to its advisers.

Sky has run up a 96million bill, taking in bankers, lawyers, PR advisers and accountants.

It means City firms will pocket up to 581million between them from the transatlantic bidding war.

The bulk of Fox's 172million fees are charges for arranging finance that will go to lenders such as Goldman Sachs, Deutsche Bank and JP Morgan.

Another 38.4million of charges for advice will go to Goldmans, Deutsche and boutique US investment bank Centerview Partners.

The Fox offer document revealed technical changes in its bid so it now only needs 50 per cent of shareholder votes to approve the deal. Previously it needed 75 per cent.An influential group of MPs is demanding a full public inquiry into the banks mistreatment of small business customers.

The All Party Parliamentary Group on Fair Business Banking wants an investigation into the complex, and often incestuous, relationships between financial institutions, their numerous advisers and related professions, and the complex regulatory framework that is supposed to uphold the highest standards.

The call is made in a letter from the APPG to Andrew Bailey, chief executive of City regulator the Financial Conduct Authority.

Letter: FCA chief executive Andrew Bailey

The FCA recently said it could not take any action over the plundering of small businesses by RBSs global restructuring group. It said shortcomings at RBS fell outside its regulatory remit  and that it found no evidence of dishonesty or a lack of integrity among senior management.

APPG chairman Kevin Hollinrake said this stance had left the APPG disappointed and extremely concerned.

Lib Dem peer Baroness Kramer, who was on the parliamentary commission on banking standards, backed the APPG, saying an inquiry is needed to restore trust.

A review by advisory group Promontory found no evidence that RBS deliberately drove small businesses to the wall for profit, but it did detail cases where bankers had extracted huge and often arbitrary fees.

The APPG also said it would like any public inquiry to cover scandals about other banks treatment of small businesses.

The Mail on Sunday is campaigning for a tribunal or extended ombudsman service to sort out disputes between banks and small firms.In the beginning of August, I heard numerous people from Eswatini talking about a Womens Month and how it was important to celebrate the role of women in society and honour them.

It was not the first time for me to hear such; over the years some people have been saying the same thing. It is Womens Month and you have not said anything to me, said a friend earlier in the week. It is Womens Day, let me spoil myself, wrote another liSwati on social media on Thursday. The hype around the month of August is building up and the momentum is not dying down in every corner of the Kingdom of Eswatini. While as a country we have become what some scholars refer to as South Africas peripheral economy largely dependent on South Africa in terms of import, media consumption and other things, it is important that we bring certain things into proper perspective before we deceive generations to come. It is important that we help each other not to distort history; either out of ignorance or convenience. That is the essence of my article today.

history around this day

International Womens Day is celebrated on March 8 every year. There is a long history around this day, but the long and short of it is that for years, international womens day used to be celebrated, predominantly, by the socialist movement and communist countries until it was adopted in 1975 by the United Nations. Today, International Womens Day is a public holiday in some countries, although that is not the case in many other countries. It is about the celebration of womanhood and various societies choose to use it for activities such as protests, engagement on women issues or other relevant events. It is an important day and we should all be encouraged to use it to champion womens issues, celebrate gains and confront prevailing challenges insofar as women issues are concerned. Consequently, the month of March has, globally, come to be recognised as Womens Month. Now, August 9 is National Womens Day in South Africa (not Eswatini) and it is a holiday celebrated annually in that country.

Here is the history: in South Africa, this is a day when they commemorate the 1956 march of approximately 20 000 women to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to petition against murderous apartheids inhumane pass laws that required black South Africans to carry an internal passport (pass) that served to maintain population segregation, control urbanisation, and manage migrant labour during the painful era of apartheid. The 20 000 women came from all walks of life and united in a mass demonstration to protest against these unjust laws enforced on women in South Africa. These women were led by great activists such as Lillian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa and Sophia Williams. Oral traditions and some written history record that in honour of the August 9, 1956 occasion, the activists composed the now famous slogan: WathintAbafazi WathintImbokodo! When a new and democratic government took over in South Africa, the first National Womens Day was celebrated on August 9, 1994. The Government of South Africa also declared August Womens Month as a tribute to those brave women who faced the hazards of the struggle against apartheid.



MBABANE  The contentious Clause 3.2 of the expired contract of embattled Municipal Council of Mbabane CEO Gideon Mhlongo was wrongly crafted.

This was the observation of outgoing Minister of Housing and Urban Development Phiwayinkhosi Mabuza following his decision to have it amended in Mhlongos extended five-year contract. This was part of what he termed his final ministerial order on the protracted contractual debacle between the CEO and the councillors. The latter had resolved not to renew the contract, citing among other things that he was no longer affordable to the city. They further alleged that his frosty relationship with the councillors and ratepayers made it impossible for them to re-engage him. Their reasons were, however, not accepted by the minister who ordered them to negotiate at least a three-year contract extension with the CEO by July 20 or he would grant him a five- year extension.

When he eventually did it, in a letter dated July 24, the minister stated that the terms and conditions of the contract would be similar to the recently expired one; with the exception that clause 3.2 should be revisited. It was an anomaly that I noted in the whole contractual issue between the CEO and the council. I felt that the clause was not properly crafted because the correct procedure places the onus on the employee to indicate first if he was interested in having it renewed, not the employer. I corrected that even though I was not the one who did it, but it was signed by the council, he said. He said everything he did on the contractual issue was to demonstrate his objectivity as opposed to the growing perception that he was siding with the chief executive officer.

upholding a general principle

He said his ministerial orders were nothing but upholding a general principle that appeared to be on the verge of being violated when renewing the contract. The principle has always been simple when it comes to renewing and that has been solely based on his performance. And when the council presented his performance report, it showed that he had done well. You have to have strong reasons therefore not renew if the candidate has performed well. As a minister, I had to look beyond the corridors of the city of Mbabane, for a precedence that would have affected the whole country if allowed, he said. When imposing the CEOs five-year contract to the council, the minister, in his letter, cited part of the disturbing allegations of sabotage which were contained in the Section 27 report by acting CEO Bongani Dlamini during the negotiations done by the council.

Mabuza said the reasons advanced by the council not to renew flew against the very disturbing report accompanying the minutes of the council when Mhlongos contract was negotiated. He said he had invoke Section 47 of the Urban Government Act of 1969 to renew the contract upon realising that the council was not prepared to follow his July ministerial order. The clause states that where a council refuses, fails or neglects to comply with any provisions requiring it to appoint certain staff, the minister may, after having given the council not less than 14 days prior to notice of his intention to do so, exercise, on behalf of the council and on such terms and conditions as he deems expedient, the powers of appointment conferred upon the council by the act. It was an assertion that received a huge disapproval from a couple of councillors who felt that the minister acted outside of his jurisdiction to do so because the act gave the council powers to hire a CEO or town clerk.MBABANE  Serious questions about the legality of the members of the armed forces voting during parliamentary elections have been raised.

Some legal experts said soldiers, in particular, should not vote on the basis of Section 97 (3), which states that the Umbutfo Swaziland Defence (USDF) Force is a disciplined, non-partisan, permanent national defence force, ultimately subordinate and accountable to civilian authority. The USDF is now called the UEDF (Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force).

It is stated in section 5 of the Elections Act of 2013 that the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) shall provide for a special voting procedure for electoral officers, staff and security personnel who are on duty on polling day. During the 2013 general elections, the EBC conducted the special voting session for the polling personnel, security and the foreign mission staff on August 22 and 23. The primary elections were held on August 24, 2013. Polls were opened at 7am and closed at 5pm. Three politicians, who lost elections five years ago, claimed votes from the armed forces influenced the voting outcome. They did not want their names to be published because they have been nominated to stand for the 2018 general elections.

One word could prevent soldiers voting

Meanwhile, one legal expert, who also spoke on condition of anonymity, said it was the word non-partisan, which could arguably prevent the soldiers from participating in the election. The Cambridge dictionary defines partisan as supporting a person, principle or political party, often without considering or judging the matter very carefully while non-partisan is the opposite. On the other hand, the Merriam Webster dictionary says a non-partisan is especially free from party affiliation, bias or designation.

Other dictionaries define non-partisan as not biased or partisan, especially toward any particular political group or persons. Its synonyms are unbiased, impartial, neutral or objective. If non-partisan means neutral, what does it mean to the soldiers who are expected to vote for their favourites to Parliament? asked one of the legal experts who referred the Times SUNDAY to the constitutional provision.

Kathy Gill, a former US State and Federal lobbyist who currently teaches at the University of Washington, once, said being partisan meant one adhered firmly to a political party, faction, idea or cause. Sipho Gumedze, an expert in Constitutional law, said the spirit of the law was that the armed forces should not align themselves with political parties. However, in a wider interpretation of the law, he said emaSwati would not talk about multiparty democracy because it was not being recognised by the country in the formation of a government. In the absence of political parties, Gumedze said the law applied to the political system used by the country  Tinkhundla-based political system of government. He said soldiers would be considered to have effectively participated in direct politics if they were allowed to vote during the parliamentary elections. Asked what he meant, the top attorney said they exercised political choice over another just as they would have done in a multiparty democratic election.MBABANE  Abolished!

If a prospective employer or any academic establishment calls upon you to produce fingerprints in consideration for employment or education, you may choose to tell them: what you ask for is a criminal offence and you will be arrested. It is stated in the Criminal Procedure and Evidence (CPE) Amendment Act of 2018 that any person who contravenes the provision on the abolition of fingerprints in consideration of ones employment and education is liable to a jail term not exceeding three years or to a fine not surpassing E10 000, or both. Several organisations like companies, security forces and firms, some financial institutions, educational establishments demand that job seekers and prospective students alike produce their previous criminal record. The Royal Eswatini Police Service usually released such records as there was no law barring them from doing so.

CRIMINAL DATA SYSTEM

Before the passing of the CPE amendment Act of 2018, Mxolisi Dlamini, in April this year, went to the High Court to pray that the national commissioner of police expunge his fingerprints from the police criminal data system. He had been convicted of drink- driving nine years ago. He contended that the fingerprints were a stumbling block to his future as the Civil Service Commission might revoke his appointment as a prosecutor because of the previous conviction record. Judge John Magagula issued the order, directing the national commissioner to do so. In a similar case, a final year student at Ngwane Teachers College successfully obtained an order directing the national commissioner of police to expunge his fingerprints from the criminal data system.

Attorney General (AG) Sifiso Khumalo, in an interview, said the new law meant people did not even need to go to court to have their fingerprints expunged in order to secure employment or facilitate enrolment at a college.

He said employers and academic institutions should not require them altogether. He said the new legislation was effective and applicable. He said the request for fingerprints to determine the employment or enrolment of a person in an academic institution should be a thing of the past. Asked to simplify it, the AG, also known as Indvuna Mashampu of Ezulwini, explained that the law stipulated in Section 287 (1) that a record of a previous conviction of an adult shall be valid for the period of the length of the sentence imposed by the courts as outlined in the sixth schedule of the CPE. In terms of the law, sixth schedule refers to the validity of record of previous convictions as follows:

l One month sentence to one year  valid for one year

l Two years  valid for three years

l Three years  four years

l Four years  five years

l Five years  six years

l Six years  seven years

l Seven years  eight years

l Eight years  nine years

l Nine years and above  valid for 10 years.

However, Khumalo said there was an exception to sixth schedule as subsection three clarified that the validity of a previous conviction of an adult shall not apply for purposes of education and employment. The AG said the law was clear that employers would be in order or operating within the ambit of the law when employing people with criminal records. He hinted on the possibility of the security forces employing them as well. Ones previous criminal record must not be a barrier to education and employment, stressed the attorney general when quoting the CPE amendment Act. He added: In terms of education and employment, you dont need a court order to have your fingerprints erased as they dont apply to you.

Khumalo mentioned that the new legislation did not do away with previous criminal records but protected the right to education and employment. He said a record of past convictions, as elucidated in law, could be obtained, accessed or used for purposes of crime detection, investigation of an offence or prosecution.Trend:

SOCAR Trading, trading house of Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR, intends to become one of the biggest suppliers of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Pakistan in the future, SOCAR Trading told Trend.

"SOCAR Trading is still interested in becoming one of the main LNG suppliers to Pakistan both through tenders and within a long-term agreement," the company said. "This country is one of the fastest growing importers of this type of fuel in the world."

Earlier it was reported that SOCAR became one of the winners of a tender for the supply of liquefied natural gas to Pakistan. Pakistan through Pakistan LNG Limited buys LNG via tenders and long-term contracts.

"For the tender held in July 2018, SOCAR Trading submitted proposals on two long-term options put forward by Pakistan LNG Limited," the company said. "One of our proposals was the most competitive at that time of supplies."

"But Pakistan LNG Limited decided not to provide the winners with these options within the tender rules," the company said. "At the same time, SOCAR is the company selected for LNG shipments to Pakistan within the long-term agreement following the interstate agreement on energy, signed in February 2017. This agreement was discussed and agreed between the parties, but it has not yet been implemented."

SOCAR Trading, headquartered in Geneva, was established in late 2007 by the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan.



The company sells SOCAR crude oil from Ceyhan port (Mediterranean Sea, Turkey), trades oil and oil products of other countries, and also assists the parent company in international investments. SOCAR Trading operations cover the countries of Europe, Africa, Asia and America.Trend:

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has arrived in the Kazakh city of Aktau to attend the 5th Summit of the Heads of State of the Caspian littoral states.

At the Aktau international airport, the head of state was welcomed by Kazakh Minister of Energy Kanat Bozumbayev and other officials.Erdogan has already called on Turks to convert their foreign currency assets into Turkish lira in an attempt to stop the slide in confidence facing the ailing currency

U.S. President Donald Trump has tweeted to confirm he will double steel and aluminum tariffs on Turkish imports as the lira slided to 6.51 per dollar, putting pressure on President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Erdogan has already called on Turks to convert their foreign currency assets into Turkish lira in an attempt to stop the slide in confidence facing the ailing currency.

Trump tweeted on Friday: Our relations with Turkey are not good at this time!

Donald J. Trump  @realDonaldTrump I have just authorized a doubling of Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum with respect to Turkey as their currency, the Turkish Lira, slides rapidly downward against our very strong Dollar! Aluminum will now be 20% and Steel 50%. Our relations with Turkey are not good at this time! 117K

85.9K people are talking about this Twitter Ads info and privacy

Turkeys state-run Anadolu news agency on Friday noted that Erdogan held a phone call with Russian leader Vladimir Putin and hailed strengthening economic and trade ties between the two countries.

Nevertheless, Turkey is facing economic pressure on the markets despite Fridays unveiling of a new economic model by the countrys finance minister and son-in-law of Erdogan, Berat Albayrak.

Turkey is facing economic and political pressure over its moves to purchase the S-400 missile system from Russia, despite being a NATO member. The ongoing imprisonment of an American pastor on terrorism charges has also been a source of friction between Ankara and Washington.

A delegation of Turkish diplomats which visited the Washington DC this week was unable to halt the deterioration in ties between the two countries.

Read more at eu.greekreporter.com

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Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: Joku Janne License: CC-BY-SASolidarity Bahrain, one of the largest insurance companies in the kingdom and a subsidiary of Solidarity Group Holding, has announced a net profit of BD1.16 million ($3.07 million) for the six month period ended June 30, 2018, compared to BD89,000 for the corresponding previous period, representing 1200% increase.

For the second quarter of 2018, Solidarity has recorded a net profit of BD593,000 compared to a net loss of BD166,000 for the corresponding previous period, representing 457% increase.

The increase in the net profits is mainly due to the improvement in loss and claims ratio and investment income in the second quarter of 2018 as compared to the corresponding previous period, said the company.

Solidarity has registered a gross premium of BD15.13 million compared to BD7.37 million for the corresponding previous period, an increase of 105%. Solidarity Bahrain has also reported net policyholders surplus of BD23,000.

The earring per share have also increased to 9.65 fils for the six month period ended June 30, 2018 compared to 1.44 fils for the corresponding previous period, and for the second quarter of 2018, the earring per share is 4.94 fils.

The shareholders equity as at June 30,2018 is BD24.81 million as compared to BD23.51 million as at December 31, 2017, representing 5.56% increase and total asset is BD68.78 million as compared to BD65.70 million, a 4.69% increase.

Tawfeeq Shehab, chairman of the company, said: We are proud of Solidarity Bahrains performance and our accomplishments in the past period following the successful completion of the merger between two of Solidarity Group Holdings subsidiaries, Al Ahlia Insurance Company and Solidarity General Takaful.

He added: We are also very proud that Solidarity Bahrain has had its ratings assigned by A.M. Best Europe, receiving a financial strength rating of B++ (Good) with a stable outlook and issuer credit rating of bbb with a positive outlook.

Jawad Mohamed, chief executive officer, Solidarity Bahrain, said: Solidarity is currently the only rated Takaful Company in Bahrain; with this international recognition and accreditation Solidarity has managed to establish its position as one of the leading industry players, setting it apart from all but a handful of local insurance market players, he added.  TradeArabia News ServiceThe Saudi-New Zealand Joint Committee recently concluded meetings in Auckland discussing efforts to enhance trade relations, said a report.



Saudi Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Al Fadhly and the Minister for Trade and Export Growth of New Zealand David Parker attended the meetings, reported the UAE news agency Wam.



Al Fadhly said that trade between the two countries has witnessed remarkable development over the past years, rising from SR675 million ($179.98 million) to about SR3 billion ($799.9 million), in 2016, stressing the importance of the committee's role, in pushing cooperation to a higher level, added the report.The Abu Dhabi Media has signed a media cooperation agreement with Thamer bin Saud Al Muraibdh (TSM Group) in Saudi Arabia.

The move fits within Abu Dhabi Media's plans to expand and reach out to the largest possible segments of the diverse multicultural society of Saudi Arabia, being one of the region's key markets, said a Wam news agency report.

The agreement was signed in the presence of Dr Ali bin Tamim, director-general of Abu Dhabi Media, and the company's executive directors, along with Thamer Saud Al Muraibdh, vice chairman of the Saudi company and a number of its key officials.Thales, a global technology leader for the aerospace and transport sector, has played a pivotal role in helping secure the new terminal at Muscat International Airport.



The highly modernised terminal, which opened in March this year, is expected to handle the 17 per cent increase (roughly 20 million annual visitors) in passenger arrivals per annum. For this reason, the Ministry of Transport and Communication of Oman selected Thales to deploy its state-of-the-art security technologies.



The technologies delivered by Thales focus on the Airport Operation Control Centres and include an advanced perimeter intrusion detection system, video surveillance system with video analytics, access control, screening equipment, E-gates, security checkpoints, as well as a full Airport IT suite that manages airport operations supported by an information broker to handle integration and communications between systems.



The infrastructure is complemented by fully redundant data centres, including the server farms and the storage area network, access and backbone network as well as trunked radio systems and network security appliances to ensure high performance, reliability and quality of services.



All systems provided by Thales at Muscat International Airport have gone through a total of 45 operational readiness tests, incorporating over 26,000 participants, successfully meeting and surpassing all expectations and standards.



We are delighted to have partnered with Muscat International Airport to meet the needs for integrated security and operations protocols at the new airport. Through our industry-leading solutions, we are ensuring efficient operations and the safety and security of the overall infrastructure as well as that of the passengers. Wed like to thank the Authorities in Oman, the Ministry of Transport and Communication of Oman (MOTC) and Public Authority for Civil Aviation (Paca) as due to our partnership we are able to continue supporting their efforts in the development of major infrastructure projects within the country. Roger Daix, vice president of Thales Middle East.



This successful implementation is the latest in a long list of projects confirming Thaless position as a leader in Airport Master System Integration and airport security and operational solutions. Thales secures some of the most high-profile state-of-the-art critical infrastructures within the Mena region, such as the airports in Dubai and Doha, the new commercial port in Doha and oil and gas sites in Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Iraq and Eurasia. - TradeArabia News ServiceFlag carrier SriLankan Airlines welcomed the newest and final addition to its new generation Airbus A321 Neo fleet. The aircraft arrived at the airline's home base in Bandaranaike International Airport from Hamburg via Abu Dhabi.



SriLankan Airlines now has six Airbus Neo aircraft and 27 aircraft in total in its fleet with the newest acquisition. The acquisition of the A321 Neo new generation aircraft is part of the airline's strategic expansion plan, and will further boost capacity on it short to medium haul routes to the Middle East, Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia and China.



SriLankan Airlines, which is already quite popular with Middle East travellers for its fine in-flight service, excellent hospitality and efficient connections to Colombo and onward to Asia and Australia, is expected to put the new A321s into good use on the busier routes in the Middle East to Colombo sector.



SriLankan Airlines is looking to attract even more tourists and business travellers from the GCC, by leveraging the enormous pulling power of the Indian Ocean island paradise combined with seamless onward connections to India, Southeast, East and North Asia as well as to Australia.



Responding to growing demand from the region, SriLankan Airlines has recently boosted its services with daily flights to Colombo from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Riyadh, Muscat, Bahrain and Kuwait. The airline is also looking at increasing connectivity to other parts of the Gulf depending on demand.



SriLankan Airlines today flies an all Airbus fleet, which includes the state-of-the-art A330-300 and A320/A321 Neo aircraft connecting to 100 destinations in 47 countries (including codeshare operations). - TradeArabia News ServiceMarieme Jamme, a World Economic Forum's Young Global Leader, guides computer students in Kakuma camp.  UNHCR/Rose Ogola

Technology expert Marieme Jamme bends over a computer screen to guide a student at a training centre in Kenyas Kakuma refugee camp. She knows just how important help can be for these youngsters.

Marieme is one of 16 World Economic Forum Young Global Leaders (YGLs) on a visit to Kakuma, and the Kalobeyei settlement in north-western Kenya, to meet refugees and host communities.

The YGLs were divided into seven groups according to their expertise and interest. Marieme was part of the education team.

I chose this group so that I can encourage young people to focus on education, she says. Education opens doors and a whole new world to people.

Kakuma and its neighbouring town have a combined population of nearly 250,000, refugees and local people.

He's going from a refugee camp to Princeton. Learn more about refugees overcoming the odds: https://t.co/89qFeKmyoS pic.twitter.com/S2eA79dYth  World Economic Forum (@wef) August 6, 2018

A Senegalese-born technology entrepreneur, now based in the United Kingdom, she was abandoned by her mother and grew up in an orphanage in Senegal before being trafficked to France.

There she befriended a Moroccan woman who became her mentor and encouraged her to apply for a migration programme to go to the UK, where she has lived since she was 19.

Marieme, now 44, received no formal education. At the age of 16 she taught herself to read and write.

I went to the library every day.

I went to the library every day, says Marieme. Then I read every material that came my way. I have now registered to sit GCSE and A level exams next year.

One of the institutions the team visited was the Kakuma Campus of Masinde Muliro University where Marieme met Rose Chelia, a refugee from South Sudan. Rose told her how she fled to Kakuma with her aunt but was unable to go to school immediately.

I started school in one of the day schools in Kakuma and in 2005 got a scholarship to one of the top boarding schools at the camp, she said. My aunt was unhappy because she wanted me to take care of my young cousins and we became estranged for a long time.

Due to the stress, I did not perform very well at the end of primary school and had to walk from school to school for three months before I found a high school that would admit me.

Mariemes story gives me hope that, in spite of difficulties, our destiny is in our hands and we should seize all opportunities that come our way.

Marieme Jamme, a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader with students at Morneau Shepell Secondary School in Kakuma.  UNHCR/Rose Ogola

Last year, Marieme was presented with the Innovation Award at the Global Goals Awards 2017 by UNICEF and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for her work in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

She was also named in the Powerlist 2017 of Britains 100 most influential people of African and African Caribbean Heritage and honoured as a YGL by the World Economic Forum in 2013.

I understand the difficulties and pain they have been through.

She told UNHCR some of the harrowing details of her story.

I was raped as a child, I was beaten as a child, and I was trafficked to France at the age of 13 and forced into prostitution, she said.

I lived in a tube station in Paris for three years before I was picked up by the police and put in a rescue centre. Because of this, I am able to connect with the refugees and understand the difficulties and pain that most of them have been through.

She is the founder of an initiative known as iamtheCODE, whose goal is to teach girls in marginalized communities computer coding, provide them with a safe educational space and help them find jobs. Her mission is to train 1 million women and girl coders by 2030.

At the end of their five-day visit, the YGLs discussed what they had learned and proposed solutions. These included the creation of a hub that would link refugees and the host communities to public and private partnerships via a network of YGLs.

Like her fellow visitors, Marieme left Kenya feeling hopeful about the future.

She said she believed Kakuma would be part of her iamtheCODE initiative.

I commit to working with UNHCR to establish technology hubs in Kakuma and teach coding to young women and girls in both the refugee and host communities.The Armenian government has granted a 29-year mining permit to Geghi Gold LLC, a company owned by former Syunik Provincial Governor Surik Khachatryan.

News of the permit can be found in a recent list of mining permits issued by the countrys Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources.

To understand how Khachatryan received the permit for the Voskedzor (Gold Gorge) mine, in the area of the town of Syunik provincial capital of Kapan, we have to go back to 2008 when a company called BAMO Metal LLC was issued an exploratory mining permit.

At the time, Kapan residents protested the explorations, complaining that rusty water was flowing from their faucets.

In 2012, local NGOs sent a letter to then President Serzh Sargsyan, demanding that the exploratory permit be rescinded.

Interestingly, even Surik Khachatryan, who was serving as Syunik governor at the time, voiced his opposition to BAMOs activities. He went so far as saying that the company was guilty of polluting the local water supply.

But Khachatryans clean water campaign didnt last long. Bamos exploratory permit lasted until October 5, 2012. Two months later, on December 17, Khachatryan made his foray into mining by purchasing a 51% share of Geghi Gold. Hes the sole owner of the company today and serves as its executive director.

By 2013, Geghi Gold began its own exploration of the Voskedzor mines reserves, now estimated at 132,887 tons of zinc, 21,709 tons of copper, 325 tons of silver, and 25 tons of gold.

On July 22, 2016, Geghi Gold was issued a 29-year operating permit for the mine, which stipulates that the company build an AMD 292 million roadway to the mine in the first two and a half years. The company was also obligated to spend AMD 2.1 billion for the removal of rock waste.

In total, an estimated 12.8 billion drams were needed to get the mine up and running.

Geghi Gold was also obligated to invest 300,000 drams annually in the socio-economic development of the surrounding communities, and another 200,000 drams annually for stipends to needy families. It also had to allocate 150,000 drams per year to buy stationery supplies for the local school.

The permit also stipulates that after the mine closes, Geghi Gold must retrain workers seeking other employment, and take steps to foster small and medium sized business in the area.

Mining at Voskedzor poses substantial environmental risks, given that its adjacent to the River Geghi, the main potable water source for Kapan. The photo below shows the holding reservoir in the Adjabaj settlement of Kapan.

Kapan residents and environmental activists understood the risks and wasted no time to voice their opposition.

On June 15, 2016, even before Geghi Gold was issued the 29-year operating permit, four NGOs sent a letter to then president Serzh Sargsyan, requesting that he intervene and stop work at the mine.

The company was issued the 29-year permit a month later.

Based on Hetqs coverage of the mining sector, Armenias Environmental and Natural Resources Inspectorate launched an investigation of Geghi Golds operations at Voskedzor.

Levon Petrosyan, who heads the inspectorates Syunik branch, says the results of that investigation have yet to be compiled.Nepal: Preferential treatment sought

Kathmandu, Aug 12 (UNI) In view of skyrocketing imports from India against sluggish exports, Nepal has requested the southern neighbour for preferential treatment for export of agro-products and integration of Nepali manufacturing units to its value chain.

Two-thirds of Nepals trade takes place with India, but the countrys exports to India has slowed to a crawl, according to a report in The Kathmandu Post.

In a bid to narrow this gap, Ravi Shanker Sainju, joint secretary at the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies and convenor of the Nepali delegation, held talks with Indian government officials on Thursday and Friday in New Delhi. The talks concluded that preference erosion and reciprocity in export and import of agricultural goods and some manufacturing products should be reviewed in the Nepal-India Trade Treaty.Nigeria: Growing demand for youth inclusion in politics

Abuja, Aug 11 (UNI) More younger people have indicated an interest to contest the presidency after a reduction of the age limit to 35, says an Al Jazeera report.

A few years ago, it was almost impossible to talk up the chances of a youthful president in Nigeria.

But now, the clamour for a young leader is gaining momentum with the signing of a bill that reduces the age limit to seek political office in the country.Ferozepur, Aug 12 (UNI) Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman dedicated a strategically important 280 feet long historic bridge at Hussainiwala, which was blown off during 1971 Indo-Pak war, to the nation on Sunday.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms Sitharaman said that permanent bridge at Hussainiwala Barrage will help not only the Indian Armed Forces but the local population at large for their daily commuting. 'Hussainiwala is a historic and sacred place of our great martyrs Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Rajguru and many other war heroes and it is my honour and privilege to inaugurate this historic bridge which will lead to the development of Punjab region and people of Ferozpur. It will promote regional prosperity, business, agriculture and better movement of Army vehicles, ammunition and logistics.'

The Union Minister appreciated the dedicated efforts made by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) towards completion of this bridge ahead of schedule and without causing any inconvenience to the locals. She said BRO has been engaged in construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, tunnels and other defence infrastructure works in difficult remote border areas. This bridge is one of the great examples that speak volumes about BROs contribution in nation building. The BRO has constructed approximately 52,000 km of roads, 650 major permanent bridges of 47000 m length and 19 airfields in difficult and remote areas of the country.Telangana as leader in India as well Asia in Life Science

Hyderabad, Aug 12 (UNI) Telangana has been widely recognised as a leader in India and Asia in life sciences innovation and manufacturing.



Over the last four years since the formation of new State, the sector has been buzzing with activities  be it the entry of marquee global names and new players like Ferring Pharma, Chemo, GSK, Syngene, Slayback Pharma, Johnson & Johnson, etc or the expansion of the existing marquee companies such as Novartis, Biological E, Laurus Labs, Pulse Pharma, among others.Yemen bus attack latest outrage against civilians

United Nations, Aug 11 (UNI) An air strike on a busy market area in Yemen that reportedly killed scores of people including more than 20 children on a bus, is likely the worst attack on youngsters in the conflict so far, and the latest in a recent spate of violence targeting civilians, UN agencies have said.

According to the UN Human Rights Office, OHCHR, and UN Childrens Fund, UNICEF, at least 21 boys  most of them under the age of 15  died when their bus was hit on Thursday in Dahyan market in Saada, in the north of the country.

More than 30 boys were also injured in the aerial bombardment, which was carried out by a Saudi-led international coalition that has backed Yemen President Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi against Houthi opposition forces for more than three years.The First Vice-President of the Czech Government and Foreign Minister Martin Stropnicky paid an official visit to Damascus. He was received by his Syrian counterpart Walid al-Muallem.

Since the beginning of the aggression against Syria, the European Union has closed the embassies of its member states, banned Syrian consuls from organizing election offices on their premises, and instituted sanctions against the Syrian Arab Republic and its main elected officials.

However, Austria, the Czech Republic and Romania have kept their embassies open.

At the instigation of its President, Milos Zeman, the Czech Republic observed the events on the spot, presented reports to the EU, and issued Schengen visas to Syrian personalities travelling into the Union. President Zeman never withdrew his support to his Syrian counterpart, Bashar al-Assad.

Martin Stropnicky was successively Minister of Culture, Defense and now Foreign Affairs. While several foreign leaders have secretly come to Damascus recently, he is the first official executive in the European Union to visit Syria publicly since the beginning of the foreign aggression.

The Russian Federation and the White House agreed at the Helsinki summit on July 16th to end the conflict. The Syrian Arab Army has just liberated the entire south of the country (except Al-Tanf, still occupied by the US), up to the Lebanese, Israeli and Jordanian borders.V S Naipaul. Photo: Hindustan Times/2012 Hindustan Times

The British author, who won a Nobel Prize for his work that explored colonialism, has died at age 85. V S Naipaul passed away peacefully at his home in London, according to his wife Lady Naipaul. She said in a statement, He was a giant in all that he achieved and he died surrounded by those he loved having lived a life which was full of wonderful creativity and endeavour.

Naipaul was born in Trinidad in 1932, and won a scholarship to attend Oxford, where he studied English. He released his first novel, The Mystic Masseur, in 1951. Ten years later he would release what is considered his masterpiece, A House for Mr Biswas. When he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, the committee noted that his books compel us to see the presence of suppressed histories.One year after the deadly white supremacist demonstrations in Charlottesville, Virginia, the state's former Democratic governor said President Donald Trump failed to live up to the moment.

"There's a time in your presidency when you need to show moral leadership and you need to stand and send a message to the world," Terry McAuliffe said Sunday on CNN's "State of the Union." "He failed that day."

2017 Charlottesville white nationalist rally Charlottesville Continents and regions Discrimination Donald Trump North America Political Figures - US Protests and demonstrations Racism and racial discrimination Right-wing extremism Societal issues Society Southeastern United States Terry McAuliffe The Americas United States Virginia White supremacy and neo-Nazism

McAuliffe was governor when white nationalists marched through Charlottesville and clashed with counterprotesters, ultimately killing one of them, 32-year-old Heather Heyer, who was struck by a car driven by a suspected white nationalist. Trump was widely criticized for his response, in which he said "both sides" were to blame for the violence, equating the white nationalists with the counterprotesters.

Far-right groups are holding another rally Sunday, dubbed "Unite the Right 2," this time in the nation's capital. The rally is being billed as a "white civil rights rally" meant to protest "civil rights abuse in Charlottesville."

In a tweet over the weekend, Trump said he condemned "all types of racism and acts of violence."

McAuliffe said in his CNN interview that he spoke with Trump last year during the chaos of that weekend.

"I talked to the President that afternoon, explained him the situation, what had been going on, what these people were doing in the city of Charlottesville," McAuliffe said. "And when he came out and gave his statement that it was both sides' fault, I gotta tell you, it was shocking to me. It wasn't both sides."

He recalled seeing neo-Nazis and white supremacists demonstrating in his state that weekend and took issue with Trump's "both sides" comment last year.

"The other side were the folks who were protesting against hatred, like Heather Heyer," McAuliffe said.Advertisement

By West Kentucky Star Staff

Aug. 09, 2018 | PADUCAH

By West Kentucky Star Staff Aug. 09, 2018 | 08:10 PM | PADUCAH

West Kentucky Community and Technical College's Paducah School of Art and Design will open this year's Faculty Exhibition this Thursday.



Festivities will begin with a free opening reception in the Bill Ford Gallery from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the gallery located in PSAD's 2D and Graphic Design Building at 905 Harrison Street. The exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.



The faculty exhibition will remain on display through September 6th. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and Saturday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.



Featuring a selection of works in painting, drawing, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, fiber art, photography, and design by PSAD fine art and visual communication faculty, the exhibition will showcase the work of Paul Aho, Todd Birdsong, Evin Dubois, Shannon Duffy, Emily Esau, Rob Lorenz, Kevin Myers, Lexie Millikan, Tanya Nietzke, Erich Neitzke, J.P. Rhea, Anita Rodriguez-Fitch, and Randy Simmons.



"It is always a pleasure to begin the new academic year with an exhibition showcasing the diversity and quality of work produced by our faculty," says PSAD Director Paul Aho. "The exhibition sets the stage for a series of one and two-person exhibitions showcasing the work of our full-time faculty and artist-in-residence Lexie Millikan. As always, this opening exhibition provides incoming students and the larger public an overview of the caliber of work produced by our faculty and their contributions to the region's creative community," he said.



The college's PSAD offers an associate in fine arts degree in visual art and an associate in applied science degree and certificate programs in visual communication: multimedia, as well as studio art classes for students of all levels and disciplines. Classes are offered on WKCTC's campus, 905 Harrison Street, and at 919 Madison Street.



For more information, call (270)-534-3901.Advertisement

By West Kentucky Star Staff

Aug. 09, 2018 | MURRAY

By West Kentucky Star Staff Aug. 09, 2018 | 08:35 PM | MURRAY

High school students looking to learn more about scholarships and receive financial assistance have an added resource to prepare for admission to Murray State University: a new partnership with RaiseMe.



RaiseMe gives high school students the ability to earn micro-scholarships for college starting as early as ninth grade. The incremental micro-scholarships can be earned for numerous categories, including academic achievements, classroom attendance, extracurricular activities, community service and even by scheduling a campus visit to Murray State.



The partnership is the latest in a series of University initiatives that make a Murray State education more accessible to students. To date, more than 1,000 high school students are connected with Raise Me through the University's web page at raise.me/join/murraystate.



"Murray State University's innovative partnership with RaiseMe allows us to provide a valuable tool that motivates and rewards students who work hard both inside and outside of the classroom to prepare them for a transformative experience at Murray State," said Don Robertson, vice president of student affairs.



In order to be eligible for scholarships, soon-to-be high school graduates of the Class of 2019 are encouraged to create an account by September 1st, and begin applying for scholarships.Email To : Multiple e-mail addresses must be separated with a comma character(maximum 200 characters) Email To is required.

Your Full Name: (optional)

Your Email Address: Your Email Address is required.Advertisement

By West Kentucky Star Staff

Aug. 09, 2018 | BROWNSVILLE, TN

By West Kentucky Star Staff Aug. 09, 2018 | 09:57 PM | BROWNSVILLE, TN

The investigation into the 1940 slaying of civil rights worker Elbert Williams in Haywood County, Tennessee is being reopened after 78 years.



Haywood County District Attorney Garry Brown said Wednesday that his office is launching an investigation into the death of the 32-year-old Williams.



Williamss body was found in the Hatchie River about six miles south of Brownsville on June 23, 1940, three days after he was taken from his home by a group of men led by a police officer. Williams had been taken to the Brownsville City Jail to be interrogated about his work with the NAACP. When his wife went to the jail that night, Williams was not there, and was never again seen alive.



The Haywood County coroner held an inquest and found that the "cause of death, we believe, was by foul means by parties unknown."



The Department of Justice initially ordered the case presented to a federal grand jury, then reversed itself and closed it in 1942.



A U.S. attorney in Memphis declined to reopen the investigation on legal grounds in 2017.



Tennessee's new Civil Rights Crimes Cold Case Law of 2018, signed by Governor Bill Haslam in May, mandates a statewide survey of cold civil rights crimes and directs referral of "viable" cases for prosecution. District Attorney Brown feels that this is such a case.



William's body is believed to be buried in an unmarked grave in Taylor Cemetery in Haywood County. The University of Tennessee Forensic Anthropology Department has volunteered its services in locating his grave, exhuming his remains, and any evidence the grave contains. A postmortem examination will be conducted.



His remains will be re-interred with honor and dignity, and permanently marked in a manner befitting his station as a civil rights hero.



An NAACP official called Williams the first martyr of the NAACP.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.By: Paige Cline Sometimes I am asked to reprint a column from the past. Here[Read More]CHICAGO (AP)  Ryan Zimmerman hit two home runs off a shaky Jon Lester and tied a career high with six RBIs, sending the Washington Nationals over the Chicago Cubs 9-4 on Saturday.

Zimmerman hit a two-run homer in the first inning and a sacrifice fly to the warning track in the third. He chased Lester with a three-run drive in the fourth that made it 9-1. He is batting .355 (16 for 45) with four homers and 16 RBIs in 14 games since returning from the disabled list last month.

Daniel Murphy also homered and had three hits, helping Tanner Roark (7-12) win his fourth straight start.

Lester (12-5) was tagged for eight earned runs and 10 hits in 3 2/3 innings. The left-hander is winless in his last five starts for the NL Central leaders, going 0-3 with a 10.32 ERA during that span.

Anthony Rizzo got his 1,000th career hit for the Cubs.

YANKEES 5, RANGERS 3

NEW YORK (AP)  Rain pouring off his hat, Aroldis Chapman struck out Jurickson Profar with the bases loaded in a steady storm, preserving the Yankees win.

Rookie Miguel Andujar hit a tiebreaking two-run homer in the seventh inning, helping New York to its fifth victory in six games. Dellin Betances (3-3) got four outs for the win.

Chapman took over to begin the ninth and the Rangers tried to rally with a walk and a single. With home plate beginning to turn into a puddle, Chapman hit Adrian Beltre to load the bases with two outs.

Chapman fell behind Profar in the count 3-1, then came back to get him to swing through strike three for his 30th save.

Chris Martin (1-3) got the loss.

RED SOX 5, ORIOLES 0, GAME 1

BALTIMORE (AP)  David Price struck out 10 over six sparkling innings and Jackie Bradley Jr. hit two solo homers, leading the Red Sox to the win in the opener of a split doubleheader.

Eduardo Nunez also went deep for Boston and Xander Bogaerts had three hits and scored twice. Price (12-6) scattered five hits and walked none.

The Red Sox have won eight of their last nine games to improve their major league-best record to 83-35.

Adam Jones had two hits for the Orioles, who are 2-12 against Boston. Jimmy Yacabonis (0-1) gave up three runs over 4 2/3 innings.

RAYS 3, BLUE JAYS 1

TORONTO (AP)  Willy Adames had two hits and drove in the decisive run, helping Tampa Bay to its seventh win in eight meetings with Toronto this season.

Diego Castillo (3-2) pitched 2 2/3 scoreless innings for the win. Sergio Romo worked a perfect ninth for his 15th save in 22 opportunities.

Aledmys Diaz homered for the Blue Jays, who have lost five of six.

Torontos Sam Gaviglio (2-5) allowed two runs, one earned, and six hits in 5 1/3 innings. Gaviglio is winless in 14 starts since a May 25 victory at Philadelphia.



China News on Women





Sorry, the page you requested was not found. If you're having trouble locating a destination on Womenofchina.cn, try visiting the Womenofchina Home pageFundraising trek across Vietnam to take adventurous individuals on journey of a lifetime

This article is old - Published: Sunday, Aug 12th, 2018

A charity which offers care and support for people living with a terminal illness and their families is calling for adventurous individuals to take on the challenge of a life-time.

Marie Curie Wales is looking for people to trek across Vietnam to help raise invaluable funds for the charity.

Taking place between 24th October to 2nd November 2019 the challenge will also enable participants to enjoy the experience of a lifetime, and achieve goals beyond their expectation.

Laura Ellis-Bartlett, community fundraiser for Marie Curie said: This challenge is a fantastic opportunity to explore the traditional charm and rare beauty of this untouched part of Asia while raising money for Marie Curie.

Marie Curie nurses support people living with a terminal illness in the comfort of their own home as well as offering vital emotional support for families and carers.

The money raised by participants of the trek will help to support the local Marie Curie nurses and services.

To find out more about the trek visit the website, call Laura on 01745 352910 or email laura.ellis-bartlett@mariecurie.org.ukSPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTHI)  State Police in Illinois are encouraging you to take added safety steps for your child if youll be at the Illinois State Fair.

ISP is asking parents to stop by the Illinois State Police tent. Thats to get your child an ID wrist band. State Police say it could come in handy if you and your child are separated. The wrist bands are free.

Illinois State Police are encouraging State Fair-goers to get their children free I.D. wrist bands in case parents are separated from their kids. (ISP District 10 Facebook Photo) Illinois State Police are encouraging State Fair-goers to get their children free I.D. wrist bands in case parents are separated from their kids. (ISP District 10 Facebook Photo)

Another thing ISP encourages you to do is take a picture of your child on your cellphone, in what theyre wearing on the day you visit the fair. This is so police would have a current photo to show people while locating your child.

Lastly, ISP says to show your children what State Trooper uniforms look like. Officials say to tell your kids to find the nearest Trooper if they get lost, and to show them their ID wrist band.

ISP says you can put your name and number on the wrist band if youre worried their identity may be compromised.CLARK COUNTY, Ill. (WTHI) - Officials said two people received minor injuries after a car crashed into a local bank.

According to the Marshall Fire Protection District, it happened around 11 Saturday morning at First-Mid Bank, formerly First Bank & Trust, on North Michigan.

When crews arrived, officials said a car drove through the front entrance and came to a stop inside the lobby.

Officials confirmed two people in the lobby were taken to the hospital for minor injuries.

Marshall Police and the Clark County Sheriff's Office were also on scene.A federal jury in Oregon on Friday acquitted an FBI agent accused of lying to authorities about whether he opened fire during the fatal shooting of LaVoy Finicum, one of the leaders of the occupation of federal property in 2016.

Agent W. Joseph Astarita was acquitted of making false statements and obstruction of justice, according to a statement from the US Attorney's Office in Portland.

Continents and regions Crime, law enforcement and corrections Crimes against persons Criminal law Criminal offenses Federal Bureau of Investigation Government and public administration Government bodies and offices Government organizations - US Indictments LaVoy Finicum Law and legal system Law enforcement Misc people North America Northwestern United States Oregon Oregon federal building occupation Policing and police forces Protests and demonstrations Shootings The Americas United States US Department of Justice US federal departments and agencies US federal government Acquittals Verdicts Court trials Trial and procedure Weapons and arms

An attorney for Astarita, David Angeli, told CNN on Friday night that the defense emphasized during the trial there were no eyewitnesses who saw Astarita fire his weapon, and there was no ballistic evidence linking shots to his weapon.

"We are grateful to the men and women of the jury who saw through a case that never should have been brought," a statement from Angeli and fellow defense attorney Rob Cary said.

The US Attorney's Office thanked the jury for its service. "Our system of justice relies on the absolute integrity of law enforcement officials at all levels of government," US Attorney Billy J. Williams said in a statement. Williams said the three-week trial included testimony from FBI agents, state and local law enforcement officers, forensic scientists and ballistics experts.

Standoff at wildlife refuge

The case goes back to January 2016, when Astarita was assigned to the armed occupation of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge headquarters. Led by Ammon Bundy, a group of protesters took over the refuge to protest what they said was government overreach on federal lands.

About a month into the standoff, the FBI and Oregon State Police moved to arrest some of the occupiers as they traveled to a nearby town. After a police chase, state police shot and killed Finicum as he reached for a gun in his pocket, authorities said.

An investigation into the shooting found the fatal shots fired by Oregon State Police troopers were justified.

However, officials said they were investigating the fact that FBI agents had fired two shots before Finicum left his vehicle. One shot missed the truck, and the other hit the truck's roof, according to Deschutes County Sheriff L. Shane Nelson.

"The question of who fired these shots has not been resolved," Greg Bretzing, the FBI's special agent in charge in Oregon, said at the time.

An indictment accused Astarita of firing those two shots, and then knowingly making false statements to three supervisors that he had not fired his weapon. The indictment also accused Astarita of failing to tell Oregon State Police on two occasions that he had fired his weapon during the apprehension.

Finicum shooting

Finicum was an outspoken protester and a father of 11.

At the time of the shooting, protesters were driving in two SUVs, according to video of the incident released by the FBI. One vehicle, carrying Ammon Bundy, pulled over peacefully, and he was arrested.

A white vehicle driven by Finicum stopped then drove away from police. The truck later crashed into a snowbank and nearly hit an FBI agent in an attempt to evade a police roadblock, video shows.

Finicum exited the vehicle with his hands up, and officers approached him with their guns drawn, the video shows. As Finicum appears to reach down to his waist, he is shot and falls to the ground.

In separate video released by police, Finicum gets out of the car and ignores orders to get on the ground, telling officers to "go ahead and shoot me." Finicum reached for his pocket containing a gun several times, leading two troopers to open fire.

Before the shooting, Finicum told CNN during the occupation that he refused to go to prison.JACKSON COUNTY, Fla. (WTXL) - Two women are dead after a five-vehicle crash in Jackson County Saturday morning.

Johanna Ruiz, 33, of Hialeah, Fla. died Sunday from her injuries sustained in the crash.

Florida Highway Patrol said the accident happened at about 5:00 a.m. Saturday on I-10 westbound at mile marker 130.

According to FHP, a Nissan Altima was entering I-10 westbound at mile marker 130 when the driver lost control of the car, hitting a guardrail in the median.

FHP states the Nissan Altima became immobilized in the westbound lanes of I-10.

The driver and passenger got out of the car and walked to the shoulder of the road.

FHP says a Chevy Impala, Kia Optima, and Toyota Corolla saw the Nissan Altima in the westbound lanes and stopped to help.

According to FHP, a tractor trailer traveling westbound on I-10 then hit the Nissan Altima causing it to hit the Chevy Impala, Kia Optima, eventually hitting the Toyota Corolla.

FHP states the tractor trailer jackknifed causing the trailer to separate and cross the bridge rail, before dropping from the bridge and landing on the train tracks below.

The driver of the Chevy Impala, Aeriel Peifer, 24, of Marianna Fla., was hit by her own car and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Ruiz, the driver of the Kia Optima, who was taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries on Saturday, died from her injuries at Southeast Alabama Medical Center on Sunday.

The driver and passenger of the Nissan Altima and a passenger in the tractor trailer suffered minor injuries from the crash. All were taken to Northwest Florida Hospital.

Four child passengers, two in the Kia Optima and two in the Toyota Corolla, were not injured from the crash.

FHP says charges are currently pending.

JACKSON COUNTY, Fla. (WTXL) - Florida Highway Patrol is reporting a fatal accident in Jackson County that closed I-10 westbound at mile marker 130.

According to FHP, they arrived at the scene at about 8:12 a.m. Saturday.

FHP says I-10 westbound at mile marker 130 is now open.

At this time, FHP hasn't said how many vehicles were involved or if there are any other injuries.

This is a developing story.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 01:16:30|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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TRIPOLI, Aug. 11 (Xinhua) -- Libya's UN-backed Prime Minister Fayez Serraj on Saturday demanded commitment to the dates of the country's municipal elections.

Serraj made his remarks during a meeting with Chairman of the Central Committee for Municipal Elections Salim bin-Tahia, and the two discussed financial and administrative procedures for the elections.

Serraj stressed the government's support for the committee to "overcome the difficulties in performing its work efficiently and professionally," according to a statement of the prime minister's information office.

"The prime minister stressed the need to commit as much as possible to the dates of the municipal council elections in different regions of Libya, for the elections to be conducted fairly and in accordance with the Code of Conduct," the statement said.

"The prime minister also spoke about the importance of the role of municipalities," the statement added.

The United Nations Support Mission in Libya welcomed the recent municipal elections in the western city of Zawiya, the first in the country this year.

Libya has more than 100 municipalities representing different cities and regions of the country, and the mandate has ended for the 2014-elected municipal councils in Libya.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 04:57:08|Editor: mmm

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Photo taken on Aug. 12, 2018, shows the ruins of a residential building which partly collapsed during a fire exchange between Jordanian security forces and a group of terrorists in the city of Al Salt, Jordan. The death toll in a raid on a group of terrorists in the city of Al Salt, northwest of capital Amman, rose to three, the government of Jordan said in the latest news release on Saturday night. (Xinhua/Mohammad Abu Ghosh)

AMMAN, Aug. 11 (Xinhua) -- The death toll in a raid on a group of terrorists in the city of Al Salt, northwest of capital Amman, rose to three, the government of Jordan said in the latest news release on Saturday night.

According to the Minister of State for Media Affairs Jumana Ghunaimat, the terrorists hiding in a building opened fire on security forces who were chasing them.

One of the killed was identified as a police officer and the authorities did not make it clear whether the other two were security forces or civilians, as around 16, including civilians and officers, were injured.

The terrorists, the minister said, were behind an attack on Friday by an explosive device that killed a security officer in Fuheis in Amman.

"When the police forces entered the building, the terrorists blew up the building," she said in a statement.

The terrorists refused to surrender and started opening heavy fire.

The security operations are still ongoing until late Saturday while three terrorists were arrested, said the minister.

Medics at Salt Public Hospital called for blood donation.

"We have many injuries ... Many of the injured are in serious conditions. We need blood donations," one of the medics at the hospital told Xinhua.

On Friday, a Jordanian officer was killed and six others were injured when a primitive explosive device detonated in Fuheis area near Amman, according to a news release from the Interior Ministry Saturday.

The ministry said that investigations were underway and no group claimed responsibility for the attack yet.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 05:47:15|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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TRIPOLI, Aug. 11 (Xinhua) -- Libya's eastern-based army, led by Khalifa Haftar, on Saturday revealed that five terrorists suspected of shooting down a helicopter in 2014 have been arrested.

Haftar received a report on the arrest of the five terrorists who targeted a helicopter of the Libyan Air Force above the oil crescent region in February 2014, the army's information office said.

The four-member crew of the helicopter have not been found.

The helicopter was targeted after refueling from Sidra airport in the oil crescent region in eastern Libya. The region was then controlled by militias, before the army expelled them and retook the region.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 07:16:24|Editor: xuxin

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Demonstrators take part in a rally to protest against the "Jewish Nation-State Law" in Tel Aviv, Israel, on Aug. 11, 2018. Israel passed on July 19 a bill that defines the country as an "exclusively Jewish state," in a move denounced by its Arab citizens and human rights groups. (Xinhua/Muammar Awad)Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 07:22:28|Editor: xuxin

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SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 11 (Xinhua) -- U.S. investigators are trying to recover the black box of the aircraft stolen from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, which crashed into a small island in the Puget Sound in the west U.S. state of Washington Friday, a federal investigation agency official said Saturday.

"We know where they (flight data recorders) are located in the aircraft. We just need to get out there to take a look at the wreckage (and) figure out where everything is and then we can start digging into it," Debra Eckrote, regional chief of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Western Pacific, told reporters in Seattle.

She said the cockpit voice recorder "picks up obviously the cockpit communications," and "we already have the air traffic and pilot communications."

The man who stole the empty aircraft of Horizon Air, which was a Q400 turboprop jet, was identified as 29-year-old Richard Russell, who was killed after the plane crashed on Ketron Island of the Puget Sound region, local media quoted multiple sources as saying.

The "suicidal" airline employee responsible for ground service was a "quiet guy" who was "well liked by the other workers," Rick Christenson, an operational supervisor with the airline who retired in May, told the Seattle Times.

Russell worked as a member of Horizon's tow team and helped handle baggage for the airline, Christenson said.

Russell had worked at Horizon Air for nearly four years, an airline official said. Authorities said the young man was a resident of Pierce County in Washington state.

He stole the 76-seat Horizon Air turboprop aircraft, took off from the runway at 7:32 p.m. local time Friday, and flew across the Puget Sound region doing dangerous giant loops and stunts in the air during its hour-long flight before the crash.

His plane was chased by two U.S. F-15 fight jets dispatched by North American Aerospace Defense Command before it crashed on the small, sparsely populated island about 64 km away from the Seattle-Tacoma airport.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) ruled out the hijacking was an act of terrorism Friday night.

"Although response efforts to tonight's aircraft incident and the investigation are still ongoing, information gathered thus far does NOT suggest a terrorist threat or additional, pending criminal activity," the FBI said in a Twitter post.

Ground operations at the Seattle airport were halted for some time before it was restored at 8:40 p.m local time Friday (03:40 GMT Saturday).

Approximately 75 flights were delayed, nine flights were diverted to other airports and five flights canceled during the time of the incident, the authorities of the Seattle-Tacoma airport said in a statement Saturday.

Seattle-Tacoma is the ninth busiest airport in the United States, serving more than 46.9 million passengers in 2017.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 08:37:39|Editor: Li Xia

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by Xinhua writer Gao Wencheng and Lyu Qiuping

CHANGSHA, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- At 7 a.m. when the sun starts to beat down, Zhan Qiuming, 50, returns from his farmland, puts away his hoe and straw hat, and picks up his brush.

With quick strokes on the paper, he paints some mountain rocks before passing the paper to the person beside him.

He and dozens of other villagers, young and old, men and women, form three groups on a "production line" for Chinese painting, who are assigned to paint rocks and trees and color the paintings.

Zhan is from Xiaohe Township, a beautiful but impoverished mountainous area in central China's Hunan Province.

The Xiaoxi River, which runs through the township, serves as the primary drinking water source to the provincial capital of Changsha. To preserve the ecological environment, industrial development in the region is highly restricted.

While China has striven to revitalize the countryside, farmers in the township have turned to painting landscapes of their hometown to make their fortune.

Zhan had once wanted to be a professional painter when he was a teenager, but poverty left him no choice but to work in the fields, which, in his parents' words, was more "realistic."

So when he heard the newly-opened art studio at his village was recruiting last July, Zhan signed up immediately.

The studio was started by Lian Yizhang, an oil painter and art dealer who used to be based in Changsha.

"Xiaohe Township is beautiful for landscape painting and quiet enough to concentrate on the art," said Lian.

With the support of the local government, he decided to open the first studio in the least developed village in the township at the end of 2016.

He said a Chinese-style landscape painting could be divided into three steps: painting mountain rocks, trees, then adding color.

He invited professional painters to train villagers and divided them into three groups for the three procedures.

Skilled painters can finish one part of the "art production line" in 40 minutes. The three steps can be done in less than two hours.

When other farmers were relaxing on hot or rainy days, Zhan used this time to learn how to paint from his teachers and teaching videos.

Since last winter, Zhan has focused more on his work at the studio, cutting the acreage of his rice farm in half. "The more I paint, the better I get at it and the more salary I can earn," he said, who now earns an average monthly income of about 3,000 yuan (about 438 U.S. dollars).

In the township, there are six art studios in the villages, bringing nearly 430 jobs to local villagers, according to the local government.

The traditional Chinese paintings created by the production line are collectively bought from the villagers and sold to markets as far away as Southeast Asia, with sales reaching 4.8 million yuan in the first half of this year alone.

"The quality of ours is as good as that of any other supplier, while our prices are not high," Lian said. "Overseas Chinese feel natural to Chinese arts and landscapes."

The government is also working to attract more professional artists to work there and more tourists to visit the township known for its natural landscape and farmer paintings.

On the production lines, most of the villagers paint the landscape just to make a living, but some of them dream bigger.

Wang Hua, 35, used to work at a local fireworks factory, which she said was "sleazy and sweaty." She often had to work extra hours and came home late and tired.

"I enrolled in the painting course because I wanted to spend more time with my family, especially my son," Wang said.

Now, Wang paints at home, earning more than 4,000 yuan a month. She also has time to accompany and take care of her family.

"At the beginning, I was in it for the money, and now I am enjoying it." In addition to the work of copying teachers' designs, Wang also creates her own works and style like "a real artist."

"I will continue to improve my painting and hope to one day make it my career," she said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 09:32:46|Editor: Li Xia

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XINING, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Eighteen-year-old Dekyi Drolma has heard of many successful experiences of the alumni of her school -- opening Thangka painting studios, winning notable awards in Thangka painting competitions and holding solo exhibitions -- she wants similar success.

Dekyi Drolma dreams of becoming an outstanding Thangka painter, learning the mysterious and traditional Tibetan Buddhist art and making a contribution to the development of the art.

She participated in a Thangka painting competition held in Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in northwest China's Qinghai Province on Wednesday, with more than 400 contestants from across the country.

"I hope I can get good marks so that I can get closer to my dream," she said.

Huangnan is the cradle of Regong arts, which are Tibetan Buddhist works tracing their origins to the 10th century. Regong arts include Thangka painting, sculpture and engraving.

Thangka are usually painted on cotton or silk, depicting images of Buddhist deities. As Thangka uses mineral pigment, bright colors on the paintings last a long time. It was listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009.

However, previously this kind of exquisite artwork could only be seen in monasteries, the painting skills only passed on a few monks.

Since the local government has started promoting Regong arts in recent years, Thangka has become more well-known.

Local schools have also started to teach Thangka painting.

Dekyi Drolma is now studying Thangka painting in a vocational college in the prefecture. She needs to spend three years to learn every step in the process from preparing materials and making pigment to coloring. Her courses run from 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. everyday.

"We are required to concentrate our mind on the painting. Although it takes more than 10 hours per day, I feel relaxed and peaceful in the process of drawing Buddhist deities. I'm very glad that I engage in this kind of art and will make it my career," she said.

Alongside preservation efforts, Thangka also has significant economic value.

Lhachigya, a villager of Kajia Village in Tongren County, is a Thangka painter. His brother and uncle also make money by such painting.

With exquisite workmanship, his family can earn 300,000 yuan (about 44,117 U.S. dollars) every year, and their lives have been improved significantly over the past few years. They have built a new house and bought a car.

"We have seen an increasing number of tourists and merchants visiting Qinghai, who are interested in Thangka and like to collect Thangka paintings. Some masterpieces painted by famous painters can be sold for more than 10,000 yuan each, while a bigger size artwork will be much more expensive," Lhachigya said.

In Tongren County, over 90 percent OF households are practitioners of the painting.

In Huangnan, there are more than 40,000 people working in the Regong arts industry, with an annual output value of 780 million yuan, according to Kunthek, deputy governor of the prefecture.

Many artists have set up companies and painting schools with support of the local government, and many nearby rural residents have joined the industry.

Shaghu Cedain, 44, a top folk artisan, started an art company in 2006. He has provided free painting training for 120 apprentices and offered jobs to more than 300 local farmers who paint Thangka and make other artwork, selling the products abroad to the United State, Sweden and the Republic of Korea.

The booming market has also pushed innovation in Regong arts.

"There are many cultural and creative products regarding Thangka on the market in recent years. For instance, some unique patterns extracted from traditional Thangka paintings have been printed on cups and scarfs," said Nyang Mongya, who runs a Thangka shop in the county. "The young highly-educated and creative generation like integrating skills from other painting schools into Thangka paintings."

"Thangka is expected to become an engine of local green economy," Kunthek said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 10:22:53|Editor: xuxin

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TOKYO, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- As Sunday marks the 40th anniversary of the signing of the China-Japan Treaty of Peace and Friendship, experts here have called for cherishing the spirit of the treaty to enhance the relationship between China and Japan.

The treaty, signed on Aug. 12, 1978, paved the way for the two sides to develop ties and had a significant impact on bilateral relations, said Zhu Jianrong, a professor of international relations at Tokyo Gakuen University in Tokyo, Japan.

"Under the treaty, and since China adopted the policy of reform and opening up in the same year, Japan has been supporting China's economic development by providing capital and technology help, and meanwhile shared the fruits of China's fast development," said Zhu.

Since the treaty was signed, the two sides have gradually established government dialogue mechanism of various levels, and enhanced people-to-people exchanges, which, while bringing benefits to people of both countries, also made contribution to regional prosperity, said Zhu.

Meanwhile, over the past 40 years, bilateral ties between China and Japan also suffered twists and turns due to various factors, including historical and territorial issues.

"The friendship treaty was signed by the two sides based on the political insight of leaders of the two countries, including looking at the bigger picture and properly handling sensitive issues," said Akira Ishii, historian and professor emeritus of Tokyo University.

He added that one of the reasons for the twists and turns in relationship between China and Japan in recent years was failing to deal with bilateral relationship by looking at the bigger picture and implementing the consensus of shelving differences.

Ishii said that some of the Japanese people had difficulty in accepting China becoming stronger as they used to see China as an "aid-receiving country."

It's important to review the wishes for developing bilateral ties that the older generations held when signing the bilateral treaty, and fully accept China's development and implement the treaty, said Ishii.

Experts here noted that in recent years there have also been calls in Japan for learning from China, and under the new circumstances, the two sides are facing opportunities for cooperation in a lot of areas such as energy-saving, environmental protection, medical services, shared economy and so on.

Takashi Okada, commentator from Japan's Kyodo News, said that it's important for Japan to cooperate with and even learn from China in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet technology.

Zhu said that the two sides have tremendous potential for cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative and jointly developing the third-party markets.

The two sides should further explore new cooperation areas and expand common interests through mutually-beneficial projects, he said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 10:42:55|Editor: xuxin

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LOME, Aug. 11 (Xinhua) -- Six people were killed in a bomb attack on an escort vehicle in eastern Burkina Faso's province of Gourma, authorities said in a statement on Saturday.

According to the statement, the vehicle was heading for a gold mine before it was attacked by a roadside bomb. Five soldiers and one civilian were killed in the blast.

There is no immediate claim of responsibility yet for the attack.

Earlier this year, the country's military headquarters and the French embassy in its capital Ouagadougou were attacked by unidentified assailants, with eight soldiers killed.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 13:08:11|Editor: Xiang Bo

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A herd of wild Asian elephants are spotted at the Wild Elephant Valley in Xishuangbanna. (Xinhua/Shen Qingzhong)

by Xinhua writers Chu Yi, Cao Bin, Zhang Dongqiang

KUNMING, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- A dozen of wild Asian elephants went on a parade and enjoyed a special fruit feast at the Asian Elephant Breeding and Rescue Center in southwest China's Yunnan Province on Sunday, the World Elephant Day.

Established in 2008 in Xishuangbanna National Nature Reserve, a 241,000-hectare rainforest, the center has rescued 13 wild Asian elephants, ten of which are still receiving medical care and rehabilitation training at the sanctuary. So far, five elephants have been successfully born.

The animals are under Class-A protection in China and are included on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species as "Endangered."

"Enhanced protection has led to a rise in the number of the mammals in recent years," said Bao Mingwei, an elephant doctor. "In the 1990s, only about 180 wild Asian elephants were living in China, but now the population is estimated to exceed 300."

ELEPHANT-HUMAN CONFLICTS

In China, wild Asian elephants are scattered in a few regions, with Xishuangbanna one of their primary habitats. However, according to the provincial forestry bureau, wild elephants caused 32 deaths and 159 injuries from 2011 to 2017.

"Population growth, reclamation expansion, and a decrease of habitats for wild elephants are the primary causes for the conflicts," said Chen Mingyong, a professor at Yunnan University.

The simple digestive system of Asian elephants makes them easy to feel hungry. They have to eat about 300 kg of plants every day. "If the forests can't meet their needs, they may risk stepping into farmland to fill their belly," according to Chen.

The increase in the number of wild Asian elephants in recent years comes with more activity, and an overlap of animal habitats and places of human activities.

"Some rivers and valleys have been turned into farmland for rubber, tea, and corn for economic benefits. Infrastructure construction destroys the homes of wildlife animals," Chen said.

HOME AND FOOD

From 1988 to 1993, the local government has invested about 4 million yuan (587,000 U.S. dollars) to relocate 195 households with 1,120 residents within the core areas of the nature reserve in Xishuangbanna.

In 2009, local authorities in border regions of China and Laos signed an agreement to designate an area of about 55,000 hectares on the border to carry out joint protection and gradually expanded the zone to about 200,000 hectares.

This year, staff from the reserve have grown a total of 100 hectares of the elephant's favorite food, such as bamboo and paper mulberry.

"The elephant canteens provide a safe place for elephants to munch on plants far away from villages where they might come into conflict with humans. Fewer elephants seek food in village crop fields now," said Wang Bin, a senior engineer from the nature reserve.

Since 2014, Yunnan has purchased commercial wild animal insurance covering the entire province. The government pays the premiums, and the insurers compensate people when wild animals cause trouble.

Currently, more than 300 infrared camera and 40 monitoring sites have been set up in the reserve to provide complete coverage of the wild animal. Since last year, drones have been applied to monitor the reserve.

RESCUE ON THE WAY

According to Bao, wild elephants usually leave sick herd members near villages on purpose, counting on humans to save them. Most elephants in need of help are reported by local villagers.

"Some elephants were injured from accidents, like falling down a mountain, or involved in a fight, some were abandoned by their herd due to congenital diseases such as heart problems," he said.

"Judging from their injuries and the situations on the ground, we deploy different rescue teams, sometimes even with a crane and a helicopter," Bao said.

"For every elephant at the center, we arrange two keepers to accompany them around the clock. They lead the elephants to the mountains every day to let them re-adapt to the wild," Bao added.

"Sometimes we invite foreign experts to our center to discuss medical solutions for the rescued elephants," Bao said.

In 2015, to save Yang Niu, an abandoned newborn elephant with an irregular heartbeat, umbilical cord infection, and other diseases, the center sought support from elephant experts in Thailand and detailed therapeutic plans after several group consultations.

"Healing the wounded and rescuing the dying shouldn't be restricted by borders," Bao said.

Another significant step to protect elephants came into effect on January 1, 2018 -- a new law stating it is illegal to process or sell ivory and its products in China, once the world's popular market. By the end of last year, all 172 ivory factories and shops had been closed.

After 13 years at the reserve, Ranran, once a dying girl caught by a steel trap, has mostly recovered, growing from 155 cm, 500 kg to 225 cm, 2,200 kg.

She is shy and timid but actively participates in her daily training activities, preparing for her return to the rainforest one day. (Xinhua correspondent Pang Mingguang contributed to the story)

(Video editors: Zhao Yuchao, Zhou Lei, Sun Min, Zhang Dongqiang)Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 13:33:17|Editor: Li Xia

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BEIJING, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said Sunday Beijing is willing to join hands with Tokyo to work for the long-term healthy and stable development of bilateral ties.

Li and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe exchanged congratulatory messages on Sunday to mark the 40th anniversary of the signing of the China-Japan Treaty of Peace and Friendship.

In his message, Li noted that 40 years ago, the leaders of the two countries made the decision to sign the treaty and affirmed various principles in the China-Japan Joint Statement in the form of law, creating a milestone for bilateral ties.

Over the past 40 years, the relationship between China and Japan has seen remarkable progress, which has brought benefits to the two peoples, and contributed to the prosperity and stability in the region and around the world, Li added.

In May, the Chinese premier paid an official visit to Japan, where he also attended the 7th China-Japan-South Korea leaders' meeting.

Li said his visit and the meeting have helped put China-Japan relations back on the track of normal development.

China is willing to work with Japan to safeguard the political foundation of the bilateral relationship, deepen cooperation of mutual benefit, properly handle differences and promote a long-term sound and stable development of bilateral ties in the spirit of "taking the past as a mirror and looking forward to the future," and following the principles laid out in the four political documents signed between the two sides, he added.

Abe, in his message, said that thanks to joint efforts, the relationship between the two sides has witnessed substantial development in such areas as politics, economy, culture and people-to-people exchanges.

Both Japan and China shoulder important duties for regional and world peace and prosperity, said Abe, adding that the two countries should continue deepening their cooperation, and contribute to the settlement of all sorts of problems facing the international community.

Speaking highly of Li's visit to Japan this May, Abe said is looking forward to visiting China later this year so as to help bring bilateral ties into a new stage of development.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 13:38:18|Editor: xuxin

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ULAN BATOR, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- A train with 328 passengers aboard derailed in southeastern Mongolia early Sunday morning, with no deaths reported, according to local media reports.

The accident took place at around 7:30 a.m. local time (2330 GMT, Saturday) when the place was pounded by heavy rain.

The train was traveling from the Mongolian capital Ulan Bator to Zamiin-Uud soum in the southeastern province of Dornogovi.

Even though no deaths were reported in the accident, there are reports of many injuries. The injured have been offered emergency services.

The accident is currently under further investigation, and railway traffic in the area was indefinitely halted.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 13:48:19|Editor: Li Xia

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BEIJING, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Online sales of home appliances in China registered fast growth in the first half of the year amid the country's e-commerce boom, a report showed.

Total online sales stood at 264.1 billion yuan (about 38.6 billion U.S. dollars) in H1, up 22 percent year on year, according to a report by the China Center for Information Industry Development under the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.

Chinese consumers tend to buy products such as floor-cleaning robots and vacuum cleaners online rather than in brick-and-mortar stores, with sales made via e-commerce channels far outnumbering those made offline, the report said.

Sales of high-end products were particularly strong. Online sales of air conditioners priced from 5,000 to 6,999 yuan surged by 58.8 percent in H1.

The data was in line with the trend of consumption upgrades in the country, with e-commerce playing an important role in boosting retail sales.

China's online retail sales reached 7.18 trillion yuan in 2017, up 32.2 percent year on year, a report from the Ministry of Commerce showed.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 14:13:26|Editor: xuxin

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QALA-E-NAW, Afghanistan, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- A total of 50 militants including Taliban key commander Mullah Toofan have surrendered to local authorities in the western Badghis province on Sunday, police spokesman Naqibullah Amini said.

"A total of 50 Taliban insurgents under Taliban key commander Mullah Toofan laid down arms and surrendered to local authorities in Qadis district today morning," Amini told Xinhua.

Mullah Toofan, according to the official, was commanding 300 armed fighters in Qadis district over the past few years and his surrender to government would prove a major setback to the Taliban outfit in Badghis and adjoining areas.

The surrendered commander Toofan and his men would soon come to provincial capital Qala-e-Naw to talk to media, the official said.

Taliban militants are yet to make comment.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 14:28:27|Editor: Li Xia

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BEIJING, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- China's state medical insurance administration has lowered the procurement prices of 14 cancer drugs, asking provincial-level drug procurement platforms to follow the new standard by the end of September.

The National Healthcare Security Administration said Saturday patients are expected to be able to buy these drugs starting from September.

The decision was based on a recent circular on the adjustment of medical insurance reimbursement and procurement prices of cancer drugs.

The administration will further its guidance to make sure the new prices are implemented, in order to allow the public to enjoy the benefits as soon as possible, a source from the administration said.

Negotiations have been underway between the administration and pharmaceutical companies to add more affordable cancer drugs to the country's medical insurance reimbursement list.

A range of drugs have been selected, with the administration confirming the producers' willingness to further negotiate. The drugs are all crucial in dealing with hematological neoplasms and solid tumors, and have great clinical value and bode huge benefits to patients, the administration said.

Negotiations launched in 2017 have lowered the prices of 15 clinically-effective yet highly-priced cancer drugs such as Heceptin, Rituximab, and Bortezomib, as well as added them to the medical insurance reimbursement list.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 15:08:35|Editor: mmm

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CANBERRA, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Visitors were greeted with gifts such as balloons and books as well as exploration tours in the National Library of Australia as the grand building celebrates its 50th birthday on Sunday.

Sitting on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, the marble building is the largest reference library in the country. With columns all around, it echoes the appearance of the Parthenon in Athens.

While the National Library remained an iconic building in Canberra throughout the years, Margaret Goode, a 64-year-old volunteer in the library, noted that it changed so much.

History of the library could be dated back to the early years after the Australian Federation in 1901, when the Commonwealth Parliamentary Library served both the Parliament and ordinary citizens.

The library was moved from Melbourne to Canberra in 1927, and 33 years later, an Act formally separated the Parliament library and the national one.

Today, the national library is home to more than 10 million items in the collection, including more than 3 million books and 600,000 photographs. If lined up one after another, books in the library could stretch to more than 300 km from Canberra to Sydney.

Goode, who led free tours on Sunday to tell visitors stories about the library, has been working as a volunteer here for eight years.

"I was trained in the university as librarian," she told Xinhua. She later worked in the consulting business, but use the national library quite often.

"When I was going to retire, I wanted to find myself something to do," she said.

During the past eight years, she observed that the trove grew bigger and digital materials were shared by more people.

Anna Gressier, a media officer with the library, noted that each year there are half a million visitors entering the library through the door, but many others outside Canberra use the digital library.

"Because we are a national library, we need to make sure people elsewhere have access to the materials," she said to Xinhua reporter.

Another change is the use of robots.

A man who only gave his first name as Chris has used the library for 15 years. He visited on Sunday especially to see the robots.

According to the Canberra Times, the library has four delivery robots sending material to and from the stacks and the reading rooms. Stack attendant Paul Nordern was quoted as saying that he believed "we are the only library in the world using these robots."

Apart from the improvement of technology, Goode also saw changes in the readers.

"There are now a lot of small children, and more foreign students using it," she said.

Dong Daoyi, a 40-year-old man originally from China, visited the library on Sunday with his wife and two children.

"I have lived in Canberra for 10 years, and I always take my children here because there are always events for the children," he said.

Dong has an eight-year-old son and a three-year-old daughter.

"Maybe this is what some Chinese libraries could learn from," he said, "to have more children's activities so that they could fall in love with books from an early age."Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 15:08:35|Editor: mmm

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NEW YORK, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- A U.S. jury in the Californian city of San Francisco has awarded a man terminally ill with cancer 289 million U.S. dollars in damages in a case against agricultural giant Monsanto on Friday.

Dewayne Johnson, who is 46 and near death according to his doctors, sued the company, arguing that its product Roundup has led to non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in him.

A father of two, Johnson applied the herbicide 20 to 30 times per year while working as a school groundskeeper in the San Francisco Bay Area, his attorneys said. There were also occasions when he was soaked with the product, according to CNN.

The jury, after three days of deliberation, ruled that Monsanto shall pay Johnson 250 million dollars in punitive damages and 39 million dollars in compensatory damages. It said Monsanto should have warned users about the dangers of its Roundup and Ranger Pro weedkillers.

In 2015, a report by the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) said the key ingredient in Roundup, namely glyphosate, is "probably carcinogenic to humans." Glyphosate is a herbicide brought to market use in 1974 by Monsanto and is now sold by various manufacturers as its patent has expired.

The IARC report has since led to a mounting number of lawsuits against Monsanto. Johnson's case is the first to have been tried as dying plaintiffs can be granted expedited trials in California. Hundreds more are pending, according to National Public Radio.

"I'm glad to be here to be able to help in a cause that's way bigger than me," Johnson said at a news conference after the verdict was announced.

However, in a written statement issued after the verdict, Monsanto maintained that Roundup is not carcinogenic, saying more than 800 scientific studies, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the National Institutes of Health and regulators worldwide have all concluded that glyphosate is safe for use and does not cause cancer.

"We all have sympathy for Mr. Johnson," Scott Partridge, vice president of Monsanto said, adding that glyphosate is not the answer Johnson has been looking for to his disease, according to CNN.

"We will appeal this decision and continue to vigorously defend this product, which has a 40-year history of safe use and continues to be a vital, effective and safe tool for farmers and others," Monsanto's statement said. EnditemSource: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 15:48:42|Editor: mmm

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DHAKA, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Mondelez International has launched operations in Bangladesh, expanding the company's presence in South Asia.

The U.S. multinational confectionery, food, and beverage company set up its country headquarters in Dhaka, marking its entry into Bangladesh, the eighth most populous country in the world with around 160 million consumers.

Kallappa Pattanashetti, who was earlier with Mondelez India Foods Private Limited, has been appointed as country lead and will play a pivotal role in running the company's operations in Bangladesh.

"With our existing experience in Bangladesh, we see tremendous opportunity to bring in our much-loved products to this region and continue to grow here," Kallappa Pattanashetti was quoted as saying in a statement received here Sunday.

"We have inaugurated our corporate office in Dhaka, rolled out billing systems and are currently in the process of establishing a new warehouse. Over the next two years, our focus will be to invest in building our route-to-market and growing market share for our much-loved brands."

Mondelez International's powdered beverage brand Tang has been a market leader in Bangladesh since 1995 and is exported into the country, said the statement.

With the establishment of its own operations, the company said it is now well positioned to tap into the snacking opportunity in Bangladesh by leveraging its global brand portfolio.by Shafique Khokhar

A meeting is held in Lahore to ask for more rights. Participants reiterated their commitment to a "multi-religious" Pakistan. The goal is to obtain specific measures, including the right to study one's faith.

Lahore (AsiaNews)  The Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) held a meeting in Lahore yesterday on Minorities rights: Moving beyond promises and assurances to mark National Minorities Day.

The event was organised in co-operation with the National Commission for Justice and Peace (NCJP) and the Cecil & Iris Chaudhry Foundation (CICF).

National Minorities Day is held on the day that the founder of Pakistan, Ali Jinnah (Quaid-e-Azam) addressed the inaugural meeting of Pakistans constituent assembly, on 11 August 1947. In his speech, Jinnah expressed his dream for a "multi-religious" Pakistan in which everyone had the same rights and duties.

Rev Alexander John Malik, Anglican bishop emeritus of Lahore, spoke at the gathering in Lahore. I have no political allegiances, he said, only Pakistan. We are all Pakistan. Those who deny minorities rights do not understand Quaids vision for Pakistan. We shall oppose them no matter who they are.

For Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insafs representative Ejaz Chaudhry, As Muslims are in the majority in Pakistan it is our responsibility to look after and protect our minorities. Everyone should be allowed to practice their beliefs.

Other Muslim leaders came to the defence of minority rights." Our society has been intoxicated with hatred and extremism. We must educate people and arrest and punish those who have destroyed Pakistan, said Lahore Mayor Mubashir Javed, a representative of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz.

Allama Iqbal also believed that minorities should be given all political, economic rights in a state, said Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insafs Waleed Iqbal. Minorities in Pakistan have been consistently denied their rights, we will enact structural reform to establish a National Minorities Commission followed by provincial commissions. People can hold us answerable to promises we made in our manifesto.

Many activists and officials attended the meeting. Those present expressed their intention of working together with all sectors of society for the future of an open and multi-religious Pakistan.

During the conference, a list of measures was proposed for the authorities to implement. They include: incorporating Ali Jinnahs speech in Pakistans Constitution, establishing a National Minorities Commission, having the government work out agreements with minorities like the Bahais, Parsees, Sikhs, etc., adapting the marriage law to human rights standard, allowing non-Muslim youth to study their faith and not Islam, and setting up a committee with the power to implement the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry established after the Gojra massacre of 2009.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 16:13:45|Editor: Xiang Bo

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by Keren Setton

JERUSALEM, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- With a decade of major technological cooperation between Israel and China, the prospect for more joint efforts between the two countries in the sector seems brighter and more optimistic, especially after the 25th anniversary of the establishment of China-Israel diplomatic relations in 2017.

In an exclusive interview with Xinhua, Aharon Aharon, chief of the Israeli Innovation Authority (IIA), and Avi Luvton, director of Asia Pacific Operations at the authority, both saw China as a critical player in Israel's innovative future.

"China is one of the most important and strategic countries that we would like to cooperate with," Luvton told Xinhua.

He referred to China's huge market and technological capabilities, hailing it powerful "not only in terms of size, population and military but also in technology."

In 2014, China and Israel established an intergovernmental committee for innovation aimed at promoting mutual technological development.

According to the Israeli Foreign Ministry, the trade between the two countries exceeded 11 billion U.S. dollars in 2016, making China the third largest trading partner of Israel.

Just as recently as this week, an Israeli-Chinese technology incubator was inaugurated in Guangzhou, China's third largest city.

For Aharon, Israelis and the Chinese share a lot of national characters.

"The spirit on entrepreneurship is common, as well as the hunger to do things and succeed," the IIA chief told Xinhua.

One of Israel's fortes is its highly-skilled technological workforce with education in Israeli colleges and universities that are ranked high on world scales.

Israel, a country with a population of approximately 8 million, has five universities in the list of the 2017 Academic Ranking World Universities by Shanghai Ranking Consultancy, a Chinese fully independent organization dedicated to research on higher education intelligence and consultation.

Israel has maintained its status as a high-tech hub for the past decades with major multinational companies setting up shop in the small Middle Eastern country.

Both Aharon and Luvton are happy to see more Chinese corporate presence in Israel, even as dozens of Chinese companies have already set foot there.

Aharon believes that Israel's R&D competencies makes its collaboration with China "a win-win situation."

One of the advantages that contributes to Israel's success is the Israeli attitude of mind which allows for failures and risks, as Israeli engineers boast curiosity and entrepreneurship as the bases for their inventions, according to Aharon.

In addition, the multidisciplinary pursuit is another factor, as "Israelis normally would like to extend their knowledge beyond the discipline that they are responsible for," he explained.

As an alumnus of Unit 8200, an Israeli intelligence Corps unit considered the breeding ground of many Israeli leading technologists, Aharon hopes for an increase in life-sciences start-ups, as well as greater cooperation with China in the sector.

While it holds a leading role in Israel's exports, the high-tech sector in the small country is enjoyed largely by its stronger socio-economic layers of society, leaving the peripheral areas and populations sometimes far behind.

In addition, many traditional industries in Israel have not progressed into using high-tech solutions to enhance work productivity.

Meanwhile, data from various research centers and the the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development also show Israeli labor productivity as one of the lowest in the developed world.

At the beginning of this year, the IIA, together with Israel's Ministry of Economy and Industry, launched an incentive plan that offers R&D grants and tax benefits to Israeli companies in the periphery.

In the meantime, an uptick in Chinese investments in Israel's infrastructure sector may help promote progress in these areas.

With China's Belt and Road Initiative well underway, it seems both Israel and China can benefit from increased cooperation with complementary technological abilities.

The initiative, proposed by China in 2013, refers to the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, aiming at building a trade and infrastructure network connecting Asia with Europe and Africa along the ancient Silk Road trade routes to seek common development and prosperity.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 16:18:45|Editor: Xiang Bo

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YINCHUAN, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Hai Guobao, 62, an ethnic Hui minority farmer, suffered from a lack of water in rural Xihaigu, northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, until he volunteered to be relocated to Minning Township in 2012.

"When I was young, I heard about the Yellow River from my elders, but I had never seen it myself and I could not imagine its yellow color," he said.

Xihaigu, an impoverished mountainous region in south Ningxia, is one of the world's most uninhabitable places, renown for its harsh environment.

"Droughts in summer, floods in autumn, and freezing cold in winter. We lived at the mercy of the climate." Hai said, poor harvests plunged the villagers into severe poverty.

From 2012 to 2017, about 10,000 residents from six villages in mountainous areas of Xihaigu chose to be relocated to Minning, over 300 km away from their ancestral homes.

Minning, located on the fertile plains, was a whole new world for the villagers from the remote mountains.

Before the ecological relocation program began, government officials showed them around in the township. Standing on a bridge, Hai and his neighbors saw the Yellow River and its muddy waters for the first time.

"In our hometown, our biggest concern was the lack of water," said Hai. Relieved and determined, all the 67 households in his village volunteered to move to Minning.

Months later, motorcades loaded with the villagers and their belongings headed for their new homes. Upon arrival, Hai immediately turned on the taps, listening to the sound of running water with delight.

FAREWELL TO THE CAVES

Hai and his fellow villagers once lived in caves, known as "yaodong," on the ridges of mountains.

Hugging the mountainside, the caves dotted the landscape. Visitors viewed them as the gifts of nature. But for those who lived in them, they represented life at its harshest.

"We stored our crops inside and slept near the mouth of the cave. The walls were all blackened by the smoke and dust," said Hai.

A stone bed with thin sheets was all they had in their bedroom. On rainy days, roads in the village became too slippery to walk on. "They were so muddy that old men like me could easily fall over," Hai said.

"I had lived there all my life, but I choose to leave for the sake of my grandchildren," said Hai.

Schools in Xihaigu had no desks and chairs, so students had no choice but to sit on the ground while writing. "Children had to walk for 3 to 4 km to get to school," added Hai.

In Minning, this is no longer the case. Hai's oldest grandchild walks 300 meters to get to his junior high school. "I hope my grandchildren can become the first college students in our family," Hai said.

HELLO TO CITY LIFE

At first, it was difficult for the relocated farmers to fit in. "Some chose to return to Xihaigu, but after a short time, they decided it was better to move here because of the rapid development in the town," said Xie Xingchang, a migrant from Wangmin Village in Xihaigu.

The local government built houses and facilities including schools, community hospitals, and shopping malls for the newcomers. With strong policy support, experts and enterprises from the eastern province of Fujian came to Minning and helped teach the farmers how to grow mushrooms, grapes and flowers. Free job training was also provided in order to help the farmers lift their families out of poverty.

In 1997, villagers like Xie earned about 500 yuan (73 U.S. dollars) a year on average. Now some 20 years later, he earns nearly 12,000 yuan a year.

"I was living in the countryside, but now I enjoy my life here in the township," Hai said.

In 2017, Hai was hospitalized for two weeks due to illness. The hospital told him not to worry about the money as medical insurance would cover most of the costs and he could pay the rest after recovery.

For Hai, the ecological relocation program has been a way to improve his quality of life and provide a better future for his family.

Those villagers who did not want to move to Minning were not left behind. The local government offered them opportunities to move to places with better living conditions in Xihaigu so that they don't have to say goodbye to their beloved mountains.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 16:52:49|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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Local people celebrate the month-long Gunla festival at Swayambhunath in Kathmandu, Nepal, Aug. 12, 2018. The month-long Gunla festival is one of the major festivals of the Newar Buddhist community during which they recite scriptures, observe fast and visit places of worship playing devotional music.(Xinhua/Sunil Sharma)Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 16:48:49|Editor: mmm

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NEW DELHI, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Indian authorities have sounded a fresh rain alert in Kerala state till Aug. 15, even though the monsoon showers subsided and floods receded in the past 24 hours after three days of devastation that claimed 37 lives and rendered 34,000 homeless.

"Though there have been improvement in rain situation mainly in the worst-hit districts of Idukki and Wayanad, the fresh alert has been sounded after the weather department's forecast of heavy rains till Aug. 15," a disaster management official said Sunday.

"Flood warning has also been issued in some low-lying areas of the southern state. Fishermen have also been urged not to venture into the Arabian Sea," he added.

In Idukki district, which mostly bore the brunt of the devastation and recorded the maximum number of deaths, rainfall was recorded at 40 mm this morning from 90 mm of showers for a period of 24 hours on Saturday morning, a weather official said.

Moreover, there has been a decrease in the water level in the Idukki dam, the biggest arch dam in Asia which was opened for the first time this week to release excess water after a gap of 26 years.

"From its maximum of 2,403 feet in the past few days, the water level in the dam declined to some 2,399 feet this morning," the disaster management official said.

Apart from the National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF), Indian Army, Navy and Air Force have been pressed into rescue work. "Some 14 NDRF teams and 10 columns of the army are now in action in Thrissur, Ernakulam, Alappuzha, Wayand, Kozhikode and Idukki districts," sources said.

"The Indian Air Force and the navy have also deployed their aircraft and choppers for airlifting those stranded in flood-hit areas," sources added.

Meanwhile, Indian Home Minister Rajnath Singh is on his way to undertake an aerial survey of the state later in the day, along with senior officials, a day after Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan did the same, along with the leader of opposition.

"Heading to Kerala to take stock of the situation in the state. Shall conduct a survey of the flood affected areas and also visit the relief camp sites," the home minister tweeted before taking a special flight to the state.

Immediately after Saturday's aerial survey of flood-hit districts, Vijayan described the grim situation as "an unprecedented natural disaster."

"We face an uphill task in rebuilding devastated areas. We need help from all quarters," he told the media.

The chief minister has also announced a compensation of 400,000 rupees (5,600 U.S. dollars) to families of those killed in floods and rainslides who lost their loved ones, and up to 1 million rupees for those who have lost both their land as well as house.

On the other hand, several tales of bravery have started doing the rounds on social media, including that of a dramatic rescue of a child by a disaster relief personnel and the bark of a pet dog that saved a family from getting washed away in floods.

The young disaster relief personnel holding tight a child in his arms running across a sinking bridge in Idukki district on Friday is now the most-viewed footage that has gone viral on social media. Moments after they cross the bridge, it was washed away in floods.

This is the worst floods witnessed by Kerala in recent years though last month's rains claimed 40 lives.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 18:04:02|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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RAMALLAH, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- The Palestinian government on Sunday called for international pressure on Israel to lift the siege it has imposed on the Gaza Strip for almost a decade.

The authorities also demanded to regain the national unity by fulfilling the steps of the Egypt-brokered deal, Yousef Al-Mahmoud, spokesman of the government, said in a press statement.

The only way out of "the current internal crisis is ending the division," Mahmoud said, hinting at Hamas' responsibility for "rejecting the achievement of the reconciliation."

The statement came a day after a Palestinian businessmen association declared that over 95 percent of Gaza's factories have stopped production because of an Israeli restriction imposed more than a month ago on the entry of raw materials into the coastal enclave.

The association said nearly 75,000 people have lost their jobs due to the restriction, warning that the economy of the Gaza strip is "going through a critical phase" and may fall apart.

Israel said the new restriction came in response to the launch of incendiary balloons and kites from Gaza toward fields in southern Israel as part of the ongoing Palestinian anti-Israel "Great March of Return" mass rally since March 30.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 18:24:04|Editor: Xiang Bo

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TEHRAN, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Sunday that Iran has no plan to talk with the United States on the sidelines of the upcoming UN General Assembly meeting, state TV reported Sunday.

"No meeting is expected to take place," Zarif told reporters after U.S. President Donald Trump signalled his willingness to hold talks with Iranian officials over existing issues.

"The Americans are not honest," he added.

On Friday, Majid Takht Ravanchi, Iranian deputy foreign minister for European and American affairs, also said he did not see "any reason" for talks between Trump and Rouhani at the 73rd UN General Assembly meeting next month.

"What expectations could you have from a person who pulls out from international engagement and now says let's hold talks," Ravanchi noted.

Trump withdrew Washington from the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, on May 8 and demanded renegotiation of the pact.

Since then, the Trump administration has slapped a number of sanctions on Iran while vowing to apply more.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 18:29:06|Editor: mmm

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Photo taken on Aug. 12, 2018 shows the scene of the mass shooting occurring in the Moss Side area, Manchester, Britain. A mass shooting in the British city of Manchester wounded 10 people Sunday morning, local authorities said. (Xinhua/Ed Sykes)

LONDON, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- A mass shooting in the British city of Manchester wounded 10 people Sunday morning, local authorities said.

Greater Manchester Police said at around 2:30 a.m. (0130 GMT) it received a report of gunshots heard on Claremont Road in the Moss Side area.

Detective Superintendent Debbie Dooley said: "We currently have a number of people in hospital all being treated for different injuries but thankfully most do not appear to be life-threatening at this time."

She said officers are trying to establish exactly where this incident took place and who is responsible for such a "dangerous" attack.

Dooley said the Caribbean Carnival was held in the area but was finished several hours prior to this incident occurring, which is why there were still a lot of people.

The event, which has been held every summer since 1972, usually draws thousands of people.

"Those living or visiting the area will understandably be concerned by this incident and we will have extra officers patrolling the area throughout the morning and into the coming days," she said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 19:04:15|Editor: mmm

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TEHRAN, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Sunday left Tehran for the Kazakh city of Aktau to attend the 5th summit of the Caspian states, Tasnim news agency reported.

Speaking to reporters before flying to Aktau, Rouhani said the Caspian summit is of great significance, as it would make decision on a long-awaited principal convention.

A number of critical issues like the boundaries in the Caspian Sea would be discussed in the meetings, while a step forward in the Caspian summit will be the demarcation of the fishing zones and shipping routes, he noted.

Apart from the Caspian convention, the parties will sign a number of other agreements on trade, transport, joint fight against terrorism and organized crimes, and cooperation among border guards, Rouhani revealed.

The president also said the summit would include talks on energy industry, oil extraction from the Caspian Sea, as well as oil and gas swap.

Besides, he pointed to the significance of a major railroad corridor connecting eastern parts of the Caspian Sea to Iran, the Caucasus and Europe.

Rouhani will hold meetings with his Kazakh counterpart and a number of other dignitaries during his trip.

The Caspian Sea is the largest enclosed water body on the Earth by area, with shared borders between Iran, Azerbaijan, Russia, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.Photo taken on July 9, 2017 shows the mountain nyala at Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia. Located 400 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa, Bale Mountains National Park contains a spectacularly diverse landscape. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

ADDIS ABABA, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopia is working towards enhancing its hospitality industry capacity and welcome more foreign tourists, said an official with the tourism ministry.

Speaking to Xinhua recently, Gezahegn Abate, Public and International Relations Director of the Ethiopia Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MoCIT), said his ministry has been working with public and private stakeholders to boost the country's hospitality industry capacity and diversify the nationality of foreign tourists visiting the African country.

Ethiopia earned 3.5 billion U.S. dollars from 934,000 tourists who visited the country in the Ethiopian Fiscal Year 2010 (2017/2018), that ended on July 7, said the official.

Abate mentioned the MoCIT's work in attracting tourists from the world's most populous nation, China, which he said has shown a steady increase in the past several years despite the unrest the East African country went through since 2016.

"MoCT is encouraging Chinese investment in Ethiopia's hospitality sector with a view to dramatically increasing the number of Chinese tourists," Abate said.

With a view to making tourism a major hard currency earner, Ethiopia is implementing incentives for entrepreneurs involved in the tourism and hospitality industry, including duty free arrangements for construction materials.

Chinese tourists are the third largest group of tourists to Ethiopia, only surpassed in numbers by tourists from the United States and UK.

Ethiopia earned 169.6 million U.S. dollars from 45,3017 Chinese tourists that visited the country in 2017.

The 2017 Chinese tourists' figures have shown a steady increase from 2016 numbers, which stood at 41,659.

The national flag carrier Ethiopian airlines already flies to five destinations in China: Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Chengdu and Guangzhou and plans to start flights to Shenzhen later this year.File photo shows African Union forces take part in the Africa Day celebration at the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) Headquarters in Mogadishu, capital of Somalia in 2017. (Xinhua/Faisal Isse)

MOGADISHU, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and the Somali National Army (SNA) forces this week intensified joint operations to flush out terrorists in villages near Qoryooley in southern Somalia.

The AU mission said on Sunday that the joint operation to flush out terrorists which started on Thursday was aimed at disrupting the militants' activities in the vast region.

Colonel Hussein Hosh, SNA 7th brigade commander, said the joint military operation is was also aimed at denying the al-Qaida allied terror group's access to strategic areas of Lower Shabelle from which they base to inflict harm on the population.

"The operation is a strong message to the terrorists that they better surrender and abandon their barbaric acts against the civilian population and the legitimate government of Somalia or we will deal with them," Hosh said.

The operation comes amid heightened security in the Somali capital following the deployment of more security forces and erection of security roadblocks along key roads to deter attacks from the terrorist group.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 19:59:23|Editor: mmm

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MAIMANA, Afghanistan, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- At least 11 army soldiers were killed and 21 others injured as Taliban attacked an army base in Faryab province, north of Afghanistan, on Saturday night, a local official said Sunday.

"A large group of Taliban rebels attacked an army base in Ghormach district of Faryab province late Saturday, killing at least 11 soldiers and injuring 21 others," Mohammad Tahir Rahmani, head of the provincial council of Faryab, told Xinhua.

The attacking Taliban militants also captured eight soldiers and currently around 180 soldiers inside the base are in siege of Taliban militants, the official added.

Officials with the Afghan defense ministry were not immediately available to make comment.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 19:59:23|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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By Xinhua Writer Xu Supei

SHIJIAZHUANG, Aug.12 (Xinhua) -- "There is a long, long story between Tai Chi and me," says Jose Gago, 61, a Spanish man who has taught Tai Chi in his hometown for almost 36 years.

On August 8, Jose Gago, the director of the Wushu department in Galicia, attended the 14th International Taijiquan gathering in Yongnian district, Handan city in China's Hebei Province.

Yongnian is the birthplace of the famous Yang and Wu-style Tai Chi. Although the first martial arts school was opened in 1982 in Ourense, Spain, Jose did not make the trip to China until 1994. Since then, he has traveled to China over 20 times to further his study of Tai Chi.

In 1999, Jose met Yang-style Tai Chi master Fu Shengyuan in Spain and started studying his methods.

"Compared with the 24-form Tai Chi, which served as exercise for the sake of public health, Yang-style Tai Chi functions as self-defense," Jose told Xinhua.

For Jose, Tai Chi is not simply a sport. What attracts him most is the Taoist philosophy rooted in Tai Chi. The principles of "softness, slowness, balance and rootedness" are all elements of Taoist philosophy that Tai Chi has drawn upon in its understanding of movement. "[The] human body is a miniature universe. Energy flows in the universe everywhere, like it does in our bodies, " Jose said.

The Spaniard elaborated on his understanding of Taoism with concise words and flowing movements. "The rhythm of Tai Chi is not only echoed by Chinese, but also by people from various races and cultural backgrounds in the world."

He has trained thousands of students in Spain and many of them have won awards in a number of tournaments. "Karate and taekwondo are much easier than Chinese martial arts," Jose said.

In his mind, Chinese Kung Fu is composed of both external and internal practices which create more barriers to reaching a broader audience. "When teaching abroad, Chinese instructors should stand in the Westerners' shoes."

Jose suggested establishing uniform standards and setting up introductory programs for western beginners on the national level. His martial arts school enrolled approximately 150 students in 1982, ranging from children under the age of 5 to senior citizens over 70. Now, it has double that number, especially with a noticeable increase in young students.

"There are over 3 million people practicing Tai Chi in Japan of late," said Fu Qingquan, Fu Shengyuan's successor. Yang-style Tai Chi has evolved overseas in response to people's needs from different countries and districts.

Fu told Xinhua that the local government in Jose's hometown host a number of free Tai Chi community classes and initiate various tournaments. Tai Chi is acting as an important bridge for cultural exchange.

Chinese martial artists went overseas to promote Tai Chi and the western martial enthusiasts like Jose have helped it to spread further.

During this visit to China, Jose went to the tomb of master Fu Shengyuan, who passed away last year. He dressed solemnly in a black suit and knelt in front of the gravestone. "Shifu told me that Tai Chi is like the ocean. Balanced, harmonious and never-ending. This is Tai Chi."Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 20:09:24|Editor: mmm

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TEHRAN, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Iran's auto parts makers expressed deep concerns over the fate of their business due to the new forex policy, local media EghtesadOnline reported Sunday.

Abdolnasser Hemmati, newly appointed governor of the Central Bank of Iran, announced last week new state monetary policies to heal the hobbled forex market.

According to the new policies, the government will no longer grant subsidies in U.S. dollars at a discounted rate to imported items except for essential goods and medicines.

Auto parts makers believe the latest policy does more harm than good to the beleaguered sector as auto parts and the raw materials used by local manufacturers are not considered essential.

"Following the implementation of the new monetary policy, a hike of 80 to 140 percent in prices of auto parts is foreseeable," said Arash Mohebinejad, spokesman of Iranian Specialized Manufactures of Auto Parts Association.

Carmakers and distributors "owe an outstanding debt of some 3.5 billion dollars to parts makers from which 1.1 billion dollars are overdue," he explained.

A total of 100 domestic auto parts makers have either closed their production facilities or put their business on hold because of the unstable state of affairs, Mohebinejad noted.

U.S. President Donald Trump withdrew Washington from the 2015 landmark Iranian nuclear pact in May, causing volatility in various markets in Iran.

Since then, the value of the Iranian rial has plunged to unprecedented lows, wreaking havoc on its import-dependent industries.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 20:19:26|Editor: mmm

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DAMASCUS, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- At least 18 people were killed on Sunday when an explosion rocked the rebel-held town of Sarmada in northern Syria near the Turkish border, a monitor reported.

The explosion took place in an ammunition depot belonging to the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front, otherwise known as the Levant Liberation Committee (LLC), according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

The depot was located on the bottom floor of a residential building, which was completely destroyed during the explosion, the London-based watchdog said.

Many people were buried under the rubble, most of whom were displaced people from the central province of Homs, it added.

The death toll could further rise given a large number of the critically wounded and those still trapped under the rubble.

In a separate incident on Sunday, a roadside bomb went off as a bus was passing by in the rebel-held town of Twaineh in the countryside of Hama Province in central Syria, leading to 14 injuries.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 20:29:28|Editor: xuxin

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Residents and motorists pass by a damaged vehicle in Marikina City, the Philippines, Aug. 13, 2018. Days of torrents of rainfall and flooding battered a widespread area in the Philippines, displacing nearly 383,000 people, a disaster agency said on Sunday. (Xinhua/Rouelle Umali)

MANILA, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Days of torrents of rainfall and flooding battered a widespread area in the Philippines, displacing nearly 383,000 people, a disaster agency said on Sunday.

Based on the latest reports, a total of 88,000 families or 383,000 people from different places on the Philippine main Luzon Island were displaced due to the large-scale rainfall and flooding.

The Metro Manila and nearby Rizal province are the most affected places by the flooding. And in the two areas, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said, about 40,000 people have been evacuated to safer grounds to avoid rising waters.

A major river in Marikina, a city in Metro Manila, swelled on Saturday night, forcing the local government to evacuate 3,783 families or 17,676 people living near the riverbanks to 19 government temporary shelters.

NDRRMC spokesman Edgar Posadas said no flood-related death has been reported as of Sunday.

Heavy rains continue to dump water in Luzon and some parts of the central Philippines this week.

State weather bureau predicted that another tropical storm will continue to enhance the southwest monsoon that could bring "scattered to widespread rains across the western section of Luzon until Monday."

The NDRRMC raised the alert status to red at 8:00 a.m. Sunday as the agency closely monitor the relief efforts and assistance to affected communities.

The NDRRMC said more than 105 million pesos (about 1.97 million U.S. dollars) worth of assistance has been provided to the affected residents.

"With the continuous rains expected to be experienced until Monday, residents in flood-prone and low-lying areas are advised to heed the call of their local government units regarding pre-emptive evacuation," the NDRRMC said in a statement.

The agency urged the public "to take necessary precautions" and to be vigilant. "Everyone is advised to be mindful of emergency alerts and monitor weather updates."

The Philippine Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said in a separate statement that 762 of the 961 flooded areas have subsided. The rest 199 areas are still flooded, he added.

"We remind the public to be on alert," Roque said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 20:54:32|Editor: mmm

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ABUJA, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Four police detectives were confirmed killed following an ambush by gunmen in Nigeria's northwestern state of Kaduna, according to local police authorities on Sunday.

They were shot dead in a gunfight with the gunmen who ambushed a special team of police detectives in Jankassa village of Rigassa neighborhood in the state on Saturday, said Sabo Yakubu, a police spokesman.

The police spokesman told reporters that no arrest has so far been made.

He said a team of reinforcement has been mobilized to the area in order to arrest the gunmen.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 21:54:40|Editor: mmm

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JERUSALEM, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday said Israel will continue to fight Hamas in Gaza before a "complete cease-fire" will be achieved.

"We are in the midst of a campaign against terror in Gaza. It entails an exchange of blows," Netanyahu told his weekly cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, adding that the recent flare-up of violence "will not end in one strike."

He said that during last week's massive airstrikes in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli air force has "destroyed hundreds of Hamas military targets." He added that "in each round, the Israel Defense Forces exacts an additional heavy price."

He stressed that Israel is ready to continue the strikes. "I will not reveal here our operational plans, they are ready," he said.

"Our demand is clear -- a complete cease-fire. We will not suffice with less than this," he said. "Our objective is to restore the quiet to residents of the south and the area adjacent to the Gaza Strip; this goal will be achieved in full."

Last week, Israel and Hamas exchanged blows, with Israel striking hundreds of sites in Gaza, killing three people including a woman and her baby, while Gaza militants launched dozens of rockets towards southern Israel.

The fire was largely ceased on Thursday, as an unofficial truce was achieved following efforts by the United Nations and Egypt.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 22:04:43|Editor: mmm

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HANOI, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam is setting to make the rate of cash payment to be below 10 percent among all means of payment by 2020 and eight percent by 2025, local online newspaper Thoi Bao Ngan Hang (Banking Times) quoted the Vietnamese banking development strategy as saying on Sunday.

Also under the strategy, in the 2018-2020 period, Vietnam will continue to restructure credit institutions, focusing on minimizing bad debts and handling poorly-performing commercial banks and people's credit funds in line with market mechanisms.

Vietnam will strive to have at least one or two commercial banks in the list of 100 biggest banks in terms of total assets in Asia by 2020, and have at least two or three commercial banks in the list by 2025, according to the strategy.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 22:14:45|Editor: Li Xia

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Chinese volunteers from PowerChina International talk with local volunteers in Karen Blixen House, one of the historical sites in Nairobi, Kenya, Aug. 11, 2018. The National Museum of Kenya (NMK) has partnered with the PowerChina International to reduce the language barrier and hence improve its service to Chinese tourists. According to the NMK, the Karen Blixen Museum receives between 50,000 and 60,000 visitors annually with Chinese nationals making up approximately ten percent of the guests. (Xinhua/Zhang Yu)

NAIROBI, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Hu Dongdong knows the history of Karen Blixen House, one of the historical sites in the Kenyan capital city of Nairobi, more than most locals.

The 26-year-old employee of the PowerChina International Group is a volunteer guide and translator for the growing number of Chinese tourists who visit the museum located 10 kilometers from the city center.

Hu told Xinhua that he chose to work as a guide at the site due to the inspiration drawn from the life of Karen Blixen, the Danish author who lived in the facility between 1917 to 1931 during the colonial times in Kenya.

"She is a role model because of the way she treated and interacted with the local community," Hu said.

Hu normally volunteers at the museum during the weekends when he is not at work. "I like my duties because the Chinese guests appreciate my work," he added.

Hu is among the eight volunteers who spend their weekends guiding fellow Chinese nationals who visit the historical site.

The National Museum of Kenya (NMK) has partnered with the PowerChina International to reduce the language barrier and hence improve its service to Chinese tourists.

Damaris Rotich, the Senior Curator at the Nairobi Museum, said the Karen Blixen Museum has seen an upsurge in the number of Chinese tourists.

Rotich said that given that most Chinese visitors are not fluent in English, this has created a communication gap between the Chinese and local guides.

"The Chinese volunteers therefore are a vital resource that will help to increase our service provision towards Chinese visitors," she said.

According to the NMK, the Karen Blixen Museum receives between 50,000 and 60,000 visitors annually with Chinese nationals making up approximately ten percent of the guests.

"We hope that the Chinese tour guides will significantly increase the share of Chinese visitors," he added.

Rotich said tourists from the Asian country could help Kenya diversify its tourist revenues that has traditionally relied on international visitors from the west.

When Blixen lived in the farm house, it consisted of 4,500 acres of farm land as well as a coffee processing facility.

The historical site currently consists of all her household belongings that depict her life and cordial relationship with the locals.

Karen Blixen house which sits on 12.5 acres of land, was converted into a heritage site in 1985 after it gained international fame following the release of Hollywood movie "Out of Africa" which is based on a book with a similar title authored by Blixen.

Rotich said the movie helped to raise the profile of the Karen Blixen Museum which served as a setting of the film that won several Oscar Academy Awards.

She added that one of the most prized possessions of Blixen that are on display at the museum are the Chinese artifacts including a rich collection of Chinese porcelain.

Liu Heng, a-28 year-old employee of PowerChina also serves as a tour guide at Karen Blixen Museum.

Liu said the time spent as a volunteer is very rewarding as it helps to cement Sino-Kenya ties.

"My translation work for the museums helps the Chinese understand Kenya's rich cultural and dynamic heritage especially during the colonial era," Liu added.

He revealed that he was also inspired to volunteer by the life of Blixen who had a deep appreciation of the African people.

He added that there is growing interest among Chinese nationals to learn the history of the African continent.

According to the Chinese tour guide, the peak season for Chinese tourists in Kenya is between June to September during the Chinese summer vacation when Chinese tend to take their children to overseas trips.A Palestinian boy looks out of his family's house that was damaged in an Israeli air strike, in Al-Mughraqa on the outskirts of Gaza City August 9, 2018. (REUTERS)

JERUSALEM, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday said Israel will continue to fight Hamas in Gaza before a "complete cease-fire" will be achieved.

Netanyahu told his weekly cabinet meeting in Jerusalem that the recent flare-up of violence "will not end in one strike."

He said that during last week's massive airstrikes in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli air force has "destroyed hundreds of Hamas military targets." He added that "in each round, the Israel Defense Forces exacts an additional heavy price."

He stressed that Israel is ready to continue the strikes. "I will not reveal here our operational plans, they are ready," he said.

"Our demand is clear -- a complete cease-fire. We will not suffice with less than this," he said. "Our objective is to restore the quiet to residents of the south and the area adjacent to the Gaza Strip; this goal will be achieved in full."

Last week, Israel and Hamas exchanged blows, with Israel striking hundreds of sites in Gaza, killing three people including a woman and her baby, while Gaza militants launched dozens of rockets towards southern Israel.

The fire was largely ceased on Thursday, as an unofficial truce was achieved following efforts by the United Nations and Egypt.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 23:14:53|Editor: yan

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BEIJING, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Leading members of a branch of the "Almighty God" cult in northeast China have stood trial in Daqing, Heilongjiang Province, since July 31, a police source said Sunday.

Heilongjiang police arrested the leader and some key members of the cult branch in northeast China in June 2017, according to a police statement.

"Almighty God," known in Chinese as Quannengshen, grabbed national headlines in May 2014 when videos went viral showing five of its members beating a woman to death at a McDonald's in Zhaoyuan, eastern Shandong Province, condemning her as an "evil spirit" as she refused to give them her mobile phone number for recruitment purposes.

"The 'Almighty God' cult has been predominantly violent," said Huang Chao, managing director of the international research center on cult issue with Wuhan University, central China's Hubei Province.

According to Huang, police have processed more than 100 violent incidents initiated by the "Almighty God" members across the country and in more than 30 occasions they resisted law enforcement with violence.

"In 2012, some cult members attacked police stations, damaged police vehicles and injured police officers," he said.

MASTERMIND BEHIND "ALMIGHTY GOD"

According to the police source, the cult was founded by a man named Zhao Weishan, born in 1951, who had founded and participated in several cult organizations in the 1980s.

In 1993 Zhao started to claim that his mistress Yang Xiangbin was the "Almighty Goddess" and "female Jesus" and himself the "high priest."

Zhao and Yang both fled to the United States in 2000.

"He was an ordinary man, not different from others," said Zhao's ex-wife.

"He was smart but not in the right way," said his older sister.

The "Almighty God" cult borrowed some ideas from Christianity, such as the Second Coming, but altered core doctrines of the Bible, Huang Chao said.

The cult has engaged in illegal activities in the disguise of Christianity, said Lyu Dezhi, head of Heilongjiang Theological Seminary.

TARGETING THE VULNERABLE

According to the police, the cult mostly recruits less-educated women who have family problems and at first lured them with normal Christianity teachings and then the cult ideology.

"In the beginning new recruits were not forced to donate or attend the gatherings but after becoming a convert they were manipulated to leave their family and devote everything to the cult," said a Heilongjiang police officer who investigated the case and preferred to be anonymous.

Cult members were banned from using mobile phones, watching TV and even reading normal books such as fictions. They were only allowed to read the so-called God's books and watch videos made for brainwashing.

Hundreds of ordinary people set up groups on social networks such as WeChat and QQ to look for missing family members who had joined the cult and cut off contacts.

A young woman surnamed Song from eastern Anhui Province has not seen her mother since 2014. Her mother, once an upbeat and kind person, started to believe in the "Almighty God" and apocalypse in 2012.

"When she went missing, I was about to give birth. How indifferent she became that she chose to leave home at that time?" Song said in tears.

FINANCIALLY EXPLOITING FOLLOWERS

"Followers should be devoted to the 'Almighty God,' in plain words, donating money to the organization. The more you donate, the closer you are to the God," said a former convert surnamed Zhang.

Only a small amount of the donation was used in daily operation of the organization and a majority of the money was transferred abroad, said Zhang, who used to handle money transfers.

Low-ranking followers lived a frugal life, often collecting left-over vegetables from the market. Some of the elder female members would walk or ride bikes rather than taking bus to save money.

Zhao, the cult founder, lives a luxury life in expensive villas in the United States, commanding the money flow from China.

According to a document seized by the police, about 140 million yuan (about 20.47 million U.S. dollars) was transferred abroad from northeast China from November 2016 to March 2017.

"The cult taught me to be indifferent to my family and to be non-human," said an anonymous former convert. "All I want now is to stay with my family and make up for the pain I brought them."

To prevent the spread of the cult, it is important to raise awareness and improve education among the people, Huang Chao said.

The police also called for joint efforts of the public to root up the source of the cult.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 23:39:58|Editor: yan

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GAZA, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- The Gaza Strip has been suffering from a more serious shortage of medicines and good caused by Israel's recent harsh punitive measures.

On Sunday, Gaza Health Ministry announced the cessation of chemotherapy for cancer patients in Gaza hospitals as the ministry's warehouses ran out of chemotherapy medications.

Spokesman for the ministry Ashraf al-Qedra said in a statement that the chemotherapy treatment for cancer patients in Rantisi Hospital in Gaza city was stopped due to medicine depletion, as well as the depletion of Neupogen which used to increase patients' immunity.

"80 percent of cancer drugs in the Gaza Strip have run out, making all therapeutic protocols completely impractical, putting the lives of patients at stake," al-Qedra revealed.

According to Health Ministry figures, there are some 6100 elderly tumor patients and 460 children receiving medical care at Rantisi Hospital in Gaza, while 1,700 patients with major tumors are being treated at the European Hospital in southern city of Khan Younis.

This comes amid escalating warnings of an imminent economic collapse caused by Israel's tightening of the blockade it has been imposing on the Gaza Strip since 2007.

Jamal al-Khudari, chairman of the Popular Committee to Break the Israeli Blockade on the Gaza Strip, said that the coastal enclave is collapsing in light of the continued Israeli siege and the recent tight measures on the entry of all raw and building materials as well as hundreds of basic humanitarian goods.

In a press statement, al-Khudari stressed that the siege "represents an Israeli collective punishment targeting more than two million Palestinians living in Gaza, which violates all international laws and norms."

"Gaza is collapsing economically. The situation in all vital and humanitarian sectors cannot be described in light of this grave blockade that strikes the foundations of the Palestinian economy," he said.

Al-Khudari called on the international community to intervene urgently to rescue the collapsed situation in Gaza and press Israel to end the blockade urgently and to open all trade crossings and allow the free movement of individuals and goods.

On Saturday, the Palestinian Businessmen Association announced that more than 95 percent of Gaza factories and production facilities have been shut down due to Israel's ban on all types of raw and construction materials into the Gaza Strip for more than a month.

The Association said in a press release that about 75 thousand people have lost their jobs due to Israel's recent measures, warning that the economy of Gaza is going through a "dangerous stage."

In mid July, Israel tightened its blockade on Gaza after imposing additional restrictions on the entry of goods as part of the measures against Hamas, the Islamic movement that runs the besieged Palestinian enclave.

Under the recent Israeli measures, some 1000 items are banned entry into Gaza. Exports have also been completely halted.

The Israeli decision came in response to the arson kites and helium balloons flying from Gaza into Israel, which caused large fires and losses in the Israeli territory.

Meanwhile, Palestinian government on Sunday called for international pressure on Israel to lift the siege it has imposed on the Gaza Strip.

The government also demanded to regain the national unity by fulfilling the steps of the Egypt-brokered deal, Yousef Al-Mahmoud, spokesman of Palestinian government, said in a press statement.

The only way out of "the current internal crisis is ending the division," Mahmoud said, hinting at Hamas' responsibility for "rejecting the achievement of the reconciliation."Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 23:44:59|Editor: Liangyu

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LHASA, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- The government of Lhasa, capital of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, is using favorable policies to attract investors and boost employment.

The city government of Lhasa signed contracts with 34 investors Sunday, with the contracts worth 8.3 billion yuan (about 1.2 billion U.S. dollars). The contract signing ceremony was held during the traditional Shoton Festival, or Yogurt Festival, which began Saturday and runs until Aug. 17.

Most of the investors are in the agriculture, tourism and culture sectors, said Fang Guilin, vice mayor of Lhasa.

Various types of industries are developing robustly in Lhasa, bringing quality economic growth and improving people's lives. The city government has unveiled favorable policies to maintain the growth momentum, he said.

The corporate tax rate for companies which set up start-ups, hi-tech or poverty relief operations is only nine percent, much lower than a general average of 20 percent, according to a new tax policy in in the city.

Companies who hire local residents also get a tax cut and favorable loan rates are applied for investors.

The city government has set up a 20-million-yuan fund to support technological companies and intelligent innovation of traditional industries.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-12 23:55:01|Editor: mmm

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Photo taken on Aug. 12, 2018 shows the scene of the Fifth Caspian Summit attended by presidents of five Caspian Sea states including Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia and Turkmenistan, held in the Kazakh city of Aktau. Russia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan signed an agreement Sunday for collective use of the Caspian sea after two decades of negotiations, the Kremlin said. (Xinhua/Abilov)

MOSCOW, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Russia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan signed an agreement Sunday for collective use of the Caspian sea after two decades of negotiations, the Kremlin said.

The presidents of the five states inked the landmark convention on the legal status of the Caspian Sea at the Fifth Caspian Summit in the Kazakh city of Aktau.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said the convention "fixes the exclusive right and responsibility of our states for the fate of the Caspian Sea and establishes clear rules for its collective use", according to a Kremlin transcript.

The document clearly regulates the issues of necessary delimitation, navigation and fishing regimes, fixes the principles of military-political interaction of the participating countries and guarantees the use of Caspian Sea exclusively for peaceful purposes, Putin said.

According to the Russian president, the necessary regulatory base for the settlement of the legal status of the Caspian Sea will be provided by six agreements in the spheres of economy, transport and security, which were also signed on Sunday.

In particular, on the basis of the agreement on economic cooperation in the Caspian, priority will be given to building up regional trade and economic ties and deepening close and mutually beneficial cooperation.

Putin also outlined the prospects of cooperation between the Caspian states in the spheres of tourism, ecology and conservation of bio-resources, suppression of drug trafficking as well as prevention and liquidation of emergency situations, the Kremlin said.

"We need to make full use of the possibilities of the convention and signed documents to stimulate trade and economic relations between the coastal states," Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarabyev was quoted by the Interfax news agency as saying.

He also said that the five states have agreed to sign an agreement on confidence-building measures in the military sector, in a bid to ensure the arms balance in the region and strengthen regional security and stability.

Works on the convention have been in development since 1996, and the foreign ministers of five states reached a consensus on its draft in Moscow in December 2017.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-13 00:00:02|Editor: yan

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CAPE TOWN, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Police on Sunday fired rubber bullets to disperse hundreds of protesters demonstrating over the death of a fisherman who was shot dead by police near Cape Town.

Several protesters sustained minor injuries, witnesses said.

The protesters had allegedly set fire to several properties in Hout Bay, a harbor community, to vent their anger over the killing of the fisherman suspected of poaching on Saturday.

Local residents took to the streets on Sunday morning, and the protest soon turned violent.

During the standoff with police, protesters set a government building on fire, burned tires and blocked roads leading into the area.

A police boat and several vehicles were also set alight.

The burning of buildings and tires in the area sent plumes of black smoke into the sky that could been seen kilometers away.

Three people were arrested for alleged involvement in acts of violence, Western Cape provincial police spokesperson Lt. Col. Andre Traut said.

Police reinforcements have been dispatched to the area to restore order, said Traut.

"Our members will remain in the area to maintain law and order," he said.(L-R) Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Kazakhtan's President Nursultan Nazarbayev, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkmenistan's President Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov pose after the signing ceremony at the 5th Caspian Summit in Aktau on August 12, 2018. (Sputnik/AFP)

MOSCOW, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Russia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan signed an agreement Sunday for collective use of the Caspian sea after two decades of negotiations, the Kremlin said.

The presidents of the five states inked the landmark convention on the legal status of the Caspian Sea at the Fifth Caspian Summit in the Kazakh city of Aktau.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said the convention "fixes the exclusive right and responsibility of our states for the fate of the Caspian Sea and establishes clear rules for its collective use", according to a Kremlin transcript.

The document clearly regulates the issues of necessary delimitation, navigation and fishing regimes, fixes the principles of military-political interaction of the participating countries and guarantees the use of Caspian Sea exclusively for peaceful purposes, Putin said.

According to the Russian president, the necessary regulatory base for the settlement of the legal status of the Caspian Sea will be provided by six agreements in the spheres of economy, transport and security, which were also signed on Sunday.

In particular, on the basis of the agreement on economic cooperation in the Caspian, priority will be given to building up regional trade and economic ties and deepening close and mutually beneficial cooperation.

Putin also outlined the prospects of cooperation between the Caspian states in the spheres of tourism, ecology and conservation of bio-resources, suppression of drug trafficking as well as prevention and liquidation of emergency situations, the Kremlin said.

"We need to make full use of the possibilities of the convention and signed documents to stimulate trade and economic relations between the coastal states," Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarabyev was quoted by the Interfax news agency as saying.

He also said that the five states have agreed to sign an agreement on confidence-building measures in the military sector, in a bid to ensure the arms balance in the region and strengthen regional security and stability.

Works on the convention have been in development since 1996, and the foreign ministers of five states reached a consensus on its draft in Moscow in December 2017.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-13 00:20:06|Editor: yan

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NEW DELHI, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Seven children were killed as their car skidded off the road and fell into a ditch in the western Indian state of Gujarat, police said Sunday.

The accident occurred on the Halol-Bodeli Road near Bhat village in the state's Panchmahal district in the wee hours of the day.

"The ill-fated car carrying 10 people, including seven children of a family, veered off the road after its rear wheels came off and fell into the ditch," a police official said.

While the seven children died on the spot, three others sustained injuries and have been admitted to a government hospital, he added.

A probe has been ordered into the incident, the official said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-13 00:35:08|Editor: yan

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CAIRO, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- An Egyptian criminal court sentenced on Sunday five members of the outlawed Muslim Brotherhood group, including its top leader Mohamed badie, to 25-year jail term, over inciting violence and murder.

Giza Criminal Court also sentenced Bassem Ouda, former supplies minister under ousted Brotherhood-oriented President Mohamed Morsi, to 15 years in prison and three other defendants to 10 years over similar charges.

The verdicts came during a retrial of the defendants after the same court in September 2014 sentenced 15 Brotherhood members to life imprisonment.

The verdicts are not final and are still appealable.

Meanwhile, Cairo Criminal Court sent on Sunday the papers of three other defendants to the Grand Mufti, the head of the country's highest religious authority, for his non-binding opinion on their execution over forming an illegal anti-state group inciting terror activities, according to state-run Al-Ahram news website.

The court is scheduled to pronounce the verdict on October 14.

Muslim Brotherhood-oriented President Mohamed Morsi was ousted by the army in July 2013 in response to mass protests against his one-year rule.

Many Brotherhood members and loyalists, including Morsi himself, are currently jailed, and many have received appealable death sentences and life imprisonments over charges varying from inciting violence and murder to espionage and jailbreak.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-13 00:45:10|Editor: yan

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ATHENS, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- A large wildfire was raging in eastern Greece on Evoia island, some 80 kilometers north of Athens, on Sunday, the local Fire Brigade said.

Over 250 residents of two villages in the Dirfia and Messapies municipality have been evacuated as a precautionary measure, Fanis Spanos, the Deputy Governor of the Region of Evoia, told Greek national news agency AMNA.

In addition, traffic in regional roads has been banned.

According to local authorities, fanned by strong winds blowing in the area, the blaze has spread in a pine forest over a very wide front, despite efforts by dozens of firemen to contain it.

In the wake of the July 23 wildfire tragedy which swept through coastal resorts and killed 94 people in eastern Attica according to the latest official data, Greek authorities were on alert to tackle wildfires immediately.

After no evacuation order was issued in the July wildfire and Greece mourned one of its deadliest tragedies in over a decade, the government has pledged to restructure the civil protection mechanism to make it more effective.

Greece suffers from many wildfires each summer which are linked to heat waves or arson.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-13 00:50:11|Editor: yan

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MOGADISHU, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Somali security forces on Sunday killed one al-Shabab militant who murdered a civilian at Suk-ba'ad market, the second biggest market in the capital Mogadishu, officials said.

"National security forces killed the terrorist in Suk-ba'ad market north of the capital today, and recovered his gun. The militant murdered a civilian on the spot at the market," the state news agency quoted Minister of Internal Security Mohamed Abukar Islow as saying.

The al-Qaida allied terrorist group did not comment on the latest killing of their fighter by government forces.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-13 01:00:13|Editor: mmm

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LONDON, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Detectives are investigating a shooting in the British city of Manchester as attempted murder, after a shot gun was fired earlier Sunday during a busy street party and wounded 12 people, local authorities said.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said at around 2:30 a.m. (0130 GMT) it received a report of gunshots heard on Claremont Road in the Moss Side area.

Nine people went to hospital, aged from 12 to in their 50s, with pellet-type wounds that are not believed to be serious. One man has since been discharged.

A tenth person, a man, remains in a stable but serious condition in hospital with injuries to his legs. Another two people have presented themselves at hospital to be checked over. Their injuries are not thought to be serious at the time, according to the police.

The police said detectives are still working to establish the motive behind the attack but are currently treating it as attempted murder.

"From enquiries so far, it is believed a shot gun was fired on at least two occasions but the weapon is yet to be recovered. Searches remain ongoing in the area and armed as well as unarmed officers will continue to patrol throughout Moss Side," the police said in a statement.

Chief Superintendent Wasim Chaudhry, from GMP's City of Manchester division, said: "The investigation remains in its very early stages and we are still appealing for people to come forward to police with information about who is responsible for this reckless attack."Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-13 01:05:15|Editor: yan

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ADDIS ABABA, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- The Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF), a rebel group operating in the Ethiopia Somali regional state, on Sunday announced a unilateral temporary ceasefire.

In a press statement, the ONLF said its move is to lay the groundwork for talks and peaceful negotiations to find a lasting solution to the grievances in the region.

"Emphasizing the urgent need to foster a climate of peace that can assist the ONLF, the Ethiopian government and other stakeholders in resolving the longstanding conflict in the Ethiopia Somali regional state, the ONLF declares a unilateral ceasefire from Sunday," the statement said.

"The ONLF will cease all military and security operations against the Ethiopian security apparatus until a negotiated comprehensive cessation of hostilities is reached with the Ethiopian government." the statement added.

The ONLF made international headlines on April 24, 2007, when it launched a deadly raid on an oil field in Ethiopia Somali regional state. The attack left 65 Ethiopians dead.

After the attack, the Ethiopian government undertook a vigorous counterinsurgency campaign.

It also undertook large scale infrastructure projects to win the hearts of local population who were thought to be sympathetic to the ONLF.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-13 01:05:16|Editor: yan

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HELSINKI, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Majority of Finns would not like Finland to join NATO even after a presidential recommendation to support such a move, a fresh poll commissioned by news agency Lannen Media said on Sunday.

The poll indicated that an application to join NATO would attain a 35 percent support, if backed publicly by the president. A half of the nation remains opposed.

Finnish supporters of a would-be NATO membership have said earlier the backing of joining NATO would be essentially higher, if the president would endorse it.

Of Finnish political parties, only the conservative National Coalition Party has included NATO membership in its program goals.

In recent polls, the backing of joining NATO has been at around 20 percent, without the presidential backing being given as an option.

Commenting on the results, Teija Tiilikainen, director of the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, said even a popular president cannot gain the acceptance of the majority in all policy issues.

The current government coalition, in power since 2015, notes NATO membership as an option, but sees no ground to pursue it now.

Finland has an "enhanced companion status" with NATO, but it does not offer security guarantees.

Finland has increased defence co-operation with Sweden, but the recently signed defence agreement with Sweden does not constitute an alliance.

A recent tripartite defence agreement between Finland, Sweden and the United States does not amount to a military alliance either.

President Sauli Niinisto has said NATO is "an open possibility," but would need a referendum.

Leading Finnish politicians have said they trust that Sweden would not go alone and apply for NATO membership.

Russia has recently warned that Finnish or Swedish NATO membership would cause "counter measures".

In the Baltic basin area, the three Baltic countries -- Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania -- Poland, Germany and Demark are NATO members. Also Norway belongs to NATO.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-13 01:40:22|Editor: yan

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BEIRUT, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- The Lebanese army received on Sunday the fourth batch of eight Bradley fighting vehicles from the United States, local media reported.

"The Lebanese army received eight Bradley vehicles within the framework of the U.S. military assistance program for Lebanon," according to Lebanon Files, a Lebanese news website.

On June 13, the United States delivered four A-29 Super Tucano aircrafts to the Lebanese army. The four aircrafts were the remaining of the six the U.S. had delivered in its latest military aid package to Lebanon. The first two were delivered in October 2017.

Over the last decade, the United States has invested more than 1.5 billion U.S. dollars in training and equipping over 32,000 Lebanese troops.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-13 02:55:31|Editor: yan

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TRIPOLI, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Libyan navy on Sunday said it rescued 60 illegal immigrants on a broken rubber boat off the country's western coast.

The navy said that the rescue operation took place off the town of Surman, some 50 km west of the capital Tripoli, and that the immigrants included four children.

Following the 2011 uprising that toppled former leader Gaddafi's regime, Libya became a preferred point of departure for illegal immigrants wanting to cross the Mediterranean towards Europe.

Improved weather conditions increase flows of illegal immigrants towards Europe, especially off western Libyan coast.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-13 04:30:46|Editor: yan

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NAIROBI, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- A tourist from China's Taiwan died while another was injured on Saturday afternoon after an attack by a hippopotamus on the shores of Lake Naivasha, about 95 km northwest of the Kenyan capital, the Chinese embassy in Nairobi confirmed on Sunday.

The two tourists were taking photos when they were attacked by the hippo at around 3 p.m. on Saturday at Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort.

The Chinese Embassy in Kenya dispatched officials to the scene and requested the Kenyan authorities to boost security at tourist resorts to avoid attacks by wildlife.

The embassy conveyed condolences over the death of the victim and wished the injured a quick recovery.

"It is the unshakable duty of the Chinese government to provide consular protection services to Taiwanese compatriots," a spokesman at the Chinese Embassy in Kenya said.

"The Chinese Embassy in Kenya will work closely with the Kenyan government to help evacuate the body of the victim, treat the wounded and handle the aftermath," added the spokesman.

The east African nation has in recent years witnessed the death of several foreign tourists in hippo attacks.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-13 04:30:47|Editor: yan

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GENEVA, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- The World Health Organization (WHO) on Sunday called for free and secure access in responding to the latest Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the first time that the disease has struck a densely populated active conflict zone.

A little more than a week since the DRC declared the new Ebola outbreak, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Regional Director for Africa Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, and WHO Deputy Director-General of Emergency Preparedness and Response Dr. Peter Salama, went on a two-day mission to the city of Beni and to the Mangina health area in North Kivu province, the DRC. Mangina, which is 30 km from Beni, lies at the epicenter of the epidemic and accounts for most of the confirmed cases so far.

"WHO is calling for free and secure access by all responders to the affected populations," said Dr. Tedros after the visit. "All of those participating in the response must be able to move freely and safely in conflict areas to do the work that is needed to bring the outbreak under control. The population must also have access to treatment centers that save lives and stop the spread of disease."

A range of armed groups are currently active in the Ebola-hit area and this insecurity creates a challenge for health teams needing to go deep into communities to actively find cases and then monitor them twice a day for three weeks. It can also discourage members of the community from coming forward for treatment, the WHO said.

Earlier on Aug. 1, the DRC government announced that preliminary laboratory results had indicated a cluster of cases of Ebola virus in North Kivu province, northeastern of the country. It came little more than a week after the Ministry of Health declared the end of an outbreak in Equateur Province in the far western part of the country.

Last Tuesday, Dr. Salama confirmed that Ebola Zaire strain is the cause of the latest Ebola outbreak in the DRC, which though had no close linkages with the earlier outbreak in the northwestern Equateur province. Vaccination started last Wednesday to first target high risk populations in North Kivu, including the provincial health minister and the provincial coordinator of the Expanded Program on Immunization.

While it's the tenth Ebola outbreak in the DRC, it's the first time that the disease has struck a densely populated active conflict zone. As of Aug. 9, 17 out of 44 cases under treatment had been confirmed Ebola, while ten out of the total recorded 37 deaths were also confirmed.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-13 04:50:50|Editor: xuxin

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An anti-protester holds a placard in front of the white supremacist-led rally near the White House, in Washington D.C., the United States, on Aug. 12, 2018. Thousands of anti-protesters gathered in several locations in central Washington Sunday afternoon, hours before a controversial right supremacist rally is scheduled. The protesters gathered in the country's capital to mark the one-year anniversary of the deadly Charlottesville protest, during which a white supremacist killed a female anti-protester, sparking nationwide furor. (Xinhua/Yang Chenglin)

WASHINGTON, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Thousands of anti-protesters gathered in several locations in central Washington Sunday afternoon, hours before a controversial right supremacist rally is scheduled.

The protesters are gathered in Lafayette park, just across the street from the White House, and the freedom plaza, just blocks away.

The protesters gathered in the country's capital to mark the one-year anniversary of the deadly Charlottesville protest, during which a white supremacist killed a female anti protester, sparking nationwide furor.

To prevent potential conflict, Washington law enforcement came onto the street in force to maintain order. An entire section of Pennsylvania adjacent to the White House has been sealed off.

Organizers of the the far right rally, officially named United the Right 2, claim their purpose was to advocate "White civil rights," but were slammed as promoting racism and xenophobia. The far right rally is set to begin in Lafayette park at 5:30 pm.

Anti-protesters held up signs denouncing racism, fascism and calling for pluralism, and at time broke out in chants and sing alongs.

Debbie Wagner, an anti protester from neighboring state of Maryland, told Xinhua that she was shocked by the tragedy at Charlottesville last year, and found many around her have become more politically vocal in the past year.

"White Supremacism is a terrible thing, I hope America can continue to be a place of diversity," she said.

Last summer's "Unite the Right" rally in historic Charlottesville, held on Aug. 12 to protest U.S. cities taking down Confederate statues, attracted national attention when white supremacists, fascists and neo-Nazis violently clashed with counter-protesters.

A 32-year-old woman was killed and 19 others were injured when an Ohio man associated with white nationalist groups allegedly drove a car into the crowd of counter-protesters.

President Trump drew a firestorm of criticism last year following the deadly when he said "both sides" were to blame for the violence.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-13 04:55:50|Editor: yan

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KHARTOUM, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Sudan's Animal Resources Ministry on Sunday denied reports that Saudi Arabian authorities have suspended imports of sheep from Sudan.

In a statement, the Sudanese ministry reiterated its commitment to the animal health procedures in accordance with the international standard in terms of vaccination and quarantine.

Sudan also sticks to the conditions agreed on with the exporters, said the ministry.

It denied some media reports over the Saudi ban on the imports of Sudan's sheep during the past two days and that the transporting ships had returned with the Sudanese sheep.

It said "the ministry has not received any letter from the Saudi authorities indicating the suspension of imports or making any change."

"No ship has been returned from Saudi Arabia with its shipment of livestock and the Saudi authorities have not issued any decision on the suspension of Sudanese camels, cow or sheep imports," added the statement.

The ministry said that such lies aimed at undermining the Sudanese economy, of which the animal resources constitute a major pillar.

Earlier, some media reports said Saudi Arabia informed the Sudanese authorities of the suspension of receiving Sudanese sheep imports over suspected foot and mouth disease which is currently spreading in parts of Africa.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-13 05:00:51|Editor: yan

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RABAT, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- A Nigerian national was arrested at the Mohammed V International Airport in Morocco's Casablanca over cocaine trafficking, the Moroccan police said on Sunday.

According to a police statement, a total of 1.85 kg of cocaine in capsules was removed from the stomach of the suspect at a hospital in Casablanca.

The suspect was on a flight heading to Sao Paulo, Brazil, the same source said.

The man has been remanded on custody pending investigation under the supervision of the public prosecutor.Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-13 05:20:54|Editor: mmm

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WASHINGTON, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- It had been expected up to about 400 white supremacists to gather outside the White House on Sunday. However, by 4:00 pm local time, only dozens of them emerged and marched through Washington D.C. , accompanied by huge boos from crowded counterprotesters separated by heavy police presence.

"Go home, Nazis", "Shame", counterprotesters yelled at the far-right demonstrators, some of them hiding their faces with masks, bags or flags.

In order to keep the far-right group and people who protest them separate, the police blocked traffic and installed black metal fencing in Lafayette Square outside the White House. An entire section of Pennsylvania Ave. adjacent to the White House was also sealed off.

In sharp comparison with the small group of far-right demonstrators showing up, thousands of counter-protesters have gathered peacefully in several locations in central Washington since early afternoon on Sunday, the first anniversary of deadly riots in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Organizers of the the far right rally, officially named United the Right 2, claim their purpose was to advocate "White civil rights," but were slammed as promoting racism and xenophobia.

Debbie Wagner, an anti protester from Maryland, told Xinhua that she was shocked by the tragedy at Charlottesville last year.

"White Supremacism is a terrible thing, I hope America can continue to be a place of diversity," she said.

Last summer's "Unite the Right" rally in historic Charlottesville, held on Aug. 12 to protest U.S. cities taking down Confederate statues, attracted national attention when white supremacists, fascists and neo-Nazis violently clashed with counter-protesters.

A 32-year-old woman was killed and 19 others were injured when a white supremacist from Ohio drove a car into the crowd of counter-protesters at the time.

This year, the far right rally held by the same organizers is set to begin in Lafayette Park at 5:30 pm and last for about two hours.

U.S. President Donald Trump, who drew a firestorm of criticism in the wake of the riots last year when he said "both sides" were to blame for the violence, is not in the capital this weekend.About the campaign

The Yakima County Development Association is aiming to raise $3 million by the end of the year to fund economic development efforts from 2019 through 2023.

The money raised will be earmarked for the following initiatives:

 Expand and retain existing industries, $925,000 ($185,000 annually): Assisting existing companies and industries in the Yakima Valley.

 Recruit new industry, $750,000 ($150,000): Making region more attractive to prospective companies.

 Strengthen business environment and improve quality of place, $825,000 ($165,000): Making the Yakima Valley an attractive location for potential business and skilled professionals.

 Encourage small business growth, $300,000 ($60,000): Aiding and supporting new and developing businesses.

 Investor relations and communications, $200,000 ($40,000): Communicating and engaging with the organizations donors.Jammu, August 12: In a first sign of revolt in Hindu extremist Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) over its favoring of scrapping Article 35-A, the BJP MLA from R S Pura, Gagan Bhagat opposed abrogation of the State residency law and warned that if the law was scrapped, Jammuites would take up guns and pelt stones.

Speaking during a public meeting in R S Pura in Jammu, Bhagat said, Kashmiris are united on Article 35-A and oppose its abrogation. Everyone in Kashmir is opposing scrapping of Article 35-A, which grants special privileges to residents of the J&K.

He said that people of Jammu and Kashmir had been given special rights under Article 35-A by Maharaja Hari Singh. The BJP MLA said Article 35A bars non-state subjects from employment, purchase of property and land in the territory. If a girl from state marries outside, her husband cannot claim property in J&K.

He said Maharaja had given special residency rights to people of Jammu and Kashmir because he knew Jammuities are simple and innocent people. Taking a different line from party, Bhagat favoured continuation of Article 35-A in J&K.

Sometimes, we have to speak differently from party with which we are affiliated. The BJP wants to revoke the law because they would prefer 300 parliamentary seats from across India. Even if Jammuities dont vote for them, it wont affect the party, he said. He said if Article 35-A was scrapped, people in Jammu would be worst hit.

In case, this law is scrapped, Jammu people will not get employment. Leave aside government jobs, you will not be able to get private jobs. You will not get land because land prices will increase manifold and the price will be out of reach of Jammu people, the BJP MLA said. He said the non-state subjects, who are working under Jammuites, would become their bosses if special rights are revoked.

The BJP MLA said when Jammu people would lose jobs and business due to scrapping of Article 35-A, people would pick up guns and pet stones. You will see stone pelting in Jammu region also. Kashmiri people are fighting for their rights. They are also fighting war of Jammu people, he said. Bhagat said youth in Kashmir did not take gun in a day.

He said he would campaign across Jammu division to spread awareness among people about Article 35-A and Article 370 and their benefits to the people of Jammu specially.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...After the abrupt retirement in May of Campbell Soup Co. chief executive Denise Morrison and the Camden company's decision to undertake a thorough review of its operations, some are speculating that the controlling Dorrance family could finally decide to sell the 149-year-old company. Read more

Activist investor Daniel S. Loeb, allied with a member of the controlling Dorrance family, went public last week with his campaign to force a sale of Campbell Soup Co., which has faltered in its bid to modernize its portfolio of packaged foods.

But any such deal faces difficult math: The 149-year-old Camden food company's charter, as allowed under New Jersey law, says two-thirds of votes cast by shareholders must favor a sale. A two-thirds vote is also needed to change the charter.

Given that family members represented on the board own 41 percent of the stock, would-be buyers could be out of luck unless the family  descendants of John T. Dorrance, a chemist who invented condensed soup in 1897  can be convinced to sell.

The brother-and-sister team of Bennett Dorrance, 72, and Mary Alice Malone, 68, billionaires who own a combined 33.1 percent stake, themselves come very close to controlling Campbell outright because the two-thirds rule gives them an almost insurmountable lead.

"For practical purposes, the two of them voting alone could probably stop virtually any sale," said William S. Skinner, who practices corporate law out of the Cherry Hill office of Flaster/Greenberg.

If Bennett Dorrance, who lives in Arizona, and Malone, a Chester County resident, were to disagree on the future of the company and not vote as a bloc, it would be a different matter. Historically, neither has spoken publicly about any intentions.

A third key family member is Archbold D. Van Beuren, who represents a family trust that owns 7.9 percent of Campbell and is believed to be the only great-grandson of John Dorrance to have worked at the company. Van Beuren's mother was among three cousins, grandchildren of Dorrance, who wanted to sell Campbell 30 years ago.

George Strawbridge Jr., the Dorrance descendant working with Loeb, has a 2.8 percent stake but retired from Campbell's board in 2009. It is possible that additional family members own shares, but don't have to disclose them because they are not on the board and their holdings are too small to trigger disclosure requirements.

The current buzz on the future of Campbell Soup, which employs about 1,200 at its headquarters, started in May after Denise Morrison retired abruptly as president and chief executive, following another report in a long run of weak quarterly earnings. The company announced that it would undertake a complete review of its businesses, which includes the newly acquired Snyder's-Lance Inc. snack maker.

"Everything is on the table. There are no sacred cows," Keith R. McLoughlin, a member of the board named interim CEO, told analysts on May 18.

Campbell has said it will disclose the results of the review on Aug. 30 and is not commenting on "rumor and speculation."

Loeb's Third Point LLC, a New York investment firm, disclosed Thursday that it had acquired a 5.6 percent state in Campbell for $686 million. "The only justifiable outcome of the strategic review" is the sale of Campbell, the filing said.

Some have speculated that Kraft Heinz Co., a food giant with its own growth troubles, was in the hunt for Campbell. Food analysts were skeptical in June when the first suggestions emerged that Kraft Heinz might want to acquire the company. Campbell would not fulfill Kraft Heinz's needs: growth in the U.S. and strong platforms for overseas expansion.

Campbell has been here before, surrounded by talk that the family would sell.

The April 1989 death of John T. "Jack" Dorrance Jr., the only son of the chemist who devised the recipe for condensed soup and chairman of the company for more than 20 years until 1984, brought more than speculation. At the time, the family holdings totaled nearly 60 percent.

Eight months after Jack Dorrance's death, three of his nieces, granddaughters of the elder Dorrance who together owned a combined 16 percent of Campbell shares, called for the sale of the company. The period was chronicled in a three-part Inquirer series in 1991.

The board, which included outsiders, in early 1990 backed Jack Dorrance's three children, Malone, Bennett Dorrance, and John T. "Ippy" Dorrance III, who owned a combined 31.8 percent of the company and did not want to sell. Joining them in favor of keeping the company was cousin George Strawbridge Jr., who held 2.1 percent of the stock.

A few years later, Ippy Dorrance, the oldest of the three, moved to Ireland and sold his shares, but the percentage stakes of his siblings have increased thanks to share buybacks that have reduced the number of shares outstanding.

Campbell's fortunes soared in the 1990s as new chief executive David Johnson slashed expenses, sold off weak parts of the business, and raised prices to boost profits. The stock price followed, reaching a peak in the late 1990s that was not surpassed until 2016.

His successor, Dale F. Morrison  no relation to Denise  took over in 1997. He faced a period of turmoil, including the ill-fated spin-off of Vlasic Foods International Inc. in a bid to focus on more promising brands, and a run of bad earnings reports as soup sales fell. Morrison resigned abruptly in early 2000.

Some analysts expected the Dorrances, who at the time held 54 percent of Campbell's shares, to realize that the soup business's prospects were not so hot and decide to sell. Again they held on, though some members of the family trust reduced their holdings over the years. In 2016 and 2017, when the stock was worth around $60 a share, the trust reported sales of 487,283 shares for nearly $30 million.

It is too soon to say what will happen this time, especially given the growth troubles of most big food companies.

Longtime Campbell Soup analyst Mitchell B. Pinheiro doubts the family will unload the company. If nothing else, selling now would be an extraordinarily rapid turnaround so soon after the board approved the purchase of Snyder's-Lance for $6.1 billion, including debt. That deal was completed in late March.

"Why this time? Campbell's has always had a struggle of some form or another," he said. Anything the company does is less profitable than its declining condensed soup business. But, that's been true for decades.

Campbell shares, which closed Thursday at $42.28, are sharply off from their all-time high of $67.10 in July 2016, but on takeover speculation, they've rebounded from a recent low of $33.28 in late May.

Whatever the share price, the company's dividend likely remains solid, Pinheiro said. It's a huge source of income to family stockholders. For Malone, Campbell's largest shareholder, dividends work out to $204,329 a day.The Philadelphia pawnshop at the corner of Lancaster Avenue and Brooklyn Street wanted $16 to cash my paycheck.

The Money Mart near Ninth and Market would charge $24 to give me my money.

Luckily I have a bank account, so I didn't have to fork over part of my pay last week to get cash. But some residents regularly pay fees ranging from 2 percent to cash payroll checks to 10 percent for personal checks because they lack bank accounts.

Some experts predict that check-cashing outlets will go the way of the dodo bird as more people switch to moving money digitally. But the industry has shown recent revenue growth and has no shortage of customers.

Roughly 4 percent of area households are "unbanked," meaning they don't have checking or savings accounts, according to a 2015 survey by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. An additional 19 percent in Greater Philadelphia are considered "underbanked" because they have bank accounts but still use alternative financial services like check cashers.

These bankless consumers not only incur high transaction costs to cash checks and pay bills through third parties, but they also miss out on future opportunities for traditional loans by not establishing a financial history, experts and advocates say.

For many of the unbanked, however, traditional banks seem unwelcoming and more costly. The prospect of recurring overdraft charges, hidden fees, and minimum balance requirements make consumers leery of opening bank accounts. In the 2015 FDIC survey, the most commonly cited reason for being unbanked was not having "enough money to keep in an account."

>> READ MORE: Is the war on poverty 'a success,' as the Trump administration proclaims?

The result is a two-tiered financial system  one for those in poverty and one for the rest of us  that feeds into false narratives, says William Hall, the financial empowerment program manager for the City of Philadelphia.

"What we are inherently saying is that this type of institution is for this type of person and this type of institution is for this type of person," Hall said. "That 'othering,' I think, just perpetuates the divide we see amongst the haves and the have-nots that perpetuates poverty."

Solutions

Hall helped relaunch Bank On Philadelphia, which works to reduce the number of unbanked and underbanked consumers in the city. The nationwide Bank On project, run by the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund, encourages financial institutions to offer low-cost accounts, particularly those without overdrafts.

Overdraft fees may be the most difficult banking cost to bear. The fees, typically $35 each, are incurred when users spend more money than what's in their checking accounts. In many cases, the transactions triggering the charge are less than the fee itself.

Consumers pay $17 billion annually in overdraft and "non sufficient fund fees," according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Most of this revenue comes from a small group of people. Just 30 percent of consumers overdraw their checking accounts, according to the bureau, and the 8 percent who overdraft more than 10 times per year account for 74 percent of overdraft fees. These consumers are charged $380 in overdraft fees on average annually, the bureau says.

"Sometimes people have [bank accounts] and then they get hit with overdraft fees and it ends up costing them a lot more than they even thought about," said Patty Hasson, president of Clarifi, which offers free or low-cost financial counseling in the Delaware Valley.

>>READ MORE: States have a role to play on war on poverty (which, by the way, isn't over)

She said consumers who rack up overdrafts will close their accounts and be hesitant to try again, or they'll be listed in chexsystems  which banks use to evaluate customers  as too risky to get a second chance at another bank.

Sen. Cory Booker (D., N.J.) introduced a bill Thursday that would rein in overdraft fees by limiting the number of charges to one per month and six per year and requiring fees to be proportional to the cost of covering the overdraft.

Bank On calls for accounts that don't allow overdrafts. In many cases, these accounts decline transactions when there are insufficient funds. Bank On also advocates for accounts that require just $25 or less for an initial deposit and impose small, transparent monthly maintenance fees.

David Rothstein, a principal with the CFE Fund, acknowledges accounts without overdraft service may generate less money for banks. But he argues those accounts also mitigate risks for financial institutions. "You're trading some higher fees for a predictable fee structure," he said.

>>READ MORE: Many U.S. kids can't swim and are at risk for drowning

Four banks in Pennsylvania offer Bank On approved accounts: Bank of America's SafeBalance Banking Account; First Commonwealth Bank's SmartPay Card; KeyBank's Hassle-Free Account; and Wells Fargo's EasyPay Card. Bank On's certified accounts in New Jersey include Chase Liquid and Citi Bank's Access Account. These products can be found online by searching the names of the accounts.

"Low- and no-cost bank accounts without overdraft fees are widely available," said Nessa Feddis, the American Bankers Association's deputy chief counsel for Consumer Protection and Payments. "We are still trying to crack that nut to get people who, for whatever reason, don't find [banking] attractive."

Why people may dislike banks

One reason may be that check-cashing outlets, while charging high fees for individual transactions, can be more convenient and transparent than banks in some instances.

There are large swaths of the city with poor access to formal financial institutions, the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia found in a March study on branch closures. From 2010 to 2016, 383 banks, credit unions, and thrifts have closed in the Philadelphia metropolitan area, including 74 within the city, according to the study.

"If you drive through certain commercial corridors, you won't see a bank, but you do see check cashers, you do see pawnshops," said the city's Hall. "So part of it is just there's not a bank within proximity of certain folks."

Some consumers also prefer check cashers because they can provide money immediately, display their fees clearly in the store, and are sometimes open 24 hours a day, said Lisa Servon, a University of Pennsylvania professor and author of The Unbanking of America: How the New Middle Class Survives. She worked as a check casher in New York's South Bronx for four months in 2013.

"Ultimately I found out people were making rational decisions a lot of the time," Servon said. "It wasn't because they didn't know how much money they were paying and if they could get a cheaper deal."

>>READ MORE: A low-cost way to reduce depression: renovate vacant lots

She recalled a woman who paid $2 to withdraw the last $10 on her electronic government benefits card, effectively paying 20 percent of all she had. The decision may seem foolish, but Servon noted ATMs typically don't provide small denominations of money.

"She needs that eight bucks right now," Servon said. "There's no other way she can get that money."

Check-cashing revenues grew 4.2 percent in 2016 to $2.1 billion, and the service was projected to have continued moderate growth in 2017, according to a market study by the Center for Financial Services Innovation.

Money Mart near Ninth and Market had six people waiting in line in the morning and again in the afternoon one day last week. The place cashes payroll checks for a 3 percent cut and cashes personal checks and money orders for a 10 percent charge.

>>READ MORE: Changes to food stamps could deny benefits to thousands

Servon, though, believes the days of the check-cashing businesses are limited, as more people deposit funds electronically rather than use paper checks. "Their profits are being more squeezed as those trends continue to happen and as it becomes easier to deposit checks to your phone, " she said.

She suggests consumers find local banks that invest in the communities they serve. Those banks can be found online at banklocal.info and mightydeposits.com.

How to find financial counseling

Besides Bank On Philadelphia, there are other area groups helping people put money in the bank. Philadelphia has set up six "Financial Empowerment Centers" throughout the city, where Clarifi employees offer free, one-on-one financial counseling.

Hasson, the Clarifi president, emphasizes that unbanked consumers not only lose money on check-cashing fees but also lose out on opportunities for low-interest loans later.

"It's a pathway to other financial products," she said. "If you are looking to get a traditional loan, being banked and having a history in a checking and savings account is a benefit."

>>READ MORE: Why this couple's wedding registry was devoted to paying off Philly kids' court costs

Alan Nesbitt, a Clarifi counselor, said long-term goals, like buying a house, are often better motivators to get people banked than telling consumers they are losing money with other financial services.

"The strongest thing that gets people into banking is if they need something from the system," Nesbitt said. "Overnight, they get banked."

This article is part of the High Cost of Being Broke series, produced by Broke in Philly, a collaborative reporting project on economic justice. To see all the #HighCost stories, please visit: https://brokeinphilly.orgSrinagar: Langate family, which claimed that their missing son was among the five militants killed in a gunfight with forces in Rafiabad forests in Baramula district, on Saturday demanded that body of their kin be handed over to them.

The family claimed that they identified their kin Muzaffar Ahmad Mir, 22, son of Bashir Ahmad Mir, of Langate, through pictures displayed on social networking sites soon after the gun battle ended. A stranger also approached us and informed us that our son is among the five militants killed in Rafiabad gunfight, family members said.

They said that bodies of the killed militants have been buried at Hamam Rafiabad. They demanded immediate exhumation of Muzaffars body so that their claim is established. Muzaffar left home on August 5 evening without informing anyone. We later lodged a missing complaint at police post Langate, they said.

Our son has no adverse report against him in any police station, said Muhammad Iqbal Mir, Muzaffar s uncle.

We fail to understand how come our son was part of the group which had infiltrated into Rafiabad? he added.

They said that it was on August 5 that forces claimed that they received information about the presence of militants in the Rafiabad forests. They (forces) claimed that the group had infiltrated recently from across the Line of Control. However, if our son went missing on August 5, then how come he was a part of the group? the family members asked.

The searches in Rafiabad forests lasted for four days, from August 5 to 9, as per army. Our son went missing on August 5. How it is possible that he has gone to Pakistan completed arms training and returned within four days? Iqbal asked.

Deputy commissioner Kupwara Khalid Jahangir while talking to Greater Kashmir said, We have already collected the DNA sample which will be sent to a laboratory. If family claim matches with the DNA test then a due procedure will be followed. However, merely on an assumption that someone informed the family that their missing son is among the killed militants, body cannot be exhumed.

Meanwhile, Langate observed a complete on Saturday to express solidarity with the bereaved family.

It may be recalled that Army on Friday during a press conference on Friday had said that five militants who were killed during a gun battle in Rafiabad forests on Thursday were affiliated with militant outfit Lashkar-e-Toiba and were foreigners.Srinagar, August 12: A policeman was killed while four Central Reserve Police Force personnel were injured in an attack in Batamaloo area of Srinagar, today.

Special operations group (SOG) of Indian police and paramilitary CRPF jointly laid a siege around Deyarwani locality of Batamaloo and stated cordon and search operation. When the searches were in progress, rebel fighters attacked the forces personnel. One police man was killed, and four CRPF personnel sustained injuries, operation continues, Director General of Police (DGP) SP Vaid said in a twitter message.

A government official told media that the attackers had managed to escape. A civilian Neyaz Ahmad Butt also received injuries during the operation, the official added. The injured troops were shifted to the hospital for treatment, he said. The forces arrested two people during the operation.

Meanwhile, the authorities snapped mobile Internet services in Srinagar immediately after the cordon and search operation was launched in Batamaloo locality.Arrested Chand-Maoist leader Bishwakarmas son files habeas corpus petition

Son of arrested leader of Netra Bikram Chand-led Communist Party of Nepal (CPN), Khadga Bahadur Bishwakarma, has filed a habeas corpus petition at the Supreme Court on Sunday, arguing that his father is being detained illegally.Bhairahawa airport may be operated by private sector

The government may make first airport deal under the public-private partnership (PPP) programme to operate Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa, going against the tradition that airports should be owned, managed and operated by the government.Behrouz Boochani, a Kurdish journalist from Iran who has been imprisoned on Manus Island for the last five years, makes the point in an article in The Saturday Paper that there is a danger that the cruelty overseen by Dutton on Manus and Nauru is in the process of replicating itself throughout Australian society.

It is a familiar meme, particularly among conservative politicians who believe that people under stress, such as welfare recipients, are to blame for their circumstances and need to be dealt with harshly for their own good.

The walloper in Dutton believes that seeking asylum is tantamount to a criminal act and, as such, deserves punishment.

He doesnt understand that some people have the time and relative security to apply to migrate to Australia while others who are faced with an immediate threat to their health and well-being need to escape their countries quickly and in any way they can, including in leaky boats.

TUMBY BAY  Australias torpedo-headed Minister for Xenophobia, Mutton Dutton, doesnt seem to be able to tell the difference between a migrant and an asylum seeker.

It is a good point but I suspect that it might be the other way round; that the cruelty already inherent in our welfare systems was simply applied by our government to asylum seekers on Manus and Nauru.

Boochani has recently published a book about his experiences on Manus called No Friend But the Mountains: Writing From Manus Prison and I am looking forward to reading it.

That he has managed to write the book in secret using nothing but his mobile telephone is a remarkable achievement.

That he has survived punitive imprisonment on Manus for five years and retained his sanity is also remarkable.

He is not alone of course. All of the asylum seekers who have survived on Manus and Nauru must be remarkably tough and resilient people.

I was watching our fake farmer and prime minister, Malcolm Turnbull, in a photo-op on television with some real drought stricken farmers recently and it struck me how uncomfortable he looked.

A while later I saw a similar photo-op featuring the leader of the opposition trying to work out how to operate a four-wheel-drive with real gears.

The two images made me wonder what had happened to all our red-blooded politicians. Compared to the asylum seekers these two examples of Australian manhood seemed decidedly flaccid.

Sensible people have been calling on our government to bring the asylum seekers to Australia on compassionate grounds for a long time.

Ive developed a slightly different view. We dont need to bring them here because we feel sorry for them. We need to bring them here to inject a bit of grit and backbone into our society.

We need people like Behrouz Boochani in Australia. We need people like him much more than we need people like Dutton, Turnbull and Shorten and the rest of the limp-wristed brigade in Canberra and elsewhere who purport to be our leaders.

Those people imprisoned on Manus and Nauru are heroes. We should celebrate them, not punish them.Bharat Shamsher, 89, dies in Kolkata

Opposition leader of Nepals first parliament, Bharat Shamsher Rana, passed away on Friday night at his residence in Kolkata, India.RJP-N ready to honour court's order

Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal (RJP-N) leaders have said the party is ready to honour the Janakpur High Court decision, ordering the arrest of Province 2 State Minister Abhiram Sharma who has been accused of murder of Armed Police Force (APF) Assistant Sub-inspector Thaman BK in Jaleshwor during the 2015 Madhes Movement.Dairy farmers in Chitwan set to protest

Farmers and milk cooperatives based in Chitwan have blamed the Dairy Development Corporation (DDC) of not being farmer friendly. The farmers expressed such views during a gathering organised in the district on Friday to launch the protest against the DDCs latest move to slash the commission it was providing to dairy cooperatives involved in milk collection.Khanal works on issues related to urban transportation, air quality management and sustainable cities. He is also a food writer, and is currently working on a book on Nepali recipes, food culture, and history. He writes on Nepali food culture and recipes on his food blog 'Gundruk.New Delhi: Bhojpuri superstar Pawan Singh and the youtube Queen Amrapali Dubey are currently shooting for Sher Singh in Jodhpur. They are shooting for director Shashank Rai's Bhojpuri film both are shooting at the same location in Jodhpur, where many successful Bollywood films have been shot. Now there are many wonderful scenes being filmed on Pawan Singh and Amrapali Dubey.

During the shoot, Amrapali Dubey told Bhojpurixp.com that the movie 'Sher Singh' is no less than an adventure for her. " I'm enjoying it quite a lot. The story of this movie is quite interesting. It is being filmed with a completely different concept. People already like my chemistry with Pawan Singh will like it more on screen. I have already done a song with him so since then, my understanding with Pawan has become very good." She said.

Recently, Pawan and Amrapali Dubey's song Raate Diya Butake created history on YouTube. The peppy song from the film Satya has garnered over 200 million views on the video sharing site. It has thus become the first Bhojpuri song to cross the 200 million milestones.

The song was published twice on YouTube. It was first shared on Mar 27, 2017 and then on Nov 16, 2017 on Wave Music's channel.

The song from the film Satya (directed by Sujeet Kumar Singh) is a special track which sees Amrapali making a cameo. The blockbuster film starred Akshara Singh as the leading lady.

Raate Diya Butake sung by Pawan Singh and Indu Sonali is penned and composed by Sumit Singh Chandravanshi and Chhote Baba respectively.

For the unversed, Amrapali is popularly called Queen of YouTube because her songs and films garner massive views on the video-sharing site. Pawan Singh, on the other hand, is lovingly called Power Star.

The two power-packed performers have teamed up for a film titled Sher Singh. The film has gone on floors and is currently under production.Patna: Two girls from a shelter home in Patna's Rajiv Nagar died during treatment on Sunday. The girls, who were brought to Patna Medical College for treatment, belonged to Aasra Griha.

The Aasra shelter home was raided on Friday following which several loopholes were found in its premises.

During further probe on the same day, a total of 75 women were found at the shelter home.

The reasons for the deaths of the two girls are yet to be ascertained. The bodies have, meanwhile, been handed over to the Magistrate following the post-mortem.

The incident came barely months after the Muzaffarpur shelter home sex scandal surfaced.

The alleged sexual exploitation of girls at the shelter home first came to light in the report of a social audit conducted by Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, which was submitted to the state social welfare department in April.

More than 40 girls were lodged at the shelter home and medical reports suggest that over half of them may have had sexual intercourse at some point of time.

The FIR in the case was registered on May 31 against 11 people, including Thakur. On July 26, the Bihar government recommended a CBI inquiry into the matter.Mumbai: Diana Penty may not be the leading lady in "Happy Phir Bhag Jayegi", a series that was started with her in 2016, but she is happy to take it ahead with its sequel.

Diana says she is proud of the fact that "Happy Bhag Jayegi" is the first female-led comedy franchise in Bollywood.

"It is an interesting fact. I am happy. I makes me feel proud that the first film did well and it made the makers think of part two. It is a matter of great pride to take it forward. As an actor it makes me fulfilled," Diana told PTI.

The sequel "Happy Phir Bhag Jayegi", for which the makers have roped in Sonakshi Sinha, is based on the case of mistaken identity and this time the story moves to China.

"This film has two Happy. The first part was the story of Happy, the character that I played. The sequel is Sonakshi's film and we all help her take the film forward. Sonakshi plays the perfect Happy. I feel good about the film."

Diana, 32, says the sequel just like the first part is a complete entertainer.

"The second installment is keeping in line with the first part, that is, happy, fun and out-an-out sweet, endearing comedy film."

The most special part in this series, according to Diana, is that the comedy is all there in the writing.

"It is fun, pure and innocent and not something that was derogatory or poking fun at someone. The titular role is of Happy but it was the rest of the cast like Jimmy Shergill, Abhay Deol, Ali Fazal, Piyush Mishra sir, that made this film so lovable."

For the "Parmanu" actor, it was relatively easy to reprise the role of Happy as she thinks it was "deeply embedded" in her.

"When I came on the sets, I became Happy again, got into the character fast, maybe because it was deeply embedded in me. I did one drama film 'Lucknow Central' then I did 'Parmanu' that had bit of action in it. Coming back to this film was, organic for me."

For Diana, who made her debut with Saif Ali Khan-Deepika Padukone starrer "Cocktail", the Aanand L Rai backed movie was an opportunity to showcase her versatility.

"People were surprised to see me in this role. After 'Cocktail' everybody had put me into that compartment of shy, girl-next-door person and it is somewhere still ingrained in the minds of people.

"People still remember me for my first film more than the other films. And which is why I felt doing 'Happy Bhag Jayegi' will help me break the mould and it did, as the audience was not expecting this from me."

Directed by Mudassar Aziz, the film is set to release on August 24.Panaji: The government is looking into suggestions by a panel that short films be made to convey anti-smoking messages with those actors who are depicted as smoking on screen, a top official has said.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting had set up the committee, led by filmmaker Shyam Benegal in 2016 to look holistically into the functioning of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), a statutory body under the ministry, and the panel had submitted its first report in April that year.

"There have been studies which indicate that exposure to smoking in movies initiates smoking among adolescents. Many Indian movies portray tobacco use. Also, use of tobacco has been glamourised in popular perception," Anurag Srivastava, the CEO of CBFC, said.

There is also a perception that tobacco consumption gives a sense of freedom and is for people who live life king-size, he said.

Srivastava was addressing a group of participants during a panel discussion at the five-day India Tobacco Leadership Program in South Goa's Majorda, about 30 km from here, that concluded on Friday.

During his presentation, the CBFC CEO said that the Shyam Benegal-led committee had suggested that short films could be made to convey anti-smoking message to viewers by the "same actor who is depicted as smoking on screen".

The ministry of information and broadcasting is studying the suggestions given by the panel, he said.

The committee also includes actor Kamal Haasan, filmmaker Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, adman Piyush Pandey and film critic Bhawana Somaaya.

Srivastava said every filmmaker in their application to the censor board has to give a very "strong editorial justification" for depicting smoking or other tobacco products on screen.

"At present, there is no law which says that they have to give it in writing. So, the filmmakers mostly do it verbally during the film examination process. Many times we do not agree with them (filmmakers)," he said.

Asked, if the editorial justification is being streamlined, he told PTI, "Yes, we are in the process (of making compulsory in writing the furnishing of editorial justification). We are doing it and consulting the filmmakers on it."

During his presentation, Srivastava also quoted an old Supreme Court judgment to emphasis the impact of cinema on the psyche of people.

"There is an old court order which talks about the effect of cinema on minds of people - 'Movie motivates thought and action and assures a high degree of attention and retention..."," he said.

According to rules, all films and TV programmes certified/produced on or after October 2, 2012 that depict tobacco product or its use must carry anti-tobacco health spot of 30 seconds duration each, at their beginning and middle.

They should also have anti-tobacco audio-visual disclaimer of 20 seconds duration each (beginning and middle) and a prominent static message during the period of display of tobacco products or their use on screen.

A 2006 study conducted by the WHO and Health Ministry said that 89 per cent of movies depicted tobacco use.

Section 5 of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act (COTPA) inter alia prohibits all forms of advertisements, promotion and sponsorship of tobacco products.Multiple incidents of violence were reported from Aurangabad and Marathawada at a rally organised on August 9 to demand Maratha reservation.

Police on Friday registered complaints against almost 5000 people from eight districts of Marathwada for their alleged involvement in violent activities during the Maratha Reservation Rally. People were detained for provoking violence during the protests.

Marathwada, a region coinciding with Aurangabad in Maharashtra, witnessed protests on August 9 demanding Maratha reservation.

About 41 people involved in the Maratha reservation protests have been arrested from Aurangabad.

Multiple incidents of violence were reported from Aurangabad and Marathwada. Around 4000 people were booked for disrupting rail services in the Marathwada region.

Seven criminal cases have been registered in the Waluj police station in connection with the murder and arson at Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) in Aurangabad. Complaints against around 1500 suspects have been lodged so far.

Cases against 35 people in Osmanabad district, 27 in Latur district and 44 in Parbhani district were also registered.

Incidents of stone-pelting, obstruction of traffic movement and arson were reported from Beed district. 32 people have been booked for the charges.

Similar incidents were reported from Nanded district and 300 people have been booked for the same.

Jalna district reported of two such incidents for which cases against 22 people have been registered.

Marathas, a politically influential community that constitutes around 30 per cent of the state's population, have been demanding a 16 per cent reservation. The community had earlier taken out silent marches across the state to highlight their demands, prominent among them being that of reservation.In the Madhya Pradesh hostel sexual exploitation case, another hearing-and-speech impaired tribal woman has lodged a police complaint against the director of the Bhopal hostel, police said on Sunday.

A case was registered in Indore on Saturday night against Ashwini Sharma, the hostel's director, on the basis of the complaint filed by the 23-year-old woman, said Indore's Hira Nagar police station in-charge Mahendra Singh Bhadauria. The victim -- a native of Dhar district -- in her complaint, has accused Sharma of raping her after showing pornographic material to her, said the official.

Following this complaint, the total number of women who filed complaint against Sharma has reached five.

The alleged incident occurred between December 2017 and February 2018, when the woman was staying in Sharma's hostel for her studies, Bhadauria said.

Based on her complaint, a case was registered under IPC sections 376 (rape), 377 (unnatural offence) and the relevant provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The case diary was being transferred to the Bhopal Police for further investigation, Bhadauria said.

Sharma was arrested in Bhopal on August 8 after another 20-year-old deaf-and-mute woman lodged a police complaint, accusing him of repeatedly raping her during her stay in the hostel over the last three years.

Earlier, four FIRs had been lodged by the police on the basis of separate complaints from four deaf-and-mute women, including two sisters, accusing Sharma of sexually exploiting them.

The police had said the accused used to run a hostel for hearing-and-speech impaired people in the Awadhpuri area of Bhopal.

Inspector General of Police (Intelligence) Makrand Deuskar had last week said the police would talk to all the inmates of the hostel.

On August 9, the opposition Congress had claimed that the hostel was aided by the Madhya Pradesh government's Social Justice department and demanded a thorough investigation into the incident and a social audit of all such hostels.

The party had drawn parallels with the Muzaffarpur (Bihar) and Deoria (Uttar Pradesh) shelter home rape cases, which have rocked the country after being unearthed in April-May and August respectively.

The Congress had on Saturday claimed that the accused is an "activist of the RSS" and "enjoys the blessings" of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Madhya Pradesh Congress's chief spokesperson Shobha Oza had also released a video, in which Sharma was seen standing close to Chouhan and touching the latter's feet. She had alleged that Sharma's Facebook account was deleted to hide his connection with BJP leaders.

While the police had on Friday announced the setting up of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the case, Oza had said the Congress did not have "faith" in it.New Delhi: As the probe in the Muzaffarpur shelter home sex scandal case is on, further details have emerged about prime accused Brajesh Thakur and his aide Madhu Kumari. As per Zee News sources, Thakur used his connections and managed to induct Kumari as a member in the Bihar State AIDS Control Society, with the help of officials in the State Health Department.

Thakur, who is said to have a strong political connection, recommended Kumari following which she was appointed to the state panel, which is headed by the chief secretary. In 2015, she was made a member of the Bsacs-enlisted NGO by the then health minister Ramdhani Singh.

The AIDS Control Society was formed in October 2013 on the instructions of the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO). The council was supposed to conduct meetings every six months, however, no meeting was held.

Madhu Kumari currently serves as the project director of Wama Shakti Vahini - an NGO enlisted with Bsacs. The NGO works on AIDS control projects in Muzaffarpur and Bettiah.

Kumari is a co-accused in the alleged sex scandal in Muzaffarpur which surfaced in a social audit conducted by Mumbai-based Tata Institute of Social Sciences. More than 40 girls were lodged at the shelter home and medical reports suggest that over half of them may have had sexual intercourse at some point of time.Patna: Following a day-long interrogation, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday released the son of Muzaffarpur shelter home sex scandal prime accused Brajesh Thakur. His son - Rahul Anand - was detained on Saturday from the premises owned by them.

A team of the intelligence agency conducted a thorough search for 11 hours with the help of forensic experts, sifted through documents and interrogated people close to him. The team, which had reached Thakur's Sahu Road residence at around 9 am, left at around 8 pm with his son.

Anand is the publisher and editor of Hindi daily "Pratah Kamal", the office of which is situated within the same premises as the residence and the shelter home which have since been sealed.

Headed by DIG Abhay Kumar, the CBI team was flanked by a number of armed commandoes who locked the main gate of the premises from inside, preventing entry of media persons and a number of other curious onlookers.

In a related development, Bihar Police had on Saturday recovered a list of 40 mobile phone numbers and the names of those whom they were issued against from Brajesh Thakur, who is currently in police custody.

Police said they spotted Thakur in an area reserved for people coming to meet prisoners lodged in the jail and recovered two handwritten pages with 40 mobile phone numbers and the names of those they were issued against.

A district administration official said the names of some powerful people, including a minister, were written on two pages recovered from Thakur during the search.

Thakur, who is in jail, heads the NGO Seva Sankalp Evam Vika Samiti, which ran the state-funded shelter home where sexual abuse of more than 30 inmates has been confirmed in medical tests.

the alleged sex scandal in Muzaffarpur which surfaced in a social audit conducted by Mumbai-based Tata Institute of Social Sciences. More than 40 girls were lodged at the shelter home and medical reports suggest that over half of them may have had sexual intercourse at some point of time.

(With inputs from agencies)Forgotten backyard

Nepals far western region has tremendous tourism potential that remains untappedPeople in Muzzafarabad are fuming. And there's little water to cool down their soaring anger.

Residents of the city in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir have accused Islamabad of diverting water from Neelum River to feed its Punjab province, leaving them - quite literally - high and dry. News agency ANI reports that the residents have complained that fresh water from the river is being channelled from the mountains to the Punjab province and this has resulted in the river drying up around their area. "We can live without electricity but how can we live without water," a local resident was quoted as saying. "The water level in the river has declined drastically and the available water is mostly sewage. We are feeling the heat because of rising temperatures."

The locals here are also protesting against the proposed construction of Neelum Jhelum Hydropower Project. They say it would completely benefit people of Pakistan and leave them without anything. "They should give us free electricity but instead, they charge four times from us. They should come up with a compensation package for our area," said another local.

The locals say they were hoping monsoon rains would re-charge Neelum River but even that has not happened.

Meanwhile, Pakistan keeps seeing a foreign conspiracy behind protests against its hydropower projects. Earlier this month, the country's caretaker minister for water resources said opposition to Kalabagh Dam is better funded in foreign countries than in Pakistan. This despite vehement protests within Pakistan itself against the project which could displace thousands as well as cause enormous environmental damage.New Delhi: Home Minister Rajnath Singh and BJP president Amit Shah visited AIIMS this evening to inquire about the health condition of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who has been undergoing treatment at the premier institute.

Shah visited AIIMS around 6.30 pm and Singh reached there around 8.15 pm to enquire about Vajpayee's health condition, a source at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) said. There was no official update on Vajpayee's health condition.

Vajpayee was admitted to the hospital on June 11 with kidney tract infection, chest congestion, urinary tract infection and urine output on the lower side.

The 93-year-old BJP leader, a diabetic, has one functional kidney. He had suffered a stroke in 2009 that weakened his cognitive abilities. Subsequently, he developed dementia.NEW DELHI: While Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is lobbying for Aero India to be held in Lucknow, Karnataka is keeping up its pressure on the Central government not to change the venue of the air show and aviation exhibition from Bengaluru.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday urged Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to shift the venue of Aero India as it would benefit the defence production in the state.

Adityanath made the appeal at an event in Aligarh where an announcement of a defence corridor encompassing the Aligarh, Agra, Kanpur, Lucknow, Jhansi and Chitrakoot corridor was made. Sitharaman, her deputy in the ministry, Subhash Bhamre, Uttar Pradesh Industries Minister Satish Mahana and senior officials of the Defence Ministry and the Uttar Pradesh government were present at the event.

"I request the defence minister to hold the Aero India show in Uttar Pradesh. We will provide every type of facility. In this context, I request her to announce this at the earliest so that we can proceed with the preparations," Adityanath said.

However, a miffed Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara said that Karnataka was losing key defence projects to other states under the NDA regime. "Reports of #AeroIndia being moved out of Bengaluru are very unfortunate. We have been India's Defence Hub since Independence, but under the NDA we are constantly losing key defence projects and flagship programs. I request @nsitharaman to clarify her stand on the issue."

This is not the first time that Parameshwara has lashed out at the government over the proposal. Last week too, he had called the step 'unfortunate' and alleged that the Centre wants to end the dominance of Bengaluru in the defence sector. "Plan to snatch Aero India Show away from Bengaluru in favour of Lucknow is very unfortunate. We have been conducting it successfully since 1996. This comes after HAL was snubbed for Rafael deal. Centre seems to be keen on ending Bengaluru's dominance in the defence sector," he had tweeted.

There have been reports that the biennial event, which was last held in Bengaluru in February 2017, would now be held in October-November and that the Defence Ministry is planning to shift its venue from Bengaluru to Lucknow. The Ministry has not yet made any formal announcement in this regard.

If Aero India is held in Lucknow, it will be the first time in 22 years that the the t will be hosted outside Bengaluru since its inception in 1996.Opposition to Sunday's pro-Khalistan rally at London's Trafalgar Square has gained momentum with Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh and All-India Anti-Terrorist Front Chairman MS Bitta strongly criticising the rally.

While Singh downplayed the significance of carrying out such rallies, Bitta dismissed the chance of a Khalistan being carved out in India ever and blamed Pakistan's ISI behind the propaganda. Speaking to reporters Bitta said, "There was never a Khalistan nor will there ever be one. (Khalistan na kabhi bana tha, na banega, na banne denge.) We will never let that happen. The nation is one. Punjab was always a part of India and will continue to be. ISI is behind this, it has been exposed. People in India won't let them succeed."

Shiromani Akali Dal leader Naresh Gujral said, "Very miniscule Sikh population settled abroad is participating in this. No Sikh in India has sympathy for this as Sikhs are loyal Indians. They've made more sacrifices for India than any other community. It's an attempt by ISI to foment trouble in Punjab. It is financed by ISI. Pakistan and ISI have been trying hard for a long time to create problems in Punjab. They failed in Kashmir and want to move the stage to Punjab."

UK: People of Indian origin, living in the United Kingdom, protest against Referendum 2020 in London. pic.twitter.com/GQCfvhe2AD  ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2018

Taking a strong jibe, former Chairman of Sardar Patel Memorial Society UK said, "We're living in this country and they are talking about free Khalistan in India. This has been organised in conjunction with, we believe, the help of ISI in Pakistan and Khalistanis in Canada."

Congress leader Ashwani Kumar said, "UK govt should find a way to stop such protests. We've already suffered enough at hands of those who are bent upon in breaking the unity of India. There can be no question of any referendum as far as Punjab is an integral part of India."

The event 'London Declaration for a Referendum 2020' is being organised by a United States-based Sikh separatist organisation -- Sikhs for Justice (SFJ)-- that would be issuing `London Declaration` for a referendum on the state of Punjab. SFJ said the rally is intended to raise awareness for a non-binding referendum in 2020, calling for the Sikh-majority state of Punjab to be granted independence. The SFJ calls itself an advocacy group.

Thousands are expected to descend upon the iconic Trafalgar Square after the UK said it would not ban any group protesting peacefully. A UK government spokesperson had said that "in the UK people have the right to gather together and to demonstrate their views, provided that they do so within the law".

Speaking on this issue, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday said that India had conveyed to the UK that the pro-Khalistan rally will be "separatists' activity" aimed at impinging on India's territorial integrity. The strong comments came days after the UK turned down India's request to not allow the rally to take place.

MEA Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said India has drawn the UK's attention to the fact that the event is a "separatists' activity which impinges on India's territorial integrity". "We have said that it seeks to propagate violence, secessionism and hatred and we expect them to take into account the larger perspective of the relationship when they take a decision on such matters," Kumar said during a media briefing.

After receiving information about plans to hold similar events in certain other places in Europe and elsewhere, the MEA wrote to Indian missions in those countries to take up the issue with local governments. "We are aware that something similar is planned in some other locations as well. We have written to our mission to take it up with foreign offices of respective countries," said Kumar.

Chairman of the British Sikh Association Dr Rami Ranger dismissed the pro-Khalistan rally as a move by a "handful of un-elected and self-appointed Sikhs". "If they have any merit in their argument, then they should go to Punjab and fight the election on the agenda of Khalistan. There is no point embarrassing Sikhs at large along with their Gurus by behaving in an undemocratically manner in a foreign country with a demand of a referendum which is not binding on anyone," he said.

Britain's left-wing Green Party has already thrown its support behind the pro-Khalistan rally. However, besides the Green Party, no major British political party or leader has come forward to back the rally. Scotland Yard said it had not received any complaints regarding the event which will be allowed to go ahead without any restrictions.

Earlier backing this, Dal Khalsa, a Punjab-based radical political group, which has for years been advocating, supporting and campaigning for a separate homeland for the people of Punjab, has termed `Referendum 2020' merely an opinion poll being conducted amongst the Sikhs living abroad. "It is a survey or an opinion poll to see how many Sikhs or Punjabi diaspora are in favour of separate Sikh state or the sovereign state of Punjab so you cannot call it a real referendum," the group had said.New Delhi: After heavy to very heavy showers in Mumbai and coastal areas of Maharashtra as well as in Goa in July, August has been relatively dry. This, however, could change on Monday (August 13) onwards with private weather monitoring agency Skymet Weather predicting a monsoon comeback here.

The agency has said that Mumbai could get heavy showers starting Monday with monsoon activity picking up over Konkan areas and Goa as well. Double-digit rainfall readings may be observed in coastal Karnataka as well.

The India Meteorological Department too has issued a warning which states that rough to very rough sea conditions could prevail over west central Arabian Sea with fishermen being warned to avoid taking their boats too far in. There is a possibility of rough sea off the coast of West Bengal, Odisha and Andaman and Nicobar Islands as well.

IMD has also said that rainfall activity in flood-hit Kerala could continue most of Monday and Tuesday as well.Mumbai: It was a reunion of sorts for Mouni Roy and Arjun Bijlani on the small screen. The two actors, who romanced each other in Ekta Kapoor's super-hit supernatural show Naagin, set the stage the Dance Deewane stage on fire with their sizzling hot chemistry.

Both Mouni and Arjun shared videos of their dance performance on Instagram.

Check out the videos embedded below:

Mouni was on Dance Deewane along with Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar to promote her Reema Kagti's Gold which is slated to release on August 15. Mouni shared the stage with Madhuri too and matched steps with her.

The Bengali beauty had won a million hearts as Parvati in TV show Devon Ke Dev Mahadev. Later, she left viewers spellbound by essaying Naagin in Ekta Kapoor's super-natural show that revolves around the revenge saga of a shape-shifting snake woman while Arjun, who hosts the Dance Deewane, plays the lead role in Ishq Mein Marjawan. He has been a part of many successful shows.

Gold, Mouni's debut film is based on the life of a sportsman who was a part of the Hockey team that won the Olympic medal for India post independence for the first time at the Games of the XIV Olympiad, London in 1948.Kabul: Taliban insurgents attacked police headquarters and other government buildings in Ghazni in central Afghanistan on Sunday, killing dozens of soldiers and police and threatening to seize control of the city, officials and residents said.

US aircraft conducted at least four air strikes but details of the fighting were unclear as most of the city`s telecoms masts were destroyed in fighting over recent days.

A senior official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media, said around 80 members of the security forces, as well as an unknown number of civilians had been killed.

Mohammad Sharif Yaftali, Afghan army chief of staff, said the city was not under threat of collapse and heavy fighting was underway to push back the Taliban from the city limits.

"Strategic locations and centres in the city are under the control of Afghan forces and the Taliban are hiding inside people`s homes and shops and resisting," Yaftali told reporters at a news conference in Kabul.

But lawmakers from Ghazni who managed to talk to some residents said the Taliban were in control of much of the city after launching an initial attack in the early hours of Friday.

"Only the governor`s office, police headquarters and intelligence agency`s compound are in the hands of the government and Taliban are pushing to take them," said Chaman Shah Ehtemadi, a lawmaker from Ghazni.

The attack, the heaviest blow struck by the Taliban since they came close to overrunning the western city of Farah in May, dampened hopes of peace talks which had grown since a surprise three-day truce during the Eid al-Fitr holiday in June.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the insurgents had taken the district centre of Khwajaumari, north of the city, and several areas in other districts of Ghazni province. Many members of the security forces had surrendered, he said.

Local officials have warned for months that Ghazni, a city on the main highway linking Kabul with Afghanistan`s south, was under threat, with the Taliban in control of most of the surrounding province.

Mohammad Rahim Hasanyar, a member of the provincial council, said heavy fighting was continuing in several areas of the city and Afghan forces were in defence mode.

"No one knows what the exact situation is because there is no communication service," he said.

"FIRE AND DEAD BODIES"

With the highway heavily mined to prevent reinforcements from arriving, residents were largely trapped inside but some who managed to escape across fields on the city`s periphery said many government buildings were ablaze.

"There was burning and fire and dead bodies everywhere in the city," Abdul Wakil, a resident who escaped, told Reuters at a checkpoint into Kabul.

The Red Cross said on Twitter that it was watching the situation closely. It had supplied body bags to the provincial hospital and was ready to provide more assistance.

President Ashraf Ghani made no mention of the crisis during an extended speech on youth affairs on Sunday and with little coming out from the government, people were left to rely on alternative sources of information.

Short videos circulating on social media, purported to be from Ghazni, showed a number of heavily armed Taliban patrolling in the city with a large plume of smoke and flames coming out from the town.

"It is over and the city is taken," said a man standing outside his home, with several Taliban insurgents nearby.

The videos could not be independently verified by Reuters but they generated heavy commentary by social media users that underlined the shock caused by the attack.

US military headquarters in Kabul said sporadic clashes were occurring and American aircraft had conducted five strikes on Saturday and four more on Sunday.

"The Afghan National Defence and Security Forces continue to hold their ground and maintain control of all government centres," Lt Col Martin O`Donnell, US Forces Afghanistan spokesman, said in an emailed statement.

The Taliban have not taken a major provincial centre since they overran the northern city of Kunduz in 2015 and the assault on Ghazni was a major blow to the Western-backed government just weeks before parliamentary elections scheduled for Oct. 20.The airline worker who stole an empty airplane from a Seattle airport on a flight that ended in his death once ran a bakery with his wife and enjoyed the benefits that came with his job to travel the world, social media posts showed.

Richard Russell, who liked to be called Beebo, was a 29-year-old man living in Sumner, Washington, who was born in Key West, Florida, and moved to Wasilla, Alaska, when he was 7 years old, according to a Web page he set up for a college communications class.

He has not been officially named by authorities, but his family and multiple news media outlets have reported his identity.

Russell worked for Horizon Airlines, a sister carrier of Alaska Airlines, as a ground service agent who helped baggage handlers and was part of Horizon`s tow team, which moved planes around on the tarmac. It was a job that gave him the perk of "being able to fly to Alaska at my leisure," he wrote on the page.

In a video posted on YouTube last December, Russell shows luggage coming off and being loaded onto aircraft, and describes what the life of a ground service agent can entail. "That means I lift a lot of bags, like a lot of bags, so many bags," he says, adding, "it allows me to do some pretty cool things, too."

There are then shots of trips he took, including flying over Alaskan fjords, visiting lavender fields in France, touring in Yucatan, Mexico, and attending a hurling match in Dublin, Ireland. "It evens out in the end," he says to end the video.

There was no mention in the social media posts of studying to become a pilot but in some posts he spoke of his Christian religious faith and the possibility of joining the military.

On a SoundCloud site, Russell interviews fellow ground service agents, asking them questions that include: "What was one of your best travel experiences using your flight benefits?"

Authorities say he commandeered an empty Bombardier Q400, 107-foot (32.61 m) long turboprop aircraft on Friday night from a maintenance area at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. He flew for about an hour, often erratically with attempts at aerial stunts, before crashing on Ketron Island in Puget Sound, about 25 miles (40 km) to the southwest.

He appeared to have acted alone and was suicidal, according to the local sheriff`s department.

His family members said in a statement they were stunned and heartbroken. "It may seem difficult for those watching at home to believe, but Beebo was a warm, compassionate man," the statement said.

Russell`s social media posts often showed him on adventures with his wife, who he said he met in Oregon in 2010.

"We were married one year later, and one month after that we opened a bakery which we successfully ran for 3 years," he wrote on his Web page. "We consider ourselves bakery connoisseurs and have to try a new one every place we go."

The couple later moved to Washington state, where he got a job with Horizon. His wife could not immediately be reached for comment.

The Seattle Times quoted Rick Christenson, an operational supervisor with the airline who retired in May, as saying Russell was a well-liked, quiet person.

In his final moments captured by partial recordings of his conversations with air traffic controllers that were published online by Broadcastify.com, Russell spoke calmly and said he was sorry to disappoint people who cared about him and described himself as a "broken guy".

"Got a few screws loose, I guess," he is heard saying in the recording. "Never really knew it until now."London: A shooting at a street party in the Moss Side area of the UK's Manchester City on Sunday left 10 people, including 2 children, injured. Armed police were called to Claremont Road in the early hours of the day.

Police said nine victims had "pellet-type wounds that are not believed to be serious". A 10th person - a man - is in a serious condition with leg wounds.

The shooting took place at a party being held after the first day of this weekend's Caribbean Carnival in Alexandra Park area of the city.

Chief Supt Wasim Chaudhry, from Greater Manchester Police (GMP), said: "People will begin to leave hospital over the course of the day following treatment.

"That being said, there may be people who didn't seek treatment last night and I would urge these people to get immediate medical attention if that is the case." He said the shooting was "a reckless act that could have had devastating consequences".

The man in hospital is in a "stable but serious condition", however it is not yet clear whether his injuries were also caused by the pellets, police said.

The Caribbean Carnival, which has been held every summer since 1972, draws thousands of people. Residents said a street party was usually held in Claremont Road after the first day of events.

Indian-origin Nick Sinha, who lives near where the shooting happened, said the carnival usually passed peacefully. "I think it's a shame for [the shooting] to be associated with the carnival in that sense," he said. "It is all really positive so to hear when things like this happen, it's very sad."Open source

From the beginning of the day, two Ukrainian military were wounded in the area of Joint Forces Operation in Donbas. This was reported in the press center of the JFO on Facebook.



It is noted that since the beginning of the day the militants have violated the truce 20 times.



"The invaders opened fire from grenade launchers, heavy machine guns and small arms at positions of the Joint forces in the areas of Krymske, Pivdenne, Svitlodarsk, Zaitseve, Marinka, Chermalyk, Pavlopil, Hnutove, Vodyane and Lebedynske, firing our defenders with mortars of 120 and 82 mm caliber, "the report said.



During the fighting, two servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine were injured.



Earlier it was reported that during the past day, August 11, illegal armed formations opened fire on the positions of the Armed Forces 34 times, including 4 times from heavy weapons. As a result of the fighting, one member of the Joint forces was injured.

Earlier Russian tourist was detained in the area of the Joint Forces Operation in Donbas. He filmed the positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on his mobile phone. This is reported by the press service of the JFO headquarters in Facebook.



"The detainee turned out to be a Russian citzen. He said, he came to travel across Ukraine. The servicemen were interested in the fact that the" tourist "arrived from distant Surgut, and among the historical and cultural monuments in Ukraine he was interested only in the positions of the divisions of the Armed Forces, and carefully shot them on his mobile phone," said in a statement.



Now his videos are being studied by experts.

Related: EU expects Ukraine's Anti-Corruption Court to start working until the end of 2018High taxes making implementation of federalism difficult, Dahal warns

Nepal Communist Party (NCP) Co-chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said that implementation of federalism will be difficult if multiple taxes are imposed on people.bigmir.net

The European Union expects that the Anti-Corruption Court in Ukraine will start working until the end of 2018. This is stated in the message on the EU website.



"We look forward to the full functioning of the court by the end of the year, and the European Union is ready to support this process," the report said.



The EU said that the fight against corruption is a key component of the association agreement between the EU and Ukraine. The European Union reminded that the anti-corruption institution should be completely independent in carrying out its task and, at the same time, not have excessive influence.



We recall that in June this year the law on the Supreme Anti-Corruption Court came into effect in Ukraine, as well as a formal law on the creation of the Anti-Corruption Court. According to the documents, the Higher Anti-Corruption Court must be formed before June 14, 2019. To begin its work, it is necessary to recruit at least 35 anti-corruption judges, at least 10 of them - representatives of the Appeals Chamber.



Later, the head of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine Artem Sytnik reported that the Anti-Corruption Court can be create in an accelerated mode in connection with the pre-election period.

Related: Russian tourist detained in Donbas for shooting Ukrainian positions on mobile phoneOpen source

Political consultant Paul Manafort after the flight of Viktor Yanukovych could use the post at the staff of Donald Trump for his own enrichment. This is reported by The Washington Post referring to sources among Trump's presidential campaign.



"From March to August of the election year, there was no sign, according to Trump campaign insiders, that Manafort was in crisis," sources told the publication.



According to them, Manafort knew how difficult work at Trump's headquarters could be, but he still tried to save his fortune, "launch a scheme of global fraud" and enter a new stage in his career.



In addition Manafort, as sources inform, long before work on Trump knew that his business was in danger, since his "most profitable client" - the then Ukrainian president Viktor Yanukovich fled from Ukraine. After Manafort stopped receiving money from Yanukovych, his expenses quickly exceeded his income.



We recall, the trial of Manafort began in the US on July 31. He is accused of laundering money and evading taxes for almost 10 years of cooperation with the former leadership of Ukraine.



The investigation believes that Manafort earned more than $ 60 million for the work of the political consultant in Ukraine, but officially he declared 14 million dollars in revenues for 2010-2014.



Earlier, the investigation team presented more than 300 documents that reveal the details of cooperation between Manafort and the Party of Regions and the "Opposition Bloc".

Related: Pompeo discussed Saudi Arabia, Iran and Ukraine with Canadian Foreign Minister112 Agency

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo held telephone talks with Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland. This is reported on the website of the State Department.



According to the report, one of the main topics was Ukrainian issue.



"They discussed the dispute between Saudi Arabia and Canada over Canada's call for the release of activists, and the secretary also discussed Iran and Ukraine," the US State Department reported.



Earlier it was reported that Saudi Arabia was freezing new trade and investment ties with Canada. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs withdrawn its ambassador from Canada.



The reason for this decision, obviously, was Canada's response to the detention of public activists in Saudi Arabia. We recall, in May in the country were detained six activists fighting for the rights of women.



On August 3, the Canadian Foreign Ministry on Twitter expressed "serious concern about the arrests of civil activists and women's rights fighters in Saudi Arabia."

Related: Bus with Ukrainian citizens crashes in Hungary, 13 people sufferAssociated Press

Russia's interference in US policy could have led to an aggravation of the situation during the protest in Charlottesville last year. This was announced by Republican Thomas Garrett, reports CNN.



"I was at a closed briefing session, maybe two months ago, on the situation in Charlottesville with the FBI director (Christopher Ray), among others, and asked whether somehow Russia's interference is related to aggravation in Charlottesville, - said Garrett. - I was told that yes."



According to him, Russia's interference consists in "inciting some Americans to enmity with other Americans in order to undermine the confidence of Western democracies."



We recall that the riots in the American city of Charlottesville last year began because of the intention of the authorities to remove a monument to General Robert Lee, who led the army of the Confederates during the Civil War in the United States in 1861-1865, from the city park. As a result of clashes between the participants of the March of United Rightists and their opponents, a girl was killed and 34 others were injured.



Trump said that he condemns "this blatant manifestation of hatred, fanaticism and violence on the part of many parties." Many American politicians have criticized the president for refusing to clearly condemn the ultra-right and nationalists, but declaring only "violence from many sides."

Related: Manafort started working for Trump after he lost most lucrative client - Viktor Yanukovych, - mediaOpen source

Tatyana Moskalkova, the human rights ombudswoman in the Russian Federation, asked her Ukrainian coleague Lyudmyla Denisova to find out the details of the possible arrest of Russian ship Mekhanik Pogodin in Kherson and intends to meet with the crew with the consent of the Ukrainian authorities, Interfax reports citing the statement of the Russian ombudswoman.



"I am extremely concerned about the fact that Ukraine keeps the Russian vessel Mechanic Pogodin. In connection with this incident, I asked the Commissioner of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Lyudmyla Denisova to find out all the circumstances of the incident and to inform me as much as possible about the crew's condition and, to provide them with humanitarian assistance, including medical," said Moskalkova.



At the same time, she also asked about the opportunity to contact the captain or senior assistant captain of a Russian tanker. "If I agree with the Ukrainian side, I plan to visit our sailors in the port of Kherson," the Russian ombudswoman said.



Earlier information was spread in the media, reporting that the Russian ship "Mechanic Pogodin" could be detained in the sea trading port of Kherson.

Earlier Lyudmyla Denisova, Commissioner for Human Rights of the Ukrainian Parliament addressed Zeid Raad Al Hussein, UN Commissioner for Human Rights with a request to influence on the Russian Federation to facilitate independent medical examination of Ukrainian political prisoners in Russia, the Ombudsman claimed this on Facebook.

She recalled that Russia continues to hide information on the real health condition of the political prisoners, and force them to take Russian citizenship.

Russia continues to violate the rights and freedoms of the political prisoners, forcibly treat, interrogate and put psychological pressure on them, she said.

Despite the agreements between Petro Poroshenko and Vladimir Putin, the ombudsman is denied to visit the detained Ukrainian citizens.

Despite this, I addressed Zeid Raad Al Hussein, UN Commissioner for Human Rights with a request to influence on the Russian Federation. So, they finally start following the main principles of humanism and respecting human rights, to fulfill obligations provided by the International agreements and to cooperate. Also, she asked to facilitate visits of the representatives of international humanitarian organizations to the Ukrainians detained on the territory of the Russian Federation and Crimea and to undertake an independent medical examination of Volodymyr Balukh, Oleg Sentsov, and Stanislav Klykh, Denisova said.

Related: Denisova sends formal letter to Moskalkova with proposal of hostage exchangeFour of the sufferers are in serious condition

A shuttle bus with the Ukrainians crashed in Hungary, 13 people injured. Zoom reports with a reference to the local Police.

According to the message, the car accident took place at 51st km of the highway 2.

The cause of the crash is still unknown.

Related: Deadly car accident near Zaporizhia: Number of victims increased to seven

The bus ran off the road and turned over. As a result of the crash, 13 citizens of Ukraine were injured.

According to MTI in the Police Department, the sufferers are adults, and they were hospitalized to several hospitals.

The traffic on the highway was temporarily closed.

According to Novyny Zakarpattia, the sufferers are the residents of Zakarpattia region. As of the moment of the crash, they were going back home from Hungary. Four of them are in serious condition at the moment.

The Embassies of Ukraine and Hungary haven't commented on the situation yet.

Related: Car accident near ZaporizhiaMTI

The Ukrainian Embassy in Hungary has confirmed the information on the 13 injured Ukrainians in a traffic accident in Hungary.



"On August 11, an accident with a minibus (for unknown reasons, it ran off the road and rolled over), which transported Ukrainian citizens, occurred on the territory of the Nograd region (Hungary), on 59 km of the road No. 2. 13 Ukrainian citizens and a driver, a citizen Hungary, suffered in the incident" reads statement posted on the agency's website.



According to the embassy, all the victims were provided with the first medical aid, they were hospitalized with various injuries. In particular, 8 citizens of Ukraine suffered serious injuries. There are no dead as a result of the accident.



"13 injured citizens were hospitalized in Budapest, Vats and Balashadymat hospitals, seven injured persons were allowed to leave the hospital, the rest are in hospitals, one in a state of coma (the threat of life remains). - is added in the message.



The Ukrainian Embassy in Hungary assures that it will keep the situation under control. Now, diplomats are establishing contact with relatives of the victims and are in contact with health facilities.

Related: White House gathers signatures for petition in support of SentsovJoint Forces Operation Facebook

Russian tourist was detained in the area of the Joint Forces Operation in Donbas. He filmed the positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on his mobile phone. This is reported by the press service of the JFO headquarters in Facebook.



"The detainee turned out to be a Russian citzen. He said, he came to travel across Ukraine. The servicemen were interested in the fact that the" tourist "arrived from distant Surgut, and among the historical and cultural monuments in Ukraine he was interested only in the positions of the divisions of the Armed Forces, and carefully shot them on his mobile phone," said in a statement.



Now his videos are being studied by experts.

Yesterday, on August 11, Donbas militants 15 times opened fire at the Armed Forces of Ukraine, heavy weapons were not used. As a result of the fighting, one soldier of the Armed Forces of Ukraine was wounded. This is reported by the press center of the Joint Forces Operation HQ on Facebook.



"The invaders opened fire, mainly from grenade launchers, heavy machine guns and small arms at the positions of the Joint forces in the areas of Krymske, Novooleksandrivka, Luhanske, Novotroitske, Bohdanivka, Chermalyk, Pavlopil, Hnutove, Vodyane, Lebedynske and Shyrokine. In addition, the enemy shelled the defenders of Pavlopil and Lebedynske with anti-tank guided missiles, "the report said.



As a result of the fighting, one Ukrainian serviceman was wounded.

Related: Sentsov did not leave colony in Labytnangi, - TASSAccording to her, information of this kind can harm Sentsov

Open source

Sister of illegally detained in the Russian Federation Ukrainian film director Oleg Sentsov Natalia Kaplan calls to refrain from spreading information about the possible release of her brother until the moment he leaves Russia.



"Even if you really learned that Oleg is being released, you do not need to spread any information until he leaves Russia. Such premature information, even being true, can cause harm. We all see how unstable everything is in the realm of stability," she wrote on Facebook page.



At the same time Kaplan also asked not to disturb Sentsov's mother - "especially at night, especially strangers".



In general, assessing the night events, Sentsova noted that for her the night was terrible.

Earlier the Directorate of the Federal Prison Service of Russia for Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous District refuted that Ukrainian filmmaker Oleg Sentsov allegedly left the colony in Labytnangi. TASS agency reports this.

The information on Oleg Sentsov, allegedly, he left the penitentiary system is not true. Directorate of the Federal Prison Service of Russia claimed.

Reportedly, reporter of Novaya Gazeta claimed that probably, a plane with Oleg Sentsov on aboard took off from Executive Centre of Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous District.

At the same time, Oleg Sentsovs cousin posted a message on Facebook that she can neither confirm nor refute the information.

Related: Sentsov did not leave colony in Labytnangi, - TASS112 Agency

Ukrainian cyberpolice informs on permanent cyber attacks from the territory of the Russian Federation. This was reported by the head of the department of cyber police of the National Police of Ukraine Serhiy Demedyuk, Radio Liberty reports.



"Together with the SBU, with the State Special Communication, other subjects of cybersecurity in Ukraine we note permanent, regular cyberincidents, which are committed from the territory of the Russian Federation. They carry both the common criminal character and the active nature of cyberncidents for obtaining information. We manage to find, fight, localize these cyberincidents, "he said.



According to Demedyuk, our international partners - Great Britain, Germany, Poland and Australia - are helping to identify cyber attacks in Ukraine. At the same time, he stressed that any cooperation with Russia is not yet available.



"We have a problem - our aggressor is the Russian Federation, which we do not fully cooperate with. To some extent Asian countries also have limited cooperation, with all other countries - European, American countries, Australia, Japan - we work in real time. Therefore, in fact we receive information at any time of the day, "he added.



The head of the department of cyberpolice noted that the main goal of cyber attacks is the strategically important infrastructure, destabilization of the situation in Ukraine.



Related: Russian ombudswoman asks Ukrainian colleague find out what happened to Russian ship in KhersonJoint ownership of land on slow rise in Bajhang

The number of women with land ownership certificate has reached 4,300 in Bajhang after government promotion among the populace in the district to make joint ownership of land, the District Land Revenue Office (DLRO) record shows. A total of 34,456 people have land ownership certificates in the district.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!)KC threatens new hunger strike if PM fails to honour agreement

Senior orthopaedic surgeon Dr Govinda KC on Saturday said he wouldnt hesitate to go on another hunger strike if the government fails to honour the deal reached with him last month.KMC ready to hand over conservation of Kamal Pokhari to locals

The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has announced its readiness to give the conservation and management of Kamal Pokhari to the local residents.Lessons from the fifteenth hunger strike

Issues of life and death should not be politicised; medical education is one of such issueBEIJING  For decades, China harshly restricted the number of babies that women could have. Now it is encouraging them to have more. It is not going well.

Almost three years after easing its "one child" policy and allowing couples to have two children, the government has begun to acknowledge that its efforts to raise the country's birthrate are faltering because parents are deciding against having more children.

Officials are now scrambling to devise ways to stimulate a baby boom, worried that a looming demographic crisis could imperil economic growth  and undercut the ruling Communist Party and its leader, Xi Jinping.

It is a startling reversal for the party, which only a short time ago imposed punishing fines on most couples who had more than one child and compelled hundreds of millions of Chinese women to have abortions or undergo sterilization operations.PNG bankrolls the staging of these events in the hope of demonstrating its offerings to the world. But another important avenue are public diplomacy initiatives.

But really how effective are they as methods of conducting diplomacy? What criteria are used to assess their outcomes? For instance, do they make more positive the attitudes and behaviour of foreigners towards PNG?

In recent times we have seen a flurry of events staged including sporting carnivals, multilateral summits and regional cultural festivals and are now accustomed to the argument that such occasions are necessary to display our country to the world.

PORT MORESBY - Later this year, Papua New Guinea will host the APEC leaders summit, a platform which government officials are will showcase PNG.

Well targeted public diplomacy can be a cost-effective alternative to expensive public occasions. And it seems that the practice of public diplomacy is not very well understood by Papua New Guinean officials.

PNG currently does not have any coherent guide itself to what its global audience might be. In the absence of this kind of information, it stages events that are hard to measure against clearly stated objectives and hard to quantify in terms of their true effectiveness.

This years APEC summit could be used to initiate a comprehensive review of how PNG conducts its diplomacy in general and, more specifically, how it established its public diplomacy priorities.

The aim of public diplomacy is to positively communicate a countrys image to a foreign audience using a variety of communication tools. It is intended to build relationships: understand the needs of other countries, cultures and peoples; communicate our own points of view; correct misperceptions; and look for areas where we can find common cause.

It is concerned with a nations influence on the international stage and its image in the mind of international stakeholders.

Former Australian foreign minister Gareth Evans once said, the images which others carry of us influence their attitudes towards us  not in a general sense but also with regard to our security requirements, to our goods and services, to our appeal as a place to invest in, to migrate to, to visit and so on.

Public diplomacy is relevant to PNG because, in certain sections of the global community, we are still associated with cannibalism, lawlessness, sorcery-related killings, corruption and other negative connotations.

These days, modern technology ensures that whatever transpires within the borders of PNG is quickly impressed on the minds of foreigners. And often these impressions are not positive.

According to a 2014 report, PNG has one of the lowest ratios of tourist revenue to GDP in the world. As well as income, this also denies us opportunities to learn about the global community and the global community to learn about us.

Most foreign affairs ministries use internet technology to make their countries accessible to a global audience. Public diplomacy requires internet savvy. It can be argued that PNGs official internet-based communication platforms need improvement.

PNGs foreign affairs department should use web-based communication for practical activities such as data gathering or engaging with foreign audiences on foreign policy positions or global issues.

Currently PNG lacks the most basic baseline data in understanding our reputation and credibility globally. So we rely on hosting events to showcase the country in the hope that people will like and respect us.

But knowing precisely ones target audience matters if we are to be serious about influencing global perceptions.

More importantly, PNG must not be constrained by its smallness in the international system. In public diplomacy, there are major contributions by small states in ideas, knowledge and innovation.

Small states like Estonia punch above their weight in contributing global public goods. The Estonian government has created a national brand around the idea of innovation and technological improvement. This is the niche that defines Estonia as much more important than its size might suggest.

Currently there is an emphasis on how global sustainable development goals can be achieved by signatory states. PNG has the ability to initiate initiatives on climate change, ocean management, forestry conservation and cultural resources. These could be PNGs niche in global cooperation and an area for the conduct of public diplomacy.

A practical way to promote PNG would be through facilitating the work of non-government organisations establishing knowledge hubs, biological resource centres and other facilities for scientific research.

Research and scientific hubs are now preferred means of information-sharing. Resource-driven economies such as Norway and Botswana are transitioning from exporting natural resources to preparing human capital for an innovation and knowledge-driven economy. Qatar is investing in education and research and promoting educational hubs as the best medium for cross-cultural dialogue and understanding.

These are just a few cases of how public diplomacy can exercise a transformative affect on even the smallest countries.

If small states are lacking traditional measures of power, the ideas and values they promote on the global stage can still elevate their influence and stature.

It is not beyond us.

Patrick Kaiku is a teaching fellow in the Political Science Department at the University of Papua New GuineaMedia plays crucial role in making people aware: PM Oli

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that the government is committed to democracy, press freedom, human rightsThe military of Cote d`Ivoire demonstrated its new Belarusian-made Kaiman (Caiman) 4x4 armored cars during a military parade dedicated to the 58th anniversary of the country`s independence, according to local media outlets.



A total of eight Kaiman vehicles were shown, including four painted black and four camouflaged. (Picture source:Twitter)

A total of eight Kaiman vehicles were shown, including four painted black and four camouflaged. The first four cars are believed to have been operated by the Gendarmerie of Cote d`Ivoire, while the remaining four are reported to have been driven by the country`s military. It should be mentioned that Gendarmerie`s Kaimans carried no pieces of armament or weapon stations. The militarized vehicles were armed with NSVT Utyos 12.7 mm heavy machineguns (HMGs) in open-top mounts.

Therefore, Cote d`Ivoire has become the launch customer for the Kaiman armored car. The country seems to have acquired at least eight Belarusian-made vehicles. Earlier this year, Belarusian officials said the export deliveries of the Kaiman had already been started. In January, Head of Belarus` State Military-Industrial Committee Oleg Dvigalyov told Belarusian media "the Kaiman light armored vehicles are being shipped to an African country". However, the official did not specify the buyer of the armored car.

The Kaiman armored reconnaissance vehicle (ARV) has a combat weight of no more than 7,000 kg (+-3%), a ground clearance of 490 mm, and a wheel base of 3,100 mm. The vehicle`s passenger capacity reaches six servicemen (including its crew). The car features a steel monocoque hull, which provides STANAG 4569 Level 3 protection against bullets and small fragments. The vehicle is powered by a D-245.30E2 diesel engine, which produces a maximum road speed of 110 km/h, a maximum swimming speed of 8 km/h, and a road cruise range of up to 1,000 km. The ARV can carry a Kalashnikov 7.62 mm medium machinegun, NSVT Utyos 12.7 mm heavy machinegun (HMG), AGS-17 30 mm automatic grenade launcher, Adunok remote-controlled weapon station with an Utyos HMG, or a communications suite. The Kaiman seems to be based on the chassis of the Soviet-age BRDM-2 ARV. However, Belarusian sources say the vehicle has been made from scratch.The leaders of the five states bordering the resource-rich Caspian Sea signed a landmark deal Sunday on the legal status of the inland sea which boasts a wealth of oil and gas reserves and sturgeon. The leaders of Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia and Turkmenistan signed the agreement on the status of the inland sea, which has been disputed since the collapse of the Soviet Union rendered obsolete agreements between Tehran and Moscow. The host, Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev, said before the signing that the leaders were "participants in a historic event." "We can admit that consensus on the status of the sea was hard to reach and not immediate, the talks lasted more than 20 years and called for a lot of joint efforts from the parties," Nazarbayev said. Russian leader Vladimir Putin, whose country was seen as driving the deal, said the convention had "epoch-making significance" and called for more military cooperation between the countries on the Caspian. Nazarbayev said the convention allows for the construction of underwater oil and gas pipelines as well as setting national quotas for fishing and forbids any foreign military presence. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani was quick to hail the clause that prevents non-Caspian countries from deploying military forces. "The Caspian Sea only belongs to the Caspian states," he said. Putin also praised this clause, saying it would help "ensure the peaceful status of the Caspian Sea." - National boundaries - The deal provides a means of delimiting national boundaries in the sea whose underground energy resources are estimated at 50 billion barrels of oil and just under 300 trillion cubic feet (8.4 trillion cubic metres) of natural gas. But Rouhani stressed several times during the summit that these boundaries still need to be worked out between the countries. Iran, which ended up with the smallest share of the sea under the terms of the convention, is viewed as a potential loser in the deal. Sunday's summit was the fifth of its kind since 2002 but there have been more than 50 lower-level meetings since the Soviet breakup spawned four new countries on the shores of the Caspian. The deal goes some way to settling a long-lasting dispute on whether the Caspian is a sea or a lake -- which means it falls under different international laws. While the convention refers to the Caspian as a sea, provisions in the agreement give it "a special legal status", Russian deputy foreign minister Grigory Karasin told Kommersant daily earlier this week. The agreement also offers hope for the Caspian's ecological diversity and its depleted stocks of the beluga sturgeon, whose eggs are prized globally as caviar. While it remains to be seen how the deal will be implemented, the summit in Aktau was another opportunity for Moscow to present itself as a diplomatic deal-maker. After years of unsuccessful negotiations on the Caspian the Kremlin "gains political kudos for breaking a log-jam," said John Roberts, a non-resident senior fellow at Atlantic Council's Eurasia Center. - Trans-Caspian plan - Turkmen leader Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov greeted the deal enthusiastically as his country wants to send gas to markets in Europe via a long-planned Trans-Caspian underwater pipeline. The project is billed as allowing European countries to ease their dependence on gas from Russia at a time of heightened geopolitical confrontation. Nevertheless, Iran and Russia could still challenge the pipeline on ecological grounds. They have previously blocked the project, which could cost up to $5 billion to build and would have a projected capacity of 30 billion cubic metres per year. Kate Mallinson, Associate Fellow for the Russia and Eurasia Programme at Chatham House, urged caution over the prospects for the pipeline, saying the Aktau deal "is not a legal prerequisite for the construction." "Neither will a major transport corridor to export Turkmen gas to Europe emerge overnight." The Caspian Sea borders Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Iran, Russia and Turkmenistan A map of the Caspian Sea locating Aktau, in Kazakhstan, where a deal was signed Sunday by surrounding countries which ends decades of dispute over the inland sea rich in oil, gas and caviar.The leaders of Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia and Turkmenistan are meeting in the Kazakh port city of Aktau on Sunday to sign a landmark deal on the Caspian Sea. Here are five facts about the inland sea whose legal status has been the subject of fraught negotiations for over two decades since the Soviet Union's collapse. - Vast inland sea - The Caspian is the largest inland body of water in the world. With around 70,000 cubic kilometres (16,800 cubic miles) of water, it is bigger by volume than both the North and Baltic seas. The region's countries have long disputed whether the Caspian is a sea or a lake, which carries legal consequences. No rivers flow out of it and it is surrounded by land which means it is technically closer to being a lake. The new draft agreement calls it a sea while Russia said the provisions give it a special legal status. - Energy-rich - One of the reasons the Caspian has been contested so fiercely by the five littoral states is its abundance of hydrocarbon reserves. According to the US Energy Information Administration's latest estimate in 2012 there were 48 billion barrels of oil and 292 trillion cubic feet (8.3 trillion cubic metres) of natural gas in proved and probable reserves in the Caspian Sea's basins and its surrounding area. The Caspian's largest oil field, Kazakhstan's Kashagan, has 13 billion barrels of recoverable reserves and is the biggest offshore oil and gas find since it was discovered in 2000. Extracting the hydrocarbons from the water and on to the market has not always been easy though, and delays to the Kashagan project have led to it being nicknamed "cash all gone". - Costliest caviar - As home to the world's largest stocks of the giant Beluga sturgeon fish, the Caspian is also an important source of one of the world's priciest delicacies -- caviar. The most expensive Caspian caviar comes from the eggs of the rare albino sturgeon found in its southern waters, but environmental campaigners warn that sturgeon stocks are being overfished, and hope the new agreement will boost preservation efforts. According to Guinness World Records, a kilogramme of the costliest caviar from albino sturgeon off the coast of Iran regularly fetches over $25,000. - Beach destination - The scummy coastlines and choppy waters of the Caspian might not seem ideal tourism attractions, but for citizens of landlocked Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan they provide the best local beach holiday. Both countries have invested heavily in Caspian tourism, mainly oriented towards the local market. Nevertheless, there are doubts about how safe some areas are for swimming due to extensive pollution from the oil sector and other industrial waste. In recent years, authorities in Azerbaijan and Russia's Dagestan region have declared a number of beaches unsafe for swimming but many bathers continue to take the risk. - Narnia links - British author C.S. Lewis named a seafaring prince Caspian in his popular Chronicles of Narnia series for children and although the connection is not proven, the books have many nods to languages and cultures dominant in the region. Among these is the lion Aslan, whose name is derived from the word for "lion" in several Turkic languages including Azeri and Turkmen. Swimmers in the Caspian Sea near oil rigs in the Azerbaijani capital Baku According to the US Energy Information Administration's latest estimate in 2012 there were 48 billion barrels of oil and 292 trillion cubic feet (8.3 trillion cubic metres) of natural gas in proven and probable reserves in the Caspian Sea area The Caspian is an important source of one of the world's priciest delicacies -- caviar Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan have invested in Caspian tourismThe Conversation

Eric Risberg/APFacebook chief executive Mark Zuckerberg has announced the company will change its name to Meta, saying the move reflects the fact the company is now much broader than just the social media platform (which will still be called Facebook). The rebrand follows several months of intensifying discourse by Zuckerberg and the company more broadly on the metaverse  the idea of integrating real and digital worlds ever more seamlessly, using technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and auThe powerful earthquakes that struck the Indonesian island of Lombok in recent weeks killing some 400 people have sent holidaymakers fleeing, raising questions about how its lucrative tourism sector will bounce back. Two deadly tremors a week apart -- accompanied by dozens of aftershocks -- wrought widespread damage on homes and livelihoods, striking during the crucial tourism season, when hotels, local businesses and seasonal workers earn the bulk of their annual revenue. In the Gili Islands, a popular backpacker and diving destination just off Lombok's northern coast, thousands of terrified tourists jostled on powder-white beaches for departing boats. Lombok's airport was briefly crammed with holidaymakers rushing to get flights out, while the main tourist drag of Senggigi has been left deserted. Alfan Hasandi depended on peak season tourists to see his family through the rest of the year. He and his brothers ran a now shuttered business on one of the islands, Gili Air, offering boat tickets, snorkeling, trekking and vehicle rentals, usually earning five million rupiah ($350) a day during peak season. "We hope we can rebuild... but it's impossible because people are still traumatised," the 25-year-old told AFP. "Our homes have been completely destroyed... We don't have money to rebuild, we need help." Located in the one of the most tectonically active areas in the world, Indonesians are used to natural disasters and its tourism industry has bounced back from catastrophes in the past. But for Lombok, the quakes struck at an especially cruel time, when the island's tourism industry was on the way up. - 'A new Bali' - Dubbed "The Island of a Thousand Mosques", Muslim-majority Lombok was always a path less travelled destination than its bigger neighbor Bali, the Hindu-majority island that forms the backbone of Indonesia's $19.4 billion tourist sector. But it had been earmarked as one of Indonesian President Joko Widodo's "10 new Balis" with the regional government hoping to develop it into a major destination, especially in the booming halal tourism sector. Its residents now have to repair and rebuild, hoping that spooked tourists return. Senggigi would normally be bustling with visitors this time of year. Now boats lie idle along its main beach, restaurants and hotels have been shuttered on its main drag and the usual stream of touts offering services has dried up. "We don't know whether we can operate again in September," Susi Hayati, manager of the Asmara restaurant, told AFP. Ketut Jaya, manager of the nearby Holiday Resort Lombok, said it might be a month before they could start taking guest bookings again. Just 19 of the resort's 189 rooms were occupied by hardy tourists who decided not to leave after the quake. Authorities estimate the damage unleashed by the two quakes on buildings and infrastructure on Lombok will exceed two trillion rupiah ($138 million). - 'Temporary shock' - But while the post-quake images of destruction and departing tourists were dramatic, analysts predict tourism in the region will recover after short-term pain. Indonesia's tourism sector has been robust in the face of major crises before, including natural disasters like the 2004 tsunami and terror attacks such as the 2002 Bali bombings. "The impact is not as big as a tsunami and the (Lombok) airport is still open," Tedjo Iskandar, a Jakarta-based travel analyst with TTC Travel Mart, told AFP. Asnawi Bahar, chairman of Indonesia's tour and travel agency association, described the earthquake as a "temporary shock" for the sector. The number of visitors to Bali plummeted following the 2002 bombings, which targeted a nightclub and bar frequented by Western tourists. The attacks killed more than 200 people and shocked the world. But the island soon regained its status as one of the world's most popular holiday destinations. That is little comfort for people like Vina Kartika, who used to work on Gili Trawangan, where one of her friends was killed in the quake, and has currently lost her seasonal tourism job. "I will now have to stay at home, doing nothing," she said. On Gili Air island, some hotels were flattened but others survived. A diving school was barricaded with wood panels and furniture to keep intruders out. A supermarket in the middle of the island was completely empty, its windows broken. Hasandi said he is trying to remain upbeat, and he said lessons can be learned from the Bali's recovery. "People were scared back then but then came back," he said. "This is a natural disaster, so it should be OK -- God willing." Tourists are hugely important to the economy of Lombok and the Gili Islands Tourists have fled en masse from Lombok and the Gili islands since the quakes A man riding a motorcycle passes by a damaged house at Sira village in northern LombokMalian opposition candidate Soumaila Cisse said on Monday he would reject the results of a presidential runoff marred by accusations of fraud, violence and low turnout, calling on the population "to rise up." Ballot counting was underway on Monday across the vast West African country after the vote Sunday saw one poll worker killed and hundreds of stations closed due to insecurity. "The fraud is proven, this is why there are results we will not accept," Cisse said at his party's headquarters in Bamako. "I call on all Malians to rise up... We will not accept the dictatorship of fraud," he added. President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, 73, is the clear frontrunner in a reprise of his 2013 faceoff against former finance minister Cisse, 68. But Cisse's team and other opposition contenders have repeatedly accused the government of fraud, including ballot-box stuffing and vote buying. However the African Union (AU) election observers said the voting was carried out "in acceptable conditions," in a preliminary report published Monday. At this stage there is "no tangible element" pointing towards voting irregulariities, the observers said, congratulating the Mali government for its efforts to improve the voting process and noting a drop in the number of untoward incidents in the second round of voting. The European Union also said that in the 300 polling stations its observers visited, no "major incident" occurred. Nearly 500 polling stations were unable to open on Sunday, the government said, mostly in regions plagued by jihadist violence and ethnic tensions. "We had a little over 3.7 percent of stations which had not functioned properly" during the first round on July 29, Salif Traore, Mali's security minister, said on Monday. The figure fell to 2.1 percent of the 23,000 polling booths in Sunday's runoff vote, which Traore said was due to the deployment of more military. In a reminder of the jihadist threat that was a major campaign issue, the overseer of a polling station in Arkodia, in the northern region of Timbuktu, was shot dead on Sunday by armed Islamist militants, local officials said. Aside from this "dramatic case," the government said the poll occurred without incident. Turnout however was just 22.38 percent, local monitors of the POCIM (the Mali Citizen Observation Pool) said. - Fraud allegations - In the first-round vote on July 29, Keita was clearly ahead, with 42 percent against 18 percent for Cisse. Despite fierce criticism of Keita for his handling of the security crisis, Cisse failed to rally the support of other parties behind him for the runoff, leaving the incumbent seemingly on track for a second consecutive landslide. Results are expected by mid-week at the earliest. The three main opposition candidates had mounted a last-ditch legal challenge to the first-round result, alleging ballot-box stuffing and other irregularities. But their petition was rejected by the Constitutional Court. Cisse's party told AFP in the early hours of Sunday that ballot papers were already circulating, several hours before polls opened. In at least six stations in the capital of Bamako, voting reports -- which give the number of voters and votes cast for each candidate -- were signed before the numbers were filled in, an AFP journalist witnessed. The opposition leader, in a meeting where hundreds of supporters had gathered on Monday afternoon, also said the programme his party uses to count votes -- which had put him in the lead until then -- was hacked overnight. Six members of his campaign team, including four French, were arrested on Sunday, the team and Traore, the minister of security, said. Five of the six were released without charges after being held for two hours in a Bamako police station, a source close to the team said. Their phones and laptops were seized. - Violence - Mali, a landlocked nation home to at least 20 ethnic groups where the majority of people live on less than $2 a day, has battled jihadist attacks and intercommunal violence for years. Beyond its borders, the international community hope that the winner will consolidate a 2015 accord that the fragile Sahel state sees as its foundation for peace. The deal brought together the government, government-allied groups and former Tuareg rebels. But jihadist violence has spread from the north to the centre and south of the vast country and spilled into neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger, often inflaming communal conflicts. A state of emergency heads into its fourth year in November. France still has 4,500 troops deployed alongside the UN's 15,000 peacekeepers and a regional G5 Sahel force, aimed at rooting out jihadists and restoring the authority of the state. Malian Opposition leader and presidential candidate Soumaila Cisse was greeted by supporters on Monday as he arrived at his campaign headquarters Supporters of Malian opposition leader and presidential candidate Soumaila Cisse hold posters reading "Together, let's restore hope" Salif Traore, Mali's security minister said hundreds of polling stations were unable to open on Sunday A girl poses with a metal bowl over her head on the sidelines of a protest against incumbent Malian President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita in Bamako Map of Mali showing its main ethnic groups, refugees and conflict zones as voters to the polls Sunday in the second round of presdiential elections.Minor dies in Tansen jeep accident

An eleven-month-old boy died in a jeep accident at a busy market place of Tansen, Palpa, on Sunday.When German police received a distressed call from a man involved in a frantic pursuit, it may have crossed their minds they were falling victim to a prank.

But the mans call to officers in Karlsruhe was in fact genuine, and he was being chased by a baby squirrel.

Help, I am being pursued by a squirrel, the man informed emergency services.

Police rushed to the mans aid on Thursday morning (local time) where they discovered the adorable squirrel in search of companionship.

The tiny squirrel was in search of a companion. Source: Karlsruhe Police

Police said the squirrel had most likely been separated from its mother and was looking for a replacement.

It often happens that squirrels which have lost their mothers look for a replacement and then focus their efforts on one person, police spokeswoman Christina Krenz told The Guardian.

Its likely the baby squirrel was separated from its mother. Source: Karlsruhe Police

The spokeswoman said such incidents involving the very persistent animal can be pretty scary.

Karlsruhe police managed to see the funny side of the incident though and took to Twitter updating the public about the squirrel, named Karl-Friedrich.

The squirrel has fallen asleep because of fright, they wrote, accompanied by several photos of the rescued squirrel.

Officers confirmed the squirrel was in good health and was later handed over to an animal rescue centre.A grieving mother killer whale who pushed her dead calf 1,600 kilometres over 17 days has finally let go of her offspring.

The mother whale named Tahlequah, or J35, had given birth to a baby southern resident killer whale on July 24, near Victoria, British Columbia in Canada.

But by the time a team from the Centre for Whale Research arrived to take pictures of the newborn, it sadly was no longer alive.

The grieving mother had been pushing her dead orca calf around the water for 17 days after giving birth near Victoria, British Columbia in Canada. Source: Center for Whale Research

For days the mother killer whale, also known as an orca, was seen repeatedly diving to retrieve the calfs carcass as it sank en route to San Juan Island.

But on Saturday experts confirmed she had dropped the calf.

She is alive and well and at least over that part of her grief. Today (Saturday local time) was the first day that I, for sure, saw her. It is no longer there, Ken Balcomb, founding director of the Center for Whale Research, told the Seattle Times.

While scientists had previously held fears for Tahlequahs health due to not eating, Mr Balcomb confirmed she seemed physically stable.

Scientists say the mother whale (foreground) appears healthy after she was pictured over the weekend without the calf. Source: Center for Whale Research

J35 frolicked past my window today with other J pod whales, and she looks vigorous and healthy, he said.

Shes been eating.

The Centre for Whale Research said the carcass had probably sunk to the bottom of these inland marine waters of the Salish Sea and it would be difficult for researchers to locate it for necropsy.

Scientists believe the carcass will be difficult to locate at the bottom of the sea. Source: Center for Whale Research

The mother is currently surrounded by members of her clan, known as J pod, who stay to support her through the grieving process.

About 75 per cent of newborns have not survived for long after birth in the past 20 years and as a result the southern resident killer whale population has been classified as endangered.

Biologists concerns now turn to another member of the population, a 4.5-year-old known as J50, who will be monitored over its ailing health.An Australian family is desperately raising money for their toddler to receive life-saving treatment to help her live past the age of five.

Melbourne mum Leanne Shaw told Yahoo7 her daughter was diagnosed with stage four high-risk Neuroblastoma, a rare and aggressive tumour, in April.

The cancer affects the adrenal nerve cells and has spread across Avas body. She has a primary tumour in her abdomen in the adrenal gland above her kidney.

At just two-years-old, Ava is undergoing gruelling rounds of chemotherapy and is in hospital three weeks a month.

Ava was diagnosed right after her second birthday. Source: Supplied/GoFundMe

Ms Shaw, who is 33-weeks pregnant and working to support her family, said she first noticed something wrong with her daughter just after her second birthday.

She had been an absolutely perfect, happy, bubbly little girl from birth and was absolutely fine right up until she turned two, Ms Shaw said.

Eleven days prior to her being admitted, just after her second birthday, she was waking up almost every hour crying inconsolably, didnt want to play, was lethargic and didnt really want to eat.

She had temperatures above 38C almost every day and we took her to the doctors three times.

The first two times we were told it was viral and the third time they thought it was a UTI and we got antibiotics.

Ava and her mum Leanne. Source: Supplied/GoFundMe

On April 5 Ms Shaw and her partner James, who has since given up his job to care for Ava, took their daughter to the Royal Childrens Hospital in Melbourne where she underwent a full-body MRI.

On the morning of the 7th we came into the room and there were six doctors. As soon as I saw them I knew it wasnt good. They told us there was no infection, however they found tumours, Ms Shaw said.

Family desperate for life-saving treatment

A GoFundMe fundraising page has been set up to help raise $350,000 for Ava to receive a trial treatment to stop her cancer from coming back once she is in remission.

The family will have to travel to New York to receive the treatment at the Memorial Sloan Kettering hospital.

Story continues

Patients have to fund the entire cost of the vaccine, which is estimated about $225,000, and the family will have to live there for a year while Ava receives the treatment.

Ava was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer. Source: Supplied/GoFundMe

The vaccine will stop Ava from relapsing, which happens in about 75 per cent of people who have her certain type of cancer.

Ava is expected to be in remission in March next year and the family will have a small window then to head to New York to start treatment, before the risk of relapse increases.

As a parent youll do anything

With the aggressive cancer Ava may not live past the age of five, but Ms Shaw said the vaccine gave children a much better chance of survival.

As a parent youll do anything to make sure a child has the best chance at life, she said.

We couldnt sit back or ever forgive ourselves if this is her only chance of surviving.

Ms Shaw said Ava was suffering some anxiety as a result of her chemotherapy as it made her fall very ill.

The chemotherapy causes Ava to have mucositis and break out in blisters. She has basically no immune system and suffers from pain in her joints and bones as her blood cell count increases after chemo.

Ava is hospitalised for three weeks every month. Source: Supplied/GoFundMe

The intense chemotherapy is causing Ava to lose hearing and it is likely she will be infertile as she grows older.

Shell have serious side effects shell have to live with the rest of her life, Ms Shaw said.

As an outsider you think how do you even cope but we have no choice.

We have so much support around us so thats a big help and the fact that Ava can bounce back in a sense to a happy, bubbly two-year-old helps us continue our job to make her life as normal as it can be.

A trial treatment in New York could stop Avas cancer from returning. Source: Supplied/GoFundMe

The family has so far raised more than $40,000 and Ms Shaw said they were grateful for the support.

I have pushed myself very hard to provide for myself and my family and it was very hard to accept I couldnt do this on my own. I dont take it lightly asking people for money, she said.

To donate to little Ava visit the familys GoFundMe page and follow her journey here.Gunmen killed three members of Jordan's security forces in a shootout Saturday during a raid on a "terrorist" cell a day after an officer died in a rare bomb blast, the government spokeswoman said. The shootout in the city of Salt, northwest of the capital Amman, came after a home-made bomb exploded Friday under a patrol car at a music festival killing one security force member and wounding six others. The rare blast hit the security patrol in Al-Fuhais, 12 kilometres (8 miles) west of the capital on Friday evening, the interior ministry said on Saturday. "It killed Sergeant Ali Adnan Qawqaza and wounded six other members of the patrol," the ministry said, adding that an investigation was underway into the cause of the blast. Security forces had been deployed to protect the town's annual festival, which hosts prominent Arab music acts. Later Saturday, security forces raided a house in Salt in search of a suspected "terrorist cell" believed to be behind Friday's bombing, government spokeswoman Jumana Ghneimat said in a statement. "The suspects refused to surrender and opened heavy fire toward a joint security force," Ghneimat said. The suspects also "blew up the building in which they were hiding, and which they had booby-trapped earlier", she said, adding that part of the building "collapsed" during the raid. Three members of the security forces were killed in the shootout and several others, including civilians, were wounded, said Ghneimat, who is also minister of state for media affairs. Ghneimat did not give details but local Jordanian media, quoting medical sources in Salt, said around 20 people were wounded in the operation. The security forces eventually arrested three suspects, she said, adding that the operation in Salt was still "ongoing". - 'Cowardly act' - Salt lies a few kilometres north of Al-Fuhais, a mostly Christian town. Ghneimat said that the security forces raided the house in Salt after receiving a tip-off. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for Friday's bomb blast and the identity of the suspects in Salt was not immediately known. Jordan has played a key role in the US-led coalition fighting Islamic State group in neighbouring Syria and Iraq, using its air force against the jihadists and allowing coalition forces to use its bases. The kingdom was hit by a string of jihadist attacks in 2016, including a suicide bombing in June that killed seven guards near the border with Syria that was claimed by IS. Months later in December a shooting rampage, also claimed by IS, killed 10 people including a Canadian tourist. On Saturday Prime Minister Omar al-Razzaz vowed that Jordan would "not be complacent in the hunt for terrorists". "Jordan will always be at the forefront of the fight against terrorism and obscurantist ideas which target the lives of innocents and try to undermine security and stability," he said in remarks carried by Petra. According to the interior ministry the bomb that was planted under the patrol car in Al-Fuhais was "home-made". "This cowardly act will not deter the security forces but strengthen their resolve to carry out their sacred duty to maintain the security of citizens," the ministry said in a statement early Saturday. An initial report carried by Petra late Friday had said the blast was caused by the explosion of a tear gas grenade. A Jordanian flag flutters above the Jordanian capital Amman on June 8, 2018A new poll has found that a majority of Queenslanders would support joining NSW, Queensland and Tasmania by introducing daylight saving.

On Sunday, 1 October when local standard time reaches 2am, clocks are turned forward one hour to 3am. This change means that sunrise and sunset are an hour later, and Australians (except those in Queensland, the Northern Territory and Western Australia) have more light to play with in the evenings.

The figures from a poll conducted by the Courier Mail show that 2/3rds of Queensland residents would like to see daylight saving introduced in their state. 41% of people rejected the idea of change.

The shift in opinion could put pressure on the state government to revisit the topic with a public vote.They may feel aggrieved at not obtaining an official seal of approval, but traditional Romanian dressmakers are riding a wave of demand for their folk designs after a top fashion house inadvertently showcased their craft. Clothes makers from the northwestern Bihor region were more than a little bemused when they got wind of a 2017 Dior collection. Their jaws notably dropped when they saw an embroidered folk coat which looked strikingly similar to the "cojocel binsenesc" waistcoat their region has been producing for around a century. A Romanian version of the garment, historically worn on important occasions, sells at home and abroad for around 500 euros ($580) -- almost a month's salary in one of the European Union's poorest countries. The Dior coat did not go unnoticed among the wider population either, after a resident of the regional city of Beius spotted it in a Singapore shop and posted it on Facebook, sparking a strong response from users which was picked up by the media. "That day, I posted my first comment on Facebook, thanking the Dior fashion house for appreciating this beautiful item," Dorina Hanza, a 52-year-old embroiderer who cottoned on to the similarity, told AFP. La Blouse Roumaine, which promotes the Romanian blouse to encourage women to wear it, juxtaposed the different versions side by side on Twitter, adding #givecredit. Yet Dior, which did not respond to AFP's requests for comment, may well have done the Bihor designers a favour. Demand has soared since the social media posts pointing out the similarities between both versions of the heavily embroidered, multicolour, sheepskin sleeveless jacket with black fur edging. "Since then, everybody wants one" from the traditional source, enthused Ana Florea, who runs a designers' group in Beius, near the Hungarian border. "This waistcoat is 100 percent ours," she insisted. Hanza, while happy to see the Romanian version in the limelight, said she just wished Dior could have given a nod to their apparent inspiration. "They could have said, 'we borrowed this from the Romanian people'," said Hanza, adding "the tradition might have been lost" had the current controversy not emerged. - 'Thanks Dior' - Diana Naprodean, 44, also sees an upside to the Dior garment. "That proves it's really pretty," said the librarian, a hobbyist crocheter and embroiderer who has just produced her own first attempt at the traditional waistcoat. "Thanks Dior. Thanks to you we have begun to love our traditional costume again," said Diana Herdelo, 33, another from the Beius group who is weaving one of her own. The waistcoat is made from local Bihor sheepskin after a tanning process of around three weeks. It is then tailored and decorated with local style embroidery and worn by both men and women, although the length and motifs differ. With traditional regional costumes being worn by fewer and fewer people, demand for the clothes had almost died out until the controversy over the Dior jacket reignited interest. One important detail on the Dior version did not escape the notice of Bihor residents though -- the jacket worn by the fashion model was adorned with motifs -- a phallic symbol -- strictly worn only by men. "Tradition doesn't allow a woman to wear a man's cojocel or the other way around," Hanza said. With interest piqued, Romania's Beau Monde magazine and the McCann advertising agency have launched an ad campaign entitled Bihor Couture, along with a website where fans can order a jacket and other traditional items. The site has already taken around 1,000 orders. "Our goal is to help people in this region and showcase their work and their traditions which were in danger of dying out," says Beau Monde's former editor-in-chief Roxana Dobrita. - 'Culture is a living thing' - McCann's creative director for Romania Catalin Dobre said he believes that "the fashion industry should do more to support traditions. "Across the globe, the leading brands take their inspiration from different cultures without recognising it," he told AFP in an email. Horatiu Ilea, curator of the Romanian Peasant Museum, said he believes any accusations against Dior in this case are unjustified. "Culture is a living thing. Ideas get bounced around, you can't stop that," he told AFP, adding that "cultural appropriation" has been going on since ancient times. Rather than demand some form of redress, Ilea urged Romania "to benefit from this incident, by, for example, launching a campaign promoting traditional and artisanal work." Dressmakers from Romania's northwestern Bihor region were surprised to see an embroidered folk coat in a collection by Dior which looked strikingly similar to the "cojocel binsenesc" waistcoat their region has been producing for around a century Dorina Hanza, a 52-year-old embroiderer, was among those in Romania who cottoned on to the similarity between the traditional folk waistcoat and the Dior version Romanian traditional dressmakers are riding a wave of demand for their folk designs after a Dior heavily embroidered jacket gained attention The waistcoast is made from local Bihor sheepskin and is decorated with local style embroidery, and worn by both men and women, although the length and motifs differ Romania's Beau Monde magazine and the McCann advertising agency have launched a campaign entitled Bihor Couture and a website for ordering jackets and other traditional itemsA Taliban delegation travelled to Uzbekistan earlier this month to discuss the Afghan peace process and withdrawal of foreign forces, officials said Sunday, as fighting between insurgents and security forces raged near Kabul. The meetings in Afghanistan's northern neighbour follow recent reports that the Taliban sent similar delegations to China, illustrating the group's rising ambitions to engage in independent talks with foreign governments as momentum for a peace settlement in the country builds. The head of the Taliban's political office in Qatar Sher Muhammad Abbas Stanekzai met with Uzbek Foreign Minister Abdul Aziz Kamilov over a four-day period from August 6, and discussed the "prospects of the peace process in Afghanistan", the Uzbek foreign ministry said in a statement. The Taliban said in a separate statement they discussed the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan, peace and "future national projects such as security for railroad and power lines". Uzbekistan's special envoy for Afghanistan Ismatulla Irgashev also attended the meetings, officials said. The talks follow an earlier trip to Uzbekistan by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in late March. The move was welcomed by some in Kabul, where pressure is mounting to engage the insurgents and end the nearly 17-year-old war. The Taliban have continued to push for direct negotiations with the US -- rather than the government in Kabul, which the insurgents see as illegitimate -- but have also attempted to build independent contacts with other governments. "These kind of meetings are going to continue until the real talks begin," Sayed Ehsan Taheri, a spokesman for the Afghanistan High Peace Council, told AFP. The Taliban have repeatedly rejected overtures from the Afghan government to join a peace process, as they intensify attacks across the country. Late Thursday Taliban fighters launched a major assault on the provincial capital of Ghazni, just a two hour drive south of Kabul. Anticipation had been mounting about the possibility of a government ceasefire announcement for the Islamic holiday of Eid-al Adha later this month. An unprecedented truce in June brought fighting between security forces and the Taliban to a temporary halt, giving war-weary Afghans some welcome relief from violence. The June ceasefire sparked hopes that an opportunity for peace talks between the government and Taliban may be opening. Later in the month Washington indicated a change in its longstanding policy when US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the United States was prepared to "support, facilitate and participate" in talks, opening the way to militants to meet US officials in Qatar. Pompeo also said the role of foreign forces in Afghanistan would be on the table. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan Abdul Aziz Kamilov met with the visiting Taliban delegation, officials saidFor some, getting the perfect Instagram picture at a tourist attraction can be more important than seeing the famous landmark itself.

And when two budding social media presences were disrupted by each others amateur photo shoots at Romes iconic Trevi Fountain, they certainly let their feelings known.

When the two women, a 19-year-old Dutch woman and a 44-year-old Italian-American female, began posing for a selfie at a time of day when the light makes the fountain a perfect backdrop, chaotic scenes quickly ensued, The Guardian reported.

The two groups were eventually separated by police. Source: Corpo di Polizia Locale di Roma Capitale

As the pair began to jostle for the perfect angle, their conflict became violent with punches thrown.

Family members then jumped in before police officers rushed in to break up the escalating trouble involving eight individuals.

Photos shared by local police, Corpo di Polizia Locale di Roma Capitale, shows one woman yanking the hair of another female.

The Trevi Fountain attracts thousands of tourists each year and has seen its fair share of troubles. Source: Getty

Police confirmed the eight involved suffered only minor injuries and were all charged for their violent behaviour.

The fountain, which attracts thousands of visitors each year, isnt short of its controversy with tourists.

Authorities have introduced $375 fines for unruly visitors after tourists continued to eat in and around the monument and others were even taking dips in the water.

Locals are particularly annoyed when tourists attempt to recreate the famous scene from Federico Fellinis film La Dolce Vita by wading through the water as actress Anita Ekberg did.Naya Shakti chief Bhattarai slams local units

Coordinator of Naya Shakti Party-Nepal Baburam Bhattarai has criticised the local units for imposing unnecessarily high tax on people.A key objective of President Donald Trump's trade war is to pressure Beijing to "buy American", but when it comes to millions of dollars of US meat imports, China may simply take its business elsewhere. Beijing's retaliatory tariffs on US pork and beef are making them prohibitively expensive and Chinese importers are simply turning to other sources, a trend expected in other sectors as well. "When the US prices go so expensive after the duties... we will source from other origins," said Zhang Lihui, Shanghai manager for global meat company PMI Foods. "Like for beef, we will buy more from Australia, we will buy more from South America, and maybe a little bit more from Canada." PMI Foods has already ceased importing cuts of US pork meat into China after Beijing's tariffs -- imposed last month in response to Trump's initial duties on Chinese goods -- drove prices up. - Shifting patterns - Shifting trade patterns caused by the tariff battle will "definitely" benefit other countries at the US's expense, Zhang said. "The Chinese market will certainly look for replacements," she said. The outcome of the trade battle, spread across a range of sectors, remains hard to predict. But analysts warn that US exporters will lose significant China business. The US exported around $140 million worth of pork, beef and related by-products to China in June, before tariffs kicked in, according to the US Meat Export Federation, about 10 percent of all US beef and pork exports. China is clearly targeting imports of commodities such as meat, soybeans, wheat and petrochemicals that are easily replaced in the global market, said Julian Evans-Pritchard, a China economist with Capital Economics. "That's the idea of tariffs: you are trying to hurt the other side while not hurting yourself too much," he said. "I think (the trade war) could lead to some quite significant shifts in the flow -- which country getting what from where." The impact on prices of imports, however, will be largely negligible as "the global trade system is quite flexible," he added, and because suppliers on both sides will absorb much of the tariff costs themselves to maintain their exports. That is the case with Lin Zhengu, chef and owner of Shanghai's upscale Stone Sal steak restaurant, which serves mainly high-end American and Australian beef. Costs of prime US beef cuts are already up 30-40 percent due to the trade war, Lin said, but he and his US suppliers are eating the losses themselves rather than pass them on to customers. "The only way we will switch to other (non-US) beef is if the gate is totally closed. For now, we still want to work with our suppliers and farms," he said. - Filling the gap - Trade experts say some of the most valuable US exports to China such as Boeing aircraft and American-made cars are threatened as China can instead import Airbus jets or autos from Europe and Japan. Even US soybeans, seen as a key American leverage point due to the massive quantities China imports, might not be irreplaceable. The head of Chinese state grain trading giant Cofco said it was looking at increasing imports of soybeans from Brazil, and other grains from places such as Ukraine and Russia. Shanghai Xinshangshi International Trade Co, a major formerly state-owned Chinese food importer, brought in $40 million worth of US beef and pork in 2017 and had planned to raise that to $100 million this year. But due to the trade war, its general manager Xu Wei is turning to Europe, Australia and South America instead. "The gap will be filled very soon," Xu said. "So for the trade war, if we Chinese importers still want to maintain our trade volumes, it would hurt the US suppliers and exporters the most." Beijing's retaliatory tariffs on US pork and beef are making them prohibitively expensive and Chinese importers are simply turning to other sources, a trend expected in other sectors as well The US exported around $140 million worth of pork, beef and related by-products to China in June, before tariffs kicked in, according to the US Meat Export Federation, about 10 percent of all US beef and pork exports Costs of prime US beef cuts are already up 30-40 percent due to the trade war but Chinese and US suppliers are eating the losses themselves rather than pass them on to customers China is clearly targeting imports of commodities such as meat, soybeans, wheat and petrochemicals that are easily replaced in the global marketTurkey's nationalist Good Party re-elected Meral Aksener as its chief on Sunday, even though she had vowed to step down following her heavy defeat in the presidential election in June. Aksener had said last month she would step down after coming only fourth in the June 24 election, while President Recep Tayyip Erdogan won a resounding victory and saw his powers increased substantially. But senior figures in her party insisted on putting Aksener's name forward again as leader at the party congress in Ankara. "We are not practising in our party the one-man model that we oppose in our country's administration," Aksener told delegates to a standing ovation. Hopes had been high that Aksener would be able to erode some of the conservative-nationalist vote that Erdogan considers his own. But she received only the most limited airtime, in what her supporters said was a deliberate attempt to gag her. Her congress speech on Sunday was, nevertheless, covered by main news channels. The main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) was also left in turmoil in the wake of the presidential vote. Aksener raised the issue of the collapse in the Turkish lira, which fell 16 percent against the US dollar on Friday amid a diplomatic spat with the United States over a number of pressing issues including the detention of a pastor. "Difficult days are ahead of our country," Aksener said, in criticism of Erdogan's policies. "We could pay a high price in a bid to rescue the economy from dire straits." Meral Aksener has been re-elected head of Turkey's nationalist Good PartyA small white supremacist rally took place outside the White House on Sunday when only some 20 far-right supporters showed up, but they were massively outnumbered by counter-protesters. Washington police closed streets and threw a ring of steel across a park where the rally was held to keep the demonstrators and counter-protesters apart. The day appeared to end without major incident, though officers used pepper spray on rowdy anti-fascists a few blocks from the White House. The tiny group of demonstrators trickled in from nearby Vienna, Virginia under heavy police escort at Washington's Foggy Bottom Metro station -- and were met by hundreds of counter-protesters screaming "Shame!" and "Get out of my city!" Most of the demonstrators wore masks, prompting counter-protesters to taunt them as cowards for hiding their identity. Heavy rain helped bring the so-called "Unite the Right 2" demo to an early end, hours before the scheduled finish of what had been billed as a "white civil rights rally" protesting, among other things, the social media shut down of some voices on the extreme right. After marching to Lafayette Square in front of the White House, the group was driven in police vans back to a different Metro station outside of Washington. "Behold the master race," one counter-protester mockingly yelled. By the end of the day, only six individuals remained, protected from angry counter-protesters by a ring of police officers. "The US is for all of us, NOT just some of us," one counter-protester sign read, while another said, "Fighting Nazis: An American Tradition." One year ago torch-bearing white supremacists in the first "United the Right" event marched through Charlottesville, Virginia in two days of chaos, chanting slogans such as "Blood and Soil" - the English version of a Nazi chant - and "White Lives Matter." That event culminated with a man driving a car into a crowd of counter-protesters, killing a woman and injuring 19 people. Some of the white demonstrators in Charlottesville carried guns, including assault rifles, but all firearms were barred from Sunday's rally. On Sunday the demonstrator chants, if any, were drowned out by the counter-protesters. "Pro-white" march organizer Jason Kessler, who wore a grey suit and no mask, told reporters that he was not a white supremacist but a "civil rights advocate for white people" and wanted to "tell the truth about Charlottesville," which he claimed was "sabotaged" by city officials. In a video posted on the Politico website, Kessler said that many sympathizers failed to show up because they were "terrified that they are going to be attacked" by counter-demonstrators. - 'Like Nazi Germany' - "It would be a major mistake if we allowed fascists to just walk into the nation's capital and go in unopposed," said Kei Pritsker, 22, a volunteer with the Answer Coalition that organized the counter-protest. The white supremacist movement is enjoying a sense of empowerment under President Donald Trump, Pritsker said. Trump drew broad criticism immediately after last year's Charlottesville clashes when he appeared reluctant to condemn the extreme right-wingers -- many of whom have rallied behind him since his election. On Saturday, the president issued a generic condemnation of "all types of racism and acts of violence" via Twitter. An African-American counter protester who only gave his name as Jim said that Trump has "emboldened" white racists. "It was subtle, now it's not subtle, it's in your face. It's like Nazi Germany," he told AFP. Police escort far-right demonstrators during a rally at Lafayette Park opposite the White House Counter-protesters gather in Washington ahead of the Unite The Right rally Protesters march against the Unite the Right rally About 20 white nationalists trickled in from nearby Vienna, Virginia -- under heavy police escort -- at Washington's Foggy Bottom Metro station

A Perth driver has been photographed smoking from what appears to be a glass meth pipe after another motorist noticed her swerving across the road.

Witnesses say they saw the driver using a bright green lighter to heat the bottom of the pipe as she made her way down Kwinana Freeway, heading south near Thomas Road, on Saturday afternoon.

One witness said he was so shocked by what he had seen, he asked his wife to take a photograph of her and her number plate.

Police said they were now using the images to try and track down the driver.

The woman was photographed smoking from what appears to be a glass pipe after a witness said he saw her swerving across the road. Source: 7 News

Both sides of West Australian politics condemned the stunt.

Thats one of the most insane things Ive ever seen, Premier Mark McGowan told 7 News after seeing the photo.

Stupid crazy stuff. I look forward to police tracking her down and charging her.

Shadow police minister Peter Katsambanis was also left in disbelief.

These people are crazy, he said.

They need to stop this sort of behaviour.New York State United Teachers, an influential union representing more than 600,000 members, supported state Sen. Jim Seward in past elections. But the labor group won't back his re-election bid in 2018.

The union made no endorsement in the 51st Senate District race, according to a list released last week. NYSUT backed 37 state Senate candidates, including Democratic nominee John Mannion in the neighboring 50th Senate District.

Seward, R-Milford, didn't make the cut.

The reason for the snub is the state Senate's vote on a bill to decouple standardized state tests from teacher evaluations. NYSUT backed a separate bill that had 55 cosponsors in the Senate, but didn't receive a vote.

Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan, a Long Island Republican, pushed his own measure that included some of the same provisions. But it also contained a proposal to increase the state's charter school cap, a concept the union has long opposed.

The Senate passed Flanagan's bill, S8992, by a 35-25 vote. Seward voted for the legislation.

NYSUT President Andy Pallotta said the union warned the Senate that the bill "carried serious consequences."

"Those senators who turned their backs on teachers and public education  and held students and educators hostage in hopes of dealing for more charter schools  are now being held accountable for their vote," Pallotta said in a statement.

Seward, who received NYSUT's support in the 2012, 2014 and 2016 elections, has lost its endorsement before. In 2008, he voted for a property tax cap proposal opposed by the labor group. The union suspended its support of Seward and other senators.

However, online archives indicate that NYSUT reinstated its endorsement of Seward and other senators in October 2008.

Seward said in a phone interview Friday that he wasn't surprised with non-endorsement in this year's race. He defended his record on education and reiterated his support of addressing over-testing and revamping the teacher evaluation system.

"With or without the NYSUT endorsement, I think the teachers and the parents and all those associated with education throughout my district know and recognize that I've been fighting for our upstate public schools in terms of state and funding," he said.

He added, "I think my record on education is very clear and I hope to earn the support of the teachers and all educators through my district."

Although he didn't receive the union's formal endorsement, he has received its support in other ways. Campaign finance records show NYSUT's action fund has donated $7,060 to Seward's campaign in the 2018 election cycle.

Seward, who was first elected in 1986, is seeking another two-year term representing the 51st Senate District. The district includes the towns of Locke, Moravia, Niles, Owasco, Sempronius and Summerhill in Cayuga County.

Democratic candidate Joyce St. George, a Delaware County resident, is Seward's opponent this year.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1The Cultural Italian American Organization's fifth annual Christopher Columbus Recognition Dinner will honor retiring Cayuga County Sheriff David Gould.

The dinner will take place Sunday, Sept. 30, at the Springside Inn, 6141 W. Lake Road, Fleming. It'll begin with a cash bar at 5 p.m. and continue with a five-course dinner at 6 p.m.

Tickets are $40 and available from Sam Vitale, who can be reached at (315) 406-4312. Tickets are also available from any CIAO board member, Silbert Optical and Michele Ferraraccio at the Flower Shop on Osborne Street. She can be reached at (315) 252-5255.

Tickets will not be available at the door. The deadline for ticket purchase is Sept. 16.

Program ads are also available; patron ads are $10.

For more information, visit cayugacountyciao.org.

Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0Aug. 12, 1993

Mark Stiver is a deceiving guy. Quiet and reserved, he's well-liked at work and seems to be a regular Joe, except for one little-known trait  Mark Stiver is a closet cartoonist.

Stiver's down-to-earth sense of humor reflects in his panel comics and in a full magazine called Energo. Stiver has been cartooning since 1987.

"I always wanted to cartoon in high school," said Stiver with a sly grin. "I never really got the chance until I went to college."

In 1987, the Cayuga County Community College student newspaper, The Cayuga Collegian, asked Stiver what he wanted to contribute. Although he had never cartooned before for publication, the Collegian staff gave him carte blanche to create and develop a funny strip, one that developed quite a following.

His first comic strip, "Campus Comedy," was born. Following the adventures of a college student named Mike and his meddling, know-it-all dog Fred, Stiver brought these characters to hysterical life in the newspaper for two years. The cartoon garnered rave reviews from his peers and staff alike.

After college, Stiver began to work at Ponderosa to pay off his loans, but he continued to cartoon, this time for his co-workers.

"I began to spoof some of the behind-the-scenes things that happened and left the cartoons on the bulletin board in the employees' area."

 Compiled by David Wilcox

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0ALBANY  Voters have only a month left to go before they decide the winner of the Democratic primary matchup between Gov. Andrew Cuomo and "Sex and the City" star Cynthia Nixon  but Cuomo still hasn't agreed to the terms for a debate.

Meanwhile, a leading environmental group is singling out the Republican leader of the state Senate for blocking progress on several initiatives intended to protect the environment.

A look at stories making news:

DEBATING DEBATES

Cuomo pledged months ago to debate Nixon, but has not committed to a date with only a month to go before the primary election.

The television news channel NY1 has invited both candidates to an Aug. 22 debate at Queens College, but Cuomo has yet to agree to the event.

Spokespeople for Cuomo and Hochul say a debate will happen, and that the delay is due to ongoing negotiations over picking a date, outlet and format.

"We look forward to a robust debate," said Cuomo spokeswoman Lis Smith. "We are currently receiving invitations and reviewing the various opportunities"

If the narrative seems familiar it's because it is. Four years ago, Cuomo refused to debate his primary opponent, Fordham University law professor Zephyr Teachout. She's now running for attorney general.

Polls give Cuomo a commanding lead in the race. He's also well ahead when it comes to fundraising, giving him a big advantage when it comes to airing ads that speak directly to voters. Candidates ahead in polling and fundraising typically have less to gain from debates than their opponents, who often try to use a debate as a free way to broadcast their message.

"Cuomo doesn't want to have an honest debate," Nixon said last week. "Because he doesn't want New Yorkers to know that they have a real choice."

Susan Lerner, executive director of Common Cause-New York, said it's the public that loses out the most when candidates won't debate.

"It is unacceptable that Gov. Cuomo has yet to agree to public debates with his primary opponent, Cynthia Nixon," she said. "Debating is an essential part of democracy that can't be replaced by 30 second television ads."

OIL SLICK AWARD

The group Environmental Advocates of New York released its annual scorecard of how lawmakers voted on bills impacting the environment and Senate Leader John Flanagan came out the big loser.

Flanagan, a Long Island Republican, won the "Oil Slick Award," given each year to the lawmaker who Environmental Advocates says did the most to block efforts to protect the environment.

The group looks at how lawmakers voted on bills relating to pollution, water and air quality, erosion and open space conservation. It cited Flanagan's work to block bills that would impose a carbon tax on business emissions and prohibit potentially dangerous chemicals from toys, as well as skeptical comments he made about the reality of climate change.

"The Senate continues to be a place where big, bold environmental ideas go to die," the group said in a report accompanying its scorecard.

Flanagan spokesman Scott Reif dismissed the criticism as politically motivated. He noted that under Flanagan the Senate approved $2.5 billion for clean water projects, as well as record funding levels for the state's environmental protection fund.

"Anyone who is paying attention knows that Sen. Flanagan cares very deeply about the environment," Reif said.

UPCOMING

The Senate will hold a hearing Monday in Binghamton on the state's efforts to boost businesses owned by women or minorities. Similar hearings are scheduled in New York City, Canandaigua and Long island in coming months.

Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1SENNETT  The manure lagoon project that many Mentz residents have been fighting to stop the past few weeks is part of a larger plan to more effectively operate a Cayuga County renewable energy facility 8 miles away, its developer said last week.

The construction for the roughly 10-million-gallon storage lagoon, off of Maiden Lane Road in Mentz, is currently at a standstill after CH4 Generate Cayuga LLC, the company building the lagoon on land owned by an Elbridge-based dairy farm, received a notice of violation from the state's Department of Environmental Conservation on July 27 citing lack of required DEC approvals.

CH4 is the operator of the Cayuga Regional Digester, CH4 manager Jeff LeBlanc said in an interview at the Sennett facility last week. CH4 is owned by a large California-based investment firm, known as Generate Capital, that focuses on renewable energy projects.

The lagoon project caught nearby residents by surprise about a month ago, even though, LeBlanc said, CH4's engineer contacted the town of Mentz in October. Residents have been working the past several weeks to stop the project, saying they have concerns about the impact on roadways, air quality, property values and overall quality of life.

CH4 operates the digester facility through a long-term, lease-to-own agreement with Cayuga County Soil and Water Conservation District. At the same interview with LeBlanc last week, plant manager John Roser said any improvements to the existing facility are owned by CH4.

The digester has been under the leadership of LeBlanc, founder of WeCare Organics, and Roser for about two years. Contrary to what a county legislator had stated at a meeting last week in Mentz, WeCare is not involved with CH4 or the digester, LeBlanc said.

Roser explained that a combination of manure and both liquid and solid organics materials, such as food processing waste, is processed twice under many specific conditions  once in the digester, and again in a post-digester. The process produces gas that is then cleaned by a biological scrubber and subsequently pumped through a generator to produce electricity.

The power generated runs not only the digester facility, but the soil and water district facility, the Cayuga County Jail, Cayuga County Sheriff's Office, the 911 towers and the former county nursing home building, Roser said. Whatever energy is leftover is then sold to NYSEG. The nursing home is expected to become re-occupied in the future, which will create a heightened demand, Roser said.

"We purchased another generator and we're going to be able to produce twice as much energy as we're producing now," Roser said.

The relationship between the digester and the manure lagoon project in Mentz involves the end product that the manure and other organic waste reduces to. That material is known as effluent or digestate and it will go into the digestate lagoon  as CH4 refered to it  planned for the 400-acre site in Mentz owned by Elbridge-based Hourigan Farms. LeBlanc said the effluent is tested monthly by third-party labs. Hourigan will use the digestate as fertilizer on its crop fields.

When it comes to the construction of the lagoon itself, "everything is done by a professional engineer," LeBlanc said. The open-air lagoon will be lined, have a fence, a leak-detection system and is engineered to have extra capacity in the lagoon that will never be exceeded, he added.

"I think the key takeaway is the lagoon is an engineered system, it is state of the art," LeBlanc said.

Elizabeth Meyer, director of consumer confidence of the American Dairy Association, joined the interview with LeBlanc and Roser along with a representative of the New York Farm Bureau. She added that the project's engineering firm, JESS Engineering PLLC in Alpine, has designed numerous lagoons throughout the state.

Roser also explained that, although likely to "never" be used, there will be a drainage system around the lagoon to collect runoff. In the case of a release of effluent from the lagoon, also an unlikely event, Roser said CH4 would follow the same obligatory protocols as for any regulated material and DEC would be notified immediately.

CH4 also pointed out that any any breach would flow toward the Owasco River, which eventually discharges to the Seneca River. It would not affect Owasco Lake, the primary drinking water source for more than half of the Cayuga County population.

LeBlanc and Roser are also confident that residents' wells are not in jeopardy, which was a significant concern of residents. Similar to a swimming pool, there is no infiltration from the lagoon into the ground.

LeBlanc also said that the truck traffic will be minimal, addressing another one of residents' main concerns.

He said that there will be between three and six loads of effluent taken from the digester site on County House Road to the Mentz storage lagoon every day during daylight hours, but some days there may be none. He added that only a single CH4 truck will be making these trips, and the driver will take multiple routes to reduce truck traffic and impact to roads. When school is in session, he said, CH4 will try to work around bus schedules.

"The material will be utilized on site," LeBlanc said. "Nothing will be trucked back off the site."

Hourigan Farm is the only farm that will be taking effluent out of the lagoon, LeBlanc explained, to apply to its own on-site crop land.

Steve Ammerman, public affairs manager for the New York Farm Bureau, added that the effluent is going to be injected into the ground, which reduces odor, tillage of land and nutrient-rich runoff.

LeBlanc added that Hourigan Farms will have to comply with state requirements for when, and how much, will be spread. The effluent contains nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, just like fertilizer, he said.

In terms of smell, another large concern of residents, LeBlanc explained that manure and organic waste's odor is significantly reduced by going through digestion so the effluent actually doesn't have a strong odor.

LeBlanc said the public has been reacting to misinformation about the project, something the company did not anticipate. He said CH4 is looking forward to communicating with the town of Mentz and possibly taking town officials through the Sennett facility so they can better understand the digester and how non-offensive the effluent is.

"We have an image to uphold in the community and we plan on doing that," Roser said. "We take a lot of pride in what we have here, an awful lot of pride."

The DEC has temporarily put a hold on the project, although LeBlanc chalked it up to miscommunication.

"There was confusion on our part and the DEC's part on the ownership of the lagoon, not the land," he said. "So we voluntarily stopped and DEC sent us a notice of violation with the opportunity to correct it. We're just updating the documentation between us and the farmer. ... We were under the impression we'd done (the permitting process) correctly the first time.

"It's our belief that we fit under the (farm's) CAFO permit; we just need to make sure that we demonstrate how that is," LeBlanc said.

CH4 leases the land owned by Hourigan Farms, which holds a CAFO permit, to build and utilize the lagoon. When the project is completed, however, LeBlanc made it clear that Hourigan Farms, not CH4, will own the lagoon.

"(Hourigan Farms) owns the land and we have a lease to utilize the lagoon, to bring (effluent) there. They will manage the (effluent) and they will be doing all the spreading ... and we operate underneath their CAFO approvals, which is how the facility was permitted in the first place."

The DEC issued a one-statement response to The Citizen's inquiry about the situation this week, explaining that "DEC is in communication with CH4 and is continuing to investigate and evaluate information regarding the project to ensure it meets all applicable state rules, regulations, and environmental standards to protect public health and the environment."

The agency did not address specific questions related to what information CH4 has provided the agency on its agreement and arrangement with Hourigan Farms, if it is likely or not that CH4 will be allowed to operate under the farm's CAFO or the anticipated timeline of the DEC's review.

"We have a business relationship with (Hourigan Farms) to utilize the (effluent) and it's a fair deal for both people. They're looking to offset their fertilizer costs (and) we're looking to have stable facilities to go to with our material on a year-round basis," LeBlanc said.

He further explained it as "a partnership with a farmer" who wants to be environmentally responsible by using effluent and reducing fertilizer. In turn, he added, "we anticipate we'll be here for a long period of time, we're not going away. ... We're trying to protect our future here by putting a bigger investment, making sure that we always have a place to go with (our effluent) on a daily basis.

"We're looking to streamline our costs and/or increase revenue wherever we can," he said. "We know this product has value."

Staff writer Megan Ehrhart can be reached at (315) 282-2244 or megan.ehrhart@lee.net. Follow her on Twitter @MeganEhrhart.

Love 6 Funny 3 Wow 2 Sad 1 Angry 17

Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.I'm writing about the recent news that Donald Trump has finally admitted what we already knew, namely that his son Donald Jr. arranged to meet with representatives of the Russian government to provide illegally obtained information about Hillary Clinton.

Given the fact that Trumps version of the story has gone from, the meeting didnt happen, to the meeting happened but it was about adoptions, to the meeting was about Clinton dirt but nothing came of it, to the meeting happened but everybody else does it all the time and Trump S. didnt know about, all that remains to confirm is, the meeting happened, Trump Sr. knew about it beforehand and Trump Sr. approved it.

Which we have every reason to believe because he publicly alluded to it even before the meeting took place.

Remember that a conspiracy doesnt have to succeed to be a conspiracy. All thats required is that the parties involved plan to do something illegal and then take some concrete steps in the furtherance of the plan, like take a meeting.

But all the niceties about conspiracy aside, the idea that a candidate for president of the United States, namely Donald Trump or his close associates, namely Donald Jr., his son, Jared Kushner, his son-in-law, and Paul Manafort, his campaign manager, would meet with representatives of a hostile foreign power who has some 3,000 nuclear weapons pointed at our throats and it not be treason is simply preposterous.

It was treason, plain and simple. There simply aint no pussyfootin' about it.

The question is, will the Republican representatives and senators in Congress see it for what it is, treason, and do anything about it?

I never thought Id see the day when a bona fide traitor occupied the White House and the party in power, the Republicans, wont do anything about it.

Richard Glenister

Locke

Love 5 Funny 11 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 4Nepal, South Korea seek to boost bilateral tourism

The Embassy of the Republic of Korea and Korea Tours and Trekking Operators Association of Nepal (KTTOAN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on mutual cooperation for boosting tourism ties between Nepal and South Korea. The MoU aims to ensure safety and security of Korean tourists visiting the Himalayan nation.Well, never mind, then. According to the only large-scale, randomized controlled trial of a statewide preschool initiative - Tennessee's pre-K program -intervening early to boost long-term academic performance doesn't work.Thousands of low-income students in Tennessee were randomly assigned to the pre-K program or to a control group. While there were some academic gains for participants at the kindergarten stage, by the third grade the benefits disappeared. In fact, pre-K participants actually scored lower than their otherwise-comparable peers.States aren't just wasting taxpayer money, then. Preschool programs are actively harming their intended beneficiaries. If North Carolina leaders truly care about disadvantaged children, they should shut down our state's pre-K program immediately.Is that what you were expecting me to say? Do you think such a conclusion would be reasonable based on a single study, however well-constructed? If your answer to either or both of these questions is yes, I would respectfully urge you to consider carefully what it means to apply scientific concepts and findings to public policy.One of those concepts is that the scientific method isn't really about proving propositions true. As a great 20th-century philosopher of science, Karl Popper, argued persuasively, science is really about proving propositions false. Although a scientific theory may seem highly useful in explaining the past and predicting the future, there is always the possibility that some valid future experiment will disprove it.Popper wrote,But he didn't mean that science wasn't immensely useful. The point is that if a proposition can't be falsified by experiment, it isn't a scientific proposition.he said.But what does falsification look like in the real world? Another great 20th-century philosopher of science, Thomas Kuhn, argued persuasively that the model of a broadly accepted scientific theory being disproved by a single experiment is unrealistic. What really happens is that the defenders of the theory assume the experiment is flawed in some way, or only applies to some situations. In other words, they explain the inconvenient finding away.Moreover, Kuhn suggested, they ought to do that! Abandoning an established set of explanations, what he called a paradigm, based on a single contradictory experiment is contrary both to human nature and to the search for truth.he wrote,Instead, what ought to happen, and what does happen, is that scientists see a puzzle to be solved. They replicate the contradictory experiment. If the finding is the same, they seek to explain it without abandoning the established theory. Others do the same.If the contradictions persist and proliferate, a crisis comes. A good analogy would be flowing water and a dam. Sometimes the dam holds. But if the pressure grows strong enough, it bursts - and in the case of science, a new paradigm is formed.To return to the question of preschool intervention, the Tennessee study, an earlier and comprehensive evaluation of Head Start , and new statistical work by the Brookings Institution's Russ Whitehurst all suggest little to no benefit. But there are a number of other, smaller-scale studies pointing the other way.Similarly, while dozens of scholarly studies show that school choice and competition are associated with academic and other benefits, initial studies of statewide voucher programs showed scant or even negative effects , although subsequent findings were more promising In response to such evidence, it would be reasonable to temper one's short-run expectations and recognize that scaling up policy ideas can be challenging. But it wouldn't be reasonable to abandon those ideas altogether. That's not how science works. And it's certainly not how public policy works.Nepalis prefer to work in Malaysiadeadliest destination

Angesh Tamang, a 22-year-old from Kavrepalanchok, was planning to return to Nepal last March. But days before his flight, he died while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Malaysia. Tamang wasnt alonehe was one of the nearly 300 Nepali workers who died in Malaysia last year, making the Southeast Asian nation one of the deadliest for Nepali workers.Cable Management: Plan to install power lines underground hits a snag

Nepal Electricity Authoritys plan to replace overhead electric cables with power lines underground at two locations in the Kathmandu Valley has hit a snag. The projects financier, Asian Development Bank (ADB), is threatening to pull back from the project if the power utility fails to wrap up the bidding process immediately and appoint contractors for the job.Rape accused arrested

Police have arrested a person who allegedly held a girl hostage for two days and raped her in Kalikot district on Saturday.

Josh Mitchell's Defcon presentation analyzes the security of five popular brands of police bodycams (Vievu, Patrol Eyes, Fire Cam, Digital Ally, and CeeSc) and reveals that they are universally terrible, though the Digital Ally models are the least bad of the batch, as Wired's Lily Hay Newman reports.



All the devices use predictable network addresses that can be used to remotely sense and identify the cameras when they switch on. Attackers could pinpoint intense police activity by watching for groups of cameras that all switch on at the same place and time.

None of the devices use code-signing, making them typical of garbagey Internet of Shit devices. That means that attackers can slip arbitrary code into them. And none of them cryptographically sign the video they take, which would be a relatively strong way of detecting tampering by police officers, their departments, or criminals.

There's tons more. Some of the devices can form ad-hoc wifi networks to bridge in other devices, but they don't authenticate these sign-ons, so you can just connect with a laptop and start raiding the network for accessible filesystems and gank or alter videos, or just drop malware on them.



Mitchell even realized that because he can remotely access device storage on models like the Fire Cam OnCall, an attacker could potentially plant malware on some of the cameras. Then, when the camera connects to a PC for syncing, it could deliver all sorts of malicious code: a Windows exploit that could ultimately allow an attacker to gain remote access to the police network, ransomware to spread across the network and lock everything down, a worm that infiltrates the department's evidence servers and deletes everything, or even cryptojacking software to mine cryptocurrency using police computing resources. Even a body camera with no Wi-Fi connection, like the CeeSc, can be compromised if a hacker gets physical access. "You know not to trust thumb drives, but these things have the same ability," Mitchell says. "The fact that some law enforcement evidence-collecting devices can be hacked evokes some true nightmare scenarios," says Jay Stanley, senior policy analyst at the American Civil Liberties Union. "If there aren't reliable ways of ensuring that such equipment meets strong security standards, then something is deeply broken. No police equipment should be deployed that doesn't meet such standards."

Police Bodycams Can Be Hacked to Doctor Footage [Lily Hay Newman/Wired]News / National

by Stephen Jakes

Mthwakazi activist Hloniphani Ncube has dismissed claims by a writer Nomusa Garikai that he is brainwashed by Zanu PF."I have gone through your article and the more I read it the more I heard confusion. Firstly, the assertion that I am highly brain washed by Zanu PF propaganda is highly unfortunate and in that regard misplaced. I think in your analysis you were over clouded by emotions and maybe your affiliations rather that logic and reasonable reasoning. Speaking against the so-called targeted sanctions does not translate to automatic support of Zanu PF. If you go through the political literature that I have written, I am strongly against Zanu PF and it's apparatus and its extended projects that sustains its societal dominance," Ncube said."I will maintain the view that, the so-called targeted sanctions does not in essence affect those targeted individual political cronies, instead they hit the ordinary man on the ground. I agree Zanu PF is a societal gross problem. I agree with you that sanctions were passed by the United States including the Briton Woods institutions because of issues of corruption, maladministration in servicing the debts, incredible elections conducted historically in Zimbabwe and human rights violations amongst other issues, but I cannot celebrate the imposed sanctions because at the end of the day Emmerson Mnangagwa and Constantino Chiwengwa would not even feel anything with regards to sanctions."He said he maintains sanctions just like a bullet they do not affect politicians, instead it's only the civilians who toil as a result of sanctions."I believe they are better ways to deal with Zanu PF and it's corrupt stakeholders ZEC included other than lobbying for sanctions which would only affect the voters whom they are expected to vote for those who advocate for their suffering. MDC Chamisa also has short falls when it comes to democracy particularly looking at how Thokozani Khupe was elbowed. Even the MDC T under leadership of the late Tsvangirai was also found wanting particularly looking at how Morgan Tsvangirai was spending money on women," he said.News / National

by Staff reporter

Tendai Biti has accused Zimbabwean soldiers of sexually abusing MDC Alliance election agents during the July 30 harmonised elections, with some agents in Mutoko telling him such abuse was "rampant" there.Biti appeared emotional while announcing the cases during a court hearing on Friday.Zambian immigration authorities rejected a request for asylum by Biti - whose People's Democratic Party had formed an election alliance with opposition leader Nelson Chamisa's Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) - after he fled post-election violence and certain arrest in Zimbabwe.He was deported back to Zimbabwe where he was taken into police custody.Biti was charged with political violence and falsely and unlawfully announcing results of the election.State prosecutors did not oppose bail, which was set at $5 000.If found guilty Biti faces up to 10 years in jail, a cash fine or both.During a narration of his persecution ordeal which forced him to seek political asylum in neighbouring Zambia, Biti alleged authorities were hell-bent on persecuting him for challenging President Emmerson Mnangagwa's flawed election win. He said MDC Alliance agents suffered despicable abuse at the hands of the "junta."He said it was hard to imagine the outrage that election agents working for the MDC Alliance felt after being sexually abused.He said the MDC Alliance was doing everything it possibly can to assist the victims, to bring accountability and justice and hopefully to prevent any such cases from recurring in future elections.He said several election agents from Buhera to Mutoko accused troops of sexual abuse and called for an investigation into the accusations.Biti told the court that a female representative in Buhera had reported how she was raped and threatened after refusing to sign another V11 form and how most of their male election agents would be sodomised, specifically in Mutoko."I felt that the regime which had had just seven months in office had escalated the abuses. There was massive onslaught on our election agents," Biti said."In Buhera, a woman was raped after refusing to sign another V11 form. We were also getting reports of onslaughts on our people being sodomised and raped across the country specifically in Mutoko, but nothing has been done by law enforcement agents in those respects."Questions sent to army spokesperson Overson Mugwisi were not responded to at the time of going to Press.But the military spokesperson clarified at a press conference ahead of elections that they will only assist the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) with logistics during elections."Our role in the elections is mainly to support the ZRP in their role of maintenance of the law and order in the country before, during and after the harmonised elections. We also remain ready to assist Zec with transport where necessary. Beyond that, the ZDF remains ready to defend our country's territorial integrity and interests," he said.He had earlier said the ZDF had no direct role in the elections."We are disturbed by false reports alleging that the ZDF is going to be used by Zanu PF to rig the vote," he said."I want to raise concern over some individuals who mischievously and deliberately portray the execution of our mandate as participating in political campaigns."Falsehoods that have been reported include allegations of ZDF deployments in rural areas to intimidate villagers so that they support a certain political party's chances of winning in the 2018 harmonised elections."We urge people who are not sure or doubt the genuine role being played by the ZDF in this election to feel free to check with us and clear their suspicions. If some serving members are participating in the on-going political campaigns, they will be doing so illegally and not as a result of an instruction from their commanders."Those with information on such misconduct should provide us with full details of such individuals to enable appropriate disciplinary action to be taken against them. They can also report the suspicious characters to the nearest police station," he said.Biti said police officers that handled complaints coming from the opposition elections agents but did not take any action and the matters were never investigated.Biti condemned the conduct of the military for opening fire on unarmed civilians in a demonstration that rocked Harare on August 1 and defended his comments on the election results."Our fears were a repeat of the 2008 experience. I have been a rights lawyer and activist since 1999 and over the years, arrested on countless occasions. My house has been bombed twice but this time the levels of attack were unprecedented."What shocked me were reports that soldiers had opened fire on unarmed civilians and seven people died and more than 40 injured," he said."After visiting some of the victims with Advocate Chamisa, we heard horrific stories, stories of men having their privates split by bullets," he said.Security forces used disproportionate force to clamp down on post-election protests in Harare on August 1, 2018. Soldiers and riot police were implicated in the deaths of at least six people and serious injuries to dozens more.Hundreds of soldiers and riot police were deployed across the city, as residents awaited the result of the July 30 national elections.Scores of soldiers patrolled on foot, indiscriminately beating anyone in sight as two helicopters in military camouflage colours flew several times over the MDC headquarters.The police confirmed the death of at least six people, though there are fears that the death toll could be higher."The heavy-handed response to Zimbabwe's post-election protests, including firing live ammunition, suggests that the security forces are as abusive as ever," said Dewa Mavhinga, Southern Africa director at Human Rights Watch"Prompt, credible investigations are needed so that those responsible can be held to account and future violence is avoided."News / National

by Staff reporter

MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa has to swiftly turn the Alliance into a fully-fledged political party and unite parliamentarians who won seats under the coalition banner, analysts contend.And with the ruling Zanu PF having a parliamentary supermajority and in the event that the Constitutional Court rules in favour of President-elect Emmerson Mnangagwa, it means the opposition leader will lead a parliamentary caucus while he is outside the legislature.Political analyst Maxwell Saungweme said the MDC Alliance is going back to the era of the late Morgan Tsvangirai where the opposition had MPs in Parliament without their president."The opposition is likely to be reconfigured. Chamisa needs to democraticise the Alliance and transform it into a party that is if the likes of Welshman Ncube and Tendai Biti (who is now MP) agree to be under a leader who is not in Parliament."Otherwise the MDC Alliance will collapse soon after announcement of Chamisa's loss and Chamisa would need to form a new party as MDC is already taken."We are also likely to see more serious, principled and issues-based opposition forming and that will include eminent Zimbabweans not in current political formations. These may pull together progressive forces to be a formidable opposition force."Otherwise most of the 150 political parties are going to die by next weekend. The future now lies on a strong opposition with internal democracy that lacks in MDC Alliance and the other small parties that contested and lost this poll."I see a new serious opposition coming. Civil society also needs to transform and start demanding a review of the Constitution and electoral reforms from next week in preparation for 2023."Otherwise the democratic push by undemocratic opposition parties ended on July 30, 2018," said Saungweme.Equally, the political careers of presidential candidates like Joice Mujuru, Thokozani Khupe, Elton Mangoma, Nkosana Moyo and Ambrose Mutinhiri who performed dismally during the polls hang in the balance, analysts said.Analysts told the Daily News on Sunday that the aforementioned leaders must swallow their pride and join Chamisa in the big MDC Alliance tent.Saungweme said their loss is telling of the need for them to rethink and join other parties whose principles and values agree with their own."It was a big lesson to them that there is power in numbers and they have to re-think, go back to the drawing board and think how to coalesce with other opposition parties. Otherwise we see the end of their political careers," said Saungweme.Political analyst Vivid Gwede said the political field in Zimbabwe as witnessed since 2000 has been a black-versus-white chess game of sorts, and rather a contest of only two political sides."This political drama pits those who support the ruling party on one side and those who back the strongest opposition to challenge it on the other."This persistent binary struggle is the cause of and the result of polarisation, which has coloured our politics with noticeable intolerance and acrimony. In this context, political contests are a matter of life and death."And in this environment of the polarisation of our political discourse, middle-of-the-road political views have no takers. This is one reason why Mutinhiri, Khupe, and Mujuru are very thin on support."The other reason, also to be honest, there are currently no real alternatives to the two dominant political parties. Most of the opposition parties, besides the MDC Alliance, are sideshows or mimicries of the main opposition or the ruling party lacking in either originality or seriousness or both," said Gwede.He said the 2018 elections have entrenched this two-party system."Anyone who wants to rule the country successfully will have a difficult job of uniting it."The nation had hoped for the first time, since the Unity Accord, that the new Constitution and the Government of National Unity (GNU) would have brought us closer to shared perspectives, this time on the basis of respectful diversity but it was a squandered opportunity."Gwede said the job of uniting the country must be revived based on dialogue, first and foremost, which is based on fair electoral contests."However, Zimbabwe is not the only country with a two-party system because even the United States is quite like that, in terms of the Republicans versus the Democrats, only their contests are a bit more civilised."While for countries like the US it is a source of political stability to have the two-party system because of adherence to the democratic rules and strong institutions, here it is quite the other issue. We don't respect institutions, democratic competition and our Constitution," said Gwede.Playwright Cont Mhlanga said Zimbabwe will have more opposition political parties given the violence-free post-Mugabe election experience."Opposition politics bottlenecks are getting fewer and fewer as the push for a level field and the effect of the Constitution shapes the country's democratic systems and culture."This will inspire the expansion of opposition politics both in party membership and organisations."Since the MDC Alliance is a loose joint for this election, its founders may be getting back to their bases. Because of funding challenges faced by opposition political parties, they will scale down their political activities after this election to a point that one would think that they are dead only to rise and even double in the next election."There is now no popular pressure to remove ... Mugabe in the opposition politics of Zimbabwe, so chances are that we will now witness a new development of mature opposition politics in the country," said Mhlanga.Analyst Rejoice Ngwenya said: "I think this is the right time to begin the tough route of uniting all opposition parties, because self-interest is at a minimum and survival is at a premium."Media and political analyst Rashweat Mukundu said the MDC Alliance has to learn from this experience and move forward to organise on the ground."The importance of unity within opposition voices cannot be overemphasised as in some constituencies the combined opposition vote won but they were split giving an advantage to Zanu PF."I still argue that Chamisa has a future and needs to pull himself together and face the future. The future is on grassroots mobilisation and the opposition has demonstrated that it has people all over the country. The opposition needs to be active from now going forward and not sit and wait for 2023," said Mukundu.He said to a large extent, the MDC Alliance is already a political party and Chamisa does not necessarily have to lead the party from Parliament but rather spend time building the grassroots base of the party and strengthen its structures and reaching out to disgruntled elements."Chamisa has established himself as a political force and a capable leader and he needs to keep his eye on the ball and age is on his side."The truth of the matter, Mukundu said, is that the many losing opposition presidential candidates never stood a chance as Zimbabwe is a two-party state."Moyo, Khupe and Mangoma are good political leaders, but they need to be realistic, assess their chances and stand behind those parties that are close to their own political views."We cannot all be leaders and we can never have a party or an organisation that satisfies all our needs."So humility is needed from these fellas, otherwise their political careers are done. ... Mujuru should retire and contribute to society in different ways," Mukundu said.Obert Gutu, deputy president in Thokozani Khupe's MDC, said they are here to stay, adding that for a party that ran an election campaign on a virtual zero budgets, the MDC performed extremely well."We are going to have a total of four legislators on in the Senate and on the National Assembly proportional representation system in the 9th Parliament of Zimbabwe. That's no mean achievement by any standard."We are going to grow our party into a massive organisation in time for the 2023 harmonised elections. For most of the campaign period, we were busy at the courts defending ourselves from the frivolous and vexatious court action that had been instituted against us by our erstwhile comrades," Gutu saidHe was referring to the suit the Chamisa-led MDC filed in the High Court demanding an order barring the rival camp led by Khupe to stop using the party's name and symbol.This follows a Supreme Court ruling directing that the matter to be heard urgently.Chamisa's camp had initially approached the Supreme Court on appeal challenging then Bulawayo High Court judge Francis Bere's ruling which had given Khupe the leeway to continue using the party's name and symbol.However, Supreme Court judges Paddington Garwe, Antoinette Guvava and Anne-Marie Gowora, referred the matter back to the High Court decreeing that the matter be heard on an urgent basis.The High Court was also expected to determine whether or not there are two MDC parties and if not, whether Khupe and her colleagues are entitled to use the party's name, symbol, logo and trademarks.In compliance with this directive, Chamisa's camp filed a declaratur on May 23 seeking an interdict against Khupe's camp. Chamisa then pulled the case of the urgent roll.Gutu said: "We will be moving forward and forging alliances with genuine and forthright politicians whom we used to work with harmoniously in the united MDC. Just watch the space."Violent pretenders and those who did a coup to take over power after the unfortunate death of ..Tsvangirai are now being exposed."They are sour and bitter losers. One thing is certain, however, political charlatans will continue to lose elections. They are now doomed."Opinion / Columnist

People like Hloniphani Ncube have been thoroughly brainwashed by Zanu PF propaganda and misinformation into believing that sanctions are the root cause of Zimbabwe's economic meltdown. This is nonsense. "The United States have intensified the sanctions which they claim they are targeting the government in particular with reference to their conduct of elections. Whilst this may appear to be good news in particular if they were going to affect Mnangagwa and the junta, it is however public knowledge that the sanctions will increase unemployment rate which is at 95 percent as we speak, liquidity crunch, the health sector which is at its knees, political killings and all sorts of negativity that ZANU PF embraces," said Ncube.The root causes of Zimbabwe economic meltdown are gross mismanagement and rampant corruption. During the GNU years when just the presence of MDC leaders in government did force so reversal of some of the more obnoxious policies the country's economy went from negative growth rate to +ve 12%.It is now 8 eights since last November's military coup and the junta launched its "Zimbabwe is open for business!" campaign. The flood of foreign investors the regime was confident was coming never materialized because investors are a shrewd lot who are not easily fooled. They did not take the junta's word that Zimbabwe had shed off its pariah state status with the removal of Robert Mugabe, they wanted to see evidence of that on the ground.By failing to hold free, fair and credible elections the junta has just confirmed Zimbabwe is still a pariah state ruled by vote-rigging thugs. Investors and lenders do not do business with thugs, period!The IMF, WB and other leading financial institutions stopped lending money to Zimbabwe in 2000, long before the American government imposed its sanctions of Harare in 2002, because the Zanu PF government was failing to service its existing loans. The Chinese government step in and granted Harare loans but after a few years it too stopped for exactly the same reasons  Harare was a bad debtor who borrows but does not repaid his debts!The Genesis of Zimbabwe's economic troubles date back to soon after independence when Zanu PF's pursued its misplace socialist policies and reckless spending. The situation was made worse by the criminal waste of human and material resources through corrupt. In 2016 the then President Mugabe admitted the country had lost $15 billions of diamond revenue through corruption.The American government has just confirmed that last month's elections in Zimbabwe were NOT free, fair and credible and therefore its sanctions against this Zanu PF regime will stay. Of course, the elections were not free and fair and so retaining the sanctions is a logical step.There is no doubt that the Zanu PF regime propaganda machine will go into overdrive in blame the sanctions for the lack of foreign investment and economic recovery. The people of Zimbabwe must not fall for the same Zanu PF hogwash, they must ask:1) The Zanu PF apologists to state in no uncertain terms that these elections were free, fair and credible. (Even the most foolish of Zanu PF's supporters have failed to see how elections can ever be considered free, fair and credible when ZEC failed to produce a verified voters' roll, especially when at least 10 polling stations had over 100% voter turnout with one recording over 200%.) If the elections were not free and fair then the Americans were right to renew the sanctions since sanctions were to remain if elections were not free and fair.2) Ask if President Mnangagwa has kept his promise to end corruption? It is now 8 months since the November coup and yet no one has been arrested in connection with the wholesale looting in Marange and not even one dollar recovered. The looting has continued since Mugabe's admission because, a year later, the Minister of Finance admitted that government was still getting 1/6 of expected revenue.What hope is there for any meaningful economic recover if the country continues to haemorrhage $15 billion particularly one with a GPD of $10 billion like Zimbabwe?Zimbabwe's economic recovery will depend on two related issue; first, the Zimbabwe government addressing the country's own underlying problems of mismanagement and corruptions. Second, restore lender and investor confidence that Zimbabwe is now a stable and democratic nation, holding free and fair elections will go a long way in doing this.Lifting the West imposed sanctions without addressing the two above will bring about no meaningful economic recovery. The EU lifted its sanctions on everyone in Zimbabwe except for one or two years ago and the economic meltdown continued.Reinstating the targeted sanctions will help focus the nation and the junta regime in Harare's mind on the need to hold free, fair and credible elections. Zimbabwe is not getting out of the economic and political hell-on-earth the country is stuck in without holding free and fair elections because only by holding free and fair elections can we be certain of getting a competent and accountable government.A 10-year-old autistic boy, his service dog and his grandfather had to leave the Corner Brook Walmart on Thursday after an employee refused to accept the dog's brightly coloured vest as evidence the animal was working, according to the boy's grandmother.

"He thinks Walmart bullied his dog," said Janet Butt, about her grandson, Maverick Butt, and his dog, Abner.

Janet Butt, her husband, Maverick and Abner, Maverick's service dog, were in Walmart's Lego aisle, looking for a new toy. The boy was going over each set carefully  "He analyzes every box," Butt said  and the dog had lain down to rest on the floor.

That's when a salesperson approached and asked what the dog was doing, Butt said.

Butt told her the dog was working, and the salesperson asked to see the dog's papers, she said.

"I'll admit that I'm slow on the uptake," she told CBC's On The Go. "I'm like, 'What?'"

Butt then pointed out the dog's service animal vest and said again that the animal was working, she told CBC.

"She said, 'I need to see his papers, it's protocol,'" she said.

"And I said, 'No, it's not.'"

Butt said that very Walmart store is where Abner was trained to be in public places.

"I got certified with my public service access at that store," she said.

"I was never asked to provide paperwork, identification, nothing."

'When the volcano starts to rumble'

The salesperson "started to approach more aggressively" and said she didn't accept the vest, Butt said.

And that's when Maverick Butt began to get upset, she said.

"The boy starts saying, 'Accept? Accept?'" she said.

"I pulled out my phone and I say, 'I'm going to record you.' And she insisted, she said, 'I don't care, I don't care, I need to see those papers.'"

Knowing that things could get worse if Maverick got more agitated, she sent him out of the store with Abner and her husband.

Story continues

"In my household, when the volcano starts to rumble you try to quiet the rumble."

She stayed back to try to speak to a manager about the incident.

Abner keeps Maverick alive, grandmother says

Butt says Abner is often responsible for keeping Maverick alive. The boy is non-verbal and has no sense of fear, she said.

"He has bolted so many times."

Abner, she said, keeps him calm and stable.

"Sometimes Abner has been the difference in Maverick living."

Abner was recommended when Maverick was first diagnosed, and Butt said the family was blessed to get the dog, given that service dogs are in high demand but in short supply.

Abner and Maverick are now very close, she said.

"It became a love story."

Sign on the door says service animals are welcome

Butt said she still has not received an adequate response from Walmart about her concerns, and that nobody from the company has contacted her.

A representative from Walmart Canada replied to Shannon Butt's Facebook post Friday to apologize and invite both Maverick and Abner back to the store.

"Walmart is committed to providing a safe, convenient, and dignified shopping experience for its customers with disabilities," the reply from the official Walmart Canada account read.

"Service animals are permitted to enter Walmart stores as companions to customers with disabilities. We're sorry this happened."

Janet Butt notes there's a sign saying service dogs are welcome hanging up at the store's front entrance.

She wants to know why Walmart is claiming to be inclusive but employing people who don't understand service dogs.

As for Maverick, she said he has his own concerns about the incident.

"He feels that Walmart owes Abner an apology."

Walmart has not returned a request for comment from CBC News.

Read more from CBC Newfoundland and LabradorAn Alberta A&W came under heavy criticism on social media this week after a customer said he was told it was the restaurant's policy not to let him buy a meal for an elderly, disabled Indigenous woman.

Nick Driedger said he was waiting in line to purchase breakfast at the Cardston A&W on Friday morning when he saw an older Indigenous couple trying to buy a meal for the elderly woman with a walker.

He said the cashier wouldn't let the couple buy the woman a meal, and then she left the store.

Driedger went outside to speak to the woman who said she was hungry. So he went back inside and ordered an extra meal for her.

"At that point, the [cashier] picked up the phone and I thought I heard her say something to the effect of, 'hello, police,'" Driedger said.

"At which point I kind of interrupted her while she was on the phone and said, 'I'd rather you not call police. I just don't think that's necessary. I'm just buying someone a meal.'"

Driedger said the cashier then began arguing with him, first saying there was a store policy in regard to loitering, then saying there was a law against loitering, and finally saying it was the store manager's orders.

He eventually got his food and brought some outside to the woman. He said police then drove through the parking lot and a bystander approached the car and spoke to them for a few minutes, before the officers left.

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RCMP Staff Sgt. Jeremie Landry told CBC News that members from the Cardston detachment did not respond to the A&W. He said it was possible another police force may have attended the call.

"It's a tremendously disheartening and frustrating situation," said Driedger.

Distraught over the incident, Driedger posted about it on social media, prompting a public outcry and a response from A&W.

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"Thanks for everyone's concerns and questions about the incident at our restaurant in Cardston. We're reaching out to the woman who's experiencing hardships to see how we can provide assistance, and we are sorry the kind offer by guests to buy her breakfast was not honoured," the company wrote on Twitter.

"We are taking this incident very seriously and the franchisee is working with his staff to ensure they receive the training and support they need to do the right thing."

CBC News contacted the Cardston franchise and A&W, and Josee Belzil, business manager for A&W Canada, provided similar comments in an emailed statement, concluding:

"Consequently, we will be meeting with all of our employees to ensure they have the training and support they need to do the right thing. While this appears to be an isolated incident, we are taking it very seriously and will be examining our staff training program to ensure we do a better job at communicating our procedures and values."

Driedger said, "I mean it did surprise me  I've seen now that A&W is replying and they're saying this wasn't racially motivated. I don't buy it. I'm skeptical of that line."

He said an A&W representative contacted him and said the woman was denied service because she had made a scene in the restaurant before.

"They used the word menacing to describe her," he said. "I don't think there was anything menacing about her. She was maybe five-feet tall, maybe 100 pounds, and I don't know about you but I've never felt threatened by someone in a walker before."

'Blatant racism,' says Indigenous activist

Shauna Fox is one of the founders of the Niitsitapi Peace Camp in Cardston, a group trying to address racism and foster discussion between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in the town.

Cardston is about 230 kilometres south of Calgary.

Members of the peace camp met outside the restaurant Saturday to call for education to stem racism in the community.

"There's been racism and discrimination throughout the years. It's often very subtle, and often it's blatant. The incident at A&W  that's blatant racism," Fox said.

Fox said she and other protesters would like to educate the restaurant manager and staff "to help them to understand and hear some of those stories that our people have dealt with and are dealing with."

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- Read more articles by CBC Calgary, like us on Facebook for updates and subscribe to our CBC Calgary newsletter for the day's news at a glance.Seven people die every day in road accidents in Nepal

Seven people die every day in road accidents all over Nepal. Road fatalities are increasing alarmingly countrywide.A Canada Border Services agent stands watch at an airport gate in this file photo. (Darren Calabrese/Canadian Press)

The widow of a Nigerian man who died following a confrontation with border officers on a flight is "heartbroken" and hoping for details about the circumstances that led to her husband's death.

The man was on board a KLM flight destined for Amsterdam Wednesday when he was involved in an altercation with two Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers who were trying to remove him from Canada.

The altercation occurred prior to takeoff in Calgary. The plane was forced to return to the gate, where the Calgary police airport unit was called to the scene.

Officers found the 49-year-old in medical distress. He was rushed to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Documents from the refugee board and the lawyer for the man's family have identified him as Bolante Idowu Alo.

'Unclear' circumstances

Lawyer Elias Munshya, who represents Alo's family, said they are still processing the news. He spoke to Alo's widow, who lives in Lagos with the couple's two children, on Saturday, and one of his brothers, who lives in the United States on Friday.

"It is very sad," Munshya said. "A normal death itself is very heartbreaking and devastating for the family, but knowing that he died under these circumstances  that are unclear at the moment  is really much more devastating."

Alo first arrived in Canada in 2005, making a refugee claim in Fort Erie, Ont., according to a detention hearing transcript obtained from the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada Immigration Division.

His refugee claim was closed and reopened over the years, and he filed humanitarian and compassionate applications, followed by an appeal for a judicial review. All claims were denied.

Alo sang in church choir, worked as taxi driver

Munshya attended Evangel Christian Assembly Church in Calgary with Alo. He described him as a good guy, who sang in the choir and frequently attended prayers. He worked as a taxi driver and also worked for a fellow church member.

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"I knew that he was a very hard worker. He was a good guy, and so it was very sad to learn he had passed on," he said.

Pastor Bob Webster said Alo would often drive congregation members to church, and he was a member of the church's bible study group.

"He was the kind of guy that always greeted you with a big smile, a big hello. Just a big friendly guy, from my perspective. But obviously was struggling with other stuff," Webster said.

Webster said in 2013 he wrote Alo a reference letter for his humanitarian and compassionate application to stay in Canada.

"I knew that he was applying for immigration and was trying to support him in that process, but I guess it was getting rejected along the way," he said. "I wish I had been there for him.Like what could have led to an altercation of this sort? I don't know."

Alo was being detained in advance of his deportation as CBSA officers believed he likely wouldn't appear voluntarily for his flight, due to comments he made saying he wouldn't allow himself to be removed from Canada.

During the July 26 detention hearing, Alo told officials one of his brothers had been killed in Nigeria and that he still had bullets in his body from his time in the country.

Munshya didn't know the exact details of Alo's refugee claim as of Saturday, but said the man spoke often about his family and his desire to officially become a Canadian one day.

An interview between the man and the High Commission of Nigeria recounted in the transcript noted that "[his] removal would likely be violent and advised CBSA to take caution."

But Alo said he worked full-time in Canada and would continue to show up to CBSA hearings if they would reconsider his case.

"This is a life and death issue," Alo said during his hearing, according to the transcript. "I'm not asking for money, I'm not asking for housing, I'm not asking for medical help, all I'm asking for is please, your honour, save my life."

An autopsy performed Wednesday did not confirm Alo's cause or manner of death, and police said further testing could take up to six months.

"It will be prudent for us and for the family to hear what happened from the CBSA officers, in order for them to process the pain and what they are going through," said Munshya. "We will be making inquiries, sending queries in order for them to at least have closure regarding what happened."

Police are still interviewing witnesses and are looking to speak to "everybody and anybody" who was on the flight or who may have seen something. They are also working with authorities in the Netherlands to conduct interviews with the flight's passengers.

'I'll remember his smiling face'

Webster said there are a lot of new Canadians in his congregation, and hearing of an immigration story that ended this way is discouraging.

"I'm not sure all Canadians are aware of how challenging that is and how dedicated these people are to contribute to society and add something. They're not here to take something away, they're not here to take somebody's job. They're here to make a better life for themselves," he said.

"I imagine this struggle was taking its toll on him and dragging him down, but for my memory I'll remember his smiling face."

Munshya said the community plans to hold prayers in Alo's memory sometime in the next week or two.

"Of course the family is very heartbroken and they want to know what happened. They want to know the circumstances under which he died.

"And I think they deserve to know."

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- Read more articles by CBC Calgary, like us on Facebook for updates and subscribe to our CBC Calgary newsletter for the day's news at a glance.

With files from Terri TrembathThe federal government has yet to make public any instances of Finance Minister Bill Morneau relieving a business of the burden of paying the retaliatory tariffs Canada levied against American products on July 1.

Meanwhile, Americans are exempting some businesses from paying their original steel and aluminum tariffs  through a process a U.S. Senate committee now wants to investigate due to claims that it is insufficiently transparent.

On May 31, the U.S. hit certain imports of Canadian steel and aluminum products with tariffs of 25 and 10 per cent, respectively, following an investigation by the U.S. Commerce Department conducted under the guise of a "national security" probe.

On July 1, Canada retaliated with a tariff list of its own, targeting $16.6 billion worth of U.S. imports of steel, aluminum and other products.

"The industries that aren't in steel and aluminum are getting sideswiped," said Brenda Swick, a Toronto-based international trade lawyer with Cassels Brock.

"Naturally, the steel companies love it."

There's a lot of things the government can do to make its retaliation strategy more fair and transparent if Canada's tit-for-tat trade battle drags on, Swick said. It could rotate its list of targeted products over time to spread the pain around, or add more products at a lower tariff rate to lessen the impact on specific items, she said. The government also could use a more narrow definition of what constitutes 'U.S. goods'.

Canadian businesses had a chance to argue their way off the list during a consultation process in June. Those that failed can try again to be excluded from the surtaxes through a remission process now underway.

"You've got to advocate," Swick said. "You've got to be in there ... Your competitors are going to be doing that.

"It's not like you're trying to say, 'Oh, the government shouldn't react.' That's kind of like treason. But it's not fair that you bear the entire burden ... That burden should be shared."

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Morneau 'has to be careful'

Finance Canada is considering remission requests on a case-by-case basis. Eligible businesses must meet one or more of the following criteria:

- their domestic market supply is short, either nationally or regionally.

- they have contracts dated before May 31 that require them to use U.S. steel or aluminum (such as the strict requirements defence contractors face).

- they face other exceptional circumstances that risk "severe adverse impacts" on Canada's economy.

Department of Finance spokesperson Jack Aubry told CBC News this week that the department has received "a number of requests" since July 11, "mainly in respect of various steel and aluminum products." The submissions were from a range of businesses, including firms in the "manufacturing, oil and gas and construction sectors."

But the department has yet to publish any notices of successful remission requests, suggesting either that decisions are still being processed or requests were denied.

The department will not release information about who makes the requests or whether anyone's been turned down.

An inter-departmental committee makes recommendations to Morneau for approval or rejection.

"We are hearing about the impacts on tariffs," Morneau said this week, in response to a question from CBC News about what exemptions had been granted to date. "We are making sure that we take those comments into account as we consider safeguards, making sure that the tariff approach that we've taken is actually working."

"He has to be careful," Swick said, because the decisions are at the minister's discretion and could be litigated in court. Any exemptions could be scrutinized for inappropriate preferential treatment.

"You can imagine how many people are going to be arguing (severe adverse impacts)."

U.S. Senate push for transparency

On the other side of the border, exemptions granted by the U.S. Commerce Department to the original steel and aluminum tariffs are coming under more scrutiny.

A report in last Sunday's New York Times said that two of America's biggest steel companies, Nucor and United States Steel  both of which have ties to Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer or President Donald Trump's trade adviser Peter Navarro  had so far objected to 1,600 exemption requests filed by other businesses with Ross's department over the past several months. These businesses want Washington's permission to use foreign steel without paying the tariffs.

On Thursday, Ron Johnson, the chair of the U.S. Senate's Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs committee, wrote to Ross seeking answers to specific questions and a briefing; his letter was obtained by Politico. A steel distributor quoted in his letter said the exemptions issued so far were the result of "the most screwed-up process."

Business leaders, Johnson wrote, have concerns about the "arbitrary nature" of the exemption process. One example cited in the letter suggested an exemption was denied based on false information, resulting in an extra $2.6 million tariff cost.

The same allegations have not been made against Canada's process.

"From a Canadian producer perspective, we've taken the position that as far as exemptions go, in instances where the Canadian companies don't make [an equivalent steel product], we're prepared to be quite reasonable," said Joseph Galimberti, president of the Canadian Steel Producers Association.

"It's not in our interest to interrupt industrial production in Canada."

Steel producers are working with Finance Canada to help identify situations where they believe exemptions are appropriate or inappropriate, he said.

"It is in our interest to transition that business to Canadian mills in the most efficient, friendliest way possible, because ultimately what we're talking about here is a customer relationship," Galimberti said.

Jean Simard is president of the Canadian Aluminum Association, which represents Alcoa, RioTinto and Alouette. He said that although his group is "closely monitoring the situation, we are not tracking exemption requests."

'Don't expect a sympathetic ear'

Dan Ujczo, an Ohio-based lawyer with Dickinson Wright who specializes in CanadaU.S. trade and customs, said he filed some exemption applications with Ottawa on behalf of U.S. manufacturers of consumer goods that have Canadian operations. He hasn't heard back on any of them.

"We don't expect it to be favourable," he said, because too many exemptions "really defeats the purpose of retaliation."

"We've told our clients that we think this is a heavy lift, unless that you can demonstrate that there's really a negative impact to Canada.

"The purpose of retaliation is to generate political action in the U.S., so they aren't always the most rational tariffs. There is a job creation element to it, but we just don't expect a sympathetic ear, given that there are many Canadian companies with U.S. operations making the same argument on steel and aluminum."

Ujczo said the cost of tariffs worries his clients, but a bigger emerging issue is supply: when American companies run out of U.S. steel or key shipments are delayed, they'll start cancelling contracts, possibly within the next month.

It's adding pressure to the ongoing NAFTA talks. The steel and aluminum tariffs have been portrayed as an attempt by the U.S. to gain leverage over Canada and Mexico in those talks.

Morneau said the Canadian government continues to negotiate with the Americans to resolve the tariff dispute. In the meantime, it's analyzing how business trading patterns are changing in response.

"We're working hard to make sure that that trading relationship remains strong," the minister said.The Canadian Press

WHITEHORSE  The Yukon government says booster doses of COVID-19 vaccine will be available starting Monday for eligible residents aged 50 and up. It says the booster shots will be rolled out in phases beginning with that age group, but the clinics may be expanded in future to include young people. The territory says in a statement that people are eligible for a booster shot when at least six months have passed since completing their first series of two doses. It says clinics will begin in CarcroWhen Khalid Tabateb saw a toddler walking unsteadily along the edge of a Hamilton rooftop he didn't stop to think. He leapt into action.

The 18-year-old was driving past a King Street East apartment building with his father Wednesday when they saw the child wearing only a diaper, who had woken up from a nap, squeezed through a second-storey window and wandered out onto the rooftop.

Other people from the neighbourhood had gathered and were prepared to try and catch the child if he fell.

Khalid yelled at his dad to stop the car.

"My dad parked the car and said 'If you can help him go help him,'" said Khalid, through his older sister Farah who acted as interpreter. "I was scared. I didn't want this little guy to go and die. I didn't want to just watch."

The teen rattled the home's doorknob and rapped on windows. When no one answered, he broke through the screen of a first-floor window, sprinted up stairs and pulled the baby back inside.

Saving the day

Navdeep Narula watched the rescue from across the road. He said there were some tense moments when the baby lost his balance.

"At that point my heart kind of came out of my mouth," he said. "It was like, wow!"

He describes Khalid as a hero who "saved the day."

Hamilton police were called to the scene and are reminding parents to make sure all doors and windows are secure in order to keep children safe.

Police are not investigating the incident as a criminal matter, and credited Khalid's quick thinking with helping to save the child.

That instinct to act, despite danger, is something Khalid's family says he learned years ago in war-torn Syria, when he and his father ran out into the street to bring to safety a two-year-old who had been shot in the legs.

The teen said that on Wednesday he wasn't thinking about the last time he saved a life. He was focused on making sure the little boy didn't fall to his death.

Story continues

"He loves to help people," Farah said. "He's so brave. The whole family  we're so proud of him."

The Tabatebs came to Hamilton as refugees in 2014. Farah said they first fled to Jordan to escape the civil war in Syria, but wanted to come to Canada for a chance at a better life.

Making Hamilton 'a better place'

Sayed Tora is the Imam of the Muslim Association of Hamilton and one of the first people who helped the Tabatebs get settled in their new home.

He said Khalid, a Grade 12 student at Sir John A. Macdonald Secondary School, is active in the community and loves to play sports.

"They're a really lovely family with bright young kids," said Sayed, adding the teenager's actions show bravery.

"They set a good example of the Syrian refugee families who are here to build a life and to build a future for their children and to make Hamilton and Canada a better place."From pop culture to patios to controversial government policies, alcohol  beer, especially  is a big part of Canada's identity. But what sort of influence does it have on our politics?

Ontario's experiment with controlling beer prices may be raising eyebrows across the country right now, but alcoholic beverages have always played an outsized role in Canadian public life.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford's buck-a-beer push  to lower the minimum price of a bottle or can of beer to $1 from $1.25 by Labour Day weekend  is just the sort of populist measure many expected from the province's newly-elected Progressive Conservative government. Ford's government is offering incentives  such as prime shelf space at LCBO outlets and free advertising  to brewing companies that manage to reach that target.

Not everyone is raising a glass to the idea. Several brewing companies across the province have expressed their dismay, saying there's no way to produce a quality product for only a dollar.

The buck-a-beer policy only applies to products with less than 5.6 per cent alcohol content and participation is not mandatory.

Ontario previously had a minimum price of one dollar for beer, but the Liberal government of the day quietly hiked the minimum price in 2008, citing its "social responsibility" mandate.

Beer is the alcoholic beverage of choice in Canada; Canadians consume more of it than wine and spirits combined.

Canada's largest province isn't the only one with a history of bickering over booze.

Sour grapes

In the midst of her province's dispute with British Columbia over the fate of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion in February, Alberta Premier Rachel Notley imposed a provincial boycott on imports of B.C. wine.

The move was meant to put pressure on B.C. Premier John Horgan to abandon his government's opposition to the pipeline expansion project.

"The wine industry is very important to B.C.," Notley said at the time. "Not nearly as important as the energy industry is to Alberta and Canada, but important nonetheless."

Story continues

In 2017, Alberta imported about 17.2 million bottles of wine from B.C., Notley said. That amounted to about $70 million in revenue for B.C. wineries. About 95 per cent of Canadian wine sold in Alberta liquor stores is from B.C.

While Notley curtailed the flow of B.C. wine in order to gain short-term leverage in a political dispute, other barriers restricting the movement of alcohol across provincial borders have been in place for much longer.

'Free the beer'

The "free the beer" case began in 2012, when Gerard Comeau, a retired New Brunswick man, was stopped by RCMP at the New Brunswick-Quebec border and fined $292.50 for having 14 cases of beer and three bottles of liquor in his trunk  a violation of the New Brunswick Liquor Control Act. (His booze was also confiscated.)

He took his case to court. In April of this year, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled unanimously that provinces and territories have the constitutional right to restrict the flow of goods across their borders, so long as the primary goal of the restriction is not to impede trade.

Then, in July, the country's premiers struck a deal to boost the amount of liquor individuals can bring across a provincial boundary for personal use. Currently, only two provinces  Alberta and Manitoba  have no such limits whatsoever.

Three jurisdictions  New Brunswick, the Northwest Territories and Newfoundland and Labrador  have limits making it illegal to cross a provincial boundary with anything but small amounts of liquor.

Alcohol and elections

Booze has a long history of use in Canada as a political tool.

Back in the 1850s, John Carling and his brother took over the family brewery in London, Ont. Fearing a temperance movement would cripple his business, Carling decided to run for public office.

"On election day, he rolls out the liquid assets and puts a barrel of beer right beside the polling station," said Matthew Bellamy, a history professor at Carleton University. Carling subsequently won a seat in the pre-Confederation Legislative Assembly of the Province of Canada.

But not all attempts to sway voters with booze went down smoothly. At the tail end of Prohibition and at the height of the Great Depression, Ontario Premier George Henry ran on a policy that would allow people to drink full-strength beer. Henry lost, but the man who beat him  Mitchell Hepburn  snagged the idea and implemented it.

Bellamy said that while politicians like Henry, Carling and Hepburn have tried to exploit the political power of alcohol, it has never really caught on as an electoral tactic here.

"Politicians didn't want to be associated with beer that much," Bellamy said. "The liquor question has divided us for most of our history."We have been subjected to a year and a half, almost two years, of constant hysteria about Russia and whether they helped Trump win the 2016 election. There has been no evidence of any collusion and the Mueller special counsel investigation seems to be winding down.

Rush Limbaugh has some interesting ideas about what is going on.

So the only possible way they can get rid of Trump here is via politics, and thats to drive his approval numbers down so that Republicans in Congress have no reason to support him. If Republicans in Congress  the House and Senate  could be forced to abandon their support for Trump, as happened to Nixon, then he would have to go. I dont know if Trump would play ball even in that scenario like Nixon did. I think Trump would dare them to impeach him and try to remove him. I dont think Trumps gonna play ball the way the establishment thinks.

Democrat voters are highly motivated to vote in the November election, at least in part, to impeach Trump. Why ?

There seems to be no letup in the frenzy to demonize Trump.

In 21st-century America, it is difficult to conjure the possibility of the federal government taking an eraser to the map and scrubbing away an entire ethnic group. I had arrived in Columbus at the suggestion of a Cleveland-based lawyer named David Leopold, a former president of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. Leopold has kept in touch with an old client who attends the Mauritanian mosque. When he mentioned the communitys plight to me, he called it ethnic cleansingwhich initially sounded like wild hyperbole.

Mosque. Hmmm.

The Russia conspiracy theory, which is what it is, might have roots in another situation. First, the entire Fusion GPS thing began as a means of avoiding consequences for Hillarys careless treatment of security rules.

They were trafficking on that server with her. Everybody in this hierarchy, the Democrat National Committee, the Obama Department of Justice which ran this whole show, the Obama Department of Justice which let the Russians do whatever they did, made no effort to stop it, everybody here knew that Hillary Clinton was guilty, everybody knew that she had committed crimes, above and beyond.

The Clinton Foundation, the soliciting of donations from around the world. That was the essence of selling policy, selling her office in advance of her winning. Everybody there knew it! What they had to do was exonerate her. They had to take steps to make sure she would never be prosecuted. They had to take steps to ensure she would never be charged. It simply wouldnt do. They could not permit the Democrat Partys presidential nominee to even appear to be under a legal cloud.

And then she lost that fixed election. Now what ?

There is a history with the Clintons and China.

The Chinagate fundraising scandal plagued the 1996 Bill Clinton-Al Gore campaign and Hillary was very much involved. Chinagate aka Commercegate is the most serious scandal in U.S. history. It involves the transfer of Americas most sensitive technology, including but not limited to nuclear missile and satellite technology, possibly in exchange for millions of dollars in contributions to the 1996 Clinton-Gore re-election effort and the Democratic National Committee.

Did it end there ?

Diane Feinstein, who has been either chair or ranking member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, had a driver who was a Chinese spy.

Sen. Dianne Feinsteins office was infiltrated by a Chinese spy who worked as her driver and attended official functions on her behalf for 20 years, according to new reports from Politico and The San Francisco Chronicle.

Feinstein reportedly had no idea that her office was being infiltrated by a man who was feeding information to an individual linked to Chinas Ministry of State Security. She was mortified when the FBI showed up at her Washington DC office five years ago to warn her about the mole.

He is still around.

Since President Nixon went to China in 1972, Russ has followed the development of China, its people and leaders.

He recently retired after 26 years as a senior staff of the United States Senate. 5 years with Senator Alan Cranston and 21 years with Senator Dianne Feinstein of California. He was the Office Director of the Senator Feinsteins San Francisco office and State liaison for Asian and Asian American affairs. Russ has provided many seminars for visiting Chinese officials.

Russ first went to China in 1975, then in 1979 and several more times in the 80s and early 90s on US-China trade related activities. Since 1997, he has visited China every year for a month at a time.

That was the spy.

In her capacity as a ranking member on the Senate Intelligence Committee, Feinstein unilaterally released testimony from Fusion GPS founder Glenn Simpson to the public earlier this year, violating committee precedent. When she released these records, she failed to disclose that one of her former staffers, Daniel Jones, had hired Fusion GPS and ex-British spy Christopher Steele to dig up dirt on Donald Trump after the 2016 election.

Jones, who runs a private investigative outfit called Penn Quarter Group, told the FBI last year that he was being bankrolled by 7 to 10 wealthy donors who are primarily from New York and California to look into whether Trumps campaign colluded with Russian officials to steal the 2016 election from Hillary Clinton. These donors gave him $50 million he used to hire Fusion GPS, which contracted with Steele to compile the now-infamous dossier riddled with salacious and unverified claims.

While the Russia thing has preoccupied Washington, what has China been doing ?

The speed and scale of Chinas island-building spree have alarmed other countries with interests in the region. China announced in June that the creation of islands  moving sediment from the seafloor to a reef  would soon be completed. Since then, China has focused its efforts on construction. So far it has constructed port facilities, military buildings and an airstrip on the islands, with recent imagery showing evidence of two more airstrips under construction. The installations bolster Chinas foothold in the Spratly Islands, a disputed scattering of reefs and islands in the South China Sea more than 500 miles from the Chinese mainland.

Feinstein has a role on the Trump Russia hoax.

A newly declassified congressional report shows that a former staffer to Sen. Diane Feinstein, D-Calif., who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee, had ties to Fusion GPS and British ex-spy Christopher Steele, both subjects of Feinsteins committees investigation. Feinstein never disclosed these connections publicly.

The former staffer, Daniel Jones, previously served as Feinsteins senior intelligence staffer. Jones currently leads a research and investigatory advisory that hired Fusion GPS and Steele after the 2016 election to push the Trump-Russia collusion narrative, as The Federalists Sean Davis reports:

According to the report, Jones, who runs an investigative outfit called the Penn Quarter Group (PQG), told the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in March of 2017 that he had retained the services of Fusion GPS and Christopher Steele to continue exposing Russian interference in the 2016 election. Steele is the former British spy who authored the infamous unverified dossier of allegations against President Donald Trump.

Why would Feinstein do any favors for China?

She has a long history with China.

For the last 40 years, no politician in America has arguably maintained a deeper, more longstanding and friendlier relationship with China, at the highest levels of its ruling Communist Party, than Feinstein. It dates back to the opening of U.S.-Chinese diplomatic relations in 1979.

Shortly thereafter, Feinstein, then mayor of San Francisco, established a sister city relationship with Shanghai, one of the earliest and most robust such relationships in U.S.-China history. Soon after, Feinstein led a mayoral delegation to China joined by her husband, investor Richard Blum, a trip they took together many times over the ensuing years as the relationship between both Feinsteins and China grew.

During the 1980s, as mayor of San Francisco, Feinstein developed a close friendship with Shanghai Mayor Jiang Zemin. This substantially enhanced Feinsteins foreign policy profile, and created an important linkage to the U.S. government for Chinas Communist Party (CCP).

Her husband has a long history of profitable dealing with China.

In 1986, Feinstein and Jiang designated several corporate entities for fostering commercial relations, one named Shanghai Pacific Partners. Feinsteins husband served as a director. His financial position was relatively small, less than $500,000 on one project, the only such position in China the Feinstein family held when Feinstein entered the Senate in 1992.

They said that Feinsteins consistent support for Chinas interests cannot help but benefit her husbands efforts to earn profits there.

That project, however, which Blums firm participated in alongside PRC state-run Shanghai Investment Trust Corp., was one of the first joint ventures between San Francisco and Chinese investors, reportedly cited by Chinese officials as a testament to the friendly business ties between Shanghai and San Francisco that Feinstein had initiated. Subsequently Blums investments in the Middle Kingdom mushroomed.

In May 1993, Feinstein expressed her strong support on the Senate floor for continued trading with China. Contemporaneously, her husband was seeking to raise up to $150 million from investors, including himself, for a variety of Chinese enterprises.

Is China encouraging the Russia Trump hoax for its own reasons ?

Trump may be figuring this out.

President Trump is about to sign the new National Defense Authorization Act, which will prohibit funding to Chinese-run Confucius Institutes on American campuses.

Texas Senator Ted Cruz added the key amendment to The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019, which also restricts funding to universities that host Confucius Institutes and requires them to provide a public record of any agreements or contracts they have with the program, which has deep ties to the Chinese Communist Party.

The Confucius Institutes are the velvet glove around the iron fist of their campaigns on our campuses.

Earlier this week, the White House confirmed that Trump plans to sign the bill during a visit to Fort Drum, New York, according to Fox-28.

In March, the Central Intelligence Agency issued a classified report labeling the institutes as a threat, according to an unclassified page of the document obtained by The Washington Free Beacon.

Good.Photo - Michael Dahlenburg

South Australian young writers have expanded their numbers significantly in this past 12 months and we should be celebrating this.

The Press Service International young writer program in conjunction with Christian Today provide publishing columns for these young writers (18-30) and these young writers are recruited through recommendations.

In any such ministry vetting becomes an issue where there are limited travel budgets and the process since our 2009 inception has been through recommendations by existing young writers.

They know the system backwards, recognise the week allotments, the 10 Cycles a year, the deadline dates, what Comment writing is about, and what are the taboos. It is much better coming from their connection although an info pack is sent to them.

This does not mean that from time to time someone from outside those numbers are not accepted, rather the preferred methodology is through recommendations.

Photo - Amy Manners

SA Young Writers

Michael Dahlenburg

Liana Monaghan

Justin Monaghan

Shannon Munyard

Kristen Dang

Bonnie Dowie

Conor Ryan

Mark Flippance

Amy Manners

Mary lengo

Celebrated roles

Michael Dahlenburg for many years has been the new young writer first contact and sends out the info packs.

Kristen Dang revamped the Style Guide (which is part of the info pack) and has become one of the tutors for any of the young writers needing some guidance with their writing.

Amy Manners is the editor for all those young writers in Week 5. There is someone else who sends out reminders and collates the Week 5 articles and then sends them to Amy for editing.

Photo - Liana Monaghan

Special notes

In 2016 Adelaides Tim Everton was the Basil Sellers Award young writer winner presented at the annual conference in Sydney, determined by a set of 5 independent panellists from across the country.

Before Tim moved on he had introduced several other young writers.

There have been a few gatherings of Adelaide young writers  there were lunches / dinners in Adelaide city in 2015, Glenelg in late 2016 and North Adelaide in 2017.

To express an interest in becoming a young writer, either contact Dr Mark Tronson at timeout@bushorchestra.com or an Adelaide based young writer, such as Michael Dahlenburg mickdahl@adam.com.au

Photo - Kristen Dang

Dr Mark Tronson is a Baptist minister (retired) who served as the Australian cricket team chaplain for 17 years (2000 ret) and established Life After Cricket in 2001. He was recognised by the Olympic Ministry Medal in 2009 presented by Carl Lewis Olympian of the Century. He mentors young writers and has written 24 books and enjoys writing. He is married to Delma, with four adult children and grand-children. Dr Tronson writes a daily article for Christian Today Australia (since 2008) and in November 2016 established Christian Today New Zealand.

Mark Tronson's archive of articles can be viewed at

http://www.pressserviceinternational.org/mark-tronson.htmlSingha Durbar fails worker discipline test

Civil servants working inside Singha Durbar, the governments main administrative centre, who should be leading their peers deployed elsewhere by example, perform poorly when it comes to office discipline.JavaScript is disabled on your browser.

CORDIS website requires JavaScript enabled in order to work properly. Please enable JavaScript.Fertiliser major IFFCO has entered into joint venture with Congelados De Navarra to set up food processing plant at Ludhiana in Punjab with an investment of Rs 325 crore. With this joint venture, co-operative IFFCO for first time will foray into food processing sector. Congelados De Navarra company based in Spain is pioneer in quick frozen (IQF) technology. It is into processing of vegetables, fruits, herbs and ready-made pre-cooked dishes.

Key Facts

In the JV, IFFCO will have 30% stake while Congelados De Navarra will have the remaining 70% stake. This company will invest about Rs 325 crore to set up greenfield food processing unit. The proposed plant will source produce like potatoes, peas and cauliflower from farmers and then process them for sale in domestic and exports market.

IFFCOs foray into food processing business will benefit of farmers. It will also contribute in the governments goal to double farmers income by 2022, he added. This new facility food processing facility will also generate 400 direct and 5,000 indirect local jobs in Punjab.

Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO)

IFFCO is large scale fertiliser cooperative federation in India which is registered as Multistate Cooperative Society. It is one of Indias biggest cooperative society which is wholly owned by Indian Cooperatives. It was founded in 1967 with just 57 cooperatives and at present it has amalgamation of over 36,000 Indian Cooperatives with diversified business interests ranging from General Insurance to Rural Telecom apart from its core business of manufacturing and selling fertilisers. It is headquartered in New Delhi.Salman Khan starrer Bharat has been in news for some time, courtesy the exit of its leading lady. The film, which is an official remake of the Korean film Ode to My Father, is finally moving ahead with the crew flying to Malta for the shoot. While bhai is mostly effortless when it comes to making his presence felt on screen, he also had to undergo several look tests before locking the ones that worked.

Rehearsals were organised at Filmistan Studious for the actors. Disha Patani had to attend rehearsals for 15 days while Salman came to the sets for about eight days to finalise his looks for the film, says a source.

According to a crew member, the Dabangg actor dons five different characters from different walks of life in the film. Rehearsing for five different characters in just eight days was indeed enough for Bhai, he says.

The first leg of Bharats shoot in which Salman dons three different characters have been shot at different locations in Mumbai such as the Film City, Filmistan and Yash Raj Studios where special sets were erected. A tunnel was also created at the Yash Raj Studios and it has an important place in the plot, says the source.

The Tiger Zinda Hai actor has already left for Malta with the technicians, as the schedule will begin the following week. Katrina Kaif will join him after a few days in Malta and then in Abu Dhabi. After completing a 16-day schedule at Malta, the entire cast and crew will take a break for about three to four days and then proceed to Abu Dhabi to shoot for another 20 days schedule before flying back to Mumbai.

HT28Time and again, Tejaswi has accused Nitish of having political connections with the prime accused in the Muzzafarpur shelter home case, Brajesh Thakur. (Photo: ANI)

Patna: The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on Saturday warned Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to reveal the whereabouts of the girl who went missing from Madhubani within a week, failing to do which the party would stage a mass protest.

Addressing a press conference in Patna, RJD leader Tejaswi Yadav said, "I give him (Nitish) a week's time to reveal the whereabouts of the girl who was shifted from the shelter home and who has been missing since then, after which we will stage a mass protest in Madhubani."

Demanding the resignation of the Bihar chief minister on moral grounds for failing to run the state, Tejaswi alleged that Nitish was aware of everything related to the case and was trying to shield those involved.

"Nitish Kumar must resign on moral grounds as he is unable to run the state. It will be proved that he is the most coward Chief Minister who is not fighting for justice of our daughters, but shielding those who committed the crime. He must resign from state Home Ministry as well," Yadav said.

Time and again, Tejaswi has accused Nitish of having political connections with the prime accused in the Muzzafarpur shelter home case, Brajesh Thakur. The RJD leader has also questioned Nitish about his connection with Thakur's son, Rahul Anand, who is being interrogated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

A Mumbai-based institute had revealed that as many as 40 girls were sexually abused at a Muzaffarpur shelter home. On receiving information, the police raided the vicinity and rescued 44 girls. On July 24, 11 employees of the shelter home in Muzaffarpur were arrested for allegedly sexually harassing the girls.

On August 5, one among the 14 girls, who were rescued from a shelter home in Muzaffarpur and shifted to an NGO in Madhubani, went missing.PM Modi joined special ceremony through video conference at Dunsinane Estate, Nuwara Eliya to hand over houses built under Indian Housing Project in Plantation Areas. (Photo: ANI | Twitter)

New Delhi/ Colombo: India on Sunday handed over the first lot of houses built for Indian-origin people in Sri Lankas tea plantation areas.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined a special ceremony through video conference at Dunsinane Estate, Nuwara Eliya to hand over the houses built under the Indian Housing Project in Plantation Areas.

It is the largest Indian assistance project in any country with a grant of over USD 350 million.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe thanked his Indian counterpart for the assistance.

I thank Prime Minister Modi. He has kept the promise he made last year, Wickremesinghe said.

PM Modi said India continues to keep Sri Lanka in a special place in its neighbourhood first policy.

Some 404 houses were handed over at the central district of Nuwara Eliya.

Out of the 60,000 houses, close to 47,000 have been completed so far, Modi said, adding that the USD 350 million grant to build the houses was one of the largest grants by India in any country.

Sri Lanka has been special for us, and it will remain special, the Prime Minister said.

Wickremesinghe, recalling the historical links between India and Sri Lanka, said PM Modis suggestion today to establish direct air links between Colombo and Varanasi to facilitate pilgrims from Sri Lanka is most welcomed.The Opposition parties may have failed to put up a united fight for the election of the deputy chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, but the camaraderie displayed by its leaders two days earlier at the launch of Congress leader S. Jaipal Reddys book, Ten Ideologies: The Great Asymmetry between Agrarianism and Industrialism, appeared to suggest otherwise. The line-up of Opposition leaders at the power-packed event was a throwback to the days when the Third Front was a reality. While the book was launched by former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, those who put in an appearance included former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, CPM leaders Sitaram Yechury and Prakash Karat, former Janata Dal (United) leader Sharad Yadav and former Congress ministers P. Chidambaram and Jairam Ramesh. The bitter rivalry between the Telugu Desam Party and the Telangana Rashtra Samithi was also set aside on this occasion as leaders from both sides also showed up for the programme. But Jayadev Galla, the TDP Lok Sabha MP, who had initiated the debate on the Opposition-sponsored no-confidence motion in the Monsoon Session of Parliament, was clearly the star among them. Having come to notice after his effective speech, he was constantly being sought out by members in the audience who were eager to shake hands with him.

While the Aam Aadmi Party is being written off by most people, the party could end up surprising everyone like it did in 2015 when it bagged 67 seats in the Delhi Assembly elections. Realising that the wide support it enjoyed among the Delhis upper middle classes is on the wane, the AAP leaders have been working quietly to reconnect with this constituency in preparation for the next electoral challenge. The partys representatives have been holding informal interactions with groups of residents of upscale localities where they have made detailed presentations about the work done by the AAP government in the field of education and health. They have particularly targeted those who had embraced the party when it was launched but had subsequently become disillusioned with it because of the infighting in its ranks and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwals style of functioning. Though party leaders have been grilled extensively at these sessions, this outreach seems to be paying off for the AAP whose leaders are succeeding in addressing the misgivings of their old supporters. Not just that, they are so impressed with the Delhi governments work that they have decided to spread the word about the AAP by offering to organise similar meetings in their homes to enable the AAP leaders to give details about their future plans as also their achievements. The BJP and the Congress better watch out as they could well be outwitted by the newbie party once again.

In an unusual move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given permission to external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj to use an official plane to ferry 300-odd delegates to attend the Vishwa Hindi Sammelan being held in Mauritius later this month. In the past, the delegates invited for this conference were usually provided tickets on commercial flights by the external affairs ministry. The capitals political grapevine has been quick to point out that the Prime Ministers offer shows that Ms Swaraj has not fallen out of favour though this was being suggested recently as Mr Modi chose to remain silent when the minister was recently targeted by vicious trolls on the social media for coming to the aid of an interfaith couple. Known for her proximity to veteran BJP leader L.K. Advani,

Ms Swaraj was initially kept at an arms length by the Prime Minister after he assumed power in 2014. It was only much later that her efforts were acknowledged. Ms Swaraj came in for high praise from Mr Modi last year for her feisty speech at the UN General Assembly. She also came in for a special mention from the Prime Minister for using the social media effectively to help Indians across the globe and giving her ministry a human face.

Congress leaders from Maharashtra, who were invited to Delhi by party president Rahul Gandhi last week for a brainstorming session on the ongoing Maratha stir, found themselves in an embarrassing situation. With the Congress leadership showing little interest in the current developments in Maharashtra, state leaders cited this meeting to assure the party cadre that Mr Gandhi was not ignoring burning issues confronting them. However, the meeting had to be called off as the Congress chief had to rush to Chennai to pay homage to DMK stalwart M. Karunanidhi who passed away on August 7. While the cancellation of the meeting was understandable, the Maharashtra leaders find themselves in a spot, as Mr Gandhi has not fixed a fresh date for the aborted interaction. They fear this could strengthen the popular perception in the partys state unit that Mr Gandhi is not interested in the ongoing developments in Maharashtra.

B10As of now, the Note 4 with the AOSP ROM of Pie hasnt exhibited major bugs and errors.

Google has recently released Android 9 Pie for its Pixel range of devices, bringing a lot of new features and a smarter Android experience. Additionally, the AOSP ROM has also been released for developers and other manufacturers to bring the latest version of the OS to other Android smartphones from manufacturers around the world. While Essential is the only other manufacturer, apart from Google, to release the Pie update for its device, other manufacturers are still in line for rolling it out to eligible devices. Xiaomi hasnt rolled out the Pie update for its smartphones yet, but surprisingly, their Redmi Note 4 has got the Pie update.

Yes, the Redmi Note 4 from 2017 has been seeded with a build of Android 9 Pie. However, theres a catch  its not an official build with MIUI on top. The Note 4s Pie update is, in fact, an AOSP-based ROM, bringing the stock Android interface. Abhishek987 from XDA Forums has worked on the stock AOSP ROM of Android Pei and made it compatible with the Redmi Note 4.

The results of this unofficial port are surprisingly positive. As of now, the Note 4 with the AOSP ROM of Pie hasnt exhibited major bugs and errors. The OS has been working fine, with all the features working as intended. However, the developer still claims that there may be bugs that havent been discovered yet, so one has to exercise caution before relying on it as the daily driver.

If you have the knowledge of flashing custom ROMs on a Xiaomi device, you can go ahead and enjoy the Pie update on your Redmi Note 4. However, do note that this will remove MIUI from your device and replace it with a completely barebones version of Android.

The Redmi Note 4 was launched back in 2017, with Android Marshmallow 6.0. The device was later updated to Android 7.0 Nougat. Xiaomi hasnt hinted at whether the Note 4 will get upgraded to Android Oreo and eventually Android 9 Pie in the future, with chances of both coming to device looking negative.

Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter.

Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter.Strengthening think tanks

Independent analysis and critical evaluation can prove cardinal in influencing policy makingRoad leads to gateway of Tan Son Nhat Airport after heavy rain in June 2018. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran

Thailand has proposed the signing of a mutual recognition agreement (MRA) for automobile standards with Vietnam.

Thai Commerce Minister Sontirat Sontijirawong told the Bangkok Post that state units will be assigned to discuss the MRA further with Vietnams Transport Ministry.

The move follows the impacts of Vietnam's government Decree 116 that took effect this year, setting tough conditions for car imports. The decree caused a drop in car imports.

However, in March this year, the government removed a condition for local testing of autos. According to Minister Sontirat, an MRA would help cut overlapping testing processes and reduce both cost and delivery time for Thailands auto exporters.

At a joint trade committee meeting between the two nations in Hanoi on August 3, Thailand also proposed that Vietnams auto industry uses parts made in Thailand, the Post reported.

More than 143,000 autos were sold in Vietnam in the first seven months of this year, over 124,700 of them locally assembled and 23,700 imported ones, according to the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers Association (VAMA).

VAMA said that sales of locally assembled cars increased 12 percent over the same period last year, while that of imported cars plunged 45 percent.

Besides Thailand, Vietnam has this year imported cars from China, Germany, Slovakia, Hungary and Spain.The Imperial Citadel of Hue is surrounded by ugly piles of domestic waste dumped into the Ngu Ha River.

The eastern side of the Imperial Citadel in Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province, has the appearance of a huge dump site.

The once picturesque moat around the citadel, dug during the reign of the Nguyen dynasty to regulate water and reduce waterlogging in the inner city, is clogged and full of garbage.

Ngu Ha river clogged with waste. Photo by Vo Thanh

Along the Dong Ba gate to the citadel walls in Phu Hoa Ward, locals have encroached on the Ngu Ha river, and rubbish is floating all around. In some areas, weeds and trash have piled so high they reached the top of the citadel wall.

People living on the banks of the Ngu Ha River are dumping their trash in the river, residents in Thuan Thanh and Thuan Loc wards also throw garbage at the foot along the citadel wall, and the area stinks.

A waste dump right at the wall of the Hue Citadel. Photo by Vo Thanh

Many households do not only litter but have also set pipes to discharge domestic sewage directly into the river, said Nguyen Thi Vinh, 67, who lives near the Ngu Ha river.

"On hot and sunny days, I cannot sit in my house because of the stench from the river. I just hope everyone will stop littering the river and that the government soon clears the river to reduce pollution, Vinh added.

Ngu Ha river is heavily polluted by trash and sewage dumped in it by local residents. Photo by Vo Thanh

Ton That Thai, Chairman of Phu Hoa Ward, said the Ngu Ha River had been polluted for many years, because of the actions of the people dumping their trash in it.

He said local authorities plan to coordinate with the Hue Conservation Center to dredge a 500-meters long, 8.5-meters wide section of the Ngu Ha River.

The citadel is a part of Hues Complex of Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. The place includes many vestiges of the Nguyen dynasty and is among the top historical and tourism sites in Vietnam.Van Kinh Duongs life of crime included document forgery, fraud and breaking out of jail.

When Ho Chi Minh City police recently called for prosecution of Van Kinh Duong, Vu Hoang Anh Ngoc and Nguyen Duc Ky Nam for producing, trafficking and storing narcotic substances, it signalled curtains for a long life of crime.

Seven other gang members are also facing prosecution.

Van Kinh Duong, the ringleader, faces prosecution for additional crimes including document forgery, fraud and escaping from detention facilities.

Duongs brushes with the law goes back to 2008, when he was sentenced to jail for robbery and storing narcotics.

But in 2010, when his sentence was still in effect, Duong broke out of prison along with three other inmates.

He returned to his life of crime, this time delivering drugs for Hoang Phuong Lam, another drug lord based in Hanoi, from the capital to southern Vietnam.

In 2012, Lams ring was busted by the Ministry of Public Security, but Duong managed to slip through the cracks and disappear once more.

It was later found that Duong was residing in Saigon after changing his name to Tran Ngoc Hieu. In Saigon, he is said to have met a mysterious patron, Tom, in a bar in 2016. Duong neither knows Toms real name nor where he lives.

Tom taught Duong to create narcotics from scratch, and provided the substances to make them.

In the beginning, Duong was only in charge of finding locations and hiring workers to construct drug-producing facilites. Later, he created his own drug ring, with his cousin Nguyen Duc Ky Nam joing him as a manager for one facility in Dong Nai Province, which neighbors HCMC. Nam was also in charge of creating new types of drugs.

As his business boomed and other drug rings stepped up their game, Duong decided to expand his empire. New facilities in the central regions and HCMC were constructed for this purpose. He took great care to avoid detection, passing orders to his underlings remotely.

But Duong lived a high life in Saigon with his girlfriend Hoang Anh Ngoc, who also helped him to store narcotics until the ring was busted in April last year.

Duong and his ring had already been on the polices radar for more than a year by then. In the raid that busted the gang, police seized more than 500,000 ecstasy pills, 120 kilograms of powdered drugs, seven cars and over VND10 billion ($446,000) in cash, along with numerous machinery and real estate properties in several cities and provinces including HCMC and Nha Trang.

Investigations have revealed that the ecstasy powder was first made in Nha Trang, before being delivered to Dong Nai and HCMC to be molded into pills and stored in coffee packages.

Each package contained 500 to 1,000 pills. Each pill could fetch VND50,000 ($2.14) to VND200,000, depending on the location and the buyers.

Police are searching for Duongs mysterious patron Tom.

Vietnam is a key trafficking hub for narcotics despite having some of the worlds toughest drug laws.

Those convicted of possessing or smuggling more than 600 grams of heroin or more than 2.5 kilograms of methamphetamines face the death penalty. The production or sale of 100 grams of heroin or 300 grams of other illegal narcotics is also punishable by death.A Horizon Air Bombardier Dash 8 Q400, reported to be hijacked, flies over University Place, Washington, the U.S., before crashing in the South Puget Sound, August 10, 2018 in this still image taken from a video obtained from social media. Photo to by John Waldron/via Reuters

U.S. authorities on Saturday were seeking to learn what drove an airline worker to steal an empty airplane from Seattle's airport.

They are doing that in a security scare that caused the scrambling of U.S. fighter jets.

A Horizon Air ground service agent got into a Bombardier Q400 turboprop aircraft on Friday night in a maintenance area at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and took off, Horizon sister carrier Alaska Airlines said.

He flew for about one hour, often erratically with attempts at aerial stunts, before crashing onto sparsely populated Ketron Island in Puget Sound, some 25 miles (40 km) to the southwest.

The 29-year-old man, who has not been officially identified, was suicidal and appeared to have acted alone, according to authorities. He was believed to have been killed in the crash.

Relatives and co-workers identified the man as Richard Russell of Sumner, Washington, who also went by the name Beebo.

"He was a faithful husband, a loving son, and a good friend," the Russell family said in a statement.

"This is a complete shock to us. We are devastated by these events and Jesus is truly the only one holding this family together right now," the family said.

Russell was not known to have had a pilot's license, Horizon Air Chief Executive Gary Beck said at a news conference, and it was not clear how he was able to take off and fly as he did.

"There were some maneuvers that were done that were incredible maneuvers with the aircraft," Beck said. "Commercial aircraft are complex machines. They're not as easy to fly as, say, a Cessna 150, so I don't know how he achieved the experience that he did," Beck said.

The local sheriff's department said on Twitter that either doing stunts "or lack of flying skills" caused the crash.

In partial recordings of Russell's conversations with air traffic controllers that were published online by Broadcastify.com, he said he was sorry to disappoint people who cared about him and described himself as a "broken guy."

"Got a few screws loose, I guess," Russell is heard saying in the recording. "Never really knew it until now."

He also admired the sunset, complained of lightheadedness, and asked whether he would go to prison if he landed safely.

He had worked for Horizon Air for 3-1/2 years and had clearance to tow planes, Alaska Airlines Chief Executive Brad Tilden said at the news conference.

Tilden said airplanes of that type do not have doors that lock or ignition keys like cars.

"The setup in aviation in America is we secure the airfield and then we have the mindset that we have employees that are credentialed and authorized to be there," Tilden said, adding that the airline was working with authorities to investigate.

The FBI is leading the probe, which also includes the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board.

"We are going to be thorough, which means taking the time needed to scour the area, delve into the background of the individual believed responsible, and review every aspect of this incident with all appropriate public & private partners," the FBI said in a statement.

Two F-15 fighter jets took to the air from a base in Portland, Oregon, and were on the scene within minutes. The jets were armed but did not open fire, North American Aerospace Defense Command spokesman Cameron Hillier said by phone.

Instead, the F-15 pilots and air traffic controllers tried to guide the plane west, away from populated areas, said Hillier. No one was hurt on the ground, authorities said.

It was unclear how the employee was able to taxi the plane on a runway and take off without authorization.

The Bombardier Q400 turboprop is designed for short-distance flights and can seat 76 passengers, Alaska Air said.A rendering of NASA's Parker Solar Probe, the spacecraft that will fly through the Sun's corona to trace how energy and heat move through the star's atmosphere. Photo by NASA/Johns Hopkins APL/via AFP

NASA on Sunday blasted off a $1.5 billion spacecraft toward the Sun on a historic mission to protect the Earth by unveiling the mysteries of dangerous solar storms.

"Three, two, one, and liftoff!" said a NASA commentator as the Parker Solar Probe lit up the dark night sky aboard a Delta IV-Heavy rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida at 3:31 am (0731 GMT).

The unmanned spacecraft aims to get closer than any human-made object in history to the center of our solar system.

The probe is designed to plunge into the Sun's atmosphere, known as the corona, during a seven-year mission.

It is protected by an ultra-powerful heat shield that can endure unprecedented levels of heat, and radiation 500 times that experienced on Earth.

Strange veil

NASA has billed the mission as the first spacecraft to "touch the Sun."

In reality, it should come within 3.83 million miles (6.16 million kilometers) of the Sun's surface, close enough to study the curious phenomenon of the solar wind and the Sun's atmosphere, known as the corona, which is 300 times hotter than its surface.

The car-sized probe is designed to give scientists a better understanding of solar wind and geomagnetic storms that risk wreaking chaos on Earth by knocking out the power grid.

These solar outbursts are poorly understood, but pack the potential to wipe out power to millions of people.

A worst-case scenario could cost up to two trillion dollars in the first year alone and take a decade to fully recover from, experts have warned.

"The Parker Solar Probe will help us do a much better job of predicting when a disturbance in the solar wind could hit Earth," said Justin Kasper, a project scientist and professor at the University of Michigan.

Knowing more about the solar wind and space storms will also help protect future deep space explorers as they journey toward the Moon or Mars.

Heat shield

The probe is guarded by an ultra-powerful heat shield that is just 4.5 inches (11.43 centimeters) thick, enabling the spacecraft to survive its close shave with the fiery star.

Even in a region where temperatures can reach more than a million degrees Fahrenheit, the sunlight is expected to heat the shield to just around 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit (1,371 degrees Celsius).

If all works as planned, the inside of the spacecraft should stay at just 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

The goal for the Parker Solar Probe is to make 24 passes through the corona during its seven-year mission.

"The sun is full of mysteries," said Nicky Fox, project scientist at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab.

"We are ready. We have the perfect payload. We know the questions we want to answer."

91-year-old namesake

The spacecraft is the only NASA probe in history to be named after a living person -- in this case, 91-year-old solar physicist Eugene Parker, who first described the solar wind in 1958.

Parker said last week that he was "impressed" by the Parker Solar Probe, calling it "a very complex machine."

NASA chief of the science mission directorate, Thomas Zurbuchen, said Saturday that Parker is an "incredible hero of our scientific community," and called the probe one of NASA most "strategically important" missions.

Scientists have wanted to build a spacecraft like this for more than 60 years, but only in recent years did the heat shield technology advance enough to be capable of protecting sensitive instruments.

Tools on board will measure high-energy particles associated with flares and coronal mass ejections, as well as the changing magnetic field around the Sun.

A white light imager will take images of the atmosphere right in front of the Sun.

When it nears the Sun, the probe will travel rapidly enough to go from New York to Tokyo in one minute -- some 430,000 miles per hour, making it the fastest human-made object.Exports of apples from Ukraine soar by 3.2 times in 2017-2018 season

Ukrainian farmers in 2018 plan to harvest 400,000  500,000 tonnes of fruit and berries.

If you see a spelling error on our site, select it and press Ctrl+EnterEthiopia has been suffering the effects of a devastating series of droughts, which began three years ago when the El Nino weather pattern caused higher temperatures in this country of 100 million people. While an above average rainy season this year is expected to help improve agriculture in parts of the country, the damage done by several consecutive failed rainy seasons has been significant, resulting in widespread crop failures and devastating loss of livestock and leading to successive humanitarian disasters.

Further compounding the situation is a large-scale displacement of approximately one million people since April in the West-Guji and Gedeo zones of the Oromiya Region and Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples Region, respectively. This newly displaced populations is in addition to the 1.6 million

Ethiopians already pushed from their homes by conflict or drought, with large-scale displacement occurring along the border of the Oromiya and Somali regions, who need immediate, vital humanitarian assistance. Today, as a result of these conditions, nearly 8 million are facing hunger, particularly in Oromiya and southern Somali regions.

In late July, the U.S. Agency for International Development, or USAID, announced an additional 170 million dollars in humanitarian assistance to support the people of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.This new funding brings the total U.S. humanitarian contribution for Ethiopia to more than 802 million dollars since October 2016.

The funds will go toward emergency food and nutrition assistance, life-saving medical care, shelter, and safe drinking water, as well as programs to improve sanitation and hygiene programs to stop the spread of preventable diseases. This assistance will provide vital humanitarian aid to millions of Ethiopians trying to recover from the shocks suffered since 2016, as well as to refugees who are seeking shelter in Ethiopia.

This assistance will meet the immediate needs of those displaced, keeping them healthy so that they can return home safely and voluntarily, resume productive lives, and participate in the process of addressing the root causes of the conflict, said USAID Mission Director to Ethiopia, Leslie Reed.

The United States urges additional contributions from the Government of Ethiopia and for the community of nations to meet the needs of vulnerable Ethiopians.The Lost Generation

For this generation, to cave in was to once again succumb to a centuries old status quounjust and no longer conscionableIn a recent speech in Washington addressing the previous or current violations of either the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty or the Chemical Weapons Convention by the regimes of Syria and Iran, Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Arms Control, Verification and Compliance Yleem Poblete said all responsible nations are challenged.

Dr. Poblete noted that the U.S. National Security Strategy under President Donald Trump calls for the augmentation of measures to prevent the spread of and to eliminate [weapons of mass destruction] and related materials, their delivery systems, and technologies. It further underscores the need to hold state and non-state actors accountable for the use of WMD.

Regarding chemical weapons, Assistant Secretary Poblete pointed out that the Assad regime has brazenly violated the international norm prohibiting their use. The Joint Investigative Mechanism of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons and the UN clearly established that the Syrian regime was responsible for four cases of chemical weapons use against the Syrian people.

Syria also remains in continued noncompliance with the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty and its safeguards agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency. Assad started to construct an undeclared plutonium production reactor in the Dair Alzour region, which was destroyed by Israel in an air-strike in 2007. Syria has persistently refused to cooperate with investigators from the IAEA about the reactor or address outstanding questions about its activities at the site and other related sites.

With regard to Iran and its nuclear ambitions, the Iran nuclear deal from which the United States withdrew in May, was severely flawed. Assistant Secretary Poblete said that among its chief defects, the deal failed to prevent Iran from ever having fissile material production capabilities that would permit it to rapidly breakout into weaponization. In addition, its verification provisions did not go far enough; and most concerning of all, it did not cover Irans missile or chemical weapons programs.

Assistant Secretary Poblete cited President Trumps assertion in the National Security Strategy that [t]he scourge of the world today is a small group of rogue regimes that violate all principles of free and civilized states.

The response to those states must be constant vigilance. Noncompliance and blatant disregard of international legal obligations must be thoroughly reviewed documented and assessed, Assistant Secretary Poblete emphasized. Then appropriate action and accountability can and must follow.Irans investment finance contracts with European, Japanese and South Korean banks have been suspended, the director of loans at Islamic Republics Investment Organization has disclosed.

While China and Russia are still committed to their deals with Iran, European, Japanese and South Korean banks have practically halted their interaction with Iran, Saeid Khani Oushani has announced.

Although, the banks have not declared their new decision publicly, but noted that resuming their suspended financial activity depends on negotiation with EU, Khani Oushani said.

Meanwhile, Khani Oushani has admitted that Tehran and Beijing are investigating to find ways for continuing bank transactions and cooperation.

The first batch of US sanctions, targeting Tehrans access to foreign financial services and facilities, came into effect last Tuesday. Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) or Tehran nuclear deal with world powers, implemented in 2016, paved the way for signing tens of MoUs and draft contracts for foreign investments in the Islamic Republic; but, the renewal of the sanctions immediately plunged them into uncertainty.

The second batch of US sanctions scheduled for November 4, targeting Iran's oil export and its Central Banks international activities will complicate the situation further.

According to Khani Oushani, even before the implementation of the second batch US sanctions, Many banks have already decided to completely stay away from interacting with their Iranian counterparts. They are searching for tactics to continue their cooperation with Iran, but, none has been operational, so far.

Earlier in June, Saeid Khani Oushani had maintained that after inking JCPOA, Iran signed more than $23 billion contracts over foreign investments in the country.

However, Khani Oushani admitted that commitments on the financing of only two projects; constructing a thermal power station in Bandar Abbas and Garmsar-Inceboroun railway, have been fulfilled by the Russian side.

It was earlier disclosed that two South Korean banks had promised Iran a $13 billion credit line, while Japan had committed itself to invest $10 billion in railways projects in Iran.Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug.12

Trend:

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has arrived in the Kazakh city of Aktau to attend the 5th Summit of the Heads of State of the Caspian littoral states.

At the Aktau international airport, the head of state was welcomed by Kazakh Minister of Energy Kanat Bozumbayev and other officials.Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 12

Trend:

Following the signing of documents at the 5th Summit of the Heads of State of the Caspian littoral states in Aktau, Kazakhstan, the presidents made press statements.

President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev hailed the importance of the Convention on the legal status of the Caspian Sea and other documents, which were signed at the Summit.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev made a press state statement at the Summit.

The heads of state posed together for photographs.

The 5th Summit of the Heads of State of the Caspian littoral states ended.President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev has hosted an official reception in honor of participants of the 5th Summit of the Heads of State of the Caspian littoral states in Aktau.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev attended the reception.

X X X

President Ilham Aliyev completed his visit to Kazakhstan.Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 12

By Ilkin Shafiyev  Trend:

Chinese companies are ready to contribute to Azerbaijans economic development, Chinese ambassador to Azerbaijan Wei Jinghua said in an interview with Trend.

"The 40th anniversary of China's reform and opening-up policy is celebrated in 2018, the diplomat added. During this period, great changes occurred in the country. Experience was accumulated in the field of economic liberalization, optimization of the investment sphere, construction of industrial, scientific and technical parks.

The Azerbaijani government continues to carry out economic reforms, constantly improves the investment sphere, Jinghua said. Chinese enterprises are ready to participate in this process."

The Chinese side also welcomes Azerbaijan's investments in China and the development of mutually beneficial cooperation in a number of areas, Jinghua said.

"The spheres of oil and gas, infrastructure, ICT, alternative energy, tourism, production of equipment, creation of free trade zones, construction of industrial and agricultural parks can be mentioned," the ambassador said. I am confident that as far as the investment climate in Azerbaijan develops, more Chinese companies will arrive in the country for carrying out investment activity and setting up enterprises."

According to the data of the Azerbaijani State Customs Committee, the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and China amounted to $616.402 million in January-June 2018.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @IlkinShafiyevAshgabat, Turkmenistan, Aug. 12

By Huseyn Hasanov  Trend:

The consultations on consular issues between Turkmenistan and the UAE were held in Abu Dhabi, the Turkmen State Migration Service said in a message.

According to the message, the representatives of the Turkmen Foreign Ministry, the State Migration Service and the Interior Ministry took part in the meeting.

Stressing the positive dynamics of the development of bilateral relations in the political and cultural spheres, the sides exchanged views on a number of important issues, including the development of cooperation through consular services.

The UAE is one of the five trade partners of Turkmenistan and the volume of trade between the two countries continues to grow.

The UAE companies are well represented in the local energy market. Dragon Oil has been operating in the Turkmen sector of the Caspian Sea since 1999 as part of the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA).

This company is one of the biggest foreign investors in Turkmenistan. Another company Petrofac took part in the implementation of a big service project for the development of the Galkynysh gas field.Baku, Azerbaijan, August 12

Trend:

The Iranian agriculture minister said the government is pursuing a deal it signed with China in 2013 whereby Beijing agreed to finance retrofitting of rice paddies in northern Iran.

A 1.6 million yuan finance contract (signed between Tehran and Beijing) to retrofit paddy fields in northern Iran will be pursued and implemented soon, Mahmoud Hojjati told reporters in Tehran recently, IRNA news agency reported.

Based on the terms of the agreement, 105,000 hectares of paddy fields in northern Iran will be equipped, retrofitted and drained.

The minister added the agreement would be implemented in cooperation with the countrys Plan and Budget Organization.

Rice growers would have a relatively higher income and save more water as their fields will be equipped with advanced machinery, Hojjati noted.

Agricultural and environment experts have been urging the government for years to restrict rice farming to the water-rich provinces of Gilan and Mazandaran, which are home to the majority of Irans paddy fields, and to ban the activity in the rest of the country.Baku, Azerbaijan, August 12

Trend:

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said a convention on the legal status of the Caspian Sea would be effective only with the consensus of the five Caspian Sea littoral states, noting that the agreement would ban the presence of foreign warships in the worlds largest enclosed inland body of water.

The (Caspian Sea) Convention would stipulate that all legal issues pertaining to the Caspian Sea would come into effect only with the consensus of the five Caspian Sea littoral states, Rouhani said on Sunday morning ahead of his trip to Kazakhstan, his official website reported on August 12.

The Caspian Sea Convention determines the territorial rights of littoral states as well as other matters related to the sea.

The convention would be signed in Kazakhstan during the Fifth Caspian Summit in Aktau where representatives of Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Iran, Russia and Turkmenistan would be present.

He added, This convention completely bans the presence of foreign warships in this sea and this is a key issue for the national security of its littoral states.

Caspian Sea littoral states have very good potentials and opportunities, especially regarding economy, transportation, goods transport and tourism, which will be discussed in the summit.

The Iranian president left Tehran for the Kazakh city of Aktau on Sunday morning to attend the summit meeting of the Caspian Sea littoral states.

Rouhanis most important program in the two-day visit is to participate in the Caspian Sea summit in which a number of important and strategic documents for cooperation will be signed by the five countries bordering the sea.

The president will also hold bilateral meetings with Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev and a number of other heads of state to discuss relations.

Rouhani will return to Tehran on Sunday evening.

The Caspian Sea is the largest enclosed water body on earth by area, variously classed as the worlds largest lake or a full-fledged sea.Baku, Azerbaijan, August 12

Trend:

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani described Caspian Sea Legal Regime Convention as a very important step towards enhancing more convergence among the Caspian Sea littoral states.

Adressing the Caspian Sea summit in Khazakstan on Sunday, Rouhani added that the Islamic Republic of Iran, with its maritime access in the north and south, is prepared to play a strategic and regional role for development of trade and transportation.

"Today, this region has turned into a successful model for guaranteeing peace, stability, friendship, good neighbourliness and progress and this summit is another step in more convergence in the region that needs to be strengthened by taking more steps," he said, the president. ir website reported.

He noted that the Caspian Sea belongs to all its littoral states and any kind of formation and handing over military bases to foreign countries and the passage of warships and even transit of foreign military transit shipments belonging to country other than Caspian Sea littoral states is forbidden.

"Today, although a major step has been taken, we should admit that by the signing of this convention, still important issues remain unresolved in the Caspian Sea, in addition to the fact that the final adoption of the convention is contingent upon following the legal procedures in the five littoral states."

I therefore deem it necessary to mention the articles of 1921 and 1940 treaties between Iran and the former Soviet Union and emphasise that in the Legal Regime Convention of the Caspian Sea, the confines of the seabed have not been determined and this will be done in an agreement by the parties later, Rouhani added.

"Furthermore, regarding the status of the coasts of the Islamic Republic of Iran, it is clear that that the aim of the third paragraph of the section regarding the definition of straight baseline asserted in Article 1 of this convention is directed at the special status of Irans shores. Of course, this convention states that the method of drawing the straight baselines must be determined in a separate agreement by all parties to the convention."

The Iranian president left Tehran for the Kazakh city of Aktau on Sunday morning to attend the summit meeting of the Caspian Sea littoral states.

The Caspian Sea is the largest enclosed water body on earth by area, variously classed as the worlds largest lake or a full-fledged sea.Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 12

By Matanat Nasibova  Trend:

The new cargo transportation route proposed by the Georgian side through the railway from Georgia to Russia via Azerbaijan as an alternative to Upper Lars may be attractive for Georgia, Azerbaijan and Russia and to some extent will expand the Russia-Georgia trade and economic relations that are being improved, famous Georgian expert Archil Sikharulidze told Trend.

Sikharulidze was commenting on the prospect of the transit of Georgian cargoes through Azerbaijan to Russia, recently proposed by public figure, businessman and founder of the "Foundation for the Revival and Development of Russian-Georgian Relations" David Tsetskhladze.

The Georgian railway project developer thinks that the railroad in Upper Lars will not be overloaded due to this route, it is quite rational in terms of saving time for tourists traveling to Georgia, as well as for Georgian food suppliers to enter the Russian markets.

Tsetskhladze's proposal was viable, Sikharulidze added. Its economic and political benefits must be at the same level.

"I think that this proposal can be considered in Georgia after the presidential election, which is expected in the autumn 2018," the analyst said.

By the way, the initiative put forward in Georgia caused serious resentment in neighboring Armenia, where serious problems arose related to the transit of local agricultural products, which are transported through the Upper Lars checkpoint for the delivery of goods to Russia.

The Upper Lars checkpoint at the Georgian-Russian border is the only way for Armenian carriers to supply agricultural products to Russia.

But due to traffic jams, including a big flow of tourists from Russia and the neighboring regional countries traveling to Georgia, Armenian trucks often stand idle on this railroad for weeks, which causes great damage to the Armenian economy.

According to the Armenian media, this problem has aggravated in summer due to the continuous flow of Russian tourists traveling to Georgia via this railroad.

Meanwhile, the new route does not solve the problems of Yerevan, as the transportation of Armenian cargoes through Azerbaijan is completely excluded due to the occupation policy of Armenia.

For Armenia, the initiative of the Georgian side could be attractive in case of the settlement of relations with Azerbaijan, the Georgian expert added.

The Baku-Tbilisi-Kars corridor has been already used for transit from Central Asia and South-East Asia. The cargoes are transported to Russia via the North-South corridor, which currently connects Iran, Azerbaijan and Russia and having prospects for extension to India and the countries of the Persian Gulf.

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.A replica of the ultralight Beta 50 Minor historical plane crashed on Saturday afternoon near in southern Czech Republic during a public Aviation Day, said local flying club head Bohous Chan, Xinhua reported.

According to Chan, the pilot suffered seriously injury and subsequently died despite an instant medical aid. No one else wounded.

The Aviation Day was terminated early due to the accident. Chan said the dead pilot was not from their club, and he was a pensioner who covered thousands of flight hours before.

Czech police spokeswoman Stepanka Uhlirova said the plane fell to the ground shortly before 15:00. The pilot was a 72-year-old man. The cause of the crash will be investigated by the Civil Aviation Authority.

The Aviation Day attracted more than 3,000 people on Saturday, its program included parachute jumps, aircraft flying and aerobatic flying. Chan said the crashed aircraft did not perform any aerobatic figures.A security officer was killed in an exchange of fire with terrorists in the city of Al Salt, northwest of capital Amman, the government said Saturday night, Xinhua reported.

Minister of State for Media Affairs Jumana Ghunaimat said the terrorists hiding in a building opened fire on security forces who were chasing them.

The terrorists, the minister said, were behind an attack on Friday by an explosive device that killed a security officer in Fuheis in Amman.

"When the police forces entered the building, the terrorists blew up the building," she said in a statement.

The terrorists refused to surrender and started opening heavy fire.

At least 16 other civilians and officers were injured, according to security sources who preferred to be anonymous.

The security operations are still ongoing until late Saturday while three terrorists were arrested, said the minister.

Medics at Salt Public Hospital called for blood donation.

"We have many injuries ... Many of the injured are in serious conditions. We need blood donations," one of the medics at the hospital told Xinhua.

On Friday, a Jordanian officer was killed and six others were injured when a primitive explosive device detonated in Fuheis area near Amman, according to a news release from the Interior Ministry Saturday.

The ministry said that investigations were underway and no group claimed responsibility for the attack yet.At least 103 people died and 133 were injured as the Taliban* movement clashed with the government forces in the city of Ghazni in Afghanistan, Sputnik reported citing local media.

Ninety of the deceased were military or law enforcement, while 13 were civilians, according to 1TV broadcaster.

On Friday, when the first reports of the Taliban offensive emerged, local media said that the radical movement had also suffered losses, with over 100 of their militants killed during the attack.

According to Tolo News outlet, the clashes in Ghazni are ongoing, but key government buildings are still under control of the central authorities.

Afghanistan has long been destabilized by the conflict between the Taliban movement and the Afghan government, exacerbated by the activities of various terrorist groups.Preparations for a summit meeting between the leaders of Russia, Turkey, Germany and France on the Syrian settlement will be in focus of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrovs talks with his Turkish counterpart, Mevlut Cavusoglu, the Russian foreign ministry said on Sunday ahead of Lavrovs visit to Turkey on August 13-14, TASS reported.

"The Russian side proceeds from the fact that Russia and Turkey bear special responsibility for peace, security and stability in Syria and in the entire region," the ministry said. "The ministers will discuss preparations for a four-lateral summit of the Russian, Turkish, German and French leaders on the Syrian settlement that is planned to be held soon."

The sides will look at ways to launch the process of political settlement in Syria "through maintaining an inclusive national dialogue on the basis of generally recognized principles of international law," the ministry noted.Justice Devan Ramachandran asked whether the police was not aware of the law dealing with antiques.1. Yes. It makes me wonder why Killeen is having the problem and other cities arent.

2. Yes. The city also had water issues after the winter storm, so this is rather troubling.

3. No. Its good that the city is dealing with the problem and playing it safe with consumers.

4. No. Its more of an annoyance than a concern. The city will take the necessary steps.

5. Unsure. Its hard to say until more information about the issue becomes available.

Vote

View ResultsThe news of harassment of minorities is coming from Pakistan. Now once again such a case has surfaced where a Hindu woman was killed by unknown people after abusing and beating her. At the same time, the local people got angry after the assassination of the woman and people came to the streets to protest against the hideous act. In Muro town of Sindh, a Hindu woman was murdered after the torture. The body of the woman was thrown in a sack and thrown off the roadside.

When people protested against the administration, the police beat them with the sticks. As soon as the locals came to know of the incident, people came to the streets and stopped the traffic. After this, people started sloganeering against the local administration in protest of the death of the woman. On this, the police lathi-charged the crowd and dispersed them. Right now the police are investigating the case of the murder of a woman. In the previous June also a Hindu woman was murdered in the same way in Pakistan's Baluchistan province. The brother of the deceased woman told the police in his complaint that some influential people in the area killed his sister without reason.

Also Read:

Jammu-Kashmir Blast: Three people injured in Budgam's Tosa Maidan

Muzaffarpur Shelter Home Case: CBI leaves Brajesh Thakur's son after questioning

26 women missing from two sheltered homes of PratapgarhThe President of the US President Donald Trump has suspended his decade-old program to train the Pak soldiers. This claim was made in the media report a few days after the signing of an agreement between Islamabad and Moscow on the Pakistan-Russia military training program. The two countries have signed an agreement in Rawalpindi after the meeting of the first joint military advisory committee (JMCC) between Pakistan and Russia on Tuesday. In the meeting, the two sides discussed the current situation of bilateral defence relations and agreed to train the training personnel of the Russian soldiers in the Russian training institutes. The newspaper 'Don' wrote on the official sources that the US military establishment is trying to fill 66 sites for the upcoming academy session, which was kept for Pak.

According to Dawn, the Trump administration has also refused to fund the training of Pak soldiers. According to the report, funding for military training came from the US Government's International Military Education and Training Program (IMET). According to the report, Washington has received information from the US Defense University (NDU) to stop funding from the newspaper, which has been reserving quota for Pakistan over the past decade.

In Pakistan-American relations since January, Pakistan-US relations soured in January this year when Trump accused Islamabad of cheating and on giving a safe place to terrorists. The US Congress also passed a bill to reduce Pak defence help to $ 15 million.

Also Read:

Pak Supreme Court issues show cause notice to PTI leader Aamir Liaquat

26 women missing from two sheltered homes of Pratapgarh

Ceasefire violation by Pakistan army just after General elections in PakistanMaria Fernanda Espinosa Garces, elected president of the United Nations General Assembly, has said that her meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi was successful. During this time the two agreed on the importance of improving the efficiency of the world body. A statement by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said that both discussed the need to take concrete action on behalf of the United Nations on major global challenges, including terrorism, reform of the UN and climate change.

In a tweet, Garces said in a tweet that she had a successful meeting with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi for which she came to Delhi. She shared her priorities. They both agreed on the importance of implementing commitments and improving the efficiency of the United Nations. She expressed gratitude for India's support in his election.

Garces said, "We will continue to work together." During a meeting in New Delhi, Modi congratulated the Garces on being elected to the post of 73rd United Nations General Assembly. The Prime Minister assured them of complete and creative cooperation from India in the discharge of their new responsibilities.

The PMO statement said, that they discussed the need to take concrete action on behalf of the United Nations on major global challenges, including terrorism, United Nations reform and climate change. In June, the United Nations General Assembly elected Garces as its next president, from which he became the fourth woman to lead the 193-member world body in the 73-year history of the organization.

Also Read:

Modi government's aim is maximum development, not the maximum votes: Naqvi

India ranks 11th in the world on the list of highest number of billionaires

Pakistan gives a big blow to the US, prevents military training programsBlue Origins BE-3U upper-stage rocket engine undergoes testing. (Blue Origin via Twitter)

Blue Origin, the space venture founded by Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, is sharing a short video clip featuring the lesser-known rocket engine for its orbital-class New Glenn rocket.

The spotlight on the hydrogen-fueled BE-3U engine comes amid reports that Blue Origin is rapidly ramping up its New Glenn development program  and amid questions over whether Blue Origin can start launching New Glenn by the end of 2020, as originally planned.

Theres also lots of activity relating to other aspects of Bezos aspirations.

This week, NASA awarded $13 million to Blue Origin to boost development of tipping-point technologies related to the companys Blue Moon lunar lander program. And Blue Origin could reap $1 million more thanks to a different NASA award for a study relating to commercialization of human spaceflight in low Earth orbit.

Even though Blue Origin has launched rockets only on suborbital space missions, the Kent, Wash.-based company has its sights set on a wide range of spaceflight technologies. One of its more than 250 online job listings is putting out the call for a deep-space systems architect:

As part of a small, passionate, and accomplished advanced development team, you will be an architect of deep space systems such as propulsion elements, propellant depots, spacecraft, landers, habitats, and various surface systems that support both human and robotic missions. You will help lead small and multi-disciplinary teams to align these system architectures with company strategies, products, and technology maturation plans. 

The job listing fits with Bezos long-term vision of having millions of people living and working in space, with Blue Origin doing anything we need to do to establish habitats in space, on the moon and beyond.

Blue Origin is also looking for a principal technologist for human spaceflight.

The companys workforce already has passed the 1,500-employee mark, and last week, Reuters quoted an unnamed source as saying Blue Origin is aiming to double that figure over the next two or three years. (Blue Origin doesnt comment publicly about its future employment plans.)

Story continues

The main priorities include getting New Glenn off the ground, which will require the completion of development and testing of the vacuum-rated, 150,000-pound-thrust BE-3U engine as well as the more powerful BE-4 first-stage engine, which is fueled with liquefied natural gas and should provide 550,000 pounds of liftoff thrust.

At last report, the BE-4 development effort was hitting its marks with engine qualification due by the end of the year. And in todays posting to Twitter and Instagram, Blue Origin said the BE-3U has completed over 700 seconds of test time:

Recent footage of BE-3U demonstration engine hot fire. Two BE-3Us will power upper stage of #NewGlenn & deliver our customers to orbit. Weve completed over 700 seconds of test time & confirmed performance assumptions used for final BE-3U expander cycle design #GradatimFerociter pic.twitter.com/ygJlgHkyE1  Blue Origin (@blueorigin) August 10, 2018

Last year, Blue Origin struck a deal with Eutelsat for a New Glenn satellite launch in the 2021-2022 time frame, but Reuters quoted its source as saying that the time frame could be stretched if New Glenn isnt ready in time.

Eutelsats deputy CEO, Yohann Leroy, told Reuters he was optimistic that New Glenn would be ready by the end of 2022. Of course, I cannot guarantee that they will respect their initial timeline, but we are confident that they will not be very far from it, Leroy was quoted as saying.

Blue Origin has several other targeted milestones ahead, including its first crewed suborbital spaceflight on New Shepard (end of 2018), start of commercial passenger flights (2019) and first Blue Moon lunar landing (2023 or earlier).

Such dates almost always shift to the right. For example, back in 2012, people thought that U.S. spaceships would be flying to the International Space Station by 2016. Back in 2006, Blue Origin thought itd be flying paying passengers by 2010. And back in 2004, Virgin Galactic founder Richard Branson predicted that his company would be flying customers to space by 2007.

Compared to those schedule misses, whats a few months, or even a year?

More from GeekWire:California is showing early signs of pain from China tariffs with sales of certain farm commodities to China and Hong Kong down more than 40 percent in June.

At the same time, the state had anemic job growth in June and there was a dip in homebuying in a key market.

But economists insist there's no cause for alarm and don't see a recession on the horizon.

Gov. Jerry Brown, though, told reporters last week that a recession could happen within two years and he cited tariffs and "the natural [business] cycle."

California $2.7 trillion economy may face pain from the U.S.-China trade spat and show signs of slowing job growth but economists don't see a recession in the cards.

The Golden State added a mere 800 new nonfarm jobs in June after picking up 7,200 jobs in May and more than 39,000 in April. In the past year, the data show Texas is now beating California in job growth . California's Employment Development Department is set to release July figures next week.

At the same time, there's been a recent decline in homebuying in California where prices are already sky high in many markets. One example is the Southern California market, which experienced double-digit percentage declines in new and existing home sales in June , according to CoreLogic.

Economists, though, caution not to read too much into the data. They suggest the slower pace of job growth and the real estate hiccup in the world's fifth-largest economy doesn't warrant alarm.

"We just don't think there's a real reason to have alarm about a recession anytime soon," said Edward Leamer, an economist and director of the UCLA Anderson Forecast.

Californians can expect that there will be "forces that are going to weaken home prices over the next couple of years," Leamer added. "People have had a great run with their home values rising and that kind of appreciation can't continue indefinitely."

However, the U.S.-China trade war is raising concerns given California's exports to the world's second-largest economy are significant. Last year, China was California's third-largest export market after Mexico and Canada and ranked first as an import partner.

Story continues

The twin Los Angeles/Long Beach port complex in Southern California handles about 40 percent of the nation's containerized import trade with China.

"Our industry doesn't handle uncertainty very well," said Gene Seroka, executive director of the Port of Los Angeles, the busiest container port in North America. "We estimate at least 20 percent of the goods that move through the ports of LA and Long Beach could be affected by tariffs."

Gov. Jerry Brown believes the state could be in a recession within two years' time and he cited trade impacts as one of the possible reasons.

"At some point, the tariffs and natural [business] cycle will kick in," Brown told reporters last week. "I know people always think, 'would we have a recession.' It's going to happen, and I would say no more than two years, if we're lucky."

In April, U.S. nuts, fruit and wine  major exports from California  were hit with a 15 percent tariff by Beijing. The Chinese government followed it up in early July with additional duties imposed on nuts and fruit. Dairy and alfalfa hay also have been penalized with new tariffs.

"You saw a trade slowdown  there's no doubt about it," said Christopher Thornberg, founding partner of Beacon Economics, a Los Angeles-based economic consulting firm. "The California economy is linked in many ways to China's economy."

According to Beacon Economics, June shipments of California almonds to China and Hong Kong were down 47.5 percent from a year ago. California's exports of agricultural commodities fell 7 percent in the second quarter to $2.95 billion from $3.17 billion, reflecting the impact of China's new duties.

The trade skirmish with China could get uglier in the months to come as President Donald Trump has threatened to ratchet up the pressure on Beijing with a new round of tariffs on more than $200 billion worth of Chinese goods.

"If you have just a full-out meltdown with China, it would have an influence on the economy," said Thornberg. Such a scenario could "ricochet through the system" and trim economic growth although it "wouldn't rise to the level of recession causing."









More From CNBC

LAKE ELSINORE, Calif. (AP)  Firefighters made significant progress trying to tamp down a wildfire that threatened homes and has been raging for days south of Los Angeles, officials said Saturday.

Aircraft have been making flight after flight, dumping water and bright pink retardant to protect Lake Elsinore and other foothill communities as the fire sweeps through the dense, bone-dry brush of the Cleveland National Forest.

The Holy Fire  named for Holy Jim Canyon, where it began Monday  grew to nearly 33 square miles (85 square kilometers) by Saturday morning. But firefighters also made progress, with containment rising from 10 to 29 percent.

High temperatures and dry grass and brush have made it difficult for firefighters to get a handle on the blaze. Some hillsides were being allowed to burn under the watchful eyes of firefighters as a way to reduce fuel and make it harder for flames to jump roadways into communities if winds pick up again.

Although the fire burned a dozen forest cabins early on, only one home was lost Thursday as fire crews managed to fend off flames that stalked downhill and came right up to yards.

On Saturday, officials allowed some residents to return to their homes in Lake Elsinore, but others still remained under evacuation orders.

The man accused of deliberately starting the fire appeared in court on Friday, but his arraignment was postponed.

Forrest Clark, 51, made several outbursts, claiming his life was being threatened and saying the arson charge against him was a lie. A court commissioner ordered his bail to remain at $1 million.

Story continues

The Holy Fire was one of nearly 20 blazes across California, which is seeing earlier, longer and more destructive wildfire seasons because of drought, warmer weather attributed to climate change and home construction deeper into forests.

A fire that broke out near the communities of Fairfield and Vacaville had destroyed a home and two other structures, according to the Vacaville Fire Department. A firefighter suffered a minor injury battling the blaze, which grew to about 2.6 square miles (6.9 sq. kilometers) and was 70 percent contained by Saturday afternoon, officials said.

The largest fire ever recorded in California  the Mendocino Complex  is burning north of Sacramento and has destroyed 119 homes but none in recent days. The fire had reached 508 square miles (1,315 sq. kilometers) and was 67 percent contained by Saturday.

The two-week-old Carr Fire that killed eight people and burned more than 1,000 homes was 55 percent contained.

Elsewhere in the West, a firefighter was injured Saturday and residents in parts of two Washington state cities were told to evacuate due to a growing wildfire.

Authorities say the Grass Valley fire started Saturday morning and windy conditions helped it grow to 1.5 square miles (3.8 sq. kilometers). The fire is burning in grass and timber.

Grant County Sheriff's Office spokesman Kyle Foreman tells the Spokesman -Review that the injured firefighter was flown to Seattle's Harborview Medical Center.

___

This story has been corrected to say that eight people, not six, died in the Carr Fire.

___

Myers reported from Los Angeles. AP journalists Michael Balsamo and Christopher Weber in Los Angeles, Amy Taxin in Orange County and Olga Rodriguez in San Francisco contributed to this story.As Elon Musk seeks backers for his proposal this week to take Tesla privatea deal for which the Tesla CEO tweeted that he had funding securedone investor is offering a solution: cryptocurrency.

Haydar Haba invests in private tech companies through his fund Andra Capital, which is in the process of raising $1 billion in a token sale of its so-called Silicon Valley Coin. The cryptocurrency will represent an ownership stake in the 20 to 30 venture capital-backed startupsfrom Silicon Valley to Chinain Habas portfolio, chosen for their growth potential and likelihood to go public in the next few years.

While Tesla, which currently has a publicly trading stock, does not meet Andra Capitals criteria for VC-backed companies, Haba hopes Musk will follow a similar path.

I love Tesla, I love Elon Musk, and I think he should definitely consider the blockchain and tokenization of assets, Haba said this week on Fortunes Balancing the Ledger show. Wed call it the Tesla Coin.

If Musk takes Habas advice, he could become a trailblazer for a new way of investing in the stock market using digital tokens instead of traditional shareswhich many financial firms are already exploring.

In my view, 20 years from now, private and public will go away, and were only going to have one high-quality tokenized offering, Haba added. These are the growth coins of the future.

Cryptocurrency, based on a blockchain that acts as a permanent ledger of transactions, offers investors many benefits that traditional stocks dont, he continued. For example, when Haba used to own equity in a private company, it would take him 90 days and $30,000 just to transfer his shares to someone else.

Now we can do it on the blockchain in a matter of seconds, between global investors, Haba said. This is by far better than anything out there.

Plus, he added, tokenized shares of companies have certain advantages that other cryptocurrencies dont. These are not coins backed by scarcity like Bitcoin, he said. These are backed by real growth assets.For most businesses, the goal is to grow revenue and profit at the same time. Yet that isn't always possible, and with the cigarette industry having been in secular decline for decades, Altria Group (NYSE: MO) has had to use an alternate strategy in delivering earnings growth to its shareholders. For Altria, boosting revenue isn't as important as ensuring that it can squeeze every bit of potential profit it can from its sales. Until alternatives to cigarettes gain more traction, it's likely that Altria will have to keep using that strategy if it wants to boost its earnings in the future.

Altria investors have gotten used to seeing the company succeed in its efforts to grow earnings, and they fully believed that the second quarter of 2018 would be no different. Altria's success did in fact continue, but falling revenue could well put more pressure on the tobacco giant in future years that could eventually make it more difficult for the company to keep earnings moving in the right direction.

Sign with Altria logo in multi-color.

Image source: Altria Group.

A similar story for Altria

Altria's second-quarter results showed a mix that's extreme even for Altria. Revenue net of excise taxes was down almost 4% to $4.88 billion, which was well below the $5.02 billion consensus forecast among those following the stock. However, adjusted net income jumped 16% to $1.91 billion, and that produced adjusted earnings of $1.01 per share. That just topped the $1 per share that most investors had expected to see.

As we've seen in past quarters, the smokeable products division was one of the weaker performers under Altria's corporate umbrella. Revenue net of excise tax was down 5%, and adjusted operating company income fell 3% because of declines in volume. Higher litigation costs also weighed on the segment's bottom line, with higher pricing managing to offset the downward pressure only in part. Domestic cigarette shipments plunged 11%, with the key Marlboro brand suffering a 10% shipment volume decline. That took the segment's market share down by 0.7 percentage points from year-ago levels to 50.2%.

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Altria did better outside smokeable products. The smokeless products business saw revenue rise almost 3%, and adjusted operating company income was higher by nearly 4% from year-earlier figures. Yet there too, shipment volumes were down more than 2%, although the impact of last year's recall of certain smokeless products made comparisons slightly less meaningful. Even the strong Copenhagen brand only managed volume gains of 0.4%, and total market share in the segment fell by two-tenths of a percentage point to 54.1%.

Only the wine unit truly stood out positively. Ste. Michelle Wine Estate saw revenue jump 11%, with a 6% rise in shipments to 1.9 million cases helping to lift operating company income by 8% from the second quarter of 2017.

Can Altria get fully on track?

CEO Howard Willard explained the results. "Our core tobacco businesses performed well," Willard said, "as they continued to make strategic investments in support of their long-term objectives." The new CEO also pointed to lower tax rates as playing an instrumental role in supporting the bottom line.

Altria also highlighted the extent to which it's returning capital to shareholders. During the quarter, the tobacco giant paid out more than $1.3 billion in the form of dividends to its investors. In addition, it also repurchased about $437 million in stock, paying an average of $57.65 per share to buy back roughly 7.6 million of its shares.

Looking forward, Altria got a bit more optimistic about its earnings prospects. The company narrowed its guidance for adjusted earnings per share to a 16% to 19% growth range. That implies $3.94 to $4.03 per share on its bottom line.

Altria shareholders initially weren't so sure about the tobacco giant's ability to keep doing what it's done so well in the past, but a roughly 2% sell-off immediately after the announcement quickly turned into further gains in the days following the report. Altria clearly wants to move revenue higher with its alternative product lineup, but until regulators give the go-ahead, shareholders will likely have to make do with the same successful strategy that has generated impressive bottom-line growth for years.

More From The Motley Fool

Dan Caplinger 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.A ground worker stole an Alaska Airlines plane from Washingtons Sea-Tac airport on Friday.

He flew erratically for some time while, according to the Associated Press, being tailed by military aircraft. The plane, a turbo-propeller Bombardier Q400 operated by Alaska Air Group subsidiary of Horizon Air, then crashed into Ketron Island, a small inland island roughly 30 miles south near Tacoma, Wash. There were reportedly no passengers on the plane.

Local authorities described the 29-year-old hijacker as suicidal, the AP reported. Jimmy Thomson, deputy editor of Canadian investigative news outlet The Narwhal, has compiled and transcribed portions of the air-traffic recording of the incident, and they provide a haunting glimpse into the moments before the plane crash.

Read More: Alaska Air Suicide Flight Highlights Gaps in Airport Security

The hijacker is referred to in the recordings as Rich. In one key passage, Rich  sounding notably composed  seemed to confirm his suicidal mindset, saying: Ive got a lot of people that care about me. Its going to disappoint them to hear that I did this. I would like to apologize to each and every one of them. Just a broken guy, got a few screws loose I guess. Never really knew it, until now.

I'm listening through the archive of the radio chatter on the #seatac hijacking. Below are some of the clips. pic.twitter.com/ziBAYv7cgn  Jimmy Thomson (@jwsthomson) August 11, 2018

At other points Rich sounds more obviously agitated. At one point he seems to be threatening harm, telling an air traffic controller that peoples lives are at stake here. There are also significant signs of premeditation, with the thief at one point saying I wasnt really planning on landing the plane.

Story continues

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Rich also provides vague hints toward economic and racial grievances. At one point he references minimum wage. Well chalk it up to that. At another point he jokingly says he wont be able to get a job after the incident because Im a white guy.

Most striking, though, is the suspects repeated expressions of wonder at the landscape he is flying through, including Mount Rainier and the Olympic range. At one point he says he had been hoping for a moment of serenity. He also asks for the coordinates of an orca that had been in the news.

He's flying out over the Olympic mountains when his radio starts to become harder to hear. Thanks @BrianJAlford for this one. pic.twitter.com/Ao7wneMFme  Jimmy Thomson (@jwsthomson) August 11, 2018

Talking about watching the sights go by. This one got me. #seatacstolenplane Thank you @petersterne for this. pic.twitter.com/xW6oFCYrYe  Jimmy Thomson (@jwsthomson) August 11, 2018

Through all of this, air traffic controllers and other professionals gently worked to guide Rich to a safe landing, directing him to nearby runways. He expresses confidence in his handling of the plane, citing experience with video games. But he repeatedly refuses to land the plane, and returns multiple times to the idea of doing a barrel roll in the passenger plane. Video has surfaced appearing to show the hijacker successfully executing the maneuver, some time before his fatal crash.

Full video form John Waldron on Facebook being shown on CNN #seatac pic.twitter.com/R98bl5uQBr  Cameron Thomsen (@CameronThomsen) August 11, 2018

The dramatic incident punctuates a stark rise in suicides in the United States. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or urges can reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).LIBERTY, Mo. (AP) -- Missouri Republican leaders are condemning the winner of a GOP primary for a northwest Missouri seat, saying they didn't recruit or support the candidate who has said "Hitler was right" and promoted conspiracies about Jewish "cabals" that torture children.

Steve West, who also has a YouTube channel and a website where he has expressed homophobia, Islamophobia and racism, won Tuesday's primary for a Clay County House seat by nearly 25 points over three other candidates, The Kansas City Star reported .

"Looking back in history, unfortunately, Hitler was right about what was taking place in Germany," West said on a show on AM radio station KCXL on Jan. 23, 2017, under the persona Jack Justice.

The Missouri Republican Party on Thursday issued a statement distancing itself from West.

"Steve West's shocking and vile comments do not reflect the position of the Missouri Republican Party or indeed of any decent individual," the statement said. "West's abhorrent rhetoric has absolutely no place in the Missouri Republican Party or anywhere. We wholeheartedly condemn his comments."

Karen Aroesty, regional director of the Anti-Defamation League, said she was trying to determine how West and his views "flew under the radar" before the election.

"What is a person who is elected into a position of power going to do with beliefs like this?" she said.

Asked if anyone performed background checks, the Clay County GOP said it does not vet candidates or involve itself in primary elections. The Missouri House Republican Leadership said in a statement Thursday that it was not aware of anyone asking West to run.

Story continues

"To our knowledge, no member of the Missouri Republican Party, the House Republican Campaign Committee, or sitting member of the General Assembly recruited Mr. West to run for office; we find his statements to be vile, offensive, and out of line with our Party's values," the statement said.

West told the Star Thursday that he wanted to talk about his platform and suggested his recorded statements may have been taken out of context. He said he believes all men are created equal, but that he finds fault with some ideologies, such as Islam and Judaism.

When asked about Jewish people in Missouri, he said, "Well, maybe they shouldn't vote for me."

He said he hoped voters would listen to his remarks in full and make up their own minds.

State Rep. Jon Carpenter, the Democratic incumbent for the district, said he hoped people who voted for West simply were unaware of his views.

"I just want everyone who lives in this community to know that they're welcome here," he wrote in an email. "Muslims, Jews, Catholics, the LGBTQ community, people of all races and national origins, and everyone else Steve West has targeted with hate. His views do not reflect our values. We'll stand together and love will conquer hate, as it always does."

___

Information from: The Kansas City Star, http://www.kcstar.comiran oil

Raheb Homavandi/Reuters

In June, the Trump administration ordered countries to stop importing Iranian oil by November.

Iran sanctions could make it "very challenging" to maintain global supply, the IEA said Friday.

Watch oil trade in real time here.

Crude prices rebounded Friday amid expectations for US sanctions against Iran, which would cut off oil imports from the country, and a rise in global demand.

West Texas Intermediate crude jumped 1.3% after the International Energy Agency said in a report that planned US sanctions against Iran, the world's fifth-largest producer, could threaten global oil supply. Brent, the international benchmark, rose 1.15%.

"As oil sanctions against Iran take effect, perhaps in combination with production problems elsewhere, maintaining global supply might be very challenging and would come at the expense of maintaining an adequate spare capacity cushion," the agency said.

President Donald Trump announced in May the US would withdraw from the deal among world powers, which offers sanctions relief in exchange for restraints on Tehran's nuclear weapons program. Some of those sanctions on metals and cars were reimposed this week.

Oil is expected to be hit in the next round of sanctions, which are scheduled to take effect in November. In June, the State Department called on buyers to stop importing Iranian oil by that time or risk facing US sanctions.

Analysts estimate that could put more than two million barrels per day at risk. But with opposition from other signatories of the Iran deal, especially European allies, FXTM strategist Hussein Sayed said it's becoming difficult to guess how many barrels will be off the market by November.

It also is not clear if the State Department would allow sanction waivers, which were used in the Obama era to wean the world off of Iranian oil and avoid supply shocks. Administration officials have said they might look at requests on a case-by-case basis, while also maintaining that the goal is to cut Iranian oil imports to zero.

Story continues

At the same time, global demand appears poised to rise. The IEA raised its 2019 forecast for oil demand growth around the world by 110,000 barrels a day to 1.5 million barrels.

Screen Shot 2018 08 10 at 2.58.21 PM

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NOW WATCH: How movie theaters are ruining your movie

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SEE ALSO: Turkey's currency takes 20% dive to fresh all-time low after Trump tweets new tariff ratesPhoto credit: James B. Wood

From Popular Mechanics

Bermuda fireworms are tiny sea dwellers that ordinarily wouldnt attract much attention: theyre less than one inch long, and live concealed among corals and algae on the seabed. But during mating season, they turn into something spectacular, lighting up the water with bioluminescence. The night before Christopher Columbus landed in the New World, he may have been a lucky witness to the ritual, seeing the flickering glow in the ocean like the light of a wax candle.



The ritual is a precisely timed, glamorous affair. It happens on the third night after the full moon both summer and fall, 55 minutes after sunset. Spawning females start to secrete their bright blue-green luminescence to attract males. They swim in tight circles as they glow, creating a field of little cerulean stars across the surface of jet black water, describes Mark Siddall, a curator in the Museums Division of Invertebrate Zoology and author of a new study that examines the fireworms mating behavior. Then the males, homing in on the light of the females, come streaking up from the bottom like comets-they luminesce, too. Theres a little explosion of light as both dump their gametes in the water. Siddall calls it the most beautiful biological display I have ever witnessed.

Researchers studied the mesmerizing ritual, and discovered that the Bermuda fireworms glow came from an enzyme called luciferase (fireflies also have a form of luciferase). The type of luciferase enzyme found in the fireworm were brand new: they have never been detected in any other species. "It's particularly exciting to find a new luciferase because if you can get things to light up under particular circumstances, that can be really useful for tagging molecules for biomedical research," said co-author Michael Tessler, a postdoctoral fellow in the Museum's Sackler Institute for Comparative Genomics.

(source: Livescience)

('You Might Also Like',)Jihan Wu

YouTube

Cryptocurrency mining chip maker Bitmain hopes to raise $18 billion for an IPO in the coming months, according to documents obtained by CoinDesk.

If the company raised $18 billion at a market capitalization of $40 to $50 billion, that could make it the largest IPO in history.

In June, Bloomberg reported that Bitmain was planning to go public to further its pursuits in producing hardware for artificial intelligence technology.

The world's largest producer of cryptocurrency mining chips, Bitmain, is planning to file for an initial public offering in September, according to documents obtained by CoinDesk.

According to the documents, CoinDesk reports Bitmain's proposed public offering could end up being the largest in history: The company reportedly hopes to raise $18 billion IPO on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange at a market capitalization of $40 to $50 billion.

While Bitmain's primary industry has been producing integrated circuit chips used to algorithmically "mine" cryptocurrencies like bitcoin, the company recently began to manufacture chip hardware for the artificial intelligence industry.

Bitmain is headed up by 32-year-old Jihan Wu, who founded the Beijing-based company only five years ago with the vision that digital currencies would be the de facto money of the future.

In June, Bloomberg reported that Wu was considering taking his company public and that Wu plans to position Bitmain as a ruthless competitor in the circuit chip industry.

So far, Wu's pursuit has proved overwhelmingly successful: In the few short years since it was founded, Bitmain has become one of the world's most valuable cryptocurrency companies. In the first sixth months of 2018 alone, the company raked in $2.5 billion in revenue, according to Bloomberg.

The company has received $450 million in funding from investors including Sequoia, GIC, and IDG Capital.

Bitmain did not immediately respond to a request for comment on any IPO plans.

Story continues

NOW WATCH: Top 9 features coming to the iPhone in iOS 12

See Also:STORIES YOU MIGHT LIKEMeeting in the Kazakh port city of Aqtau, the leaders of Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan have signed a new convention on the legal status of the resource-rich Caspian Sea -- a matter disputed between the five neighbors for more than 20 years.

The leaders provided no details of the agreement in their speeches before the signing of the document.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said the settlement of the Caspian Sea's legal status "creates conditions for bringing cooperation between the countries to a qualitatively new level of partnership, for the development of close cooperation on different trajectories."

His Iranian counterpart, Hassan Rohani, said that the delimitation of oil- and gas-rich Caspian seabed will require additional agreements between littoral states.

And Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbaev said the parties agreed to set up a "special mechanism of regular five-party consultations under the auspices of the Foreign Ministries" to implement the provisions of the convention.

The summit was also attended by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov of Turkmenistan.

Debates on whether the Caspian is a sea or a lake have been ongoing since the Soviet Union fell apart in 1991, leaving five countries with shorelines on the inland sea instead of two -- the Soviet Union and Iran.

If deemed a sea, the five countries would draw lines extending from their shores to the midway point with littoral neighbors, while classifying it as a lake would mean the resources would be divided equally among those five countries.

The countries have been working on an agreement to resolve the issue since 1996, the Kremlin said.

At stake are resources including trillions of dollars' worth of hydrocarbons in the seabed, which holds about 50 billion barrels of oil and nearly 9 trillion cubic meters of natural gas in proven or probable reserves.

A draft of the agreement,posted briefly on Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedevs website in June and obtained by RFE/RL, suggested that the countries would agree in Aqtau that the Caspian is a sea.

With reporting by Reuters, TASS, and InterfaxLast Monday started like any early August morning at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

The grizzly bears lounged around boulders in Rocky Mountain Wild. Reticulated giraffes munched on lettuce treats in the African Rift Valley. Daisy, the Muscovy duck, crashed a neighbors birthday party and upstaged the guest of honor, who didnt seem to mind.

The zoos operations center had been keeping an eye on a supercell thunderstorm moving into the area, but such systems tended to bank east toward the plains before really baring their teeth. This storm was expected to do the same, and by early afternoon, it still seemed as though it might. The sun was shining on visitors, keepers and more than 750 animals at Americas highest-altitude zoo, a network of habitats, enclosures, and exhibits built into the eastern flank of Cheyenne Mountain in southwest Colorado Springs.

As she walked between buildings after lunch that day, animal care manager Dina Bredahl looked up at the ominous cloud bank rolling in. She recalls remarking to a co-worker that it looked kind of like Ghostbusters sky.

We knew something was coming, but there was nothing happening, not a drop of anything, Bredahl said.

That changed around 2 p.m., when dark harmonics of atmosphere and altitude turned a slow-moving storm into an unprecedented, 15-minute burst of brutality directly over the zoo. The shower of softball-size hailstones injured 21 guests and staff members, killed five animals and caused as-yet-untallied millions in property damage.

The zoo reopened Saturday, less than a week after the most destructive weather event  and longest closure  in its nearly 100-year history.

The devastation was intense and complete, from a car and skylight standpoint, and it happened in a relatively short period of time, said zoo President and CEO Bob Chastain, whose staff was joined that day by emergency crews from the Colorado Springs Fire Department. They did an amazing job getting things organized and helping get people off the mountain. We know people got injured, and were sorry about that, but what could have been much worse was made a lot better by people who were organized and ready.

Guests and staff had just finished celebrating Carlotta the tapirs 24th birthday, and Daisys showboating, when things turned bad, animal care manager Joanna Husby said.

We were singing her Happy Birthday  and Daisy the duck was playing in the pool, chasing the bubbles in the waterfall  and splashing around so much there were actually guests getting splashed, Husby said.

As the birthday party crowd dispersed, zoo spokesperson Jenny Koch was gazing out the window of a meeting room, at a sky plunged into darkness.

The hail came moments later, fast, furious and the size of fists.

It just happened so fast. It didnt start small and get big. There wasnt really even any rain, Koch said.

Bredahl was preparing to head out of the zoos office building with her storm gear when she heard what sounded almost like a meteor shower.

I could tell something giant was hitting that awning, she said. Really soon, I started hearing screaming, so I opened the door and all these guests were running for cover.

Keeper Bruce Dunbar had just finished moving the wallabies inside when the potentially deadly hail starting slamming down, trapping him in a building that lay an uncovered sprint away from the reptiles he also oversaw in the skylight-roofed Scutes Family Gallery.

Basically we had to sit and watch. It was a helpless feeling, said Dunbar, who kept an ear to his radio, waiting for a break in the storm so he could dash up to the reptile center.

In the lull between squalls, he made his move through the campus to Scutes, where the floor was a solid carpet of glass shards, but guests and animals were, miraculously, unharmed.

It was one of those surreal moments where youre just looking through things trying to make sure everybodys safe, Dunbar said. Thats our first priority.

He moved everyone  humans first, then animals  to the buildings basement. A few blocks away in the office building, Bredahl had done the same with guests whod sheltered there, hunkering down as far away from windows and skylights as they could get.

By then, though, the fury had been spent.

Three hours after the storm started, between 600 and 900 patrons had been evacuated and the sun was again shining, this time on shattered roofs, totaled cars and a riot of debris that, after three days of round-the-clock cleanup and reconstruction, would overflow three 30-yard dumpsters.

Rocky Mountain Highlands keeper Rebecca Zwicker was off work last Monday, but heard the news and was on her way up to lend a hand when she got a call from a co-worker whod been injured by a hailstone. Zwicker gave her colleague a ride home from the hospital then made her way to the zoo, where she joined in sifting through the rubble, accounting for all animals and triaging those with injuries.

Because it took us so much by surprise, there was a lot of mad dashes for shelter and panic among both humans and animals, Zwicker said. We want to lay eyes on everybody, no matter who they are. Some of the smallest animals that we care for, (such as) a little merganser duck, Missy Franklin, that lives in the moose pool  seeing them, I felt very comforted.

As zookeepers soon began to discover, however, an unfortunate few of the zoos residents were not so lucky.

Casualties included two members of the zoos free-roving group of peacocks, Katy Perry and Snoop; a 13-year-old rare Cape vulture, Motswari; and a meerkat pup keepers believe most likely died in a collapsed burrow.

Also among the dead was 4-year-old Daisy the duck.

Husby said its comforting to think Daisy spent her final hours at the zoo where shed been born doing what she loved, and what patrons loved her for.

At least three young guests came up after (the birthday party) and said, Who is that duck? I want to get to know that duck, Husby said. Its just really great to know that small of a creature, on her unfortunate last day, was able to be such a great animal ambassador and have such a great impact on our guests lives.

In life, even a creature smaller than a hailstone can send a mammoth-size message.

On his way to an emergency staff meeting in the hours after the storm, Dunbar spied a contingent of the zoos peacock population. Three peahens and their tiny chicks were picking their way through the mess of branches and fallen leaves by the monkey building.

One chick I dont think was even three weeks old, smaller than some of the hail that was falling  and they were all OK, just hopping along, Dunbar said. Seeing them out and about after the storm was one of those things reassuring (me) that were going to get through it. Animals are resilient, and we are, too.Colorado agriculture isn't the only one nervous about what the Trump administrations tariffs could cost them.

Insiders at many state industries  even a distillery  say they could be hurt by an escalation of the trade war between the U.S. and trading partners such as China, Canada and Mexico, the states top three export destinations.

Colorado exports were valued at $8.06 billion last year, up 6.4 percent from the previous year, the Metro Denver Economic Development Corp. says. Canada and Mexico account for $2.7 billion of that total, followed by China ($585.6 million), Japan ($445.1 million) and Malaysia ($417.4 million).

Colorados most valuable exports are fresh and frozen beef (a combined $853.7 million in 2017), computers and electronic products ($714.7 million), medical instruments ($375.3 million) and frozen pork ($246.6 million).

After the Trump administration imposed its first round of tariffs on $34 billion worth of Chinese exports, the Chinese immediately retaliated with tariffs on $34 billion worth of U.S. goods, much of it agricultural. U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said the Chinese retaliation came without any international legal basis or justification.

The impact of the Chinese tariffs, as well as tariffs imposed by other partners such as the European Union, was almost immediate.

Corn prices in Colorado dropped 20 percent between the first of June and mid-July due to the trade war, said state Agriculture Commissioner Don Brown. Wheat prices also have sharply declined since China put those products on its list for retaliatory tariffs, he said.

Colorado corn exports were valued at $86.1 million in 2015, while the states wheat exports were valued at $200.3 million, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported.

Attempting to stave off the political damage, President Donald Trump on Julyl 24 announced $12 billion in emergency aid for farmers  primarily soybean, dairy and pork producers  hurt by the trade war. But its a bailout that in Colorado isnt playing particularly well.

We appreciate the offer of the bailout, said Joyce Kelly, executive director of the Colorado Pork Producers Council. It definitely is something we can put to good use.

But pork producers want trade deals, not bailouts, she said.

China is Colorados No. 3 consumer of pork, and the current tariff erases 60 percent of the value of pork shipped to China, Kelly said. We understand there are trade issues with China that cant be glossed over.

Colorado is the 15th largest pork-producing state, she said, and Yuma County is the 23rd largest county in the nation for pork. Anytime you see a national impact on the export value of pork, Colorado gets hit.

Kelly said her industry wants bilateral trade, pointing to a new agreement with Thailand that should open that market to Colorado pork. Argentina has opened its markets to pork for the first time in 20 years, she said.

Colorado corn growers are like-minded about bailouts, said Kim Reddin of the Colorado Corn Growers Association. Growers want a long-term fix, not an aid package or assistance, she told KUSA-9News. What theyd really prefer is market-driven demand where they can go to the marketplace and sell their crop.

Colorado faces very significant damage from the trade war, with estimated annual losses at $276.8 million, reports the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

It estimates that trade supports 733,900 Colorado jobs.

Tariffs imposed by the United States are nothing more than a tax increase on American consumers and businesses, a chamber report says.

And businesses fear more retaliation by China since the Trump team announced its latest round of tariffs July 10: a 10 percent tariff on another batch of Chinese goods valued at about $200 billion.

Those tariffs would cover half of all goods exported to the U.S. by China, reports Rajiv Biswas, Asia Pacific chief economist at IHS Markit, a London-based data company with U.S. headquarters in Douglas County.

Also concerned about trade is Colorado distilling. Steve Gould of Golden Moon Distillery in Golden expected revenue from exports of his gin, whiskey and other spirits to the European Union to top $250,000 this year. Now he projects EU sales of just $25,000.

Weve lost years of work and hundreds of thousands of dollars in building relationships with offshore markets, Gould said.

The presidents trade war has prompted members of Congress to introduce bills to rein him in, but none is expected to gain much ground.

Sen. Bob Corker, R-Tenn., is among those concerned about the economic impact of the trade war. He introduced a bill last month that would require congressional approval for any trade adjustments proposed by the president that could affect national security.

But that bill, which gained eight Republican and seven Democrat co-sponsors along with one independent, is unlikely to gain much traction, based on opposition from Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky.

Neither of Colorados senators, Democrat Michael Bennet and Republican Cory Gardner, is listed as a co-sponsor.

Bennet, however, is on the Senate Finance Committee, to which the bill has been assigned. A similar bill has been introduced in the House but has drawn opposition from Speaker of the House Paul Ryan.

Said Jim Dornan, a strategist and former Trump campaign aide: A bill that will rein in Trumps ridiculous tariff fixation so that farmers and manufacturers dont leave the party in droves in November would be a plus.

IHS Markits Biswas agreed, saying the Chinese are targeting U.S. agriculture in hopes that the Trump administration will face political backlash in the mid-term elections.Grand Junction, Colorado, isnt the only city in the West trying to lure the headquarters of the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. Leaders in northern Utah plan to promote Ogden as a potential HQ for BLM when a top official of the U.S. Department of the Interior visits the city Tuesday.U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet of Colorado has joined a growing list of Capitol Hill lawmakers demanding the release of a study that details fresh concerns about toxic chemicals that fouled an aquifer south of Colorado Springs, as well as the drinking water of millions of other Americans. Bennet and a bipartisan group of 10 other senators sent a letter to the heads of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Health and Human Services expressing concern that the EPA appeared to be suppressing the study. Such actions are "unacceptable," says the letter released Tuesday by Bennet, D-Colo. "Given the wide use ... and presence of these chemicals in communities across the U.S.A former El Paso County sheriffs deputy who was forced to resign after a complaint was filed about his use of force in the jail has flied a lawsuit alleging racial discrimination and retaliation for supporting another deputys sexual harassment claim.

Patrick Smith, who is African-American, was employed by the Sheriffs Office for nearly 14 years before resigning June 12, 2017, one month after he used force against an inmate who flipped him off, the lawsuit filed this month in U.S. District Court stated.

The professional standards complaint made by Undersheriff Joe Breister stated Smith responded by punching (the inmate) in the face and knocking him to the ground. The lawsuit contends video shows he didnt punch the inmate and a memo from an Internal Affairs sergeant says Smith redirected (the inmates) arm away from his face and took him to the ground and handcuffed him.

From January 2017 through June, four jail deputies have faced serious disciplinary consequences for uses of force at the jail, according to documents provided by the Sheriffs Office. Smith was one of two deputies who resigned in lieu of termination. The other two were suspended for 40 hours.

The decision to place Smith on immediate, unpaid administrative leave, then refer him for disciplinary action and ultimately recommend that he be fired were motivated by his race and his protected activity, the lawsuit says.

A Sheriffs Office spokeswoman didnt respond to a request for comment Friday.

In February 2017, a female deputy made a complaint of sexual harassment against the Sheriffs Office, the lawsuit says. She later complained of retaliation. Smith participated in the investigation by providing a statement about how the deputy had been treated.

When he heard co-workers calling her a b---h or accusing her of trying to bring down a male employee, he would remind them that like all employees of the EPSO, (she) had a right to work in an environment free from harassment or discrimination, to complain about mistreatment, and that criticizing her for doing so was inappropriate, the lawsuit says.

About 1:10 a.m. May 12, 2017, Smith used force on an inmate in the jail, the lawsuit says. He prepared a report about the incident about 8:10 a.m., and by 10 a.m., he received a memo placing him on leave pending an investigation  an unusually quick response that deviated from the Sheriffs Offices usual policy of having immediate supervisors review use of force incidents before forwarding them to professional standards, the lawsuit says.

The female deputy sent an email to El Paso County Human Resources on May 15, 2017, saying she believed Smith was retaliated against for his involvement in the investigation into her complaints and discriminated against because of his race, the lawsuit says. Smith later made a formal complaint of racial discrimination and retaliation to Human Resources and the county Attorneys Office.

The EPSO only disciplines employees for use of force incidents in extremely rare circumstances, and in those extremely rare cases of disciplinary action for use of force incidents, the disciplinary action of termination is so rare as to be almost unheard of, the lawsuit says.

Smith reportedly is aware of many other employees, the lawsuit contends, who are not African-American and/or had not engaged in protected activity, engaged in uses of force that did not result in them being placed on immediate administrative leave, referred to the Disciplinary Action Board, or disciplined.

That includes members of a fight club at the jail  an off-the-books contest in which deputies at the jail tracked each time they used force against an inmate, ranging from handcuffing to punching and kicking, and awarded bragging rights to the winners, as previously reported by The Gazette.

The Gazettes Rachel Riley contributed to this report.This is a good year to be a Democrat running for state and federal offices in Colorado, campaign finance filings show.

They have a lot more contributions and a lot more enthusiasm than on the Republican side, said Robert Duffy, a political science professor at Colorado State University.

The blue wave anticipated by many political experts and pundits is reflected in Democrats fundraising for the Nov. 6 election, said Matthew Hitt, another political science professor at CSU. The wave is particularly strong among Democrats facing Republican incumbents, candidates who usually face significant fundraising challenges.

Its related to the Democratic and liberal dissatisfaction with the Trump administration, Hitt said. Democrats often have a harder time fundraising because they usually rely on smaller donors and individuals, and unions are getting weaker.

The possibility of that blue wave is encouraging to Democrats hoping to wrest control of the state Senate from Republicans, who hold a one-seat majority  18 seats to the Democrats 16 and a lone independent.

The vast majority of top fundraisers this year are Democrats, according to itemized contribution reports filed with the Secretary of States Office by Aug. 1.

All top 10 fundraisers in state House races are Democrats, as are nine of the top 10 in state Senate races. And seven of the top 10 fundraisers in U.S. House races also are Democrats.

Some candidates have raised money entirely within Colorado, but their totals have scarcely reached five figures this year. Other candidates reached far beyond state borders for their cash.

U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette, the District 1 Democrat, raised more than 77 percent of her $1.2 million from out-of-state donors. Her opponent, Republican Casper Stockham, has raised only about $5,404, about 9 percent of which came from out-of-state donors.

Its not unusual for incumbents to raise more of their money out of state than in state, Duffy said, especially in federal races. Theyve been there before, and they have a national fundraising presence.

Many congressional incumbents are on high-profile committees, giving them national contacts and opening the door to more fundraising opportunities, said Sara Hagedorn, a political science professor at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs.

Among the 183 candidates reviewed by The Gazette, contributions range from zero to a few hundred dollars and into the millions.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Jared Polis, who is running for governor, tops the list, with about $12.4 million.

Polis, a tech millionaire, contributed $12.25 million in cash and in-kind donations to his campaign.

But that doesnt make it any less valuable, Duffy said.

And campaign contributions are only one measure of how well a candidate might fare, Hagedorn said.

You need money to do all of the things that make running a campaign possible, she said. Youve got to get your name out there, youve got to let people know youre running.

In past races, U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner, R-Yuma, was outspent but still held his seat, Hagedorn said.

Its more what you do with the money than how much you have, she said.

Hitt concurred. Money doesnt equal votes. It helps, but its not the be-all and end-all.

Also, itemized contributions dont quantify all the money that might be spent to benefit a candidate.

Federal Elections Commission data used by The Gazette for federal candidates shows contributions from individuals and political action committees, while data from the Secretary of States Office shows only itemized contributions.

In Colorado, contribution of more than $20 must be itemized in finance reports, noting the donors name and address, said Kris Reynolds, campaign finance trainer with the Secretary of States Office.

Any single contribution exceeding $100 also must list the donors employer or occupation.

Money raised by political action committees and other political organizations arent part of candidates filings, Duffy said.

There are activist networks on both sides who raise money for candidates across the country when they see state legislative bodies that they can flip, or that are in danger of flipping to the other side, he said.

DeGettes race is all but decided, Hitt said, but others are worth watching.

State Senate districts 16 and 24 could be tight. Democrats Tammy Story and Faith Winter each raised more than double that of their incumbent Republican opponents, Tim Neville and Beth Martinez Humenik. The situations are similar in races for state House districts 25, 27, 37 and 38.

Plus, theres plenty of time for these numbers to flip. The next batch of filings due Sept. 4 could tell a different story.

I can guarantee you party activists are seeing these numbers too, and where the Republican Party sees themselves at a disadvantage in a race they think they can win, efforts will be made to make up some of those gaps, Hitt said.

Many federal candidates likely were raising money in such states as California, Florida, New York and Texas in the campaigns early months, Hagedorn said. But during the home stretch, theyll come to Colorado to raise more and build a rapport with the electorate.

That rapport is the trick, Hitt said.

Its about turnout, and thats not a new political insight. Its reminding someone, Hey, youre unsatisfied with the president, or Youre satisfied. Remember theres an election going, and you might want to think about mailing your ballot back. City Editor

Tom Roeder is the Gazette's City Editor. In Colorado Springs since 2003, Tom has covered the military at home and overseas and has covered statehouses in Denver and Olympia, Wash. His main job, though, is being dad to two great kids.You have permission to edit this article.

Edit CloseThis is some police helicopter camera footage of a small herd of cows that chase a suspected car thief that decides to run through their pasture, and help officers apprehend the fleeing woman. Lady, you chose the WRONG PASTURE TO MESS WITH. Did I mention this was in Florida? "You didn't have to." I should have known better. Obviously, if there was ever a group of excitable cows that actually deserved a reality show, this is them.

Keep going for the full video, complete with initial crash and eventual arrest.

Thanks to MSA, for reminding me I'm way behind watching all the Real Housewives on my DVR. Haha, I'm JOKING (I don't have a DVR, I have to watch them all live). And to Mark V, who agrees these bovine crime fighters all deserve honorary cow cop badges.Bunuel wrote:



In the figure above, ABCE is a square. What are the coordinates of point B?



(A) (-4,2)

(B) (-2,4)

(C) (-2,6)

(D) (4, -6)

(E) (6,-2)





In the figure above, ABCE is a square. What are the coordinates of point B?(A) (-4,2)(B) (-2,4)(C) (-2,6)(D) (4, -6)(E) (6,-2)

Eliminate

Answer C

Attachment:



square2018.07.25.jpg [ 35.18 KiB | Viewed 7584 times ]



The "box method"

draw a box

line segment AO = 6

line segment DO = 4

A square inscribed in a square divides the sides of the larger square proportionally

y-coordinate of B

6

(-2, 6)

Answer C

-2

People wish to learn to swim and at the same time to keep one foot on the ground. -- Marcel Proust Signature Read More

We can get the answer without calculating anything except two obvious lengths,using either elimination or the "box" method Answers D) (4, -6) and E) (6,-2). Coordinates of B are in Q II (-x,y). D and E have (x, -y) Answer A: (-4, 2) is the mirror point for C (4, 2). Not allowed. Square is not symmetric about the axes.If you were to flip C across the y-axis, its mirror point would be (-4, 2)C's mirror point across the y-axis cannot be a vertex because the square is not symmetric about the axes. Answer B: (-2,4). Distance of B from x-axis MUST be greater than distance of D from x-axis. More than half of the square is in QI and QII.The y-coordinate of B (the height of B from the x-axis) MUST be greater than D's distance from x-axis. D's distance is 4. B must be > 4That leaves one answer: (-2, 6)If geometric figures are not parallel to the x- and y-axes,around the figure.Now we have congruent right triangles all around the smaller square.The side lengths of those triangles are easy to find because they are right triangles whose vertical and horizontal legs can be measured with the x- and y-axes.Fromand properties of a square (parallel sides) we know that one segment of a side of large blue-edged square = 6Fromand properties of a square we know that the other segment of a blue-edged side = 4(Pythagorean theorem)The larger square's sides are in segments of length 6, 4Right triangle ABX has height 6. By properties of a right triangle (perpendicular legs), point X and point B are collinear.Theis. That leaves one answer.If you wanted to ascertain the x-coordinate, keep in mind the larger square side's a, b, a, b patternBy properties of a square, Points C and Y MUST have the same x-coordinate.Both are 4 away from the y-axis.But segment BY must have length 6 (by property of inscribed square)In QII, then, the distance of B from the y-axis is (6-4) = 2Because the vertex is in QII, its x-coordinate is (, 6)_________________Re: In the figure above, line segments AB and AC are tangent to circle O. [ #permalink

RichardSaunders wrote:

PKN



How do we know that "Angle OBA=90=Angle OCA"? How do we know that "Angle OBA=90=Angle OCA"?

By definition of tangent to a circle:-

Tangent is a line passing a circle and touching it at just one point.

The tangent line is always at the 90 degree angle (perpendicular) to the radius of a circle .

Regards,



PKN



Rise above the storm, you will find the sunshine Signature Read MoreSunday, August 12, 2018

Aug. 9, 2018 (New York Times): Argentina's Senate Narrowly Rejects Legalizing Abortion, by Daniel Politi and Ernesto Londono:

After 16 hours of deliberation, Argentinas Senate narrowly rejected a bill to legalize abortion on Thursday, dealing a painful defeat to a vocal grass-roots movement that pushed reproductive rights to the top of Argentina's legislative agenda and galvanized abortion rights activist groups throughout Latin America, including in Brazil and Chile.

As legislators debated the bill into the early hours of Thursday morning, thousands waited outside the Congress Building in Buenos Aires, weathering the winter cold.

Supporters of the legislation, which would have legalized abortion care during the first 14 weeks of pregnancy, had hoped Argentina would begin a sea change in reproductive rights in a largely Catholic region where 97 percent of women live in countries that ban abortion or allow it only in rare instances.

In the end, 38 legislators voted against legalization, 31 voted in favor, and 2 legislators abstained.

Opposition in Argentina hardened as Catholic Church leaders spoke out forcefully against abortion from the pulpit and senators from conservative provinces came under intense pressure to stand against legalization.

While the bill's failure is considered a major setback for the activists who backed it, analysts said the abortion rights movement has already brought change to Central and South America in ways that would have been impossible just years ago.

On Wednesday, demonstrators rallied in support of the Argentine bill in Uruguay, Mexico, Peru, and Chile, where they gathered in front of the Argentine Embassy in Santiago, chanting and wearing the green handkerchiefs that became the symbol of Argentinas abortion rights movement.

Recently, activists in Argentina scored a victory with the passage of a law that seeks to have an equal number of male and female lawmakers.

"If we make a list of the things weve gained and the things weve lost, the list of things weve gained is much bigger, said Edurne Cardenas, a lawyer at the Center for Legal and Social Studies, a human rights group in Argentina that favors legalized abortion. Sooner or later, this will be law.

In the region, only Uruguay, Cuba, Guyana and Mexico City allow any woman to have an early-term abortion.

For Argentina, the debate over abortion has tugged at the countrys sense of self. It is the birthplace of Pope Francis, the leader of the worlds Catholics, who recently denounced abortion as the white glove equivalent of the Nazi-era eugenics program. Recently, though, the country has begun shifting away from its conservative Catholic roots. In 2010, Argentina became the first country in Latin America to allow gay couples to wed. Francis, then the archbishop of Buenos Aires, called that bill a destructive attack on Gods plan.

The organized movement that pushed the failed bill started in 2015 with the brutal murder of a pregnant 14-year-old girl by her teenage boyfriend. Her mother claimed the boyfriends family didnt want her to have the baby. As debates about violence against women on social media grew into wider conversations about womens rights, young female lawmakers gave a fresh push to an abortion bill that had been presented repeatedly in the past without going anywhere.

In June, the lower house of the Argentine Congress narrowly approved a bill allowing women to terminate pregnancy in the first 14 weeks. Current law allows abortions only in cases of rape or when a mothers life is in danger. While the measure failed in the Senate this week, it made some inroads: among the senators who voted for it was Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, who as president had opposed legalizing abortion. Society as a whole has moved forward on this issue, said Claudia Pineiro, a writer and abortion-rights activist in Argentina. Church and state are supposed to be separate, but were coming to realize that is far from the case, Ms. Pineiro said as it became clearer that the push for legalization would lose. That will be the next battle.

https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/reproductive_rights/2018/08/argentinas-senate-narrowly-rejects-legalizing-abortion.htmlRe: Most economists in the United States seem captivated by the spell of t [ #permalink

2 Kudosegmat wrote:

@marus:

choice E

Choice C

Hi,This sentence needs careful reading. Read the portion by the time tickets go on sale. This suggests a future action. We know that the tickets are not up for sale yet. They will be sold some time in the future.This understanding helps us in eliminating choice E as it is written in the present perfect tense and hence leads to inconsistency in tense in the sentence.With, the sentence reads: The fanatical, young group of girls has been waiting in the concert line the whole night by the time the tickets go on sale.The present perfect tense has been waiting denotes an action that has already begun in some time in the past and is continuing in the present as well. It renders the sense that the group of girls has already begun to wait in the line for the tickets which will be sold sometime in the future. This is not the logical intended meaning of the sentence.The logical intended meaning of the sentence is that By the time the tickets will be up for sale, these girls will have been waiting in the line already.Take this example: By the time Joe appears for the exam, he will have been completely prepared. The sense of the sentence is that by the time Joe will appear for the exam, he will be completely prepared.However, we do not if he is completely prepared in the present or not. The sentence says nothing about the present. It talks about a situation that is yet to happen.We cannot say: By the time Joe appears for the exam, he has been completely prepared. has been prepared suggests that Joe is already prepared in the present and it does not relate to the event that will take place in the future, i. e. appearing for the exam.In the very same way, the original sentence is also talking about a situation that is yet to happen. Hence we must use future tense to correspond the related event with that future event only. Again, understanding the intended logical meaning of the sentence is the key here to use the correct verb tense knowledge.correctly conveys the logical intended meaning of the sentence: The fanatical, young group of girls will have been waiting in the concert line the entire night by the time the tickets go on sale. This choice clearly says that by the time the tickets will be up for sale, the girls will already be standing in the line from the previous night.Say for example if the tickets will be sold on February 3, the girls will already have been standing in the line from the night of February 2.Hope this helps.Shraddha



IceViking strongly condemns physical attacks and harassment directed towards them.





They are also often victims of the Islamic idea. This is true when it comes to the cruel and tragic treatment of Muslim women and children when it is in accord with the Koran, the example of Mohammed and Islamic law, Sharia, which may be applied regardless of where a Muslim male may find himself in the world, whether in a Muslim or non-Muslim country.





However, in no way, shape or form should one judge all Muslim men because of what is in Islamic scripture and what constitutes the Islamic law, Sharia.





"Race", ethnicity or basically anything that you are "merely" born with should never be a basis for bigotry and discrimination.





Apostates from Islam have been executed for 1400 years in accord with the Koran and the words and actions of the Islamic prophet Mohammed and Islamic law, Sharia.





They should be lovingly helped.





Furthermore, approximately as many as 11,000,000 Muslims may have been killed by other Muslims since 1948.





To quote the website The Religion of Peace (TROP), edited by Glen Roberts:





While it may be safe to say that a true Muslim would not intentionally kill another true Muslim ( 4:92-93 ), the Quran places no such value on the life of a Muslim who is not true. Consider verse 9:73 :

Strive hard against the disbelievers and the hypocrites, and be harsh against them, their abode is Hell.

The Arabic for strive hard uses the same root as Jihad - and the context in this sura is holy war (see v. 86 and 91). Thus, there are two distinct classes of people that a true Muslim is to target with harshness: disbelievers and hypocrites.



A disbeliever obviously refers to a non-Muslim, so a "hypocrite" must be a Muslim of some sort. In fact, hypocrites are those who say they believe, but do not act as they should. In other words, they are "Muslims", but not true Muslims. They will go to hell just as unbelievers do, and so, according to the verse, their lives matter for naught.



The same sura says that a hypocrite can be recognized not just by lack of piety (reluctance to follow Sharia), but by fear of death ( 9:56 ), reluctance to fight ( 9:44-45 ) and even friendliness toward non-believers ( 9:67 ). A true Muslim would thus be a pious person who relishes martyrdom, is eager to fight, and shuns non-believers.



Even the Quranic passage that warns against killing "believers" ( 4:88-94 ) is more complicated than it first appears. It never says that a true Muslim is incapable of killing another Muslim, just that it should not be done. In fact, it makes exceptions for the unintentional killing of "believers" in war and mandates the killing of "hypocrites."



Verse 17:33 says, "Do not kill anyone which Allah has forbidden, except for a just cause" . The greatest cause of all is that Islam be superior ( 9:33 ), which is exactly what Islamic terrorists say is their goal. Thus believing Muslims are allowed to be collateral damage in the war on unbelievers.









There is sadly a phenomena that I`ve noticed in Sweden and elsewhere of people using true facts about Islamic doctrine and history as a cover for all sorts of irrational targeting of Muslims, ranging from xenophobia and racism to verbal abuse and physical attacks.





This is strongly condemned by this website and does not in any way serve serious criticism of orthodox Islam and other important work.





It`s also important that one tries to express oneself in a civilized way. Words matter.





In this bloggers humble opinion the root cause of the problem is the ancient doctrine of orthodox Islam.













In simple terms a non-Muslim is a Kafir.





" The Koran defines the kafir and kafir is not a neutral word. A kafir is not merely someone who does not agree with Islam, but a kafir is evil, disgusting, the lowest form of life."





An exact quote, as stated in the writings of Dr. Bill Warner in the article "Kafir" at http://www.politicalislam.com/kafir .





In the perfect Koran (Allah`s direct and literal word as revealed to Mohammed through the angel Jibril), Muslims are told 89 times to emulate Mohammed in all ways (see Koran 33:21 for instance).





Mohammed`s example, the Sunna, is found in the Hadith (stories of what Mohammed said and did) and the Sira (biographies of Mohammed).





Islamic law, Sharia , is directly derived from these unchanging scriptures. It is based on the Koran`s numerous commands to obey Allah and obey the Messenger, that is Mohammed (see Koran 4:59 for instance).









Islam is Sharia. Sharia is Islam.





It is a capital crime for Muslims to deny Sharia in any way.





A Muslim is someone who submits to Islam and submitting to Islam means obeying the Sharia of Allah.





Sharia law includes pronouncements for both Muslims and non-Muslims (Kafirs).









Islam is a "complete way of life", a "complete code of life", a "complete system of life".





Islam is not just a religion but also a comprehensive ideology.





Islam is a supremacist ideology.





Islam is a totalitarian and imperialistic ideology akin to Communism and Nazism.





Islam is a civilization.

Islamic law, Sharia, is a manual for a civilization.





Islamic law, Sharia, governs every aspect of life.

It has a say about every conceivable human act .





Non-Muslims are morally and legally inferior in Islam. Women are morally and legally inferior in Islam.

























The History of Jihad: From Muhammad to ISIS by Robert Spencer is the first one-volume history of jihad in the English language and a great book on the topic.





Allah guarantees Paradise to those who "kill and are killed" for him (Koran 9:111).





A hadith depicts a Muslim asking Muhammad: "Instruct me as to such a deed as equals Jihad (in reward)." Muhammad replied, "I do not find such a deed." (Bukhari 4.52.44)





Muhammad himself said:

I have been commanded to fight against people so long as they do not declare that there is no god but Allah, and he who professed it was guaranteed the protection of his property and life on my behalf except for the right affairs rest with Allah. (Sahih Muslim 30)









Freedom of speech, human rights, democracy, science and human lives are all at stake in the fight against the Islamic Jihad.



As of August 26th, 2021 Yahoo India will no longer be publishing content. Your Yahoo Account Mail and Search experiences will not be affected in any way and will operate as usual. We thank you for your support and readership. For more information on Yahoo India, please visit the FAQUsername: Password: or Register Thread Rating: 2 Vote(s) - 1 Average

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Florida Democrat keeps calling the cops on Reporters she doesn't like LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 456165

08-12-2018 04:08 AM











Post: #1 Florida Democrat keeps calling the cops on Reporters she doesn't like

Advertisement



Link



http://dailycaller.com/2018/08/11/florid...reporters/



Click on the link and you might ask why no one has called the cops on her!Link LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 455860

08-12-2018 04:10 AM











Post: #2 RE: Florida Democrat keeps calling the cops on Reporters she doesn't like

but, but, but Trumps sez that journalists are the enemies of the people!!! LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 443403

08-12-2018 04:11 AM











Post: #3 RE: Florida Democrat keeps calling the cops on Reporters she doesn't like

lock her up! GrimShaw

Asinus Asinum Fricat

User ID: 447734

08-12-2018 04:14 AM



Posts: 32,499









Post: #4 RE: Florida Democrat keeps calling the cops on Reporters she doesn't like

A politician making a political statement?! f*#k man! Who would have ever imagined! LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 456165

08-12-2018 04:15 AM











Post: #5 RE: Florida Democrat keeps calling the cops on Reporters she doesn't like

LoP Guest Wrote: (08-12-2018 04:10 AM) but, but, but Trumps sez that journalists are the enemies of the people!!!

They are. So are Democrat politicians. They are. So are Democrat politicians. Blastbeat Industries

Registered User

User ID: 453134

08-12-2018 04:18 AM



Posts: 1,695









Post: #6 RE: Florida Democrat keeps calling the cops on Reporters she doesn't like

GrimShaw Wrote: (08-12-2018 04:14 AM) A politician making a political statement?! f*#k man! Who would have ever imagined!

Calling the law on somebody is a political statement to you? You're going to need to explain this one. By your account, any nefarious activity or bad behavior could be called a political statement. Hell, that bank robbery I committed last week was a political statement. Calling the law on somebody is a political statement to you? You're going to need to explain this one. By your account, any nefarious activity or bad behavior could be called a political statement. Hell, that bank robbery I committed last week was a political statement. Kanye West used to be the real vice-president.

Censorship is still un-American. Blastbeat Industries

Registered User

User ID: 453134

08-12-2018 04:20 AM



Posts: 1,695









Post: #7 RE: Florida Democrat keeps calling the cops on Reporters she doesn't like

LoP Guest Wrote: (08-12-2018 04:10 AM) but, but, but Trumps sez that journalists are the enemies of the people!!!

It's not the individual reporters. It's the corporate-owned media trying to edit history's first draft.



Get off the couch and go outside. The whole world awaits you. Stop parroting crap you heard on TV. It's not the individual reporters. It's the corporate-owned media trying to edit history's first draft.Get off the couch and go outside. The whole world awaits you. Stop parroting crap you heard on TV. Kanye West used to be the real vice-president.

Censorship is still un-American. GrimShaw

Asinus Asinum Fricat

User ID: 447734

08-12-2018 04:22 AM



Posts: 32,499









Post: #8 RE: Florida Democrat keeps calling the cops on Reporters she doesn't like

Blastbeat Industries Wrote: (08-12-2018 04:18 AM) GrimShaw Wrote: (08-12-2018 04:14 AM) A politician making a political statement?! f*#k man! Who would have ever imagined!

Calling the law on somebody is a political statement to you? You're going to need to explain this one. By your account, any nefarious activity or bad behavior could be called a political statement. Hell, that bank robbery I committed last week was a political statement.

White people, could you stop calling the police on black people for living http://www.latimes.com/opinion/la-ol-ent...story.html Blastbeat Industries

Registered User

User ID: 453134

08-12-2018 04:23 AM



Posts: 1,695









Post: #9 RE: Florida Democrat keeps calling the cops on Reporters she doesn't like

GrimShaw Wrote: (08-12-2018 04:22 AM) Blastbeat Industries Wrote: (08-12-2018 04:18 AM) Calling the law on somebody is a political statement to you? You're going to need to explain this one. By your account, any nefarious activity or bad behavior could be called a political statement. Hell, that bank robbery I committed last week was a political statement.

White people, could you stop calling the police on black people for living http://www.latimes.com/opinion/la-ol-ent...story.html

That's your explanation? Posting a link? Kind of redefines laziness, doesn't it? That's your explanation? Posting a link? Kind of redefines laziness, doesn't it? Kanye West used to be the real vice-president.

Censorship is still un-American.















 Development of nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles designed to deliver payloads around the world was not restricted

 Irans ability to fund terrorist groups such as Hezbollah, or to buy weapons from Russia and China later used by terrorists in Yemen, Iraq and Syria was not addressed

 Human rights changes, including releasing political prisoners, halting crackdowns on journalists, students, bloggers, artists, ethnic and religious minorities, and repealing laws that oppress women were not required

 Most importantly, Irans role in the Syrian civil war that resulted in the slaughter of almost half a million men, women, and children, and created over four million refugees was allowed to continue

Many believe Iran caused the rise of ISIS, as well as a series of terrorist attacks that have occurred in such various places, such as London, Birmingham, Orlando, Brussels, Nice, Ottawa, Sydney, San Bernardino, and many others.

President Trump campaigned on his promise to pull out the nuclear deal, so his decision was no surprise to the Iran lobby, but the NIAC still condemn the presidents actions.

The sanctions deem that Iran will no longer be able to engage in trade using US dollars, and according to Trump administration officials, will be blocked from trade in gold and other precious metals, as well. The import of graphite, aluminum, steel, coal, and software used for industrial purposes, and participation in the automobile market, will not be allowed, according to BuzzFeed.

European countries have been called upon by the NIAC to commit to their business deals with Iran. Still, companies including Peugeot and Total are taking their business away from Iran.

Harsher sanctions come into effect in November, targeting Irans oil exports as well as transactions between foreign banks and the Central Bank of Iran. A senior administrative official reiterated that the US goal is to get imports of Iranian crude to zero and that the US is not looking to give exemptions or waivers when those sanctions hit.

The NIAC, in a briefing memo posted on its website, continues to describe the nuclear agreement as successful. Critics of the deal call it a tool that replenished the regimes cash reserves, who then used it to fund their aspirations toward hegemony in the Middle East.

Over the past three years, conditions in both Washington and in the hundreds of villages, cities and towns throughout Iran have changed. Protests at home and economic pressure by the Trump administration are pushing the regime to decide whether to again crack down on its own people, or to finally entertain the notion that democracy must take root in Iran.

Several journalists, including Thomas Erdbrink in the New York Times chronicled the protests in Iran that are being fueled by the poor and middle classes. Some demonstrations  about the weak economy, strict Islamic rules, water shortages, religious disputes, local grievances  have turned deadly. The protesters have shouted harsh slogans against clerical leaders and their policies. The events are broadly shared on social media and on the dozens of Persian language satellite channels beaming into the Islamic republic, he writes, and adds, Videos show that some protesters have gone well beyond strictly economic grievances to challenge Irans foreign policy and religious rules. Secular protest slogans aimed at Irans leadership also criticize its support for Syria and groups in the Palestinian territories and in Lebanon.

His writing is known for its favorable leaning toward appeasing the Iranian leadership. However, Erdbrink reports that, predictably, in fighting among the ruling elites as to who is to blame is increasing, as the regime struggles to give the Iranian people solutions that do not involve slogans or a policeman wielding a baton.Username: Password: or Register Thread Rating: 2 Vote(s) - 3 Average

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Page: 1 2 Bikers for trump buy Haiti made tee shirts for resale ISYN Count Ballsr Frozenoff

lop guest

User ID: 456263

08-12-2018 12:51 PM











Post: #1 Bikers for trump buy Haiti made tee shirts for resale ISYN

Advertisement http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-r...e-in-haiti



The founder of Bikers for Trump said he sells pro-Trump T-shirts made in Haiti because American-made products are too expensive.



The Irony is just staggering with these 'supporters' The founder of Bikers for Trump said he sells pro-Trump T-shirts made in Haiti because American-made products are too expensive.The Irony is just staggering with these 'supporters' LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 456246

08-12-2018 01:23 PM











Post: #2 RE: Bikers for trump buy Haiti made tee shirts for resale ISYN

kiss my cock LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 456263

08-12-2018 01:25 PM











Post: #3 RE: Bikers for trump buy Haiti made tee shirts for resale ISYN

Count Ballsr Frozenoff Wrote: (08-12-2018 12:51 PM) http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-r...e-in-haiti



The founder of Bikers for Trump said he sells pro-Trump T-shirts made in Haiti because American-made products are too expensive.



The Irony is just staggering with these 'supporters'

From link:



If I get a T-shirt made in the USA, its going to cost about $8 more, Chris Cox told The New York Times. I looked far and wide to try to get a shirt made in America, its just they get you, they gouge you.





So you and your followers don't want to pay an additional $8 for a "Made in USA" tee shirt...but you want to "bring those tee shirt making jobs back to the USA" ....what are you going to do when trump's tariffs cause the price of 80% of the things you buy daily go up 30-40% ? From link:If I get a T-shirt made in the USA, its going to cost about $8 more, Chris Cox told The New York Times. I looked far and wide to try to get a shirt made in America, its just they get you, they gouge you.So you and your followers don't want to pay an additional $8 for a "Made in USA" tee shirt...but you want to "bring those tee shirt making jobs back to the USA" ....what are you going to do when trump's tariffs cause the price of 80% of the things you buy daily go up 30-40% ? LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 443265

08-12-2018 01:38 PM











Post: #4 RE: Bikers for trump buy Haiti made tee shirts for resale ISYN

God bless this man for helping Haitians after Clinton stole all their donations. LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 455860

08-12-2018 01:58 PM











Post: #5 RE: Bikers for trump buy Haiti made tee shirts for resale ISYN

LoP Guest Wrote: (08-12-2018 01:23 PM) kiss my cock

^ not homo at all!!! ^ not homo at all!!! LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 456263

08-12-2018 03:49 PM











Post: #6 RE: Bikers for trump buy Haiti made tee shirts for resale ISYN

What, no trump supporters snappy comebacks ?



Where you at LS ? LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 456263

08-12-2018 03:51 PM











Post: #7 RE: Bikers for trump buy Haiti made tee shirts for resale ISYN

And all trump's doing is twating about some guys wife's looks !



Retarded Don strikes again ! wingchop

Registered User

User ID: 413838

08-12-2018 04:17 PM



Posts: 139









Post: #8 RE: Bikers for trump buy Haiti made tee shirts for resale ISYN

If I agreed with you, we'd both be wrong. LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 456263

08-12-2018 04:49 PM











Post: #9 RE: Bikers for trump buy Haiti made tee shirts for resale ISYN

wingchop Wrote: (08-12-2018 04:17 PM)

I just don't get why these 'supporters' won't pay an extra $8 dollars for a "bikers for trump" rally tee shirt



Don't they want Americans to have jobs ? I just don't get why these 'supporters' won't pay an extra $8 dollars for a "bikers for trump" rally tee shirtDon't they want Americans to have jobs ? LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 453356

08-12-2018 05:40 PM











Post: #10 RE: Bikers for trump buy Haiti made tee shirts for resale ISYN

Count Ballsr Frozenoff Wrote: (08-12-2018 12:51 PM) http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-r...e-in-haiti



The founder of Bikers for Trump said he sells pro-Trump T-shirts made in Haiti because American-made products are too expensive.



The Irony is just staggering with these 'supporters'

Back in 2008 the coronation of Obama the dems were looking for USA made tee shirts and back pack. You have your answer now as it hasn't changed today. In fact USA made tee shirts ten years latter Back in 2008 the coronation of Obama the dems were looking for USA made tee shirts and back pack. You have your answer now as it hasn't changed today. In fact USA made tee shirts ten years latter LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 453356

08-12-2018 08:40 PM











Post: #11 RE: Bikers for trump buy Haiti made tee shirts for resale ISYN

THE CLASSIC T-SHIRT COMPANY

The Classic Tshirt Company - Super Soft - 100% Organic Cotton - Made in USA - Sustainable - Short Sleeve T Shirt for Men

5.0 out of 5 stars 34 customer reviews

Price: $30.00 Free Shipping for Prime Members & Free Return on some sizes and colors LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 456263

08-12-2018 08:44 PM











Post: #12 RE: Bikers for trump buy Haiti made tee shirts for resale ISYN

LoP Guest Wrote: (08-12-2018 08:40 PM) THE CLASSIC T-SHIRT COMPANY

The Classic Tshirt Company - Super Soft - 100% Organic Cotton - Made in USA - Sustainable - Short Sleeve T Shirt for Men

5.0 out of 5 stars 34 customer reviews

Price: $30.00 Free Shipping for Prime Members & Free Return on some sizes and colors

"Step right up trump supporters and get your made in the USA shirts"



"Step right up...." "Step right up trump supporters and get your made in the USA shirts""Step right up...." pooky

Registered User

User ID: 451507

08-12-2018 08:45 PM



Posts: 5,979









Post: #13 RE: Bikers for trump buy Haiti made tee shirts for resale ISYN

Bring's attention to Haiti. LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 456263

08-12-2018 08:48 PM











Post: #14 RE: Bikers for trump buy Haiti made tee shirts for resale ISYN

pooky Wrote: (08-12-2018 08:45 PM) Bring's attention to Haiti.

Yea, "We won't help you out in a disaster but we WILL buy your cheap ass shirts" Yea, "We won't help you out in a disaster but we WILL buy your cheap ass shirts" pooky

Registered User

User ID: 451507

08-12-2018 08:51 PM



Posts: 5,979









Post: #15 RE: Bikers for trump buy Haiti made tee shirts for resale ISYN

LoP Guest Wrote: (08-12-2018 08:48 PM) pooky Wrote: (08-12-2018 08:45 PM) Bring's attention to Haiti.

Yea, "We won't help you out in a disaster but we WILL buy your cheap ass shirts"

Or "We pretend we're helping you in a disaster but will just traffic your children and pocket your relief funds." Or "We pretend we're helping you in a disaster but will just traffic your children and pocket your relief funds." Advertisement

















Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Chongqing Changan Automobile Co.,Ltd (Changan Automobile) delivered 128,729 vehicles in July, suffering an evident year-on-year drop of 20.3% and a month-on-month slump of 31.6%. For the first seven months, the automaker saw its year-to-date sales fall 16.0% to 1,336,110 units, according to the data released by Changan Automobile.

Changan Automobile's self-owned brand posted a sharp month-on-month decline of 35.2% with 89,596 vehicles handed over in July. The monthly sales of Changan-branded PVs were 54,571 units, shrinking 15.5% over the previous year and plunging 28.8% over the previous month. By the end July, the automaker's self-owned brand faced a year-on-year decrease of 16% with its cumulative sales totaling 1,336,110 units.

As to SUV models, the July sales of the CS55, the CS75 and the CS35 reached 7,732 units, 6,489 units and 8,622 units respectively, all presenting apparent reduction compared with the previous month. The sales of the EADO series skyrocketed 102.6% over the year-ago period to 10,093 last month, while the sales of the other sedan model Ruicheng CC only reached 1,359 units during the same period.

With respect to joint ventures' performance, Changan Ford witnessed its July sales tumble 49.3% to 23,934 units. For the first seven months, the Sino-U.S. joint venture suffered a sharp year-on-year drop of 40.1% with 251,636 vehicles delivered in total. Changan Ford plans to roll out such new models as the all-new Focus, the new Escort, the Mondeo Energi PHEV, aiming to put the sales back on track.

Besides, the sales of Changan Mazda reached 9,779 units in July, sliding 25.4% from a year earlier, and 100,016 units from January through July, edging down 3.9% over a year ago. Jiangling Motors Holding suffered a month-on-month slump of 59.3% in July with its sales only reaching 17,788 units.

In addition, the automakers' EV sales in July failed to maintain the previous rising momentum, while plummeted 49.3% year on year to 4,508 units. From January to July, the automaker's EV sales aggregated 35,682 units.The Transportation Departments legal department thumbed down an earlier agreement between the agency and the Cavite provincial government to develop Sangley Point into an international airport for P552.018 billion. The agencys Office of the Undersecretary for Legal Affairs and Procurement, along with the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Legal Affairs and the Legal Service, issued a memorandum on June 15 asking the department to refrain from signing an agreement with the Cavite provincial government on the proposed international airport. The memo was in response to the request of Transportation Undersecretary for planning and project development Ruben Reinoso Jr. for a legal opinion of the proposed memorandum of agreement for the project. The DOTr memorandum was signed by Transportation Undersecretary for legal affairs and procurement Reinier Paul Yebra, assistant secretary for legal affairs Mark Steven Pastor and assistant secretary for procurement and chief of the DOTr legal service Giovanni Lopez. The DOTr legal experts cited the lack of technical capability of the Cavite provincial government to implement an international airport development project in rejecting the proposal. Based on the draft memorandum of agreement, the Sangley Point International Airport Project involves the planning, financing, design, construction, development, operation, maintenance and management of the new international airport in Sangley Point, Cavite City. It also includes all supporting road networks, infrastructure facilities and basic services with land reclamation as the physical development platform or enabling component. The memo also noted that the Cavite provincial government had not identified the financing scheme for the more than half-a-trillion peso project. This office is of the view that PGC [provincial government of Cavite] lacks the technical capability to implement the proposed Sangley International Airport Project. As a matter of fact, the MOA itself is bereft of any provision or proof showing the technical capability of PGC, the two-page memorandum stated.Likewise, this office noted the provision in the MOA relative to the proposed projects financing scheme. It appears that the MOA has not yet identified with particularity the source of fund for the project, it said. This office is of the opinion that the above description of the proposed project as well as the financing scheme is too general. Specific scope of the project and source of fund are required for this department to evaluate the MOA, it said. Reinoso said on July 28 the DOTr approved the Cavite provincial governments proposal which allowed the latter to take the next step to secure an endorsement of the Philippine Reclamation Authority for the reclamation work. The proposed Sangley International Airport would compete with the proposed rehabilitation of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Paranaque City, the proposed Bulacan International Aiport in Bulacan province and the expansion of Clark International Airport in Pampanga province. Transportation Undersecretary for aviation and airports Manuel Antonio earlier told reporters the Manila International Airport Authority board granted the original proponent status to the super consortium of seven conglomerates to rehabilitate Naia. The super consortium is composed of some of the countrys biggest conglomerates including Abotiiz InfraCapital Inc., AC Infrastructure Holdings Corp of the Ayala group, Alliance Global Group of taipan Andrew Tan, Asias Emerging Dragon Corp. of taipan Lucio Tan, Filinvest Development Corp. of George Ty, JG Summit Holdings Inc. of taipan John Gokongwei and Metro Pacific Investments Corp. of Manuel Pangilinan. Tamayo said the DOTr granted the OPS to the super consortium in July, but the MIAA boards approval was also required, as the latter would be the lead agency. He said with the grant of the OPS, the National Economic and Development Authority could now proceed with the evaluation of the Naia rehabilitation proposal.Choosing a college or university in the United States is not an exact science. It can be hard to know if you have made the right decision, no matter what school you attend.

You might think you like the qualities of a school that accepts you, especially if it is high on your list of schools you want to attend.

But once you have gone through the process of application and admission, you may start to feel differently about your school choice.

Once you arrive, you may find that you wish your classes were smaller, or that you were in a more active city. You might dislike the schools rules or atmosphere, or maybe it costs more than you expected.

In time, you could come to regret your choice of college or university.

But Linda Herlocker says there is nothing wrong with having doubts; what matters is how you deal with them. Herlocker is the assistant vice president for admissions and records at Valencia College. The Orlando, Florida community college offers mainly two-year associates degree programs, but also a few bachelors degree programs.

Herlocker says if a student decides they can no longer continue their studies where they started, it does not have to mean the end of their higher education. In fact, many college and university students begin their studies knowing that they will not complete their programs where they started.

That is especially true of community colleges like Valencia, Herlocker notes. However, she says it is important that students think hard about changing schools, no matter their reason for wanting to.

For some people, higher education is not always the best path to take, especially within a few months of graduating from high school, when most Americans start college. Herlocker says students might want to consider that possibility, even after they have transferred.

Is it a problem that can be solved by transfer? Sometimes it is, she told VOA. But I just want to make sure that students make those decisions within the right context and with a good understanding of why theyre making that decision.

Once a student has decided it is time to change schools, there are several steps they must take as soon as possible, notes Herlocker.

First, of course, the must identify the college or university they wish to attend. Some schools, especially community colleges like Valencia, have partnerships with other institutions that make the process simpler. It can also be easier to transfer from one public institution to another than to move from a private to a public school, or the other way around, Herlocker adds.

But, she suggests no matter what new school a student chooses, it is extremely important that the student contact it right away.

Most colleges and universities in the U.S. begin their official academic year in the fall. Many schools divide their academic year into two study periods called semesters. Almost all public institutions permit students to enter study in the second semester. But some private schools let students start only in the fall.

Also, some public and private institutions have group programs that require students to work together from the beginning. And students may not transfer in during the middle of those programs.

A student can seek answers to any transfer questions from admissions officials at the school of interest. Such questions might concern application materials and dates of submission and admission.

Many schools begin accepting application materials two semesters, or a full year, before they offer admission to or reject candidates. But Herlocker warns that applicants will never know details like that for sure unless they communicate with a school. And transfer students should stay in contact with their new school throughout the entire process, to make sure there that no steps are being missed.

There is one quality that can make transfer students a little more desirable than first-time applicants, Herlocker says. They already have an academic record at a college or university. If they did well, it shows they can succeed in higher education.

She suggests the study programs at community colleges like Valencia, can be less intense than those at four-year schools. Some students start at schools like Valencia in order to ease into the college learning environment.

The main requirement for transfer students is a record of their academic performance at the college or university they are leaving.

The situation is a little different for international students. If they are transferring from a school in their home country, that schools study programs must be approved by an accrediting agency. But still, Herlocker says, these records should show exactly how well a student can perform at the college or university-level.

The student has already proven themselves, she said. So, no ones in the business of looking for reasons to exclude, if you will. If they already have a  positive  record, in my experience, any institution would be happy to have them.

Once a student has been accepted into their desired transfer school, there is still one more thing they need to do, notes Herlocker. They should attend their new schools orientation.

Orientations are special informational programs that colleges and universities offer whenever they admit a new group of students. These programs usually take place a week or so before the start of a new school year or semester, and often last several days.

Herlocker says orientation is important for both new and experienced students.

Every institution is different, she said. And its really, really important to attend the orientation for the institution that youre transferring to, because thats where you find out what the rules are, how things work, and most importantly, what are all those support services that  can  help you be successful in your program.

Im Pete Musto. And Im Dorothy Gundy.

Pete Musto reported this story for VOA Learning English. Caty Weaver was the editor. We want to hear from you. How common is transferring from one college or university to another in your country? How simple or complex is the process? Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page.

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Quiz

Quiz - College Admissions: Making the Decision to Transfer Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz

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Words in This Story

application  n. a formal and usually written request for something, such as a job, admission to a school, or a loan

doubt(s)  n. a feeling of being uncertain or unsure about something

associates degree  n. a degree that is given to a student who has completed two years of study at a junior college, college, or university in the U.S.

bachelors degree  n. a degree that is given to a student by a college or university usually after four years of study

graduating  v. earning a degree or diploma from a school, college, or university

transfer(red)  v. to stop going to one school and begin going to another

context  n. the group of conditions that exist where and when something happens

institution(s)  n. an established organization

academic  adj. of or relating to schools and education

submission  n. an act of giving an application, document, proposal, or piece of writing to someone so that it can be considered or approved

accrediting  v. saying that something is good enough to be given official approval

positive  adj. good or usefulIn Nigeria, the militant Islamist group Boko Haram wants to end anything related to Western society  especially Western-style education. Even the name Boko Haram means Western education is forbidden.

But some activists are turning Boko Harams target into a weapon. In 2014, Rebecca Gadzama and her husband started a group called Education Must Continue, or EMC. It aims to bring quality education to an area where Boko Haram militants have destroyed most of the government schools.

We are just private individuals, just good citizens, natives of this area, sobecause we werent sure when the government would start their school, we just found this place, Gadzama said.

EMC manages two schools for displaced children, one in Lassa and one in the city of Yola. Gadzama said the schools have 1,600 students and 80 teachers.

The teachers sometimes meet outdoors, under trees in open fields. The location gives them a chance to see danger and run in case of an attack.

But classes with students are held under roofs, either in newly built buildings or tents provided by the government.

Lassa

Except for the tents, the schools are supported mostly by donations. One reason, Gadzama says, is because the government does not appear to be rebuilding in the Lassa area.

She thinks the little help might be because Lassa is a mostly Christian town, while the majority of people in northern Nigeria are Muslim. When Boko Haram launched its violent insurgency in 2009, Christians and their churches were the groups early targets.

Maimuna Zhubairu is a 23-year-old school teacher from Lassa. Boko Haram killed three of her uncles and her older brother. She feels the government has given up on helping Lassa.

Most of the help comes from NGOs, she said. The government, they are not doing much help.

Muhammed Bulama, the Borno state minister of information, says the government has begun working in Lassa, helping to rebuild a church. Reconstruction is not an event, it is a process, Bulama said, adding that the government has not forgotten about any area.

But he also told VOA the government is overwhelmed by the amount of damage Boko Haram caused: $9 billion in northern Nigeria and $6 billion in Borno state alone.

He said that most of the rebuilding work is done in northern Borno because that is where most of the damage is. He also said parts of southern Borno are still not possible to enter.

Still suffering

Most of the students at EMC schools are Christians still suffering from what they have seen. Some of them want to become soldiers when they get older to punish Boko Haram.

Boko Haram, I see them use knife, chop my grandfather head, 13-year-old Ibrahim Daniel told VOA, speaking in pidgin English. He adds that he wants to become a soldier. He says if he sees people from Boko Haram, he will kill them.

Sometimes kids in Lassa play war games outside. One side pretends to be soldiers and the others act like Boko Haram.

Rebecca Gadzama, the EMC founder, hopes the school library she is working on will help heal the students minds.

It is not an issue of fighting back, she said. Its an issue of how do we get over this? How do we become one again, because the guys in the Boko Haram are also children.

Part of the answer can be found, Gadzama believes, in education.

Im Phil Dierking.

This story was originally written by Chika Oduah for VOANews.com. Phil Dierking adapted the story for Learning English. Kelly Jean Kelly was the editor.

Do you think education can help a community heal after violence? Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page.

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Words in This Story

allocate - v. to divide and give out (something) for a special reason or to particular people, companies, etc.

chop - v. to cut (something) into pieces by hitting it with the sharp edge of an ax, knife, etc.

counseling - n. advice and support that is given to people to help them deal with problems, make important decisions, etc.

displace - v. to take the job or position of (someone or something)

NGO - n. nongovernmental organization

overwhelm - v. to cause (someone) to have too many things to deal with

psychosocial - adj. relating to the interrelation of social factors and individual thought and behavior.

tent - n. a portable shelter that is used outdoors, is made of cloth (such as canvas or nylon), and is held up with poles and ropes

A recent report confirms what Native Americans have always known: Most people in the United States know little, if anything, about American Indians. And what they do know is based on questionable information spread by traditional media.

At the same time, the report shows that the U.S. media is ready to help end misunderstandings and build new stories about Native Americans.

The report comes from The First Nations Development Institute and Echo Hawk Consulting, a private advisory business. The two-year Reclaiming Native Truth project was designed to study common ideas about Native Americans and find ways to correct stereotypes.

With help from Native American experts, researchers organized nearly 30 study groups across 11 states. The researchers spoke with political, judicial and business leaders. They also questioned more than 13,000 Americans and looked at social media.

Among the findings:

 Native Americans are largely invisible in modern society;

 Non-Native media controls news about Native Americans;

 Stories about Native Americans deal mainly with their problems, not strengths;

 Stereotypes affect law, policy and decision-making;

 Politicians do not understand tribal rights or U.S. treaty requirements.

Most people said they didnt know a Native American, said Sarah Dewees, director of First Nations research, policy and asset-building programs. Many people think that there arent many Native Americans left in America, which of course is not true.

Dewees points out that Americans have conflicting images of Indians, both good and bad, because of history.

The study shows Americans hold competing stereotypes of Native Americans: Both poor and wealthy from legalized gaming; spiritual, but struggling with drug abuse and violence; independent and non-tax-paying, but dependent on federal government assistance.

The report says the belief that Native Americans receive a lot of federal aid is the most harmful because it separates Native Americans from other communities. Many U.S. citizens believe the government gives Native Americans special treatment.

The researchers agree: News media is partly responsible for keeping these stereotypes alive.

If it bleeds, it leads, said Dewees, noting the medias interest in bad news. News stories about Native Americans focus on deficits, not positive developments in Indian Country. Its harder to find an audience for feel-good stories, but these are the stories that need to be told.

The good news, say researchers, is that most Americans see Native Americans love of country, high rates of military service, and concerns about family, community and the environment. And they also like tribes strength in the face of difficulty, historic oppression and cultural genocide.

The study says most Americans are willing to let go of stereotypes when given facts. That is where the media can make a difference.

Brian Pollard is president of the Native American Journalists Association (NAJA). He said the media has a responsibility to reach out to Native Americans to find the truth.

One of the things we see very consistently is that many non-Native journalists think that any Indian they talk to will be an expert on that community or that particular issue.

Pollard also notes the need for reporters to provide context when covering Native issues. He said, Most people do not understand that each tribe has its unique history, its own culture, and its own story of what has brought that tribe to where it is today.

The American Society of News Editors has worked for years to increase diversity in news media, but recent information shows minorities remain underrepresented in newsrooms. Native American journalists make less than two-tenths of one percent of people working in traditional media.

As part of the Reclaiming Native Truth project, First Nations has published a guide to help non-Native journalists improve their reports about Indian Country. It is also working with Echo Hawk Consulting to develop a national campaign to increase recognition of and respect for Native Americans.

The Reclaiming Native Youth project received money from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, as well as several other groups and tribes.

Im Jonathan Evans.

Cecily Hilleary reported this story for VOANews. Susan Shand adapted it for Learning English. The editor was George Grow.

Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page.

________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

stereotype  n. an often unfair and untrue belief that many people have about all people or members of a group

invisible  adj. cannot be seen by people

asset  n. a valuable person or thing

of course  phrase. naturally; as expected

focus  v. to direct attention on someone or something

audience  n. a group of people who gather to watch or listen to something

context  n. the words that are used with a certain word or phrase and that help to explain its meaning

unique  adj. different from other things or people

diversity  n. the quality or state of having many different forms or ideasSamar smiles. President (SAP) Secretary Christopher Bong Go delivered a speech in front of residents of Samar province which was celebrating its 117th Founding Anniversary at the Provincial Covered Court in Catbalogan City. In his speech, Go recognized the vital role that barangay officials play in keeping the country peaceful and progressive, saying that they are the frontliners in implementing the policies and programs of the government. He also stressed the importance of their work in fast-tracking the delivery of government services to the citizens as well as assisting the higher local government officials. PNA

CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar  Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence Bong Go has urged local officials to actively participate in the localized peace talks in line with the forthcoming issuance of an executive order for the planned localized talks with communist rebels. Speaking before thousands of local officials at a covered court here on Saturday, Go said local officials, including those in villages, can do something to attain lasting peace. The order will be signed and will be out soon to guide our local officials on how to engage with the communist rebels. We really need this because in some areas, some officials have to deal with NPA [New Peoples Army] for their safety, said Go, who was guest speaker of Samar Day celebration.President Rodrigo Duterte approved during the 28th Cabinet meeting on Aug. 6 the draft of the directive, which provides the framework that will aid local government officials in dialogue with the rebels. The guidelines, as previously announced by Malacanang, include:  Nationally orchestrated, centrally directed, and locally supervised and implemented  Constitutional integrity and sovereignty will not be compromised.  Complete and genuine resolution of the local armed conflict that shall cover the New Peoples Army, organs of political power and Militia ng Bayan  There is a ceasefire, the constitutional mandate of the State to protect public safety, civilian welfare, critical infrastructure and private properties and the guarantee of rule of law and order will not be compromised at all times.  Government goodwill, full amnesty package based on disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation and reintegration to the mainstream society. Substantive agenda will be based on the Medium Term Philippine Development Plan and Philippine Development Program 2040  The top presidential aide expects that these guidelines will help stop decades of bloody struggle by the NPA especially in poverty-stricken areas such as Samar Island. Go previously recalled that when Duterte was still mayor of Davao City, he accompanied the latter several times in going to the mountains to talk to communists. He added that there had been a trust between the communist group and then mayor Duterte such that they have met with them even without bodyguards. Sincere approach, he said, comes with various government projects such as the livelihood assistance offered by local government units, among others. Samar province has been a stronghold of armed rebels due to their densely-forested mountainous areas, high poverty incidence, and issue of widespread landlessness, based on a 2013 study of William Norman Holden of the University of Calgary in Canada. The NPA launched its first tactical operation in the country in Calbiga, Samar in 1974, when its members ambushed an Army scout patrol and seized a number of weapons. In 1976, the NPA gained popular support among the inhabitants of Samar following its actions against cattle rustling gangs.A prominent businessman based in Batangas is asking the Philippine National Police to conduct an investigation on himself. In a letter addressed to PNP Director-General Oscar Abayalde, businessman Allan Fajardo said that he is a legitimate businessman in Batangas Province, and this can be verified by reputable citizens of the said province. According to a letter signed by Attys. Ferdinand Topacio and Atty. Joselito Lomangaya, Fajardos counsels, their client is a victim of a disinformation campaign where Fajardo was being named as the leader of a criminal syndicate allegedly called the Fajardo Group, which is supposedly involved in guns-for-hire and illegal drugs. Fajardo added that certain police officials have formulated a matrix which appear to show the members of the said group, and he himself has been the subject of harassment such as the police searching his house and filing baseless charges against him. But Fajardo said that all of the cases against him have already been dismissed by the courts and as of now, there is not one case pending against him in court. Worse, Fajardo added, two members whose names appear in the matrix have been killed under mysterious circumstances. Fajardo vehemently denied that he is involved in any illegal activities, and added that as head of the Mayors Anti-Crime Group, or MAC-G in Tanauan, Batangas, he was directly responsible for the arrest of many criminals, including drug pushersFajardo also claimed that the said matrix is a fabrication of some police officials due to personal animosity against him due to a series of lawsuits in the past. In his letter, Fajardo expressed fears that due to the recent killing of Tanauan Mayor Antonio Halili, his being linked to a fictitious crime organization is a way to justify a planned assassination. Because of this, Fajardo is requesting Albayalde to thoroughly investigate him in order to determine the existence of the so-called Fajardo Group so that he may once and for all clear his name. According to Fajardos lawyers, they are confident that their client is innocent, that is why they are voluntarily offering to be investigated, as long as their rights under the laws are respected, such as the right to counsel, to confront the witnesses against them and to examine the evidence.Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Sunday said data that will be stored in the national identification system are inaccessible to anyone unless they secure the consent of the concerned owner. Under this new [national ID] law, registered information can only be accessed by third parties if the registered person gives his or her consent, or if there is a court order, Guevarra said in a text message to reporters. The Justice chief made the statement following the signing into law by President Rodrigo Duterte of Republic Act 11055, the Philippine Identification System Act, last August 6. With a national ID system, Guervarra said a large database for all Filipinos and even for resident aliens is created. Identity theft will be prevented, making it harder to commit crimes and acts of terrorism. Law offenders can be identified and located more easily, he stressed. Duterte signed into law the Philippine Identification System Act, which seeks to integrate the various government IDs of all citizens and foreign residents in the country. Under the measure, a foundational ID system dubbed as PhilSys, will be put in place. It will have three components: the PhilSys Number (PSN), PhilID and PhilSys Registry. PSN is a randomly generated, unique and permanent identification number for each individual, to be incorporated in all identification systems of government agencies. The ID will remain with the person even after death. PhilID is a non-transferable card with the PSN and basic information. The Philippine Statistics Authority is mandated to act as the PhilSys Registry.Under the national ID law, the PSA will collate the full name, sex, birthdate, address, citizenship and blood type of Filipino citizens and encode them in a centralized database. The law ensures that the individuals right to privacy is protected. Duterte earlier allayed fears that the National ID would infringe privacy and the personal data of the Phil-ID holders, noting that the information that will be included in the ID will not be any different from the information already in the possession of the PSA and other agencies that gather personal data. The President assured that the PSA will work closely with the National Privacy Commission, the Department of Information and Communications Technology, and the multi-agency PhilSystem Policy and Coordination Council to ensure the national ID systems privacy and security. While getting a national ID is not compulsory, it will integrate some 30 redundant government IDs by merging these into a single national ID system. The PhilID will be a non-transferable card containing on its face the PSN (PhilSys Number), full name, facial image, date of birth, address and fingerprints of the owner. The PSA earlier said the entire population is expected to be registered with the Philippine ID System in two to five years. A pilot launch will take place late this year and a mass rollout in the beginning of 2019, with a target enrollment of 25 million Filipinos on an annual basis, the PSA said. The PSA will initially enroll the first one million people who are beneficiaries of the Unconditional Cash Transfer program.Following a briefing by UN Personal Envoy for the Sahara Horst Kohler, members of the Security Council stressed the need to include Algeria in any future talks on the conflict.

Algeria which has for decades hosted, armed and funded the Polisario militia and offered a slice of its territories to the separatist group where they auto-declared a state, is now more than ever called upon to contribute to efforts aiming to finding a political solution to the four-decade conflict.

The UK presidency of the Security Council made it clear that Kohler should consult all the parties in question, notably Algeria, in order to relaunch talks.

Last April, King Mohammed VI sent a letter to UN chief Antonio Guterres in which he highlighted the Algerian role in perpetuating the conflict over the Sahara and urged Algiers to uphold its responsibility as it continues to fund, host, arm and back diplomatically the Polisario militias.

Therefore, for the Moroccan diplomatic action, Algeria should play a role that is commensurate with its responsibility in the development of this regional conflict, stressed the king in the letter.

The Algerian umbrella has emboldened Polisario armed men to threaten on multiple occasions the stability and security of the North African region by engaging in piracy and banditism as well as cross border trafficking.

Moroccos calls for Algeria to sit in the table of negotiations as a direct party in the Sahara conflict were echoed in the 2414 Security Council resolution. The Resolution called upon the parties and the neighboring States to cooperate more fully with the United Nations and with each other and to strengthen their involvement and to achieve progress towards a political solution.

The statements by the UK presidency of the UN Security Council are indicative of the awareness of the international community of the useless of talks between Morocco and the Polisario, which has become more than ever a tool manipulated by the Algerian regime to contain the Kingdom.

The UK presidency reiterated what has been said in Resolution 2414 urging the UN Personal Envoy to undertake consultations with all parties, including Algeria.

The international community is increasingly aware of the role that Algeria can play in facilitating a political solution to the conflict. They see in the perpetuation of the Sahara conflict a source of security and stability threats in North Africa, the Mediterranean and beyond, hence the need for finding a mutually beneficial solution that respects Moroccos sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The UN has only renewed the UN mission for the Sahara (MINURSO) by six months instead of one year as usual. This also indicates that the international community is fed up with the status quo and wants progress to be made in resolving the Sahara issue. To do so, real parties to the conflict should sit in the negotiation table.

After the Moroccan autonomy initiative fell on deaf ears in Algeria, Rabat is now aware that negotiations with the Polisario are a waste of time in the absence of the mentor, Algeria.

A UK diplomat said the talks are scheduled to be launched by the end of December 2018. Meanwhile, pressure is mounting on Algeria as Polisario mentor and host to contribute towards a political solution that would spare the Maghreb conflict and instability prospects.Credit: CC0 Public Domain

The bond between parent and child extends far beyond sharing similar looks or behaviors, as symptoms of depression in teens and parents appear to be linked, according to research presented at the annual convention of the American Psychological Association.

When a teen's depression improved through treatment, so did depression experienced by his or her parent, according to Kelsey R. Howard, MS, of Northwestern University, who presented the findings.

"More young people today are reporting persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness and suicidal thoughts," said Howard. "At the same time, suicide rates have climbed in nearly all U.S. states. This research may help health care providers as we grapple as a nation with how to address these alarming trends."

A total of 325 teens who had been diagnosed with depression and 325 of their parents or caregivers participated in this long-term study. The teens were randomly assigned to one of three groups: those who received cognitive behavioral therapy, those who took an antidepressant or those who used a combination of both. The first treatment period ran for nearly one year, with an additional year of follow-up visits.

One-quarter of the parents who participated also reported moderate to severe levels of depression before the treatment period, according to Howard.

The treatment process was not family-based, though some portions included the parent. Nonetheless, the results showed a positive ripple effect because when the severity of a teen's depression lessened, so did similar symptoms in the parent, regardless of what treatment was used.

"Depression is a massive public health concern that will take a variety of approaches to better manage. We believe our study is among the first to evaluate how the emotional health of a child can impact that of the parent," said Mark A. Reinecke, Ph.D., a co-author of the study.

The findings could be useful for clinicians, as they may wish to assess a parent's level of depression when treating his or her child, or provide appropriate referrals, according to Howard.

"The concept of emotions being 'contagious' and spreading from person to person is well-known by psychologists," Howard added. "This work opens up a range of possibilities for future research on the family-wide effects of treatment for adolescent depression."

Explore further Parent-child interactive intervention cuts depression

More information: Session 1205: "Parental Depressive Symptoms Over the Course of Treatment for Adolescent Depression," Poster Session, Saturday, Aug. 11, 9 a.m. PDT, Halls ABC Exhibition Level-South Building, Moscone Center, 747 Howard St., San Francisco, Calif.The House of Representatives committee on appropriations will suspend effective on Monday deliberations on the proposed 2019 national budget amid the opposition of lawmakers to the cash-based budgeting system of the Department of Budget and Management. The House will be suspending budget briefings until further notice, the panels chairman, Davao City Rep. Karlo Alexei Nograles said Saturday. Nograles said the decision to hold all budget briefings until further notice was the decision of the House leadership. But Nograles is hopeful Congress ongoing clash with the Department of Budget and Management over the 2019 budget would not result in a reenacted budget. Nograles also assured the public that Congress would pass a General Appropriations Act that would benefit the people and consistent with the development agenda of President Rodrigo Duterte. Our job in Congress is to ensure the passage of a budget that is in line with the vision of the President, a budget that benefits all Filipinos, especially those in the regions. In this cash-based budget of the DBM, the Filipinos, especially probinsyanos, are shortchanged, said Nograles. Lawmakers crossed party lines to oppose the DBMs new cash-based budgeting system, which has resulted in across-the-board cuts in the budgets of critical agencies like the Department of Education, the Department of Health, and the Department of Public Works and Highways. The budgets of the said agencies were reduced by P77 billion, P35 billion and P95 billion, respectively. Similarly, House majority leader and Camarines Sur Rep. Rolando Andaya Jr. voiced concern over the P35-billion budgetary cuts in the Department of Healths allocation under the proposed 2019 national budget. There are budgetary cuts in the Health department. It hits a major artery of government service,  Andaya said, referring to the P35-billion cut in the proposed DoH budget, or from P109 billion this year to P74 billion next year. Andaya said the virtual cancellation of the Health Facilities Enhancement Program, from the 2018 level of P30.3 billion to P100 million next year, accounted for the bulk of the cuts. Began during the Aquino administration, HFEP is a multiyear program to improve health facilities such as hospitals and barangay health stations but was recently mired in controversies as regards to alleged irregularities in its implementation. One downside of the proposed DoH budget cut is the possible displacement of medical professionals under its health deployment program where doctors, nurses, midwives, dentists are sent to rural areas and urban centers with high poverty incidence, Andaya, former Budget secretary, said. While he expressed reservations over the mulled DoH budget reduction, Andaya praised the hike in the governments budget for the PhilHealth enrollment of indigent households, from the current P60.6 billion to next years P67.4 billion. Next year, the national government will adopt the cash-budgeting system that calls for the payment of goods and services on the same year that they were acquired.But with this policy of the DBM, Nograles said instead of Build, Build, Build, it will now be Slash, Slash, Slash. Nograles said the ongoing budget deliberations in the House of Representatives have opened our eyes to the drawbacks of the proposed cash-based budgeting system. This is the complete opposite of the Build, Build, Build thrust of the Duterte administration. The people expect more infrastructure, more assistance from the government. Instead, the budget presented by the DBM is all about Slash, Slash, Slash, which would result in fewer of everything: fewer roads, fewer classrooms, fewer government hospital facilities, said Nograles. Nograles said many of his colleagues in the House were determined to exhort the DBCC to amend the budget to one that is more attuned to the situation on the ground. We will revert to an obligations-based budget. It is not just us in Congress who have issues with cash-based budgeting; even members of the cabinet who have faced us have issues, too. The requirements of a cash-based budget simply do not reflect the realities of governance, Nograles added. In separate budget hearings this week, several points were raised with regard to the inapplicability of the new DBM budget scheme. Commission on Higher Education officer-in-charge Prospero de Vera III told lawmakers the cash-based budget system would severely hamper the implementation of Republic Act 10931 or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. De Vera said CHED would encounter problems with the shift to a cash-based budget system as the fiscal year and academic year are not aligned. We will be severely hampered in implementing RA 10931... first in estimating reimbursements, second in determining which reimbursements will be given, and third in utilizing the budget allocated by Congress. In another hearing, DPWH Secretary Mark Villar admitted that the shift to a cash-based budgeting would be challenging for his agency. Villar said his department had to make adjustments due to the cash-based budgeting system, as it requires disbursements to be made within the fiscal year. We have to make sure that our timelines are extremely accurate. We have to make sure preparations [for] our projects are all on time Its more challenging, said the former lawmaker. Nograles, a three-term congressman, said that experience has shown that such scenarios, while ideal, were difficult to guarantee. Many projects do not get completed on time for various valid reasons, like justifiable delays in procurement, legal challenges, fund release problems, and even the weather. We recognize that the DBM wants more spending efficiency, but this can be achieved through other means, without cutting the budget.THE weather bureau said Sunday Luzon should brace for more rain today, Monday, as the southwest monsoon would continue to affect the area that was drenched beginning Saturday. The agency said Metro Manila, the Ilocos region, Cordillera, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Oriental and Occidental Mindoro should stay alert for floods and landslides. In other developments:  Rain spawned by the southwest monsoon will persist in Metro Manila and other parts of Luzon until Wednesday, an official said Sunday. Weather forecaster Aldczar Aurelio said the tropical storm outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility will continue to enhance the southwest monsoon.  The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said Sunday it was on red alert 24 hours a day as it continued to monitor the rain and floods brought by the southwest monsoon.

MONSOON SCENES. Heavy rains on Saturday onto Sunday led to these scenes from across Metro Manila. Topmost photo shows pedestrians crossing makeshift bridges along Espana Boulevard in Manila, while (clockwise from top left) evacuees cram into the covered court in Bagong Silang, Quezon City; a man moves his household goods to avert the rising floodwaters; mud-filled debris blocks the way to houses along a city street; and a car gets swept into the river, all in Marikina City. Lisa Marie David and Manny Palmero with AFP

 The water level in the Marikina River remains at Alarm Level II, the citys public information office said on Sunday, hinting that the residents nearby should prepare for a possible evacuation. The Marikina Public Information Office said the, water level in the river was still at 16 meters, which is classified as Second Alarm, as of 3:35 pm on Sunday.  The Archbishop of Manila on Sunday called on parishes to open their gates and accommodate those affected by the flooding brought about by the heavy rain over the weekend.  Some dams in Luzon have been releasing water on Sunday following the heavy rain brought by the southwest monsoon.  The Office of Civil Defense said it had yet to record casualties from the continuing rain brought by the southwest monsoon enhanced by Tropical Storm Karding.I hope it stays that way, agency spokesman Edgar Posadas told reporters on Sunday.  The Philippine Coast Guard said at least 638 passengers, eight vessels and 26 motorboats were stranded in various ports as of noon on Sunday. Karding left the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Saturday morning and was sighted 665 kilometers north-northeast of extreme Northern Luzon. On Monday, moderate to heavy rain will again hit Metro Manila, the Ilocos Region, the Cordillera Administrative Region, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Oriental Mindoro, and Occidental Mindoro. The rest of Luzon will also have scattered rain showers and thunderstorms. Residents of the areas affected by the southwest monsoon should watch out for flash floods and landslides. Massive floods have already hit parts of Metro Manila and Rizal over the weekend. The Visayas and Mindanao will only have localized thunderstorms on Monday. But flash floods and landslides are possible if the rain becomes moderate or heavy. Meanwhile, a gale warning was issued for Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Zambales, Bataan, Metro Manila, Cavite, the western coast of Batangas, Occidental Mindoro, Palawan, Batanes, the Calayan Group of Islands, the Babuyan Group of Islands, Cagayan, Isabela, Aurora, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon, Quezon, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Masbate, Burias Island and the southern coast of Batangas. The seas off those areas will be rough to very rough, with the wave heights reaching 2.6 meters to 4.5 meters. Weathermen advised fishermen and others with small vessels not to set sail in the areas covered by the gale warning. Larger vessels should watch out for big waves. Karding was the Philippines 11th tropical cyclone for 2018. The country usually gets an average of 20 tropical cyclones per year.NOTICE:

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MUGSHOTS.COM IS A NEWS ORGANIZATION. WE POST AND WRITE THOUSANDS OF NEWS STORIES A YEAR, MOST WANTED STORIES, EDITORIALS (UNDER CATEGORIES - BLOG) AND STORIES OF EXONERATIONS. OUR CONTENT REVOLVES AROUND CRIME, ARRESTS AND THE FIRST AMENDMENT. WE BELIEVE IN THE CONSTITUTION AND OUR FIRST AMENDMENT RIGHT TO PUBLISH UNPOPULAR SPEECH. OPEN RECORD LAWS WERE WRITTEN TO PROTECT THE PUBLIC; BY INFORMING THE PUBLIC OF ARRESTS AND TO HOLD LAW ENFORCEMENT ACCOUNTABLE FOR THE HUMANE TREATMENT OF ARRESTEES. MOST OF, IF NOT ALL MUGSHOT LAWS WERE CRAFTED TO PROTECT THE PUBLIC FROM FEES FOR REMOVAL OF ONLINE MUGSHOTS AND TO FURTHER PROTECT THE PRESS FROM THOSE VERY SAME "MUGSHOT LAWS".WE DO NOT ACCEPT PAYMENT FOR REMOVAL OF ARREST INFORMATION AND/OR BOOKING PHOTOGRAPHS. MORE...MTN has released its consolidated financial results for the six months ended 30 June 2018.

The company stated that group service revenue was up 10.2%, while its data revenue increased by 26.7%.

Subscriber numbers for the group were measured at 223.4 million in the period, with 71.2 million active data users.

Subscriber numbers also increased in South Africa, going up 2.2% to 30.2 million

Listed companies like Vodacom, MTN, and Telkom are required to release their subscriber figures regularly, while Cell C previously released its user numbers voluntarily.

Mobile subscribers in SA

Vodacoms latest trading update showed it has 43.1 million mobile users in South Africa.

Cell Cs results for the year ended 31 December 2017 reflect 16.3 million South African customers.

Telkoms financial results for the year ended 31 March 2018 showed an active mobile subscriber base of 5.2 million.

Following MTNs latest results, a breakdown of local mobile subscriber numbers is below.The Angwin Chevron station, which is operated by Pacific Union College, is undergoing an upgrade and remodel during the week of Aug. 6-10.

During the work, services will be limited, as certain parts of the station will need to be closed for refurbishment. Fuel will still be available 24 hours a day at Angwins only gas station, although some dispensers will be unavailable off and on.

According to Pacific Union College, which owns the property, Chevron recently held a contest for all of its stations, asking for plans which the station would follow if awarded a sum of money with which to improve their physical image. Pat Withers, manager of Angwins Chevron, decided to participate.

The Perennial Image Refresh Award came to the Angwin station in a lump sum of $13,000. This money will help pay for painting, new LED signs on the canopy, and brand-new center curbs, poles, and trash cans between the fuel dispensers.

It was a very nice surprise, Withers said. Earlier this year Chevron gave us $500 to repair the curbs around the station that have been broken and damaged, so this has been a good year for improvements.

The station plans to reopen with full services and a clean new look on Monday, Aug. 13.The sound of drumming filtered through the trees and called the people from their cars.

Toting folding chairs and slathered in bug spray, they came from the parking lotsome young, some old; some in pairs, some alone; many in Tevas, a few barefoot. Without speaking, they set their chairs in a circle in a leafy clearing in Turkey Run Park in McLean, Virgina. They grabbed drums laid out on a patterned blanket, gripped the instruments between their knees and joined in the pounding.

Your hands know what to do, intoned professional drum circle facilitator Katy Gaughan. Just drum! There is no right way and no wrong way.

On a hot and muggy Sunday, Church of the Wild was about to begin.

The church, which meets once a month in parks across the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia, draws around 50 congregants. Services, presided over by the Rev. Sarah Anders, typically run an hour and a half. Worshipers drum, sing and listen to recitations of poetry in an effort to connect with nature and fulfill the churchs stated goal: honoring the mutual indwelling of the Divine with the Earth and all of its beings.

Anders doesnt deliver a sermoninstead, attendees wander through their surroundings in total silence for about half an hour.

We dont say the G-o-d word a lot, Anders said. The emphasis is on God as a universal force. . . . Our mission is to help people come more into their spirits and their hearts.

Anders established the church in partnership with Beth Norcross, founding director of the Center for Spirituality in Nature and an adjunct faculty member at the Wesley Theological Seminary in the District. Church of the Wild met for the first time in April.

Anders describes her congregation as a nondenominational Christian church, but says she draws on aspects of all religionsfor example, services sometimes include readings from Jewish texts.

She and Norcross welcome agnostics. They say they hope the nontraditional atmosphere will allow them to better explore their faith and perhaps discover God.

Anders was ordained in the United Church of Christ, a liberal mainline Protestant denomination, and preached for a time at Rockville United Church in Maryland. She quit that job last year. Church of the Wild doesnt pay her (or anyone) a salary, so she earns a living by giving guest sermons and leading religious workshops.

Anders said she left Rockville United because she couldnt bear tripping over typical church language one minute longer. God as a He, people as sinnersI couldnt sit and hear it anymore, Anders said. She also wanted to spend her Sundays outdoors; sitting in a sanctuary felt confining.

On Sunday, all anyone could hear for several minutes was banging. Then Gaughan stepped in to organize her charges, leading the group in a rhythm meant to imitate the beating of a heart.

Heartbeatspace, heartbeatspace, Gaugahn instructed them. Here we are, one heart beating together.

One woman nodded and removed her shoes, still drumming. Another closed her eyes.

Gaughan led the drummers to a crescendoWere in the woods, you can be loud!before quieting them and ceding the circle to Anders.

Our theme this month is spiritual listening with naturenot to nature, with nature, and with the other beings in nature, Anders said. We find that as we honor the divine in the Earth and all its beings, we become more compassionate.

Sweating together at the Virginia park, congregants listened by practicing deep breathing. They listened by meditating for several minutes, guided into the subconsciousness by Anders. They listened as someone played a Native American instrument.

They listened even when they stood, grasped hands and repeatedly sang the chorus to the Alicia Keys song We Are Here. Anders said Keyss lyricsparticularly the line, We are here for all of usperfectly expresses the ideology of Church of the Wild. Congregants worship outdoors on behalf of all of us, including neighbors human and nonhuman.

Its an idea that appears to be picking up support across the continent. Theres now a Wild Church Network that connects 15 outdoor churches from Texas to California to Canada. Its really a phenomenon, Norcross said. Were one of many.

In Virginia, Sundays sermon time kicked off when Anders bid the group to open your eyes and begin your wandering. She invited them to lean up against vines and trunksthough not that one, given its wrapping of poison ivy.

Worshipers rose and dispersed in different directions. Some marched purposefully along forest paths; others walked slowly and deliberately toward nothing in particular.

For the next 20 minutes, no one spoke or made a sound beyond the occasional snapping of a twig. One woman took off her sandals and trod barefoot through the grass. A man in a red bandanna stood face-to-face with a tree and locked eyes with its trunk. Another man climbed a nearby picnic table, lay down on his back and stared up into the green canopy, unblinking.

A woman in a pink shirt approached a small tree, leaned her forehead against its trunk and closed her eyes. She remained there for several minutes, snapping her chewing gum.

After the service, congregants chatted and snacked on ice pops and crackers doled out from a portable cooler. Milling among the others, 50-year-old Smithsonian employee Kelly Richmond said shes never been very into organized religion, but Church of the Wild provides a way to see and appreciate the magic of nature while avoiding all that talk about a male God and the power of the patriarchy. Asked whether she believes in God, Richmond said she needs more information.

Kristina Byrne, a freelance writer who lives in Silver Spring and does consider herself religious, said she has come to every Church of the Wild service since its launch in April. Cradling her 2-year-old son Adisa on her hip, Byrne, 34, said that she has been worshiping by walking around the woods long before Church of the Wild began.

To me, its like the woods and God are the same thing, she said. So its nice to see groups of people doing what Ive always done.We had my dads funeral at the end of July.

He was cremated so we held onto his ashes until family from Texas and the Midwest could all get out to Napa at the same time.

My dad was in the Air Force in the 1960s and he wanted to be buried at the new veterans cemetery near Dixon. So early on that Friday morning, we drove to the cemetery.

For a burial at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, you dont just drive up to the gravesite and gather around.

First, you assemble in a designated lane near the cemetery entrance. You wait in your cars and then at the set time you drive together, in a procession, to a committal shelter.

During Dads short, but very solemn ceremony, two Air Force honor guards slow marched into the pavilion.

Click, click, click, sounded their shoes.

My dad would have loved this, I thought. He was only in the military for four years but some of his most dear friends were from that time.

Standing at the front of the shelter, the honor guards unfolded and refolded a large U.S. flag with crack precision.

One member then formally presented the flag, formed into a tight triangle, to my mom.

I sat next to her, holding her hand.

I kept looking at her to make sure she was OK. Im consoling my mom, I told myself. Or was it the other way around?

Using an automated bugle, one honor guard played Taps.

At the end, we gathered everyone together at the pavilion for a group photo.

In this picture, my mom is in the center, holding the folded flag. We are not smiling.

My dads ashes were put into the ground later that day. A temporary marker will be replaced with a headstone. It weighs 230 lbs., said the brochure.

  

After the funeral we went wine tasting. Nope, it doesnt get more Napa Valley than that.

It turns out that wine tasting with tourists is actually really fun. First of all, they arent picky. Tourists will try any wine  many, many any wine.

Second, they actually BUY wine. Unlike Penny Pinching Mom who relies on my husband to pass along a spare bottle now and then from his stash, these relatives happily filled out those order forms in the tasting rooms.

Can I buy a case of this wine?

Of course!

Can we split a case between red and white?

Of course!

Can this wine be shipped?

Of course!

The Napa Valley economy was happening right before my very eyes. Sales taxes, room taxes, tasting fees  you name it  they generated it. I did my part.

At one winery, we tasted sips of different wines with three different kinds of mini cheese cubes.

Which cheese goes best with this wine? asked our guide.

Um, all of them? I thought. Because CHEESE.

Cheese number three, he said patiently.

Our guide poured us samples of one wine that was said to be so good that nothing else should be eaten with it. In fact, the way our host made it sound, you should drink this wine alone, in a quiet, dark room. Shoes optional.

One winery had breadsticks that I tried not to totally devour. When wine tasting in Napa Valley it is not cool to eat more breadsticks than wine.

We took a few tours and posed for a fewmany pictures. We admired art and sculptures and views from balconies.

My dad would have loved this. He was always trying to plan a big family reunion.

On Friday night we set up folding chairs and sat on Grandmas driveway. The Texans liked the humidity-free nights and cooler temps. I tried to talk one uncle into moving to California.

My nephew, whos going into sixth grade, got out his skateboard.

Want to see me Ollie, he asked?

Yes, we said.

My brother spotted my dads old bike on the garage wall.

Lets ride dads bike! he said.

An old Schwinn from the 1950s, my dad had kept his childhood bicycle all these years. He even had new tires put on it a few years ago.

We pumped up the tires and took turns riding the bike around the court.

My dad would have loved this.

Surrendering to Motherhood appears every other Monday. Follow Jennifer on Twitter: @NVRHuffman.

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.My last day as a reporter at the Register is Wednesday. Its been a good run  nearly three years  but its time for me to move on. Where am I going? UC Berkeley.

Thats right, its back to school for me. Im pursuing a masters degree in journalism. And, as the only one of my parents children to walk at their high school graduation, its a big deal. I asked my mom the other day if she could believe I would be getting my masters. She said she knew I would.

I guess I did, too. Berkeley was in the back of my head when I applied for this job in 2015. Just two months before the job was posted online, I had decided that if I was going for my masters that I wanted to go through Berkeleys J-School, but I thought getting to California to establish residency (for cheaper tuition, obviously) would be impossible. Then I did it.

If all goes well, Ill have my masters degree by the time Im 30  the arbitrary deadline I had set for myself when I started thinking about this a decade ago. #Goals

The whole thing is bittersweet, though. This little newsroom has become my home. Its staff, my family. And you readers, well, youve made me feel part of the community. I will never forget my time here and I will never forget Napa.

As I prepare to leave my station as the crime reporter, Im trying to make sure that everything is perfect for my replacement. I want a smooth transition because this newsroom and this community deserves it. And so does the newcomer.

That being said, Im not really saying goodbye. Not fully. Im still hoping to freelance with the Register and make the occasional appearance around town. Itll be interesting to go to an event without having to write a story about it! Please do say hi.

Now for the other part of all this. For weeks leading up to my departure, Ive been trying to figure out if this will be Jersey Girls final column.

It will not.

Ive successfully convinced the editors to let Jersey Girl live on in the Registers pages! I hope you think this is good news because I sure do. I feel like weve become close, readers, even if you know more about me than I do you. I value our relationship. I knew this wasnt the end!

Talk to you in two weeks.

Love,

Napa Valleys Jersey Girl

Maria Sestito is the Napa Valley Register public safety reporter. Jersey Girl runs every other Sunday. Follow her on Twitter at @RiaSestito or email her at msestito@napanews.com.

Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.Wildfires and fires in the city have always been a frightening reality for Napa County residents and all Californians. During these infernos, as private citizens evacuate, emergency response personnel rush in, especially the firefighters. So, in honor of all those individuals who willingly put their lives on the line to assist others, this column is dedicated to their valor, and, sadly in some cases, to their memory.

The information for the following story about the early days of the Napa Fire Department was gleaned from a historical manuscript written by Rita Harren Bordwell in 1962. This long ago Napa native and resident was a very active, vocal and beloved community member.

Bordwell began, This is being written at the request of several of the boys of the Napa Fire Department who were desirous of knowing something of the early day history of their organization. I promised to write it because I was born and raised in Napa, and came from an old pioneer family who helped to make early day history in Napa. Unfortunately, there are very few records of the organization still in existence.

She continued, Napa, like all towns in early times, went through the pioneer days, the hardships, privations, floods, fires, epidemics and water shortages. The menace of every growing town or city, in early days, was the fear of fire which frequently occurred because of the lack of fire protection. It was a constant worry to the residents of Napa, due to the shortage of water.

To emphasize the local concern regarding fires Rita quoted an early Napa historian and librarian. In a Napa County history book written by Lyman Palmer in 1881, he said, For nearly fifteen years the water shortage, this vexed and vexing question, has agitated the minds of the people of Napa, and we are no nearer a solution today. Fires are now rapidly increasing due to the influx of people here, and we must have adequate water to combat them.

In addition to rapid growth and a water shortage, Napa was faced with another problem regarding fire safety. Bordwell explained, My mother told me her father, William Wall Kennedy, told her when he came to Napa as a young boy, 1854-1855, Napa had no fire protection. The only protection against fire was the efforts of what they called The Bucket Brigade.

Every home had a well and pump, that was the only method of securing water. Some had a couple of wells on their property, and a hand pump in their homes for household use. Some of the wells became dry in the summer and fall. When a fire occurred, the women and girls did the pumping, the men and boys stood in a line and passed the buckets, and the water was thrown on the fire. In grass fires, wet sacks were also used.

While the water situation persisted, the lack of fire protection was solved in April 1859 with the organization of the first volunteer fire department. She continued, They were called The Pioneer Engine Company, No. 1. The volunteers were considered a necessity but no one bothered to keep records, and the few that were made were either lost or destroyed as time went on.

Fortunately, she did find some records of the activities of the original Pioneer members. For example, Bordwell reported the following, (A membership) election was held and Robert Crouch was elected President; Edwin Chesebro, Foreman; J. H. Moran, Assistant Foreman; Harvey Wilder, Secretary, and B.F. Townsend, Treasurer.

These first volunteer firefighters tested their abilities and their $2,500 fire engine for the first time on June 6, 1860. Eventually, more equipment was added to the local protection arsenal, including a hook and ladder truck as well as eight Babcock Extinguishers.

Bordwell also wrote, The equipment of the Pioneer Engine Company No. 1 was stored in a barn on Main Street near Napa Street owned by a Mr. Murphy, a fellow member and contractor. This was used as an engine house until a contract was let on May 9, 1867 to William Richmond. For $5,450 he built a brick fire house across from the Court House on Brown Street. (A newly constructed coffee-house built with some of those bricks now occupies this site.) All of the equipment of Pioneer Engine Company No. 1 was moved to that location.

More of Rita Harren Bordwells recollections will be the featured subjects of future Memory Lane columns.AMERICAN CANYON  Following similar declarations by the state legislature and other California cities, the American Canyon City Council has proclaimed August as Muslim American Appreciation and Awareness Month.

The proclamation represents the first time American Canyon has honored Muslims through an official decree, according to residents and leaders.

I think this was a huge milestone for the Muslim community, said Councilmember Mariam Aboudamous in an interview. At a time when there is a lot of negativity at immigrants in general, and Muslims especially, its important to recognize immigrants because thats what the county is made of.

Were all products of immigrants, and its important to appreciate them, said Aboudamous, a Muslim whose parents emigrated from the Middle East and settled in American Canyon decades ago.

Other local Muslims heralded the City Councils proclamation, saying it represents a positive step toward acceptance of worshipers of Islam.

Najim Khan, who accepted the proclamation on behalf of the local Muslim community, called the decree a great honor.

I think its an excellent idea, Khan said following the council meeting. I think more cities and counties should do that.

The California state Assembly adopted HR 59 two years ago declaring August 2016 as Muslim Appreciation and Awareness Month. Other municipalities followed with their own proclamations, including the city of Santa Clara last month. American Canyon is believed to be the only Napa County city to adopt such a proclamation.

Khan said such actions by local and state governments could help reduce attacks on Muslim Americans.

If there is awareness, then these things will subside, he said. These things will not happen.

Originally from Pakistan, Khan settled in Vallejo 30 years ago. His property sits right on the border between Vallejo and American Canyon, he said.

My backyard fence is in American Canyon, said Khan, who serves on the board of trustees for the Islamic Center of Vallejo, which is both a mosque and community center for hundreds of Muslims living in Vallejo, American Canyon, Benicia, Martinez and other cities.

American Canyon does not have a mosque.

Khan said they welcome visitors to their center so they can learn more about them and their religion.

The reason we invite people to the Islamic Center is not because were converting somebody, he said, referring to fears expressed by those with Islamophobia. We want them to know who we are. Basically we just want them to get to know us, who we are, and then there is no misunderstanding.

He said the media often portrays Muslims in a negative light, and wants people to understand that he and others are not a threat.

Most people have a misconception about Islam and Muslims, Khan said.

He said local Muslims come from all walks of life and professions, from doctors to civil engineers. Khan offered as one example a local Muslim who works for Caltrans and regularly wears a head scarf.

People, when they see him dressed like this, they think, Oh, what is this man going to do next? said Khan. Is he going to blow us up or what?

Its all a misconception, he added.

Mayor Leon Garcia, who read the proclamation at the July 31 meeting, said he has visited the Islamic Center, located in the Glen Cove area of Vallejo.

I have enjoyed many times attending services there at the Islamic center and the hospitality and friendship of its members, said Garcia.

The American Canyon proclamation states the local community is enriched by the unparalleled diversity of its residents and takes great pride in supporting individual religious freedoms and is strengthened by the diverse religious, political, and cultural traditions of its residents, including those who practice Islam.

It goes on to say there are about 1 million Muslim Americans in California, the highest number of any state in the United States.

Whereas, the Muslim community is recognized as having made innumerable contributions to the cultural, political, and economic fabric and well-being of California and the United States, the proclamation states.

It further says it is appropriate to acknowledge and promote awareness of the myriad invaluable contributions of Muslim Americans in our community and across the country, and extend them the respect and camaraderie every American deserves.

Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.AKTAU, KazakhstanThe leaders of the five states bordering the Caspian Sea meet in Kazakhstan on Sunday to sign a landmark deal on the inland sea that boasts a wealth of oil and gas reserves and sturgeon. Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia and Turkmenistan are expected to agree a long-awaited convention on the legal status of the sea, which has been disputed since the collapse of the Soviet Union rendered obsolete the agreements between Tehran and Moscow. Talks in the port city of Aktau should help ease the tensions in a militarized region where the legal limbo has scuppered lucrative projects and strained relations among nations along the Caspians 7,000-kilometer shoreline. The Kremlin said the convention keeps most of the sea in shared use but divides up the seabed and underground resources. It does not allow military bases from any other countries to be sited on the Caspian. Sundays summit is the fifth of its kind since 2002 but there have been more than 50 lower-level meetings since the Soviet breakup spawned four new countries on the shores of the Caspian. The deal will settle a long-lasting dispute on whether the Caspian is a sea or a lakewhich means it falls under different international laws. The draft agreement, briefly made public on a Russian government portal in June, refers to the Caspian as a sea but the provisions give it a special legal status, Russian deputy foreign minister Grigory Karasin told Kommersant daily. It is the Caspians vast hydrocarbon reservesestimated at around 50 billion barrels of oil and just under 300 trillion cubic feet (8.4 trillion cubic meters) of natural gas in proved and probable reservesthat have made a deal both vital and complex to achieve. Disputes arose when the Caspian was a frontier oil province, said John Roberts, a non-resident senior fellow at Atlantic Councils Eurasia Center, while it is now well established, with major fields approaching peak... production. Any deal will expand the field for multilateral cooperation between the five states, said Ilham Shaban, who heads the Caspian Barrel think tank. But some are likely to view it as more of a breakthrough than others. Energy-rich but isolated Turkmenistan is particularly excited and President Gurganguly Berdymukahmedov has called for annual Caspian Sea Day celebrations from Sunday onwards. Turkmenistan could benefit from a concession allowing the construction of underwater pipelines, which were previously blocked by the other states.Nevertheless, analysts caution that Turkmenistans long-held plan to send gas through a trans-Caspian pipeline to markets in Europe via Azerbaijan is not necessarily closer to becoming reality. The plan was previously opposed by Russia and Iran, which could still attempt to block the pipeline -- valued at up to $5 billion -- on environmental grounds. A deal in Aktau is not a legal prerequisite for the construction of the Trans-Caspian Pipeline, said Kate Mallinson, Associate Fellow for the Russia and Eurasia Program at Chatham House. Neither will a major transport corridor to export Turkmen gas to Europe emerge overnight. As previous exclusive arbiters of Caspian agreements, Russia and Iran could be seen as the new deals biggest losers. But while Moscow has ceded ground on underwater pipelines it gains political kudos for breaking a log-jam, enhancing its image as diplomatic deal maker, said Roberts of the Eurasia Center. Russia will welcome the clause barring third countries from having military bases on the Caspian, underscoring its military dominance there, said Shaban of Caspian Barrel. Iran gets the smallest share of the Caspian spoils under the new deal, but could take advantage of new legal clarity to engage in joint hydrocarbons ventures with Azerbaijan. In the past Tehran has resorted to hostile naval maneuvers to defend its claims to contested territory. Beyond military and economic questions, the agreement also offers hope for the Caspians ecological diversity. Reportedly depleted stocks of the beluga sturgeon, whose eggs are prized globally as caviar, may now grow thanks to a clear common regime for the waters of the Central Caspian, Roberts said. The deal could result not only in stricter quotas for sturgeon fishing, but in stricter enforcement of these quotas, he added.Irene Snow Elementary School students will be returning to a much different campus this week than the one they left in June.

The south Napa school on Foster Road is being reconstructed at a cost of $36 million to move buildings off the West Napa Fault. This hazard was discovered after the 2014 South Napa earthquake.

The original buildings, which date from the late 1950s, will be replaced with portable structures at the east end of the campus for this coming school while a new complex is constructed off the fault line.

The only permanent building that will remain is the current multipurpose/gym. The new Snow campus, which will open in the fall of 2019, will include all new classrooms, new administration offices and a new multipurpose building.

The school will have computer and library facilities within the campus current multipurpose building.

Within this project, NVUSD will be rolling out new standards for technology, safety, infrastructure and kitchen services, which will follow in other locations throughout the district, said Jennifer Gibb, facilities financial analyst, with the Napa Valley Unified School District.

There will be all new play equipment, play fields and landscaping, she added.

The new school will provide the student/parent community with a campus consistent with a 21st century learning environment, said Gibb.

Napa Valley Unified is also planning to rebuild two other elementary schools due to their proximity to the West Napa Fault: Napa Junction in American Canyon and Stone Bridge in Napa.

Voters passed a $269 million bond issue in 2016 that provides $100 million for rebuilding the three elementary schools. The bond also has funds to seismically upgrade another dozen school campuses.

The rebuild of Snow Elementary began last summer with prep work for the relocatable buildings that will be used in the coming school year, said Gibb. The new buildings will be erected in an area fenced off from the temporary facilities used by students.

Beginning in August 2019 and running through that December, interim structures will be removed and a new play field will be installed.

Gibb said that the multipurpose building will remain and be used throughout this school year. It will then be converted into a library/computer lab in the later phases of the project. The multipurpose building was part of Measure M general obligation bond that passed in 2002, she noted.

The new school should include some mementos from the old, said Gibb. For example, a Charlottes Web mural from inside one school building was photographed before it was removed.

We are working with site administration to have the photographs of the murals framed for display at the new campus, as historical record of this artwork, said Gibb.

The 28 portables for the 2018-19 school year are the standard relocatable classrooms, Gibb explained.

Two were relocated from Willow (formerly El Centro) interim campus (used in the 2017-2018 school year), six are leased from Mobile Modular for 14 months and the remaining were original relocatable buildings from the Snow campus there were moved to the temporary campus.

Restrooms were also installed.

This year, drop-off and pick-up will occur in a lower parking lot, newly paved, just below the original on-campus parking lot. The lot adjacent to Foster Road will be used for contractor parking/supplies.

The new lower lot will allow students/parents to get closer to the interim campus, said Gibb.

The school has an estimated 415 students in grades K-5, including 16 students in the districts Autism Special Day Classes. The school is staffed by approximately 18 full-time teachers.

Irene Snow was a longtime Napa teacher and administrator. In 1927, Snow was named principal of the original John L. Shearer Elementary School on Pine Street in Napa. Later, she became the first female superintendent of schools for elementary instruction. She retired in 1952.

Snow died in December 1958. Snow School opened in 1959.

Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.Teenagers participating in agricultural programs across Napa County showcased their hard work and even made some money during the Junior Livestock Auction at the Napa Town & Country Fair on Saturday.

Haley Konoval, 17, a senior at American Canyon High School, said she is putting any money she earns from raising livestock away for college. During the auction, Konoval sold her first market goat, Socrates, for $21 per pound. At 91 pounds, Socrates yielded $1,911.

This is just a little extra money that I can put into savings for college, Konoval said.

Her second goat hadnt even gone up for auction yet.

Konoval has been participating in American Canyon 4-H, a youth development program, for 8 years. Shes been raising goats for five.

I started off just doing other things that the club offers, she said, like baking, sewing and arts and crafts. Eventually she started raising chickens, then goats, and now she also raises ducks.

I love doing this, Konoval said. Its a lot of work, and its not for everyone, but I love it, and I cant imagine doing it any other way.

Konoval, who works two other jobs, said after she graduates, she hopes to attend UC Davis and become a veterinarian.

In the months leading up to auction, she wakes up every day at 5:50 a.m. to feed the goats. Over the past few years, shes learned how to train, sheer and care for the goats. Although the goats are sold for their meat, she said, theyve had the best life they could ever really ask for.

Were raising high-quality meat in a very ethical, environmentally friendly way, she said. Theyre fed two meals a day, theyre not cooped up, and they get to play with their friends (other goats).

This year was 15-year-old Joe Brawdys first year participating in St. Helena FFA (Future Farmers of America) and, he said, he really didnt know what to expect.

I was kind of going in blind, the St. Helena High School sophomore said. My parents convinced me to take an ag class and now I have two sheep. Its weird to think about.

Those two sheep, he said, made him a little more than $3,000 on Saturday, adding up to about $1,900 in profit. Brawdy took out a $1,375 agricultural loan, which paid for his uniform and part of two animal-related projects, at the beginning of the program.

Hes going to use the money for college, he said, because its never too early to start saving.

My parents were quite happy when I told them I didnt want to spend it on videogames.

Although he would have never described himself as an animal person, Brawdy said he has gotten a lot out of the program.

Its just opened up so many doors, he said. Through the FFA, Brawdy has sharpened his people skills, learned some marketing skills and has even developed an understanding of how the food industry works.

Raising livestock teaches perseverance and time management, said Alex Avina, 16, of Calistoga.

Its very educational and really beneficial for college, he said. Alvina, who has participated in St. Helena FFA for three years, said although he likes it, this may be his last year. Next summer, he said, he wants to start working more and planning for college.

Garrett Singletary, 17, of the Napa 4-Leaf Clovers, said raising livestock through 4-H gives kids something to be responsible for in addition to giving them experience talking to people and learning how to network.

In order to sell an animal for a better price, he said, you need to reach out to people you know and invite them to come to the auction. Then, while at the auction, he said, you introduce yourself and chat it up with other potential buyers.

Singletary, a senior at Valley Oak High School, was auctioning off two hogs on Saturday  Magnolia and Blue. On Monday, each one weighed 245 pounds, so he expected them to be 10 to 15 pounds heavier for the auction.

In general, hogs gain one pound for every three pounds you feed them.

You usually want them (weighing) 260 to 275 pounds, he said.

Eventually, he said, he hopes to have a farm.

Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.Each week, the Napa Valley Register runs photos of your fishing or hunting prizes in the feature "Bragging Rights" on the Sports page. Here arTwo known gang members were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder for allegedly stabbing a rival gang member Friday night in Napa, according to Napa Police.

The victim, police said, was found at about 10:30 p.m. on the 400 block of Riverside Drive with significant lacerations to his face. The victim, whose identity has not been released by police, was transported to Queen of the Valley Medical Center with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.

The suspects  Christian Gallegos, 22, and Angel Gallegos, 19  were located shortly after and arrested. Police said both men are known gang members, but could not say whether or not they were related. Both men were booked at the Napa County jail on suspicion of attempted murder, conspiracy, mayhem and assault with a deadly weapon as well as gang enhancements.

Police said other charges may be added.

Gallegos and Gallegos are currently being held without bail.

Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.As my wife and I were headed home from work Monday evening, we were, as usual, chatting about the events of the day. But as we exited the Elm Tunnel at the north end of St. Helena, the conversation stumbled, then stopped.

In unison we said uh-oh.

Over the hills southeast of Calistoga was a tall plume of brown and white smoke, joining the pervasive haze that has been hovering over the area for weeks as fires burn to the north.

As we drove, we watched with concern as the plume swirled in the hot breeze and grew.

Along the highway, cars were stopping and people were watching stoically, or taking photos and posting to social media.

At Dunaweal Lane, we looped back and drove back down Silverado Trail as I tried to determine the location. Was it in Dutch Henry Canyon? At Calistoga Ranch?

Finally it became pretty clear that the blaze was at the Clover Flat landfill, which reassured me somewhat since it is a reasonably clear space, minimizing the chance of spreading to wildlands.

But still it was a grim trip to the grocery store to pick up dinner. All over Calistoga, people were watching with evident fear.

In the end, it turned out to be a minor and easily controlled burn at the landfill, but I doubt there was anyone Upvalley watching that smoke plume without visions in their minds of last falls wildfires, and the horrendous devastation being wrought right now in Lake and Mendocino counties and around the city of Redding.

We had just come back from a family vacation, a road trip up through Oregon, Washington, Montana and Idaho. There are few things I enjoy more than a nice long road trip, seeing the sights of the country at ground level.

But this trip had an unsettling background theme. We left the day the Carr Fire began its destructive attack on Redding. We had planned to stop in Redding for lunch, but instead we saw the huge smoke column and listened to all-too-familiar radio reports of residents being evacuated.

We drove through the city of Weed, which still bears the scars of the horrible Boles Fire that burned into town in 2014, and which, on the day we passed through, was wreathed in smoke from fires burning in Oregon.

Once in Oregon, visibility dropped to less than a mile for long stretches from fires burning across the south and west of the state, almost all the way to Portland.

We had a clear day in Bend, but as we headed off to Spokane the next day, the smoke was so think that we could barely discern Mount Hood and the other towering giants of western Oregon. All through Washington and into Montana, the sky remained a gloomy grey or brown.

Coming back from Missoula, by way of Boise, large swaths of Idaho were on fire. We drove within sight of a fire along the Payette River. Firefighting camps were set up for miles along the highway and sea planes were landing on Cascade Lake, scooping up water and taking off again to dump it on the flames. So thick was the smoke that it set off my Check Engine light, fooling the sensors into thinking I had an emissions leak.

Driving home on Saturday, through Reno and the Donner Pass, was incredibly sobering. In addition to fires burning north of Reno, winds were blowing in smoke from the fires in California, creating a thick, soupy fog all the way into Sacramento.

Gov. Jerry Brown has called the terrifying fire seasons of the past few years the new normal. Experts debate whether hes exactly right on that, but there is no question that the frequency and intensity of fires in the West has increased dramatically in recent years, as a warmer, drier climate combines with a century of poor forest management and development to create perfect conditions for horrifying firestorms.

Certainly smoke is our pervasive companion in the summer months, no matter how far we may travel in California and neighboring states. Its a constant reminder that no town, no home, no forest or farm is entirely safe anymore.

And thats why a minor, easily controlled blaze at the Clover Flat Landfill brought life to a grim and frightened halt for an hour on Monday afternoon.

You can reach Sean Scully at 256-2246 or sscully@napanews.com.

Catch the latest in Opinion Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly to your inbox weekly! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.Prime Minister Narendra Modi will seek to allay Bangladeshs concern over possible adverse fallout on Assams National Register of Citizens (NRC) updating exercise when he meets his counterpart Sheikh Hasina later this month.

The two Prime Ministers are scheduled to meet on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC summit at Kathmandu beginning August 30.

The two leaders have already met thrice this year , the last time during the inauguration of the Bangladesh Bhavan at Shantiniketan in West Bengal.

This meeting is very important because this would possibly be the last between the two leaders before the Bangladesh Parliament elections scheduled later this year.

Despite assurances by Indian High Commissioner H V Shringla and Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju that the NRC updating is an internal matter of India and will not affect Bangladesh , the present dispensation in Dhaka is worried over the shrill anti-Bangladesh rhetoric by BJP leaders and the impact it might have on the poll campaign in Bangladesh.

The threat of throwing out illegal infiltrators from Bangladesh may be used by anti-Indian Islamist parties who project Hasinas Awami League as an Indian stooge who has given away much to India without getting any tangible benefit for Bangladesh in return.

Dhaka has been assured that the NRC document released on July 3o was only a draft and those left out still had the chance to get included during the claims and objections process now underway.

Top sources at the Centre told Northeat Now that Prime Minister Modi will use the Kathmandu meeting to personally allay Hasinas fears over the NRC fallout and detail some more Indian aided projects in Bangladesh.

This may have to some extent been triggered by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee s allegations that the NRC exercise will ruin Indias relations with Bangladesh .

But BJP leaders point to Banerjees strident pitch against the Teesta water sharing accord with Bangladesh as more damaging to India-Bangladesh relations than any other single issue.

Senior BJP leaders like Tripura Governor Tathagata Ray have said that getting a fair share of the waters of Teesta was due to a lower riparian nation like Bangladesh as a matter of right.The Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) has expressed disappointment over the recent statement made by Tibetan Spiritual Leader the 14th Dalai Lama in which he called Jawaharlal Nehru, the former Prime Minister of India as self-centered and the one responsible for parting India and Pakistan.

Although Dalai Lama expressed regret over his controversial comment, the APCC is extremely thwarted by it. A Tibetan spiritual leader calling names to an Indian leader who sweated most to keep him and his followers safe from Chinese aggression is simply not acceptable. Today, India is home to lakhs of Tibetan refugees who are living in 37 settlements and 70 scattered communities across different states of India, APCC vice-president Minkir Lollen said in a statement on Sunday.

Dalai Lama may have forgotten that India provided a beam of light and hope to Tibetans remaining in Chinese-dominated Tibet and in the neighbouring Chinese provinces politically cut off from the Tibetan heart land. All these happened only because India has great leaders like Gandhi and Nehru who took the responsibility of social burden to shelter thousands of persecuted Tibetans then in 1959, Lollen added.

Minkir said Dalai Lama should know that a spiritual leader like him is shouldering great expectation, hope and trust of millions on record and the same are watching his contribution towards the mankind.

In such circumstances, Dalai Lama should abstain from imparting partial and controversial information to the students who are the torch bearer of the nation, the Congress said.

Further stating that the statement of the spiritual leader could be a politically motivated one and made with an effort to approach Prime Minister Narendra Modi for survival of his continuation in the country, the Congress said Dalai Lama being a foreigner should shun and refrain from interfering in the internal as well as external affairs of India.Ramen Deka, Member of Parliament (MP), Mangaldoi Lok Sabha constituency, is of the opinion that there is no unemployment problem in India which boasts of a population of one hundred and twenty five crore. Nevertheless, there is dearth of competent people for the jobs.

MP Deka made this observation while interacting with young job seekers at the Mega Job Mela, Darrang 2018 organised jointly by the Darrang chapter of the Assam State Rural Livelihood Mission (ASRLM) and the district administration at Mangaldoi Sanatan Dharmasabha premises on Sunday afternoon.

Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the MP stressed on the need to expand ones skill sets in order to get a paying job in todays dog-eat-dog world. One must polish ones skill to survive in todays fiercely competitive environment. If you master the art of perfection in your chosen field, then you can earn even while sitting at home.

Deka said that there was great demand for skilled workers like mason, carpenter, plumber, etc., in foreign countries like Mauritius. Recently, Mauritius was in need of 50,000 workers to work in their country as mason, carpenter, plumber, bartenders, etc. Anyone with the above skills can easily land a job in Mauritius, the MP remarked.

Deka lamented that youths in Assam only hankered after white-collar jobs even though they did not have the required qualifications. A lot of youths who participated in the Mega Job Mela shared their personal experiences vis-a-vis how after being trained under Government-sponsored programmes, they no longer had to break their heads over getting a Government job and were self-sufficient enough to start their own enterprise.

Earlier, while explaining the objectives of the job mela organised for the first time in Darrang district, Pankaj Chakravarty, Project Director, District Rural Development Agency (DRDA), Darrang, pointed out that the mela provided a platform to the rural unemployed youths of the district (Grade VIII pass and above) for on-the-spot registration and placements in various trades depending on their capabilities. The day-long mela where about 15 private placement and training organisations including ASRLM participated reportedly enrolled around 1,500 aspirant candidates.The requested page is currently unavailable on this server.

Back to [RTHK News Homepage]Q&A Alif Ba Ta Conference Cont'd (September 29, 2011)





Q5: If you were given an opportunity for a private meeting with Prime Minister Najib, what advice would you give him?





MBM: Najib has a short attention span so I will offer him only two. If I were to give him more, he would probably forget the rest! Najib has a short attention span so I will offer him only two. If I were to give him more, he would probably forget the rest!





One is not an advice but to elicit from him his vision of Malaysia and to inquire what his greatest fear is, politically. The two are related. I think I can anticipate his answer to my second query but as to the first, I have no clue, despite his much-ballyhooed 1Malaysia public relations exercise and its attendant expensive international consultants.





The greatest fear of Barisan, and thus of Najib as its leader, is that it would not regain its traditional two-third majority in the next [2013] general election. You know the fate of Najibs predecessor Abdullah Badawi when he failed to deliver in 2008.





If that were to be his greatest fear, then imagine it being worse and prepare for that eventuality. If things were to turn out to be not as bad, then he would be relieved and have more confidence in tackling the crisis.





Melayu, and Melayu, UMNO. If that scenario is not scary enough, then add his losing his Pekan seat, as he nearly did in the 1999 elections. What could be worse than Barisan losing the supra majority? That would be Barisan failing to gain even a simple majority and thus losing the right to rule Malaysia. To add insult to an already unbearable injury, I would have him imagine UMNO winning fewer parliamentary seats than PAS. That would shatter the myth that UMNO is, and, UMNO. If that scenario is not scary enough, then add his losing his Pekan seat, as he nearly did in the 1999 elections.





The next election is due no later than March 8, 2013, so Najib has exactly 768 days from today (January 29, 2011) to prepare for that potential political catastrophe. Add a day more if there were to be a leap year in between.





There would be only two choices for Najib. One, knowing that he would lose everything in the next election, he should seize this brief opportunity to enrich himself and his family. Then when booted out he could charter a private jet to whisk him and his family out of the country. That unfortunately is the well-trodden path followed by far too many Third World leaders, the latest being the Tunisian leader, soon to be joined by Egypts Mubarak. If Najib were to pursue that course, he would deserve the wrath and curse of all Malaysians. That animus would spill over and stain the memories Malaysians have of his late father.





glokal Malay agenda. Many, including Najib, have already forgotten that slogan. The other option would be to execute his grand vision of a clean, efficient, and meritocratic nation, as encapsulated in his 1Malaysia aspiration, and help propel Malays onto the global arena, his so-calledMalay agenda. Many, including Najib, have already forgotten that slogan.

He could do this by getting rid of all those tainted UMNO characters in his cabinet and party. So what if they were to rebel and plot against him; the result would not be any worse than the earlier scenario I had painted.





Then there are those juicy government contracts. Put them all out to competitive bidding and invite international bidders. If an American company would win it, so what? At least the roofs would not leak or collapse. Yes, those UMNO pseudo entrepreneurs would be ticked off, like bears whose honey jars have suddenly been taken away.





To demonstrate his commitment to meritocracy, visit the top universities of the world and invite those Malaysians there for a private dinner. They might not fall for his cajoling to return but they might just give him some useful advice and brilliant ideas. Who knows, one or two might return. It would certainly be more productive than meeting a Petronas University flunky lobbying for a scholarship, as he did with one Saiful Bukhari.





If Najib were to opt for this second course, he would transform Malaysia come 2013. Voters, seeing the tangible results, may well enthusiastically endorse his leadership. If not, then Najib could at least have the satisfaction knowing that he had given his best.





My second advice to Najib is a real one, not merely a question for him. It is also very short: Get rid of your wife from the public arena! [Spontaneous enthusiastic applause!] As you can see, I am not the only one who would like to throw him that advice!



africa bitcoin cryptocurrency regulation

African countries want to regulate cryptocurrency, but hardly any one wants to take the lead in responding to the meteoric rise of this technology and asset class.

Thats according to a new report from the Togo-based Ecobank, the leading independent regional banking group that serves nearly 40 countries in West and Central Africa.

The report, which examined the regulatory response to cryptocurrencies in the 39 sub-Saharan countries, found that regulators in most jurisdictions are taking a wait-and-see approach, hoping that they can learn from the mistakes of their neighbors before they take action themselves.

African countries appear to be looking to their neighbours to regulate and innovate first, and learn from their mistakes, rather than being the first mover, the bank said. African governments worry that if its citizens become overexposed to cryptocurrency investments, the repercussions of a future crash could be felt in the broader economy, hence their scepticism of licensing their use.

Of the 39 regulatory regimes surveyed, more than half  21 countries  had yet to make a public stance on cryptocurrency.

Only three countries had taken a strong position on cryptocurrency, with Namibia issuing an outright ban and  on the the opposite extreme  South Africa and Swaziland adopting generally favourable and permissive stances on the asset class but stopping short of providing them with full legality.

The other 15 countries lay somewhere in the middle, largely declining to regulate them directly, stating that bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies fall under a legal gray area and warning investors against investing in them.

For its part, the bank lamented the emphasis that cryptocurrency price movements have engendered in the public discourse surrounding this technology and asset class.

Unfortunately, the spectacular rise and fall in the traded value of cryptocurrencies has drowned out broader discussion on the potential benefits this new technology could bring, the bank said, concluding:

Story continues

The transformational impact that could be delivered by tokenising products and services on the blockchain has been compared to that of the Internet. Crypto tokens and currencies could enable consumers to transact instantly, cross-border and for free, provide them with KYC-compliant digital IDs, and incentivise their behaviour and change the way they engage with governments & service providers.

Featured image from Shutterstock.



The post African Regulators Taking Wait-and-See Approach on Cryptocurrency: Ecobank Report appeared first on CCN.

U.S. stocks slid on Friday as a deepening economic crisis in Turkey dragged on bank stocks and triggered fears that it could spread to other global economies.

Todays topics include trouble in Turkey, Tesla, and the early release of Starbuckss pumpkin latte being. Catch The Final Round at 3:55 ET p.m. with Yahoo Finances Jen Rogers, Andy Serwer, and Jared Blikre. Also joining the show today, Tasha Keeney of ARK Invest.

Winners and Losers

Stocks in the red include News Corp, with shares dropping the most in five years after the company said it will invest more in its Australian cable network; Dropbox, as for the most recent quarter, the personal cloud company posted 27% revenue growth year to year, but investors are on edge by the departure of CEO Dennis Woodside; and Intel, as Goldman Sachs lowers the rating on the computer chip manufacturer from sell to neutral citing repeated delays in moving to the next generation chip process technology.

Stocks in the green include Stitch Fix, as SunTrust rated the personal styling companys stock as a buy in new coverage. They called Stitch Fix a disruptor that is in position to gain more attention from investors; Overstock.com, with shares soaring on news that Hong Kong private-equity firm GSR capital is buying shares in the online retailer, as well as investing in its blockchain subsidiary tZero; and Planet Fitness as it reported its third straight quarter of accelerating earnings growth.Dividends can be underrated but they form a large part of investment returns, playing an important role in compounding returns in the long run. Recently, Yum China Holdings Inc (NYSE:YUMC) has returned an average of 1.00% per year to shareholders in terms of dividend yield. Does Yum China Holdings tick all the boxes of a great dividend stock? Below, Ill take you through my analysis.

Check out our latest analysis for Yum China Holdings

5 checks you should do on a dividend stock

If you are a dividend investor, you should always assess these five key metrics:

Is it paying an annual yield above 75% of dividend payers?

Has it consistently paid a stable dividend without missing a payment or drastically cutting payout?

Has it increased its dividend per share amount over the past?

Is its earnings sufficient to payout dividend at the current rate?

Based on future earnings growth, will it be able to continue to payout dividend at the current rate?

NYSE:YUMC Historical Dividend Yield August 10th 18

How does Yum China Holdings fare?

The company currently pays out 22.93% of its earnings as a dividend, according to its trailing twelve-month data, meaning the dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Going forward, analysts expect YUMCs payout to increase to 28.39% of its earnings, which leads to a dividend yield of around 1.36%. In addition to this, EPS should increase to $1.62. The higher payout forecasted, along with higher earnings, should lead to greater dividend income for investors moving forward.

If theres one type of stock you want to be reliable, its dividend stocks and their stable income-generating ability. The reality is that it is too early to consider Yum China Holdings as a dividend investment. It has only been paying out dividend for the past one year. Generally, the rule of thumb for determining whether a stock is a reliable dividend payer is that it should be consistently paying dividends for the past 10 years or more. Clearly theres a long road ahead before we can ascertain whether YUMC one as a stable dividend player.

Story continues

Relative to peers, Yum China Holdings has a yield of 1.15%, which is on the low-side for Hospitality stocks.

Next Steps:

After digging a little deeper into Yum China Holdingss yield, its easy to see why you should be cautious investing in the company just for the dividend. On the other hand, if you are not strictly just a dividend investor, the stock could still be offering some interesting investment opportunities. Given that this is purely a dividend analysis, I recommend taking sufficient time to understand its core business and determine whether the company and its investment properties suit your overall goals. Ive put together three relevant aspects you should look at:

Future Outlook: What are well-informed industry analysts predicting for YUMCs future growth? Take a look at our free research report of analyst consensus for YUMCs outlook. Valuation: What is YUMC worth today? Even if the stock is a cash cow, its not worth an infinite price. The intrinsic value infographic in our free research report helps visualize whether YUMC is currently mispriced by the market. Dividend Rockstars: Are there better dividend payers with stronger fundamentals out there? Check out our free list of these great stocks here.

To help readers see past the short term volatility of the financial market, we aim to bring you a long-term focused research analysis purely driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis does not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements.



The author is an independent contributor and at the time of publication had no position in the stocks mentioned. For errors that warrant correction please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com.movies that were actually progressive back in the day and are still shocking now, many decades later. Its easy to think of old movies as racist and sexist because, well, many of them are, but as weve learned, quite a few people in Hollywood were liberals and progressives and sometimes this showed in their work.



[ Disclaimer ] Disclaimer :

+ Im not saying all of these movies are 100% woke. Just that they tackle at least one socially or politically progressive topic that wasnt just controversial at the time but still is today.

+ Most of these movies were made while the Im not saying all of these movies are 100% woke. Just that they tackle at least one socially or politically progressive topic that wasnt just controversial at the time but still is today.Most of these movies were made while the Hays Code was in place which censored immoral~ content. If you need a quick historical primer, Vox has a good video on the topic . It just makes these movies all the more impressive for somehow making it past the censors. Inspired by the recent post about Old Hollywood liberals , I present to you a post about Old Hollywoodthat were actually progressive back in the day and are still shocking now, many decades later. Its easy to think of old movies as racist and sexist because, well, many of them are, but as weve learned, quite a few people in Hollywood were liberals and progressives and sometimes this showed in their work.

| 1

dir. by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, starring Sidney Poitier (in his commercial film debut), Richard Widmark, Linda Darnell, Stephen McNally, Mildred Joanne Smith (in her film debut), Ossie Davis (in his film debut), Ruby Dee





Why its progressive: Because this was one of the first Hollywood movies to actually address and condemn racism. Like, this film was so groundbreaking and unrestrained that it was feared that it would incite race riots. It was never shown in the South.

[ Basic plot ] Plot: Dr. Luther Brooks (Sidney Poitier) is a black doctor in a white hospital. When two criminal brothers who also happen to be racists get delivered to the prison station, he still has to treat them. One of them dies under his care and the surviving brother, Ray Biddle (Richard Widmark), blames Dr. Brooks for no reason other than dun dun dun hes a racist. Dr. Brooks wants to prove his innocence but the hospital doesnt take his concerns seriously, leading to an escalating chain of events.

Ain't that asking a lot for us to be better than them when we get killed just trying to prove we're as good?

Why its still relevant: The film doesnt deal with institutional/systemic racism (although there are allusions to it) but its still relevant for its intersectional approach to racism and class. If this film were released today, you can just imagine how the NYT would write a think piece about the economic~ anxiety~ of the poor white folk at the center of it but the movie calls that out for the nonsense it is. It shows that there is a way out of learned prejudice but that theres no way out of irrational hate. [ one caveat ] (I have to add one caveat about the movie though: The main villain uses every racist epithet in the book. While it does make the movie quite visceral and shocking, theres a debate to be had about whether that sort of language is necessary to that degree and it was in fact something the NNPA objected to.) The film doesnt deal with institutional/systemic racism (although there are allusions to it) but its still relevant for its intersectional approach to racism and class. If this film were released today, you can just imagine how the NYT would write a think piece about the economic~ anxiety~ of the poor white folk at the center of it but the movie calls that out for the nonsense it is. It shows that there is a way out of learned prejudice but that theres no way out of irrational hate.

| 2

dir. by Ernst Lubitsch, starring Gary Cooper, Miriam Hopkins, Fredric March, Edward Everett Horton





Why its progressive: Because its pro-polygamy. Forget the tragic negativity of basically every film made ever since that features a love triangle / menage a trois / whatever you want to call it.

[ Basic plot ] Plot: Its about three Americans in Paris. Gilda (Miriam Hopkins) meets best friends Tom (Fredric March), a playwright, and George (Gary Cooper), a painter. She falls in love with both of them. They make a gentlemens agreement where she can be in a relationship with both of them so long as sex is off the table. (And yes, they actually say this point-blank in the movie.) Naturally, jealousy ensues but theyre determined to make it work.

"It's hard to believe I I loved you both."

Why its still relevant: The film was pre-code but it was made on the brink of the enforcement of the code and had some problems getting cleared for release. Just one year later, under the new strict rules, it couldnt get a certificate for re-release. While the positive outlook this film has on a bohemian~ life style may come across as naive, it was pretty daring at the time. Actually, the fact that its so judgement-free makes it still progressive today. And while the bisexuality of Tom and George that was implied in the play by Noel Coward that the film is (very loosely) based on isnt hinted at in the movie, it doesnt seem completely straightwashed either. Case in point: The above quote thats said by George to Gilda and Tom. Even though its meant to come across as platonic, the domestic friendship of George and Tom is definitely pretty unusual as far as on-screen male friendships are concerned and it takes little imagination to supply the erased subtext. The portrayal of Gilda is also progressive and par for the course where pre-code films and their portrayal of liberated women are concerned.





| 3

dir. by Rouben Mamoulian, starring Fredric March, Anna Sten... also, Preston Sturges is one of the credited writers (?!)





Why its progressive: Because its socialist af. I cant stress enough how completely unusual this is for a major Hollywood production, let alone one made in the 1930s. Sure, this was made after the Citizen Kane). Because itsaf. I cant stress enough how completely unusual this is for a major Hollywood production, let alone one made in the 1930s. Sure, this was made after the First Red Scare and before the Second Red Scare , so there seems to have been a tiny window of opportunity for a film like this, but its not like Hollywood ever embraced socialist politics, like, ever. And yet this film somehow exists and while its obscure today, it was made by the best crew money could buy at the time (especially noteworthy is the cinematography by the legendary Gregg Toland whos known for his work on).

[ Basic plot ] Plot: This film is an adaptation of Leo Tolstoys last novel Resurrection (1899). Its about the young nobleman Prince Dmitri Ivanovich Nekhlyudov (Fredric March) who initially champions socialist ideals but gets corrupted during his time in the military. While hes home on leave, he sleeps with the servant girl Katusha (Anna Sten) whos been in love with him since forever. He immediately abandons her afterwards, unaware that he has gotten her pregnant. Years later, he meets her again while hes on jury duty and she is accused of murdering one of her clients, having become destitute and forced into prostitution. Dmitri has to come to terms with the fact that hes a terrible person and has ruined her life. He must also try to redeem himself by doing everything he can to save her. [ spoiler for the ending ] She calls him out on the selfishness of his attempts to help her because theyre more about his conscience than about her. Its great. And it gets better. Due to a legal error, the jury actually accidentally sentences Katusha to years of prison labor in Siberia. When Dmitri realizes that he cant do anything to stop it, he breaks off his engagement to the rich daughter of the judge who presided over the case, gives away all of his lands to his peasants, and joins Katusha for years of prison labor in Siberia. When will your faves? Apparently Hollywood changed the ending from the book but if thats Hollywoods idea of a happy ending then idek. They clearly wanted to make it more romantic but its not a love story and the film doesnt even play it as one which just gives more weight to the socialist motivations of Dmitris actions of atonement. This film is an adaptation of Leo Tolstoys last novel(1899). Its about the young nobleman Prince Dmitri Ivanovich Nekhlyudov (Fredric March) who initially champions socialist ideals but gets corrupted during his time in the military. While hes home on leave, he sleeps with the servant girl Katusha (Anna Sten) whos been in love with him since forever. He immediately abandons her afterwards, unaware that he has gotten her pregnant. Years later, he meets her again while hes on jury duty and she is accused of murdering one of her clients, having become destitute and forced into prostitution. Dmitri has to come to terms with the fact that hes a terrible person and has ruined her life. He must also try to redeem himself by doing everything he can to save her.

"Were all shells. Were mannequins. Were destined for a short life and a bad end. Were gluttonous and surfeited while all about us millions go hungry."

Why its still relevant: In a time where shows like Downton Abbey romanticize the idea of master-servant relationships, this film is the perfect antidote. The moral message of the movie seems to lie somewhere between men are the worst and capitalism is the worst. Theres also some the justice system is the worst and the military is the worst thrown in for good measure. This film is not a socialist film in the vein of Salt of the Earth (which was made by blacklisted members of Hollywood in 1954 and depicted a union strike in New Mexico in a neorealist (and feminist!) way) but unlike Salt of the Earth, this film was actually made by and endorsed by Hollywood. Samuel Goldwyn had intended the film as a star vehicle for the Russian actress Anna Sten who he hoped would be the next Greta Garbo. The film was a flop and some scenes seem to have landed on the cutting room floor but its better than the pallid adaptation of Anna Karenina that was made one year later and actually starred Greta Garbo. Also, hilariously enough, Joseph Breen from the Hays office actually loved this film because I guess he was excited by seeing people suffer for having illicit~ sex~ and missed that it was all about issues of class struggle and toxic masculinity.

| 4

dir. by Gregory La Cava, starring Katharine Hepburn, Ginger Rogers, Andrea Leeds, Eve Arden, Lucille Ball, Ann Miller

Why its progressive: Because its about female friendship and female solidarity. Its about women who want successful careers instead of obligatory marriages. It also subtly calls out the sexist nature of showbusiness and critically alludes to the casting couch phenomenon and how women are subjected to predatory men in Hollywood. (Theres a Because its about female friendship and. Its about women who want successful careers instead of obligatory marriages. It also subtly calls out the sexist nature of showbusiness and critically alludes to the casting couch phenomenon and how women are subjected to predatory men in Hollywood. (Theres a great Jezebel article that goes into detail about this.)

[ Basic plot ] Plot: The film is about the Footlights Club  a fictional version of clubs that were common at the time in Hollywood and provided boarding houses for young single women looking to make a living as actresses or dancers; and, as the movie shows, these women were often very vulnerable and exploitable but at the same time witty and assertive (much of the dialogue was ad-libbed). It would be impossible to try and detangle the plot lines of all these women here but lets just say that the movie starts out with newcomer Terry Randall (Katharine Hepburn) moving in and becoming the roommate of Jean Maitland (Ginger Rogers). At first they clash, not least of all because Terry comes from money and is awfully naive about what it means to be a struggling actress. But in between courting and/or fending off a predatory producer (Adolphe Menjou) and dealing with the ups and downs of trying to kickstart a career, they start to become friends.

"I don't want to be molded. I believe in acting with my brain."

Why its still relevant: Whats the last Hollywood movie you can remember that features an almost all-female cast? ... one that was not a blatant mediocre cash grab? That was actually interested in all of its distinct female characters who were allowed to be both sympathetic and unsympathetic? Where even the thought of applying the Bechdel test is laughable because women talking to each other about all kinds of stuff is all that the movie is about? Add to that that the movie quite clearly navigates #metoo type of sexual harassment stories, even if it has to do so in a somewhat roundabout way due to the Production Code, and this film just leaps across the decades. (Old Hollywood actually did a bunch of almost all-female movies, e.g. The Women (1939) and Caged (1950) and Ive heard lots of good things about them but I havent seen them personally yet.) Whats the last Hollywood movie you can remember that features an almost all-female cast? ... one that was not a blatant mediocre cash grab? That was actually interested in all of its distinct female characters who were allowed to be both sympathetic and unsympathetic? Where even the thought of applying the Bechdel test is laughable becauseis all that the movie is about? Add to that that the movie quite clearly navigatestype of sexual harassment stories, even if it has to do so in a somewhat roundabout way due to the Production Code, and this film just leaps across the decades. (Old Hollywood actually did a bunch of almost all-female movies, e.g.(1939) and(1950) and Ive heard lots of good things about them but I havent seen them personally yet.)

| 5

dir. by Stanley Kramer, starring Spencer Tracy, Fredric March, Gene Kelly





Why its progressive: Because it champions the ideals of enlightenment and is not afraid to speak out against bigotry and anti-intellectualism. Also, Stanley Kramer put his money where his mouth was and, in this case (as well as for The Defiant Ones), hired a blacklisted writer to work on the script.

[ Basic plot ] Plot: Its a fictionalized account of the Scopes Monkey Trial from the 1920s. Essentially, its a courtroom drama about a school teacher (Dick York) who wants to teach the theory of evolution alongside creationism and is taken to task for it by Christian zealots. The publicity of the case gains him a prominent defense lawyer (Spencer Tracy) but also a prominent prosecutor (Fredric March) and soon the courtroom becomes a battleground for larger issues of faith, reason and narrowmindedness.

"Soon, your Honour, with banners flying and with drums beating, well be marching backward. Backward!"

Why its still relevant: Okay, first of all you need to see this movie to see Gene Kelly sass everyone around him as he plays an H. L. Mencken-type of irreverent reporter. Second of all, everything this movie says about religion, fanaticism, atheism, the press and the process of democracy is as timely as ever. In fact, I doubt that a movie addressing these questions as frankly as this movie does could even get made today. This film is the epitome of no fucks given.

Honorable mentions : The Defiant Ones; The Best Years of Our Lives; The Hunchback of Notre Dame; Salt of the Earth; Dance, Girl, Dance; Mr. Smith Goes to Washington

(+ some directors to check out: Otto Preminger, Stanley Kramer, Frank Capra, Ernst Lubitsch, Dorothy Arzner)

ONTD, what movies did I miss? Do you hate watching old movies because theyre racist, sexist and straight?Like many spats these days, the Saudi Arabia/Canada one started with a tweet. Canadas Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland called for the release of Samar Badawi, a womens rights activist who is the sister of jailed blogger Raif Badawi, whose wife is a Canadian citizen.

The arrests had taken place in OPECs largest producer and leading exporter Saudi Arabia, which has amassed its wealth from oil and now looks to attract foreign investors as it seeks to diversify its economy away from too much reliance of crude oil sales.

Canadas foreign ministrys global affairs office urged the Saudi authorities to immediately release civil society and womens rights activists.

Saudi Arabiaoften criticized for its far from perfect human rights and womens rights recorddidnt take the Canadian urge lightly. Saudi Arabia expelled the Canadian ambassador, stopped direct Saudi flights to Canada, stopped buying Canadian wheat, ordered Saudi students and patients to leave Canada, froze all new trade and investment transactions, and ordered its wealth funds to sell their Canadian stock and bond holdings in a sweeping move that surprised with its harshness many analysts, Canada itself, and reportedly, even the U.S.

The Saudi reaction shows, on the one hand, the sensitivity of the Kingdom to criticism for its human rights record. On the other hand, it sent a message to Canada and to everyone else that Saudi Arabia wont stand any country meddling in its domestic affairs, or as its foreign ministry put it an overt and blatant interference in the internal affairs of the Kingdom.

The Saudi reaction is also evidence of Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salmans harsher international diplomacy compared to the previous, softer diplomacy, analysts say. Saudi Arabia is also emboldened by its very good relations with the current U.S. Administration, and picking a fight with Canada wouldnt have happened if Trump wasnt at the White House, Haizam Amirah-Fernandez, an analyst at Madrid-based think tank Elcano Royal Institute, told Bloomberg. Related: U.S. Drillers Add Double Digit Oil, Gas Rigs

The United States hadnt been warned in advance of the Saudi reaction to Canada and is now trying to persuade Riyadh not to escalate the row further, a senior official involved in talks to mediate the dispute told Bloomberg.

The row, however, will not affect crude oil exports from the Kingdom, Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih has said, adding that Riyadhs policy has always been to keep politics and energy exports separate.

Canada imports around 75,000-80,000 bpd of Saudi oil, and these barrels can easily be replaced, CBC quoted analyst Judith Dwarkin as saying earlier this week. The chief economist of RS Energy Group referred to this amount as a drop in the bucket at less than a tenth of Canadian crude imports compared with imports from the United States, which amount to about 66 percent of the total. The United States could easily replace Saudi crude thanks to its growing production, Dwarkin said.

Still, the strong Saudi message to Canada (and to the world) is not entirely reassuring for the investor climate in Saudi Arabia, which is looking to attract funds for its economic overhaul and mega infrastructure projects worth hundreds of billions of dollars each.

The Saudi leadership wants to drive home a message that its fine to invest in Saudi Arabia and bring your money to Saudi Arabia, but that there are red lines that should not be crossed, Riccardo Fabiani, a geopolitical analyst at Energy Aspects, told Bloomberg, but warned that such strategy could backfire.

Analysts are currently not sure how the feud will unfold, but Aurel Braun, a professor of political science and international relations at the University of Toronto, told Canadas Global News that Saudi Arabia is unlikely to back down and reverse all its retaliatory measures without getting something back from Canada. Related: The Unforeseen Consequences Of China's Insatiable Oil Demand

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is not apologizing for his countrys call that the Saudis release human rights activists.

We have respect for their importance in the world and recognize that they have made progress on a number of important issues, but we will, at the same time, continue to speak clearly and firmly on issues of human rights, at home and abroad, wherever we see the need, Trudeau told a news conference this week.

The economic impact of the Saudi retaliation on Canada is unlikely to be large, but the fact that Saudi Arabia is whipping the oil wealth stick to punish economically what it sees as blatant interference with its affairs is sending a message to other countries, and a not-so-positive message to foreign investors.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:The oil market has experienced a cooling down this summer as global supply disruptions have eased at a time when demand has also slowed a bit, according to a new report from the International Energy Agency (IEA). But that pause may only be temporary, with the road getting much rockier towards the end of this year.

It may not feel like things have cooled down this summer, as the IEA put it. Record high temperatures have spread across the globe, California is in the midst of its worst ever wildfire, wheat and corn harvests are withering in various parts of the globe, among other climate-related calamities. The energy sector has not been spared. Nuclear power plants in Europe have had to shut down because river levels are too low to cool the plants, and heat waves on several continents have crashed the electricity grids. 2018 is expected to be the fourth hottest year on record, only exceeded by the three previous years.

But, there has been a cooling of late in the oil market, the International Energy Agency said in a new report. The supply disruptions that rattled the market earlier this summer have somewhat receded. Libya has partially restored production, and Saudi Arabia and Russia have added new supply. Acute concerns about supply shortages no longer dominate the headlines.

The demand side of the equation has also slowed, a development that is just as significant. In the first quarter of 2018, demand grew at a staggering 1.8 million-barrel-per-day rate. But that has slowed dramatically to just 1 mb/d in the second and third quarters. The IEA said part of the reason for the drop off is that the figure for the second and third quarters is compared to year-ago figures that were rather high, which makes the increase for this year look less impressive. In OECD Europe, demand in the second quarter actually declined year-on-year.

Related: Canada Frees Itself From Saudi Oil Imports

But the slowing of demand cant simply be chalked up to statistical idiosyncrasies. Higher oil prices  Brent was up roughly 45 percent  have started to impact consumption. In the U.S., demand growth halved from the first to second quarter of this year.

Putting it all together, we have a cooling down period in which the urgency over supply disruptions and the pressure from soaring demand have both calmed a bit.

On the bearish side, the escalating trade war could lead to slower economic growth, and in turn lower oil demand. For now though, the IEA says demand will return to stronger levels in 2019, and the agency even revised up its forecast for demand growth for next year to 1.5 mb/d, up from 1.4 mb/d in a previous report. But the trade war could undercut that scenario.

Still, the cool down period might only be short lived, the IEA warned, and as summer draws to a close, things could get much hotter in the oil market. The main reason for the trouble ahead is the potential loss of Iranian supply due to U.S. sanctions. The risks to stable supply that will grow later this year could cause higher prices, the IEA said.

When we publish our next report in mid-September, we will be only six weeks away from the USs deadline for Irans customers to cease oil purchases, the IEA cautioned.

Estimates of the potential supply disruptions in Iran have been all over the map, but they have narrowed more recently, with the extreme scenarios (almost no impact from sanctions on Irans exports on the one hand; oil exports heading to zero on the other) mostly discarded in favor of some sort of middle-of-the-road scenario.

Related: Oil Prices Hit 7-Week Low As Trade War Heats Up

More specifically, analysts are converging on a range of between 700,000 bpd to 1 mb/d of disrupted Iranian supply, give or take. In fact, those figures come the U.S. government itself, as Bloomberg reports, despite assurances from the Trump administration that Irans exports are going down as close to zero as possible.

With U.S. shale slowing down, demand grinding higher, and outages looming from Venezuela and Iran, the pressure on the oil market could grow towards the end of this year.

As oil sanctions against Iran take effect, perhaps in combination with production problems elsewhere, maintaining global supply might be very challenging and would come at the expense of maintaining an adequate spare capacity cushion, the IEA concluded. Thus, the market outlook could be far less calm at that point than it is today.

By Nick Cunningham of Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:In the previous article, The U.S. Is Still The Global Natural Gas King, I highlighted the rise of the United States as the worlds leading natural gas superpower.

But it is easy to forget the view of the U.S. natural gas markets circa 2005. At that time, U.S. natural gas production had begun to decline. Natural gas spot prices regularly spiked above $10 per million British thermal units (MMBtu), and sometimes as high as $15/MMBtu.

(Click to enlarge)

Henry Hub natural gas spot price.

The late Matt Simmons predicted in 2003 that with certainty, by 2005 the US would embark on a long-term natural gas crisis for which the only solution was to pray. T. Boone Pickens and a number of high-profile energy insiders concurred.

ConocoPhillips and ExxonMobil made large acquisitions of natural gas companies, betting on a future with much higher natural gas prices. Liquefied natural gas (LNG) import terminals were built to help address the expected supply shortfall.

Of course, that didnt happen. Natural gas production rose sharply as a result of advances in hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling, and that kept prices under control. Natural gas spot prices fell below $10/MMBtu in 2008, and since 2010 have rarely been above $5/MMBtu.

There have been two exceptions since then. During the winter of 2014, low natural gas inventories caused spot prices to briefly spike above $8/MMBtu. This happened again during the first week of this year, when low inventories caused prices to briefly spike above $6/MMBtu. I circled this time period in the graphic below:

(Click to enlarge)

Working natural gas in underground storage.

Natural gas consumption in the U.S. is highly seasonal, so producers use underground pressurized storage that builds inventories from spring until mid-fall. During the winter heating season natural gas demand spikes and this storage is depleted. Related: Oil Prices Take A Breather As Supply Jumps

In the case of a mild winter as in 2012, inventories may not be significantly depleted before they begin to rebuild. In fact, the winter of 2011-2012 failed to pull gas inventories below 2 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) for the first time in over 20 years. Inventories in 2012 bottomed out in early March above 2 Tcf, which was also two to four weeks earlier than is typical.

(Click to enlarge)

Seasonal natural gas storage levels.

Note how these storage levels correlate with natural gas prices. Following the warm winter in 2012, natural gas spot prices bottomed out a month later at under $2 per million Btu (MMBtu), and they didnt recover back to the $4/MMBtu level for a full year. But then following the winter of 2014, when inventories ultimately fell to their lowest levels in a decade, natural gas prices spiked briefly above $8/MMBtu, and spent most of 2014 above $4/MMBtu.

Now, notice the current status of natural gas inventories as we head toward the high-demand season (which begins about November 1 each year). Seasonal inventories are at the bottom range of the five-year average, and last week they broke slightly below this range. And since U.S. demand has increased by about 8% in the past five years, the current inventory on hand will cover fewer days of demand than it would have at the same point five years ago.

Yet natural gas prices do not reflect an elevated supply risk. Natural gas for January and February 2019 delivery is priced barely above $3/MMBtu.

Investors in natural gas futures or in natural gas producers should watch this situation closely, as a disconnect may be developing between natural gas supply risk and price reality. Unless inventories bounce back into the normal range over the next few months, the risk of much higher prices by the end of winter will be significantly higher.

Natural gas is currently priced for perfection, with the implicit assumption that production will pick back up enough to prevent supply concerns. There are many risks to this perfection scenario (a cold winter, hiccups in production, increased exports to Mexico) that in my opinion are not sufficiently priced into the market.

By Robert Rapier

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:The bad news from Venezuela continues.

In July, Venezuelas oil production came in lower than PDVSA had targeted, according to Argus Media. While PDVSA had hoped that it, along with its joint venture partners, would produce as much as 1.65 million barrels per day (mb/d) in July, actual production came in at about 1.526 mb/d.

Argus says that production in the Orinoco heavy oil belt, where vast oil reserves are located, was a particular disappointment. The problem for Venezuela is that the Orinoco belt was supposed to hold up better than conventional oil production from elsewhere. The declines are a grave problem for the South American OPEC nation, and they pose an existential threat to the regime of President Nicolas Maduro, who avoided an apparent assassination attempt days ago.

But the production figure that Argus got its hands on, which came from an internal report from PDVSA, seem optimistic, even though they do point to shortfalls. After all, the June OPEC report suggested that output stood at just 1.34 mb/d  data that came from secondary sources, which includes Argus.

Against that backdrop, the 1.526 mb/d figure doesnt seem credible. Indeed, sources from within PDVSA told Argus that officials from the companys eastern and western divisions systematically inflated the data. They play with the storage tanks and what they report is not reality, a senior executive told Argus. In reality, production could have been as low as 1.25 mb/d.

The report is not entirely useless, however, as it does offer some clues into the companys demise. Argus says that scant maintenance, reservoir management, skilled labor flight and a lack of critical naptha and light crude for transport and blending are all contributing to the steep decline in production. An estimated 1,191 wells stopped producing in July.

Related: Oil Prices Hit 7-Week Low As Trade War Heats Up

In a separate report from Argus, it appears that the island of Curacao is scrambling for a lifeline to resuscitate the century-old Isla refinery that PDVSA has nearly abandoned, due to the fact that ConocoPhillips moved in to seize the facility following an international arbitration decision earlier this year. Curacao says it has the capability to operate the refinery on its own, but it doesnt have the capital nor the supply of crude oil needed as a feedstock. The refinery can theoretically produce up to 335,000 barrels per day (bpd), but in reality it can probably only produce two-thirds of that amount. For now, it is barely operational with PDVSA no longer supplying the refinery with crude oil.

From PDVSAs standpoint, the loss of the refinery has only compounded the problems back in Venezuela since the facility was critical to blending and preparing oil for export.

The problems in Venezuela are so bad that even the Trump administration, no stranger to conflict, has decided that it does not want to kick the country while it is down. After having been on the verge of implementing sweeping sanctions  possibility targeted at Venezuelas oil exports, or perhaps the export of diluent from the U.S. to Venezuela  the Trump administration has scrapped those plans.

Related: Shockwave In Shipping Could Send Brent Soaring

In fact, the problems in Venezuela are so acute, that the attempted assassination of President Maduro barely moved the oil market, as the WSJ pointed out. That bears emphasis: There was an attempted coup in a country with the largest oil reserves in the world, a founding OPEC member and still a major oil producer, and the markets basically shrugged it off. And that is not because the oil market is oversupplied  there is a reasonable case to be made that the market could be short on supply at some point this year.

But Venezuelas oil sector is in shambles, so oil traders are apparently already of the mind that it cannot possibly get any worse. A coup even leaves open the very remote possibility of a rebound, although, as Francisco Monaldi details, growing production by, say, 200,000 bpd per year would require a sustained effort, including investments of around $20 billion per year for a decade. Not to mention a radical change in the political context and a macroeconomic stabilization program. Needless to say, none of that appears to be in the cards anytime soon.

In any event, the coup did not succeed, so the losses are destined to continue. The permanence of Maduro and his radical circle of collaborators is short-, medium- and long-term bullish for oil prices because the regime will fail to take the steps needed to turn production around, Raul Gallegos, a political analysts at Control Risks, and author of Crude Nation, told the Wall Street Journal.

Expect PDVSA to continue to miss its production targets.

By Nick Cunningham of Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:Donald Trumps decision to leave the Iran nuclear deal and slap sanctions on Teheran is the most significant energy development of 2018. The first round of Iran sanctions, in place since August 4th, targeting Irans automotive and metal sectors, has only added fuel to the increasingly dangerous geopolitical fire, as Teherans blocking the Hormuz Strait has become a fully imaginable prospect for the first time since the Iran-Iraq war ended in 1988. Understandably, media are buzzing with expert analysis regarding trade implications  spreads narrowing, crude flows changing and third-party actors using the Iran-U.S. conflict to their advantage  yet it would be also of interest to look at the upstream ramifications of the impending sanctions.

By looking closely at five unfolding scenarios, one can get a fairly clear understanding of where things are headed if the implementation of sanctions goes ahead as currently expected  meaning no softening of bellicose rhetoric, no top-level meeting like the Trump-Kim Summit in Singapore and no significant pressure from European countries that had alleged to stick to their commitments under the JCPOA. Following the Iran Petroleum Contract (IPC) Summit in November 2015, 18 exploration blocks were appraised by international majors, ranging from Total to Russian companies like Gazprom Neft and Lukoil. Despite their apparent intention to keep Iranian projects intact, European companies seem to be on the retreat from Iran, however, since nature abhors a vacuum, as it seems their place will be quickly replaced by Russian and Chinese national oil companies.

South Pars 11

Totals participation in the Phase 11 of the South Pars fields development was considered to be one of the major success stories of the brief post-sanctions period. Having signed a 20-year agreement in July 2017, Total took a 50.1% interest in the project, alongside the NIOC-owned Petropars (19.9%) and the Chinese CNPC (30%). However, unless Total secures a waiver, it will leave the $1 billion project, citing dependence on US banks for financing its operations as a major cause of concern. The French company depends in more than 90% on US banks, American capital represents approximately 30% of its shareholding structure, moreover, it has invested $10 billion in US energy projects (including five E&P developments), and therefore it is very unlikely to prioritize Iran over its American commitments.

Related: Oil Falls Despite Crude Inventory Draw

Most likely outcome : CNPC takes over Totals stake, with NIOC increasing its share, too.

Dehloran

Dehloran was another ambitious prospect, under Winterhalls aegis, a 5 billion barrel field close to the Iraqi border with some level of production taking place for more than 30 years already. Even though Russian companies Tatneft and Zarubezhneft expressed their interest in developing the field, the German company was considered a favorite to clinch a deal, all the more that Wintershall submitted the results of its field development study this January. Yet similarly to Total, Wintershall is winding down its operations in Iran, stating that its parent company BASF has too significant operations in the U.S. not to take them into consideration. With Wintershall loathe to risk any financial restrictions arising from its activities in Iran, Dehloran is likely to end up in Russian hands.



Most likely outcome : Zarubezhneft takes over as operator of the project, with NIOC joining in a non-operator role.

Yadavaran

The 3 billion barrel Yadavaran field  consisting of two fields previously thought to be separate, Kushk and Hussianieh  is another example of Chinese penetration into Irans energy sector. In 2004, Sinopec bought in 51% of the project within the frames of a larger deal that also provided for Iranian LNG supplies to China, with project costs estimated at $2 billion. It took eight years to start production, following which talks have started to get the second phase started, with the aim of boosting output to 180 kbpd from the current 100 kbpd. Teheran wanted the second phase contract to be signed within the framework of the IPC. Royal Dutch Shell seemed up for it, yet the sanctions took this option off the table. Given that the fields output is still plagued by a single-digit recovery rate, Western EOR techniques would be sorely missed.

Most likely outcome : Sinopec leads the second-phase development, too.

Sardar-e-Jangal

Sardar-e-Jangal is a notable exception amongst Iranian fields in that it is the countrys first project to discover (in 2012) commercial amounts of hydrocarbons in its offshore Caspian Sea territory. According to Iranian sources, the field contains up to 1.4 TCm of natural gas and 10 billion barrels of oil, however, it has to be said that this claim was made only after a partial appraisal of its reserves. Sardar-e-Jangal was expected to be bid out to international majors (as well as offshore blocks 24, 26 and 29), yet just as initial studies of the deposits were concluded, the U.S. sanctions issue has put it on a back burner. With no oil infrastructure around and an investment requirement as high as $10 billion, no international major seems to be interested in it, not even the Russian LUKOIL which has established a very firm footing in the Caspian Sea.

Related: Chinas Oil Futures Jump To Record High



Most likely outcome : project will be stalled.

Ab-Teymour

Lukoil was courting Iran for quite some time, having reached significant progress with regard to two fields in Khuzestan province, the 12 billion barrel Ab-Teymour and the 3 billion barrel Mansouri field, not far away from Iraq where it is ramping up production on the West Qurna-2 project. Its interest seemed natural and provided space for an organic expansion of portfolio, however, in stark comparison to state-owned Gazprom Neft and Zarubezhneft (which are already subject to sanctions, as a consequence they care less), LUKOIL is a private company and as such is much more exposed to the consequences of U.S. sanctions. As a result, the company has put all its Iran-related plans on hold and is waiting for any improvement in market conditions to proceed with it any further.



Most likely outcome : project will be stalled.

Thus, one can state the obvious  state-owned Russian and Chinese companies stand to benefit from U.S.-imposed sanctions. But why, one would ask? The underlying reasons differ, of course, yet both countries are on a course of antagonism with the United States and are too big to be pressurized into total compliance. Russian state-owned oil companies are sanctioned, anyway, absolving them of any fear, whilst Chinese companies seem to be ready to throw the gauntlet on the back of President Trump initiating a tariff war. Not every state-owned oil major can allow such a frivolity  the Indonesian Pertamina backed off all its Iranian commitments in the wake of Donald Trump levying sanctions on Teheran.

By Viktor Katona for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:The Caspian Sea borders Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Iran, Russia and Turkmenistan

The leaders of the five states bordering the Caspian Sea meet in Kazakhstan on Sunday to sign a landmark deal on the inland sea which boasts a wealth of oil and gas reserves and sturgeon.

Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia and Turkmenistan are expected to agree a long-awaited convention on the legal status of the sea, which has been disputed since the collapse of the Soviet Union rendered obsolete agreements between Tehran and Moscow.

Talks in the port city of Aktau should help ease tensions in a militarised region where the legal limbo has scuppered lucrative projects and strained relations among nations along the Caspian's 7,000-kilometre (4,350-mile) shoreline.

The Kremlin said the convention keeps most of the sea in shared use but divides up the seabed and underground resources.

It does not allow military bases from any other countries to be sited on the Caspian.

'Once a frontier oil province'

Sunday's summit is the fifth of its kind since 2002 but there have been more than 50 lower-level meetings since the Soviet breakup spawned four new countries on the shores of the Caspian.

The deal will settle a long-lasting dispute on whether the Caspian is a sea or a lakewhich means it falls under different international laws.

The draft agreement, briefly made public on a Russian government portal in June, refers to the Caspian as a sea but the provisions give it "a special legal status", Russian deputy foreign minister Grigory Karasin told Kommersant daily.

It is the Caspian's vast hydrocarbon reservesestimated at around 50 billion barrels of oil and just under 300 trillion cubic feet (8.4 trillion cubic metres) of natural gas in proved and probable reservesthat have made a deal both vital and complex to achieve.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will be among the leaders attending the Caspian summit

"Disputes arose when the Caspian was a frontier oil province," said John Roberts, a non-resident senior fellow at Atlantic Council's Eurasia Center, while it is "now well established, with major fields approaching peak... production."

'Expand cooperation'

Any deal will "expand the field for multilateral cooperation" between the five states, said Ilham Shaban, who heads the Caspian Barrel thinktank.

But some are likely to view it as more of a breakthrough than others.

Energy-rich but isolated Turkmenistan is particularly excited and President Gurganguly Berdymukahmedov has called for annual Caspian Sea Day celebrations from Sunday onwards.

Turkmenistan could benefit from a concession allowing the construction of underwater pipelines, which were previously blocked by the other states.

Nevertheless, analysts caution that Turkmenistan's long-held plan to send gas through a trans-Caspian pipeline to markets in Europe via Azerbaijan is not necessarily closer to becoming reality.

The plan was previously opposed by Russia and Iran, which could still attempt to block the pipelinevalued at up to $5 billionon environmental grounds.

"A deal in Aktau is not a legal prerequisite for the construction of the Trans-Caspian Pipeline," said Kate Mallinson, Associate Fellow for the Russia and Eurasia Programme at Chatham House.

"Neither will a major transport corridor to export Turkmen gas to Europe emerge overnight."

Offshore oil rigs in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan

Kudos and caviar

As previous exclusive arbiters of Caspian agreements, Russia and Iran could be seen as the new deal's biggest losers.

But while Moscow has ceded ground on underwater pipelines "it gains political kudos for breaking a log-jam," enhancing its image as diplomatic dealmaker, said Roberts of the Eurasia Center.

Russia will welcome the clause barring third countries from having military bases on the Caspian, underscoring its military dominance there, said Shaban of Caspian Barrel.

Iran gets the smallest share of the Caspian spoils under the new deal, but could take advantage of new legal clarity to engage in joint hydrocarbons ventures with Azerbaijan.

In the past Tehran has resorted to hostile naval manoeuvres to defend its claims to contested territory.

Beyond military and economic questions, the agreement also offers hope for the Caspian's ecological diversity.

Reportedly depleted stocks of the beluga sturgeon, whose eggs are prized globally as caviar, may now grow thanks to "a clear common regime for the waters of the Central Caspian," Roberts said.

The deal could result "not only in stricter quotas for sturgeon fishing, but in stricter enforcement of these quotas," he added.

Explore further BP launches $28bn Azerbaijan gas pipeline

 2018 AFPPeople walk through Chinatown, an ethnic enclave on Aug. 8, 2018, in downtown Washington, D.C. Credit: George Diepenbrock, KU

In ethnic enclaves, Mexican immigrants tend to spend less on food per week while East Asian immigrants spend more, which could explain the difference in assimilation rates and contrast in ethnic population density among the two groups, according to a University of Kansas study.

The findings address questions on consumer behavior in the ethnically dense areas concentrated with businesses owned by immigrants of the same country. They also examine potentially why certain ethnic groups prefer to maintaining these types of enclaves instead of integrating their businesses more into the mainstream economy, said researchers ChangHwan Kim, professor of sociology, and Scott Tuttle, sociology graduate student.

Most past research on immigrant enclaves has only focused on how the conditions affect entrepreneurs in these metropolitan areas, and it has typically shown that Mexican-immigrant entrepreneurs tend to be less successful in ethnic enclaves than small business owners in other ethnic enclaves, such as Koreatown in Los Angeles.

"If we look at the flip side of this, it might benefit consumers," Kim said. "For Mexican immigrants living in Mexican communities, their cost of living is less."

The researchers will present their findings Aug. 12 at the American Sociological Association's annual meeting in Philadelphia.

Tuttle said they wanted to understand the complexity of enclave economies by examining how East Asian immigrants have higher assimilation rates as entrepreneurs than Latin American immigrants, particularly those from Mexico.

"We just want to try to understand why," he said. "Once we controlled for all the related variables, like income, educational level and whether they speak English, the level of spending on food is still a factor."

He added their findings also could implicate that for East Asian immigrants, living in ethnic enclaves might pose as a penalty for them as consumers.

"This might help explain, at least partially, why East Asian immigrants are less likely to self-select into enclave areas," Tuttle said.

The researchers examined the effect of co-ethnic immigrant density on degrees of consumer spending per week on food using data from the 1995-2015 Current Population Survey. As part of the survey, respondents report how much they spend per week on groceries.

They also found a difference in density among metropolitan statistical areas, or MSA, between the two immigrant groups. The East Asian immigrant density per MSA never exceeded 8 percent, but in some MSAs the numbers of Mexican immigrant density were as high as 58 percent.

"Of course, it's doubtful that the cost of groceries is the sole explanation, but it might shed some light onto the next series of steps future researchers should take," Tuttle said.

Kim said the findings could also explain the performance of business owners in these enclaves and how they fare economically, but the effect of what it means for consumers has been overlooked.

"Mexican immigrants as businessmen or women can be beneficial to Mexican immigrant consumers," he said.Thank you for reading!

Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading.Education Reporter

Mathew Burciaga is a Santa Maria Times reporter who covers education, agriculture and public safety. Prior to joining the Times, Mathew ran a 114-year-old community newspaper in Wyoming. He owns more than 40 pairs of crazy socks from across the globe.Mark James Miller is an associate instructor in English at Allan Hancock College, and president of the Part-Time Faculty Association. He can be reached at mark@pfaofahc.com.Crooks are targeting DLink DSL modem routers in Brazil to redirect users to fake bank websites by carrying out DNS hijacking.

Crooks are targeting DLink DSL modem routers in Brazil to redirect users to fake bank websites by changing the DNS settings.

With this trick, cybercriminals steal login credentials for bank accounts, Radware researchers reported.

The attackers change the DNS settings pointing the network devices to DNS servers they control, in this campaign the experts observed crooks using two DNS servers, 69.162.89.185 and 198.50.222.136. The two DNS servers resolve the logical address for Banco de Brasil (www.bb.com.br) and Itau Unibanco (hostname www.itau.com.br) to bogus clones.

The research center has been tracking malicious activity targeting DLink DSL modem routers in Brazil since June 8th. Via old exploits dating from 2015, a malicious agent is attempting to modify the DNS server settings in the routers of Brazilian residents, redirecting all their DNS requests through a malicious DNS server. reads the analysis published by Radware.

The malicious DNS server is hijacking requests for the hostname of Banco de Brasil (www.bb.com.br) and redirecting to a fake, cloned website hosted on the same malicious DNS server which has no connection whatsoever to the legitimate Banco de Brasil website.

Hackers are using old exploits dating from 2015 that work on some models of DLink DSL devices, they only have to run for vulnerable routers online and change their DNS settings.

The experts highlighted that the hijacking is performed without any user interaction. The attack is insidious in the sense that a user is completely unaware of the change. The hijacking works without crafting or changing URLs in the users browser. A user can use any browser and his/her regular shortcuts, the user can type in the URL manually or even use it from mobile devices, such as a smart phone or tablet. reads the alert published by Radware. The user will still be sent to the malicious website instead of to their requested website and the hijacking effectively works at the gateway level. Attackers carried out phishing campaigns with crafted URLs and malvertising campaigns attempting to change the DNS configuration from within the users browser. Such kind of attack is not a novelty, hackers are using similar techniques since 2014, in 2016, an exploit tool known as RouterHunterBr 2.0 was published online and used the same malicious URLs, but Radware is not aware of currently of abuse originating from this tool.

Radware has recorded several infections attempts for an old D-Link DSL router exploits since June 12.

The malicious URL used in the campaign appear as:

Several exploits for multiple DSL routers, mostly D-Link, were available online since February, 2015:

Shuttle Tech ADSL Modem-Router 915 WM / Unauthenticated Remote DNS Change. Exploit http://www.exploit-db.com/exploits/35995/

D-Link DSL-2740R / Unauthenticated Remote DNS Change Exploit http://www.exploit-db.com/exploits/35917/

D-Link DSL-2640B Unauthenticated Remote DNS Change Exploit https://www.exploit-db.com/exploits/37237/

D-Link DSL-2780B DLink_1.01.14  Unauthenticated Remote DNS Change https://www.exploit-db.com/exploits/37237/

D-Link DSL-2730B AU_2.01  Authentication Bypass DNS Change https://www.exploit-db.com/exploits/37240/

D-Link DSL-526B ADSL2+ AU_2.01  Unauthenticated Remote DNS Change https://www.exploit-db.com/exploits/37241/

Once the victims visit the fake websites, they will be asked for bank info, including agency number, account number, mobile phone number, card pin, eight-digit pin, and a CABB number.

The experts noticed that the phishing websites used in the campaign are flagged as not secure in the URL address.

Radware reported the campaigns to the financial institutions targeted by the attacks and fake websites have since been taken offline.

A convenient way for checking DNS servers used by your devices and router is through websites like http://www.whatsmydnsserver.com/.

Only modems and routers that were not updated in the last two years can be exploited. Updates will protect the owner of the device and also prevent devices being enslaved for use in DDoS attacks or used to conceal targeted attacks. recommends Radware.

Pierluigi Paganini

( Security Affairs  DNS hijacking, hacking)

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Share OnTwo police officers were among four people killed Friday in a shooting that sparked panic and a police lockdown in a sleepy eastern Canadian city, as the nation grapples with rising gun violence. Residents of the Brookside neighborhood of Fredericton, New Brunswick woke to the sounds of multiple gunshots. Witnesses told the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) they saw the barrel of a rifle or shotgun poking out from the window of a low-rise apartment building and firing into a courtyard, while two bodies lay on the ground nearby. Heavily-armed police, paramedics and firefighters quickly descended on the scene and a lockdown of the neighborhood was ordered, trapping some early risers in daycare facilities, coffee shops and businesses. Others were escorted from their homes -- some still in pyjamas and barefoot -- to safety beyond a police cordon. Fredericton Deputy Police Chief Martin Gaudet told reporters the two officers killed were responding to an emergency call about gunshots. They were identified as Lawrence Robert Costello, 45, and Sara Mae Helen Burns, 43. "Upon arrival (at the apartment building), they observed two civilian victims on the ground. That's when they (police) were shot," Gaudet said. Authorities in the provincial capital, about 75 kilometers (45 miles) from the border between Canada and the US state of Maine, had initially urged people in the neighborhood to stay indoors. They described an "active incident" on Twitter before confirming the deaths and arrest. The suspect was being treated for "serious injuries" related to the shooting incident, police said. Gaudet said police entered the shooter's apartment in the residential area of the city north of downtown, and arrested a 48-year-old man. No other information was provided about the suspect or the events. "It's been a very difficult day for our officers and the residents of our fine city as we come to terms with the violent death of four of our people in our city, two of which, as you know are officers," said Police Chief Leanne Fitch. - 'Gun pointing out of window' - Public broadcaster CBC quoted Justin McLean, who lives in the area, as saying: "I woke up and I heard gunshots and I looked outside my window. "The cops were trying to put one of the officers in their vehicle to take them out to safety," he said, adding that he tried to help but was told by the officers to take cover. "I never saw the shooter but I saw the barrel of his gun pointing out of the window." The mass shooting is the second in the province in recent years, and comes only weeks after a man opened fire on July 22 in a bustling Toronto district, killing an 18-year-old woman and a 10-year-old girl while wounding 13 other people. The incident triggered a public debate on rising gun violence and gangs in Canadian cities, and calls for a handgun ban. "Most crime rates (in Canada) are going down and have been going down for several decades. But the incidents of violence with firearms have been going up over the course of the last five years," Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale said. He said local police would be leading the investigation, suggesting there was no concern for national security. "Awful news coming out of Fredericton," Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted. "My heart goes out to everyone affected by this morning's shooting." Bouquets of flowers and notes of condolences amassed outside the Fredericton police station, while a local church scheduled a prayer vigil for Friday evening. In 2014, three federal police officers were killed and two more were injured after responding to an emergency call about an armed man roaming a residential neighborhood of nearby Moncton, New Brunswick. A 28-hour manhunt ensued before police caught up to the suspect and arrested him, in what was described as the second-deadliest attack on Canadian police since four Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers were ambushed on a Mayerthorpe, Alberta farm in 2005.Norway's Jakob Ingebrigtsen, just 17, captured the European 5000m title on Saturday to add to the 1500m he won 24 hours earlier. The teenager edged out his brother Henrik with France's Morhad Amdouni, who was the 10,000m champion, claiming bronze. Already the youngest ever European champion by winning the 1500m, Ingebrigtsen crossed the line in 13min 17.06sec, with his brother in 13:18.75 and Amdouni clocking 13:19.14. Mahiedine Mekhissi, who had won the 3000m steeplechase for his fifth career European title on Thursday, pulled out of the 5000m earlier in the day.A supporter of Nicaragua's President Daniel Ortega was shot to death in the northern city of Matagalpa as anti-government protesters marched past the city hall, police said. The incident Saturday came amid a wave of protests and counter-protests in several Nicaraguan cities, including the capital Managua. Police identified the gunshot victim in Matagalpa as Lenin Mendiola, the son of a longtime leader of the ruling Sandinista Front, according to a police statement reported by local media. Other media, however, reported that pro-government paramilitaries fired on protesters in Matagalpa. More than 300 people have been killed and 2,000 wounded since anti-government protests erupted in mid-April, according to human rights groups. The government puts the death toll at nearly 200. Ortega, a 72-year-old former guerrilla who has held power for 22 of the last 39 years, has responded with a bloody crackdown by security forces and paramilitaries. Managua was the scene Saturday of rival marches for and against Ortega and his wife Rosario Murillo. Tens of thousands of people demanding the release of jailed protesters joined the march against Ortega, who is in his third term as president since returning to power in 2007. Supporters of the Ortegas, meanwhile, marched along a separate route under a sea of red-and-black Sandinista banners, chanting for retribution against their opponents.AKTAU, Kazakhstan (Reuters) - Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan signed on Sunday a convention on the Caspian Sea's legal status, a matter disputed between the five for more than two decades.

The leaders of the five countries who gathered in the Kazakh port city of Aktau to sign the document provided no details of the agreement in their speeches before the signing.

(Reporting by Olzhas Auyezov; Editing by Mark Potter)Firefighter fight fire near torching trees as wildfire burns near Yosemite National Park in this US Forest Service photo released on social media from California, U.S., August 6, 2018. Courtesy USFS/Yosemite National Park/Handout via REUTERS

By Alex Dobuzinskis

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - For the past two weeks, a wildfire has forced much of Yosemite National Park in California to close, with smoke blanketing its famous rock formations and clouding the summer travel season for one of the largest tourism economies tied to a U.S. park.

Steven Anker, 53, has seen business decrease by 80 percent at his Priest Station Cafe in nearby Groveland."People come to Yosemite to see the outdoors. If the air quality is bad, they just won't go," Anker said.

Wildfires burning in the U.S. West have scorched 5.6 million acres (2.3 million hectares) this year, including parts of other national forests, the National Interagency Fire Center said on its website. But the Ferguson Fire in Yosemite has stood out as particularly damaging to local tourism.

"The gateway communities around Yosemite are our top concern," Caroline Beteta, president and chief executive officer of the tourism group Visit California, said in an email. "They are losing significant business during peak season."

The area around Yosemite has the seventh largest tourism economy connected with a U.S. national park, with 4.3 million visitors spending an estimated $452 million in 2017, according to the National Park Service.

While Beteta had no official estimates for how much wildfires have hurt tourism, the concern is that potential travelers alarmed by the blazes are canceling trips. Nearly 20 percent of visitors to California go to a national park, making them important drivers of tourism, she said.

Yosemite is due to reopen on Tuesday, though with limited hours and services, the park said on Friday. Spokesman Scott Gediman said the fires have been contained away from the park, though smoke is still a problem at times.

"I'm watching a helicopter dip water out of river with one of those long hoses," he told Reuters by telephone from his office at the park. "They're still fighting fires."

Story continues

ROADS ARE MONEY

Local businesses around the park this summer have lost millions of dollars in revenue on everything from hotel rooms to trinkets, with occupancy rates at many hotels approaching zero, said Rhonda Salisbury, chief executive of the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau.

The fire has triggered road closures for large sections of the park, including the Yosemite Valley, which has been cut off to visitors since July 25.

"Roads are money, and without the roads open, we die," said Doug Shaw, who operates the Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort near the park. Shaw had to lay off some staff and lost about $200,000 in potential profits, he said.

The Ferguson Fire has caused two deaths and scorched about 100,000 acres (40,500 hectares) at Yosemite, which is about 150 miles (240 km) east of San Francisco. It broke out on July 13, when local businesses usually count on a large influx of families with children on summer vacation.

The fire has also hurt businesses such as Skydive Yosemite, which on its website touts "amazing views of Yosemite National Park." Those views have been obscured by billowing clouds of smoke.

In the past, customers could see Half Dome and El Capitan while plummeting to Earth during a tandem jump, said Skydive Yosemite co-owner Paul Wignall, but smoke blocked those views.

The company had 10 cancellations in August, he said.

NO SHAKESPEARE

California has seen the worst start to its fire season in a decade, and officials from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration said satellite images show two-thirds of the state covered in smoke.

Smoke from fires in Northern California have even reached Oregon to the north. As a result, the annual Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland has canceled 12 outdoor shows due to poor air quality, causing a loss of about half a million dollars, said Linea Gagliano, a spokeswoman for the Oregon Tourism Commission.

Tourism officials in some other parts of the U.S. West, such as Montana, Idaho and Utah, reported minimal damage to their local travel and leisure industries from wildfires.

But the local tourism economy of Durango, southwest Colorado, is still feeling the effects from a wildfire. When the 416 Fire burned parts of the nearby San Juan National Forest in June, hotels in Durango saw occupancy rates fall below 30 percent, said Theresa Blake Graven, spokeswoman for the Durango Area Tourism Office.

Back in Yosemite, park spokesman Gediman said the rare interlude of quiet at the peak of summer has given wildlife free rein in the valley.

"The bears are walking around eating apples off the trees and the berries. We saw a mama bear and her cub by a hotel, the gray foxes are out ... So for me it's been fun to see."

(Additional reporting by Diana Kruzman in New York and Bill Tarrant in Los Angeles; Editing by Bill Tarrant and Frances Kerry)BEIRUT (Reuters) - Syrian state media said on Saturday air defences had confronted a "hostile target" breaching the country's air space west of the capital Damascus in the early hours of the morning.

State news agency SANA, quoting its correspondent, said there were reports of "air defences confronting a hostile target breaching the skies above the area of Deir al-Asha'ir in the Damascus countryside."

The area is close to the Lebanese border.

Syrian air defences were activated in a similar way over west Damascus last Thursday night.

SANA suggested Israel was to blame for the incursions.

"In the past few weeks, the Israeli enemy has attacked military positions," it said.

Israel, concerned that Iran's growing presence in Syria poses a threat to its security, has struck dozens of Iranian and Iran-backed positions in Syria over the course of the country's seven-year conflict.

A spokeswoman for the Israeli military said it did not comment on foreign reports.

Damascus last month took back control of its entire border with the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights and its southwest border with Jordan after an offensive which began in June.

(Reporting by Lisa Barrington in Beirut and Ari Rabinovitch in Jerusalem; Editing by Chris Reese and Mark Potter)The US military said it had launched a search and rescue operation after reports a marine may have fallen overboard from an American warship as it sailed through Philippine waters. The US 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit said a member, who was not named, may have gone overboard Thursday morning. Aircraft on board the USS Essex are searching waters off the Sulu Sea and the Surigao Strait while multiple searches are also being made inside the ship itself, the unit said. The ship was conducting "routine operations in the Sulu Sea" at the time, the California based unit said in the statement, which was posted on its social media sites. "We remain committed to searching for and finding our marine," the statement quoted its commander, Colonel Chandler Nelms as saying. "All of our sailors, marines and available assets aboard the USS Essex have been and will continue to be involved in this incredibly important search and rescue operation," added the search commander, US Navy Captain Gerald Olin. In Manila, Philippine authorities said on Saturday they authorised US ships and aircraft to enter Philippine territory to join in the search, while dispatching their own military search aircraft. "A US marine fell from a US ship while traversing Philippine waters. We allowed the entry of rescue ships and aircraft," Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told reporters. "As of now there has been no update on whether the marine has been recovered," Lorenzana added. The US Marines said an expanded search covering about 3,000 square nautical miles (10,290 square kilometres) was underway. Sulu Sea sprawls over the central and southern sections of the Asian archipelago, a US military ally. Surigao Strait is at least 300 kilometres (186 miles) away, off the country's eastern seaboard. The US statement did not explain why the two separate locations were being searched.Washington was bracing for a white nationalist rally on Sunday organized to coincide with the anniversary of last year's racially charged violence in Charlottesville, Virginia.

U.Va. was the scene of a torch-lit march the night before the first Unite the Right rally previous year, where hundreds of white nationalists, carrying Tiki torches, gathered at the rotunda and surrounded a group of counterprotesters around the Jefferson statue. Trump blamed "both sides" for the violence in Charlottesville, drawing an equivalency between white supremacists and neo-Nazis with the people protesting them.

To avoid a repeat of last year's scenario, when a violent white nationalist rally's clash with the left resulted in one death and dozens of injuries, Charlottesville authorities refused to grant a permit for another "Unite the Right" rally.

He adds that, "We must come together as a nation".

Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Maryland, was asked by ABC News Chief White House Correspondent and "This Week" co-anchor Jon Karl on "This Week" Sunday if tweets by President Trump on Saturday denouncing "all types of racism" show that he has "gotten the message" about addressing race relations in the U.S. "Peace to ALL Americans!", Trump wrote on Twitter.

The city of Charlottesville marked the anniversary of last year's white supremacist violence that sent ripples through the country with largely peaceful vigils and other events, but police had a brief, tense confrontation with demonstrators angry over the heavy security presence there this weekend. But this year, UVA Students United, Black Lives Matter, Anti-Fascist and community members joined forces to protest.

The city tweeted just before 2:30 p.m. that two arrests had been made so far Saturday.

Officials declared states of emergency for both the city of Charlottesville and the state of Virginia to help law enforcement mobilise state and local resources for security reasons.

The violence culminated with a man driving a auto into a crowd of counter-protesters, killing a woman and injuring 19 people.

Only took him a year.

. In an interview later Friday on "Anderson Cooper 360", Bro said she thinks it'sto "take the focus off Heather, as Heather would want us to do".

In Washington, hundreds of extra law-enforcement officers were brought in for the rally, promoted by white supremacist and anti-Semite Jason Kessler.

Specifically addressing those who were attacked during the march, Ryan said, "I am sorry". They stopped to pay their respects at the corner where a local woman, Heather Heyer, was killed when an OH man drove his auto into a crowd of counterprotesters following last year's rally.

"I'm not looking forward to what that's going to look like this weekend", she said. Two Virginia State Police troopers also died that weekend when their helicopter, assisting with public safety, crashed during the rally.

An independent investigation of last year's rally violence, led by a former federal prosecutor, found the chaos stemmed from a passive response by law enforcement and poor preparation and coordination between state and city police.Spike Lees new film BlacKkKlansman is in theaters this weekend. While the film changes some details about Colorado Springs police officer Ron Stallworths late-1970s investigation into the Ku Klux Klan, its centerpiecea sequence in which an activist played by Harry Belafonte tells the story of the horrific 1916 lynching of Jesse Washingtonsticks pretty closely to the truth. Washingtons death became a cause celebre for anti-lynching activists, helped along in large part by an article by W.E.B. Du Bois published as an eight-page supplement to the July 1916 issue of The Crisis, the NAACPs monthly magazine. (Du Bois relied on the reporting of suffragette Elizabeth Freeman, who is identified in the text only as the NAACPs investigator.) The article was accompanied by graphic photos of Washingtons deathalso featured in BlacKkKlansmangalvanizing opposition to lynching by presenting the public with its horrible reality. Its an extraordinary piece of journalism. Du Bois begins with a dry recitation of facts about Waco, situating lynching as part of the landscape of small-town America. The images, too, silently argue that Washingtons charred body qualifies as Americana just as much as the snapshots of Wacos local attractions. It is reprinted in full below. Please be aware that the article includes graphic photographs and descriptions of a lynching. Matthew Dessem

The Waco Horror

An account of the recent burning of a human being at Waco, Tex., as reported by a special agent of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, 70 Fifth Avenue, New York City.

1. The City.

The city of Waco, Tex., is the county seat of McLennan County. It is situated on the Brazos river, about half way between Dallas and Austin. It is the junction point of seven railways. The city is in a fertile agricultural region with grain and cotton as the chief products, and with nearly two hundred manufacturing establishments, representing some seventy different industries.

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It had a population of 14,445 in 1890 which increased to 20,686 in 1900, and to 26,425 in 1910. The white population in these twenty years has almost exactly doubled. The colored population has increased from 4,609 to 6,067, forming thus 23% of the population. The bulk of this population is native white of native parentage, there being only about 1,000 foreigners in the city.

The whole of McLennan county contained in 1910 a population of 73,250 of whom 17,234 were Negroes. This total population has nearly doubled in the last twenty years.

Waco is well laid out. The streets are broad, over sixty miles of them being paved. The sewer system of one hundred miles is excellent. There is a fine city-owned water system, and parks on the surrounding prairies.

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There are thirty-nine white and twenty-four colored churches in Waco. By denominations the white churches are: Baptist, 14; Methodist, 9; Christian, 4; Presbyterian, 3; Jewish, 2; Episcopal, 2; Evangelistic, 1; Catholic, 1; Christian Science, 1; Salvation Army, 1.

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The colleges are: Baylor University, Baylor Academy, the Catholic College, the Independent Biblical and Industrial School, all white; and the Central Texas College and Paul Quinn, colored colleges. There are also the A. & M. College, the Gurley School, the Waco Business College, the Provident Sanitarium, and the Training School.

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Baylor University was founded in 1854 and has between 1,200 and 1,300 students. It is co-educational. The president is running for the United States Senate.

Two high schools serve the white and colored population, and there are seven banks, including four national banks.

In other words, Waco is a typical Southern town, alert, pushing, and rich.

2. The Crime.

Near the country town of Robinson, some six miles from Waco, lived a white family of four, named Fryar, who owned a small farm. This they cultivated themselves with the help of one hired man, a colored boy of seventeen, named Jesse Washington.

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Jesse was a big, well-developed fellow, but ignorant, being unable either to read or write. He seems to have been sullen, and perhaps mentally deficient, with a strong, and even daring temper. It is said that on the Saturday before the crime, he had a fight with a neighboring white man, and the man had threatened to kill him.

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On Monday, May 8, while Mr. Fryar, his son of fourteen, and his daughter of twenty-three, were hoeing cotton in one part of their farm, the boy, Jesse, was plowing with his mules and sowing cotton seed near the house where Mrs. Fryar was alone. He went to the house for more cotton seed. As Mrs. Fryar was scooping it up for him into the bag which he held, she scolded him for beating the mules. He knocked her down with a blacksmiths hammer, and, as he confessed, criminally assaulted her; finally he killed her with the hammer. The boy then returned to the field, finished his work, and went home to the cabin, where he lived with his father and mother and several brothers and sisters.

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When the murdered woman was discovered suspicion pointed to Jesse Washington, and he was found sitting in his yard whittling a stick. He was arrested and immediately taken to jail in Waco. Tuesday a mob visited the jail. They came in with about thirty automobiles, each holding as many as could be crowded in. There was no noise, no tooting of horns, the lights were dim, and some had no lights at all. These were all Robinson people. They looked for the boy, but could not find him, for he had been taken to a neighboring county where the sheriff obtained a confession from him. Another mob went to this county seat to get the boy, but he was again removed to Dallas. Finally, the Robinson people pledged themselves not to lynch the boy if authorities acted promptly, and if the boy would waive his legal rights.

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A second confession in which the boy waived all his legal rights was obtained in the Dallas jail. The Grand Jury indicted him on Thursday, and the case was set for trial Monday, May 15.

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Sunday night, at midnight, Jesse Washington was brought from Dallas to Waco, and secreted in the office of the judge. There was not the slightest doubt but that he would be tried and hanged the next day, if the law took its course.

There was some, but not much doubt of his guilt. The confessions were obtained, of course, under duress, and were, perhaps, suspiciously clear, and not entirely in the boys own words. It seems, however, probable that the boy was guilty of murder, and possibly of premeditated rape.

3. Waco Politics.

Meantime the exigencies of Waco politics are said to have demanded a lynching. Our investigator says:

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They brought the boy back to Waco because a lynching was of political value to the county officials who are running for office. Every man I talked with said that politics was at the bottom of the whole business. All that element who took part in the lynching will vote for the Sheriff. The Judge is of value to his party because he appoints three commissioners of the jury, and these commissioners pick the Grand Jury.

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The District Judge of the Criminal Court is R.I. Munroe, appointed by Governor Campbell. He is a low order of politician, and a product of a loyal machine. His reputation for morality is bad, and his practice at the Bar has been largely on behalf of the vicious interests.

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The Sheriff of the county, S.S. Fleming, is a candidate for re-election, and has made much political capital out of the lynching. He says, in an advertisement in the Waco Semi-Weekly Tribune:

Mr. Fleming is diseased with a broad philanthropy. He believes in the equality of man. He carries with him in the daily walk of his officialdom none of the boast of heraldry or the pomp of power. He is just as courteous, just as obliging, just as accommodating as Sherriff as he was when selling buggies and cultivators for the hardware company. He presents to the voters for their endorsement the record made by him and his corps of splendid deputies.

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Our investigator says:

When I saw the Sheriff (Fleming) he had a beautiful story to tell. He had his story fixed up so that the entire responsibility was shifted on the Judge. The Judge admitted he could have had a change of venue, but said the mob anywhere would have done the same thing.

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Meanwhile, the tip went out:

The crowd began pouring into the town the day before and continued early Monday morning. The court room was packed full and a crowd of 2,000 was on the outside. The jurors could scarcely get in and out from their seats. I asked the Judge if he could not have cleared the court room, and he answered that I did not know the South. I said, If a person is big enough, he can get up and stop the biggest mob. He asked, Do you want to spill innocent blood for a nigger?

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Some one had arranged it so that it would be easy to get the boy out of the courtroom. A door which opened by a peculiar device had been fixed so it would open. One of the jurors was a convicted murderer with a suspended sentence over him.

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Lee Jenkins is the best deputy sheriff, but he is under Fleming. Barney Goldberg, the other deputy sheriff, said, If Lee Jenkins had had it, it would never have been, but we are working for the man higher up and must take our orders from him. Barney Goldberg knows perfectly well that if Fleming is not re-elected, and the other candidate gets in, he will be out of a job. The other nominee for sheriff, Buchanan, is reported to be unable to read and write, but is said to have three dead niggers to his credit.

The boy, Jesse Washington, was asked what he thought about the mob coming after him. He said, They promised they would not if I would tell them about it. He seemed not to care, but was thoroughly indifferent.

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The trial was hurried through. The Waco Semi-Weekly Tribune, May 17 says: The jury returned into court at 11:22 and presented a verdict: We, the jury, find the defendant guilty of murder as charged in the indictment and assess his punishment at death. This was signed by W.B. Brazelton, foreman.

 Is that your verdict, gentlemen? asked Judge Munroe.

They answered, yes.

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Judge Munroe began writing in his docket. He had written: May 15, 1916: Jury verdict of guilty, and as he wrote there was a hush over the entire court room. It was a moment of hesitation, but just a moment. Then the tall man started over the heads of the crowd. Fred H. Kingsbury, who was standing alongside of Judge Munroe, said, They are coming after him, and as the Judge looked up, the wave of people surged forward. The court room accommodates 500 persons, but the Judge had allowed 1,500 persons to crowd in.

Our investigator continues:

The stenographer told me that there was a pause of a full minute. He said the people crowded around him and he knew what was coming, so he slipped out of the door back of the Sheriff, with his records; and Sheriff Fleming slipped out also.

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Fleming claims that all he was called upon to do in the way of protecting the boy was to get him to court.

A big fellow in the back of the court room yelled, Get the Nigger! Barney Goldberg, one of the deputy sheriffs, told me that he did not know that Fleming had dropped orders to let them get the Negro, and pulled his revolver. Afterwards he got his friends to swear to an affidavit that he was not present. Fleming said he had sworn in fifty deputies. I asked him where they were. He asked, Would you want to protect the nigger? The judge made no effort to stop the mob, although he had firearms in his desk.

4. The Burning.

They dragged the boy down the stairs, put a chain around his body and hitched it to an automobile. The chain broke. The big fellow took the chain off the Negro under the cover of the crowd and wound it around his own wrist, so that the crowd jerking at the chain was jerking at the mans wrist and he was holding the boy. The boy shrieked and struggled.

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The mob ripped the boys clothes off, cut them in bits and even cut the boy. Someone cut his ear off; someone else unsexed him. A little girl working for the firm of Goldstein and Mingle told me that she saw this done.

I went over the route the boy had been taken and saw that they dragged him between a quarter and half a mile from the Court House to the bridge and then dragged him up two blocks and another block over to City Hall. After they had gotten him up to the bridge, someone said that a fire was already going up at City Hall, and they turned around and went back. Several people denied that the fire was going, but the photograph shows that it was. They got a little boy to light the fire.

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While a fire was being prepared of boxes, the naked boy was stabbed and the chain put over the tree. He tried to get away, but could not. He reached up to grab the chain and they cut off his fingers. The big man struck the boy on the back of the neck with a knife just as they were pulling him up on the tree. Mr. Lester thought that was practically the death blow. He was lowered into the fire several times by means of the chain around his neck. Someone said they would estimate the boy had about twenty-five stab wounds, none of them death-dealing.

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About a quarter past one a fiend got the torso, hung a rope over the pummel of a saddle, and dragged it around through the streets of Waco.

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Very little drinking was done.

The tree where the lynching occurred was right under the Mayors window. Mayor Dollins was standing in the window, not concerned about what they were doing to the boy, but that the tree would be destroyed. The Chief of Police also witnessed the lynching. The names of five of the leaders of the mob are known to this Association, and can be had on application by responsible parties.

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Women and children saw the lynching. One man held up his little boy above the heads of the crowd so that he could see, and a little boy was in the top of the very tree to which the colored boy was hung, where he stayed until the fire became too hot.

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Another account, in the Waco Times Herald, Monday night, says:

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Great masses of humanity flew as swiftly as possible through the streets of the city in order to be present at the bridge when the hanging took place, but when it was learned that the Negro was being taken to the City Hall lawn, crowds of men, women, and children turned and hastened to the lawn.

On the way to the scene of burning people on every hand took a hand in showing their feelings in the matter by striking the Negro with anything obtainable, some struck him with shovels, bricks, and clubs, and others stabbed him and cut him until when he was strung up his body was a solid color of red, the blood of many wounds inflicted covered him from head to foot.

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Dry goods boxes and all kinds of inflammable material were gathered, and it required but an instant to convert this into seething flames. When the Negro was first hoisted into the air his tongue protruded from his mouth and his face was besmeared with blood.

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Life was not extinct within the Negros body, although nearly so, when another chain was placed around his neck and thrown over the limb of a tree on the lawn, everybody trying to get to the Negro and have some part in his death. The infuriated mob then leaned the Negro, who was half alive and half dead, against the tree, he having just strength enough within his limbs to support him. As rapidly as possible the Negro was then jerked into the air at which a shout from thousands of throats went up into the morning air and dry goods boxes, excelsior, wood, and every other article that would burn was then in evidence, appearing as if by magic. A huge dry goods box was then produced and filled to the top with all of the material that had been secured. The Negros body was swaying in the air, and all of the time a noise as of thousands was heard and the Negros body was lowered into the box.

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No sooner had his body touched the box than people pressed forward, each eager to be the first to light the fire, matches were touched to the inflammable material and as smoke rapidly rose in the air, such a demonstration as of people gone mad was never heard before. Everybody pressed closer to get souvenirs of the affair. When they had finished with the Negro his body was mutilated.

Fingers, ears, pieces of clothing, toes and other parts of the Negros body were cut off by members of the mob that had crowded to the scene as if by magic when the word that the Negro had been taken in charge by the mob was heralded over the city. As the smoke rose to the heavens, the mass of people, numbering in the neighborhood of 10,000 crowding the City Hall lawn and overflowing the square, hanging from the windows of buildings, viewing the scene from the tops of buildings and trees, set up a shout that was heard blocks away.

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Onlookers were hanging from the windows of City Hall and every other building that commanded a sight of the burning, and as the Negros body commenced to burn, shouts of delight went up from the thousands of throats and apparently everybody demonstrated in some way their satisfaction at the retribution that was being visited upon the perpetrator of such a horrible crime, the worst in the annals of McLennan countys history.

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The body of the Negro was burned to a crisp, and was left for some time in the smoldering remains of the fire. Women and children who desired to view the scene were allowed to do so, the crowds parting to let them look on the scene. After some time the body of the Negro was jerked into the air where everybody could view the remains, and a mighty shout rose on the air.

Photographer Gildersleeve made several pictures of the body as well as the large crowd which surrounded the scene as spectators.

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The photographer knew where the lynching was to take place, and had his cameral paraphernalia in the City Hall. He was called by telephone at the proper moment. He writes us:

We have quit selling the mob photos, this step was taken because our City dads objected on the grounds of bad publicity, as we wanted to be boosters and not knockers, we agreed to stop all sale.

F.A. Gildersleeve.

Our agent continues:

While the torso of the boy was being dragged through the streets behind the horse, the limbs dropped off and the head was put on the stoop of a disreputable woman in the reservation district. Some little boys pulled out the teeth and sold them to some men for five dollars apiece. The chain was sold for twenty-five cents a link.

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From the pictures, the boy was apparently a wonderfully built boy. The torso was taken to Robinson, hung to a tree, and shown off for a while, then they took it down again and dragged it back to town and put it on the fire again at five oclock.

5. The Aftermath.

I tried to talk to the Judge. I met him on the street and said, I want to talk to you about something very important. He asked, What is the nature of it? I said, I want to get your opinion about lynching. He said, No, I refuse to talk with you about that. What do you want it for? I said, If you refuse to talk with me, there is no use of telling you what I want it for.

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When I met him the second time, with different clothes on, he did not recognize me. I put on a strong English accent and said I was interested in clippings from New York papers which showed that Waco had made for itself an awful name, and I wanted to go back and make the northerners feel that Waco was not so bad as the papers had represented. Then he gave me the Court records.

Our investigator continues: I went to the newspaper offices. They were all of the opinion that the best thing to do was to hush it up. The Dallas News did not cite anything editorially because not long ago they had done something quite as bad and the boy was not guilty.

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With the exception of the Tribune, all the papers had simply used it as a news item and let it drop. The Tribune is owned by Judge McCullum, who says anything he pleases. He is nearly blind. When I read the article to him I said, I would like to ask you, if that had been a colored woman and a white boy, would you have protected that woman? He answered, No. If it had been a colored boy and a colored woman? No. We would not have stopped the niggers doing anything they wanted to. Do you think they would? No. Then, they prove their superior civilization. Then he began to tell me how he knew all about the niggers and we northerners do not. He said that as an old southerner he knew perfectly well how to handle the colored population. He told me how he was raised with them, had a colored mammy, nursed at her breast, etc.

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There is a bunch of people in Waco who are dying to see someone go forward and make a protest, but no one in Waco would do it. Ex-Mayor Mackaye and Colonel Hamilton both said, We do not know what to do. We are not organized to do it. It is a case of race and politics.

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I put out a lot of wires for a lawyer to take up the case, but no human being in Waco would take it up. I wrote to a friend in Austin and one in Houston, and the Austin friend telegraphed me that he would send me word as soon as he had found someone. I had a letter from the Houston friend who gave me the names of three lawyers, but I am not sure whether they would take up a case of this kind. All have their doubts of ever getting the case into court.

I did not dare ask much about lawyers.

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As a result of the lynching a Sunday School Convention which was to have met there, with 15,000 delegates, has been stopped.

W.A. Brazelton, the foreman of the Jury, was very outspoken against the whole affair and blames the officials for it. He felt that as foreman of the Jury he could not lead in a protest but thought some protest ought to be made.

Mr. Ainsworth, one of the newspaper men, seemed the only one who wanted to start a protest.

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Colonel Hamilton, a man of high standing, a northerner, and at one time a big railroad man, was outspoken against the whole affair, but said that if he led in a protest they would do the same thing to him. He said that he would never register in any hotel that he came from Waco. Two Waco men who did not register from Waco.

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Allan Stanford, ex-Mayor of Waco, saw the Sheriff and the Judge before the trial and received assurances that the lynching would not take place. They shut the mouths of the better element by telling them that the Robinson people had promised not to do it. They had gotten the promise of the Robinson people that they would not touch the boy during the trial, but they did not get the pledge of the disreputable bunch of Waco that they would not start the affair.

Judge Spell said the affair was deplorable, but the best thing was to forget it.

When representing myself as a news reporter, I asked, What shall I tell the people up North? Ex-Mayor Mackaye said, Fix it up as well as you can for Waco, and make them understand that the better thinking men and women of Waco were not in it. I said, But some of your better men were down there. The whole thing savors so rotten because the better men have not tried to protest against it. Your churches have not said a word. Dr. Caldwell was the only man who made any protest at all.

6. The Lynching Industry

This is an account of one lynching. It is horrible, but it is matched in horror by scores of others, in the last thirty years, and in its illegal, law-defying, race-hating aspect, it is matched by 2842 other lynchings which have taken place between January 1, 1885, and June 1, 1916. These lynchings are as follows:

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What are we going to do about this record? The civilization of America is at stake. The sincerity of Christianity is challenged. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People proposes immediately to raise a fund of at least $10,000 to start a crusade against this modern barbarism. Already $2,000 is promised, conditional on our raising the full amount.

Interested persons may write to Roy Nash, secretary, 70 Fifth Avenue, New York City.Rudy Giuliani is backtracking and pretending he isnt. The presidents lawyer is now saying that Donald Trump never discussed former national security adviser Michael Flynn with then-FBI Director James Comey. When he was asked why he said the opposite just last month, Giuliani tried to make it seem like never said what he actually said.

There was no conversation about Michael Flynn, Giuliani said on CNN Sunday. That is what he will testify to if hes asked that question. That would contradict not only Comey, who had told senators that Trump told him he wanted him to drop an ongoing investigation into Flynn, but Giuliani himself. Talking to ABC last month, Giuliani denied that Trump had asked Comey to drop the probebut did say the two talked about it. He didnt direct him to do that, Giuliani had told ABC. What he said to him was, Can you give him a break? When CNNs Jake Tapper asked Giuliani about that discrepancy, the presidents lawyer denied he ever said that. Thats crazy. I have never said that, he added. What I said was, that is what Comey is saying Trump said. I have always said the President denies it.

Giuliani says the disagreement between what Trump told Comey is at the heart of what he believes could be special counsel Robert Mueller setting a perjury trap because he would favor the former FBI directors account of what happened to that of the president. The president says he never told Comey he should go easy on Flynn. Comey says the president did; he put it in his memo, Giuliani added. So if he goes in and testifies to that under oath, instead of this being a dispute, they can say its perjury.Minnesota Democratic Rep. Keith Ellison, who is currently a candidate to become his states attorney general, is denying allegations that he physically abused and mistreated an ex-girlfriend. Karen Monahans son, Austin Aslim Monahan, first made the allegations in a Facebook post on Saturday night, claiming there is video evidence of the abuse.

Monahan later confirmed it on Twitter.

Austin Aslim Monahan said in a Facebook post that he had seen a video on his moms computer that showed Ellison dragging Monahan off a bed as he yelled profanities at hear. In an interview with the Star Tribune, Austin Aslim Monahan said he did not have a copy of the video that he claims to have seen in 2017. Ellison, who serves as the deputy chairman of the Democratic National Committee, flatly denies the allegation. This video does not exist because I never behaved in this way, and any characterization otherwise is false, Ellison said in his statement. Ellison and Monahan were in a long-term relationship that ended in 2016.

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Congressman Keith Ellisons campaign responds to allegations of domestic abuse. Heres the statement: pic.twitter.com/KZcix6PxV8  KARE 11 (@kare11) August 12, 2018

Karen Monahan, however, stood by her son and wrote on Twitter that what he posted was true. Every statement he made was true.@keithellison, you know you did that to me, she wrote. I have given every opportunity to get help and heal. Even now, u r willing to say my son is lying and have me continue to leak more text and info just so others will believe him. Karen Monahan had tweeted about the #MeToo movement before and said she was a victim but had not previously explicitly mentioned Ellisons name.

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What my son said is true. Every statement he made was true.@keithellison, you know you did that to me. I have given every opportunity to get help and heal. Even now, u r willing to say my son is lying and have me continue to leak more text and info just so others will believe him  Karen Monahan (@KarenMonahan01) August 12, 2018

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Karen Monahan also tweeted images of text messages that she claims were exchanges between her and Ellison. The context of those messages are hard to decipher but Minnesota Public Radio News said it had reviewed more than 100 texts and Twitter messages between Ellison and Monahan. Although some messages are combative, MPR News said there is no evidence in the messages reviewed by MPR News of the alleged physical abuse.

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Dec 22, 2017

My text to Keith. The second part I will post. pic.twitter.com/R9VLA3oiVi  Karen Monahan (@KarenMonahan01) August 12, 2018

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The Washington Posts Dave Weigel pointed out on Twitter that the story had been circulating for a while in Minnesota but there were no stories about it because the allegations didnt hold up under media scrutiny.

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Keith Ellison flatly denies allegation that he abused an ex girlfriend. The story had been circulating in MN, and not held up under media scrutiny, so no stories ran. It blew up last night after the exs son posted the allegation on Facebook. pic.twitter.com/A3VQQhgzQh  Dave Weigel (@daveweigel) August 12, 2018

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The accusations quickly became an issue in the race for Minnesota attorney general as Ellisons rivals demanded he respond to the allegations earlier on Sunday. The six-term congressman has been considered the favorite to win Tuesdays primary for Minnesota attorney general. He is facing off against four other Democrats.

AdvertisementImproperly timed traffic lights.

Drivers who pull out in front of you.

Drivers who accelerate in the left-turn lane.

Drivers who are discourteous about allowing others to merge.

Drivers who dont use their blinkers.

Drivers on their cellphones instead of driving.

Vote

View ResultsThings are looking bright for Brett. Photo: Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images

From the moment President Trump announced his selection of stealth radical Brett Kavanaugh to replace Anthony Kennedy on the Supreme Court, it was clear that Democrats faced an almost impossible road to blocking his appointment. Their primary enemy is cold, hard math. With Democrats holding 49 seats in the Senate, they would need to unite unanimously around a no vote, then sway at least one moderate Republican  of which there are only really two in the Senate, Maines Susan Collins and Alaskas Lisa Murkowski  to their side. (This scenario assumes that John McCain, who is undergoing treatment for cancer, will continue his absence from Washington, giving Republicans the slimmest of margins to work with.)

Despite the steep odds, it was reasonable to expect that the fight to prevent Kavanaugh from shifting the nations highest court rightward would consume gigawatts of liberal energy this summer and fall, entailing maybe the highest-pitched judicial battle since Clarence Thomas.

A month later, that clash hasnt really materialized. Instead, as dueling stories in the New York Times and Washington Post make clear, the resistance to Kavanaugh has remained on a low flame, failing to boil over into the righteous fury that characterized the battle over Obamacare repeal last summer. And with Kavanaughs confirmation hearings scheduled to begin on September 4, Democrats are running out of time to define the candidate on their own terms and make his confirmation anything more than an inevitability. The Times describes the dynamic:

Yet across the country this August, energizing and sustaining on-the-ground opposition to a nominee whom most Republicans and some moderate Democrats have deemed well qualified has been difficult, especially when liberal energy is intensely focused on midterm elections less than 90 days away.

Its kind of like, how do we go on? Its so hard, Barbara Nelson, a liberal activist from Stanton, Iowa, said after a town-hall meeting in Corning, Iowa, where Senator Charles E. Grassley, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, had met with constituents who were evenly divided over the nomination. My only hope is that if you just keep saying it often enough, maybe theyll start believing it.

Democratic activists insist that theres still time to pressure key lawmakers. As they attempt to access the reams of documents from Kavanaughs decades in Washington  in some cases, over the objections of Republicans, theyre also hoping that some long-forgotten missive in his past will trip him up.

But according to the downright fatalistic Post story, Democrats have all but acknowledged that they are unable to stop Kavanaugh from being confirmed. The piece focuses primarily on Collins, who has never voted against a Supreme Court nominee; has shown no sign that Kavanaugh will be an exception to that rule in the face of personal appeals from some constituents; and has dismissed some liberal criticism of him as overblown. (Murkowski is putting out similar signals.)

Even if activist energy were running at fever pitch on the ground in places like Maine, it would be very difficult to derail Kavanaugh. That reality may have created a vicious cycle: because the mission is viewed as so hopeless (and because it is more amorphous than the immediate threat of losing health care), voters arent bothering to exert the kind of effort that might  just might  change a lawmakers mind.

Its not as if Democrats lack ammunition against Kavanaugh. Though the 53-year-old Beltway insider seems to be personally well-liked by everyone hes ever met, he holds views that are likely to translate into decisions that hardly reflect popular opinion. For example, he has displayed hostility to the Affordable Care Act that Democrats worked so hard to preserve last year and indicated that overturning Roe v. Wade would be in keeping with his judicial philosophy, and has has shown every sign that he would side with Trump in a possible legal battle against Special Counsel Robert Mueller.

None of this, however, has seemed to translate into much concern from Republican senators.

And theres another problem: Red-state Democrats up for tough reelections this fall arent necessarily feeling the heat, either.

This process, from my perspective as a senator, isnt significantly different than what it was on the last Supreme Court nominee, Missouri Democrat Claire McCaskill told the Post. Frankly, the calls are about even. Maybe slightly more Vote no. 

If Collins and Murkowski seem locked in to voting yes, Democrats like North Dakotas Heidi Heitkamp, West Virginias Joe Manchin, and Indianas Joe Donnelly  all of whom voted for Neil Gorsuch last year, and all of whom face competitive races in November  may buckle in an effort to display their bipartisan bona fides, even though the political wisdom of doing so is far from established.

In the end, Republicans may get their man through by more than just a whisker. Less than a month before Kavanaugh faces four days of questions from the Senate, it looks like it would take a major, unforeseen disaster to prevent him from becoming perhaps President Trumps most important legacy.A grieving orca whale that made headlines around the world for carrying the corpse of her dead calf for more than two weeks has finally released it, ending what scientists referred to as a tour of grief. The adult female named Tahlequah, who is known as J35 by scientists, was seen Saturday swimming without the body of her calf.

J35 frolicked past my window today with other J pod whales, and she looks vigorous and healthy, Ken Balcomb, founding director of the Center for Whale Research, wrote in an email to the Seattle Times. The ordeal of her carrying a dead calf for at least seventeen days and 1,000 miles is now over, thank goodness.

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We are saddened to report that a baby Southern Resident killer whale (SRKW) died a short time after it was born near Victoria, British Columbia on July 24, 2018. The newborn whale was reported alive and swimming with its mother, J35 ... https://t.co/ql0kDBU9LL pic.twitter.com/GQteYuPsv4  Whale Research (@CWROrcas) July 26, 2018

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The 20-year-old orca moved people around the world who were touched by her mourning after she gave birth on July 24. The 400-pound calf that was born that morning, which was the first live birth in the pod since 2015, only lived about half an hour. Scientists believe she had previously lost two other offspring since 2010. The most recent death may have been emotionally hard on her, Balcomb said

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August 11, 2018

J35 update: "The ordeal of J35 carrying her dead calf for at least seventeen days and 1,000 miles is now over, thank goodness."

- Ken Balcomb, Center for Whale Researchhttps://t.co/kQpA4WWbmg pic.twitter.com/cQIN13HgN6  Whale Research (@CWROrcas) August 12, 2018

Although scientists often scoff at the way people love to anthropomorphize animals, in this case researchers said that the whales actions were what they looked like: mourning. You cannot interpret it any other way, Deborah Giles, a killer whale biologist with the University of Washington, told the Washington Post. This is an animal that is grieving for its dead baby, and she doesnt want to let it go. Shes not ready. Scientists called the grieving period unprecedented for a southern resident killer whale, noting that while it wasnt uncommon for dead babies to get carried around for part of a day, it never went on this long.

Scientists were worried that Tahlequahs health was suffering as a result of the long grieving period but the Center for Whale Research said that this mother whale appears to be in good physical condition.It all makes sense once you realize they want to kill us, by Mike Whitney - The Unz Review : 'It is now apparent that these products in ...Ed Case on the campaign trail in Hawaii this summer. Photo: Marco Garcia/AP

Former Blue Dog Democrat Ed Case looks set to return to the House of Representatives after a 12-year absence following his victory in Saturdays crowded Democratic primary for Hawaiis first congressional district. The moderates win in the heavily Democratic state runs counter to the leftward shift among many Democrats since the election of President Donald Trump.

Governor Daniel Ige, meanwhile, was able to hold off Representative Colleen Hanabusa in the Democratic governor primary despite his administration having faced criticism over its poor handling of last years false nuclear missile alert and the more recent major eruption of the Kilauea volcano. The well-known Hanabusa vacated her House seat to run against Ige, but came up nearly seven points short, with Ige ultimately receiving 50 percent of the vote.

Case, a late entry into the race to replace Hanabusa, defeated six other candidates, including Lieutant Governor Doug Chin, a former state attorney general who led Hawaiis high-profile legal efforts to challenge President Trumps travel ban. Case received 40 percent of the vote, while Chin received the next highest total with 25 percent.

In a midterm election cycle which has seen a lot of candidates emerging from the left to challenge Republicans and even some Democrats in Congress, Cases victory and more moderate mindset definitely stand out. During his last stint in the House, Case was an Iraq War-supporting member of the Blue Dog coalition, a caucus of Democrats who are more fiscally conservative and bipartisanship-enthused than the rest of the party. The once-powerful coalition is now a shadow of its former self, however, having only 14 members, down from 54 a little under a decade ago.

Case was elected to Congress in 2002, but left the House in 2006 to mount a failed primary challenge against Senator Daniel Akaka. He went on to lose another two elections: one in Hawaiis 1st district in 2010, and another primary for Akakas seat in 2012 after the senator retired. Case then indicated he was done with politics and took a job at Outrigger Enterprises Group, a large hotel chain and management company based in Honolulu, where was an executive vice-president until now.

But neither Cases primary losses nor the evolution of the post-Trump left drove him to shift his views for this years campaign, where he once again emphasized his moderate views and desire to seek bipartisan compromise in Washington. That kind of attitude may still be valuable in some swing districts across the U.S., but a lot less so in Hawaiis 1st, where 63 percent of voters supported Hillary Clinton in 2016.

I was clearly saying we need to fix Washington and we need to work together, and that message clearly resonated with many voters, Case explained after his victory. It also stands to reason that a narrower field of candidates might have led to a different outcome, and that, as some Hawaii political analysts have suggested, Cases name recognition was a decisive advantage in the crowded race.

Another candidate Case defeated was State Representative Kaniela Ing, a Democratic Socialist who campaigned on single payer health care and free college tuition, and who has received some continental press coverage  as well as some help on the trail from congressional candidate (and Democratic Socialist icon) Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Ing finished fourth at the polls on Saturday, with a little over 6 percent of vote.

Elsewhere in blue Hawaii, Saturdays primaries went as expected. The popular congresswoman and Iraq vet Tulsi Gabbard easily won reelection in her primary race, and Mazie Hirono got the nod for another term in the U.S. Senate. They, Ige, and Case are all expected to win their elections this November.Ad Investing Trends

Get In On This Crisis Investment While You Can

The headline screamed "Amazon, Google and Netflix are fighting over this rare gas," which is helium, nonrenewable, and running out. When it's gone it's gone. That's a huge crisis for medicine, the military, and computer chips that run the 21st century's gadgets, appliances, and vehicles. But, a couple small companies have a solution.The prevailing mood of the day. Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

One year to the day after a white nationalist rally devolved into deadly violence in Charlottesville, Virginia, a second iteration of the event  this one in Washington, D.C.  drew a fraction of the original events crowd. The small number of right-wing marchers who did show up were dwarfed by thousands of counterprotesters, who dominated the landscape in downtown Washington. And the rally, which had expected to begin in the early evening, was already over by late Sunday afternoon, cut short by rain.

Fewer than 50 people turned up for the event that was billed as Unite the Right 2. They were led by Jason Kessler, the white nationalist who rose to prominence by co-organizing the Charlottesville rally last year.

Amid a heavy police presence throughout the citys downtown, Kessler and his supporters were ushered by police from the Foggy Bottom Metro stop, where they had arrived from suburban Virginia.

Confronted by a phalanx of counterprotesters there, they made their way to Lafayette Park, just north of the White House. Along the way, they were met by a steady stream of opponents, who jeered and chanted anti-racist slogans at them.

Cant stress enough how underwhelming the #UniteTheRight2 #unitetheright group is. Twenty MAGA dudes walking inside of 100s of cops, 100s of media, and 1000s of counter demonstrators down F street pic.twitter.com/BQZBpn9oME  Scott Heins (@scottheins) August 12, 2018

Big counterprotest contingent marching along Lafayette Park: Whose streets? Our streets! pic.twitter.com/WmafSaWFBJ  Blake Montgomery  (@blakersdozen) August 12, 2018

Though light scuffles broke out among the crowd at points, and anti-fascists occasionally clashed with police, no injuries were reported as of Sunday afternoon.

After the group reached the park, Kessler addressed the media.

Kessler now giving statements to the press in front of the white house. says Trump was right about Charlottesville, "there was good people on both sides" pic.twitter.com/x0gRVGBDjE  Caleb Ecarma (@calebecarma) August 12, 2018

Unite the Right was granted a permit for 400 people, a number it didnt come close to reaching. The counterprotest group the Answer Coalition was granted a permit for more than 1,200 people at Lafayette Square, adjacent to the park. Police officers set up barriers to separate the two sides. Two other groups were given permits to gather at the Lincoln Memorial.

In Charlottesville itself, the anniversary of last years trauma was marked by peace. Hundreds of anti-racist marchers gathered at a park near the University of Virginia, and Susan Bro, the mother of slain counterprotester Heather Heyer, spoke to a crowd of hundreds on the street where her daughter was killed last year.

I dont want other mothers to be in my spot, she said. I dont want other mothers to go through this.President Donald Trump on Saturday was critical of racism in a tweet acknowledging the anniversary of a white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Va., that turned deadly a year ago.

The counter-protests in Washington have renewed the debate over whether small demonstrations of racist extremists should be ignored, or greeted with forceful public opposition.

Saturday's march capped a day of hope, grief, anger and remembrance in Charlottesville, one year after the "Unite the Right" rally brought racially charged street violence to the scenic college town.

Several dozen demonstrators from the so-called "antifa", or anti-fascist, movement marched to the spot where Heather Heyer was killed a year ago when a man linked to white supremacist groups rammed his vehicle into counter-protestors.

In his Saturday tweet, Mr. Trump did not specifically call out white nationalists, but referred generally to "riots" in Charlottesville that "resulted in senseless death and division".

'I condemn all types of racism and acts of violence.

President Trump is urging "peace to all Americans" as cities across the USA are bracing for Unite the Right 2018 marches this weekend.

Virginia Senator Mark Warner, (D), said that Trump shares responsibility for the violence in Charlottesville. Trump wrote on Twitter.

"We must show that what sets us apart as citizens of this country are our values of respect, openness, and tolerance towards one another".

States of emergency were declared on Wednesday for the Commonwealth of Virginia and Charlottesville.

Jordan Ayew Makes Loan Move To Crystal Palace

The 26-year-old Ghana International will try to help Palace improve on their 11th place finish in the Premier League last season. Ayew had arrived earlier in London to finalize the move in time to beat the transfer deadline at 5pm British time.

Police cars, SUVs and buses poured into downtown Charlottesville Friday, setting up a security area around the Downtown Mall. Soon after though, he said that while there were bad people in the white supremacist group, "you also had people that were very fine people, on both sides".

The man, John Miska, who was wearing a handgun in a shoulder holster, visited a drugstore and purchased razor blades, which qualified as contraband under the city's emergency declaration. Several counter protests and rallies also have been planned for Sunday.

The security area encompasses the Emancipation Park where alt-right groups rallied one year ago in an attempt to preserve the controversial Robert E. Lee statue there.

Counterprotesters are expected to include members of antifa, an anti-fascist group, some of whose members rampaged through parts of the District on Inauguration Day employing "black bloc" tactics of breaking windows and setting fires.

In August 2017, white supremacist demonstrators and counterprotesters squared off in violent clashes in Charlottesville, site of the University of Virginia.

In the immediate aftermath, Trump drew broad criticism when he initially appeared to establish a moral equivalence between the two groups of protesters and refused to criticize the extreme rightwingers.

It was a dramatic shift in tone from past year, when he said there was "blame on both sides" for the violence that broke out when white nationalists descended on Charlottesville to protest the removal of Confederate statutes and marched through town shouting racist slurs. Carlson, 22, said she feared for her life when she and a group of her friends were surrounded by the phalanx of young white men at the statue.

Later, he again blamed "both sides". Another book accuses him of being a "racist, bigot and misogynist" who calls blacks "niggers" and routinely denigrates women. He denies the allegations. "We don't see no riot here", activists chanted Saturday evening.

More: 'It's right there in front of the White House': Is D.C. ready for Unite the Right?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.Appointment of Governors

PTI Chairman is nominating the provincial governors which looks strange to me, for I had always thought that the governors were the Presidents representatives in the provinces and a sort of check and balance over the provincial rulers.



If the PTI forms the govt. in the Punjab, which apparently it would, then how could Ch. Sarwar exercise any control over it, though he may have had even resigned from the PTI. I earnestly wish and pray that our politicians when assigned gubernatorial posts show the moral fibre to act painfully neutral and in the best interest of the state in their dealings with the provincial govt., but it is only a wish and if the wishes were horses.........!!



It didnt use to be so before and the president could appoint anyone  a retired general, a judge, a bureaucrat or even an academic as the governor and his representative in the province. I dont know if the 18th amendment, in order to strengthen the political party hierarchy beyond limits and curtail the powers of the president further, has played this havoc also with the system of the governance in the country, which to say the least is the least desirable.



Col. Riaz Jafri (Retd)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...Seven can thank AFL for its surprise win last week after Nine led the week until Thursday night.

Nines Block dominated the week but in what should have been a Nine victory, Seven managed an upset with Friday and Saturday shares. Nines primary channel stayed in front.

Due to low shares on Sunday, TEN finished the week behind ABC.

Network:

Seven: 29.9

Nine: 29.7

ABC: 16.9

TEN: 16.2

SBS: 7.3

Primary channels:

Nine: 21.1

Seven: 19.4

ABC: 12.2

TEN: 10.9

SBS: 5.1

Multichannels:

7mate: 4.5

9GO!: 4.3

7TWO: 3.7

ABC KIDS COMEDY / ONE: 2.9

7Flix: 2.4

9GEM / ELEVEN: 2.3

9Life: 2.0

ABC News: 1.3

SBS VICELAND: 1.1

SBS Food Network: 1.0

ABC KIDS: 0.6

NITV: 0.1

Nine won Sunday  Thursday, Seven scored Friday & Saturday. ABC bettered TEN on Sunday, Tuesday, Friday & Saturday.

Nine claimed victory in Sydney, Melbourne & Brisbane. Seven held Adelaide & Perth.

Best brands last week were:

Seven: Seven News (Sun: 1.15m), Little Big Shots (963,000), Home and Away (656,000) and Highway Patrol (Ep 2: 623,000).

Nine: The Block (Launch: 1.16m), Nine News (Sun: 990,000), 60 Minutes (803,000) and A Current Affair (767,000).

ABC: Jack Irish (Sat: 735,000), ABC News (Sat: 710,000), Anhs Brush with Fame (663,000) and War on Waste (643,000).

TEN: Russell Coights All Aussie Adventures (882,000), Australian Survivor (664,000), Have You Been Paying Attention? (660,000) and The Project (7pm: 480,000).

SBS: Tony Robinson: Britains Ancient Tracks (303,000), Inside Windsor Castle (288,000), Batavia Revealed (254,000) and Extreme Railway Journeys (231,000).Company-manufacturer from Southern region of Mogilyov Oblast in the Republic of Belarus. We produce and export various types of firewood to Europe and foreign countries.

We are available for shipment:

Alder firewood - moisture content up to 40%, diameter - 3-5 inches, length - 13 inches, can be packed in wooden boxes 100x80x120, or, by your demand, in any box sizes or other packages.

We are also open to consider supplying and shipping other types of wood to you on your request.FILE PHOTO: French Transport Minister Elisabeth Borne is pictured before the vote for the French government's SNCF reform bill at the National Assembly in Paris, June 13, 2018. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier

Thomson Reuters

PARIS (Reuters) - France deems unacceptable a European Commission proposal to exclude French ports from a re-routing of a strategic trade corridor between Ireland and mainland Europe after Brexit, the government said.

At the moment much of Ireland's trade with the continent goes via Britain in trucks. However, with less than eight months to go until Britain leaves the European Union there is still little clarity on its future trade relations with the bloc, nor the nature of the Irish Republic's border with the British province of Northern Ireland.

The new route put forward by the Commission would connect Ireland by sea with Dutch and Belgian ports including Zeebrugge and Rotterdam. French ports such as Calais and Dunkirk would be bypassed.

"France and Ireland maintain important trade channels, both overland via Britain and via direct maritime routes. The geographical proximity between Ireland and France creates an obvious connection to the single market," French Transport Minister Elisabeth Borne wrote to the EU's transport commissioner in a letter dated Aug. 10.

"Surprisingly, the Commission proposal in no way takes this into account. This proposal therefore is not acceptable to France."

At stake are jobs, millions of dollars' worth of port revenues and possibly EU infrastructure funding.

Borne said that French ports had the necessary resources to ensure they could handle the likely increase in trade flows, hinting at concerns of congestion in ports such as Calais, France's busiest passenger port.

(Reporting by Richard Lough; editing by David Stamp)

See Also:FILE PHOTO: A view of the Roman Catholic church and belfry in the coastal Philippine town of Balangiga after a typhoon, November 20, 2013. REUTERS/Nathan Layne/File Photo

Thomson Reuters

MANILA (Reuters) - The United States will return to the Philippines church bells seized by U.S. troops as trophies during a war between the two countries more than a century ago, giving way to Manila after years of diplomatic pressure.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis has notified Congress that the department plans to return the Bells of Balangiga to the Philippines at a date yet to be identified, the U.S. Embassy in Manila said in a statement on Saturday.

Despite decades of close ties between the two countries and a tight military alliance, the United States' refusal to return the bells has long been a bone of contention, raised strongly by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.

In 1901, U.S. soldiers killed thousands of Filipinos, including women and children in the central Philippines town of Balangiga in response to the death of 48 U.S. soldiers at the hand of rebels during the war between the two countries.

U.S. troops took the town's church bells. Two of the bells are at the Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming, while the third is part of a traveling museum.

"We are aware that the Bells of Balangiga have deep significance for a number of people, both in the United States and in the Philippines," the embassy said.

The Philippines government had no immediate comment.

(Reporting by Neil Jerome Morales; Editing by Martin Petty and Hugh Lawson)

See Also:US Navy P-8A Poseidon flying over the Pacific Northwest

NAVAIR US Navy

China sent six warnings to a US Navy plane operating in the South China Sea on Friday, ordering the American crew to "leave immediately and keep out."

The US Navy aircraft stayed the course, insisting that it was within its legal rights.

The incident followed a report from the Philippine government revealing that China had been sending out threatening radio queries to foreign ships and planes at an increased frequency.

Chinese forces deployed to the hotly contested South China Sea ordered a US Navy reconnaissance aircraft to "leave immediately" six times Friday, but the pilot stayed the course, refusing to back down.

A US Navy P-8A Poseidon reconnaissance plane flew past China's garrisons in the Spratly Islands, giving CNN reporters aboard the aircraft a view of Chinese militarization in the region.

Flying over Chinese strongholds on Mischief Reef, Johnson Reef, Fiery Cross Reef, and Subi Reef, CNN spotted "large radar installations, power plants, and runways sturdy enough to carry large military aircraft." At one outpost, onboard sensors detected 86 vessels, including Chinese Coast Guard ships, which China has been known to use to strong-arm countries with competing claims in the South China Sea.

Lt. Lauren Callen, who led the US Navy crew, said it was "surprising to see airports in the middle of the ocean."

An airstrip, structures and buildings on China's man-made Subi Reef in the Spratly chain of islands in the South China Sea

Bullit Marquez/AP

The Chinese stationed in the area were not exactly kind hosts to the uninvited guests.

Warning the aircraft that it was in Chinese territory  an argument an international arbitration tribunal ruled against two years ago  the Chinese military ordered the US Navy plane to "leave immediately and keep out to avoid any misunderstanding."

Six warnings were issued, according to CNN, and the US Navy responded the same every time.

"I am a sovereign immune US naval aircraft conducting lawful military activities beyond the national airspace of any coastal state," the crew replied, adding, "In exercising these rights guaranteed by international law, I am operating with due regard for the rights and duties of all states."

Story continues

Friday's incident comes on the heels of a report by the Philippine government revealing that China has been increasingly threatening foreign ships and planes operating in the South China Sea.

"Leave immediately," Chinese forces in the Spratlys warned a Philippine military aircraft earlier this year, according to the Associated Press. "I am warning you again, leave immediately or you will pay the possible consequences," the voice said over the radio.

The US Navy has noticed an increase in such queries as well.

"Our ships and aircraft have observed an increase in radio queries that appear to originate from new land-based facilities in the South China Sea," Cmdr. Clay Doss, a representative for the US 7th Fleet, told the AP, adding, "These communications do not affect our operations."

Of greater concern for the US military are recent Chinese deployments of military equipment and weapons systems, such as jamming technology, anti-ship cruise missiles, and surface-to-air missiles. While the US has accused China of "intimidation and coercion" in the disputed waterway, Beijing argues it is the US, not China, that is causing trouble in the region.

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to comment on Friday's exchange between the Chinese military and the US Navy.

NOW WATCH: What the pirates in movies actually looked like in real life

See Also:BEIRUT (AP)  It was supposed to be a goodwill gesture from an energy company in Turkey.

This summer, the Karadeniz Energy Group lent Lebanon a floating power station to generate electricity at below-market rates to help ease the strain on the country's woefully undermaintained power sector.

Instead, the barge's arrival opened a Pandora's box of partisan mudslinging in a country hobbled by political sectarianism and dysfunction.

There have been rows over where it should dock, how to allocate its 235 megawatts of power, and even what to call the barge.

It has even driven a wedge between Lebanon's two dominant parties among Shiite Muslims: Amal and the militant group Hezbollah.

Amal, which has held the parliament speaker's seat since 1992, revealed sensationally last week it had refused to allow the boat to dock in a port in the predominantly Shiite south, even though it is one of the most underserved regions of Lebanon.

Power outages in the south can stretch on for more than 12 hours a day.

Hezbollah, which normally stands pat with Amal in political matters, issued an exceptional statement that it had nothing to do with the matter of the barge at Zahrani port. A Hezbollah lawmaker went further to say his party disagreed on the issue with Amal.

Ali Hassan Khalil, Lebanon's Finance Minister and a leading Amal party member, said southerners wanted a permanent power station, not a stop-gap solution, in an implied dig at the rival Free Patriotic Movement, a Christian party that runs the Energy Ministry.

But critics seized on the statement as confirmation that Amal's leaders were in bed with the operators of private generators, who have been making fortunes selling electricity during blackouts at many times the state price.

"For decades there's been nothing stopping them from building a power plant," said Mohammad Obeid, a former Amal party official, in an interview with Lebanon's Al Jadeed TV station.

Story continues

"Now there's a barge that's coming for three months to provide a few more hours of electricity -- and that's the issue?"

Hassan Khalil, reached by phone, refused to comment.

Nabih Berri, Amal's chief and Lebanon's parliament speaker, who has long been the subject of critical coverage from Al Jadeed's, sued the TV channel for libel on Wednesday for its reporting.

Energy Minister Cesar Abi Khalil, a Christian, lashed out at Amal, saying the ministry even changed the barge's name from Ayse, Turkish for Aisha, a name associated in Lebanon with Sunnis, to Esra Sultan, which does not carry any Shiite or Sunni connotations, to try to get it to dock in Zahrani.

Karadeniz said the barge was renamed "out of courtesy and respect to local customs and sensitivities."

"Ayse is a very common Turkish name, where such preferences are not as sensitive as in Lebanon," it said in a statement to The Associated Press.

Finally, on July 18, the barge docked in Jiyeh, a harbor south of Beirut but north of Zahrani, and in a religiously mixed Muslim area.

But two weeks later it was unmoored again, after Abi Khalil, the energy minister, said the infrastructure at Jiyeh could only handle 30 megawatts of the Esra Sultan's 235 capacity.

With Zahrani closed to the Esra Sultan, it could only go to Zouq Mikhael, a port in the Christian-dominated Kesrouan region in the north, where it was plugged to the grid Tuesday night, giving the region almost 24 hours of electricity a day.

Lebanon has been contending with rolling blackouts since the days of its 1975-1990 civil war. Successive governments have failed to agree on a permanent solution for the chronic electricity failures, largely because of profiteering, endemic corruption and lack of political will.

In 2013, the Energy Ministry contracted with Karadeniz to buy electricity from a pair of its barges, which are still docked in Jiyeh and Zouq Mikhael.

This summer, Abi Khalil signed a new contract with Karadeniz to keep the barges for another three years. As part of the deal, Karadeniz agreed to lend Lebanon the third barge, the Esra Sultan, to produce electricity for three months at no cost - Lebanon would just have to pay for the fuel.

The company said Lebanon's internal squabbles do not affect how long the Esra Sultan would stay in Lebanon. It arrived on July 18 and it will leave on Oct. 18, it said.MUMBAI (Reuters) - A unit of Indias Hetero Drugs is recalling some batches of the blood pressure and heart medicine valsartan in the United States, a notice on the U.S. regulator's website said, amid a wider probe into cancer risks associated with the drug.

At least a dozen companies around the world have pulled specific batches of valsartan from the market since early July, when regulators said valsartan made by the Chinese supplier Zhejiang Huahai Pharmaceuticals had been found to contain a probable human carcinogen, N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA).

The notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said Hetero was found to be using a similar manufacturing process to Chinas Zhejiang Huahai for valsartan. (https://bit.ly/2MjohkN)

Test results from Hetero Labs show the amount of NDMA found in its valsartan active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) exceeds acceptable levels; although it is generally lower than the amount discovered in the API manufactured by Zhejiang, the FDA said.

Hetero declined to comment, a spokesman in India said.

The company, among Indias top 15 drugmakers and one of the worlds largest suppliers of HIV/AIDS drugs, sells valsartan in the United States through its unit Camber Pharmaceuticals, which is recalling the drug as a precautionary measure, the FDA notice said.

It added that Camber had not received any reports of adverse events related to the drug. (https://bit.ly/2Bc5u6T)

Calls to New Jersey-based Camber went unanswered on Saturday, outside of regular working hours.

INDIA IMPORTS

Valsartan was originally developed by the Swiss firm Novartis and sold under the name Diovan, but it is now off patent and is used in several generic medicines made by companies around the world.

Heteros website says the company has more than 30 manufacturing plants around the world.

India has temporarily suspended imports of medicines from China that contain valsartan, K. Bangarurajan, a joint drugs controller at Indias main drug authority, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization, told Reuters on Saturday.

Story continues

Imports from elsewhere continue, he said.

Not all imports have been blocked, he said, adding that the action was taken after FDA posted a notice about cancer links to valsartan last month.

European regulators said on Friday that a second Chinese contract manufacturer, Zhejiang Tianyu, had produced valsartan with the cancer-causing chemical. (https://reut.rs/2ns12qB)

NDMA is classified as a probable human carcinogen. Based on results from laboratory tests, it may cause cancer with long-term use.

China and India supply more than two-thirds of all active drug ingredients used in medicines, industry experts estimate.

(Reporting by Zeba Siddiqui; Editing by Neil Fullick)

See Also:Photo credit: Rhino Conservation Botswana/ Kensington Palace - Getty Images

From Town & Country

Prince Harry made an unannounced visit to Africa this week, and he did not bring along Meghan Markle this time. Though the couple has spent lots of time in Africa-most famously for their third date-this was a working trip for Harry, and like most people who travel for business, he didn't bring his spouse.

The Duke of Sussex is on a private working trip to Botswana, to join the annual general meeting for Rhino Conservation Botswana in his capacity as patron," Kensington Palace said in a statement to ITV. He attended the board meeting in Maun and an RCB community project in Xarakao village.

Royal correspondent Omid Scobie noted on Twitter that this is the second time this year Harry has visited the Southern African country to care for the animals. The Duke serves as a patron Rhino Conservation Botswana, an organization that works to increase and protect populations of black and white rhinos.

Great to see Prince Harry back in Maun, Botswana, in his role as patron of @RhinosBotswana (second time this year).

Earlier this week Harry was with RCB director Map Ives in the Okavango Delta, where in 2016 he helped fit tracking devices to relocated endangered black rhinos pic.twitter.com/d5XszGcjSX - Omid Scobie (@scobie) August 10, 2018

In 2015, Harry told Town and Country what an African trip with him is really like. "I don't go on safari," he said. "I come so I can surround myself with people [working in conservation] and support them."

Photo credit: Rhino Conservation Botswana/Kensington Palace copyright: Getty Images - Getty Images

Photos of Harry's most recent trip this week have not been released, but royal reporter Carolyn Durand managed to take a screenshot of video taken while Harry was visiting a Xarakao village.

Kensington Palace confirm The #DukeofSussex is on a private working trip to Botswana to join the Annual General Meeting for Rhino Conservation Botswana in his capacity as Patron He attended the Board meeting in Maun & an RCB community project in Xarakao village." #PrinceHarry pic.twitter.com/zhPTNlcLbD - Carolyn Durand (@CarolynDurand) August 10, 2018

Although this was a solo trip for Harry, Botswana is a place where he and Meghan have shared many fond memories before. Harry reminisced on some of those moments in the couple's first joint interview with the BBC after their engagement in November.

Story continues

Photo credit: Antony Jones - Getty Images

"We camped out with each other under the stars," he said. "She came and joined me for five days out there, which was absolutely fantastic. So then we were really by ourselves, which was crucial to me to make sure that we had a chance to know each other.

('You Might Also Like',)By Jon Herskovitz

(Reuters) - Tennessee conducted its first execution in nearly a decade on Thursday, administering a lethal injection to a man convicted of the 1985 rape and murder of a 7-year-old girl he was babysitting.

Billy Irick, 59, who had spent more than three decades on death row, was put to death at the Riverbend Maximum Security Institution in Nashville, Department of Corrections spokeswoman Tylee Tracer said. Pronounced dead at 7:48 p.m. Central time, he became the 15th inmate executed this year in the United States and the first in Tennessee since 2009.

He was convicted of raping and strangling Paula Dyer in Knoxville. Irick had been a boarder in the home where the girl lived with her mother, stepfather and siblings.

Executions in Tennessee had been put on hold for years due in large part to lawsuits from death row inmates challenging the state's combination of lethal drugs and death chamber protocols.

Hours before the execution, the U.S. Supreme Court denied a petition by Irick's lawyers to spare his life. The lawyers argued that he has suffered from psychosis for his entire life and putting him to death would violate legal norms barring the execution of people with severe mental disorders or disabilities.

Tennessee state prosecutors have said Irick knew what he was doing was wrong, was competent to be executed and did not properly raise the mental illness claim in state court.

Irick and other death row inmates have been part of a lawsuit that seeks to block use of Tennessee's lethal injection mix, which contains the sedative midazolam. The valium-like drug has been used in executions in other states, a few of which were botched.

Midazolam does not achieve the level of unconsciousness required for surgery and is unsuitable for lethal injections, lawyers for the inmates have argued.

Irick's lawyers had argued that his execution should have been halted to give an appeals court time to render a decision on that matter.

Story continues

Casting the lone dissenting vote in the Supreme Court's decision denying Irick a reprieve, Justice Sonia Sotomayor said that if midazolam does not work, an inmate could suffer harm in violation of constitutional protections against cruel and unusual punishments.

"If the law permits this execution to go forward in spite of the horrific final minutes that Irick may well experience, then we have stopped being a civilized nation and accepted barbarism," she wrote.

(Reporting by Jon Herskovitz; Editing by Diane Craft, Jonathan Oatis, Toni Reinhold)UNITED NATIONS (AP)  U.N. experts say "predatory behavior" by armed groups in Libya is posing a direct threat to forming a national government and ending lawlessness that has fueled Islamic militancy, human trafficking and instability in the wider region.

The experts also warned in the summary of a report to the U.N. Security Council obtained Friday by The Associated Press that "the use of violence to exert control over Libya's state institutions might result in a return of armed confrontations in Tripoli," the country's capital.

They said the Libyan Investment Authority, National Oil Corporation and Central Bank of Libya "were targets of threats and attacks, impacting on the performance of Libya's oil and financial sectors."

Libya slid into chaos after a 2011 NATO-backed uprising that toppled and killed ruler Moammar Gadhafi. It is now split between rival governments in the east and the west, each backed by an array of militias.

In May, Fayez Serraj, prime minister of the U.N.-backed government in Tripoli, and Field Marshal Khalifa Hifter, commander of the self-styled Libyan National Army in the east, agreed on a roadmap aimed at restoring order in the country. It calls for parliamentary and presidential elections, scheduled for Dec. 10.

But the panel of experts said "predatory behavior of armed groups posed a direct threat to Libya's political transition."

"Armed groups are responsible for targeted persecutions and serious human rights violations, which are deepening grievances among some categories of the population and ultimately threatening long-term peace and stability in Libya," the experts said.

Human trafficking and migrant smuggling "are substantially benefiting armed groups," they said, fueling instability and undermining the country's economy.

The experts said most armed groups involved are affiliated either with the Serraj government or Hifter's Libyan National Army.

Story continues

Libya has emerged as a major transit point to Europe for people fleeing poverty and civil war elsewhere in Africa and human traffickers have exploited the chaos in the country.

The experts said "criminal networks" organize convoys of migrants "and use sexual exploitation to generate significant revenues." They expressed concern at impunity for those systematically violating human rights.

"The panel is particularly concerned that different armed groups attempt to gain legitimacy by ostensibly supporting efforts to combat irregular migration and thereby receiving technical and material assistance from foreign actors," the report said.

The experts said this has led to an increase in the use of vessels mounted with weapons in both eastern and western Libya.

The panel said it also noted a growing number of armored vehicles and pickup trucks fitted with heavy machine guns, recoilless rifles and rocket and mortar launchers in combat theaters particularly in the east, in apparent violation of the U.N. arms embargo.

In other violations of the embargo, the panel said weapons and related materiel both from the Gadhafi regime's stockpiles and transfers conducted after 2011 continue to fall into the hands of Libyan and foreign armed groups.

"The diversion of arms feeds into the increasing insecurity," the panel said, and "constitutes a continued threat to peace and security in Libya and neighboring countries."

"Foreign fighters and armed groups, moving in and out of Libya, exploit the proliferation of arms and related material in Libya resulting in regular violations of the arms embargo," the experts said.

As for other sanctions, the panel said that since August 2017 it documented six attempts by the Eastern National Oil Corporation in Benghazi "to illicitly export crude oil." It added that illicit exports of refined petroleum products, both by land and sea, "continue to be a prosperous activity."

The panel said an analysis of available data and information on assets of the Libyan Investment Authority show "two major instances of non-compliance" with U.N. sanctions freezing its assets.

See Also:We all know that parrots can talk. Some people may have even seen elephants, seals, or whales mimicking speech sounds. So why cant our closest primate relatives speak like us? Our new research suggests they have the right vocal anatomy but not the brainpower to use it.

Scientists have been interested in understanding this phenomenon for centuries. Some have argued that non-human primates didnt have the right-shaped body parts to make the same sounds as we do, and that human speech evolved after our speech organs changed. But comparative studies have shown that the form and function of the larynx and vocal tract is very similar across most primates species, including humans.

This suggests that the primate vocal tract is speech ready but that most species dont have the neural control to make the complex sounds that comprise human speech. When reviewing the evidence in 1871, Charles Darwin wrote the brain has no doubt been far more important.

Along with Jeroen Smaers from Stony Brook University in New York, I have been investigating the relationship between the number of different calls that each primate species can make and the architecture of their brains. For example, Golden pottos have only ever been recorded using two different sounds, while chimpanzees and bonobos use around 40.

Our new study, published in Frontiers in Neuroscience, focused on two particular features of the brain. These were the cortical association areas that govern voluntary control over behaviour, and the brainstem nuclei that are involved in the neural control of muscles responsible for vocal production. Cortical association areas are found within the neocortex and are key to the higher order brain functions considered to be the foundation for the complex behaviour of primates.

The results indicate a positive correlation between the relative size of the cortical association areas and the size of the vocal repertoire of primates. In simple terms, primates with bigger cortical association areas tended to make more sounds. But, interestingly, a primates vocal repertoire was not linked to the overall size of its brain, just the relative size of these specific areas.

Story continues

We also found that apes have particularly large cortical association areas, as well as a bigger hypoglossal nucleus than other primates. The hypoglossal nucleus is associated with the cranial nerve that controls the muscles of the tongue. This suggests that our closest primate relatives may have finer and more voluntary control over their tongues than other primate species.

By understanding the nature of the relationship between vocal complexity and brain architecture, we hope to identify some of the key elements that underlie the evolution of complex vocal communication in our ancestors, ultimately leading to speech.

Evolution of speech

The origins of speech is a topic that has long been debated. The Societe de Linguistique de Paris famously banned any further enquiry into the matter in its publication pages in 1866, as it was deemed to be far too unscientific. But much progress has been made in the last few decades thanks to a wide range of evidence, such as that from studies of communication in other species, fossils and, more recently, genetics.

Research has shown that some primate species, such as vervet monkeys, use words to label things (what we would call semantics in human language). Some species even combine calls into simple sentences (what we would think of as syntax). This can tell us a lot about the early evolution of language, and the elements of language that might have already been present in our common ancestors with these species some millions of years ago.

The fossil record can also provide insight. Speech itself clearly does not fossilise, so researchers have searched for proxy evidence in the skeletal remains of extinct human relatives. For example, some researchers have argued that the position and shape of the hyoid bone (the only bone in the vocal tract) can tell us something about the origins of speech.

Similarly, other have argued that the diameter of the thoracic canal (which connects the thorax to the nervous system), or the hypoglossal canal (through which the nerves travel to the tongue), can tell us something about breathing, or speech production. And the size and shape of the tiny bones in the middle ear may be able tell us something about speech perception. But, in general, the fossil record is simply too limited to draw any strong conclusions.

Finally, comparing genetics of humans and other species has provided insight into the origins of speech. One much-discussed gene, that seems to be relevant for speech, is the FOXP2 gene. If this gene mutates it leads to difficulties with learning and producing complex mouth movements, and wide-ranging linguistic dificiencies.

It was long thought that the DNA sequence changes in the human FOXP2 gene were a unique trait, related to our unique ability to use speech. But more recent studies have shown that these mutations are also present in some extinct human relatives, and the changes in this gene (and, perhaps language itself) may be much more ancient than previously thought.

Technological developments, such as further ancient DNA sequencing of extinct species, and increased knowledge of the neurobiology of language, are certain to provide further giant leaps. But the future of this contentious and complex field will likely depend on large-scale, multi-disciplinary collaboration. Comparative studies like ours, comparing traits across a range of species, was the primary tool used by Darwin. No doubt such studies will continue to provide important insights into the evolution of this incredible aspect of our behaviour.

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.

The Conversation

Jacob C Dunn receives funding from the Royal Society. He is also affiliated with the University of Cambridge.Majestic Wine shares are worth avoiding, the Sunday Times' Inside the City column recommended. Just over three years ago the company bought loss-making online outfit Naked Wines for 70m and the shares have made only a little ground since. Some recent gains have come from analysts at broker Panmure Gordon speculated last year that the company could be broken up, though the suggested buyer was wholesaler Conviviality, which has since collapsed.

Majestic's full year results in June showed adjusted underlying annual profits up 63% to 17.2m, debt slashed and a dividend up 42%. While retail sales were soft, the Naked Wines business grew revenues 11.3% and turned a profit. Naked Wines boss Rowan Gormley, who is now CEO of the wider group, wants to replicate the Naked formula throughout the group, investing in a voucher scheme and tie-ups with partners such as retailer Hotel Chocolat and Barclays.

The column was sceptical that the Naked Wines model is infinitely scalable or translates to the high street. "Naked Wines is as much a membership club as a retailer", with customers paying 20 a month to get preferential access to wines from independent vineyards at cheaper prices. "I struggle to see this trick being replicated on the high street, where consumers are fickle and the lure of cheap supermarket booze is omnipresent."

Midas in the Mail on Sunday said current investors in Domino's Pizza should hold but new investors may want to wait and see until the next trading update. An update last week saw a 5.9% increase in like-for-like sales in the UK and Ireland for the first half of the year, with operating profit up 8.1% to 48.2m. Domino's insists that it is on track to meet full year forecasts, but concerns have been raised about its operations in Switzerland and Sweden and led to a loss from the overseas arm. Group debt has tripled to 182.1m as expansion efforts continue.

Domino's had expected to open 80 new stores in 2018, but has cut that estimate to 60 after just 22 were opened in the first half of the year. The shares fell 10% from 320p on the update, though by the end of the week they had recovered slightly to 297p. Broker Liberum has a 'sell' rating on the stock, believing the rate of new store openings will slow and is concerned about rising costs.About Me Scott Because prophetic scriptures are found throughout the bible, it is obvious that a comprehensive, systematic approach would be useful, if not necessary, for the understanding of prophecy. Past prophecies have been fulfilled in a literal manner, as confirmed by the dating of these writings and historical records of confirmation. These past prophecies also serve as a model of how to interpret future prophecies. A literal view of prophecy clearly indicates a certain sequence of events will occur within a single generation, concluding with the Tribulation and Second Advent and these events will be obvious. The prophetic signs appear to be present in this generation and we believe these signs are revealed in the news from around the world. View my complete profileWhen Donald Trump clinched the presidency it was clear something had fundamentally had changed in the electoral process. The change could be attributed to the voters. A recent study published August 9 by the Pew Research Center showed that Trump voters had warm feelings and the sentiment had changed very little.

After assuming the office as commander in chief, it has been more than a year into this presidency, and feelings for Trump voters remain unchanged. According to the Pew research, 82 percent of people who voted for Trump said to have "very warm" feelings towards him.

Within this report, researchers were able to verify voting records from the 2016 election.

The feelings expressed for this survey are expressed on a scale from 0 to 100 (feeling thermometer)

As reported in the survey, when a rating of 51 or higher is achieved this is considered a "warm" score. Also, when a score of 76 is attained this is considered a "very warm" feeling score.

The Pew's research dates back to November of 2016. The views from back then have parallels to the most recent results of 2018. There were 87 percent having warm feelings toward him, including 63 percent who had very warm feelings.

Pew panel data indicates that most Trump voters continue to back the president, but a modest and meaningful number of Trump voters--disproportionately women and college educated--have soured on him since his election https://t.co/qvRMM35Kvp  Nate Cohn (@Nate_Cohn) August 9, 2018

This comprehensive report was based on surveys conducted by the Pew Research Center's nationally representative American Trends Panel.

For Most Trump Voters, Very Warm Feelings for Him Endured https://t.co/FnAvpIFDgQ < Politics aside I think this is generally true for any candidate, just as it is for other big-ticket "purchases". It's classic choice-supportive bias. pic.twitter.com/7cswp412f3  Ben M. Schorr (@bschorr) August 11, 2018

Views from Clinton Votes vis-a-vis of Trump

It is true that before the election and the primaries, Trump had been perceived as a polarizing candidate.

Discuss this news on Eunomia

The Pew's analysis included what sort of perceptions voters had for Trump. Voters who cast their votes for Trump did not always have the best feelings towards him.

Before Trump secured the Republican nomination in April 2016, these voters who ended up voting for him in the general election had a variety of feelings. They expressed mixed, or even cold feelings.

The exact percent distribution was 65 percent and viewed him warmly or very warmly.

On the other hand, about a third (35 percent) of voters felt either cold or neutral. Furthermore, 19 percent of voters (one-in-five) that ended casting a ballot for him had very cold feelings.

What might have been overlooked is after the GOP nomination Trump voters' feelings toward him grew positively. This was missed since the media reporting during the election cycle was for the most part very polarized and controversial.

In the case of Clinton verified voters, exactly 93 percent of them gave Trump a cold rating. The very cold score awarded was 88 percent. Courtesy of dfikar - Fotolia.com





In 1836, 200 men took a stand for Texas in a fierce battle at the Alamo, a mission that had been converted into a fort. Some of them were famous American frontiersmen such as Daniel Boone, Davie Crockett, and Jim Bowie. Though they ultimately lost the battle, Texas went on to win the war for independence from Mexico. Today, the Alamo draws more visitors than any other historic landmark in Texas.

Guests can tour the fort, church, long barrack, arcade, and the museum/gift shop. Tours are self-guided, but audio accompaniment is available for an additional fee. Things to Do in San Antonio

300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205, Phone: 210-225-1391

You are reading "25 Best Things to Do in Texas" Back to TopWhen visiting Utah, youll find several spectacular national parks, monuments, landmarks, lakes, state parks, mountains, and natural areas to explore. Utahs cities and towns have arts and museums, drive-in theaters, home cooking and culinary surprises, universities and events on tap. You can also learn about dinosaurs, the Old West, or the states Mormon heritage, and if you want to simply relax, let yourself be pampered at a spa or resort. Certain attractions may be temporarily closed or require advance reservations. Some restaurants are currently offering pickup only. Hours/availability may have changed.

1. Park City Mountain Resort  Courtesy of Silvano Rebai - Fotolia.com

Park City Mountain Resort is the second largest ski resort in America and is a major American skiing destination. The resort covers the 7,300-acre mountain and offers over 330 trails. Several runs are used for training by the U.S. ski team and it was the host for 2002 Winter Olympics snowboarding and some slalom events. Night skiing is available on selected runs, with the remaining slopes operating from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm daily during the winter. Park City Mountain provides lessons at their Park City Ski and Snowboard School, where students of all ages and abilities can learn on trails appropriate to their skill level. More things to do in Park City 1345 Lowell Ave, Park City, UT 84060, Phone: 800-222-7275



2. Natural History Museum of Utah  Natural History Museum of Utah



The Natural History Museum of Utah holds more than 1.5 million artifacts. In the paleontology section, visitors can see items with a focus on the Intermountain West, while the anthropology section houses specimens dating back to 11,500 BC. The vertebrate zoology section offers mammal, bird, reptile, and amphibian samples, and in the botany section, guests can view frozen swatches used for DNA research. The malacology section holds examples from the six classes of marine mollusks, while the minerology section displays beautiful minerals from around the globe. The entomology section similarly contains representative samples of insect life from six continents. Aside from exhibits, the museum conducts educational and recreational programming for all ages and has both a gift shop and in-house cafe. Best things to do in Salt Lake City 301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108, Phone: 801-581-4303 You are reading "25 Best Things to Do in Utah" Back to Top



3. Hill Aerospace Museum  Hill Aerospace Museum

The Hill Aerospace Museum's unique layout is in the shape of an aircraft, which is fitting for an establishment that operates as a field museum for the U.S. Air Force. Hill Aerospace houses over 4,000 historical objects from five eras, although at any given time only 20% of the collection is on display. The artifacts include artwork, the majority of which is located in the Lindquist Art Gallery, and the museum hosts a Plane Talk lecture series, where speakers cover topics related to aerospace and defense. The Utah Aviation Hall of Fame is also on site. 7961 Wardleigh Road, Building 1955, Hill AFB, UT 84056, Phone: 801-825-5817 You are reading "25 Best Things to Do in Utah" Back to Top





4. Best Friends Animal Sanctuary  Best Friends Animal Sanctuary



As the countrys largest no-kill center, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is home to approximately 1,700 animals available for adoption. Homeless animals like dogs and cats, bunnies and birds, horses and barnyard animals are sent here from all across America. Best Friends is also home to recovering wildlife and special needs animals. The sanctuary houses animals in groups (Dogtown, Cat World, Horse Haven, Bunny House, Marshalls Piggy Paradise, and Parrot Garden) to promote exercise and socialization. In the visitors center, guests can sign up for tours, learn about the animals, and participate in events such as bunny yoga, Thanksgiving dinner, and Paint Your Pets Portrait. 5001 Angel Canyon Rd, Kanab, UT 84741, 435-644-2001 You are reading "Fun Things to Do in Utah this Weekend with Friends" Back to Top or More places to see near me today, what to do, weekend trips



5. Things to Do in Utah: Bean Life Science Museum  Bean Life Science Museum



Located on the campus of Brigham Young University in Provo, the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum specializes in the science behind life on our planet. Exhibits cover topics such as how Earth's characteristics sustain life and how all life is interconnected, the causes underlying extinction, the ideological view that humanity is the planet's steward, and the predator-prey relationship. The museum also has a play area for toddlers, plus two galleries, one with a collection of over 100 bird species and one with wildlife art. Bean Life Science Museums schedule includes popular items such as in-house live shows (animal or reptile), lectures, and Night at the Museum events. Best things to do in Provo 645 E 1430 N, Provo, UT 84602, Phone: 801-422-5050 You are reading "What to Do in Utah this Weekend" Back to Top or Restaurants near me, stuff to do near me



6. Things to Do in Utah: Clark Planetarium  Clark Planetarium



Clark Planetarium is a far cry from the light shows of yesteryear and while the planetarium does hold cosmic light shows during the evening from Thursday to Saturday, they are courtesy of the latest technology. The facilitys Hansen Dome Theatre is similarly of the moment, using 3D computer animation and digital projection to provide a 360-degree experience. The IMAX theatre displays 3D films on a gigantic, five-story screen alongside 14,000 watts of digital sound. The planetarium also offers community programs to the public and hosts free astronomy exhibits with models of the solar system and NASA equipment as well as interactive elements. 110 South 400 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, Phone: 385-468-7827 You are reading "Top Romantic Tourist Attractions in Utah" Back to Top or More must do for couples, what to do near me, places to visit this weekend



7. Things to Do Around Me: Bluff Fort Historic Site  Bluff Fort Historic Site

Bluff Fort Historic Site gives visitors a chance to learn about both the fort itself and the treacherous Hole-in-the-Rock expedition. Cabins were built with their windows and doors facing inwards towards the forts square to offer protection from invading forces. The Bluff City meeting house served all communal purposes and was a school, church, and public meeting venue, while the Bluff co-op sold food and staples to residents. The fort was dismantled in 1883, but the community persevered and switched from farming to ranching. During the 1890s, residents constructed Victorian-style houses, which have been restored along with the fort. The site includes a visitors center and a gift shop. 550 East Black Locust, Bluff, UT 84512, Phone: 435-672-9995 You are reading "What is There to Do with Kids in Utah" Back to Top or More tourism, attractions for couples, food, things to see near me today



8. Utah Symphony  Utah Symphony

The Utah Symphony is a major internationally recognized American symphony and an integral part of the American Wests cultural landscape. The symphony supports and provides educational programming and conducts tours throughout the region to promote the arts, especially music. Along with performances at Abravanel Hall, the Utah Symphony holds summer concerts at Park Citys Deer Valley Music Festival. The symphony records extensively and has been nominated for Grammy Awards a number of times. Business or business attire is common at concerts, although jeans through formal wear are also seen. Most concerts begin at 8:00 pm, while pre-concert lectures for MasterWorks performances begin at 6:45 pm. Concerts run for 90 to 120 minutes, including intermission, and VIP packages are available. 123 West South Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, Phone: 801-533-6683



9. Things to See Near Me: Gifford Homestead  Courtesy of beatrice preve - Fotolia.com

The Gifford Homestead is located in the heart of the Fruita Valley and lets guests experience a Mormon settlement as it existed in the valley at the turn of the 20th century. The homestead features rock walls and includes a farmhouse as well as a garden, smokehouse, barn, and pasture. The farmhouse is illustrative of the favored austere design and contains a front room where the kitchen is located as well as two small bedrooms on the ground floor, while the two bedrooms upstairs are only accessible by an outdoor ladder. The homestead has a sales outlet where guests can buy locally made food goods and replica pioneer artifacts. 52 West Headquarters Drive, Torrey UT 84775, Phone: 435-425-3791 "Best Things to Do in Utah for Locals & Tourists - Restaurants, Hotels" Back to Top or Beautiful places near me, what to do, restaurants for breakfast, travel guide, nearest beach



10. Beehive House  Courtesy of os city - Fotolia.com

The Beehive House was the home of the early Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-Day Saints leader Brigham Young and was where he entertained guests. The homes design accommodated the large Young family, with senior wife Mary Ann choosing to live in the propertys White House while first wife Lucy Ann acted as hostess in the Beehive House, where she lived with her nine children. A suite of rooms in the Lion House, where Youngs offices and bedroom were located, is connected to the Beehive House. The property also includes the Brigham Young Historic Park. The building underwent restoration between 1959 and 1960 and today operates as a museum and offers 30-minute tours. During the summer, the park hosts free concerts and evening lectures on gardening. 67 East South Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah 84150, Phone: 801-240-2681



11. Must Do in Utah: Red Butte Garden and Arboretum  Red Butte Garden and Arboretum

Red Butte Garden is open all year round and offers different plants and events for each season. While spring and summer are popular times to visit the garden to see flowers and trees coming to life in a tapestry of colors, autumn offers spectacular fall foliage and winter provides red buds against a stark white background, perfect for hiking or snowshoeing. During the summer, the garden hosts performances in the amphitheater. Red Butte includes themed gardens and private or group tours are available. The garden features quiet resting areas and visitors can make use of chairs, tables, and umbrellas in the Four Seasons Courtyard. 300 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, Phone: 801-585-0556 "New cool stuff to do in Utah" Back to Top or Romantic Getaways, Wedding Ideas close to me this weekend, honeymoon, anniversary Ideas, fun places near me



12. Fun Things to Do in Utah: Utah's Hogle Zoo  Utah's Hogle Zoo Hogle Zoo covers approximately 42 acres and is home to over 800 animal residents. The zoos animals are representative of animal life from all over the world and include species from every ecosphere on Earth. As a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Hogle Zoo ensures that animals have a species survival plan to preserve genetic diversity. Visitors can purchase one-on-one animal encounters with a personal tour guide, and group experiences are also available. Groups can choose from feedings (rhinos, tortoises, or birds), orangutan training sessions, delivering daily enrichment to apes, or having an up-close and personal introduction to a giraffe via the VIP observation tower. 2600 Sunnyside Avenue (840 South), Salt Lake City, UT 84108, Phone: 801-584-1700



13. Activities Near Me: Loveland Living Planet Aquarium  Loveland Living Planet Aquarium

Loveland Living Planet Aquarium has wildlife from all over the globe located in its 136,000 square feet, including sections on the Antarctic, Utah, the ocean, South America, birds, invertebrates, mammals, and fish. Get eye-to-eye with sharks in the aquariums 40-foot underwater shark tunnel, view rainforest animals in the two-story rainforest gallery, or get tactile with aquatic life in one of the aquariums two touch pools. Aside from viewing marine animals during an aquarium visit, Loveland is also available for corporate and private events. The facility can host both formal and informal functions, with a maximum of 450 guests for seated dinners and up to 1,000 guests for receptions. 12033 Lone Peak Pkway, Draper, UT 84020, Phone: 801-355-3474



14. Utah Activities: Monument Valley Safari  Monument Valley Safari

Monument Valley offers safari adventures of 1.5 to 7 hours in length across different sections of Monument Valley. Both Lower Monument Valley and Mystery Valley safaris are termed scenic and cultural, while the companys award-winning combination safaris provide visitors a chance to see two areas in one tour: Lower Monument Valley (3 hours)/Mystery Valley (3 hours) or Tear Drop Arch (2 hours)/Mystery Valley (4 hours). Monument Valleys specialty tours include a 7-hour Sunset Photography Tour of Hunts Mesa (recommended for adventurers seeking an off-the-grid experience) and the 3-hour Starlight or Full Moon tours of Monument Valley. Private tours are also available. Oljato-Monument Valley, UT 84536, Phone: 928-209-1364



15. Places of Interest in Utah: Utah State Capitol  Courtesy of Legacy Images - Fotolia.com



When in the state capital, make sure to take a 1-hour tour of the Capitol Building. Guided tours are available hourly from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, and by reservation on Wednesdays at 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm. Tours start at the east doors on the 1st floor. Visitors can also take a self-guided tour during the buildings hours of operation using brochures available at the desk at the east doors. A Pioneering Women Tour is available by reservation only and covers Utahs uncommon support for the suffrage movement and womens equality. The capitol includes several in-house dining options, including Capitol Cafe, Rise and Shine, Crisp, The Grill, 2Mato and Outtakes Grab-N-Go. 350 North State Street, 120 State Capitol, Salt Lake City, Utah 84114, Phone: 801-538-1800 You are reading "25 Best Things to Do in Utah" Back to Top or Amazing things to do around me & More pictures of fun cheap vacation spots



16. Utah Things to Do: Deer Valley Resort  Courtesy of pureradiancecmp - Fotolia.com



If you're searching for a luxury skiing experience, Deer Valley is renowned for catering to wealthy clientele, with services like ski valets and parking valets at no cost as well as fine dining and shopping boutiques on site. Aside from hosting International Ski Federation competitions and FIS World Cup events on a regular basis, Deer Valley was a 2002 Winter Olympics host for freestyle mogul, aerial, and alpine slalom events. The resort has consistently ranked in the top three ski resorts in North America and held the #1 spot every year from 2007 through 2011. Meanwhile, Mariposa at Silver Lake was rated the best restaurant in all of Utah by the Zagat Restaurant Guide. 2250 Deer Valley Dr S, Park City, UT 84060, Phone: 435-649-1000



17. Activities Near Me: Park Silly Sunday Market  MNStudio/stock.adobe.com



Park Silly Sunday Market is an eco-friendly open air market in Park City, Utah, held for 14 Sundays each year between early June and mid-September. The market, which was originally founded in 2006, is free to attend, attracting nearly 200,000 annual guests and nearly 2,000 vendor booths throughout the season. Visitors can peruse farmer's market stalls and select from a variety of delicious pantry goods or browse antique and regional arts and crafts vendors for unique finds. A selection of regional food trucks and vendors are on site for dining options. Live music performances are showcased throughout the season, along with strolling performers such as magicians, stilt walkers, and balloon artists. 780 Main St, Park City, UT 84060, Phone: 435-714-4036 You are reading "25 Best Things to Do in Utah" Back to Top or More weekend getaways, what to do near me, must see attractions, stuff to do near me



18. Utah Vacation: Park City Museum  Park City Museum



Park City Museum covers the history of Park City and its role in developing the West. In addition to exhibits in the Tozer Gallery, the museum offers lectures, historical walking tours, and other living history events and presentations. Guided tours of exhibits and historical presentations are available on a reservation-only basis, with reservations as well as private tours required three weeks in advance. Walking tours run Monday to Friday from Memorial Day through Labor Day (ages 13+). The annual Historic Home Tour lets visitors see a highlighted historic home, while the Hal Compton Research Library acts as an additional resource for learning about Park Citys history and its role in regional industry. 528 Main Street, Park City, UT 84060, Phone: 435-649-7457



19. Things to Do in Utah: Dark Ranger Telescope Tours  Dark Ranger Telescope Tours



Dark Ranger provides astronomy tours and run both their Have a Bryce Night and Summer Telescope Tour nightly. Private tours are also available Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday nights and include personal Dark Rangers. Full Moon Hikes happen on strategic evenings and are 1.5 to 3.5 miles per round trip; hiking shoes or boots are required gear to participate. The Winter Telescope Tour happens Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, with participants encouraged to dress warmly since a wind chill of -0F is possible. Dark Rangers Introduction to Astrophotography workshops are 2.5 hours long and teach the use of the latest equipment to photograph the night sky. 550 W, 550 N, Tropic, UT 84776, Phone: 435-590-9498 You are reading "25 Best Things to Do in Utah" Back to Top or Getting married, lunch near me, romantic things to do, places around me



20. Utah Attractions: Utah Field House of Natural History State Park  Courtesy of Zack Frank - Fotolia.com



The Utah Field House presents interactive exhibits and activities surrounding prehistoric geological objects. Current exhibits include the Uinta Fossil Journey, featuring a 90-foot diplodocus skeleton and the Stories in Stone film. At the Morrison Dig Site and Fossil Lab, guests can determine whether an article is a fossil or debris on a simulated dig site before exploring the lab. The Jurassic Hall exhibit displays three skeletons from 145 million years ago, while the Eocene Gallery showcases objects from that era and the Rocks Revealed exhibit uses fossils to cover the four major eras in the planets history. The museum also hosts programming and has a childrens lab to entertain young patrons as well as a dinosaur garden with models. 496 E. Main, Vernal Utah 8407, Phone: 435-789-3799



21. Utah Tourist Attractions: Goulding's Trading Post Museum  Courtesy of laurac111 - Fotolia.com



The Gouldings Trading Post Museum provides a window into the history of trading and tourism as well as the part that Gouldings Lodge played in the movies of legendary Western filmmaker John Ford. The Trading Bull Pen, Ware Room, Joseph Muench Room, and living quarters contain representative articles, artwork, and photography from the era. For movie enthusiasts, the movie room runs a John Ford-John Wayne film and displays movie artifacts from classic Hollywood films shot in the area, including a map marked with film locations. Film buffs will also appreciate the cabin behind the museum, which Ford used for both interior and exterior shots in many of his films. 1000 Main Street, Oljato-Monument Valley, UT 84536, Phone: 435-727-3231



22. What to Do in Utah: Golden Spike National Historic Site  Courtesy of Steven Miller - Fotolia.com



Golden Spike National Historic Site celebrates the final spike during the construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad. The railway served an integral part in the growth of America as a country, and the Golden Spike commemorates this piece of American history. On Saturdays and holidays from May through mid-September, the site holds re-enactments of the ceremony that accompanied the depositing of the last spike, complete with volunteers dressed to portray the attending dignitaries. Re-enactments are followed by a steam demonstration, where locomotives are driven down the track. Steam demonstrations also occur daily throughout the week. Aside from these events, visitors can explore the sites landscape, see some of the steam locomotives at rest, watch historic films, view photographs, and tour the visitors center. 6200 North 22300 West, Promontory Summit, UT 84307, Phone: 435-471-2209 You are reading "25 Best Things to Do in Utah" Back to Top or More romantic weekend getaways, more places of interest in, wedding venues near me, time zone, what to do



23. Things to Do in Utah: St. George Children's Museum  St. George Children's Museum The St. George Childrens Museum contains 10 exhibit rooms built with interactivity in mind. The museum seeks to encourage both children and their adult companions to learn and grow and to explore their imagination as they play with each exhibit. The museum aspires to maximize the patrons involvement with exhibits and activities in order to prompt critical and creative thinking. The rooms cover culture (Art, Music, and Theater), geography (Castle, Desert, and Sea), infrastructure (Farm, Bank, Government, Grocery, Post Office, and Transportation), science (Veterinarian, Prehistoric, and Science), and movement (Sports and Exercise). Classes are held throughout the week, with lessons focusing on topics explored in museum exhibits. 86 S Main St, St George, UT 84770, Phone: 435-986-4000



24. Things to Do in Utah: Utah Shakespeare Festival  Utah Shakespeare Festival



Held at the Beverly Center for the Arts, the 2017 Utah Shakespeare Festival runs from June 29 to October 21. This season features nine plays and multiple events. Festivalgoers can discuss performances in play seminars, which are conducted in the morning. Repertory Magic happens on Mondays and Fridays, where participants can watch and ask questions about the scene changing process. Participants can also enjoy backstage tours and see the props, scenery, and other elements used in the seasons plays. Luncheon Q&As happen throughout July and August, and Bardway, Baby! is this years one-night-only Broadway production. The festival also presents free events: One of three free Greenshows are held nightly from June 29 to September, while prop, costume, and actor seminars cover production components on different days throughout the week. Production seminars happen daily. The Beverly Center for the Arts, 195 W Center St., Cedar City, UT 84720, Phone: 435-586-7878



25. Things to Do in Utah: Cove Fort  Cove Fort



Cove Fort Historic Site is the only remaining fort built in the 1800s by the Latter-Day Saints and was constructed to provide food, water, and shelter to Latter-Day Saints travelling between Idaho and California. Fort tours let visitors experience fort life in the 1800s. Here you can see the kitchen or big room, where visitors were fed and residents held religious services and meetings; the washing and weaving room, where all washing and bathing was performed; and guest rooms and family rooms as well as the telegraph office, which also functioned as an overflow eating hall. Visitors can also tour the stage and post office, bunkhouse, prairie wagon, replica barn, and blacksmith shop. Highway 161 SE, Beaver, UT 84713, Phone: 435-438-5547



25 Best Things to Do in Utah

More ideas:

Joseph Smith Memorial Building

The Joseph Smith Memorial Building has been serving up Mormon hospitality for over 100 years. The building contains several event and conference rooms, three restaurants, the Legacy Theater, and the world-renowned FamilySearch Center. The 500-seat Legacy Theater runs films relevant to Mormon life, while the Roof Restaurant and the Garden Restaurant on the 10th floor keep visitors well fed while taking in gorgeous views of Temple Square and downtown.

A sandwich shop in the lobby (Nauvoo Cafe) is a more casual dining option. At the FamilySearch Center, guests can access their family history with the help of the Mormons impeccable records and have fun in its interactive discovery center.

15 East South Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah 84150, Phone: 801-531-1000

You are reading "25 Best Things to Do in Utah " Back to Top

I hope youve had an enjoyable summer! The beginning of our fall semester brings students back to our campuses across Virginia and invigorates the enthusiasm and energy that exists everywhere Virginia Tech is present  including the Corporate Research Center; the Virginia Tech Carilion Health Science and Technology Campus in the Roanoke Innovation Corridor; the Tech Center in Newport News; the Agricultural Research and Experiment Station; Extension offices and higher education centers distributed across the commonwealth; the Steger Center in Ticino, Switzerland; and our urban-living laboratory in the National Capital Region.

As we begin this new academic year, I wanted to take a moment to let you know how much I value all that you do. Your dedication to supporting the overall mission of the university inspires our entire community. Your commitment and the spirit of Ut Prosim (That I May Serve) is the foundation and fabric that defines who we are and guarantees future success. Ill have more to say in my State of the University Address on Sept. 7 at 3 p.m. at the Moss Arts Center. I hope youll be able to join me in person or online.



Because of you, and the work that you do, I share our students excitement and enthusiasm for the upcoming academic year



Tim Sands,

President



Hakan Yavuz in Boston Review:

Turkey is entering a new era. Following a failed military coup against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in 2016, a referendum last April approved sweeping constitutional amendments amidst a government-declared state of emergency and allegations of electoral misconduct. The changes call for a super-executive presidency without robust checks and balances. And as a result of Junes presidential elections, not only is the government being reorganized under Erdogans authoritarian leadership, but Turkish society is being recreated in his vision of the Ottoman past.

In speech after speech, Erdogan has called Turkeys identity essentially Ottoman (Osmanllk). The premise has policy implications both at home and abroad. It is supposed to follow that Turkey has a right, if not a duty, to defend the rights of Muslims in former Ottoman territories. It was Erdogan who supported the independence of Albanian Muslims in the Republic of Kosovo, telling a cheering crowd in the capital of Pristina that Turkey is Kosovo and Kosovo is Turkey. His language is similar when it comes to the Palestinians: they, too, are claimed as Ottoman Muslims. If there is a master key to this code of the New Turkey, it is a reimagined Ottoman-Islamic identityone pioneered by Turgut Ozal in the 1980s as prime minister and then president, and now reconstituted for the twenty-first-century by Erdogan and his fellow Justice and Development Party (AKP) member Ahmet Davutoglu.

The Ottoman Empire dissolved in 1922. It was superseded by the Republic of Turkey, whose first president, Mustafa Kemal, embarked on a sweeping program of secular, westernizing reformsa period known as the Ataturk era. The Ottoman Caliphate was abolished, Islamic canon law was replaced with a secular civil code, and women were granted full political rights.

What does Ottomanism signify nearly a century later?

More here.Ty Joplin in Albawaba:

Jihadi violence ebbs and flows, with groups rising and falling in prominence as they gain and lose followers and legitimacy. Al Qaeda, once the premium jihadi brand that local groups scrambled to associate with, was made to look stale and outdated by the explosive rise of ISIS. As ISIS fades, many around the world are holding their breath for the next global terror group.

But some Indonesian families have associated themselves with radical extremism for decades, spanning generations.

Inside the terror networks of Indonesia, a global lesson is laid bare; that even though particular manifestations of violent jihad come in waves, the ideology can remain firmly entrenched. Indonesias long history of radical violence and of families fostering extremist sentiments can serve as a blueprint to understand how jihadism remains resilient, and how it can be combated at its core.

More here.Mark Ames in Jacobin:

Although a reactionary, Naipaul was never a lackey like todays right-wing intellectuals; he never shied away from describing the brutality of colonialism (unlike bootlicking scum like Dinesh DSouza, who never missed an opportunity to glorify his white right-wing masters for colonizing India, despite the tens of millions of Indians who died of famine in the Raj).

Naipaul continues:

And at last Cleaver stood up. He was tall beside the CIA man. He was paunchy now, even a little soft-bellied. His blue shirt had a white collar and his dark red tie hung down long. The touch of style was reassuring.

Somebody asked about his political ambitions. He said he wanted to get on the Berkeley city council. And then, inevitably, someone asked about his attitude to welfare. His reply was tired; he gave the impression of having spoken the words many times before. Im passionately opposed to the welfare system because its made people a parasitic dependency on the federal system. . . . I want to see black people plugged into the economic system. . . . Welfare is a stepping-stone to socialism because it teaches people the government is going to solve our problems.

That was more or less it. It seemed to be all that was required of Eldridge, that statement about socialism and welfare. And soon the session was declared closed. A repeat began to be prepared. As in a fair, shows were done over and over again, and in between business was drummed up.Yuval Noah Harari in The Guardian:

A cursory look at history reveals that propaganda and disinformation are nothing new, and even the habit of denying entire nations and creating fake countries has a long pedigree. In 1931 the Japanese army staged mock attacks on itself to justify its invasion of China, and then created the fake country of Manchukuo to legitimise its conquests. China itself has long denied that Tibet ever existed as an independent country. British settlement in Australia was justified by the legal doctrine of terra nullius (nobodys land), which effectively erased 50,000 years of Aboriginal history. In the early 20th century, a favourite Zionist slogan spoke of the return of a people without a land [the Jews] to a land without a people [Palestine]. The existence of the local Arab population was conveniently ignored.

In 1969 Israeli prime minister Golda Meir famously said that there is no Palestinian people and never was. Such views are very common in Israel even today, despite decades of armed conflicts against something that doesnt exist. For example, in February 2016 MP Anat Berko gave a speech in the Israeli parliament in which she doubted the reality and history of the Palestinian people. Her proof? The letter p does not even exist in Arabic, so how can there be a Palestinian people? (In Arabic, F stands for P, and the Arabic name for Palestine is Falastin.)

In fact, humans have always lived in the age of post-truth.

More here.Roncalli suffers heartbreaking OT loss, Central advances in playoffs

After earning their first playoff win in 30 years, Beresfords 7-6 triumph in overtime sends them to the 11B semifinals.Next weekend more than 120,000 shoppers will swarm onto the Plaza buying pottery, paintings, jewelry and more at the 97th Annual Santa Fe Indian Market.

Booths of about 1,000 artists from the Yukon to Maine will snake around the Plaza, spilling into its side streets for two days of celebration and shopping.

Last year, an informal study revealed visitors have come from as far away as Tanzania, Egypt, Myanmar, Poland, Latvia, Finland, Belarus, Uruguay, Australia, Indonesia and Tasmania.

All of the work is juried to assure both quality and authenticity. Visitors can see Native American dancers and musicians perform on the Plaza Bandstand. Models will strut the latest native fashions in the Haute Couture Fashion Show and the Native American clothing contest. Vendors selling Indian fry bread and traditional native oven bread will abut the Plaza, filling the air with sizzling aromas.

Facing his first year as executive director of the markets sponsor, the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts, Ira Wilson (Navajo) is just trying to get through his debut as head of the largest and most prestigious juried Indian market in the country.

Theres not a lot of changes to the format, he said. Its just getting through it once to know whats really going on.

Wilson spent the last 26 years as the lead buyer for Albuquerques Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

A new Art of Technology Award comes with a top prize of $5,000.

The I.M.:Edge contemporary show is moving to the front lobby of the Santa Fe Community Convention Center from a background location, he added. For the first time, the show will operate under the theme activism and identity, with the chosen works based on the artists integration of social and political views, as well as their identity.

The greatest change has been the elimination of a long-established tenure program for legacy artists, a move that elicited protests from the artists.

It was a tough move for SWAIA to make, Wilson said. It was to make it fair.

Wilson said he expects the decision to result in an influx of new artists.

In May, board chair Elizabeth Kirk warned a group of artists that the market could end after 100 years because of a lack of funding. Of the numerous tribes and pueblos supporting the market, only the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma is donating to the annual event that costs $1.3 million to stage. About four years ago, seven tribal entities supported the market. She also said just 13 of the artists showing are dues-paying SWAIA members.

Last year, SWAIA was forced to solicit last-minute funding after it came up more than $100,000 short.

We were a little behind when I started, Wilson said. Its a not-for-profit organization. We have to be creative going forward to find new relationships. Were kind of scanning the landscape as it is now.

SWAIA organizers sent out letters asking the artists to renew their membership, he added.

Were doing OK right now, he said. People have responded.

He already has some ideas for next year.

Id like to introduce cuisine, he said, because there are a lot native chefs out there.

A former musician with the indigenous band Red Earth, hed also like to add more music to the mix.

Maybe a fundraising event, he said.Police are looking into how a 7-year-old ended up dead Saturday morning at a home the child and their mother had been staying at in Rio Rancho.

Rio Rancho police chief Ron Vigil did not identify the childs gender or cause of death but said officers are interviewing the childs mother, along with others who were at the home when the child died. Vigil said Saturday afternoon nobody was under arrest.

He said detectives executed a search of the home but did not give any details on what they were looking for or may have found.

Vigil said officers responded to a 911 call at the home on 250 block of Moonstone NE, near Highway 528 and Northern, around 10:30 a.m.

Unfortunately we identified there was the death of a 7-year-old child, Vigil said. We are currently actively investigating the events that transpired leading up to that. There were some initial factors that caused us concerns.

He would not elaborate on those concerns but said the child was with their mother, who is cooperating with police.

Vigil said the home belonged to someone else and the family had been staying there. The block of Moonstone was quiet Saturday afternoon except for a few police cars parked outside a home with crime scene tape stretched along its edges.

A neighbor stood beside his dog in a yard at the corner staring curiously at the police officers and vehicles down the street.Nearly 300 farmers and ranchers on the Navajo Nation affected by the 2015 Gold King Mine spill filed a lawsuit last week alleging gross negligence on the part of the Environmental Protection Agency and its contractors and demanding compensation for their losses.

The suit, filed Aug. 3 in the U.S. District Court of New Mexico in Albuquerque, includes 295 Navajo Nation members who say the spill caused extreme economic hardship to the tune of around $75 million, attorney Kate Ferlic said.

Its the largest group of individuals to file suit over the spill.

Some lost their crops when they couldnt use river water to irrigate them. Others were forced to sell livestock at reduced prices due to the stigma surrounding the San Juan River after the spill. One plaintiff said some of his animals died from dehydration and from drinking from the contaminated river.

Ethel Branch, Navajo Nation attorney general, said the disruption of the growing season also resulted in a shortage of items used in prayer and rituals such as cornmeal and pollen ceremonies.

I think people had a lot of hope early on that the EPA would indeed take responsibility for their actions by processing the (Federal Tort Claims Act) claims quickly and ensuring that people were compensated for their injuries, Branch said in a telephone interview Thursday. People are disheartened that EPA has basically rejected actually assuming real responsibility for their actions.

Branch said she believes the 295 plaintiffs represent half to two-thirds of farmers and ranchers who could have filed claims.

After the spill sent 3 million gallons of toxic wastewater and 880,000 pounds of heavy metals into the Animas and San Juan rivers in August 2015, the EPA under President Barack Obama determined that the law would not allow the agency to pay damage claims, though it did accept responsibility for the spill.

Former EPA administrator Scott Pruitt, who resigned in July, had said the EPA would take a second look at the previously rejected claims.

But there still havent been any payouts.

The EPA does keep promising that the claims will be evaluated, but they continue not to evaluate the claims, Ferlic said. I think that the principle justice delayed is justice denied is relevant here.

The lawsuit is one of several consolidated in Albuquerque federal court filed by New Mexico, Utah, the Navajo Nation and non-Navajo individual farmers and ranchers.

The EPA did not respond to a request for comment.

Navajo Nation President Russell Begaye said he hopes the plaintiffs are successful.

For Navajo, because of our tradition and belief system, our world view is that these plants, theyre like our children and we treat them as our children, he said. I really was hoping that this administration would (compensate farmers) because they seem to be a lot more friendly toward righting government wrongs, and I have really been disappointed that has not been the case.ASPEN, Colorado  Will the Pentagon, with its 30-year planning cycle for building ships, still be launching aircraft carriers in 2048  even though theyre highly vulnerable to attack today?

Thats an example of the military-modernization questions that kept nagging participants at last weekends gathering of the Aspen Strategy Group, which annually brings together top-level current and former national-security officials, along with a few journalists, to discuss defense and foreign policy. This years focus was on Maintaining Americas Edge in the dawning era of high-tech combat, and the big takeaway was this: The future of warfare is now, and China is poised to dominate it.

Speakers at the conference described a new generation of combat systems, powered by artificial intelligence, cyberweapons and robots that can operate on land, sea and air. But America is still largely wedded to legacy weapons of the past  superbly engineered (but super-expensive) aircraft carriers, bombers, fighter jets and submarines.

We have a small number of exquisite, expensive, manned, hard-to-replace systems that would have been familiar to Dwight D. Eisenhower. They are being overtaken by advanced technology, argued Christian Brose, staff director of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Instead, he said, the Pentagon needs a large number of inexpensive, unmanned, expendable, autonomous systems that can survive in the new electronic battlespace and overwhelm any potential adversary.

It is not that we lack money. It is that we are playing a losing game, Brose contended in a paper presented to the group. Our competitors are now using advanced technologies to erode our military edge. This situation is becoming increasingly dire.

Future needs are being overwhelmed by past practices, because of what Broses boss, Armed Services Committee Chairman Sen. John McCain, has called the military-industrial-congressional complex. Brose calculates that in the Pentagons initial request for $74 billion in new defense spending in fiscal 2019, only .006 percent was targeted for science and technology. The National Science Foundation estimates that in fiscal 2015, only 18 percent of the Pentagons research and development budget went for basic, applied and advanced research. Major systems claimed 81 percent.

Even when the Pentagon tries to push innovation, it often stumbles. When Ashton Carter was defense secretary under President Obama, he created the Defense Innovation Unit  Experimental, or DIUX, with offices in Silicon Valley, Boston and Austin. That operation thrived initially, negotiating 60 defense contracts with startups. The program has slowed under the Trump administration, despite support from Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, because it lacks funds and bureaucratic support, warned Christopher Kirchhoff, a former DIUX partner. If Mattis can appoint a strong new DIUX leader soon, maybe he can revive this innovation hub.

The biggest technological challenge discussed here was artificial intelligence. In a few years, these systems have taught themselves to play complex games like chess and Go better than humans, and to recognize voices and objects better, too. And soon, they will be driving the weapons of combat.

China appears determined to seize this AI high ground of future conflict. For the last two years, Chinese companies have won an AI competition for detecting objects. The Chinese are happy for the U.S. to keep building carriers and bombers, so long as they deploy the more advanced technologies that can disable these systems.

Richard Danzig, a former Navy secretary, published a brilliant paper discussed at the conference warning that as AI systems dominate warfare, they will introduce important new risks of loss of control. Humans must be maximally thoughtful and creative during design (and plan for failure), because these AI-driven weapons will have accidents and unintended consequences. Wise policymakers must avoid a Dr. Strangelove world of unsafe killer robots and doomsday machines.

Americas vulnerability to information warfare was a special topic of concern. One participant recalled a conversation several years ago with a Russian general who taunted him: You have a cybercommand, but no information operations. Dont you know that information operations are how you take countries down?

The Aspen Strategy Group is a devoutly bipartisan forum. But there was an intense discussion here of the issue thats vexing America this summer  the growing political polarization thats creating so much discord that its becoming a national-security problem.

As the gathering concluded Monday, Republicans and Democrats were equally passionate about spreading the message that this is a Sputnik moment for modernizing our military. Competing with a rising China begins at home, with a more nimble Pentagon and a country thats more united to face the big problems ahead.

David Ignatius can be reached via Twitter: @IgnatiusPost. Email: davidignatius@washpost.com. Copyright, Washington Post Writers Group.Editors note: This op ed was updated to include the final two paragraphs, which were inadvertently left out of the print version.

Almost everyone holding a teaching, administrative or policymaking positions in New Mexico public education has a college degree. Many have graduate degrees. Most probably expect their children to obtain such degrees, if they have not already done so.

Even those outside the public school system who comment publicly on public education fit the same general profile. This includes the parents of students, members of business and community organizations and newspaper columnists.

However, only a minority of the students who start high school in New Mexico will obtain four-year college degrees, perhaps 20 percent to 25 percent. About the same number will drop out of high school. Others will not attend college or will not complete college. Some will pursue two-year degrees.

In this situation, there is a risk that the educational system will over-emphasize school as preparation for four-year college, when most students need something different. The Albuquerque Public Schools website states Establishing a college-going culture is the primary task of an elementary school counselor. There is a substantial risk that academically weaker students urged to attend college will be unable to succeed there.

There are two groups of students who may be underserved if college preparation is overemphasized. First, students who are interested in and who would benefit from technical or career education should be encouraged to consider it a real and valid alternative to college from the early high school years or before. Many more students will eventually obtain jobs for which college degrees are not required than jobs which require such degrees.

Technical or career education produces plumbers, carpenters, electricians, retail employees, and office workers. Also, such education could produce workers in many healthcare jobs and computer technicians. It seems very likely that an aging population will require many health and personal care workers. Computer-related jobs seem likely to increase also.

For students whose interests lie in this direction, and for students unsuited for academics, technical and career education should be offered as a desirable option, not as a consolation prize. Close coordination of these students with community colleges and employers may be more valuable to them than strictly academic instruction.

The second group of students who may be underserved by our educational system, if college preparation is overemphasized, are the students who will drop out of high school. Early in their education, probably in middle school, students should be given basic practical information that could obviate unwise life decisions. There are things that all young people should know, even if they drop out of school.

Becoming pregnant while a teenager will likely lead to a life of poverty for the mother and child. Even a minor criminal record, or abuse of alcohol or drugs, can make one unemployable and impoverished. Attending a job every day, all day, is essential. Quitting a job without knowing what one will do next is unwise. It is almost never a good idea to obtain a high-interest loan.

These and similar facts can be presented objectively without moralizing. Ideally, families, churches or other role models should convey this information, but for many students, schools may be the only likely source of this knowledge.

Graduating high school should always be encouraged, but we should not ignore the thousands of students in New Mexico high schools who will leave school without a diploma. Besides offering them basic information, it is important to stress that serious, long-lasting consequences may result from a bad decision made very early in their teenage years.

Non-college students are New Mexicans, just as are those headed for success in college. However, college graduates will have many options upon graduation. Many of them will leave the state. But the other students will likely remain in New Mexico for much of their adulthood. It is in the interest of the state, as well the students, to maximize their ability to succeed in the adult world.

Minzner is a former N.M. Taxation and Revenue secretary.New Mexico colleges and universities are graduating more freshmen in four years than they were eight years ago. In some cases, universities have more than doubled the number of four-year graduates.

That is great news for our states future. It helps save students, families, and taxpayers money, while also creating an educated workforce in New Mexico.

As I said during my first summit on higher education, A little exploration in college is a good thing, but a lot of wandering is not. It drives up the cost for everyone involved, including taxpayers. We need to help our students more efficiently settle into their discipline of choice, and then we need to make sure they graduate.

So, when I took office I set out to help students graduate college in four years.

I directed the Higher Education Department to collaborate with our colleges and universities and focus on making key policy changes to ensure that more students graduate on time.

They got to work. The state, regents and university administrators at universities and colleges across the state worked together to adopt four-year graduation tuition incentives. Now, at UNM, a students final semester is free if they graduate in four years or less. And across the state, universities adjusted degree programs that allow students to graduate with 120 credit hours  making it possible for students to graduate in four years.

Not only that but the number of credit hours students are taking before they earn their college diploma is also dropping as students are incentivized to complete their degrees quicker. New Mexicos college students used to take 154 credit hours to get a bachelors degree and 99 credit hours to get an associates degree. Not today. Currently, the average student completes 143 credit hours and 91 credit hours, respectively.

We created exploratory majors, known as meta-majors, that help students explore a particular field and take courses that count toward multiple degree programs within their broad area of interest. This reduces the likelihood of students taking courses that do not ultimately count toward graduation.

Its not hard to believe that the four-year graduation rate at UNM has increased significantly. The graduation rate at UNM in 2009 was 12 percent, but today its increased to 32 percent. And the four-year graduation rate at Eastern New Mexico University has doubled and at New Mexico State University its increased by seven percentage points. Now, both schools have a 22 percent four-year graduation rate.

Were also setting our future college students up for success.

In just two years, university provosts and faculty worked with my administration to restructure the general education curriculum so that it will better develop essential skills that prepare students for their careers. And, Im proud to report that later this month we will have completed common course numbering across our higher education system. As a result, credits will transfer more seamlessly between colleges and universities in New Mexico than ever before. This effort will drastically improve student transfers, because they wont have to re-take classes theyve already taken once they transfer.

Were starting in high school too. By raising the standards and finally measuring student outcomes we are better preparing them for college. Weve also expanded advanced placement courses  especially for low-income, minority, and rural students  and more students than ever are taking and passing AP exams, giving them a head start on their degrees.

Im so proud that were helping families save money and students be successful in college. Theres still more to do, but together we can keep up this momentum and build a better higher education system than ever before.Students across the state are returning to school this week with the new school supplies, energy and readiness  or not  for a new year of learning.

With that  for students, parents and teachers  also comes the renewed fear over the possibility of some deranged soul or lost youth entering their school with a firearm and leaving behind a trail of despair.

Its a fear that increases each year as the body count at our schools  and other public places  continues to rise: Two students shot to death at Aztec High School. Seventeen staff and students shot and killed at Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida. Two people shot and killed at a library in Clovis. Fifty-eight people murdered with semi-automatic rifles while attending a country music festival in Las Vegas, Nev.

The list of fatal shootings goes on and on and on and on, and yet the leaders of our nation  and our state  have been unable, or unwilling, to push through sensible gun laws.

There was a sense after the Stoneman Douglas shooting last February that the powerful gun lobby had finally met its match in the survivors of that Florida school shooting who called them out and demanded action from lawmakers. Whether that movement will move the needle on gun legislation nationally remains to be seen, but several Democratic lawmakers in our state say they plan to pursue a number of new laws in the next legislative session, which begins in January.

The proposals include:

 Requiring background checks on every sale of a firearm. Background checks are already required in many cases. But Sen. Richard Martinez, an Espanola Democrat and chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said the bill he plans to introduce would fix a loophole in which someone can arrange a sale through an online ad and then meet in person to complete the transaction without a background check. A more robust background check bill died in 2017.

 Legislation directing judges to order domestic abusers to surrender their firearms while a restraining order is in effect. Rep. Deborah Armstrong, D-Albuquerque, plans to introduce the bill.

 A red-flag law that would allow household members or law enforcement to seek a court order to temporarily take the guns of someone they believe is an immediate threat to themselves or others. Rep. Daymon Ely, D-Corrales, is working on that bill, which would include a provision that someone who files a false petition would be subject to penalties.

 Two New Mexico teens, Sophia Lussiez and Julia Mazal, also made a presentation, asking legislators to pass a law that would make gun owners liable if they fail to secure their weapons, allowing access to children. They are working with Rep. Linda Trujillo, D-Santa Fe, on a proposal for the next session.

All of these proposals are worth serious consideration and debate by lawmakers. But if history is any indication, these bills will face an uphill battle. Republicans and some Democrats, especially from rural areas, have argued that criminals arent going to let a background check, or similar law, stop them.

But, by that logic, should we repeal laws against murder, car theft and burglaries because criminals arent allowing those laws to stop them?

Its worth noting that a bill requiring domestic violence offenders to surrender their firearms, at least temporarily, did pass the Legislature in 2017, but was vetoed by Republican Gov. Susana Martinez.

Thats truly a shame because research has found that when domestic violence offenders are required to relinquish their guns, instead of simply being barred from owning firearms, the risk that those offenders may kill their partners goes down. The Los Angeles Times, reporting on the study, said that each year more than 1,800 people are killed by their intimate partners, and about half of those killings are carried out with a gun.

Democratic Congresswoman Michelle Lujan Grisham, who is running for governor, said she would support a legislative package to expand background checks to all gun purchases and prohibit domestic abusers from buying firearms. She also supports the creation of an extreme risk protection order, a legal process that would allow family members or law enforcement to seek temporary court orders to confiscate firearms from someone they fear may hurt themselves or others.

Her Republican opponent, Congressman Steve Pearce, so far has not appeared interested in having a conversation about new gun laws, which is truly unfortunate. A spokesman for Pearce said he supports the constitutional rights of all law-abiding New Mexicans, adding that the congressman believes we must do more to protect kids in schools, strengthen and hold accountable law enforcement, fix the flawed mental health system and get criminals off the streets.

Those are all laudable, but what about common-sense gun laws?

One man who attended the event at the Roundhouse last week where the legislative proposals were unveiled expressed concern that under some of the proposed bills, innocent people could lose their firearms because of false accusations.

Which begs the question, when did we become more concerned about innocent people losing their firearms due to false accusations than innocent people losing their lives due to unstable people with guns?

While its true that no reform will stop the carnage, these proposed bills have the potential to make a difference and save lives.

This editorial first appeared in the Albuquerque Journal. It was written by members of the editorial board and is unsigned as it represents the opinion of the newspaper rather than the writers.Prev 1 of 4 Next

Copyright  2018 Albuquerque Journal

There are plenty of wide open spaces in New Mexico where people seeking to live off the grid can find starry nights, the sound of the wind through the trees  and few prying eyes.

Some of those folks are loners. Others are just checking out of the urban rat race. Others come to practice their religion in monasteries or remote farms in ways that harm no one.

But New Mexicos remote areas have also attracted groups on the fringe of society who end up in the crosshairs of law enforcement  and often its because of their treatment of the children who live in the communes.

Groups like the five adults and 11 children found living in primitive and squalid conditions north of Taos earlier this month. Or the self-described revolutionary Christian group that Cibola County Sheriffs deputies moved in on last year near Fence Lake, removing roughly a dozen children. Or a 70-member compound in Union County where Messiah Wayne Bent ended up being convicted in 2008 of criminal sexual contact.

Calling such groups cults is something the FBI rarely does. The FBI doesnt even like the use of the word cult because it is easily misused and was historically used to describe religious groups like Mormons, Quakers and other groups now considered mainstream religions.

Instead, the FBI has issued risk factors to law enforcement on when they should be concerned about a religious group, couched in careful phrasing because the Constitution protects an individuals right to religious beliefs. The key issue in those risk factors is a threat of violence to members, children or to people who dont belong to the group.

Calling the group living north of Taos a cult would be pushing the limits of the information so far released by law enforcement agencies.

The father of one of the men and two of the women arrested at the compound is an imam at a New York City mosque that was linked to the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center because a member of the mosque was involved in the bombing. And there are allegations of terrorism, but they are based in large part on the single statement from one of the children while in foster care that he was being taught to shoot so he could commit a school shooting.

In fact, the FBI was treating the case as a domestic kidnapping across state lines.

All five adults have been charged with child abuse based on what deputies found when they raided the compound  little or no food; children dressed in rags; putrid living conditions with no electricity or plumbing.

The group came to the attention of federal and local law enforcement last December when Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, 40, allegedly kidnapped his 3-year-old son, Abdul-Ghani Wahhaj  who was medically fragile, had seizures and walked with a limp  during a custody dispute with the boys mother.

During a search of the property, investigators found the remains of a small boy, believed to be Abdul-Ghani, buried on the compound. The Office of the Medical Investigator says it could take weeks before a positive identification is made.

But the grandfather, Siraj Wahhaj, told reporters that family members identified the remains as that of his grandson. He also said he has been cooperating with the FBI in trying to locate the child since he was taken and his information led the FBI to the compound in New Mexico.

Federal agents had the compound under surveillance for two months but didnt move earlier because agents never sighted the father or the boy.

Taos County Sheriffs deputies finally acted after receiving word that the people inside the compound were starving.

Deputies found the compound filled with firearms and ammunition, as well as what was described as an escape tunnel.

But other than the alleged threat to the well being of the 11 children living there, and the custodial interference charge, the adults arrested in the raid of the Taos County compound didnt seem to meet the FBIs other risk factors for dangerous religious groups. These include recruiting members; setting an exact date for the imminent transformation of life on Earth; promulgating specific prophecies; or targeting violence against specific enemies.

That cannot be said of several other communes that called New Mexico home.

Aggressive Christianity Missions Training Corps

Last year, Cibola County Sheriffs deputies moved in on a remote area near the sparsely settled Fence Lake area south of Grants after receiving allegations of child abuse by members of the Aggressive Christianity Missions Training Corps, a self-described revolutionary Christian group that uses anti-Semitic and anti-LGBT language on its website.

Deputies had been investigating the death of 11-year-old Enoch Miller for almost two years before the raid.

Investigators said they were stymied by members changing their names, failing to register the births of children with the state, and moving between properties owned by a church supporter.

According to deputies, former members said the sects leaders had physically abused adult members and children and forced them to work in slave-like conditions.

James Green, the groups co-leader, told The Associated Press the allegations were all fake.

The group was formed in the early 1990s in Sacramento, Calif., and left there after losing a $1 million civil lawsuit filed against them by a former member.

The church had a paramilitary organizational structure, with the leaders called generals.

Green and co-founder Deborah Green face charges of kidnapping, obstructing an investigation of child abuse and tampering with evidence.

He is scheduled for trial in December. Her trial is scheduled for September, according to court records.

Another leader of the group, Peter Green, also known as Mike Brandon, faces 13 counts of criminal sexual penetration of a minor, two counts of kidnapping, seven counts of criminal sexual contact with a minor and other felony charges.

Cibola County Undersheriff Michael Munk gave a glimpse into his agencys two-year investigation of the sect: Former members say followers were treated like slaves and children were often beaten. Several of them were born at the compound, with no records filed anywhere of their births.

That investigation led to the raid last August of the groups Fence Lake compound during church services and the arrest of four members.

Firearms and silencers were seized by deputies during the raid.

While former members say the group was able to keep abuse quiet by training children not to talk to police, Munk said the sect also evaded the law by moving and operating in seclusion.

About a dozen children were taken into the custody of the Children, Youth and Families Department.

Wayne Bent and The Lord Our Righteousness Church

Wayne Bent, now 77 years old, claimed to be anointed by God to be a messiah in 2000 at the time he brought his 77 followers to the Strong City compound in Union County northwest of Clayton.

For years, The Lord Our Righteousness Church operated there until he was charged in 2008 with criminal sexual contact with two teenage girls, contact that he maintained was a healing exercise.

The parents of the girls left the church, taking their children, and told another former member about Bent lying with the naked girls and touching them. The former member called the authorities, leading to the investigation and criminal charges.

When visited by a Journal reporter in 2008, the compound was described as serene with small modular homes shaded by trees where the 70 members of the church lived. Church members were conservatively dressed and voiced their support for Bent, who they believed was the son of God.

Bent began a starvation fast to protest the criminal charges. His followers joined in his fast. He denied he was leading them on a suicidal path.

In an interview with a Journal reporter, Bent said he had a religious conversion in 1967, moved around as a minister until God spoke to him while he was a Seventh-day Adventist minister in Idaho.

Bent said after God spoke to him, he moved his ministry and followers to the compound in northeastern New Mexico.

He predicted that the world would end Oct. 31, 2007. His followers say he was misunderstood.

He was convicted of one count of criminal sexual contact with a minor and two counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

He was sentenced to 10 years in prison but received an early release to supervised parole because of health problems in 2016. He is registered as a sex offender in Union County.

After his release, online postings on his website said he had been persecuted.

My greatest offense in all the world was that I showed myself independent from them and my testimony was that I was led of God. For this they called me a cult leader, but there is no cult greater than theirs. Our church does not persecute those who are different, but they have persecuted us. The free country myth has been exposed, according to what was called his final letter.

Heavens Gate

One of the most infamous religious groups that settled for a while in New Mexico was Heavens Gate, founded in 1975 by Marshall Applewhite and Bonnie Nettles.

More than 20 years later, 39 members, including Applewhite, committed suicide by taking phenobarbital mixed with applesauce and washing it all down with vodka in a gated community in San Diego.

Applewhites New Mexico connections began in the early 1970s prior to his religious conversion when he ran a restaurant in Taos. He would return later seeking followers.

Applewhite told people he was related to Jesus and that his followers would reach a higher state of being if they took up his teachings.

In 1995, members of Heavens Gate purchased a former youth camp and rented office space in the small ranching community of Mountainair, southeast of Albuquerque.

Heavens Gate members were adults from around the country. Some had left good jobs to join the group. Others were considered New Age hippies.

Group members left Mountainair in 1996 when they put their property up for sale.

The group had also camped on Bureau of Land Management property 15 miles west of Bernardo, south of Belen, without causing any problems. As many as 40 or 50 members would join the camps, which lasted for a few weeks each summer for two years.

About 10 members occupied the youth camp off and on for about a year.

Applewhite eventually set up shop in Southern California. Applewhites teaching evolved into a complex New Age/UFO belief system that attracted people from diverse backgrounds.

To simplify: They believed the Earth was going to be wiped clean and they needed to evacuate. Applewhite claimed a spacecraft was trailing the comet Hale-Bopp and that the souls of those committing suicide would board the spacecraft.FARMINGTON  New details from the Aztec High School shooting investigation were revealed in a lengthy incident report issued by the San Juan County Sheriffs Office and obtained by The Farmington Daily Times.

The report documents firsthand accounts of responding officers controlling the scene and evacuating students and staff. It describes how the shooter came to purchase the handgun he used in the killings. It notes that the shooters father once told him in jest not to conduct a school shooting with the gun.

The report also documents that the shooter, who had dropped out of high school and in recent years built a racist online persona, once allegedly threatened to shoot a neighbor.

Despite that threat, which brought police to the door, and an FBI investigation that brought authorities into the familys living room in March 2016, 21-year-old Aztec resident William Atchison went virtually under the radar as authorities investigated a sibling instead.

The shooter walked to the Aztec high campus on the morning of Dec. 7, 2017, entered a building and shot and killed 17-year-old Casey J. Marquez and Francisco Paco Fernandez.

The shooter then shot into classrooms before dying of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, leaving authorities puzzled as to his motive.

The San Juan County Sheriffs Office investigation into the case is complete, and investigators are awaiting reports from the New Mexico State Police crime scene division, according to Detective Lt. Kyle Lincoln of the Sheriffs Office.

The length of the investigation was due to two factors.

That the shooter took his own life affected parts of the case, since no one was alive to prosecute.

Instead, a lot of time was spent determining if the shooter had any accomplices. Investigators also searched for a motive, Lincoln said.

They found neither accomplices nor a motive. Investigators determined that the killer may have selected the anniversary of the 1941 attack by the Japanese on Pearl Harbor as the day to carry out his plan.

Although he had no known accomplices, the shooter did use online community comment boards, one of which sought out people who were obsessed with school shootings and tolerant or supportive of his racist posts.

The shooter was in contact with and talked with 18-year-old Ali David Sonboly, who shot and killed nine people in a Munich, Germany, mall on July 22, 2016.

The large-scale school shooting investigation involved hundreds of people from local, state and federal agencies.

Lincoln said the actions of the Aztec police officers who were first on scene and the actions of the teachers following policies and locking doors prevented additional deaths

Interviews with the father

Wayne Atchison would stand outside his 21-year-old sons bedroom and listen to the troubling sounds coming from a computer.

Through the bedroom door, Wayne told an investigator on Dec. 7 that hed heard the sounds of the neo-Nazi or propaganda websites his son visited. He heard discussions of topics he didnt like and believed were a bad influence on his son.

The shooters father was interviewed by authorities at his residence shortly after his son was identified as the shooter, according to the incident report.

The father told police he believed his son was the person who conducted the shooting, stating he put feelers out into the community. He was surprised by the news of his sons death, adding that he thought William was in jail.

The father did not provide any details on what he heard from the neo-Nazi or propaganda websites, but stated that he doesnt like what they are saying.

The shooters autopsy report noted that faint ink markings of SS, build wall, and a swastika symbol were found on his left leg.

The father told investigators about an online video game his son played in which players established a timeframe of a shooting by building versions of schools or malls to conduct practice runs.

The father also noted that his son had purchased a gun, and said he warned his son not to point it at anyone. The killer and his brother went shooting, taking the handgun and a recently purchased .22 caliber rifle with them, about two weeks before the killings, the report said.

He said he also told William to never  do a school shooting, Aztec Police Capt. Troy Morris wrote in his report. I questioned why he should feel the need to say that to William, and he said, I said it kinda clowning around I thought. 

The shooter had a longtime history of speaking with school counselors and was seeing a counselor in Farmington until the counselor retired, his father told investigators. His son made two trips to a new counselor, then stopped going and dropped out of school, his father said. The father said his son had spoken about being picked on while walking between classes at Aztec High.

During his interview, the shooters father recognized one of the FBI agents who spoke to William in March 2016 regarding some posts to online forums, including a post about shooting up his former school.

Aztec Police Chief Mike Heal told attendees during a Coffee with the Chief event in April that the FBI told Aztec police that they were investigating Williams brother.

FBI spokesman Frank Fisher declined to comment, stating the investigation is ongoing.NASCHITTI  The Navajo Nation Department of Agriculture has launched an incentive program to encourage the removal of unbranded free-roaming horses from tribal land because of declining range conditions.

The incentive is a voluntary horse sale and equine reward program that was rolled out late last week and offers $50 by way of a promissory note for each horse surrendered at the auction yard in Naschitti.

Roxie June, principal planner for the department, said attention to the overpopulation of feral horses on the reservation started in 2013 after several horses died at an earthen dam on the Cottonwood-Tselani Chapter in Arizona.

Since then, the department has been using its annual budget to address the issue, including conducting horse roundups and entrapments when requested by chapters.

As of last Aug. 3, the department had removed 2,034 feral horses by roundup and entrapment this year, June said.

Those methods and other proposals by tribal departments for feral horse removal have received criticism and opposition from equine advocates and animal welfare organizations.

We try to leverage our funding and do as much as we can. No matter what we do  if we fix the windmills, if we fix the earthen dams, if we reseed, if we do conservation  those horses are still there and theyre still eating up the range, June said.

Its like a vicious cycle, and the only option for the Navajo Nation is to remove horses, she added.

June said she understands the opposition to feral horse removal, but the tribe continues to develop alternatives for addressing the matter, because there is concern about the welfare of the horses and the condition of the land.

Once we get the horses to a manageable level, then we can start doing the other things. We can start training them, then we can start doing adoption, but right now, there are too many horses, she said.

In response to the situation, the incentive was developed.

The department funded the program as part of a $250,000 grant awarded this year by the U.S. Department of the Interior.

The grant was given to the agriculture department and to the Navajo Nation Department of Fish and Wildlife, which addresses feral horses on the tribes mountain ranges.

The amount was equally divided between the two sectors, and the agriculture department is using $19,000 to reward individuals who hand over horses.

Fifty dollars was paid for each horse, and the department will issue payment within 30 days, according to the programs agreement.

On Aug. 3, the department staff was joined by Bureau of Indian Affairs employees and grazing committee members from local chapters to help unload, inspect and sort horses.

As part of the intake process, an inspector and ranger examined horses for branding and used a device to detect microchips. Documentation about a horses physical appearance was also collected.

In February, the tribes Commission on Emergency Management declared a drought state of emergency due to low precipitation, which has created a critical shortage of water and range feed for livestock.

June said the emergency declaration triggered a section of tribal law that mandates immediate action to alleviate conditions, including removing unbranded horses.

Unbranded horses collected during the program will be transported for auction, she said.

Any branded horses will be held for two days while attempts are made to locate owners. If the owners are not found or do not collect the animals, they will be sold, June said, adding that such action is a provision under tribal law.

If branded horses are relinquished by owners for voluntary sale, they must show proof of ownership, and are referred to livestock buyers, who are on site and set prices separate from the program.

The department is considering conducting the program in September in Pinon, Ariz.

One mare and two stallions from Round Rock, Ariz., comprised the first group to arrive at the auction yard.

Navajo Nation Ranger Sgt. Randall Jim used spray paint to mark the equine and shouted the physical descriptions for each one.

After the information was collected, Lacey Salabye, an extension agent with the department, handled the horses and moved them into holding pens.

Owner Harrison Goldtooth surrendered the three horses because the monthly purchase of hay was becoming costly, and he worried about the expense increasing during winter.

I wanted to get rid of them because of the drought. There is less water, he said.

With Goldtooth relinquishing the three animals, approximately 27,000 pounds of wild forage will be saved annually, an agriculture department employee said.

Immediately after Goldtooths horses were sorted, three stallions, two mares, a colt and a gelding arrived from Newcomb.

A few hours passed before three livestock trailers were filled with horses brought to the yard.

Dale Redhouse, the grazing official for the Teec Nos Pos Chapter in Arizona, was watching the process because he said it could be an option for the chapter.

I want to learn more and how to go about it, he said.

Teec Nos Pos has a large population of feral horses, and chapter members have approved resolutions over the past two years to have the tribes agriculture department and the BIA remove horses.

We need to take care of our land before it gets to be a desert storm, Redhouse said.Police have arrested a man who they fatally struck a bicyclist in southeast Albuquerque last week.

Jesse Cordova 21, is charged with knowingly leaving the scene of an accident involving great bodily harm or death.

According to a criminal complaint, Cordova struck bicyclist Ronald Brinkley around 5 a.m. Monday, near Ross and Yale SE. Brinkley was rushed to the hospital in critical condition

Police say arriving officers found a destroyed bicycle, scratches in the road where the bike had been dragged, tire scuff marks and pieces of bicycle helmet.

Witnesses told police Cordova hit Brinkley and kept driving, dragging Brinkley and his bicycle beneath the car for about a block before fleeing the scene.

Police say Brinkleys boss, George Cook, offered a $5,500 reward through Crime Stoppers for any information on the driver and provided descriptions of the truck.

Cook told police Brinkley opened up his restaurant in the Sunport at 5 a.m. every morning and, to do so, Brinkley rode his bike to work every single day for 12 years.

Soon after the reward was posted an anonymous tipster called police and told them the truck belonged to Cordova and where police could find it.

Police say they found the truck, with heavy front-end damage, at the Valley View Villas apartment complex.

On Wednesday, hospital staff called police to tell them Brinkley had died.

Cordova was arrested by police and booked into jail Friday night.New Mexico financial regulators learned their lesson the hard way after discovering in early 2017 that millions of dollars had been embezzled from clients at the small nonprofit Desert State Life Management.

The state Financial Institutions Division of the states Regulation and Licensing Department headed to the Roundhouse in Santa Fe this year to seek new laws to help prevent another such criminal scheme, which went undetected for years.

Unfortunately, it was a reactive response. But were hoping now its a proactive response and that there are checks and balances in place, said Christopher Moya, acting director of the state Financial Institutions Division.

In 2017, regulators by law had to give Desert State CEO Paul Donisthorpe at least 60 days to remedy the situation after first finding the company in an unsafe and unsound condition. The new law permits regulators to take immediate action and freeze assets when big red flags appear.

Moya said his agency can now seek restraining orders in court to protect client funds and go so far as to change the locks on the firms doors if necessary.

State examiners discovered money missing from Desert State client accounts in late March 2017 but by law had to wait until late May 2017 to seek legal action.

In the interim, Donisthorpe and/or his then-wife paid off thousands of dollars in tax liens and sold other property.

His now ex-wife, criminal defense attorney Liane Kerr, also filed for a divorce from her husband. Kerr, through her attorney, has denied any involvement in Desert State or knowledge of the criminal activity.

Moyas agency has also increased the number of staff who perform financial examinations of trust companies.

Desert States books, which hadnt been examined since 2008, were scheduled for state examination in 2014. But Donisthorpe was able to put off regulators until Moya balked at further delay after becoming acting director in fall 2016.

Other fixes include requiring higher bonds to cover a firms assets in cases of losses, and tightening the definition of a nonprofit trust.CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va.  A year after a deadly gathering of far-right extremists in Charlottesville, less than two dozen white nationalists marched Sunday across from the White House, their numbers dwarfed by thousands of counterprotesters, while the mother of a woman killed at last summers protest said the country continues to face unhealed racial wounds.

The events, largely peaceful though tense at times in Charlottesville and Washington, were part of a day of speeches, vigils and marches marking the anniversary of one of the largest gatherings of white nationalists and other far-right extremists in a decade.

In Washington, dozens of police in bright yellow vests formed a tight cordon around the small group of white nationalists, separating them from shouting counterprotesters within view of the White House.

President Donald Trump wasnt at home  he has been at his golf club in New Jersey for more than a week on a working vacation.

Jason Kessler, the principal organizer of last years Unite the Right event, led the Sunday gathering he called a white civil rights rally in Lafayette Square. Kessler said in a permit application that he expected 100 to 400 people to participate, but the actual number was far lower: only around 20.

Counterprotesters, who assembled before the rallys scheduled start, vastly outnumbered Kesslers crowd. Thousands showed up to jeer and shout insults at the white nationalists.

Makia Green, who represents the Washington branch of Black Lives Matter, told Sundays crowd: We know from experience that ignoring white nationalism doesnt work.

By about 5 p.m., those in Kesslers group packed into a pair of white vans and left, escorted by police.

Washington Police Chief Peter Newsham said only one person was arrested all day despite several tense moments, with police essentially shielding the white nationalist demonstrators from several thousand enraged counterprotesters.

Newsham called it a well-executed plan to safeguard people and property while allowing citizens to express their First Amendment rights.

Earlier this month, Facebook stunned and angered counterprotest organizers when it disabled their Washington events page, saying it and others had been created by bad actors misusing the social media platform. The company said at the time that the page may be linked to an account created by Russias Internet Research Agency  a troll farm that has sown discord in the U.S.  but counterprotesters said it was an authentic event they worked hard to organize.

Earlier in the day in Charlottesville, the mother of Heather Heyer, a 32-year-old paralegal who was killed when a car plowed into a crowd of counterprotesters during last years rally, said theres still much healing to be done.

Susan Bro laid flowers at a makeshift memorial at the site of the attack in downtown Charlottesville. With a crowd gathered around her, she thanked them for coming to remember her daughter but also acknowledged the dozens of others injured and the two state troopers killed when a helicopter crashed that day.

Theres so much healing to do, Bro said. We have a huge racial problem in our city and in our country. We have got to fix this, or well be right back here in no time.

Hundreds of neo-Nazis, skinheads and Ku Klux Klan members and other white nationalists descended on Charlottesville last Aug. 12, in part to protest over the citys decision to remove a monument to Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee from a park.

Violent fighting broke out between attendees and counterprotesters. Authorities eventually forced the crowd to disperse, but chaos erupted again when the car barreled into the crowd.

James Fields Jr., 21, of Maumee, Ohio, is charged in state court with murder in Heyers killing and faces separate hate crime charges in federal court. He pleaded not guilty last month to the federal charges.

The days death toll rose to three when a state police helicopter crashed, killing Lt. Jay Cullen and Trooper-Pilot Berke Bates.

Among the other anniversary events was a Sunday morning community gathering at a park that drew more than 200 people. The group sang and listened to speakers, among them Courtney Commander, a friend of Heyers who was with her when she was killed.

She is with me today, too, Commander said.

Law enforcement officials faced blistering criticism after last years rally for what was perceived as a passive response to the violence that unfolded. A review by a former U.S. attorney found a lack of coordination between state and city police and an operational plan that elevated officer safety over public safety.

The anniversary weekend was marked by a much heavier police presence, which also drew criticism from some activists.

Demonstrators on Sunday marched through Charlottesville chanting, Cops and Klan go hand in hand, and Will you protect us?

The city of Charlottesville said four people were arrested in the downtown area. Two arrests stemmed from a confrontation near the Lee statue where a Spotsylvania, Virginia, man stopped to salute, a Charlottesville woman confronted him and a physical altercation took place, officials said.

___

Rankin reported from Richmond. Associated Press writer Ashraf Khalil in Washington contributed to this report.

___

For the complete AP coverage marking one year since the rally in Charlottesville, visit https://apnews.com/tag/CharlottesvilleAYearLaterGRANITEVILLE  William Gregg is known as the father of the textile industry in the South, but the manufacturer also was a national pioneer in public education.

In the mid-1800s before the Civil War, Gregg created perhaps the first compulsory education system in the United States in Graniteville, the town he helped build and which became the headquarters of Graniteville Company, his textile mills.

Today, a group of local residents want to recognize Gregg's legacy in education and are petitioning to have Aiken County Public Schools name a new Graniteville elementary school in his honor.

+4 Plans move forward for new Graniteville elementary school A new elementary school in Graniteville should open in a little more than a year.

Colen Lindell, who is helping lead the grassroots community effort to name the new school the William Gregg Elementary School, said education was one of the bedrocks on which Gregg built Graniteville Company. Gregg constructed schools for his employees' children ages 6-12 in Graniteville and in nearby Warrenville and Vaucluse, and provided books for teachers after construction began on the first mill in Graniteville in 1845.

Parents had to send their kids to school. If they didn't, their paychecks were docked like a nickel a day. Mr. Gregg believed with an educated workforce the Graniteville Company could go further, Lindell said.

Lindell also is asking the school district to incorporate the capital "G" in the former Graniteville Company's corporate logo into the school's name if William Gregg Elementary is chosen.

Graniteville resident and businessman Phil Napier, who represents the area on the Aiken County Council, said Gregg's dedication to education extended beyond his community.

When he built the mills, he also built schools and churches. As the years went on, the Graniteville Company donated those schools to the Aiken County Public School District, Napier said. He had a truant officer who would go around and pick kids up and take them to school. Education was very important to him.

Aiken County Board of Education members approved the renovation and repurposing of the Byrd Learning Center in Graniteville as a new elementary school to help alleviate overcrowding at nearby Byrd Elementary. The school should open for the 2019-20 school year.

The district had been using the building for adult education classes but will open the new Aiken County Adult Education Center on U.S. 1 near Aiken Technical College this month. Built in the 1950s, the building was the original Byrd Elementary, which served students for about half a century.

The school district has an online survey asking people to suggest names for the new school on its website at acpsd.net. The deadline is 5 p.m. Aug. 17.

The district also is seeking input for the names of three other new schools: the sixth-grade intermediate school in Aiken, which also will open next year, and an elementary and middle school between Graniteville and North Augusta.

The School Board will make the final decision and approve the names for all the new schools.

Lindell said calling the new school in Graniteville the William Gregg Elementary School is a win-win for the community and the school district.

Gregg founded the community. He cared about education, he said. He is an historical figure who deserves, I feel, to have his legacy continue. Who has done more for education in early South Carolina history than William Gregg? I think it's a fitting tribute.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.Since the ascension to the throne of King Salman bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud in 2015 and the rise of his son Mohammed bin Salman first as defense minister and then as crown prince, the kingdoms foreign policy has faced difficult choices in a fraught region. With rare exceptions the Saudis have lurched from one poor decision to the next; the Canada caper is the latest. The erratic diplomacy is hurting the kingdom.

The first tough decision of the new leadership is still their worst, to intervene in the Yemeni civil war. Worried that Iran was set to take over Yemen, the new, inexperienced Saudi leadership panicked. The Zaydi Shiite Houthis were on the doorstep of taking Aden, the last major city out of their control. Operation Decisive Storm turned into the worlds worst humanitarian catastrophe of our times. The Saudi bombing of a school bus this week is symptomatic of the Saudi coalitions difficulties in avoiding civilian casualties in launching airstrikes against targets in a poor, backward country.

Two American presidents have colluded in the war, providing political and military support for the Saudi coalition  a black mark on our country. So has the United Kingdom. The war has no end in sight, and the total collapse of the poorest nation in the Arab world is an increasingly likely outcome, according to the United Nations.

The blockade of Qatar was also intended to produce a quick Saudi victory. The Qatari emir was excommunicated from Wahhabi Islam and was then to be deposed. As in Yemen, the Saudi leadership had no concept of how to implement its decision; Riyadh and its allies had a goal but no serious scheme to achieve it. Some reliable evidence suggest that they were planning a military invasion of Qatar but US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson vetoed the plan (probably without President Donald Trumps knowledge).

The Saudis ended up in open-ended and expensive quagmires in Yemen and Qatar with no strategy to achieve success. Fortunately for Riyadh, the usual leader of the international community, America, under Trump is largely oblivious to the damage done. The palaces biggest success has been in courting a president who does not care about human rights, humanitarian catastrophes or regional stability. The relationship was cemented by Trumps visit to Riyadh last year and Prince Mohammeds trip to the United States this year. A visit to Washington by the king is in the works.

Congress, on the other hand, is turning against the kingdom, as is the press and the public. Mohammed is increasingly seen as an autocrat who can't tolerate any dissent, rather than as a modernizer opening up the country. Criticism and dissent is not tolerated, even if it is the dissenting opinion of women who fought for the right to drive in the only country in the world that ever made driving a gender-based issue.

Indeed, the international business community has come to a very different conclusion about the countrys policies, especially in the wake of Mohammed's shakedown of his own people last fall to pay for his expensive adventures. Hundreds were detained without charge, and then forced to turn over their assets to the government. Foreign direct investment in the kingdom dropped 80% from over $7 billion in 2016 to $1.4 billion in 2017, according to the United Nations, and down from over $12 billion when King Abdullah was still on the throne. Jordan and Oman each attracted more foreign investment last year than Saudi Arabia. The number of companies also fell significantly. Concerns about the rule of law and arbitrary detention are also encouraging capital flight.

Foreign investment is crucial to Saudi Arabias ambition to diversify the economy and create new cities; Vision 2030 needs robust foreign investment. It was entirely predictable that the erratic policies of the royal palace would discourage investors who value stability and predictability  open-ended wars and feuds do not encourage confidence in decision-making.

The Saudi decision to expel the Canadian ambassador from Riyadh, freeze trade ties and withdraw 15,000 Saudis from Canadian schools and hospitals in response to the Canadian foreign minister protesting the detention of female critics is another poor call by the Saudi leadership. Saudi flights to Canada will halt Aug. 14. This is reckless. More Saudis than Canadians will have their lives disrupted.

Riyadh is undoubtedly pleased by the weak response of Washington to the Saudi moves; the administration has again shown its total disregard for human rights. But the Saudis have gotten little concrete support from their Arab allies in the Canada boycott.

The most disturbing piece of the Saudi war on Canada is a tweet. It was quickly removed, but it raises profound questions about the kingdom and its current leadership  questions Salman should very much want to avoid. The tweet, which was posted in English, French and Arabic, showed a picture of a passenger plane descending into Toronto and was accompanied by a threat against anyone who criticizes the kingdom.

The message was clear: Toronto will suffer a catastrophic terrorist attack like 9/11. It was also an implicit endorsement of the 2001 al-Qaeda attacks on America.

The US and Canadian Intelligence services ought to be seeking the answer to who posted such a threat. The press has linked the site involved to the royal palace but that is unconfirmed. The timing suggests that it was posted by parties in the know about what the government was planning to do. The Saudi media is carefully controlled by the palace. The quick withdrawal of the message does not alter the fact that it was sent for a purpose  indeed that may have been the intention.

Conspiracy theorists have long claimed that the Saudi government was either deliberately blind to the al-Qaeda 9/11 plot, or, worse, complicit in it. The evidence and multiple investigations do not support such theories. But they remain persistent and at least one points a finger at one of the kings sons, who died under allegedly suspicious circumstances. That theory is laid out in a book titled "Secrets of the Kingdom." The Toronto photo tweet will only reinforce questions about Saudi behavior.

The entire spat is certain to further discourage investment in Saudi Arabia. It is very much like a similar tangle with Sweden last year. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is standing strong in his position, as he should. He should go further and suspend Canadas $12 billion arms deal for infantry fighting vehicles with the kingdom until the war in Yemen ends. That would get the Saudis' attention. America should stand with its friend and ally and suspend its own arms supplies to the kingdom until it stops the war.Two males were injured when gunfire erupted late Saturday night in downtown Birmingham.

The shooting happened shortly before midnight in the 1600 block of Third Avenue North. Police said the victims were injured in a parking lot across the street from Levels nightclub.

North Precinct Sgt. Talana Brown said multiple shots were fired in a possible drive-by. One man was grazed on the nose and the other was shot in the groin area. At least four cars were struck as well.

Both men were taken to UAB Hospital.

Brown said she didn't know what the men were doing in the parking lot. The club had hosted a private party Saturday night and already had been closed about 30 minutes when the shooting happened.

Several of the cars in the parking lot belonged to club-goers but police said they don't yet know what sparked the shooting. The doors on one of the vehicle's was open and there was blood on the car, but Brown said she didn't yet know if one of the victims was in the car when he was shot or if he was trying to take cover.

It was the second shooting in just several hours downtown. About 8:15 p.m., one man was shot and another stabbed during an altercation in Linn Park. Police at that scene said the two men had injured each other.Ensley attorney and business owner Antonio Spurling said he will file for civil penalties against the city of Birmingham if the renovation of the Ramsay McCormack Building isn't complete by the February deadline set by a circuit court judge.

Redevelopment of the building hasn't begun yet.

Spurling said the city needs to honor its promises and a court order and redevelop the 89-year-old Ramsay McCormack Building to house municipal court per the plans of former Mayor William Bell, whose plans were accepted as part of a settlement over a 2012 lawsuit between the city and Ensley business owners. Spurling filed the lawsuit.

The influx of city workers and those having business with municipal court would support restaurants, retail and some middle-income housing in the immediate vicinity of downtown Ensley, Spurling said.

In December 2016, then-Mayor Bell proposed investing city dollars in the historic art deco building as a way to help revitalize Ensley. He wanted to spend $40 million on a public safety complex in Ensley with Ramsay McCormack at its center. The complex would have included moving police and fire headquarters and municipal court from downtown Birmingham to downtown Ensley.

The proposal was also a way to save the city-owned high-rise from demolition after neighboring businesses filed suit against the city in 2012. The plaintiffs, which include Spurling-owned Playover Games & Movies, Hope International and the Ensley Revitalization Committee, asked for the building to be renovated or torn down due to safety concerns.

Under the terms of the settled lawsuit, the city of Birmingham has to renovate Ramsay McCormack. The work must be complete by Feb. 10, 2019, according to an order from Jefferson County Circuit Judge Michael Graffeo.

Woodfin scrubbed Bell's plans after being elected mayor in November. When running for mayor, Woodfin said Bell's plan doesn't make logistical sense. He said there's not a city in the United States, where the central police headquarters isn't in the core of the city.

The current mayor hasn't said whether he would support municipal court and not police and fire headquarters relocating from downtown Birmingham to downtown Ensley.

Instead, Woodfin is seeking to engage private residential and commercial developers and non-profits to submit proposals to redevelop Ramsay McCormack.

Developers would be eligible for economic development incentives from the city. Businesses education programs and loans would also be available to small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs.

The competitive request for proposals will be released on Aug. 15. Site visit for developers is set for Sept. 6, and the proposal deadline is Oct. 1.

According to the mayor's office, the winning proposal will be announced on Nov. 15.

During a public input meeting in Ensley on Thursday, Kelvin Datcher, the mayor's director of intergovernmental affairs, said it wouldn't be smart for the city to solely occupy Ramsay McCormack.

"We believe that it doesn't make sense to have a bunch of folks come to that building just to come back and forth to work," he said.

Datcher said the city wants to see Ramsay McCormack be a public-private partnership and include small businesses and have a residential component.

According to an assessment from Architecture Works LLC in April 2017, the renovation of Ramsay McCormack would cost $12 to $14 million.

Hope International owner Ronald Deramus said city officials weren't responsive to residents and business owners' questions and concerns about Ramsay McCormack and Ensley during Thursday's meeting.

The intent of the meeting, according to the city, was to get residents' suggestions on the future use of Ramsay McCormack.

Deramus said it doesn't make sense for Birmingham to seek a developer or investor for Ramsay McCormack when city dollars have already been spent to find the best use for the building. He said the city has owned the building for 30 years, and it needs to take responsibility.

The city should go back to the original plan and move police and fire headquarters and municipal court to downtown Ensley, he said.NASA's Parker Solar Probe launched from Florida before dawn today aboard a rocket built in Decatur, Ala., and carrying a key scientific instrument built in Huntsville.

Delayed once on Saturday, the Sunday launch at 2:31 a.m. CDT appeared flawless. A few hours later, the missions operations manager reported that the spacecraft the size of a small car was healthy and operating normally.

"This mission truly marks humanity's first visit to a star that will have implications not just here on Earth, but how we better understand our universe," said Thomas Zurbuchen, associate administrator of NASA's Science Mission Directorate. "We've accomplished something that decades ago, lived solely in the realm of science fiction."

The probe is bound first for Venus, where it will get a gravity assist - a move NASA describes as like a handbrake turn - to trim is orbit tighter around the sun. Ultimately it will fly as close as 15 million miles from Earth's star, closer than any human object has gone. Its mission will last seven years.

On board as one of the probe's instruments is the Solar Wind Electrons Alphas and Protons (SWEAP) instrument designed and built by a partnership of the University of Alabama in Huntsville, NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville and the Harvard Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory.

The instrument will collect charged particles of the solar wind as the probe flies through the gases of the Sun's corona.

"This is the only (probe) instrument that will sample the solar wind from this uninhibited location," UAH professor Dr. Gary Zank told a UAH publication. "The SWEAP Faraday Cup will be the first such instrument to fly so close to the sun simply because no spacecraft has ever gone so close to the sun, diving into the deep solar atmosphere as it will, and no other is planned."

The solar wind

Zank explained the solar wind's importance in an interview last week. Different from the radiation that heats our planet, he said the solar wind consists of "a stream of particles that interact with the Earth via the Earth's magnetic field."

As it nears Earth, the solar wind hits the planet's magnetic field and "squashes the side facing the sun," Zank said. "Behind, the Earth's magnetic field is dragged out a very long way to form a tail." Sometimes, because of orientation of the sun's magnetic field, violent releases of energy can occur called "space storms."

"The solar wind also carries or acts as a medium for massive, explosive releases of mass from the sun, called coronal mass ejections or CMEs for short," Zank said.

These mass ejections trigger major disruptions of energy that can destroy satellite computer chips, disrupt communications and GPS systems, and affect "anything that is routed through satellites," Zank said. Their problem-causing potential is enormous. "Imagine the FAA and air traffic control not being able to accurately locate and follow landing and taking off by planes at the Atlanta airport," he said.

It was the observation of comets that gave one of the first clues the solar wind existed. Comets' tails do not stream out behind them opposite their direction of motion, as might be expected, but always point away from the Sun, regardless of the direction the comet is heading. The force that points the tail is the solar wind.

Watching Sunday's launch was Dr. Eugene Parker, the 98-year-old physicist who first theorized the existence of the solar wind in 1958. NASA said this is its first mission named after a living researcher.

The project team

Zank is the chair of UAH's Department of Space Science, and it was his idea for the university to team with the Marshall center's labs to propose an instrument for the probe. Zank teamed with with Jonathan Certain, then a Marshall researcher; Ken Wright of UAH; and UAH graduate student Phyllis Whittlesey, now a researcher at Berkeley's Space Science lab.

They built a Faraday Cup - a metal container designed to catch and measure charged particles - and it will be mounted outside the probe's protective shielding.

One of the probe's other goals is studying the sun's corona - the part visible above the surface during an eclipse - to improve our understanding of why something above the sun is much hotter than its actual surface.An Alabama police officer went from cleared by his department to indicted for murder in the fatal shooting of Jeffrey Louis Parker, a mentally ill man.

Now the public is faced with competing narratives and little to no evidence about the case.

Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle and Police Chief Mark McMurray say Officer William Darby did nothing wrong and isn't a murderer.

On the other hand, Madison County District Attorney Rob Broussard was "gravely concerned" about Darby's actions and took the case to a grand jury. At least 12 of the 18 grand jurors agreed with the DA and issued an indictment for murder.

"We have a different opinion than the district attorney has," said Mayor Tommy Battle after Thursday night's city council meeting. The council -- at the mayor's urging -- voted to pay thousands of dollars for Darby's defense using taxpayer money. Four of the five city council members say they haven't seen body camera footage of the shooting, and Council President Mark Russell didn't return a call for comment. The city has refused to release the videos to the public.

Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle

Battle said since the indictment was issued he's had "some vigorous conversations" with Broussard about their competing conclusions in the case.

"We have no agenda that's trying to undercut any institution or any particular person," Broussard said in a Monday-morning interview with AL.com. Since that interview, Madison County Circuit Judge Donna Pate has issued a gag order.

"We review evidence and we get that evidence to the grand jury," Broussard said. "We do it in an above-board manner. That's my job and that's what we do."

The mayor, police chief, prosecutor and grand jurors all saw the body camera video. So why were their conclusions so different?

How was Darby cleared by a review board -- which includes the DA's office -- then indicted for murder, one of the most serious criminal charges in Alabama's law books?

The review board

While the district attorney's office is considered part of the police review board, the prosecutors do not vote or make decisions about whether officers should face disciplinary action.

Madison County District Attorney Rob Broussard

"Our area of inquiry is, 'Is there potential criminal liability or not?'" Broussard said.

"As far as policies and procedures of Huntsville Police Department, that's their business and we do not weigh in on that," the district attorney added. "We're not involved in any discussion or determination of whether or not somebody was at fault in policy."

In addition to the DA's office, the review board includes representatives from the city attorney's office and the police department's citizen advisory council. Those citizens -- who are chosen by the mayor, city council and police chief -- can give an advisory opinion about whether an officer acted in accordance with policy and training. But, neither those citizens nor the district attorney's office have a voting role in the review board process, said Huntsville police spokesman Lt. Michael Johnson.

"It's just the command staff that has the final say," Johnson said. Because of the judge's gag order, members of the police department aren't allowed to discuss Darby's case. Johnson said he could only comment generally about the review board process.

Darby and two other officers were put on desk duty at the time of the shooting. But about a month later, the review board cleared them to return to work. Since the indictment was announced, Darby has been put on paid leave.

Battle said he's unsure whether Broussard has heard the city's argument that Darby acted within the police department's policy and guidelines.

"Working within the guidelines is something that's important," Battle said. "And that's the point to say that we're going to support those people who work for us and work within our guidelines. We're not going to put them in harm's way."

Broussard is aware the police department cleared Darby but said that has nothing to do with whether the officer violated Alabama law.

The grand jury

Broussard said he was "gravely concerned" dating back to the review board meeting.

"The action we felt it required was put it to a grand jury," he said. Broussard's office doesn't send every police-involved shooting case to a grand jury, as some other prosecutors do.

"If in our opinion it's clearly justified, we don't present it to the grand jury," Broussard said. "And more often than not, we don't. But there are occasions where we do let 18 citizens have a look at it."

What's a justified shooting? If a person reasonably believes somebody is using or is about to use deadly physical force against them, that person is justified in using deadly physical force.

"It's just a common-sense review of the evidence -- do you believe it was justified or not? Broussard said.

As is typical, the grand jury heard hundreds of cases -- not just Darby's, records show.

Grand jurors are randomly selected. Unlike a jury that's convened for trial, the grand jury isn't subjected to the jury-selection process. Prosecutors tell grand jurors they can recuse themselves if they have a conflict of interest with any particular case, Broussard said.

At least 15 grand jurors are needed to convene and vote, though typically there are 18. It takes 12 votes to indict.

An indictment is far from a conviction. To issue an indictment, grand jurors have to decide there's probable cause to believe someone is guilty. For a conviction, prosecutors have to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Neither the defendant nor his lawyer is generally present at the grand jury presentation, and the defense can't cross-examine witnesses.

The grand jury process is generally considered secretive. In Darby's case, the police department was aware the grand jury was convened.

"They were very much aware this was going to be presented," Broussard said. "There were personnel from HPD that testified."

The day of the shooting, officers briefly talked with Parker at the scene on Deramus Avenue. Parker, 49, called police, saying he was suicidal and had a gun. Darby commanded Parker to drop the gun, the department said. When Parker didn't follow orders, Darby shot him, the police said.

Darby, a 25-year-old from neighboring Morgan County, has been on the police force for two years.

Little is publicly known about Darby. The Huntsville city attorney's office has refused to release his personnel file, a set of documents that are generally considered public records.

Darby earned a degree from Pensacola Christian College and worked there as a security officer for about three years, according to his LinkedIn profile, which appears to have been taken down during the past several days.

Asked whether he expected the grand jury to indict Darby, Broussard said, "I was not surprised."

AL.com reporter Paul Gattis contributed to this story.Every parent dreads the annual school fundraiser where kids sell (insert item here - wrapping paper, cookie dough, Boston butts, etc., etc.)

But one Alabama school has come up with an epic letter for parents hoping to avoid the tradition of hitting up friends and family for a few bucks all in the name of education.

A letter from the Auburn PTO gave parents an choice to "opt out" of fundraising while still helping the school.

"Don't want to sell anything, bake anything, buy anything or generally avoid fundraising of any kind? We feel the same way!," the letter noted.

The letter goes on to offer options including a $15 donation (that one will still get you fundraising emails) all the way up to $50 which ensures that the PTO will "forget (your) name and face and not ask for anything else all year except to complete this form!"

The letter was posted to Facebook by happy parents and has been shared more than 20,000 times.Four members of a drug trafficking gang based in Lee County pleaded guilty to drug-related crimes during a Federal Court trial Thursday.

The pleas mean that a total of 18 members of the gang have pleaded guilty, while one more individual is still to face trial, according to Department of Justice for the Middle Court of Alabama press release.

The four men that admitted guilt are Worldly Dieago Holstick, 36, and Timothy Lamar Spinks, 43, both from Auburn, Alabama; James Earl McIntyre, 28, from Montgomery, Alabama; and James Lee Hamilton, 41, from Santa Rosa, California.

According to witness testimony, each man played a significant part in the distribution of drugs, which included marijuana and cocaine, at locations between Georgia and California.

"Holstick was the leader of the drug trafficking organization," said the DOJ press release. "Spinks obtained cocaine from Holstick and distributed it in Lee County. McIntyre provided addresses to Holstick so that he could have boxes containing five to 10 pounds of marijuana shipped from California to Alabama. Finally, Hamilton helped launder the proceeds of the drug activity through numerous bank accounts in California."

Holstick and Spinks both face life in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to sell cocaine and marijuana, and possession of a firearm. McIntyre faces up to five years in prison pleded guilty to conspiracy to sell marijuana, while Hamilton admitted conspiracy to commit money laundering which carries a maximum sentence of twenty years in prison.

As many as 19 law enforcement agencies were involved in the investigation.Grieving family members

This is an opinion column.

Cancer. That's what they are. And just like the hellacious disease, they're killing us.

They're killing our neighbors, our relatives, our friends--and, in many cases, themselves.

We're not Chicago, where 66 people were shot last weekend, 12 of them fatally.

Where children on playgrounds in the city's most treacherous neighborhoods instinctively dive to the ground upon hearing what could even remotely be determined to be gunshots.

Yet like the disease, these cancers in our midst are infecting the healthy tissue nearby--the good, moral people in our communities who simply want what we all want, no matter where we reside: to live their lives, raise their children, provide for their families, go to church and interact with their neighbors in a safe, clean community.

People who feel like hostages in their own homes because of the cancer lurking outside.

We don't necessarily like to call them cancers because they, too, are our neighbors, our relatives, even our friends. In some cases, life-long friends.

A few are even angels in our community, publicly helping others overcome their own demons while privately giving others hell in a bottle, or at the other end of a gun.

They're still cancer. All of them.

Fifty-six cancers were extracted from our communities during the last three months by law enforcement agencies at all levels in coordinated strategies designed to, officials tell us, to remove from our midst those either alleged to have already committed violent crimes or those most likely to do so.

As well as their guns.

Twenty-four cancers facing federal firearms charges were arrested, and 50 guns were seized, in Selma and Gulf Coast areas, officials said last week, as part of an effort labelled Operation Focused Remedy, which included the U.S. Attorney's Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, along with local enforcement agencies in those areas.

In Birmingham, 29 cancers with a combined history of 309 previous arrests--more than 10 each!--were a jailed over four days as part of Operation Public Safety Partnership Plus. They're wanted for attempted murder, robbery, and other nefarious crimes.

U.S. Attorney Jay Town, whose office coordinated on OPSPP with the Birmingham police and U.S. Marshals Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force, revealed that 21 other cancers were located as part of the operation and found to be either in jail, prison, a mental-health facility, or dead.

Finally, last Wednesday, Tajuan McCarthy, the 47-year-old founder of the WellHouse Ministry in Birmingham--a vital refuge leader in the too-oft overlooked battle against sex trafficking--was among three people arrested in a Tarrant home where, after a three-month investigation, law enforcement seized copious amounts of cocaine, heroin, guns prescription medicines, stolen goods and identities, and marijuana.

An angel, but still cancer.

Town said the cancers represented the "worst offenders".

I hope he's right.

Fifty-six isn't a huge number in the grand scheme of the violence infecting our neighborhoods with grief and blood--way-too-often innocent, children's blood. So, if these initial high-profile actions are to be truly effective--and no one, including me, wants them to be anything less--then those arrested must indeed be the gun-wielding cancers that, left untreated, will surely kill.

Even if they are our neighbors, our relatives, or our friends.

The sweeps and multi-agency cooperatives are just the beginning, however. They make a lot of noise and reassure us, to at least a degree, that something is being done about the violence we abhor--especially those among us who live with it every day.

Now, and perhaps even more important, we must depend on an already bloated criminal justice system to follow through. And that's scary.

The cancer must be tried, prosecuted and either bow-tied with a plea deal or extended the right of a trial, if they so choose.

If the cancers are imprisoned, they must be more than housed, clothed and fed--which is pretty much all we can expect from the Alabama Department of Corrections.

They must be actually rehabilitated and transformed--or we'll be right back here again in, what, five ti 10 years? Ten to 20?

At minimum, they must be persuaded that the circumstances and conditions that influenced behavior are weaker than the personal decisions that must still be made every day, once they are free.

That's scary.

For now, at least, we know the cancer has been extracted. We know it--along with the guns and drugs and whatnot--have been removed from our midst.

It's just the beginning, but, as with the disease, it's a laudible start.

Roy S. Johnson's column appears in The Birmingham News, the Huntsville Times, the Mobile Register and AL.com. Hit me up at rjohnson@al.com or/and follow me at twitter.com/roysj.Cultural tourism can address issues such as suicide and unemployment, but corporations seek to mine resource-rich areas.

Broome, Australia  Bart Pigram leads a group of tourists through a mangrove thicket, telling stories and discussing the landscape.

The group is a mix of Australian and international visitors, all having travelled significant distances to be here in Broome, the biggest township in the Kimberley region of northwest Australia.

On Pigrams Narlijia Cultural Tours, guests are invited to learn about the culture of the Traditional Owners of the Broome area, the Djugun-Yawuru people.

As a descendant of thousands of years of local Aboriginal history, Pigram told Al Jazeera he wants to be able to preserve the past and help pass it on to future generations.

We live in one of the last pristine places in the world, he said. We should be doing all we can to protect it and share it with those who come and visit.

The Kimberley region is immense, roughly the same size as California, and encompasses the northernmost section of Australias largest state, Western Australia.

Bart Pigram shows visitors the culture and surroundings of the Traditional Owners of the Broome area [Bart Pigram/Al Jazeera]

Internationally renowned for its wilderness, vast tracts of the region have been recognised by UNESCO.

However, largely due to its isolation and monsoon climate, the Kimberley is home to just over 40,000 people, almost half of whom are indigenous.

Consequentially, job opportunities are limited, which only serves to accentuate the Kimberleys significant social issues: homelessness, arguably the worst suicide rates in the world and the highest domestic violence statistics in the state.

Then there are the challenges brought by internal migration by Aboriginal communities who travel to larger townships. In many cases, individuals are drawn away from their ancestral lands to pursue opportunities that are not forthcoming.

Governments at all levels in Australia need to continue to commit funds and resources to make sure Aboriginal enterprises are supported to benefit from tourism opportunities. Freya Higgins-Desbiolles, lecturer in tourism at University of South Australia

The advent of cultural tourism may yet prove to be a way to help address and overcome these issues.

Several businesses like Pigrams have been set up in recent years, seeking to preserve an ancestral connection to the country through sustainable projects.

They also serve to build employment and inject much-needed funds into the local economy.

Nature tours, harvesting of bush foods and discussions about cultural identity all form part of this burgeoning industry.

The Kimberley landscape near Broome has attracted tourists from Australia and the world [Nick Rodway/Al Jazeera]

Operators such as Pigram act as role models in the community and show that there are entrepreneurial opportunities in and around the Kimberley.

Freya Higgins-Desbiolles, senior lecturer in tourism at the University of South Australia, said cultural ventures could succeed in the long term, provided they receive support.

Governments at all levels in Australia need to continue to commit funds and resources to make sure Aboriginal enterprises are supported to benefit from tourism opportunities, she told Al Jazeera.

However, she highlighted one key challenge that could affect the industry  non-indigenous tourism businesses offering an interpretation of Aboriginal culture.

This would result in Aboriginal tourism operators losing out financially as their culture is misrepresented.

Higgins-Desbiolles believes it is essential to recognise Aboriginal expertise and value as a way to fairly remunerate Aboriginal peoples for all they can offer.

The Pentecost river in the Kimberley region, described by Aboriginal ecotourism entrepreneur Bart Pigram as one of the last pristine places in the world [Jim Wilson/The Wilderness Society]

The growth of cultural tourism has surfaced at a time when the future of the West Kimberley is being vigorously debated.

Environmental groups champion the region as largely pristine, home to the most extensive, unspoiled savannah in the world, with untouched coastlines that are comparable to the Antarctic.

It is also hugely rich in mineral supplies, and both local and multinational companies have begun to identify mining sites across the region.

One of these areas is the Canning Basin, which holds significant reserves of liquid natural gas.

While there is a moratorium currently in place across Western Australia on mining gas through hydro-fracturing  fracking  there is potential to exploit gas in the Kimberley by drilling up to 40,000 wells across its expanse.

Western Australia has recently come to the end of its mining boom, an industrial period that lasted for much of the early 21st century and saw the state handling over 40 percent of Australias exports.

Since 2014, Western Australias treasury has not returned a surplus budget, and with state debt forecast to top AUD 40bn in 2019, questions are being asked as to whether large-scale mining will recommence.

Mitchell Falls is an iconic Kimberley attraction [Glen Walker/The Wilderness Society]

While controversial, many mining companies have advocated the industry as a way to break the poverty and unemployment cycle that can harm First Nations communities.

But not everyone is convinced wide-scale mining is the answer.

Doctor Anne Poelina, a Nyikina Warrwa Traditional Custodian, runs Madjulla Incorporated, an indigenous community development NGO.

She believes the Kimberley would benefit more through investment in ecological initiatives.

There are far more indigenous jobs in the culture and green collar industries such as wild harvest bush foods, land care and tourism than in mining, she told Al Jazeera. These enterprises are sustainable and produce national ecosystem services and cultural benefits for Aboriginal people.

The way to get someone to really appreciate culture is through showing them personally. We're bringing Australia together, slowly but surely. Bart Pigram, Aboriginal ecotourism operator

While the debate around mining continues, tourism is waiting to be advanced in the Kimberley region.

Earlier this year, the first international flights in over a decade recommenced from Singapore. The state government has also voiced its desire to invest in tourism infrastructure.

Recently, the Premier of Western Australia, Mark McGowan, announced that airline tickets to Broome would be subsidised as a means to create jobs for local people through a tourism renaissance in the Kimberley.

For Pigram, who runs tours, such support could also be seen as a way to advance reconciliation at a time when Australia is attempting to come to terms with many years of Aboriginal dispossession.

Tours are reconciliation in practice, Pigram said, looking out over the shores of Roebuck Bay in Broome. The way to get someone to really appreciate culture is through showing them personally. Were bringing Australia together, slowly but surely.This Indonesian man has made it his lifes mission to educate children with disabilities.

Tatang was seven years old when a surgery to improve his failing vision went wrong and robbed him of his sight altogether.

When I came home from the hospital, my heart was broken; I was a wreck, he says.

Eventually, with the support of friends and advice from other blind people, he picked himself back up. He learned Braille, a universally accepted system of writing used by and for visually impaired people, and went on to study anthropology at university.

When Tatang returned home in Indonesias Bandung after graduation, he realised there were no education facilities for children with disabilities in his community. With financial support from his brother, he set up a school in his own home, teaching children to read Braille.

Today, many years later, the school teaches dozens of children with different needs. Along with minors with vision impairment, children with hearing impairment are taught sign language with the help of volunteers, while youngsters with Downs syndrome get the attention they need.

At times, Tatang struggles to keep the school operating.

Following my brothers death, things have been very difficult for me, because not only the school, but my personal life was subsidised by him, he says.

Most of his students come from families below the poverty line, making it impossible for them to pay any kind of tuition fee towards the upkeep of the school.

Educational opportunities for children with disabilities in Indonesia remain limited. The Indonesian government says it is working towards improvement and passed a new disability rights law in 2016.

More recently, Tatang has been receiving some limited financial assistance from the local government, but he still relies heavily on donations from fellow Indonesians to stay afloat.

Ive never thought of giving up. No matter what, the students here are my responsibility, and I have to educate them, so they can have a bright future.

Filmmaker: Hassan Ghani

Assistant Producer: Surya Fachrizal

Translation: Nurfitri Taher

Executive Producer: Andrew PhillipsThe first local election at a Rohingya refugee camp in Bangladesh ended with half of chosen representatives being women.

Nayapara camp, Bangladesh  Romeda Begums victory speech was neither long nor captivating.

It was my first experience talking to a large crowd, said the 26-year-old, recalling the moment after being declared the winner of an unusual election to pick the leader of a camp hosting Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh.

I was at a loss for words.

Romedas success was the result of an experimental project to elect community representatives from the Rohingya population living in Shalbagan, an unregistered refugee camp that is an extension of the government-recognised Nayapara camp in Teknaf, south of Coxs Bazar.

Carried out for the first time in June, the voting process at Shalbagan and its three sub-blocs were organised by the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) in collaboration with Adventist Development and Relief Agency and Bangladeshi local authorities.

The goal was to allow the camps 16,000-strong Rohingya population, most of whom arrived here almost a year ago after fleeing a fierce crackdown by neighbouring Myanmars army, to make decisions for themselves, says Muhammad Saiful Islam, the government-appointed camp-in-charge (CIC) official of Nayapara.

We cannot impose any decision on them, so we decided that a type of representative community should come from them, he said.

Muhammed Saiful Islam said the election empowered women at the camp [Sorin Furcoi/Al Jazeera]

Residents at Shalbagan were asked to pick a committee consisting of 12 representatives  four from each bloc  and three bloc leaders, all subject to a one-year tryout.

Their main duties include trying to resolve the disagreements between the community members and find solutions to the problems, as well as liaise with NGOs and the CIC to implement certain decisions.

Candidacy was open to both men and women between the ages of 25 and 35. To be able to run, the eligible candidates also had to meet certain criteria, including having no criminal record and no instances of antisocial behaviour.

SM Liaquat Ali, the project field coordinator of all of the NGOs working in the camp, said that the election campaign highlighted transparency, accountability, governance and communication from the community.

The elected were then given training in code of conduct, legal rights, rules and responsibility, and emergency response training, he added.

The mazis malice

But not everything went smoothly.

According to Ali, the Rohingya community leaders  known as mazis  who were selected by the Bangladeshi army at the start of the crisis to keep order at food distribution points made several attempts to disrupt the election process.

Nayapara camp, in the Teknaf sub-district south of the town of Coxs Bazar [Sorin Furcoi/Al Jazeera]

When they were informed that there would be new community leaders, the mazis became engaged in some malpractice, Ali said, citing instances of blackmailing and corruption, including purposely distributing food aid unequally.

Islam, the CIC, was more blunt. They hampered the election process by threatening candidates not to run, he said.

Yet intimidation and bullying failed to deter the candidates and the election went forward as planned.

Women at the forefront

Because more than 50 percent of Shalbagans population is female, the local community chose half of their representatives to be women.

This will empower women day by day, Islam said, adding that the vote took place after the women attended a motivational programme that raised awareness of their rights.

Sitting outside a communal shelter at the camp, Nur Begum, a Rohingya NGO volunteer, said that she considers the women-led system as more beneficial than the previous mazi way.

The women succeeded in engaging more people from the community to volunteer with NGOs, she said, adding that even though the solutions remain evasive, the new system has made it easier for me as a woman to raise [the] issues we face.

Nur Begum, a Rohingya NGO volunteer at the camp [Sorin Furcoi/Al Jazeera]

Nearby, Senwara Begum nodded in agreement.

Because the leader is of the same gender as us, it is easier to go to her with our problems; there is better understanding, she said.

For Romeda, who fled Myanmars Rakhine state with her sister in October 2016, before the rest of the family joined them at the height of the Rohingya crisis in August 2017, that is down to being actively involved.

She said she participates in all the meetings held by NGOs and the CIC, where she is given the floor to speak her mind.

She also scans the camp several times a week to listen to the grievances of her community.

My mobile phone is always on to receive complaints, ranging from domestic quarrels, fraud and physical fights, she says.

I am expected to solve them.

Romeda Begum, the 26-year-old camp leader [Sorin Furcoi/Al Jazeera]

Since her victory in June, Romeda has solved 25 cases mostly related to domestic problems.

She said the hardest involved a man who beat his wife and would not give her food.

The man changed after I told him he could be arrested, added the camp leader, adding that being a divorcee has no bearing on the men who also come to her with their troubles.

I feel more respected by them, she said, before adding: But I would still not remarry again.

Do the best for the community

Just like every week, Romeda and the other elected representatives met earlier in August with Ali, the project field coordinator, inside a communal bamboo and tarpaulin structure to discuss the situation at the camp.

Joined by a translator, the participants sat in an L-shape on UNHCR-stamped plastic sheets over the slightly wet mud.

Romeda was more in her element here. Her face veil was flung over her head, revealing an expressive face. She spoke assertively and listened to Ali with rapt attention.

Inside the weekly meeting of the bloc representatives and leaders with the project field coordinator [Sorin Furcoi/Al Jazeera]

The meeting initially focused on finding new private accommodation for a dozen displaced Rohingya who lost their shelter due to landslides two months ago and now live in a communal space.

Later on, the discussion moved on to addressing the tensions with the mazis in the camp.

They consider you lot a blow to their authority, Ali said, raising his voice slightly in an attempt to drown out the sudden staccato tap of rain on the plastic-sheeted roof.

Dont fall to their level, he urged them.

The best response to their threats is to do the best you can for the rest of the community, added Ali.

You need to set an example to everyone else.

Follow Linah Alsaafin on Twitter: @LinahAlsaafinI still remember the shock I felt when, at the age of 12, my teacher told me the word joo I had just spoken, which I had thought to mean to lie or cheat, was actually Jew and was anti-Semitic. Throughout my British childhood, I had used that word casually and frequently, without ever knowing what it really meant. I start with this example to make a simple point: anti-Semitism is so entrenched in our society, so depressingly persistent, that to trivialise it is to trivialise the blueprint of prejudice itself. It is a barometer of moral cowardice: when someone doesnt want to take responsibility for their own faults or problems, they blame the Jews.

At the moment, two phenomena are taking place in UK politics. For the first time in nearly 40 years, a politician with seriously left-wing ideas, and pro-Palestinian sympathies, is approaching political power. Over the past two years, that same politicians party has been going through a series of anti-Semitism allegations so comprehensive and systematic that we may employ the term blanket coverage.

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There is definitely a long-overdue debate that needs to be had over anti-Semitism in the Labour Party  but the current barrage of media attention is not that debate. There are definitely some voices who claim to support the Labour Party, and who allow their anti-Zionism to spill over mindlessly into anti-Semitism. What we are witnessing in the UK media, however, is a near-complete evaporation of critical debate. So many aspects of this coverage are disturbing: the widespread assumption among TV hosts and commentators that anti-semitism is a problem exclusive to the Labour Party (polling suggests it is clearly not); the alarming paucity of any evidence or statistics, so that the sentence anti-Semitism in the Labour Party, repeated ad nauseam, becomes its own self-generating fact; the frankly ridiculous allegations of anti-Semitism levelled at the leader Jeremy Corbyn himself (Alan Sugar, one of the most famous faces in British business, tweeted a photo of the Labour leader sitting next to Hitler); the unconditional authority and respect given to voices who have been widely criticised elsewhere for bias  the Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, for example, whose unreserved equation of anti-Zionism with antisemitism drew a letter of protest from 88 Jewish celebrities; the lack of journalistic professionalism in giving any sense of proportion to the actual problem (the membership of the British Labour Party is 570,000  the number of cases pending for expulsion from the party for anti-Semitism, the Guardian reported this week, is 70). Media coverage has been so appalling that, earlier in the summer, a group of 40 senior British academics accused the media of relying for its sources on a handful of well-known political opponents of Corbyn himself.





In particular, the Labour Party is being called anti-Semitic because it has refused to recognise the entirety of a disputed definition of anti-Semitism  the code of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), repeatedly described in the media as an internationally recognised definition, but in reality is a highly controversial one. The IHRA code considers any description of the Israeli State as a racist institution to be anti-Semitic  the Labour Partys rejection of this clause has been portrayed as a rejection of the UN bill of human rights. In reality, the IHRA code has not only been challenged by groups such as the ACLU and Jewish Voice for Peace, but was even queried by an all-party Select Committee for the UK Parliament earlier this year. Absolutely none of this nuance makes the mainstream media.

In a way, this really leads us to the heart of the problem  and the heart of Labours problem. I will choose my next words as carefully as possible, fully aware that the quarter of a million British Jews in the UK are in no way accountable, nor should ever be held accountable, for the actions of an aggressive Israeli state.

There is a basic level of ignorance in British society  partly wilful ignorance, partly genuine misinformation, partly flat-out denial  about how the Israeli state actually came to be. There seems to be in Britain  in TV commentators, in mainstream academics, in ordinary public opinion  a deep reluctance to acknowledge how, in 1948, three-quarters of a million Palestinian Arabs were forcibly evicted, with British backing, off their own land. To recognise this as racist, in the words of the IHRA code, would be anti-semitic. A large part of the mainstream media anger towards the Labour Party for refusing the internationally recognised code is an establishment anger against a political party for refusing to accept the post-war narrative  a narrative, moreover, which has been successfully disseminated and internalised among many people in the UK since 1948. This is the scale of the British Labour Partys problem  if it is to go through with this, it has to ask a large segment of the UK population to unlearn their history.

On the BBC programme Newsnight last week, we saw a visible example of this. The presenter (Emily Maitlis) asked a British Labour campaigner for Palestine whether he thought the Israeli state was a racist endeavour. The premise of the question itself betrayed how little the presenter knew about how the Israeli state was actually established. The activist avoided the question (he clearly thought it was), even after she repeated it  because to declare, on a BBC programme, that the Israeli state was an act of settler colonialism is, in the present climate, simply unspeakable.

If the mainstream media wins and Labour has to re-formulate its definition of anti-Semitism to fit the one currently used by the government, I see two dangers emerging, one for each side. For pro-Palestinian campaigners, any serious attempt to call Israel racist or revise its history will be criminalised. This is not hyperbole: organisers at the University of Birmingham a few years ago asked panellists not to use the word apartheid in a debate on Israel and Palestine. Within the Labour Party, the pro-Israeli, right-wingers will have won a subtle victory  a chance to purge the party of Corbyn-supporters under the guise of extremism.

For the Jewish community, a much more long-term danger emerges. By enfolding criticism of Israel within the definition of anti-semitism, a cherished goal of the Israeli Right will have finally been realised. There is a subtle mechanism here  British Jews critical of Israel (and there are many) will be involuntarily yoked together with Israel itself within such a definition, ironically mirroring the anti-Semitic logic of the mindless idiots who lump all Jews together in the first place. It might not be exaggerated to say that the result of all this, ultimately, will be the death of the term anti-Semitism itself as a meaningful word.

CORRECTION: An earlier version of this article mistakenly named the BBC programme presented by Emily Maitlis as Newsweek. The name of the programme is Newsnight.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance.Three attackers are shot dead at Turkish restaurant in the capital Ouagadougou, says communications minister.

An attack by gunmen on a Turkish restaurant that began late on Sunday left at least 18 people dead and eight wounded in the capital of Burkina Faso, a West African country that has seen a surge in violence by armed groups over the past few years.

The figure was released early on Monday by Burkina Fasos communications minister Remi Dandjinou.

Canadas Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland later said two Canadians were among the dead and French Foreign Affairs minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said a French citizen was killed.

Lebanons interior ministry said three Lebananese died, including one who was also a Canadian national.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the violence, which continued into early Monday.

Earlier, authorities and witnesses suggested that three assailants had been killed by security forces, but Dandjinou revised the figure down to two, and said the security operation has ended.

Police deploy in the area surrounding the restaurant [Reuters]

Security forces were at the scene with armoured vehicles, as shots were reported near an upscale restaurant in Ouagadougou.

Police spokesman Guy Ye told AP that the target of the attack was a Turkish restaurant known as Aziz Istanbul.

Witnesses told AFP news agency that three armed men arrived in a 44 at around 9:30pm (21:00 GMT) and opened fire on customers seated outside the restaurant.

At least one of those killed was a Turkish national, according to Turkeys foreign ministry, and another person killed was French.

OPINION: Reviving Thomas Sankaras spirit

The French President Emmanuel Macron condemned what he described as a terrorist attack.

Burkina Faso, a landlocked nation in West Africa, is one of the poorest countries in the world. It shares a northern border with Mali, which has long battled armed groups.

A January 2016 attack at a cafe left 30 people dead.

The three attackers in the 2016 massacre were of foreign origin, according to al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb, which claimed responsibility in the aftermath along with the armed group known as Al Mourabitoun.

But the terror threat in Burkina Faso is increasingly homegrown, experts say.

The northern border region is now the home of a local preacher, Ibrahim Malam Dicko, who radicalised and has claimed recent deadly attacks against troops and civilians. His association, Ansarul Islam, is now considered a terrorist group by Burkina Fasos government.Iranian experts say US needs to deliver confidence-building measures for Tehran to open its doors to negotiations.

Tehran, Iran  It was September 1980. The Iran hostage crisis involving 52 American diplomats and citizens was in its 10th month. On the streets of the capital, there were no signs of the anti-American sentiment fading away. Within a few days, the Iran-Iraq War would erupt, drowning the region in more blood.

In Bonn, capital of then-West Germany, an Iranian diplomat was on a mission to deliver a message to the Americans from Irans supreme leader, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. The secret memo delivered by Sadegh Tabatabai would serve as the first draft of the 1981 Algiers Accord, between Iran and the US, which would pave the way for the release of the American hostages after 444 days in captivity.

As the Algiers agreement demonstrated, Iran proved it was willing to cut a deal with the US even at the peak of hostilities between the two countries, Iranian political experts said. With the right conditions, based on mutual respect, Tehran and Washington, DC can engage in new talks, despite President Donald Trumps decision to withdraw from the nuclear deal and reimpose sanctions on Iran.





The door to negotiations is never closed, Fereshteh Sadeghi, a Tehran-based political analyst, told Al Jazeera.

Sadeghi said the Iranian leadership has decades of experience talking with the Americans, including top secret discussions with a Republican administration in the run-up to the war in Afghanistan, and later the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003.

So it is not far-fetched that negotiations could happen again amid heated rhetoric, she said.

While Iran expressed defiance over the return of US sanctions, there was no outright rejection of talks from the highest level of the Iranian government.

Responding to Trumps offer to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif told the Tehran-based Iran Daily in a front-page story that Iran has never been a country to reject a proposal for negotiations.

We will move forward based on our national interest, he said, adding Iran must see to what extent the US is willing to show goodwill. Zarif made the statement on the day the first round of sanctions returned.

Zarif held bilateral talks with the US secretary of state John Kerry following the nuclear deal [File: Reuters]

The same government publication even highlighted in its banner headline Trumps suggestion for a new deal, and National Security Adviser John Boltons call for Iran to take up the presidents offer.

In recent days, there has been speculation that Rouhani could meet Trump on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York in September. For now, though, Zarif ruled out that possibility. Instead, he suggested the US should first rehabilitate its addiction to sanctions and bullying.

Trumps unpredictability

Although critical of Trumps unpredictability, Mohammad Eslami, editor of the Khorasan Diplomatic Magazine in Tehran, said for Iran diplomacy always remains an option to resolve conflicts.

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If President Trump shows the political will to pursue useful negotiations with Iran, why not? he asked. But he also noted the US leader is not trustworthy.

At this point in the diplomatic brinksmanship, Trump could only break the impasse if he returns to the framework of the Iran nuclear deal, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), Eslami stressed.

After that, the door would be open to other steps, he said, suggesting Tehran is willing to sit it out until Trump finishes his term, if he remains unyielding with his stand on Iran sanctions.

If Trump is serious about his offer to negotiate with Iran, his administration has to take preparatory measures to pave the way for a new round of talks, Seyed Hossein Mousavian, former Iranian ambassador to Germany, told Al Jazeera.

Mousavian said the talks should be based on the UN principles of mutual respect. The former diplomat, now a Middle East and nuclear policy specialist at Princeton University, was instrumental in repairing ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia during the 1990s.

He said the US should also commit to non-interference in Irans domestic policy. Tehran has accused the Trump administration of pushing for regime change in Iran, deepening distrust. The US has denied the allegations, despite its ties to the Iranian exile group, MEK.

As a confidence-building measure, he (Trump) should cease the hostilities and violating the JCPOA at least for the period of negotiations, said Mousavian.

For its part, the US has demanded that Iran curb its ballistic missile programme and scale back its military presence in neighbouring Middle Eastern countries, among other issues.

Hawks in Washington have also insisted on a confrontational approach with Iran, believing the pain of financial sanctions would force Tehran back to the negotiating table.

Insults and threats





But Kaveh Ehsani, a professor of international studies at DePaul University in Chicago, said the US must respect Irans standing in the Middle East before it can pursue meaningful negotiations.

The United States is not a regional country in the Middle East. Iran is. I have little sympathy for its presence in Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, but I can understand why they are there, he told Al Jazeera, saying Tehran is only looking after its own security.

In the streets of Tehran, there is little sympathy for Trumps approach towards Iran.

Mohammad, an Iranian American on a short family visit from New York, said the US president is not a politician, so he favours straight talk. That might be what the Iranian government needs to hear.

Sadeghi said as a businessman, Trump is looking for profit everywhere, so he would eventually talk to Iran.

Sadeghi also expressed doubt Trump would want regime change in Iran, saying the US president knows that such action would bring disaster to the American forces in the Middle East and its regional allies, and would throw the entire region into chaos again.

Eventually, if the US takes the diplomatic steps and the right conditions are met, Sadeghi said Iranians would even be willing to overlook the insults and threats from Trump in order to secure a deal.

As the Iranians would say, words and insults are like the wind, it just blows and goes away.

Experts say Iranians have little sympathy for Trump but remain open to US talks [Ted Regencia/Al Jazeera]



Counterprotesters descend on US capital as far right holds Unite the Right 2 a year after fatal Charlottesville rally.

Washington, DC  Thousands of anti-fascist and anti-racist protesters descended on the US capital to counter a far-right rally, one year after the first Unite the Right in Charlottesville, Virginia turned deadly.

Counterdemonstrators far outnumbered the two dozen or so Unite the Right protesters who made their way on Sunday to Lafayette Park, located just outside the White House grounds. The gathering lasted briefly before its participants were driven away by white vans.

The small protest capped off a day full of rallies and marches, organised by anti-racist and anti-fascist groups throughout Washington, DC.

In Freedom Plaza, rally-goers held a moment of silence to remember 32-year-old Heather Heyer who was killed one year ago when a far-right protester rammed his car into a crowd of counterdemonstrators. James Alex Fields Jr, the accused driver, has since been charged on several counts, including federal hate crimes.

Survivors of last years deadly attack in Charlottesville led a moment of silence in Freedom Plaza [Laurin-Whitney Gottbrath/Al Jazeera]

Last years attack also injured dozens, including Constance Young, an organiser with the Shut it Down DC activist group, which helped organise the Still Here, Still Present rally in Freedom Plaza. Prior to Sundays protest, Young told Al Jazeera that she found it absolutely heinous that white supremacists were able to gather under the Unite the Right banner for a second year, especially after what happened last August.

Its scary, she said. It makes me feel deeply disturbed that they will be right outside of the White House, but where they are in physical proximity to our president or to this administration isnt really the biggest issue; Its that they feel emboldened to convene again.

More than a 1,000 people rallied in Freedom Plaza under the banner Still here, still strong [Jet Belgraver/Al Jazeera]

Damshia King, a 44-year-old mother from Washington, DC, brought her 20 and 16-year-old sons to the Freedom Plaza rally.

For me, growing up in a euphoric area and the DC area having so much diversity, inclusion, as well as engagement, and now its just a strife separation between races, religions, as well as how people feel about the administration, King told Al Jazeera.

She added that allowing the far right to rally outside the White House, gives them the freedom to think its OK.

Damshia King brought her two sons to Sundays rally in Freedom Plaza [Laurin-Whitney Gottbrath/Al Jazeera]

Meanwhile, members of Black Lives Matter DC (BLM) shouted fight back and other chants as they marched outside Lafayette Park.

Theres a lot of oppression and resistance going on in this country, said Brandon Iracks-Edelin, a 22-year-old from Washington, DC who marched in solidarity with BLM. This country has been built off of that, he told Al Jazeera.

This country is not post-racial  [todays far-right] rally, shows its systemic, institutional and intentional.

Other groups, including Future is Feminist, ANSWER Coalition and the United Methodist Church, also held counterprotests, marches and rallies throughout the city.

There were minor scuffles between police and counterprotesters as Unite the Right participants marched into Lafayette Park, but the event passed without any major incidents.

Alt-right fractured

According to local media, Jason Kessler, the Unite the Rights organiser, admitted this years rally was a failure due, in part, to the infighting of the alt-right, a loosely knit coalition of white nationalist, white supremacist and neo-Nazi groups.

Around two dozen people showed up for the Unite the Right event [Tom Szypulski/Al Jazeera]

Kesslers two dozen supporters were a far cry from the 300 to 400 permitted to attend.

Now people are afraid to stand up for their rights, Kessler told reporters.

After last years deadly event, several far-right groups sought to distance themselves from the alt-right. A number of universities also cancelled speaking events for leading alt-right members, many far-right individuals were kicked off of social media platforms and cities pulled or reject permits for similar right-wing protests.

Unite the right demonstrators march under police protection to Lafayette Square @AJEnglish @AJENews pic.twitter.com/WCRN2DyAUE  John Hendren (@johnhendren) August 12, 2018

Prior to the rally, Richard Spencer, the leader of the alt-right, said he would not attend Sundays event, tweeting that the protest does not make sense at this time.

I dont know exactly what will happen, he added in a tweet prior to the event, but it will not be good.

US President Donald Trump, who was heavily criticised for his response to last years Unite the Right, came under fire again on Saturday after he condemned all types of racism and acts of violence without specifically mentioning neo-Nazis or white supremacists.

On Twitter, the Southern Poverty Law Center watchdog group called the comments too little  too late.

Too little: "There is blame on both sides."  President Trump, Aug. 2017 Too late: "I condemn all types of racism and acts of violence."  President Trump, Aug. 2018 pic.twitter.com/sz8Yq0kZIB  Southern Poverty Law Center (@splcenter) August 11, 2018

Others said his tweet in advance of Sundays rallies showed that he again is playing both sides.

Hes still doing that both sides thing, which sounds fine on the face of it  to people who are willing & able to forget that one side is nazis & pro-slavery thugs, tweeted Andrew Stroehlein, the European director at Human Rights Watch.

This seems a little too coherently scripted for Trump to have written it alone, but the general point is true: hes still doing that both sides thing, which sounds fine on the face of it  to people who are willing & able to forget that one side is nazis & pro-slavery thugs. https://t.co/JRTg5KPbxs  Andrew Stroehlein (@astroehlein) August 12, 2018

Back in Washington, DC, Michelle Styczynski, an organiser with Shut it Down DC, said Sundays high turnout at the counterprotests and rallies, symbolises that people will not tolerate white supremacy and hate and violence.

When you organise and come together, that message can drown out the voices of hate, she told Al Jazeera.Hussein has been jailed in Cairo without charge since December 2016 after returning from Qatar to visit his family.

It has been 600 days since Al Jazeera journalist Mahmoud Hussein was arrested and jailed in Egypt without charge.

Egyptian authorities accused the Qatar-based news producer of broadcasting false news and receiving foreign funds to defame state institutions. He and Al Jazeera strongly deny the allegations, and the move to continue to hold him has drawn international criticism.

Hussein has been held for more than 18 months, which is the maximum period of detention permitted for an individual being investigated for a felony, according to article 143 of the Egyptian penal code. Authorities should have either released Hussein or referred him to court.

False news

The Egyptian journalist was arrested on December 20, 2016, upon his arrival in Cairo while on annual vacation visiting his family.

Five days after his initial arrest, Egypts interior ministry accused Hussein of disseminating false news and receiving monetary funds from foreign authorities in order to defame the states reputation.

Since then, he has been put in solitary confinement. Hussein suffered a broken arm and has been refused proper medical treatment for his injury.

In February, the United Nations called his case one of arbitrary detention, saying the appropriate remedy would be to release Mr Hussein immediately.

Rights groups have reported an unparallelled crackdown on Egypts media in recent years since Abdel Fattah el-Sisi seized power, and say it is getting worse.

According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, at least 20 media workers are being held in Egyptian prisons  some as long as four years.Tight security as President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita faces ex-finance minister Soumaila Cisse in second round of voting.

Malians have trickled to the polls to cast their ballots in a runoff presidential election overshadowed by security concerns and reports of a low turnout.

President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita faced off against opposition leader Soumaila Cisse on Sunday amid tightened security to prevent a repeat of the armed attacks and other security incidents which affected about a fifth of polling places during the first round of voting on July 29.

Keita, who won 41 percent of the vote in the first round, is favoured to beat Cisse, a former finance minister who garnered 18 percent, even though violence has surged during the incumbents tenure.

Counting was under way in some of the 23,000 polling stations across the country after voting ended at 18:00 GMT.

Results are expected within five days.

The Citizen Observation Pool of Mali, which deployed more than 2,000 observers, reported several security incidents.

In the Arkodia village in the northern Timbuktu region, the chairman of the electoral office was killed, four election workers were physically harassed and the polling station was burned according to the organisation.

In Ngouma commune, in central Mali, election officials were reportedly harmed by gunmen and two polling stations were burned in Keltamba.





The organisation reported than 50 polling stations had closed before noon because of security threats in north and central Mali.

In the polling centres covered by its observers, the organization said the participation rate was about 8.1 percent at midday. Overall turnout in the first round was also low, at around 40 percent.

Mali has a bad history of turnouts and this one is not different apparently, said Al Jazeeras Mohamed Vall, reporting from the capital, Bamako.

The opposition has been largely demoralised by the results many of the opposition leaders got in the first round and many of them have refused to endorse Cisse.

Expectations here are that the president will win this vote by a large majority as the opposition has failed to unite its ranks.

Marred by violence

It is the first time in Malis history that an incumbent president has faced a runoff after none of the 24 candidates who competed for the top seat got more than 50 percent of votes in the first round of voting.

That day was marred by armed attacks and other security incidents that disrupted at least 644 polling stations.

Ahead of Sundays vote, officials said security would be tightened with 20 percent more soldiers on duty.

Some 36,000 Malian troops were deployed, 6,000 more than two weeks earlier, with a particular focus on Mopti where voting stations had been closed, Cheick Oumar, an aide in the prime ministers office, told AFP news agency on Saturday.

On the eve of the runoff, Malian security forces said they arrested three men accused of plotting targeted attacks in Bamako.

Fraud allegations

The first round of voting was followed by fraud allegations. Last week, Cisse reportedly mounted a legal challenge in Malis constitutional court alleging ballot-box stuffing.

On Wednesday, the court said it had registered more than 10 requests from the opposition over anomalies in the first round of voting but that most were declared inadmissible because of timing.

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Presidential spokesman Mahamadou Camara denied the fraud allegations.

All the observers, international and national said that the election was good, he told Al Jazeera in Bamako.

There were some places in the country where people couldnt vote and the government is trying to change that.

When the opposition is saying that there was allegation of fraud, its because they know that they cant win this election, he said.

The head of the European Union observer mission said there had been no major incidents at 40 polling stations it had monitored, though no observers were deployed to Timbuktu, Mopti and Kidal, where violence has been rife.

Voting turnout appeared low in the morning, but Camara said this was down to weather conditions.

It was raining this morning, I think thats the reason why people didnt go to vote, Camara said, adding that he believed that turnout would see an uptick in the afternoon and evening.

Military deployed

The election campaign has revolved around the key issues of security, economy, job creation and poverty reduction.

Mali, a landlocked nation home to at least 20 ethnic groups where the majority of people live on less than $2 a day, has battled attacks by armed groups and intercommunal violence for years.

Peace agreements signed in 2015 by the government and rebel coalitions raised hopes of stability, but their meaningful implementation has been challenging.

As a result, the security situation remains fragile in the face of continued violent attacks, mainly in the countrys north and central regions.

Killings along ethnic lines have claimed hundreds of civilian lives this year, including at least 11 last week in the central Mopti region.

Violence has spread from the north to the centre and south of the vast country and spilled into neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger, often inflaming communal conflicts.Didnt find any remains: Yemens survivors on deadly bus attack

The UN Security Council has called for an independent investigation into a Saudi-led coalition attack on a school bus that killed dozens of people, including at least 40 children, on Thursday.At least 51 people were killed in Thursdays attack by the Saudi-UAE coalition, including 40 children.

Thousands of people gathered in Yemens war-ravaged city of Saada on Monday for the funerals of 51 people, including 40 children, who were killed in air strikes by a Saudi-UAE military alliance, backed by the US.

Scores of cars covered in green, which is a hugely symbolic colour in Islam, transported the victims coffins from a hospital morgue to a large square for funeral prayers, in a ceremony which was attended by several high-ranking Houthi officials.

Mohammed Ali al-Houthi, who has a $20 million bounty on his head, slammed the killings as a crime by America and its allies against the children of Yemen, as he made a rare appearance.

The funerals were supposed to take place on Friday  in Islam, the dead should be buried as soon as possible. However, the Houthis, who control Saada province and large parts of north Yemen, said such gatherings could be targeted by further raids and pushed back the funerals.





Mourners carried pictures of the 40 children killed, while Al-Masirah, a pro-Houthi TV network, broadcast images of small graves being dug at a cemetery where the children were to be buried.

My son went to the market to run house errands and then the enemy air strike happened and he was hit by shrapnel and died, said Fares al-Razhi, mourning his 14-year-old son.

For my son, I will take revenge on Salman and Mohammed Bin Zayed, he said, referring to the leaders of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

With logistical support from the US, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have carried out attacks in Yemen since March 2015 in an attempt to reinstate the internationally recognised government of President Abu-Rabbu Mansour Hadi.

In 2014, Hadi and his forces were overrun by the Houthis who took over much of the country, including the capital Sanaa.

Since then, the military alliance has carried out more than 16,000 air raids on Yemen, the Arab worlds poorest country, with more than 3,000 raids pulverising the Houthi stronghold of Saada.

The strikes have failed to reverse thei Houthis gains, and instead, made Yemen the worst humanitarian crisis in more than 50 years.

Tragic day

Speaking from Sanaa, Hakim Almasmari, the editor-in-chief of the Yemen Post, called it one of the worst days in Yemen in recent memory.

Today is a tragic, sad day  that has gathered all Yemenis together.

There are many people who oppose the Houthis, including residents of [the capital] Sanaa, but a crime like this has given the Houthis more support.





You cant have sides when it comes to children.

Images and footage from Thursdays attack provoked international condemnation after young survivors were shown covered in blood and reeling from shock.

The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for a independent and prompt probe into the incident.

While, Geert Cappelaere, the regional director in the Middle East and North Africa at UNICEF, said there was no excuse for the continued complacency towards the three-year war in Yemen.

The Saudi-UAE military confirmed carrying out air strikes on Saada at the time of the school bus attack, saying it had launched a legitimate military operation in response to Houthi missiles fired into southern Saudi Arabia the previous day.

The alliance said it would investigate the incident, but previous investigations have seen them absolve themselves of any real responsibility and instead pin blame on the Houthis.

More than 100 children protested against the air strike in Sanaa on Sunday with placards calling on the UN to defend Yemeni lives [Courtesy of the AnsarAllah Media Center]

Days after the attack, body parts remain unidentified and some families were still searching for the remains of their children.





Abdelhakim Amir said he searched the wreckage of the burned-out bus in the hope of finding some sign of his son, Ahmed.

I just found some of what the child was wearing, he said.

I didnt find any of his remains, not his finger, not his bone, not his skull, nothing. I looked through all the remains in the hospital and I didnt see anything.

The children were returning from a trip orgainised by a religious seminary when the bus was struck early on Thursday.

In videos uploaded to social media, the classmates could be heard reciting verses from the Quran prior to the attack.

According to Johannes Bruwer of the International Committee of the Red Cross, at least 51 people were killed in the raid, 40 of them children; and more than 79 were wounded, 56 of them under the age of 15.

US-bomb used?

Images sent to Al Jazeera by the Houthis on Monday suggested a Raytheon Mark-82 bomb was used in the raid.

While the photo had yet to be independently verified, fragments of Mark-82 bombs have surfaced repeatedly amid the ongoing war.

The 500-pound bomb was used in a 2016 strike on a community hall hosting a funeral. At least 140 people were killed in that attack.

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Despite repeated petitions from human rights groups to Western powers over the sale of arms to Saudi Arabia, the US, UK, Canada, France and Spain have all sold weapons to the kingdom in recent years, some of which have been used in the conflict.

The US has been the biggest supplier of military equipment to Riyadh, with more than $90bn of sales recorded between 2010 and 2015.

Since the start of the war, at least 10,000 people have been killed. However, this death toll has not been updated in years and is certain to be much higher.

In June, Saudi and UAE forces carried out 258 air raids on Yemen, nearly one-third of which targeted non-military sites.

The UN special envoy for Yemen, Martin Griffiths, recently announced plans for negotiations between the warring parties.

The peace talks will begin in Geneva on September 6 and focus on building a transitional government and laying down arms.Gaza fishermen stage protest over Israeli blockade

After 20 weeks of protests every Friday on the land border with Israel, the fishermen of Gaza say it is their turn to demonstrate against the siege, not on land  but on water.Residents and local officials say Taliban fighters captured much of the key city, but the army claims to be in control.

The battle for Afghanistans key city of Ghazni between Taliban fighters and security forces has intensified, with dozens of people reported killed after three days of violence.

Politicians from Ghazni who managed to talk to some residents said on Sunday that the Taliban were in control of much of the city after launching an initial attack in the early hours of Friday.

Only the governors office, police headquarters and intelligence agencys compound are in the hands of the government and Taliban are pushing to take them, said Chaman Shah Ehtemadi, a legislator from Ghazni.

Nasir Ahmad Faqiri, a provincial council member, said only police and Afghan spy agency forces were battling the Taliban with no help from the army.

The situation is very dire at the moment, he said.

Mohammad Rahim Hasanyar, a senator from the province, said reinforcements from the capital, Kabul, had not moved past Rawza, a town located 2km northeast of Ghazni, the capital of the province of the same name.

In control

The comments contradict claims by the Afghan defence ministry that reinforcements had arrived and were battling Taliban fighters.

Mohammad Sharif Yaftali, Afghan army chief of staff, said on Sunday the city was not under threat of collapse and heavy fighting was under way to push back the Taliban from city limits.

Strategic locations and centres in the city are under the control of Afghan forces and the Taliban are hiding inside peoples homes and shops and resisting, Yaftali told reporters at a news conference in Kabul.

The defence ministry claimed reinforcements had arrived in Ghazni [Mohammad Ismail/Reuters]

According to the US military headquarters in Kabul, US aircraft conducted at least four air raids on Sunday and five more on Saturday, but details of the fighting were unclear as most of the citys telecoms masts were destroyed in recent fighting over recent days.

Ahmadulla Archiwal, an Afghan security analyst, told Al Jazeera from Kabul that Ghazni was a strategically important city.

Its 150km east from Kabul and its situated on the highway connecting the capital to Kandahar. Whichever side controls Ghazni, [it] can control the neighbouring provinces of Paktika and Zabul, as well, he said.

Dozens killed

Short videos circulating on social media, purported to be from Ghazni, showed patrols by a number of heavily armed Taliban, with a large plume of smoke and flames coming out from the city.

It is over and the city is taken, said a man standing outside his home, with several Taliban fighters nearby.

The videos could not be independently verified but they generated heavy commentary by social media users that underlined the shock caused by the attack.

There was no confirmed word on casualties. Quoting a hospital official, Afghanistans 1TV television reported more than 90 members of the security forces and 13 civilians had been killed, with more than 100 wounded. It said there had also been heavy Taliban casualties.

With the highway heavily mined to prevent reinforcements from arriving, residents were largely blocked inside, but some who managed to escape across fields on the citys periphery said many government buildings were ablaze.

There was burning and fire and dead bodies everywhere in the city, said Abdul Wakil, a local resident who escaped told Reuters news agency at a checkpoint into Kabul.

The onslaught was the latest attempt by the Taliban to overrun an urban centre and comes as pressure increases on the armed group to begin peace talks with the government to end the nearly 17-year-old war.

The attack was the largest tactical operation launched by the Taliban since an unprecedented truce in June brought fighting between security forces and the Taliban to a temporary pause.India: 4 million wait to find out reasons for losing citizenship

Next week, each person the government labels an infiltrator and renders stateless will be told why and how to appeal the decision.Interior minister says Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant supporters had planned more attacks on civilians and police.

Jordans interior minister said on Monday those behind an attack on police supported Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), and investigations revealed plans for more violence against security and civilian targets.

Sameer al-Mobaideen said the assailants did not belong to any group but subscribed to ISILs ideology. All Jordanian nationals and there were no signs so far they had foreign links, he said, refusing to give names of the suspects.

The investigations are secret and ongoing, Mobaideen told a news conference.

Government spokeswoman Jumana Ghuneimat said security forces found a horrifying amount of homemade explosives buried in the central Jordanian town of Salt, near the suspects hideout. The explosives were apparently intended for attacks on civilians in public places and on security installations.

Jordanian search teams pulled the bodies of three attackers from the rubble of their hideout on Sunday, hours after they opened fire and set off explosions that killed four security force members trying to storm the building.

Officers made five arrests following the shootout, according to Ghunaimat.

The clash that began late on Saturday was among the deadliest between fighters and Jordanian security forces in recent years. It raised new concerns about attempts by domestic and foreign fighters to carry out attacks and destabilise the kingdom.

Jordan has played a key role in an international military coalition that helped push back ISIL in neighbouring Syria and Iraq.

Home-made bomb

The chain of events in Jordan began Friday when assailants detonated a home-made bomb under a police car guarding a music festival in the predominantly Christian town of Fuheis, west of the capital of Amman.

The blast, labelled a terrorist attack by Jordans prime minister, killed a police officer.

Security forces chasing the suspects zeroed in on a multi-storey building in the town of Salt, near Fuheis, and attempted to storm it.

A shootout ensued and the structure partially collapsed after the suspects rigged it with explosives that detonated during the raid. It was unclear how many people were hiding in the three-storey building.

Prime Minister Omar al-Razzaz said Jordan would not be complacent in finding those responsible.

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Jordan will always be at the forefront of the fight against terrorism and obscurantist ideas, which target the lives of innocents and try to undermine security and stability, he said in a statement to Petra news agency.

Jordan is an ally of Israel and Western powers, including the United States and the United Kingdom.

The Middle Eastern kingdom has been hit by a number of attacks in recent years, including a suicide bombing in 2016 that killed seven guards near the border with Syria, which ISIL claimed responsibility for.

Months later in another ISIL-claimed attack, 10 people were killed in a shooting in the tourist town of Karak.

Jordan has cracked down on those expressing support for such groups, imposing prison terms of several years for suspected sympathisers, including those who share controversial ideologies on social media.President Ibrahim Keita faces former finance minister Soumaila Cisse who finished second in Julys first round.

Malians voted in a crucial election runoff on Sunday that has been marred by allegations of fraud and a tense security situation in the vast West African country.

It is holding a second election after the 24 candidates who competed for the top seat failed to get more than the required 50 percent of votes in the first round last month.

Voting goes from 08:00 GMT to 18:00 GMT. Turnout was low in the first round at about 40 percent.

President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, who won 41 percent of the vote in Julys poll, is favoured to beat Soumaila Cisse, who garnered 18 percent, even though violence has surged during his tenure.

AFP news agency reported the head of a polling station was shot dead on Sunday afternoon by armed group fighters in the restive northern Timbuktu region of the country.

The chaotic first round of the vote was a reminder that fighters  some linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL)  have regrouped since a French intervention in 2013, and are now expanding their influence across Malis desert north and into the fertile centre.

Return of peace

Dramane Camara, 31, was the first to vote at one polling station in a school in the capital, Bamako.

I voted without problem, I came to fulfill my duty as a citizen, Camara said. I expect the new president to solve the problem of the north, which is peace. Because the return of peace means the return of NGOs, investors, so creating jobs.

Sundays vote is a rerun of a 2013 face-off that Keita won by a landslide over Malis former finance minister Cisse.

It is the first time in Malis history that an incumbent president has had to face a runoff. More than nine million people registered to take part in the election.

Julys poll was marred by armed attacks and other security incidents that disrupted about one-fifth of polling places  or 644 stations  and the threat of violence could again dampen turnout on Sunday.

Civil society website Malilink recorded 932 attacks in the first half of 2018, almost double that for all of 2017.

On Saturday, Malian security forces said they arrested three men accused of plotting targeted attacks in Bamako.

Fraud allegations

The first round of voting was followed by fraud allegations. Last week, Cisse reportedly mounted a legal challenge in Malis constitutional court alleging ballot box-stuffing.

On Wednesday, the court said it had registered more than 10 requests from the opposition over anomalies in the first round of voting but that most were declared inadmissible because of timing.

Presidential spokesman Mahamadou Camara denied the fraud allegations.

All the observers, international and national said that the election was good, he told Al Jazeeras Mohammed Vall in Bamako.

There were some places in the country where people couldnt vote and the government is trying to change that.

When the opposition is saying that there was allegation of fraud, its because they know that they cant win this election, he said.

The head of the EU observer mission said there had been no major incidents at 40 polling stations it had monitored, though no observers were deployed to Timbuktu, Mopti and Kidal, where violence has been rife.

Voting turnout appeared low in the morning, but Camara said this was down to weather conditions.

It was raining this morning, I think thats the reason why people didnt go to vote, Camara said, adding he thought turnout would see an uptick in the afternoon and evening.

Military deployed





Some armed groups are stoking inter-communal conflict, mostly between herders and pastoralists. Killings along ethnic lines have claimed hundreds of civilian lives this year, including at least 11 last week in the central Mopti region.

Officials in the capital, Bamako, said security will be tightened for the second round, with 20 percent more soldiers on duty.

This means 36,000 Malian troops will be deployed, 6,000 more than two weeks earlier, with a particular focus on Mopti where voting stations had been closed, Cheick Oumar, an aide in the prime ministers office, told AFP news agency on Saturday.

Outside Mali, the hope is the election winner will strengthen a 2015 accord that the fragile Sahel state sees as its foundation for peace.

The deal brought together government officials, government-allied groups, and former Tuareg rebels.

But a state of emergency heads into its fourth year in November.

Violence has spread from the north to the centre and south of the vast country and spilled into neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger, often inflaming communal conflicts.Naipauls fiction and nonfiction reflected his journey from Trinidad to London and many stops in developing countries.

Trinidad-born British author VS Naipaul, who won the Nobel Prize for literature in 2001, has died at his home in London aged 85.

His wife, Nadira Naipaul, said he was a giant in all that he achieved and he died surrounded by those he loved having lived a life which was full of wonderful creativity and endeavour.

His friend and fellow author Paul Theroux said Naipaul had been in poor health prior to his death on Saturday, but had taken pride in having his work recognised.

He will go down as one of the greatest writers of our time, Theroux told The Associated Press, citing his mastery of writing about families and colonialism.

He also never wrote falsely. He was a scourge of anyone who used a cliche or an un-thought out sentence. He was very scrupulous about his writing, very severe, too.

Naipauls fiction and nonfiction reflected his personal journey from Trinidad to London and various stops in developing countries. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001 for having united perceptive narrative and incorruptible scrutiny in works that compel us to see the presence of suppressed histories.

In an extraordinary career spanning half a century, Naipaul travelled as a self-described barefoot colonial from his rural childhood to upper-class England, and was hailed as one of the greatest writers of the 20th century.

British author VS Naipaul at his home near Salisbury in 2001 [Reuters]

From A Bend in the River to The Enigma of Arrival to Finding the Centre, Naipauls books explored colonialism and decolonisation, exile and the struggles of people in the developing world.

He was critical of colonialism, but set himself apart from any social movements. He saw himself as a realist, cured of illusions, his outlook defined by the famous opening words of A Bend in the River that became the title of a biography by Patrick French: The world is what it is.

He was equally sceptical of religion and politics, of idealism of any kind, whether revolutionary uprisings or of quests for paradise such as Sir Walter Raleighs search for the non-existent El Dorado.

If you come from the New World, as I in large measure do, you see all the absurd fantasies people have taken there and the troubles they have wrought as a result, Naipaul told AP in 2000.

Naipaul prided himself on his candour, but he had a long history of offensive remarks. Among his widely quoted comments: He called India a slave society, quipped that Africa has no future, and explained that Indian women wear a coloured dot on their foreheads to say my head is empty. He laughed off the 1989 fatwa (religious ruling) by Irans Ayatollah Khomeini against Salman Rushdie as an extreme form of literary criticism.

The critic Terry Eagleton once said of Naipaul: Great art, dreadful politics. Caribbean Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott complained the authors prose was tainted by his repulsion towards Negroes. CLR James, a fellow Trinidadian writer, put it differently: Naipauls views, he wrote, simply reflected what the whites want to say but dare not.

A great mistake

Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul  Vidia to those who knew him  was born on August 17, 1932, in Trinidad, a descendant of impoverished Indians shipped to the West Indies as bonded labourers.

His father was an aspiring, self-taught novelist whose ambitions were killed by lack of opportunity; the son was determined to leave his homeland as soon as he could. In later years, he would repeatedly reject his birthplace as little more than a plantation.

I was born there, yes, he said of Trinidad to an interviewer in 1983. I thought it was a great mistake.

In 1950, Naipaul was awarded one of a few available government scholarships to study in England, and he left his family to begin his studies in English literature at University College, Oxford.

After graduation, Naipaul suffered a period of poverty and unemployment. He was asthmatic, starving and depending on his wife for income. Despite his Oxford education, he found himself surrounded by a hostile, xenophobic London.

These people want to break my spirit  They want me to know my place, he wrote bitterly to his wife.

Visibly emotional writer VS Naipaul waits to receive his Nobel prize for literature in 2001 [Chris Helgren/Reuters]

Naipaul eventually landed a radio job working for BBC World Service, where he discussed West Indian literature and found his footing as a writer. His breakthrough came in 1957 with his first published novel The Mystic Masseur, a humorous book about the lives of powerless people in a Trinidad ghetto.

In 1961, Naipaul published the celebrated A House for Mr Biswas. That novel, about how one mans life was restricted by the limits of colonial society, was a tribute to Naipauls father.

If he had been born in another culture, not a colonial agricultural society, his talent would have given him a reasonable chance somewhere and he would have flourished, Naipaul told AP in 2000. Part of his pathos was that he was born in the wrong place.

In its Nobel citation, the Swedish Academy called him a literary circumnavigator, only ever really at home in himself.

Naipauls nonfiction often provoked much anger, and many were offended by his views about Islam and India. Rushdie, for example, thought Naipaul was promoting Hindu nationalism.

Rushdie tweeted late Saturday night: We disagreed all our lives, about politics, about literature, and I feel as sad as if I just lost a beloved older brother. RIP Vidia.Nigeria displaced return to ruin homes, fear violence

Despite many challenges and enduring dangers, Nigerians displaced by Boko Haram now begin to return to Borno state.Israeli documents allegedly show events that led four Palestinian children being killed by a drone in 2014.

The killing of four Palestinian children aged 10 and 11 by an Israeli air raid on a Gaza beach during the 2014 war could have been prevented, internal documents seen by US website The Intercept show.

The boys were killed by an armed Israeli drone that fired two missiles, with the second one hitting and killing four and injuring several others.

On July 16, 2014, four children were playing near a shipping container on a jetty that had been destroyed by an Israeli air raid a day earlier because the Israeli military suspected it of being used as a weapons cache by armed members of Hamas.

However, experts, journalists and eyewitnesses have all contested the claim weapons were stored in the container, as no members of Hamas were seen in the vicinity and there was no second explosion following the air strike that destroyed it.

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On the day of the attack, one of the children entered the remains of the container, and was spotted by two Israeli drones, one of which was armed.

An Israeli air force commander subsequently ordered the firing of one missile, killing the child inside the container.

According to the testimonies seen by The Intercept, Israeli military personnel suspected the children were carrying weapons.

Following that first missile attack, several other children also playing near the container started running in an attempt to get away.

A picture taken by Al Jazeera correspondent Stefanie Dekker shortly after the first missile hit shows four children running away.

Pic i took after first strike appears to show 4 boys running away #gaza port then there was a second hit pic.twitter.com/K6xOOod52m  Stefanie Dekker (@StefanieDekker) July 16, 2014

The Israeli drone operators, still watching the jetty, then asked their superiors several questions about what to do next and if they had clearance to continue the deadly assault.

After they did not receive a definitive answer, the drone operators fired a second missile that killed another three children and injured several others.

In total, four children died and four were wounded.

According to report, the investigation by the Israeli military after the event failed to investigate key discrepancies between statements by military officers about what exactly happened.

Statements from Israeli military personnel involved in the incident were taken months after.

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They all claimed they did not know the targets they were firing the missiles at were children from the live footage that was sent to the airbase from where the operation was being run.

The events occurred during the seven-week Gaza war, which took place in July and August of that year.

More than 2,250 Palestinians, including nearly 1,500 civilians, were killed and a further 11,000 were wounded in the conflict, according to Palestinian and UN estimates.

At least 18,000 Palestinian homes were completely destroyed, and 73 medical facilities were severely damaged.

Most of the destruction resulted from more than 6,000 Israeli aerial attacks in less than two months on heavily populated areas.

On the Israeli side, 66 soldiers and six civilians died.A report obtained by Al Jazeera reveals the existence of 27 sites used to torture and sexually abuse Yemeni detainees.

A report obtained by Al Jazeera alleges that detainees in a network of clandestine prisons set up by the United Arab Emirates across southern Yemen have been exposed to a host of brutal interrogation techniques that included physical and psychological torture.

The report  which was provided by Yemeni military figures who worked with the Saudi-UAE coalition battling Yemens Houthi rebels  described scenes of sexual abuse by Emirati army personnel and their Yemeni surrogates.

Individuals endured rape at the hands of coalition forces and were subjected to electrocution in the genitals, chest and armpits.

Some detainees were hung in midair while being insulted and beaten, the report said.

Electric cables were used alongside wooden bats and steel poles during the interrogation sessions.

In some instances, the detainees are described as having been deprived of sleep and confined to narrow spaces with poor hygienic conditions and limited air ventilation.

For some, this was accompanied by sessions where their skins were lashed with whips and their wounds were subsequently covered in salt. Others had industrial nails inserted into their finger and toenails.

The report alleged more than 49 people died as a result of the torture and five gravesites were used to bury the deceased.

The account confirms a report by The Associated Press published in June over alleged acts of torture perpetrated by members of the Saudi-UAE coalition in a network of at least 18 secret prisons.

According to AP, hundreds of men were rounded up and detained on suspicion of belonging to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levants Yemen branch (ISIL, also known as ISIS) and al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP). At the time of publication, AP said that UAE officials did not respond to requests for comment.

The report obtained by Al Jazeera put the number of secret prisons at 27, including sites in Hadramout, Aden, Socotra, Mayyun Island, as well as a facility in Eritrea where the UAE maintains a military base.

War in Yemen

With logistical support from the United States, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have carried out attacks in Yemen since March 2015. The war effort is ostensibly an attempt to reinstate the internationally recognised government of President Abu-Rabbu Mansour Hadi.

In 2014, Hadi and his forces were overrun by Houthi rebels who took over much of the country, including the capital, Sanaa.

On August 9, more than 50 people were killed in a Saudi-UAE coalition air raid on Saada province  the Houthi heartland. The majority of those killed were children heading for Quran classes.

Just a week earlier, dozens of people  including women and children  were killed in Yemens Red Sea port city of Hodeidah in mortar attacks believed to be carried out by the Saudi-UAE alliance.

According to the UN, at least 10,000 people have been killed in the war  a death toll that has not been updated in years and is certain to be far higher.

In June, Saudi and UAE forces carried out 258 air raids on Yemen, nearly one-third of which targeted non-military sites.

The Yemen Data Project listed 24 air raids on residential areas, three on water and electricity sites, three hitting healthcare facilities, and one targeting an IDP camp.Saudi-Canada dispute: Students forced to return home

Students from Saudi Arabia studying Canada are have been ordered by their government to leave the country in the middle of their courses.Jews and Arabs rally together to protest controversial law that affirms Israels Jewish character.

Palestinian citizens of Israel have led a mass protest in Tel Aviv against the controversial Jewish state law.

Passed last month, the new state-nation law officially affirms Israels Jewish character, but critics say it turns non-Jewish citizens of the country into second-class citizens, further marginalising some 1.8 million Palestinians with Israeli citizenship and other minorities.

The tens of thousands of protesters, including Jews, marched through the streets of the city on Saturday night calling for the laws cancellation.

This is amazing. This is the first time I remember Jews and Palestinians fighting together for something. This is a really big moment for people that believe in democracy and equality, an unidentified demonstrator told Al Jazeera.

A Jewish participant agreed, saying all citizens of Israel should be equal under the law.

We, a lot of Israelis, believe that they [minorities] are entitled to be equal to us, protester Dan Meiri said. It is the Jewish state but the people that live here are entitled to be equal to us across the board in education, in the army, in the universities, in the parliament  all over.

A nti-democratic moves 





The measure, pushed through last month by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, declares the right to national self-determination is uniquely Jewish.

The law states that Hebrew is the official language of Israel, downgrading the status of Arabic. Previously, both Hebrew and Arabic were official languages.

The nation-state bill also establishes Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories as a national value that the state must encourage.

This law is against us, against the Arabic language, against peace, against our future in this land. We are the real people of this land, said demonstrator Omar Sultan.

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For others, the protest was not only about this specific bill but the direction Israel is going in.

We have anti-democratic moves taking place in many things  towards gays, towards women, towards secularism, and towards Palestinians. This is turning into a fascist regime, a protester told Al Jazeera.

Its not yet there, but its going in a bad direction.

Druze protests

Last week, thousands from the Druze minority protested against the law under the motto, Equal rights for all citizens.

The Druze are an Arabic-speaking group with their own distinct religious and cultural traditions. They make up two percent of Israels 8.8 million population, and are found mainly in the northern regions of Galilee and Carmel.

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The Druze have had special status since the 1950s when they were drafted into the military, unlike Israels Muslim and Christian populations.

Netanyahu criticised the demonstrators on Sunday and denounced seeing PLO flags in the heart of Tel Aviv.

We are proud of our state, our flag and our national anthem, Netanyahu said a cabinet meeting.

Israel is a Jewish and democratic state. The individual rights of its citizens are anchored very well in the basic laws and other laws. Now it is clearer than ever that the nation state law is also necessary.

Israels Palestinian population comprises mainly the descendants of those who remained on their land since 1948, the time of the establishment of the modern state of Israel.

The fledgeling state consolidated its control over Palestinian lands on the back of an ethnic cleansing campaign in which hundreds of thousands were forced to leave their homes.

Those who remained have full equal rights under the law, but face constant discrimination, including inferior services and unfair allocations for education, healthcare and housing.Twelve children have been killed in the Israeli-occupied West Bank this year as well as 67 in the May attack on Gaza.Most US employees on average want to work from home at least two days per week after the pandemic ends, research finds.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The House approved IISA using a procedure for bills with such broad support that they bypass usual House rules. Congress passed the bill after about a 40-minute debate in a voice vote . Congress then rejected a motion to hold a recorded vote.

The International Insurance Standards Act of 2018 ( IISA ) "would be a milestone in fulfilling the Trump administration's promise to put America First," wrote Nevada Republican activist Lisa Noeth. After having passed the House of Representatives on July 10, IISA deserves to become law after approval in the Senate in order to protect America's uniquely federalist insurance regulations from foreign encroachment.

"This bill is pro-consumer and pro-state insurance regulation," stated Jon Gentile from the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA). As a congressional report on IISA elaborated:

[The] United States' state-based regulatory framework is the strongest and most robust insurance regulatory architecture in the world. No other system of insurance regulation combines the state-based focus on policyholder protection with the four, interconnected aspects of consumer protection, solvency protection, market-conduct protection, and resolution protection.

A 2015 research paper on "State vs Federal Regulation of Insurance" analyzed that if the "primary function of insurance regulation is to protect consumers, a unified system is not the answer." In particular, America "is a very large country in terms of both population and geographical size," with differing needs across rural and industrial areas. While Louisiana faces hurricane risks, Nebraska confronts wind damage.

Local regulatory control means that "changes can be made to address problems specific to an individual state" and "more effective regulatory decisions can be made quickly and efficiently," the paper added. By contrast, "central regulation of insurance would give [the] federal government more influence over our nation's economy ... ultimately imposing on the rights of states to govern themselves." "State insurance regulatory systems are accessible and accountable to the public and sensitive to local social and economic conditions," the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) has concurred.

In contrast, the report noted worries:

International insurance standards negotiations could be used as a "back-door" method to implement European insurance standards in the United States. The European insurance regulatory model is bank-centric and less policyholder friendly than the U.S. insurance regulatory regime.

The report cited American involvement in ongoing "negotiations regarding global insurance standards in international forums, including the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS) in Basel, Switzerland." Similarly, the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (NAMIC) "has long expressed concern" that IAIS negotiations "could conflict with and undermine the regulatory structure that has served U.S. consumers for more than 150 years." "International negotiations can have serious consequences for the domestic insurance industry and its consumers," Gentile has stated.

Accordingly, per the congressional report, IISA "codifies the primacy of the United States' system of insurance regulation during international insurance negotiations." Thus, "any party negotiating international insurance standards, on behalf of the Federal Government, may not vote in favor of any agreement if it is inconsistent or does not reflect the current United States system." The act also includes measures for federal negotiators to consult with Congress and to "closely consult, coordinate with, and seek to include in" all negotiations state regulatory representatives.

For Representative Sean Duffy, one of IISA's sponsors, the involvement of state insurance officials is particularly important. Most American trade representatives "have little experience regulating the insurance industry," he has noted. He and NAIC have both expressed concerns about unclear provisions in a 2017 European Union (E.U.)-United States insurance agreement, given the limited participation of American state regulators.

With the support of insurance representatives, Duffy explained IISA's value after the bill's House passage. Americans "should not have some executive appointee negotiate a trade deal that undermines our state-based model." Rather, if American officials "are going to be changing rules, you can't just do it without us and through international negotiations[.] ... [W]e have a role in this chamber and oftentimes we cede power to the executive."

Against IISA's merits, the objections of individuals like R.J. Lehmann from the free-market think-tank R Street are unconvincing. As he has noted, the Congressional Budget Office has estimated that IISA's consultation processes would cost no more than $500,000 annually. Greater consultation among stakeholders would also in the long run allow the development of more consensus over trade deals, rather than "render insurance a topic permanently off the table in international trade negotiations."

Lehmann has also raised constitutional objections to IISA. Lehmann asserts that a "statutorily mandated consultation with state officials amounts to a direct contravention of Article VI, Clause 2 of the U.S. Constitution" or Supremacy Clause. To buttress his claim, he cites the Supreme Court case American Insurance Association v. Garamendi.

Yet the Constitution's Article 1, Section 8 explicitly states that "Congress shall have Power ... To regulate Commerce with foreign Nations," a power that includes the conditioning of regulatory negotiations. Given Congress's historic primacy concerning trade, academics have already advocated greater trade consultation between the executive and legislature. Senator Mike Lee currently is seeking "to restore the proper balance of power between the branches of government" on trade after Trump's recent tariffs. Meanwhile, in Garamendi, the Supreme Court merely prohibited a state from unilaterally influencing American trade relations.

As Noeth has written, IISA is an "important step in protecting U.S. sovereignty" against "international bodies with agendas incidental to U.S. interests." IISA ensures that "state-level policymakers and Congress continue to have the authority to make decisions that best serve their constituents  not international bureaucrats." American lawmakers should listen to grassroots citizens like her.The Advantage of Keeping the Economy Human

Some people think of the new automated economy in terrifying and mechanical terms. In such a vision, machines reign supreme as they work tirelessly, silently and efficiently to maximize production and replace humans. Increasing automation will soon put tens of millions out of work and change lives for the worst. Indeed, people matter little in this vast global machine of the coming economic era. This mechanical vision would be true (and incredibly boring) if all its components were machines. However, there is an advantage that comes from human nature that can make economy exciting, dynamic, and creative. In his new book, The Human Advantage: The Future of American Work in an Age of Smart Machines, Dr. Jay W. Richards argues that machines need not prevail if this human advantage is maintained.

The author does much to put the proper use of technology in focus. His historic perspective finds that similar problems existed in the past, although change came more slowly. He further shows how the war against progress being waged by todays eco-liberals is really just a rehash of myths about capitalism, greed, and upward mobility, which he amply refutes. The key problem with todays fast-paced economy is keeping it human. People must not succumb to the pull of materialism that seeks to turn them into machines, computers, or even algorithms. Keeping things human means not being enslaved by ones passions and thus being truly free. When people exercise self-mastery, they will work together with new technologies not against them. In this way, technology serves man and not the other way around. That is one of the refreshing things about Dr. Richards book; it goes beyond the statistics and theory. His perspective is informed by virtue. Indeed, he states that Virtue above all else determines whether we will flourish. If we cultivate our future in the right way, we will exploit not just our comparative advantage over machines but our absolute advantage. That way, machines will augment and enhance our work rather than replace it entirely.  By keeping things entirely human and virtuous, Dr. Richards show how everyone can exploit the human difference and do those things that only humans can do. The human ability to create and invent new things is one of these unique things. The fear of automation all too often corresponds to a lack of courage to find new and creative ways of doing things. Dr. Richards believes that Americans need to return to those skills of creativity, resilience, and empathy for the needs of others that they once practice d in the past. This return to creativity includes the courage to face failure and start over again. Yet another human advantage over machines is the ability to pursue happiness. Dr. Richards makes the distinction between happiness and its pursuit. Happiness is readily reduced to easy pleasures, which ultimately frustrate. The pursuit of happiness necessarily involves the struggle and suffering that accompanies a life of virtue. Happiness often results from overcoming adversity and hardship. It is not surprising to see this professor of economics at Catholic University citing Saint Thomas Aquinas, who asserts that true happiness is secured through virtue. Finally, humans have the unique ability to build relationships and institutions that support their pursuit of happiness. Dr. Richards calls upon readers to reject to cold bureaucratic (and mechanical) governmental programs or one-size-fits-all solutions that solve nothing. Natural human institutions like those of family, community and faith are needed. Ultimately, he claims that to instill virtue, the virtue-forming institutions, not government must lead. Pursuing the human advantages is not without its risks. Technology is a double-edged sword. Dr. Richards warns that Any tool that extends our power to connect and create can be used to divide and destroy. The path ahead is not easy, considering the decay in society today. Indeed, there is nothing automatic or programmed about the free will. That same human advantage that makes a bright future possible can also cause its downfall. That is why culture matters and ultimately decides the future in the coming age of smart machines. John Horvat II is a scholar, researcher, educator, international speaker, and author of the book Return to Order, as well as the author of hundreds of published articles. He lives in Spring Grove, Pennsylvania where he is the vice president of the American Society for the Defense of Tradition, Family and Property.So when Governor Andrew Cuomo, literally on the same day Pope Francis declared that the death penalty is "inadmissible" in all cases, introduced a bill to abolish capital punishment in New York, the left erupted in justifiable outrage at Cuomo's attempt to establish religion.

Who could have predicted back in 1928 that Al Smith's successor as governor of New York would be explaining his advancement of legislation by his "solidarity" with the pope ? Back then, poor Governor Smith was defeated in his run for president in part by anti-Catholic fears that he represented a "Romish Peril," not least by way of a transatlantic tunnel between Washington and the Vatican. A vote for Al Smith would put America under the dictatorship of the pope.

Or not. So far, there have been no actual reports of protesters turning out with signs telling the pope to stay out of our lethal injection chambers.

Francis's declaration didn't change Cuomo's views on the subject; he was already an opponent of capital punishment, as was his father before him, the late Governor Mario Cuomo. But Andrew sees this new teaching as divine "validation of my father's principled stand against the death penalty."

Speaking of principled stands, you may recall Andrew's father as the originator of the now-ubiquitous moral nonsense that Catholic politicians could be "personally opposed" to abortion, while at the same time, "as servants of the broader public  supporting its availability to those who did not share those beliefs." With that single phrase, Mario handed pro-abortion Catholic politicians (and their Catholic voters, who by that time were mostly Democrats) the get-out-of Hell-free card they needed to explain their fervent advocacy for an evil practice to which they said they were personally opposed. The Church had already condemned that position, and John Paul II clearly reiterated "that those who are directly involved in lawmaking bodies have a 'grave and clear obligation to oppose' any law that attacks human life."

Even the Catholic bishops' conference, which in those days was living up to its nickname of "the Democratic Party at prayer," had to draw the line at Cuomo's twisted logic:

No public official, especially one claiming to be a faithful and serious Catholic, can responsibly advocate for or actively support direct attacks on innocent human life. [N]o appeal to policy, procedure, majority will or pluralism ever excuses a public official from defending life to the greatest extent possible.

But the Cuomos, John Kerry, Nancy Pelosi, Ted Kennedy, and God knows how many other Catholic politicians (and just think: he really does know how many!) have gone right on appealing directly to those very things to justify themselves  to those things, and to their unqualified loyalty to the separation of Church and state.

I learned long ago that if your Christianity leans far enough left, you get a pass from the passionate defenders of the Wall of Separation, the same ones who will tell you that tolerance in the public square of the belief in marriage is tantamount to the establishment of a Christian theocracy. (I specify a Christian theocracy, because none of these folks seem even slightly concerned at some fairly explicit intentions to establish an Islamic theocracy.)

This free pass is the reason black ministers can preach the Democratic platform from their pulpits, or lend those pulpits to progressive candidates who describe their activism as the "Lord's work," while never rating so much as a raised eyelid from the ACLU. As long as the religion you're establishing saves room for the gospel values of abortion, pseudo-marriage, and really big government programs, the Southern Poverty Law Center sees no harm in it.

You see, they're not politicizing Jesus the way Republicans are when they say He's conservative and try to force the Ten Commandments on everybody. Instead, liberals just follow Jesus's clear and simple teachings about taking care of the poor (through massive entitlement programs), showing compassion to the stranger (through open-border immigration policies), and stressing the importance of being nonjudgmental (by using Caesar to force stubborn Pharisees to participate in ceremonies claiming to unite same-sex couples and pay for someone else's contraception).

Even in spite of the double standard, I've never believed that preachers should be barred from mixing faith with politics. I only wish our side could do it, too. And I don't believe one bit that Andrew Cuomo taking this political action in compliance with a religious edict is a threat to the constitutional order. Nor do I necessarily oppose either Francis's or Cuomo's opposition to capital punishment. I'm agnostic on the subject; it's never been legal in the state where I live, and if there were a vote to legalize it in Michigan, I'd likely vote no.

But when Andrew Cuomo, quoting his father before him, calls the death penalty "a stain on our conscience," demeaning those "who strive to preserve human life and dignity," it's impossible not to notice how badly out of proportion he's getting things.

Take the fact that the death penalty has been virtually extinct in New York since a state Court of Appeals ruling in 2004. On a national scale, it's hardly commonplace. By July 2018, there have been 1,479 executions in this country since 1976. Of course, I don't mean to imply "only 1,479"; every single one of those was an individual facing the horror of being put to death. But as stains on our national conscience go, just how big a stain is it?

I'm thinking of how the "stain" of 1,479 executions in 42 years looks beside the stain of 2,537 abortions in the United States per day. Can you be taken seriously as a defender of "human life and dignity" when you're supporting a regime that's taking a human life every 30 seconds?

Pope Francis's careful wording that capital punishment is now "inadmissible" posits that the historical practice of executing dangerous criminals to protect society is unnecessary in our time, when the means now exist to effectively incarcerate them. But the pope's new language stops short  notably  of calling capital punishment "intrinsically evil," a "theological term meaning that an action can never be done in a moral way, regardless of the circumstances." The new Catechism entry will neither state that the death penalty would always be immoral in other circumstances nor condemn those who have supported its use in the past.

What the Church does define as intrinsically evil, and always has, is abortion. If Governor Cuomo's newfound respect for Church teaching so moves him to ban an evil from New York that doesn't even take place there anymore, why not some moves toward ridding our consciences of that larger, darker stain that's spreading more and more every day?

It's the cynicism that gets me. Because Governor Cuomo's father was "personally opposed to the death penalty," he vetoed death penalty legislation 12 times. His stated personal opposition to abortion didn't drive him to lift a finger for the unborn even once. Andrew Cuomo wasn't claiming any personal opposition to abortion in 2014, when he called pro-life Republicans "extreme conservatives" who have "no place in the state of New York." Planned Parenthood just endorsed Cuomo for re-election because he's so "personally committed to our issues and other progressive values we believe in."

If the bigots of Al Smith's times could have seen ahead to this future Catholic governor in Smith's old job, they'd see little reason to fear that this guy was digging a tunnel to Rome.

But is he digging a tunnel to somewhere else? That's another question.Its lengthy and detailed and on a lovely Sunday in summer you may not want to study it completely, but if this subject is of interest to you, I strongly suggest you bookmark the article and study it at your leisure. I cannot do it justice in any summary, but Ill try to hit the main points.

The Internet is full of information, some of it not well researched or considered, but every now and then a star appears on the horizon. To my mind the new star is Yaacov Apelbaum, who, using his considerable technical skills, has produced a masterpiece of well-documented analysis underscoring the nonsensical and partisan nature of the Mueller operation. He compares this effort by the anti-Trumpers to the plot line of the Dreyfus affair, where falsified evidence and suppressed evidence led to Captain Alfred Dreyfuss conviction for treason.

He concludes, after a long, substantive, technologically adept investigation:

The real dossier story is not the scandalous insinuations that it makes, but rather its the funding sources, the teams that worked on it, and its compilation and distribution channels. At peak capacity, the dossier team must have consisted of at least 25 individuals who worked on it for over 6-12 months. Assuming a modest $200 per hour rate per person, some first/business class travel and accommodations, media, consulting, IT, and legal services, this project most have cost an upwards of 5-10 million dollars. According to Simpsons testimony and documents, Fusion GPS was only paid about a million dollars by the DNC and Clinton campaign, which begs the questions of what was Hakluyts [Ed: another private UK intelligence operation closely connected to Hillary Clinton] cut and where did the rest of the money go?

For todays purposes, I will simply note the highlights, but the article really deserves the attention of readers, investigators, and reporters. Using open source intelligence materials, hes pinpointed the source(s) of the deeply flawed Steele Dossier, which formed the basis for the FISA warrants used by the FBI and Department of Justice to gather intelligence on the President and his associates.

He details the organization and staffing of GPS Fusion and reports:

The political makeup of the team was exclusively democratic with many of the employees and interns having a strong political connection to the Clinton or Obama administrations. Jason Raymond, the Research Director, came from John Kerrys press office and was affiliated with USAID; Laura Seago, a senior analyst, came from the Brennan Center for Justice and was also affiliated with USAID the senior management had a documented history of misconduct and ethical-related issues. Glenn Simpson has a Profane Cursing and Public Intoxication conviction; Jason Felch, a former reporter and the managing partner of the LA office, was fired from the LA Times for deceitful reporting. He was also cheating on his wife on multiple occasions with his Occidental College investigative source.

As for the main author of the dossier, Christopher Steele, Apelbaum details his MI6 background and his connection along with fellow MI6-retiree Chris Burrows and Nicholas Butcher to other outfits after his cover was blown as a British spy. Also contributing to the Dossier was Nellie Hauke Ohr, wife of Bruce Ohr, and a British-French national, Edward Emil Baumgartner, who also has his own private intelligence consulting business in the UK,

Using a variety of methods and tools which he describes, Apelbaum has shown the interconnections between media figures and the dossier authors.

His research indicates:

The [Dossier] network graph analysis indicates that the fellowship of the dossier is a close-knit group; everyone knew each other long before embarking on the quest to find the alleged Russian collusion. All of the project key players are related through marriage, family relations, or work affiliations. [Snip] this team collaborated in various member configurations on many other dossier projects and utilized the same collection methods, materials, resources, political network, and publication channels.

He has a detailed chart of the Dossier participants.

And he documents their work with intelligence operatives inside and outside U.S. channels. For example:

Halper, Clarke, Downer, Smith, Dearlove, Crawford, Lobban, MI6, LAD, and Hakluyt Linkage Steele worked with the FBI as early as 2010 on the FIFA investigation. In 2016, he met them several times including at two meetings with agent Michael Gaeta, a leading FBI Russia corruption expert, in Rome and in London to discuss the dossier. Gaeta coordinated and got clearance for these meetings from Victoria Nuland at the State Department. Gaeta was the FBI case officer in Europe and controlled Orbis, Stefan Halper, and the Hakluyt dossier assets. [snip] Baumgartner, Nellie Ohr, Bruce Ohr, and David Kramer are all Harvard alumni. Nellie Ohr knew Stefan Halper since at least 2000. Nellie Ohr also worked in the MITRE Corporation with Halpers son Marin Halper for six years from 2002-2008.

He establishes Hillary Clinton's close associate Sidney Blumenthals connections to and contacts with media, which promoted the dossier charges. Glenn Simpsons wife, Mary Jacoby, also had extensive contacts with key figures in the media and federal apparatus., including Blumenthal, with whom she had worked at Salon.

Two months before the Dossier was released, Jacoby spent several hours in the White House with five people (Apelbaum identifies them) all of whom were related to the dossier team.

Key figures in Democratic circles, detailed by the author, were heavily involved in promoting Ukrainian interests here. Also passing around unverified dirt was Strobe Talbott, who handed off Cody Shearers trash dossier (hes Shearers brother in law, a former deputy Secretary of State for Bill Clinton and the husband of Brooke Shearer known to have dug up dirt against Bill Clintons accusers.)

He notes the continued mischaracterizations in the FISA warrant application of Steeles motivation and role in an earlier FIFA investigation, for which Steele himself did no investigative work but merely repackaged work done by others but was paid $270,000 by the FBI. This is critical because in the application, these omissions undercut the credibility of the work on which the application was based.

In fact, in producing the Dossier, Steele had no direct contacts inside Russia. He relied on [Nellie] Ohr, Baumgartner, and Ukrainian sources to generate his so-called raw intelligence.

Almost from the start, the Dossier operatives, through their friends, were feeding tidbits of this unverified nonsense to willing accomplices in the New York Times, the Washington Post, Yahoo! News, MSNBC, The New Yorker, and CNN.

As for the many ways the dossier was spread to the press -- not only were people like Baumgartner and Steele posting about it.

One thing worth noting is that just like in the case of the core dossier network, many of these receptive reporters such, David Corn, Joe Palazzolo, David Cay Johnston, Scott Dworkin and Evan Perez (images 32-33) had long incestuous relationships with Fusion GPS and its team members. [snip] Moreover, [Evan] Perezs, [Jake] Tappers, [Jim] Sciuttos, and [Carl] Bernsteins tweets [snip] strongly suggest that they also had early and direct access to the dossier team and were actively distributing its content as it was being written.

Fusion appears, in fact, to have paid reporters five-digit figures in three cases. We still dont know which publications or reporters were on the take.

Molly Hemingway's tweet is on point:

@MZHemingway

More

Some media fell hook, line and sinker for the Clinton/DNC information campaign -- CNN, WP, NYT, NBC among them. They are understandably embarrassed to cover the real story. But they should. Better late than never. 12:06 PM - 11 Aug 2018

As for Nellie Ohrs ham radio license, he reveals that it only allowed her to operate in a 10-mile radius and was obviously designed to preclude NSA from recording her contacts over the phone or internet. The range of her operations was sufficient to allow her to communicate with all the offices of the federal government located in downtown D.C. And she could extend its reach up to 20 miles if she needed to.

Once you see the vast network of Democratic operatives, officials, former officials, media, foreign intelligence operatives, and former operatives involved in this Big Lie and how they used it to spy on the opposition and tar and beset the President you can only wish that the reports that hes about to declassify what so far has remained obscured, especially the FISA warrant applications, comes to pass sooner, rather than later.

Chairman Bob Goodlatte of the House Judiciary Committee reportedly is subpoenaing Bruce Ohr, Nellie Ohr, and GPS cofounder Glenn Simpson, as well as former FBI and DOJ officials including Jim Baker, Jonathan Moffa, and George Tosca.

If the Department of Justice balks at permitting the testimony of those still in its employ, Rod Rosenstein should be forced to give an open explanation of why this cover-up is continuing. If its to hide malfeasance and incompetence in the agency, as it appears to be, the President should and likely will declassify and release it all. This game has gone on too long.

Indeed, the majority of Americans want this Mueller dog and pony show (now floundering in yet another court in the Manafort non-collusion case) over.

The longer this goes on, the more the FBI suffers public disaffection.

Donald J. Trump

Verified account @realDonaldTrump Will the FBI ever recover its once stellar reputation, so badly damaged by Comey, McCabe, Peter S and his lover, the lovely Lisa Page, and other top officials now dismissed or fired? So many of the great men and women of the FBI have been hurt by these clowns and losers!

Its impossible for me not to agree with the Presidents sentiments.Trumponomics as a Response to a Failing Globalization

Ever since Donald Trump put his hand on the Bible to swear an Oath of Affirmation, he has been harshly criticized for every step he takes. While a rational criticism is a basis of every democracy, American left has gone unprecedentedly hysterical in its reaction to the Trump administrations policies. Thus, Trumps economic plan is usually labeled a disaster, a chaos, or even an Armageddon. At the best, positive results of the working policies are attributed to the Obamas legacy. But all of them fail to objectively analyze and explain the global trends of the American and the world economy that dictate new and adequate approaches that would make America thrive in the given global context. The pace of globalization is slowing down as it reaches its natural limits, and the central goal of the Trump administration now is to secure Americas global leadership. The core value of foreign and domestic policies has once again become American national interests. Globalization, once considered a vital part of American global leadership, is now damages its interests and, thus, strengthens the positions of its competitors. As the Trump administration tries to counteract this negative trend, it implements a new economic plan to which we will refer as Trumponomics. The fundamental points of the plan are protectionism, America-centric foreign policy, repatriation of the national capital and manufacturing to the U.S., and acceleration of GDP growth through a new budget policy and investments into infrastructure. Naturally, this policy has its side effects, such as trade wars and growing frustration among the American allies. The questions are, what would the benefits of Trumponomics be and would they outweigh its potential disadvantages?

Ideological premises of globalization With the collapse of the Soviet Union and bipolar world order in the early 1990s, the U.S. became the only superpower. With an absence of any serious political challenges to the U.S., geopolitics has eventually transformed into geoeconomics, or a competition over markets. Globalization, as a process of interaction and integration between people, companies, and governments worldwide based on Western values of freedom, democracy, and the market economy, has become a centerpiece of American foreign policy. Two main ideologies that constituted it were neoconservatism, which assumed utilization and growth of the economic and military supremacy of the U.S.; the other was a neoliberalism that transferred control over a global economy from national to supranational financial institutions. Domestically, the U.S. has developed a postindustrial economy that focused on finances, information technologies and services, and control over the newest technologies and intellectual property. Simultaneously, a major part of the industrial manufacturing had been moved to developing countries with cheap labor and resources. A high concentration of world production and labor in Southeast Asia, as well as the accumulation of technologies, goods, and finances, have strengthened the positions of regional players and has given them leverage to influence global economic processes. The U.S., in contrast, is facing a significant trade deficit ($43.1 billion) and a national debt ($21 trillion), and while it still dominates the world economy, the trends are discouraging, since the American part in a global GDP has declined by nearly a half since 1960s. All of these indicate a crisis of the current version of globalization as it undermines positions and potential for the U.S. An economist Dani Rodrick has introduced a phenomenon of Globalization Paradox, which lays in a conflict between democracy, economic globalization, and national sovereignty. Rodrik argues that it is impossible to balance all three, and sooner or later a country that is deemed to succeed would need to sacrifice one of these principles. As soon as democracy and sovereignty are sacred for America, it will give up globalization, while China will most likely sacrifice its democracy. Thus, on the current stage, it is natural for the U.S. to rely on a hard power with the elements of a military pressure and economic protectionism to regain a control over a geoeconomy. Trumponomics: strategic goals, national interests, mechanisms The ideas of protectionism and a populist (in a good way) approach to international trade and immigration, that Donald Trump presented during his presidential campaign, seemed to be the most appropriate answer to the challenges of globalization. Now, despite the strong opposition of globalist part of political establishment, the Trump administration persistently implements its program that puts America First. The National Security Strategy identifies four national interests of the U.S. as protection of the American People, the Homeland and the American Way of life; promotion of American prosperity; preservation of peace through strength; advancement of American influence. To make an economy invincible from foreign threats, the Trump administration will try to make it as self-sufficient as possible to minimize a dependency on the swings of a global market. The highly diverse structure of the domestic economy, protectionist barriers, a high level of technological development, a strong military, energy independence, stimulation of a customer demand, and a coherent advancement into the new markets are all aimed to strengthen American global positions. The core of the Trumponomics is a reflation -- a comprehensive system of measures aimed to stimulate economy by increasing the money supply, reducing taxes, increasing domestic manufacturing, and reducing the trade deficit. The tools of the new policy include increasing government investments into infrastructure projects (up to $1 trillion), and a fiscal reform ($4.4 trillion). This reform, in turn, includes comprehensive tax cuts for individuals, households and businesses intended to increase an aggregate demand and stimulate investment activity. Finally, Trumponomics implements various protectionist measures, including higher tariffs on imports of metals and consumer goods. Obviously, there is a downside to protectionism -- trade wars that may backlash on American industry and the pace of its development. On March, 2, 2018 President Trump tweeted that Trade wars are good, and easy to win. In Trumponomics, even trade partners are viewed as rivals. For the world trade which constitutes 55% of global GDP, this approach may have serious consequences. In the first place, it would hurt exporter countries with a major export share of goods with high added value and that have a significant trade surplus with the U.S. (China, Japan, Germany, Mexico, Canada, Brazil, South Korea, and some EU countries). These countries, in turn, may try to retaliate and increase tariffs on American exports, too. But, in our opinion, the risk of an escalation of trade wars in 2018-2019 is low, as the American economy is tightly intertwined with the global one. It is more probable that the Trump administration will focus on non-tariff measures, such as a strict control on exports of high technologies and implementation of technical requirements for imports, as well as operations in stock markets, including dollar supply reduction. Overall, we may conclude that protectionism and repatriation of manufacturing jobs will negatively affect world trade and hurt American trade partners but, most importantly, will benefit the U.S. in the long run as it is time to reestablish a healthy pragmatism in our policies. America will gradually expand its presence on the global market, but the expenses will rise, too, primarily on a national defense that is crucial for securing a military dominance. Naturally, part of these expenses will be transferred on NATO allies and satellite countries, which is exactly what is already happening.Beat the Press (every Sunday)

It is blatantly obvious that the entrenched bureaucracy and their allies in the mainstream media have now declared all-out war on President Trump and anyone connected to him. The volume of omissions, half-truths, and outright lies presented as news by these outlets is astounding. Trump has punched back, but something more is needed in order to push against the tsunami of Anti-Trump vitriol spewing from the establishment Fourth Estate. An effective strategy for the administration would be to produce a 30 minute Sunday program to specifically rebut the falsehoods and slanted coverage from the previous week. The program should run head-to-head against one of the biggest offenders - NBCs Meet the Press. The show should stream live on the web since a national television broadcast would be financially prohibitive. Trump could promote each episode via his personal Twitter account.

Each week, the program should highlight a particularly flagrant offense by a member of the media. Image: SVG Silh I suspect that Jim Acosta and CNN would be front and center many weeks. For example, Acosta took Trump to task for saying that it was 3 or 4 intelligence agencies rather than 17 that asserted that Russia had meddled in the 2016 election. Unfortunately for Acosta, the New York Times eventually corrected their own error and agreed that it was 4 intelligence agencies. Oops! MSNBCs Morning Joe often plays fast and loose with the facts as well. For example, hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski glossed over glaring errors in conspiracy theorist Michael Wolffs book Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House. Brzezinski rationalized this by saying, We were talking before the break about some inaccuracies in the book, but the spirit of it is completely true. Got it. Trump could have a field day with similar quotes from the Joe show over the past 2 years. Mark Twain once said, Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured. The left and their willing accomplices in the establishment media would be wise to reflect upon that observation. They need to get over the 2016 presidential election or face further electoral defeat. Trump understands this and has turned the medias vitriol back upon them. I urge the president to launch a Sunday morning rebuttal program to counteract the distortions, omissions and outright lies which have been presented as fact. I submit that it would defeat Meet the Press and the others in the ratings. And rightly so. Michael Bertolone, M.S. is a freelance writer.Ben Shapiro recently challenged democratic socialist Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to a debate and offered to pay $10,000 to her campaign if she accepted. Given her apparent stature in the party, Mr. Shapiro invited her to discuss her positions on a wide variety of issues. According to Mr. Shapiro, Ms. Ocasio-Cortez has stated that Republicans are afraid to debate her or to talk with her about various issues.

Just like catcalling, I don't owe a response to unsolicited requests from men with bad intentions. And also like catcalling, for some reason, they feel entitled to one.

The term "catcall" is defined as a loud, sexually suggestive call or comment directed at someone publicly (as on the street). There is nothing sexist about Mr. Shapiro's invitation, which was merely an invitation to debate the important issues of the day. Mr. Shapiro did not express any bad intentions. To the contrary, he expressed a willingness to listen to her views and provided a wonderful forum for her to reach more people.

Perhaps Ms. Ocasio-Cortez is simply afraid to debate Mr. Shapiro? Perhaps she is not as knowledgeable about the important issues and players of the day? Maybe her ridiculous reference to catcalling is her underhanded effort to deflect our attention from the obvious conclusion that she is not in the same league as Mr. Shapiro and clearly lacks the necessary knowledge about the various issues to debate him. There are many examples to support this conclusion.

For example, CNN's Chris Cuomo recently interviewed Ms. Ocasio-Cortez. At one point during the interview, Cuomo asked Ms. Ocasio-Cortez whether she recognized Nancy Pelosi as the leader for the House Democrats. Her answer to this relatively simple and straightforward question left many scratching their heads.

CUOMO: If you win and you go to Congress, there will be a leader of your caucus, her name is Nancy Pelosi. Do you recognize her as the leader for the House Democrats? OCASIO-CORTEZ: Of course. I think absolutely right now... CUOMO: Go ahead, please. OCASIO-CORTEZ: She is, she is the leader of, of  no, no, she, I mean, um, um, Speaker, or rather Leader Pelosi, hopefully, um, you know, we'll see, she's, uh, she's the current leader of the party and I think the party absolutely does have its leadership in the House, we our leadership in the Senate as well.

On another occasion, Ocasio-Cortez was asked about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the settlements in Palestine. After fumbling through her answers, she finally admitted that she was not an expert on geopolitics. You don't say!

Still not convinced?

On yet another occasion, Ms. Ocasio-Cortez was trying to help Brent Welder, who was running for Congress in Kansas. At one point, Ms. Ocasio-Cortez was quoted as saying, "We're gonna flip this seat red." How nice of her to push for a Republican victory!

Need more?

In an interview with Joy Reid, Ocasio-Cortez opined that unemployment was low because people were working more hours per week or had more than one job. Specifically, Ocasio-Cortez stated:

Unemployment is low because everyone has two jobs. Unemployment is low because people are working 60, 70, 80 hours a week and can barely feed their family.

The absurdity of this logic is self-evident and need not be discussed in any more detail.

Based on these examples alone, it is evident that Ms. Ocasio-Cortez is not prepared to get into the ring with a champion fighter who is simply stronger, more informed, more articulate, more seasoned, and much better prepared. If Ms. Ocasio-Cortez wants to save face, she should not accuse Mr. Shapiro of catcalling. Rather, she should simply admit that she does not belong in the same ring with Mr. Shapiro at this time.

Mr. Hakim is a writer and a practicing attorney. His articles have been published in American Thinker, World Net Daily, Sun-Sentinel, Florida Jewish Journal, and other online publications.

https://thoughtfullyconservative.wordpress.com

Twitter: @Elad3599As for Ing, he was slaughtered by former Congressman Ed Case and Lt. Gov Doug Chin. He received only 6% of the votes despite Ocasio-Cortez stumping for him on Thursday.

Kaniela Ing, a Hawaiian Democratic Socialist supported by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was running in the Democratic primary to succeed U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa who decided to challenge Governor David Ige for the nomination. Hanabusa lost that race 51-44.

NBC News:

Former congressman Ed Case emerged from a crowded field on Saturday to win the Democratic Party primary to represent Honolulu in Congress. The 65-year-old fiscal conservative defeated five other major candidates including Lt. Gov. Doug Chin, who was the architect of Hawaii's legal battle against President Donald Trump's travel ban. Case said his message that politicians in Washington need to work together resonated with voters. "I think voters want Washington to work again, that's the number one issue. Clearly that was my message and I think that accounts for much of the result of my race," Case said after he was declared the victor. Case served in Congress from 2002 to 2007, giving him an edge in experience and name recognition. He ran unsuccessfully for the Senate and House in the years since he left Congress, then retired from politics five years ago to become an executive for a Hawaii-based hotel chain.

As we saw in primaries last Tuesday, Democratic voters decisively rejected socialist politcs and embraced less radical alternatives. It is significant that Ocasio-Cortez personally campaigned for Ing in that she has been promoting the idea that she has the magic formula to bring Democrats victory in November. Hawaii, one of the most Democratic states in the union, massively rejected her and her politics.

I think Democrats are going to be a lot more cautious in promoting Ocasio-Cortez as the "new" face of the Democratic party. Not so much because of her politics, but because she is a loser outside of New York. In politics, nothing succeeds like success and Ocasio-Cortez hasn't had any.How tell the difference between a racist and a social justice warrior

Are you guilty of microaggressions? Or are you just woke? Life gets confusing when people in positions of prestige and authority  college presidents and professors, media, and Democrat politicians  denigrate some races on a routine basis. Fortunately, an academic  a sociologist!  has stepped up with a footnoted guide to tell you whether something is racist or just woke. Bradley Campbell, PhD, teaches at Cal State Los Angeles, and has some very interesting-looking publications.

As a PhD in Sociology myself, I suspect he gets lonely if he attends any meetings of the American Sociological Association, a professional organization I dropped out of decades ago, when it went off the rails into extreme leftism. Here is his handy-dandy guide. If you've read all the Vox explainers but are still having trouble distinguishing racist microaggressions from woke social justice talk, this cheat sheet might help. pic.twitter.com/Iijf4hF8fy  Bradley Campbell (@CampbellSocProf) August 10, 2018 Call it a guide for the perplexed. Hat tip: Ace of SpadesThe supplies were supposed to have been distributed by the national guard.

Thousands of pounds of relief supplies for Puerto Rico, sent after Hurrican Maria decimated the island, have been found rotting in a state elections warehouse, according to the New York Times.

The Hill:

The Times noted that local radio station, Radio Isla, published a video showing cases of items such as beans, Tylenol and water covered in rat and lizard droppings. According to the Times, the Puerto Rico elections commission offices were used as a collection center for donations from private entities and nonprofit groups after the island was ravaged by Hurricane Maria last year. Once they were collected, the donations were then distributed by the National Guard. As the severity of the crisis diminished, the donations were then reportedly stored in trailers in the parking lot of the election bureaus San Juan offices, where they remained despite continued problems in the region. Officials confirmed to the Times that the items had remained in trailers for almost a year. I agree, it should have been handed out as soon as possible, Maj. Paul Dahlen, a spokesman for the National Guard, told the Times, adding that some of the materials were received after the National Guard ended its mission in May. Nicolas Gautier, interim president of the elections council, told CBS News that "whatever was left after the National Guard left was put in those containers. In one of these containers was food for dogs and apparently several of the boxes were broken," he added. "After the placement in the van, that brings a lot of rats and it infected everything.

The report claimed that most of the donations were not usuable due to food items having expired and other supplies that arrived in broken containers.

But you have to wonder how many other distribution points on the island also have trailers full of aid. The point being, the national guard is not under federal control. It is run by the state government, who also dropped the ball on distributing FEMA supplies in the immediate aftermath of the hurricane.

Trump was blamed for an inadequate response - just like Bush was blamed for Katrina screw ups. The media was strangely quiet during the Obama years when natural disasters hit, despite similar screw ups in the aid pipeline.

FEMA was not set up to run local relief in hurricanes and other natural disasters. This has been the job of state governments. FEMA, established in 1979 with a budget of less than $6 billion has grown into a sprawling, behemoth getting more than $14 billion a year. But despite its growth, FEMA isn't supposed to distribute relief on a local level. State government disaster plans are supposed to take care of that.

If there were screw ups in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, the fault is with the territorial government of Puerto Rico, not Washington.Keep an eye on China

The Chinese have surreptitiously removed oil from their list of goods from America subject to tariff. Though conditions have improved hugely in China, the leadership hasn't changed much outside the limited sphere of economics. Communists still run the show with an iron fist, perhaps inside a silken glove. Unlike American commies, Russian and Chinese leadership live in the real world. If past practice of communist systems is any guide, they'll unembarrassedly take products off the list and add others without explanation. Pushed hard enough, their pushback will range from self-imposed famine and army attacks on their own to war with outsiders (North Korea, Taiwan).

First among these would be NoKo, for three reasons: one, to demonstrate Chinese resolve and capabilities; two, to warn everybody else about messing with China; three, because everybody's worried about Kim, and it's a cheap way to get free advertising for one and two. Second would be Taiwan, for two reasons: one, China has claimed it since the beginning and has never stopped claiming it; two, in taking Taiwan, the Chinese necessarily have to take the Spratly Islands and control the South China Sea, which they covet anyway for oil. In taking Taiwan, they'd get much more than just Taiwan. Such a move would put them at war with just about everybody, including America and all the countries of the region. India could get sucked in, with Pakistan attacking India for her own reasons while India was distracted with China. All three are nuclear powers, so this scenario would get ugly real fast. A whole lot depends on just how cocky the Chinese are. They know how touchy everybody is over there because they themselves have been touchy for over a hundred years. For centuries they ducked behind the Wall, trying without success to keep their culture clean of corrupting Western influences. No more. Today, Chinese science and technology are right there with the best in the world. China's engineers toil throughout the Third World on gigantic projects. Chinese businessmen own large tracts of valuable real estate in the West. China's army would welcome a chance to strut its stuff, and Xi's been working up the gumption to burst upon the international scene. Historically, the Chinese have valued careful, face-saving, behind-the-scenes diplomacy over the possibility of miscalculation resulting in humiliation, so the willingness of Donald Trump to hog the spotlight doesn't bother them much. But when they do make their move, expect it to overcompensate for past discretion by pretty much throwing caution to the wind. It could also come about that an attack on NoKo would be coordinated with an attack across the South China Sea on Taiwan. This would show just how far China's self-confidence has risen since her days of humiliation by the West and then the Japanese. She has long wanted revenge and, having now the capability, could decide to wreak her vengeance all at once. If unlikely, this scenario is not unrealistic. Right now we're in an interim, preparatory stage. All this will happen in time; the real issue is when. Stay tuned. Stay ready.Only 5 years later did the news appear in public to almost no fanfare, bured deep in a Politico story on other matters.

The mainstream media desperately want to deflect attention away from a huge spy scandal involving the ranking Democrat senator on the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. For two decades, Senator Dianne Feinstein employed a Chinese spy on her staff. And when it was discovered, she was notified, the spy was fired (but not prosecuted), and the entire matter was kept secret from the public.

The reason is obvious. The contrast with the treatment received by the Trump campaign when a Russian spy was merely suspected (on the basis of what appear to be ginned-up concerns over Carter Page, an FBI informant) is so stark as to raise serious question as to the integrity of the FBI counterintelligence operation. The NSAs ability to monitor every form of electronic communications except ham radio[i] was mobilized to spy on the presidential campaign of the opposition party to the Obama administration. No notification to the campaign was offered, unlike Feinsteins treatment.

The entire incident is being presented to the public as no big deal. That is a classic example of the fake news of which President Trump so vocally complains. Fortunately, Mark Thiessen checked out the real dimensions of the spy operation:

Feinstein insisted, "he never had access to classified or sensitive information or legislative matters" and was immediately fired. In other words: junior staffer, no policy role, no access to secrets, quickly fired -- no big deal. But it is a big deal. I asked several former senior intelligence and law enforcement officials how serious this breach might have been. "It's plenty serious," one former top Justice Department official told me. "Focusing on his driver function alone, in Mafia families, the boss's driver was among the most trusted men in the crew, because among other things he heard everything that was discussed in the car." A former top CIA clandestine officer explained to me what the agency would do if they had recruited the driver of a senior official like Feinstein. "We would have the driver record on his phone all conversations that Feinstein would have with passengers and phone calls in her car. If she left her phone, iPad or laptop in the car while she went to meetings, social events, dinners, etc., we would have the driver download all her devices. If the driver drove for her for 20 years he would probably would have had access to her office and homes. We would have had the source put down an audio device in her office or homes if the opportunity presented itself. Depending on the take from all of what the source reported, we would use the info to target others that were close to her and exhibited some type of vulnerability."

Image by Timorthy Bishop

If you think our major media are going to inform us of the dimensions of the intelligence loss, or investigate Feinsteins financial connections to China, from which she and her husband have made millions of dollars, forget about it. Tom Friedman thinks it is much more important to focus on the t-shirts worn by two members of an audience of thousands at a Trump rally.

As Joe Biden would put it, this is a big f-ing dealPolitico:

Republicans in the district were hardly enthused about Collins initial plan to stay on the ballot, and several potential replacement candidates began quickly gauging support. In the mix are State Sen. Pat Gallivan, a former Erie County sheriff, Assemblyman David DiPietro and David Bellavia, a talk radio host and Iraq War veteran who has run for Congress before.

In a matter where the Republican incumbent is going to lose a race because of criminal allegations of this nature, integrity is a key requirement in the candidate model for his replacement, said Michael Caputo, a GOP political consultant and former Trump campaign aide who lives in the district. "And New York 27 is blessed: we have a man of deep faith in David DiPietro, a former sheriff in Pat Gallivan and a Medal of honor nominee in David Bellavia.

McMurray said he would like to see Collins resign his seat outright, and faulted GOP leaders who are about to select a new candidate for sticking by Collins  whose relationship with Innate Immunotherapeutics was the subject of House ethics inquiries long before criminal charges were filed.

It helps Western New York because we wont have someone like that who will embarrass us in Congress again, McMurray said. "It would have been a travesty for him to go forward with his campaign. I dont know who theyre going to run, but were going to win anyway.Then he showed me this article by Shasta Darlington :

A few days ago, a Brazilian friend told me Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are shooting galleries.

Brazil has beat its own macabre record for homicides: 63,880 people were murdered across the country in 2017, up 3 percent from the year before, according to a new study. That's 175 deaths per day. Data from the Brazilian Forum of Public Security, a research organization, shows the murder rate in the country was 30.8 per 100,000 people, up from 29.9 in 2016. For the sake of comparison, the United States had five homicides per 100,000 people in 2015  the most recent year for which data are available  down from eight per 100,000 in 1996. Even Mexico, which is also suffering from a soaring murder rate, had less homicides per capita with 25 per 100,000 last year.

It's pretty remarkable, to say the least.

The shootings are gang-related, or sort of like what we are seeing in Chicago.

Down in Brazil, we are seeing some of the most brutal territorial disputes in the world. It is a fight over the routes in a country with very porous borders and surrounded by the three biggest cocaine-producers: Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia.

To make matters worse, Brazil is a major consumer of cocaine and crack and has become a hub for stuff headed to Europe and Asia.

My Brazilian friend felt hopeless about the near future. He does not think that the government can beat the cartels, as long as consumers at home and abroad are willing to buy the drugs.

So what's ahead for Brazil? My friend told me that he is very happy that he, and family, are not living there any longer.

PS: You can listen to my show (Canto Talk) and follow me on Twitter.At the New York Times , Thomas Friedman called on the media to defeat Trump in 2020 by targeting specific demographic slices of the electorate. He thereby moves from columnist to campaign consultant.

This week, leading wordsmiths at two of the nations major newspapers openly propounded the need for the media to work together (also known as conspire) to defeat Donald Trump. The age of metropolitan dailies pretending to be unbiased sources of news officially is over.

In a close election it doesnt take many uncomfortable moderate Republicans to just stay home to make a big difference.

He calls on his colleagues to focus on random people whom show up at Trump rallies wearing shorts or signs that Friedman doesnt like:

Yes, I want every American to know that two Trump supporters were spotted at the presidents last rally, in Ohio, wearing T-shirts that read, Id rather be Russian than a Democrat.

Two supporters out of thousands. Would Friedman suggest collectively publicizing the anti-police, anti-capitalist, anti-white, and other slogans on shirts and placards at rallies for Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez or any other Democrat? The question is rhetorical, because there is a de facto agreement in the mainstream media to hide radical elements of the left.

Friedman wants to play the role of television producer and event manager for the entire media when it covers Trump allies.

No question that the press should not allow itself to be props at Trumps rallies, and that can be dealt with by using a single pool camera that feeds all the networks, or reporters just sitting among the rally attendees, not in a special pen.

I guess Friedman is shooting for the post of Minister of Propaganda in the next Democrat administration.

Meanwhile, the deputy managing editor of the Boston Globe  a newspaper purchased by the New York Times for 1.1 billion dollars and later sold for seventy million  has reached out to editorial boards nationwide to coordinate anti-Trump editorials on August 16.

We are not the enemy of the people, said Marjorie Pritchard, deputy managing editor for the editorial page of The Boston Globe, referring to a characterization of journalists that Trump has used in the past. The president, who contends he has largely been covered unfairly by the press, also employs the term fake news often when describing the media. The Globe has reached out to editorial boards nationwide to write and publish editorials on Aug. 16 denouncing what the newspaper called a dirty war against the free press. As of Friday, Pritchard said about 70 outlets had committed to editorials so far, with the list expected to grow. The publications ranged from large metropolitan dailies, such as the Houston Chronicle, Minneapolis Star Tribune, Miami Herald and Denver Post, to small weekly papers with circulations as low as 4,000.

These people are living in the past, when their newspapers spoke with authority and were respected as impartial. If they think that by openly conspiring to damage the POTUS they will help their cause, they are sadly mistaken. They are offering proof that they are partisans, that they conspire, and that they wear blinders of fury when it comes to examining President Trump.

The public trust of media is at historic lows, as Gallup most recently found:

I suppose that these newspaper editors will congratulate themselves on their brave moral stand when they publish their editorials in unison. But they will also furnish a huge talking point for Trump about their open and proud bias against him.Turning the ship before it hits the iceberg



Guwahati, August 12 : An officer of Assam Panchayat and Rural Development (P&RD) department was arrested for allegedly tried to rape a minor girl in Guwahati.





According to the reports, the accused Assam government official identified as Safiur Alam had allegedly tried to rape the 16-year-old minor girl when the victim was alone at home on Friday night at around 8-30 pm.





The victim girls family are living at the ground of Madhurjya Enclave located nearby Hatigaon police station and the accused person also lives with his family on the first floor of the building.





Following the incident, the victims family had lodged an FIR at Hatigaon police station and police had registered a case (no  571/2018) under the Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.





On Saturday night, Guwahati city police had arrested the accused Assam government official and forwarded to judicial custody today.





Nandini Kakati, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) of Guwahati City police said that, the accused family and victims family are living in the same building located nearby Hatigaon police station and the incident was happened while the victim minor girl was alone at her home.





When we received the FIR lodged by the victims family we had detained the accused person. We had also registered a case in connection with the incident and arrested the accused person. Today, we had forwarded the accused person to judicial custody, Nandini Kakati said.





On the other hand, mother of the victim minor girl alleged that, the accused person had offered Rs 1 lakh to withdraw the case.



Marysville, CA (95901)

Today

Sunshine to start, then a few afternoon clouds. High near 75F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low 56F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph.Guwahati: Patriotic Peoples Front Assam (PPFA) today denounces the diktat of separatist militants on celebration of 72nd Independence Day and appeals to the people of the region to celebrate the auspicious day with fanfare.





The PPFA in a statement argues that every Indian should hoist Tri-colour on I-Day and Republic Day paying tributes to the martyrs of freedom struggle. Only an ungrateful nation can think of boycotting an occasion scheduled for honouring the martyrs, asserted the forum.





It may be noted that various rebel groups comprising United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent), co-ordination committee of RPF, UNLF, PREPAK, PREPAK (Pro) etc asked the people of Northeast to boycott the I-day on 15 August.





In a media statement, terming the region as Western South East Asia(WESEA), the militant outfits called for total shutdown with effect from Tuesday midnight to Wednesday evening in entire region. It also claimed that the I-Day celebrations were imposed in the area where as the people were demanding freedom from New Delhis colonial rule.





The PPFA however clarified that militants were only day dreaming to make the region independent out of India, as the people continue rejoicing the independence. Moreover the residents have joined in the nation building process participating in all elections to elect their representatives.





Those militants must not forget that hundreds of freedom fighters from the alienated region sacrificed immensely for making India a sovereign nation. They faced the batons, bullets and gallows of colonial British forces during the freedom movement. Those brave hearts should be honoured on I-Day and R-Day, it added.



The legal profession prides itself on being forward thinking, and in the area of diversity and inclusion, it strives to be ahead of the pack.

But while statistics from Workplace Gender Equality Agency shows in the category of legal and accounting services 69% of employees are female, there is a 29.7% total remuneration gender pay gap for full time employees. Not an inspiring figure for women leaders in the profession.

At the inaugural Women in Law Summit in Sydney next month, Jeannette Scott, Consultant Counsel - Privacy and Regulatory at Moulis Legal, will discuss How to successfully navigate pay discussions.Hi guys ,



We really need your assistance !!



My partner is on Student Visa (subclass 500) and due to financial situations and family affairs , he does not want to continue his study and also needs to be out of country for 3 months with his family ASAP .



I am an Australian citizen and we have been together for over 1 year but living in the same house for around 10 months . At the moment , we are not sure what should we do under his visa conditions and can you guys provide any advice ?



Here are a few options we have come up with given his circumstances , if you have any better option, please advise . Thanks!!!:



A. Cancel his student visa



A.1 Apply for Partner Visa before he leaves the country for 3 months



Question:

1. If we apply for a partner visa and then cancel his study visa , can he leave the country with abridging visa ? or does he have to stay in AU before the temporary partner visa is granted?



A.2 Apply for Partner Visa offshore



Question:

1. he cancelled his student visa and we apply for a partner visa while he is at overseas , can this work? if so , what kind of visa do we need to apply for and are there any restrictions or things we need to consider?



B. Keep his student visa and defer his study



If we can defer his study ,upon his return to AU after 3 months , we then cancel his student visa and apply for partner visa .



I reckon the key information is :



1. he does not want to continue his study due to the financial situations and can not have enough work hours to pay off his tuition

2. AND he wants to stay and work in AU if the bridging partner visa permits



we are not sure of which one is the best solution at this stage and hope you guys can give me some advice !!



In addition , for the situation where we have only lived together for less than 12 months , how can we approve the de facto relationship in this case if we intend to apply for a partner visa as soon as possible?



Many thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!!Hi,



My wife has been requested to supply an Indonesion Police Certificate for her 801 visa application. After much research it appears they dispute the online mechanism to do it she would still have to attend the police station in person to supply the fingerprints and verify other items.



She is currently in Australia and is 6 months pregnant so travelling back to Indonesia just for a police check isn't really an option. On the request though it does say if you can't get it that you must show that you've tried to at least and demonstrate that in writing.



Does anyone have any advice on how to proceed or has been in this situation before and had a solution we aren't thinking about?Some dude stole a plane from #Seatac (Allegedly), did a loop-the-loop, ALMOST crashed into #ChambersBay, then crossed in front of our party, chased by fighter jets and subsequently crashed. Weird times. pic.twitter.com/Ra4LcIhwfU  bmbdgty (@drbmbdgty) August 11, 2018

The mans identity hasnt been made public, but CNN says that Alaska Air Group, whose jet it was, confirmed hed been working as a ground service agent with the company. As a ground service agent, employees work directing aircraft for takeoff, gate approach and de-icing planes, the report notes.A call was placed to say that an employee had taken a jet without authorization on Friday evening. Audio recordings between the plane, an Horizon Air turboprop Q400 jet, and traffic control show the efforts made by the team on the ground to get him to land the plane.They called the man Rich. He seemed depressed and suicidal, saying he didnt want to land the plane because he imagined this is where this would end. He didnt want to get life in jail, and said he was afraid the military chasing him in the fighter jets would rough him up if he landed where they instructed him to land.After the transmission cut off, he continued to make aerial stunts that he was clearly not prepared for . It was that, and not the fact that hed been chased by fighter jets, that made him lose control of the plane and crash on Ketron Island. It houses about 20 residents but no one was in the wooded area where the plane fell into a ball of fire.The hijacker was pronounced dead on the scene. According to the FBIs Seattle office, theyre not investigating the incident as a terrorist attack, but rather as a joyride gone awfully wrong.We're working to find out everything we possibly can about what happened, working with the Federal Aviation Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the National Transportation Safety Board. We are giving those investigators our full support and cooperation, Brad Tilden, the chief executive officer of Alaska Air Group, also says in a statement to the media outlet.The only two Daihatsu cars which the western world knows of are the Terios and Toyota Urban Cruiser crossovers. However, they have a range of what are known as kei cars, which still represent a significant chunk of the market in Japan.Because they fall within a much cheaper tax bracket, kei cars are also used as delivery vans and trucks, tiny ones with a 3.5-meter footprint and 660cc 3-cylinder engine. The Daihatsu Hijet falls into that category, a tiny no-frills workhorse.To be honest, we didn't even know of its existence until today. It's a small 2-seater with a cab at the front and a tiny bed over the back. For some reason, a Japanese tuning fanatic decided to make something special out of it, which can only mean the Hijet is popular.A quick Google search revealed that the Hijet had been around in one form or another since 1960. It was even licensed to Italian scooter maker Piaggio, who sold it as a van in 1992.The highlight of its transformation is the fact that the Hijet now has eight exhaust pipes, large ones with fancy chrome tips. To say that a 50 horsepower vehicle doesn't need this many is a severe understatement. In fact, we wouldn't be surprised if none of them are connected to the engine.A dramatic body kit has also been added, with a massive chin spoiler, supercar-like side skirts, and a rear diffuser. Fender flares bring attention to the fact that an air-ride suspension system has been installed. LED tuning is also popular in Japan, as you can see from the fancy lights show the Hijet puts on at the back. You don't see that on slammed Silverados in America! And are those... Mercedes door mirrors?For the second time in less than a month, a vintage airliner carrying passengers has crashed but this time there were no fatalities. The 1944 de Havilland Dragon Rapide biplane took off from Abbotsford International Airport in British Columbia about 5:30 p.m. on Saturday just after the close of the annual airshow for the day. Two weeks ago a Junkers Ju-52 crashed in the Swiss Alps killing all 20 on board. The Dragon Rapide, carrying a pilot and four passengers, was recently acquired by the Historic Flight Foundation at nearby Paine Field in Washington State. It ran into trouble on takeoff and crashed in the airport infield. Three passengers suffered relatively minor injuries, one injury was described as serious and the pilot was taken to hospital in critical condition but has since been upgraded to serious. HFF founder John Sessions was checked out in the aircraft but none of those on board have been identified by Canadian authorities and its not confirmed he was the pilot.

The museum was offering rides to the public at the airshow but its not clear if the passengers were paying customers or museum staff and volunteers. The aircraft is one of about 10 in airworthy condition. Images from Abbotsford showed significant damage, particularly to the right set of wings and cockpit, but its not clear if it can be repaired. The aircraft was developed in the early 1930s in England and was used as an airliner and as a military transport. At total of 781 were built. The aircraft in question was one of the last ones built in 1944 and first delivered to the Royal Air Force. It was converted to an airliner after the war and used in revenue service and as a survey aircraft in the U.K. until 1971 when it was bought by the EAA Museum, which displayed it until 1997. HFF founder John Sessions bought the plane in 2017 from the estate of a California collector. Video of its debut flight after restoration last July 24, with Sessions at the controls, is below.



Guwahati : In a bid to leverage digital technologies to transform lives of the people of North East, enhance ease of living and ensure inclusive and sustainable growth, Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad on Saturday evening had released Digital North East India Vision 2022 in presence of Chief Ministers of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Ministers of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur during a function held in Guwahati.





Digital India is a flagship programme approved by Government of India with a vision to transform the country into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy and Digital NE India Vision 2022 envisages to implement the Digital India initiatives in North East through optimum utilization of information, communication and technology.





Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said that enunciated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Digital India assumed the form of a peoples movement. Through Digital India, Modi sought to set a direct connection of India with rest of the globe.





The Centre has put tremendous impetus for strengthening the digital infrastructure of the North East. Under the programme efforts have been made to bring in all the people of the region under digital influence. Under the direction of the Prime Minister, the Union Minister along with other senior officers have come to North East to assess the implementation of Digital India programme in the region, Ravi Shankar Prasad said.





Prasad also said that six medical college including Gauhati Medical College, Dibrugarh Medical College will get the benefits of e-class and besides opening a Regional Data Centre in Guwahati, the seat capacity at BPOs in North East will be increased from 5000 to 10,000.





He also said 50 thousand government employees will be encompassed under digital technology.





Assam Chief Minister Sarbanada Sonowal said that to stimulate the development of North East, Prime Minister Modi wanted to connect the region with digital platform.





He also said that the region will not be legging behind if the educated workforce of the region are empowered to use digital technologies.





Programmes implemented by the Centre for the development of communication in the region has led to injecting confidence in the young minds. This vision will play the role of a catalyst to energise the communication of North East with the ASEAN and BBN countries in the face of Act East Policy, Sonowal said.





Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Deb and several other ministers from the North East also spoke on the occasion.





Synchronising with the programme the Union Minister also laid the foundation stone of National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology in Guwahati and other four cities of the region.





Prasad also inaugurated a BPO Unit for Majuli under North East BPO Promotion Scheme.





On the other hand, Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad said in a press conference that  we are now trying to implement the Digital NE India Vision 2022 as per direction of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.





The Union government has come to North East instead of North East going to Delhi during Modi government and we want the North East region to go ahead. We are thinking about all round developments for all states, Prasad said.



At first, White House officials thought the idea of Space Force was just a lark. A former senior official told me that through most of last year Trump was generally interested in space.

Behind the scenes: He would ask random questions about rocket ships and marvel to hear about satellites and the junk floating around in space. His questions were unfocused, like a student trying to learn about a new subject. "It was just one of those subjects that piqued his interest," the source said.

But early this year, Trump became more fixated on space and floated "Space Force" as an off-the-cuff idea. Staff didn't take the idea seriously at first, and Defense Secretary James Mattis was not a fan, but Trump kept insisting on it.

He floated the idea publicly in March when he spoke to military personnel in San Diego. "You know, I was saying it the other day, because we're doing a tremendous amount of work in space, I said maybe we need a new force, we'll call it the Space Force," he told the crowd. "And I was not really serious. And then I said what a great idea, maybe we'll have to do that."

Why this matters: Space "is becoming a contested war-fighting domain, and we have to adapt to that reality," said Mattis in Thursday's announcement at the Pentagon.

Russia and China are building anti-satellite weapons that could shoot down American satellites within two or three years, according to the U.S. intelligence community. This would undermine the U.S. military's ability to keep watch over its adversaries and track American troops using GPS coordinates.

A key cabinet meeting came in March, where Vice President Mike Pence  who chairs the National Space Council  gave an update on space issues. Arrayed before Trump on the table in the meeting room were models of commercial rocket ships, including one from Elon Musks private rocket company SpaceX. Trump was delighted, according to a source in the room.

"Rich guys, they love rocket ships," Trump told the group. "And that's good. That's better than us paying for it."

Behind the scenes: After that meeting Trump began talking about the idea more insistently with officials including Pence, Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats, and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

Trump told Pence to get it done. Pence has long been interested in space, especially from military and commercial perspectives.

What's next? Whether a Space Force happens or not is still in Congress' hands. And senior Pentagon officials, including Defense Secretary Mattis and Secretary of the Air Force Heather Wilson, have expressed reservations about it. Mattis is warming to the idea, according to a source familiar with his thinking.Experts worry that a bill to suspend compulsory vaccination of children in Italy could spread the anti-vaxx movement across borders, posing a serious global health threat. Pushed by Italy's populist government, the bill will become law if approved by the lower house of its parliament.

Why it matters: Vaccinations have helped to eradicate a dozen major childhood diseases and are praised as a key advance of the 20th century. But the anti-establishment wave in Europe and the U.S., plus the ability of social media to spread any opinion, have put new impetus behind the opposition to mandatory inoculation.

The backstory: The anti-vaxx movement in Italy and elsewhere goes back to the 1998 publication of a study in The Lancet on a 12-person trial that linked the measles vaccine (MMR) and autism.

The study was found to be fraudulent, was retracted by the journal, and Andrew Wakefield, its author, was stripped of his medical license.

But the damage was done.

Driving the news: Last week, Italy's upper house of parliament voted to suspend the mandatory inoculation of schoolchildren against 10 diseases. In addition to the influence of Wakefield's study, the anti-vaxx politics are in part driven by a 2012 Italian court ruling that a childs autism was caused by the MMR vaccine (the ruling was later overturned).

The bill attempts to reverse a law passed last year increasing the number of mandatory vaccinations after a measles outbreak infected nearly 5,000 people in Italy, killing four.

"What is concerning is the possibility that this might strengthen anti-vaccination sentiment elsewhere," said Naomi Smith, program leader in sociology at the Federation University Australia's School of Arts, Humanities and Social Science.

Smith says, "For example, anti-vaccination proponents might point to Italy and say, 'Well the Italians think vaccination shouldnt be mandatory, why dont we have fewer requirements around vaccination too?'"

"They interpret decisions like this as being about the science and safety of vaccinations and not about politics (which really drove this decision in Italy)."

Anthony Fauci, director of the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, tells Axios that two misperceptions fuel the movement:

Because there's no disease out there, everyone is safe.

There are significant adverse effects that warrant not getting vaccinated.

The consequences: "I'm really concerned, obviously, about the move Italy made," Fauci says. "It's very ill-advised."

Recent outbreaks of measles in the U.S. include two in Disney parks in California and in the Somali community in Minnesota.

Pertussis, or whooping cough, is another disease on the rise, mostly because of vaccine refusal, per a JAMA meta-analysis of 50 studies.

In an Axios Expert Voices piece, Baylor College of Medicine's Peter Hotez discusses the revival of measles in Europe and the Americas.

How it's happening: Multiple studies have said that social media platforms have allowed the voice of relatively small groups like anti-vaxxers to expand globally.

A 2017 study of Italy in the journal Vaccine says "new media might have played a role in spreading misinformation."

It found a "significant inverse correlation" between MMR vaccination coverage and social network activity on the topic "autism and MMR vaccine."

Women are leading the movement. Another 2017 study, co-authored by Smith and published in Information, Communication & Society, also suggested that social media may help spread anti-vaccination ideas and make the movement durable on a global scale.

But, examining six popular anti-vaxx Facebook pages, it also found that the movement is primarily led by women, by a ratio of 3:1.

The study found that active Facebook users (the top 10% via number of comments and likes) show an even greater gender disparity. "Across the entire movement-level network, 21.9% of user activity is male, 71.4% is female, and 6.7% is not estimated (gender unknown)."

This may be because "women are still more likely than men to stay at home with children in their earlier years. This means that they will be the ones taking children to health appointments and making decisions about the treatments they do or dont receive," Smith says.

"Anti-vaccination sentiment is a serious problem with serious consequences. Facebook needs to be a little more proactive in ensuring the quality control of content shared on the public pages of its network  which is true across a range of issues Facebook is facing at the moment."

 Naomi Smith

A Facebook spokesperson tells Axios that the company's position in general is that removing provocative matter does not help build factual awareness or in different approaches to health.

"We have a set of Community Standards that outline what is and isnt allowed on Facebook. While we work hard to remove content that violates our policies, we also give our community tools to control what they see as well as use Facebook to speak up and share perspectives with the community around them. If the content theyre posting crosses the line and violates our policies, we would remove the content as soon as we become aware of it."More than 25% of the 403 constituencies of British Parliament that voted to leave the European Union in 2016 now oppose Brexit, according to data reviewed by The Guardian.

The big picture: The majority of parliamentary seats now favor remaining in the EU, a shift driven largely by members of the Labour Party in northern England and Wales who originally voted to leave. But even if attitudes hadn't changed, analysis shows that trending demographic changes in the U.K. would be significant enough to reduce support for Brexit by 2% in 2019, 4% in 2021, and more than 7% in 2026.

The backdrop: In June 2016, citizens of the United Kingdom voted by a 51.9%-48.1% margin to leave the EU.

A study by NatCen Social Research found that the vote crossed over party lines, and that those most likely to choose "Leave" had little formal education, low incomes, and often lived in public housing.

Older white voters who viewed themselves more as "English" than "British" and believed Britain had gotten "a lot worse" in the past decade were also among those most likely to vote Leave.

"The Leave victory was not about demographics alone, though it is clear that age, levels of education, income and newspaper readership are all related to the likelihood of voting Leave. Matters of identity were equally, if not more strongly associated with the Leave vote  particularly feelings of national identity and sense of change in Britain over time."

 NatCen Social Research

Between the lines: The main voting cohorts who chose Leave  including uneducated white and British-born voters who grew up before Britain joined the EU  all are shrinking in size, while their Remain-leaning counterparts are growing, according to an analysis by the London School of Economics.

For the past three decades, the number of college graduate voters in the U.K. has risen by .7% each year, while those with no formal education has dropped by 1%.

Ethnic minorities have also greatly increased and are on average younger than the U.K.'s white population.

Turnout in the 2016 Brexit referendum was dominated by "eurosceptics" who grew up before Britain joined the EU, but mortality will soon tip the electorate toward younger, more pro-EU generations.

The bottom line: The trending direction of the average British voter as it relates to education level, ethnic identity and formative experience spells trouble for pro-Brexiteers, especially as the struggle to strike a deal with the EU prompts calls for a second referendum.In a Sunday Telegraph op-ed, U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom Woody Johnson called on the British government to move on from the "flawed" Iran deal and side with President Trump in complying with Iranian sanctions.

Why it matters: The U.K. is one of several countries, along with the EU, China and Russia, that has pledged to protect companies that continue to do business with Iran. Unlike those implemented prior to the 2015 nuclear deal, Trump's recent round of sanctions do not appear to have the broad international support necessary to apply maximum economic pressure on the Iranian regime.Trend:

Following the signing of documents at the 5th Summit of the Heads of State of the Caspian littoral states in Aktau, Kazakhstan, the presidents made press statements.

President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev hailed the importance of the Convention on the legal status of the Caspian Sea and other documents, which were signed at the Summit.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev made a press state statement at the Summit.

The heads of state posed together for photographs.

The 5th Summit of the Heads of State of the Caspian littoral states ended.Grand Meteor Shower in Store for Oregon Coast, Portland, Valley: the Perseids

Published 08/11/2018 at 1:11 AM PDT

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff





(Oregon Coast)  The big show is coming to the skies above Oregon. Look for the peak of the Perseids coming this weekend over the Oregon coast and much of the inland portions of the state such as Portland and the valley towns. From the wee hours of the morning on Sunday morning through to Tuesday morning, the highest amount of fireballs will be exploding in the atmosphere.

The peak, according to OMSIs Jim Todd, is August 12 through 14, with the absolute peak on Sunday night. All of this depends on weather, however, but it looks as if the Oregon coast may get a better view for a change if wildfire haze continues inland.

It all depends on the weather, of course, and thats generally looking better for the Oregon coast than the inland areas because of wildfire haze.

The Perseids are produced by debris from comet Swift-Tuttle, according to OMSIs Jim Todd.

Every year, Earth passes through debris paths left by comets as they hurtle past the Sun, Todd said. The results of these intersections are called meteor showers when the tiny bits of debris burn up in Earths atmosphere. We see them as bright streaks across the night sky and name them 'shooting stars,' intense streaks of light across the night sky.

They are called meteoroids: theyre little bits of interplanetary rock and debris that burn up high in the Earths upper atmosphere, traveling at thousands of miles per hour. They self-destruct about 30 to 80 miles above the surface.

Todd said the peak is quite broad, giving you plenty of chances. Sunday night will be the best, however.

On the Oregon coast and inland, weather predictions are for clear nights through the peak and into next week. But if wildfire haze starts up again after a brief bout of rain on Saturday, Portland and the valley towns will have more difficulty seeing the bursts of light than the beaches.

Todd suggests sticking to places that have little to no light interference, which will definitely not be a problem on the Oregon coast. But beaches or viewpoints with no light around them will really make the sky stand out and youll see many more of the tiny fireballs.

Most meteors are seen looking about 50 degrees from the "radiant" which lies between Perseus and Cassiopeia, Todd said. This year, a waxing crescent moon sets well before midnight of the 12th so it will be best to observe them as soon as it is dark.

Todd said the Perseids are the best known intersections of Earths orbit and the cosmic dust of comets.

This meteor shower occurs when the Earth enters a debris path left by the comet Swift-Tuttle during its last trip past the Sun in December 1992, Todd said. As comets orbit the Sun, they shed an icy, dusty debris stream along the comet's orbit.

Todd said you can easily watch the meteor showers without the aid of optics, but binoculars are handy for watching trails (persistent trains) that may hang in the sky for one or more seconds after a meteor's passage.

OMSI is putting together two Star Parties on Sunday, August 12: one at Rooster Rock State Park in the Columbia Gorge and another at L.L. Stub Stewart State Park in the Oregon Coast Range. They both begin at 9 p.m. OMSI staff will be presenting informal talks about the meteor shower, constellations, and the summer sky. See https://omsi.edu for more information. Oregon Coast Lodgings for this event - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours















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CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP)  The city of Charlottesville marked the anniversary of last summer's white supremacist violence that sent ripples through the country with largely peaceful vigils and other events, but police had a brief, tense confrontation with students angry over the heavy security presence there this weekend.





"Why are you in riot gear? We don't see no riot here," activists chanted Saturday evening.





Shortly before a pre-planned evening rally to mark the anniversary of a campus confrontation between torch-carrying white nationalists and counterprotesters, activists unfurled a banner that said, "Last year they came w/ torches. This year they come w/ badges."





A group of more than 200 protesters then marched to another part of the University of Virginia's campus, where many in the crowd shouted at officers in riot gear who had formed a line.





Kibiriti Majuto, a coordinator for UVA Students United, said the students moved to another part of campus because they didn't want to be "caged" in the area where the rally had been planned.





"How does that create a sense of community? How are we going to be safe in that situation?" he asked.





Majuto said police "were not on our side" last year when white supremacists surrounded counterprotesters on the rotunda.





"Cops and Klan go hand in hand," he said.





Charlottesville city councilman Wes Bellamy said he tried to diffuse the situation and told the police commander that the students were upset by the officers' tactics, calling the officers' riot gear "over the top."





After a few minutes, most of the demonstrators began to walk away. There were no immediate reports of arrests on campus.





The rest of the day had been much quieter.





In the popular downtown shopping district Saturday morning, law enforcement officers outnumbered visitors. Concrete barriers and metal fences had been erected, and police were searching bags at two checkpoints where people could enter or leave.





"It's nice that they're here to protect us," said Lara Mitchell, 66, a sales associate at a shop that sells artwork, jewelry, and other items. "It feels good that they're here in front of our store. Last year was a whole different story. It looked like a war zone last year compared to what it is today."





On Aug. 12, hundreds of white nationalists  including neo-Nazis, skinheads and Ku Klux Klan members  descended on Charlottesville in part to protest the city's decision decided to remove a monument to Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee from a park.





Violent fighting broke out between attendees and counterprotesters that day. Authorities eventually forced the crowd to disperse, but a car later barreled into a crowd of peaceful counterprotesters, killing 32-year-old Heather Heyer.





The day's death toll rose to three when a state police helicopter that had been monitoring the event and assisting with the governor's motorcade crashed, killing two troopers.





Among the remembrance events that occurred Saturday was a "morning of reflection and renewal" at UVA that featured musical performances, a poetry reading and an address from University President James Ryan.





Ryan recalled how a group of students and community members faced off against the white supremacist marchers near a statue of Thomas Jefferson on campus, calling it a "remarkable moment of courage and bravery."





Clara Carlson was one of those counterprotesters. Carlson, 22, said she feared for her life when she and a group of her friends were surrounded by the phalanx of young white men at the statue.





Carlson's group locked arms and chanted slogans of their own, including "Black Lives Matter!" and "No Nazis, No KKK, No Fascist USA!"





Carlson said police didn't intervene to help her or her friends that night last year.





"I remember the police just standing around. They weren't there to protect us," she recalled. "I was grateful that I was able to come out of that alive."





Some community activists were concerned that this year's heavy police presence could be a counterproductive overreaction.





An independent investigation of the rally violence, led by a former federal prosecutor, found the chaos last year stemmed from a passive response by law enforcement and poor preparation and coordination between state and city police.





Lisa Woolfork, a University of Virginia professor and Black Lives Matter Charlottesville organizer, said police are mounting a "huge, overwhelming show of force to compensate for last year's inaction."





"Last year, I was afraid of the Nazis. This year, I'm afraid of the police," Woolfork said. "This is not making anyone that I know feel safe."





But others said Saturday they were comforted by the security measures.





Kyle Rodland, who took his young sons to get ice cream downtown, said he felt much safer than last year, when he left town with his family and stayed with his parents after seeing people armed with long rifles walking around outside his home.





Events marking the anniversary were also expected Sunday in both Charlottesville and Washington, D.C., where Jason Kessler, the primary organizer of last summer's rally, has obtained a permit for a "white civil rights" rally.





Heyer's mother, Susan Bro, said in an interview with The Associated Press that she has been dreading the anniversary of her daughter's death for months.





Bro likened losing a child to standing in shallow water as waves roll continually in.



WARNING for European visitors European Union laws require you to give European Union visitors information about cookies used on your blog. In many cases, these laws also require you to obtain consent.

As a courtesy, we have added a notice on your blog to explain Google's use of certain Blogger and Google cookies, including use of Google Analytics and AdSense cookies.A Conservative vice-chairman has issued a warning to the party of the dangers of disunity over Brexit.

Chris Skidmore, who was appointed this month by Theresa May to chair the new Conservative Policy Commission, said the Tories must not allow themselves to be defined in the public mind by the issue of Europe.

Mr Skidmores warning came as the October deadline approaches for agreement on the UKs withdrawal deal and a political declaration on the future UK/EU relationship.

Meanwhile, the facilitated customs arrangement at the heart of Mrs Mays Chequers plan for Brexit was described as fanciful by one trade expert, who questioned whether it could operate as suggested.

The Government has claimed that 96% of goods would pay little or no tariff at the border under the FCA scheme.

But Alan Winters, professor of economics at the UK Trade Policy Observatory at Sussex University, told The Times that this figure related to all trade, and the proportion for imports alone would be significantly lower.

It is weird that they are using the whole of trade for the basis of their calculation when it is clear that it is only imports that will be affected and it has nothing at all to do with exports,  said Prof Winters.

The idea that you would know where all finished goods being imported were headed also doesnt make sense.

This is clearly reasonable for some goods, like meat, that are heavily regulated, but we cannot see it applying automatically to all goods.

He added: The whole thing when you analyse it is pretty fanciful.

In a warning to feuding Tories from the Remain and Leave wings of the party, Mr Skidmore said: Together we stand, divided we fall.

The message is particularly acute as we approach the final stage of Brexit negotiations with the EU.

Writing in the Daily Telegraph, the Kingswood MP said that the history of the 1990s demonstrated the futility of members of the same political family prioritising division over our duty to serve the country.

He said that Conservatives must return their focus to domestic policies like public services, tax and controlling welfare bills if they are to unite our party and win for the future.

Mr Skidmore said his Commission will carry out one of the largest listening and engagement exercises ever conducted by a governing party with the aim of developing policies to win back voters from Labour.

And he stressed that delivering on Brexit would not be the key to winning the next election.

We must recognise the advantages that Brexit can bring, but let us never be defined by it, he said.

Millions of people wish to lead their own lives free from the monopoly of state control. It is those people we stand for and have a duty to fight for, united.

His comments came as new polling analysis suggested that a majority of British constituencies now want to remain in the EU.

Analysis by consumer analytics company Focaldata of polls involving more than 15,000 people found that 341 out of 632 parliamentary seats in England Scotland and Wales now have a Remain majority.

The company found that 112 seats had switched from Leave to Remain since the 2016 referendum, 97 of them in England, 14 in Wales and one in Scotland.Donald Trump pulled the US out of a deal which relieved sanctions on Tehran in return to an end to Irans military nuclear ambitions (Andrew Milligan/PA)

Americas ambassador in London has issued a call for the UK to join Donald Trump in putting pressure on Iran.

Britain and its European allies responded with dismay to Mr Trumps decision in May to pull out of the 2015 deal which relieved sanctions on Tehran in return to an end to Irans military nuclear ambitions.

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt joined with his French and German counterparts last week to voice their deep regret at Washingtons withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and vow to protect European companies from US reprisals if they continue to trade with Iran.

London has made clear it is committed to the JCPOA but is open to talking to the US about ways to address shared concerns about Irans regional activities.

Expand Close Woody Johnson urged the UK to reconsider its position on Iran (Stefan Rousseau/PA) PA Archive/PA Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp Woody Johnson urged the UK to reconsider its position on Iran (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

On Tuesday, Foreign Office minister Alistair Burt said that the US had not got this right and Britain was ready to stand up to Mr Trump, telling the BBC: Sometimes you need to take a stand against friends.

But Ambassador Woody Johnson urged the UK to rethink its position.

In an article in the Sunday Telegraph, he said: It is time to move on from the flawed 2015 deal.

We are asking global Britain to use its considerable diplomatic power and influence and join us as we lead a concerted global effort towards a genuinely comprehensive agreement.

Mr Johnson said the Tehran regime had used the flow of money coming into the country since the easing of sanctions not to improve the lives of ordinary Iranians but to beef up spending on the military and networks of proxy forces and terrorists.

He accused Iran of launching cyber attacks against Western democracies, sponsoring Hizbollah terrorists in Lebanon, arming militants in Yemen and publicly threatening to destroy Israel.

Only by presenting a united front can we exert the maximum possible pressure on the Iranian regime, and get it to finally change course and put an end to its malign and reckless activities both at home and abroadAmbassador Woody Johnson

It is clear that the danger from Iran did not diminish in the wake of the deal, he said. It grew.

Far from becoming a more responsible member of the international community, as we had all hoped, Iran grew bolder.

He called for a united front among Western nations to force Tehran into a change of course.

Only by presenting a united front can we exert the maximum possible pressure on the Iranian regime, and get it to finally change course and put an end to its malign and reckless activities both at home and abroad, said the ambassador.

If the regime does make tangible and sustained changes to behave like a normal country, America is prepared to resume full commercial and diplomatic relations. Iran will be free to develop advanced technologies and play a full role in the global economy.

Until then, America is turning up the pressure and we want the UK by our side.Ulster Grand Prix organisers have said rider Fabrice Miguet's injuries are "un-survivable".

In a statement on Sunday morning, they said he remained on life support.

"It is with much sadness that the Dundrod & District Motorcycle Club confirms that while Fabrice Miguet remains on life support, we understand that the medical expectation is that he has sustained injuries that are un-survivable.

"The 49-year-old rider from Normandy, France, was taken to the Royal Victoria Hospital following an incident at the Joeys Windmill section of the course during the Superstock race at the Ulster Grand Prix on Saturday 11th August.

"Our thoughts are with Fabrices family, team and many friends at this difficult time."

The Frenchman was rushed to hospital after the incident during the Superstock race at the Dundrod circuit on Saturday.

The 49-year-old came off his bike at the Joey's Windmill section of the track during the fourth lap, with racing stopped for more than an hour.

The Belfast Health Trust confirmed he had surgery on Saturday evening.

English rider Davey Todd, who was injured in the same incident, sustained suspected fractures in a separate crash.

Throughout the day there were four red flags.

A spectator was taken to hospital for a suspected broken shoulder after being struck by a bike while trying to take a picture with a selfie stick. It was reported the man was leaning out over the track at the time.

The day ended with racing abandoned at around 5.40pm after rain and fog closed in on the circuit, reducing visibility.How Can Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Affect Pregnancy? Basics lekhaka-DEVIKA BANDYOPADHYA

Pelvic inflammatory disease is a medical terminology that is used to refer to an infection that affects the reproductive organs. In short, this disease is most of the time referred to as PID. This condition can occur independently or sometimes as a symptom of a sexually transmitted disease such as Chlamydia or gonorrhoea.

Although these sexually transmitted diseases play a major role in the occurrence of PID, PID is an ailment that can also occur as a condition due to being infected by various bacteria. When the bacteria attack the vagina or cervix, the infection could move up to the reproductive organs resulting in PID.

The risk of PID increases when you have multiple sexual partners or an intra-uterine device or when using a douche. PID can also occur post few pelvic procedures, for instance, termination of a pregnancy. This disease can also occur after giving birth or as a result of a bowel infection or a ruptured appendix.

This illness is mostly found in young, sexually active women. In most of the cases of PID is a result of a sexually transmitted infection. Having unprotected sex increases the chances of developing this infection.

PID is not uncommon. Several women are diagnosed with the ailment globally every year. The prime effect of PID is infertility. However, have you wondered if you could be affected with PID when pregnant? Read on to know more about PID during pregnancy.

Can PID Occur During Pregnancy?

Although unusual, PID during pregnancy can be quite risky. When diagnosed with PID during pregnancy, the risks of preterm delivery increase drastically. Maternal morbidity also increases. If a pregnant woman is diagnosed with PID, she will need to be hospitalized immediately. The doctors would impart treatment with parenteral antibiotics. This is going by what is mentioned by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The general symptoms of PID are lower abdominal pain, fever, abnormal vaginal discharge, foul vaginal odour, painful urination and painful intercourse, including bleeding after the act. However, when pregnant, lower abdominal pain and vaginal discharge could be caused due to other factors as well. Therefore, if you are pregnant and experiencing such symptoms, then you should immediately contact your healthcare provider so that the presence of PID could be identified accurately.

To identify the occurrence of PID, a woman would need to undergo certain tests. A swab is taken from the cervix and vagina to test for the presence of bacteria. In certain cases, a urine and blood test could also be conducted. This is done to check for the presence of bacteria that are linked to sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhoea and Chlamydia. In some cases, a pelvic ultrasound can also be conducted to see if the fallopian tubes are enlarged.

PID And Pregnancy Complications

Women with a history of PID and who eventually become pregnant have high risks during the pregnancy. The chances of miscarriage, premature birth and stillbirth are high. When pregnant and having PID, one should seek early treatment. Even if the symptoms are mild, getting the disease treated early on can save you from several pregnancy complications during the later stages. It is important to complete the entire course of antibiotics prescribed for treating PID even if you see the symptoms to have vanished before completion of the entire course of medication.

Pregnant women who show even the slightest signs of PID are hospitalized immediately as it would be safer to receive antibiotics intravenously when pregnant. However, it is good to be aware that although antibiotics treat PID effectively, the damage already caused to the reproductive organs cannot be reversed.

Reducing The Risks Of Having PID

A woman should try her best to minimize the chances of the PID causing bacteria from being transmitted. It is essential to protect oneself from sexually transmitted infections. When having intercourse, stick to the use of condoms that would prevent body fluids, such as sperm and vaginal fluid from passing between the partners. When used correctly, condoms work efficiently in preventing sexually transmitted diseases. When engaged in an unsafe sexual activity, a woman should get herself tested for PID to avoid complications later on.

Can You Breastfeed When Seeking Treatment For PID?

When undergoing treatment for PID, you would be put on multiple antibiotics. If you have a baby who you breastfeed then it is important that you inform the doctor about it as there are chances that some of these PID treating antibiotics might not be safe to use when breastfeeding. Do not take any PID treating over-the-counter medication as this would be extremely harmful not just for you but also for your breastfed baby.

The CDC has brought out a list of the top three commonly used PID treating drugs. Two out of these three drugs fall into pregnancy category B and hence considered safe to be used when breastfeeding. However, the third drug belongs to category D and hence not suitable for intake when breastfeeding. These drugs are:

 Ceftriaxone: This drug can be safely used while breastfeeding. It has been marked safe by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

 Doxycycline: This drug might cause dental staining. It has also been associated with inhibited bone growth. The manufacturer of this drug also claims that there are some serious potential side effects to the consumption of this drug.

 Metronidazole: This drug poses a potential risk of tumour growth.

PID is an illness that requires quick medical intervention. Especially if you are pregnant, then seeking quick medical advice can save you from issues such as preterm labour and stillbirth. When pregnant, our utmost concern is the safety of the baby. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you take steps to prevent the chances of having PID.

Nevertheless, if you observe the signs and symptoms of PID, even in its most mild form, you should reach out to your doctor at the earliest. Being hospitalized and receiving early medical treatment to cure PID would help you in proceeding with your pregnancy till its full term with ease and comfort.

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Story first published: Sunday, August 12, 2018, 12:00 [IST]The company will do it through an array of interior exhibits and art to be installed throughout the mid-rise building, which Mount Vernon bought for $17.2 million in 2014 . Early images show rooms decorated with paintings by historic Boston artists, overlaid with the titles of songs by Boston music legends such as Aerosmith and Donna Summer.

Mount Vernon Co. said it will open the Revolution Hotel later this year, turning the former YWCA at 40 Berkeley St. into a 164-room hotel that will reflect Bostons rich history of notable innovations, rebellious individuals and revolutionary events.

Another boutique hotel is coming to the South End, this one with an unusual spin on the citys history, from fine arts to disco.

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We want to focus on the innovation that has made America what it is, said Mount Vernons chairman, Bruce Percelay. And we want to do it in a fun, exciting way that mixes cool and historic at the same time.

The hotel aims to attract younger travelers and creative types to the property, a former YWCA and then a hostel where many of the smaller rooms lacked private bathrooms. To help encourage such guests, the hotel will feature price points notably lower than at many other hotels in the core of the city, with rooms starting at about $150 a night.

The developer also is redoing the buildings large courtyard  behind a brick wall on Berkeley Street  to house an indoor-outdoor restaurant. The basement will become a bar that doubles as co-working space during the day.

The former Chandler Inn, now the Alise, is at 26 Chandler St., near the old YWCA thats being turned into a hotel. ShupeStudios

Mount Vernon, and the operator, Provenance Hotels, hope the Revolutions creative vibe and unusual theme will help set it apart in a market that has seen a string of new boutique hotels open in the South End and other nearby neighborhoods.

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Earlier this year, the Chandler Inn, nearby at Berkeley and Chandler streets, reopened as the upscale Alise Boston, while the Kimpton Nine Zero on Tremont Street downtown unveiled a $10 million redo. Meanwhile, fairly new properties such as the Verb in the Fenway and the Godfrey in Downtown Crossing have expanded the map of hip hotels in Boston.

But even among boutiques, let alone the chain hotels that dominate the market, a former YMCA-turned-innovation-themed-hotel  with shared bathrooms  is unique in the market.

This is one of a kind, Percelay said. There will never be another one of these.

Tim Logan can be reached at tim.logan@globe.com. Follow him on Twitter at @bytimlogan. A closing thanks to Prof Drinan ... and an open invitation | Main | FAMM provides detailed review of SRCA sentencing provisions most likely to be added to FIRST STEP Act 

August 11, 2018

Does Prez Trump have the courage to visit the largest maximum security prison in the country?

The question in the title of this post reflects my weak effort to try to goad Prez Donald Trump into accepting an invitation from Louisiana's governor as reported in this article:

Gov. John Bel Edwards has invited President Donald Trump to visit Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola, the largest maximum security prison in the country. In a letter sent Thursday (Aug. 9) [available here], Edwards said Angola would be a good place for Trump to explore the benefits of Louisiana's criminal justice overhaul last year. Edwards touted the vocational, victim reconciliation and faith-based programs housed at the prison, where nearly 6,000 inmates live. Specifically, Edwards said Trump should see the accredited Bible college located at Angola and the prison's hospice program, which has received national recognition. "It is not a secret that the implementation of these types of programs is what helped to transform LSP from one of the bloodiest prisons in America to a place of hope, transformation and reconciliation," Edwards wrote to Trump. Both the Bible college and the hospice program at Angola predate by several years the criminal justice overhaul Edwards spearheaded. In fact, inmates at Angola were not as significantly affected by the criminal justice law changes in 2017 as people in other parts of the prison system. Edwards' criminal justice overhaul dealt mostly with shortening sentences and expanding parole and probation opportunities for nonviolent offenders. It has resulted in Louisiana losing its title of incarceration capital of the country, but the drop in the prison population has occurred almost entirely among people serving time for lower-level offenses. Angola is home predominantly to people serving life sentences for violent crimes who will never be released from prison. Those inmates mostly did not see substantial changes in their sentences as a result of the criminal justice overhaul. The governor also attended a meeting in New Jersey with Trump and several other elected officials on criminal justice issues Thursday. Other governors attending included Gov. Matt Bevin, R-Kentucky, Gov. Phil Bryant, R-Mississippi, and Gov. Nathan Deal, R-Georgia. Edwards was the only Democrat invited to the meeting.

Notably, a little more than three years ago as detailed in this post, Prez Obama got lots of good press for making history by being the first occupant of the White House to visit a federal correctional facility. Back in 2015, I had this to say in the wake of this historic visit: "Though I am not really expecting it, I would love for this kind of presidential visit to a prison to become a regular habit and something of a tradition. As President Obama stressed in his recent speech to the NAACP, most of the persons behind bars "are also Americans" and all presidents should be committed to serving all Americans, even those who are incarcerated." It would be amazing for Prez Trump to be the one who turns visiting a prison into a tradition, and perhaps Prez Trump could even be goaded into trying to Prez Obama's visitation record by visiting both a state and a federal prison as he advocates for Congress to pass criminal justice reform.

Interestingly, earlier today Prez Trump had this tweet which mention his advocacy for prison reform in this way: "I'm pushing for prison reform to give people who have paid their debt to society a second chance. I will never stop fighting for ALL Americans!" I hope part of his push will include a visit to Angola and other prisons and jails, where millions of Americans reside.

A few older related posts:

August 11, 2018 at 06:50 PM | Permalink

Comments

Have Trump eat at a facility. Im told the food looks like something the dog coughed up.

Posted by: MidWestGuy | Aug 11, 2018 8:41:27 PM

Totally unrelTed to this thread, but you will get it.

Prison reform and sentenceing is a bunch of crap. I just read the paper, Chicago hD 68 shootings over last weekend and 20 friday, killing 12. If you cant stop the rising water, dont preach to me about flood control..... Comprenda.

Posted by: MidWestGuy | Aug 11, 2018 9:35:14 PM

Post a commentNine youths graduated from an internship programme organised by the Samoa One United Nations Youth Employment Programme.

With the aim of addressing youth unemployment, eight of the graduates secured employment. Two work full time at Wilex Samoa and six work for the Ah Liki Investment Group.

United Nations (U.N.) Resident Coordinator and the United Nations Development Programme Resident Representative, Simona Marinescu, said this years Youth Week theme - safe space for all  promoted the providing of a platform for young people to show their full potential.

We decided to start with an internship, we expose you to jobs, and business environments, so that you can realise if that is what you want to be whether in five years or 10 years, Ms. Marinescu said.

I will quote from Michael Jacksons song which has a powerful message, he said stand up for your rights. Let us start with the man in the mirror and ask him to change his ways for the world to become a better place.

Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development Assistant C.E.O. (economic Development), Nanai Sovala Agaiava, said it is under the work plan of the ministry to provide assistance and pathways into jobs for young people.

We started late 2016 working with the Chamber of Commerce and they remain our number partner in this work.

We coordinate the programme, in partnership with Chamber of Commerce, we identify the youths, we have a database where unemployed people register and we also get people that get referred to us. We also have a list of people who come through the door looking for jobs.

This is the fourth graduation, we went from 54 percent success rate of people securing jobs after the completing the programme to 84 percent, Nanai said.

Anyone is eligible to participate in the programme but have to register at the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development.

It is significant due to targeting our goal of increasing household income and at the same time reduces household expenditure. In addition to that, they are trained in financial assistance through Samoa Commercial Bank and Samoa Chamber of Commerce, he added.The Pope will meet rough sleepers in Dublin's Phoenix Park during his trip later this month.

According to the Sunday Independent, the pontiff will meet with them the day before he says mass for over half a million people.The Pope's niece will be displaying paintings of Dublin during the Papal visit to the capital later this month.

Argentine architect Cristina Bergoglio has exhibited in Spain, Belgium and France before coming to Ireland.A Chinese tourist has died after he was attacked by a hippo as he was taking pictures on the shores of Lake Naivasha in the Rift Valley, Kenya's wildlife authority said.

Another Chinese tourist was injured in the incident on Saturday night and received treatment in the local hospital in Naivasha, 91 kilometres (56 miles) south east of Nairobi, the Kenya Wildlife Service said in a statement.In a feat attributed to the recent heat wave that swept across Europe, rare Andean flamingos at a wetlands reserve in Britain have laid eggs for the first time in 15 years.

The exotic birds are "fickle breeders" and can go years without nesting successfully, the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust in Slimbridge, England, said in a statement this past week.

Unfortunately, none of the eggs were viable, but caretakers got the Andean flamingos into parenting mode with fostered chicks. Credit:Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust

But amid scorching temperatures on the continent  which have spawned wildfires in England and Wales, melted glaciers in Austria and Sweden, and broken records in Portugal  a surprising thing happened at the reserve.

Six of the flock laid nine eggs, which Mark Roberts, the aviculture manager at the reserve, called "a wonderful and welcome surprise."The gravity of the existential threat we face from Islamic Jihad is truly of epic proportions. It is essentially a battle pitting free-civilized man against a totalitarian barbarian. What is at stake is the struggle for our very soul - namely who we are and what we represent. The lives that were sacrificed for individual rights and freedoms that we've come to cherish are being chiseled away from right under our noses by the stealth jihadists. And many of us are in denial and totally clueless.



The left's appeasement and pandering to evil is nothing new. What makes their utopian delusions so infuriating and unpardonable is that it is not only they who will have to pay the consequences, and deservedly, so, they are thwarting and undermining our best efforts at resistance and are thus dragging us down in the process as well.







By Peter Lancz,, the head of the Raoul Wallenberg World Campaign Against Racism.61/69

Runners before the start of The Sun-Herald City to Surf. Credit:Brook Mitchell"As someone who was born in a regional hospital, I understand how important these services are to rural and regional families," she said.

Ms Frecklington said the reported high mortality rate and rural maternity service closure showed that healthcare was of little priority to Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.

Health Minister Dr Steven Miles announced the review following a News Corp report and scathing attack from the LNP. Credit:Chris Hyde - Fairfax media

LNP leader Deb Frecklington's comments followed a News Corp report that newborn babies were dying at a higher rate in Queensland country towns where there were no maternity services.

A special expert summit will review Queensland's rural maternity services after the state opposition fired a barrage of criticism at Health Minister Dr Steven Miles.

"It absolutely breaks my heart to think that bush babies arent a priority for Annastacia Palaszczuk and again it shows how out of touch she is with the bush.

"To think that Annastacia Palaszczuk's Labor government is looking at closing maternity centres in Theodore and Chinchilla when we know from statistics that a bush baby born in an area without maternity services is four more likely to not survive.

"What we need is priorities around services for healthcare rather than changing a hospital's (Lady Cilento Children's Hospital) name.

"The fact that Annastacia Palaszczuk and her health minister think that the priority is to change a hospitals name just shows how out of touch this premier is with Queensland.

"A local family raised issues about Chinchilla Hospital being on maternity bypass in April and we even raised the issue in Parliament on May 1, where the Health Minister played politics.This went on for a month, before she moved in with a series of extended family members. But because of family tensions and the pressures of looking after a teenage girl, those arrangements fell apart within three months. After her parents separated and her mother moved to Brisbane, Ms Henaway moved south to join her. By the time she was 18 and in the final year of high school, she discovered she was pregnant. I had to drop out of high school because I fell pregnant halfway through year 12, Ms Henaway said. Three weeks after she gave birth to her son, Oliver, the relationship with her mother was so strained Henaway said she had to leave.

I had to pack up my stuff and frantically find somewhere to live, so I went with my partner at the time to his parents house and we stayed there for maybe three months, she recalled. Its not fun having a baby and living in someone elses house. So that was a pretty interesting time. Not long after, the young couple decided to rent their own place. The plan was for Ms Henaway to finish school and for her partner to work. But she said her pregnancy was the catalyst that saw their relationship turn volatile. I knew deep down that it was wrong, and that it wasnt OK and it wasnt healthy and that I was better than that, she said. Because I had grown up in a really volatile environment, and I was constantly walking on eggshells, I was constantly thinking, If I do this or that, things will get better. But they didnt, so I left.

I didnt want to be seen as another statistic, you know? A single, young, Indigenous mother who was homeless. I always wanted to just be the person who made it within my family, because [in] my family its [been] broken relationships, and addiction and homelessness and incarceration. And I didnt want that. Even when I did leave, I was very specific about the things that I told people. I made sure it was just enough information that they would help to get me out, but I wouldnt overexpose myself for fear of what would happen, or in case my child was removed. Ive always been very straightforward with everything. But when I was going through that, nobody knew what was going on. Their move was so last-minute, Ms Henaway didnt have time to pack.

I got a call saying, Youve got a place and I had to just move straight away. I left a lot of things behind, she said. Ms Henaway and her son are now in permanent housing, but it took six months to arrange  three months in crisis accommodation followed by another three months in accommodation provided by Anglicare Southern Queensland. She says she is one of the lucky ones because they avoided being placed in a hostel by the Department of Housing. Carol Birrell says women in crisis accommodation will often be prioritised for long-term accommodation. Credit:Michael Franks Carol Birrell, service manager of Anglicare Southern Queenslands Homelessness Services, agreed that one of the side-effects of being in crisis accommodation was that clients were housed more quickly.

Had she been couch-surfing, she wouldnt have been as a high a priority, thats the difference, Ms Birrell said. People dont think it [homelessness] will ever happen to them or that most people experiencing homelessness have drug and alcohol addiction  wrong! Or that if you are experiencing homelessness that you must have done something to deserve it. Absolutely wrong. More than 85 per cent of women experiencing homelessness have experienced significant trauma, which results in disempowerment. We work alongside women to empower them, which is essential in providing them with choice to take control in rebuilding their lives. Our service provides accommodation and support for women over 18, and young women who are pregnant or parenting.

We initially provide temporary accommodation and support at our residential facility and then through our properties in the community while they are waiting for an offer from public or community housing, as affordable housing and private rental are generally out of reach for the women and families we support. Traumatic situations are often disempowering and homelessness can be also disempowering. It is essential that choice and control is a significant factor in helping to rebuild lives." For Anglicare, this involves being predictable, consistent and reliable with service delivery to support people to create safety and trust. Ms Henaway said her life has turned around to the point she wants to devote her career to helping others and championing the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. When I was 20, I went back to a flexible school learning centre and took my son with me, every day for 18 months. They mind your children while you finish off year 11 and 12.The LNP says Labors appointment of a former political director from a left-wing activist group to a Queensland government taxpayer-funded role during the last state election will be referred to the states crime watchdog.

State Opposition Leader Deb Frecklington said the appointment of Josh Genner, who worked for GetUp, to a temporary ministerial adviser role at A07 level in Deputy Premier Jackie Trads office was a corruption risk.

The hiring of Mr Genner was revealed in a letter from the Department of Premier and Cabinet that was among a tranche of ministerial staff documents released under right to information.

GetUp stated that Mr Genner left the organisation in July 2017.

The appointment of a GetUp political director to a taxpayer-funded position to assist Labor in the 2017 election is a corruption risk, Ms Frecklington said.A 22-year-old man has been charged following a series of alleged dangerous driving incidents that occurred between Caboolture and Gympie early on Sunday morning.

Shortly after midnight, police patrolling in Caboolture attempted to intercept an alleged stolen vehicle on Beerburrum Road.

Officers successfully deployed a tyre deflation device to intercept an alleged stolen car near Gympie.

Police allege the car rammed their vehicle causing extensive damage before it was driven off from the area.

Officers successfully deployed a tyre-deflation device on Steve Irwin Way at about 12.20am and continued to follow the vehicle as it travelled north on the Bruce Highway.The Queensland Museum will use 3D scanning to digitise and visualise extinct supersized species of mammals, reptiles and marsupials found at a central Queensland mine during the past decade.

The world-class technology will also share the museum's research with Australian students and international scientists and has been made available thanks to a $7.6 million partnership, between the Queensland Museum and global resources company BHP, called Project DIG (Digital Infrastructure Growth).

Project DIG will focus on exploring the South Walker Creek Mine site with Queensland Museum and BHP joining forces.

Queensland Museum Acting CEO Jim Thompson said the technology would change the way the museum shared the 1.2 million objects in the Queensland collection with the world.

"The Queensland Museum's purpose has never changed, in terms of presenting the history of Queensland and Australia," he said.A female cyclist was killed in the collision. Credit:Luis Ascui

A female cyclist is dead and a man is on the run after a stolen Mercedes cut into a bike lane on a popular shopping strip in Melbourne's south-east.

The driver fled the scene on foot after his sedan hit the cyclist on Chapel Street in South Yarra about 10am on Sunday.

The woman, a 27-year-old Dutch national, was treated by emergency services but died at the scene.

The man ran off after being helped from his vehicle by bystanders, police say.Kids in Altona marvel at Saturday's hail stones. Credit:Tim Young

Rain, hail and thunderstorms - Melburnians have suffered through a number of bleak weather conditions this weekend. But according to a senior forecaster, weve most likely put the worst of winter behind us.

Thunderstorms and rain blanketed the city on Saturday, with hail storms reported in a number of suburbs across the state, including Bentleigh, Ringwood and Port Melbourne. Temperatures in the citys west plummeted to a bone-chilling seven degrees.As a result now acknowledged by the Department of Health and the Environmental Protection Authority, living in Hope Valley and Wattleup exposed residents to potentially toxic air quality that significantly heightened their chances of ill health. According to a 2017 health report, Wattleup and the surrounding Kwinana area has in fact experienced one of the highest rates of colorectal cancer deaths, positive results from bowel cancer screening, and lung cancer death in Perth in recent years. "When we were clearing out Wattleup, we found huge clusters of cancers that were three and four times the cancer rates anywhere else in Western Australia," Mr Kierath said. "There was maps of the pollution and Wattleup and Hope Valley were right smack in those areas. At the time the development plan was examined in parliament, former member for Cockburn Bill Thomas publicly opposed sections of the act on the basis residents should not be forced from their homes - and if they were, to receive a fair acquistion price from LandCorp.

The last of Wattleup's family-owned businesses still based in the area. Credit:Hannah Barry But behind closed doors, Mr Kierath said the pair had conversations where Mr Thomas said he understood the importance of getting residents out of the area. More than 20 years on, Mr Thomas says openly his opinion aligns with Mr Kierath's. "Wattleup quite frankly should have never been built in the first place. It was built on prime industrial land, and the way it's positioned to the north west, it was in the middle of winds coming from the Kwinana industrial port," he said. "It's a planning blight. People should have got out earlier."

So why are 24 residents still sitting inside the ticking time bomb? A potentially deadly wait Some Wattleup residents believe the wait for Landcorp to buy-out properties has put its population further at risk health impacts, and are currently trying to quantify just how many residents have experienced health effects due to living in the suburb through a survey. "My neighbour over the road ... died about two years ago now," Wattleup resident Jim Wade said. "He tried to sell it on to set his family up because he had terminal cancer and Landcorp wouldn't buy his place.

"His wife is stuck there. She's trying to sell. She's got it on the market, but who's going to buy it?" Resident Eva Ricci said she remembers questioning government and its agencies repeatedly about health concerns from living in the Wattleup area when she noticed the significant amount of her neighbours developing terminal illnesses. "There were definitely clusters of cancer, but nobody took that on board," she said. "There was absolutely no acknowledgement at the time that [health concerns] were the reason we were being moved out." A pipe with a sign reading 'caustic soda' runs along a jetty at the Alcoa Corp in Kwinana. Credit:Carla Gottgens

Mr Kierath's admission is the first confirmation Ms Ricci has had in 20 years that her concerns were valid, but she is now worried his statements could have broader implications for those still stuck living in Wattleup. "If it should never have been built, it's now not just the townsite, but also now a whole periphery of people who have been exposed to those same health risks over the years," she said. Fellow resident Kelly Vidovich agreed, and said there was no reason residents should still be living in the area if there were ongoing health concerns. She pointed to a new development being built in nearby Hammond Park. "If moving out for health reasons was the case, why are these new subdivisions being built so bloody close?" she said.

A section of land near Munster up for development. Credit:Harcourt "That's even of more concern than the residents that are left here." A rock and a hard place Despite admissions residents could still be exposed to potentially harmful air quality, the process of getting locals out of Wattleup continues to stall. LandCorp has been charged with buying out the properties, but it's understood the authority experienced problems due to the limited funds it could draw from in order to pay out those sitting on rural properties.

The most current figures regarding property aquisition date back to 2010. "LandCorp completed the acquisition of approximately 459 properties in 2010, which included 142 houses in Hope Valley and 317 houses in Wattleup," LandCorp acting general manager Matt Read said. All single residential town site properties in Hope Valley and Wattleup have been purchased, and 53 rural properties were also bought out due to "hardship". LandCorp said 24 rural property owners still remain on its hardship register. It currently has the funds available to purchase just three.

Member for Kwinana Roger Cook said to his knowledge, the hardship register remained so long after eight years because funding had "dried up" under the Barnett government and was never replenished. "Having kicked off the process way back when, it has simply become stalled, and as a result of that, there are people still left there who can neither sell their properties or get out," he said. "LandCorp's not going to buy them out, but they can't develop their properties either because it's still subject to the overall master planning process. So it's really quite unfair for those people." But LandCorp continues to remain steadfast in that it will only purchase properties using its government funding that fit the "hardship clause" set out in the act. Former lands minister Terry Redman said during his four years involved with authorities between 2013 and 2017, the struggle for hardship and acquisition funding appeared to be the main reason the development had stalled.

"There was certainly no plan by the Barnett government to slow or stop the progress of Latitude 32 development," he said. Many properties in the zone have been locked away after Landcorp purchased them. Credit:Hannah Barry "Advice at the time was that Landcorp had a set budget to fund exit strategies for remaining residents, which of course got used up every year." But Mr Kierath, himself a former minister overseeing land throughout the early 2000s, said the authority's lack of funding was a weak excuse to leave residents stuck in Wattleup. "I would have expected them to acquire as many properties as they could," he said.

Mr Kierath said once plans ticked over a five-year mark and a negotiation hadn't been settled, LandCorp should have begun the process of issuing resumption notices in order to ensure the plan stays on track. A resumption notice warns residents the relevant authority intends to resume ownership of the property, and a landowner does not have to move out straight away. LandCorp was issued the power under the Hope Valley and Wattleup Redevelopment Act. It's pretty weak to say we don't have enough money to buy up the remaining landowners," Mr Kierath said. Eva Ricci, outside her old home in Wattleup. She moved from the home 11 years ago. Credit:Hannah Barry

Ms Ricci said it was becoming almost impossible for Wattleup owners to claim hardship. "You have to prove that you are very, very ill, bloody near death, or financially incumbent to make the hardship register, and then they'd screw you down even harder," she said. "We sold for $328,000. To get a comparable property for a house that was nowhere near the same size we had to pay $760,000. "We had to go into debt. We were debt-free and we had to go into debt. It cost us a fortune. We couldn't find anywhere with the amount of money we had." And to add insult to injury, residents could only sit idly by as West Mundijong was tapped to become the new link between the inner harbour and outer harbour back in June.

"I feel like we've been forgotten," Ms Ricci said. "They've bowled us down like we didn't exist. "They wiped the houses off the face of the earth on the pretext people would forget about it - that they would forget we were ever there." The fight for their future Residents are continuing the fight for their future, and local landowner Brian Vidovich made his latest attempt to find out more back in June. He wrote to the premier's office:

"I again draw your attention to the governments in-action, and failure at a duty of care, regarding hardship funding for the Hope Valley Wattleup Redevelopment Area Act, known as Latitude 32. "Correspondence I sent to you on the May 11 2017, outlined some of the issues experienced by those living in Latitude 32. "You acknowledged the letter and passed it on to your planning minister Rita Saffioti. It has been more than 12 months and there still has been no pro-active or decisive response from you or members of your cabinet. In response to his letter, from the Premier's office: "Dear Mr Vidovich,

"Thank you for your email to the premier ... the matter you have raised falls within the portfolio responsibility of the Minister for Lands, Hon Rita Saffioti MLA, and therefore your correspondence has been forwarded to that office for consideration and any appropriate response." Mr Vidovich has still not received a reply to his letter, but Ms Saffioti provided a statement to WAtoday regarding the status of the development. Rita Saffioti. Credit:Emma Young We are very sympathetic to residential landowners who feel in limbo due to the long-term plans for the Latitude 32 industrial development, she said. There was some initial funding in the 2018/19 budget to progress further property acquisitions from owners facing hardship.Damascus: At least 39 civilians, including 12 children, have been killed in a powerful explosion in a major rebel stronghold in Syria near the border with Turkey, a war monitor reported.

The residential building was thought to be storing weapons and ammunition, a war monitor said.

White Helmet rescuers extinguishing a fire at the scene of an explosion that hit a five-storey building in the village of Sarmada, near the Turkish border, north Syria, on Sunday. Credit:White Helmets/AP

The Sunday explosion happened in the town of Sarmada, which is near the Turkish border and north of the provincial capital Idlib city, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

Syrian civilians, displaced during the country's seven-year long war, were living in the building which was also used by an arms dealer, the Observatory said.The 911 Communications Center in Cleveland received a call on Saturday at 8:20 a.m., from the Chattanooga Police Department stating that a City of Chattanooga vehicle was stolen from its Public Works department. The city vehicle was tracked by GPS and a possible location was reported.

Elmore was detained. During a pat down, a bag of a green leafy substance, believed to be marijuana was discovered in his front right pocket. Contact was made with the City of Chattanooga stolen public works vehicle in front of 3230 Fulbright Road #6, Cleveland. Contact was made with Evan Elmore as he exited the rear door of apartment 6.Elmore was detained. During a pat down, a bag of a green leafy substance, believed to be marijuana was discovered in his front right pocket.

Elmore was transported to the Bradley County Justice Center where he was booked on a simple possession charge.

The stolen Public Works vehicle was released to the Chattanooga Police Department.

Charges are pending in Chattanooga for theft of an auto and burglary of a business.Washington: A short and sparsely attended white nationalist rally in Washington broke up late Sunday as police ushered the attendees into white vans and rove them away from a crowd of thousands of angry counter-protesters.

Police were out in force ahead of the planned white nationalist rally that was organised to coincide with the anniversary of last year's racially charged violence in Charlottesville, Virginia.

The "Unite the Right 2" event was set to take place at 5.30pm (7.30am AEST) in Lafayette Square, across the street from the White House. Several demonstrations by counter-protesters, who were expected to outnumber the white nationalists, were being held nearby and polcie were determined to keep the two sides from clashing.

White supremacist Jason Kessler arrives at the Vienna metro station to travel to Washington on the first anniversary of their rally in Charlottesville. Credit:AP

There was an enormous police presence to avoid the street brawls that broke out last year in downtown Charlottesville. A local woman, Heather Heyer, was killed when an Ohio man, James Fields, drove his car into a crowd of counter-protesters.Diversified group will invest about Rs 13 billion on expansion of its sugar and chemical businesses for future growth, a top company official said on Sunday.

is into sugar, fertilisers, seeds, chemicals, and UPVC windows businesses.

"We have initiated many expansion projects in the company, mainly in sugar and chloro-vinyl chemical businesses with an estimated investment of almost Rs 1,300 crore (13 billion)," Chairman and Senior MD Ajay Shriram told PTI in an interview.

These expansion projects would be completed in the next 12-18 months.

Giving details, Shriram said the company would be adding cane crushing capacity by 5,000 tonnes per day while a distillery would be set up with a capacity of 200 kilo litres per day. That apart, 30 MW co-generation power capacity would be added.

"The expansion in sugar business will cost us Rs 6.6 billion," Shriram said.

In the chemical business, he said the company is expanding capacity by 560 tonnes per day at its Bharuch and Kota plants with project cost of Rs 3.5 billion.

Shriram said another Rs 2.4 billion would be spent on 66 MW captive power plant at its Kota plant in Rajasthan.

In plastic business, Rs 320 million has been earmarked for adding capacity of 40 tonnes per day.

"The expansion will help in future growth of the company," he said.

The investment will be met through internal accruals and debt.

DCM Shriram posted a 6 per cent decline in consolidated net profit at Rs 2.18 billion for the first quarter of this fiscal due to losses in the sugar business.

Total income from operations, however, rose marginally to Rs 20.77 billion during April-June period of 2018-19 fiscal from Rs 20.65 billion in the corresponding period of the previous year.

"All our businesses have done well except sugar segment," Shriram said.

ALSO READ: UP gives push to setting up unrefined sugar plants to help cane farmers

The company sold sugar at loss because of record output in the country that led to a crash in prices, he said, adding that ex-mill rates have recovered on various government initiatives.

"We have been consistently pursuing initiatives to strengthen all our businesses. The company has been continuously investing to increase volumes, enhance competitiveness and strengthen the integration," said Shriram.

These steps would improve the company's returns profile and provide continuous growth, he added.

"The plans to further expand capacity are progressing well and will become operational in phases," said Vikram Shriram, Vice Chairman and MD, DCM Shriram.

ALSO READ: Uttar Pradesh sugar mills press for incentive of Rs 40 per quintal

The new power plant would be commissioned in October 2019 and this will reduce power costs, he added.

"In sugar business, we are further enhancing integration with additional power and distillery capacity to be commissioned in phases over next 18 months. This will provide stability to sugar business," Vikram said.

DCM Shriram is also strengthening its product portfolio in bioseed, farm solutions and Fenesta window businesses to achieve sustained growth.With even-money favourite Lather Up galloping around the first turn, regaining his stride and breaking again around the second turn, Thinkbig Dreambig sat pocket to pacesetter Jimmy Freight and slingshot to a 1:50 victory in the $400,000 Carl Milstein Memorial on Saturday, Aug. 11 at Northfield Park.

Leaving from post one Jimmy Freight secured the top as Lather Up attempted to challenge to his outside before losing stride. Lather Up flattened his gait and rallied first over through a :27.4 opening quarter prior to jumping again and leaving Jimmy Freight alone on the lead.

Pacing the half in :55.3, Jimmy Freight faced first-over pressure from Dorsoduro Hanover, parked from the start, heading to three-quarters. Springsteen tracked cover from second over while Iowa-shipper Minnie Vinnie gained positioning at the rail. Dorsoduro Hanover faltered as Jimmy Freight paced to three-quarters in 1:22.3 with Thinkbig Dreambig his closest threat. Driver Jordan Stratton tipped the Jimmy Takter trainee out of the pocket at the head of the stretch and slid to a narrow victory while Minnie Vinnie, behind by open lengths, snagged third.

Owned by Brixton Medical Inc., John Fielding, Goran Anderberg and Goran Falk, Thinkbig Dreambig, a colt by Bettors Delight from the Jate Lobell mare Extreme Dream, won his fifth race in 10 starts, amassing $325,537 in career and seasonal earnings.

"I was a little worried [that] Jimmy Freight would get away from me and[, with] Lather Up the half might just be a little too tight for him," Stratton said. "I was kind of nervous - I thought that would be my horse making a break around the first turn. But then the two hole worked out - I pulled a little bit early just to get him in gear and he responded.

"We knew we had a good shot going in; Jimmy [Takter] was very confident in this horse. He's a little bit of a late bloomer but he's really showing his talent now. He had plenty of pace finishing going across the wire and we were a little nervous going around the half but Jimmy's crew does a great job and I was never really worried when they told me they were confident in him."

Thinkbig Dreambig returned $17.00 to win.

The three winners of ethe Ohio Sires Stakes (OSS) divisions for three-year-old pacing fillies were each clocked in 1:52.4 or faster.

In the first $40,000 division, even-money favourite Baron Remy, a Ron Burke-trainee, paced to a winning 1:52 mile with Chris Page at the lines. The Yankee Cruiser lass was second in legs one and three of the series for owners Burke Racing, Silva, Purnell & Libby, L Karr and Weaver Bruscemi. Sweetnfamous was second at 11-1 while 60-1 long-shot Tipp City was third.

Baron Remy now has $191,934 in career earnings from five wins in 18 starts. She was bred by the Baron Racing Stable.

Matt Kakaley steered the Steve Carter owned and trained Velocity McSweets to a 1:52.4 victory in the second OSS division. The McArdle filly, out of the Western Hanover mare Playful Sweetheart, left the gate at 3-2 and paced on the front to collect her eighth win of the year in 18 starts. Pure Paradise, the 7-2 choice, was second by a head for Chris Page, while 7-5 Bad Girls Rule was third.

Velocity McSweets now has $67,440 in career earnings.

Lily Grace, at 9-1, led gate to wire for Joey Putnam and held off the even-money favourite Up Front Flor Ida by a head in the third OSS division. The daughter of Shark Gesture was timed in 1:52.3 for the mile. Princess Rougarou picked up show at 11-1.

Lily Grace is trained and co-owned by Dan OMara for Dawne Luce and breeder Teresa Maddox. She has amassed $79,520 in lifetime earnings.

(With files from the Ohio Sires Stakes)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Deal wins in the IT services space have clearly gone up, and so has the total contract value (TCV) of large deals, but this is not helping service providers in their incremental revenue growth. According to experts, the reason is that clients are pushing for vendor consolidation, which means all of them are competing for the same business pie and are ultimately snatching each others clients.

Besides, in their hunt for large clients, these companies have not been able to track the revenue slippages due to loss of smaller clients. India's second largest IT services ...Indian carrier Jet Airways Ltd sought to reassure investors on Saturday, saying it is meeting its payment obligations to lenders and other dues, such as staff commitments. India's biggest-full service airline issued the statement a day after its shares fell to a three-year low following an announcement that it had deferred its quarterly earnings report. Jet, which is part-owned by Abu Dhabi's Etihad Airways, was due to report quarterly earnings on Thursday but said in stock exchange filings that its audit committee had not signed off on them "pending closure of ...President has given assent to the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018, that provides for stringent punishment, including for those convicted of raping girls below the age of 12 years.

The amendment replaces the criminal law amendment ordinance promulgated on April 21 after the rape and murder of a minor girl in Kathua and another woman in Unnao.

"This Act may be called the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018. It shall be deemed to have come into force on the 21st day of April, 2018," a gazette notification said.

The Act will further amend the Indian Penal Code, Indian Evidence Act, 1872, the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012.

The President's assent, given on Saturday, came after Parliament approved the amendments to the law last week.

The Home Ministry drafted Criminal Law (Amendment) Act stipulates stringent punishment for perpetrators of rape, particularly of girls below 16 and 12 years.

Death sentence has been provided for rapists of girls under 12 years.

The minimum punishment in case of rape of women has been increased from rigorous imprisonment of seven years to 10 years, extendable to life imprisonment.

According to the new law, in case of rape of a girl under 16 years, the minimum punishment has been increased from 10 years to 20 years, extendable to imprisonment for rest of life, which means jail term till the convicts "natural life".

The punishment for gang rape of a girl below 16 years will invariably be imprisonment for the rest of life of the convict.

Stringent punishment for rape of a girl under 12 years has been provided with the minimum jail term being 20 years which may go up to life in prison or death sentence.

Gang rape of a girl under 12 years of age will invite punishment of jail term for the rest of life or death, the Act says.

The measure also provides for speedy investigations and trial.

It has prescribed the time limit for investigation of all cases of rape, saying it has to be mandatorily completed within two months.

The deadline for the completion of trial in all rape cases will be two months.

A six-month time limit for the disposal of appeals in rape cases has also been prescribed.

There will also be no provision for anticipatory bail for a person accused of rape or gang rape of a girl under 16 years.India is ready to launch two space missions every month, with 31 launches slated to take place over the coming 16 months, a top official said on Sunday.

"The space agency has a tight schedule ahead, as we are targeting nine launches over the next five months and 22 missions from February to December in 2019, aiming at two per month," the state-run Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Chairman K. Sivan told reporters in Bengaluru.

In all, is looking at 31 space missions in a span of 16 months starting September 2018 to December next year.

"We have also identified 50 satellites that will be launched over the coming three years," Sivan said on the sidelines of an event here to unveil a statue (bust) of the father of India's space programme, Vikram Sarabhai, on his 99th birth anniversary.

The next mission by will launch two commercial satellites from Britain in September onboard Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) C-42 rocket.

Among the key missions in the coming few months are the launches of GSAT-29 onboard Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) Mk 3 D2 in October to facilitate internet to rural India, GSAT-11 on November 30 onboard Arianespace space agency's rocket from French Guiana on the north Atlantic coast of South America.

The space agency will be attempting its second lunar mission, "Chandrayaan-2", on January 3, after its first mission a decade ago in 2008.

Advanced satellites which can perform earth observation, ocean mapping etc will be launched over the coming year, Sivan said.

"We have also scheduled the launch of GSAT-20 in August next year, which along with the three other satellites, will help in expanding 100 Gbps (Giga bytes per second) of internet connectivity to rural India," he added.

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, will also be conducting a test flight in May-June next year of its new rocket, Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).

With a cost one-tenth of that of a PSLV, and with a length of 34m, SSLV will be used to launch smaller satellites that weigh between 500-700kg.

"It will be an on-demand launcher, requiring minimum infrastructure, and can be readied for launch within 72 hours, as against a PSLV rocket which requires 45-60 days before the launch," Sivan added.

Once designed by mid-2019, the SSLV production will be taken over by the industry through ISRO's commercial arm Antrix, he added.

Through another demo flight next year, ISRO will test the reusability of a rocket by testing the landing capacity.

In a bid to step up its launching capacity, ISRO will outsource the making of PSLV rockets to Indian industry by next year, Sivan said.

"The maiden flight of the rocket made by Indian industry will be in 2019-20," he added.

The city-based space agency also plans to have a student satellite programme next year, inviting students to build their own satellites to be launched by ISRO.

It will also be setting up six incubation centres across the country to interact and promote startups in the space sector, Sivan added.India's second moon mission will now be launched in the January-March window in 2019 instead of later this year as the design was changed to enable it land on the lunar surface, a top official said here today.

"We have planned to launch Chandrayaan mission in January 3. We are fixing with that (date) and targeting that. But that is an open window. We can go up to March also. As we are coming closer (the date), we may miss the target," he said.

The reason for postponing the mission was that there were certain important changes made in the design so that it could easily land on the lunar surface, he said.

He was speaking on the sidelines of a function, where bust of Dr Vikram Sarabhai, the architect of the Indian space mission, was unveiled.

Asked why the weight of was increased by 600 kg, he said noticed during experiments that after the moon lander was ejected, the satellite would shake. So they decided that the design modification was required for landing and mass has to be increased.

"We also realised that the orbiter required more phases, which required more fuel," he told reporters.

On the space agency's future missions, Sivan said also plans to launch 50 satellites in the next three years.

the space agency would launch 22 satellites in 2019, the maximum in any year in the history of ISRO, he said.



"Next year from February to December we plan to have 22 missions with almost two missions per month, which is a very important activity. This tight schedule of programmes we are doing for the first time.

We have set a target.We may not be able achieve but we are targeting it. So many missions in a year is a huge target for the first time in the history of ISRO," Sivan said.

The remaining months of 2018 would also be very hectic for ISRO as it plans to launch at least two missions every month, he said.

"Our next mission is PSLV C42, which will launch NOVASAT and S1-4. These two satellites are commercial satellites from the U.K.It is a commercial mission and is planned in September. Subsequently we have two missions each month," the ISRO chief said.

In October this year ISRO would launch GSAT29 for the Digital India programme and hyper spectrum imaging satellites along with 30 commercial satellites, Sivan said.

The following month GSAT-7A will be launched, while in December there would be two missions,GSLV-F11 launching AMISAT and GSAT-31, a replacement for INSAT 4CR, whose life will get over by January, he said.

ISRO would have two missions Chandrayan-2 by Mark 3 and the PSLV P45 launching RA-SAT 2B next year.

The focus area of these launches was to enhance the communication so that rural India gets high bandwidth data connectivity, somewhere between 80 GBPS to 100 GBPS, he said.

Asked about GSAT 6A, with which communication had been lost after its launch in March 31 this year, he said ISRO has not given up hope and was still trying to establish radar contact with the satellite.

"We have not given up hope. We will wait till a year," he said when asked how much time ISRO would take to announce that the GSAT 6A was a failed mission.Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for a resumption of the political process in the Maldives.

"As a close and friendly neighbour, India wishes to see a stable, peaceful and prosperous Maldives that meets the aspiration of its citizens," Modi said in an interview with the Times of India published on Sunday.

"Recent political developments there, however, have been a matter of considerable international concern," he said.

"We hope the Maldives government will ensure early resumption of the political process and allow democratic institutions, including the judiciary, to function independently in a fair and transparent manner. This will create a conducive environment for the presidential elections."





Ties between India and the Maldives have been strained since imposed Emergency in February after the Supreme Court ordered the release and retrial of former President Mohamed Nasheed and other prisoners. The Emergency was later lifted.

Regarding Nepal, Modi said New Delhi and Kathmandu "shared historical, close, friendly and even family ties for thousands of years".

"We have reinforced these bonds with strong ties in all spheres, including defence, security, trade, investment and development partnership. As a result, this relationship today is extremely broad and incredibly deep."

In the face of Nepal Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli's affinity for China, Modi said: "It is quite natural for China or any other country to have its own relationships with others, including our neighbours."

As for Sri Lanka, Modi hoped Colombo would keep in mind India's security concerns.

"Our ties with Sri Lanka are deep-rooted, multidimensional and enduring. They stand on their own and are not dependent on our or Sri Lanka's relations with any third country.

"We have no doubt that our Sri Lankan friends will keep in mind our security concerns and sensitivities."Nasa's Parker Solar Probe, mankind's first mission to 'touch' the Sun, has been launched today on a seven-year-long journey to unlock the mysteries of our star's fiery outer atmosphere and its effects on space weather.

Liftoff took place from Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in the US early on Sunday.

The launch of the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket carrying the spacecraft was scrubbed yesterday due to a violation of a launch limit, resulting in a hold.

The car-sized spacecraft will travel directly into the Sun's atmosphere, about four million miles from its surface - and more than seven times closer than any spacecraft has come before, thanks to its innovative Thermal Protection System.

The $1.5 billion mission will perform the closest-ever observations of a star when it travels through the Sun's outer atmosphere, called the corona.

It will make 24 passes through the corona during its seven-year mission. The mission will rely on measurements and imaging to revolutionise our understanding of the corona and how processes there ultimately affect near-Earth space.

The Parker Solar Probe carries a lineup of instruments to study the both remotely and in situ, or directly. Together, the data from these instruments should help scientists answer three foundational questions about our star.

A Sun-skimming mission like Parker Solar Probe has been a dream of scientists for decades, but only recently has the required technology - like the heat shield, solar array cooling system, and fault management system - been available to make such a mission a reality.

Parker Solar Probe will explore the corona, a region of the only seen from Earth when the Moon blocks out the Sun's bright face during total solar eclipses.

The corona holds the answers to many of scientists' outstanding questions about the Sun's activity and processes.On a star-studded card Sunday (August 12) at Tioga Downs, Canadian-connected horses captured the majority of the stakes events including the co-featured $141,000 Joie De Vie Trot and $186,000 Crawford Farms Trot.

Trainer Luc Blais claimed the top two positions in the $141,000 Joie De Vie Trot with Dream Together rallying to the inside of late-closing Emoticon Hanover to finish first and second ahead of tempo-setter Hannelore Hanover in 1:53.1. One race later, Jeff Gillis trainee Will Take Charge delivered as the 3-5 favourite with a track record 1:51.2 mile in the $186,000 Crawford Farms Trot.

Ariana G left for the top in the Joie De Vie with Dream Together securing the pocket and Hannelore Hanover, the 1-4 favourite, unhurried from third. Hannelore Hanover soon vacated her spot at the rail and charged first over to take control following a :26.4 first quarter.

Hannelore Hanover held command to the half in :55.4 as Broadway Donna, parked from the start, committed first over moving to the backstretch. Dream Together remained third to the inside as Broadway Donna applied minor pressure by three-quarters in 1:24.1 before retreating into the stretch.

Dream Together slipped off the rail while Emoticon Hanover kicked off cover towards the center of the track heading into the stretch. Hannelore Hanover clung to her slimming lead as Emoticon Hanover charged through the center of the course and Dream Together splitting her competition into the sixteenth pole to take a slight advantage at the wire.

Returning $29.60 to win, Dream Together, a four-year-old mare by Muscle Hill from the Andover Hall mare Danae, won her third race in 11 starts this season and her 11th in 33 overall, earning $649,718. Luc Blais conditions for owner Determination and Bob McClure was in the bike.

"Coming in we just wanted to get a good showing for her and everything," McClure said. "But we weren't anticipating the amount of racing luck we've had the last two weeks. Luc's got her on her game, and the other mare too - I didn't know if I caught her in the stretch; she doesn't usually let too many by."

Will Take Charge moved to the top by the quarter and maintained a steady pace in progress to a 1:51.2 track-record mile for aged trotting geldings in the Crawford Farms Trot.

I Know My Chip showed speed heading to the first turn with JL Cruze, from post nine, leaving for position and Will Take Charge floating away. Driver Tim Tetrick tipped the five-year-old Kadabra gelding wide and charged to the front past the quarter in :27.1. He faced no pressure on the lead by the half in :56.1 and three-quarters in 1:23.3 while Top Flight Angel, from fourth, attempted to close from first over with Pinkman in tow rounding the final turn. Will Take Charge finished clear of I Know My Chip in second with JL Cruze third.

Owned by Mac Nichol, Will Take Charge, out of the Yankee Glide mare Celebrity Angel, won his eighth race in 16 starts this season and his 20th in 66 overall, surpassing $800,000 in career earnings. He paid $3.50 to win.

"This horse has raced on the front before; I just think he's better chasing but I thought this was his time to take charge," Tetrick said. "It worked out where I didn't even have to be first up a long way.

"I let him trot along - we got a pretty nice half and if you go too slow sometimes you keep everybody in it [and] you get outsprinted by someone sitting third or fourth at the rail. My horse can carry [the speed] and I wasn't too worried when I saw the half, I was pretty comfortable and cruising from there."

While Hitman Hill posted slow fractions on the lead, American History moved first over to the backstretch and blitzed the pacesetter into the final turn, pulling away to win the first EBC colt elimination in 1:51.1.

Hitman Hill sat second to My Delight rounding the first turn before brushing to the lead past the quarter in :28.1. Continuing to the half in :57.2, Hitman Hill faced no pressure until American History edged first over to the backstretch. The two match strides and accelerated to three-quarters in 1:23.4 before American History overtook Hitman Hill into the stretch. Heavenly Sound, from second to last, rallied wide of horses to finish third with Ghost Dance coming from second over for fourth.

Winning his fourth race in 10 starts this year and seventh in 16 overall, American History, by American Ideal from the Camluck mare Perfect Touch, competes for owners Brittany Farms LLC, Marvin Katz and American History Racing. Yannick Gingras piloted the Tony Alagna trainee who returned $3.30 to win.

"This horse likes to chase horses," Gingras said. "He had plenty left; the plugs were still in. I was taking it easy with him in the stretch but of course he can go more and the other division is tough, too, so I think they can go faster."

Sent the 1-9 favourite, Courtly Choice surged from fourth to the lead heading to the half and flew to a 1:49 win in the second EBC colt elimination.

Ideal Feeling led the field by the quarter in :27 with Real Surreal in the pocket and Keystone Tenacious third. Driver David Miller moved the Blake MacIntosh trainee wide into the stretch and paced up to match strides with Ideal Feeling before powering to the front through a :55 half.

Courtly Choice continued on the lead by three-quarters in 1:21.2. Real Surreal tipped wide from third to chase with Ideal Feeling gaining ground to the inside at the head of the stretch. Ideal Feeling steadily narrowed Courtly Choice's margin but still finished second with Real Surreal taking third and Keystone Tenacious fourth.

By Art Major out of the Camtastic mare Lady Ashlee Ann, Courtly Choice, owned by Hutt Racing Stable, Mac And Heim Stables, Daniel Plouffe and Touch Stone Farms, won his seventh race in 10 starts this season and his ninth in 22 overall, earning $532,796. He paid $2.20 to win.

"I don't want to sound too confident but he races great [either on the lead or off the pace]," Miller said. "He definitely needed a race like that - he's been going pretty hard in the last couple of starts."

Below is the field for the Empire Breeders Classic Colt Final (elimination winners drew first from posts 1-6):

1. Heavenly Sound

2. Keystone Tenacious

3. American History

4. Mach N Cheese

5. Courtly Choice

6. Hitman Hill

7. Ideal Feeling

8. Ghost Dance

9. Real Surreal

AE My Delight

Alexis Faith pulled pocket into the stretch first time and remained in front through the line in 1:52 in the first EBC filly elim. The Casie Coleman-trained daughter of American Ideal sat behind Ms Cheesman as she dashed to the lead and passed the quarter in :27. Driver Jim Morrill Jr. circled Alexis Faith to the lead moving to the second turn while Pueblo Blue Chip, from third, tipped first over through a :56 half.

Pueblo Blue Chip drew within a length of Alexis Faith moving to three-quarters while Ms Cheeseman stalked with a gap in the pocket and Painted Lady behind her at the rail. Through three-quarters in 1:23.3, Alexis Faith turned into the stretch and held off a final bid from Pueblo Blue Chip to win while Painted Lady edged past Ms Cheesman to take third.

Owned by West Wins Stable, Jim Fielding, J. Robert Darrow and Kevin McKinlay, Alexis Faith, out of the Cams Card Shark mare Cannae Cammie, won her third race in nine starts this season and her ninth in 18 overall, compiling $333,168 in earnings. She paid $2.80 to win.

Youaremycandygirl rushed wide around the first turn and strolled on the lead to win the second EBC filly elimination in 1:51.

Im Trigger Happy pushed from the rail to protect positioning with Solitary leaving to the inside of Youaremycandygirl into the first turn. Believe In Me parked Solitary as she tried to tuck towards the cones, prompting Youaremycandygirl three wide through a :27.1 opening quarter.

Youaremycandygirl cleared control moving to the second turn and paced to the half in :56.2. She experienced no pressure on the lead as Im Trigger Happy continued to chase in the pocket and Newsday from first over in third. Following three-quarters in 1:23.2, Youaremycandygirl cruised through the stretch as Im Trigger Happy closed the margin slightly in second and Believe In Me holding third from Solitary shooting through the passing lane. Majorette Angie, finishing fifth, also qualified for the final.

Trained by Ron Burke for owner William Donovan, Youaremycandygirl, by American Ideal out of the Somebeachsomewhere mare Sweet Lady Jane, won her fifth race in nine starts this season and her 14th in 20 overall, earning $1,118,609. Yannick Gingras sat behind the $2.10 winner.

Below is the field for the Empire Breeders Classic Filly Final (elimination winners drew first from posts 1-6):

1. Alexis Faith

2. Majorette Angie

3. Solitary

4. Pueblo Blue Chip

5. Im Trigger Happy

6. Youaremycandygirl

7. Painted Lady

8. Believe In Me

9. Ms Cheesman

AE ApothicV S Naipaul, the Nobel laureate who documented the migrations of peoples, the unraveling of the British Empire, the ironies of exile and the clash between belief and unbelief in more than a dozen unsparing novels and as many works of nonfiction, died on Saturday at his home in London. He was 85. His family confirmed the death in a statement, The Associated Press reported. In many ways embodying the contradictions of the postcolonial world, Mr Naipaul was born of Indian ancestry in Trinidad, went to Oxford University on a scholarship and lived the rest of his life in England, ...This article was first published on September 21, 2010. Business Standard is republishing this article as V S Naipaul passed away on August 11, 2018.

I think its very good to ask yourself who you are and why youre here and what has made you. In 1974, when V S Naipaul made that statement to an audience of students, he had been asking himself those questions for over a decade. Twelve years had passed since he had written The Middle Passage, his first collection of travel writings; 16 since he had written his first novels. The Middle Passage is ...Aviation regulator is set to conduct a financial audit of the Naresh Goyal-promoted Jet Airways, amid its fiscal conditions under pressure due to the surging jet fuel prices and low fares, a source said.

The (DGCA) has already evaluated the financial health of the national carrier recently, besides conducting a special audit of Air Deccan, the source close to the development said.

The financial audit of airlines, which has been conducted in the past too, is done to assess their fiscal health and also ensure that they are not compromising on safety due to financial stress.

"We will conduct the financial audit of from August 27. A similar audit of has been completed," the source said.

The financial audit of was necessitated as the airline has been defaulting on salary payments to its employees, besides grounding a number of aircraft due to payment issues with vendors.



The has also carried out a special audit of and will soon be conducting a similar exercise on Air Odisha, following orders from the aviation ministry, the source said.

The two carriers, which together have been mandated to fly on 84 routes under the government's regional connectivity scheme, had recently cancelled a number of flights, citing shortage of pilots and technical glitch in their aircraft, the source said.

had started operations in December last year while took to the skies in February this year.

The Ahmedabad-based GSEC Aviation and Monarch Networth Capital had last year acquired 100 per cent stake in and 60 per cent in

The Naresh Goyal-promoted Jet Airways, in which Gulf carrier holds 24 per cent stake, is grappling with financial woes and its share price has also taken a beating in recent weeks.



On August 9, the board of directors of deferred the matter of consideration of the unaudited financial results for the June quarter.

Regulator is looking into Jet Airways' deferring the announcement of the June quarter results following reservations expressed by the airline's audit committee.

The loss-making Air India, which failed to attract any buyer earlier this year, is also facing a cash crunch and is awaiting Rs 9800 million additional funding from the government.

It delayed the payment of salaries to its employees for the fifth consecutive month in July.Nowhere is this more true than in India, which is home to 190.7 million undernourished people, the most in any country. While this may seem like a fantastic claim in the context of the fastest growing economy in the world, here are some statistics from the report: 14.5% of the Indian population is under-nourished 47.5 million Indian ...

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.



Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard.



Digital EditorIn this July 22, 2018, file photo, Pakistani politician Imran Khan, chief of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, addresses an election rally in Karachi, Pakistan. Photo: AP | PTI

Pakistan's newly-elected parliament is meeting on Monday for the first time to start the process of transition and handing over powers to the new government.

President has already summoned the maiden session of National Assembly, the lower house, at 10 am in parliament house here.

According to law, the speaker of the previous assembly, Ayaz Sadiq, will administer the oath to the new lawmakers, followed by election of the speaker and the deputy speaker.

After the election of the new speaker, the outgoing speaker will give him the oath and hand over charge of the new house.Congress MLA Kawasi Lakhma on Sunday claimed that 15 innocent villagers were killed in the recent crackdown on Naxals by the security forces and not 15 Naxals.

"Claims made by government aren't completely correct. Naxals killed in Andhra, Telangana, and Maharashtra are top leaders. But in Bastar, where they killed 15 Naxals, actually innocent villagers were killed. It's what the BJP does, they're enemies of tribal people," he told ANI.

Lakhma further said that a Congress delegation will visit the encounter site for investigation in the coming days.

However, BJP state spokesperson Sanjay Shrivastava hit back at the Congress MLA and said that the latter's statement rendered the sacrifice of the slain jawans futile.

"It is unfortunate that whenever security forces launch big operations against Naxals, Congress leaders issue such statements. With this statement of his, Kawasi Lakhma has rendered the lives of our martyred jawans and their sacrifice, as futile," he said.

Shrivastava further claimed that the Congress never supported the government to eliminate Naxalism.

"We are here since 2003, before which Congress was in power. Whenever any incident takes place, their statements are only against the jawans. We are developing Bastar and those Naxals causing trouble there are frustrated. Congress has never supported the government over Naxalism issue. Whenever any terrorist or Naxal is killed in the country, they tend to raise questions over it," he said.

A few days back, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had demanded a judicial probe into the killing of 15 Naxals who were gunned down by security forces on August 6 in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district.

Addressing a press conference earlier this week, AAP's State Secretary Uttam Jaiswal accused the police of killing innocent farmers in the name of terrorists and constituted a team to probe the matter.

In the incident, 15 Naxals were killed and four apprehended.

Apart from the Naxals gunned down, an area committee member (ACM) with a bounty of Rs 5 lakh was arrested along with a female Naxal.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)At least two accomplices of terrorists were detained by the Jammu and Kashmir Police on Sunday after an encounter broke out near Srinagar's Batamaloo area.

"Incriminating material was recovered from the site of encounter. Besides this, two accomplices of the terrorists have been detained," Jammu and Kashmir Police said in its statement.

The police further informed that a cordon and search operation has been launched in the area as there might be a possibility that terrorists have also suffered injuries during the gunfight.

"Security forces exercised maximum restraint in retaliation considering the residential population and other civil establishments around the area. A massive search operation is underway in the area as it is understood that in the exchange of fire terrorists are also injured," the statement said.

Following a tip-off about the presence of terrorists in the area here, the security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Batamaloo area early this morning.

The search operation soon turned into an encounter after the terrorist fired upon the forces, who retaliated strongly.

"In the initial burst of fire, three security personnel sustained injuries and were evacuated to the hospital for medical attention. However, one of them identified as Sgct Parvaiz succumbed to his injuries," it added.

Meanwhile, police has registered a case in this regard and also initiated a probe into the matter.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An impressive group of trotters will be taking over Georgian Downs on Sunday, August 19 for the $75,000 Earl Rowe Trot.

The signature race of the Georgian Downs racing meet is named in honour of Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame member and 20th Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Honourable Earl Rowe.

Invitations have been extended to top older trotters to strut their stuff and vie for the winners share of $75,000.

The Earl Rowe Trot will headline an outstanding evening of fun for the entire family on August 19.

A variety of free activities for kids will be available including glitter art and face painting, a bounce house and pitching cage. Keeping everyone fueled throughout the evening, special $1 food items will also be available.

The popular mini-horses will be on display for an exciting exhibition between races and will also be made available for a meet and greet. The Wanna Drive team will also be onsite to provide fans the opportunity to sit behind a standardbred.

Winning wont be restricted to the racetrack, as drawings for raffle prizes will take place all evening.

Fans looking to enjoy the Earl Rowe Trot in style can make a reservation for the Buffet by emailing [email protected].

As always, admission and parking are free. Post time is 6:00 p.m. Visit GeorgianDowns.com for more information.

(with files from Georgian)A recent study has discovered that adolescent programs across the world receive only a tiny share of international aid, even though young people make up 30 percent of the population of low-income countries.

Melbourne's Murdoch Children's Research Institute examined how much international donors spent on youth projects in 132 low-income countries over the 14 years from 2003 to 2015. The research found that only 1.6 percent of global investments in over those 13 years were spent on projects for adolescents even though adolescents account for 12 to 13 percent of disease burden in the developing world.

Co-author University of Melbourne Prof George Patton, from MCRI's Centre for Adolescent Health, said, "Of the little invested, most funds go to adolescents indirectly through programs for HIV particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. However, a large number of young people in low-income countries are being disabled as a result of depressive disorders, self-harm, and car accidents."

Prof Patton said these youth challenges received almost no investment, yet expenditure in neglected areas such as mental health and car accidents would bring huge benefits for adolescents - for their future health, their productivity and the healthy growth of their children. He also said that Despite supporting the UN's 'Global Strategy for Women's, Children's and Adolescents Health', international investment from agencies have so far failed to make serious investments in the world's young people.

Study senior author Chunling Lu said, "Considering how important young people are for the future wellbeing and economic development of low- and middle-income countries, international donors need to reconsider both the levels and the patterns of investments that they are making." He said the world now has the largest group of adolescents in human history.

.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)More than 100 people were killed and 133 injured as hundreds of Taliban militants launched an attack in Afghanistan's city of Ghazni since August 10. The clashes are still going on.

Of the deceased, at least 90 were either military or law enforcement personnel, while civilians accounted for 13 of the deaths, reported Sputnik.

The first reports of the attacks surfaced on Friday, with local media reporting heavy losses for the Taliban, having lost over 100 militants.

Tolo News reports that Afghanistan's Army Chief of Staff Mohammad Sharif Yaftali is slated to arrive in the province later today to take charge of the situation.

203 Tander Military Corps personnel have confirmed that the clashes were still ongoing, with the Taliban setting the Independent Election Commission offices ablaze, while also blocking the Kabul-Kandahar Highway.

Foreign troops have extended assistance along with air support in the fight against the militants.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Shiromani Akali Dal leader Naresh Gujral said that the Referendum 2020 was an attempt by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency to create problems in Punjab, after failing to do so in Kashmir.

Speaking to ANI about the Referendum, Gujral said that it is wrong to call it the Sikh Referendum because the Sikh community has always been loyal to India.

"Very minuscule Sikh population settled abroad is participating in this. No Sikh in India has sympathy for this as Sikhs are loyal Indians. They've made more sacrifices for India than any other community," he said.

Earlier in the day, All-India Anti-Terrorist Front chairman M.S. Bitta had also said that the Referendum 2020 was being orchestrated by the ISI, and assured that Punjab would always remain a part of India.

"There was no Khalistan, there will be no Khalistan and we won't let there be Khalistan. The nation is one. Punjab was always a part of India and will continue to be," he added.

Former chairman of Sardar Patel Memorial Society, UK, Praveen Patel, who was seen protesting with a group of people of Indian origin against the Referendum 2020 in London, too, echoed a similar stance.

"We're living in this country and they are talking about free Khalistan in India. We believe that this has been organised in conjunction with the ISI in Pakistan and Khalistanis in Canada," he claimed.

Sikhs for Justice (SJF), a separatist Sikh organisation, had planned a campaign in August on 'London Declaration on Referendum 2020', seeking a separate Khalistan state.

Last month, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said a demarche had been issued to the United Kingdom, as the event was being organised to spread hatred.

However, the UK government has maintained that while there is freedom of protest and expression in the UK, the government would not encourage any groups spreading hatred or violence.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Former Chief Minister of Maharashtra Ashok Chavan accused the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Maharashtra government of being soft on organisations like Sanatan Sanstha, which, according to him, should be banned.

Vaibhav Raut, a member of the Sanatan Sanstha and Hindu Janajagruti Samiti was arrested by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) with two others on August 10 for allegedly storing suspicious material. The ATS also recovered 20 crude bombs, four electronic detonators, 22 nonelectric detonators and other materials from Nala Sopara area of Pune.

Talking about the same, Chavan told ANI, "ATS had recovered 20 bombs and explosives for 50 more bombs. Vaibhav Raut and other 2-3 people from Sanatan Sanstha have been arrested. There is a big controversy behind this to polarise and break secular forces. We have been saying this since a long time that this organisation should be banned. But, somewhere the government is also soft on Sanatan Sanstha. The government should reveal what's their motive behind the same."

Earlier, Congress leader P. Chidambaram also slammed the ruling Chief Minister Deverndra Fadnavis helmed government in Maharashtra for the same.

He asked why the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the BJP were not condemning those who are plotting and planning terror attacks.

"Hindu, Muslim or any other religion, radicalism is radicalism. Terror is terror. There is no purpose in burying one's head in the sand," he tweeted.

Meanwhile, the three people arrested have been sent to police custody till August 18.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Congress on Sunday hit out at the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government, saying that they are not making enough efforts to uplift the Dalits in the country.

Congress spokesperson Tom Vadakkan told ANI, that under the BJP's rule the backward classes are falling prey to mob violence.

"If one looks closely, several lynching operations against Dalits, beating of Dalits are taking place in our country. BJP is only paying lip service to renowned Dalit leader Bhim Rao Ambedkar ji. This clearly shows what all BJP is doing while in power. It is unfortunate that their (BJP) president is making such grandstanding statements about Dalits upliftment, which have no basis at all in ground reality," he said.

Vadakkan further trained guns at BJP President Amit Shah and said, "Amit Shah ji thinking about the country is strange, his only business is vote bank, vote bank and vote bank."

On Thursday, Congress President Rahul Gandhi accused Prime Minister Modi of marginalising the weaker sections of the society.

While addressing a gathering at the Jantar Mantar, Gandhi scion said, "The things start with "neeyat" (intentions), whatever will be there in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's heart, the things will work according to that. Prime Minister Modi wants Dalits to remain marginalised. If Modi had a place for Dalits in his heart, his policies would have shown it by now. Prime Minister Modi had written in one of his books that it feels good when the house has been cleaned by a Dalit. The atrocities Act was given by the Congress party and former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi to India. I assure you, the Congress will not let the SC/ST Act to be diluted.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh on Sunday said that his state is the first among the 28 other states in the country to provide Right to Skills' Development to the youth.

"Chhattisgarh is the first state in the country to provide Right to Skills' Development to the youth here. Around 2.7 lakh youth has already been employed in several fields. Trained individuals have also been working in cities like Bengaluru and Chennai," Singh said while addressing a public rally in Raipur.

The Chief Minister's comments came after he along with Union Minister of State for Skill Development Anant Kumar Hegde flagged off fifteen Skill Chariots to launch the government's project of 'Skills on Wheels' in the state.

The chariots, which aimed at creating awareness regarding the project, will tour 13 districts in the first phase (August 17 to 31) and the rest 14 in the second phase (September 2 to 17).

Hailing the Union Government's Skills on Wheels scheme, Singh said that it would enhance the skills of the rural youth and strongly open the possibilities of self-employment in the state.

"The Central Government's 'Skills on Wheels' scheme will enhance the skills of the rural youth and help them become self-employed. The State Government will ensure that it provides training to the last youth here," Singh added.

The elections for the Chattisgarh Legislative Assembly will be held this year to elect members from 90 constituencies.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Uttar Pradesh faction of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday said that the party was concerned about the wellbeing of its citizens, irrespective of their religion, and not about infiltrators.

" President (Amit Shah) said we will grant citizenship to those who came here as a refugee - be he a Hindu, Muslim, Christian or Buddhist. But we will throw out the infiltrators. We care about Indians. We don't care about infiltrators," BJP leader MM Pandey said at a press conference here.

Pandey's statement came a day after BJP Chief Amit Shah attacked West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for opposing the Register of Citizens (NRC) draft for Assam and accused her of compromising the interests of Indians in Assam and West Bengal for her votebank

The Opposition parties, including, the Congress, have been vociferous against the NRC draft which left out nearly 40 lakh people in Assam while incorporating names of 2.89 crore people out of 3.29 crore applicants.

However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in an interview with ANI, assured that no Indian citizen would be left out.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Hollywood actor Idris Elba may have fuelled anticipation of playing the next James Bond.

Elba took to Twitter earlier in the day to post a cryptic tweet hinting towards the same.

His tweet, "my name's Elba, Idris Elba." resonates with the famous line from every James Bond movie, 'My name is Bond, James Bond."

Deadline reports that rumours of the 'The Dark Tower' star playing the next Bond has been on for long, but Eon productions, which funds these movies, has been quiet about it for long.

Keeping the debate alive, Elba had confirmed earlier that no one had approached him for the part.

In the 21st century, Daniel Craig is the one who plays all the roles featuring the fictional British spy. He is even expected to play 'Bond 25' which would be his last.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The All-India Anti-Terrorist Front chairman M.S. Bitta on Sunday said that Referendum 2020 is being orchestrated by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency.

Speaking to ANI, Bitta assured that Punjab would always remain a part of India.

"There was no Khalistan, there will be no Khalistan and we won't let there be Khalistan. The nation is one. Punjab was always a part of India and will continue to be," he added.

Former chairman of Sardar Patel Memorial Society, UK, Praveen Patel, who was seen protesting with a group of people of Indian origin against the Referendum 2020 in London, too, echoed a similar stance.

"We're living in this country and they are talking about free Khalistan in India. We believe that this has been organised in conjunction with the ISI in Pakistan and Khalistanis in Canada," he claimed.

Sikhs for Justice (SJF), a separatist Sikh organisation, had planned a campaign in August on 'London Declaration on Referendum 2020', seeking a separate Khalistan state.

Last month, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said a demarche had been issued to the United Kingdom, as the event was being organised to spread hatred.

However, the UK government has maintained that while there is freedom of protest and expression in the UK, the government would not encourage any groups spreading hatred or violence.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Three people were injured in an explosion at Tosa Maidan in Budgam district on Sunday.

Senior Superintendent of Police, Budgam, Tijender Singh said, "A mysterious blast occurred in Budgam's Tosa Maidan. Initially, the three injured were taken to Sub District Hospital in Khag. Later, two of them were referred to JVC hospital, Srinagar. One of the injured is critical. The police have taken cognizance".

The last incident in Budgam was on July 7 when one security personnel was injured after terrorists hurled a grenade at a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) party in Hyderpora area.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Days after announcing the cast of upcoming Bollywood movie 'Takht', Karan Johar was once again a subject for social media trolls, who criticised him for harbouring nepotism in the film industry.

However, Johar was in no mood to let them pass and took to sarcasm to give fitting replies to these comments.

A Twitter user took a dig at Johar for favouring close friends and family, to which Johar said: "You must stop immediately or the world will come to a drastic end!"

A second troll, who took on the ace director for his film 'Takht', was not spared either.

He wrote, "Ma'm...your clever coinage is original and has a dash of humour but nothing can match your beautiful DP image! Hand on chin and looking at an undisclosed location...."

Johar's flick 'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna', completed 12 years on August 11. However, a number of social media users blamed Karan for promoting extra-marital affairs through the film.

"Hello uninformed person! You cannot promote something that is already a big hit!" Karan responded.

After directing the Ranbir Kapoor-Anushka Sharma-Aishwarya Rai Bachchan-starrer 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil', Karan will be donning the director's hat for 'Takht' after two years.

The flick, starring Ranveer Singh, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Alia Bhatt, Janhvi Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, Vicky Kaushal and Bhumi Pednekar, will hit the theatres in 2020.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Minister of State for External Affairs VK Singh on Sunday said that mob lynching is a problem throughout the country.

In response to a question on mob lynching issue specifically in western Uttar Pradesh, Singh said, "Mob lynching problem is in the whole of India, why should western Uttar Pradesh be singled out?" Singh, member of Parliament from Ghaziabad, is here to attend the second day of BJP's State Working Committee meeting.

As per Ministry of Home Affairs statistics, 45 persons have been killed in 40 cases of mob lynching across nine Indian states between 2014 and 3 March, 2018. On July 23, the central government constituted a high-level committee to curb the menace. The committee headed by Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba is expected to submit its recommendations in near future.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)World number one Rafael Nadal on Sunday stormed into the final of the Rogers Cup after he saw off Karen Khachanov of Russia in their men's singles semi-final match.

The 32-year-old thrashed his Russian opponent 7-6(3), 6-4 to register a straight-set victory in a one-sided clash.

The Spaniard will now take on Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece in the final match.

The top seed, who never won an ATP World Tour Masters 1000 title after Cincinnati Open 2013, will look to end the drought of five long years by clinching a victory against Tsitsipas.

Nadal and Tsitsipas last met each other in the final of the Barcelona Open, in April where Nadal registered a straight-set victory over the Greek player.

As far as head to head record is concerned, the figures are tilted 79-36 in Nadal's favour.

Reflecting on the final clash, the seventeen-time Grand Slam title said that he is looking forward to the match and asserted that it would be great if he managed to win the title.

"Tomorrow is a day to play a great match against a very tough opponent. And I hope to be ready for it. It's another Masters 1000 final. But still a lot of work to do. If it happens, it's going to be great news of course. Canada is a tournament that I play well a lot of times in my career. And it's a very important result for me to be back here where I am," ATP website quoted Nadal, as saying.

The Rogers Cup final is slated to be held on August 13.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on Sunday launched the Parker Solar Probe spacecraft.

The official Twitter handle of NASA made the announcement: 3-2-1. and we have liftoff of Parker #SolarProbe atop @ULAlaunch's #DeltaIV Heavy rocket.

NASA shared on their blog that "NASA's Parker Solar Probe is on its way for a rendezvous with the Sun."

NASA in their blog quoted the Launch Director Omar Baez as saying,"Parker Solar Probe has been one of our most challenging missions to date. I'm very proud of the team that worked to make this happen. We at NASA and the Launch Services Program are thrilled to be part of this mission."

NASA had delayed the launch of the spacecraft by a day on Saturday.

In their blog, NASA wrote on Saturday that the launch "was scrubbed today due to a violation of a launch limit, resulting in a hold."

According to NASA, its Parker Solar Probe will revolutionise the understanding of the Sun, our closest star.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh on Sunday called for the deportation of all those people whose names failed to appear in the Register for Citizens (NRC) draft.

The chief minister's comment came after former congress Member of Parliament (MP), Charan Das Mahant said India has always welcomed those who sought shelter in the country.

"You want to make India a Dharamshala? Someone forcibly comes and uses resources, this is unacceptable. They will have to go back. Can't understand in what direction the Congress wants to take the nation," the chief minister said here while addressing the media.

Earlier in the day, Mahant said "Whether it was during the time of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi or before that, India has always given shelter to all. We have never sent them back. This is what I feel. While some come as guests others seek shelter as poor; we should keep them and look after their safety and security."

The Opposition parties, including, the Congress have been vociferous against the draft. Congress president Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter to criticise the draft, and dubbed the execution of the critical and highly sensitive exercise as tardy.

The NRC draft, which was released on July 30, had left out nearly 40 lakh people in Assam while incorporating names of 2.89 crore people out of 3.29 crore applicants.

The first draft was published on December 31, 2017, and names of 1.9 crores of the 3.29 crore applicants were incorporated. The NRC draft features the names, addresses and photographs of all Indian citizens, who have been residing in the northeastern state before March 25, 1971.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Senior Congress leader and Member of Parliament (MP) P.L. Punia on Saturday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi's hotly-debated hug to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Parliament was to show compassion.

"On one hand, the leaders of BJP endlessly attack Rahul day in and day out. However, it was Rahul who walked up to Prime Minister Modi and hugged him to show compassion. How can the Prime Minister now do a drama over it? He is behaving like a child now," Punia told ANI.

In an exclusive interview to ANI on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued his jibe against Rahul and said the latter's hug act in the Parliament during no-confidence motion discussion was nothing but a childish act.

"It is for you to judge whether it was a childish act or not. And, if you are unable to decide that, watch the wink and you will get the answer," the Prime Minister said.

Rahul hugged the Prime Minister after concluding his speech during the debate on the no-confidence motion. However, moments later, Rahul was seen winking at a fellow Congress MP.

Congress chief's unexpected hug invited a huge criticism from the BJP leaders with many terming it a "childish act".

Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also labelled Rahul's hug as an "extremely childish act." Home Minister Rajnath Singh also mocked the act by saying that Rahul "began a Chipko movement after hugging Prime Minister Modi in Parliament.The Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is looking forward to establishing a "working relationship" with other political parties on parliamentary matters.

According to the Dawn, a PTI delegation met with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Ayaz Sadiq on Sunday at the Speaker House to discourse on the parliamentary affairs and decided to move ahead with 'mutual consultation'.

In a press conference here after the meeting, the nominee for PTI's Assembly speaker, Fawad Chaudhry, and Asad Qaiser announced that the party wanted to establish "working relationship" with the other political parties.

They further said that the parties need to join hands to deal with the economic crisis and other challenges faced by the country.

Prime Minister-in-waiting Imran Khan will take oath at the President House in Islamabad on August 18, instead of August 11.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Bharatiya Janata Party leader Rakesh Sinha on Sunday refuted reports of having garlanded a statue of Dr. BR Ambedkar in Meerut, a day after a group of lawyers "purified" the statue with milk and gangaajal after they claimed that Sinha was among the BJP leaders who garlanded it.

The BJP leader took to Twitter to clarify that he had not visited Meerut in the last ten years, and therefore, was not present at the time of the incident.

"In Katihar on August 4, In Patna for my mother's monthly rituals on August 5, from August 6 to 10, I was attending the Monsoon session of the Parliament, on August 11, I delivered an inaugural speech at a thinker's meet in Bhopal," he tweeted.

On Saturday, one of the lawyers present at the venue said the purification was done after Sinha garlanded the statue.

"The BJP government oppresses Dalits. They have nothing to do with Ambedkar, but still, they use his name just to promote their party and allure the Dalit community," the lawyer had told ANI.

Rakesh Sinha, who was recently nominated to the Rajya Sabha by President Ram Nath Kovind, joined the BJP last month.

An author and columnist, Sinha was among four people nominated to the Rajya Sabha by President Kovind last month.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A technical glitch on a London-bound Jet Airways flight has left passengers stranded at Indira Gandhi International airport for over four hours.

As per the airline, nearly 330 passengers travelling on Jet Airways flight 9W-122 to London have been waiting to board the plane for four hours due to a technical glitch.

However, the airplane confirmed that refreshments were being served to all passengers.

"Jet Airways flight 9W 122 of today, August 12, 2018, from Delhi to London, was delayed due to a technical issue. There were 330 passengers on board the flight. Refreshments were served to guests during the delay. At Jet Airways, safety is of paramount importance and we sincerely regret the delay and inconvenience caused to our guests," the statement read.

As per reports, Jet Airways is currently undergoing a financial crunch.

Further details are awaited.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Ahead of the 72nd Independence Day on August 15, security has been beefed up across the country, with special traffic arrangements and restrictions imposed in the capital starting Monday.

To maintain vigil, the Delhi police has installed additional CCTV cameras, especially at major markets of the capital.

"Keeping in mind the high footfall in Lajpat Nagar central market and Nehru place market, we have made all security arrangements ahead of Independence Day," DCP Chinmoy Biswal (south-east) told ANI.

"To increase the security, we have put up extra 45 CCTV cameras. These cameras are being monitored live by the police through the control room to keep a check on any suspicious activity," he added.

In Delhi, traffic restrictions will be in place for the Independence Day function at the Red Fort and on its full dress rehearsal tomorrow. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has said parking facilities will not be available at its stations.

Half-a-dozen roads will remain closed while traffic will be diverted on some roads on these days, police said.

Parking facilities will also remain unavailable at metro stations in Delhi from 6 am on August 14 till 2 pm on August 15 in view of the security arrangements on Independence Day.

Security has also been tightened at other major points in various states, including Assam and Punjab.

In Amritsar, police are undertaking stringent security check at railway stations, bus stands, and hotels. However, the police confirmed that no specific inputs have been received so far.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu on Saturday said there are only two ways to work in the Parliament, either talk out or walk out but no "break out."

"There are only two ways to work in Parliament, you either talk out or you walk out, no break out otherwise democracy will be all out," Naidu said.

He then said that while opposition must have its say, the government should have its way too.

"Opposition must have its say but in the end, the government must have its way, as it is elected by people," he added.

Naidu, who completed one year in office on Saturday, described the period as 'effective engagement' with different stakeholders with a focus on students and youth, farmers, science and research and culture through extensive visits across the country.

Naidu has visited 28 of the 29 States in the country during this one-year period. He also undertook his sole foreign visit to three Latin American countries of Guatemala, Panama, and Peru in May.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Ten people, including two children, were injured in a shooting at a street party early on Sunday in Manchester, British Police said.

The police rushed to the scene on a residential street in the Moss Side area on Sunday, where a party was being held following a Caribbean Carnival at a nearby park.

Following what was described as a "dangerous attack", one man was in a serious condition while nine others suffered "pellet-type" wounds, Xinhua reported.

Police said they were working on the premise that the weapon used was a shotgun.

Footage reportedly showing the aftermath of the incident was posted on social media. The video appears to show a panicked group of people being helped by police.

Police said it was lucky no one was killed by the "completely reckless" shooting while hundreds were celebrating a Caribbean carnival.

Armed police found several people with leg injuries when they were called to reports of two loud bangs in Claremont Road at 2.25 a.m. on Sunday.

On Sunday morning, litter including empty bottles of brandy and other drink containers, food wrappers and nitrous oxide canisters could be seen strewn across Claremont Road.

Residents said a street party was held there annually following the carnival in nearby Alexandra Park.

--IANS

qd

(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.)At least 18 people were killed on Sunday when an explosion rocked the rebel-held town of Sarmada in northern Syria near the Turkish border, a monitoring group reported.

The explosion took place in an ammunition depot belonging to the Al Qaeda-linked Nusra Front, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

The depot was located on the bottom floor of a residential building, which was completely destroyed during the explosion, the London-based watchdog said.

Many people were buried under the rubble, most of whom were displaced people from the central province of Homs, it added.

The death toll could further rise as many are critically wounded and still trapped under the rubble.

In a separate incident on Sunday, a roadside bomb went off as a bus was passing by in the rebel-held town of Twaineh in the countryside of Hama Province in central Syria, leading to 14 injuries.

--IANS

ahm/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)About 40 per cent of young Chinese entrepreneurs are female, according to a new report.

The report was based on a survey of 6,928 entrepreneurs aged 16 to 35 and was jointly published by the China Foundation for Youth Entrepreneurship and Employment and the Chinese Academy of Labour and Social Security, Xinhua news agency reported on Sunday.

Nearly 70 per cent of the surveyed entrepreneurs were over 25, the report said, while about 55 per cent were college students before starting their businesses.

Under preferential policies, people from all walks of life are becoming entrepreneurs, but college students remain the majority, the report said.

The report also noted that 63 per cent of the respondents run service industry businesses.

--IANS

ksk

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)When Rambabu, a 27-year-old who worked in a ration shop in Patna, got to know he was suffering from brain tumor, he was devastated. But his nightmare was compounded when he travelled over a thousand kilometres in that condition to New Delhi for treatment only to find there was a waiting period of six months at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) referral hospital.

He could not afford treatment at a private hospital and a wait of six months at AIIMS seemed as good as being on death row. It was in that moment of hopelessness that lawyer and community worker Ashok Agarwal came to his rescue and made him aware of the government policy under which people from the economically weaker sections (EWS) are entitled to free treatment at large private hospitals built on government land.

Not only that, Agarwal also got Rambabu admitted at the Max Hospital, Patparganj, where he has already started receiving treatment.

"He used to complain of excruciating pain in his head 24 hours a day. Doctors in Patna suggested he should be taken to Delhi, where we arrived on July 18," Rambabu's brother Shambabu, 35, told IANS.

"At AIIMS, we were given a date in December for his operation but his condition was deteriorating. No matter what he ate, he would eventually throw up. He needed urgent attention," he said.

An acquaintance then suggested they speak to Agarwal who got a bed arranged for the tumor patient at Max Hospital.

Thousands of people like Rambabu have benefited from the provision of 10 per cent charity beds meant for the EWS category, Agarwal told IANS.

About four years ago, Agarwal came across an entire family in the Harijan Basti in south-west Delhi which were affected by a fire caused by a cylinder blast. Three small girls had their faces terribly burnt and their father had bandages all over on one of his legs.

Agarwal referred them to Gangaram Hospital were they underwent plastic surgeries. The father's leg was so infected so it had to be amputated but had the operation not been done, he would not have survived.

"There have been a dozen such episodes where I randomly came across a suffering person who was not able to avail any health facility. They were referred to various private hospitals that come under the government policy of charity beds," he said.

Every Saturday, Agarwal meets people who need similar help at his chamber in Tis Hazari court. He helps them fill up the declaration form stating they belong to the EWS category and can't afford costly treatment. But it took several decades for the advocate and other activists like him imbued with similar altruistic passion to ensure that private hospitals adhere to government guidelines and don't turn away poor patients.

It was in 1949 that the Central government decided to allot land to hospitals and schools at highly concessional rates so as to involve them in achieving the larger social objective of providing affordable health and education to people. In 2002, Agarwal filed a petition because private hospitals were not serving the poorer sections of society. In his petition, he said even those hospitals where the allotment letters clearly said that up to 70 per cent beds had to be reserved were not following the rules.

A 2007 judgment by the Delhi High Court said that hospitals had to pay hefty fines if they earn profits on beds that had to be reserved for the poor. In 2012, the Delhi government ordered hospitals to implement the Delhi High Court's judgment under which they were bound to reserve 10 per cent of the beds -- with all medicines and tests included -- and 25 per cent of all out-patient consultations for the poor.

But even that was not enough because, while beds were reserved, there was a time when none of them were occupied due to lack of awareness among the poor.

In order to spread awareness, Kapil Chopra, who served as the president of Oberoi Group of hotels for five years, joined hands with Agarwal and simulcasted an audio recording about this provision over WhatsApp, which went viral.

While Agarwal's battle for the poor was on, Chopra independently made efforts to make people aware and help them through his web portal to get treatment in private hospitals. He started a website charitybeds.com which gives real-time availability of over 650 beds in Delhi and NCR every day.

"We realised there is a big difference between issuing an order and its implementation. We thought why don't we help in bridging the gap between government, patients and hospitals because it's very difficult for a poor person to enter a big private hospital like Max and tell them it's his right to get treatment there. It is very intimidating for them," Chopra told IANS.

The website has been running for the past five years now and is administered by his associates Lalit Bhatia and Gagan Bharti who answer all queries of poor patients, counsel them, help them get to hospitals and also with all the required documentation.

"We help patients when someone calls us, we go to government hospitals and pick up patients from there, we help people reaching private hospitals directly. We help people who have BPL (below the poverty line) cards and people who do not have any card as they are not aware because they are so poor," Chopra said.

"Finally, I can say that around 85 to 90 per cent of these charity beds are occupied today," said Agarwal with some satisfaction.

(The weekly feature series is part of a positive-journalism project of IANS and the Frank Islam Foundation. Mudita can be contacted at mudita.g@ians.in)

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Global commercial launch provider Arianespace would launch three more heavy Indian satellites from its rocket port at Kourou in French Guiana over the next 9 months, a top space official said on Sunday.

"Arianespace will launch GSAT-11 on November 30, followed by GSAT-31 in December and GSAT-30 in May 2019," state-run Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman K. Sivan told reporters at an event here.

"GSAT-11 will be sent to Kourou in mid-October for launch on board Arian-5 rocket of Arianespace," said Sivan after the unveiling of the bust of Indian space pioneer Vikram Sarabhai at the space headquarters to mark his 99th birth anniversary.

Contrary to earlier reports, ISRO has decided to launch the two heavier satellites GSAT-31 and GSAT-30 on Ariane-5 to replace INSAT-4CR whose life gets over in January and INSAT-4A, as its life span ends in July 2019.

"Unless we launch the two satellites (GSAT-31 & GSAT-30) before the lifespan of earlier satellites end, we will have no telecast link and direct-to-home (DTH) services in the country," pointed out Sivan.

INSAT-4CR was launched on September 2, 2007 by ISRO on GSLV-F04 from Sriharikota and INSAT-4A was launched from Kourou on December 22, 2005.

Though ISRO planned to launch GSAT-31 and GSAT-30 on its heavy rocket GSLV Mk-2 (Geo-Stationary Launch Vehicle-Mark 2), it gave up the move as the life of the two spacecraft would be for only three years and not 15 years as intended to be.

As the GSLV Mark-3 will be used to launch India's second lunar mission Chandrayaan-2 with a lander and rover on January 3, the space agency is compelled to launch the two replacing heavy satellites on Arian-5.

"As per Arianespace protocol, the launch date must be signed four months prior to lift-off. We need to launch GSAT-31 by December 15 as the satellite (INSAT-4CR) to be replaced has a lifespan till January," added Sivan.

In this context, Sivan admitted that the space agency has limitations in making more heavier rockets (GSLV) than lighter rockets like the Polar Launch Satellite Vehicle (PSLV), which are used for putting spacecraft in the earth's lower orbit for common man's services.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)West Bengal BJP leadership on Sunday accused the Trinamool Congress of conducting large scale violence and vandalism against their workers across Bengal since their President Amit Shah's rally here on Saturday and warned that the situation would go "out of hands if BJP activists start retaliating".

Leaders of the saffron outfit also warned the state administration of dire consequences if the attack on their workers and party offices were not stopped immediately.

"There have been constant attacks on the BJP activists since Saturday evening. The buses carrying our workers on their way back from Amit ji's rally were attacked by the goons of Trinamool Congress near North 24 Parganas district's Barasat and Basirhat. Nearly eight of our party offices in south 24 Parganas district have been vandalised since midnight," BJP state General Secretary Sayantan Basu told the media.

"Trinamool is instigating violence. If the BJP activists start retaliating and torch their party offices, the situation would go out of hand. Hence I request the state administration to take immediate action so that none of our party offices or activists is attacked," he warned.

Without naming Mamata Banerjee's nephew and Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee, Basu said the extent of violence on the BJP workers was highest in his constituency area.

"Most of the attacks were conducted in South 24 Pargana district's Budge Budge, Magrahat, Diamond Harbour area where a certain Trinamool Congress leader known as their 'yubaraj' (prince) is the sitting MP," he alleged.

The BJP leader also accused the Bengal government of using its police force to capture a number of Gram Panchayat seats by intimidating the their workers and arresting them in false cases.

"10 of our party activists from Purulia are being constantly harassed by the police by tagging them in multiple false cases," Basu said.

"We are planning to move court against such actions by the state police and would also inform the union home ministry about the same," 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.)V.S. Naipaul, known for his timeless books and unsparing views, made his last public appearance in India in January 2015 at the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF), where he spoke at length and was even moved to tears at the overwhelming reception he got.

Recalling his maiden visit to India, the Nobel laureate had said in 2015: "I came to India first because of curiosity about my ancestral land. My publisher agreed to pay me an advance for anything I would write on India."

But after writing two celebrated books on India, "An Area of Darkness" and "A Wounded Civilization", his mother asked him to leave India.

"The only Hindi word my mother carried from India was 'beta' and she said 'Beta, leave India to the Indians'," he quipped.

Naipaul took part in two sessions -- "A House for Mr Biswas", which revolved around his masterpiece by the same name, and "The Writer and the World", in which he talked about his literary journey.

Naipaul was in conversation with Farrukh Dhondy, who asked him about his life in Trinidad, the journey as a writer, his memories of India and his writings about the country.

Dhondi asked him how come he was born in Trinidad despite his deep Indian roots. Naipaul said that it had nothing to do with him.

"It had to do with my family and my parents," he said, pointing out that there was a massive migration from India to the Caribbean islands during the middle of the 19th century and that he and his relatives "had to live with the result of that migration".

When Dhondy proclaimed that the session would be like "a conversation between two old friends sitting with a glass of wine and looking at the sunset", an emotional Naipaul retracted humbly: "I do not like talking about the sunset. It can be used against me to infer that I am in the sunset of my life. Unhappy metaphor."

His wife, Lady Nadira, sat on a chair behind him, taking notes, holding the microphone when he became too tired to hold it and prompting the words when he forgot what he was saying or ran out of steam.

Naipaul also recalled the hardships during the initial days of writing.

"I was one of those people who desperately wanted to be a writer but had nothing to write about," he said and advised young writers not be repetitive.

"Even Dickens went wrong when he began to repeat. An author should avoid doing that."

He recognised that during the course of his long and illustrious literary journey, there had been works that he was not very proud of.

"A writer has to make a living and has to write a book. Don't forget that."

The last words of Naipaul on stage was a reply to a question from veteran lawyer Ram Jethmalani, who asked him the reason for calling India "An Area of Darkness" and suggested that it (India) was instead an area of light.

A humble Naipaul left a witty remark to conclude the session: "Ram is a friend and he left a very friendly comment." Jethmalani was later seen kissing his hands and showing his reverance to the Nobel laureate.

As it turned out, Naipaul had attracted more crowd for his session than anyone else JLF hosted till 2015, more than even Amitabh Bachchan and Oprah Winfrey.

Naipual's last visit to India will also be cherished and remembered fondly by the writing fraternity for his public reunion with Paul Theroux, with whom Naipaul shared a full-blown feud since 1996.

(Saket Suman can be contacted at saket.s@ians.in)

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A strategically important bridge in Punjab's Ferozepur district was on Sunday dedicated to the nation by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman -- 47 years after the old one was blown off in the 1971 India-Pakistan war.

The 280-feet-long bridge connects connects Ferozepur with Hussainiwala barrage on the Sutlej river on the old Ferozpur-Lahore highway.

It is the only lifeline for the residents of nearly 10 villages and connects Hussainiwala enclave with the outside world.

After the 1971 war, a Bailey bridge was set up by the Indian Army to restore road communication in the area.

"To replace the old bridge, Project Chetak was launched and the Border Roads Organisation entrusted with the task of constructing a permanent bridge, which has since been completed," a defence spokesman said here.

Sitharaman said that the bridge -- with RCC decking over steel beam girders -- will be useful not only to the Indian armed forces but also the local population.

She pointed out that Hussainiwala is a historic place connected to martyrs Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru and many other war heroes. The Minister later visited the Hussainiwala Shaheed Smarak to pay homage to the martyrs.

Western Command General Officer Commander-in-Chief, Lt Gen Surinder Singh, and Lt Gen Harpal Singh, Director General of the BRO, were present on the occasion.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday warned the US that it risked losing a "strategic partner" due to demands made by the US government that Turkey release an American pastor who was arrested on terrorism charges.

"We only bow before God. It is wrong to try to punish Turkey for a priest who is here. I am addressing the US once again: it is a pity that you chose a pastor over your strategic partner in NATO. We will only do what justice demands," Efe quoted Erdogan as saying during a rally in the northern province of Ordu.

Turkish authorities are seeking a 20-year prison sentence for US pastor Andrew Brunson, who was arrested two years ago and is accused of being linked to the PKK Kurdish guerrilla organization and to cleric Fetullah Gulen, who lives in exile in the US and whom Ankara blames for the failed coup against Erdogan in 2016.

Last week, the US government imposed economic sanctions against two Turkish ministers involved in Brunson's arrest.

In addition, US President Donald Trump announced on Friday he would increase tariffs on Turkish steel and aluminum by up to 50 and 20 percent, respectively, at a time when Turkey's lira is at an all-time low.

Ankara has ruled out releasing Brunson, although he was granted house arrest in July.

A delegation from Turkey's Ministry of Foreign affairs travelled this week to the US to attempt, to no avail, to reduce tensions between the two countries.

Regarding the situation of the Turkish currency, Erdogan once again called on his fellow citizens to back the lira, which depreciated 18 percent on Friday, by selling their dollars and euros.

"If you have dollars under your pillow, take them out. If you have euros, do the same. Take them immediately to the banks and convert them into liras. By doing this, we fight for our independence and our future," Erdogan told his supporters.

For his part, the speaker of the Turkish parliament, Binali Yildirim, said Saturday via Twitter that US sanctions "are now turning into a global economic war".

Turkey's presidential spokesman, Ibrahim Kalin, also said Saturday that Washington risked losing Ankara as an ally if US policies against Turkey continued.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The owner of a private company was arrested on Sunday under the POCSO Act for molesting a young woman complainant, then a minor, on various occasions during training in computers in west Delhi, police said.

"We have registered a case of molestation and assault or use of criminal force against the woman with the intent to outrage her modesty under the Indian Penal Code and under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act against accused Dinesh on the woman's statement," Deputy Commissioner of Police Vijay Kumar said.

Police said the complainant, now aged 18, stayed with an NGO in west Delhi's Kamla Nagar. She narrated her ordeal to a career counsellor on Friday when she was asked why she had discontinued her training at the private company after only three months.

"The victim disclosed that Dinesh, owner of Speagle Corporation, molested her on various occasions and indulged in vulgar talks. He also called her to his office in the absence of other girl trainees and touched her inappropriately," the FIR said.

The complainant had joined the firm in April to train as Office Executive.

"We arrested Dinesh from his residence in west Delhi on Sunday. We are questioning other girls to ascertain whether Dinesh indulged in similar behaviour with them also or not," the officer added.

The complainant had been lodged with the NGO since July 2015.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Amid stagnating prices of tea in auctions, the central government is looking at the "imperfection" of the primary market as it aims to bring more efficiency in the system after sellers and buyers of the crop raised issues of operational difficulties along with relatively higher transaction costs involved in the entire process, stakeholders say.

"The (Union) Commerce Ministry has constituted a committee consisting of industry stakeholders to study ways to ensure rejuvenation of the tea sector. This committee will look at all the sectoral issues relating to production, labour welfare, primary markets, marketing, generic promotion, consumer safety, exports and R&D," Tea Board India Chairman P.K. Bezbaruah told IANS.

"The ministry and Tea Board are also looking at primary market (auction) imperfections and possible manipulation of the market by large oligopsonists, as auction prices are flat for the last 5-6 years," Bezbaruah, the first industry representative to head the regulatory body, added.

The auction data suggests that about 272.2 million kgs of tea was sold at an average price of Rs 132.62 per kg from January 1 to July 28 this year.

In 2017, the total tea sold in the six operational auction centres located in Kolkata, Guwahati, Siliguri, Kochi, Coonoor and Coimbatore was 591.08 million kgs, with the average price of Rs 134.36 per kg, while the quantity sold in the primary markets was 505.77 million kgs in 2016 at an average price of Rs 135.36 per kg.

Union Commerce Secretary Rita Teaotia had recently pointed out that India's tea auction platforms "have not had the kind of acceptability" they should have.

She also cited that as the reason for 100 per cent tea not coming to the auctions.

Teaotia had requested Tea Board officials to look at the acceptability of auction platforms and how they can be revamped so that everybody buys through them.

She had also requested the industry to find out ways to make platforms better because they are for the industry to serve its purpose.

However, Indian Tea Association Chairman Azam Monem said when the electronic auction was introduced, the pressing need was to convert the public outcry auction system into a digital platform, make it paperless and lower the transaction costs.

But the issue of transaction cost, involving everything from administrative costs right up to warehousing, logistics, sampling, freight and the like, were "not addressed", he said.

"We are discussing with the government and the Tea Board in terms of policy (for the auctions). The transaction cost issues for e-auctions have to be addressed and the cost needs to be brought down. Otherwise, it is becoming expensive for producers. There could be, on an average, additional cost of Rs 8-10 a kg for selling through the electronic auction channel," Monem told IANS.

"We have said that the auction process has to be completely revamped so that it becomes an effective tool for usage. If you make it efficient to achieve good prices, then there should be no reasons for producers not to opt for it," he added.

Calcutta Tea Traders' Association Chairman Anshuman Kanoria also said the current auction system is "outdated" and "not so efficient" as it involves "high cost and longer lead time for sale".

He also alleged that "auction centres become the dumping ground of relatively poor quality tea".

"The current system of auctions is not viable in terms of competition. People are selling good quality tea privately and there is no law to force them to sell tea through the auction system. Prices in the auctions do not truly reflect the market because relatively poor quality of tea is being sent to centres," Kanoria contended.

"The price in auctions must be increased by bringing more competition. In a recent meeting with Tea Board officials, we have requested that the format must be changed in order to revamp it. And with the revamped system it should be made compulsory to sell a certain level of tea through auctions, if not 100 per cent," Kanoria told IANS.

However, producers said there is "no need for any diktat or ordinance" to sell through auctions as they do not prefer to do so because of "the prohibitive cost" and the delay in realisation.

"Around 50 per cent of the tea is sold privately because producers opted to save costs and get better price and remuneration. The current e-auction system is not able to generate the better price because of the procedural and logistical issues, along with financial implications. Also, the time is also limited for the fair price discovery," Monem added.

(Bappaditya Chatterjee can be contacted at bappaditya.c@ians.in)

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A Haryana policeman, posted with the Gurugram Crime Branch, on Sunday saved a man from drowning in a Faridabad canal, police said.

According to a senior police officer, a Crime Branch team of Sector 39, headed by its chief Rajkumar, were on its way to conduct a raid in Faridabad.

The team saw a man drowning in the Yamuna canal in Faridabad area and people gathered there were shouting for help to rescue the man.

"Constable Lukman Khan, who was part of the Crime Branch team, took off his uniform and jumped into the canal and saved the man," the police said in a statement in Gurgaon.

"Constable Khan will be soon awarded with a cash prize and an appreciation letter," the officer said, quoting Gurugram's Commissioner of Police K.K. Rao.

The rescued man was identified as Mangal Singh, a resident of Sihi village in Faridabad.

Police were investigating how Singh fell into the canal.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Himachal Pradesh is promoting off-season vegetable production in a big way for which emphasis has been laid on providing adequate irrigation facilities, an official said on Sunday.

The farmers are switching over to cash crops in place of traditional crops as a result of promotional programmes and schemes launched by the state government, an official spokesperson told IANS.

Vegetable production is generating revenue of Rs 3,500-4,000 crore annually and has emerged as an alternate economic activity in the horticulture sector.

The returns of off-season vegetable cultivation are very high compared to traditional food crops.

As per government estimates, off-season vegetables give a net return from Rs 60,000 to Rs 2 lakh per hectare whereas the traditional crops fetch from Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000 per hectare.

The off-season vegetable production in the state in 2016-17 reached to 16,53,506 tonnes in 76,947 hectares.

Due to congenial ago-climatic conditions, the state has already earned name in the production of off-season vegetables like tomato, capsicum, green peas, beans, cabbage, cauliflower, potato and cucumber.

Mid-June to September are the months when there is no supply of vegetables other than Himachal Pradesh to the markets in neighbouring Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and New Delhi. The vegetables supplied from the state fetch good prices during off-season.

To give impetus to the agriculture sector, the state has prepared a project of Rs 4,751 crore for water conservation and rainwater harvesting and has been sent to the central government for funding.

Initially, Rs 708.87 crore has been sanctioned to the state in the first phase under which at least five developmental blocks of three districts will be covered.

Keeping in view the success of Japan International Cooperation Agency Stage I project, which was implemented in five districts for diversification of crops, the Indian government has given approval in principle for second phase of this project to be implemented in the entire state.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Rajkumar Hirania's "Sanju" on Sunday walked away with the Best Film honour here at the Westpac IFFM Awards night, where Manoj Bajpayee won the Best Actor for his yet-to-release "Gali Guleiyan" and Rani Mukerji was named Best Actress for her performance in "Hichki".

Rani, who impressed with her performance as a woman faced with Tourette's Syndrome in "Hichki", walked away with two honours at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) as she was also bestowed an 'Excellence In Cinema' award.

Veteran actress Simi Garewal, looking elegant as ever in her trademark pristine white, gave away the honour to Rani, who has been a part of the film industry for over two decades.

Overwhelmed by the honour, Rani thanked her fans world over for loving her and her work through the years.

Hirani won the Best Director for "Sanju", a biopic on the life of Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt, while the IFFM Vanguard Award went to actor Ranbir Kapoor for his "breakthrough performance" in bringing alive Sanjay's tumultuous life journey on-screen.

The director told IANS here that he is happy with the recognition for the movie and is excited about showcasing the movie at La Trobe University here, with "Sanju" co-writer Abhijat Joshi and actor Vicky Kaushal.

Vicky won the supporting actor honour for his well-deserved performance as Kamli in "Sanju", and Richa Chadha won it too as she won the jury's heart with her power-packed role as a brothel owner in "Love Sonia".

The jury members for the fest, launched by Mitu Bhowmick Lange, comprised Simi Garewal, Sue Maslin, Jill Bilcock, Nikkhil Advani and Geoffrey Wright.

Wright, known for the Russell Crowe-starrer "Romper Stomper", told IANS that he was mighty impressed by the variety that Indian cinema currently has on offer. He said he feels that "perhaps it has gone from recreation to being serious cinema".

India's colourful and diverse culture was very much a part of the awards celebration as there were the beats of the dhol, performers dressed in traditional Indian classical attires, Odissi dance, Bhangra and more.

Composers Sachin-Jigar added the chutzpah with some of their Bollywood tracks.

The inclusion-themed ninth edition of the gala gave a Diversity Award to Freida Pinto, who shot to fame and prominence first with her role in Oscar-winning drama "Slumdog Millionairea. In her upcoming film "Love Sonia", Freida is seen in a never-seen-before avatar.

Tabrez Noorani-directed "Love Sonia", which opened the IFFM gala and left the audience moved with a story around sex trafficking, won the Best Indie film. A special mention in this space went to "Gali Guleiyan", which marks Dipesh Jain's debut as a director.

The Equality In Cinema Award was given to "Mahanati", the widely acclaimed Telugu and Tamil film on the life of south Indian actress Savitri, who made a mark in the 1950s and 1960s.

Actor Ali Fazal, who was the jury of the short film competition, chose "To-let" as the Indian winner and the Australian winner was "Found", which is on Islamophobia.

Richa also gave away the IFFM Heroes Award, which celebrates real life heroes who have done good deeds.

IFFM began on Friday, as part of the celebrations, Rani on Saturday hoisted the Indian flag at the Federation House, which also became a stage for a dance competition, bringing the huge and diverse Indian community of Melbourne together -- denoting the unifying power of cinema.

The fest will end on August 22.

(Radhika Bhirani is in Melbourne on an invitation by IFFM organisers. She can be contacted at radhika.b@ians.in)

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said India and China understand each other much better following his meetings with President Xi Jinping.

"Our informal summit in Wuhan in April this year was a new initiative," Modi said in an interview to the Times of India published on Sunday. "It allowed us to talk to each other in a very frank manner and to understand each other much better."

Modi's comments came one year after Indian and Chinese troops were locked in a stand-off for over two months on the Doklam plateau at the India-Bhutan-China international trijunction last year.

Modi and Xi met on the sidelines of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) Summit in Xiamen, China, in September last year.

In April this year, India-China ties were reset at an informal summit between Modi and Xi in Wuhan where they agreed to maintain peace along their disputed border over which the two countries went to war in 1962.

The two leaders again met again on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in the Chinese city of Qingdao in June and then in Johannesburg last month on the sidelines of this year's BRICS Summit.

In the interview, Modi also referred to the Astana Consensus reached between India and China in which both sides agreed to not let differences become disputes.

"These high-level engagements have enabled us to take forward the 'Astana spirit' in our relations - that is, not to allow differences to become disputes and to work together as large developing and neighbouring countries in all possible areas of cooperation, not only for the benefit of the people of our two countries but also for the betterment of the region and the world," Modi said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Indian space agency ISRO will launch GSAT-32 satellite in October 2019 to replace GSAT-6A which stopped communicating a few days after its launch on March 29, an official said on Sunday.

"We have not been able to establish a link with GSAT-6A satellite so far. Even as we are continuously monitoring the satellite, as days are progressing, our chances of reviving it are less."

"The GSAT-32 will be launched in October 2019 from the spaceport at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh as a replacement for GSAT-6A," state-run Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Chairman K. Sivan told reporters here.

The 2,000-kg satellite was meant to complement the GSAT-6 launched in 2015 and help in providing technologies for point-to-point communications for military.

The satellite could not be placed in its intended orbit 36,000 km above ground as it stopped responding to the manoeuvre from the space agency's Master Control Facility (MCF) at Hassan in Karnataka, about 180 km from here.

ISRO, however, is still continuing to monitor the satellite hoping to re-establish the link with it, Sivan said.

If the satellite does not respond by 2019, it will be declared "dead", he added.

After the Rs 240-crore worth satellite stopped communicating due to a suspected power system failure, the space agency has been cross-checking all the satellites ready to be launched for the same.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)India will soon launch a dedicated space and science television channel to make their benefits reach people across the country, a top official said on Sunday.

"Within the next three to four months, there will be a television channel launched to reach even the rural parts of India on how space programme can benefit the common man," Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman K. Sivan told reporters here.

The ISRO Chairman was speaking to at the space agency's headquarters here on the sidelines of an event where the statue (bust) of the father of India's space programme, Vikram Sarabhai, was unveiled on his 99th birth anniversary.

To be named "ISRO TV", the channel will telecast science programmes and highlight the benefits of the space agency's missions in regional languages as well as English, so that it reaches people across the country.

"The information on India's space missions and their applications are not reaching the people fully. Our effort through the channel is to make people aware of the benefits of the space programme," Sivan added.

The space agency also aims to develop scientific rigor among India's children and youth through this channel.

ISRO will also be setting up a module for students from classes 8-10 to be trained at the space agency for a month, Sivan added.

In order to inculcate scientific temper among students, ISRO officials will mentor them for 25-30 days and allow them to visit ISRO's labs and launch facilities.

"The students will be allowed to make their own small satellites at the end of the programme. This project, which will be launched soon, has received appreciation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi (who oversees the Department of Space)," Sivan said.

As part of its plan to reach out to the people of the country in a large way, ISRO will also be opening up its spaceport at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh to public.

Indian public will soon be able to pay visits to the launch facility at Sriharikota on the lines of American space agency NASA, the space agency Chief said.

However, the Chairman did not mention a date when the spaceport will be thrown open to the public.

"We are also in the process of setting up space galleries and museums across the country," Sivan said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Sunday that Tehran has no plan to talk with the US on the sidelines of the upcoming UN General Assembly meeting.

"No meeting is expected to take place," Xinhua news agency quoted Zarif as saying.

"The Americans are not honest," he added.

On Friday, Majid Takht Ravanchi, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for European and American Affairs, also said he did not see "any reason" for talks with the US at the 73rd UN General Assembly meeting next month.

"What expectations could you have from a person who pulls out from international engagement and now says let's hold talks," Ravanchi said.

US President Donald Trump withdrew Washington from the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, on May 8 and demanded renegotiation of the pact.

Since then, the Trump administration has slapped a number of sanctions on Iran while vowing to apply more.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday said Israel will continue to fight Hamas in Gaza before a "complete cease-fire" is achieved.

"We are in the midst of a campaign against terror in Gaza. It entails an exchange of blows," Netanyahu told his weekly cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, adding that the recent flare-up of violence "will not end in one strike," Xinhua reported.

He said that during last week's massive airstrikes in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli air force has "destroyed hundreds of Hamas military targets." He added that "in each round, the Israel Defense Forces exacts an additional heavy price."

He stressed that Israel is ready to continue the strikes. "I will not reveal here our operational plans, they are ready," he said.

"Our demand is clear -- a complete cease-fire. We will not suffice with less than this," he said. "Our objective is to restore the quiet to residents of the south and the area adjacent to the Gaza Strip; this goal will be achieved in full."

Last week, Israel and Hamas exchanged blows, with Israel striking hundreds of sites in Gaza, killing three people including a woman and her baby, while Gaza militants launched dozens of rockets towards southern Israel.

The fire was largely ceased on Thursday, as an unofficial truce was achieved following efforts by the United Nations and Egypt.

--IANS

ahm/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)'Kichijoi', a town near Tokyo in Japan, was named after Hindu goddess Lakshmi, consort of Hindu god Vishnu," said Takayuki Kitagawa, Consul General of Japan, on Sunday.

"You will be surprised to know that the town near Tokyo has its origin from Lakshmi temple. Kichioji means Lakshmi temple in Japanese," Kitagawa told students and faculty of Dayanand Sagar on their graduation day here.

Recalling the influence of India on Japanese culture and society, Kitagawa said many think Japan and India were different, though they are not, as evident from many temples in Japan being dedicated to Hindu gods.

"There are many more Hindu gods who are revered in the Land of the Rising Sun. For ages, we have been praying to Hindu gods," said the diplomat, who began his delightful speech in Kannada, leaving the audience spellbound.

Noting that even Japanese language was influenced by Indian languages, Kitagawa said there were many words from Sanskrit in Japanese script.

"For instance, Japanese dish sushi is made of rice and vinegar. Sushi is also associated with shari, which is from Sanskrit word 'zaali', meaning rice," the Consul added.

According to a Japanese scholar, the origin of about 500 Japanese words can be traced to Sanskrit and Tamil.

"It is not just the Indian culture, but even Indian languages had a great influence on our language and tradition of worship," added Kitawaga.

The privately-run group of educational institutions signed an agreement with the Japanese government to train its students in Japanese language.

"As there is a great demand for skilled professionals in Japan, knowledge of its language will help Indian graduates find jobs in the land of rising sun.

--IANS

fb/tsb

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday described the situation in the flood-affected areas of Kerala as "very serious" and assured the state of all possible help from the Centre.

Rajnath Singh, who arrived here on Sunday afternoon, made the statement after an aerial survey of Idukki and Ernakulam districts. He was accompanied by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Union Tourism Minister K.J. Alphons and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Director General Sanjay Kumar.

"The situation is very serious in Kerala. The Centre will extend all necessary support to the state in all respects," Rajnath Singh told the inmates of a relief camp near Kochi.

The Union Home Minister also announced release of Rs 100 crore in advance from the National Disaster Response Fund.

Based on the aerial survey, field visit and interaction with the affected people, Singh expressed satisfaction on the arrangements made by the state administration in managing the unprecedented floods/landslides in the state and in providing basic amenities, including food, water and medical service in relief camps.

Chief Minister Vijayan said the affected persons need not worry as the state government will do everything to ensure them relief.

"Every loss that has been suffered will be addressed, including loss of houses, other properties and crops. Once you return to your homes, you will face a lot of problems. Necessary steps will be taken to clean up your homes," Vijayan said.

On the other hand, officials in Ernakulam and Thrissur said on Sunday that the flood situation was under control even as parts of both districts still remained submerged. The Periyar river water level had come down to enable some of the affected persons to return home, they said.

Idukki district, which recorded 90mm rainfall over 24 hours till Saturday morning, witnessed lesser rainfall at 40mm on Sunday morning, weather officials said.

Water level in Idukki dam had decreased by three feet in the past 48 hours to stand at 2,398.66 feet on Sunday even though rain was recorded at a few places in and around the dam area during the day.

The situation in the hilly district of Wayanad -- which saw destruction to crops and properties -- looked grim on Sunday as intermittent heavy rains pounded the area, forcing authorities to ask those lodged in relief camps to stay back due to possibilities of landslides.

Idukki district authorities said that the decision to close down all five dam floodgates, opened after a downpour, will be taken on the basis of rainfall witnessed in the coming days.

Power Minister M.M. Mani said the closing of dam sluices will be taken after detailed discussions with officials concerned.

The Army's 'Operation Sahyog' continued in Kerala, with two Army columns undertaking relief and rescue operations in rain-battered areas of Aluva in Ernakulam district, and one column in Adimali in Idukki district.

A team of approximately 80 personnel of Madras Regiment from Pangode Military Station in the state capital completed a makeshift bridge in the Virinjapara-Mankulam area in Idukki district, since a concrete bridge there had been washed away in the floods.

The temporary bridge restored road connectivity to around 800 families living in the area.

As many as 14 teams of NDRF consisting of 404 rescuers and 31 boats are already deployed in the worst affected districts of Thrissur, Ernakkulam, Kozhikode, Idukki, Wayanad and Alapuzha to assist the state in the rescue and relief operations as well as distribution of relief material and to provide medical support to the affected.

In addition to Army, Navy and Coast Guard columns, helicopters of Indian Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard have also been deployed to drop essential commodities and other assistance to the marooned survivors.

--IANS

mak-rak-sg/tsb

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday described the situation in the flood-affected areas of Kerala as "very serious" and assured the state of all possible help from the Centre.

Rajnath Singh, who arrived here on Sunday afternoon, made the statement after an aerial survey of Idukki and Ernakulam districts. He was accompanied by Union Tourism Minister K.J. Alphons and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan during the

"The situation is very serious in Kerala. The Centre will extend all necessary support to the state in all respects," Rajnath Singh told the inmates of a relief camp near Kochi.

Vijayan said the affected persons need not worry as the state government will do everything to ensure them relief.

"Every loss that has been suffered will be addressed, including loss of houses, other properties and crops. Once you return to your homes, you will face a lot of problems. Necessary steps will be taken to clean up your homes," Vijayan said.

On the other hand, officials in Ernakulam and Thrissur said on Sunday that the flood situation was under control even as parts of both districts still remained submerged. The Periyar river water level had come down to enable some of the affected persons to return home, they said.

Idukki district, which recorded 90mm rainfall over 24 hours till Saturday morning, witnessed lesser rainfall at 40mm on Sunday morning, weather officials said.

Water level in Idukki dam had decreased by three feet in the past 48 hours to stand at 2,398.66 feet on Sunday even though rain was recorded at a few places in and around the dam area during the day.

The situation in the hilly district of Wayanad -- which saw destruction to crops and properties -- looked grim on Sunday as intermittent heavy rains pounded the area, forcing authorities to ask those lodged in relief camps to stay back due to possibilities of landslides.

Idukki district authorities said that the decision to close down all five dam floodgates, opened after a downpour, will be taken on the basis of rainfall witnessed in the coming days.

Power Minister M.M. Mani said the closing of dam sluices will be taken after detailed discussions with officials concerned.

The Army's 'Operation Sahyog' continued in Kerala, with two Army columns undertaking relief and rescue operations in rain-battered areas of Aluva in Ernakulam district, and one column in Adimali in Idukki district.

A team of approximately 80 personnel of Madras Regiment from Pangode Military Station in the state capital completed a makeshift bridge in the Virinjapara-Mankulam area in Idukki district, since a concrete bridge there had been washed away in the floods.

The temporary bridge restored road connectivity to around 800 families living in the area.

--IANS

sg/tsb/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Congress said on Sunday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi could not list a single achievement of his government in his interviews and alleged that he was seeking to build a narrative for the BJP by "weaving lies and concocting theories".

Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera told the media that Modi's "monologues in the form of interviews" showed his unwillingness to face an interactive press conference.

Khera said people would give the Bharatiya Janata Party a fitting reply in Assembly elections later this year and the 2019 Lok Sabha election.

"In the so-called interviews the Prime Minister could not even list one big achievement of his government.

"Spewing unadulterated lies on economy and development, shedding crocodile tears on swiftly tearing social fabric of the country by weaving lies and concocting theories to build a narrative, this is not what people want to listen from their Prime Minister. In the last lap of his term, Modi wants people to buy his massive failures as 'Acche Din'," he added.

He said Modi promised 2 crore jobs every year but his government could create a few lakh jobs and his claim of one crore jobs having been generated in the past one year was laughable.

He said 1.26 crore jobs were lost in the unorganized sector after demonetization and 77 per cent of Indian workers would have "vulnerable employment" by 2019, according to the International Labour Organisation.

He said there had been a four-time increase in non-performing assets under the Modi government and it had refused to give year-wise and bank-wise details of loans sanctioned after May 2104 which turned into NPAs.

Referring to the National Register of Citizens in Assam, the Congress said Modi was playing to use it as "a divisive and emotional tool" to mislead people.

He said the Congress-led UPA government deported 82,728 Bangladeshi foreigners between 2005 and 2013 as against a mere 1,822 deportation under the Modi government.

--IANS

ps/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Sunday questioned the veracity of Prime Minister Narendra Modis claim that lynching people was an unjustifiable crime, asking if that was true how come his Ministers were perceived to be glorifying it.

"The Prime Minister has said that he and his party believe that lynching is wrong. If that is true, then how come Jayant Sinha, who garlanded convicts of lynching, is still a Minister in the Modi government?" AAP leader Sanjay Singh tweeted.

In an interview to the Times of India published on Sunday, Modi said that incidents of mob violence and lynching must be condemned "in the strongest voice".

"I want to make it clear that mob lynching is a crime, no matter the motive. No person can, under any circumstances, take the law into his or her own hands and commit violence," he said.

Union Minister of State Union for Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha had last month garlanded eight men convicted for murder in a lynching case in Hazaribagh in Jharkhand.

The men, convicted by a trial court of killing of one Alimuddin Ansari in Ramgarh in June last year in the name of cow protection, had secured bail from the Jharkhand High Court.

After getting bail, the men visited Sinha's residence where the Minister welcomed them with garlands and sweets, drawing widespread flak.

--IANS

mak/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)NASA on Sunday successfully launched the Parker Solar Probe, the US space agency's historic small car-size probe to "touch the Sun," from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

"3-2-1... and we have liftoff of Parker #SolarProbe atop @ULAlaunch's #DeltaIV Heavy rocket," the US-based space agency tweeted.

The launch was initially planned for Saturday morning.

The probe is named after Eugene Parker, a solar physicist, who in 1958 first predicted the existence of the solar wind, a stream of charged particles and magnetic fields that flow continuously from the sun.

Nestled atop a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy -- one of the world's most powerful rockets -- with a third stage added, Parker Solar Probe will blasted off toward the sun with a whopping 55 times more energy than was required to reach Mars.

Weighing just 635 kgs, it is a relatively light spacecraft, Andy Driesman, project manager for the mission at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in the US, said in an earlier statement.

Zooming through space in a highly elliptical orbit, the Parker Solar Probe will reach speeds of up to 700,000 kms per hour, setting the record for the fastest spacecraft in history.

During its nominal mission lifetime of just under seven years, the Parker Solar Probe will complete 24 orbits of the Sun -- reaching within 3.8 million miles of the Sun's surface at the closest approach.

In an orbit this close to the Sun, the real challenge is to keep the spacecraft from burning up.

--IANS

vc/ksk/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday arrested two youths here for alleged links with the international terror outfit ISIS.

Mohammed Abdullah Basith, 24, and Mohammed Abdul Qhadeer, 19, were arrested after searches by NIA at seven places in the city on August 6.

According to NIA, the initial questioning brought out the involvement of Basith, Qhadeer and others pledging their allegiance to the proscribed terrorist organization ISIS to carry out terror activities in India.

The agency arrested the two to ascertain the details of the ongoing conspiracy and also their role played in furthering the ISIS ideology to carry out terrorist acts in India. The accused are residents of Hafiz Baba Nagar and Chandrayangutta areas of the old city.

The arrests were made as part of the investigation into an earlier case registered in New Delhi in 2016 against Sheikh Azhar ul Islam, Mohammed Farhan Shaikh and Adnan Hassan for the allegations that they and their other unknown associates were members of ISIS.

They were allegedly involved in a conspiracy to identify, motivate, radicalize, recruit and train Indian Muslim youths on behalf of ISIS to carry out terror activities, NIA said in a press release.

All the three accused were subsequently arrested by NIA. A special court later sentenced Azhar ul Islam and Farhan Shaikh to seven years of imprisonment, while trial against accused Adnan Hassan was still going on. Further investigation continued against other accused.

"During further investigation, a fresh input was received from reliable sources that one Abdullah Basith resident of Hyderabad, who was connected with accused Adnan Hassan and some of his associates, are in regular touch with each other and conspiring to further the activities of ISIS," NIA said

During the searches in Hyderabad, a lot of incriminating material was recovered and seized. The same has been sent to CFSL Hyderabad for analysis and data extraction, the agency added.

--IANS

ms/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Nobel Prize-winning novelist V.S. Naipaul, who explored questions of place and identity for more than half a century, has died aged 85, his family announced on Sunday.

Lady Naipaul confirmed that her husband had died peacefully in London on Saturday, reports the Guardian.

"He was a giant in all that he achieved and he died surrounded by those he loved having lived a life which was full of wonderful creativity and endeavour," she said in a statement.

Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul was born in 1932 in Chaguanas on the island of Trinidad and Tobago, to a family that had arrived from India in the 1880s, part of what he once called "an immigrant Asian community in a small plantation island in the New World".

Naipaul once said that he never felt at home in the community. In 2008, he recalled his childhood as "pretty awful" and his family as "terrible... very large, with too many people. There was no beauty. It was full of malice".

A government scholarship offered him a chance to escape, an immigrant once more as he travelled to Oxford in 1950 to study English.

Turning from the comedy that began his career, Naipaul cast a steely eye on the shards of empire in a series of novels and travelogues.

Unflattering portraits of the West Indies, India, Africa and the Islamic faith brought both hostility and acclaim.

Critics accused him of holding people of the developing world in contempt even as his diamantine prose won him a series of awards including the Booker prize in 1971, a knighthood in 1989 and the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001.

His first book, "The Mystic Masseur", was published in 1951 and a decade later he published his most celebrated novel, "A House for Mr Biswas", with a protagonist based on Naipaul's father took him over three years to write, reports the BBC.

His other noted works include "The Enigma of Arrival", "Miguel Street", "The Loss of El Dorado" and "Beyond Belief: Islamic Excursions among the Converted Peoples".

Naipaul's death was mourned by many including Geordie Greig, editor of the Mail on Sunday and a close friend, said his loss leaves a "gaping hole in Britain's literary heritage" but there is "no doubt" that his "books live on".

English novelist and journalist Hari Kunzru recalled interviewing him and said: "When we sat down, the first thing he said was 'tell me what you've read and don't lie'. Only then would he consent to be questioned."

Writer Jeet Heer called him a "powerful novelist" who "at his best approached Conrad and even the shadow of Dickens".

--IANS

ksk

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A youth leader was arrested from Haryana on charge of burning a copy of the Constitution of India and shouting slogan against Dr B.R. Ambedkar at a protest here, police said on Sunday.

Police said accused Deepak Gaur, said to be a member of Arakshan Virodhi Party, was arrested from his hideout in Faridabad on Saturday night for committing the crime during the protest on Parliament Street in Central Delhi on Thursday.

On a complaint of Anil Tanwar of Akhil Bharatiya Bheem Sena, the Delhi Police on Friday registered a case against the Youth for Equality organisation at the Parliament Street police station regarding the crime.

"Leaders of Youth for Equality (Azad Sena) and Arakshan Virodhi Party held a joint protest on the Parliament Street. The protesters led by Deepak Gaur and Abhishekh Shukla were involved in the burning the copy of the Constitution and shouting slogans against Dr Ambedkar," Deputy Commissioner of Police Madhur Verma said.

The teams raided their hideouts in Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh and arrested Gaur from Faridabad. A manhunt for Shukla and others is on.

"During interrogation, Gaur said that he and Shukla conspired to burn the pages of the Constitution to create a sensation to attract government attention to opposition to amendments in the law pertaining to scheduled castes and tribes," the officer added.

Gaur told police that they along with their supporters burnt a bare act of the Constitution of India and later put on social media a press note on the issue.

--IANS

sp/tsb/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Calling the opposition claims on rising unemployment a "political gimmick", Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that over 70 lakh jobs were created in the formal sector alone in the last one year.

Based on Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) data, more than 45 lakh formal jobs were created between September 2017 to April 2018, Modi said in an email interview with Times of India published on Sunday.

"According to our study based on the EPFO data, more than 70 lakh jobs were created in the formal sector alone last year."

Attacking the opposition, he said that rather than the so-called failure of this government to create jobs, "I believe the shortcoming lies in the absence or lack of a streamlined database of jobs.

"Naturally, in the absence of information, our opponents will exploit this situation and blame us for not creating jobs".

Modi also called the opposition's claim of rising unemployment a "propaganda".

"If you look at claims made by the state governments -- Bengal says it created 68 lakh jobs and the previous Karnataka government claimed it created 53 lakh jobs -- are we saying that all the country's jobs are being created in some states and that other states and the country as a whole are not creating jobs? This propaganda on jobs by the opposition is nothing but a political gimmick," he said.

Modi said that informal sector accounts for around 80 per cent of all jobs and creation of jobs in the formal sector has a spin-off effect on job creation in the informal sector.

"There are close to three lakh village-level entrepreneurs who run common service centres across the country and create employment. More than 12 crore loans have been given under MUDRA Scheme," he said.

Modi said that in the last four years there has been massive construction activities like roads, railways or housing -- all these generate jobs.

"All reports, whether national or international, show that poverty in India is on the decline. Can we think of such a possibility without people having jobs?" he asked.

Asserting that tourism provides maximum employment, Modi said that the country's tourism sector has been growing rapidly with foreign tourist arrivals in India in 2017 registering a growth of 14 per cent over 2016.

Airlines are adding new aircraft on a monthly basis and the number of mobile manufacturing units in this country increased to close to 120, he claimed.

"These alone have generated 4.5 lakh direct and indirect jobs," he said.

--IANS

sm/nks/tsb/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Pakistan jail authorities here on Sunday released 26 Indian fishermen as a goodwill gesture on the eve of the inaugural session of the National Assembly where newly-elected members will take oath of their office, the media reported.

The freed fishermen were taken to Cantonment Railway Station to travel to Lahore, where they will be handed over to Indian border officials at Wagah on Monday, the Geo News reported.

Speaking to the media at the railway station, an Edhi official, the charity that paid the travel expenses of the Indian fishermen, called on the governments of Pakistan and India to relax rules for the poor fishermen.

"They represent the poorest section of the two countries. They should be freed as early as possible and there should be less restrictions on fishing," he said.

The move comes a day before Pakistan's newly-elected National Assembly members take oath. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chairman Imran Khan is expected to take oath as Prime Minister on August 18.

--IANS

ahm/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Schalke confirmed on Sunday that it had reached an agreement on the transfer of its centre-back Thilo Kehrer to Paris Saint-Germain.

The Bundesliga side explained on its official website that the agreement on the transfer of the German under-21 national team defender came after weeks-long negotiations with France's Ligue 1 champions, reports Efe.

"In the end, we decided to go for the transfer on financial grounds. Particularly, since the player's contract is due to expire next year," Schalke sporting director Christian Heidel explained.

Heidel thanked Kehrer for the period he spent at Schalke, stressing that the defender "has been loyal" to the Bundesliga side.

German media outlets estimated that Kehrer, who was on the radar of Barcelona, will move to PSG for 37 million euros ($42.2 million).

"If this offer from PSG were not to have come through I'm sure he would have gone ahead with the extension, likewise if we had turned the offer down or in the unlikely event something was to stop this deal going ahead," Heidel added.

Kehrer, 21, will have to pass the medical tests at PSG in order to formalise the transfer.

--IANS

gau/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Researchers have, for the first time, produced fibres with embedded electronics that are so flexible they can be woven into soft washable fabrics and made into wearable clothing.

Embedding high speed optoelectronic semiconductor devices, including light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and diode photodetectors, into washable fabrics also makes it possible to produce clothing that communicates optically with other devices.

This discovery, described in the journal Nature, could unleash a new 'Moore's Law' for fibres, in other words, a rapid progression in which the capabilities of fibres would grow rapidly and exponentially over time, said researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Boston.

The key breakthrough for producing these new fibres was to add to the preform light-emitting semiconductor diodes the size of a grain of sand, and a pair of copper wires a fraction of a hair's width.

When heated in a furnace during the fibre-drawing process, the polymer preform partially liquifies, forming a long fibre with the diodes lined up along its centre and connected by the copper wires.

"We are anticipating the emergence of a 'Moore's law' analogue in fibres in the years ahead," said Yoel Fink from the varsity.

"It is already allowing us to expand the fundamental capabilities of fabrics to encompass communications, lighting, physiological monitoring, and more. In the years ahead, fabrics will deliver value-added services and will no longer just be selected for aesthetics and comfort," Fink added.

In this case, the solid components were two types of electrical diodes made using standard microchip technology: LEDs and photosensing diodes.

The resulting fibres were then woven into fabrics, which were laundered 10 times to demonstrate their practicality as possible material for clothing.

One of the advantages of incorporating function into the fibre material itself is that the resulting fibre is inherently waterproof.

To demonstrate this, the team placed some of the photodetecting fibres inside a fish tank.

A lamp outside the aquarium transmitted music through the water to the fibres in the form of rapid optical signals.

The fibres in the tank converted the light pulses -- so rapid that the light appears steady to the naked eye -- to electrical signals, which were then converted into music. The fibres survived in the water for weeks.

--IANS

asj/rt/mag/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Veteran actor Anupam Kher got the opportunity to spend some quality time with actress Sonali Bendre, who is currently undergoing metastatic cancer treatment here. He says she is his hero.

"I have done few films with Sonali Bendre. We've met socially many times in Mumbai. She always has been bright and a very warm person. But it is only in the last 15 days that I got the opportunity to spend some quality time with her in New York. And I can easily say, 'She is my hero'," Anupam tweeted on Saturday.

He also shared a photograph of Sonali, which she had posted after chopping off her hair for the treatment.

The actors have worked together in films like "Dhai Akshar Prem Ke", "Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai" and "Dil Hi Dil Mein".

Anupam is currently shooting for a new medical drama show titled "New Amsterdam" here.

--IANS

sim/nn/ksk

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A surfboard was returned to its Australian surfer after it was stolen from him 40 years ago, local media reported on Sunday.

Peter Gilson said his mother saved some A$1,800 Australian dollars ($1,315) and bought him the surfboard in Newcastle, New South Wales state in the late 1970s but it was soon stolen from the garage, reports Xinhua news agency.

"To be honest, at the time, being a young kid, I didn't really give it too much thought but as the years went by it occurred to me how much of a sacrifice my mum had made to get me that board," Gilson said.

Four decades later, Gilson began repairing vintage surfboards and spotted his stolen one with its unique horse image online -- someone had taken a photo of it at a surfing memorabilia gallery in Western Australia on the other side of the country.

Gilson contacted the gallery owners and told them about his connection to the surfboard, which had "probably passed through many sets of hands over the years", by providing an old photo of it.

The surfboard's latest owner decided to send the surfboard to Gilson and "hand it back free of charge".

The widely lauded gesture is "always a bonus" as vintage surfboards can fetch premium prices.

--IANS

ksk

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)If you are craving for irresistibly scrumptious desserts and cuisine that pushes you to indulge your taste buds in more and more sin, then stop by Theos -- a bakery-cum-cafe that offers a wide range of cakes, pastries, puffs, tarts and pies along with a melange of Italian, Mexican, Lebanese and Thai dishes. The Blueberry Japanese cheesecake, Belgian chocolate rasmalai and Penne pasta with mushroom and blue cheese here are mind-blowing.

With three outlets here and one in Delhi, Theos -- patisserie, chocolatier and Italian cafe -- has already created a niche for itself in the market for its delectable bakery products and food.

Its biggest outlet is located in Dynamic House, Sector 41, below a gaming zone. The entry to the facility is via the bakery, where one can see a lavish display of exotic desserts, luxury chocolates, French entremets, healthy breads and savouries. The enticing aroma of baked items will give you hunger pangs.

For Raksha Bandhan, the outlet is offering special gift hampers ranging from Rs 1,100 to Rs 8,000, Theos' Manager Gaurav Kumar told IANS.

The cafe has a relaxed ambience, beautiful interiors and wall decor, along with contemporary furniture. It is ideal if you want to eat, sip and unwind with your gang or family. However, seating space (that can only accommodate 50 to 60 people) becomes an issue during weekends and holidays.

The food menu offers a wide array of choices for every palate.

For starters, I ordered grilled chicken bruschetta -- French baguette topped with sliced smoked chicken, tomato concasse with a hint of basil and mozzarella cheese. The baguette was light and crisp, while chicken pieces were tender and tasty. It was gobbled in minutes.

Next up was mushroom cheese vol au vents, delicate puff shells stuffed with garlic mushrooms in creamy bechamel sauce. I would call these "round pieces of heaven" with a perfect balance of mushroom and cheese. These were delicious and absolutely bingeworthy. A must-try.

Another favourite of mine was peri peri chicken olivette -- chicken marinated in a hot and fiery sauce and wrapped around an olive. It looked tempting, was grilled to perfection and had a piquant flavour.

These appetizers were enjoyed with cranberry and mint ginger beer, a tangy and refreshing summer cooler.

Theos does not serve alcohol, but it makes up for it by offering an amazing line of shakes and smoothies.

The Hazelnut chocolate frappe -- a super-thick ice cream shake -- tasted divine and was the star of the show. It will leave one tripping on chocolate. Consider your visit incomplete without trying it.

The global platters here are quite impressive and will leave one spoilt for choice.

Mexican corn and bean salad as well as Insalata di caprese -- a potpourri of fresh, sundried tomatoes, black olives, lettuce and bocconcini (small mozzarella cheese) are the popular ones.

For main course, I tried penne pasta tossed in bechamel sauce with white wine, mushroom and blue cheese. It was creamy, rich in flavour and by far the best white sauce pasta I have ever had. It is a must for vegetarians.

Non-vegetarians can blindly go for the fusilli chicken piri piri pasta or prawn puttanesca, which is spaghetti with prawns in a spicy roasted tomato sauce served with black olives, chives and capers.

In pizzas, one of their best ones is the Mediterranean classic loaded with fresh veggies like zucchini, aubergine, peppers, cocktail onions, mushrooms with loads of cheese.

Fish lovers must try the crumb fried fish burger. It is served with crispy potato wedges and sweet coleslaw. The fish patty had a crunchy texture and was extremely soft inside. The wedges were an added bonus. This item was a total mood uplifter.

Coming to the desserts, there were endless options! I settled for the luscious blueberry Japanese cheesecake, unique Belgian chocolate rasmalai and macarons, which were available in lovely flavours like raspberry, strawberry and butter caramel, among others.

In a bid to please more foodies, the brand is coming up with another outlet in Sector 104.

Theos is highly recommended to soothe your sweet tooth cravings and offers a great dining experience as well.

Where: Dynamic House, Sector 41, Noida

Timings: 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.

Price: Rs 1,500 for two people

(Parul Soni was here at the invitation by Theos. She can be contacted at parul.s@ians.in)

--IANS

soni/vm

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A girl student of Sri Venkateswara Medical College in Tirupati committed suicide on Sunday, the second such incident in a week, police said.

Gitika, 19, was an MBBS second-year student. She ended her life by hanging at her house here in the evening. police said. The reason for her suicide is not known.

The incident came a week after the suicide of B. Shilpa, a postgraduate student in paediatrics, who hanged herself at her house in Pileru town of Chittoor district.

The 30-year-old student had in April written to Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan, accusing three Professors of Pediatric Department of sexual harassment.

The student was upset after she failed in exams. She told her friends that she was deliberately failed for complaining against the Professors.

Following an uproar, authorities transferred the college Principal and formed in May a three-member inquiry committed headed by the Director of Medical Education K. Babji. The panel is yet to submit its report.

--IANS

ms/tsb

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami on Sunday chaired a meeting of ministers and officials to discuss the next course of action in the Sterlite copper smelter plant closure issue.

In a statement issued here, the government said that Palaniswami chaired a meeting of ministers and officials to decide on the next course of action after the National Green Tribunal's (NGT) orders on the case filed by Vedanta Ltd that owns the Sterlite copper smelter plant in Tuticorin, around 650 km from here.

The NGT on August 9 ordered access to the company officials to the administrative blocks located in the plant premises.

A couple of months back, the state government had ordered the closure of the copper smelter plant following protests and the death of 13 persons in police firing on May 22 in Tuticorin.

The state government release is silent on the next course of action on the NGT order, particularly on the issue of filing an appeal in the Supreme Court.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The bond between parent and child extends far beyond sharing similar looks or behaviours as a new study suggests that treating depression in teenagers may benefit their parents' mental health too.

The findings suggest that when a teenager's depression improved through treatment, so did the depression experienced by his or her parents.

"Depression is a massive public health concern that will take a variety of approaches to better manage. We believe our study is among the first to evaluate how the emotional health of a child can impact that of the parents," said co-author Mark A. Reinecke from the Northwestern University in the US.

For the study, presented at American Psychological Association's 126th Annual Convention, the research team involved 325 teenagers who had been diagnosed with depression and 325 of their parents or caregivers.

The teenagers were randomly assigned to one of three groups -- those who received cognitive behavioural therapy, those who took anti-depressants or those who used a combination of both.

The first treatment period ran for nearly one year, with an additional year of follow-up visits, the researchers said.

One-quarter of the parents who participated also reported moderate to severe levels of depression before the treatment period, the researcher added.

The treatment process was not family-based, though some portions included the parent.

The researchers found a positive ripple effect because when the severity of a teenagers's depression lessened, so did similar symptoms in the parent, regardless of what treatment was used.

"More young people today are reporting persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness and suicidal thoughts," said Kelsey R. Howard from the varsity.

"This research may help health care providers as we grapple as a nation with how to address these alarming trends," Howard noted.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)On your mark, get set, go! Alex Fitts, a first-grade student at Chatfield School in Lapeer, was all smiles as he took off from the starting line during a bicycle race...

Im happy its out there OREGON TWP.  Connor Martin always wrote little stories when he was younger. It was a good way to channel an active imagination and became...

Booster shots available in county LAPEER TWP.  COVID-19 vaccine booster shots are available to Lapeer County residents from all three manufacturers  Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson. Booster...US President Donald Trump denounced on Saturday "all types of racism" ahead of the anniversary of the white supremacist rally that took place in Charlottesville, Virginia, which resulted in the death of a woman and two police officers.

"The riots in Charlottesville a year ago resulted in senseless death and division. We must come together as a nation. I condemn all types of racism and acts of violence. Peace to ALL Americans!," Trump wrote on Twitter.

Trump's message is in stark contrast with the controversial remarks he made nearly a year ago, when he blamed the violence in Charlottesville on both the neo-Nazi groups and the counter-protesters, adding that there were "fine people" among the white supremacists, Efe reported.

The Charlottesville protests, which became a symbol of racial tensions in the US, took place on August 12, when white supremacists marched in the city to denounce the removal of a statue of Robert E. Lee, a Confederate general who fought in the American Civil War.

During the rally, a young neo-Nazi rammed his car into a crowd of counter-protesters, killing 32-year-old Heather Heyer and injuring 19 people.

In addition, two police officers died in a helicopter crash while they were monitoring the protests.

A student rally has been planned this weekend in Charlottesville to reclaim the campus square where the white supremacists marched last year wielding tiki torches.

However, most sights will be set on Washington, DC, where white nationalists are once again planning a "Unite the Right" rally, which last year ended in tragedy in Charlottesville.

The neo-Nazis are planning to protest in front of the White House, while a coalition of progressive groups has organized an "anti-racist" counter-protest nearby.

--IANS

qd

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)There is more political support for TVS Motor Co Chairman Venu Srinivasan against whom a FIR has been lodged in a case of idol theft, with Union Minister Pon Radhakrishnan and CPI leader R. Mutharasan backing him.

Union Minister of State Radhakrishnan said the general public perception was that Srinivasan had spent his own money for the betterment of temples and for the livelihood of the poor.

Radhakrishan said many devotees were wondering whether charging a person like Srinivasan was meant to divert the investigation or help the real culprits.

Mutharasan said it was astonishing that Srinivasan, the head of TVS Motor, was being charged in an temple idol theft case.

He sought a probe to know on whose instance Srinivasan's name had been included in the FIR.

Earlier, MDMK founder Vaiko had demanded dropping of Srinivasan's name from the FIR.

Meanwhile, a police team investigating the theft of idol on August 10 told the Madras High Court that Srinivasan won't be arrested for six weeks till the court hears the industrialist's anticipatory bail application.

In his bail application, Srinivasan referred to a writ petition filed by one Elephant G. Rajendran. Srinivasan said that in paragraph 12 of an affidavit submitted in support of his petition, Rajendran mentioned that an FIR had been filed against him.

Srinivasan said he was appointed Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the famed Srirangam Temple and that he had spent Rs 25 crore from his own pocket for the renovation of the entire holy complex.

He said Rs 70 lakh was also spent by him on painting works at Sri Kabaleeswarar temple in the heart of Chennai.

The industrialist also said that a private trust funded by him and his company had undertaken renovation of over 100 temples in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.

--IANS

vj/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two officials of a Patna shelter home were detained on Sunday for questioning after two women inmates died in a hospital, police said.

Patna Senior Superintendent of Police Manu Maharaj said that a Special Investigation Team has been constituted to probe the death of the two 'Aasra' inmates, aged 40 and 18, on Friday night at the Patna Medical College and Hospital.

The cause of the death was not immediately known.

Though shelter home officials said the two died at the hospital, the latter's officials on Sunday denied it and said that the inmates were "brought dead".

Neither police nor the Bihar Social Welfare Department officials were told about the incident on Friday by the shelter home authorities.

A police team along with departmental officials visited the shelter home in the city's Rajiv Hagar area and questioned the staff.

The two deaths at the Bihar shelter home have come after the revelations about the rape of at least 34 minor girls at a similar home in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district. The case came to light in July when the Social Welfare Department filed an FIR on the basis of a social audit by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai.

Twenty-four girls were rescued from a shelter home in Uttar Pradesh's Deoria last week after one of them told the police that they were being sexually abused.

--IANS

ik/tsb/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Nobel Prize-winning writer V.S. Naipaul, known for his celebrated works like "An Area of Darkness" and "A House for Mr Biswas", has died at age 85. The literary fraternity mourned his passing and said his rich legacy will live on for generations to come.

No sooner did Lady Nadira Naipaul confirm on Sunday morning that her husband had died peacefully in London, condolence messages from readers and admirers flooded the social media.

"He was a giant in all that he achieved and he died surrounded by those he loved, having lived a life which was full of wonderful creativity and endeavour," Lady Naipaul said.

Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in saluting the writer who shared deep ancestral ties with - and love for - India. Also paying homage were prominent faces from the literary arena including Salman Rushdie and Paul Theroux who were often critical of Naipaul's works.

Notwithstanding their differences with Naipaul, both were confident that his works would be read by generations to come.

Rushdie, who himself has Indian roots, said he had disagreed with Naipaul on politics and literature but felt sad "as if I just lost a beloved older brother".

Added writer-historian William Dalrymple: "Even if you disagreed with much that he wrote, particularly about India, you couldn't help be stimulated, influenced and catalysed by the brilliance of his laser sharp vision."

Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul was born in 1932 in Chaguanas on the island of Trinidad and Tobago to a family that had arrived from India in the 1880s. His life was one of many discoveries and Naipaul captured what he saw around him in his writings.

But even as his highly acclaimed books like "India: A Wounded Civilization" and "A Bend in the River" will live to tell his stories to future readers, his death brings an end to a rather fascinating literary journey with few parallels.

In a career spanning over five decades, Naipaul penned some 30 books, across literary genres, and established himself as a prominent voice among the writers of his time.

The early inspiration, as he had expressed on several occasions, came from his father, who was a journalist and, as Naipaul said, "a man of letters". His readings from literature was an important part of Naipaul's education.

However, the then would be writer-extraordinaire did not have "great things" to write about during his early days. He left Oxford University, where he had bagged a scholarship, and went to live in a cousin's flat, hoping to train himself as a writer. But he had no knowledge of what it was to be a writer.

His first book was so bad that a London-based publisher told him: "You should give this up, forget this work, do something else." And so he did, starting work as a presenter for the BBC on their programme Caribbean Voices.

But he had one powerful ace up his sleeve.

"I believed in my own talent. I thought whatever I did would be alright in the end. If I wasn't true to my talent, that would be the end of me as a person. So I kept on writing despite drawbacks and lack of encouragement," Naipaul revealed at the Jaipur Literature Festival in January 2015, his last public appearance in India.

Sure enough, he had a breakthrough at the BBC. In a room on the second floor of the Langham Hotel, then part of the BBC, there were two or three typewriters.

"Out of sheer idleness, I began to write the first short story of 'Miguel Street'. I said to myself, you will only leave this sheet of paper when you have finished what you are writing. That was the great breakthrough, finishing in that way," Naipaul recalled.

In the months to come, he published a number of novellas. 1961 saw "A House for Mr Biswas", thrusting him into the limelight. Naipaul took smaller steps - by publishing novellas - before setting on to write what he called "a bigger book".

As decades rolled by, there was no stopping the writer in Naipaul. He went on to bag some of the most coveted honours bestowed on writers. He was awarded the Booker Prize in 1971 for "In A Free State".

Three decades later, in awarding Naipaul the 2001 Nobel Prize in Literature, the Swedish Academy praised his work "for having united perceptive narrative and incorruptible scrutiny in works that compel us to see the presence of suppressed histories".

--IANS

ss/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Valencia CF on Sunday announced that they have reached an agreement to sign French forward Kevin Gameiro from their La Liga rival Atletico Madrid.

The 31-year-old joins Valencia's four-man attacking line, which could speed up the departure of Italian international striker Simone Zaza, reports Efe.

Gameiro became Valencia's seventh signing during the summer transfer window and the La Liga side is also expected to sign contracts with two left wingers.

Portugal's Goncalo Guedes, who played with Valencia on loan last season, is expected to join the Bats next if they reach an agreement with the Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)With India too witnessing a change in its weather patterns, researchers believe climate change may not only challenge the country's conventional development pathways but also pose a serious threat to its economy.

Considering that climate change is the single biggest existential threat the country faces today, they say greenhouse gas reduction must happen immediately and call for green financing to combat climate change threats.

The southwest monsoon rainfall in India has been below average in five of the last six years. And if the rainfall remains below average this season, it will be for the third consecutive year.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) data says the cumulative monsoon rainfall for the country from June 1 to August 8 was 10 per cent below the long-period average (LPA).

Monsoon rainfall was 5 per cent lower than normal in the central regions of the country, while it was as high as 25 per cent deficit in east and northeastern states.

According to a World Bank report in June, climate change could cost India 2.8 per cent of its GDP due to extreme weather events and changes in seasonal patterns.

The report estimates nearly half of India's population could face a degraded living standard by 2050.

So what are the economies for climate change in India?

The landmark 2015 Paris agreement aims to limit global warming below two degrees Celsius by collective reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The agreement was adopted by nearly 200 countries, including India.

This provides a challenge for a country like India where 200 million people don't have access to electricity. The challenge is immense, yet the solution brings an opportunity -- innovative financing in green technology.

India has to offer a lot of positive examples of climate ambition and clean energy development, The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) Director General Ajay Mathur said.

The growth of renewables, the increase in energy efficiency, scaling up of electric mobility and even the recognition of linkages between air quality and climate change all demonstrate the country's climate action, he told IANS.

The challenges posed by climate change offer a slew of opportunities for corporate houses to take the lead.

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra took the initiative by committing to science-based targets to cut its greenhouse gas emissions.

Science-based targets give corporate houses a clear roadmap for how much they need to shrink their carbon footprint in line with the Paris agreement goals.

Mahindra has now been invited to co-chair the Global Climate Action Summit to be held in San Francisco from September 12 to 14.

The summit aims to accelerate action toward the transition to a low-carbon economy.

This way, summit organisers are helping building a momentum for a successful outcome for the UN Climate Change Conference (COP24) slated to be held in Katowice, Poland, this year.

"As more and more companies recognise that climate change provides an opportunity to disrupt and reshape the way we do business, reduction in carbon emissions will be mostly driven by market forces rather than the climate imperative," Council on Energy, and Water (CEEW) CEO Arunabha Ghosh said.

A good example of this is solar and wind industry, where falling prices have challenged traditional fossil-based power generation, and going ahead, most of the new capacity addition will come from the renewable sources of energy.

With advancement in technology and India's strong thrust on favourable policies for solar, there has been a rapid cost deflation in solar energy.

"Reforms in electricity sector will lead to more profitability for distribution companies which, as of now, incur huge losses," Ghosh said.

Wind energy is also not far behind.

With solar and wind now cheaper than coal or any other fossil fuels, rapid deployment is now possible. Sixty-five percent of existing coal is already costlier than new solar and wind.

India has a target of achieving 175GW of wind and solar by 2022.

Union Power Minister R.K. Singh has announced that India may install 225GW of solar and wind by 2022.

Similarly, the focus that the country is now placing on electric mobility offers a chance for large-scale adoption of electrical vehicles (EVs), thereby offering massive co-benefits around managing air pollution and cutting back on inflating oil import bills.

The reduction in carbon emissions if EVs are fully powered by renewable energy is going to be a very promising scenario.

Studies say transportation accounts for 26 per cent of global carbon emissions. It is the only sector where carbon emissions continue to grow, adding to the climate change burden.

Rapid deployment of renewable energy, and a shift to electric mobility not only makes climate sense, it also makes economic sense, added an expert.

(Vishal Gulati can be contacted at vishal.g@ians.in)

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A 35-year-old woman was allegedly gang-raped by three persons on the pretext of job in Odisha's Jajpur district, police said on Sunday.

Three people brought the woman on the pretext of giving a job and gang-raped her on Saturday evening and dumped her near a bypass. The locals rescued the woman and informed police.

Police said the woman, who was estranged from her husband, is a resident of Kuakhia area of Jajpur.

"After getting information, we rescued the woman and brought her here. We have recorded her statement and initiated an investigation," said Korei Police Station Inspector Chinmaye Sahu.

--IANS

cd/ahm/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Bihar Energy Minister Bijendra Yadav is upset that good things about the state were not being projected by the national media as well as they should have been. In the wake of the alleged instances of sexual abuse at a government-funded shelter home in the state, the negative perception about the state had tarnished the image of the ruling class, he rued.

He added that the governments Har Ghar Bijli scheme, conceived in 2015, was not being appreciated as much as the Centres Saubhagya scheme that was launched after it. When one wakes up in the morning it seems that only bad ...The (AAP) plans to contest the 2019 elections in a focused manner, restricting itself to fielding candidates in around 100 seats, primarily in Punjab, Haryana and Delhi among the states in north India.

This is in contrast with the 2014 general elections, where the party had fielded over 400 candidates across the country, but managed to win just four seats in Punjab.

"The party feels that there is no point fighting in all seats. So, plans are to contest around 80 to 100 seats where we are in a better position to influence the results," said AAP's Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh, who is also the in-charge of party's Uttar Pradesh and Bihar units.

Punjab, Haryana and AAP's home turf Delhi will be where the party would focus to win maximum seats in 2019, he said.

The party will also field candidates for some seats in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. In Bihar and Uttar Pradesh too, plans to field candidates in some seats.

In Uttar Pradesh, the party is looking to contest in 10 to 15 seats, Singh said.

In Delhi, the has announced in-charges for five of the seven constituencies. They have already actively engaged with local cadre in organising meetings and campaigns there.

The fate of two parliamentary constituencies -- New Delhi and West Delhi -- for which no one was named as in-charge amid rumours of a tie-up with the Congress, is yet to be decided as convener Arvind Kejriwal, during his visit to Haryana recently, ruled out the party's participation in any alliance.

In Punjab, where the AAP managed to win four Lok Sabha seats in the last Lok Sabha elections and is the main opposition in the state Assembly, efforts will be made to enhance the influence of the party, Singh said.

"We would like to increase our footprint in Punjab by winning more than four seats, this time," the AAP leader said, adding the party may also contest in some seats in Gujarat where the organisation is strong.

Haryana is another state where the AAP aspires to open its account in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Party leaders believe that voters of Haryana, which is home state of and where local leader Navin Jaihind has been involved in grassroots organisational work, are ready to respond favourably to AAP in the coming general elections.I truly wish someone could explain to me exactly what the hoopla from the left is all about regarding voter ID. I just plain "don't get it".

As far as I know you have to have a picture ID to do anything from renting a motel room to renting a car or opening a bank account, cash a check, a new patient seeing a doctor, in the emergency room...and the beat goes on.

When my 85-year-old mother was scammed and her bank account was hit the bank suggested she close that account and immediately open a new one. Sounded great so that's what we did, only problem was her ID was expired. Even though 30 seconds had passed since she closed her account the bank couldn't accept her ID so we had the great fun and experience of going to the DMV. She was old, she was poor but this had to be done in order for her to have full use of her checking/savings account. What the heck is the problem?

I have to "assume" that the hundreds of thousands of people protesting the fact that a picture ID is required to vote on the fact that they're old and poor also don't have any income, never cash a check, never visit the doctor or a health clinic, do not drive, do not have any type of insurance other than perhaps burial, and do not receive ETB assistance. How do they live? If someone could explain that to me I'd be forever grateful.

Oh, by the way, if you tell me that you drive them around for their errands and pay for it out of your pocket then my question for you is this: Why not drive them to the DMV and pay for an ID for them? Far as I know right now a Tennessee ID card is free. Don't even go to the local DMV, try Polk County who never have lines or a gazillion people waiting.

There's an excuse for everything but it seems to me the right to vote is a very important right and one we should all do. If I knew of someone without an ID I'd volunteer my time to assist that person because as I said at the beginning you've got to have an ID to do anything in any state.

Sue White

* * *

Dear Ms. White,

I agree with your writing. I am 61 and am required to provide ID everywhere I go or call. I have to provide identifying information on the phone each and every time I communicate with people I have doing business with for over 23 years. We speak to each other on a first name basis but I have to provide ID. Like you I wonder how these individuals with no ID exist.

According to the media there are millions of people who do not have a valid ID. But when do we hear about it? When it comes to voting. Suspicious much?

Ted Ladd





Congress chief on Saturday targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi again on the Rafale aircraft deal, accusing him of corruption by helping out his industrialist friend Anil Ambani.

Gandhi used the Hindi word chori, or theft, when he made the accusation while launching the Congress campaign for the assembly polls later this year in Rajasthan.

He claimed that the deal for the French fighter aircraft had led to the loss of jobs for Indian youths, saying the agreement worked out while the Congress was in power would have ensured their manufacture in India.

The Congress president was addressing party workers at the city's Ramlila grounds, where he arrived in a special bus from the airport.

Party workers welcomed him at several points along the 13-km route. After the meeting, Gandhi offered prayers at the Govind Devji temple in the city.

He took a jibe at Bharatiya Janata Party president Amit Shah, saying someone who had been a murder accused is now president of the party.

Shah had been named in the Sohrabuddin fake encounter case, but was discharged by the trial court.

On the Rafale deal, said Modi had favoured industrialist Anil Ambani.

The reference was to the business that foreign manufacturers are required to bring to Indian firms when a defence deal is signed with the government, under the country's offset policy.

Ambani has already rejected Gandhi's allegations and stressed that the government had no role in the French firm Dassault picking up his company as a local partner.

India had signed an inter-governmental agreement with France in 2015 for the procurement of 36 Rafale planes.

Gandhi said the price of the Rafale plane fixed now is about "three times" the amount agreed upon during the previous Congress-led government.

He said the corruption by the prime minister will become clear in the times to come: PM ne Rafale me chori ki hai, jo aane wale time me saaf dikh jayegi.

The Congress chief claimed that only 450 youths get employment in the country every day while China creates jobs for 50,000 people.

Our youths are more honest, capable and stronger than the Chinese but it is a matter of shame that despite having almost an equal population, they are getting fewer job opportunities, he said.

He questioned why Rs 2.3 trillion could be written off as bad loans to 15 or 20 big industrialists, but the government could not help debt-ridden farmers.

When farmers are unable to pay back their loans, they are called defaulters and are jailed. But the bad debts of big industrialists are called non-performing assets, he said.

The Congress leader said the poll promises made by the BJP ahead of the last general election still remained a distant dream.

He said farmers were committing suicide but the government was least bothered about it.

The condition of the women was the worst during the Modi government's term, he said.

In UP, a BJP MLA rapes a woman and entire UP BJP tries to protect him. Incidents occurred in Chhattisgarh also but the prime minister does not speak a word, he said.

We need to protect the 'beti' (daughter) from BJP leaders, he said, mocking the government's Beti Bachao, Beto Padhao campaign.

Gandhi said that demonetisation of high-value currency bank notes and then the Goods and Services Tax (GST), which he called 'Gabbar Singh Tax', had broken the back of the common man and the small businessman.

He said a Congress government will include petrol and diesel under the GST and change it to single-layer tax system.

He said people from the weaker sections are being beaten and killed, minors girls are raped in almost every state in the country but the prime minister does not condemn such incidents.

People depend on courts for justice but Supreme Court judges are now seen begging for justice from people and the press, he said.On August 4, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi for a second time in two months. The meeting was significant.

Between the two meetings, his son, and political heir K T Rama Rao also met Modi on June 29. The media was told the second meeting the senior Rao had with Modi was about a known wish list of the state government. The only change in the wish list in the second meeting was the issue of increase in reservation for schedules castes and scheduled tribes and creating 12 per cent reservation for Muslims under the OBC ...Some 1,800 people were ordered to evacuate their homes in northwest France today as a bomb squad defused a British bomb from World War II, officials said.

The 220-kilogramme bomb was found in late June during construction work near the centre of Rouen in Normandy.

Residents living within a 270-metre radius of the site were told to leave the area early this morning ahead of the operation, which wound up shortly after 11:00 am (0900 GMT).

Discoveries of bombs and shells from World War II are common in France and elsewhere on the continent.

Last month, the French navy defused an unexploded shell found in the sea near a popular beach in Cannes on the Mediterranean coast.

In May, nearly 9,000 people had to be evacuated after a bomb was uncovered in Dresden, Germany, a city which was heavily bombed toward the end of the war.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A policeman was killed and five other security forces personnel were injured during an encounter with militants in the Batamaloo area here following which two ultras were arrested today, police said.

Security forces launched a cordon and search operation at Diyarwani in Batamaloo area of the city in the pre-dawn hours this morning following specific information about the presence of militants in the area, Additional Director General of Police (Security and Law and Order)Munir Khan told reporters.

He said while the house, where the militants were hiding, was zeroed in, the ultras opened firing upon the forces which was retaliated, ensuing an encounter.

"A group of five militants were there They lobbed a grenade and opened firing and then escaped because of darkness. The area is very congested and forces exercised restraint so that there is no collateral damage as the houses there are roof to roof," the ADGP said.

He said a selection grade constable, Parvaiz Ahmad, was killed and two policemen and three CRPF personnel received injuries in the initial indiscriminate firing by the militants.

"The security forces retaliated and it has been learnt that two militants have been injured, but they managed to flee. Two other militants were arrested and their questioning is on," Khan said.

The ADGP said the arrested militants have revealed "many things" but which cannot be divulged right now as the operation would continue further.

Earlier, a police spokesman had said, "two accomplices of the terrorists have been detained", while incriminating material was recovered from the site of encounter.

The spokesman said a massive search operation is underway in the area.

He said police have registered a case and investigation has been initiated in the matter.

Meanwhile, a wreath laying ceremony was held at DPL Srinagar where senior officers from civil administration, police and other security forces paid rich tributes to Ahmad, a resident of Dandote village in Rajouri district, the spokesman said.

"Senior civil and police officers paid rich tributes to the martyr and laid floral wreaths on the mortal remains for his supreme sacrifice made in the line of duty," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A policeman has been killed and three security forces personnel injured during an early morning encounter with militants in Batmaloo area here today, police said.

"On a specific information about presence of terrorists in a hideout, an operation was launched in Batmaloo Srinagar leading to exchange of fire, one SOG boy martyred, one JKP & 2 CRPF Jawans sustained injuries, operation continues," Director General of Police (DGP) S P Vaid wrote on Twitter.

The state's police chief shared no further details.

A police official said security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Diyarwani in Batamaloo area of the city early this morning following a tip-off about the presence of militants in the area.

The search operation soon turned into an encounter as the militants fired upon the forces, who retaliated, he said.

The gunfight was still going on, the official said, adding further details were awaited.

Mobile internet service has been snapped in the city as a precautionary measure, the official said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A policeman was killed while four security forces personnel were injured during an encounter with militants in the Batmaloo area here today, police said.

Two suspects have been detained from the encounter site, a police spokesman said.

Security forces launched a cordon and search operation at Diyarwani in Batmaloo area of the city early morning following information about the presence of militants in the area, Central Kashmir Range Deputy Inspector General (DIG) V K Birdi told reporters.

He said the search operation turned into an encounter as the militants fired upon the forces who retaliated.

In the initial burst of fire, five jawans sustained injuries and were evacuated to the hospital for medical attention. However, one of them succumbed to his injuries, the DIG said.

A police spokesman identified the slain policeman as selection grade constable Parvaiz Ahmad.

Birdi said a militant has also suffered injuries and managed to flee the encounter site, but the security forces have maintained the cordon of the area and the searches were underway.

He said, "Two accomplices of the terrorists have been detained."



Earlier, Director General of Police (DGP) S P Vaid wrote on Twitter that one personnel belonging to the special operations group (SOG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police was killed in the encounter.

"On a specific information about the presence of terrorists in a hideout, an operation was launched in Batmaloo Srinagar leading to exchange of fire, one SOG boy martyred, one JKP & (and) 2 (two) CRPF Jawans sustained injuries, operation continues," the DGP tweeted.

The spokesman said security forces exercised maximum restraint in retaliation considering the residential population and other civil establishments around the area.

He said incriminating material was recovered from the encounter site.

Police have registered a case and investigation has been initiated in the matter, the spokesman said.

Meanwhile, mobile internet has been snapped in the city as a precautionary measure.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Eleven Pakistani nationals have been detained in Rajasthan's Anupgarh town in last two days for travelling here without required permission, police said today.

Anupgarh town in Sriganganagar district shares its border with Pakistan.

Five Pakistani nationals were detained at Anupgarh Railway Station last night. They had reportedly come to meet their relatives. The five detainees, however, had a visa for Haridwar, Assistant Sub-Inspector (Anupgarh) Puran Singh said.

Based on the information provided by them, six other Pakistanis were detained today from different locations in the area, the officer said.

All 11 Pakistani nationals are being interrogated jointly by the Rajasthan Police and Border Security Force (BSF), he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two couples allegedly committed suicide by jumping in front of trains in Rajasthan's Sikar and Jalore districts apparently over their failed love affair, the policed said today.

In Sikar district, Pawan Kumar Meena (27) and Seema Meena (20) jumped in front of a freight train. The bodies were handed over to their family members after post-mortem, a police official said.

In Jalore district, Satish Mali (18) and Aarti Sain (18) jumped in front of Gandhidham-Jodhpur Express train, police said.

The duo had left their homes yesterday and was found dead on rail tracks. The matter has been registered under section 174 of CrPc, acting SHO of Jalore's Kotwali Police Station Bhagirath Ram said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Delhi Police has arrested two suspected members of a robbers' gang which had allegedly assaulted a property dealer and his family during a heist of Rs 84 lakh in cash and jewellery on August 8.

The police said they have recovered Rs 9.15 lakh and a loaded pistol from the accused.

"Southwest Delhi-residents Vaibhav Srivastav (26) and Lalit Mishra (20) were arrested when they were riding a stolen motorcycle on NajafgarhUttam Nagar road last night," the police said in a statement.

The accused were part of the six-member gang which had barged into the house of a southwest Delhi real estate dealer and robbed them.

The robbers escaped with a booty of Rs 84 lakh in cash and a large quantity of jewellery, and an FIR was lodged in this regard, Anto Alphonse, Deputy Commissioner of Police of Dwaraka district, said in the statement.

The police claimed that during interrogation, Srivastav revealed that he is taxi driver who owns a cab attached to Uber.

"His cousin offered him to join in a robbery plan which has been hatched by him in collusion with other associates and promised him good money in return," the police said.

The police also said that accused Mishra is a helper at a dentist clinic at Tilak Nagar and got into the gang to purchase a new motorcycle.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Three drug smugglers were arrested here and contraband worth Rs 1 crore in the international market was seized from them, police said today.

"The three smugglers were arrested last evening following a tip-off. They were arrested from a location near the Nepal border falling under the Rupaidiah police station. The arrested smugglers are from different parts of Bahraich and have been identified as Babu Manihar, Vasu Pathan and Sufi. Five kilograms of charas, three countrymade revolvers, cartridges and a motorcycle have been recovered from them," Superintendent of Police (SP) Sabharaj said.

He added that a case was registered against the accused under various sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, the Arms Act and the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

"The seized charas is worth Rs 1 crore in the international market," the SP said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Jordanian security forces have killed three "terrorists" and arrested five others during a raid after an officer was killed in a bomb blast near the capital, the government said today.

Three members of the security forces also died in yesterday's raid, which came after the home-made bomb exploded under a patrol car at a music festival.

A joint unit of special forces, police and army troops raided a house in the town of Salt northwest of Amman in search of a suspected "terrorist cell", government spokeswoman Jumana Ghneimat said.

Three members of the security forces were killed in a shootout with gunmen holed up in a building, she said.

"The suspects refused to surrender and opened heavy fire toward a joint security force," Ghneimat said in a statement.

The suspects also "blew up the building in which they were hiding, and which they had booby-trapped earlier", she said.

In an update early Sunday Ghneimat said that the three bodies as well as automatic weapons were found under the rubble of the building, a four-storey block of apartments.

She added that two other "terrorists" were arrested, bringing the total number of people detained in Salt since Saturday to five.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for Friday's bomb blast, which also wounded six other members of the patrol in Al-Fuhais, a mostly Christian town west of Amman. The identities of the suspects were not known.

One of the members of the security forces wounded during the raid was in "critical condition", Ghneimat said "A clean-up operation is still under way," she said, adding that units of the civil defence were at the scene to assess the damage at the building and sift through the rubble.

Ghneimat urged civilians to stay away, warning that "it could totally collapse at any minute".

Medical sources said that 11 people were wounded during the raid, including members of the security forces and civilians. Women and children were among those hurt, they said, without giving further details.

Jordanian television broadcast footage of the partially collapsed building and security forces conducting search operations.

Ambulances, bulldozers and police cars were deployed around the building in the Naqab al-Dabour residential neighbourhood in Salt, the footage showed.

The government set up a crisis cell to follow the developments, the state-run Petra agency reported.

Prime Minister Omar al-Razzaz, who chaired the meeting, vowed Saturday that Jordan would "not be complacent in the hunt for terrorists".

Bomb blasts targeting security forces are rare in Jordan, although the tiny desert kingdom has had to struggle with a rise in Muslim fundamentalism in recent years.

Jordan has played a key role in the US-led coalition fighting the Islamic State group in neighbouring Syria and Iraq, using its air force against the jihadists and allowing coalition forces to use its bases.

The kingdom was hit by a string of attacks in 2016, including a shooting rampage claimed by IS that killed 10 people including a Canadian tourist in Karak, known for its Crusader castle.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Four personnel of the Frontier Constabulary were killed and 23 others injured in an accident in northwest Pakistan's Kyber-Pakhtunkhwa province today, police said.

The accident happened when a Dikhan-bound bus turned turtle on the Daraban-Darazinda road after the driver lost control over the vehicle, they said.

Four jawans of the Frontier Constabulary died in the accident, they said, adding that the bus was coming from Quetta.

Police and rescue officials rushed to the spot and retrieved the bodies and rushed the injured to hospital, they added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Four members of the Jordanian security forces and three "terrorists" have been killed during a raid on a militant hideout after an officer died in a bomb blast near the capital, the government said today.

Five suspects were also arrested during yesterday's raid in connection with the home-made bomb that exploded under a patrol car at a music festival.

A joint unit of special forces, police and army troops raided a house in the town of Salt northwest of Amman in search of a suspected "terrorist cell", government spokeswoman Jumana Ghneimat said.

She said the militants were sought in connection with Friday night's bombing that killed a police sergeant and wounded six others in the town of Al-Fuhais west of Amman.

"The suspects refused to surrender and opened heavy fire toward a joint security force," Ghneimat said yesterday.

They also "blew up the building in which they were hiding, and which they had booby-trapped earlier", she added.

Three members of the security forces were killed in the shootout with the gunmen who were holed up in an apartment in a four-storey residential bloc in Salt, she said in a statement.

A fourth who was critically wounded died of his injuries on Sunday, she added.

The bodies of three "terrorists" as well as automatic weapons were found under the rubble of the building, and a total of five militants were arrested during the operation, Ghneimat said.

Bomb blasts targeting security forces are rare in Jordan, although the small desert kingdom bordering Syria and Iraq has had to struggle with a rise in Muslim fundamentalism in recent years.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for Friday's bomb blast in Al-Fuhais, a mostly Christian town, and the identities of the suspects were not known.

"A clean-up operation is still under way," Ghneimat said, adding that units of the civil defence were at the scene to assess the damage at the building and sift through the rubble.

Ghneimat urged civilians to stay away, warning that "it could totally collapse at any minute".

An excavator was later seen demolishing the structure.

Medical sources said that 11 people were wounded during the raid, including members of the security forces and civilians who were residents of the building where the militants were hiding.

Women and children were among those hurt, they said, without giving further details.

Ambulances, bulldozers and police cars were deployed around the building in the Naqab al-Dabour residential neighbourhood in Salt, television footage showed. The government set up a crisis cell to follow the developments, the state-run Petra agency reported.

Prime Minister Omar al-Razzaz, who chaired the meeting, vowed yesterday that Jordan would "not be complacent in the hunt for terrorists".

Jordan has played a key role in the US-led coalition fighting the Islamic State group in Syria and Iraq, using its air force against the jihadists and allowing coalition forces to use its bases.

The kingdom was hit by a string of attacks in 2016, including a shooting rampage claimed by IS that killed 10 people including a Canadian tourist in Karak, known for its Crusader castle.

The United States "strongly condemned" the attacks against Jordanian security forces in Al-Fuhais and in Salt, in a statement released Sunday by its Amman embassy.

"The United States stands in solidarity with Jordan in the face of these terrorist actions and emphasises our shared resolve to counter the plague of terrorism," the statement said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Five persons died and two others were critically injured in a road accident when a truck and a car collided head on in Assam's Nagaon district, police said today.

The two speeding vehicles collided at Rangagara near Samaguri at around midnight killing three persons on the spot while two others succumbed to their injuries in the hospital.

Two of the critically injured persons have been shifted to Gauhati Medical College Hospital.

The four of the dead have been identified as Rashidul Haque, Saiful Islam, Sariful Islam and Balin Das while the fifth was yet to be identified, police added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Seven members of a family, all minors, were killed when their car fell into a ditch in Gujarat's Panchmahal district, police said today.

The incident happened around midnight yesterday when one of the rear wheels of the car, carrying 10 people, came off at a sharp turn on the Halol-Bodeli road, near Bhat village in Jambughoda tehsil, located around 180 km from here.

As a result, the driver lost control of the vehicle, which plunged into a roadside ditch filled with water, an official at the Jambughoda police station said.

While the locals managed to rescue three people, seven others could not be saved, he added.

All the deceased belonged to the same family in Bodeli town. They were returning after meeting a relative in Halol, the police official said.

"The three people rescued by the locals were taken to a hospital in Jambughoda. The bodies were also sent to the same hospital for post-mortem," he added.

The deceased were identified as Mohammad Bilal (17), Mohammad Rouf (14), Mohammad Sajid (13), Gul Afroz (13), Asina Banu (11), Mohammad Tahir (11) and Mohammad Yusuf (7), the official said.

A case was registered in connection with the incident, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)As many as 774 people have died in incidents related to floods and rains in seven states during the monsoon season so far, the Home Ministry said today.

According to the Home Ministry's National Emergency Response Centre (NERC), 187 people have lost their lives in Kerala, 171 in Uttar Pradesh, 170 people in West Bengal and 139 in Maharashtra due to the floods and rains.

As many as 52 people lost their lives in Gujarat, 45 in Assam and eight in Nagaland.

A total of 27 people were also missing in Kerala (22) and West Bengal (5), while 245 others received injuries in rain-related incidents in the states.

The deluge and rains have hit 26 districts in Maharashtra, 23 in Assam, 22 in West Bengal, 14 in Kerala, 12 in Uttar Pradesh, 11 Nagaland and 10 in Gujarat.

In Assam, 11.45 lakh people have borne the brunt of the rains and floods, which also hit crops in 27,552 hectres of land.

Altogether 15 teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are engaged in rescue and relief operations in Assam, the NERC said.

A team of the NDRF comprises 45 personnel.

Eight NDRF teams were deployed in Uttar Pradesh, eight in West Bengal, seven in Gujarat, four each in Kerala and Maharashtra and one in Nagaland.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Yoga guru and entrepreneur Ramdev said today that 'gau rakshaks' (cow protectors) have to come out on streets if police and civil administrations fail to deal strictly with the menace of cow smuggling.

He said that strict action should be taken against those involved in illegal cow slaughter and added that a few "gau rakshaks" go overboard, which malign the image of "90 per cent genuine" people who work for cow protection.

"No one speaks about cow smugglers. Why are cow killers given encouragement. It should never happen. We are not in favour of those having licence for cow slaughter house and those transporting animals," he told reporters on the sidelines of an event here.

Advocating a complete ban on cow slaughter in the country, he said that Centre should enact a law on the matter.

"Who else can be a bigger 'rashtra bhakt' and 'gau bhakt' than Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He should enact a law to ban cow slaughter in the country," Ramdev said.

Replying to a question on the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam, Ramdev said that nearly 3-4 crore people live illegally in the country which poses a huge threat to the country's integrity, unity and sovereignty.

Be it a Bangladeshi, Pakistani or American, no one should be allowed to live illegally in the country, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Actor Adam Devine says he will surely consider returning to play Bumper Allen in "Pitch Perfect" if the script is ''funny'' enough.

The actor said he had a great time working on the 2012 film and would love to reunite with co-stars Rebel Wilson and Anna Kendrick.

"If the script is funny enough... That is what it is. It has to be really funny. But I love working with Rebel and obviously, I love working with Anna. Everyone in that movie I feel like I'm going to work with 30 more times," he told PeopleTV's Chatter.

Devine's statement comes after director Trish Sie defended her decision not to include its male stars in "Pitch Perfect 3", as she felt it was the perfect ''time to make a fresh start''.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)K Vijay Kumar, the advisor to Jammu and Kashmir Governor N N Vohra, today paid a surprise visit to the Government Medical College hospital here and took stock of the medical facilities.

Accompanied by senior civil and police officials, Kumar inspected emergency ward and in-patient units of the hospital, an official spokesman said.

He also inspected the OPD and was briefed by the principal and medical superintendent about the availability of patient care facilities, the spokesman said.

During his visit, the advisor interacted with many patients admitted in the hospital and their attendants and enquired about the medical facilities being provided to them.

He directed the health department's officials to take necessary measures for improving sanitation and patient care services at the hospital, the spokesman said.

Earlier, the advisor chaired a high-level meeting to review the progress on implementation of key flagship schemes and programmes and overall developmental scenario in Jammu district.

Deputy Commissioner of Jammu Ramesh Kumar gave an overview of the ongoing developmental projects in the district under various sectors.

The advisor reviewed the pace of progress on upcoming legislative complex, modernisation of general bus stand, development of multi-tier parking, Jammu ropeway project, Jammu-Akhnoor road four-laning, Jammu-ring road project, extension of Jammu airport, IIT, IIM and sewerage project, the spokesman said.

Taking stock of availability of doctors, medical staff, medical supplies and critical care ambulances in the district, the meeting was informed that Jammu district has a shortfall of 36 doctors while two critical ambulances are available -- one each at Jammu and R S Pura.

On the drug menace, Kumar asked the police department to utilise the services of NGOs for spreading mass awareness against drug abuse and take suggestions and recommendations from the police departments doing good job in curbing the problem in their respective states.

Meanwhile, several delegations from Jammu including National Newspapers Representatives' Association, Confederation of Indian Industries, Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Border Sangarsh Samiti-Arnia, JK Against Corruption Trust and various public delegations also met the advisor and put forth their issues.

He assured that prompt and effective action would be taken up on the genuine issues raised by them, the spokesman said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An Afghan official says security forces are battling the Taliban for the third straight day after the insurgents' massive attack into the key city of Ghazni.

The Taliban pushed into the city, the capital of Ghazni province, from different directions on Friday and destroyed a telecommunication tower, cutting off landline and cell phone communications.

Gen. Sharif Yaftali, army chief of staff, says all strategic and government offices in Ghazni are still under government control.

He said on Sunday that fighting is still underway as the Taliban are hiding in residential areas and in civilian homes.

Yafteli pledged Ghazni would be cleared in a couple of days and the highway between Kabul and the city reopened.

Taliban claims of capturing parts of Ghazni, taking Afghan forces captive, couldn't be independently verified.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Amara Raja Batteries has posted 13.19 per cent jump in its net profit at Rs 113.03 crore during the first quarter of the current fiscal on strong sales.

Its net profit was Rs 99.85 crore in the April-June quarter of last fiscal, the company said in a regulatory filing.

The net income of the company increased to Rs 1,779 crore during the April-June quarter of 2018-19, from Rs 1,671.28 crore in the year-ago period.

Its expenses rose to Rs 1,622.85 crore as against Rs 1,534.24 crore in the said period.

The company said that the demand for batteries in replacement market saw growth in all vehicles categories, including two wheelers.

Both the preferred brands, AMARON and POWERZONE, continued to perform exceptionally well, thereby increasing market share.

As for exports, South-East Asia and the Middle East contributed to phenomenal growth in the international business, it said.

"The demand from Telecom segment continues to be under stress owing to overall telecom scenario prevailing in the market. Barring this all other segments of the industrial business registered double digit growth," the company added.

Amara Raja Batteries Vice Chairman and Managing Director Jayadev Galla said: "The economy of the country is poised to grow and provide opportunities for increasing production and consumption. In line with the growth and demand expectations, we are expanding capacities and adapting new technologies well in time."



The company is engaged in the manufacture and marketing of lead acid storage batteries. It has incorporated had in July 2018 an wholly-owned subsidary in Sharjah.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Once the Maharashtra government implements its ambitious Automated Multi-modal Biometric Identification System (AMBIS), the crime detection and conviction rate of the state will go up, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said today.

He said the uniqueness of the system is that with the help of mobile live scanners, a police patrol team can ascertain on the spot whether a suspect has any criminal antecedents or not.

"Besides detecting crime through usual finger prints at the crime scene, the system with the help of retinal scan, writers pad, palm and even bare sole scans can help trace criminals with 100 per cent accuracy and that too within a matter of 0.46 milliseconds," Fadnavis told PTI.

Prasad Joshi, Assistant Police Inspector (Cyber) and a biometrics expert said in the matters of any crime, finger print as evidence is accorded very high value and if available it is accepted in a court of law.

"Ever since the British introduced the finger print identification in Kolkata way back in 1857, the Finger Print Bureau has been under the jurisdiction of the state Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

"But since the system crashed in 2012, the CID has been manually scanning and matching the finger print data to the available crime scene data employing eight to 10 different characteristics. The enormity of the task is so huge that the CID has to go through 6.50 lakh finger print data stored with it," Joshi said.

He said the finger print data can be shared by the state with the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), other state governments, other investigation agencies, courts, crime experts and even with Interpol and foreign investigation agencies.

"The system will prove useful in identification of unidentified bodies, especially in cases where the body is mutilated, does not have an arm or a hand is lost. In such cases, the bare sole scan can help identify the body," Joshi said.

According to him, another major irrefutable advantage of the system is that with retinal scans, it will be difficult for criminals to escape the ambit of the law.

He added that sometimes the finger print is not available if the criminals try to burn their hands, but they surely cannot burn retina of their eyes.

"The retina of every individual is unique and the blood vessels inside the retina too have unique arrangement," the officer said.

Another feature of the system is that it can do facial recognition of suspects in cases of mob violence and mob lynching with the help of photographs and going through CCTV footages.

Professor Amol Deshmukh, a forensic and investigation expert and adviser to the Maharashtra government, said the system will prove handy in cases of terrorist attacks in places of huge crowd presence like railway stations giving 50 to 60 per cent accuracy if 40 per cent of the information available is correct.

In case of a new criminal, the system will create a complete biometric data which will be useful in future, Deshmukh adds.

Inspector General of Police (Cyber Crime) Brijesh Singh said the state has allocated Rs 50 crore to Rs 55 crore for AMBIS.

Under the system, every police station in the state will have a scanner which will be linked to the main server which is located at the state headquarters on a secured server.

"The hi-tech system ensures that there will be no data loss and has a back-up facility at a very high level. Another feature of AMBIS is that it can be interfaced with any other operating system, whereby data can be accessed anywhere, anytime," Singh says.

At present world over, the system is being used by the Interpol and other European agencies.

Singh added that it uses NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) file and process standards which allow to freely interchange data with Interpol and other international agencies when required.

Singh further stated that though 22 states in the country have their own finger print data, but nothing can match the system being introduced by the state.

Balsing Rajput, SP Cyber, says the state government has taken the software, designing and technology from France and integrated it to suit our needs.

He added that once the system comes into operation, which will happen soon, the rate of conviction will rise substantially from the current 34 per cent.

"The system has been developed with the help of IIT professors, experts in the CID and local police. More importantly, the system has been developed taking feedback of the local police station constables who usually feed crime data online," he said.

AMBIS has been the brainchild of chief minister Fadnavis, who is likely to unveil it soon, Rajput said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Actor Amy Adams has said that she needs to know the background of a character before she can embody it on screen.

According to Femalefirst, the "Arrival" star said that it adds to her performance if she can give her character a good back story.

"For each character, I build a psychological back story from the age of around three - I'll imagine their whole life leading up to the present day," Adams said.

Adams most recently starred in HBO series "Sharp Objects" where she played Camille Preaker, an emotionally troubled reporter who returns to her hometown to cover the murders of two young girls.

The 43-year-old actor said she is very grateful to her family for helping her during the making of show which often required her to visit "uncomfortable" places.

"You have to go and live in a place that's rather uncomfortable, but I am lucky that I have great friends and family and they pull you right out at the end of the day. It was darker and deeper than I first thought though," Adams said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)One more hearing-and-speech impaired tribal woman in Madhya Pradesh has lodged a police complaint against the director of a hostel in Bhopal for allegedly raping her after showing pornographic material to her.

A case was registered here last night against Ashwini Sharma, the hostel's director, on the basis of the complaint filed by the 23-year-old woman, a native of Dhar district, Indore's Hira Nagar police station in-charge Mahendra Singh Bhadauria said today.

The victim, in her complaint, has accused Sharma of raping her after showing pornographic material to her, the official said, but did not divulge any further details.

The alleged incident occurred between December 2017 and February 2018, when the woman was staying in Sharma's hostel in Bhopal for her studies, Bhadauria said.

Based on her complaint, a case was registered under IPC sections 376 (rape), 377 (unnatural offence) and the relevant provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

The case diary was being transferred to the Bhopal Police for further investigation, Bhadauria said.

Sharma was arrested in Bhopal on August 8 after another 20-year-old deaf-and-mute woman lodged a police complaint, accusing him of repeatedly raping her during her stay in the hostel over the last three years.

So far, four FIRs have been lodged by the police on the basis of separate complaints from four deaf-and-mute women, including two sisters, accusing Sharma of sexually exploiting them.

The police had earlier said the accused used to run a hostel for hearing-and-speech impaired people in the Awadhpuri area of Bhopal.

Inspector General of Police (Intelligence) Makrand Deuskar had last week said the police would talk to all the inmates of the hostel.

On August 9, the opposition Congress had claimed that the hostel was aided by the Madhya Pradesh government's Social Justice department and demanded a thorough investigation into the incident and a social audit of all such hostels.

The party had drawn parallels with the Muzaffarpur (Bihar) and Deoria (Uttar Pradesh) shelter home rape cases, which have rocked the country after being unearthed in April-May and August respectively.

The Congress had yesterday claimed that the accused is an "activist of the RSS" and "enjoys the blessings" of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Madhya Pradesh Congress's chief spokesperson Shobha Oza had also released a video, in which Sharma was seen standing close to Chouhan and touching the latter's feet.

She had alleged that Sharma's Facebook account was deleted to hide his connection with BJP leaders.

While the police had on Friday announced the setting up of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the case, Oza had said the Congress did not have "faith" in it.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Amid raging debate over Article-35A of the Constitution, JKPCC chief G A Mir today said any dilution to the special status being enjoyed by the state would lead to serious complications.

While those propagating secessionism and separatism have to be isolated, any dilution to the special status will lead to serious complication of the problem and further vitiating the atmosphere in the state," Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee chief said, interacting with party leaders here.

Mir said the BJP along with RSS remained silent after committing status quo on special status of the state in the Agenda of Alliance with Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for power and now raking up these issues for "vote bank politics" in view of general elections.

"The Congress workers must expose BJP's opportunistic and exploitative politics," he said, cautioning the workers not to fall prey to the "falsehood and divisive propaganda" of the Bharatiya Janata Party and other forces over various current controversies.

He asked the party workers to educate the masses about the historical perspective of special status of the state dating from Maharaja's rule and said Jammu and Kashmir enjoys a special status within the union of India based on the instrument of accession.

"Congress always safeguarded the special status of the state within the framework of the constitution of India, as there existed special circumstances at the time of its accession and thereafter.

"The relationship of the state and the Centre has always remained debatable on the quantum of autonomy and power to be enjoyed by the state with union of India, being integral part of India," he said.

Mir said it was also part of Indira-Sheikh accord in 1975 and it was debated in from time to time by the respective stake holders with the Government of India as per the aspirations of the people.

Referring to the issue of Hindu refugees from Pakistan, Valmikies and rights of daughters of the state, he said these issues have to be dealt with humanitarian grounds and need to be resolved by evolving political and social consensus.

He said Congress would stage comeback in the state in forthcoming elections including the Urban Local Bodies and Panchayat elections, as the people are ready to teach a lesson to the parties which betrayed them after seeking votes in Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in the state.

"The people have identified the real face of BJP in Jammu region and would give them a befitting reply in any future elections in the state," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Army is giving final touches to a long-pending project to manufacture specialised clothing, sleeping kits and key equipment for its soldiers deployed in the glacier - the world's most dangerous battlefield.

India spends around Rs 8 billion annually in import of Extreme Cold Weather Clothing System (ECWCS) and mountaineering kits for soldiers guarding the glacier at the heights ranging from 16,000 feet to 20,000 feet, according to official data.

Military sources said the Army is aiming at saving nearly Rs 3 billion annually by indigenous production of these items which are, at present, sourced from countries like the US, Australia, Canada and Switzerland.

"We have almost finalised the project under which a large number of items required for troops deployed in Glacier will be manufactured in India through involvement of the private sector," said a source.

The items which will be produced in India include thermal insoles, snow goggles, ice axe, boots, avalanche victim detector, rock pitons, karabiner-related mountaineering equipment and sleeping bags, the sources said.

Some of the clothing gear, to be manufactured in India, will also be supplied to army personnel deployed in high-altitude locations like Doklam along the treacherous Sino-India border, it said.

The Glacier in the Karakorum range is known as the highest militarised zone in the world where the soldiers have to battle frostbite and high winds. Avalanches and landslides are common at the glacier during the winter and temperatures can drop to as low as minus 60 degrees Celsius.

According to official figure, the Army lost 163 personnel deployed at the glacier, the worlds highest battlefield, during the last 10 years.

ALSO READ: BRO opens bridge in Leh to ease vehicular movement to Siachen base camp

India and Pakistan started deploying troops at the strategically key glacier in 1984.

The sources said the high-altitude equipment are being divided into two categories. The first lot will be for those deployed in the range of 9,000 feet to 12,000 feet and second category will be for those guarding the border beyond the heights of 12,000 feet.

The NDA government has been extensively focusing on ensuring indigenous production of military equipment and platforms under its Make in India initiative.

The sources said a number of foreign companies have also shown interest in co-production of ECWCS and high-altitude equipment along with Indian firms.

The Army first mooted the idea of indigenous production of the high-altitude clothing and equipment around 10 years ago.Salman Rushdie today mourned the death of V S Naipaul, saying he lost a beloved older brother while fellow authors said he was one of the greatest writers who was very engaging when he turned on the charm.

Naipaul's family today announced he died in London at the age of 85.

British Indian novelist Rushdie in a tweet said, "We disagreed all our lives, about politics, about literature, and I feel as sad as if I just lost a beloved older brother. RIP Vidia."



Author-poet Jeet Thayil described Naipaul as an awful man and a brilliant writer and said his death was like "losing a cantankerous, contrarian father".

He also put out several other tweets tagging his quotes and photographs.

Sanjoy K Roy, one of the organisers of Jaipur Literature Festival, tweeted, "He could be cranky and disagreeable but when he turned on the charm he was engaging and more often then not educative and informative! He will be missed."



The official feed of the Nobel Prize also put out a tweet saying, "Remembering V S Naipaul, awarded the 2001 Nobel Prize in Literature for 'having united perceptive narrative and incorruptible scrutiny in works that compel us to see the presence of suppressed histories' who has passed away aged 85."Naipaul was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001. He also won the Man Booker Prize in 1971 and a knighthood for services to literature in 1990.

Author Amitav Ghosh also tweeted saying, "RIP VS Naipaul" and posted a link to an old piece written by him when Naipaul won the Nobel.

Historian Ramachandra Guha said the best piece of writing on Naipaul is "undoubtedly the biography by Patrick French which is a richly researched and vividly written portrait of the man, his work, and his times".

Vaishali Mathur, who manages the Hindi publishing of Penguin Random House India, told PTI, "Naipaul's books occupy a pride of place on our Hindi list. It gives us immense satisfaction to know that we have all his books in Hindi and that the Hindi reader can benefit from the Nobel laureate's writing as much as any global reader. And that his legacy will live on."



Picador, which published most of his books, tagged a tribute in the Guardian in its tweet and said, "A beautiful and moving tribute to the incredible life and towering literary achievement of our author Sir VS Naipaul who sadly passed away this weekend."



British novelist Hari Kunzru put out a series of tweets on Naipaul.

"I interviewed VS Naipaul for BBC TV. When we sat down, the first thing he said was 'tell me what you've read and don't lie.' Only then would he consent to be questioned.

"I made Naipaul cry. I knew he rarely signed books and probably wouldn't want to put his name on some paperback so I found a 1st of Mr Biswas. He saw it and broke down. Everyone v alarmed. 'I haven't seen one of these for so long,' he said, when he recovered himself," the first two tweets said.

"He did sign the book. We were in the room (now part of a hotel) where he had written radio scripts for the BBC when he first came to the UK.

"The producer was terrified of him. There was a list of taboo subjects. Islam, Theroux etc. I had to promise not to bring them up. As I remember he did end up talking about Islam," Kunzru, who has authored books like "The Impressionist", "Transmission", "My Revolutions", "Gods Without Men", and "White Tears", tweeted.

Author Kota Neelima referred to Naipaul's statement some years ago that there is no female author whom he considers his equal as she tweeted, "And now #VSNaipaul runs the risk of being reborn as a woman writer.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Bangladesh's Supreme Court today upheld the High Court decision granting a six-month interim bail to imprisoned former prime minister Khaleda Zia in an arson case relating to the attack on a passenger bus in 2015, media reports said.

The 72-year-old three-time former premier, however, will have to stay in jail as other cases are pending against her.

Eight people were killed after the bus was petrol bombed in Chittagong on February 3, 2015 during protests by the Bangladesh Nationslist Party (BNP)-Jamaat alliance.

Two separate cases one for murder, the other under the Explosives Act were filed in Comilla against Zia, who is also the chairperson of the opposition BNP. The case was later changed to the Special Powers Act.

The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court upheld the High Court order granting the six-month bail to Zia, Dhaka Tribune reported.

The four-member Appellate Division bench, led by Chief Justice Syed Mahmud Hossain, passed the "no order" on a government petition seeking stay on the High Court order, the report said.

The High Court granted the bail to Zia on August 6 in the arson case. Next day, the state filed a petition seeking a stay on the bail order.

She has been in jail since February 8, after a special court found her guilty of corruption in the Zia Orphanage Trust case. She is lodged in a 200-year-old prison in Dhaka.

Zia was jailed for five years in February in connection with the embezzlement of 21 million taka (about USD 250,000) in foreign donations meant for the Zia Orphanage Trust, named after her late husband Ziaur Rahman, a military ruler-turned-politician.

The charges against her has already led to her boycotting polls in 2014, which triggered widespread protests at the time. The BNP had termed the elections as "farcical".

The BNP has claimed that the cases against Zia are politically-motivated to keep its party chief out of the national elections scheduled for December.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Puducherry Lt Governor Kiran Bedi today termed as 'highly impolite' the letter written to her by Chief Minister V Narayanasamy, charging her with 'divulging' official information on social media.

In her Whatsapp message to reporters, Bedi said, "if it (letter) Narayanasamy had released to media persons is the one written to Lt Governor I wish to inform that the letter was returned in original to Chief Minister as it was considered highly impolite written to a constitutional office."



"The Chief Minister has been "rude" even earlier in several of his letters. However it has become a pattern now," she said adding "I hopethe Chief Minister realises that writing such rude letters does not enhance the dignity of a responsible office such as of the stature of a Chief Minister."



In his letter to Bedi on August 10, Narayanasamy had stated that "she has no independent right to issue orders to officials without the approval of the Minister concerned."He also pointed out that though as an Administrator she had taken oath of office and secrecy, she has been issuing every day all official "secret communications violating the oath of secrecy which was unbecoming of a constitutional authority."Reacting to Narayansamy's letter, the Lt Governor said, "the letter was considered highly impolite written to a constitutional office."The Congress government in Puducherry and Bedi have been at loggerheads over several issues including induction of three nominated MLAs, since she assumed office in 2016.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The administration in Odisha's Koraput district is planning to promote coffee cultivation on a "mission mode" as part of its efforts to improve the economic condition of farmers, an official said.

The district authorities have recently undertaken a drive to plant coffee seeds on 20 hectares of government land at Kapsiput village in Laxmipur block of Koraput, he said.

"The climatic condition here is conducive for coffee cultivation. If properly promoted, it can provide a sustainable source of income to the farmers. We have decided to promote coffee plantation on a mission mode among them," Collector K Sudarshan Chakravarthy said.

Last year, the administration formed a coffee development trust, with the district collector as its head, to study and research the viability of the project.

The trust has set a target of expanding areas under coffee cultivation to 46,500 hectares by 2025 from the present 1,467 hectares, the collector stated.

According to a survey conducted by the administration, at least 1,45,170 hectares in Nandapur, Lamataput, Laxmipur, Semiliguda, Dasmantpur and Pottangi blocks of Koraput are "suitable" for coffee cultivation.

"There is immense potential for popularizing coffee plantation in the district. We are planning to organize regular workshops and seminars to motivate farmers in this regard," Chakravarthy said.

The farmers, too, have welcomed the administration's move to promote coffee plantation.

"If the government supports the drive, we can be benefit from coffee plantation in a big way," said a tribal farmer of Nandapur block.

Chakravarthy said the district authorities will also encourage spice cultivation here.

"Along with coffee, we would promote spices and allied plantations. Once, the plantation work is over, it will be handed over to the community concerned for maintenance and harvesting. Recently, black pepper was planted on eight hectares in the district," he added.

The coffee plant, with a life span of around 60 years, bears fruit with minimum maintenance, said Bhabani Shankar Kalo, the deputy director of the coffee development trust.

The seeds are sown nearly two years after shade plantations as the crop requires filter sun rays for growth, Kalo said.

"The beneficiaries will be able to harvest coffee only after the fifth year. In between, they can earn by harvesting spices like black pepper," he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A hardcore naxalite has been arresrted from Palamu district of Jharkhand during a raid carried out yesterday, Superintendent of Police said today.

Acting on a tip off, a police team comprising ASP (Operations) from Rohtas and Kaimur district was constituted which raided Tendui village under Pipra police station area in Palamu district of neighbouring Jharkhand yesterday and arrested Tritiya Prastuti Committee (TPC) area commander Ajay Rajbhar alias Surendra Rai, Rohtas Superintendent of Police Satyaveer Singh said.

The SP said that Rajbhar, who was arrested in 2011 in Rohtas district, became a symbol of terror in Rohtas and Kaimur districts after being released on bail in 2014.

He was wanted in more than a dozen cases relating to naxalite incidents, the SP said adding that the members of the raid team will be rewarded for their work.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Rajasthan's Beawar municipality chairperson Babita Chauhan and her husband Narendra Chauhan, arrested in a bribery case, have been suspended from the primary membership of the BJP.

They were arrested by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) for taking bribe of Rs 2.25 lakh on August 8. A middleman was also arrested in the case.

The decision to suspend the couple from the Bharatiya Janata Party's primary membership was taken on the directions of party state president Madan Lal Saini, BJP's Ajmer Dehat district president B P Saraswat said in a statement.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Syrian opposition activists said an explosion in the country's north has killed at least 18 people and wounded many others. The cause of the blast wasn't immediately known.

The opposition-run Syrian Civil Defence, also known as White Helmets, said the blast occurred today in the village of Sarmada near the Turkish border and "killed and wounded dozens".

Due to the explosion, a five-story building collapsed, burying many of the victims.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights put the death toll at 18. It's unclear if the casualties are all civilians.

The Observatory said an arms depot in the basement of a building had detonated.

The depot was run by an arms dealer close to the al-Qaida-linked Levant Liberation Committee, it added.

Meanwhile, Syrian government forces are fighting rebels in Idlib province.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An improvised explosive device (IED) went off in front of the Mayor's office in the eastern Nepal's Biratnagar city today, but no one was injured, the police said.

The explosion occurred this afternoon at the passageway in front of the Mayor Bhim Parajuli's office in the Biratnagar Metropolitan City Corporation.

The bomb went off during the lunch hour when most of the office staffs and common people were not in the building, they said, adding that no casualty or injury have been reported in the explosion but the window panes of the office building were smashed.

However, Deputy Mayor Indira Karki and chairpersons of some wards were present in the building when the bomb went off.

The police said the area has been cordoned off and CCTV footage were being scanned to find any clue.

A probe has been launched to find those involved and their behind the explosion, they said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The ITBP, which mans India's frontier with China, has decided to grant troopers a half-day off and freedom to remain off uniform on their birthday with cake-cutting as part of a new measure to bolster the morale of the personnel who spend considerable time on duty away from home.

A beginning was made recently at a number of formations of the 90,000-strong border guarding force.

According an order issued by the commanding officer of the 51st battalion of the force, deployed in Punjab's Patiala, the unit notice board will henceforth mention the name of the birthday boy or girl and the personnel will be greeted with a bouquet by a senior official.

The unit will celebrate the occasion with a cake-cutting and snacks treat.

The troopers, who will not be in uniform, will also be allowed to wear their best dress and take a half-day off if there are no pressing assignments, the order said.

"Happiness increases when we share it. As our jawans have to live away from their families for long owing to the nature of our task, we have decided to make their birthday special," the order accessed by PTI said.

"This will boost their morale and enhance camaraderie in the unit," it said.

At the Indo-Tibetan Border Police Force's 'animal transport' wing in a forward area of Arunachal Pradesh in Lohit district, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Sudhakar Natrajan has issued directions that no birthday will be missed if the trooper is not on leave or assignment and is present in the unit.

It recently celebrated the birthday of constables Roshan and Pankaj who turned 28 on August 10.

"The aim of this move is to make sure that the jawans do not miss their families and as a result their morale is kept high," a senior official said.

Other units of the force across the country have been asked by the ITBP headquarters to undertake these measures as per their convenience and nature of duties and deployment.

Natrajan has also begun sending a 'report card' and a personal thank-you note to the parents of the jawans who sent their wards to serve the paramilitary force.

The ITBP guards the 3,488-km long Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China apart from rendering a variety of duties in the country's internal security domain, including anti-Naxal operations.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A Brazilian national has been apprehended by the CISF at the airport here for allegedly smuggling in cocaine-filled capsules worth Rs 2.5 crore by concealing them in talcum powder boxes, a senior official said today.

F Nascimen, who arrived here yesterday from Addis Ababa, was intercepted on the basis of suspicion, he said.

The Brazilian man, who was bound for Delhi, was frisked along with his bag in which few plastic talcum powder boxes were found.

A total of 457 grams of cocaine, neatly stuffed in capsules, and concealed in the powder boxes were recovered, he said.

The man and the drugs, estimated to be worth Rs 2.5 crore, was handed over to anti-narcotics authorities for further lagal action against him, the official said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An Egyptian court today sentenced to life in prison the Muslim Brotherhood's supreme guide, Mohamed Badie, and four other leaders in a retrial on accusations of inciting street violence, their lawyer said.

Defence lawyer Abdel Moneim Abdel Maksoud named the others as Mohamed el-Beltagi, Essam el-Erian, Safwat Higazi and El-Husseini Antar. The Brotherhood was designated a terrorist organisation in Egypt in December 2013, after the military ousted Islamist president Mohamed Morsi in July of that year in the wake of mass protests against his rule.

"We will appeal the sentences within 60 days," the lawyer told AFP, adding that four other people were sentenced to jail terms of between 10 and 15 years.

The accusations date back to July 2013 when Brotherhood leaders and members marched in Giza, west of Cairo, in protest at Morsi's ouster. The defendants were charged with terrorism, attempted murder, forming an armed group to attack citizens, and illegal possession of firearms.

Badie and the others were initially sentenced in September 2014 to life in prison, but Egypt's court of cassation cancelled the ruling and ordered the retrial.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A niqab-wearing Muslim woman in the UK was treated like a "terrorist" after a bus driver demanded that she should remove her face cover over safety fears as he felt that she could "bomb the bus", according to media reports.

The woman, who was travelling on the First bus 24 from Easton to Bristol city centre, said she was shocked when the driver began berating her for wearing the niqab - a face veil that leaves the area around the eyes clear - soon after she boarded the bus with her two-month-old baby, BBC reported.

The 20-year-old woman said the driver told her "this world is dangerous" and demanded to see her face, it added.

"He said I was scary and I was dangerous, and he kept talking about it during the journey. He was insinuating I was going to bomb the bus. How is that possible, when I've got a baby with me?," she was quoted as saying by the Bristol Live.

"He (the driver) continued to insult me, and he made me out to be a terrorist, and kept saying everyone should see each other's faces. He asked why I was wearing a balaclava," she added.

"I've been humiliated in public, and I'm disappointed. It's 2018, we shouldn't be like that. I'm being stereotyped."



However, the First Bus has now apologised, saying the driver made a huge mistake and has been censured through the company's disciplinary procedures.

"We would like to fully and unreservedly apologise to the customer for the distress caused when one of our drivers expressed his personal opinions," said a spokesman for the First Bus.

"The driver behaved in an offensive fashion that in no way reflects our deeply held values as an inclusive company which welcomes all people, irrespective of background, race, nationality or religion as customers or employees."



Other passengers on the bus - one of whom was wearing a hijab, a headscarf worn by Muslim women - jumped to the defence of the humiliated young mother.

The woman wearing a hijab confronted the driver, saying: "I don't understand why you care how she's dressed. It's her choice what she wears."



The driver responded: 'I care because this world is dangerous... we should see our faces.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu today said the country will develop more with "energy, calibre, confidence and character" of its youth.

Naidu was at Bhavnagar in Gujarat to lay the foundation stone of a 33.3 kilometre four-lane road that will be part of the National Highway-751.

The four-laning will be done at a cost of Rs 820 crore.

The four-laning of the road will make connectivity between Ahmedabad and Bhavnagar easier and would also give impetus to the development of Dholera Special Investment Region, a state government release said quoting Naidu.

He said that government had constructed 9,800 kilometre of roads in 2017-18, and 16,000 kilometres in 2018-19 while 60,000 kilometres rural roads will be constructed in coming times, the government release added.

During the function, Naidu distributed keys to the beneficiaries of the Mukhaya Mantri GRUH (Gujarat Rural Urban Housing) Yojana.

Addressing the gathering, the Vice President said that the "energy, calibre, capacity, confidence and character" of country's youth will develop the country more strongly.

The Vice President also called on the youth to take active part in the development process, and stressed on the need to provide adequate support and infrastructure to them to realise their potential, the release said.

He expressed the need to end caste-based politics and the removal of criminality from democracy so that everybody could get social justice.

Naidu said the country has to be "rid of fear, corruption and atrocity," and development has to be given priority to uplift the people from the backward classes.

He also highlighted the development by way of rural connectivity using optical fibres and electrification, and mentioned recent reports of the World Bank and World Economic Forum to point out that India was developing as a strong country, the release stated.

Naidu highlighted the importance of road connectivity as key to national development adding that it had the potential to bring a positive change in the lives of people residing in remote corners of rural India, a PIB release stated.

He said such connectivity was essential in bridging the urban-rural divide and asked authorities to give equal priority to rural roads.

"They are crucial for all-round development of our country. National Highways symbolise social, economic and business unity of the country," the release quoted him as saying.

Expressing concern over the incidents of road accidents, the Vice President said that road safety should be paramount and called for creation of medical infrastructure such as ambulances and first-aid centres near highways.

In his speech, Naidu also recalled scientist Vikram Sarabhai, who hails from Gujarat, on his birth anniversary today, and praised the contributions made by the sons of Gujarat, Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel, Morarji Desai, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the release stated.

Governor O P Kohli, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Mansukh Mandaviya were also present at the event.

He also launched a book titled, "My Journey in Parliament," which is a compilation of questions raised by the Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, Mansukh Mandaviya.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Like goddess Sita chose Lord Ram, the Chief Minister's face of the Congress will be elected through 'swayamvar' after the Assembly elections, Chhattisgarh Leader of Opposition T S Singh Deo has said.

He said the Congress party, which has been out of power in the state for the past 15 years, will form the government in the state in the same way lord Ram ended 'vanvaas' (exile) after 14 long years.

In an interview with PTI, Singh Deo said his party was open to alliance with like-minded opposition parties to ensure the alliance wins and the ruling BJP is out of the power.

To a question whether or not the Congress will project somebody as its chief ministerial candidate ahead of the polls due later this year, he made an analogy from Hindu epic Ramayana and said lord Ram did not get married straight on.

"He had the Swayamvar. There are many good people in the party who have done very good work. So there will be Swayamvar after the polls' victory," the senior Congress leader said.

He said Raman Singh was not declared the chief ministerial candidate in 2003.

"Where was Yogi Adityanath face in UP election? They (BJP) did not have any face. They also did Swayamvar. Yahan bhi ho jayega (It will be here too)," Singh Deo said.

He said it is not like that people are not seeing who all are the Congress leaders.

"It is not like that it is a sort of hidden thing. There are many good leaders in Congress. A chief minister's face by itself is not guarantee for anything. In Himachal Pradesh, the BJP lost the seat of designated CM candidate," Singh Deo, heir of royal family of Sarguja, said.

Citing instances of corruption in the BJP-ruled government in the state, he said the Congress will definitely win the upcoming elections.

"Ram came back (to power) after 14 years. I am sure we will end this Vanvaas," he said, when asked about the outcome of the polls and his party prospects.

Raman Singh, who is the longest serving chief minister of the BJP, is ruling Chhattisgarh since 2003.

Polls for 90 Assembly constituencies in Chhattisgarh are slated to be held in November-December this year.

When asked about the prospects of proposed alliance among the Congress and regional parties including the BSP, he said his party was open to such a possibility as it could be a win-win situation for the opposition.

"Things are not good in the country. Disagreements are fine. But if you cannot hold a particular view and you force them to tow a particular line with the use of state machinery then it is wrong.

"If you say anything against the government then you are anti-national. If this is going to be atmosphere in the country, it is not only tragic but something major needs to be done to check it," Singh Deo said.

He said that is the reason why all senior leaders of like-minded party in the country are thinking of coming together.

"This coming together may also reflect in the upcoming elections in Chhattisgarh," Singh Deo said.

He said alliance among opposition parties depends on various matters including that of seat sharing.

"Somebody says we cannot give or we cannot accept so many seats. Also we cannot make party cadre follow a line. We need to take them into confidence. The major exercise is to get cadres (of all the parties in case alliance happen) along. It is a new concept which has come out. But, we are talking to all like-minded parties except Ajit Jogi's Janta Congress Chhattisgarh," Singh Deo said.

He said Congress leaders are very happy in Chhattisgarh over Ajit Jogi's exit as he was working as internal saboteur.

"While being in the Congress he was working against the Congress. 'Ghar ka bhedi lanka dhaye' wali jo kahawat hai (Internal saboteur causing harm). He was sabotaging and weakening the party from within. So it is good for Congress," Singh Deo said.

He ruled out any chances of Jogi, who had for long been associated with the Congress, coming back to the party.

"No chances of his coming back," Singh Deo asserted.

He said people in Chhattisgarh knew who has been helping Jogi while he was in the Congress.

"It is Raman Singh and the BJP that is helping Jogi. I have always been saying that Jogi is B team of the BJP," the Congress leader said.

When asked about the impact of possible campaigning by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the Assembly polls in Chhattisgarh, he said Modi will be much lesser factor than he was in 2013.

"The situation which existed in 2013 (Assembly elections) does not exist today. The graph has fallen considerably today," Singh Deo said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An explosion at a weapons depot in a rebel-held town in northwest Syria killed at least 39 civilians including a dozen children today, a monitor said.

An AFP correspondent at the site in Sarmada in Idlib province near the Turkish border said the explosion of unknown origin caused two buildings to collapse.

Rescue workers used a bulldozer to remove rubble and extract trapped people, the correspondent said.

Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor, said a previous toll of 12 civilians killed increased after more bodies were retrieved from the rubble.

"The explosion occurred in a weapons depot in a residential building in Sarmada," said the head of the Britain-based monitor, which relies on a network of sources inside Syria.

But the cause of the blast was "not yet clear", Abdel Rahman added.

He said most of those killed were family members of fighters from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, an alliance led by jihadists from Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate, who had been displaced to the area from the central province of Homs.

A rescue worker carried the motionless body of a small child from the wreckage to an ambulance, the AFP correspondent said.

Behind mounds of rubble, the facade of a building was scorched black, due to a fire after the blast.

A civil defence source told AFP that women and children were among the dead.

But rescue workers had pulled out "five people who were still alive", the source said.

Most of Idlib is controlled by rebels and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, but the Islamic State group also has sleeper cells in the area.

The regime holds a small slither of southeastern Idlib.

In recent months, a series of explosions and assassinations -- mainly targeting rebel officials and fighters -- have rocked the province.

While some attacks have been claimed by IS, most are the result of infighting since last year between other groups.

In recent days, regime forces have ramped up their deadly bombardment of southern Idlib and sent reinforcements to nearby areas they control.

President Bashar al-Assad has warned that government forces intend to retake Idlib, after his Russia-backed regime regained control of swathes of rebel-held territory elsewhere.

Around 2.5 million people live in the province, half of them displaced by fighting in other parts of the country.

More than 350,000 people have been killed and millions displaced since Syria's civil war started in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A German man has learned the hard way that practicing journalism in China, even for a class project, could lead to serious trouble.

David Missal, 24, was pursuing a master's degree in journalism and communication at prestigious Tsinghua University in Beijing. He was due to return to Germany on Sunday after immigration authorities told him his student visa was canceled and he had a week to leave China.

Missal said he thinks that's because he reported on the plight of jailed human rights lawyers in a journalism class. Missal said a Tsinghua representative this year warned him twice against pursuing the politically sensitive subject, but he went ahead anyway because he wanted to "get to learn Chinese society and politics."



"In a way, the last two months I did get to learn more Chinese society and politics," Missal said, referring to his own case.

China detained 300 people nationwide on July 9, 2015, as part of its biggest crackdown on human rights lawyers and activists. Several received lengthy sentences for subversion of state power while a few still await sentencing.

That action against Missal underscores China's extreme sensitivity to foreign attention to the crackdown, word of which has rarely appeared in China's entirely state controlled media and on the heavily policed Chinese internet.

Missal said his work was never published beyond his personal blog and YouTube, which he thinks was seen by less than 100 people.

Tsinghua's propaganda office said it could not immediately comment and had to look into the case.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Kenya's wildlife authority today said a Chinese tourist died after he was attacked by a hippo while taking pictures on the shores of Lake Naivasha in the Rift Valley.

The Kenya Wildlife Service said in a statement that another Chinese tourist was injured in the incident last night and received treatment at the local hospital in Naivasha, 91 kilometres (56 miles) southeast of Nairobi.

Wildlife service spokesman Paul Udoto said the circumstances were not clear in which the two Chinese were attacked.

He said attacks on tourists were rare because they were usually protected by guides.

Hippos and lone buffalos pose the greatest danger to humans and there have been many attacks in which civilians and even rangers have lost their lives, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Moving ahead with the investigation into the alleged circumvention of the anti-dumping duties imposed on jute bags from Bangladesh, the commerce ministry's arm DGTR has called a meeting of stakeholders on August 28.

"The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) will hold hearing on August 28 on circumvention in respect of anti-dumping duty imposed on the imports of jute sacking bags/sacking cloth," an official said.

The directorate has asked stakeholders to intimate their interest in the hearing and provide name and address of the persons who are likely to attend the hearing.

"No person other than those representing the interested party shall be allowed to attend the hearing," the official said.

In March, the directorate had initiated an investigation into the alleged circumvention of the anti-dumping duties.

In the probe it would determine the existence, degree and effect of the alleged circumvention and to examine the need to extend the existing anti-dumping duty.

If it would establish in its investigations that existing anti-dumping is being circumvented by players in Bangladesh, it may recommend extension of anti-dumping duty on jute sacking clothes from the neighbouring country.

The Indian Jute Mills Association (IJMA) had filed an application before the authority alleging that the duty on jute sacking bags is being circumvented by imports of jute sacking cloth, which is an unfinished and penultimate form of the bags, from Bangladesh.

The finance ministry in January 2017 imposed the anti-dumping duty on jute sacking bags to protect domestic manufacturers from cheap imports.

The petitioners have sought extension of the existing anti-dumping duty to jute sacking clothes as well.

Companies involved in jute goods manufacturing in the country include Gloster Ltd and Ludlow Jute & Specialities.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A company secretary of a private firm is not mandated to disclose non-filing of balance sheet, profit and loss account and annual return for the previous financial year in his compliance certificate, a Delhi court has said.

Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Pawan Singh Rajawat acquitted a company secretary of the charges of filing fake certificate, while accepting the submissions of his advocate Sanjay Kumar Singh that the law does not provide any format for indicating the 'non-filings' by the company secretary in the compliance certificate.

Singh had told the court that accused Kapil Saluja, who was the company secretary of Infolance Software Solutions Ltd, was not "duty bound" under the provisions of Companies Act to indicate the non-filings by the firm in his compliance report.

According to the complaint filed by then Deputy Registrar of Companies NCT of Delhi and Haryana, the accused being the company secretary had not mentioned in compliance certificate for the year 2012-13 that the firm was in default in filing of the balance sheet, profit and loss account and annual return for the previous financial year 2011-12.

"The law only provides for declaration of the forms and returns as filed by the company and it does not provide any format for indicating the 'non filings'," the defence counsel had told the court.

In its order, the judge said, "In view of the above discussion and evidence on record, I am satisfied that the complainant has not proved the documents as per law being admissible evidence."



"Even otherwise, the allegations of false statement against the accused are not made out. I am satisfied that complainant has failed to prove the allegations against the accused beyond reasonable doubt. Hence, accused Kapil Saluja is acquitted of allegation levelled against him," the judge said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Congress is a "faceless, senseless and baseless" party that has no public leader and will be wiped out of Madhya Pradesh in the upcoming Assembly polls, former BJP state president Prabhat Jha said.

Jha, a Rajya Sabha MP and a BJP national vice president, also claimed that there was no anti-incumbency factor and the saffron party, which is in power in the state for the last 15 years, is receiving "tremendous" support from the people.

Polls are due in the state in a few months.

"We will form government again here (Madhya Pradesh). We will form government in the state for the fourth consecutive time and Shivraj Singh Chouhan will be the chief minister again," the BJP leader told PTI in an interview.

Out of the 29 Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh, 26 are with the BJP and the Congress has just three MPs - Jyotiraditya Scindia, Kamal Nath and Kantilal Bhuria, he said.

"It explains that nothing is left for the Congress in the state. It is already divided into various factions. They do not have a face (to project as CM)...They are faceless, senseless and baseless. The party will be wiped out," Jha said.

Speaking to PTI over phone from MP's Rajgarh district, he said over 25,000 people attended a programme under the BJP's Jan Ashirwad Yatra yesterday to show their support to chief minister Chouhan.This shows that the people are with us, Jha said.

"I took part in the campaigning for the 2008 and 2013 Assembly elections, but this time the support of people is tremendous," he said.

Over distribution of tickets to sitting ministers and MLAs, the Rajya Sabha MP said the party will decide on it and focus will be on winability of a candidate.

The BJP's target is 200 seats out of the 230 Assembly constituencies in the state, he said, adding that the party's slogan for the polls is "Abki bar 200 par (This elections, more than 200 seats)".

The saffron party had won 165 seats in the 2013 Assembly elections, while its main competitor Congress had won 58.

On the appointment of Scindia and Nath as the state's campaign committee chief and state unit president, respectively, he said, "Kamal Nath is a man of the corporate sector and Scindia belongs to a dynastic family... They are not public leaders. They are restricted to Chhindwara and Guna constituency only."



"They have failed to ensure victory in the constituency adjacent to there's. Basically, they are not state leaders," the former BJP Madhya Pradesh unit president said.

Over the ruling party's defeat in several by-elections for Assembly constituencies in the state, Jha said all the four seats were earlier held by the Congress. They had just retained the seats and "we failed to snatch it from them", he said.

The Congress had won the by-polls to the Mungaoli, Kolaras, Chitrakoot and Ater Assembly seats, held between April 2017 and March 2017, while the BJP had retained the Bandhavgarh seat.

On Gujarat Patidar leader Hardik Patel's announcement of holding a yatra in the state to create "awareness" among voters, Jha said, "He has no image in Madhya Pradesh. The Patidars are with Chief Minister Chouhan and the BJP."



Claiming that only farmers' leader of the Congress protest against the state government, he said, "We organised a rally on August 5 in Piplya Mandi where farmers got shot in the protest last year. The public programme was at 2.40 in the night, still more than 40,000 farmers took part in it. This shows they are with us."Six people had lost their lives when police opened fire on them during the farmers' agitation at Piplya Mandi village near Mandsaur on June 6 last year.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A Congress worker has filed a complaint with the police alleging that he was threatened by AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan at an event here.

Police said they have registered a case and are probing the matter.

Sayad Faizan accused Khan of threatening him on August 9.

He claimed that Khan's associate threw a tub at him, injuring his right thumb, police said.

There is no video evidence of the alleged incident and no CCTV was installed at the spot, they said.

In January also, Faizan had accused Khan of thrashing him.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A controversy has arisen over the death of two inmates of a shelter home for mentally challenged women here with the hospital authorities and Bihar social welfare department providing conflicting narratives and reportedly keeping police in the dark.

The two inmates of the state-run shelter home died under unknown circumstances, a day after a man was arrested for allegedly asking the inmates of the home to escape by luring them with gifts.

The women were staying at 'Aasra' shelter home in Nepali Nagar locality of the city.

Rajiv Ranjan Prasad, Superintendent, Patna Medical College and Hospital, said two women, aged 17 and 40 years, were brought to the hospital on the intervening night of August 10 and August 11 and were declared "brought dead".

He said the postmortem examination was conducted yesterday.

Meanwhile, the police have blamed the hospital and shelter home authorities for not informing about the incident to the police station concerned.

"It was a lapse on part of the shelter home authorities and the hospital administration as neither of the two informed the police stations concerned before the postmortem was conducted. We came to know about the deaths only this morning," N H Khan, Inspector General of Police (IG), Patna Zone, said.

When asked about the incident, Raj Kumar, Director, Social Welfare Department, said, "Our department official who accompanied the two inmates of 'Aasra' shelter home to the hospital claimed that they died during treatment, but the hospital authorities say otherwise".

"We have ordered an enquiry into the matter and District Magistrate Kumar Ravi and Senior Superintendent of Police Manu Maharaj are also personally investigating the matter," he said.

Kumar said body of the 17-year-old inmate was cremated by NGO 'Anumaya' which runs the shelter home.

He said the last rites of the second woman were not performed since her religion was not clear.

"We have also deputed two officials of our department to join the investigation since questions may be raised over the conduct of the official under whose supervision the women were taken to the hospital.

"In fact, even after the deaths took place, he informed the department by writing a letter instead of rushing to the directorate or make a telephonic call," Kumar said.

The IG said instructions have been issued to conduct a second postmortem on the body of the 40-year-old inmate even as four persons associated with the shelter home were being interrogated.

The incident has surfaced at a time when the CBI is investigating another sex scandal at a shelter home in Muzaffarpur in the state.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Police in Croatia today said they have intercepted a group of 10 migrants in a dense forest, and another two who had apparently died en route.

Police in the central town of Karlovac said the group who entered the country illegally were found after a tip from locals.

An investigation about the deaths is being conducted, the police said without specifying any of the migrants' nationalities.

Local media said they likely were killed in a landslide in a rugged terrain after they crossed from neighboring Bosnia.

Several thousand migrants remain stuck in Bosnia as they aim to reach the wealthy nations in Western Europe.

Migrants often first try to cross to European Union member Croatia.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)In a bid to seek higher Ease of Doing Business ranking, the customs Department has communicated to the World Bank that the average time for clearance of consignments at ports have come down sharply to 100 hours, an official said.

Release time of consignments at Customs ports is one of the factors which is taken into account by the World Bank in its yearly Ease Of Doing Business ranking.

The department has also introduced an RFID-based system for real time tracking of containers to help logistics companies locate the position of the consignment at any given time.

The Customs Department has suggested to the World Bank that its representatives can do an independent assessment of the release time of the consignment at Customs port using the real time visibility application, the official added.

"The World Bank says that the release time is 267 hours, but in fact it is only 100 hours. So we want them to do a real time check using any container number on the ICEGATE portal," an official told PTI.

The new ranking is expected to be released in October.

Currently, RFID-based tracking of cargoes is available in Nhava Sheva port in Mumbai, which handles maximum number of cargoes. Mundra port in Gujarat too has started the tracking system and Chennai port is expected to launch it soon.

Last year, India jumped 30 places to rank 100th in the World Bank's doing business report. The government wants the country break into top 50 in the coming years.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Evacuating those stranded from gushing flood waters to removing huge granite blocks on roads--the defence personnel are showcasing war-front like services in the hamlets of rain-hit Kerala.

As torrential rains had thrown normal life out of gear in many parts of Kerala last week, the personnel of the Army, Navy, Airforce and Coast Guard have sprung into action, extending all support to local people and authorities to face the deluge.

Since then, the defence personnel are tirelessly working 24x7 in evacuating hapless people from isolated places, constructing temporary bridges, repairing and clearing roads in villages of Kerala, braving incessant rains and landslip threats.

They are also unhesitatingly joining hands with local authorities in distributing food articles and organising medical camps in many places.

Army personnel have helped bring tribals living in remote settlements to the rehabilitation camps in mainlands in high range Idukki and Wayanad districts, authorities said.

The Army has titled the relief work in Kerala as 'Operation Sahyog' (cooperation).

The photographs of army men lifting huge uprooted trees in a flood-hit zone and the personnel of Indian Naval Academy (INA) evacuating persons in Wayanad have become instant hits on social media.

The Army today helped accommodate a total of 187 people, hailing from hamlets of Korangatti, Pettimudi, Talamali, Chettupara, Plamala and so on in the six relief camps of Adimali in Idukki.

"The tribals were brought to the various camps after constructing and opening the road leading to various villages by the Madras Regiment personnel," a defence spokesperson said here.

In association with the civic administration, medicines, food, blankets and other relief materials were given to the camp inmates, the spokesperson said.

When the army team had reached Virinjapara- Mankulam area in Idukki district two days ago, the situation was very bad due to inclement weather and lack of connectivity.

A concrete bridge was washed away in the region inheavy rains leading to the isolation of 800 families there.

They have now been evacuated and shifted to the relief camps after the men repaired the bridge, restoring the connectivity.

Army units are equipped with rescue boats, medicines and all emergency supplies for the immediate response.

Indian Army's Karnataka and Kerala sub-area, headquartered in Bangalore, is controlling the entire disaster response and rescue operation in Kerala.

A total of 8 columns of army personnel have been deployed at various parts of the state in which two are posted exclusively for worst-hit Idukki district.

In addition to this, two columns of Military Engineering Group (MEG) of Indian Army from Bangalore and one from Hyderabad were deployed in various affected districts of northern Kerala.

Besides the defence personnel, teams of National Defence Response Force (NDRF) are also extending assistance to the administration.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has assured a delegation of the All Assam Chutia Students' Union that the state government would consider its various demands.

The students' body, which called on Sonowal yesterday, demanded that the under-construction Bogibeel bridge in Upper Assam be named after the last Chutia queen, Birangana Sati Sadhini.

The CM said he would convey the request to the Railway Ministry, according to an official release.

He said that the state government will take steps for the preservation of heritage belonging to the Chutia community, scattered across 56 locations in Assam.

Sonowal said he would write to his Arunachal Pradesh counterpart for preservation of the capital of Chutia king in the neighbouring state.

He also directed Deputy Commissioner Kamrup Metro to identify a piece of land for construction of a hostel for students belonging to the Chutia community, the release said.

The state observes April 21 every year as 'Sati Sadhani Day' to honour the sacrifices made by the Chutia queen.

An annual award, instituted by the Chutia Jati Unnayan Parishad, is also given to a person for outstanding contributions in the field of art, culture and literature.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)With the Cauvery in spate following heavy discharge from Mettur dam, the Tamil Nadu government today said district administrations concerned were taking all safety measures in the wake of the alert issued by CWC.

Talking to reporters here, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister R B Udayakumar said, "There is a ban on visiting places prone to flooding. People are advised not to indulge in activities such as taking selfies, fishing, swimming and other recreational activities."



"District administrations concerned have been taking safety measures based on an alert issued by Central Water Commission (CWC) on August 9," he said.

Evacuation of people from lowlying areas among other steps are being taken up by respective district officials, the minister said adding that revenue, disaster management and district officials are on high alert.

Flood alert has been issued to Salem, Erode, Namakkal, Karur Tiruchi, Thanjavore, Pudukkottai, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Thiruvarur, Cuddalore and Nagapattinam.

Official sources said heavy inflow of 1.34 lakh cusecs from two Karnataka reservoirs resulted in Mettur dam crossing its full level of 120 feet this morning.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)As part of its new business model, DLF will sell apartments only when it gets occupancy certificate after completing the project so as to remove any uncertainty regarding costs and delivery timelines, a senior official of the realty major said.

The decision assumes significance as the Indian real estate market, especially Delhi-NCR, has been facing huge delays in project executions, forcing home buyers to protest and move courts.

Lakhs of home buyers are stuck in various projects of developers such as Jaypee group, Amrapali, Unitech and The 3C Company.

Highlighting the company's new business model, DLF's group CFO Saurabh Chawla said the company would sell only completed products from now onwards.

"Customers are now averse to taking risk and they prefer to buy ready-to-move-in apartments," he added.

Chawla said DLF will apply for occupancy certificates once the structure of the building is complete along with other infrastructure.

The additional cost on increased working capital requirement would be marginal, he added.

DLF currently has completed inventory worth about Rs 13,500 crore, which would be sold over the next 5-6 years. The company would continue to build fresh inventory of completed product.

DLF, along with its partner GIC, has started construction on the first phase of its 7 million sq ft housing projects in central Delhi.

"We will open sale in this project after structure is complete and we get occupancy certificate," Chawla said.

In a presentation, DLF observed that "Incidentally, both RERA (new real estate law) and Ind AS 115 (new accounting standard) support evolution of this business model".

From taxation point of view, there is no GST on completed units while the effective GST rate is 12 per cent for under-construction flats.

As part of new business model, DLF would sell residential products to retail customers.

The commercial properties would be sold either to retail customers (B2C) or to DLF Cyber City Developers Ltd (DCCDL) -- JV firm with global investment firm GIC -- as investment properties (B2B). It might hold commercial properties to earn lease rentals.

DLF would also strive to be debt free in development (residential) business over the near term. Net debt at the end of quarter stood at Rs 7,120 crore.

For debt reduction, Chawla said the company could launch qualified institutional placement (QIP) this fiscal while promoters would infuse an additional Rs 2,250 crore by March 2019.

"Implement a business model where 50 per cent of free cash is targeted to be reinvested in projects with returns in the range of about 20 per cent plus on development costs and balance 50 per cent of free cash to build up cash reserves for potential special dividend payouts, share buybacks, acquisitions etc," the presentation said.

Last week, DLF reported a 56 per cent increase in its consolidated net profit at Rs 172.77 crore for the first quarter of this fiscal. Its net profit stood at Rs 110.70 crore in the year-ago period.

Total income, however, declined to Rs 1,657.67 crore during April-June this fiscal from Rs 2,211.24 crore in the corresponding period of the previous year.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)DMK Working President MK Stalin today announced Rs one crore flood relief to the Kerala government, on behalf of his party and expressed his condolences to the bereaved families.

A DMK statement said, "Unprecedented floods in Kerala have affected many people and has caused damage to properties worth crores. The party's working president M K Stalin has decided to contribute Rs 1 crore to Kerala Chief Minister's Relief Fund."



Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami had on August 9 announced a contribution of Rs 5 crore to rain ravaged Kerala as a mark of support to the neighbouring state.

According to the latest official figures, more than 60,000 people, including women, toddlers and senior citizens, have been lodged in various relief camps across 14 districts of the southern state following the unprecedented monsoon rains that triggered floods and landslips in several places.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had yesterday announced Rs 10 lakh as compensation to those who lost their houses and land in the rain, and Rs 4 lakh to those who lost a member of their family.

The toll in the monsoon fury since August 8 has climbed to 37.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A pet dog turned out to be the saviour of its master and his family when the animal woke them up at 3 am, minutes before their house collapsed in a landslip at a hamlet in this high range district of Kerala.

As 'Rocky' yelped and made disturbing sounds, Mohanan and his wife woke up and tried to find out what was wrong.

They soon heard a thunderous noise and ran out of their house, only to find to their horror their dwelling unit collapsing at picturesque Keerithode on Thursday, Mohanan told a television channel.

Idukki district is among the places badly hit in the monsoon rains which have triggered landslides and floods in the state since last week.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)People should not remain mute spectators to incidents of street violence but take proactive steps to stop it, Assam Director General of Police Kuladhar Saikia has said.

The violence does not remain confined to the street but spills over to one's home if a person continues to remain a mute spectator, the DGP said in his address at the Fourth Yamin Hazarika Woman of Substance Award, conferred on noted wildlife activist Purnima Devi Barman here yesterday.

If people become immune to violence and does nothing to stop it, it will trickle to one's home with children assuming that there was nothing wrong with the situation, he said.

In this context, the DGP also stressed on instilling the right values in the younger generation.

Stating that it takes an entire community to nurture and bring up a child, Saikia said, "There is a saying in China that it takes a village to bring up a child. Earlier it was followed in our society too but unfortunately in recent times it is not so, leading to many problems."



The DGP conferred the award on Barman who was honoured with the Whitley Award, popularly called the Green Oscars, last year for her efforts to conserve the endangered Greater Adjutant Stork in Assam.

The Award has been instituted by an Assam-based collective 'Women's Hub' in memory of North East's first IPS officer Yamin Hazarika, who died of leukaemia at the age of 43 in 1999.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Prince Dwarkanath Tagore, best known for his significant role in the Bengal Renaissance of the 19th century, has been honoured with a new bust in London.

The grandfather of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore was among the first Indian industrialists, also known as merchant princes, investing in a range of businesses from steam engines to banking in the 1820s.

He died during a visit to the UK in August 1846 and was buried at Kensal Green Cemetery in north-west London, where his bust was unveiled yesterday.

"He was a Tagore who uplifted the face of trade and business long before his grandson Rabindranath Tagore received the Nobel Prize in Literature. He believed the sky's the limit and his range of accomplishments spanned from coal, tea, jute, shipping, banking and the list can go on," said Anirban Mukhopadhyay, President of London Sharad Utsav (LSU), among the groups behind the new statue.

After decades amid thousands of other graves, LSU joined hands with the Bengal Heritage Foundation and with the support of the British Council, iLead (Kolkata), Friends of Kensal Green (London) launched the bust and a plaque marking Dwarkanath's contributions.

Scores of people from the British Bengali community gathered for the event here.

Kolkata-based businessman Pradeep Chopra travelled all the way from India with his family for the occasion.

"I always wanted to break this fallacy that entrepreneurship is not for Bengalis and they are only meant to be doctors or professors. Entrepreneurship has been in the roots of Bengal since Dwarkanath's era and some of the best entrepreneurs in the country can be from Bengal just like he was," Chopra said.

The ceremony was also marked by the presence of Saikat Maitra, Vice Chancellor of Maulana Abdul Kalam Azad University of Technology, who also flew in from India.

"Emulation of corporate mindset and management of business by Dwarkanath needs to be presented in a more effective way before the next generation," Maitra said.

Dwarkanath died aged 52 at St. George's Hotel in London during a major thunderstorm in the city.

Britain's then Queen, Victoria, and husband Prince Albert, who had welcomed him to their court like "an old friend" earlier, sent four carriages to the funeral for a so-called "princely" send-off.

"Very few Indians are aware of Prince Dwarkanath Tagore's tomb in London. From coal to banking to trading, he successfully set the foundation of an industrial Bengal and internationalisation of India," said Sourav Nyogi, President of the Bengal Heritage Foundation, which spearheaded the project.

"Our effort is a humble tribute to this great son of Bengal and to keep his heritage alive for the future generations," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Efforts will be made to accord Sanskrit the status of the second official language of Himachal Pradesh, a state minister said today.

Himachal Urban Development minister Sarveen Choudhary said this at a function organised by Sanskrit Bharti Kangra at the Dhauladhar campus of Central University of Himachal Pradesh at Dharamshala in Kangra district.

"Sanskrit is the mother of all tongues and this language is key to knowledge of all the subjects including science, mathematics, philosophy, literature, yoga and astrology," she said.

Moreover Sanskrit language is our cultural identity, she added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An Egyptian court has sentenced five people, including the head of the outlawed Muslim Brotherhood, to life in prison on violence-related charges.

It's the latest of several life sentences for Mohammed Badie, who was also sentenced to death in separate trials since his 2013 arrest.

Charges have included inciting violence and planning attacks against the state.

The Cairo Criminal Court on Sunday sentenced four others to 10-15 years imprisonment on the same charges, related to the killing of seven people in 2013. The verdicts can be appealed.

The case is related to the violence that convulsed Egypt after the military overthrew President Mohammed Morsi, a senior Brotherhood figure, amid mass protests five years ago.

In August 2013, security forces killed hundreds of people when they dispersed two pro-Brotherhood sit-ins.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Security forces in Egypt have killed at least 12 Islamic militants in a shootout in northern Sinai Peninsula, the country's official agency said today.

In its report, the Middle East Agency (MENA) said the fighting erupted when forces raided a suspected militant hideout in the city of al-Arish.

It said troops also dismantled two explosive devices and seized weapons during the raid.

MENA didn't reveal when the raid took place or whether any members of the security forces were killed or wounded.

Egypt heavily restricts media access to the northern part of the Sinai Peninsula.

Egypt has battled militants for years but the Sinai-based insurgency gained strength after the 2013 overthrow of the country's elected but divisive Islamist president, Mohammed Morsi.

In February, Egypt launched a massive operation against militants in Sinai and elsewhere in the country.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An encounter broke out between militants and security forces in Batamaloo area here today, police said.

Based on specific information about the presence of militants in Diyarwani in Batamaloo area of the city, security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the area early this morning, a police official said.

He said the search operation turned into an encounter as the militants fired upon the forces, who retaliated.

The gunfight was going on, the official said, adding further details were awaited.

Meanwhile, mobile Internet service has been snapped in the city as a precautionary measure, the official said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Mobile internet services were temporarily suspended here in the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir today in the wake of an anti-militancy operation in Batamaloo area of the city, police said.

The internet on mobile devices was suspended in the early hours of the morning after an encounter broke out between security forces and militants in Deyarwani area of Batamaloo in the pre-dawn hours, a police official said.

He said the service was barred as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order and to stop rumour mongering.

The official said the mobile internet was then restored in the afternoon after the gunfight ended.

Two militants were arrested while a cop was killed and five other security forces personnel were injured during the encounter.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A railway engine taken for repair work derailed near Juhi Khalwa Bridge here today, disrupting rail traffic, officials said.

No casualty was reported, they said.

"Due to the engine derailment, the Jhansi side train movement got stopped for hours, but the movement on



Delhi-Howrah route was not affected as it continued through third and fourth lines," Gaurav Krishna Bansal, NCR's Chief Public Relation Officer (CPRO), said.

"Three trains got affected. There was no injury or casualty reported. An enquiry has been ordered," he said.

The official said the incident took place when the engine was being sent to Lucknow at around 11.30 am for repairing its wheels.

After getting the information about the incident, the maintenance team reached the spot and started the relief work. The team took about one and a half hour to put the engine back on track, Bansal said.

The rail traffic resumed at around 2 pm, officials added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid today cautioned opposition parties such as the SP and BSP against excluding the Congress from the alliance in Uttar Pradesh for the 2019 polls or making the party look like a "dwarf" in the state, saying such a move will be "myopic" and benefit the BJP.

He also said Congress chief Rahul Gandhi has given the message that "lets not get caught up" with the issue of opposition's prime ministerial candidate for now, as "collectively" winning the general election was the main focus.

In an interview to PTI, Khurshid said that this was "strategically" the best thing the Congress could have done to ensure that the BJP is not successful in creating gaps between the opposition parties as they work towards an alliance.

Khurshid, who has been Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee chief twice, asserted that parties should not write off the Congress in the state and it was important that it is part of an alliance with the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) to take on the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) in the 2019 polls.

Asked about talk of Congress being given very few seats in Uttar Pradesh or excluded from the grand alliance, Khurshid said, "I would think it will be very myopic. I am not saying it because we stand to gain from the opposite view, but I think excluding the Congress or making Congress look (like a) dwarf in UP will be myopic."



He said the BJP would also benefit if such a scenario pans out.

Khurshid said that it should be kept in mind that the Congress had done well in the state in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls.

"And we did that, while we still were considerably behind them (the SP and BSP) in vote share because the big cities voted for us in a major way. Today, at the worst, we are 7 per cent and they (SP and BSP) are three times our vote share. But if we were to go out on our own, we are not going to be 7 per cent, we will probably once again touch 10, 11 or 12 per cent that we have shown repeatedly we can touch," he said.

The SP and BSP can certainly go up to 24, 25 or to 26 per cent vote share, but it doesn't mean that the Congress is "nothing", the 65-year-old leader said.

It will not be correct to write-off the Congress as despite being battered repeatedly in polls, it has about 10 per cent vote in the state that has stuck to it which is crucial in many seats, Khurshid said.

"So, I believe that for a serious, sustainable alliance ...a government that is genuinely a good government for India in the next five years, a creative and constructive participation of the Congress is necessary and that participation will not be creative, constructive and substantive if UP is missing from it," he said.

There would be a risk in undermining Congress too much in UP and the projection of sustainability for five years will suffer if the Congress participation in the state is not a satisfactory one, the former Union minister said.

Khurshid, however, conceded that in forging state-specific alliances, in the long run, the Congress may end up ceding ground to regional parties.

Khurshid asserted that though striking alliances was the "dictate of our times", but somebody in the party will have to keep thinking of ten or 20 years down the road.

"In an alliance there is always a give and take, we cannot assume that an alliance will only be one way, that we will gain. Why will anyone give to us if we are to gain. An an alliance is a two way thing," he said.

On Congress indicating that the issue of the opposition's prime ministerial candidate will be decided after the outcome of the 2019 polls, he said, "The party's choice is explicit, it is transparent in his (Rahul Gandhi's) favour, but he has himself taken the lead in saying that lets not get embroiled and caught up in this futile argument just now, lets first collectively win this election (and then) we will sit down and talk."



Khurshid also hailed the changes brought about by Gandhi since taking over the party as president and said that his way of taking the old and the new guard along was the best path forward.

While noting that those who are active among the old guard of the party were being given positions of responsibility and respect, Khurshid said there were also "significant generational changes" with very bright young people from a fresh generation coming into their own.

He also lauded Gandhi for setting the agenda with issues of "big corruption", farmers' plight, lack of jobs and problems faced by Dalits, tribals, minorities and other weaker sections of the society.

Asked if alliances which are state-specific will be fragile at the central level, Khurshid said, "Our leader is working towards a stable alliance. Mr Rahul Gandhi is trying very hard to ensure that we don't just make a rag-tag alliance, but we make an alliance which is formidable, stable and substantive.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An organisation representing Gujjars and Bakerwals said today the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe law, in its amended form, should be extended to Jammu and Kashmir to ensure social equality and provide speedy justice to tribals in the state.

The Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation (TRCF), founded by noted research and Guijjar scholar Javaid Rahi, said such a provision, if extended to Jammu and Kashmir, could not only prevent atrocities, discrimination and harassment against members of Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities, but would also provide legal safeguard against "anti-tribal forces".

"The Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment bill, passed by parliament, may be extended to Jammu and Kashmir so that the tribals in the state get the rights enjoyed by their counterparts in other parts of the country," the organisation said.

"The bill, which was passed recently by the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Saba and sent to President of India for nod, is made to protect the life and dignity of tribal communities across India. However, this Act was not made applicable to the tribes of Jammu and Kashmir by virtue of the state's special status," it said.

It appealed to President Ram Nath Kovind and Governor N N Vohra to intervene in the matter to protect "safety, equality and tribal rights".

"Either the Act be extended to Jammu and Kashmir or a parallel laws be drawn up in the state to address the issues of the tribals," the TRCF said and claimed that tribals in the state are living in a grim situation and there should be laws to protect their life and dignity.

Parliament on Thursday passed the bill to overturn a Supreme Court order concerning certain safeguards against arrest under the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe law. It rules out any provision for anticipatory bail for a person accused of atrocities against SC/STs notwithstanding any court order.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A 32-year-old farmer allegedly committed suicide today by drinking pesticide in Krishnapur village near Yavatmal, police said.

The family members of the deceased, identified as Prakash Nikhade, claimed that he was frustrated since he had lost cotton crop on four acres of land due to flood this monsoon.

They also alleged that the farmer was denied fresh crop loan by a bank.

However, the police said the cause behind Nikhade taking the extreme step is being investigated.

A Shirpur police station official said they have registered a case.

The incident occurred this evening at the house of the farmer in the village in Wani taluka, he said.

His family members rushed him to Wani rural hospital, where he died during treatment, the official said.

Nikhade is survived by his mother, pregnant wife and a minor daughter.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Another batch of 233 pilgrims left the base camp here today to join the ongoing Amarnath yatra in south Kashmir Himalayas, officials said.

The pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in 11 vehicles amid tight security arrangements in the early hours and are scheduled to reach the twin base camps of Baltal in Ganderbal district and Nunwan-Pahalgam in Anantnag district later in the day, the officials said.

He said while two vehicles carrying 93 pilgrims are performing the yatra from the traditional 36-km Pahalgam route, 140 more pilgrims comprising 106 men and 34 women have opted the shorter 12-km Baltal route.

The 60-day annual yatra commenced from the twin tracks on June 28 and is scheduled to conclude on August 26 coinciding with the 'Raksha Bandhan' festival.

Till last evening, a total of 2,78,072 pilgrims had paid their obeisance at the cave shrine.

However, the number of pilgrims undertaking the yatra has marked a sharp dip over the past fortnight owing to the early melting of the naturally formed ice-shivlingam at the scantum sanctorum.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Police in Pakistan say a methane gas explosion in a coal mine has killed at least four miners and trapped 13 others.

Local police official Wajeet Khan says the blast happened Sunday in the village of Sanjdi, about 50 kilometers (30 miles) east of Quetta.

He says rescuers have retrieved four bodies and that 13 other miners are missing and feared dead, with rescue operations hindered by the gas leak.

Cave-ins and other mining accidents in Pakistan are often attributed to the poor enforcement of safety regulations.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) will launch a massive demolition drive against illegally constructed buildings here from tomorrow even as it has so far demolished 27 such structures.

In the drive starting tomorrow, the GDA will seal and demolish the illegally constructed and dilapidated buildings, authority sources said.

Vice chairperson of GDA and district magistrate Ritu Maheshwari said 650 buildings have been identified and they would be sealed by the authority and Nagar Nigam by the end of this month.

Nobody will be spared who so ever he or she may be, she added.

This comes days after three Ghaziabad MLAs of the Bharatiya Janata Party wrote to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath raising objection to GDA action and suggested the illegal buildings be made part of the 'Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna' instead of being torn down.

Urban Development minister Suresh Khanna yesterday had told the media that the drive against illegal buildings will continue. Illegal is illegal, he had said.

The Enforcement Department has identified such buildings and notices have been issued to the builders, Maheshwari said.

Two people were killed and eight others injured when a five-storey under-construction building collapsed in the Akash Nagar area here on July 22.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) has signed an MoU with the Shenzhen Rough Diamond Exchange and will also open an office in China to promote trade between the world's largest bullion markets, the apex trade body has said.

"We have signed an MoU with the Shenzhen Rough Diamond Exchange (SRDE) to promote our trade and open an office to tap fast-growing Chinese diamond market. We want to broad-base our market and China is expected to provide us opportunity as an alternative market," GJEPC chairman Pramod Kumar Agarwal told PTI.

The jewellery manufacturers from Shenzhen as well as other parts of China are also exploring long-term business relationships with their counterparts here.

The bilateral trade in the gems and jewellery sector has been on the rise in the recent years. In 2017, the trade had reached USD 21.41 billion, registering a growth of 29 per cent year-on-year, with exports from here clocking USD 13.96 billion.

Shenzhen is the largest jewellery manufacturing hub in China housing nearly 5,000 units that employ around 1,50,000 people, including nearly 15,000 individual traders and professionals.

The Chinese market has shown growth over the last year, Agarwal said, adding that there is a great potential for further increase in diamond jewellery consumption as there is a rise in the number of Chinese getting married.

The GJEPC is also looking at setting up bases in smaller markets like Bangladesh, Nepal and Vietnam, which will help the sector to incrementally grow, Agarwal said, adding that the council is also talking to Kuwait to create some avenues there.

Agarwal pointed out that gems and jewellery exports slipped by 9.13 per cent to Rs 53,294 crore in the June quarter. This, he said is in spite of the improvement in the US market as this was offset by the downward trend in the Middle East, which has share of 35-40 per cent of our exports.

The industry is also facing liquidity issues and GJEPC is having talks with the government and is hopeful that the government may step in and find a solution to improve bank lending to the sector, Agarwal said.

Bank lending in the sector has come to a standstill following the Nirav Modi scam involving PNB, which lost around Rs 13,500 crore through this. It also led the Reserve Bank to ban letters of understanding, the instrument that was used by Modi to dupe bank and his foreign trade partners.

"We may see flat growth in exports at USD 41 billion this year compared to USD 40 billion achieved in FY 18," he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Religious leaders in Madhya Pradesh are preparing to jump into the political fray and contest the state Assembly polls due later this year.

This comes against the backdrop of the state government according the Minister of State (MoS) status to five such 'godmen' in April this year.

Some of these religious leaders are ready to contest as Independents, if no political party offers them tickets.

Swami Namdev Tyagi, popularly called as 'Computer Baba' by his followers, who was accorded the MoS status in April, says he will fight the polls only if MP Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan asks him to do so.

"If Chouhanji asks me to fight the Assembly polls, I am ready for it," he told PTI.

However, a source close to Tyagi claimed that he is doing hectic lobbying to contest the election from Indore.

Tyagi had announced to take out the 'Narmada Ghotala Rath Yatra' in April this year to expose the alleged scam in planting saplings on the banks of the Narmada river and to demand a ban on illegal sand mining.

But soon after getting the MoS status, he cancelled the campaign, saying the state government had fulfilled his demand to form a committee of saints and seers for protection of the Narmada river.

Baba Avdeshpuri (47), who holds a doctorate degree in 'Ram Charit Manas' (an epic poem composed by Tulsidas), is inclined to enter the electoral fray from Ujjain district on the BJP's ticket.

"I am close to the VHP and the Sangh Parivar and have helped the BJP in the past," he claimed.

But, Avdeshpuri said he was not going to put pressure on the BJP to give him the ticket.

"I am not going to do what some babas did to become MoS. I don't believe in such pressure tactics," he said.

He said his followers want him to fight the polls to ensure that encroachments at the site of Simhastha Kumbh Mela held in Ujjain are removed.

"So, even if the BJP does not give me a ticket, I am prepared to contest as an Independent candidate," he said.

He said the BJP should not forget that its senior leader Uma Bharti (now a Union minister) brought the party to power in Madhya Pradesh in 2003.

"The BJP came to power in MP just because Umaji, the saffron-robed sadhvi, was projected as the chief minister," he said.

Religious leader Maharaj Madan Mohan Khadeshwari, 45, also expressed his willingness to contest from Keolari seat in Seoni district as a BJP candidate.

"If the BJP doesn't give me a ticket, I am going to fight as an Independent. I am 101 per cent sure of my victory...I have been tirelessly working forthe people of Seonifor the last 30 years," he said.

Yogi Ravinath Mahiwale from Raisen district has also started his campaign for the Assembly polls.

"Come what may, I am going to contest the election on 'save Narmada' plank as the river is being ruined due to illegal sand mining," the 42-year-old religious leader said.

Mahiwale, who is keen to get a ticket from the Udaipura Assembly seat in Raisen, says, "Iwon't mind contesting from the Congress, if the BJP does not field me."



Similarly, Mahant Pratap Giri, 35, also wants to contest from Silwani seat in Raisen.

He said if the BJP does not field him, he would contest as an Independent.

"I am running a campaign against pictures of Gods and Goddesses being used forcommercial products. I will fight the election to serve people...serving people is like serving God," he added.

In April, the BJP government in MP had accorded the MoS status to five Hindu religious leaders -- Narmadanand Maharaj, Hariharanand Maharaj, Computer Baba, Bhayyu Maharaj and Pandit Yogendra Mahant.

Seeking to downplay the controversy over grant of the MoS status to the 'godmen', the chief minister had then said that his government wanted to rope in people from all walks of life for welfare and development.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Railway Minister Piyush Goyal today formally handed over 71.25 acres of land of the Digha-Patna rail line to the Bihar government at a function here.

The Bihar Cabinet had on June 26 given its nod for transfer of the land to the state's Road Construction Department on payment of Rs 222.19 crore for construction of a four-lane road in Patna.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and a host of Union ministers, including R K Singh, Giriraj Singh, Ashwini Choubey and Ram Kripal Yadav, were present on the occasion.

Goyal also dedicated the Biraul-Harnagar new rail line and gauge conversion of the Raxaul-Narkatiyaganj line to the public, besides laying foundation stone for a rail line between Supaul and Araria and inaugurating expansion of passenger trains on the Sakri-Biraul section.

The minister completed the formalities through video-conferencing.

Meanwhile, Goyal announced that 50 per cent of 10,000 posts to be filled in the Railway Police Force (RPF), will be reserved for women.

CCTVs will be installed at 6,000 railway stations and in major trains, he said, adding that a mega rail bridge over the Kosi river will be completed in the next 10 months.

The foundation stone for the bridge was laid by former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2003.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Guru Nanak Dev's 550th birth anniversary will celebrated across the globe with all Indian embassies and missions hosting programmes to spread his message of brotherhood and sharing, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said today.

Swaraj, while speaking at a 'gurbani kirtan' organised by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations together with the World Punjabi Organisation (WPO), said that in this era of protectionism, there can be no better message than Guru Nanak Dev's message of sharing.

"In this turbulent world, where violence and killings are prevalent, where people are being massacred in the name of religion, through this anniversary celebration, we want to spread the message of Guru Nanak and other Sikh Gurus in the world," she said.

Swaraj said that this message would be spread through seminars, 'gurbani kirtan' and other such programmes.

"After a few days we will start celebrating the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak. I want to tell you, that we will celebrate Guru Nanak Dev's 550th birth anniversary across the globe. Every embassy, every mission will celebrate this. ICCR will celebrate this," she said.

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev will be celebrated as the 'Universal Brotherhood Year!'



The year 2019 will mark the 550th birth anniversary year of Guru Nanak Dev, whose birthplace is Sri Nankana Sahib, in Pakistan.

Every year, devotees from India travel to Pakistan to pay obeisance at the Nankana Sahib gurudwara.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Harvard Business School's India-born Dean Nitin Nohria will step down from the board of directors of Tata Sons next month.

"I can confirm to you that Dean Nohria is not extending his term on the board," Harvard Business School Director of Media and Public Relations Jim Aisner told PTI in an email, responding to a query on whether Dean Nohria is stepping down from the Tata Sons board.

Aisner said that based on more than three decades of experience here, "it's quite common for Harvard Business School faculty members (including HBS Deans, who are also professors here) to have a changing portfolio of board service.

"In addition, like his colleagues, Dean Nohria takes seriously the responsibilities of board membership, including the ability to participate in meetings in person, and this was a concern, given the required travel to India."



Nohria had been appointed as a non-executive director on the Tata Sons Board in September 2013. His five-year term ends next month.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Met department today asked fishermen who have ventured into the sea to return to coast by tonight owing to a cyclonic circulation which may intensify into a low pressure in the Bay of Bengal.

A cyclonic circulation in northwest Bay of Bengal along the Odisha coast is likely to intensify into a low pressure by tomorrow, the weatherman said in its forecast.

Fishermen have been advised to return to the coast by tonight and not to venture into the sea along and off West Bengal and Odisha coasts till August 15.

The Met department has forecast heavy rain for the next two days in the coastal districts of East and West Midnapore till Tuesday and in the additional districts of South and North 24 Parganas and Jhargram from tomorrow till Tuesday.

(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 today that the central government's decision to increase the minimum support price (MSP) for kharif crops was a step towards achieving the target of doubling farmers' income by 2022.

Farmer welfare is the top priority of the governments at the Centre and in the state, he told a 'Kisan Dhanyavad' rally in Gohana in Sonipat district.

He said that the prosperity of any state or country depended on the progress and prosperity of its farmers, which would lead to a new era of happiness in the world.

Khattar said that during its tenure of about four years, the BJP government in the state had framed laws and policies to provide benefit of government schemes to the poor and brought complete transparency in providing jobs.

He said that 30,000 'Group D' posts would soon be advertised.

The state government has so far provided more than 28,000 government jobs to the youth in a transparent manner, he said.

The chief minister said that the government had revamped the entire system of transfers and providing jobs with the use of technology and fully eliminated the role of middlemen.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Corp-backed realty portal Housing.com's revenue more than doubled last fiscal year, helping it become one of the top three players in the real estate classified business, a top company official said today.

In January last year, Singapore-based Elara Technologies, which owns PropTiger.com and Makaan.com, bought Housing.com -- a start-up founded in 2012 by around dozen IIT graduates -- in a major consolidation in the Indian online real estate business.

Apart from Corp and its Australia-based group firm REA, Elara Technologies has SAIF Partners, Softbank and Accel Partners as major shareholders. It has raised USD 105 million so far from investors.

"In Housing.com, we achieved 110 per cent growth in revenue and 75 per cent growth in traffic during the last fiscal," said Dhruv Agarwala, who is the CEO of all the three brands -- PropTiger, Housing and Makaan.

Even in the first quarter of this fiscal, the company posted a 77 per cent growth in revenue year-on-year, he told PTI in an interview, but did not share the exact financial details.

"This showcases the market's faith in all the innovations we created last year post merger. While last year's performance has firmly established Housing.com amongst the top three players in the real estate classifieds business, the company is well on its path to increasing its revenue by over 50 per cent this fiscal year," Agarwala said.

Housing.com earns revenues from advertisements placed by developers, brokers and home owners. It also generates revenues by providing marketing tools to builders like 3D Visualization and Augmented Reality.

At this growth rate, he exuded confidence, that Housing.com would become market leader within a couple of years.

Housing.com competes with 99acres.com and Magicbricks.com in real estate classified business among few others.

"While Housing.com had an excellent product, great brand and a talented team, the focus on monetisation was not there," Agarwala said.

Moreover, he said, the "uncertainty around the future of the company for almost a year prior to the merger had affected team morale and caused the business to be in a state of limbo".

Agarwala was referring to the events that led to sacking of Housing.com co-founder and then CEO Rahul Yadav in July 2015.

The board had sacked Yadav, saying that his behaviour towards investors and media was not "befitting" of a CEO. Later, Jason Kothari was appointed as the new CEO, the position he held till merger.

"With the merger the sense of stability was restored very quickly and we were able to re-energise the team and give fresh vitality to the business," Agarwala said.

Post-merger, Elara did restructuring exercise to ensure optimal utilisation of resources in the combined entities.

"This turnaround was a result of many innovations across product, business and marketing functions," he said.

Housing.com also launched a new app for sellers, which enables them to manage their listings and leads, and get instant alerts on the go. It reintroduced renting segment and launched brand campaign for achieving higher traffic and revenue.

Agarwala said many new products and new marketing campaign are in pipeline to further strengthen the Housing.com brand.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.): Hundreds of scientists working abroad have returned to India over the past three-four years after finding a better scientific ecosystem under the NDA government, Union Minister Harsh Vardhan said here today.

"Before Prime Minister Narendra Modi, people used to talk a lot about 'brain drain'.

People talk about 'brain drain' to some extent even now, but they talk more about 'brain gain' now," he said after inaugurating the new campus of the Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD) at Uppal area here.

"In the last three-four years, hundreds of scientists have returned... because they find a better atmosphere in the country and a better scientific ecosystem to work.

They find better facilities, better state-of-the-art laboratories, equipment and a government which is receptive to their ideas and which is willing to transform and introduce new modern systems," the Union Science and Technology Minister said.

Harsh Vardhan claimed hundreds of scientists have come back to India and a lot more were willing to come (back), adding "It is a very very happy moment".

He said Prime Minister Modi's goal was to deliver a 'New India by 2022' towards which he was working with a lot of passion,vision and sincerity and dedication.

The Prime Minister, he said, has been extending a lot of support for development of scientific institutions and research in the country.

He said the scientific community would always be indebted to Modi for the support received for development of scientific activities, fellowships and new initiatives.

"Ideas from young minds have been supported, right from the seed stage to entrepreneurship programmes," he said.

Harsh Vardhan said strengthening inputs into research had also seen drastic improvements over the years and funding had also increased significantly over the last three-four years.

"He(Modi) has given a clear cut vision to the scientific community of scientific social responsibility," Harsh Vardhan said and emphasised that CDFD should strive to be the best in the globe in the next couple of years.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Hundreds of people turned out at Trafalgar Square here today in support of a pro-Khalistan rally as well as to counter the event with an Independence Day celebration.

The "We Stand With India" and "Love My India" events were organised by Indian diaspora groups as a reaction to the pro-Khalistan "London Declaration for a Referendum 2020".

The pro-India group, confined to a demarcated area of the square away from the anti-India rally, waved the Indian tricolour and placards reading "India Jai Ho" and "Vande Mataram" and beat their dhols in an attempt to drown out some of the speeches in favour of the so-called Referendum 2020.

"Indian Sikhs don't want this Referendum 2020, they don't even know what this Referendum is about, who is organising and why," said Navdeep Singh, one of the organisers being the pro-India demonstration.

On the other end, the pro-Khalistani supporters shouted slogans such as 'Khalistan Zindabad' and waved anti-India placards.

Pakistani-origin House of Lords peer Lord Nazir Ahmed was among the key speakers for the group.

Scotland Yard, which had confirmed that an "appropriate and proportionate policing plan" will be in place for the demonstrations at Trafalgar Square, maintained a watchful eye over the proceedings, which remained largely peaceful with no face-offs being allowed to get out of control by vigilant police officers.

A UK government spokesperson had earlier allowed the rally to go ahead, saying that "in the UK people have the right to gather together and to demonstrate their views, provided that they do so within the law".

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had issued a statement expressing its disappointment at the stance.

"We have said that it seeks to propagate violence, secessionism and hatred and we expect them to take into account the larger perspective of the relationship when they take a decision on such matters," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had said.

Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) said its rally is intended to raise awareness for a non-binding referendum in 2020, calling for the Sikh-majority state of Punjab to be granted independence.

Organisers believe a high turnout will put pressure on the United Nations to ask India to hold a plebiscite.

Rami Ranger, Chairman of the British Sikh Association, dismissed the rally as a move by a "handful of unelected and self appointed Sikhs" and that Sikhs at large remained "against disunity".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Global body is working on a proposal to enable booking of website names in Indian scripts starting with Devanagari, Gurmukhi and Gujarati.

A Neo-Brahmi Generation Panel (NBGP), set up under ICANN, has started consultation to enable registeration of website name extension, technically called top level (TLD), like .com, .net, .in, in the three Indian scripts.

"The Neo-Brahmi script Generation Panel (NBGP) was formed by nine communities that use scripts derived from the Brahmi script. NBGP is developing Root Zone Label Generation Rules (LGR) for Bengali, Devanagari, Gujarati, Gurmukhi, Kannada, Malayalam, Oriya, Tamil and Telugu scripts," The Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers website said.

At present website name with extension .bharat can be booked only in Devanagari script which has limited letters that are identified by servers.

The technical standards once freezed through the process, called Label Generation Rules for the Root Zone (RZ-LGR), will allow people to use any word of their choice as TLD in the Indian scripts.

"After integration in root zone of these LGR's people from all over world will be able to apply for top level domains in these scripts. This means that internet domains will be possible for public at large in names of there choice and make in there own language," NGBP Chairperson co-chair and Data XGen Plus founder and CEO, Ajay Data told PTI.

The root zone are the main servers that convert name of website in digital form and identify address of server where the website is hosted to connect visitors of online portals. These servers are managed by the not-for-profit organisation

While there are nine scripts in works at ICANN, NBGP intends to publish the proposals for the developing technical standards for all nine in three sets starting with Devanagari, Gurmukhi, and Gujarati.

The last date for public comments for freezing technical details is September 10, 2018.Traffic restrictions will be in place for the Independence Day function at the Red Fort and on its full dress rehearsal tomorrow while the DMRC has said parking facilities will not be available at its stations.

Half-a-dozen roads will remain closed while traffic will be diverted on some roads on these days, police said.

Parking facilities will not be available at the Delhi Metro stations from 6 am on August 14 till 2 pm on August 15 in view of the security measures adopted on the occasion of Independence Day.

Six roads - Netaji Subhash Marg, Lothian Road, S P Mukherjee Marg, Chandni Chowk Road, Nishad Raj Marg and Esplanade Road - and its Link Road will be closed for general public from 5 am to 9 am on both the days, the police said.

Vehicles without parking labels for the rehearsal parade need to avoid Tilak Marg, Mathura Road, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, Subhash Marg, Jawaharlal Nehru Marg and Ring Road between Nizamuddin Bridge and ISBT bridge and take alternative route.

North-South traffic will follow alternative routes from Aurobindo Marg, Connaught Place-Minto Road, Ring Road-ISBT and Nizamuddin bridge.

In the East-West corridor, the vehicular traffic will follow alternative routes of DND-NH24-Vikas Marg, Vikas Marg- DDU Marg, and Boulevard Road-Barfkhana.

Movement of goods vehicles between Nizamuddin bridge and Wazirabad bridge will be prohibited from 12 midnight of August 14 to 11 am on August 15.

Inter-state buses will not be allowed between Maharana Pratap ISBT and Sarai Kale Khan ISBT from 4 am to 11 am, the police said.

Local city buses, including of DTC, will not move on Ring Road from 4am to 11 am on August 15, between Hanuman Setu and Bhairon Road T-point and take alternative routes available.

Buses ordinarily terminating at Red Fort, Jama Masjid and Delhi main railway station will be curtailed or diverted.

Alternative routes will remain open to railway stations, bus stations and hospitals near the venue of Independence Day function, the police said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)BJP chief Amit Shah today asserted that illegal Bangladeshi settlers would not be allowed to stay in the country.

Shah, who was in the city to address a meeting of party workers, expressed confidence that the BJP will emerge victorious in the next general elections even if the opposition parties cobble up an alliance.

We will not allow illegal Bangladeshi "intruders" to stay in the country even though we will make efforts to ensure that refugees who come seeking shelter are given citizenship, Shah is learnt to have told party workers.

While media-persons was not allowed in the meeting, senior BJP leader Bhupendra Yadav and the party's UP unit chief Mehendra Nath Pandey gave details of Shah's address to party workers.

According to the two leaders, Shah emphasised that the BJP was concerned about the well being of Hindus as well as Muslims living in the country.

Shah urged party workers to spread awareness about the developmental work carried out by the Modi and Yogi governments at the grassroots level adding if this was done the saffron party's triumph in the next general elections was a foregone conclusion.

The BJP chief said the party would contest the next elections on developmental agenda with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the centre of the campaign.

He set a target of '73-plus' for BJP in Uttar Pradesh in the next Lok Sabha elections. Uttar Pradesh has 80 Lok Sabha seats and BJP and its allies had won 73 of these in the 2014 polls.

People ask what would happen if SP-BSP come together but I want to say we have defeated such alliances in Uttar Pradesh in the past, Shah said according to the two BJP leaders.

Referring to Congress president Rahul Gandhi and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, Shah said in 2017 two "boys (ladke)" joined hands but the BJP secured over 300 seats in the Assembly.

This time if all the three (SP, BSP and Congress) join, we will win atleast 74 seats, Shah said, according to the two BJP leaders.

In the meeting, a resolution was presented which lauded the work done by the Yogi Adityanath government in UP.

Earlier in the day, BJP leader Vijay Bahadur Pathak told reporters that the party had prepared its roadmap for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. He said the party would work at all the 60,000 booths in the state in this regard.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the handing over of houses built by India in Sri Lanka for Indian-origin people marked a new high in relationship between the two neighbours.

Attending the ceremony via video link, the prime minister said India has kept its promise made to the people of Sri Lanka.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe was present at the ceremony at Dunsinane estate, Nuwara Eliya, along with ministers and Indian officials.

India today handed over the first lot of houses built for Indian-origin people in Sri Lanka's tea plantation areas.

India had committed 60,000 houses, out of which 47,000 are ready, under the 'innovative Indian housing project', Modi said.

"Your roots are in India, they have grown in Sri Lanka. You have not just connected two countries, but also strengthened the hands of two great nations.... We are crafting a new future, a new high in India- Sri Lanka friendship," Modi told the gathering.

He said that at 350 million USD, it is one of the biggest grant assistance projects of India anywhere in the world.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)India today handed over the first lot of houses built under a USD 350 million project for Indian-origin people, mostly Tamils, in Sri Lanka's tea plantation areas.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined the special ceremony through video conferencing at Dunsinane Estate in Nuwara Eliya city to hand over the houses constructed under the Indian Housing Project, the largest one by India in any country.

He said that "we have always dreamt of a peaceful, secure and prosperous future for Sri Lanka where aspirations of all for growth and development are met".

Some 404 houses were handed over to the Indian-origin people, mostly Tamils.

The new houses along with land ownerships were handed over by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, High Commissioner of India Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Ministers Palani Digambaram, Navin Dissanayake and Gayantha Karunathilake, India's High Commission here said.

"More than 1,500 people attended the function despite inclement weather and rain," the Indian mission tweeted.

Modi said that India continues to keep Sri Lanka in a special place in its neighbourhood first policy.

Out of the 60,000 houses, close to 47,000 have been completed so far, Modi said, adding that the USD 350 million grant to build the houses was one of the largest grants by India in any country.

"Sri Lanka has been special for us, and it will remain special," he said.

Addressing the beneficiaries, Modi said that "your roots are in India, they have grown in Sri Lanka. You have not connected just two countries, but also touched the hearts and strengthened the hands of two great nations.

"Today, we are crafting a new future together, a new high in India-Sri Lanka friendship".

Prime Minister Modi said that "we are signing the agreement for the construction of the additional 10,000 houses at a cost of 12 billion Sri Lankan Rupees".

The land has already been identified for building the new 10,000 houses, he said.

"Continuing people oriented developmental assistance, Letter of Exchange for construction of additional 10,000 houses was signed, increasing India's grant commitment in the plantation areas to 14000 houses," the Indian mission said in a tweet.

Wickremesinghe appreciated India's commitment to partner with Sri Lanka in development projects including in building houses for upcountry areas.

"I thank the Prime Minister, Modi. He has kept the promise he made last year," Wickremesinghe said.

Wickremesinghe, recalling the historical links between India and Sri Lanka, also welcomed Modi's suggestion today to establish direct air links between Colombo and Varanasi to facilitate pilgrims from Sri Lanka.

Air India flights between Colombo and Varanasi started in August 2017.

Indian-origin Tamils, mostly employed in tea and rubber plantations in Sri Lanka, lack proper housing.

The Tamils, mostly residing in the central hill areas of the country, were brought from India by British rulers during the 19th century to work in coffee plantations in Sri Lanka.

More than a million are still associated with tea and rubber plantations. Though they have been given the Sri Lankan citizenship, housing remains a major issue for these workers employed as daily wagers.

Sri Lanka's new government led by President Maithripala Sirisena formulated a national plan of action for the plantation workers and planned for construction of 55,000 houses till 2020.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)India today handed over the first lot of houses built for Indian-origin people in Sri Lanka's tea plantation areas.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined a special ceremony through video conference at Dunsinane Estate, Nuwara Eliya to hand over the houses built under the Indian Housing Project in Plantation Areas.

It is the largest Indian assistance project in any country with a grant of over USD 350 million.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe thanked his Indian counterpart for the assistance.

"I thank the Prime Minister Modi. He has kept the promise he made last year," Wickremesinghe said.

Modi said that India continues to keep Sri Lanka in a special place in its neighbourhood first policy.

Some 404 houses were handed over at the central district of Nuwara Eliya.

Out of the 60,000 houses, close to 47,000 have been completed so far, Modi said, adding that the USD 350 million grant to build the houses was one of the largest grants by India in any country.

"Sri Lanka has been special for us, and it will remain special," Modi said.

Wickremesinghe, recalling the historical links between India and Sri Lanka, said Modi's suggestion today to establish direct air links between Colombo and Varanasi to facilitate pilgrims from Sri Lanka is most welcomed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)India should encourage Bhutan to ensure increase in the deployment of soldiers around Northern Doklam in the Sikkim sector to check activities of Chinese military in the sensitive region, a parliamentary panel has suggested in its draft report.

The Parliamentary Panel on External Affairs, headed by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, felt that increasing the number of soldiers in North Doklam was important for safeguarding India's strategic interests in the region.

The draft report, circulated among the panel's members on August 6, did not clarify whether the committee was favouring increasing the deployment of Indian troops in the region.

Troops of India and China were locked in a 73-day standoff in Doklam in the Sikkim sector from June 16 last year after the Indian side stopped construction of a road in the disputed tri-junction by the Chinese army.

Bhutan and China have a dispute over Doklam and both the countries have been holding talks to resolve the issue.

The parliamentary panel also suggested that India should remain alert and watchful in the Doklam area even though last year's face-off between Indian and Chinese armies was resolved peacefully.

It is clear that China's Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) took advantage of absence of Bhutanese soldiers in Batangla-Merugla-Sinchela ridgeline, which is in Bhutan, the panel noted.

Therefore, the committee recommends deployment of higher number of soldiers in Northern Doklam. India should encourage Bhutan for it so that the Chinese army could be stopped from pushing the limit of the tri-junction point, it said.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi is a member of the 31-member panel, where a majority of the members are from the BJP.

Some members of the committee travelled to Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh to take stock of ground situations and meet senior officials there.

The panel has been briefed several times on the situation in Doklam by S Jaishankar, former foreign secretary, and his successor Vijay Gokhale.

The foreign ministry officials had informed the panel that Bhutan was firmly with India on the issue, sources in the panel said.

They said during discussions, Gandhi had questioned foreign ministry officials on China's objective and why Beijing chose Doklam to trigger a confrontation.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Indian-American Aruna Vishwanathan was among the three women honoured with 'Women in Business: Making a Difference Award' at the 19th annual Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston (IACCGH) gala here.

Vishwanathan and two American women - Carlecia Wright and Jewel Smith - were among the people honoured last evening for their outstanding contributions in entrepreneurship, economic development, innovation and passion for community service.

Viswanathan is the Chief Operating Manager at Alphax Decision Sciences, a company that develops enterprise scale predictive, prescriptive artificial intelligence software and cloud infrastructure solutions.

Wright is the Director, City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity, while Smith is Supplier Diversity Manager at CenterPoint Energy - a major player in the gas and electricity transmission and delivery.

Technology giant Wipro was given the Inbound Investment award for its efforts in promoting economic growth in the Greater Houston region.

Entrepreneur of the year award was presented to Chitranjan 'Aku' Patel, who is the owner of a leading jewellery store in Houston.

The Award for Innovation was presented to the Pumps and Pipes Society an organisation that convenes experts from the fields of medicine, technology and aerospace to find innovative solutions.

The awards were presented by Harris County Judge Ed Emmett and Consul General of India in Houston, Dr Anupam Ray.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who led a trade mission to India in March, also attended the event.

"The Indo-American Chamber Of Commerce continues to play a vital role in the economic success of not only Houston, but the entire state of Texas," said Governor Abbott.

The event was attended by Houston's top business leaders, elected officials and IACCGH members and guests.

"Since its inception in 1999, IACCGH has leveraged its ties with other chambers of commerce and economic agencies to promote bilateral trade between Houston and India, and boost economic growth in the Greater Houston region," Jagdeep Ahluwalia, its founding director, told PTI.

IACCGH is a major driver in inbound and outbound business delegations to India that helps in expanding markets, product lines and diversification for businesses. The event supports the Chamber's activities of promoting business growth, creation of jobs in Houston and facilitating bilateral trade between Houston and India.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Iran's judiciary said today that 67 people were arrested in recent weeks as part of a corruption crackdown approved by supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

More than 100 government employees were also barred from leaving the country, spokesman Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejeie said, according to the judiciary-linked Mizan agency.

"Our enemy America has decided to put pressure on people and it intends to put our economy under pressure, but to no avail," Ejeie said.

"There are individuals who try to use this opportunity and hoard basic goods and increase pressure on people by hoarding and smuggling," he added.

Khamenei had yesterday approved a request from the head of the judiciary, Sadegh Larijani, to set up special revolutionary courts to try people for economic crimes.

"The goal is that the punishment of convicts of economic corruption be carried out urgently and justly," Khamenei wrote in a response published on his website.

Increased pressure from the United States, including its withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal and reimposed sanctions, have exacerbated long-standing public anger over mismanagement and corruption in the economy.

A disastrous attempt to fix the falling value of the rial in April added to the anger after the government revealed that politically-connected importers were hoarding the cheap dollars or selling them in the black market.

Earlier this month, the head of the central bank was sacked and his deputy in charge of foreign exchange arrested.

Corruption is deeply entrenched in Iran, where an opaque business environment provides huge opportunities for embezzlement and market manipulation.

With protests and strikes taking on a political edge in many places, pressure has mounted from all sides to take more concerted action against corruption.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has cancelled a visit to Iran, his press office said today, days after Baghdad announced it would comply with US sanctions against Tehran.

Abadi will still go ahead with a planned visit to Turkey on Tuesday but has scrapped the Iran leg of the trip "because of his busy schedule", the office told AFP.

The previous day an Iraqi official who did not want to be named had said Abadi would also visit neighbours Turkey and Iran to discuss economic issues.

According to Iraqi political sources who spoke on condition of anonymity, Iran initially agreed to the visit but changed its mind because it was unhappy about Abadi's remarks.

The premier said last Tuesday that Iraq -- which relies on neighbouring Iran as a source of cheap imports -- would reluctantly comply with US sanctions against Tehran that took effect the same day.

It came after US President Donald Trump withdrew from a landmark 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers.

"We don't support the sanctions because they are a strategic error, but we will comply with them," said Abadi, whose country is an ally of both Tehran and Washington.

An Iranian foreign ministry spokesman, asked about a possible visit by Abadi, said that he had "so far not received any official or information whatsoever about this trip," the semi-official ISNA agency reported.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A kanwar, who was returning to Meerut after collecting holy water from Haridwar, went missing after reaching Muzaffarnagar, police said today.

His family members have lodged a complaint with the police in Muzaffarnagar yesterday.

They claimed that Preminder, a resident of Meerut, had gone to Haridwar as part of a Kanwar yatra. On his way back, he went missing from



Muzaffarnagar on August 6, police said.

In another case, the police said they have identified the kanwar, who was found hanging from a tree near Kamheda village here.

He had gone to Haridwar to collect holy water.

The deceased was identified as Satender, a resident of Bhojaheri village, they said.

The matter is being investigated.

Thousands of Kanwarias (devotees of Lord Shiva) from across the country carry out the 'kanwar yatra' an annual pilgrimage during the auspicious Hindu month 'Shraavana'.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A lady constable of the Kolkata Police Rapid Action Force (RAF) was injured today after falling from a bike during an Independence Day parade rehearsal on Red Road here, police said.

"The lady constable had a very minor abrasion on her left knee following the accident. She was taken to the SSKM hospital where she was treated and then discharged," a police officer said.

The city witnesses grand Independence Day celebrations every year on Red Road with police officers, members of the civil society, social organisations and school children taking part in the parade, and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee hoisting the national flag.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)BJP's ally the Lok Janshakti Party today said it would reach out to people in various parts of the country to highlight the pro-Dalit measures taken by the government, as the ruling NDA works to build its campaign for the Lok Sabha elections next year.

LJP Secretary General Abdul Khaliq said the Ram Vilas Paswan-led party would hold events in a number of states, including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana and Karnataka. Paswan, who is an Union minster, would have key presence at some of these exercises.

While the regional party enjoys little clout outside Bihar, the BJP believes vocal support by a Dalit ally like Paswan, who has been a key voice within the government on issues concerning the community, would help the alliance.

The BJP has also asked its leaders, especially those from Dalit and tribal communities, to reach out to the members of their communities, following the passage of a bill to restore the original stringent provisions of a law on atrocities against the communities.

Parliament on Thursday passed the bill to overturn a Supreme Court order concerning certain safeguards against arrest under the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe law. It rules out any provision for anticipatory bail for a person accused of atrocities against SC/STs notwithstanding any court order.

Khaliq said the Union government has gone out of the way to ensure the bill's passage as the matter was already in the Supreme Court.

Dalit votes will be crucial to the BJP-led NDA's electoral fortunes, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

Faced with a likely united opposition in these states, the saffron party is eyeing an increase in its vote share to quell the challenge.

In Uttar Pradesh, its two key rivals, the BSP and SP, have joined hands while in Bihar the opposition led by Lalu Prasad's RJD has managed to win over Dalit leaders Jitan Ram Manjhi and Uday Narayan Choudhary to its side.

Stepping up attack on the opposition, Paswan had yesterday questioned the pro-Dalit credentials of opposition parties including the Congress and fired off 14 questions seeking a reply from Rahul Gandhi.

He also hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the quick passage of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment bill to address concerns of Dalits and tribals.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Here is the latest jail booking report from Hamilton County:

BENEFIELD, MONROE

1 E 11TH ST CHATTANOOGA, 37402

Age at Arrest: 69 years old

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga

ASSAULT

---

BENNETT, MARK WENDALL

305 LAWS AVE CHATTANOOGA, 37411

Age at Arrest: 48 years old

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga

POSSESSION OF CRACK COCAINE

---

BERRY, COREY NISSAN

1706 JACKSON ST CHATTANOOGA, 37404

Age at Arrest: 32 years old

Arresting Agency: Red Bank

DOMESTIC ASSAULT

---

BOWKER, JAMES ELMER

HOMELESS CHATTANOOGA,

Age at Arrest: 71 years old

Arresting Agency: Collegedale Police

Booked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)

---

BRAKE, KIMBERLY KATE

3905 PEACH ST CHATTANOOGA, 37406

Age at Arrest: 42 years old

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga

CRIMINAL TRESPASSING

---

BRAKE, TIMOTHY CHARLES

905 PEACH ST.

CHATTANOOGA, 37416Age at Arrest: 44 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaCRIMINAL TRESPASSING---BROWN, DEVIN LAWON111 MASON CT NW APT D HUNTSVILLE, 35805Age at Arrest: 19 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaPOSSESSING A FIREARM WITH INTENT TO GO ARMEDLIGHT LAW VIOLATIONFINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY---CURTIS, MICHAEL JOSEPH1603 KIRBY AVE APT 3 CHATTANOOGA, 37404Age at Arrest: 50 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaDOMESTIC ASSAULTPOSSESSING A FIREARM WITH INTENT TO GO ARMEDPOSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCEPOSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA---DAVIS, JAMIE SIERA6735 LEVI ROAD HIXSON, 37343Age at Arrest: 21 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyDRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSEFAILURE TO APPEAREVADING ARREST---DICKERSON, BRIAN ALLEN2112 DALLAS LAKE RD SODDY DAISY, 373798806Age at Arrest: 38 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaFAILURE TO APPEAR---DONAHUE, ANDREW KEITH1346 CARRIAGE PARK DRIVE CHATTANOOGA, 37321Age at Arrest: 33 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaASSAULTTHEFT OF PROPERTYVANDALISM/MALICIOUS MISCHIEFPOSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCEPOSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA---EARVIN, STEPHANIE JAUMISE2613 CANNON AVE CHATTANOOGA, 37404Age at Arrest: 34 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyFAILURE TO APPEAR---EVANS, WILLIE JOE1127 GROVE STREET APT A CHATTANOOGA, 374023753Age at Arrest: 58 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaCRIMINAL TRESPASSINGTHEFT OF PROPERTY UNDER 1000---FENNESSEE, TAQUARIUS LAMAR2711 CURTIS STREET CHATTANOOGA, 37406Age at Arrest: 25 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaVIOLATION OF PROBATION (POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED S---FLEITAS, LAZARO ANDY1629 SW 13TH STREET, APT 21 MIAMI, 33145Age at Arrest: 26 years oldArresting Agency: East RidgeAGGRAVATED DOMESTIC ASSAULT---GLAUNER, TIMOTHY DHOMELESS CHATTANOOGA, 37402Age at Arrest: 50 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaAGGRAVATED ASSAULTDOMESTIC ASSAULTPUBLIC INTOXICATION---GOMEZ, VICTOR RAMOS3121 BIMINI PL 165 EAST RIDGE, 37407Age at Arrest: 33 years oldArresting Agency: Tenn Highway PatrolDRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE---GRAY, ZANE NICHOLAS8535 BLUEBERRY LN OOLTEWAH, 37363Age at Arrest: 27 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaVIOLATION OF PROBATION(BURGLARY)VIOLATION OF PROBATION(FRAUDELENT USE OF CRDIT ORVIOLATION OF PROBATION(THEFT OF PROPERTY)---GRIGGS, JIMMY ALLEN204 NANCY DRIVE CLEVELAND, 37323Age at Arrest: 50 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaBooked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)---HALEY, COREY ADAM719 GRAYSVILLE RD CHATTANOOGA, 37421Age at Arrest: 28 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaDOMESTIC ASSAULT---HALEY, JEANNA M719 GRAYSVLLE RD CHATTANOOGA, 37421Age at Arrest: 28 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaAGGRAVATED (DOMESTIC) ASSAULT---HANSON, SCOTT DAVID5248 KELLOGG CREEK TRAIL OOLTEWAH, 37363Age at Arrest: 41 years oldArresting Agency: Collegedale PoliceBooked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)---HARRIS, VERNON ROBERT3808 DEERFOOT DR CHATTANOOGA, 37406Age at Arrest: 44 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaDRIVING LEFT OF CENTER LINESPEEDINGDRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE---HIDALGO, JULIO113 GOODSON AVE APT 18 CHATTANOOGA, 37405Age at Arrest: 31 years oldArresting Agency: Tenn Highway PatrolDRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE---HIGGINS, TAYLOR HOLLIDAY117 EVERGREEN LANE FORT OGLETHROPE, 30742Age at Arrest: 19 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyDRINKING UNDER AGE/SELL ALCOHOL TO MINOR---HINTON, NELSON EUGENE164 NORTH HWY 341 CHICKAMAGUA, 30707Age at Arrest: 53 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaDRIVING LEFT OF CENTER LINEDRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE---HIXSON, ANTHONY DARRYL2000 E 23RD ST AP 204 HOMELESS CHATTANOOGA, 37404Age at Arrest: 53 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaRAPE (ATTEMPTED)---IRELAND, DEVIN TANNER5059 ELLER RD CHATTANOOGA, 37416Age at Arrest: 21 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaPOSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCEDRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE---JEFFRIES, CURTIS DENARD4528 HIGHLAND AVE CHATTANOOGA, 37410Age at Arrest: 44 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaDOMESTIC ASSAULT---JONES, DARRELL4701 BIRCHWOOD LN CHATTANOOGA, 37416Age at Arrest: 58 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyREGISTRATION, EXPIREDDRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE---KILE, RYAN THOMAS2074 TEN MILE ROAD TEN MILE, 37880Age at Arrest: 19 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyDRINKING UNDER AGE/SELL ALCOHOL TO MINOR---KINAMORE, IVAN PAUL1401 VANCE RD CHATTANOOGA, 37421Age at Arrest: 32 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaVANDALISM/MALICIOUS MISCHIEFDRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSEREGISTRATION, DRIVING UNREGISTERED VEHICLEDRUGS GENERAL CATEGORY FOR RESALE---KNOCKAERT, JOSHUA20460 S AIRPORT RD BAKER CITY, 97814Age at Arrest: 31 years oldArresting Agency: East RidgePUBLIC INTOXICATION---KREGER, SAMUEL AUSTIN1315 E 36TH ST CHATTANOOGA, 37407Age at Arrest: 41 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaFORGERYTHEFT OF PROPERTY UNDER $1,000MANUFACTURE,DELIVERY, SALE OF METHPOSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA---LAVVORN, JAMES8918 DRAKE PARKWAY RD CHATTANOOGA, 37416Age at Arrest: 49 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaDRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCEIMPLIED CONSENT LAW - DRIVERSFINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITYSAFETY EQUIPMENT VIOLATIONLEFT OF CENTER VIOLATIONDRIVING ON ROADWAYS LANED FOR TRAFFIC, VIOLATIONDRIVERS TO EXERCISE DUE CARE---LEE, JACKIE CHARLES2217 ROSSVILLE BLVD CHATTANOOGA, 30741Age at Arrest: 36 years oldArresting Agency: Tenn Highway PatrolDRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCEDRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE---LIVELY, JOSHUA LEEHOMELESS EAST RIDGE,Age at Arrest: 23 years oldArresting Agency: East RidgeTAMPERING WITH OR FABRICATING EVIDENCECONTROLLED SUBSTANCE IN SCHEDULE II (POSSESSION SCPOSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA---MALONE, ROY MICHAEL2001 WILLOWVIEW LN KNOXVILLE, 37379Age at Arrest: 60 years oldArresting Agency: East RidgeDRIVING ON SUSPENDED LICENSE---MOORE, DAVID WAYNE2116 SHARP ST CHATTANOOGA, 37404Age at Arrest: 58 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaDOMESTIC ASSAULT---MOORE, SHELLY MARIE4005 BENNETT ROAD APT 3 EAST RIDGE, 37412Age at Arrest: 31 years oldArresting Agency: East RidgeAGG. DOMESTIC ASSAULTAGGRAVATED ASSAULT---MYNATT, JOSHUA ALLEN9444 HARRIS ST SODDY DAISY, 37379Age at Arrest: 30 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyFAILURE TO APPEAR---OLIPHANT, DAVID LEEHOMELESS CHATTANOOGA, 37407Age at Arrest: 58 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaMURDER IN THE FIRST DEGREE (ATTEMPTED)AGGRAVATED ASSAULTASSAULT---PARIS-KELLEY, TAMIA DANIELLE5009 MARYLIN LN APT A CHATTANOOGA, 37411Age at Arrest: 22 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyTHEFT OF PROPERTYCRIMINAL IMPERSONATION---PHELPS, JARTAVIUS DEJANERIAN2602 CANNON AVE CHATTANOOGA, 37404Age at Arrest: 20 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaDOMESTIC ASSAULT---POWELL, COTY ALLEN111 GLENVIEW DR APT 3 TRENTON, 30752Age at Arrest: 27 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaDRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCEFINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITYIMPLIED CONSENT LAW - DRIVERSPOSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA---RAMSEY, SHUNICA SHANTELL2610 GLENWOOD PARKWAY CHATTANOOGA, 37404Age at Arrest: 36 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaVIOLATION OF PROBATION (DISORDERLY CONDUCT)---RIDENER, WENDALL JAMES2110 BLACKBURN RD SE CLEVELAND, 37311Age at Arrest: 28 years oldArresting Agency: Collegedale PoliceBooked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)---ROBINSON, CLIFFORD LEON1924 ROBBINS ST CHATTANOOGA, 37404Age at Arrest: 44 years oldArresting Agency:THEFT OF PROPERTY (CONDUCT INVOLV.MERCHANDISE)EVADING ARREST---SHURETTE, MICKEY EUGENE7010 HAMILTON VIEW STREET CHATTANOOGA, 37421Age at Arrest: 49 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaDISORDERLY CONDUCT---SIZEMORE, ANDREW ALLEN1 S LYNN CIR ROSSVILLE, 30741Age at Arrest: 41 years oldArresting Agency: East RidgeDRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE---SMITH, AMBER REANN1501 N ORCHARD KNOB CHATTANOOGA, 37407Age at Arrest: 27 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaTHEFT OF PROPERTY---SMITH, BRENDON CORY7623 SAWYER PIKE SIGNAL MOUNTAIN, 37377Age at Arrest: 26 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyVIOLATION OF PROBATION (DRIVING ON SUSPENDED)VIOLATION OF PROBATION (RECKLESS DRIVING)VIOLATION OF PROBATION (FAILURE TO APPEAR)---STEWART, SHERNARD2009 MUSEUM ST CHATTANOOGA, 37406Age at Arrest: 22 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaFIRST DEGREE MURDER (ATTEMPTED)---SUTTON, JUSTIN KYLE11403 BACKVALLEY RD SALE CREEK, 37373Age at Arrest: 22 years oldArresting Agency: Soddy DaisyVANDALISM/MALICIOUS MISCHIEF---TALLEY, AMANDA DANIELLE1922 PORT ROYAL DRIVE SODDY DAISY, 37379Age at Arrest: 30 years oldArresting Agency: Tenn Highway PatrolDRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCEIMPLIED CONSENT LAW - DRIVERS---TAYLOR, RAHEEM LARRY5410 HICKORYWOOD LN APT B HIXSON, 37343Age at Arrest: 28 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaCRIMINAL IMPERSONATIONPOSSESSING A FIREARM WITH INTENT TO GO ARMED---TAYLOR, RONALD RAY2522 WESSEX LN CHATTANOOGA, 37421Age at Arrest: 65 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyDRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE---THOMAS, MANDI RAINE220 SWAFFORD LN SALE CREEK, 37373Age at Arrest: 29 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyVIOLATION OF PROBATION (SOLICITATION TO COMMIT)FAILURE TO APPEAR---TONEY, MARK KIMRICK8209 ROBERTS VIEW DR OOLTEWAH, 37363Age at Arrest: 29 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaFAILURE TO APPEAR---TURNER, MANDY ANNHOMELESS CHATTANOOGA, 37421Age at Arrest: 32 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaPOSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIAPOSSESION OF HEROINPOSSESSION OF XANAX---TYSON, RAMSEY STEPHEN77 E 17TH ST CHATTANOOGA, 37408Age at Arrest: 29 years oldArresting Agency: Tenn Highway PatrolDRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE---VELASQUEZ RAYMUNDO, GRICELDA MA3615 2ND ST ROSSVILLE, 30741Age at Arrest: 25 years oldArresting Agency: Tenn Highway PatrolPUBLIC INTOXICATION---WASHPON, ANTHONY JEROME3316 LONG STREET CHATTANOOGA, 37410Age at Arrest: 58 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyFAILURE TO APPEAR---WATKINS, AYONNIKA BRIANNA426 SEQUOIA DR CHATTANOOGA, 37411Age at Arrest: 21 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyAGGRAVATED ASSAULTVANDALISM/MALICIOUS MISCHIEF---WILLIAMS, MICHAEL WAYNEHOMELESS CHATTANOOGA, 37416Age at Arrest: 58 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaVIOLATION OF PROBATION (DRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPEN---WILLIAMS, NATAREA JAQUEST201 EADS ST APT 126 EAST RIDGE, 37412Age at Arrest: 29 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaTHEFT OF PROPERTY

Here are the mug shots:

BRAKE, KIMBERLY KATE

Age at Arrest: 42

Date of Birth: 02/13/1976

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga



Last Date of Arrest: 08/11/2018

Charge(s):

CRIMINAL TRESPASSING BRAKE, TIMOTHY CHARLES

Age at Arrest: 44

Date of Birth: 12/10/1973

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga



Last Date of Arrest: 08/11/2018

Charge(s):

CRIMINAL TRESPASSING DAVIS, JAMIE SIERA

Age at Arrest: 21

Date of Birth: 07/01/1997

Arresting Agency: Hamilton County



Last Date of Arrest: 08/11/2018

Charge(s):

DRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE

FAILURE TO APPEAR

EVADING ARREST EVANS, WILLIE JOE

Age at Arrest: 58

Date of Birth: 03/05/1960

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga



Last Date of Arrest: 08/11/2018

Charge(s):

CRIMINAL TRESPASSING

THEFT OF PROPERTY UNDER 1000 FENNESSEE, TAQUARIUS LAMAR

Age at Arrest: 25

Date of Birth: 01/29/1993

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga



Last Date of Arrest: 08/11/2018

Charge(s):

VIOLATION OF PROBATION (POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED S GOMEZ, VICTOR RAMOS

Age at Arrest: 33

Date of Birth: 06/01/1985

Arresting Agency: Tenn Highway Patrol



Last Date of Arrest: 08/11/2018

Charge(s):

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE GRIGGS, JIMMY ALLEN

Age at Arrest: 50

Date of Birth: 01/08/1968

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga



Last Date of Arrest: 08/11/2018

Booked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)

HANSON, SCOTT DAVID

Age at Arrest: 41

Date of Birth: 07/23/1977

Arresting Agency: Collegedale Police



Last Date of Arrest: 08/11/2018

Booked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)

HARRIS, VERNON ROBERT

Age at Arrest: 44

Date of Birth: 03/03/1974

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga



Last Date of Arrest: 08/11/2018

Charge(s):

DRIVING LEFT OF CENTER LINE

SPEEDING

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE HIDALGO, JULIO

Age at Arrest: 31

Date of Birth: 07/23/1987

Arresting Agency: Tenn Highway Patrol



Last Date of Arrest: 08/11/2018

Charge(s):

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE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.The annual Machail yatra in Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir is going on smoothly with over 62,500 pilgrims paying obeisance at the temple dedicated to goddess Durga since the commencement of the 43-day pilgrimage last month, an official said today.

District Development Commissioner, Kishtwar, Angrez Singh Rana said an average 3,300 pilgrims have visited the hill shrine daily since July 25 to seek the blessings of 'mata Chandi' after walking an arduous 30-km track from the Gulabgarh base camp.

"The yatra is going on smoothly and so far over 62,500 pilgrims have visited the shrine. These include over 13,000 who availed the chopper service, Rana told PTI.

Last year, about three lakh pilgrims visited the shrine during the pilgrimage days.

In the absence of proper infrastructure, local villagers provide accommodation to pilgrims in their houses, while the 'Sarv Shakti Sewak Sanstha', which manages the yatra, has set up free community kitchens along the route for the devotees.

"The district administration has made foolproof security arrangements and is coordinating with the management of the shrine to ensure that pilgrims do not face any problem, Rana said.

Located in the scenic Padder valley which is famous for its Sapphire, the remote shrine attracts thousands of devotees from across the country despite lack of infrastructure and non-availability of electricity.

"The Machail along with nearly a dozen adjoining villages will get electricity by next week. The power development department has set up the necessary infrastructure including transformers, poles and wires and started trials," the officer said.

This year we have given a special thrust on cleanliness and assigned the task to private contractors to keep the track and the shrine area clean, Rana he said.

He said necessary arrangements for the safety and security of the pilgrims are strictly adhered to and no yatri is allowed to travel at late hours.

Pawan Kumar of Jammu, who visited the shrine along with his wife and two children early this week, lauded the shrine management and the district administration for the arrangements.

He, however, complained of overcharging by the house owners for accommodation. While Rs 500 is being charged for a good room at Gulabgarh base camp, Rs 1000 is being charged near the shrine, he said.

He also complained of fleecing by the shopkeepers and said the administration needs to take note and come out with a rate list.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Maharashtra government has expanded the scope of the loan waiver scheme by extending the benefits to every member of the farmer's family in case of a separate loan account and issued an official order to this effect, an official said today.

The state government had said that it had spent around Rs 14,000 crore as part of the loan waiver till March this year.

The government said the scheme had so far benefitted 35.32 lakh farmers in the state.

A government resolution (GR) was issued on expanding the scope of the loan waiver scheme on August 10.

The decision had been announced in the monsoon session of the state legislature held in Nagpur this year.

Earlier, the state government had considered the farmer's family as one unit and considered it eligible to claim waiver of Rs 1.50 lakh agricultural debt.

As per the GR, every member of the family having some agricultural debt will now be covered under the scheme, which was announced last year following strident protests by farmers.

"Every person's loan amount up to Rs 1.50 lakh will be waived. The necessary instructions are given to banks to prepare a list of such potential beneficiaries," a state Cooperation department official said here today.

As per the initial scheme, if a farmer had a loan outstanding of more than Rs 1.50 lakh, then that difference has to be paid by him before he becomes eligible for the waiver.

"As per the revised rule, the farmers who have paid some money to the bank as per the first scheme but the cumulative amount of the outstanding loan is less than the revised norms; then the banks will have to return the amount to farmers," the GR stated.

For instance, as per the earlier scheme, if a farmer family had had a cumulative loan outstanding of Rs two lakh and Rs 50,000 had already been paid by them, the state would bear the burden of Rs 1.50 lakh, it said.

"As per the revised norms, the paid amount of Rs 50,000 will have to be returned to the family because everyone in the family is entitled for loan waiver now," as per the GR.

The government had paid Rs 13,500 crore to banks towards bad loans till March this year, which benefitted 35.32 lakh farmers.

However, the government wanted to cover at least 77 lakh farmers, said the official.

While announcing the Rs 34,000-crore Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Shetkari Sanman Yojana last June, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had said 89 lakh farmers would benefit from it.

However, the implementation of the scheme---applications have to be filed online---was criticised by many quarters, including farmers, due to a long list of eligibility criteria.

The scheme was tweaked subsequently to make it more feasible.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Malians were called to the ballot box today for a presidential runoff likely to see Ibrahim Boubacar Keita return to office despite criticism of his handling of the country's security crisis.

The second round is a rerun of a 2013 faceoff that Keita won by a landslide over former finance minister Soumaila Cisse.

This year's campaign saw fierce attacks on his failure to dampen a wave of jihadist bloodshed and ethnic violence.

But public enthusiasm has been low and the opposition is fractured. Keita, 73, was credited with 41.7 percent of the July 29 first-round vote while Cisse, 68, picked up 17.78 percent.

Cisse insisted on Friday he could turn things around on polling day -- warning the status quo would only bring "chaos" in a "torn nation."



But he failed to unite the opposition behind him, and first-round challengers have either backed the president or refused to give voting instructions.

Few Malians attended a string of planned marches and protests called for by opposition leaders in the capital Bamako ahead of the run-off.

As a result, Keita, commonly named "IBK" after his initials, is the clear favourite.

A few hundred Keita supporters gathered late on Friday in the capital of



Bamako for the last meeting of the campaign.

"He needs to finish what he started," Silandou Soumare, a civil servant, told AFP. "With all Malians on board, we can have peace in Mali!" In 2013, Keita won more than three-quarters of the vote.

Voting will be open from 0800 to 1800 GMT. Turnout was low in the first round of voting at around 40 per cent.

The first round was peppered by violent attacks and threats from armed groups that led to several hundred polling stations being closed, mainly in the lawless central region.

Security services said Saturday they had disrupted a plot to carry out "targeted attacks" in the capital Bamako on the eve of the runoff.

Three members of a "commando" cell who were planning attacks had been arrested, the security services said in a statement, adding that the trio were also suspected of involvement in a robbery which left three people dead in 2016.

Security will be tightened for the second round, an aide in the prime minister's office said, with 20 percent more soldiers on duty.

This means 36,000 Malian military will be deployed, 6,000 more than two weeks earlier, with a particular focus on the Mopti region in the centre of the country where voting stations had been closed, Cheick Oumar told AFP.

The three main opposition candidates mounted a last-ditch legal challenge to the first-round result, alleging ballot-box stuffing and other irregularities. But their petition was rejected by the Constitutional Court.

Cisse's party told AFP in the early hours of Sunday that ballot papers were already circulating, several hours before polls opened.

Outside Mali, the hope is that the winner will strengthen a 2015 accord that the fragile Sahel state sees as its foundation for peace.

The deal brought together the government, government-allied groups and former Tuareg rebels.

But a state of emergency heads into its fourth year in November.

Jihadist violence has spread from the north to the centre and south of the vast country and spilled into neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger, often inflaming communal conflicts.

France still has 4,500 troops deployed alongside the UN's 15,000 peacekeepers and a regional G5 Sahel force, aimed at rooting out jihadists and restoring the authority of the state.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A man from Yavatmal district became the 14th victim of a tiger in the Pandharkawda-Ralegaon forest belt, a Forest official said today.

The incident occurred yesterday when Wagoji Raut had gone to his farm in Virgaon village in Yavatmal district, he said.

The tiger has created panic among villagers in the forest belt since the last 18 months, despite efforts of the Forest department to trap the man-eater big cat.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A 40-year-old man was arrested for allegedly burning a copy of the Constitution of India in protest against the amendments in the SC/ST Act, the police said today.

Anil Tanwar, the national in-charge of the Akhil Bhartiya Bheem Sena, had filed a complaint at the Parliament Street police station yesterday, alleging that members of the Youth for Equality burnt the copy of the Constitution and shouted slogans against the Dalit icon B R Ambedkar.

The complainant also submitted a CD containing a video of the incident, police said.

During investigation, it was revealed that on August 9, two different organisations -- the Youth Equality Foundation( Azad Sena) and Arakshan Virodhi Party -- held a joint protest at the Parliament Street, the police said.

The Arakshan Virodhi Party participated in the protest under the leadership of Deepak Gaur and Youth Equality Foundation was headed by one Abhishekh Shukla. Three different police's teams were formed to nab the accused.

The teams raided the houses of suspects in different parts of Delhi, Haryana and Utar Pradesh but they were found absconding.

Subsequently, police nabbed Gaur from Faridabad.

During interrogation, he revealed that he and Shukla conspired to burn the copy of the Constitution with an intention to bring the attention of government against the amendments in SC/ST Act, the police said.

The duo, along with their supporters, burnt the bare act of Constitution and shouted slogans against the SC/ST Act, B R Ambedkar and the Constitution of India. Later, they issued a press note for media and got the video viral through Facebook to spread it to maximum number of persons, they added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A man, who was lynched in Bijopur here by a group villagers on suspicion of being a thief, had 11 injuries on his body, according to the post mortem report.

The deceased was identified as Kapil Tyagi.

According to the post mortem report, the victim had suffered 11 injuries, Station House Officer (SHO), Chapar, Subhash Rathore, said.

The person has no criminal history. The matter in being investigated, he said.

The incident took place on Friday evening and a case of murder was registered against several people, of whom two persons were arrested, the SHO had said yesterday.

His family claimed that Tyagi was innocent and was beaten to death when he had gone to work at Bijopur, Rathore had said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A 55-year-old man was killed by an elephant in Chhattisgarh's Korba district with officials claiming that the toll in such attacks had now risen to eight in the last two months.

Gulab Singh, a resident of Balco area, was trampled to death in a forest near Bundeli village in Rajmagar police station limits last night and his body was recovered in the morning today, an official said.

He added that the kin of the deceased had been given Rs 25,000 as compensation and another amount of Rs 3.75 lakh would be released after official formalities were completed.

Officials in the area said that eight people had lost their lives in elephant attacks in Korba in the last two months.

At least 20 houses and crops standing on an area of 100 hectares had been damaged in such attacks during this period, they added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Marvel Studios is bringing all of its 20 MCU films to select IMAX theatres in the US and Canada to celebrates its 10th anniversary.

The studio announced a film festival in association with IMAX which will see all 20 Marvel Cinematic Universe titles -- from "Iron Man" to "Ant-Man and the Wasp" -- rereleased in large-format in select IMAX cinemas between August 30 and September 6.

Three films, "Iron Man", "The Incredible Hulk" and "Captain America: The First Avenger" have never been released in IMAX.

The first five days of the film festival will show all 20 films in release order, followed by two theme days centering around "Origins" and "Team Ups".

The film festival will conclude on September 6 with two films chosen especially by the fans through an online poll.

"We knew we wanted to go big to celebrate 10 years of Marvel Studios, and you can't get any bigger than IMAX," Kevin Feige, producer and president of Marvel Studios said.

"This is an incredible celebration for fans. They will be able to see all of Marvel Studios' films back-to-back and really be immersed in the Marvel Cinematic Universe," he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Former Chief Minister on Sunday expressed hope that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement condemning mob lynching incidents in the country would be followed by concrete steps and punitive measures against the culprits.

Mob lynching has become a dominant discourse and its near- normalisation has marked a new low for the democracy in I hope the PM's statement condemning it is followed by concrete steps and punitive measures against the culprits, Mehbooba wrote on

In response to a question on the issue of cow vigilantism and incidents of mob lynching, Prime Minister Modi, in an interview to a leading daily, said "it is very sad that we keep hearing about such incidents."



"Even if one incident occurs in the country, it is very said and needs to be condemned in the strongest voice. My government is committed to upholding the rule of law and life and liberty of every citizen. Let there be no shade of doubt on this account," the Prime Minister said.

Referring to various advisories by the Centre to states on the issue, Modi said, "I want to make it clear that mob lynching is a crime, no matter the motive. No person can, under any circumstances, take the law into his or her hands and commit violence."



"State governments need to adopt effective measures to prevent mob violence and lynching, protect innocent citizens irrespective of caste, creed, place, time and religion, and take stringent action against the perpetrators of such violence," he said.As a precursor to the Independence Day celebrations, the Jammu-based 'Tiger Division' of the Army organised a military band display and special light and sound show, leaving the audience here enthralled, a defence spokesman said today.

The 'Tiger Division' organised the event at the iconic 'Balidan Stambh' last evening in true military elan, paying a befitting tribute to the heroism of fallen comrades, reminiscing a saga of unparalleled valour and gallant acts of the soldiers, while safeguarding the frontiers of the country, the spokesman said.

He said the event being open to public was heavily subscribed.

"It was witnessed by General Officer Commanding, Tiger Division, Major General Sanjay Singh, a large number of Army and civil administration dignitaries, students, women and children," the spokesman said.

He said the large audiences were enthralled by the synchronised display of four pipe bands of the Army playing scintillating martial tunes.

The light and sound show was also witnessed by a large fraternity of Jammu including students, the spokesman said.

He said the audience was captivated by the commentary and laser lights highlighting the eternal flame and 60m high tower symbolising a bayoneted rifle.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Miss Diva Miss Universe India is once again back and this time with its sixth edition.

The nationwide auditions for the competition began in June and were held in 10 cities like Lucknow, Kolkata, Indore, Hyderabad, Pune, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chandigarh and Delhi.

It culminated with Mumbai audition last week after which the top 20 finalists were announced who will now compete for the coveted crown.

The winner of the competition will represent India at the coveted pageant Miss Universe 2018.

The finalists will undergo vigorous training and grooming from the best in the industry and will participate in 4 city sub-contest event followed by a thematic night, which is an all new format with a unique concept based event to vie for the crown.

The first sub contest was held in Goa followed by the second at the Roseate House, Aerocity New Delhi. The finalists will later travel to Chennai and the final sub-contest will be in Mumbai.

The judges for the Delhi sub contest included Bollywood celebs Lara Dutta, Sophie Chaudhary and Pulkit Samrat.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Claiming threat to his life from underworld don Dawood Ibrahim, a BSP MLA from Ballia has lodged a complaint with the police, which are probing the case.

"On August 6, I got a text message asking me to check my email. I did not take it seriously then and thought I would check it later, as at that time I was in Delhi. Generally I get emails from youngsters who send their biodata to me, so I thought I would check it some time later," MLA Uma Shankar Singh told reporters here today.

Singh is an MLA from Rasra in Ballia district.

He said two days later he got another message from the same number.

"On August 8, I got a message from the same number which read 'last warning, jeena yaa marna Rs 1 crore'," he said.

"On checking the email, I saw the photograph of Dawood Ibrahim. The email also said 'Uma Shankar, you are serving the people of Ballia. If you want to continue this, then give Rs 1 crore, else one bullet is enough for you. And we can kill you at any point of time'," the legislator said.

The BSP MLA said, "When I checked the number on the truecaller (a mobile application to detect the person handling a particular mobile number), it was Dawood Ibrahim text group."



"Singh has lodged a police complaint in this regard and an FIR has been registered against unknown persons under various sections of the IPC and the IT Act for threatening him via text messages and email," said SO Gomtinagar DP Tiwari.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Targeting the Centre on the 2015 deal to purchase 36 Rafale fighter jets from France, the opposition Congress today accused the Narendra Modi government of ignoring the national interest and catering only to its self-interest.

It quoted from the 2016 annual report of Dassault Aviation and a press statement of Reliance Defence Ltd, the local partner chosen by the French firm to meet its 'offset' obligation under the contract, and alleged Prime Minister Modi had made the announcement of "off-the-shelf" purchase of the fighters in Paris after paying an "extra amount".

"Rafale is a scam and the government is in scam. Indians feel deprived while the BJP ensured that crony capitalism thrived. Instead of protecting India's interest we have the Modi Sarkar protecting their self-interests," Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi said in a statement.

"The prime minister announced off-the-shelf purchase of 36 Rafale aircraft in Paris on April 10, 2015 for euro 7.5 billion (Rs. 1670.70 crore per aircraft which is Rs. 60,145 crore for 36 aircraft," Chaturvedi said.

India signed an inter-governmental agreement with France in 2015 for 36 Rafale fighter jets in 'fly-away' condition.

The president of the ruling BJP, Amit Shah, on Friday rejected allegations of corruption in the Rafale deal, saying credence should be given to Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's statement.

Shah said Sitharaman has said the base price of Rafale fighters negotiated by the government is less than what was finalised by the previous UPA dispensation.

But the Congress leader said when the international bid opened on December 12, 2012 for Rafale jets, the price negotiated by the UPA government was Rs. 526.10 crore per aircraft for 126 aircraft. As per the UPA deal, the price of 36 aircraft would have been Rs. 18,940.

Chaturvedi demanded an explanation on why an extra amount of Rs. 41,205 crore of the public money is being paid for the jets. She claimed that by announcing the deal in 2015, Modi had violated the mandatory "Defence Procurement Procedure".

She asked why the prime minister and the defence minister were averse to placing the details of the commercial purchase price before Parliament.

The government has said that a secrecy clause in the 2008 pact between India and France prohibits it from disclosing the pricing details in the purchase of the Rafale fighter jets.

Experts describe the Rafale as a twin-engine "air-dominance" aircraft. In French, "Rafale" means a gust of wind.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Raising the heat on the Modi government over the Rafale jet deal, the Congress today accused it of promoting crony capitalism and its own "self interests" and ignoring national interests.

Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi asked why Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government is not answering why Rs 41,205 crore more out of the public money was paid for the Rafale fighters and accused the prime minister of violating the 'defence procurement procedure'.

The opposition party alleged that Reliance Defence was chosen as the local partner for offset contracts worth crores, as per the 2016 annual report of Dassault Aviation and a press statement of Reliance Defence.

Reliance Defence and Aerospace, in a statement, said that it or any other Reliance group company has not received any contract from the Defence Ministry till date, relating to the 36 Rafale aircraft.

"This is absolutely unfounded and incorrect," the company said.

It also claimed that there is no violation of any rule or preferential treatment to Dassault Reliance Aviation Ltd (DRAL), the joint venture company formed to fulfil the offset contracts in the Rafale deal.

The Congress leader, however, accused the prime minister of making the announcement of "off-the-shelf" purchase of 36 fighter jets in Paris at a much higher rate than that negotiated by the UPA government.

"Rafale is a scam and the government is in scam. Indians feel deprived while the BJP ensured that crony capitalism thrived. Instead of protecting India's interest we have the Modi government protecting its self-interests," Chaturvedi said in a statement.

"The prime minister announced off-the-shelf purchase of 36 Rafale aircraft in Paris on April 10, 2015 for euro 7.5 billion (Rs. 1670.70 crore per aircraft which is Rs. 60,145 crore for 36 aircraft," Chaturvedi said.

India signed an inter-governmental agreement with France in 2015 for 36 Rafale fighter jets in 'fly-away' condition.

The president of the ruling BJP, Amit Shah, on Friday rejected allegations of corruption in the Rafale deal, saying credence should be given to Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's statement instead of others.

Shah said Sitharaman has said the base price of Rafale fighters negotiated by the government is less than what was finalised by the previous UPA dispensation.

But the Congress leader said when the international bid opened on December 12, 2012 for Rafale jets, the price negotiated by the UPA government was Rs. 526.10 crore per aircraft for 126 aircraft. As per the UPA deal, the price of 36 aircraft would have been Rs. 18,940 crore.

Chaturvedi demanded an explanation on why an extra amount of Rs. 41,205 crore of the public money is being paid for the jets.

She asked why the prime minister and the defence minister were averse to placing the details of the commercial purchase price before Parliament.

The government has said that a secrecy clause in the 2008 pact between India and France prohibits it from disclosing the pricing details in the purchase of the Rafale fighter jets.

Experts describe the Rafale as a twin-engine "air-dominance" aircraft. In French, "Rafale" means a gust of wind.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Bihar government has made it mandatory for students and staff for schools run by it to hold morning prayers in which state songs be crooned using loudspeakers to instill discipline and punctuality among them.

An order to this effect has been issued by Principal Secretary of Department R K Mahajan to all the District Officers (DEOs) and District Programme Officers (DPOs).

The order issued on August 9 instructs to ensure holding of morning prayer with immediate effect in over 76,000 government schools and government aided ones.

Mahajan told PTI that the purpose behind the exercise is to promote discipline and punctuality among the students and the staff in schools.

"It has been decided to hold 'Chetna Satra/Prarthna Sabha' in every school (primary, middle and senior secondary) of the state using loudspeakers for qualitative running of the schools," the letter issued by Mahajan said.

It said that all schools would have to chant prayer like "Meri Raftar Pe Suraj Ki Kiran Naaz Kare..."/"Tu Hi Ram Hai, Tu Rahim Hai". These are parts of Bihar gaans (songs).

Principal, teachers and students of the school will have to be present during morning assembly, the order said.

It also said that lessons on moral values, inspiring stories/anecdotes and newspaper reading should also be included during 'Chetna Satra/Prarthna Sabha.'



The last period of the schools will be dedicated to hold sports/co-curricular activities, the letter said.

Mahajan, in his letter, directed the DEOs to ask all the principals to arrange for a loudspeaker set and if a school does not have it, then it must buy the same.

And if any school has the set which is out of order, then it must get it repaired, the letter added.

The principals can buy loudspeaker set from the school development fund/students fund, Mahajan said and added that each school will get money ranging between Rs 12,500 and Rs one lakh in 2018-19 fiscal depending on the number of students enrolled.

On the use of loudspeakers during morning prayers at schools, Mahajan said that it has been made mandatory so that the students, who reside in the school's vicinity, know about the commencement of classes and attend in time.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The final of this year's edition of Mr Gay Europe took place yesterday in the western city of Poznan in Poland, a conservative and devout Catholic country where many do not accept homosexuality.

"I hope this will help us in our fight for the same rights as those enjoyed in the rest of Europe," event organiser Pawel Zabilski told AFP.

Enrique Doleschy, the 30-year-old German who beat six other finalists to win the title, said the event was necessary so long as gay individuals continue to be disrespected and unable to be themselves.

"As long as there's one person feeling like this, we need competitions like this to bring out the best in people and to force them, to drive them, to be better for each other," he told AFP.

A gay pride parade was held earlier in the day to coincide with the event and notably drew a couple of hundred protesters.

"It's not right to give privileges (to LGBT individuals) or elevate them to the level of families," said protester and pro-life activist Maciej Wiewiorka.

"Giving them the right to adopt when these are freaks is absurd and shouldn't happen," he told AFP.

Same-sex couples cannot marry or adopt children in Poland, which is one of Europe's most devout countries and where the Church continues to play a key social role in shaping attitudes.

Seventy percent of Poles thought homosexual relations were unacceptable, according to a 2014 opinion poll from the CBOS institute.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)MSP hike for crops and adoption of model APMC Act by states would help in doubling farmers' income by 2022, Niti Aayog member Ramesh Chand said.

These actions, including fostering competitive markets, are in line with the government's target of doubling farmers' income in five years.

"I am confident that if states adopt the measures which have been suggested by the government then we will be in a position of achieve this target at the national level," Chand told PTI in an interview.

He said the growth in agriculture sector is close to 5 per cent which is reasonable to achieve the target.

Chand said the Centre has also included better price realisation by farmers as one of the components in the roadmap to achieve the target.

He however noted this cannot be done only through hike in MSP.

"That is why we are emphasising on adoption of model Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) Act by states. Even competitive markets are important for transmitting benefits of higher MSP to farmers," Chand stressed.

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the government, through an extensive and balanced policy, is aiming to provide inputs like quality seeds, fertilisers, water and electricity as well as markets for increasing farmers' income.

He noted that the target can be achieved by cutting input cost, providing fair price for the crop, preventing post-harvest losses and creating alternate sources of income.

Last month, the government hiked the minimum support price (MSP) for paddy by a record Rs 200 per quintal that will cost the exchequer over Rs 15,000 crore.

The previous highest hike in paddy MSP was Rs 170 a quintal in the 2012-13 crop year. In the last four years, the NDA government has raised the paddy MSP between Rs 50-80 per quintal.

While NDA had promised in 2014 to give farmers a price of 1.5 times of cost, an announcement to give effect to this was made in the Budget 2018-19.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A Muslim man, who took part in Kanwar yatra, was allegedly stopped from offering Namaz at a mosque here, prompting the police to arrest three persons in this regard.

"I had gone to Haridwar as a Kanwar and offered water at the temples. On Friday, when I went to a mosque, some people assaulted me and stopped me from offering Namaz. They even forced me to run away from there," Babu Khan said in his complaint registered with the police.

Khan, a resident of Racharh village of the district, alleged that after he was beaten up, his wife and children went to their relatives.

When contacted, inspector Devendra Bisht said, "On the complaint lodged by Babu Khan, three persons have been arrested for disrupting peace, while another person is absconding."



Police along with prominent citizens of the area are making efforts to resolve the matter through talks. At present, the atmosphere in the village is absolutely peaceful, Bisht added.

The accused persons, however, alleged that Babu Khan was trying to enter the mosque in an inebriated state and hence he was stopped from entering.

Meanwhile, district president of Hindu Jagran Manch Deepak Banmauli said, "The Manch is with Babu Khan and if anyone harass him then we will not tolerate it."



In the Hindu holy month of Shravan, Kawariyas (devout pilgrims carrying Ganga water) offer prayers at Shiva temples.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Speakers at a conference hosted by a Muslim students' organisation in Delhi today called for greater inclusion of the community in matters related to the national security.

The Muslim Students Organisation of India (MSOI) hosted the day-long conference to appeal for strengthening of the national security policy.

Syed Muhammad Qadri, the chief speaker at the conference and former MSO president, lamented what he said was a wrong perception being created of Muslims.

"A perception is being created in the country most of the time that Indian Muslims are not responsible citizens, whereas our claim is that the inclusion of Muslims in the national security policy will be an accurate assessment of the role of Muslim youth towards national unity.

"Why do we need to join the ISIS or other organisations? Our ideal is not Osama Bin Laden but Khwaja Garib Nawaz and will continue to be be till eternity," he said.

Qadri urged youngsters present at the programme to fight the forces involved in weakening the nation and be inspired by the sacrifices made by people during the freedom struggle.

Shahnawaz Ahmad Malik Warsi of Aligarh Muslim University, Kerala centre, said the challenges facing human rights and social justice in the country are being taken seriously in society.

"Making Muslims and Dalit community an unnecessary target of hatred and communalism is a matter of concern. Efforts should be made to maintain social harmony and to discuss Sufi spiritual experiments designed for this purpose," he added.

Shujaat Ali Qadri, MSOI president, said the Indian Muslim youth, majority of which belong to the Sufi community, have undying love and respect for the country.

The organisation presented a report in which they demanded greater participation of the Muslim youth in nation building and greater involvement of Sufi Muslim organisations to defeat radial elements.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Myanmar has asked Bangladesh to stop providing aid to 6,000 Rohingya stranded on the border between the two countries since a military crackdown prompted a mass exodus of the Muslim minority last year, the foreign ministry in Dhaka said.

The group refused to enter Bangladesh in the months during and after Myanmar's military campaign, which drove 700,000 other Rohingya across the frontier in an act the United Nations, United States and other western countries have condemned as ethnic cleansing.

They are now stuck in a narrow "no mans land" relying on international aid sent by Bangladesh.

Myanmar called for the aid to be halted in talks between Bangladeshi Foreign Minister A H Mahmood Ali and Myanmar's top diplomatic envoy, Kyaw Tint Swe, in Myanmar's capital Napyidaw on Friday, the foreign ministry said late yesterday.

"Myanmar particularly requested Bangladesh to stop providing humanitarian assistance to those people... and proposed to arrange supply of humanitarian assistance from Myanmar side," the ministry said.

Bangladesh made no commitment but "responded positively" to Myanmar's proposal to conduct a survey of the no mans land area, the ministry said.

A Myanmar minister on a visit to the strip of land earlier this year warned the Rohingya refugees that they will face "consequences" if they do not take up a Myanmar offer to return.

Dil Mohammad, a Rohingya community leader among the group on the border, told AFP the latest pressure from Myanmar to vacate the no mans land area would add to their hardship.

"There will be uncertainty whether Myanmar will regularly provide us with food and humanitarian assistance. If Bangladesh stops helping us from their side, we will have a huge problem," he said.

Kyaw Tint Swe, a minister in the office of Myanmar's de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi, also made a new pledge to speed up implementation of a repatriation deal agreed with Bangladesh in November.

Myanmar committed to taking the Rohingya back in that deal, but none have returned.

Rohingya leaders say that those sheltering at overflowing refugee camps in Bangladesh will not go back until their safety is guaranteed.

The majority of Myanmar's Rohingya fled the country following a crackdown that started last August after attacks by Rohingya militants on police posts.

They have joined about 300,000 in camps around Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar district who fled earlier waves of violence in Myanmar.

Myanmar views the Rohingya as illegal migrants and has long denied them citizenship and basic rights, despite their long roots in the country's west.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two women inmates of a state-run shelter home here have died under mysterious circumstances, days after a man was arrested for reportedly asking the inmates of the home to escape by luring them with gifts.

The inmates, aged 17 and 21 years, were staying at Aasra Shelter Home in Nepali Nagar locality of the city.

"While the shelter home claimed the women died during treatment at Patna Medical College last night, the hospital authorities said the inmates were brought dead. Police was informed about the deaths only this morning," Deputy Superintendent of Police, Law and Order (Patna), Manoj Kumar Sudhanshu told PTI.

The shelter home came into when it was recently reported that four of its inmates had tried to run away.

The police then carried out an investigation and arrested a person, living in the vicinity. He was alleged to have been luring the inmates by offering gifts.

Sudhanshu said according to the shelter home authorities, the two inmates were taken to the hospital following complaints of diarrhoea and high fever.

The police is investigating the circumstances under which the two inmates died.

The 'Aasra' case surfaced at a time when the CBI is investigating another sex scandal at a shelter home in Muzaffarpur in the state.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The GST audit of e-commerce companies ordered by the National Anti-profiteering Authority is stuck over the issue of jurisdiction, as the CBIC is of the view that the NAA has no powers to give such directions, an official said.

The NAA, earlier this month, wrote to the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) saying that DG Audit should scrutinise the accounts of all e-commerce companies to see if they have refunded to the customers any excess GST collection.

The CBIC, the official said, is also of the opinion that it is not technically feasible for DG Audit to scrutinise books of all e-commerce companies because some of them might be registered with the state governments.

"The NAA has said that all e-commerce companies should be audited. But it is not feasible since DG Audit can only audit those companies which are registered with the Centre. Those who are registered with states, the state tax officials would have jurisdiction over them," an official told PTI.

The CBIC, the official further said, will soon be sending its response to the letter written by NAA in this regard.

Elaborating further, the official said that tax authorities of Centre and states can undertake cross enforcement actions, but jurisdiction would come into play in case of assessment and regular scrutiny of assessees.

In May, the NAA had directed the Directorate General of Audit, a wing of CBIC, to scrutinise the books of major e-commerce platforms to find out if they have refunded the excess GST collected from customers.

In view of the reluctance shown by DG Audit to comply with NAA directions, the quasi-judicial authority wrote to the CBIC making a case for a pan-India audit of major e-commerce companies.

The NAA had pointed out that Flipkart alone had 7,254 cases wherein it was supposed to refund excess GST collected and that they had started after the NAA order in July. It further said that there is a likelihood of such excess GST collection by other e-commerce platforms.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)NASA's Parker Solar Probe, mankind's first mission to 'touch' the Sun, was successfully launched today on an unprecedented, seven-year long journey to unlock the mysteries of the star's fiery outer atmosphere and its effects on space weather.

Liftoff of the USD 1.5 billion mission took place from Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in the US at 3:31 am EDT (1:01 pm Indian Standard Time).

"3-2-1... and we have liftoff of Parker #SolarProbe atop @ULAlaunch's #DeltaIV Heavy rocket," the US-based space agency tweeted.

The launch of the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket carrying the spacecraft was scrubbed yesterday due to a violation of a launch limit, resulting in a hold.

"The spacecraft is in good health and operating on its own. Parker Solar Probe has begun its mission to 'touch' the Sun," NASA said in a blog post.

The spacecraft successfully separated from the carrier rocket and deployed its solar arrays shortly after launch.

The mission is the first to be named after a living scientist -- 91-year-old Eugene N Parker, who first predicted the existence of the solar wind in 1958.

The solar wind is a stream of charged particles and magnetic fields that flow continuously from the Sun.

The car-sized probe will travel directly into the Sun's atmosphere, about 3.8 million miles from its surface - and more than seven times closer than any spacecraft has come before, thanks to its innovative Thermal Protection System.

At closest approach, when the probe will hurtle around the Sun at approximately 700,000 kilometres per hour, the front of the solar shield will face temperatures approaching 1,377 degrees Celsius.

The probe will perform the closest-ever observations of a star when it travels through the Sun's outer atmosphere, called the corona. It will make 24 passes through the corona.

In order to unlock the mysteries of the Sun's atmosphere, the probe will use Venus' gravity during seven flybys over nearly seven years to gradually bring its orbit closer to the Sun.

The findings will also make critical contributions to our ability to forecast changes in Earth's space that affect life and technology on Earth.

The spacecraft will fly close enough to the Sun to watch the solar wind speed up from subsonic to supersonic, and it will fly though the birthplace of the highest-energy solar particles.

To perform these unprecedented investigations, the spacecraft and instruments will be protected from the Sun's heat by a 4.5-inch-thick carbon-composite shield, which will need to withstand temperatures outside the spacecraft.

The primary science goals for the mission are to trace how energy and heat move through the solar corona and to explore what accelerates the solar wind as well as solar energetic particles.

Scientists have sought these answers for more than 60 years, but the investigation requires sending a probe right through the heat of the corona.

Today, this is finally possible with cutting-edge thermal engineering advances that can protect the mission on its dangerous journey, the space agency said.

A Sun-skimming mission like Parker Solar Probe has been a dream of scientists for decades, but only recently has the required technology - like the heat shield, solar array cooling system, and fault management system - been available to make such a mission a reality, it added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today demanded a "total" ceasefire from Gaza's Hamas rulers in his first public comments on another deadly flare-up between the two sides.

There have been efforts by UN officials and Egypt to secure a long-term truce between Israel and Hamas, though Israeli officials have not commented on them. Since July, there have been three major flare-ups of violence.

"We are in the midst of a campaign against terror in Gaza," Netanyahu said at the start of a cabinet meeting. "It will not end with one blow."



"Our demand is clear: a total ceasefire. We shall not be satisfied with less than that," he added.

"Until now we have destroyed hundreds of Hamas military targets and with every round of attacks the Israel Defence Forces exact another heavy price from Hamas."



Netanyahu has come under political pressure to act more strongly against Hamas, though both sides are reluctant to start a fourth war between them since 2008.

Israel has also sought an end to kites and balloons carrying firebombs over the Gaza border fence to burn Israeli farmland.

An informal truce reached on Thursday night has largely held despite the deaths of three Palestinians since then from Israeli army fire during border protests and clashes.

Thursday saw extensive Israeli air strikes in retaliation for the launching of more than 180 rockets and mortar rounds by Hamas and its allies beginning on Wednesday night.

Three Palestinians were killed in the Israeli strikes, including a mother and her 18-month-old daughter, while seven Israelis were wounded by Palestinian rocket fire as hundreds took refuge in bomb shelters.

It was one of the most serious escalations since the 2014 Gaza war and followed months of rising tensions.

At least 168 Palestinians have been killed since Gaza border protests and clashes began on March 30, with most succumbing to Israeli fire during demonstrations. Others have died in air strikes.

Over the same period, one Israeli soldier has been shot dead by a Palestinian sniper.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today urged Union Railway minister Piyush Goyal to consider allocating railway land for construction of an



elevated four-lane road connecting Patna with the proposed airport at Bihta near here.

Stating that Bihta Air Force Station would be upgraded to a civil airport soon, Kumar said the state government has suggested to the National Highways Authority of India construction of an elevated road and also hand over land for the purpose.

"I would request you to give land for construction of four-lane elevated road which will connect Patna with the airport at Bihta," Kumar told Goyal.

He was addressing a function organised to inaugurate and lay foundation stones for a slew of railway projects in the state.

Kumar also sought Goyal help in expediting work on the remaining portion of Neura-Sheikhpura rail line which, he said, would prove to be very useful for running goods trains.

Kumar said the state government has set a target of reaching Patna within five hours from any part of the state for which construction of Road Over Bridges (ROB) will be helpful.

While 29 ROBs have been completed, work on four more is in progress. The state government has already sanctioned 50 per cent of funds for construction of 47 ROBs, he said.

Kumar said that despite strong progress of air and road services, railway is still dear to people because of its ease and simplicity.

While appreciating the Centre's plan to run high-speed trains in the country, Kumar shared the experience of his Japan visit where he saw bullet trains passing through heavily congested areas, and hailed the Japanese technology.

"We have decided to make a peace circuit, especially those places which are associated with Lord Budha. We want to run semi high-speed train on it. The state government has invited a team from Japan on its own expense for the purpose. I hope that railway ministry would help and cooperate in the matter," Kumar said.

He also suggested the Centre open a railway university at Jamalpur in Munger.

A host of Union ministers such as R K Singh, Giriraj Singh, Ashwini Choubey, Ram Kripal Yadav and Bihar Deputy CM Sushil Kumar Modi and his cabinet colleagues were also present on the occasion.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar today made it clear that although the BJD supported the NDA candidate in the election for the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman's post earlier this week, there is no alliance between the BJP and the regional party.

"BJD and many other political parties supported BJP during Rajya Sabha deputy chairman election, but there is no alliance and they are not part of the NDA," Javadekar told reporters here.

Ruling NDA candidate and JD(U) member Harivansh Narayan Singh was elected the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha on August 9, securing 125 votes as against 105 polled by opposition candidate B K Hariprasad.

The senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader was responding to questions on the issue of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) supporting the NDA candidate in the recent election which has triggered a row with the Congress and others attacking the regional party.

The critics have flayed the BJD's action as it was against its claim about maintaining equal distance from both the BJP and the Congress.

Javadekar, who arrived here today on a three-day visit to the state, is scheduled to attend a party meeting in Berhampur tomorrow.

Taking a swipe at the Congress for attacking the BJD for its role in the election, Javadekar said if one fails to get something, it is like sour grapes.

Meanwhile, BJP leader and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan today sought to play "Odia card" to counter the allegations of the Congress on Rajya Sabha deputy chairman polls and tried to push the ball to the BJD's court.

In an oblique reference to the BJD, Pradhan said someone from Odisha could have been elected for the post and sought to know why none from the state was projected for the post.

He said those who are making noises now over the issue, should have taken the initiative in this regard.

The Union minister said that for the last 40 years, the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman post had been with the Congress and NDA was keen to get it.

Reacting sharply to Pradhan's remark, BJD spokesperson Sasmit Patra said the the BJP leader's comments are misleading as there was never any discussion on fielding a candidate from Odisha for the post.

He said such remarks from Pradhan is nothing but a sign of his disappointment and frustration.

On his part, Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) president Niranjan Patnaik took a dig at Pradhan and said while the petroleum minister attacks the BJD government, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah speak to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik over phone.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)V S Naipaul, the Trinidad-born Indian-origin author known for his critical commentary on colonialism, religion and politics, has died at the age of 85, his family said today.

"He was a giant in all that he achieved and he died surrounded by those he loved having lived a life which was full of wonderful creativity and endeavour," his wife Lady Nadira Naipaul said in a statement on the death of the Nobel Prize-winning novelist.

Naipaul, who lived most of his life in England, died in his London home yesterday.

Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul was born on August 17, 1932 in Trinidad into an Indian Hindu family.

He grew up in relative poverty before moving to England aged 18 after receiving a scholarship to University College, Oxford. He wrote his first novel while at Oxford University but it was not published and he battled with depression, even attempting suicide, during his struggling student days.

He left university in 1954 and found a job as a cataloguer in London's National Portrait Gallery. He subsequently settled in England, although he travelled extensively thereafter.

Naipaul wrote more than 30 books of fiction and nonfiction during his career with a sharp critique of established religion and politicians characterising much of his work.

His first book 'The Mystic Masseur' was published in 1951, launching his literary career. His most celebrated novel, A House for Mr Biswas, was published in 1961. The book was based on the life of his father Seepersad Naipaul, who was a reporter for the 'Trinidad Guardian'.

Naipaul went on to become one of the early winners of the Booker Prize for 'In A Free State' in 1971. Among his other well-known works were those on Islamic fundamentalism - the 1981 work 'Among The Believers' and the 1998 book 'Beyond Belief'.

His other works include Guerrillas (1975), A Bend in the River (1979), A Way in the World (1994), The Mimic Men (1967), The Enigma of Arrival (1987), Half a Life (2001), The Writer and the World (2002) and Literary Occasions (2003), The novel Magic Seeds (2004) - a sequel to Half a Life - and In The Masque of Africa (2010).

Naipaul, known as a master of the English language, explored colonialism in his many famous works.

He received numerous honours, including a knighthood by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to literature in 1990.

The British author was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001 "for having united perceptive narrative and incorruptible scrutiny in works that compel us to see the presence of suppressed histories".

He married Patricia Ann Hale in 1955. After her death in 1996, Naipaul married divorced Pakistani journalist Nadira Khannum Alvi, many years his junior.

The outspoken writer was known for his many harsh criticisms, including that of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair who he described as a "pirate" - as well as literary stalwarts such as Charles Dickens and EM Forster.

He also fell out with American travel writer Paul Theroux, who he had mentored, in a bitter 15-year feud after Theroux discovered a book he had given Naipaul in a second-hand bookshop. They later reunited.

Paying tribute to his friend, who he said had been in poor health, Theroux said: "He also never wrote falsely. He was a scourge of anyone who used a clich or an un-thought out sentence. He was very scrupulous about his writing, very severe, too."



He "will go down as one of the greatest writers of our time," Theroux said.

Booker Prize-winning Indian-origin author Salman Rushdie, who had clashed with Naipaul over the years, also paid tribute on Twitter.

"We disagreed all our lives, about politics, about literature, and I feel as sad as if I just lost a beloved older brother. RIP Vidia," he said.

His feud with Rushdie dated back to when The Satanic Verses' author faced a death sentence.

Naipaul said at the time: "I don't know his books but I've been aware of his statements. I found them usually leftwing and trivial and antiquated." He also seemingly dismissed the fatwa as "an extreme form of literary criticism".

Another Indian-origin English novelist and journalist Hari Kunzru recalled interviewing him and said: "When we sat down, the first thing he said was 'tell me what you've read and don't lie'. Only then would he consent to be questioned.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Nobel Prize-winning British author V S has died at the age of 85, his family announced on Saturday.

"He died surrounded by those he loved having lived a life which was full of wonderful creativity and endeavour," his wife Lady said in a statement.

She described him as a "giant in all that he achieved".

Vidiadhar Surajprasad wrote more than 30 books and won the Nobel Prize in 2001.

Born in Trinidad, the son of an Indian civil servant, he studied English at before basing his life in England.

But he spent much of his time travelling and became a symbol of modern rootlessness.

Awarding him the Nobel, the Swedish Academy said he was a "literary circumnavigator, only ever really at home in himself, in his inimitable voice".

Many of his works examined the traumas of post-colonial change.



One of his major novels was the semi-autobiographical "A House for Mr Biswas", which looked at the almost impossible task for Indian immigrants in the Caribbean of trying to integrate into society while keeping hold of their roots.

He was one of the first winners of the Booker Prize, now Britain's leading literary award, in 1971 for "In A Free State." Naipaul was also outspoken throughout his career, likening former British prime minister to a pirate at the head of a socialist revolution.

He was also disparaging about female novelists, described post-colonial countries as "half-made societies" and argued that Islam both enslaved and attempted to wipe out other cultures.Two people, including a "notorious drug peddler", were arrested with heroin and poppy in two separate operations in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri and Jammu districts, police said today.

Shakoor Ahmad, a resident of Dhani Dhar village, was arrested after seven gm of heroin was recovered from his possession during checking near the Rajouri district town last evening, a police officer said.

Ahmad is a "notorious drug peddler" and is listed as an accused in a number of cases in Rajouri district. He was also detained under the Public Safety Act last year for his repeated involvement in peddling of narcotics and psychotropic substances, he said.

The officer said a fresh case under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act has been registered against him.

In a separate operation, the officer said a suspected drug peddler was arrested from Manda area of Jammu city and 5 kg of poppy straw was recovered from him.

Jasvinder Singh was arrested last evening, he said adding an FIR has been registered against him at the police station concerned.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)BJP national vice president Om Mathur said today that the country would not be allowed to become a 'dharamshala' and that National Register of Citizens (NRC) would be implemented throughout the country after the 2019 general election.

The entire country is suffering from the problem of Bangladeshi infiltrators. There is not a single city or town which is not suffering from the problem of Bangladeshi infiltrators, Mathur told reporters in Jhunjhunu district today.

"The country will not be allowed to become a dharamshala and NRC will be implemented across the country after 2019," he said.

The senior BJP leader targeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi, saying that he was not loyal to his family as the UPA government in its 10 years of rule could not muster courage to implement NRC, the initiative taken by former prime ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi.

NRC is not an initiative of the BJP and has been implemented in Assam on the directives of the Supreme Court, he added.

He asserted that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would form the government after the 2019 general election and NRC would be implemented across the country.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Some opposition parties led by the Congress today hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his attack on their unity efforts, and said they, unlike the ruling coalition, stood united and would defeat the BJP in the 2019 parliamentary election.

The Congress, Left parties and others attacked the prime minister, saying he is speaking out of "nervousness" and that it is the NDA which is crumbling and not the opposition which stands together.

The remarks came after Modi, in interviews to some media organisations, said that the opposition unity is for "personal survival and not ideological support" and for "personal ambitions" instead of people's aspirations.

Modi also said that 'Mahagathbandhan' is about dynasties and not about development and is purely about power rather than people's mandate and it is to be seen whether it breaks before elections or after it.

"The prime minister's statement on breakdown of opposition unity is like 'Mungerilal ke Haseen Sapne' (day-dreaming). The truth is that the entire country has got united against an autocratic and anarchist type present prime minister," Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told PTI.

"If a coalition has already crumbled, it is the NDA and not the UPA. 'The House of Cards' is waiting to come down in 2019," he said.

Surjewala said no wonder the BJP's allies such as the Shiv Sena and the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) have already dumped him and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) are making disparaging noises.

To sooth the ruffled feathers of Nitish Kumar, they had to backtrack and yield to the Janata Dal (United) (JDU) the post of Rajya Sabha deputy chairman, he said.

NCP leader Tariq Anwar said the opposition unity would be consolidated further which stands united in its endeavour to defeat the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJPI in the next Lok Sabha election.

Asked about the election to the post of Rajya Sabha deputy chairman, where the opposition candidate lost and the opposition was seen divided, he said, "It will certainly help the opposition to consolidate itself."



"It is no setback. Rather this will benefit the opposition consolidate its unity. A lot of things got clear in this election as those who claimed to form a national federal front stood exposed that they are actually with the BJP, which sponsored the idea.

"This exposed parties such as the BJD and the TRS. It is good for the opposition that it no longer can have faith in those who can ditch. It became clear on 'Kaun apne hain, aur kaun paraye (who are our own and who are not)," Anwar told PTI.

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) voted for the NDA nominee for the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman post.

CPI's D Raja said that the opposition unity is very much intact and it is the NDA which is crumbling and falling apart.

"They are desperate to keep their own allies together and they are pondering whether the NDA can remain together or not," he said.

The left leader said the prime minister, instead of abusing the opposition, has not answered till now on the questions raised by it on corruption and other issues.

On incidents of lynching too, he has not demanded answers from the BJP-ruled states under which the maximum lynching cases have taken place. Instead of preaching, he should seek answers from his own party governments in Gujarat, Haryana, Rajasthan as to why these are happening, he asked.

"The opposition unity is intact and in the coming days it will consolidate further, and cohesive and coordinated action will be undertaken in this regard," he told PTI.

Raja also said that had there been secret voting in the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman's election, the result would have been different, as even those parties that supported the NDA nominee would have voted for the opposition.

Another opposition leader said the opposition unity is intact, but admitted that the government "outsmarted" the opposition in the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman's election by announcing it suddenly taking opposition parties by surprise.

Surjewala said the prime minister is "nervous".

"The prime minister's original slogan of 'zero tolerance towards corruption' has now become 'zero tolerance for those raising issues of corruption'.

"Why has he not ordered an inquiry into the appearance of his name in the 'Birla Diaries' and why is he hiding behind a court order. Why no inquiry into the Rs 20,000-crore Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation (GSPC) scam that happened during his rule and why was Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) forced to buy the 'dead GSPC' out of public money?" he asked.

The Congress leader also asked why the prime minister has not spoken on the alleged Rs 48,000-crore Rafale scam on the purchase of fighter jets, the Rs 36,000-crore PDS scam in Chhattisgarh.

Surjewala also questioned Modi's silence on cases involving Vijay Mallya, Lalit Modi, Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi, who have fled the country after they came under the scanner of investigating agencies.

Why has the prime minister not fixed responsibility in the Vyapam scam in Madhya Pradesh, which is the country's 'biggest jobs scam', he also asked.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A Tehreek-e-Insaf MNA-elect, who was widely reported to be a 'chaiwala' (tea seller) during the election campaign, has turned out to be a millionaire, according to a media report.

Gul Zafar Khan, who won from NA-41 (Bajaur) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, owns assets worth over Rs 30 million, Geo TV reported, citing the documents submitted by him to the Election Commission of

The documents say that the MNA-elect owns a garment business.

Zafar owns immovable properties worth Rs 10 million as well as two houses and agricultural land worth Rs 12 million, according to documents.

He used to make tea at a hotel in Rawalpindi before he was given ticket by Imran Khan's party.

The pictures of Zafar serving tea to people of his area were snapped ahead of the July 25 polls.

However, a viral video of him serving tea was recorded after the polls.

"This is my job and I have been appointed as the MNA from here," he was quoted as saying by the channel.

He said his main focus would be to impart education to all and improve basic institutions.

Khan's party has claimed to have crossed the magical figure of 172 required to secure simple majority in the 342-seat National Assembly.Pakistan today released 26 Indian fishermen from Karachi's Malir jail as a goodwill gesture, media reports said.

They had been arrested by the authorities here for allegedly trespassing into Pakistan's territorial waters.

The fishermen were shifted to Cantt Railway Station and will be taken to Lahore from there they would be sent to India through Wagah border, The Nation reported.

The released fishermen were presented with gifts and cash prizes by the jail authorities, the report said.

The Indian prisoners said that upon reaching India, they will request the Indian authorities to release Pakistani prisoners in reciprocation.

Pakistan and India frequently arrest fishermen as there is no clear demarcation of the maritime border in the Arabian Sea and these fishermen do not have boats equipped with the technology to know their precise location.

Owing to lengthy and slow bureaucratic and legal procedures, the fishermen usually remain in jail for several months.

A number of non-governmental organisations in both India and Pakistan have raised the issue, pressing their governments to release the arrested fishermen without delay.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Pakistan today released 26 Indian fishermen from jail as a goodwill gesture, a day before newly-elected Parliament's maiden meeting to start the process of handing over powers to the new government, media reports said.

The fishermen had been arrested by the authorities for allegedly trespassing into Pakistan's territorial waters.

They were shifted to Cantt Railway Station from Karachi's Malir jail and will be taken to Lahore, The International reported.

The fishermen will be handed over to Indian border officials at Wagah border tomorrow, the report said.

According to Saad Edhi, an official of the Edhi foundation, the charity has paid the travel expenses for the released Indian fishermen.

Speaking to reporters at the railway station, Edhi called on the governments of Pakistan and India to relax the rules for the poor fishermen.

"They represent the poorest section of two countries. They should be freed as early as possible and there should be less restrictions on fishing," he said.

Pakistan's newly-elected Parliament is meeting tomorrow for the first time to start the process of transition and handing over powers to the new government.

President Mamnoon Hussain has already summoned the maiden session of National Assembly, the lower house, at 10 am in parliament house here.

Pakistan and India frequently arrest fishermen as there is no clear demarcation of the maritime border in the Arabian Sea and these fishermen do not have boats equipped with the technology to know their precise location.

Owing to lengthy and slow bureaucratic and legal procedures, the fishermen usually remain in jail for several months.

A number of non-governmental organisations in both India and Pakistan have raised the issue, pressing their governments to release the arrested fishermen without delay.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Pharmaceutical exports from the country are expected to cross USD 19 billion in worth during the current fiscal despite muted growth in the North American markets, according to Pharmexcil, a body under Union Commerce Ministry.

Pharma exports fetched USD 17.27 billion in the previous fiscal and this year it was expected to be between USD 19 billion and USD 20 billion, Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council (Pharmexcil), Director General Uday Bhaskar said.

During the first quarter of the current fiscal, pharma exports clocked an increase of 17.76 per cent to USD 4.6 billion against USD 3.9 billion during the corresponding quarter a year ago, he said.

"Last year we had 2.92 per cent growth in Pharma exports. We are expecting that we may reach USD 19 billion to USD 20 billion in the year 2018-19. Old markets are getting revived and we are also entering into new markets," Bhaskar told PTI.

He said most of the issues with regards to the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA), which had impacted exports from India in the first five months of last fiscal, were getting resolved.

"Chinese market is also opening up. We are working on that. China has removed tariff on certain cancer drugs. All these create conducive atmosphere for Indian drug exporters," he said.

Bhaskar said Pharmexil had been advising drug manufacturers in the country to look for emerging markets to offset the US impact.

North America, the largest market for Indian Pharma exporters, witnessed a negative growth of 7.35 per cent to USD 5.35 billion in FY 18 against USD 5.77 billion in the previous year.

It constitutes over 30 per cent of Indian pharma exports followed by Africa and the European Union with 19.37 per cent and 15.92 per cent respectively.

However, during the first quarter ending June 30, exports to North America registered 17.67 per cent growth to USD 1.40 billion, Bhaskar added.

The Pharmexil was also taking a business delegation to China later this month to tap the potential of the Asias largest economy following some regulatory changes in the neighbouring country, he said.

"China made zero duty on anti-cancer drugs. They also simplified product registration procedures... there are some proactive steps by the Chinese Government," he said.

Pharma exports to China during the last fiscal registered a growth of over 37 per cent to USD 200 million against USD 145.5 million in 2016-17, according to Pharmexil statistics.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to announce benefits for about 32 crore Jan Dhan account holders in his Independence Day address this week to provide a boost to the government's financial inclusion drive, official sources said.

There could be a doubling of overdraft facility to Rs 10,000 under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) account holders as part of the government's effort to fund the unfunded, they said.

Besides, the government may announce attractive micro insurance scheme on the occasion, the sources said. The free accident cover under the RuPay Card holders could be increased from Rs 1 lakh.

The Phase II of PMJDY will come to an end on August 15 and the scheme would be due for a revamp with further goals, the sources said, adding that the Prime Minister's Independence Day speech would be the best platform to make announcement.

PMJDY, the flagship financial inclusion drive, was launched in August 2014. The first phase ended on August 14, 2015 was focussed on opening basic bank accounts and RuPay debit card.

In the last four years, 32.25 crore PMJDY accounts have been opened with Rs 80,674.82 crore outstanding balance.

In addition, the government may raise the pension limit under Atal Pension Yojana (APY), announced in 2015-16, to up to Rs 10,000 per month from the existing slab of up to Rs 5,000.

In order to address the longevity risks among the workers in the unorganised sector, and encourage them to voluntarily save for retirement, the government had started the Swavalamban Scheme in 2010-11.

However, coverage under Swavalamban Scheme is inadequate mainly due to lack of clarity of pension benefits.

The APY was focussed on all citizens in the unorganised sector, who would join the National Pension System (NPS) administered by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) and who are not members of any statutory social security scheme.

Under the APY, the subscribers would receive the pension of Rs 1,000-5,000 per month at the age of 60 years, depending on their contributions.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Leaders from across the political spectrum condoled the demise of Nobel Laureate author V S Naipaul, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying, it was a major loss for the world of literature.

Naipaul, known for his critical commentary on colonialism, idealism, religion and politics, died at the age of 85, his family said early today.

He is the recipient of numerous honours, including the Man Booker Prize in 1971 and a knighthood for services to literature in 1990. Naipaul was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001.

The prime minister wrote on Twitter, "Sir VS Naipaul will be remembered for his extensive works, which covered diverse subjects ranging from history, culture, colonialism, politics and more."



"His passing away is a major loss to the world of literature. Condolences to his family and well wishers in this sad hour."



Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also condoled the author's death and said the world lost a genius.

"Deeply saddened to learn about the death of literary giant and Nobel Laureate Shri #VSNaipaul. He has inspired a whole generation of writers," he said.

"In his death the world loses a genius today. Offering my prayers to the departed soul," Chouhan said.

Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala also took to Twitter to condole the death of the "literary giant".

"My condolences on the passing away of Nobel Laureate #VSNaipaul - a literary giant and a modern philosopher who enthralled and influenced the world with his keen observations, creativity and often critical descriptions. May his soul rest in peace," he tweeted.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik tweeted, "Saddened to learn about the passing away of celebrated author & Nobel laureate #VSNaipaul."



"His works exploring colonisation, migration & unraveling of the British empire were exemplary & thought-provoking," he said.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje said, "Deeply saddened by the passing of celebrated Nobel Prize author #VSNaipaul. His inspirational works on colonialism, decolonization and struggles in the developing world struck a chord with many."



Sir Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul was born on August 17, 1932 in Trinidad into an Indian Hindu family and moved to England at 18 after receiving a scholarship to University College, Oxford.

He subsequently settled in England, although he travelled extensively thereafter.

Naipaul married Patricia Ann Hale in 1955. After her death in 1996, he married divorced Pakistani journalist Nadira Khannum Alvi.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Leaders from across the political spectrum condoled the demise of Nobel Laureate author V S Naipaul, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying, it was a major loss for the world of literature.

Naipaul, known for his critical commentary on colonialism, idealism, religion and politics, died at the age of 85, his family said early today.

He is the recipient of numerous honours, including the Man Booker Prize in 1971 and a knighthood for services to literature in 1990. Naipaul was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001.

The prime minister wrote on Twitter, "Sir VS Naipaul will be remembered for his extensive works, which covered diverse subjects ranging from history, culture, colonialism, politics and more."



"His passing away is a major loss to the world of literature. Condolences to his family and well wishers in this sad hour."



Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also condoled the author's death and said the world lost a genius.

"Deeply saddened to learn about the death of literary giant and Nobel Laureate Shri #VSNaipaul. He has inspired a whole generation of writers," he said.

"In his death the world loses a genius today. Offering my prayers to the departed soul," Chouhan said.

Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala also took to Twitter to condole the death of the "literary giant".

"My condolences on the passing away of Nobel Laureate #VSNaipaul - a literary giant and a modern philosopher who enthralled and influenced the world with his keen observations, creativity and often critical descriptions. May his soul rest in peace," he tweeted.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik tweeted, "Saddened to learn about the passing away of celebrated author & Nobel laureate #VSNaipaul."



"His works exploring colonisation, migration & unraveling of the British empire were exemplary & thought-provoking," he said.

Sir Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul was born on August 17, 1932 in Trinidad into an Indian Hindu family and moved to England at 18 after receiving a scholarship to University College, Oxford.

He subsequently settled in England, although he travelled extensively thereafter.

Naipaul married Patricia Ann Hale in 1955. After her death in 1996, he married divorced Pakistani journalist Nadira Khannum Alvi.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)President Ram Nath Kovind will watch a special screening of National Geographic's 'The President's Bodyguard' documentary at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday.

It will premiere on the Independence Day, i.e. August 15, at 9 pm, on National Geographic channel, a statement issued by the channel said today.

"Ceremonial occasions like the Republic Day parade, the President's address to Parliament, oath-taking ceremony of a new President, or receiving a visiting head of state, are watched keenly in India and abroad. The President's Bodyguard displays the best traditions of discipline and skills of our armed forces," Kovind was quoted as having said in the statement.

Their flawless turn-out and impressive bearing speak for the heritage of our country, and our armed forces, he said.

"But behind their skills, while standing erect or on horse-back, is years of hard work and the relentless pursuit of perfection. These are untiring, dedicated and brave soldiers as good as the best in the world. I am very proud of them," the president said.

A special screening of National Geographic's The President's Bodyguard will take place at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on August 14, 2018, it said.

The event will be graced by the president and will be attended by representatives from several ministries and forces, the statement said.

The President's Bodyguard is narrated by veteran Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan, it said.

"I feel National Geographic's film is a complete package which brings forth the stories of some selfless men who have put national duties above any other interests. The film will surely take the viewers a step closer to the history and heritage of one of the oldest cavalry units of our homeland," Bachchan said.

Uday Shankar, President of 21st Century Fox, Asia; and Chairman & CEO of Star India, said, "The President's Bodyguard is the story of India's historic and heritage cavalry unit, and one of the senior most regiments of the Indian army."



The President's Bodyguard is the oldest surviving mounted unit and is one of the senior most regiments of the Indian Army.

The regiment, which has 245-year-old legacy, and is made up of almost 200 soldiers, represents supreme and selfless service, the channel said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Leaders from across the political spectrum condoled the demise of Nobel Laureate author V S Naipaul, with President Ram Nath Kovind terming it a "loss for world of letters" and Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying, it was a major loss for the world of literature.

Naipaul, known for his critical commentary on colonialism, idealism, religion and politics, died at the age of 85, his family said early today.

He is the recipient of numerous honours, including the Man Booker Prize in 1971 and a knighthood for services to literature in 1990. Naipaul was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001.

Kovind in a tweet said, "Sad to learn of the passing of V.S. Naipaul whose books are an penetrative exploration of faith, colonialism and the human condition, in his home in the Caribbean and beyond."



"A loss for the world of letters and for the broader school of Indo-Anglian literature," he said.

The prime minister wrote on Twitter, "Sir VS Naipaul will be remembered for his extensive works, which covered diverse subjects ranging from history, culture, colonialism, politics and more."



"His passing away is a major loss to the world of literature. Condolences to his family and well wishers in this sad hour."Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also condoled the author's death and said the world lost a genius.

"Deeply saddened to learn about the death of literary giant and Nobel Laureate Shri #VSNaipaul. He has inspired a whole generation of writers," he said.

"In his death the world loses a genius today. Offering my prayers to the departed soul," Chouhan said.

Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala also took to Twitter to condole the death of the "literary giant".

"My condolences on the passing away of Nobel Laureate #VSNaipaul - a literary giant and a modern philosopher who enthralled and influenced the world with his keen observations, creativity and often critical descriptions. May his soul rest in peace," he tweeted.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik tweeted, "Saddened to learn about the passing away of celebrated author & Nobel laureate #VSNaipaul."



"His works exploring colonisation, migration & unraveling of the British empire were exemplary & thought-provoking," he said.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje said, "Deeply saddened by the passing of celebrated Nobel Prize author #VSNaipaul. His inspirational works on colonialism, decolonization and struggles in the developing world struck a chord with many."



Sir Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul was born on August 17, 1932 in Trinidad into an Indian Hindu family and moved to England at 18 after receiving a scholarship to University College, Oxford.

He subsequently settled in England, although he travelled extensively thereafter.

Naipaul married Patricia Ann Hale in 1955. After her death in 1996, he married divorced Pakistani journalist Nadira Khannum Alvi.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Former Union minister Prithviraj Chavan attacked the Central government today on a number of issues including "lack of jobs" for the youth.

He alleged the government was pursuing the Bullet train and the Samruddhi Corridor projects which are of no use for the common man.

The Bullet train project envisages connecting Mumbai in Maharashtra to Ahmedabad in Gujarat through the high speed train.

The proposed Sammrudhi Corridor project aims at constructing a mega highway connecting Mumbai to Nagpur, a distance of over 700 kms.

"The BJP governments at the Centre and in Maharashtra have failed to generate jobs for the youth. The situation is also grim on the agriculture front, as farmers are committing suicide due to distress," he said while addressing a function in Nashik city in Maharashtra.

He said the fare of the bullet train will prove "exorbitant" for the common people.

Chavan alleged that people will be made to pay heavy toll for using the Samruddhi corrdior.

The former chief minister alleged the loan waiver announced by the state government lat year is inaccessible for most of the farmers.

"The process to claim the loan waiver is tedious, as the farmers have to fill online application forms containing as many as 66 columns," he alleged.

He also criticised the Centre for "importing 20lakh tonnes of sugar despite bumper production in the country".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Multiplex chain PVR Ltd today said it is acquiring 71.69 per cent stake in South India-based SPI Cinemas for about Rs 633 crore in an all cash deal.

It said that the company's board has also approved the issuance of 1.6 million shares of PVR for the residual stake.

PVR said in a regulatory filing that the board has approved the execution of a Share Purchase Agreement (SPA) in this regard.

The acquisition involves buying of SPI's 61.65 per cent from SS Theatres LLP and 10.04 per cent equity from S V Swaroop Reddy, it said.

The proposed acquisition is in line with the PVR's continual growth and expansion strategy, it said.

"Such inorganic growth will enable the company to expand its presence in South India and make a mark on the film exhibition industry there.

"The acquisition of 71.69 per cent stake in SPI will be for a cash consideration of about Rs 633 crore," PVR said.

The boards of both the companies have approved merger, it said adding, "1.6 million equity shares of PVR to be issued for residual 28.3 per cent stake".

PVR CMD Ajay Bijli said: "The acquisition of SPI Cinemas is of significant strategic value for PVR and will further cement our market leadership position in India.

He said the acquisition will make PVR the undisputed leader in the South Indian market & provide an attractive platform "for us to expand in that geography, which currently is highly underpenetrated in terms of multiplexes... This transaction is a significant step in helping us achieve our vision of having 1000 screens by 2020".

Post the transaction, PVR will have 706 screens operational across the country and the company said this acquisition will make it the number 1 operator in top 3 cities of South India -- Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.

As per the terms of the SPA, the acquisition will have to be completed within 30 days from execution of the agreement and the merger into the PVR Ltd within a period of 18 months from the date of completion of the acquisition.

The Board has also approved "provisions for customary call/put options for acquisition of the remaining 28.31 per cent stake in the SPI from SS Theatres LLP, if triggered, for a consideration not exceeding RS 300 crore."



SPI, which has a presence states like Tamil Andhra Pradesh, Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka and Kerala, has total assets of Rs 319.63 crore an turnover of Rs 308.60 crore as on March 31, 2018.

SPI Cinemas operates 76 screens across 17 properties in 10 cities under several brands Sathyam, Escape, Palazzo, The Cinema, S2 Cinema.

PVR said it will fund the transaction through a combination of internal accruals, debt issuance and deferred payment of a part of the consideration (Rs 100 crore) to be paid on achievement of certain milestones.

In 2016, PVR had acquired 32 screens of DT cinemas from realty major DLF for Rs 433 crore. PVR operates over 600 screens in 51 cities in India.

At present, PVR operates over 600 screens in 52 cities in India.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)On his maiden visit to Telangana after becoming the Congress President, Rahul Gandhi would address women Self-Help Groups, students and unemployed youth, entrepreneurs and others in separate events in Hyderabad tomorrow and on Tuesday.

"The visit would give a definite boost to the party. This is his first visit to Telangana after becoming party president. He played a key role in the formation of Telangana," Deputy Leader of Congress in State Legislative Council P Sudhakar Reddy told PTI.

As per the schedule announced by Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee, Gandhi would arrive in the afternoon tomorrow and head to a convention centre at Shamshabad here for the interaction with women Self Help Groups.

On Tuesday, Gandhi would hold a tele-conference with 31,600 booth committee presidents, mandal and district Congress presidents and also state unit office bearers.

He would then have an interaction with various media editors and bureau chiefs for an hour at the hotel where he would be staying.

Later, Gandhi would address about 150 young industrialists and CEOs from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

In the evening, Gandhi would attend a public meeting for students and unemployed youth at Saroornagar stadium.

Gandhi would leave for Delhi by 8.30 that night.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)After a brief lull, rains started lashing several parts of Kerala since this morning, posing problems to the relief operations undertaken



by multiple agencies in the flood and landslides hit regions.

However, the water level in the Idukki and Idamalayar reservoirs reduced, bringing some relief, with the authorities saying there was no need for any panic for people living downstream, officials said.

There were no fresh casualties reported since yesterday and the toll in the rain-related incidents since the current monsoon fury from August 8 stood at 37, they said.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh will undertake an aerial survey of some flood-hit areas and hold discussions with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, camping in Kochi, later today.

More than 60,000 people have been accommodated in relief camps set up in different areas, including in Wayand where over 14,000 people had been sheltered.

Ten columns of Army, a unit of Madras Regiment along with personnel of Navy, Air Force and the NDRF were engaged in relief and rescue operations in badly-hit districts including Kozhikode, Idukki, Malappuram, Kannur and Wayanad, Defence sources said.

Mananthavady and Vythiri in the hilly Wayanad district have been totally cut-off, with roads washed away and houses marooned by water.

Water level in the Idukki dam, the biggest arch dam in Asia which was opened after a gap of 26 years, marginally declined to 2399.16 ft at 10 am today, after hovering close to its maximum of 2,403 feet in the past few days, officials said.

There was a brief respite from the rains yesterday in several parts of the state, but the fresh heavy downpour was making relief works difficult now, authorities said.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) had yesterday warned that heavy to very heavy rains were expected in 16 states, including Kerala, till tomorrow.

The weather department has issued a 'Red alert',asking people to be cautious as there was a possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall in most places in Idukki, Wayanad, Kannur, Ernakulam, Palakkad and Malappuram districts.

Around 1,500 houses were damaged partially and 101 have been destroyed completely in rain fury in the state during the last few days, according to the disaster control room officials here.

"Heading to Kerala to take stock of the situation in the state. Shall conduct a survey of the flood affected areas and also visit the relief camp sites', Rajnath Singh tweeted.

The Chief Minister yesterday undertook an aerial survey of rain ravaged areas of Idukki and Wayanad and said Kerala was in the midst of an unprecedented flood havoc and that the calamity has caused "immeasurable misery and devastation.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Trade ministers of RCEP member countries, including India and China, will hold a crucial meeting in Singapore on August 30-31, an official said.

The meeting is important as the 16-member bloc now needs specific political guidance to move the negotiations further, the official added.

RCEP mega trade pact aims to cover goods, services, investments, economic and technical cooperation, competition and intellectual property rights.

Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) bloc comprises 10 Asean members (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Laos and Vietnam) and their six FTA partners - India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.

The meeting also assumes significance as the member countries are not moving at a healthy pace even as the negotiation for the deal started in November 2012.

The 23rd round of the negotiation was recently concluded without much progress in Bangkok.

India is also holding comprehensive stakeholder consultations with industry as well as different ministries and departments on the pact as the grouping includes China, with which India has a huge trade deficit.

Sectors including textiles, steel and food processing have raised serious objections over removal or significant reduction of customs duties on these items under the pact. They want these segments to be out of the purview of RCEP.

They have apprehensions that removal of duties would led to flooding of Chinese goods in the Indian market. But without any free trade agreement, India has a trade deficit of USD 63.12 billion in 2017-18 with China as compared to USD 51.11 billion in the previous year.

An informal group of ministers, headed by Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu, is also holding deliberations on the concerns of the industry.

Pressure is mounting on India for early conclusion of the negotiation despite the fact that no member is showing flexibility in its stand.

Former Commerce Secretary Rita Teaotia has recently said the mega trade deal would be incomplete if the norms to promote services sector are not sufficiently liberalised by the member countries.

RCEP members want India to eliminate or significantly reduce customs duties on maximum number of goods it traded globally. India's huge domestic market provides immense opportunity of exports for RCEP countries.

But lower level of ambitions in services and investments, a key area of interest for India, does not augur well for the agreement that seeks to be comprehensive in nature.

Of the RCEP nations, India has trade deficit with as many as 10 countries, including China, South Korea and Australia, among others.

Some experts have warned over the impact of RCEP agreement on India's trade.

Biswajit Dhar, a professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University is of the view that India should be very cautious about this pact.

He believes that with the kind of market access and tariff cuts RCEP countries are demanding including in agriculture sector, it would be difficult for India to sustain in the long run.

India wants certain deviations for such countries. Under deviations, India may propose a longer duration for either reduction or elimination of import duties for such countries.

Under services, India wants greater market access for its professionals in the proposed agreement.

India wants to have a balanced RECP trade agreement as it would cover 40 per cent of the global GDP and over 42 per cent of the world's population.

India already has a free trade pact with Association of South East Asian Nations (Asean), Japan and South Korea. It is also negotiating a similar agreement with Australia and New Zealand but has no such plans for China.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The BJP today termed the 'Referendum 2020', a campaign by an organisation Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) for a so called "separate Sikh state", as a useless exercise by desperate group of radicals who have no support from Punjabis living across the globe.

Tarun Chugh, the national secretary of the BJP, said the idea of 'Referendum 2020' was an anti-national proposal designed to break the communal harmony among the people of the community in and outside Punjab.

"It is a useless exercise by desperate group of radicals who have no support from Punjabis living across the globe," he said in a statement.

"Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) mastermind Gurpatwant Singh Pannun was following the commands of Pakistan based ISI and trying to brainwash and misguide youth to bring back black days in Punjab, but his efforts won't be successful," the BJP leader said.

Chugh said the vigilant network of central intelligence agencies and the Punjab Police would fight any conspiracy against Punjab and India.

He said the Union Government was committed to protect the sovereignty and integrity of the country.

"Besides that, the Punjabi community was well aware and committed not to allow the evil designs of the radicals to succeed, come what may," he said.

He appealed to the community to maintain peace and rise above political and religious lines to thwart the nefarious attempts of disruptive forces.

Earlier, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh had said there are no takers in Punjab for 'Referendum 2020'.

Singh had on Friday dubbed the proposed rally in London on Sunday by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) as an attempt by a handful of frustrated ISI-backed Sikhs abroad to foment trouble.

"They have been at it for long and have been playing into the hands of the ISI, which has an open agenda to foment trouble in Punjab and India," he had said.

The chief minister said he was not at all worried about the fringe elements and their rally.

He said there are no takers for this campaign in the state as people want peace and development.

Singh had said only a handful of frustrated Sikhs, based in countries like the UK, Canada, the USA and Germany, were backing the campaign, which he said will not last long.

"We are prepared to deal with these Khalistani elements, he had said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Caught in a political storm over the Rafale fighter aircraft deal, billionaire Anil Ambani's Reliance Group today denied receiving any contract from the Defence Ministry and said "unfounded and incorrect" allegations are being deliberately made to "mislead people and cloud the issue."



Answering questions ranging from lack experience to state-owned HAL being overlooked for the deal, the group said Dassault, the French firm that is to supply 36 Rafale fighter jets, choose Reliance Defence Ltd to meet its 'offset' or export obligation in the contract and the Ministry of Defence has no role in the selection of Indian partners by the foreign vendors.

Reliance Defence Ltd CEO Rajesh Dhingra said the government-to-government deal requires all 36 aircraft to be delivered in a 'fly-away' condition which means "they are to be exported from France by Dassault" and "HAL or anyone else cannot be the production agency for the simple reason that no aircraft are to be produced in India."



He said HAL was a nominated production agency for the 126 Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) program, which never reached the contract stage.

"Reliance Defence or any other Reliance group company has not received any contract from the MoD till date, related to 36 Rafale aircraft. This is absolutely unfounded and incorrect," he told PTI over phone.

Opposition Congress party last week demanded a JPC in the deal and its president Rahul Gandhhi has been attacking the government for inking the deal at a much higher price than the one the previous UPA regime had negotiated. He has accused the government of changing the deal to benefit "one businessman".

On allegations of the firm getting the contract because of Ambani's reported proximity with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said: "As per Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP), the Ministry of Defence has no role in the selection of Indian partners by the foreign vendors. This has been the position right from 2005 when offsets were first introduced in the country."



In the more than 50 offset (export obligations) contracts signed in the country till date, the same process has been followed, he said. "Therefore, this is a deliberate attempt to mislead people and cloud the issue."



On the issue lack of experience in making fighter aircraft, Dhingra said no company in India, except HAL, has the experience of making fighter planes.

"This would mean that we will never create any new capability beyond what exists and will continue to import more than 70 per cent of our defence hardware," he said.

Dhingra added that Reliance will be participating in the offset program through Dassault Reliance Aerospace Ltd (DRAL) in which Dassault holds a 49 per cent stake bringing in its 90 years of aerospace manufacturing experience, making it the "most qualified vendor".

He termed as "absolutely wrong" allegation of Reliance benefiting with a Rs 30,000 crore contract, saying "Dassault's share of offsets is about 25 per cent, with the remaining offset obligations being shared by Thales, Safran, MBDA and others."



"Therefore, the basic premise of Dassault giving Rs 30,000 crore worth of offset contracts to Reliance is totally unfounded," he said, adding Dassault and its other Tier-I suppliers have already indicated more than 100 Indian companies which will participate in the offset contracts. This includes joint ventures with PSUs like HAL and BEL.

"We can also not lose sight of the fact that up to 30 per cent of total offsets can be discharged through transfer of technology to DRDO, as per DPP," he said.

Asked about Reliance Defence being incorporated days before announcement of the Rafale deal, he said three companies were incorporated in December 2014 and Reliance Group's entry into defence sector was announced at Aero India in February 2015.

"Also there are reports in the media of as late as end-March 2015 where Dassault officials were on record to say that the MMRCA deal is 95 per cent done. If this is correct, what is the linkage with the date of incorporation of Reliance Defence?" he asked.

The deal to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets was signed when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited France in April 2015.

On the question of presence of Ambani at the time of announcement of the deal by the Prime Minister, Dhingra said Anil Ambani is part of the CEOs' Forum for France and also many other countries.

"He was in Paris because there was a meeting of the CEOs' Forum on the sidelines of the Prime Minister's visit. More than 25 other CEOs from the Indian companies were also present, including the Chairman of HAL," he said.

Offset obligations are to be discharged during September 2019 to September 2023, as per the contract.

Asked about allegations that Reliance actually got contracts worth Rs 1.3 lakh crore and not Rs 30,000 crore, he said the amount may be coming from projections of Rs 30,000 crore for offsets and another Rs 100,000 crore towards the lifecycle cost over 50 years.

"There cannot be anything further from truth... To the best of my knowledge, the government has not signed any lifecycle contract for 50 years with Dassault. Therefore, the very question of Reliance getting a contract does not arise," he said.

On the issue of Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman denying knowledge of the contract, he said as per DPP 2016, the foreign vendor has a choice to submit the details of its offset partners at the time of claiming offset credits.

"In this case, offset obligations are due only after September 2019. It is, therefore, possible that the Ministry of Defence has no formal communication from Dassault Aviation about the choice of its partners for the offsets," he said.

Asked if it was correct that under DPP a joint secretary-level official is required to countersign the contract, he said: "The offset contract is signed between the MoD and the foreign vendor. MoD does not sign any contract with the Indian offset partners.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Celebrated for his extensive commentary on both, colonisers and colonised, in fiction and non-fiction, V S Naipaul walked the controversy tightrope, admired for his prose but scorned by those who perceived him as an apologist for imperial powers.

Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul, or Sir Vidia, as he was sometimes known died at his London home at the age of 85 today, leaving behind a legacy of lucid prose and unapologetic narratives strewn across dozens of works that earned him both applause and brickbats, say experts.

Looking back at the Nobel Laureate's elaborate literary career of over five decades, Patrick French, the author of his biography "The World is What It Is", remembered him as a "very funny and witty" person who was "always conscious of his Indian family background".

Born to an Indian family in Trinidad, Naipaul's portraits of Africa, India, West Indies and the Islamic faith brought him hostility for his views.

"In his books, he tried to describe the best and the worst of India as it changed between the 1960s and the 1990s. His conclusions were insightful, even when they were harsh," French told PTI.

After his first three comedic novels, he explored the questions of identity and belonging to a family, a place in "A House of Mr Biswas", which was inspired by his father's life.

While the book won him accolades in the literary world, the novel "destroyed some memories", according to the biography.

Naipaul's prose were strung around the themes of loss, identity, oppression and exile, said author Chanchal Sanyal, describing him as an "unapologetic author" who was not writing to please an audience.

"Naipaul, not only in his writings but also in whatever he said, was completely unapologetic. For example, his views on Islam, on colonisation, immigration, or even his writings about his visits to prostitutes, he was his own man. We all are pleasing an audience, he was courageous and unapologetic," he said.

Sanyal's "The Glass House" can be compared to "A House for Mr Biswas", both following the theme of a man aspiring to own a home.

"Honestly, I have read a lot of Naipaul, but I don't think anything moved me as much as House for Mr Biswas. But I did read with great interest his writings on America's deep south. In some of his short stories in his early writings, there was a certain style they were not completely finished and you could make out the writer was a bit raw, but you certainly felt he showed promise," he added.

Naipaul's views against the commonplace perception towards colonised countries and their people were not the only thing controversial about the famed author.

In an interview in 2011, Naipaul raised eyebrows when he said he did not consider any female author to be his equal. And then there were also reports of him physically abusing his mistress Margaret Gooding.

Looking at him as a "flawed genius", international publishing consultant Jaya Bhattacharji Rose said Naipaul will nonetheless be "remembered as a giant among writers".

"V S Naipaul was a titan of 20th century English literature, who made visible a landscape beyond the canon that held sway when he began writing. His life experiences frequently appeared as thinly disguised vignettes in his writing, and his references to Trinidad added diversity and depth to his oeuvre," Rose said.

His 1971 book, "In a Free State", won him the Man Booker prize. In "An Area of Darkness", "India: A Wounded Civilization", and "India: A Million Mutinies Now", Naipaul commented extensively on subjects varying from politics to religion, from business to films in the country.

According to Saugata Bhaduri, professor at School of Language Literature and Culture Studies, JNU, his critics loved him too despite the general perception of his writing as a "problematic rightist kind of politics".

"He has been somewhat of a trigger in making Indian writing in English become so global, and all Indian writers in English, in spite of him not being an Indian technically, looked up to him.

"His writing style, general mode of characterisation was so good and it often has been perceived as problematic rightist kind of politics. So he transcended it, and his greatness is mocked by that. His art is so good, his craft is so good that even his harshest critique would read him with lot of love and passion," Bhaduri said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Delhi government has directed all schools in the national capital to immediately report to it about any untoward incident such as accident, violence, molestation or protest before it reaches the media so that quick action can be taken and also there is no "embarrassment" to the department.

The directive assumes significance in light of the alleged rape of a minor girl by an electrician in a NDMC school premises in the city.

"In order to ensure better monitoring of any untoward incident and take preventive measures at higher administrative levels, all heads of schools are directed to report immediately any untoward incident like violence, accident, dharna, quarrel, fire, protest, demonstration, theft, stampede, molestation, serious injury, suicide attempt or death to senior department official whosoever is available at the moment," a communication sent to school principals by the Directorate of (DoE) said.

"In certain cases the reports of such incidents are received at the headquarters through media or other sources instead of the head of school due to which appropriate action cannot be taken in time and increases the threat to safety and security of students and also causes otherwise avoidable embarrassment to department. Therefore, all such occurrences must be brought to the notice of senior officers without any delay," it added.

The AAP government said that if the school principal is not able to send a detailed report to higher authorities, telephonic information is to be given immediately followed by a detailed report later on the same day.

"Non compliance of the directive will be viewed seriously and action deemed fit will be initiated against the erring head of the school," the DoE letter said.

Rape of the class 2 girl here last week has revived the debate on safety and security of students inside school premises.

Following the incident, the Delhi Commission For Women (DCW) and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) had issued notices to Delhi Police demanding details of the case.

The NDMC too had initiated disciplinary action against the school authorities and suspended four of its officials including the headmistress.

The Delhi government had last month issued fresh guidelines to schools for ensuring students' safety, with a special focus on the security of the pupils travelling to schools by private vans.

The guidelines were issued following recommendations from a high-level committee which was formed in the wake of the murder of a seven-year-old boy in a Gurgaon school and alleged rape of a five-year-old girl in a school in Shahdara.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The steady rise in incidents of molestation and intolerance is a result of degradation of human values, Supreme Court Judge Justice N V Ramana said today, urging people to speak up against these cases.

Justice Ramana, in his address on the last day of the two-day conference on 'human values and the legal world' here, quoted German-Lutheran Pastor Martin Niemoller and said no one can protect people from such incidents if they do not speak up for values.

"(Students) should be taught moral, social responsibility to care for their compatriots and follow 'dharma'. We must not only provide these values from early age to our children, but also we must adopt them ourselves. We have been seeing a steady rise in cases of molestation, intolerance etc everyday, which is nothing but a result of degradation of values.

"As citizens, if we do not speak up for values and pre-cautions, we cannot protect anyone from such heinous crimes. We cannot sit quiet in a corner and think that no anti-social element or a bad neighbourhood would affect us. Man being a social animal, cannot isolate himself from the society," Justice Ramana said.

He tweaked a Niemoller poem and said, "Because I did not care for the monstrosity. Then they came for the neighbourhood, and I did not speak out because I was not in the vicinity. Then they came for the friends, and I did not speak out because I was not the one. Then they came for me and there was no one left to speak for me".

Niemoller's poem "First they came for" dealt with the attitude of German intellectuals after the Nazis' rise to power and subsequent purging of their chosen targets. Various adaptations in the spirit of the original have been published in numerous languages. It deals with themes of persecution, guilt and responsibility.

The original poem goes thus, "First they came for the communists, and I did not speak out because I was not a communist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out because I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me and there was no one left to speak for me."



Justice Ramana, who was delivering a lecture on 'role of judiciary in advancing human values', urged people to discuss, share, express and to settle problems at community level before the issues "blow up and cause big problems". He said "human values are the first line of defence, so that we can have good citizens, good neighbourhood and ultimately good country".

"What we refer to rule of law is nothing but dharma," he said, adding that there was no dispute that Indian judiciary is at the forefront protecting this rule of law.

He referred to the historic Kesavananda Bharathi case, which outlined the basic structure doctrine of the Constitution, and said the judiciary had to make a choice either to uphold the constitutional values or to accept the malignant change being introduced.

He said the verdict clearly identified the values and stability required in this country.

Justice Ramana also said that the lack of human values are the root cause of all disputes.

"The absence of 'prema' is the root cause of family disputes. The disturbance in 'shanti' and failure to understand 'ahimsa paramo dharma' is the root cause for criminal disputes. Failure to adhere to the dharmic principles is the root cause for commercial disputes. Disputes of all types arise when selfishness overtakes the bondage of love," he said.

More than 30 sitting judges of the Supreme Court and various high courts and more than 750 delegates from the legal fraternity attended the conference, said to be the first-of-its-kind in India.

The conference was inaugurated by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra yesterday. It was attended by dignitaries, including International Court of Justice Judge Dalveer Bhandari, Andhra Pradesh High Court Chief Justice T B Radhakrishnan, former apex court judge and NCLAT chairperson S J Mukhopadhaya.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Terming the flood situation in Kerala following heavy rains as something never witnessed by the state since Independence, Union Home Minister on Sunday announced Rs 1 billion as immediate central relief.

The minister, who made an aerial survey of badly affected areas in Idukki and Ernakulam districts, said the rains and floods had caused "massive damage" to the farm sector and infrastructure like roads and power.

"Kerala is facing an unprecedented flood situation. It is unprecedented because never before in the history of independent India has Kerala witnessed such massive floods," he told reporters here.

He was speaking after reviewing the situation with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Minister of State for Tourism Alphons Kannanthanam, state ministers and senior officials.

Singh assured all help from the Centre to meet the "very serious situation".

"I understand the suffering of the people of Kerala from the present crisis. Since assessment of the damage will take time, I hereby announce immediate relief as advance of Rs 1 billion," the Minister said.

The state government submitted a memorandum to Singh, seeking urgent sanction of Rs 12.2 billion from the Disaster Relief Fund (NDRF) to meet the situation.

In the memorandum, the Chief Minister said preliminary estimates suggested that Kerala suffered a loss of Rs 83.16 billion in the rains, floods and landslides.



Singh recalled the flood situation in Kerala last month and said that just before he came to the state today, he sanctioned release of the second instalment of Rs 802.5 million in advance for the State Disaster Relief Fund.

The first instalment of a similar amount of the Central share of SDRF for 2018-19 was released last month, he said.

"The Centre is extremely sensitive to the needs of the Kerala at this critical juncture," he said.

The Minister said three teams of NDRF had been pre positioned in Kerala during the current monsoon season.

"Eleven more NDRF teams have been deployed in the state, taking the total number of NDRF teams to 14. If needed we will press in additional teams," Singh said in a tweet.

Earlier, Singh visited a relief camp at Elanthikkara in Paravur Taluk in Ernakulam district.

"Today we conducted an aerial survey of flood affected areas with the Chief Minister and I reached the conclusion that the situation is very serious in Kerala due to floods," he said.

"And I would like to assure the state government that all sorts of support will be provided by the central government to meet the challenges of the flood situation," he said.

Singh also heard the grievances of people who lost their homes and land in the floods.



The Minister made an aerial survey of areas affected by landslides and rains in Idukki and Ernakulam districts.

He was accompanied by Vijayan, Alphons, Chandrasekharan and Additional Chief Secretary P H Kurian.

After a brief lull, rains started lashing several parts of Kerala since this morning, posing problems to relief work by multiple agencies in flood and landslide hit regions.

However, water level in Idukki and Idamalayar dams reduced, bringing some relief, with authorities saying there was no need for people living downstream to panic.

No fresh casualties were reported since Saturday and the toll in the rain-related incidents since the current monsoon fury from August 8 stood at 37, officials said.



Thousands of people have been accommodated in relief camps set up in different areas, including in Wayand, where over 14,000 people had been sheltered.

Ten columns of the Army, a unit of Madras Regiment along with personnel of the Navy, Air Force andNDRF are engaged in relief and rescue work in badly-hit districts, including Kozhikode, Idukki, Malappuram, Kannur and Wayanad, Defence sources said.

The Disaster Management Authority had yesterday warned that heavy to very heavy rains were expected in 16 states, including Kerala, till tomorrow.

The weather department has issued a 'Red alert', asking people to be cautious as there was a possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall in most places in Idukki, Wayanad, Kannur, Ernakulam, Palakkad and Malappuram districts.The Congress today said the political parties that broke the opposition ranks to facilitate the victory of the NDA nominee in the election for the post of Rajya Sabha deputy chairman had exposed their "hypocrisy".

Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi also claimed that the Opposition unity was intact, even though some parties had voted against the Opposition nominee in the August 9 election.

Harivansh Narayan Singh of the Janata Dal (United) won the election against Opposition candidate B K Hariprasad of the Congress in the Upper House of Parliament.

Addressing a press conference here, Chaturvedi said the outcome of the election did not mean the opposition unity had broken.

"A lot of people and political parties that have been attacking the (Narendra) Modi government and claiming to represent the voice of the common people chose to abstain and not vote against the candidate put up by the government.

"They clearly shirked their own responsibilities and exposed their hypocrisy," she alleged.

During the election, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the ruling parties in Odisha and Delhi respectively, broke ranks with the Opposition to facilitate the NDA candidate's victory, despite their fierce political battles with the BJP in their states.

The Shiv Sena, which had abstained from voting on the no-confidence motion moved against the NDA government in the Lok Sabha recently, had joined the BJP to help Singh win the election for the post of Rajya Sabha deputy chairman.

The two YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) MPs had abstained from voting. In all, 16 members were not present.

Replying to a query, Chaturvedi said, "I don't think the opposition unity is breaking in any way."



In a veiled attack on the Shiv Sena, which is part of the NDA-led governments at the Centre and in Maharashtra, the Congress leader said, "It is shameful that one of the parties that shares power with the BJP in Maharashtra is attacking the state government and when the time comes, they choose power over accountability. We were hoping that those within the government would live up to their responsibilities when the time came, but that did not happen."



Chaturvedi claimed that it clearly emerged from the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman's election that the Modi government did not believe in taking everybody along.

"This is perhaps for the first time that the government did not reach out to the opposition parties to find a consensus candidate and chose to use its power. This is how democratic principles are being compromised to stay in power," she said.

Alleging that the deal to purchase Rafale fighter jets from France was a "scam", Chaturvedi said, "A lot of allegations were hurled against the Congress regarding the Bofors deal. However, the then Congress government did not shy away from any probe. The Congress held itself accountable and answerable to the people of India and the Supreme Court."



"When (Atal Bihari) Vajpayee was the prime minister, he had absolved us of all the charges," she claimed.

The Bofors deal between India and Sweden during the 1980s and 1990s had snowballed into a major political scandal, wherein several members of the Indian and Swedish governments were accused of receiving kickbacks for winning a bid to supply 155-mm field howitzer guns to India.

Chaturvedi said the Army had hailed the role of the Bofors guns in the 1999 Kargil War between India and Pakistan.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)will sell two non-performing assets (NPAs) worth about Rs 24.9 billion and has invited bids for them.

In terms of the bank's revised policy on sale of financial assets in line with the regulatory guidelines, "we place these accounts for sale to ARCs/banks/ NBFCs/FIs", of India said in the bid documents.

The two accounts on sale are -- Bombay Rayon Fashions Ltd which owes Rs 22.60 billion to the The second account, Shivam Dhatu Udyog Pvt Ltd, has to repay Rs 2.29 billion.



The loan dues from Bombay Rayon excludes equity investment.

As per data from BSE, Bombay Rayon has 61.65 per cent public shareholding. In the financial institutions category, held the highest 29.28 per cent equity in the company as on June 30, 2018.

had 8.04 per cent, while Union Bank of India, Exim Bank, Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, Central and have stakes varying from 1.61-3.35 per cent.

"The interested ARCs/banks/NBFCs/FIs can conduct due diligence of these assets with immediate effect, after submitting expression of interest and executing a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with the bank," said.

The e-bids will be processed on August 20.

SBI's gross NPAs rose to 10.69 per cent of the total advances at the end of June this year, as against 9.97 per cent a year ago. In value terms, they increased to Rs 2,12,840 trillion, from Rs 1,88,068 trillion.

In the first quarter ended June of the current fiscal, SBI has reported a hefty loss of Rs 48.76 billion for due to higher NPAs or bad loans.

Banks, especially state-owned, are sitting on bad loans worth lakhs of crores of rupees and are adopting aggressive approach to resolve them by making recoveries through various modes.A textile shop owned by a local BJP functionary here was set on fire by two miscreants early today, police said.

CCTV footage in the area showed the two, who came on a motorcycle, pouring petrol into the shop of Bhuvaneshwaran by lifting the shutter a bit and throwing a lit match stick around 3 am, police said.

Though people sleeping nearby alerted Bhuvaneshwaran, BJP's Ganapati area secretary, on noticing smoke emanating from the shop, the fire got extinguished on its own by the time police arrived at the scene.

Some decorative glasses and some textile articles were gutted in the fire.

One of the culprits was wearing a helmet while the other covered his face with a monkey cap, police said adding further investigation was on.

The incident comes close on the heels of a similar attack on a welding shop belonging to a BJP ward level functionary



The incident comes close on the heels of a similar attack on a welding equipment shop belonging to another BJP member in the same locality.

Police are investigating whether there was any link between the two incidents.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The government is looking into suggestions by a panel that short films be made to convey anti-smoking messages with those actors who are depicted as smoking on screen, a top official has said.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting had set up the committee, led by filmmaker Shyam Benegal in 2016 to look holistically into the functioning of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), a statutory body under the ministry, and the panel had submitted its first report in April that year.

"There have been studies which indicate that exposure to smoking in movies initiates smoking among adolescents. Many Indian movies portray tobacco use. Also, use of tobacco has been glamourised in popular perception," Anurag Srivastava, the CEO of CBFC, said.

There is also a perception that tobacco consumption gives a sense of freedom and is for people who live life king-size, he said.

Srivastava was addressing a group of participants during a panel discussion at the five-day India Tobacco Leadership Program in South Goa's Majorda, about 30 km from here, that concluded on Friday.

During his presentation, the CBFC CEO said that the Shyam Benegal-led committee had suggested that short films could be made to convey anti-smoking message to viewers by the "same actor who is depicted as smoking on screen".

The ministry of information and broadcasting is studying the suggestions given by the panel, he said.

The committee also includes actor Kamal Haasan, filmmaker Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, adman Piyush Pandey and film critic Bhawana Somaaya.

Srivastava said every filmmaker in their application to the censor board has to give a very "strong editorial justification" for depicting smoking or other tobacco products on screen.

"At present, there is no law which says that they have to give it in writing. So, the filmmakers mostly do it verbally during the film examination process. Many times we do not agree with them (filmmakers)," he said.

Asked, if the editorial justification is being streamlined, he told PTI, "Yes, we are in the process (of making compulsory in writing the furnishing of editorial justification). We are doing it and consulting the filmmakers on it."



During his presentation, Srivastava also quoted an old Supreme Court judgment to emphasis the impact of cinema on the psyche of people.

"There is an old court order which talks about the effect of cinema on minds of people - 'Movie motivates thought and action and assures a high degree of attention and retention..."," he said.

According to rules, all films and TV programmes certified/produced on or after October 2, 2012 that depict tobacco product or its use must carry anti-tobacco health spot of 30 seconds duration each, at their beginning and middle.

They should also have anti-tobacco audio-visual disclaimer of 20 seconds duration each (beginning and middle) and a prominent static message during the period of display of tobacco products or their use on screen.

A 2006 study conducted by the WHO and Health Ministry said that 89 per cent of movies depicted tobacco use.

Section 5 of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act (COTPA) inter alia prohibits all forms of advertisements, promotion and sponsorship of tobacco products.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh



today made an aerial survey of two rain-ravaged districts of Kerala and said the situation in the state was "very serious".

He assured the state government of all help from the Centre to meet the challenges posed by the unprecedented floods.

The minister was speaking to reporters at the airport here after conducting the aerial survey of Idukki and Ernakulam districts.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today made an aerial survey of two rain-ravaged districts of Kerala and said the situation in the state was "very serious".

He assured the state government of all help from the Centre to meet the challenges posed by the unprecedented floods in Kerala.

The Minister was addressing affected people at a relief camp at Elanthikkara in Paravur Taluk in Ernakulam district.

"Today we conducted an aerial survey of flood affected areas with the Chief Minister and I reached the conclusion that the situation is very serious in Kerala due to floods," he said.

"And I would like to assure the state government that all sorts of support will be provided by the central government to meet the challenges of the flood situation," he said



The Central government stands firmly with the state government in this situation, the union minister said.

Singh was speaking in the presence of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Union Minister Alphons Kannanthanam, who arrived with him from Delhi, state Revenue Minister E Chandrasekharan and senior state government officials.

He also heard the grievances of people who lost their homes and land in the floods.

Earlier, Singh, on his arrival here, held a brief meeting with Vijayan, the Revenue Minister, Agriculture Minister V S Sunil Kumar,Water Resources Minister Mathew T Thomas and Chief Secretary Tom Jose at Cochin International Airport.

The Minister made an aerial survey of areas affected by landslides and rains in Idukki and Ernakulam districts.

He was accompanied by Vijayan, Kannanthanam, Chandrasekharan and Additional Chief Secretary P H Kurian.

After a brief lull, rains started lashing several parts of Kerala since this morning, posing problems to relief work by multiple agencies in flood and landslide hit regions.

However, water level in Idukki and Idamalayar dams reduced, bringing some relief, with authorities saying there was no need for people living downstream to panic.

No fresh casualties were reported since yesterday and the toll in the rain-related incidents since the current monsoon fury from August 8 stood at 37, officials said.

More than 60,000 people have been accommodated in relief camps set up in different areas, including in Wayand, where over 14,000 people had been sheltered.

Ten columns of Army, a unit of Madras Regiment along with personnel of Navy, Air Force and NDRF are engaged in relief and rescue work in badly-hit districts, including Kozhikode, Idukki, Malappuram, Kannur and Wayanad, Defence sources said.

Water level in Idukki dam, the biggest arch dam in Asia, which was opened after a 26 year gap, marginally declined to 2399.16 feet at 10 AM today, after hovering close to its maximum of 2,403 feet in the past few days, officials said.

There was a brief respite from the rains yesterday in several parts of the state, but the fresh heavy downpour was making relief works difficult now, authorities said.

The National Disaster Management Authority had yesterday warned that heavy to very heavy rains were expected in 16 states, including Kerala, till tomorrow.

The weather department has issued a 'Red alert',asking people to be cautious as there was a possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall in most places in Idukki, Wayanad, Kannur, Ernakulam, Palakkad and Malappuram districts.

Around 1,500 houses were damaged partially and 101 have been destroyed completely in rain fury in Kerala in the last few days, according to the disaster control room officials in Thiruvananthpuram.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Former Lok Sabha speaker Somnath Chatterjee's condition deteriorated today after he suffered a "mild heart attack", an official of a private hospital said.

Eighty-nine-year-old Chatterjee, who is suffering from a kidney-related ailment, was admitted to the hospital in a critical condition on Tuesday.

"He is undergoing dialysis. In such cases it happens at times that the heart stops giving support. Chatterjee suffered a mild heart attack this morning, but was revived. He is in the ICCU and is responding to treatment," a senior hospital official told PTI.

Last month, the former speaker had suffered a hemorrhagic stroke.

"He has been under treatment for the past 40 days. Chatterjee was discharged from the hospital just for three days after his health showed signs of improvement. However, his condition deteriorated last Tuesday and he had to be hospitalised again," the official said.

A 10-time Lok Sabha MP, Chatterjee was a central committee member of the CPI(M), which he had joined in 1968.

He was the Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 2004 to 2009.

The veteran leader was, however, expelled from the CPI(M) in 2008 for refusing to resign as the Speaker after his party withdrew support to the UPA-I government.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The over a century-old Jama Masjid Aiwan-E-Begumpet here will be thrown open to people from all religions this Independence Day for a guided tour, a move aimed at promoting inter-faith harmony.

Popularly known as the 'Spanish Mosque' for its Moorish architecture, the heritage masjid, for the first time, has invited people from all religions to visit it on August 15, between 10 am and 7 pm, as part of the 'Visit My Mosque' programme, an official said.

The 112-year old historic mosque in Begumpet area, maintained by the Paigahs, an aristocratic family, was built in 1906 and known for its intrinsic beauty and unique architectural style blending Moorish and Turkish features.

"We invite people from all religions to attend the 'Visit My Mosque' programme. This initiative promotes national integrity and communal harmony and it is an opportunity to meet, share and experience the values and culture of the Indian Muslim community," M A Faiz Khan, a member of the Paigah family and 'mutavalli' (caretaker) of the mosque, said.

Commissioned by Paigah noble Sir Viqar-ul Umera after his European tour of 1887 during which he was inspired by the Moorish architecture of Spain, it was completed by his successor.

The mosque received the Intach Heritage Award in 2010.

"In today's world there are lot of misconceptions... Unfortunately barriers are being created and so we would like to undo that and bring people together... This is to promote brotherhood and all are welcome," Khan told PTI.

He described it as a landmark monument and one of the unique mosques in the country.

Apart from feeling the structural beauty of the monument, they wanted the people to know what actually happens in the mosque, he said.

Khan said it would be an interactive guided tour and people can seek clarifications.

"People can share good time, discuss out the things and feel good about it especially on our Independence Day. Presently this programme is for one day," he added.

Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), Telangana, co-convenor P Anuradha Reddy said the mosque was distinctive in more than one way.

The mosque's design incorporated Turkish elements, including Turkish calligraphy which decorated its interiors, she said.

Describing it as a fascinating architectural gem of the city, she said the mosque has a fairy-tale appearance with unique minarets and a matching dome.

Reddy said she had visited the Masjid-e-Quba in Mehdipatnam here in June this year as part of the 'Open mosque programme'.

On 'Spanish Mosque' opening to all faiths on Independence Day, she said "It is a good idea... People of all communities can learn about each other. It is happy thing for other people to go and recognise it's beauty".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Demand for steel in India is likely to see an annual growth of 10-11 per cent over the next three years, buoyed by a firming trend in the construction sector, among other factors, an official said.

"Going forward we have the potential of domestic steel demand growing at 10-11 per cent for another three years consequently if nothing extraordinary happens. But in normal circumstances I would expect that," Joint Plant Committee(JPC) Chief Economist A S Firoz told PTI.

Domestic steel demand grew at 8 per cent in the first quarter of 2018-19, he said.

"Given the kind of movement that is happening in the industries which consume steel, given the kind of momentum that has been built up in the construction industry...all this will raise steel demand significantly," he said.

He noted that industries like two-wheeler and auto are getting shaped up that will raise domestic steel demand in a big way.

Replying to a question, Firoz said the global trade conflict will not have any immediate impact on the Indian steel market.

US President Donald Trump has imposed 25 per cent import tariff on steel and 10 per cent on aluminium.

However he said there are few constraints to steel production.

"One kind of constraints is that we may not have the kind of products that are in demand, there might not be domestic capacity. So when you don't have domestic capacity, you have a problem of meeting those demands. Imports will come in," he said.

World Steel Association had earlier said that in India, steel demand is expected to accelerate gradually, mainly driven by public investment.

Empowered by Ministry of Steel, JPC is the only institution which collects data on the Indian iron and steel industry.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A 29-year-old "suicidal" airport worker who commandeered an empty plane from Seattle's main airport and took it on an hour-long flight chased by F-15 fighter jets before crashing into a small island did not commit any security violations, officials said.

Horizon Air employee Richard Russell told an air traffic controller he was "just a broken man" minutes before dying late Friday in the Bombardier Q400 twin-engine turboprop plane, appearing to apologize for his actions. Law enforcement officials identified him to US media.

Authorities ruled out any link to terror. But consternation grew over the safety gaps that allowed an airport worker to easily gain access to a commercial airliner and fly it over a major metropolitan area.

"Everybody's stunned... that something like this would happen," said recently retired Horizon operational supervisor Rick Christenson. "How could it? Everybody's been through background checks."



Russell "had access legitimately" to the plane, said Mike Ehl, director of aviation operations at the airport in the northwestern US state of Washington, adding that "no security violations were committed."



Video taken by a bystander showed the 76-seat plane making a big, slow loop-the-loop as US Air Force F-15 jets gave chase, then flying low over Puget Sound before crashing into sparsely populated Ketron Island, setting trees on fire.

"To our knowledge, he didn't have a pilot's license," Gary Beck, CEO of Alaska Airlines affiliate Horizon, told reporters. "Commercial aircraft are complex machines... No idea how he achieved that experience."



But Russell's role at Horizon, where he had worked since 2015, involved towing aircraft as part of a two person team, in addition to loading and unloading cargo and luggage and cleaning the aircraft, according to Beck. "At this time, we believe he was the only one in the aircraft but of course, we haven't confirmed that at the crash site," said Jay Tabb, chief of the FBI's Seattle division.

Ruling out a terror link, Pierce County Sheriff Paul Pastor noted that "most terrorists don't do loops over the water... This might have been a joyride gone terribly wrong."



Ed Troyer, of the sheriff's office, described Russell as "suicidal." Russell lived locally and had acted alone. Initial information had said he was an airline mechanic.

"He was a quiet guy. It seemed like he was well liked by the other workers," Christenson told The Seattle Times. "I feel really bad for Richard and for his family. I hope they can make it through this."



The plane was stolen around 8:00 pm (0300 GMT Saturday) and crashed 90 minutes later, officials said.

The sheriff's office said the F-15s arrived minutes after the plane was stolen and kept the aircraft "out of harm's way and people on the ground safe." The fighter jets flew at supersonic speed, triggering a boom first taken to be an explosion, as they raced to intercept the plane.

President Donald Trump was briefed and the White House praised authorities' quick response to the crisis.

John Waldron, who captured the plane's loop-the-loop on video, told CNN he was out for an evening stroll and initially thought the aircraft were practicing for an air show.

He estimated that the plane, at its lowest point, was no more than 100 feet (30 meters) above the water. As Russell nosedived toward the water, "We were all screaming, 'Oh my god, oh my god!' and I was yelling, 'Pull up, pull up!'" Christenson said.

In a conversation with the control tower, the pilot came across as excitable, confused and even apologetic.

"Congratulations, you did it," the control tower tells him, according to an audio feed aired on CNN.

"Let's turn around the air and land it and not hurt anybody on the ground."



"I don't know, man," the pilot answers. "I don't want to. I was kind of hoping that was going to be it, you know."



During the conversation, the man says he had put some fuel in the plane "to go check out the Olympics" -- the Olympic Mountains that lie about 100 miles (160 kilometers) away.

But he later worried he was running low, saying the fuel had burned "quite a bit faster than I expected." The control tower then urged him to land at a nearby military base.

"I wouldn't want to do that. They probably have anti-aircraft," he responds.

"This is probably jail time for life, huh?" he later says, according to a recording published by The Seattle Times.

"I've got a lot of people that care about me. It's going to disappoint them to hear that I did this," he said.

"I would like to apologize to each and every one of them. Just a broken guy, got a few screws loose, I guess. Never really knew it until now.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A youth from Ludhiana in Punjab fell into flooded Baner Khad on outskirts of Kangra town in Himachal Pradesh and was swept away, while taking selfie on the river bank today.

The deceased has been identified as Jagdish Kumar of Ludhiana, said Kangra Sub Divisional Magistrate Shashipal Negi, adding that a search operation has been launched by the police to fish out the body.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)In a rare diplomatic foray and the strongest sign yet of the Taliban's increasing political presence in the region, the head of the militant group's political office led a delegation to Uzbekistan to meet senior Foreign Ministry officials, Uzbek and Taliban officials said.

Taliban political chief Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai represented the insurgents in the four-day talks that ended Friday and included meetings with Uzbekistan's Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov as well as its special representative to Afghanistan Ismatilla Irgashev.

The meetings follow an offer made by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in March to broker peace in Afghanistan.

Suhail Shaheen, spokesman for the Taliban's political office in Qatar, said in a statement to The Associated Press on Saturday that discussions covered everything from international troop withdrawal to peace prospects to possible Uzbek-funded development projects that could include railway lines and electricity.

Shaheen said Uzbek officials discussed their security concerns surrounding the development projects.

"Taliban also exchanged views with the Uzbek officials about the withdrawal of the foreign troops and reconciliation in Afghanistan," he said in the statement.

Uzbek's Foreign Affairs Ministry website offered a terse announcement on the visit saying "the sides exchanged views on prospects of the peace process in Afghanistan."



Still, the meetings are significant coming as the Taliban ramps up pressure on Afghanistan's Security Forces with relentless and deadly attacks and Washington holds preliminary talks with the insurgents in an attempt to find a negotiated end to Afghanistan's protracted war.

The Taliban have gained increasing attention from Russia as well as Uzbekistan, who view the insurgency as a bulwark against the spread of the Islamic State group in Afghanistan. The United States has accused Moscow of giving weapons to the Taliban.

Still, Andrew Wilder, vice president of Asia programs at the U.S. Institute of Peace said Washington would welcome a "constructive" Russian role in finding a way toward a peace pact in Afghanistan.

"What wouldn't be helpful would be if the Uzbek efforts to facilitate lines of communication with the Taliban are not closely coordinated with the Afghan government," he said.

"High profile talks by foreign governments with the Taliban that exclude the Afghan government risk providing too much legitimacy to the Taliban without getting much in return," Wilder said.

There was no immediate comment from the Afghan government, but neither the Taliban nor the Uzbek foreign ministry statement mentioned the Afghan government.

For Uzbekistan, the IS presence is particularly worrisome as hundreds of its fighters are former members of the radical Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, a declared terrorist group considered the architect of some of the more horrific attacks carried out by IS in Afghanistan.

Last year, there were reports that the son of Tahir Yuldashev, the powerful Uzbek leader of the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, who was killed in a U.S. missile strike in Pakistan in 2009, was leading efforts to help expand IS influence in Afghanistan.

Last week, Afghan security forces reportedly rescued scores of Afghan Uzbeks who had declared their allegiance to IS when they came under attack by Taliban fighters in northern Afghanistan not far from the border with Uzbekistan.

The rescued Uzbek warriors declared they would join the peace process. Most of those rescued were Afghan Uzbeks loyal to Afghanistan's Vice President Rashid Dostum who had gone over to IS after Dostum fell out with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and fled to Turkey in May last year.

Coincidentally their rescue from the Taliban came just days after Dostum returned to Afghanistan and reconciled with Ghani's government.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The teenager son of a police chief in California, who brutally assaulted a 71-year-old Sikh man, grinned and made obscene gestures during his first court appearance, according to a media report.

Sahib Singh Natt was attacked last week and spit at by 18-year-old Tyrone McAllister and his 16-year-old juvenile friend in Manteca, California.

McAllister, the son of Union City Police Chief Darryl McAllister, and the juvenile have been charged with attempted robbery, elder abuse and assault with a deadly weapon.

On Friday, younger McAllister entered the courtroom and flipped his middle fingers to a cameraman. He then dropped his hands before throwing up his middle finger a second time, Sacramento's FOX 40 reported.

He appeared to be grinning, and made suspected gang signs while his hands were cuffed, the report added.

Younger McAllister appeared in the court for his arraignment. No bail was set for the teen.

The attack on Natt during his morning walk was captured by surveillance cameras and showed the two teenagers beating the old man while dressed in hoodies. One, who was wearing a black hoodie, was brandishing a gun.

Investigators were still looking into whether the attack meets the legal criteria for charging a hate crime, the report said.

"As to whether it was just a crime or a hate crime, I'm of the opinion that at this point, looking at the videos, that it's just a crime committed by some young people," Bobby Bivens, president of the Stockton branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People, was quoted as saying.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Ten Pakistani nationals in the UAE today went on trial for allegedly stealing USD 1.6 million from a bank using electronic codes, media reports said.

The accused carried out fraudulent transactions through electronic transfer codes with the help of an employee who worked in the bank in Abu Dhabi, Khaleej Times reported.

The Abu Dhabi Criminal Court during the trial heard that the men - all Pakistanis - defrauded the bank to the tune of 6 million dirhams (USD 1.6 million) by deciphering codes and programming, using two devices called 'e-trader', the report said.

The accused landed in the police net after the bank reported about the financial fraud orchestrated by one of its employees.

The accused used electronic codes with the help of the main defendant - the bank employee - who also had knowledge of the codes of the payment devices of the e-trader, according to the official court documents, the report said.

The men then programmed the electronic payment device and carried out fraudulent transactions, it said.

They used the e-trade devices to make it appear like the bank has paid off the shops with the money deducted from the customers' accounts after making purchases, but instead they transferred the cash to a bank account in an Asian country.

Prosecutors charged them with fraud and unlawful transfer of the bank's funds by using IT methods.

All the men denied the charges in court.

Their lawyer said he would present his clients' defence in the next hearing. The trial was adjourned until September.

The Abu Dhabi Financial Prosecution said that there has been a significant increase in the number of financial and commercial fraud cases being reported in Abu Dhabi.

Officials said they handled 16,663 cases involving finances during 2017, an increase of 2,803 cases as compared to 2016.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The West Bengal unit of Congress today accused the ruling TMC and the BJP of resorting to "narrow-minded" politics by "misguiding" people over the issue of the National Register of Citizens.

"The BJP is campaigning in West Bengal by trying to make people understand that the NRC is for protecting the Hindus. And similarly, Mamata Banerjee is trying to misguide the people saying that the NRC is a danger for the Bengalis and she will be their saviour.

"Both have taken to narrow-minded politics prior to the general elections," West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee president Adhir Chowdhury said here.

The NRC is meant for the state of Assam and not for any other state, he asserted.

He also referred to an incident of 2005, when TMC chief and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed dissatisfaction in the Lok Sabha, after she was not allowed to speak on illegal migration of Bangladeshis into West Bengal.

"Even, she (Banerjee) is a different person. She is now wanting to give shelter to the 40 lakh people, who are not on the NRC list, in West Bengal. Why this dual character?" Chowdhury said.

He added that the state Congress would hold a rally in the city on October 4, highlighting issues "through which people were misguided for the sake of vote bank politics".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)In a rebuff to BP plc, an international tribunal has held that the British energy giant cannot claim any legal cost from the Indian government as it was never part of an arbitration its partner Reliance Industries filed in the gas migration row with ONGC.

Last month, the three-member international arbitration tribunal by a majority vote held that Reliance could contractually produce and sell any gas that might have migrated from adjoining fields of state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) into its area.

It asked the Government of India to pay Reliance USD 8.3 million to cover for the legal cost but rejected USD 1.47 million claimed by BP and another USD 156,930.03 claimed by Canada's Niko Resources -- two minority partners in eastern offshore KG-D6 fields.

"Not being a party to the arbitration should the costs incurred by each of them be included as those incurred by the Claimant (Reliance) and recoverable from the Respondent (Government of India)? In the Tribunal's view, this should not be," the majority order said.

An e-mail sent to BP India for comments remained unanswered.

Reliance had sought USD 13.48 million in legal cost, including USD 1.6 million incurred by BP and Niko.

Of USD 11.85 million Reliance claimed as cost incurred by it, the tribunal allowed USD 8.2 million after trimming down some of the expense, according to the order.

Reliance claimed USD 2.74 million in fee for its counsel and senior advocate Harish Salve but the panel felt that "based on the length of the oral hearings, the pleaded case, the witnesses' statements and expert reports field in this arbitration", his fees "appear to be exceedingly high".

It felt it was "not fair or reasonable to impose" this on the government and went on to trim it to USD 750,000.

It trimmed down other legal fees as well.

Also, the arbitration tribunal chairman's fee and expenses totalling to USD 2.6 million were sought from the Government of India.

The panel asked the government to pay an interest at the rate of 4.31 per cent from the date of award till the payment is made.

Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan last week said the government will challenge the award in Delhi High Court.

With one member dissenting, the panel had held that the production sharing contract for eastern offshore KG-D6 fields "does not prohibit but permits" Reliance "to produce and sell gas which migrated into the sub-sea reservoir lying within (its) Contract Area from a source outside the Contract Area".

And so "there is no question of 'unjust enrichment'," it held. Reliance "has not been and will not be unjustly enriched by any production of migrated gas as a result of Petroleum Operations conducted within its Contract Area".

Reliance is the operator of KG-D6 block with 60 per cent interest, while BP plc of UK holds 30 per cent and Niko Resources of Canada the remaining 10 per cent.

The Oil Ministry had on November 4, 2016, slapped a demand notice on Reliance-BP-Niko combine for producing in seven years ending March 31, 2016 about 338.332 million British thermal units of gas that had seeped or migrated from ONGC's blocks into their adjoining KG-D6 in the Bay of Bengal. It claimed USD 1.55 billion from the three for the same.

Reliance on November 11, 2016 slapped an arbitration notice disputing the claim.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Trinamool Congress today took out rallies in the city against the complete draft of the National Register of Citizens (NRC).

Protest marches were organised at Esplanade in the heart of the metropolis and in other places, including one at Kamarhati in the northern part.

State minister Sovandeb Chattopadhyay led the protest against the NRC at Esplanade, while TMC leaders Tapas Roy and Madan Mitra led the rally at Kamarhati-Baranagar area.

The ruling party had organised similar rallies in different parts of West Bengal yesterday, barring the state capital.

The TMC has alleged that in the name of the NRC, the BJP government in Assam had deliberately omitted names of Bengalis from the list, a claim which has been denied by the saffron party.

The complete draft of the NRC was published on July 30 in Assam with 2.89 lakh names out of 3.29 applicants.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad arrested today two persons and seized 5 kilograms of heroin, reportedly worth Rs 15 crore in the international market, which the agency believes was smuggled from Pakistan by sea.

The seizure was made in Salaya in Gujarat's Devbhoomi Dwarka district, about 450 km from here, and it indicated a nexus of terror organisations in its smuggling, the ATS said in a release.

"On the basis of a specific information, the Gujarat ATS has arrested a person named Aziz Abdul Bhagad from Salaya, Devbhoomi Dwarka. He was found in possession of 5 kg of pure heroin, worth Rs 15 crore in the international market," it said.

The heroin was brought to Salaya in conspiracy with two more persons from Mandvi, one of whom, identified as Arif Adam Sumra, was arrested, the ATS said.

The ATS further said that the remaining part of the consignment was transferred to a person for its sale in north India.

It added that the heroin seized was part of a "bigger consignment" of 100 kg that was brought to Mandvi in Kutch district from Pakistan four months ago.

"The heroin was brought by the same accused via sea route by using dhows and fishing trawlers. The origin of the consignment is in Pakistan and its delivery was made in the international waters," the ATS said.

"Information available with the investigation agency indicates nexus of terror organisations in the smuggling of contraband heroin. Further, there are clear linkages found in this case with the case where Australian Navy had intercepted a dhow carrying heroin in 2014," it further said.

The Royal Australian Navy had in April that year seized more than one tonne of heroin from a dhow in the Kenyan waters in the Indian Ocean.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two Austrians -- a man in his fifties and a teenager -- died today when their glider crashed to the ground in the Champsaur valley in the southern French Alps, sources said.

"The alert was sounded by witnesses who saw the glider fall," a local official said, adding that the weather conditions had been "good". Two rescuers and a doctor were sent to the scene, but the exact circumstances of the accident were not yet known.

The accident happened at a place called Roche Rousse, at an altitude of 2,515 metres (8,280 feet), the local official told AFP.

The pair had taken off from a local aerodrome earlier Sunday, a source close to the inquiry said, adding that they were an Austrian man in his fifties and a boy aged around 15.

The valley, near Grenoble, is famed for its unspoilt farmland crisscrossed by hedgerows and rural residents who still make their living from making cheese and other regional delicacies.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The UK High Court has allowed a local council to drop its bid to take the children of two known extremists into social care after the authorities failed to prove the kids were in danger of being radicalised.

The unnamed council had applied to the courts to take five young children into care, fearing they risked suffering emotional and psychological harm because of their parents' extremist views, 'The Sunday Telegraph' reported.

The children's father, described as "a leading figure" of the banned UK-based terror organisation Al-Muhajiroun, has been on a terrorist watch list and their mother attended extremist meetings calling for jihad against non-Muslims.

But earlier this week, the council was allowed to drop the care proceedings after it said it could not demonstrate the children had been damaged.

Following a seven-day High Court hearing, Justice Knowles agreed that there was no evidence that they had been harmed, it said.

The case is believed to be one of a number in which councils have dropped plans to take the children of known extremists into care after being unable to prove they were in danger.

The father in the most recent case, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the children, was found by police to have encouraged others to join Islamic State (ISIS) and had discussed throwing gay men to their deaths from high buildings.

He had until recently been subject to a Terrorist Prevention and Investigation Measure (TPIM) used where someone is believed to be involved in terrorism but cannot be prosecuted or deported and is set to face trial later this year for breaches of the TPIM.

He separated from his wife in 2013, and his children lived with their mother in east London until their eldest, a girl known as Child A, went to live with her father outside London.

In June, the council had submitted documents to the court stating that "the children were suffering significant emotional and psychological harm arising from exposure to their parents' extremist and radicalising views and were likely to adopt those same extremist and radical views".

However, a social worker told Justice Knowles at the recent hearing that the mother met the children's basic needs, they were developing appropriately, and the children had not themselves expressed any hateful or extremist views.

In her judgment, the judge said the council would be unable to meet the threshold required by the law to take the children into care.

She wrote: "There was an absence of any evidence that the children had been significantly harmed by their parent's alleged extremist and radicalised beliefs.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Unplanned urbanisation and felling of trees were behind a recent surge in lightning strikes and the number of deaths in such incidents in the country, a meteorologist of a Pune-based institute said.

These days, lightning is more in the cities than in the rural areas of India, the senior meteorologist of the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), said.

"Around 3,000 to 3,500 people die every year in the country due to lightning. But the trend is little higher since the last five years. And this year we are expecting more lightning at stations over the foothills of Himalayas (starting from Jammu and Kashmir till the Darjeeling foothills) central and eastern part of the country," scientist of the Atmospheric Electricity Aerosol Physics of the IITM, Dr S D Pawar told PTI.

Though there is no past official record on the number of deaths because of lightning strikes in India, Dr Pawar said a study conducted by them in this connection in the last 20 years shows that it is "definitely" on the rise.

He said this is a natural phenomenon. Though lightning depends mostly on the moisture content of a particular region there is no exact reason behind the recent rise of lightning.

"However, urbanisation is one of the main causes behind the rise which is mostly witnessed in the metro areas," he said, adding global warming is also another reason behind the recent surge in the incidents of lightning.

He said with the cutting down of trees the city regions of India were turning into urban heat islands which is helping in.

Elaborating the "urban heat island" concept, Dr Pawar said, that it is an effect which describes the variation in temperature between cities and their surrounding areas.

"Because of the cutting down of the trees and unplanned urbanisation, the cities are getting warmer than their rural surroundings. The temperature is rising mainly due to the highrises, roads and other infrastructure replacing open land and vegetation," the scientist said.

The scientist said, "Among other reasons pollution is definitely a factor. Apart from that carbon and dust particles in the air could also be one of reasons. And pollution is higher because in and around the city region there has been an increase of dust particles in the air."



"During the months of April-May, that in summer there are high incidence of thunderstorms. However, lightning is less during the monsoon season in June-July and number of deaths are lesser," he said.

"We have conducted a study on the spatial distribution of convective available potential energy (CAPE) and lightning activity in different seasons over the Indian region to find out the dependence of lightning activity on CAPE.

"And it is observed that the lightning activity over the Indian region is not controlled by CAPE alone during pre-monsoon season. The prevailing meteorological conditions and orography over northern India, central India, northeast Pakistan and Bangladesh provide favourable conditions for formation of thunderstorms and that's why lightning activity is higher in spite of lower value of the CAPE over these regions compared to other parts of India," Dr Pawar said.

Lightning which has become a frequent natural phenomenon during the summer, mostly in the two months of April and May, however, becomes quite irregular during the monsoon season, he said.

On whether lightning has gone up in the hilly regions in the northeastern part of the country, Dr Pawar said, "It's not that high in Shillong or in the seven northeastern states because the hills still have a green coverage."



However, in metro city like Kolkata lightning incidents are pretty higher compared to cities like Mumbai, he said.

Incidentally, Andhra Pradesh recorded 36,749 lightning strikes in just a 13-hour period in the month of May.

A home ministry data shows that till May, as many as 80 people have been killed in five states due to thunderstorms and lightning strikes with Uttar Pradesh alone recording 51 deaths, and 136 people injured across the country.

Deaths due to lightning is higher in Maharashtra mostly in Nagpur and Vidharbha, Aurangabad, in Odisha as well as in West Bengal mainly because of the instability and moisture content in the air.

"But in monsoon lightning deaths are lesser because the clouds lie at the low level. And the passing of lightning is quicker because of the shorter distance between the clouds and the ground," he explained.

The meteorologist also stressed on the need of conducting more research works in connection to understand about the character of lightning which is different in different regions of the country owing to the difference in the climatic conditions.

"Some research works are going on in different regions. But we need to conduct more studies because of the difference in their character of the weather. We must not forget that India is a vast country with absolute different climatic conditions. Study is also necessary to ascertain why it is growing these days," Dr Pawar said.

"High buildings should have lighting arresters and they should be equipped with other good technique to bypass lightning through it and reach the ground," he elaborated.

And one must lie down and should avoid movement during lightning.

"If you lie down during a thunderstorm, an electrical current passing through the ground from a nearby lightning strike can pass right through your body," he signed off.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)US Attorney General Jeff Sessions has erroneously referred to Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla, who was shot dead in a hate crime at a suburban Kansas City bar last year, as a Sikh.

A US Navy veteran was last week awarded three consecutive life sentences on federal hate crime charges for killing Kuchibhotla and wounding two others at a suburban Kansas City bar last year.

Adam Purinton of Olathe shot and killed 32-year-old Kuchibhotla, and wounded two others Indian national Alok Madasani and Kansas resident Ian Grillot at Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas, in February 2017.

Sessions, America's top law enforcement official said this while addressing the Alliance Defending Freedom's Summit on Religious Liberty on August 8, a day after Purinton was awarded three consecutive life sentences.

"Yesterday, we obtained a life sentence for a man who murdered an Indian-American man, a Sikh as it turned out, because he thought he was a Muslim," Sessions said in his remarks at the summit.

"This is the kind of horrible things we do not need to allow in this country," Sessions added in his speech, the video of which is available online.

While Sessions did not name Kuchibhotla, the reference was to the August 7 sentencing of Purinton when he was handed down three consecutive life terms for killing the Hyderabad native.

The mistake of wrongly identifying Kuchibhotla as a Sikh was pointed out by PTI here to the Department of Justice's Office of Public Affairs.

Later, an official from the public affairs office, responding to PTI's email seeking comment on the error, said that an updated speech has been uploaded on the Department of Justice's website. In the updated version of Sessions' remarks, the error has been rectified.

The updated version of Sessions' remarks removed the Sikh reference and now states that "yesterday, we obtained a life sentence for a man who murdered an Indian-American man because he thought he was Muslim."



It mentions at the end of the remarks that "The original version of this speech mistakenly identified the victim of a hate crime as Sikh."



Kuchibhotla hailed from Hyderabad and had worked at Garmin as a senior aviation systems engineer in Kansas. He and Madasani were sitting in the Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe when Purinton approached them and demanded to know where they were from and how they entered the country.

Purinton poked Kuchibhotla in the chest, called him a "terrorist" and an epithet disparaging persons of Middle Eastern descent, and shouted, "Get out of my country!"



Aiming at Kuchibhotla and Madasani, Purinton had fired eight rounds from his semi-automatic pistol, at least four of which struck Kuchibhotla, who died from his injuries, and one of which struck Madasani, who was injured. Hours after the shooting, Purinton stated over the phone to a friend, and later in person to a bartender, that he had just killed some "Iranians."



In his remarks, Sessions also said the Department is aggressively enforcing the country's civil rights laws, hate crimes laws, and laws protecting churches and faith groups.

Since January 2017, the Department obtained 11 indictments and eight convictions in cases involving arson or other attacks or threats against houses of worship. The Civil Rights Division has also obtained 13 indictments in other attacks or threats against people because of their religion.

"And we are not slowing down. Three weeks ago, we obtained a jury verdict against a man who set fire to a mosque in Texas and a man from Missouri for threatening to kill members of a mosque," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The United States will return to the Philippines church bells seized by American forces in a bloody campaign more than a century ago, its embassy said today, following a demand by President Rodrigo Duterte.

American forces took three bells from the Catholic church of Balangiga town on the eastern island of Samar in 1901 as war booty in what historians said was a particularly brutal military operation in the new US colony.

Duterte and previous Philippine governments had urged Washington to return the bells, with the president often raising the issue in his anti-American tirades as he builds closer ties with China and Russia.

The US had initially given a non-committal response to Duterte's demands but on Sunday said it would return the bells.

"The Secretary of Defense has notified Congress that the Department (of Defense) intends to return the Bells of Balangiga to the Philippines," said Molly Koscina, spokeswoman for the US embassy in Manila.

"We've received assurances that the Bells will be returned to the Catholic Church and treated with the respect and honor they deserve," she added, saying there was no date scheduled for the move.

Duterte's spokesman welcomed the announcement.

Two of the bells are installed at a memorial for US war dead in the state of Wyoming, while the third is with US forces in South Korea.

Some US politicians oppose the dismantling of the memorial, and the issue had sparked an emotional response from the descendants of American soldiers who served in the Philippine campaign.

The Philippines, a Spanish colony for centuries, was ceded to the United States in 1898 at the end of the Spanish-American War. The country gained independence from the US in 1946.

The brutal Samar campaign was launched about a month after Filipino rebels killed 34 US troops in Balangiga on September 28, 1901, according to a US Army War College research paper.

Seven other American soldiers perished during the escape from Balangiga, and US reinforcements razed the town the day after, it added.

Then-Philippine president Fidel Ramos first sought but failed to recover the bells during a 1998 Washington trip.

Duterte, who took office in mid-2016, demanded the return of the bells during his State of the Nation address last year: "Give us back those Balangiga bells. They are not yours. They are ours. They belong to the Philippines. They are part of our national heritage.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A former energy company executive from Vermont has a shot at becoming the nation's first transgender governor but she said that's not the main reason she's running.

Christine Hallquist said she wants to be elected on the basis of what she believes she can bring to the state she loves.

Hallquist acknowledges that in the run-up to Tuesday's primary, people are finally beginning to pay attention to the race, but her transgender status wasn't on their minds.

She said Vermont voters want to know what she can do to help them get higher-paying jobs, provide health care for their families and better educate their children.

The 62-year-old Hallquist is one of four candidates in the Democratic primary.

She's part of a wave of LGBTQ candidates seeking higher office across the U.S.

Incumbent Republican Gov. Phil Scott is also facing a primary challenge Tuesday.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The sextoy market is growing quite rapidly in India right now.

Although it is not a big trend, it is a hot topic on the internet as it is secretly expanding its market.

In this article, we will focus on sextoy and introduce recommended sextoy for Indian beginners of sextoy by gender.

India, the birthplace of the Kama Sutra, is very strict about sex.

Also, premarital sex is basically not allowed. Therefore, there are many people who are sexually restricted.

But what happens when you continue to be sexually restricted?

Frustration may build up and you may end up taking your sexual stress out on your partner.

If you are able to adopt sextoy in a timely manner, you can get rid of those problems.

I want to have more exciting sex than Im having now.

I want more variation in masturbation

I want to get even stronger pleasure than I do on my own.

If you have any of these problems, please stay with me until the end.

What is sex toys for Indian?

Sextoy, as the name implies, is a toy used during sex and masturbation.

It is a generic term for vibrators, Egg-vibrators, Electric massagers, dildo, handcuffs and condoms.

They are used to make regular sex more exciting or to make masturbation more pleasurable.

Because sextoy is very stimulating, it can help you to get rid of the problems and frustrations of being in a rut of sex with your partner for a long time, or if you are unhappy with the lack of pleasure in sex with your partner.

The ability to satisfy your desires with movement, texture, and size, which cannot be done by a normal human being, can help you to be satisfied with sex and, as a result, improve your relationship with your partner.

It is also said to help improve sexual dysfunction (inability to get an erection or ejaculate) and difficulty in feeling during sex (insensitivity), which is attracting more attention than in the past.

In recent years, the demand for sextoy has increased due to the spread of smartphones and the Internet and the increasing number of people using online shopping.

Even those who are concerned about the appearance of sextoy (and find it difficult to purchase) can now easily obtain it by using mail order.

In the case of online shopping, most of the stores have taken steps to ensure that the contents of the products delivered to you are not revealed, so you can purchase them without your family members knowing.

Until a while ago, you had to go to the store where the adult goods were sold to buy them, so it was quite a hurdle to overcome.

Also, many people may have an image that sextoy is somehow embarrassing to own.

But nowadays, some of them are so stylish and cute that you cant believe they are sextoy at a glance.

More and more people are using them for travel and outdoor use because they are not too bulky and are suitable for carrying around.

Sextoy situation in India

Before introducing the recommended sextoy for Indians, lets talk about one of the sextoy situations in India in recent years.

In India, due to the high concentration of population, the following six cities have particularly high sales of sextoy in India.

Mumbai

Kolkata

Bangalore

Delhi

Chennai

Hyderabad

These cities account for roughly 70 percent of sextoy sales in India.

In the future, the percentage of sextoy use will gradually increase in other cities in India as well.

If you never talk about sextoy publicly, that girl in your neighborhood might be a sextoy user too.

If you are interested in sextoy, you dont have to suppress your desire for it.

What are Sextoys for beginner?

Among all sextoys, sextoy for beginners are vibrators, dildo, masturbators, Sex Lubricants, and condoms.

Sex Lubricants and condoms, which are familiar to people who have had sex, are also a great beginners sextoy.

I will explain the details of each toy later, but there are many sextoy products that are painful to use and can only be used after some anal expansion.

I assume that the Indian readers of this article are people who have not had much experience with sextoy.

If such people use professional sextoy suddenly, they are at risk of injury or trauma.

Therefore, to introduce sextoy, you need to start with a beginners version and gradually become familiar with it.

Advantages of using sextoy for Indians

There are three advantages of using sextoy for Indians

You can masturbate in a wide variety of ways.

Can have stimulating sex

Can develop new sexual zones

If you try to masturbate with your own fingers or hands, it tends to be a pattern.

However, with sextoy, you can easily masturbate in a variety of ways.

You will definitely be fascinated by the attraction of new stimulation.

Also, your daily sex life will be more exciting than ever.

There are many things in sextoy that are visually stimulating and give you a strong and intense feeling of pleasure.

This allows you to see your partners promiscuity in a way that you wouldnt normally see it.

When you are in a relationship, sex with your partner may become a pattern, but it can also eliminate these problems.

It can also lead to the development of new sexual zones (which is the training of sexual stimulation to allow you to feel orgasms).

For more information on the development of new sexual zones, see the following articles

[Women's Erogenous Zone]How to find and develop, 7 hidden sexual zones !![In India] In this issue, we will dissect the female erogenous zone! ..." Many of you may be like that. Men, in particular, shou...

Thus, the use of sextoy can only be a good thing for the men and women of India.

Sextoy for beginner men in India

So, lets continue with the recommended goods for Indian sextoy beginners.

For ease of understanding, we will introduce them by gender. Lets start with the men!

The following five goods are recommended for novice Indian sextoy men

Masturbator

Cock rings

Love Doll

Sex Lubricants

Toys for the prostate

Lets check each one in detail.

Masturbator

The masturbator is a sextoy for men that elaborately reproduces a womans vagina, mouth, and anus, and is one of the most popular sextoy products.

It is used by men to masturbate, and it is popular because it provides stronger stimulation and pleasure more easily than using hands.

Most are made of good quality silicone, and their softness is something that cannot be achieved with ones own hands.

They can provide stronger pleasure than a real womans vagina, so be careful not to overuse them. (You wont be able to have an orgasm in a womans vagina anymore.)

Again Male masturbators are a wonderful toy. I do not need any favourite timing, bothersome bargaining. You do not have to worry too much.

Revolutionize your masturbation time! ! !

Made in Japan is a wonderful kinky toy.#sextoysindia #SexToyIndia #Japanhttps://t.co/4k70QGzoTP pic.twitter.com/tRVdxTKPpa   SEXToys India PR  (@SextoysIndia) November 12, 2018

Some of them are disposable, while others can be washed and used over and over again, so its fun to buy a few to use depending on your mood.

If you want to know more about masturbator, please click here

Really pleasant male masturbation and how to do it Are you in a rut with your daily masturbation routine? I'm going to show you five ways men masturbate that you might ...

[For Beginners] How to choose and use a male masturbator without fail Gentlemen.Have you ever used a masturbator? The person who sees this article is probably the one who has not experien...

Cock Ring

A cock ring is literally a ring-shaped sextoy that is worn on a mans penis.

It maintains an erection by binding the penis with a ring of rubber and blocking blood flow.

It is sometimes used as an accessory to be worn on the penis, and may be made of metal or plastic as well as rubber.

In some cases, cock rings have parts or vibrators attached to them that stimulate the vagina, so they kill two birds with one stone, giving a woman pleasure while maintaining an erection.

Cock rings are also sometimes used to treat erectile dysfunction.

It can help with erectile dysfunction, where the penis doesnt get hard when you get an erection or doesnt last long when you try to insert it.

Men who are prone to breakage or who are unsure of the hardness and size of their erections can use a cock ring to increase the size of their penis and maintain an erection for a longer period of time.

Cock rings vary in price from around RS700 to over RS2000 with a vibrator function.

Some of them do not fit your penis, so you should check the size of the cock ring before you buy.

You should know the size of your partners or your own penis when it is erect.

[Penis enlargement] What is a cock ring? Types and usage Cock rings can make your penis bigger and harder. It also makes sex with women more fulfilling and increases your sat...

Love Doll

Love dolls, also known as Dutchwives, are dolls with the appearance of a woman who can experience simulated sex.

There are dolls that look like a woman, but they have no face and only have their breasts and lower torso cut off, and some dolls are so realistic that they can actually be mistaken for real women.

Some expensive dolls can cost more than 1 million yen, and the quality of the doll is easily influenced by the price.

The higher the price, the higher the quality of the doll will be, the closer it will be to the real woman, and the cheaper the doll will be, the less elaborate it will be, making it look like a real doll! Something is wrong! That is also true.

You cant go wrong if you choose a balance between price and taste.

There are stores that allow you to make custom-made love dolls, so you can create a girl of your choice.

You can make a girl of your choice. You can start with inexpensive love dolls at first, and once you get used to it, you can try custom-made love dolls.

If you want to know more about Love doll, please click here

Thorough explanation of the charm of sex dolls! Have you ever heard of sex dolls that are used primarily for pseudo-sex purposes? It is a doll that is quite close to...

Sex lubricants

Sex lubricants are used as a substitute for lubricating fluid during sex or as a lubricant for men to use masturbator rules.

It is not uncommon for women to have difficulty getting wet, depending on their physical condition, or to have difficulty getting wet due to their constitution.

Forcing the penis into the vagina at such times can cause painful intercourse.

There are various types of Sex Lubricants, some with a warming effect, some with a cooling effect, and some with a scent.

Changing the Sex Lubricant used during play is recommended as a good sex accent.

If you want to learn more about Sex Lubricants, click here.

What is sex lubricant?Explain the difference and usage of each ingredient The word "sex toy" may seem like a hurdle to overcome, but lotion is actually one of the most familiar sex toys. Many...

Toys for the Prostate

Another sextoy for men is prostate toys.

The most famous prostate toys include Enemagra, which was originally a prostate massager developed by an American urologist to treat an enlarged prostate line.

Modern prostate toys are imitations of Enemagra that have spread as sextoy for men.

Many people think of prostate toys as being used by gay men, but in fact they are often used by straight men.

What is the prostate?

The prostate is an organ found only in men. It is a walnut-sized organ located deep in the pelvis, just below the bladder, and its primary role is to protect and nourish sperm.

You cannot touch the prostate gland from outside the body, but you can touch it by inserting a finger or sextoy through the anus.

By inserting a finger or sextoy through the anus and touching the prostate and developing it, you can feel intense orgasms.

Orgasms felt in the prostate are mainly dry orgasms, which are orgasms that do not involve ejaculation. (You can also feel orgasms with ejaculation through prostate stimulation.)

The prostate is called the male G-spot, and dry orgasms can be much more intense than ejaculation.

Therefore, men who are able to develop a prostate can become addicted to the pleasure.

sextoy for beinner women in India

The following are the recommended goods for Indian women who are new to sextoy.

The following three are recommended for use by women who are new to sextoy.

Vibrator.

Dildo

Electric Masserger

Lets check out what each one is in detail.

If you want to check out womens toys, click here.

[BEST25]Sex Toys for Women in IndiaThat Can Help You Have an Orgasm There are many women who pretend to feel orgasm during sex. But don't worry, you don't have to pretend to feel orgasm...

Vibrators

A vibrator is a sextoy that vibrates with an Egg-Vibrator to provide stimulation and is often referred to simply as a vibrator.

Some vibrate as well as rotate, and there are many variations of sextoy.

It is quite a popular sextoy, and is well recognized by people who do not know much about sextoy.

Its usage is similar to that of a massager, but it is more compact and easier to carry than a massager, and many of them look as cute as a lipstick or a macaroon, so they are popular among women.

For a while, a famous influencer on twitter said, This is good! You may have heard of the topic of this article by introducing the recommended vibrators.

Vibrators are great for women to use on their own, but they are also recommended for men who have difficulty satisfying women with sex.

Since it is powered by electricity, it is far less tiring than moving your hands by yourself.

This makes it easier to satisfy a woman with sex because you can caress her for longer than usual.

Vibrators are mainly used on the female side, but they can also be used on men.

When used on men, they are used to attack the nipples and glans, and in both cases it is recommended to wear a condom for hygiene reasons.

Introducing how to use the vibrator, its purpose, and how to choose it! Vibrator uses the vibrations caused by the rotation of the motor to provide stimulation. It is one or two of the most...

Dildo

A dildo is a model sextoy made to mimic a male penis.

It can be made of silicone, elastomer (think of it as a material similar to PVC), metal or glass.

A dildo can be used by a man for his female partner during sex, or by a woman for masturbation to get pleasure from it.

They are mainly inserted into women, but some can be used in the male anus as well.

It is sometimes used synonymously with vibrators, but the vibrator is not the same thing as a vibrating device.

A model of a penis that does not vibrate is a dildo.

Some of them have suction cups that can be attached to the floor or wall so that you can enjoy realistic masturbation without using your hands.

For fun, there is a dildo made in the shape of your partners penis.

This one is also popular as a gift, and if youve been together for a long time and are having trouble finding a gift for your partner, you might want to pick one.

To learn more about dildo, please click here.

What is Dildo: Orgasms with Dildos for Men and Women A dildo is a model of a male organ that is used by women for masturbation and by men to stimulate the prostate gland. Th...

Electric Masserger

A Electric Masserger is a hand-held electric massager, also known as a handheld massager, and can usually be purchased at electronics stores.

It was originally designed to relieve stiff shoulders and back pain, so the hurdle of buying one in a physical store is quite low.

Many people may have seen or used it in some form or another, as it is often installed in leisure hotels.

Such a massager is highly recommended for beginners because it is easy for women to get pleasure from it when they use it during masturbation.

It is larger than Egg-Vibrator and vibrations are stronger than those of Egg-Vibrators and vibrators, so even just hitting the clitoris can give you a great deal of pleasure.

For those women who have never had an orgasm during sex with their man, the massager may be a good way to get a feel for what it feels like to have an orgasm.

It looks and feels like an electric massager, so you wont have to feel awkward if your roommate finds out.

If you are in a rut of having sex with your partner, if you want to feel an orgasm through masturbation, or if you are thinking of using a sextoy, why dont you try it from a simple massager?

To learn more about Electric Masserger, click here.

What is a massager? Introducing types, selection methods, and usage Originally, the Magic-wand vibrator and the massage machine were sold as a home massage machine used for the back and th...

How to choose a sextoy for Indian

Now that weve covered the different types of sextoy, heres how to choose one.

Especially if you are trying sextoy for the first time, pay attention to the following three points:  Does the size fit you (the partner)?

Does the size fit you (your partner)?

Is the environment able to produce sound without problems?

Price range

First of all, the choice of size is quite important.

Most sextoy are used against or inserted into the genitals, but the genitals are very delicate organs for both men and women.

For this reason, using an inappropriate size may cause damage.

Secondly, the environment should be able to produce sound without problems.

Some sextoys not only wear, but also rotate and vibrate. Its easier to get pleasure from something that moves than something that doesnt, but the fact that it moves means that the internal rotors make some noise.

If you live in a house with thin walls or if you have roommates, you may not be able to concentrate because of the noise, so it is best to choose one that is silent or has a low noise level.

Especially in India, where many people live with their families, it is very important that you dont have to worry about sound when you use it.

Finally, there is the price range.

The price range of sextoy ranges widely, from around RS500 at the cheapest to RS10,000 or more at the highest.

Its good to consider how much money you can afford and how much you want to buy.

Do you want your family to not find out about sextoy?

I live with my family and want to use sextoy without them finding out! If you are a man, you should buy a camouflage sextoy that does not look like a sextoy at first glance.

For men, there are many masturbators that do not look like a sextoy, and for women, there are vibrators that only look like cosmetics.

If you choose such a type, youll be safe in case your family members find out.

How to buy sextoys in India

The best way to purchase sextoy is through online shopping.

For more information on how to purchase sextoy, please see the article below.

Sextoy is one of them.

Therefore, you can easily get sextoy in India by using online shopping.

SexToysINDIA is a long established and stable sextoy store and you can have sextoy delivered to any place in India.

They also offer cash on delivery, so those who are worried about shopping with a credit card do not have to worry.

Of course, the latest security is in place, so your information will not be taken out when you use your credit card.

To begin with, many people may be concerned about whether they are legally allowed to purchase sextoy.

ikmAs it turns out, its not illegal.

Right now, it is not open to the public because the Indian adult market is still in the development stage, but it will gradually spread from now on.

Take advantage of sextoy and open the door to new pleasures and culture.

Cautions for Indians using sextoy

When using sextoy, keep the following three things in mind

Keep sex toys clean

Watch out for electrical leakage

Beware of the heat generated by the body while using a sex toy

As I mentioned earlier, many sextoy products are used for the delicate zone.

Therefore, it is most important to keep the sextoy itself clean. It is very important to keep the sextoy itself clean, because if a slight scratch is created by friction, bacteria can enter and breed there.

It is safe to wear a condom when using the masturbator, just in case.

In addition, many sextoy devices are powered by a power source, so if they are not waterproof, there is a possibility of electric shock or malfunction due to wetness.

Some may even develop heat during continuous use. If the fever becomes too much, you may get burned, so be careful.

If you get a fever during use, stop driving the sextoy immediately and refrain from using it.

You will enjoy sex more if you keep it safe and use it correctly.

Summary

What did you think?

In this article, we have introduced the recommended sextoy for the beginners of sextoy in India.

The sextoy market is growing rapidly in India and it will continue to grow steadily in the future.

As India is a rather closed-minded country, it can be difficult to be open about ones sexual habits and values.

However, being faithful to ones desires by properly dissolving ones sexual desire is very effective for ones physical and mental health.

If this is your first time to learn about sextoy, or if you are interested in using sextoy, why not give it a try?

Indian Sextoys for ur best! will introduce you to sextoy and other trivia about sextoy, sexuality, and sexuality for men and women.

I want to read more! If you think its a great idea, please bookmark it.A Vietnamese former colonel and revolutionary war hero who became disillusioned with the communist regime and defected, becoming one of its most vocal and influential critics, died in France at age 90.

Bui Tin passed away of kidney failure in a hospital in Paris early yesterday, his friend and a relative confirmed, after several weeks of declining health.

"The hospital told me that Tin passed away after falling into a coma," close acquaintance Tuong An told AFP today.

A relative in Hanoi also confirmed his death.

Tin, a former army journalist, had lived in exile in France since 1990 when he defected during a trip for a meeting organised by l'Humanite communist newspaper in Paris.

It was an unlikely twist of fate for a man who spent much of his life fighting for Vietnam's independence -- first from French colonial rulers and later from US-backed anti-communist fighters in the south.

He was just a teenager when, full of fervour, he joined the army aligned with Ho Chi Minh's revolutionary movement that would eventually expel the French in the epic battle of Dien Bien Phu in 1954.

Several other milestones would follow during his storied military career.

On April 30, 1975, he was among the first soldiers that entered the Presidential Palace in the former southern capital Saigon -- later renamed Ho Chi Minh City -- capping a long and bloody war that left some three million Vietnamese dead.

Tin worked as an army reporter during much of the war, and later said he met US navy pilot John McCain in the prison nicknamed the "Hanoi Hilton" where the American POW spent five and half years after his jet was shot down in the city.

The two men would meet again in 1991, when Tin testified to a US senate committee on POW and MIA affairs, at the end of which he famously hugged the man he once considered a foe.

"When I reached for his hand he responded by embracing me, which I didn't mind, as cameras recorded the moment for the next day's papers, which ran the picture with variations on the caption FORMER ENEMIES EMBRACE," McCain wrote in his 2002 book "Worth the Fighting For".

As an army reporter, who later held top jobs at state newspapers, Tin spent much of his career brushing up with war heroes like General Vo Nguyen Giap but-- like Giap -- later became disillusioned with the cause he dedicated so much of his life to.

He believed the Communist Party had drifted from the ideals of the revolution's founding father -- calling its leaders arrogant and corrupt -- and once said the party "hides its misdeeds in the shadow of Ho Chi Minh".

He spent much of his time in France writing about and current affairs in his birth country and friends say he was a journalist, and activist, up to the day he died.

Days before he fell ill last month, his internet went down so he wrote an article by hand calling for multi-party democracy in Vietnam that he asked a friend to post.

"When I visited him in the hospital, he was very weak, but the first question he asked me was whether his article had been published or not," An told AFP.

"He was a real journalist until the end of his life."



He came under fire from fellow activists for his former ties to the communists, but An said he remained kind and tolerant even of his harshest critics, having dedicated his life to his political ideals.

"He lived for democracy in Vietnam," she said.

One of his relatives said the family did not pay much attention to his controversial political leanings -- which leaders in the one-party state are notoriously intolerant of -- and instead respected him as an elder and a leader.

"The family didn't take (his activism) too seriously, everyone has their own ideology," the relative said, requesting anonymity.

Born in 1927 near Hanoi, Tin was one of 10 siblings and leaves behind two children -- a daughter in Hanoi and a son in Canada.

Friends said a funeral service will be organised in France.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Development works like watershed programmes got affected in Maharashtra over years due to the divisions created through political affinity, caste and religion in villages, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said here today.

He lamented that the watershed work fell prey to petty politics.

Fadnavis was speaking at an event in Pune in Maharashtra to distribute "Water Cup 2018" awards instituted by actor Aamir Khan's Paani Foundation, which is doing watershed works in villages.

Fadanvis was replying to a question raised by Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray during his speech at the event.

Raising concerns over "failure" of watershed programmes in Maharashtra, Thackeray questioned the allocation of funds to the sector between 1960 and 2018.

The chief minister said the divisions created along the lines of castes and religion had affected the watershed works at the village level.

"Years ago, we had given a slogan 'pani adva, pani jirva' (water conservation), but all these years, divisions were created through small groups, political parties, castes and religions..Due to this division, we forgot the watershed movement and got ourselves busy in settling the scores against each other," he said.

Fadnavis appreciated the 'Paani Foundation' for its work.

"The Paani Foundation realised that villages cannot be made water-sufficient unless all the castes and communities are united," he said.

Fadnavis said the government alone cannot run watershed programmes. "People's movement is the key to success for such works," he added.

"Paani Foundation works in 75 talukas in Maharashtra, which is the example of how a peoples' movement can bring about the change and make the villages water-sufficient," he said.

The chief minister appealed Aamir Khan to take the watershed movement to 100 talukas in the state.

He said water has to be used judiciously, or else drought is inevitable.

Paani Foundation is a not-for-profit company set up in 2016 by the team of the TV series Satyamev Jayate to fight drought in rural Maharashtra.

It was founded by Aamir Khan and his wife Kiran Rao.

Paani Foundation conducts a competition called the 'Satyamev Jayate Water Cup', in which villages compete to win prizes for the best watershed management work.

Political leaders cutting across the party lines attended the award distribution ceremony.

Besides Khan and Paani Foundation CEO Satyajit Bhatkal, state unit Congress chief Ashok Chavan, Opposition leader Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, NCP leader Ajit Pawar, state ministers Ram Shinde and Vijay Shivtare were present at the occasion.

In its third edition, the Water Cup 2018 saw participation of 75 talukas where capacity to store 22,269 crore litre of water was stored through rainwater harvesting works done over a period of 45 days.

Ajit Pawar said the foundation has successfully increased the water table level in villages.

He said emphasis should be given to the correct crop pattern keeping the availability of water in mind.

Pawar, nephew of NCP chief Sharad Pawar, advised Khan not to share any political dais.

The first prize of Rs 75 lakh and a trophy for the Water Cup 2018 competition was won by Takewadi (Andhali) village in Satara district.

Bhandwali and Sindkhed villages in Satara and Buldhana districts jointly won the second prize of Rs 50 lakh and a trophy.

The third prize went to Anandwadi and Umtha villages in Beed and Nagpur districts. It contains a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh each and a trophy.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A senior All India Muslim Personal Law Board functionary today said the triple talaq bill should either be withdrawn or sent to the select committee of Parliament and the opinion of Islamic scholars be sought on it.

The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2017, which was passed by the Lok Sabha in December 2017, could not be taken up on the last day of the Monsoon Session in the Rajya Sabha on August 10 due to lack of consensus among political parties on the issue.

"Our stand on the triple talaq bill is clear. Either the Centre should withdraw this bill or it should be sent to the Select Committee (of Parliament). The Select Committee should take the opinion of scholars of Islamic law," Mohammed Umrain Mahfooz Rahmani, secretary and social media desk in-charge of the AIMPLB, said here today.

He said "in the entire world" the opinion of a community is taken whenever a law related to them is enacted.

"In our country, the (Muslim) community was not consulted before such a move. They are trying to impose their opinion," Rahmani claimed.

Speaking at a press conference here, he also claimed that amendments regarding the provision of bail for men found guilty under the provisions of the triple talaq bill were "inadequate" and would not benefit women.

The Union Cabinet had on August 9 cleared some amendments to the draft Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2017, including adding a bail provision to it.

Replying to a query on unfurling the national flag and singing the national anthem at madrassas, Rahmani said "this was out of the AIMPLB's purview".

He said the AIMPLB would extend its social media desk across the country and this would include the use of platforms like Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, YoutTube and Telegram.

Social media would be used to clear misconceptions that are being created regarding Islam, he said.

Rahmani was in the city to chair a meeting of Information Technology experts.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A woman died today after falling in Najafgarh drain near Ghasipura here, police said.

The police rushed to the spot and pulled out the body of the woman from the drain with the help of fire brigade.

The woman was rushed to a hospital where she was declared brought dead, they said.

The deceased is yet to be identified, police said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A 19-year-old woman was allegedly abducted and raped by two men, following which it is suspected that she committed suicide by jumping into the Chenab river in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district, a police official said today.

The woman's father had lodged a missing complaint for his daughter on July 24, he said.

After analysing the woman's call details, Paramjeet Singh was arrested, the officer said, adding that Singh revealed during interrogation that his friend, Pankaj Khajuria, was using a phone number on his name to entice her.

An FIR was registered after the woman's relatives complained that she was abducted by Khajuria, his friend Naresh Kumar and Singh.

Subsequently, Khajuria was arrested from his shop in Zero Morh locality of Talwara, and Kumar, who had fled to Punjab's Amritsar, was held by a special police team there.

"During their interrogation, it came to the fore that Khajuria was in a relationship with the women and used to call her using Singh's SIM card and also promised to marry her," he said.

Khajuria called her at Baradari Bridge from where he and his friend Kumar abducted her, took her to a secluded under-construction house in Talwara and raped her, the officer said.

He said the investigation revealed that the woman soon after went to the Chenab bridge and called up Khajuria several times and threatened to commit suicide by jumping into the river.

A mobile phone confiscated from Khajuria had "a vital clue in the shape of an audio recording, which brought to light the gory details of the case," the officer said.

The audio recording was purportedly the conversation the woman had with Khajuria over phone from the bridge.

"The last location of the woman was traced to the said bridge after which she went missing," he said, adding massive efforts are on to trace her.

The officer said RPC sections related to gang-rape and abetment to suicide was added to the FIR.

Although the abetment to suicide section has been added to the FIR, since the woman's body has not been recovered yet, she is still being being considered missing, the officer said.

The relatives of the woman staged a protest at Talwara demanding severe punishments to the culprits today.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The workspace is changing drastically and very soon there will be just two types of people employable in the augmented workplace and unemployable, a senior official at tech giant Oracle said.

Besides, he said, there is a dichotomy emerging in today's workplace -- automation is taking up the repetitive jobs, which in turn means fewer jobs, while companies are struggling to get key talent for specialised jobs.

On the other hand, tech experts maintain that though this trend is yet to take off in India, artificial intelligence has started featuring dominantly in HR conversations and while terms like AI, chatbots and machine learning may sound intimidating, these technologies will not remove humans from the workplace.

While automation will eliminate some jobs, it will also create some jobs that will support the "automation economy".

"Employees need to be more intuitive, irrespective of organisation function, more creative in the work they are doing," Shaakun Khanna, Head of HCM Applications, Asia Pacific, at Oracle told PTI



"The world will just have two types of people employable in the augmented workplace and unemployable," he added.

Khanna further said that the workforce needs to be equipped with multiple skill sets and even multiple career transitions if need be. Employees who are not upskilling themselves are facing the brunt of the situation.

According to FICCI-Nasscom & EY report by 2022, 9 per cent of the country's 600 million estimated workforce would be deployed in new jobs that do not even exist today, while 37 per cent will be in jobs which have radically changed skill sets.

It highlighted the impact of globalisation, demographics, and exponential technologies on job landscape by 2022.

According to PeopleStrong CEO and founder Pankaj Bansal, there will be a visible change in the next three-four years and the first major effects will be seen in the sectors like manufacturing, IT and ITeS and security services and agriculture.

"We predict that by 2021, four out of every 10 jobs globally would be lost because of automation. And of these, one in every four will be from India. That sums up to 23 per cent of job loss in India," Bansal said.

About 7 lakh low-skilled workers in IT and BPO industry in India are likely to lose their jobs to automation and artificial intelligence by 2022, a report by US-based research firm HfS Research said last year.

Asked as to what employees should do to make themselves relevant, Oracle's Khanna said: "The workforce needs to be equipped with multiple skill sets and even multiple career transitions if need be. Employees who are not upskilling themselves are facing the brunt of the situation".

To keep its staff relevant in this transitioning world Oracle has moved all its enterprise applications to the cloud to provide unparalleled employee experience, he said.

"This allows our people to learn new skills, collaborate in newer ways and most importantly stay relevant in the ever-changing world of work", he said.

He further said that Oracle has an annual R&D spend of USD 6 billion and integrates modern technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT) and so on in all its enterprise applications.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)(Corrects third paragraph to say Abu Dhabi's Etihad Airways, not Qatar's)MUMBAI (Reuters) - Indian carrier Jet Airways Ltd sought to reassure investors on Saturday, saying it is meeting its payment obligations to lenders and other dues, such as staff commitments.India's biggest-full service airline issued the statement a day after its shares fell to a three-year low following an announcement that it had deferred its quarterly earnings report.Jet, which is part-owned by Abu Dhabi's Etihad Airways, was due to report quarterly earnings on Thursday but said in stock exchange filings that its ...By Shu Zhang and Elias GlennBEIJING (Reuters) - Peter Wang was asleep at his home in Beijing last Monday when police officers arrived before dawn to detain him, saying he had helped organise a protest planned for later that day.Across the city, others who had lost money investing in China's online peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platforms - including some who had travelled from as far away as Shandong and Shanxi provinces - got similar visits from police.By the time they were released, the demonstration they had planned using social media chat groups had fizzled amid a massive security response ...DUBAI (Reuters) - A gas field development contract with France's Total, and China's state-owned CNPC remains unchanged, a senior Iranian oil official said according to the oil ministry news agency SHANA on Saturday - hours after state new agency IRNA quoted him as saying CNPC had taken Total's share in the project."The role of the members of the consortium developing this project is in accordance with the provisions of the contract, and there is still no formal change in these provisions," Mohammad Mostafavi, director of investment at Iran's state oil firm NIOC, was quoted as saying.IRNA ...By Richard LoughPARIS (Reuters) - The next chief executive of Air-France-KLM must not be beholden to external interests, said a senior French pilot on the group's board of directors, criticising the possible choice of Air Canada's chief operating officer as preferred candidate.Le Monde this week reported that Air France-KLM's nominations committee had picked Canadian Benjamin Smith as its top candidate to head the airline at a time the French brand, Air France, is struggling to cut costs amid union opposition.The group has not denied Smith is a candidate, saying only that no decision has been ...MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia will continue decreasing its holdings of U.S. securities in response to new U.S. sanctions on Moscow, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said, RIA state news agency reported on Sunday.Russia will increasingly use roubles and other currencies, including the euro, rather than the U.S. dollar in its settlements, Siluanov said, speaking on state TV. (Reporting by Andrey Ostroukh; Editing by Mark Potter)(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)BEIJING (Reuters) - A ship carrying soybeans from the United States docked in the port of Dalian on Saturday, more than a month after it arrived off China's coast just as hefty tariffs were imposed on U.S. goods, according to Thomson Reuters Eikon shipping data.The short journey into the northern Chinese port was the first by Peak Pegasus, which has 70,000 tonnes of U.S. soybeans on board, since it arrived off the coast on July 6 shortly after Beijing imposed 25 percent import duties on $34 billion worth of U.S. goods, including soybeans.The penalties were in response to a similar move by ...Martin Vassilev makes a good living selling fake views on YouTube videos. Working from home in Ottawa, he has sold about 15 million views so far this year, putting him on track to bring in more than $200,000, records show. Mr. Vassilev, 32, does not provide the views himself. His website, 500Views.com, connects customers with services that offer views, likes and dislikes generated by computers, not humans. When a supplier cannot fulfill an order, Mr. Vassilev  like a modern switchboard operator  quickly connects with another. I can deliver an unlimited ...The State Bank of India recently informed that it has put Jet Airways under scanner for loan default. Senior officials at SBI mentioned that the embattled airline is part of its overall watchlist for stressed accounts and special mention category loans as on June 30, 2018. Jet, however, maintained that its account with SBI is standard and it has been regular with its debt payments. Earlier this week, the Naresh Goyal-led airline deferred its financial results for the June quarter after they were not approved by the audit panel.

In a conference call after releasing the bank's first quarter results, SBI Chairman Rajnish Kumar confirmed that Jet Airways is under his bank's watchlist for stressed accounts, but refused to divulge any more details.

"Yes (we have exposure to Jet), but you are asking me to cross the 'Lakshman Rekha' (boundary) to talk about individual accounts. But since you have asked, I am telling, it's part of the watchlist, SMA 1 and 2 in the June quarter," Kumar said.

Kumar further added that the Jet Airways account could be a part of any of the three categories - SBI's overall loan watchlist, SMA-1 or SMA-2 loan category - but he did not specify which one.

Special mention accounts, or SMA, are categories laid down by the Reserve Bank of India to classify default on loan accounts. According to a notification by the central bank, accounts with principal, interest or any payment overdue for a period between one and 30 days are to be classified under SMA-0 category. The account is put under SMA-1 category if payment is overdue for 31 to 60 days, and under SMA-2 category if the non-payment period is between 61-90 days.

In response, Jet Airways has claimed that its account with SBI is standard and it has not defaulted on any of its payment obligations. "We are regular in all our payment obligations to all our banks and statutory dues including PF obligations. Our account with all the banks as on date is "Standard". Your information of Jet Airways being placed in the SMA1 and SMA2 category is incorrect," Jet Airways has clarified in a statement.

The statement further added, "We have had scheduled amortizations in the past so many years and the company has met its repayment obligations all the time. This is evidenced by the reduction in the overall debt of the company by ?3,000 crore in the last three years."

Apart from SBI, other major banks that have extended loans to Jet Airways include HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Punjab National Bank, Canara Bank and IDBI Bank.

Also Read: Is Jet Airways, India's second largest airline, already insolvent?

Earlier this week, Jet Airways deferred its June quarter results to an unspecified date. In a regulatory filing after its annual general meeting, the airline mentioned that its board has decided not to review the unaudited financial results for the first quarter.

"The audit committee did not recommend financial results to the board for its approval, pending closure of certain matters," the airline said in the regulatory filing without offering more details.

BSE and NSE has asked Jet Airways to furnish specific information about its decision to postpone the quarterly results. The BSE said the disclosure by the company regarding the delay in first quarter results lacked "certain information" and Jet Airways should submit complete information that is available with it.

Edited by Vivek Punj

Also Watch:



Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that more than one crore jobs have been created in the last one year. In an interview to ANI, he argued that when economy is growing at a faster pace, in fact fastest among the major economies, how will the jobs market not expand? Hence, the campaign of lack of jobs needs to stop now, he said while referring to opposition's constant attack.

PM Modi argued that when investment in infrastructure projects like, making roads, laying down rail lines, setting up power generation is at all-time high, how come the jobs will not be created. "Similarly, if there is significant growth in sales of commercial vehicles and passenger vehicles, does it not mean that jobs are being created? When FDI inflows are at an all-time high, will it not translate into manufacturing and job creation?" the Prime Minister said.

He also said that in last four years, mobile manufacturing units have grown from just 2 to 120. "When such development in electronic manufacturing is taking place, will it not create jobs? Today, India has emerged as one of the top hubs for start-ups. Are they not creating jobs? App-based aggregators are flourishing in India across food, logistics, e-commerce, mobility solutions and many more such sectors. Are they not creating jobs? We all know the potential tourism has in creating jobs. Foreign tourist arrivals in India grew by 14% last year. Will this not result in job creation? Modi asked.

The Prime Minister further stated that India is seeing a historic boom in the aviation sector. "Last year, over 10 crore people took a flight. Through UDAN scheme, we have put many places, particularly Tier-II and III cities on the aviation map. Will this not create jobs and opportunities across the board?'' he said.

PM Modi also said that more than 13 crore MUDRA loans have been given to the hardworking entrepreneurs. "I have been told that over 3.5 crore of these loans have been given to first time entrepreneurs. Does every loan not create additional employment opportunities?,'' he asked. "These are only a few examples. Employment generation is also evident from 45 lakh new Subscribers in the Employee Provident Fund and 5.68 lakh people joining the New Pension Scheme in the last nine months. All this has led to creation of more than one crore jobs only in the last year. Thus, the campaign that jobs have not been created must come to a halt now. People are not going to buy it anymore," he further said.

The Prime Minister refuted the charge that the GST has not been accepted by the business community. Defending the GST, he said: "The number of enterprises registered from Independence until now was 66 lakh. In just one year after the introduction of GST, the number of new enterprises registered is 48 lakh. Around 350 crore invoices were processed and 11 crore returns were filed in 1 year. Doesn't this show wide-spread public acceptance?''

In an another interview with The Times of India, the Prime Minister said that the government was fully committed to promoting ease of doing business while bringing to book unscrupulous elements. He also said that the emphasis was on simplifying processes, be it incorporation of a company, induction of a director, or payment of income tax or GST. He said this in a response to a question about the heightened pressure on corporate sector by way of scrutiny and compliance under various laws - from bankruptcy and income tax to the Companies Act and GST.

On black money and corruption, PM Modi said that the government "has struck off the names of around 2.6 lakh shell companies and 3.09 lakh directors. Names of 55,000 companies more will be struck off this month". The Prime Minister also said that the income tax return forms have been rationalised to make them taxpayer-friendly and I-T department has eased norms for scrutiny assessments. "Earlier, 1 per cent of income tax returns were picked for scrutiny, which has been brought down to 0.35 per cent. Of the cases, only about 0.2 per cent are taken up for full scrutiny. This reaffirms our faith in the taxpayers and the taxation system," he added.

The Prime Minister refuted the charge of delay in recognising the bad loans problem and said that the previous dispensation understated the whole NPAs issue. "I had the option of bringing out a white paper as soon as our government was in place. I did not do so as it would have caused an alarm in the economy. Instead, we quietly worked on bringing the banking system back to health while ensuring banks comply with regulations," the Prime Minister said.

He said that the government has taken many steps to fight NPAs menace. The PM said that the government enacted the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). "The government also amended the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, to authorise RBI to direct banks to take recourse to IBC route. Cases of 39 large defaulters, with NPAs amounting to about Rs. 2.69 lakh crore exposure, have been filed before the NCLT. As another stringent action against defaulters, we have brought in the Fugitive Economic Offenders Law," he stated in the interview.news, latest-news

Good morning, Canberra! Just like that, it's the start of another working week. Just to add to the Mondayitis, it's expected to drop to minus 1 this morning, with some morning frost. After that we'll rise to a fairly standard and partly cloudy 14 degrees. Grab a coffee, a tea, or your other preferred beverage of choice and check out today's headlines. ACT Labor backbencher Michael Pettersson has sensationally split off from the party's right faction, a fracture that leaves Chief Minister Andrew Barr without firm factional backing in the Legislative Assembly and threatens to further destabilise the party. The ACT parliament's youngest member said the decision was a long time in the making and came after his progressive politics caused ructions within the right faction. Kirsten Lawson and Katie Burgess have the details here. The Human Services department has pulled staff off its troubled new child support payment IT costing at least $102 million and years in the making, as it tries to salvage the bungled upgrade. Agency bosses have told most officials administering payments for 1.2 million children to avoid using its new technology, called Pluto, which quickly hit problems after its launch last year and has been blamed for a blow-out in call wait times. Read the story by Doug Dingwall here. This incredible story appeared in Sunday's paper. You might remember the 2015 story of Kathleen Bautista who, after disappearing with barely a trace, was spotted in remote bushland west of Canberra seven days later. Emergency services thought they'd found a body - until she raised her hand. Almost three years on, Kat shared her story of survival for the first time, speaking with Kimberley Le Lievre about the ordeal. Adoreable, right? Yass sheep farmer Rachel Allen ordered 10 hand-knitted jumpers for newborns, kitting them out last week. As cute as they look, the move was one borne of desperation: as the drought wears on, newborn lambs have been rejected by their mothers because of the low feed available. Canberra craft shop Crafty Frog is sending lamb jumpers to farmers around NSW and surrounding regions of the ACT to help protect lambs. Read Andrea Martinello's story here. A terrible start has ended the Canberra Raiders' season, giving Wests Tigers a 16-point lead and it proved too hard to run down. Wests put a week of turmoil behind them and ended a four-game losing streak to the Green Machine with a 22-20 victory at Canberra Stadium on Sunday. David Polkinghorne recaps the sad state of affairs here.

/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/68c3a719-8e43-40f1-9e9b-48e0d4875c01/r0_221_4256_2626_w1200_h678_fmax.jpgFormer Hamilton County Chancellor Howell Peoples has died in Florida at age 75.

He and his wife, Linda, had lived in recent years at Fort Pierce, Fla.

He served as a chancellor here for 32 years.

In January 2010, he announced that he had submitted his resignation to Governor Phil Bredesen to be effective at the end of March.

At the time Chancellor Peoples said, "During my tenure, I have been blessed to have Chancellors Wilkes T. Thrasher, Jr., R. Vann Owens, and W. Frank Brown III as colleagues, and to be supported by the wonderful employees of the Hamilton County Clerk & Master."

He afterward handled some mediation cases with the firm of Miller and Martin.

Chancellor Peoples received his J.D. from the University of Tennessee College of Law and his B.S. from the University of Tennessee.

He was inducted in 2016 into the Pro Bono Hall of Fame along with Justice Mickey Barker.

For many years he was a member of the Chattanooga Civitan Club.

A memorial service is planned later at the Hamilton County Courthouse.Trend:

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said a convention on the legal status of the Caspian Sea would be effective only with the consensus of the five Caspian Sea littoral states, noting that the agreement would ban the presence of foreign warships in the worlds largest enclosed inland body of water.

The (Caspian Sea) Convention would stipulate that all legal issues pertaining to the Caspian Sea would come into effect only with the consensus of the five Caspian Sea littoral states, Rouhani said on Sunday morning ahead of his trip to Kazakhstan, his official website reported on August 12.

The Caspian Sea Convention determines the territorial rights of littoral states as well as other matters related to the sea.

The convention would be signed in Kazakhstan during the Fifth Caspian Summit in Aktau where representatives of Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Iran, Russia and Turkmenistan would be present.

He added, This convention completely bans the presence of foreign warships in this sea and this is a key issue for the national security of its littoral states.

Caspian Sea littoral states have very good potentials and opportunities, especially regarding economy, transportation, goods transport and tourism, which will be discussed in the summit.

The Iranian president left Tehran for the Kazakh city of Aktau on Sunday morning to attend the summit meeting of the Caspian Sea littoral states.

Rouhanis most important program in the two-day visit is to participate in the Caspian Sea summit in which a number of important and strategic documents for cooperation will be signed by the five countries bordering the sea.

The president will also hold bilateral meetings with Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev and a number of other heads of state to discuss relations.

Rouhani will return to Tehran on Sunday evening.

The Caspian Sea is the largest enclosed water body on earth by area, variously classed as the worlds largest lake or a full-fledged sea.comment, editorial

If it wasn't so sad and tragic it would almost be laughable. Credible commentators, including a leading German analyst, have said last week's bombing of a school bus in Yemen probably doesn't qualify as a war crime because the Royal Saudi Air Force is so incompetent the odds are it just made a mistake. That "mistake" killed at least 43 people, 29 of whom were school children under the age of 15, and wounded between 43 and 63 more. The bus, which is reported to have been taking a group of children to summer camp, was travelling through the crowded Dahyan market in Sa'ada, the capital of Sada province. The region is the traditional homeland of the Houthi rebels who rose up against the Saudi-backed Yemeni government in 2014. It is just over a year since the Saudis, the leaders of a coalition which includes the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Senegal, Sudan and Tunisia, declared the entire city of Sa'dah, home to more than 50,000 people, a military target. Despite this, and the hundreds of deadly attacks which have slaughtered tens of thousands of non-combatants since the "proxy" war between Saudi Arabia and Iran in Yemen began, both the United States and Britain continue to sell billions of dollars worth of weapons a year to the Saudis. The two nations also provide major training, intelligence and logistical support. The Australian government approved four military exports, the nature of which has been kept under wraps, to Saudi Arabia in 2017. Yemen is currently the world's worst humanitarian crisis. At least 10,000 people have been killed over the past four years and an estimated two million have been forced to flee their homes. Another 230,000 have been wounded. The Saudis, who say the Houthis are a proxy force for their arch enemy, Iran, launched the military intervention to support the Yemeni government in 2015. The Kingdom's most significant achievement so far has been to demonstrate the inability of its military, which are among the best armed and equipped in the world, to take the fight to poorly armed rebels. Thursday's tragic strike was the latest in a long line of incidents which suggest that either the Saudis, even with the active assistance of the Americans and the British, can't differentiate between hospitals, schools, orphanages and school buses on one hand, and missile launching sites on the other, or they just doesn't care. Regardless of the rights and wrongs of the original dispute that sparked Yemen's civil war, the conflict is at a point where it must not be allowed to continue. The easiest way to stop it would be for Saudi Arabia's enablers, particularly the US and the UK, to stop selling weapons and withdraw their logistic and other support. Given the well-publicised failings of the Saudi military it is unlikely the Kingdom would be able to keep its hi-tech weaponry in the field for more than a few weeks or months. President Trump has recently demonstrated a willingness to tell his friends, including NATO, Canada, the UK and Germany what they should and should not do. If his administration does care about the slaughter of innocents then he should also stand up to the Saudis. Or are some innocents more equal than others?

/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/4b89c0f8-1754-4bf7-95d9-1a4821af526d/r0_46_900_554_w1200_h678_fmax.jpgnews, latest-news

As your columnist, a migrant from England, handcrafts this column our wide brown nation (empty in some places, people-teeming in others) has just acquired its 25 millionth Australian. Coincidentally and connectedly the conversation of the nation is alive with the discussion of population and of the immigration intake. As a migrant myself (when I arrived in January 1965 I became, roughly, the 11,120,000th Australian) I prick up my white, Anglo-Saxon ears whenever migration is discussed. Of course, because we have truth and reason on our side, I am with those calling for a more populous Australia. In recent days outspoken, informed, level-headed champions of a bigger Australia have included Reserve Bank of Australia governor Governor Philip Lowe (he says strong population growth helps make Australia younger and more economically robust) and (a star is born!) much-in-media-demand ANU demographer Dr Liz Allen, a model of bushy-tailed positivity. Champions of a more shrivelled, bonsaied Australia include, needless to say, Pauline Hanson. But, rising above the mere mathematics of the population-immigration debate (number crunchers fancy the number of visas granted in 2017-18 is likely to be 165,000) I have been thinking about the whole wondrous phenomenon of migration, our species need of it, hunger for it and aptitude for it. When you are a thinking migrant, and especially when you are a thinking migrant of a certain age (carbon dating estimates my age as between 71 and 73) your olde decision to migrate may begin to haunt you a little. You may marvel at it and in amazement gasp to yourself Why did I do it? You may ask yourself what your life would have been if youd not uprooted yourself but had stayed with your roots deep in the loam of your homeland. In the 1960s was the migrant itch in my urchin feet (sensibly shod in multiply-darned school uniform socks and in sensible, second-hand school shoes) the same itch that propelled our barefoot ancient ancestors out of Africa (to then go and live everywhere in the world) some 65,000 years ago? Today I marvel that no English government authorities ever took the immature teenage Ian aside to ask him if he was sure about this migration thing. Had he thought it through? Did he have the foggiest idea what it might mean, at his tender age, at any age, to swap countries, to forsake the familiar, to skedaddle off into the unknown? How and why was I, so young and immature and undereducated, allowed to do what my impulses dictated? Why did the English government, perhaps even Her Majesty the Queen, not intervene, hanging on to me, treasuring me, forbidding me to weaken England by my migration at least until Id come of age (about 35 for a decision so important)? I have a fondness for all migrants, and hope and pray that every one of every annual batch of 165,000 finds joy and fulfilment here. But, if I could, I would sit all intending migrants down and caution them (my avuncular cautions almost certainly going in one ear and out the other) that being a migrant may, one day, play with their minds. It may divide the self. My advice to everyone who doesnt fully need to migrate would be to be beware. "Home" is not easily left behind. This is especially so if a goodly chunk of a not unhappy childhood has been spent there. This columnist, more than 50 years after leaving England for Australia, now finds himself a strangely transnational creature. I am not talking about anything as trivial as feeling conflicted about which country wins the Ashes (for me it has always had to be my beloved Australia), but about bigger, deeper matters. For example (I have just been back in England in my childhood haunts so these feelings are vivid) I realise that all of my significant dead, family and friends, are buried and commemorated in England. I can only afford to visit their graves, talking to them, laying flowers, sprucing up their headstones, every two or three years. Beware, intending migrants, the sorts of emotional pushes and pulls and yearnings that migrating across the world may have in store for you. I was lucky enough to grow up in a scenically engaging and dramatic English place, a seaside resort I have always in my writings called Crabtorture Bay (not its real name). And now I find that my heart finds that place so engaging that I am torn between it and my beloved home Canberra (its real name). Thinking deeply about these things lately I have realised, with a start, that of the five pictures on my studys walls four are views/artists impressions of Crabtorture Bay. There it is, posed dramatically on tall cliffs overlooking the capricious North Sea. What can this mean, this sentimental gallery? I asked Voss, my dog, for the dear brute shares my picture-decorated study with me. Am I somehow subconsciously, emotionally, still living in the corner of England I thought I had left behind me? Is this always the plight of the thinking migrant, everywhere, across the ages? Must migration always divide the self like this, leaving the migrant conflicted, bewildered? But Voss remained tight-jowled, leaving me to wrestle alone with my latest bout of MDS (migrant dilemma syndrome).

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ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr has hit out at Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull after he went back on a deal that would have allowed a private members' bill to restore the ACT's right to legalise euthanasia to be debated in the lower house. The Senate will on Tuesday debate a bill from Liberal Democrats Senator David Leyonhjelm that would revoke legislation that has prevented the ACT and Northern Territory making laws on voluntary assisted dying for more than 20 years. Mr Barr said the ACT government would also ramp up its efforts in coming days to lobby for the repeal of the so-called Andrews Bill. The government took out a front page advertisement in the Australian newspaper on Monday urging federal lawmakers to support Senator Leyonhjelm's bill. "Its disappointing that such fundamental democratic issues, such as the right of people in the ACT and the Northern Territory to debate and legislate their own laws, are being politicised and blocked by the right wing of the Liberal Party," Mr Barr said. "Voting for this bill doesnt mean there will be assisted dying in the ACT or NT. It will simply give territorians the same right to decide on it as all other Australians. People living in Canberra shouldnt be denied a right that people living on the other side of the border in Queanbeyan enjoy." Senator Leyonhjelm secured debate and a free vote on his bill as part of the deal he struck with Mr Turnbull in 2016 to help revive the Australian Building and Construction Commission. However, the Prime Minister said last week that deal only extended to the Senate, not the House of Representatives. Senator Leyonhjelm warned that reneging on their agreement may have dire consequences for future cooperation between the crossbench and the government. Mr Barr said Mr Turnbull needed to stand up to his party and let the bill be debated. "I urge all senators to support this bill, and call on Malcolm Turnbull to show some leadership and allow this matter to be decided by a free vote in the House of Representatives as quickly as possible," Mr Barr said. The Greens are also set to hold a rally out the front of Parliament House on Tuesday calling on senators to support the bill. Greens leader Senator Richard DiNatale has previously tried to remove the voting restrictions on the territories, and the party will back the Leyonhjelm bill. ACT Greens crossbencher Caroline Le Couteur said this was "the most promising effort in decades of advocacy" to see Andrews Bill repealed. "The pressure is on to ensure a majority of senators vote in support of this bill. It is time that the Australian government repealed this undemocratic law," Ms Le Couteur said. University of Tasmania law professor Margaret Otlowski - who wrote the book Voluntary Euthanasia and the Common Law - told an ACT parliamentary hearing last week territories should not be "disadvantaged" in their abilities to make laws for their citizens. While the federal parliament has the power under section 122 of the Australian constitution to remove some or all of the powers it grants to self-governing territories, Andrews Bill was the first time it exercised that ability. "I see no reason, in the federation, to be differentiating between the rights of states and territories on this kind of matter," Professor Otlowski said. "My background is not constitutional law, and obviously we currently do have a differentiation. There is the Australian Capital Territory (Self-Government) Act, and the Northern Territory has its own, so there is a different legal footing. But, as a matter of principle, I see no justification why the way one lives ones end of life should have anything to do with the constitutional basis of the elements of a federation." Professor Otlowski said it "did not sit well" not to give Australian jurisdictions equal powers. "I think it is inappropriate to be using that Commonwealth authority over territories to reach in to areas that deal so intimately with peoples lives at the end of life," Professor Otlowski said.

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ACT Labor backbencher Michael Pettersson has sensationally split off from the party's right faction, a fracture that leaves Chief Minister Andrew Barr without firm factional backing in the Legislative Assembly and threatens to further destabilise the party. The ACT parliament's youngest member said the decision was a long time in the making and came after his progressive politics caused ructions within the right faction. Mr Pettersson, who spoke with Mr Barr about his move on Saturday, said he was yet to make a decision on whether he would join the powerful left faction, but it was a "live option". However, his defection comes after the CFMEU ordered its staff last week to join to the left faction, in a rumoured bid to shore up support for preselection candidate John Falzon. It's also been seen by some as part of a broader move to wrest control of the left from the dominant CPSU, however sources close to the union denied that was the case. It comes just a week before the party's conference. The move fundamentally alters the balance of power in the ACT parliament. If Mr Pettersson does formalise his links to the left, Yvette Berry, rather than Megan Fitzharris, would be the next Labor leader, should Mr Barr leave. There are five members of the left in the Assembly - Ms Berry, Rachel Stephen-Smith, Mick Gentleman, Bec Cody and Suzanne Orr. Mr Pettersson would make six. The right also have five  Mr Barr, Ms Fitzharris, Joy Burch, Tara Cheyne and Chris Steel. The 12th Labor member - Gordon Ramsay - is unaligned, although he used to be a member of the left and often sides with it. While the shift leaves Mr Barr in the minority, Mr Pettersson said he did not expect any move against Mr Barr and would "not be part of" any such move, with Mr Barr "doing a wonderful job". Nor did he believe Mr Barr would quit parliament before the next election. But if Mr Barr does leaves politics, deputy chief minister Yvette Berry would now almost certainly be his successor, following in the footsteps of her father, Wayne Berry, who led the party briefly in the late 1990s. Mr Pettersson worked for the CFMEU before his election in 2016 and the union backed him for preselection, despite his long-standing membership of the right. He will need to join the left to get its backing at the next election. Mr Pettersson's ex-staffer Michael Hiscox, who is now the CFMEU's executive officer, has also jumped ship despite being the junior deputy convener of the right faction. It's understood new CFMEU secretary Jason O'Mara wanted union staff to be on the same side, as the recent preselection battle deepened the rift between the left and right factions. That triggered Mr Pettersson to consider his position in the right. "For a long time my politics have expressed themselves further to the left - and that was evidenced in preselection," he said, a reference to the CFMEU's decision to support him at the last election. "I'm quite a progressive individual ... This is just formalising that." The left faction and CFMEU delegates have endorsed Dr Falzon for preselection. The right has not endorsed any candidates, although two members of the faction - lobbyist Kel Watt and Andrew Barr staffer Jacob Ingram - are running. Members are expected to vote with their factions, although those in the right faction have more discretion than members of the left, who are required to "show and tell" their votes. However, Mr Pettersson does not live in Dr Falzon's electorate and is therefore ineligible to vote for him for preselection. But there are fears up to a third of Labor's right faction could also quit, which would severely weaken the faction ahead of ACT Labor's annual conference this weekend. While around four members - including Mr Pettersson and Mr Hiscox - have defected so far, the right faction of ACT Young Labor is under pressure to make the leap. Mr Pettersson is a former president of ACT Young Labor and is believed to have some sway within the wing. It's understood the Electrical Trades Union is also defecting from the right to the left and will command some small block of votes at the conference. It's understood two of the CFMEU's part-timers are yet to decide whether they'll choose their faction or the union. The move has also been interpreted by some as an attempt to shore up the left before conference, where the party secretary is elected. Current secretary Matt Byrne, a member of the left, has been criticised for his handling of the dirtsheet circulated about Mr Watt and faces anger from the right. Mr Watt has called on Mr Byrne to resign or be sacked at conference. The boosted numbers ensures the left keeps the key post either in Mr Byrne or a left replacement. But Mr Pettersson said the defections had nothing to do with the imminent party conference. Mr Byrne was safe in his job, and the left already had the majority of votes at conference even without the extra votes the defections would bring, Mr Pettersson said. "There's no shenanigans about conference," he said, insisting this was simply about dealing with the "awkwardness" of him being in the wrong faction. The defection comes in the context of more factional wrangling for preselection for the seat of Canberra. The left has moved to lock in an interpretation of Labor's affirmative action rules that would guarantee Dr Falzon preselection for the seat of Canberra if Katy Gallagher got the backing of the party to return to the Senate, since women would already hold two of the four seats.

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Sir John Monash was Australia's greatest general, but he was not the only serviceman of Jewish heritage to make his mark on the battlefield. A new national war memorial has been unveiled to remember the 341 Jewish servicemen who laid down their lives fighting for Australia, 100 years to the day since Monash was knighted on the battlefield. Australian governor-general Sir Peter Cosgrove and Defence Force chief General Angus Campbell were among those at the dedication of the cenotaph at the National Jewish Memorial Centre in Forrest on Sunday. Around 9000 Australian Jewish men and women have served in Australia's defence forces since the Boer War. Around 1800 of those served in World War I. Monash, an engineer and tactician with Prussian Jewish heritage, was the most famous of the Jewish servicemen who fought in the Great War. By the end of the war, Monash had been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant-General and was knighted King George V outside Villers-Bretonneux in the south of France. But despite this, Monash was denied the rank of field marshal in part because of his Jewish heritage. An attempt to posthumously promote him earlier this year when the $100 million Sir John Monash Centre opened in Villers-Bretonneux was unsuccessful. Dr Merrilyn Sernack, who is the honorary secretary for the ACT Jewish Community, said even Charles Bean - Australia's official war correspondent - overcame his prejudices to recognise the contribution Monash made to the war effort. "He's one of our greatest Australians," she said. But while Monash is "first and foremost", Dr Sernack said by no means was he the only exceptional Jewish military leader. There's Lieutenant Leonard Maurice Keysor, who was awarded a Victoria Cross during the battle of Lone Pine in August 1915. For 50 hours he smothered bombs that landed in his trench or threw them back at Turkish soldiers, in some cases catching them mid-flight before lobbing them back at the Turks. Sergeant Issy Smith also won a Victoria Cross for carrying a wounded man 230 metres to safety under machine-gun and rifle-fire during the second battle of Ypres, Belgium. Major General Paul Cullen distinguished himself as a battalion commander on the Kokoda Track, and later became the first president of the Citizen Military Forces Association, now known as the Army Reserve. Then there are the heroes who did not make it back home. Jules Hoffman's brother Adolf is one of the servicemen honoured on the cenotaph. The 22-year-old navigator and bombardier died when his Lancaster bomber was shot down over Belgium on Anzac Day in 1944. Mr Hoffman's other brother Earle began the push for a national Jewish war memorial in Canberra but died three years ago. Mr Hoffman said the cenotaph was a fitting tribute to the two brothers he had lost, half a century and world apart.

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Every time Lyndal Nixon drives past the light rail construction in Gungahlin, her four-year-old son Jesse asks when he can ride it. Her grandfather was a tram driver in Sydney, so it's perhaps unsurprising that Jesse also wants to get behind the wheel when he grows up. Hundreds of Canberra families attended the Light Rail Ready open day at Gungahlin Village on Sunday. The event marked the start of Rail Safety Week, the first time the ACT has ever taken part. The week aims to improve education and awareness around railway level crossing and track safety. The event also marked the start of daytime testing of the light rail vehicles. Until now, the trams have been tested in the dead of night, due to the level of construction along the route during the day. Transport Minister Meegan Fitzharris said the start of daytime testing meant people needed to be vigilant near the tracks. The electric vehicles can move up to 70 kilometres per hour, meaning they can quickly and quietly sneak up on drivers and pedestrians who aren't on the lookout for them. "Our light rail vehicles started overnight testing in June and day time testing will start this week. This means its more important than ever for our residents to be aware of the importance of staying safe around the tracks," Ms Fitzharris said. "The number one thing you can do to avoid harm is obey all signs and road rules. Be sure to pay attention around the tracks, because light rail vehicles can move quickly and quietly." Ms Fitzharris said joining National Rail Safety week activities for the first time was a "tremendous milestone" for Canberra. "It shows how far weve come towards delivering an integrated public transport system with light rail working alongside buses to meet commuters needs in our growing city," Ms Fitzharris said. Canberra Metro chief executive Glenn Stockton said the event gave people the chance to get a sense of the size and scale of the light rail vehicles, which would reinforce the need to stay safe around them. Ms Fitzharris also said the "patience" of Gungahlin business owners would be rewarded when light rail construction finished in a few months time. However Steven Mirtschin, who owns a local coffee shop, said it would take a couple of years to recover from the losses his business had suffered over the last 12 months. "We've definitely been affected by construction. Our customer base is down 20 per cent. We've got a loyal customer base and they're great, so we're better off than some. We get a wage every week and I can afford to pay off the business loan but some business owners around here are existing instead of living, which is not good," Mr Mirtschin. Ed Corbitt, who drove up from Farrer with his kids Angelique and James to check out the trams, left disappointed after they were unable to see the vehicles up close. The two trams were fenced off as the rail line is still technically a construction zone. "It was marketed as a Light Rail Ready event but I don't think they were quite ready to have the event," Mr Corbitt said.

/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/88f8dbcd-d14d-4c93-84bd-5f24da656924/r0_214_4256_2619_w1200_h678_fmax.jpgWorld-class speakers will discuss gather to support the growth of financial services industry in Abu Dhabi and the Mena region at the upcoming second edition FinTech Abu Dhabi Summit in the UAE capital.



Organised and curated by the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the award-winning international financial centre, the summit will be held at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Hotel on September 17.



ADGM announced today (August 12) that the Summit is open for registration.



Richard Teng, CEO of the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of ADGM, said: Innovation, including FinTech and digital transformation, is part of ADGMs DNA. It influences and shapes our service offerings and regulatory framework. As an ecosystem developer, we aim to support Abu Dhabis leading position as the FinTech hub and nexus for the Mena area.



This years Summit will focus on innovation adoption where our corporate partners will work closely with FinTech firms to create deployable solutions that will transform the financial services landscape. The Summit provides a compelling and unique platform where regional regulators come together to jointly review and address key issues affecting the market.



Financial services providers and innovators can explore and introduce transformational changes, enabling them to re-engineer their business models. It looks at how financial institutions and innovators can harness regulations and infrastructures to develop new customer propositions. We look forward to supporting innovation in the local and global community to create sustainable growth, he added.



For FinTech start-ups, ADGM has specially tailored a brand new addition segment - the FinTech Abu Dhabi Bootcamp Day on September 16, featuring FinTech innovators from ADGM RegLab, the worlds largest start-up accelerator Plug-and-Play, and KPMG Digital Village team, to showcase game-changing FinTech solutions that will address todays business challenges.



FinTech start-ups, investors, mentors and the financial community will have the opportunity to network and exchange ideas on Bootcamp Day.



Building on the success of the 2017 inaugural event that attracted close to 3000 local and global registrations, the 2018 event will comprise two full days of world-class exciting activities



For the official Summit day on September 17, local and global FinTech experts, regulators, financial leaders, investors and innovators will gather to deep-dive into trending topics and business issues that will shape the digital economy of the future. Participants will also find out the results of the Innovation Challenge  Adoption by corporate champions and their FinTech firms.



The 2018 edition is set to immerse participants in the Mena FinTech ecosystem, providing them with an opportunity to collaborate and network, enhance product offerings with innovative FinTech solutions, share real use-cases and exchange knowledge, as well as build new partnerships.  TradeArabia News ServicePhoto: The Canadian Press Homes destroyed by a wildfire in Redding, Calif.

Firefighters worked furiously Friday to keep a Southern California wildfire from burning more homes while crews in the north finally gained ground on deadly and destructive blazes that have burned for two weeks.

Aircraft have been making flight after flight, dumping water and bright pink retardant to protect Lake Elsinore and other foothill communities as the fire sweeps through the bone-dry brush of the Cleveland National Forest.

The Holy Fire  named for Holy Jim Canyon where it began Monday  grew to nearly 33 square miles by Saturday morning. But firefighters also made progress, with containment rising from 10 to 29 per cent.

Some hillsides were being allowed to burn under the watchful eyes of firefighters as a way to reduce fuel and make it harder for flames to jump roadways into communities if winds pick up again.

Although the fire burned a dozen forest cabins early on, only one home was lost Thursday as fire crews managed to fend off flames that stalked downhill and came right up to yards.

Standing in the ashes of his house on Friday, Dan Pritchett told KNBC-TV that he and his brother stayed until a wall of flames roared near.

"I turned to him and said, 'Let's go,' " Pritchett said. "(There were) 100-foot flames right on the crest of the hill, right in front of me."

No more homes were torched on Friday but some 20,000 people remained under evacuation orders.

Gusty winds continued to drive the flames, but they were expected to ease off overnight before blowing up again Saturday afternoon.

The man charged with deliberately starting the fire appeared in court Friday, but his arraignment was postponed.

Forrest Clark, 51, made several outbursts, claiming his life was being threatened and said the arson charge against him was a lie. A court commissioner ordered his bail to remain at $1 million.

"May I pay for that immediately?" asked Clark, who could face life in prison if convicted.

The Holy Fire was one of nearly 20 blazes across California, which is seeing earlier, longer and more destructive wildfire seasons because of drought, warmer weather attributed to climate change and home construction deeper into forests.

North of Sacramento, crews were gaining the upper hand on massively destructive fires even as new ones forced more evacuations and the weather forecast called for hot, dry, gusty weather.

The largest fire ever recorded in California, the Mendocino Complex, was now threatening about 1,500 homes instead of some 12,000 earlier in the week. It was 60 per cent contained.

Tough terrain and heavy smoke made hard work for firefighters, but containment lines in the south held, state fire officials said.

The blaze has destroyed 119 homes but none in recent days.

The two-week-old Carr Fire that killed six people and burned more than 1,000 homes was 51 per cent contained.

However, evacuations were ordered for communities near a new fire in the Fall River Mills area, about 70 miles northeast of Redding. About 350 residents were under mandatory evacuation orders because of the Hat Fire, which began Thursday near a highway.Photo: BC Wildfire Service The High Creek wildfire between Hope and Agassiz (pictured) has forced the closure of Highway 7 through the area and the nearby Sasquatch Provincial Park.

UPDATE: 9:10 p.m.

The Trans-Canada Highway is closed midway between Kamloops and Savona due to a mudslide, DriveBC reports.

Another update on the highway's status isn't expected until early Sunday morning. Drivers can use Highway 5 northbound as an alternate route.

Mudslides have also closed Highway 97 between Cache Creek and Clinton, as well as Highway 99 near Hat Creek Road. It's not clear when either of those highways will reopen.

Highway 7 between Hope and Agassiz and Highway 93 through Kootenay National Park also remain closed due to wildfire activity. A travel advisory is in place along Highway 3 through the Kootenay Pass due to nearby wildfires.

UPDATE: 6:45 p.m.

The Crowsnest Highway is now reopened through the Kootenay Pass after being closed Saturday afternoon due to wildfire activity.

DriveBC has put a travel advisory in place, noting a closure may occur again suddenly if fire activity picks up.

UPDATE: 5:45 p.m.

Mudslides have closed Highway 97 in both directions between Cache Creek and Clinton as well as Highway 99 near Hat Creek Road, DriveBC reports.

Closures due to forest fire activity remain in place for sections of Highways 3, 7 and 93.

ORIGINAL: 3:55 p.m.

Weekend travellers  be advised wildfire activity has several highways currently closed in the southern half of B.C.

In the Lower Mainland, Highway 7 is blocked off between Chowat Road and the Johnson Slough rest area, between Agassiz and Hope, to allow crews rooms to fight the 120-hectare High Creek wildfire. The popular Sasquatch Provincial Park has also been evacuated due to the fire burning just south, and will be closed until further notice.

Motorists can still use the Trans-Canada Highway to Hope, and from Agassiz Highways 9 and 1 are the alternate route.

The Crowsnest Highway is closed through the Kootenay Pass due to fire activity, from the junction with Highway 6 to the junction with Highway 21 (just west of Creston). Travellers can use Highway 6 and Highway 3A as a detour, through Nelson, Balfour, the Kootenay Lake ferry and Creston.

Near the Alberta border, Highway 93 remains shut between Radium Hot Springs and the junction with the Trans-Canada due to fire activity near the highway. An alternate route is available through Golden, via Highways 1 and 95.

There is no estimated time of reopening for any of the highway closures.

DriveBC also notes that its highway webcams are temporarily out of operation.

"Our technicians have been notified... Apologies for any inconveniences, we appreciate your patience," DriveBC said on Twitter, just before 3:30 p.m.UPDATE: 3:55 p.m.

Five people are in hospital, including one in critical condition, after a 1930s era biplane crashed shortly after take off Saturday at the Abbotsford International Airport in British Columbia.

Jadene Mah, a spokesperson for the Abbotsford International Airshow, said there was a pilot and four passengers on board the deHavilland Dragon Rapide when it crashed on the runway at 5:30 p.m., almost an hour after the airshow ended.

Mah said all five were transported to hospital by both road and air  the pilot of the biplane was in critical but stable condition, one passenger had serious injuries, and the three other were being treated for minor injuries.

"The most critical was the pilot, he's actually stable and going into surgery today," said Mah in a phone interview Sunday.

Mah said everyone involved were lucky emergency resources were still on the airfield and able to respond immediately.

"They responded inside a one-minute window, which is a tremendous response time," added Mah.

Airshow officials had said in an earlier Facebook post that the aircraft, which Mah called a piece of "living flight history," was operated by a museum, offering member flights.

Mah said the Transportation Safety Board is investigating the cause of the crash, and that the Airshow will proceed as scheduled on Sunday because of the first responders and Abbotsford airport staff.

"We definitely want to let everyone know how grateful we are for the emergency responders and the professionalism of the airport personnel here," she said.

Inspectors from the Transportation Safety Board were not able to respond to inquiries at the time of filing.

The deHavilland Dragon Rapide was built in the 1930s by British aircraft manufacturer deHavilland and was designed for short-haul flights, carrying six to eight passengers at a time.

- with files from the Canadian Press

UPDATE: 9:30 p.m.

One of the people involved in a plane crash at the Abbotsford International Airshow is in critical condition while one other is in serious condition and the three others are in stable condition, staff said in a news release late Saturday evening.

The two more seriously-hurt occupants of the plane were airlifted to hospital while three others were transported by ambulance.

"As the Abbotsford International Airshow has just completed for the day, many emergency resources were already in place and able to respond immediately," staff said.

The Transportation Safety Board has now taken over the investigation into the crash.

The incident occurred on the runway just after 5:30 p.m., when a 1930s era biplane crash shortly after take off.

Staff said the airshow will continue as scheduled on Sunday.

UPDATE: 7:00 p.m.

A vintage airplane crashed while performing at the Abbotsford Airshow Saturday afternoon.

According to CTV Vancouver, five people have been taken to a hospital.

Witness David Kent told CTV News the "older-style airplane" took off but began rocking from side to side. Its right wing then clipped the ground, sending the aircraft nose-first into the runway.

"It came to an instant stop and fortunately there were no flames," Kent said.

Two of the plane's occupants were airlifted from the scene. The other three were transported by ambulance. It's unclear what caused the crash.

Kent said the incident took place after Abbotsford Air Show events had wrapped up for the day.

with files from CTV Vancouver

ORIGINAL: 6:45 p.m.

Castanet has received pictures and video of a plane crash at the Abbotsford Air Show.

According to witnesses, the de Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide crashed at roughly 5:30 p.m.

At this point, there is no word on injuries or a cause of the crash.

Castanet will have more details as they become available.

According to Wikipedia, the de Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide is a "1930s short-haul biplane airliner developed and produced by British aircraft company de Havilland. Capable of accommodating 68 passengers, it proved an economical and durable craft, despite its relatively primitive plywood construction."For Subscribers Puebloans forced into tough choices amid affordable housing shortage

Puebloans looking for housing have been largely unsuccessful amid an affordable housing shortage.Dhofar Generating Company (DGC), in consultation with its founder shareholders Mitsui & Co, Acwa Power along with Omani shareholder Didic, has extended its initial public offering (IPO) by two weeks until August 16, a media report said.



The IPO offer price has been revised to baisas 225 per offer share on the offering of 88,896,000 shares, reported Oman Observer.



DGC is a strategic player in the utilities industry of Oman and shares the vision of the regulator towards continuous growth and prosperity for the Dhofar Governorate, John Clark, chairman of DGC was quoted as saying in the report.



We believe that the revised price of baisas 225 ($0.58) per share, which is even lower than the proportionate cost of acquisition for the founding shareholders originally, will provide a high degree of value for all investors groups in the short and long term, and make the issuance even more attractive.



Naif Al Awaaid, CEO of DGC, said: DGC has been successfully powering the Dhofar Governorate since its inception in 2003 with an even more important role after commissioning of the new 445 MW power plant in January 2018.



The revised IPO price is now even more attractive and supports a unique opportunity for an investment in the regions largest power company, Al Awaaid added.



Investors who have already subscribed to the IPO at the previous price have the flexibility to continue with their subscription without taking any further steps and they would be allotted proportionately more shares at the revised price, the report said.Abu Dhabi City Municipality has awarded two contracts for the construction of a community market at Mohammed bin Zayed City and a service station at Al Shawamekh area of the UAE capital.



The civic body roped in Tristar Engineering and Construction Company for the community market project, while Florida Property Development Company was handed the construction deal for a service station in the residential districts of Al Shawamkeh.



Saif Badr Al Qubaisi, the general manager of Abu Dhabi City Municipality, signed the agreements with Naji Hasan Al Harthi of Tristar Engineering and Construction Company and Salim Mohammed Mubarak Al Mansouri of Florida Property Development Company.



"These two projects are part of a full package of integrated projects and service facilities the municipality is intending to undertake in implementation of the vision of Abu Dhabi government for bolstering the cooperation with the private sectorm," remarked Al Qubaisi.



"The projects will also step up the development drive and add to the new projects needed for delivering modern services to the community at world-class standards," he stated.



The contract provides for the construction and operation of a community market in collaboration with the private sector. The market comprises retail outlets, community facilities, government service counters for residential districts; which will realise the aspirations of the municipality, bringing together community facilities, retail outlets and customer service elements.



The community market will be constructed on Sector Z 23, Mohammed bin Zayed City over a 23,316-sq-m area at an estimated cost of Dh36 million ($9.79 million).



The agreement calls for Musataha and operation for 30 years after two years for construction. The market is set to start operations in the final quarter of 2020.



On the service station project, the civic body said it will be constructed at Al Shawamekh city as part of the service stations at residential areas that cover the mainland at a cost of Dh15.3 million ($4.16 million).



The 5,585-sq-m facility will offer a diverse range of maintenance services that cover carpentry, repair services for household appliances, plumbing, electricity and air conditioning services, tire and auto parts trading, car repair and washing services, and many other services.



The contract for the construction of the service station is based on the principle of Musataha for 30 years, after three years of construction. It will start operation in the third quarter of 2021.



"The partnership relationships with the private sector will contribute to the improvement of the attractive investment climate and the growth rates envisioned by Abu Dhabi government," he added.-TradeArabia News ServiceAbu Dhabi-based Emirates Auction (EA) has signed a co-operation agreement with Ajman Free Zone to sell the seized cargo at the free zone through online auctions.



As per the deal, EA will organise online auctions to sell cargo that has been seized based on orders from the Judicial Committee that falls under the Dispute Settlement Committee in the Ajman Free Zone, and in accordance to the best global practices.



Through this agreement, the Ajman Free Zone looks to implement the best global practices for selling seized cargo based on judicial orders, remarked Mohammed Al Midhani, the director of the Department of Inspection and Labor Affairs, after signing the pact with Omar Matar Al Mannai, the executive director of Emirates Auction, in the presence of Fatima Salem, the acting director-general of Ajman Free Zone.



The deal will benefit the community and generate revenues for investment in the free zone, in addition to providing potential bidders with the opportunity to purchase the cargo at the best prices, he stated.



Commenting on the agreement, Salem said the agreement was another step forward towards smart transformation for Ajman Free Zone, especially since the online auctions saves both time and effort, which contributes to enhancing efficiency and facilitating transactions.



Al Mannai said that the EA was keen to sell the seized cargo of Ajman Free Zone in accordance to the best standards, which will ensure that the free zone will witness attractive returns, as well as provide bidders the opportunity to purchase the cargo at competitive prices.



The co-operation with Ajman Free Zone, he stated, represents a great addition to the list of partners for Emirates Auction, and it reflects the prominent reputation of the companys services in the country and the region.



"EA is keen to continue the positive growth of the company by working to achieve the goals of its partners and clients, as well as attract bidders to participate in the online and public auctions organised by the company," added Al Mannai.-TradeArabia News ServiceEmail Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

What comes to mind when you picture a desert? Perhaps your mind's eye sees endless miles of white sand and rolling dunes. Or perhaps you imagine such extreme thirst and heat that you can feel your throat going dry.

Just as real deserts stretch across hundreds of miles, Bible deserts remain prevalent around the world. These spiritual dry lands are places where the Bible is illegal or not readily available.

Believe it or not, there are still people who haven't heard the gospel or don't have access to a copy of the Scriptures. After all, most of us have one, two or even three Bibles at home. But these spiritual deserts still exist, and as Christians we have a mission to bring Living Water to them.

Below are a few facts about Bible deserts:

Who lives in a Bible desert?

Often, those in Bible deserts are people who live on the margins of life. Here are a few examples:

David lives in Burundi where a Bible would cost his entire month's salary. He can't afford a copy of God's Word, so he borrows a Bible from a friend to hand-copy verses.

Li lives in rural China where many people have never even seen a Bible. "There are no Bibles on sale in any bookstore in the city where I live," he said. "Even one Bible for our family will be the best gift for us."

Mee-Yon was thrown into a North Korea labor camp simply for owning a Bible. She was interrogated for hours and beaten. But despite the great risk, she and other leaders of the underground church in North Korea continue to ask for more Bibles.

These are just a few examples of people living in Bible deserts. Their neighbors, family, and friends are going through similar hardships but haven't been lucky enough to receive a Bible yet.

Why are there Bible deserts?

Here are three leading factors:

Religious persecution: Christians often suffer persecution in countries where they are in the religious minority. Sometimes this persecution even comes from neighbors and family members. In North Korea and China, getting caught with a Bible can raise the government's suspicion and lead to serious punishment. For these reasons, it's extremely difficult for persecuted Christians to purchase a Bible without endangering themselves and their loved ones. Poverty: In countries such as Rwanda and Guatemala, debilitating poverty keeps people from hearing about Jesus Christ. People in these countries can't afford food and water  let alone a Bible. Refugee crisis: Violence and civil war have ripped apart countries such as Syria and Iraq. People have had to flee their homes, leaving their possessions behind  including their Bibles. Because of this, Bibles are virtually nonexistent in many refugee camps.

How can we help?

One of World Help's founding missions is to provide Bibles to restricted countries around the world. For nearly three decades, we have sent hundreds of thousands of Bibles to Russia, China, North Korea, Cuba and many countries across the Middle East and North Africa.

What's amazing is that each Bible has the potential of impacting at least five people. In some places, an entire underground church will huddle around its one, precious copy of Scripture! We might be far away, but we can still saturate these barren lands with God's Word.

I hope you will join us in this work, and watch Bible deserts transform into oases that flow with Living Water to all who thirst.Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

The California wildfires have led newscasts this week, featuring gripping visuals of scarlet flames destroying homes and devouring vegetation, sending up suffocating smoke for miles around. From the safety of my Seattle home, I watch and wonder at the bravery of the thousands of firefighters battling those blazes.

Imagine being these men and women, voluntarily entering a scene that seems straight out of hell. Imagine rushing toward danger even as others are fleeing. Firefighters don't think twice. It's their job to go where lives are at stake.

I believe this is the role of the church in the world. Jesus called his followers to be the firefighters of the world's pain, called to rush toward suffering and bring comfort, healing, and hope. Jesus modeled this, compassionately caring for people in need, even those considered unworthy or untouchable.

When Jesus says, in Matthew 25, "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in ...," he made it clear to us that these acts of succor are not optional  they are, in fact, inextricable from loving him.

Churches are like fire stations where we learn, train, and grow in our calling. But when there's a fire, we've got to get out of there. We've got to respond to suffering in whatever form it takes.

What I see today is a worrisome trend of God's people hesitating rather than rushing to the rescue of those in need. It's no different than if the fire alarm went off and the firefighters simply ignore it. Political rhetoric around those who are "other" has leaked into our thinking, causing us to react in fear toward people who aren't like us. It's as if we think John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the United States of America that he gave his one and only Son ..."

I was encouraged by many Christians' response to the plight of thousands of immigrant children who were separated from their families at the border. We all heard that alarm. Yet it took harrowing images and audio for us to see the humanity of the people branded "illegal." Jesus never questioned a person's citizenship before responding with compassion, so why should we? That's not the role of the church  that's the role of the government. Jesus calls us to help hurting people.

I'm concerned that instead of being known as God's firefighters, as defenders of the vulnerable and powerless, we're increasingly being labelled as uncaring. A Pew survey in May made headlines because it found that only 25 percent of white evangelicals believe our country has a responsibility to accept refugees, lower than any other demographic group, including people without religion. And recently the Washington Post cited a Public Religion Research Institute survey that showed evangelicals as part of a deepening divide on issues like immigration. The op-ed's headline said it all: "So much for caring for strangers."

Of course, many U.S. churches and ministries such as World Relief and Lutheran Social Services are deeply committed to caring for immigrants and refugees, here and around the world. But the research seems to show that a high percentage of us who follow Christ are letting our fear get the better of us. We're not seeing desperate people from outside our borders as the "least of these" Jesus spoke of in Matthew 25. And we're forgetting who we are if we see their suffering and we still stay on the sidelines.

Throughout history, Christians rushed toward fires. In the early 2000s, the American church overcame its initial reluctance to respond to the global AIDS pandemic. AIDS sufferers weren't Americans, and the disease had sexual origins. Nevertheless, people of faith mobilized to help them, especially the "widows and orphans in their distress." Evangelicals were a key source of support for George W. Bush's President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, which since 2003 has saved millions of lives.

We seem to have lost that courageous compassion today. Yes, there may be risks in engaging with those who are "other." But try as I might, I can't find anywhere in the Bible where it says "never take risks for your faith." And ask any firefighter if danger is ever a deterrent to doing their job.

As Christ followers, responding to suffering is more than a call of duty. It's an expression of love for the One who saved us. And it's a powerful witness proving that the God we serve sees every person as precious  every life as one worth saving.

Richard Stearns is president of World Vision U.S. and author of The Hole in Our Gospel and Unfinished. Follow him at twitter.com/RichStearns.Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

Christian leaders are hit with many concerning issues within the modern church. Church attendance is in a state of decline in many areas. Even in the Bible Belt, the culture is becoming post-Christian. As a Christian leader myself, I have had great anxiety over these issues. One of the important truths that has helped me cope is the doctrine of divine sovereignty, realizing that God is in control. Quite honestly, as one can see in Revelation, it may be that God himself is removing the light of many churches from their lampstands due to a loss of their first love (Rev. 2:5).

Yet, another area that I have struggled with is the idea that I, as a pastor, am personally responsible for the actions of others. If a person doesn't respond to the gospel or if someone has caused issues, I thought that I was responsible for their actions, or the lack thereof. However, I recently came across a wonderful chapter that illuminated many beautiful truths that have brought me hope. Ezekiel 18 teaches three important truths one must remember when ministering in this culture.

The Beautiful Truth of Personal Accountability. The first truth that must be considered in Ezekiel 18 is the issue of personal accountability. Ezekiel gives three test cases that notes how God holds each person responsible for his or her own actions.

Test Case #1: The Righteous Man (Eze. 18:5-9). Ezekiel considers the righteousness of a man who probably lives in a sinful area. The man lives according to God's standards and "does what is just and right" (18:5). The man trust God as he does not commit idolatry (18:6a) and treats others justly (18:6b-8). The man of faith is not held accountable for the actions of the society around him. Rather, God holds him accountable for his own actions (18:9).

Test Case #2: The Wicked Son (Eze. 18:10-13). The son is nothing like his father. One can assume that the father was a good parent. The wicked son has chosen his path. He is guilty of violence (18:10), idolatry (18:11a), adultery (18:11b), and abuses others (18:12-13). The judgment of the son is not the father's fault. Instead, as Ezekiel states, "Since he has committed all these detestable acts, he will certainly die. His death will be his own fault" (18:13).

Test Case #3: The Righteous Grandson (Eze. 18:14-20). The wicked son has a son who is the righteous man's grandson. The grandson sees the evil deeds of his father and chooses to live in faith according to God's laws. This individual is not held responsible for the deeds of his father. Rather, "the righteousness of the righteous person will be on him, and the wickedness of the wicked person will be on him" (18:20). No matter where a person comes from and no matter how bad a person's parents are, God does not hold the child responsible for the actions of his or her parents. Each person is held accountable for their own actions.

Understanding this truth has brought me great peace. We are responsible for getting the message of the gospel out there. We give defenses for the faith. But ultimately, each person is responsible for him or herself. We cannot change anyone. Only God can. So, be faithful in what God has called you to do and leave the results up to him.

The Beautiful Truth of Providential Ambition (Eze. 18:23-29, 32). Another great truth shown in Ezekiel 18 is God's desire for people to be saved. God asks, "Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked . . . don't I take pleasure when he turns from his ways and lives?" (18:23) Again in verse 32, God says, "For I take no pleasure in anyone's death . . . So repent and live!" (18:32). In both of these passages, God shows that he does not take pleasure in judging and condemning anyone. God desires that people repent of their sins and turn to him so that they can avoid judgment. I believe that Simon Peter probably had this chapter in mind when he wrote "The Lord does not delay his promise, as some understand delay, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish but all to come to repentance" (2 Pet. 3:9). Some may question God's grace, such as those mentioned in Eze. 18:25-29, but it must be remembered that God does not desire for anyone to be in hell or for anyone to face judgment. Ezekiel 18 makes this vividly clear!

The Beautiful Truth of Penitent Acceptance (Eze. 18:21-22; 30-31). The final great truth found in this amazing chapter is that God accepts a person's repentance. Since each person is held accountable for one's own actions and that God desires for all to be saved, then it is no surprise that God willingly accepts the genuine repentance of anyone who calls upon his name. If a wicked person genuinely repents from all the sins he or she has committed, God will forgive him (18:21-22). God appeals to Israel and to all people to repent and turn to him

These truths are remarkable and quite revolutionary when properly understood. Some believe that the God found in the OT is a mean, vengeful being. But, such is not the case. The God of the OT is the same God of the NT because he is the genuine God over all creation. God holds each person accountable. Each person will have to stand before God in judgment (Heb. 9:27), including Christians (Rom. 14:10). So, don't think that you will be held accountable for another person's actions. In addition, don't think that God is unwilling to accept your or anyone one else's repentance. He will because it is not God's will for any to perish, but for all to come to repentance (2 Pet. 3:9).

 2018. BellatorChristi.com.

Brian G. Chilton is the founder of BellatorChristi.com and is the host of The Bellator Christi Podcast. He received his Master of Divinity in Theology from Liberty University (with high distinction); his Bachelor of Science in Religious Studies and Philosophy from Gardner-Webb University (with honors); and received certification in Christian Apologetics from Biola University. Brian is currently enrolled in the Ph.D. program in Theology and Apologetics at Liberty University. Brian has been in the ministry for over 15 years and serves as a pastor in northwestern North Carolina.A Harris County man is accused of stabbing his wife to death then cutting his own neck in an apparent murder-suicide attempt in front of the couple's six children Saturday evening, officials said.

Felix Ruiz, who court records show had a long history of domestic violence, was charged Sunday with the murder of his common-law wife, 34-year-old Sofia Martinez.

WOUNDED: Woman hit after nearby driver fires 40 shots into car

It's not clear what type of domestic dispute led to the violence, but by the time deputies responded around 7:30 p.m. to the Advenir at Stone Park Apartments in the 6100 block of East Sam Houston Parkway, Martinez was already dead inside her apartment.

Ruiz had wounded himself but was still breathing, and the 37-year-old was taken by ambulance to Ben Taub Hospital in critical condition

The two had been together for nearly 10 years and have six children ranging in age from 6 months to 16 years old - all of whom were home in the apartment at the time of the stabbing, according to Harris County Sheriff's Office spokesman Thomas Gilliland.

After police arrived, the kids were handed over to their grandmother, though it's unclear whether she was home at the time of the incident.

Over the past two decades, Ruiz has racked up a string of local arrests, including drunk driving, marijuana possession and assault.

SHOOTER SOUGHT: Man killed at North Harris County music studio

In 2011, he got 90 days in jail for hitting his girlfriend the year before. That July, he got another assault family violence charge when he pulled Martinez by her hair and pushed her to the ground, according to court records. He netted two years in prison for that charge, and as part of his plea agreement got another family violence charge dismissed after he was accused of kicking Martinez.

Then in 2014, Ruiz got 30 days in jail after he was convicted of grabbing another man by the neck during an argument over a laptop in Jacinto City, according to court records.

At the time of his arrest in the killing, Ruiz also had a warrant out for a 2016 criminal mischief charge after he allegedly destroyed Martinez's apartment, throwing a TV on the floor, kicking apart the dresser, and putting four holes in her bedrooms walls.August is Membership and Extension month in Rotary. And for me, the month is a sentimental time when I celebrate two important anniversaries back to back and Rotary membership is part of that celebration. Heres my story.

Forty years ago (yikes!) on August 18th I opened my little accounting and bookkeeping service on a wing and a prayer. A few years in, I joined a networking group in Houston, that still exists and thrives today. I met my husband there and made lifelong friends. That was also my first experience with joining a group of any sort outside of school. I loved the coming together for a common cause and enjoyed the social aspects. The members were incredibly supportive of one another, were always there to lend each other a hand, and at Christmas we usually held a toy drive and always made a big charitable donation to the clubs favorite nonprofit. But we were all successful entrepreneurs, so it seemed to me we should be giving back to the community even more. Something was missing.

In the summer of 1999, our very wise friend Chuck Womack stopped by our Houston office and I voiced a little frustration over a service project I wanted to do that was shot down; looking back, the clubs board was 100% correct in their decision - the club didnt have the infrastructure for that type of service work and the club was, after all, first and foremost a business networking group. Chuck patted my hand and said Dear girl, what you are looking for is a different organization. Enjoy your networking club and benefit from that membership, but look elsewhere for your community service. What you need is Rotary.

Two weeks later, Michael and I attended our first Rotary meeting at The Rotary Club of Houston, with Chuck as our sponsor. A year later, we bought our land in Willis and began splitting our time between Houston and the ranch. Michael still had his business in Houston and continued as a member of both the networking group and RCH. Just as I was about to resign from Rotary in Houston to spend more time in Willis, I opened a copy of The Splash and saw a meeting announcement reading The Rotary Club of Lake Conroe meets aboard the paddleboat The Southern Empress each Thursday morning at 7 a.m. Join us for breakfast. I called the contact number and living legend Alfred Anderson answered the phone. Two days later, I was asking Larry Eichenbaum, then RCLC Sergeant at Arms, for permission to come aboard as he greeted us at the Empress dock. My time as a Montgomery County Rotarian had just begun, with Alfred as my sponsor.

The following summer as our Rotary District Conference was winding down, Alfred and I sat together lamenting Rotarys lack of visibility. So much good work was being done, but membership was decreasing because Rotarians didnt promote themselves - they just went out and did the work without fanfare. While admirable, that did nothing to increase membership. Too many people thought Rotary was older men in business suits having lunch and writing checks to charities. Something needed to change, and luckily, Rotary International was realizing that. But we wanted to do something locally to promote the great work being done and to bring in new members. Craig and pixie Jones were giving Rotary great coverage in The Splash, but we knew we needed more than one hard working outlet. We needed additional press coveraget.

Monday morning, Alfred was on the phone with his contacts and by the next day, I had an appointment at The Courier. The groundwork was laid with The Courier for The Club News page. On August 19, 2002 our first column was published. The Lions Club joined us on the page later that same year.

So here we are, all these years later, still coming to you each week with our 500 words of Rotary. Weve added a new Rotary Club in Montgomery County, in Magnolia, and last year The Rotary Club of The Woodlands added an evening Satellite Club for those who cant make a daytime meeting. Our communities are growing, and Rotary is growing along with it. Each of our clubs has a different vibe, meets at a different time and place; our membership is diverse and dynamic - theres pretty much something for everyone in Rotary, and THAT is a Beautiful Thing! Thank you readers, and many thanks to The Courier for 16 years of support and visibility.Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court has announced that the first day of the annual Haj pilgrimage will be on August 19 and Eid Al-Adha will fall on August 21.

It said Sunday (Aug 12) will be the first day of the incoming month of Dhul Al-Hijjah for the year 1439 AH, a Saudi Press Agency statement said.

Already more than 1,221,400 pilgrims have arrived in the kingdom, an increase of 70,348 pilgrims compared to last Haj season, SPA said quoting Passports' Directorate statistics.

Meanwhile, UAE has announced that Eid al-Adha holiday for ministries and federal departments will begin on August 19 and last until August 23, with official work resuming on August 26.The store where the owner was shot and killed Thursday night fell victim to a burglary early Saturday morning, Houston police said.

The break-in happened around 1 a.m. at the Gulf gas station on Liberty and Pannell in Houston's Greater Fifth Ward, according to Metro Video. An unknown number of suspects appeared to have broken into the business through the rear of the building.

ORIGINAL STORY: Convenience store owner robbed, fatally shot in Fifth Ward

It is unclear if the suspects made off with anything of value.

That very gas station was the scene of a more gruesome crime about 24 hours earlier.

A store owner was shot and killed in the parking lot around 11 p.m. Thursday during a robbery, according to Houston police.

The manager, 32, was walking to his car with the day's earnings to deposit and was approached in the parking lot by an armed man.

During the encounter, the suspect opened fire on the manager, fatally striking him in the process.

The gunman took the bag of money and fled southbound on Pannell, police said. The man is described as having short dreadlocks and wearing a red shirt with a white stripe

Anyone with information on either crime is urged to called Houston Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS (8477).

Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message.

Jay R. Jordan covers breaking news in the Houston area. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and our subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com | Follow him on Twitter at @JayRJordan | Email him at jay.jordan@chron.comThe Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (Enec) and its subsidiaries the Nawah Energy Company (Nawah) and Barakah One Company have launched a Youth Council to inspire, support, and empower the future Emirati leaders of the UAE Peaceful Nuclear Energy Industry.

Entitled the Barakah Youth Council (BYC), the council will serve as a direct channel of communication between the senior leadership of Enec, Nawah and Barakah One Company and the organisations young Emirati employees.

Over, 63 per cent of the 1,400 Emirati nationals employed across all three companies are aged under 30.

The council provides these young employees with a voice to champion change and drive continuous improvement while also being involved in the decision-making for ongoing evolution of the UAE Peaceful Nuclear Energy Program.

The launch of the Barakah Youth Council forms a part of our commitment to developing our youth and providing them with the skills, expertise and experience to become the future leaders of our nation and the growing local nuclear energy sector, remarked Enec CEO Engineer Mohamed Al Hammadi.

This council operates within the framework of the UAE Centennial 2071 vision and UAE Vision 2021, which aim to ensure that the UAE has the human capital necessary to sustain a world-leading, knowledge based economy, he stated.

It is led by Chairman Ali AlNuaimi, Vice Chairwoman Badreya Almarzooqi, and Secretary Muna Al Suwaidi. The other members include Ali Salem Al Nuaimi, Sara AlShomali, Jassim Al Bulooki, Abdullah Al Yafei, Sara Al Fzari, Rayah Al Sereidi, Hamdan Al Khoori, Rashed S. Al Zaabi and Yaqoub AlHashmi.

Al Hammadi said the Barakah Youth Council was led by a dynamic and diverse group of young UAE nationals from across Enec, Nawah and Barakah One Company.

"I am proud of their commitment and dedication to our nation and the UAE Peaceful Nuclear Energy Program, and look forward to working closely with them," he added.-TradeArabia News ServiceSharply criticized for his failure to immediately condemn racist protesters after last year's unrest in Charlottesville, Virginia, President Donald Trump this year tried to get out ahead of the issue before a planned march in Washington on Sunday.

"The riots in Charlottesville a year ago resulted in senseless death and division," Trump tweeted Saturday afternoon. "We must come together as a nation. I condemn all types of racism and acts of violence. Peace to ALL Americans!"

Trump was also criticized after Charlottesville for his equation of the concerns of the white-nationalist groups with those of the people coming out to oppose those groups. In his tweet on Saturday, he did the same thing.

On the surface, condemning racism in any form seems noncontroversial. Of course racism should be condemned. What makes Trump's comments questionable, though, is that it goes out of its way to include a condemnation of "all types" of racism, instead of simply condemning "racism." By pointedly adding "all types," he's implicitly raising the question of which types of racism might be overlooked unless they were included. And a natural answer to that question is perceived racism against white people.

There is an idea, prevalent among some groups, that white Americans face systematic discrimination that's comparable to - if not worse than - the racial discrimination faced by other groups. A Public Religion Research Institute poll conducted in May 2017 found that "(m)ore than half (52 percent) of white working-class Americans believe discrimination against whites is as big a problem as discrimination against blacks and other minorities." Among working-class Americans aged 65 and older, nearly 6 in 10 held that view.

One doesn't need to have paid terribly close attention to American politics over the past three years to understand that older working-class Americans are a demographic with which Trump did well in the 2016 election. In September 2016, Quinnipiac University broke out a similar question by vote preference, asking respondents how concerned the were about "so-called 'reverse racism', or discrimination against white people" impacting their lives.

About 4 in 10 Americans said they were "very" or "somewhat" concerned about that happening - including almost two-thirds of Trump voters.

A Post-ABC News poll conducted in March 2016 asked people which was the bigger problem: blacks and Hispanics losing out because of preferences for whites or whites losing out because of preferences for blacks and Hispanics. A plurality of Americans said the former. By a 2-to-1 margin, though, Trump voters said the latter was the bigger problem.

In fact, comparing two otherwise equivalent voters demographically and economically, one who believed that whites losing out to nonwhites were the bigger problem were about three times as likely to back Trump as respondents who said nonwhites losing out to whites was more problematic.

It was a more accurate predictor of support for Trump than economic difficulties.

Another poll conducted in October found that 55 percent of white Americans think there's discrimination against white people in America today. A HuffPost/YouGov poll conducted in 2016 found that Trump voters were more likely to believe that white people faced a lot of discrimination than they were to say that Muslim or black people did.

This sense of aggrievement is not exclusive to the white working class or to Trump voters, of course. It's also a theme that runs through racist and white-nationalist rhetoric. A sense that white Americans are disadvantaged or being held to stricter, more exacting standards than other groups is central to the perceived need to protect white Americans, which is, fundamentally, what white nationalism is about. We've heard this rhetoric a lot of late, this idea that white America needs to be defended. At the heart of that assertion is the idea that whites are under fire - an idea that is definitionally an idea centered in racism. In this case, the sort of "reverse racism" measured in the polls above.

The extent to which Trump in his tweet was explicitly channeling a defense of those white Americans worried about their cultural status is hard to measure. He has a tendency of saying things that cover both sides of an argument or presenting a case in nebulous enough language that people on either side of an issue can convince themselves that he's joining their cause.

But why might he have been deliberate in this case? A short answer is that Trump is someone both attuned to and deferential to his political base. The data suggest that many Trump voters believe that discrimination against whites is a real, threatening problem, so we might expect Trump to reflect that view in his actions.

It also seems likely, though, that Trump himself shares that view, that he is among the majority of Trump supporters who worries about reverse racism. That when, for example, he excoriates "political correctness," he's also complaining about how certain comments from dominant cultural groups are no longer considered acceptable. That his insistence on making America great again is about rolling back the clock on cultural trends as much or more than rolling back to a time when manufacturing was the main employer in the Midwest.

One can see in Trump's tweet about Charlottesville the same equivalence that he presented after that violent incident. There are good people on both sides, he said then, and on Saturday he seems to have implied that there is problem with racism on both sides, too.The launch of the Parker Solar Probe spacecraft was scrubbed today due to a last minute technical problem.

The early morning launch countdown stopped with one-minute, 55 seconds remaining, keeping the Delta IV rocket on its pad with the Parker Solar Probe. The Associated Press is reporting the launch delay was caused by a helium-pressure issue.

The launch will attempt again at 3:31 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 12 at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The forecast shows a 60 percent chance of favorable weather conditions for the launch, according to NASA.

Watch live and past attempt launch of the Parker Solar Probe online via NASA TV.

The launch is the first of Brooke Teresa Buchholz Tropf's career as a spacecraft software engineer. The Midland native is the deputy autonomy lead for the Parker Solar Probe launch, supporting the launch from the Mission Operations Center from Laurel, Maryland.

Read more: Midland native prepares for NASA 'mission to touch the sun'

Brooke Teresa Buchholz Tropf graduated from Dow High School in 2000 and is the daughter of Pam and Fred Buchholz. Fred Buchholz is a chemist and Dow retiree.

Tropf's parents made the trip to Florida for the expected launch early this morning among close to 1,000 other NASA invited guests.

Early on the launch was pushed back about 15 minutes, according to Pam Buchholz.

"They resumed the countdown and then rather out of nowhere said, they were shutting everything down and scrubbing the launch for the night," Pam Buchholz told the Daily News via email.

The Buchholz are hoping the launch goes successfully early Sunday morning, but got to see Brooke on screen at her mission control station.

The Parker Solar Probe will has a targeted 7-year mission and will travel closer to the sun than any other spacecraft in its $1.5 billion mission.Saudi Aramco, a global petroleum and natural gas company, has appointed Khalid H Al-Dabbagh as senior vice president of Finance, Strategy & Development, effective September 1.



Al-Dabbagh has been the companys financial controller since January 2012. He was responsible for Saudi Aramcos global accounting activities, issuance of the annual financial report and the maintenance of effective internal controls.



He provided business intelligence and advisory services, and was responsible for developing and maintaining corporate performance programs. Al-Dabbagh also oversaw the annual operating and capital budgeting processes, and the evaluation of proposed investments by the company.



In October 2010, Al-Dabbagh was appointed treasurer after serving as the acting executive head of Treasury since February 2010. From September 2008, he was the manager of Business Analysis Department at Corporate Planning. Prior to that, Al-Dabbagh was the acting executive director of Marketing, Supply and Joint Venture Coordination.



Previous positions he held included manager of Saudi Aramcos Crude Oil Sales and Marketing; director of Joint Venture Development and Support; president and CEO of Saudi Petroleum International Inc. in New York; and general manager of Saudi Petroleum Limited in Tokyo. Al-Dabbagh has also served as a Board Director with Showa Shell, Fujian Refining and Petrochemical Company, Luberef, SUMED, and vice chairman of Sinopec SenMei Products Company.



Al-Dabbagh has been a Board member of Saudi Aramco Energy Ventures, the Saudi Aramco Entrepreneurship Center, and the Netherlands Arlanxeo JV. He also served as a Board member of Aramco Trading Company and the chairman of their Board Audit Committee. He is currently a Board member of Sadara; and the Pengerang Refining and Petrochemical (PrefChem) joint venture with Malaysias Petronas. In addition, he represents Saudi Aramco on the Board of Governors of the GCC Board Directors Institute.



Al-Dabbagh earned a bachelors degree in industrial engineering from the University of Toledo. He has completed a number of executive leadership programmes, including the Senior Executive Programme at London Business School.  TradeArabia News ServiceA woman was shot in the head while her boyfriend escaped unscathed late Saturday after a nearby driver fired almost 40 shots into the couple's car in southwest Houston.

Police said the couple wasn't gang affiliated and it wasn't a road rage incident - but they haven't been able to zero in on a motive.Saudi Aramco, Air Products, and Acwa Power today announced the signing of a term sheet to form a gasification/power joint venture (JV) located at Jazan Economic City (JEC) in Saudi Arabia.

The JV will purchase the gasification assets, power block and the associated utilities from Saudi Aramco for approximately $8 billion. These assets are currently under construction and will be transferred to the JV upon successful start-up, scheduled in 2019.

The JV will own and operate the facility under a 25-year contract for a fixed monthly fee. Saudi Aramco will supply feedstock to the JV, and the JV will produce power, hydrogen and other utilities for Saudi Aramco. Air Products will own at least 55 percent of the JV, with Saudi Aramco and Acwa Power owning the balance.

The JV builds upon the importance and recognition that critical infrastructure assets in the region are being developed and operated under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model.

The consortium will increase job opportunities and transfer the most advanced technologies in this field to the kingdom, and enable Saudi talent to employ this technology for the first time, said a stateent.

The JV will serve Saudi Aramcos Jazan Refinery and terminal at JEC, a megaproject that will process heavy and medium crude oil to create liquefied petroleum gas, sulfur, asphalt, benzene and paraxylene, and add 400,000 barrels per day of refining capacity.

Saudi Aramco senior vice president of Downstream Abdulaziz M Al-Judaimi said: The Gasification/Power JV will be central to the self-sufficiency of our megaprojects at Jazan. The JV will enhance the overall value of the refinery and integrated gasification combined cycle power plant, and aid in transforming the province by positioning JEC for additional foreign direct investment and private sector involvement.

Air Products chairman, president and CEO, Seifi Ghasemi said: Air Products is very honoured to be given this outstanding opportunity to expand our involvement in this megaproject in partnership with Saudi Aramco, the worlds largest company, and Acwa Power, the leading private power producer in the Middle East. Earlier this year, Air Products acquired the patents for the Shell liquids gasification technology, which is the core technology for the Jazan gasification facility. Building on the success of our LuAn project in China, this new project further extends Air Products leadership position supplying syngas to major companies around the world. We appreciate the trust that Saudi Aramco continues to place in us, first in awarding us the air separation unit, and now moving toward an expanded scope of supply at Jazan.

Ghasemi noted that the JV furthers the efforts of the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model to develop critical infrastructure assets in the region, a key component of the Kingdoms Saudi Vision 2030.

Acwa Power chairman Mohammad Abunayyan added: Acwa Power is committed to the expansion of the PPP model into the power sector. Acwa Power plays an important role in the power sector in the kingdom and welcomes the opportunity to assist in the further development of Jazan economic corridor. Furthermore, our collaboration with industry leading companies, Saudi Aramco and Air Products, will stimulate growth and innovation, aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. - TradeArabia News ServiceCLEVELAND, Ohio - Helen Forbes Fields, a trustee at the Cleveland Museum of Art, said that she recently saw a guard turn away a young black man when he pushed open the North Lobby doors as the museum was about to close.

Forbes Fields, who is black, said she feared that the abrupt tone in the guard's voice might have made the visitor feel unwanted. So she told the young man he would be welcome to come back the next day at 10 a.m.

"I just wanted him to know that this is a place that's open for him and yes, the doors are closed now, but they certainly will be open for him the next day and the day after," she said, adding, "I felt I needed to say that at that moment."

Forbes Fields described the incident as one example of why the museum needs the new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Plan that it is formally announcing today.

"We've got work to do," she said.

Two years in the making, the plan outlines broad changes in how the museum will hire and train employees, buy goods and services from vendors, collect and exhibit art, and educate students.

The goal is to eliminate barriers for historically underrepresented groups in every aspect of the museum's operations. The plan dovetails with the museum's 2017 strategic plan, designed to help the institution make the most of the $320 million expansion and renovation completed in 2013.

"I'm very proud of this plan," said museum Director William Griswold, who joined the museum in 2014. "It provides clear steps to achieve a long-term goal of an audience that mirrors the community we serve, and more closely mirrors our population."

Responding to the episode described by Forbes Fields, Griswold said: "It is precisely to address incidents of that type that a plan is essential and in order."

American art museums, including Cleveland's are grappling with how to address the reality that while they occupy cities with increasingly diverse populations, their audiences, boards and staffs historically have been largely white.

"This is the defining issue of our field at the moment,'' said Cyra Levenson, deputy director and head of public and academic engagement at the Cleveland museum, who led the staff committee that helped trustees devise the diversity plan.

A national survey completed by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation in 2015 found that "Although 28 percent of museum staffs are from minority backgrounds, the great majority of these workers are concentrated in security, facilities, finance, and human resources jobs.

"Among museum curators, conservators, educators and leaders, only 4 percent are African American and 3 percent Hispanic," the survey said.

At the Cleveland museum, roughly 26 percent of 566 employees are persons of color, up from 22 percent last year, Griswold said. Of the total, 62 percent are female.

About 13 percent of the museum's 163-person professional staff, which includes, curators, educators, librarians, managers and others, are persons of color.

In 2017, the museum hired its first black curator, Ugochukwu-Smooth C. Nzewi, a native of Nigeria, to manage the museum's African collection.

On the museum's 36-member board, four - or 11 percent - are persons of color.

In every category, Griswold said, he expects greater diversity will be achieved.

Under its new plan, the Cleveland museum defines diversity as including "race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, religion, socioeconomic status, educational status, marital status, language, age, and mental or physical ability."

Griswold said the plan would be shared on the museum's website.

"This is a document I would love for everyone to read. I welcome people's critique of the plan as well. No plan is perfect and this one will continue to evolve."

The plan includes 16 actions the museum will take over the next two years. They include marketing the institution to new audiences, choosing vendors that represent the diversity of the community, requiring a diverse pool of candidates for every job opening, initiating tours in Spanish, and launching a new community arts center in the Villa Hispana area on Cleveland's near West Side.

A major thrust of the plan is to create educational programs for high school, college and graduate students from underrepresented communities that provide exposure and encouragement to pursue of careers in art museums.

Another goal is to build new audiences so "visitorship increasingly reflects the demographics of the Cleveland-Elyria Metropolitan Statistical Area and the Cuyahoga County Statistical Area."

The Cleveland museum offers free general admission, but even so, Griswold said, "neither our staff nor our visitors represent the diversity either of our collection or of the community we serve."

The metro region is 20 percent black and the county is 30.5 percent black according to the Census.

The museum says that about 69 percent of its annual attendance of 600,000-plus comes from the Cleveland statistical area. Of that number, about a quarter are persons of color, Griswold said.

Levenson said data on the museum's progress toward goals in the new plan will be publicly shared.

Forbes Fields, for her part, cautioned against quotas.

"You get into a dangerous trap if you say you have to look at a certain number," she said.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Brooklyn Museum have been criticized recently over issues related to diversity in hiring. The Cleveland museum hasn't aroused such visible ire, but discontent has simmered for years.

Cavana Faithwalker, a community empowerment consultant in Huntsville, AL, who worked at the museum as a specialist in community engagement between 1990 and 2010, said he was surprised at the time "about how many in the black intelligentsia felt that the museum was the enemy. It blew me away."

Faithwalker, who is black, said he also confronted internal obstacles when he tried to broaden the museum's audiences and programs. He welcomed the museum's new plan, but said that the test would be whether it sticks as long-term policy.

"So often stuff dies with the person and the position and all those efforts go with it," he said.

Forbes Fields, the daughter of former City Council president George Forbes and executive vice president and general counsel of the United Way in Cleveland, said the museum's plan has been a long time in coming.

"I jokingly say we have a diversity plan after 102 years in existence," she said, referencing the museum's opening in 1916.

Forbes Fields has been the longstanding chair of the African-American Advisory Committee and now also chairs the Nominating and Governance Committee.

Coming up with a diversity plan was not as high a priority earlier in the 2000s as it is now, she said. High turnover in museum leadership between 2000 and 2014 prevented a sustained focus, she said, but Griswold, whose contract runs through 2024, has shown strong interest.

"I would say he's been a wonderful partner,'' she said.

Griswold said that many of the 16 action steps outlined in the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Plan have been underway, even before his tenure began.

The frequency of shows on African-American artists increased sharply in 2013. Since then, the museum has exhibited works by artists including William H. Johnson, Carrie Mae Weems, Hank Willis Thomas, Kara Walker, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Wadsworth and Jae Jarrell, and Kerry James Marshall.

Multiple major additions to the collection since 2006 have included works by Edmonia Lewis, Augusta Savage, Jacob Lawrence, Charles Sallee, Hughie Lee-Smith, Norman Lewis, Emma Amos, and Wadsworth Jarrell.

Last November, the museum announced it had joined the national Diversifying Art Museum Leadership Initiative, funded by the Ford and Walton Family Foundations with local help the Cleveland Foundation.

As part of that program, the museum this summer hosted six graduate students for a two-week intensive program that included conversations on creative thinking with Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Tyehimba Jess.

Jess, who spoke by phone Thursday from New York, said he was encouraged by the museum's current outreach.

Forbes Fields, for her part, said she is feeling encouraged.

"From the late 90s to now, there's huge progress that's been made," she said. "I'm very happy about it."CLEVELAND, Ohio  Less than 24 hours after Bird electric scooters landed in Cleveland, the city announced plans to pluck them from the streets.

But fans of the new scooters say the city shouldn't shoo the scooters away so quickly and instead should explore the opportunity to create a more multimodal city.

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I disagree with the city of Clevelands immediate reaction to the new powered scooters in town. Is there more to learn about them? Sure, but we should approach them with an open mind and be proactive about how they can work with and compliment our transportation system.  Kerry McCormack (@KerryMcCormack1) August 11, 2018

Councilman Kerry McCormack, whose Ward 3 includes downtown, Tremont and Ohio City, said he thinks the city should take a more open-minded approach to dealing with Bird Rides, the Los Angeles-based dockless scooter company.

Cleveland on Friday notified Bird that the company needed to remove its scooters from city sidewalks, citing safety concerns. Since its launch Friday, Bird scooters have been scattered throughout downtown and nearby neighborhoods. The dockless scooters can be located and rented via the Bird app.

"As a city, we have to think more innovatively of all of these issues. We can't just immediately, when something new comes out, react negatively," McCormack said.

He recommended opening a dialogue with the company to address safety concerns and management of the new system, instead of outright banning the scooters.

"Can we say, 'The City of Cleveland acknowledges you've entered our city. We have questions,'" McCormack said. "Whatever their purpose is, they could be an interesting option to fill some of the mobility needs we have in Cleveland in a meaningful way."

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Please note that riding electric scooters is prohibited on pedestrian sidewalks but permissible on multiuse (bike/pedestrian) paths. Riders must obey all traffic laws and are strongly encouraged to wear helmets.



MORE INFO ABOUT YOUR PILOT PROGRAM: https://t.co/CL0PAjlU9k pic.twitter.com/LQR4y6Tn36  City of Cincinnati (@CityOfCincy) August 9, 2018

The scooters were introduced in Cincinnati two weeks ago and in Columbus in mid-July. Bird has fleets in about 30 U.S. markets, as well as Paris. Typically, the company introduces scooters into a city abruptly, as it did in Cleveland.

Cincinnati on Wednesday established interim guidelines for shared active transportation systems, like Bird, allowing them to launch 60-day pilot programs, as long as indemnity and insurance requirements were met. Under the new rules, Bird can operate up to 200 scooters in the city.

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The short round trip from @MastheadBrewing to @PourCleveland on a @BirdRide taught me how scary it is to ride a bike/scooter without appropriate protected bike lanes. It also shows how @CityofCleveland cares about making @DowntownCLE a great place to work but not live.  Joe Gramc (@JoeGramc) August 11, 2018

Transportation innovation

Downtown Cleveland resident Joe Gramc took a quick trip via Bird to Pour Cleveland on Saturday morning.

"It was easy to use," Gramc said. "I like the idea that it's dockless. You can leave them wherever you want, and they'll be available for someone else."

He picked up a scooter from outside Masthead Brewing, near his townhouse, where it was parked with two others. Bird encourages riders to dock the scooters in bike racks, where available.

"The frustrating part to me is that we're pretty much behind every other city on anything innovative, especially multimodal," said Gramc, who made sure to rent a scooter Saturday morning, after hearing about the city's plans to block Bird.

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Lets plan 21st Century #MultiModal Streets with protected bike/ped & slower speed parallel cartways that accommodate micro-mobility demand in our cities. Fundamental sustainability & equity planning providing more transportation choice 45% of trips < 3 mi driven 80% of the time pic.twitter.com/ehU1QvdxQB  Chris Ronayne (@chrisronayne) August 11, 2018

University Circle Inc. President Chris Ronayne said embracing transportation solutions like Bird could help create a transportation identity for the city again.

"I think getting ahead of it is something that will put Cleveland on the map as a transportation progressive city, if we play it that way," Ronayne said. "This is a matter of 21st century streets that meet 21st century transportation demand. It's changing as we speak, and it's exciting."

Ronayne, who previously served as the city's planning director, said Cleveland could build on the momentum it has on creating bike lanes and making travel safer for bicyclists by adding more multimodal options to streets. Ronayne proposed adding low-speed cartways next to bike lanes to accommodate electric innovations like scooters, one-wheels and boosted skateboards.

"It's a matter of design," he said.

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Good morning, first time we've spotted a @BirdRide in the wild ;) Welcome to #TheLand! pic.twitter.com/ShQ0Td2unr  Greater Cleveland RTA (@GCRTA) August 10, 2018

Improving access

Proponents of public transit see the scooters as a way to enhance accessibility in the city.

Linda Krecic, spokeswoman for the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority, said Bird could complement the system and increase first-mile, last-mile options for riders.

"If riders can incorporate bikes or scooters into their trip, public transportation becomes much more accessible and convenient, and RTA services become ever more attractive to the community," she said.

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First time I've left my work to eat outside in years. This scooter let me cruise down Buckeye to Shaker Square and back. Pretty fun to ride and a nice addition to using @GCRTA pic.twitter.com/VoviUxtaHP  Green New Deal with Buses though (@eatrighteous) August 10, 2018

Chris Stocking, an organizer of Clevelanders for Public Transit, a riders' group, said Bird offers a more affordable first- and last-mile alternative to Lyft and Uber. Bird charges a $1 rental fee and 15 cents for every minute thereafter.

"I just saw someone riding one through the Flats and thought that was great because there's no public transit. So, if you don't have a vehicle, you have to walk," Stocking said.

He also took issue with the city's safety concerns about scooters.

"Scooters are about the same speed as bicycles. Saying scooters are unsafe shows the need for investment in bike infrastructure and other alternative modes of transportation," he said.

Bird's scooters go up to 15 mph and cannot be rented without first accepting the company's rental agreement, which requires riders wear helmets and only operate scooters in bike lanes or on roads, as well as a number of other safety concerns.

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Tapping the brakes on scooters

The city's law director, Barbara Langhenry, sent a letter to Bird late Friday informing the company that it needed to have permits in order to place scooters on public sidewalks. The city threatened to confiscate the fleet of 100 scooters if Bird didn't remove them.

"We believe that you would agree that the placement of unattended, commercial, electric scooters on city sidewalks raises important safety issues that need to be fully explored and properly addressed with the city," Langhenry wrote. "Unattended scooters on the sidewalks are subject to removal and impoundment."

The city hasn't yet responded to The Plain Dealer's request for information about the removal of scooters.

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A Bird spokesperson said the company contacted the city about establishing a plan for the scooters in Cleveland.

"We are encouraged to see the people of Cleveland embrace our vehicles, and are hopeful that Bird will help the city continue to thrive," the spokesperson said via email. "We have reached out to local officials and look forward to working with the city of Cleveland to develop a framework that permits our affordable and convenient transportation option."NORTHFIELD, Ohio - Thinkbig Dreambig rallied through the stretch to win Saturday's $400,000 Carl Milstein Memorial at Northfield Park, nailing the front pacing Jimmy Freight on the line for a half-length decision. Longshot Minnie Vinnie was third.

Timed a mile in 1:50, Thinkbig Dreambig, driven by Jordan Stratton for trainer Jimmy Takter, collected $200,000 in purse money and paid $17 for a $2 win wager.

For Stratton, the Milstein victory gave him a sweep of Northfield's richest races this year. He won the Battle of Lake Erie on A Bit of a Legend and the Cleveland Trotting Classic driving Marion Marauder.

"We knew we had a good shot going in with Thinkbig Dreambig," said Stratton. "He had plenty of pace tonight. He's really blooming now."

Takter was on vacation in Bermuda, but watched the victory on his cell phone.

It was a bad night for father and son acts as Lather Up, the Milstein's even money favorite went off stride twice and finished eighth and last.

I'm Gorgeous, the sire of Lather Up, raced well but not well enough to win a race run a few hours before the Milstein. He saved ground his entire mile in pursuit of Blue Spanx the gate-to-wire winner in 1:53 2/5, but had to settle for third money. The margin of defeat was 1-1/2 lengths.

Although he's 11, I'm Gorgeous has won three of 19 starts this year and a little more than $10,000. He is headed back to a breeding farm next year to resume his stud career, all thanks to the early season success of Lather Up.Guest Columnist Melissa Federman is the director of the AIDS Funding Collaborative (AFC), housed at The Center for Community Solutions, where she is also the Treuhaft Chair for Health Planning. Community Solutions is a nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank based in Cleveland.

Melissa Federman, director of the AIDS Funding Collaborative

The Ohio Department of Health has released 2017 HIV data for the state, which shows a tremendous decrease in new infections in Cuyahoga County. The county saw 158 new infections in 2017, a 19 percent decrease from 196 new infections in 2016. This positive development continues a more modest downward trend since 2013.

Our good news comes at a time when state HIV and Hepatitis C rates are increasing, at least partially driven by the opiate epidemic. In 2017, HIV infections associated with injection drug use (IDU) were up for the third straight year in Ohio, and now represent 12 percent of new HIV infections diagnosed each year --compared to 5 percent of new infections just a few years ago. New Hepatitis C infections in Ohio have more than doubled since 2015.

In Cuyahoga County, our IDU-associated HIV infections have remained low and stable, due largely to the long-standing syringe exchange program (SEP) hosted by Circle Health Services and The Centers for Families and Children. The program serves the east and west sides of Cleveland, along with Ohioans who have driven in from more than 10 other counties. It was instituted in 1995, when Mayor Michael R. White issued an emergency public health order, as AIDS activists protested on the steps of City Hall.

Fast forward more than 20 years and the HIV rate, which declined precipitously after the installation of the SEP, has remained low, as services were scaled up to meet the new needs of the opiate crisis. The program now exchanges more than 50,000 needles each month.

It also provides fentanyl testing strips -- so clients are aware of what they are injecting and will use drugs as safely as possible -- and naloxone (antidote), in partnership with MetroHealth's Project DAWN. It also links clients to valuable treatment and support services.

The program has been a major public health success story.

Still, critics claim that harm-reduction services, such as SEPs, enable drug use. However, research on SEPs has never shown this to be the case. On the contrary, we have learned again and again that providing these services does not encourage new drug use, and individuals who utilize syringe exchange programs are more likely to seek recovery services than those who do not.

Without clean needles, people who use injection drugs will reuse and share needles -- leading to the spread of preventable, complex and costly diseases.

We may forget that as a country we do accept, and promote, other harm-reduction practices in our culture. One commonly accepted and popular harm-reduction strategy is the use of a designated driver (DD). DDs allow individuals who may be impaired by unsafe alcohol consumption -- and therefore shouldn't drive -- to get home safely.

No one would tell someone who has been drinking to get behind the wheel of a car and that they, or their family, deserve whatever outcomes might occur. Yet in many communities, this is what the current practice equates to for individuals who use other substances and do not have access to harm-reduction services.

In the 12 months ending last summer, there were 5,232 overdose deaths in the state -- that's more than 14 per day, and a number that continues to grow. SEPs have been legal in Ohio since 2015, yet among our 88 counties, only 14 programs have been implemented, covering 16 counties.

Given the access to overdose prevention and other protective services provided by syringe exchanges, they should be considered more widely as a tool to address the opiate crisis, in addition to a tool to prevent HIV and Hepatitis C.

These programs are incredibly effective and, once implemented, are popular among clients, public safety officers and community members. Clients appreciate that services are provided in a non-stigmatizing manner and are often staffed by individuals who are themselves in recovery, who understand their clients' experiences and needs.

Crime does not increase in communities where exchanges are implemented, and in some cases has decreased. Used needles are less likely to be found in public spaces.

More Ohio counties need to adopt programs to implement this proven and life-saving public health strategy, which in Cuyahoga County is viewed as an indispensable regional resource. This effort should be part of a comprehensive statewide response to the opiate epidemic, to prevent avoidable death and disease in every community.

Have something to say about this topic? Use the comments to share your thoughts, and stay informed when readers reply to your comments by using Notification Settings (in blue) just below.

Readers are invited to submit Opinion page essays on topics of regional or general interest. Send your 500-word essay for consideration to Ann Norman at anorman@cleveland.com. Essays must include a brief bio andheadshot of the writer. Essays rebutting today's topics are also welcome.By MARK SATOLA

CUYAHOGA FALLS, Ohio -- Nationality is a popular organizing principle for classical concerts. A little more than a week ago, the Cleveland Orchestra delivered a vibrant all-Czech program; Saturday night's Blossom Music Center concert brought three Russian masterworks to the stage, under the baton of Russian conductor Vasily Petrenko.

Of the works presented, by Anatol Liadov, Rachmaninoff and Prokofiev, it was Liadov's tone poem "Baba Yaga" that was probably new to the audience. Best remembered as the composer whose indolence lost him the "Firebird" commission from Diaghilev, Liadov was happiest as a miniaturist, though one of surpassing skill and inspiration.

In its brief four minutes, "Baba Yaga" presents a perfect image of malevolence in its depiction of its tiny but terrifying namesake, the witch who travels helter-skelter in a mortar-and-pestle. Petrenko launched the music's flight with authority, and worked up some fine energy in the work's central section, before the piece, like the minuscule witch herself, disappeared like a bubble that simply popped.

Macedonian pianist Simon Trpceski was the soloist in Rachmaninoff's ever-popular "Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini," which has been a staple of Cleveland Orchestra concerts since the composer himself performed it in 1937 under Artur Rodzinski's direction.

Trpceski gave a performance that could best be described as mercurial, with tempos that seemed intended to set a speed record. Trpceski is brimming with technique and superlative interpretive skill, but so fleet were some of the faster passages that much detail was lost, and the rhythmic impulse, which is so often driven by the solo part, at times seemed to founder.

In the more reflective moments, especially the famous 18th variation, Trpceski demonstrated a finely graded touch, with subtle dynamics and lovely moments of rubato.

The race to the finish that follows, however, was taken at such a breakneck pace that, while it certainly ratcheted up the excitement factor, resulted in a bewildering flurry of notes that could only be described as hectic. In a final peculiarity, Trpceski leaped to his feet to shake hands with Petrenko while his last notes were still hanging in the air.

As an encore, Trpceski played one of Mendelssohn's Songs Without Words in a reflective and beautifully balanced reading.

Fortunately, the Symphony No. 5 in B-flat by Prokofiev came to the evening's rescue in a superlative reading, with Petrenko in full, authoritative command of the score and the orchestra playing at its usual Olympian best.

The opening Andante was played in a broad, leisurely tempo that nevertheless did not lack for the tension called for by Prokofiev's symphonic argument, while in the motoric Allegro Marcato that followed, Petrenko set a driving pace that did not undercut the music's rich sonic detail.

The third movement is long and profound, and it was here that Petrenko really proved his mettle, fine-tuning the intense emotion of the music to a near-operatic pitch. The Finale, with its tantalizing harmonic ambiguity and ingenious percussion, was perfectly managed, from its matter-of-fact beginning to its percussive and frenzied conclusion.Samsung Gulf Electronics is giving Dubai residents an opportunity to get their hands on the brand new Galaxy Note9 before anyone else.

How? Just join the Note9 Quest, an activity taking place at three of Dubais popular malls  City Centre Mirdif, Mall of the Emirates and The Dubai Mall  where participants will have the chance to win one of 27 Galaxy Note9 devices, from August 16 to 18, 2018, every hour over 9 hours.

Taking part in this incredible adventure is easy. Participants can either register their details at the designated Samsung stand at the participating malls or download the Note9 Quest app to book their desired timeslot. They will also need to answer five riddles within the hour for a chance to win the amazing smartphone, before its official release in the UAE.

The participating malls will host the Note9 Quest on the following days:

 August 16: City Centre Mirdif

 August 17: Mall of the Emirates

 August 18: The Dubai Mall

Talking about the first of its kind activation in the UAE, Tarek Sabbagh, head of IT and Mobile (IM) Division at Samsung Electronics Gulf, said: The Note9 Quest is a great opportunity for all family members to experience our newest flagship through an interactive and fun activation that gives them the chance to win the super powerful Galaxy Note9, the device that supports our multitasking lifestyles. The Galaxy Note9 is for every person who works hard and plays harder, with its longer battery life, its enhanced S Pen and its incredible camera functionality. Join us at the Note9 Quest, have some fun and get the chance to win the latest member of the Samsung Galaxy family.  TradeArabia News ServiceFrench lawmakers passed legislation making catcalling and street harassment illegal, punishable by fines up to 750 euros -- an estimated $870. The new law includes provisions that increase the age of consent to 15, extend the amount of time victims have to report sexual assaults, and increase the penalty for "upskirt" photographs. French lawmakers hope the new laws will help protect citizens from harassment. Opponents worry they could be confusing or contribute to over-policing. Should the U.S. create similar laws?

PERSPECTIVES

Marie Laguerre, a 22-year-old architecture student, was walking past a sidewalk cafe when a man began making lewd noises at her. Laguerre told the him to "shut up" and continued walking. The man took an ashtray from a nearby table and threw it at Laguerre and, in front of stunned diners, walked up to her and punched her in the head. Laguerre requested security footage of the encounter and released it on Facebook, where it immediately went viral. Laguerre created a website called "Nous Toutes Harcelement" -- "We Are All Harassed" -- to collect similar stories from other women.

France's secretary for gender equality, Marlene Schiappa, used Laguerre's story to lobby for the new legislation, which passed the Senate without a single no vote.

[EDIT 3 : L'agresseur a ete juge et condamne hier jeudi 4 octobre pour 1 an de prison dont 6 mois ferme, obligation de soin, obligation de travailler, obligation de suivre un stage, a ses frais, de sensibilisation aux violences faites aux femmes , et obligation a me verser une indemnite.] [EDIT 2 : l'agresseur a ete retrouve. J'ai conscience de la chance que j'ai eu : d'avoir eu des temoins qui ont reagi, que le bar m'ait gentiment procure la video, la forte mediatisation qui a permis des moyens importants mis en place par la police (que je remercie pour leur travail). Merci a tous pour votre soutien, qui m'a donne beaucoup de force, de courage et d'espoir. Nous avons tous, en tant que citoyen, le possibilite de faire bouger les choses. J'encourage chacun et chacune a denoncer les comportements sexistes dont ils peuvent etre temoins, c'est important. Pour une societe plus juste, plus egale, plus inclusive pour toutes et tous.] [EDIT : A tous ceux qui disent que les temoins n'ont pas assez bien reagi : tout s'est passe tres vite et ils n'ont pas eu le temps de comprendre la situation. L'agresseur etait dangereux. Apres l'agression, je suis revenue et les temoins ont ete d'un grand soutien, merci de ne pas les lyncher] Hier soir, alors que je rentrais chez moi, vers le Boulevard de la Villette dans le 19eme arrondissement a Paris, j'ai croise un homme. Il s'est permis de m'adresser des bruits/commentaires/sifflements/coup de langue sales, de maniere humiliante et provocante a mon passage. Pas de chance, c'etait pas le premier de la journee et j'etais fatiguee. J'ai donc lache un "ta gueule" en tracant ma route. Car je ne tolere pas ce genre de comportement. Je ne peux pas me taire et nous ne devons plus nous taire. Ca n'a pas plu a cet homme. Apres m'avoir jete un cendrier dessus, il est revenu sur ses pas et m'a suivi dans la rue. Il m'a frappe au visage, en pleine rue, en pleine journee, devant des dizaines de temoins. J'ai porte plainte. Ce n'est pas le seul. Le harcelement c'est au quotidien. Ces hommes qui se croient tout permis dans la rue, qui se permettent de nous humilier et qui ne supportent pas qu'on s'en offusque, c'est inadmissible. Il est temps que ce genre de comportement CESSE. #NousToutes Posted by Marie Laguerre on Wednesday, July 25, 2018

Some argue that defining harassment is overly subjective and will make enforcing the law difficult. The staff of the Globe and Mail notes, in an otherwise supporting editorial:

In an interview with Time, Schiappa defends the legislation against criticism from both the left and right of the political spectrum.

However, even those who agree that something should be done to combat harassment, say there are problems with laws like this. Writer Christina Cauterucci argues in Slate, that not only will laws like this not stop street harassment in France or in the U.S., they could aggravate issues like over-policing.

The Tylt is focused on debates and conversations around news, current events and pop culture. We provide our community with the opportunity to share their opinions and vote on topics that matter most to them. We actively engage the community and present meaningful data on the debates and conversations as they progress. The Tylt is a place where your opinion counts, literally. The Tylt is an Advance Local Media, LLC property. Join us on Twitter @TheTylt, on Instagram @TheTylt or on Facebook, we'd love to hear what you have to say.NORTH OLMSTED, Ohio -- Eluding, Interstate 480: An officer patrolling the highway about 10:40 a.m. July 30 tried to stop an eastbound car traveling at 100 mph in a 60 mph zone.

The car sped up when the officer began the chase. The car then drove across three lanes of traffic and in front of a semi before quickly exiting onto Stearns Road and running a red light at the top of the exit ramp, according to police.

However, the driver got caught in traffic stopped at Dorchester Drive, and the officer arrested the suspect and placed him in handcuffs. A woman was a passenger.

The driver told police that he didn't know why he was driving recklessly, according to a police report. However, he later said he had been taking Adderall prescribed for another person and hadn't slept in two days.

Officers did not find any drugs in the car. They charged the man with misdemeanor charges of wanton disregard for safety, and eluding and fleeing police.

Dog attack, Burns Road: Police responded about 10:20 a.m. Aug. 5 to a report of a dog attack.

A couple told police that they were walking their dog, Angel, a 22-pound black cocker spaniel mix, when an 80-pound pit bull broke away from a 7-year-old girl holding its leash. The pit bull quickly killed the smaller dog before the owner could stop the attack.

The owner of the pit bull said his daughter was only holding the leash until he could come out to walk the dog and that the pit bull had never done anything like this before.

Police told the owner that pit bulls must be registered with the city and the owners have to purchase special insurance. The owner said he was a new city resident and unaware of the regulations. He also said he no longer wants to keep the dog.

Information about the incident is being sent to a city prosecutor.

Possession of marijuana, Lorain Road: Two officers about 2 a.m. Aug. 3 spotted a car without headlights traveling east on Lorain Road.

Officers stopped the car and noticed a smell of burnt marijuana. The driver denied smoking marijuana, but admitted that there was some in the center console, according to police. Officers recovered marijuana in a plastic container and multiple marijuana cigars. The pot weighed 8.1 grams, according to police.

Officers cited the driver for a minor misdemeanor possession of marijuana.

Drug abuse instruments, Clague Road: Officers stopped a pickup truck about 2:40 a.m. Aug. 4 for having a malfunctioning headlight and turning without using a turn signal.

The driver spoke to the officer in short bursts, appeared nervous, would not stop moving, and had tiny pupils and open sores on his arms, according to a police report.

After getting permission from the driver, police searched the vehicle and found a clear glass pipe in the glove compartment. It had suspected crystal methamphetamine residue inside. In the driver's door compartment, officers found a brass pipe with burn marks and a melted white substance.

Officers charged the driver with possessing drug abuse instruments and a headlight violation.

Possession of marijuana, Lorain Road: Police on routine patrol about 11 p.m. Aug. 1 spotted a man with an outstanding warrant exiting a motel room and walking along Lorain Road.

Officers stopped the man and noticed that he had slipped something down the front of his pants. The suspect said it was a little bit of weed, according to police. They recovered 15.98 grams of marijuana.

Officers cited him for a minor misdemeanor marijuana possession charge and took him to jail on the outstanding warrant.

To comment on this story, visit Saturday's crime and courts comment page.Last month, instead of signing off on Gov. John Kasich's executive order aimed at protecting Lake Erie from agricultural runoff, the Ohio Soil and Water Conservation Commission diverted the matter to a subcommittee to study. That was a mistake, as we editorialized at the time.

But it turns out it was a mistake grounded in the panel's genuine concern about the workability of Kasich's order. Their vote came only after farmers crowded the July 19 meeting to object and the head of the Ohio Department of Agriculture caused confusion about how the order would work in practice -- remarks he later clarified in a July 24 letter to the commission.

That letter from Agriculture Director David Daniels makes clear two important and relevant points:

First, the governor's designation as distressed of eight watersheds that drain into Lake Erie -- while a lot larger than an earlier distressed designation of Grand Lake St. Marys, the state's largest inland lake -- will work in the same way as that designation. The Grand Lake St. Marys toxic algal cleanup plan was adopted in a measured, careful way so as not to penalize farmers inadvertently; consequently farmers have applauded the project, which officials say has begun to improve that lake.

Second, that the nutrient management (agricultural runoff) plans required for the eight watersheds will be designed and overseen by the state Agriculture Department, not by the state's soil and water conservation districts, and will not be imposed precipitously, as some feared. That also should reassure farmers.

"As I have publicly stated, plans will likely not be required any sooner than the 2020 crop year in order to give farmers sufficient time to develop their plans," Daniels' letter said.

This letter should reassure the subcommittee and cause it, after review, to move swiftly to recommend to the commission itself that it reconvene in a special meeting to approve Kasich's order. (The commission's next scheduled meeting isn't until Nov. 1) The head of the soil and water commission, Tom Price, indicated in a phone interview that he'd likely move to call such a special meeting if the subcommittee requests it.

That's why the subcommittee must move swiftly to complete its review and recommend a special commission meeting to approve Kasich's order. (Ohio law requires the Ohio Soil and Water Conservation Commission to ratify a governor's watershed-in-distress order.)

Frederick M. Cash Sr. of Richmond Heights, a longtime commission member who's been assigned to head the subcommittee, agrees the lake is too precious a resource not to safeguard. That also should be a consideration in driving this matter forward.

Kasich's July 11 order declared eight western Ohio rivers and creeks as "watersheds in distress" because of agricultural runoff that helps spawn toxic algal blooms in Lake Erie. The two-million-acre watershed covered by the order is composed of the Auglaize, Blanchard, Little Auglaize, Ottawa and St. Marys rivers, and the Eagle, Little Flat Rock and Plattner creeks - all tributaries of the Maumee River, which drains into Lake Erie. The order would impact an estimated 7,000 Ohio farms, but the area is dominated not by small family farms but rather large-scale agricultural operations, including livestock CAFOs (Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations).

Further delay is unmerited -- and that applies to reported efforts by key General Assembly members to create a legislative study committee or working group, presumably to slow down Kasich's order. But one thing the protection of Lake Erie doesn't require is more study.

The lake's problems are well known, and so are solutions to those problems. Those solutions start with clean water in western Ohio's watersheds, not hot air produced by the General Assembly.

The power to act lies wholly with the Ohio Soil and Water Conservation Commission. It should move this matter forward expeditiously.

About our editorials: Editorials express the view of the editorial board of cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer -- the senior leadership and editorial-writing staff. As is traditional, editorials are unsigned and intended to be seen as the voice of the news organization.

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* Send a letter to the editor, which will be considered for print publication.

* Email general questions about our editorial board or comments on this editorial to Elizabeth Sullivan, director of opinion, at esullivan@cleveland.com.

* Use the comments to share your thoughts. Then, stay informed when readers reply to your comments by using the "Follow" option at the top of the comments, & look for updates via the small blue bell in the lower right as you look at more stories on cleveland.com.WESTLAKE, Ohio -- Suspected drunken driving crash, Columbia Road: Westlake police officers responded about 9:50 p.m. Aug. 6 to the intersection of Columbia and Sperry roads to investigate a crash.

A Ford Explorer had struck another vehicle from behind. The SUV's driver was leaning against the vehicle smoking a cigarette when officers arrived. They immediately noticed that the 49-year-old North Olmsted woman slurred her words and had difficulty maintaining her balance. When asked how much she had had to drink, the driver said "a lot," according to police.

Officers performed a field test on the driver and arrested her for operating a vehicle while impaired, failing to maintain assured clear distance, and child endangering. The latter charge was because the woman's 6-year-old granddaughter was in the vehicle with her. Police turned the youngster over to a family member.

The driver later submitted to a breath test, and police said her blood alcohol content was almost twice the legal limit.

Burglary, Willow Run: A resident returned home about 1:30 a.m. Aug. 6 and discovered that their home had been burglarized.

Items were missing from inside and a 2005 Silver Nissan Quest was stolen from the driveway. Detectives are investigating.

Impaired driving, Crocker Park: Police responded about 8:50 a.m. Aug. 6 to a report of a silver Ford driving in circles at Crocker Park.

The concerned caller said that the driver appeared high. Police stopped a suspicious Ford matching the caller's description near the Crocker Road entrance to Interstate 90.

The male driver was shirtless and sweating. He exhibited signs of being under the influence of drugs and could not perform field tests, according to police.

Police called an ambulance because of the driver's erratic behavior. The 30-year-old Elyria man admitted to snorting methamphetamine and drinking an unknown clear liquid, according to police. He was taken to the hospital, and officers charged him with operating a vehicle while impaired, driving under suspension and traffic violations. He also had an outstanding warrant for his arrest.

Impaired driving, Dover Center Road: Officers responded about 3 p.m. Aug. 6 to the Speedway gas station at Dover Center and Center Ridge roads after a concerned citizen reported that a woman driver had asked her to blow into her vehicle's alcohol-detecting interlock.

The device usually is installed by court order due to previous alcohol offenses. It will not allow a vehicle to start until a sober person blows into the machine. The 59-year-old North Ridgeville driver, who was suspected of being intoxicated, could not find anyone to help her bypass the interlock.

Officers found the woman still stuck in the lot. She explained the odor of an alcoholic beverage in the vehicle by saying that she had just applied perfume. Officers field tested the woman and arrested her for operating a vehicle while impaired and driving under suspension from a previous OVI.

Felony drug possession, Interstate 90: An officer stopped a car for an equipment violation about 7:15 p.m. Aug. 8 on I-90 near the Lorain County line.

Neither the driver nor the passenger had a valid license. The passenger also had an outstanding warrant for her arrest.

Officers observed signs of drug use in the car and, upon checking, found suspected crack cocaine and paraphernalia. Police arrested both occupants and charged them with felony possession of crack cocaine.

The driver was a 47-year-old man and the passenger was a 36-year-old woman. Both live in Elyria.

To comment on this story, visit Saturday's crime and courts comment page.Police officers are seen in front of a cargo ship with containers at a port in Qingdao, Shandong province, China April 6, 2018. Reuters

Customs agents in Shanghai have refused to release a shipment of American-made Mercedes-Benz SUVs because of what they have described as a "safety risk." Ostensibly, the Mercedes GLE and GLS models have a problem with their rear brakes that authorities want fixed before they are allowed into the country. But the timing of the move, just days after the Trump administration raised the stakes in its trade battle, triggering the Chinese to swat back with new tariffs on products that include American-made autos, has many observers raising eyebrows. "This, unfortunately, appears to be part of a tit-for-tat in an escalating trade war, and it could reach crazy levels," warned Joe Phillippi, head of AutoTrends Consulting and a long-time Wall Street automotive analyst. The Trump administration has to hope the dispute with China won't last long, Phillippi said. If it results in a sharp cut in U.S. automotive exports that could take its toll on jobs over the next few months. And that would likely backfire on Trump and the Republicans "because you don't want to hurt the industrial heartland on the run-up to the mid-term elections." For China, the growing dispute could shut down plans for its own auto industry, which has been flirting with the idea of more exports. Responding to the latest tariffs levied by the Trump administration, China announced 25 percent tariffs on $16 billion in U.S.-made goods. That included the roughly $10 billion in automobiles that Chinese motorists were expected to purchase this year. The impact could be significant considering that American-made vehicles were previously saddled with 25 percent tariffs upon reaching Chinese ports. On a $35,000 Ford Mustang, for example, duties already added about $8,750 to the base price. By doubling that figure, analysts like Phillippi warn that the Mustang  and a number of other U.S. vehicles  could wind up being priced out of what is now the world's largest automotive market. "We will continue to export from the U.S. some of our great products," Ford said in a statement provided to CNBC in response to questions about the new tariffs. "However, with limited pricing capabilities, we will be lowering volume on some of our exports." Unless Ford can find alternative markets for exports like the Mustang, the impact of such a move could be the loss of American jobs. All told, about 276,000 U.S.-made vehicles were shipped to China last year. Because of the duties that were already in place, manufacturers tended to focus on higher-price models with large profit margins built in, such as the Navigator, built by Ford's luxury division Lincoln. The Detroit automaker is actually just the third-largest exporter of U.S.-made vehicles to China. At the top of the list is BMW. Like most automotive manufacturers, it has set up a global network of plants, many serving as centers for production of key products, such as the X5, which it exports to worldwide markets. Mercedes-Benz takes a similar approach with its plant in Vance, Alabama. Both focus on utility vehicles since the U.S. is the number one market for SUVs and car-based crossover-utility vehicles.

Full speed ahead  for now

The trade war comes along at a particularly bad time for BMW. The automaker recently authorized a $1 billion expansion for its plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, its largest manufacturing complex in the world. The move was intended to create about 1,100 new jobs with the addition of the all-new X7 model, BMW's largest and most expensive SUV yet. "We're proceeding full speed ahead," said Oleg Satanovsky, a BMW spokesman, despite the automaker having previously warned that it might cut back on the project if a global trade war breaks out. But Satanovsky was quick to add that "We will wait and see" what happens with the dispute in China, as that market was expected to be a critical one for the new X7 flagship, as well as the X5. Last year, Chinese motorists bought 52,407 X5s, making it the single most popular American-made vehicle sold in that country. The BMW X3 wasn't far behind, with sales of 34,609. BMW is caught in a tough spot as trade barriers rise, having no facility currently capable of taking on production of its X models in the short-term, but the spokesman suggested it is studying "a lot of options" it might have to take if the dispute stretches on. And the need to act could become even more dire if the Trump administration follows through with threats to impose new sanctions on European auto imports, a move that would all but certainly bring rapid retaliation. Mercedes is the second-largest exporter of U.S.-made vehicles to China, the GLE generating 40,304 sales last year, while its GLS and R-Class models are in the top 10 list, as well. For its part, the Stuttgart, Germany-based automaker is trying to keep a low profile as the trade war heats up. A spokesman for Mercedes' parent Daimler told the Reuters news service that the company is "working with the relevant authorities to resolve the issue," that has sidelined its GLE and GLS models at the Shanghai port, describing the issue as "entirely technical." The automakers "don't want to get caught in the middle of a polarized situation," said David Cole, the chairman-emeritus of the Center for Automotive Research, in Ann Arbor, Michigan. "They don't want to be seen as being on one side or another." But there seems to be little they will be able to do to avoid getting caught up in the dispute, Cole and other observers said. And that could create an escalating series of challenges that only begin with higher sanctions. The issue facing Mercedes could be just the first step in delaying or outright blocking the shipment of American-made vehicles into China. Meanwhile, analyst Phillippi worries that Chinese authorities could turn up the heat on U.S.-based manufacturers, General Motors, Ford, Fiat Chrysler and Tesla, in particular. "You could see a derailment of investment programs for expansion plans that have to be approved by the Chinese government," he said. GM is the second-largest automotive manufacturer in China, behind Volkswagen, and it is constantly upgrading and expanding its plants. Ford was a relative latecomer to the market and has been struggling to catch up. Its Chinese model line-up is out-of-date and it is getting ready to launch a new wave of products, including the Territory SUV revealed this week. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles was also a latecomer and needs to expand its relatively limited Chinese production base. And Tesla only last month confirmed plans to build its first assembly plant in Shanghai. With relatively little effort, Chinese authorities could tie up all these programs, even cancel them outright, according to experts familiar with the way the country operates. Considering the vast size of the Chinese automotive market, such setbacks could prove disastrous. But "both countries' automotive industries could get hurt if the trade war escalates," adds Phillippi. The Chinese market imports relatively few foreign-made vehicles, the various trade barriers that have infuriated the Trump administration effectively limiting imports to specialty and high-end models. But China doesn't export all that many vehicles, either. Until recently, Chinese plants struggled just to keep up with domestic demand. As the growth of the home market slows, however, that seems likely to change.

China's ambitions at riskClare Bronfman competes in the 2004 Bayer/USET Festival of Champions, Presented by State Line Tack at the Del Mar Fair Grounds in Del Mar, California. (Photo by Tim Tadder/Corbis via Getty Images

In the summer of 2013, with his health failing, the billionaire businessman Edgar M. Bronfman was visited at home by his youngest daughter, Clare. She brought with her a production crew that was making a film about a self-help group called Nxivm.

Mr. Bronfman, the former chairman of Seagram Company, had long clashed with Clare and her sister Sara over their lavish financial support of the group. A decade earlier, they had given $65 million of his liquor fortune to its leader, Keith Raniere  money that he promptly lost in the commodities market. Soon afterward, Forbes published a critical article about Mr. Raniere in which Mr. Bronfman described Nxivm as a "cult."

But Clare Bronfman had not come on that day in 2013 to make peace with her father, who died later that year. Instead, she pressed him to admit on camera that he had been wrong to criticize Mr. Raniere, said a former Nxivm official who was present at the meeting.

"He was very sick," said the official, Mark Vicente. "He appeared to be very saddened by her questioning."

Read more from The New York Times:

Inside a secretive group where women are branded

'Too little too late': bankruptcy booms among older Americans

Annoyed by restaurant playlists, a master musician made his own

Last fall, Nxivm (pronounced Nex-e-um) started to unravel after The New York Times reported that women who were part of a secret sorority within the group were branded with a symbol that contained Mr. Raniere's initials. Attention around Nxivm was stoked by the involvement of various rich offspring and minor celebrities, including the "Smallville" actress Allison Mack. In March, Mr. Raniere was charged in federal court with coercing women into having sex with him by threatening to reveal damaging personal secrets they had disclosed in order to join the sorority.

Prosecutors in Brooklyn said at the time that other Nxivm members were likely to be indicted too  and on July 24, Ms. Bronfman, 39, was among several executives charged with conspiracy and criminal racketeering. Her transit from heiress to criminal defendant, interviews and court filings suggest, appears to be the story of a child of privilege who fell under the spell of a beguiling manipulator who offered power, a sense of purpose and the possibility of love. The ferocity with which she embraced Mr. Raniere and Nxivm makes her case even more singular.

Ms. Bronfman, who never attended college, served in recent years as Mr. Raniere's legal Torquemada, financing and aggressively pursuing long-running lawsuits against Nxvim's enemies, both real and perceived. She filed criminal complaints against defectors from the group; used lawyers to threaten its critics; and allegedly hired an investigative firm in Canada as part of an ill-fated plan to hack into the bank records of American judges and politicians, according to interviews, court filings and previously published accounts. Many of those who spoke did so anonymously because of privacy concerns, or because prosecutors had asked them not to discuss the case publicly.

In the indictment, Ms. Bronfman is accused of identity theft in order to access other people's computers; of money laundering to abet the entry of an alien into the United States; and of improperly paying off the credit card of Mr. Raniere's dead girlfriend, so that he could continue to use it after her death. (Ms. Bronfman did not respond to numerous emails seeking an interview, and her lawyer, Susan R. Necheles, also did not respond to emails.)

Ms. Bronfman's arrest was astonishing in part because of the Bronfman family's standing in New York business and philanthropic circles. Her father was a major benefactor of Jewish organizations, and several of the five children from his first marriage have had high-profile careers. A son, Edgar Bronfman Jr., once served as chief executive of Warner Music.

Sara and Clare Bronfman were born to their father's third wife and are 20 years younger than some of their half-siblings. After their parents divorced, when they were 7 and 4, they left New York and grew up in Kenya and England, according to a 2010 article in Vanity Fair.

It was Sara Bronfman who introduced her sister to Nxivm in the early 2000s. The group, which was based in Albany, N.Y., offered its members workshops that it said were designed to help participants achieve greater self-fulfillment by removing emotional and psychological roadblocks.

At the time, the Bronfman sisters, who were then in their early 20s, were opposites in both appearance and personality. Sara was blond, outgoing and likable, and appeared to be seeking a direction in life. Clare, who is extremely thin and has a narrow face and brown hair, struck Nxivm members as dour and socially awkward. She also already had a passion. As a teenager, she had become an equestrian, going on to compete in international events and open a farm to train horses.

At first, Clare Bronfman appeared to have little interest in joining Nxivm. But several meetings with Mr. Raniere turned her into a believer. She also apparently fell in love with Mr. Raniere, who had sexual relationships with many Nxivm women, several former members said. Starting in the late 1990s, approximately 16,000 people took his courses, and some were drawn deeply into the group, giving up careers and past ties to become followers of Mr. Raniere, who was referred to as "Vanguard."

In the early 2000s, Edgar Bronfman Sr. also took some Nxivm training courses, before quickly losing interest. Several former Nxvim members said that Mr. Raniere was convinced that the businessman was behind the negative Forbes article about him. He blamed the Bronfman sisters for the episode, those former members said, and used it to exert control over them.

In the mid-2000s, Edgar Bronfman Jr., while he was head of Warner Music, also apparently once came to Albany at the request of his sisters to help judge a Nxivm-sponsored a cappella singing contest, said several people familiar with his visit. (Mr. Bronfman did not respond to emails seeking comment.)

As Clare Bronfman's authority within Nxivm grew, she did not hesitate to wield it, several former members of the group said. When people she hired to work for her asked for higher pay, for example, the heiress said no and lectured them about appreciating the value of money.

"I found her very degrading and very reprimanding," said one ex-Nxivm member, Bonnie Piesse, who is married to Mr. Vicente, the former Nxivm official who witnessed Ms. Bronfman interviewing her father about the group. "She was very cold."

Nxivm was based in Albany, N.Y., and attracted thousands to its self-help courses. Some were drawn deeply into the group, giving up careers and past ties to become followers of its leader, Keith Raniere.

For more than a decade, the Bronfman sisters used their substantial fortunes to underwrite Nxivm in a variety of ways. To raise Mr. Raniere's profile, they arranged for the Dalai Lama to visit Albany. The group made use of a private jet they provided to ferry celebrities it was courting as recruits. Clare Bronfman also bought an island in Fiji that Mr. Raniere and other Nxivm officials used as a retreat.

Sara Bronfman eventually married and had children, and her involvement in the group diminished. But Clare Bronfman's singular focus stayed on Mr. Raniere and Nxivm. Along with financing the organization, she started two nonprofit organizations to promulgate its ideas.

One of them, the Ethical Science Foundation, conducted a study to see if Nxivm's training techniques could be used to treat people with Tourette's syndrome, a disorder marked by involuntary tics or verbal outbursts. A Nxivm-affiliated doctor associated with that study also carried out a bizarre experiment in which female followers of Mr. Raniere were shown films containing scenes of extreme violence while their facial expressions were videotaped.

It is not known whether Ms. Bronfman was aware of that study and, if so, whether she approved of it. But none of the recent revelations about Mr. Raniere or Nxivm's practices appear to have shaken her belief in the group.She defended her surreptitious recordings  one purportedly taken in the Situation Room, which is designated as a classified area where outside surveillance equipment of any kind is forbidden  as part of an effort to "protect myself, and I have no regrets about it."

During an appearance on NBC's "Meet the Press" connected to a tell-all book, Manigault Newman sought to refute a number of reports in the media that she said unfairly portrayed her as desperate to keep her job.

Former presidential adviser Omarosa Manigault Newman leveled a number of damaging claims against the White House on Sunday, and accused Chief of Staff John Kelly of brandishing a threat against her as she was fired.

On a recording played by NBC, Kelly's voice can be heard telling Manigault Newman that "serious" ethical violations contributed to the decision to dismiss her. He is then heard saying White House could cast her firing "a friendly departure" and that Manigault Newman could go on to new employment "without any type of difficulty in the future relative to your reputation."

She told the network that while she was "complicit" in the White House's tumult, Kelly's handling of her dismissal was "downright criminal." She also stated that a number of former staffers received payments as part of nondisclosure agreements designed to keep them from disparaging Trump, or his administration.

On Friday, The Washington Post reported that Manigault-Newman was offered a high-paying job on the Trump 2020 reelection campaign  but had to sign an NDA, an offer that she refused.

The White House did not immediately respond to Manigault Newman's claims, but late last week Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee-Sanders blasted the upcoming tome as peppered with falsehoods.

The former staffer who once worked in the Clinton Administration rose to prominence as a reality television villainess on the TV series "The Apprentice." Since then, Manigault Newman has publicly backed Democrats before hitching her fortunes to Donald Trump's 2016 presidential bid.

The fact that Manigault Newman recorded a conversation in a classified area could create considerable legal problems that add to her existing credibility issues. On social media, political watchers from the left and right ripped into Manigault Newman for having made the recordings in the first place.

Renato Mariotti, a former federal prosecutor who is running for Illinois Attorney General, said on Twitter that the former White House staffer could need a lawyer.

tweet

"We (rightly) talk a lot about Trump's erosion of important norms. Omarosa held an office of public trust too," Susan Hennessey, a legal scholar at the Brookings Institution, wrote on Twitter. "This is a breach of that trust, a grave security risk, and it likely violates the law. No one, regardless of party, should be applauding this."

Manigault Newman appeared on NBC to promote her new book, "Unhinged," which will be released this week. In it, she paints a damming picture of the president, claiming that tapes exist of him using the N-word as he filmed his "The Apprentice" reality series. In excerpts of the book and in public statements, however, Manigault Newman has offered contradictory explanations about whether or when she actually heard Trump use racist language.

--The Associated Press contributed to this reportA vessel carrying from the United States, which has been anchored off China's coast for more than a month since hefty tariffs were imposed, entered the port of Dalian on Saturday, according to Thomson Reuters Eikon shipping data.

The short journey into the northern Chinese port is the first by Peak Pegasus, which has 70,000 tonnes of U.S. soybeans on board, since the ship arrived off the coast on July 6 just hours after Beijing imposed 25 percent import duties on $34 billion worth of U.S. goods, including soybeans.

The penalties were in response to a similar move by Washington as part of a tit-for-tat trade dispute between the world's two largest economies.

The ship was moored in the port just after midnight on Sunday morning, according to the latest data.

The move into the dock suggests the cargo may be about to be unloaded, becoming the first U.S. soybean shipment to incur the new penalties as the trade dispute deepens. China's state grain stockpiler Sinograin is the buyer of the shipment, according to a source familiar with the matter.

Another ship carrying U.S. soybeans, Star Jennifer, has been anchored off Dalian since arriving on July 24.

The final stages of Peak Pegasus' one-month journey to Dalian captured public attention in China as it became uncertain if it would arrive in time before the duties kicked in.

Last month, Chinese state media deployed the legume in a political cartoon aimed at undermining support for the trade dispute among U.S. farmers, key supporters of U.S. President Donald Trump.

Soybeans, which are used to make cooking oil and animal feed, are the top U.S. agricultural export to China, with the trade worth $12.7 billion in 2017.

Last week, the Trump administration said it would start collecting tariffs on another $16 billion worth of Chinese imports from Aug. 23, as it tries to put pressure on China to negotiate trade concessions. Beijing has said it will retaliate in kind.Riverside High School Class of 1971 will celebrate 65th years of life with a Denim and Diamonds birthday party.

Ladies should wear their best denim and diamonds and gents their best denim.

Heavy hors d'oeuvres will be served; no BYOB.

The event will be held Saturday, Oct. 13, from 5:30-10 p.m. at the Home Builders Association, 3221 Harrison Pike.

Admission is $25 per person.

For more information call Stella Madison at 645-8989 or Glenda Thompson 629-5525.Media One Hotel in Dubai has appointed Lynne McGarvey as head of Swat (Specialists in welfare and training).



McGarvey will lead the Swat team and oversee all areas of learning and development, talent management, recruitment and enthusiast welfare.



With more than 10 years experience in hospitality management, McGarvey started her hospitality career in food and beverage after earning a BA Honors degree in Hotel & Hospitality Management from Strathclyde University in Glasgow. In addition to her degree, she holds a CIPD Diploma in HR Practice. She moved to Dubai in 2010 with Wafi Hospitality and led the team at Carters, following which she was appointed to head the Carluccios team at Dubai Mall. McGarvey joined Media One in 2014 as training manager.



In 2016, McGarvey was named HR and Training Person of the Year at the Hotelier Middle East Awards. Her skills are not limited to human resources  when Media One catered the bars at the Media City Amphitheatre during RedFest DXB in 2017 & 2018, and the Take That concert, McGarvey played a vital part in leading the team and operations.



The part I love the most about my job is the people. Im looking forward to focusing on recruitment and talent management  ensuring we hire the right people for our roles, and develop and grow those who show leadership skills and passion for what they do, she said. - TradeArabia News ServiceStephen Bush: Team Corbyns secret fear  that anti-leadership Labour MPs desert him to form a breakaway party in the Commons

McDonnell v Corbyns office  Mail on Sunday

Corbyn anti-semitism latest 1). The day Corbyn gave a speech at the wedding of Holocaust-denying PLO man  Mail on Sunday

Corbyn anti-semitism latest 2) New Israel nazi comparison  Mail on Sunday

Corbyn anti-semitism latest 3) His dossier of shame  Sun on Sunday

Labour urges windfall tax on failed rail firms  Observer

Seeing off that threat was an important reason why the party leadership abandoned its disciplinary procedures against Dame Margaret Hodge, the Labour MP for Barking who called Corbyn an anti-semite and racist after he failed to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of anti-semitism in full. Bringing disciplinary measures against Hodge would have undoubtedly triggered a breakaway in the worst possible circumstances  Stephen Bush, Sunday Times

> Today: ToryDiary  If May had honoured this Israeli terrorists grave

Johnson touches down as CCHQ clams up

Boris Johnson posed for a selfie after arriving back from holiday as row over his comments about burkas rumbles on.

The former foreign secretary landed at Gatwick after a break in Italy and took time to be snapped with admirers as left the airport to head homedozens of complaints about his comments are thought to have been received by the Tory Party and it has launched a disciplinary investigation.  Sun on Sunday

> Today: Mohammed Amin on Comment: The toxification of politics threatens us all

The Sun on Sunday: Get a grip, Prime Minister

Chris Skidmore: Voters want us to get Brexit done and dusted  and focus on the NHS, schools, transport, law and order.

In a withering attack today, one of Theresa Mays own ministers describes her tactics as cack-handed. We can only agree. She has left the Cabinet split right down the middle. Senior party figures are also warning that if Boris is disciplined, a full-scale revolt will see the PM toppled within days. In any case there could be anarchy by the time the Tory conference starts next month. What a way to run a party, let alone a Government. The Prime Ministers attempts to control this have so far turned a drama into a full-blown crisis. She needs to staunch this festering party wound immediately. Or else the infection will prove fatal.  Editorial

Like most places outside major urban areas, my constituency voted to leave by almost 60 per cent. But knocking on doors, just as in 2010, people arent obsessing about Brexit in the same way that Westminster does. We voted two years ago  just get on with it is the familiar refrain. The 2017 general election provided an important warning: even with the mandate of the referendum result, people want, and deserve, more than platitudes about sunlit uplands. It sounded the alarm bells about the risk of the Conservative Party becoming self-defined as the Brexit party, without a clear domestic policy to offer the country.  Sunday Telegraph

Digby Jones says that May can do better than Chequers  Sunday Express

Rees-Mogg says that she mustnt rely on Labour to push the plan through the Commons  Sun on Sunday

Latest push in second referendum campaign  Observer

(Backed up by Cable)  Observer

Treasury shifts cash into euros  Sunday Times

May is winning the battle for Chequers within the Conservative Party  Dan Hodges, Mail on Sunday

> Yesterday: Phillip Lee on Comment: Dear Sophie  dont quit the Conservative Party, stay and fight against Brextremism

Brokenshire: my mission is to end rough sleeping

Duncan Smiths work permit migration plan

The 50-year-old admits he could have walked away from politics after his illness, having already reached what many politicians would see as its pinnacle, with a job in the cabinet. But he claims he felt he still had something to give, which is why, less than four months after surgery to remove a tumour, he returned to the front bench in April as the communities secretary. Since then he has given a lot of thought to what he wants to achieve and has concluded that the biggest difference he can make is by throwing himself into a mission to eradicate rough sleeping. Tomorrow he will launch a 100m initiative to realise that ambition.  Sunday Times

Speaking to BBC Radio 4s Today programme, Mr Duncan Smith put forward his proposal: I think the best thing to do is work with what we have got and make it work for everyone around the world. You basically extend the work permit process across the EU and the rest of the world. People can come here for work but they need to have work to come to and that work needs to have been agreed and accepted that there isnt a person in the UK that could do that work and has the skills to do that work.  Sunday Express

Patel: punish aid sex abusers

New code bans MPs for paying for sex while acting in their Parliamentary capacity  Sunday Times

(Former UKIP leaders mistress says that he wore her leopard print knickers to meeting where he was fired  Sun on Sunday)

Truss felt bullied by Williamson during defence spending row

Many attacks were carried out in exchange for vital goods and services including food, oil, wheat, medicine, transport, loans and education. Ms Patel, MP for Witham, Essex, made officials aware of the issue last summer but claims they passed the buck to another government department. Appallingly, it was dismissed as only a problem with UN peacekeepers, which my subsequent investigations showed to be incorrect, she said.  Sunday Express

A well-placed source said: Gavin became very animated and demanding and it made Liz feel threatened. It soon got back to Downing Street, and Liz sought assurances that she had No 10s support  which she received personally from Theresa. It is understood Mr Williamson also clashed recently with a second senior Treasury figure, who warned him: Dont ever speak to me like that again.  Mail on Sunday

Two jihadis a week are being stripped of their British nationality

Americas Ambassador: Back Trump over Iran

The Home Office will not reveal names of banned Brits but is believed the two surviving Beatles, accused of hostage taking and executions for ISIS, have been stripped of their right to return. It comes as three of the Rochdale grooming gang have lost their appeal against citizenship being revoked and will be deported to Pakistan. Security Minister Ben Wallace said: The spate of terrorist attacks last year and the nerve agent attack earlier this year were a stark reminder of the real and significant threat this country faces from terrorism and hostile states.  Sun on Sunday

If the regime does make tangible and sustained changes to behave like a normal country, America is prepared to resume full commercial and diplomatic relations. Iran will be free to develop advanced technologies and play a full role in the global economy. Until then, America is turning up the pressure and we want the UK by our side. It is time to move on from the flawed 2015 deal. We are asking global Britain to use its considerable diplomatic power and influence and join us as we lead a concerted global effort towards a genuinely comprehensive agreement.:  Robert Wood Johnson, Sunday Telegraph

Anthony Seldon: How Cameron lost the Syria vote five years ago this summer

The person most forceful in cautioning against recall was Hague, who pointed out that, if they really must do it, there were parliamentary procedures that meant they did not have to have a vote. Oliver said that although this might be theoretically possible, there was a real danger of people crying foul. George Young, the chief whip, was quietly confident that he could deliver the numbers. It proved a fatal miscalculation. Cameron ended the discussion: parliament was to be recalled. Oliver dipped out of the room to draft a tweet from the prime ministers account: Speaker agrees my request to recall Parliament on Thursday. Therell be a clear Govt motion & vote on UK response to chemical weapons attacks. The die was cast.  Sunday TimesLord Lexden is the Conservative Partys official historian. His website can be found here.

In an age which has sidelined the Christian faith, the long, bitterly contested campaign to remove the serious discrimination suffered by Roman Catholics in the United Kingdom for nearly three centuries after the Reformation is seldom recalled, except by apologists for Irish nationalism. The struggle for Catholic rights lasted some fifty years, from the 1770s until 1829 when what had come to be known as Catholic emancipation was embodied in law by the Duke of Wellington in command of an obedient Tory government. Even when it was over, Catholics were often told they did not deserve their release from discriminatory laws. The nineteenth century Tory historian, J.A. Froude, wrote, they who had never professed toleration, had no right to demand it.

Toleration, however, gradually won the day. The first concessions in 1780 allowed Catholic priests to celebrate mass without fear of arrest and prosecution, and removed the risk of life imprisonment from those who established Catholic schools. The bar on the ownership of land, often disregarded in practice, was formally lifted. With the completion of the process of reform by Wellington, most public offices were opened to Catholics who were also given the right to vote in Britain (they already had it in Ireland), and to sit in both Houses of Parliament.

Left to their own devices, the politicians would have resolved the issue much more swiftly, but they were thwarted by two stubborn monarchs. The virtuous George III was adamant that the oath he had sworn at his coronation to uphold the Protestant faith, coupled with a blood-curdling denunciation of Roman Catholicism, made it impossible for him to permit emancipation. His dissolute successor, George IV, was no less resolute in his hostility, despite marrying a Catholic illegally and going to great lengths to charm Catholic Ireland during a wildly popular visit in 1821. Royal princes cursed emancipation in lurid terms in the House of Lords.

No one seemed particularly surprised or shocked by this display of intense Hanoverian partisanship. But though the crowns right to determine policy was not strongly contested over these fifty years, its eventual, reluctant submission to Wellington marked an important moment in the shift of power from monarch to ministers.

In her twenty-fourth book, Antonia Fraser assembles a large cast of curious and colourful characters, much given to making outlandish remarks and fighting duels. They adorn a vivid account of a little-known historical episode, which unfolds with the verve for which the author has long been famous; at the age of 85, her vigour remains undimmed, along with her voracious appetite for research.

One of her own forebears was among the most intransigent opponents of emancipation. The second Earl of Longford, head of the extreme Protestant Brunswick Club, set out on the hopeless task of trying to make his Irish Catholic tenants love and venerate the Protestant religion and laws as gloriously constituted by the wisdom, and established by the blood, of our forefathers in 1688.

It was an appeal to which many elsewhere responded enthusiastically. There was no majority for Catholic emancipation in the United Kingdom as a whole, and no threat of disorder from English Catholics. Wellington imposed emancipation everywhere because of the strength of the demand for it in the land where Longford had launched his fruitless campaign on behalf of the Protestant cause.

From 1812 onwards, a restless and eloquent nationalist leader, Daniel OConnell, made emancipation the focal point of swelling Irish discontent. The case for economic reform, so obvious to British visitors appalled by Irish poverty, was set aside in favour of an issue that stirred even stronger feelings than the most acute hardship to be found in Western Europe. OConnell was described as a glass in which Ireland may see herself completely reflected. It was in reality a distorted reflection which suited OConnells purpose of bringing Catholic Ireland under his control and demanding emancipation in recognition of his power.

Britain ended up conceding under duress in 1829 what its political elite would have happily bestowed nearly 30 years earlier at the time of the political union of Great Britain and Ireland, if the conscience of the king had not been so sorely troubled. Wellington handled the retreat in masterly fashion. He secured a sharp reduction in the size of the Irish electorate by revising the franchise to exclude most of OConnells followers. He compelled OConnell to disband the political organisation that had become the basis of his power. In England, most Catholics, loyal to a fault, felt deeply uncomfortable about achieving full civil rights as a result of Irish recalcitrance.

Antonia Fraser writes benignly about the participants on both sides of the campaign, rejoicing in the bloodless victory that was finally won. Wellington is commended for wearing down the resistance of the bloated George IV. OConnell, the hero of the story, is forgiven for killing a fellow Irishman in a duel on the way to his triumph that enabled him to become an astute MP, observing that there is more folly and nonsense in the House than anywhere out of it. Whig grandees are chided gently for speaking rudely about the pope.

Some rejoiced unduly in the hour of victory. In the holy city, word spread that a new saint had been canonised. Men struck their breasts and intoned, Santa Emancipatione, ora pro nobis.

The King and the Catholics: The Fight for Rights 1829. Antonia Fraser. Weidenfeld & Nicolson. 25. 319pp (Hardcover)Mohammed Amin MBE is Chairman of the Conservative Muslim Forum. He is writing in a personal capacity.

Ever since the rise of the modern nation state, demagogues have used a standard playbook:

The nation is under threat from outsiders, and from treacherous insiders with cosmopolitan loyalties such as Jews.

Compounding the danger, selfish elites ignore the will of the people.

Only the would-be leader understands what the people need and only he will stand up for them.

All other structures of power that get in the way of the would-be saviour must be swept aside.

Perhaps Napoleon was the first exemplar, but we have seen this time and again. In Italy, it gave us Mussolini. Germany went from the pathetic Beer Hall putsch to the Holocaust in less than 20 years. In Yugoslavia it took about five years from the first republic seceding to the Srebrenica genocide.

Today, we see the same playbook being followed in countries such as Hungary and Turkey. Sadly, even the great democracy of the United States is not immune from this virus, but I am relatively confident that the structures of the US Constitution will prevail over the demagogue currently in the White House.

The authors of the Federalist Papers thought long and hard about the balance between popular voting and those who govern. Consequently the US Constitution enshrined many mechanisms to ensure that the people could elect and remove those who govern them, but in a manner that kept the passions of the mob at a distance from the legislators.

Conversely, the UK has historically been immune. This is not an accident but a feature of many aspects of our society. In the nineteenth century, the role of the landed gentry in our politics was a stabiliser. The purchase of military commissions ensured that the armed forces were led by people with a stake in our society rather than those who might benefit from overthrowing it. We designed a strong, independent, non-political civil service. The way that our political parties have operated historically insulated them from capture by demagogues. Unlike the USA, the UK has no designed constitution, but by good fortune has historically achieved the same goals, not least because the franchise was extended in stages from the top downwards.

Today however, we are in a sad place. Our representative democracy requires that there be at least two credible parties of government, so that the electorate has a meaningful choice. Unfortunately, the Labour Party modified its internal rules in a manner that enabled it to be captured from the grass roots by the extreme left. Today, it is bedevilled by antisemitism, with MPs being accused of receiving funding from Jewish money and Jewish members of the Labour Party being accused of being loyal to Israel rather than to the UK.

Worse still, this disease has started to infect our own party. When a newspaper that aspires to respectability carries a headline condemning the judges of our Supreme Court as Enemies of the People and a large portion of our party sympathises with the newspaper, rather than criticising it, something has gone seriously wrong.

Last week, we saw Boris Johnson, not just an MP but someone who aspires to lead our party, denigrating Muslim women for their religious choices in rude and abusive language. Worse still, other MPs defend him on the free speech grounds, completely ignoring the distinction between the threshold of what is criminal, and the threshold of what is acceptable speech from a senior politician. I discussed the distinction in my recent Conservative Home article When does criticising Islam morph into inciting hatred of Muslims?

It gets even worse. When our Party Chairman, having received what I understand to be many formal complaints that Johnson has breached the Conservative Partys Code of Conduct, acts upon the rules by referring the matter for investigation, he is immediately accused of bad faith and engaging in internal Conservative Party manoeuvring.

A few days ago, a senior Anglican cleric shared his concerns with me. The situation had reminded him of the Ten Stages of Genocide as classified by Gregory H. Stanton. He was genuinely concerned that the UK might in the early stages, and he reminded me about how rapidly things have previously deteriorated in other countries.

The most important thing we can do to fix this is to insist on rules of proper behaviour. The language expected of politicians within the Commons may appear restrictive, but those rules exist for a reason. They should be followed by MPs outside the chamber, as well as inside. No MP should ever describe any British citizens in the language used by Johnson.

Furthermore, discipline needs to be applied from the top. The Labour Partys problem is particularly hard to resolve because it is the good judgement of their leader which is in question. Johnsons disciplinary situation should not be prejudged, but the one thing that no Conservative should do is attempt to deigitimise the process by using the lens of Brexit to impugn the motives of our Party Chairman or our Leader.Baruch Goldstein was an Israeli terrorist who shot dead 29 Muslims, and wounded another 125, in what became known as the Cave of the Patriarchs massacre in Hebron. A plaque by his graveside reads: to the holy Baruch Goldstein, who gave his life for the Jewish people, the Torah and the nation of Israel. Six years after the atrocity, Jewish extremists gathered at his graveside to celebrate the murders.

Now imagine for a moment that Theresa May had visited the site, participated in the occasion, laid a wreath, and joined in a prayer. You see? The effort of doing so strains credulity. It is almost impossible to picture so mainstream, sober, and balanced a politician doing anything of the kind.

This imaginary parallel with the real-life event of Jeremy Corbyn visiting the graves and honouring the memory of the PLO perpetrators of the Munich massacre doubtless isnt exact. But it is rough and real enough to explain why our journalistic colleagues tend to give stories about Labour anti-semitism more projection than those about Conservative anti-Muslim prejudice (real and imagined).

A fish rots from the head down, it is said. The essence of Corbyns story is that he never expected to become his partys leader. During his long years on far left of it, he thus felt free to do and say whatever he liked, unburdened by any expectation of executive responsibility.

What he seems to have liked doing best  or at least done unwaveringly  is either line up alongside extremists, terrorists and anti-semities, or turn a blind eye to what they said or did, or both. And since he hasnt changed his mind on the issues concerned, Labour cant get the monkey of his views of its collective back. The papers pile in again gleefully today as they have been doing for months, to the detriment of the partys opinion polls ratings.

If the Conservative Party has any collective nous  a conjecture that appears doubtful after the event of the last week  it will drop the Boris Johnson complaint. The rumpus will then vanish from the headlines. The Corbyn anti-semitism saga, either way, will continue to seize them. On second thoughts, its not his opinions, in this instance, that are the monkey on Labours back. He is the monkey.Oman air has restated its commitment to sustainable social development and has pledged to continue promoting initiatives, which aim to develop and support people with special needs.



The Ministry of Social Development (MOSD) makes the support of these citizens a major priority and it works to meet their needs on a daily basis.



Oman Airs chief executive officer, Engineer Abdulaziz Al Raisi, said: As the national carrier of Oman, Oman Air is proud to be working closely with the MoSD to improve the life of the citizens of our nation. At Oman Air, we have expanded the range of our community initiatives to support eligible individuals to reach their full potential and achieve a rewarding and balanced life. Oman Air supports a wide range of educational, cultural and sporting schemes which not only help to improve the lives of individuals, but also make an important contribution to the economic and social wellbeing of the sultanate.



Oman Airs support for the work of the Ministry of Social Development stems from its endeavours to support the community to deliver a positive, long-term impact within the less advantaged communities, and create a cooperative, united society in which all citizens are enabled to achieve their full potential.



In pursuing this essential aspect of Oman Airs mission, the airline has developed a genuine strong partnership with the Ministry of Social Development. For example, the national carrier offers a 50 per cent discount for individuals travelling from families that fall under the social insurance programme and their accompanying person. This includes those who are travelling for medical treatment and study purposes. Also, new graduates from high schools in Oman are entitled to receive a 25 per cent discount on return flights to enable them to continue their studies overseas, with baggage allowance of 10kg above the weight normally permitted.



In addition, Oman Air recently introduced a new Senior Citizen discount on flights, wherein Omani nationals can get up to 15 per cent discount on domestic flight bookings. - TradeArabia News ServiceWe are analyzing the site. Please wait a few seconds..100%

Website xda-developers.com uses latest and advanced technologies like: JQuery. It is very popular on the web, it's within the 1 million most visited websites of the world at position 503 by Alexa. It supports HTTPS and GZIP compression. The main html page has a size of 215328 bytes (210.28 kb uncompressed) and 44295 bytes (43.26 kb compressed).

This CoolSocial report was updated on 2021-08-19, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want.Dear Readers:

Can you help me out with something?

In my day-to-day work, I lead a fiduciary boutique that manages wealth for select families. In my role as a financial columnist, I address a broader audience encompassing any and all financial means. The column, and interacting with you, my readers, fulfills a personal passion: to promote and inspire the pursuit of financial literacy education  armed with a healthy dose of skepticism.

So, thats the background.

Now, this is my request: I have a sense of you from your letters (1,000-plus emails; 1,000-plus columns), but Im eager to learn more about you and how to best engage in a dialogue with you through the column.

Ive got a few specific questions. Im hoping that you can take a moment to email me (readers@juliejason.com) or to complete a short survey Ive created to make your feedback easier: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/8D2ZYTD.

Here they are:

1. What motivates you to read the column or share it with friends or family? Or, to put it another way, what about the column attracts you to it? Are you reading it because of an interest in financial security? Are you seeking actionable insights that can help you make better decisions?

2. Who are you? Anything you can tell me about yourself will help, from age and gender to education, work, investment experience, what else you read and the state you live in.

3. Surveys: You may have noticed that Ive been testing the use of surveys from time to time in the column. Would you be willing to participate if you knew that your anonymous feedback could help improve the column?

4. Talks: What about talks? Many of the subject-matter experts I quote in the column could be invited to present to you at a public forum. Under what circumstances would you be interested in attending? Does your employer, club or association want to initiate a presentation?

5. Advisory group: Im thinking of creating a small advisory group of readers on a national level who would want to be a little more involved in communicating about financial literacy education and how to reach more readers with impactful decision-making topics.

6. Previous columns: Would you like access to previously published columns? For example, I wrote a series of columns addressing little-known public resources that are essential to preparing for college funding, choosing the right majors and finding jobs. The collection is reprinted in my latest (2018) book, Retire Securely: Insights on Money Management From an Award-Winning Financial Columnist. The book is now available in libraries and bookstores, and at Amazon.com.

7. Skepticism: My personal approach to financial decision-making is based on having a sense of healthy skepticism. Is that important to you?

8. Are you guided by reason more than emotion when it comes to financial things? Are you willing to do enough homework so that you understand an investment before buying? Do you have a good dont be fooled gauge: If an offer sounds too good to be true, you wont go forward? Can you sense when someone is trying to sell you something that could be better for the salesman than for you?

To all the readers who have written to me over the years, thank you for your questions and support.

As C.S., a reader from Connecticut, says: Please keep up the good work for all of the people you offer advice to. I hope they listen.

This is what makes the effort worthwhile.

Julie Jason, JD, LLM, a personal money manager (Jackson, Grant of Stamford, Conn.) and author, welcomes your questions/comments (readers@juliejason.com). Her awards include the 2018 Clarion Award, symbolizing excellence in clear, concise communications. Her latest book, a curated collection of Julies columns, is Retire Securely: Insights on Money Management From an Award-Winning Financial Columnist. To hear Julie speak, visit www.juliejason.com/events.A new species of ticks was recently found just over the state line in Westchester County, N.Y., and theres a chance it could have made its way to Connecticut, posing a threat to the states livestock.

The longhorned tick is native to east Asia and was discovered in New Jersey last year when a large concentration was found on a sheep. This year it has also been confirmed in more areas in New Jersey, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina and Arkansas.

It is possible the tick has been here for some time, but it wasnt until there was a large population detected in New Jersey that we noticed, said Neeta Pardanani Connally, who leads Western Connecticut State Universitys Tickborne Disease Prevention Laboratory. Its very possible we find these ticks in a lot of places, now that we are looking more closely.

There are no confirmed cases so far of the longhorned tick  also called the cattle tick or bush tick  in Connecticut, said Kirby Stafford, the state entomologist and chief entomologist at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station. He said he wouldnt be surprised though if there were some already in the state.

Its knocking on our door, he said.

Connally is investigating whether two immature ticks collected in northern Fairfield County over the last couple of years could be the new invasive or the native rabbit tick. This tick also closely resembles the native bird tick. All come from the same group, which tends to be smaller than the common human-biting ticks found here, such as deer ticks and American dog ticks.

It takes an expert to identity them, Stafford said of the rabbit, bird and longhorned ticks.

The longhorned tick is believed to have arrived in the U.S. in 2010, though scientists are unsure exactly where and how it arrived. Its believed to have been imported on an animal.

Right now, the tick poses a greater threat to animals than humans in the U.S.

If a large amount of ticks attach to an animal, they can drain too much blood and kill it, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The tick has the ability to produce large populations rather quickly because the female tick is able to reproduce without a male mate, called parthenogenesis. A female tick is able to engorge and lay about 1,000 eggs at a time, Stafford said.

He said it remains a livestock pest, but didnt rule out a possible risk to people.

The tick is capable of transmitting diseases to humans because the tick feeds on both birds and mammals. In China, the tick carries severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus, an emerging infectious disease with a 12 percent mortality rate.

So far, the ticks found in the U.S. havent carried this virus.

Stafford said theres a good chance the virus wont come to the U.S. with the ticks. The illness has still not appeared in New Zealand and Australia, though the tick was imported there more than 100 years ago.

But there is still the potential that the tick can pass along tick-borne diseases already here, such as Lyme.

However, it is yet still unknown if the longhorned tick is capable of transmitting other disease agents to humans here in the U.S., Connally cautioned.

kkoerting@newstimes.com; 203-731-3345BRIDGEPORT  St. Vincents Farmers Market will feature a healthy cooking demonstration by a local chef from noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 14.

Bringing Good Food for All is the philosophy of Chef Raquel Rivera-Pablo, of A Pinch of Salt, who will prepare a dish based on availability of fresh produce that day. Free samples will be available on a first-come, first-served basis and recipes will be provided to all. Chef Raquel will give cooking tips as she prepares the dish and will take questions. A Bridgeport Bucks coupon worth $5 will be given to all who attend Chef Raquel Rivera-Pablos cooking demo at St. Vincents Farmers Market while supplies last.

The cooking demo, hosted by the Bridgeport Farmers Market Collaborative, of which St. Vincents is one of seven members, will take place at the site of the farmers market immediately in front of St. Vincents main entrance. The event is free and open to the public and one of four cooking demos to be held at St. Vincents Farmers Market. Cooking demos will also be featured on September 11 and October 9. No registration is necessary.

The market is open every Tuesday from noon to 4 p.m. until Oct. 30.

Parking in the visitor garage for the event is free with validated ticket.

For more information, please contact Lucinda I. Ames at 475-210-5550 or lames@stvincents.orgThe 29-year-old hijacker was performing midair stunts over Puget Sound, an erratic flight pattern that seemed to mirror the loops and barrel rolls of his radio chatter.

He told the control tower he was "a broken guy" but a lot of people cared about him and he wanted to apologize. He asked the whereabouts of an orca whale and her dead calf. And he wondered - laughing - what would happen if he tried to do a "backflip" with the plane he had stolen from Seattle's main airport.

When the control tower urged him to attempt to land the empty, 76-seat Bombardier Q400 belonging to his employer, Horizon Air, the man - identified by a law enforcement official as Richard Russell - worried about harm to others on the ground. Better to take a nose dive, he said, "and call it a night."

The stunning heist of a large commercial airplane from a major U.S. airport Friday night took no other lives than the pilot's, but the incident has heightened worries about gaps in American aviation security, forcing questions about how Russell, a baggage handler and grounds crew member, could take control of the aircraft, get it in the air and fly it willy-nilly over a major U.S. metropolitan area for nearly an hour.

As he flew in loops and zigzags into the sunset with Air Force F-15s shadowing him, spectators on the ground followed him across the sky with their phones, thinking it was an air show.

Within minutes of the theft, the two F-15s were scrambled and were in the air, flying at supersonic speeds from their Portland air base to intercept the aircraft, according to the North American Aerospace Defense Command, which oversees airspace protection in North America.

The jets were armed but did not fire on the aircraft, said Air Force Capt. Cameron Hillier, a NORAD spokesman. Officials declined to describe the circumstances in which they would bring down an aircraft with a missile, citing operational security, but Hillier did say any decision would involve "a lot of collaboration" between pilots, commanders on the ground and others.

The F-15 pilots attempted to divert the aircraft toward the Pacific Ocean while maintaining radio communication with controllers and Russell. The jets flew close enough to make visual contact, Hillier said.

Russell eventually told controllers that fuel was low and an engine was failing. Then he plunged the aircraft into a wooded area on sparsely inhabited Kentron Island, 25 miles south of the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, setting trees ablaze.

Federal officials released few details Saturday about the hijacking, but airline executives said Russell had been an employee since 2015, and he possessed security clearances to gain access to the plane. He was also familiar with the towing tractors that move aircraft on the tarmac. He used one to back the plane out of a maintenance area, then climbed into the cockpit and roared down the runway.

Brad Tilden, the CEO of Alaska Airlines, which owns Horizon Air, told reporters Saturday the incident "is going to push us to learn from this tragedy and make sure this does not happen again at Alaska or any other airline."

But he and other airline executives declined to say what measures they could take to prevent someone with security badges from doing it again.

Tilden said his industry operates on the principle of checking the backgrounds of employees, not locking down airplanes in secure areas.

"The doors to the airplanes are not keyed like a car," he said.

Congress is already seeking to tighten the screening of airport employees and may do so with more urgency now, said Mary Schiavo, the former inspector general of the U.S. Transportation Department.

The United States has approximately 900,000 aviation workers, according to the most recent federal data, and Schiavo said screening procedures are "pretty rudimentary."

While pilots undergo periodic medical exams, she noted, airline mechanics and ground crew members are checked on a much more limited basis that does not include mental health exams.

Though aircraft mechanics have broad access and routinely taxi planes along the tarmac, Schiavo said, ground crew members are not supposed to be allowed inside cockpits, which have locking doors. But she said those security procedures are not always observed, especially for smaller commuter aircraft such as the Bombardier Q400. "It can be a little more casual and a little loosey-goosey, especially if they are doing overnight maintenance," she said.

Authorities were quick to assure the public that Friday's incident was not viewed as an act of terrorism. But the apparent ease with which the Horizon employee stole the plane points to the challenge of stopping "inside threat" attacks.

Richard Bloom, an aviation security expert at Arizona's Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, said he wasn't aware of another incident in the United States in which a ground crew member managed to steal an airplane. Incidents of aviation workers attempting to aid terrorists or drug traffickers are far more common globally.

But setting up a comprehensive screening system to evaluate the mental health of aviation workers would be difficult, Bloom cautioned, and it would risk rejecting large numbers of workers who do not pose a danger.

"There are such significant challenges to preventing inappropriate security behavior," he said. "It's kind of surprising that these types of things don't happen more often."

A bipartisan House bill, approved last year, calls for more stringent standards in employee background checks and increased surveillance of secure areas at airports. A Senate version of the bill has yet to come up for a vote.

The bill followed a February 2017 House Homeland Security Committee report warning of vulnerabilities that could allow terrorists and criminals to get jobs as aviation workers. Concerns over mental health were not a focus of the report.

But those worries have increased in recent years, analysts say, particularly after the 2015 crash of a Germanwings flight, whose co-pilot deliberately steered the plane into a French mountainside, killing 144 passengers and five crew members.

The co-pilot, Andreas Lubitz, had been treated for depression and psychiatric problems but concealed the information from his employer. Once the flight was airborne, Lubitz locked his more senior pilot out of the cockpit.

Gary Beck, the CEO of Horizon Air, told reporters he didn't know whether Russell was trained as a pilot, but he called the flight "incredible."

At one point, an air traffic controller urged Russell to land at the airfield of a nearby military base, Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

"Oh man," Russell said, "Those guys will rough me up if I try and land there. I think I might mess something up there, too. I wouldn't want to do that."

Russell described his experience flying in video games and asked for the coordinates to the orca whale that has been pushing her dead calf through Washington state's coastal waters for nearly three weeks.

"You know, the mama orca with the baby," he said. "I want to go see that guy."

Resources: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for 24-hour, confidential assistance if you or someone you know needs help: 1-800-273-TALK (8255), suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

- - -

The Washington Post's Devlin Barrett contributed to this report.Plenty of people have dreamed of buying a private island. Not many expected it to bear the name of the 45th president.

But that's exactly what Trump Island has been up against; since it was first listed more than a year and a half ago, the San Juan island the name has become a bit of a sticking point.

There's more to the listing of course -- after all, when an actual private island goes up for sale, there's a lot more to consider than the usual real estate machinations. The name just makes it stand out a little extra.

The truth is it has no relation to Donald J., or any of his family, historical or otherwise. While his grandfather did have a brief stint in Seattle after he immigrated to the states, the name could predate his arrival.

RELATED: Trump family local legacy: Not as seedy as once thought?

"The name has been used since at least the mid-1870s as determined by the Washington State Board of Geographic Names in 1976," Kevin Loftus, executive director of the San Juan Historical Museum, told the Washington Post last year.

So how do you handle a unique sale like this? Well you remember the whole package, for starters: There is, after all, the secluded 29-acre island, with a luxurious home spanning more than 7,000 square feet.

As one might imagine, the process to buy an estate of this caliber is different than usual, even in a market as ferocious as Seattle.

Background

For starters, there's the vetting. In order to even see the island you have to be checked out for whether or not you'd actually be able to make the purchase, should you like what you see.

"With other homes you never have to go through the seller as far as vetting them and really getting their background and checking them out before they view a home," Leigh Zwicker, the Windermere broker said.

Which is easier than you'd think: The only way to get to the island is by boat, seaplane, or the private water taxi, who will always check in with the island's caretaker (another point for how high-end this sale feels).

Power

Another key factor to consider in the realm of island buying is utilities; while you may have your pick of islands to buy, either locally or globally, the process of setting up electricity, plumbing, and other utilities is not an easy -- or cheap -- one.

"Most islands out there, unless they're Orcas, or properties that are on islands that have electricity and all those good things -- this didn't have anything when the seller bought the property," Zwicker said. "It's a really unique property in the San Juan Islands compared to what else is out there."

RELATED: Come sail away on this rockin' $1.2M houseboat in Seattle

In this case the home and its separate -- built in 2000 after the now-seller bought the island as a raw piece of land -- comes with the full nine: Runoff from the roof that gets collected and desalinized, submarine batteries to power the island, and so on.

"It's a private island, it has all these details that are essential to the functioning of the island; it's a property that's very unique to anything else that's out there. It's not just a house being hauled up on a piece of property," Zwicker said.

Structure

Which is another point that's important to consider when buying a private island, of course: The actual house you're buying. In this case Zwicker describes the house as "quite a beautiful piece of property," that had "amazing forethought in the planning process."

The whole thing was done locally -- designed by a Seattle architect and built by a Lopez Island contractor -- and was even more cumbersome than one might imagine, since the dock was the last thing to get built.

But get built it did, complete with wine cellar, wet bar, three fireplaces, a boat house, a barn, a green house, and separate caretaker home.

RELATED: Seattle tops report where it pays to move farther out

And for those who like their estates secluded, Trump Island delivers (even more than the "private" part of the island might suggest).

"The way it's designed, you can't see the house when you're down on the water, because of the trees," Zwicker said. "But when you're sitting up on the patio you can see the water; so it's like you don't even know it's there."

Market

After more than 18 months on the market, Zwicker is close to closing a contract on Trump Island.

That's certainly longer than most things stay on the market in the state, where we've been notoriously and historically low on housing supply for a long time. But the market works differently for luxury listings, who cater to a different base than the usual market.

"Seattle may seem expensive from a Seattle perspective, but it's deemed a relative value when compared to other West Coast, gateway cities," Dean Jones, principal and owner of Realogics Sotheby's International Realty, said in an interview with SeattlePI last year. "If you compare the ratio (of median household incomes for our region over median prices of homes), and you were to take that same ratio to Vancouver, San Francisco or Orange County, we're a relative bargain  some would even suggest globally undervalued."

Zwicker agrees, noting that there have been tremendous efforts in marketing this property.

"It's all global these days, especially luxury listings like this," Zwicker said. "It's on a Chinese website through Windermere, it's on a luxury website, it's been advertised on 'Private Islands' which is part of HGTV...Architectural Digest.

"In the end it works out," she continued. "It's a beautiful property."

You can click through the slideshow to see the details of 1 Trump Island. It's currently listed for $8,750,000; the full listing is here.Update: Thomas prohibited from legal actions

Thomas is not allowed to execute any legal document on behalf of the Commonwealth or appear on behalf of the Commonwealth in a court proceeding.In the days immediately after the appointment of Chhindwara MP Kamal Nath as state president in May, the Congress suddenly emerged as an old but functional machine that could offer a fight to the BJP in the coming elections.

This perception  and it was largely just that, a perception  seems to be now petering out to favour the BJP. In the initial analysis, it now seems that the Congress leadership that had generated interest in the minds of the voters with the change of guard at the PCC has now lost steam.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan is going around in a bus designed as a rath, receiving grievances (File photo: PTI)

The BJP led by CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan seems to have recovered from the upheaval caused by the changes in the Congress leadership and is now cruising ahead according to what seems like a plan.

The single most important factor that has given weight to this perception is Shivraj Singh Chouhan throwing all his resources in the field and commencing version 3.0 of his Jan Ashirwad Yatra  a mass contact programme that worked for him in the 2008 and 2013 elections. Chouhan has been touring the state continuously since July 16, spending barely one or two days in the state capital in a week. He is going around in a bus designed as a rath, receiving grievances and making whatever promises politicians promise in poll time.

Most importantly, he is with his people making many feel that he is back in saddle after losing balance temporarily. By September, the CM would cover almost all the 230 constituencies in the state.

Kamal Nath's appointment as the state Congress president generated hope initially. (File photo: India Today)

In response, what is the Congress leadership up to right now? The Congress tried to reply to Chouhans Jan Ashirwad Yatra with a Pol Khol Yatra, the format of which entailed following him and puncturing his claims on development and promises.

The Congress yatra is getting a lukewarm response and the party claims that Chouhans yatra has crowds because they are carted to the venues by government agencies.

Jyotiraditya Scindia can match Shivraj Singh Chouhan's popularity, but he has not committed himself fully to the Congress campaign (File photo: India Today)

There may be an element of truth in it, but the fact is that Jitu Patwari, the Congress MLA organising the partys yatra, is not really a match for Chouhan. Congress leaders dismiss the efficacy of yatras as political tools as mere sponsored government stunts. But the stunts are changing the perceptions of people about Chouhans government and undoing the damage it had suffered earlier. What the Congress has failed in doing and what it promises to begin with in early September is matching Chouhans campaign with deploying their campaign committee chairman Jyotiraditya Scindia in the field.

Scindia comes the closest among Congress leaders in drawing crowds and matching Chouhans popularity, but he has not yet committed himself fully to the Congress campaign. Also, in the last three months, a major part of PCC president Kamal Naths time has been devoted to addressing the gaps in the Congress organisation  something he perceives as very crucial to taking on the BJP in the state. This has left him with little time for campaigning.

Another reason responsible for the recent feel good in the BJP camp is two surveys: one by the Congress-controlled National Herald and the other by the biggest Hindi newspaper of the state that has given the BJP an edge over the Congress. There are about three and a half months to go before the elections  which is a long time in politics  but the Congress needs to up its game in the campaign, if it has to take on one of the most popular CMs of the BJP.

(Courtesy of Mail Today)

Also read: Working 24x7: The NSSO wants to quantify homemakers' work but only by 'cooking' and 'washing' 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.Anadarko Petroleum Corporation engages in the exploration, development, production, and marketing of oil and gas properties. It operates through three segments: Exploration and Production, WES Midstream, and Other Midstream. The company explores for and produces oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids (NGLs). It is also involved in gathering, processing, treating, and transporting oil, natural-gas, and NGLs production, as well as the gathering and disposal of produced water. The company's oil and natural gas properties are located in the United States onshore and deepwater Gulf of Mexico; and Algeria, Ghana, Mozambique, Colombia, Peru, and other countries. As of December 31, 2018, it had approximately 1.5 billion barrels of oil equivalent of proved reserves. The company was founded in 1959 and is headquartered in The Woodlands, Texas.

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Read ArticleC3.ai, Inc. operates as an enterprise artificial intelligence (AI) software company. The company provides software-as-a-service applications for enterprises. Its software solutions include C3 AI Suite, a platform-as-a-service application development and runtime environment that enables customers to design, develop, and deploy enterprise AI applications; and C3 AI Applications, which include industry-specific and application-specific turnkey AI solutions. Its C3 AI applications include C3 AI Inventory Optimization, a solution to optimize raw material, in-process, and finished goods inventory levels; C3 AI Supply Network Risk, which provides visibility into risks of disruption throughout the supply chain operations for enterprise supply chain managers; C3 AI Customer Churn Management, which enables account executives and relationship managers to monitor customer satisfaction using transactional, behavioral, and contextual information, as well as to take action to prevent customer churn with AI-based and human-interpretable predictions and warning; C3 AI Production Schedule Optimization, a solution for scheduling production; C3 AI Predictive Maintenance, which provides insight into asset risk to maintenance planners and equipment operators; C3 AI Fraud Detection solution; and C3 AI Energy Management solution. The company also offers integrated turnkey enterprise AI applications for various market segments, including oil and gas, chemicals, utilities, manufacturing, retail, banking, financial services, intelligence, aerospace and defense, healthcare, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, smart cities, transportation, and others. C3.ai, Inc. serves customers primarily in Europe, Asia, and the United States. It has strategic partnerships with Baker Hughes in the areas of oil and gas market; FIS in the areas of financial services market; Raytheon in the areas of the U.S. defense and intelligence communities; and Microsoft and Adobe in the areas of customer relationship management. The company was formerly known as C3 IoT, Inc. and changed its name to C3.ai, Inc. in June 2019. C3.ai, Inc. was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in Redwood City, California.

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View MarketBeat's top stock picks here.GlaxoSmithKline Plc is a healthcare company, which engages in the research, development, and manufacture of pharmaceutical medicines, vaccines, and consumer healthcare products. It operates through the following segments: Pharmaceuticals; Pharmaceuticals R&D; Vaccines and Consumer Healthcare. The Pharmaceuticals segment focuses on developing medicines in respiratory and infectious diseases, oncology, and immuno-inflammation. The Pharmaceuticals R&D segment focuses on science related to the immune system, the use of human genetics and advanced technologies, and is driven by the multiplier effect of Science x Technology x Culture. The Vaccines segment produces pediatric and adult vaccines to prevent a range of infectious diseases including, hepatitis A and B, diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough, measles, mumps and rubella, polio, typhoid, influenza, and bacterial meningitis. The Consumer Healthcare segment develops and markets brands in the oral health, pain relief, respiratory, nutrition and gastro intestinal, and skin health categories. The company was founded in 1715 and is headquartered in Middlesex, the United Kingdom.

Read MoreUprooted Palestinians are at the heart of the conflict in the M.E Palestinians uprooted by force of arms. Yet faced immense difficulties have survived, kept alive their history and culture, passed keys of family homes in occupied Palestine from one generation to the next.The following companies are subsidiares of UnitedHealth Group: 1031387 B.C. Unlimited Liability Company, 1070715 B.C. Unlimited Liability Company, 1st Avenue Pharmacy Inc., 310 Canyon Medical, 310 Canyon Medical LLC, 4C MSO LLC, 4C Medical Group PLC, 5995 Minnetonka LLC, ABCO International Holdings LLC, ACN Group IPA of New York, ACN Group IPA of New York Inc., ACN Group of California, ACN Group of California Inc., AHJV, AHJV MSO, AHN Accontable Care Organization LLC, AHN Central Services LLC, AHN Target Holdings LLC, AMIL International, AMIL International S.a.r.l., APS  Assistencia Personalizada a Saude Ltda., ARC Infusion, ASC Holdings of New Jersey LLC, ASC Network LLC, ASI Global, ASI Global LLC, Access Administrators Inc., Access HealthSource Administrators Inc., Access HealthSource Inc., Access I.V., Administradora Clinica La Colina S.A.S., Administradora Country S.A., Administradora Medica Centromed S.A., Advanced Care, Advanced Care Pharmacy, Advanced Pharma Inc., Advanced Surgery Center of Clifton LLC, Advanced Surgical Hospital LLC, Advantage Care Network Inc., Advocate Condell Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Advocate Sherman Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Advocate Southwest Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Advocate-SCA Partners LLC, Alere Health, Alere Health Improvement Company, Alere Healthcare of Illinois, Alere Wellbeing, Alere Wellology, Alere of New York, Aliansalud Entidad Promotora de Salud S.A., All Savers Insurance Company, All Savers Life Insurance Company of California, Alliance Surgical Center LLC, Aloha Surgical Center LLC, Ambient Healthcare, Ambient Healthcare Inc., Ambient Healthcare of Central Florida, Ambient Healthcare of Georgia, Ambient Healthcare of Northeast Florida, Ambient Healthcare of S. Florida, Ambient Healthcare of West Florida, Ambient Holdings, Ambient Holdings Inc., Ambient Nursing Services, AmeriChoice, AmeriChoice Corporation, AmeriChoice Health Services, AmeriChoice of Connecticut, AmeriChoice of New Jersey, AmeriChoice of New Jersey Inc., American Health Network of Indiana Care Organization LLC, American Health Network of Indiana II LLC, American Health Network of Indiana LLC, American Health Network of Ohio Care Organization LLC, American Health Network of Ohio II LLC, American Health Network of Ohio LLC, Amico Saude Ltda., Amil, Amil Assistencia Medica Internacional S.A., Amil Lifesciences Participacoes Ltda., Antelope Valley Surgery Center L.P., Analisis Clinicos ML S.A.C., Apothecary Holdings Inc., Apothecary Shop of Phoenix Inc., AppleCare Medical Management, AppleCare Medical Management LLC, Aquitania Chilean Holding SpA, Arise Physician Group, Arizona Physicians IPA, Arizona Physicians IPA Inc., AssuranceRx, AssuranceRx LLC, Athens ASC Holdings LLC, Audax Health Solutions, Audax Health Solutions LLC, Austin Center for Outpatient Surgery L.P., Avella Patient Access Program Inc., Avella Specialty Pharmacy, Avella of Austin Inc., Avella of Columbus Inc., Avella of Deer Valley Inc., Avella of Denver Inc., Avella of Gilbert Inc., Avella of Las Vegas II Inc., Avella of Orlando Inc., Avella of Phoenix III Inc., Avella of Sacramento Inc., Avella of Scottsdale Inc., Avella of St. Louis Inc., Avella of Tampa LLC, Avella of Tucson II Inc., Avella of Tucson Inc., Aveta Arizona, Aveta Health Solutions Inc., Aveta Inc., Aveta Kansas City, Aveta Tennessee, AxelaCare Health Solutions, AxelaCare Intermediate Holdings, AxelaCare Intermediate Holdings LLC, AxelaCare LLC, B.R.A.S.S. Partnership in Commendam, Banmedica Colombia SpA, Banmedica Internacional SpA, Banmedica S.A., Beach Surgical Holdings III LLC, Behavioral Healthcare Options, Behavioral Healthcare Options Inc., Belleville Surgical Center Ltd. an Illinois Limited Partnership, Benefit Administration for the Self Employed L.L.C., Benefitter Insurance Solutions Inc., Birmingham Outpatient Surgical Center LLC, Blackstone Valley Surgicare GP LLC, Blue Ridge GP LLC, Bordeaux (Barbados) Holdings I SRL, Bordeaux (Barbados) Holdings II SRL, Bordeaux (Barbados) Holdings III SRL, Bordeaux Holding SpA, Bordeaux International Holdings Inc., Bordeaux UK Holdings I Limited, Bordeaux UK Holdings II Limited, Bordeaux UK Holdings III Limited, Bosque Medical Center Ltda., Brandon Ambulatory Surgery Center LC, BriovaRx, BriovaRx, BriovaRx Infusion Services, BriovaRx Infusion Services 102 LLC, BriovaRx Infusion Services 200 Inc., BriovaRx Infusion Services 204 Inc., BriovaRx Infusion Services 209 Inc., BriovaRx Infusion Services 305 LLC, BriovaRx Infusion Services 402 LLC, BriovaRx Infusion Services Inc., BriovaRx Specialty LLC, BriovaRx of California, BriovaRx of California Inc., BriovaRx of Florida, BriovaRx of Florida Inc., BriovaRx of Georgia, BriovaRx of Georgia LLC, BriovaRx of Hawaii, BriovaRx of Indiana, BriovaRx of Louisiana, BriovaRx of Louisiana L.L.C., BriovaRx of Maine, BriovaRx of Maine Inc., BriovaRx of Massachusetts, BriovaRx of Massachusetts LLC, BriovaRx of Nevada, BriovaRx of New York, BriovaRx of New York Inc., BriovaRx of Texas, BriovaRx of Texas Inc., CDC Holdings Colombia S.A.S., CLISA  Clinica de Santo Antonio S.A., CMO  Centro Medico de Oftalmologia S/S Ltda., CMS  Central de Manipulacao e Servicos Farmaceuticos S.A., CNIC Health Solutions Inc., COI Participacoes S.A., COI  Clinicas Oncologicas Integradas S.A., Cabin Enterprises LLC, Cabin Holdings LLC, California MedTrans Network IPA LLC, California MedTrans Network MSO LLC, California Medical Group Insurance Company Risk Retention Group, Camp Hill-SCA Centers LLC, Capital City Medical Group L.L.C., Cardio Management, Cardio Management Inc., Care Improvement Plus Group Management, Care Improvement Plus Group Management LLC, Care Improvement Plus South Central Insurance Company, Care Improvement Plus Wisconsin Insurance Company, Care Improvement Plus of Texas Insurance Company, Casa de Saude Santa Therezinha Ltda., Casa de Saude Santa Therezinha S.A., Castle Rock SurgiCenter LLC, Catalyst360, Catalyst360 LLC, Catamaran Finance (Ireland) Unlimited Company, Catamaran Health Solutions, Catamaran Holdings I, Catamaran IPA III, Catamaran Mail, Catamaran PBM of Illinois II, Catamaran PBM of Puerto Rico, Catamaran PD of Pennsylvania, Catamaran PD of Puerto Rico, Catamaran Rebate Management, Catamaran S.a.r.l., Catamaran Senior Services, Catamaran of Pennsylvania, Cedar Park Surgery Center LLC, Cemed Care - Empressa de Atendimento Clinico Geral Ltda., Cemed Care  Empresa de Atendimento Clinico Geral Ltda., Central Indiana Care Organization LLC, Central Ohio Care Organization LLC, Central de Compras SpA, CentriHealth Corporation, CentriHealth UK Limited, CentrifyHealth LLC, Centro Medico Hospitalar Pitangueiras Ltda., Centro Medico Odontologico Americano S.A.C., Centro Medico PJ Ltda., Centro de Entrenamiento en Reanimacion y Prevencion Limitada (CERP), Centro de Servicios Compartidos Banmedica S.A., Centromed Quilpue S.A., Centros Medicos y Dentales Multimed Ltda., Centurion Casualty Company, Channel Islands Surgicenter L.P., Channel Islands Surgicenter Properties LLC, Charleston Surgery Properties LLC, Charlotte-SC LLC, Childrens Surgery Center LLC, ChinaGate (Hong Kong) Limited, ChinaGate Company Limited, Citrus Regional Surgery Center L.P., Clinica Oftalmologica Danilo de Castro Sociedade Simples, Clinical Partners of Colorado Springs LLC, Clinica Alameda S.A., Clinica Bio Bio S.A., Clinica Ciudad del Mar S.A., Clinica Davila y Servicios Medicos S.A., Clinica Medico Cirurgica de Santa Tecla S.A., Clinica San Borja (La Esperanza del Peru S.A.), Clinica San Felipe S.A., Clinica Santa Maria S.A., Clinica Sanchez Ferrer S.A., Clinica Vespucio S.A., Clinica del Country S.A., Coachella Valley Physicians of PrimeCare, Coachella Valley Physicians of PrimeCare Inc., Coalition For Advanced Pharmacy Services, Coalition for Advanced Pharmacy Services Inc., Coastal Physicians Management Inc., Collaborative Care Holdings, Collaborative Care Holdings LLC, Collaborative Care Services, Collaborative Care Services Inc., Collaborative Care Solutions, Collaborative Realty, Collaborative Realty LLC, Colmedica Medicina Prepagada, Colonial Outpatient Surgery Center LLC, Colorado Innovative Physician Solutions Inc., Colorado Springs Surgery Center Ltd., Comfort Care Transportation, Comfort Care Transportation LLC, Commonwealth Administrators, Connecticut Surgery Center Limited Partnership, Connecticut Surgery Properties LLC, Connecticut Surgical Center LLC, Connextions, Connextions HCI, Constructora e Inmobiliaria Magapoq S.A., Consumer Wellness Solutions Inc., Country Scan Ltda., Crescent Drug Corp., Cypress Care, Cypress Care Inc., DBP Services of New York IPA, DBP Services of New York IPA Inc., DTC Surgery Center LLC, DWIC of Tampa Bay, DWIC of Tampa Bay Inc., DaVita Magan Management Inc., Danbury Surgical Center L.P., Day-Op Surgery Consulting Company, Day-Op Surgery Consulting Company LLC, Definity Health, Dental Benefit Providers, Dental Benefit Providers Inc., Dental Benefit Providers of California, Dental Benefit Providers of California Inc., Dental Benefit Providers of Illinois, Dental Benefit Providers of Illinois Inc., Derry Surgical Center LLC, Diagnostico Ecotomografico Centromed Ltda., Diasnostico por Imagenes Centromed Ltda., Dilab Medicina Nuclear Ltda., Diplomat Pharmacy, Distance Learning Network, Distance Learning Network Inc., Doctor + S.A.C., Dry Creek Surgery Center LLC, Dublin Surgery Center LLC, Duncan Printing Services, Duncan Printing Services LLC, E Street Endoscopy LLC, ELG FZE, EP Campus I, EP Campus I LLC, East Brunswick Surgery Center LLC, Electronic Network Systems, Electronic Network Systems Inc., Elual Participacoes S.A., Empire Physician Management Company, Empire Physician Management Company LLC, Employers Health Choice PPO Inc., Empremedica S. A., Endoscopy Center Affiliates Inc., Enterprise Life Insurance Company, Equian, Equian LLC, Equian Parent Corp., Esho  Empresa de Servicos Hospitalares S.A., Etho  Empresa de Tecnologia Hospitalar Ltda., Evercare Collaborative Solutions, Evercare Collaborative Solutions Inc., Everett MSO Inc., Excellion Servicos Biomedicos Ltda., Excellion Servicos Biomedicos S.A., Excelsior Insurance Brokerage Inc., Executive Health Resources, Executive Health Resources Inc., Executive Surgery Center LLC, Eye Clinic Oftalmologia Clinico Cirurgica e Diagnostico Ltda., FMG Holdings, FMG Holdings LLC, FOR HEALTH OF ARIZONA, Family Health Care Services, Family Home Hospice, Family Home Hospice Inc., First Rx Specialty & Mail Services, Florida MedTrans Network LLC, Florida MedTrans Network MSO LLC, For Health, For Health Inc., For Health of Arizona Inc., Fortified Provider Network Inc., Fortify Technologies Asia LLC, Fortify Technologies LLC, Foundation Financial Services Inc., Franklin Surgical Center LLC, Freedom Life Insurance Company of America, Freeway Surgicenter of Houston LLC, Frontier MEDEX Limited, Frontier Medex Tanzania Limited, FrontierMEDEX, FrontierMEDEX (RMS), FrontierMEDEX (RMS) Inc., FrontierMEDEX Government Services, FrontierMEDEX Government Services LLC, FrontierMEDEX Inc., FrontierMEDEX Kenya Limited, FrontierMEDEX US, FrontierMEDEX US Inc., Fundacion Banmedica, GRANTS PASS SURGERY CENTER LLC, Gadsden Surgery Center LLC, Gadsden Surgery Center Ltd., Gainesville Surgery Center L.P., Gainesville Surgery Properties LLC, Genoa, Genoa Healthcare Inc., Genoa Healthcare LLC, Genoa QoL Wholesale LLC, Genoa Technology (Canada) Inc., Genoa Technology Inc., Genoa Telepsychiatry Inc., Genoa of Arkansas LLC, Glenwood Surgical Center L.P., Glenwood-SC Inc., Golden Outlook, Golden Outlook Inc., Golden Rule Financial Corporation, Golden Rule Insurance Company, Golden Triangle Surgicenter L.P., Grapevine Finance LLC, Greater Hartford ASC LLC, Grove Place Surgery Center L.L.C., Guardian Health Systems Limited Partnership, H&W Indemnity (SPC), H&W Indemnity (SPC) Ltd., H.I. Investments Holding Company LLC, HCP ACO California LLC, HCP ACO Nevada LLC, HCentive Technology India Private Limited, HMI NewCo LLC, Harken Health Insurance Company, Hayes-Strub LLC, Health Business Systems, Health Care-ONE Insurance Agency Inc., Health Inventures Employment Solutions LLC, Health Inventures LLC, Health Net Insurance of New York, Health Net Services (Bermuda) Ltd., Health Plan of Nevada, Health Plan of Nevada Inc., Health Technology Analysts Pty Limited, HealthAllies, HealthAllies Inc., HealthCare Partners ASC-LB LLC, HealthCare Partners Management Services California LLC, HealthCare Partners RE LLC, HealthFirst IPA Inc., HealthMarkets Group Inc., HealthMarkets Inc., HealthMarkets Insurance Agency Inc., HealthMarkets LLC, HealthMarkets NewCo Inc., HealthMarkets Services Inc., HealthSCOPE Holdings Inc., HealthScope Benefits Inc., Healthcare Partners Plan of Nevada Inc., Healthcare Solutions Inc., Heartland Heart and Vascular LLC, Help S.A., Help Service S.A., Highlands Ranch Healthcare, Highlands Ranch Healthcare LLC, Home Care I.V. of Bend, Home Infusion With Heart, Home Medical S.A., Hospice Inspiris Holdings, Hospice Inspiris Holdings Inc., Hospitais Associados de Pernambuco Ltda., Hospital Alvorada de Taguatinga Ltda., Hospital Ana Costa S.A., Hospital Maternidade Promater Ltda., Hospital Samaritano de Sao Paulo Ltda., Hospital Santa Helena S.A., Hospital de Clinicas de Jacarepagua Ltda., Humedica, Humedica Inc., Hygeia Corporation, Hygeia Corporation (Canada), Hygeia Corporation (DE), Hygeia Corporation (Ontario), INOV8 Surgical at Memorial City LLC, INSPIRIS of New York IPA, INSPIRIS of New York Management, INSPIRIS of New York Management Inc., INSPIRIS of Texas Physician Group, IRX Financing I LLC, Illinois Independent Care Network, Imed Star  Servicos de Desempenho Organizacional Ltda., Impel Consulting Experts, Impel Consulting Experts L.L.C., Impel Management Services L.L.C., Indian River Surgery Center Ltd., Indian River Surgery Properties LLC, Indiana Care Organization LLC, Infusource, Ingram & Associates, Ingram & Associates LLC, Inmobiliaria Apoquindo 3001 S.A., Inmobiliaria Apoquindo 3600 Ltda., Inmobiliaria Apoquindo S.A., Inmobiliaria Clinica Santa Maria S.A., Inmobiliaria Vinamed Ltda., Inmobiliaria e Inversiones Alameda S.A., Inspiris, Inspiris Inc., Inspiris Services Company, Inspiris of Tennessee, Instituto do Radium de Cammpinas Ltda, International Psychological Services Pty Limited, Inversiones Clinicas Santa Maria S.A., Isapre Banmedica S.A., Isapre Vida Tres S.A., Johnston Surgicare L.P., Joliet Surgery Center Limited Partnership, LHI, Laboratorio ROE S.A., Laboratorios Medicos Amed Quilpue S.A., LifePrint Health, LifePrint Health Inc., LifeStyles Marketing Group Inc., LifeWell Ltd. Co., Lifeprint Accountable Care Organization, Lifeprint Accountable Care Organization LLC, Lifeprint East, Lifeprint East Inc., Logistics Health Inc., Lotten-Eyes Oftalmologia Clinica e Cirurgica Ltda., Louisville S.C. Ltd., Louisville-SC Properties Inc., Loyola Ambulatory Surgery Center at Oakbrook Inc., Lusiadas - Parcerias Cascais S.A., Lusiadas A.C.E., Lusiadas S.A., Lusiadas SGPS S.A., MAMSI Insurance Resources, MAMSI Life and Health Insurance Company, MD Ops, MD Ops Inc., MD-Individual Practice Association, MD-Individual Practice Association Inc., ME AHS UC LLC, MEDEX Insurance Services, MEDEX Insurance Services Inc., MGH/SCA LLC, MHC Real Estate Holdings, MHC Real Estate Holdings LLC, MIAMI SURGERY CENTER LLC, MSLA Management LLC, MXMD Centros De Cancer, Mamoeco  Mamografia e Ecografia Centro de Diagnostico, Managed Physical Network, Managed Physical Network Inc., March Holdings, March Holdings Inc., March Vision Care, March Vision Care Inc., Marin Surgery Holdings Inc., Maryland Ambulatory Centers, Maryland-SCA Centers LLC, Massachusetts Assurance Company Ltd. PIC, Massachusetts Avenue Surgery Center LLC, Mat-Rx Development, Mat-Rx Fort Worth GP, MedExpress Development, MedExpress Development LLC, MedExpress Urgent Care Alabama LLC, MedExpress Urgent Care Inc. - Ohio, MedExpress Urgent Care Maine Inc., MedExpress Urgent Care New Hampshire Inc., MedExpress Urgent Care of Boynton Beach, MedExpress Urgent Care of Boynton Beach LLC, MedSynergies, MedSynergies LLC, MedSynergies North Texas, Medalliance Net Ltda, Medalliance Net Ltda., Medica Health Plans of Florida, Medica Health Plans of Florida Inc., Medica HealthCare Plans, Medica HealthCare Plans Inc., Medical Clinic of North Texas PLLC, Medical Hilfe S.A., Medical Preparatory School of Allied Health, Medical Support Los Angeles Inc., Medical Surgical Centers of America Inc., Medical Transportation Services, Medical Transportation Services LLC, Medication Management Systems Inc., Melbourne Surgery Center LLC, Memorial City Holdings LLC, Memorial City Partners LLC, Memphis-SC LLC, Memphis-SP LLC, Mesquite Liberty LLC, Metro I Stone Management, Metropolitan Medical Partners LLC, Metropolitan Medical Transportation IPA LLC, Mid Atlantic Medical Services, Mid-West National Life Insurance Company of Tennessee, Midwest Center for Day Surgery LLC, Mile High SurgiCenter LLC, Mississippi Surgery Holdings LLC, Mississippi Surgical Center Limited Partnership, Mobile Medical Professionals, Modern Medical Inc., Monarch Management Services, Monarch Management Services Inc., Montgomery Surgery Center Limited Partnership, Mountain View Medical Group LLC, Mt. Pleasant Surgery Center L.P., Multiangio Ltda., Muskogee Surgical Investors LLC, Mustang Razorback Holdings, Mustang Razorback Holdings Inc., My Wellness Solutions LLC, NAMM Holdings, NAMM Holdings Inc., NSC Fayetteville LLC, NSC Greensboro LLC, NSC Lancaster LLC, NSC Seattle Inc., NSC Upland LLC, Nashville-SCA Surgery Centers Inc., National Foundation Life Insurance Company, National MedTrans LLC, National Pacific Dental, National Pacific Dental Inc., National Surgery Centers LLC, Neighborhood Health Partnership, Neighborhood Health Partnership Inc., Netwerkes, Netwerkes LLC, Nevada Medical Services LLC, Nevada Pacific Dental, New Orleans Regional Physician Hospital Organization L.L.C., New West Physicians Inc., Newton Holdings LLC, North American Medical Management - Illinois, North American Medical Management California, North American Medical Management California Inc., North Puget Sound Center for Sleep Disorders LLC, North Puget Sound Oncology Equipment Leasing Company LLC, Northern Nevada Health Network, Northern Nevada Health Network Inc., Northern Rockies Surgicenter Inc., Northwest Surgicare LLC, Northwest Surgicare Ltd., Nutritional/Parenteral Home Care, Nutritional/Parenteral Home Care of Huntsville, OC Cardiology Practice Partners LLC, OSB  Tecnologia e Servicos de Suporte Ltda., Omesa S.A., OmniClaim LLC, Oncocare S.A.C., OneNet PPO, OneNet PPO LLC, Optimum Choice, Optimum Choice Inc., Optum, Optum Bank, Optum Bank Inc., Optum Biometrics, Optum Biometrics Inc., Optum Care Inc., Optum Care Services Company, Optum Clinical Services, Optum Clinics Holdings, Optum Clinics Holdings Inc., Optum Clinics Intermediate Holdings, Optum Clinics Intermediate Holdings Inc., Optum Digital Health Holdings LLC, Optum Finance (Ireland) Unlimited Company, Optum Global Finance (Ireland) Unlimited Company, Optum Global Solutions (India) Private Limited, Optum Global Solutions (Philippines), Optum Global Solutions (Philippines) Inc., Optum Global Solutions International B.V., Optum Government Solutions, Optum Government Solutions Inc., Optum Growth Partners LLC, Optum Health & Technology (Australia) Pty Ltd, Optum Health & Technology (Hong Kong) Limited, Optum Health & Technology (India) Private Limited, Optum Health & Technology (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Optum Health & Technology (UK) Limited, Optum Health & Technology (US), Optum Health & Technology (US) LLC, Optum Health & Technology FZ-LLC, Optum Health & Technology Holdings (US), Optum Health & Technology Holdings (US) Inc., Optum Health & Technology Servicos do Brasil Ltda., Optum Health Services (Canada) Ltd., Optum Health Solutions (Australia) Pty Ltd, Optum Health Solutions (UK) Limited, Optum Health and Technology FZ-LLC, Optum Healthcare of Illinois, Optum Healthcare of Illinois Inc., Optum Hospice Pharmacy Services, Optum Hospice Pharmacy Services LLC, Optum Inc., Optum Infusion Services 100 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 101 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 103 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 201 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 202 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 203 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 205 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 206 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 207 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 208 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 301 LP, Optum Infusion Services 302 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 308 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 401 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 403 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 404 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 501 Inc., Optum Insurance of Ohio, Optum Insurance of Ohio Inc., Optum Labs, Optum Labs Dimensions, Optum Labs Dimensions Inc., Optum Labs Inc., Optum Labs International (UK) Ltd., Optum Life Sciences (Canada) Inc., Optum Management Consulting (Shanghai) Co., Optum Management Consulting (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Optum Networks of New Jersey Inc., Optum Nevada Accountable Care Organization LLC, Optum Operations (Ireland) Unlimited Company, Optum Palliative and Hospice Care, Optum Palliative and Hospice Care Inc., Optum Palliative and Hospice Care of Pennsylvania, Optum Palliative and Hospice Care of Pennsylvania Inc., Optum Palliative and Hospice Care of Texas, Optum Palliative and Hospice Care of Texas Inc., Optum Perks LLC, Optum Pharmacy 701 LLC, Optum Pharmacy 702 LLC, Optum Pharmacy 703 LLC, Optum Pharmacy 705 LLC, Optum Public Sector Solutions, Optum Public Sector Solutions Inc., Optum Rocket, Optum Rocket Inc., Optum Senior Services LLC, Optum Services, Optum Services (Ireland) Limited, Optum Services (Puerto Rico) LLC, Optum Services Inc., Optum Solutions UK Holdings Limited, Optum Solutions do Brasil  Tecnologia e Servicos de Suporte Ltda., Optum Technology, Optum Technology LLC, Optum UK Solutions Group Limited, Optum Women's and Children's Health, Optum Women's and Children's Health LLC, Optum of New York Inc., Optum360, Optum360 LLC, Optum360 Services, Optum360 Services Inc., Optum360 Solutions LLC, OptumCare ACO Florida LLC, OptumCare ACO Holdings LLC, OptumCare ACO New Mexico LLC, OptumCare Clinical Trials LLC, OptumCare Colorado ASC LLC, OptumCare Colorado LLC, OptumCare Colorado Springs LLC, OptumCare Endoscopy Center New Mexico LLC, OptumCare Florida CI LLC, OptumCare Florida LLC, OptumCare Health Plan of California Inc., OptumCare Holdings Colorado LLC, OptumCare Holdings LLC, OptumCare Holdings New Mexico LLC, OptumCare Management LLC, OptumCare New Mexico LLC, OptumCare New York IPA Inc., OptumCare South Florida LLC, OptumHealth Care Solutions, OptumHealth Care Solutions LLC, OptumHealth Financial Services, OptumHealth Financial Services Inc., OptumHealth Holdings, OptumHealth Holdings LLC, OptumHealth International B.V., OptumInsight, OptumInsight Holdings, OptumInsight Holdings LLC, OptumInsight Inc., OptumInsight India Private Limited, OptumInsight Life Sciences, OptumInsight Life Sciences Inc., OptumRx, OptumRx Administrative Services, OptumRx Administrative Services LLC, OptumRx Discount Card Services, OptumRx Discount Card Services LLC, OptumRx Group Holdings, OptumRx Group Holdings Inc., OptumRx Health Solutions LLC, OptumRx Holdings, OptumRx Holdings I LLC, OptumRx Holdings LLC, OptumRx Home Delivery of Illinois, OptumRx Home Delivery of Ohio, OptumRx Home Delivery of Ohio LLC, OptumRx IPA III Inc., OptumRx Inc., OptumRx NY IPA, OptumRx NY IPA Inc., OptumRx PBM of Illinois, OptumRx PBM of Illinois Inc., OptumRx PBM of Maryland, OptumRx PBM of Maryland LLC, OptumRx PBM of Pennsylvania, OptumRx PBM of Pennsylvania LLC, OptumRx PBM of Puerto Rico LLC, OptumRx PBM of Wisconsin, OptumRx PBM of Wisconsin LLC, OptumRx PD of Maryland, OptumRx PD of Pennsylvania LLC, OptumRx Pharmacy, OptumRx Pharmacy Inc., OptumRx Pharmacy of Nevada, OptumRx Pharmacy of Nevada Inc., OptumRx of Pennsylvania LLC, OptumServe Technology Services Inc., Orlando Center for Outpatient Surgery L.P., OrthoNet Holdings, OrthoNet Holdings Inc., OrthoNet LLC, OrthoNet New York IPA, OrthoNet New York IPA Inc., OrthoNet Services, OrthoNet Services Inc., OrthoNet West, OrthoNet West Inc., OrthoNet of the Mid-Atlantic, OrthoNet of the South, OrthoNet of the South Inc., Ovations, Ovations Inc., Oxford Benefit Management, Oxford Benefit Management Inc., Oxford Health Insurance, Oxford Health Insurance Inc., Oxford Health Plans (CT), Oxford Health Plans (CT) Inc., Oxford Health Plans (NJ), Oxford Health Plans (NJ) Inc., Oxford Health Plans (NY), Oxford Health Plans (NY) Inc., Oxford Health Plans LLC, P2 Lower Acquisition, P2P Link LLC, PCCCV, PCCCV Inc., PCN DE Corp., PHC Subsidiary Holdings, PHC Subsidiary Holdings LLC, PHYS Holding Corp., PHYSICIANS DAY SURGERY CENTER LLC, PMI Acquisition, PMI Acquisition LLC, PMSI, PMSI Holdco II, PMSI Holdings, PMSI Holdings LLC, PMSI LLC, PMSI Settlement Solutions, PMSI Settlement Solutions LLC, POMCO Inc., POMCO Network Inc., PPH Holdings LLC, PacifiCare Health Systems, PacifiCare Life Assurance Company, PacifiCare Life and Health Insurance Company, PacifiCare of Arizona, PacifiCare of Arizona Inc., PacifiCare of Colorado, PacifiCare of Colorado Inc., PacifiCare of Nevada, PacifiCare of Nevada Inc., Pacific Casualty Company Inc., Pacifico S.A. Entidad Prestadora de Salud, Paoli Ambulatory Surgery Center, Paoli Surgery Center L.P., Parkway Surgery Center LLC, Pasteur Plaza Surgery Center GP Inc., PatientsLikeMe, PatientsLikeMe LLC, Patrimonio Autonomo Nueva Clinica - PANC., Payment Resolution Services, Payment Resolution Services LLC, Peoples Health, Peoples Health Inc., Pharmaceutical Care Network, Pharmacy Review Services, Pharmacy Software Holdco Inc., PhyServe Holdings, Physician Alliance of the Rockies LLC, Physician Care Partners, Physicians Health Choice of Texas, Physicians Health Choice of Texas LLC, Physicians Health Plan of Maryland, Physicians Health Plan of Maryland Inc., Physicians Plaza Holdings LLC, Plano de Saude Ana Costa Ltda., Plus One Health Management Puerto Rico, Plus One Health Management Puerto Rico Inc., Plus One Holdings, Plus One Holdings Inc., Polar II Fundo de Investimento em Participacoes, Polar II Fundo de Investimento em Participacoes Multiestrategia, Polo Holdco, Polo Holdco LLC, Pomerado Outpatient Surgical Center Inc., Pomerado Outpatient Surgical Center L.P., Precision Dialing Services Inc., Preferred Care Partners, Preferred Care Partners Holding, Preferred Care Partners Holding Corp., Preferred Care Partners Inc., Preferred Care Partners Medical Group, Preferred Care Partners Medical Group Inc., Premier Choice ACO, Premier Choice ACO Inc., Premier Surgery Center of Louisville L.P., Prime Health, Prime Health Inc., PrimeCare Medical Network, PrimeCare Medical Network Inc., PrimeCare of Citrus Valley, PrimeCare of Citrus Valley Inc., PrimeCare of Corona, PrimeCare of Corona Inc., PrimeCare of Hemet Valley, PrimeCare of Hemet Valley Inc., PrimeCare of Inland Valley, PrimeCare of Inland Valley Inc., PrimeCare of Moreno Valley, PrimeCare of Moreno Valley Inc., PrimeCare of Redlands, PrimeCare of Redlands Inc., PrimeCare of Riverside, PrimeCare of Riverside Inc., PrimeCare of San Bernardino, PrimeCare of San Bernardino Inc., PrimeCare of Sun City, PrimeCare of Sun City Inc., PrimeCare of Temecula, PrimeCare of Temecula Inc., ProHEALTH Fitness of Lake Success, ProHEALTH Fitness of Lake Success LLC, ProHEALTH Medical Management LLC, ProHealth Medical Management, ProHealth Physicians, ProHealth Physicians ACO, ProHealth Physicians ACO LLC, ProHealth Physicians Inc., ProHealth Proton Center Management, ProHealth Proton Center Management LLC, Procura Management, Procura Management Inc., Progressive Enterprises Holdings, Progressive Enterprises Holdings Inc., Progressive Medical, Progressive Medical LLC, Progressive Solutions, Promotora Country S.A., Pronetics Health Care Group, Pronounced Health Solutions Inc., Prosemedic S.A.C., Prospero Management Services LLC, Pueblo-SCA Surgery Center LLC, Pulse Platform LLC, QoL Acquisition Holdings Corp., Quality Software Services, QuarterMaster Newco LLC, R&H Family Fitness Unlimited LLC, Rally Health, Rally Health Inc., Real Appeal Inc., Recaudacion y Cobranzas Honodav Ltda., Redlands Ambulatory Surgery Center, Redlands-SCA Surgery Centers Inc., Reliant MSO LLC, Research Surgical Center LLC, River Valley ASC LLC, Riverside Electronic Healthcare Resources Inc., Riverside Medical Management, Riverside Medical Management LLC, Riverside Surgical Center of Meadowlands LLC, Riverside Surgical Center of Newark LLC, Rocky Mountain Health Maintenance Organization Incorporated, Rocky Mountain HealthCare Options Inc., SC Affiliates LLC, SCA Alaska Surgery Center inc., SCA Athens LLC, SCA Austin Holdings LLC, SCA BOSC Holdings LLC, SCA California Surgical Holdings LLC, SCA Capital LLC, SCA Cedar Park Holdings LLC, SCA Clifton LLC, SCA Danbury Surgical Center LLC, SCA Development LLC, SCA EHSC Holdings LLC, SCA EWASC Holdings LLC, SCA Hays Holdings LLC, SCA Heartland Holdings LLC, SCA HoldCo Inc., SCA Holding Company Inc., SCA Holdings Inc., SCA IEC Holdings LLC, SCA Indiana Holdings LLC, SCA Nashville ASC LLC, SCA Pacific Holdings Inc., SCA Pennsylvania Holdings LLC, SCA Premier Surgery Center of Louisville LLC, SCA ROCS Holdings LLC, SCA Rockledge JV LLC, SCA SSC Holdings LLC, SCA SSSC Holdings LLC, SCA Sage Medical LLC, SCA Sage Medical MSO LLC, SCA Southwestern PA LLC, SCA Specialists of Florida LLC, SCA Stonegate Holdings LLC, SCA Surgery Center of Cullman LLC, SCA Surgery Holdings LLC, SCA Surgery Partners LLC, SCA Surgicare of Laguna Hills LLC, SCA Teammate Support Network, SCA eCode Solutions Private Limited, SCA of Clarksville Inc., SCA-Albuquerque Surgery Properties Inc., SCA-Alliance LLC, SCA-Anne Arundel LLC, SCA-Applecare Partners LLC, SCA-Bethesda LLC, SCA-Blue Ridge LLC, SCA-Bonita Springs LLC, SCA-Brandon LLC, SCA-Castle Rock LLC, SCA-Central Florida LLC, SCA-Charleston LLC, SCA-Chatham LLC, SCA-Chevy Chase LLC, SCA-Citrus Inc., SCA-Colorado Springs LLC, SCA-Connecticut Partners LLC, SCA-DRY CREEK LLC, SCA-Davenport LLC, SCA-Denver LLC, SCA-Denver Physicians Holdings LLC, SCA-Derry LLC, SCA-Doral LLC, SCA-Downey LLC, SCA-Dublin LLC, SCA-Encinitas Inc., SCA-Eugene Inc., SCA-First Coast LLC, SCA-Florence LLC, SCA-Fort Collins Inc., SCA-Fort Walton Inc., SCA-Franklin LLC, SCA-Frederick LLC, SCA-Freeway Holdings LLC, SCA-Ft. Myers LLC, SCA-GRANTS PASS LLC, SCA-Gainesville LLC, SCA-Gladiolus LLC, SCA-Grove Place LLC, SCA-Hagerstown LLC, SCA-Hamden LLC, SCA-Hilton Head LLC, SCA-Honolulu LLC, SCA-Houston Executive LLC, SCA-IT Holdings LLC, SCA-Illinois LLC, SCA-JPM Holdings LLC, SCA-Kissing Camels Holdings LLC, SCA-MC VBP Inc., SCA-Main Street LLC, SCA-Marina del Rey LLC, SCA-Mecklenburg Development Corp., SCA-Memorial City LLC, SCA-Merritt LLC, SCA-Midlands LLC, SCA-Midway Management LLC, SCA-Mobile LLC, SCA-Mokena LLC, SCA-Mokena Properties LLC, SCA-Morris County LLC, SCA-Mt. Pleasant LLC, SCA-ND VBP Inc., SCA-Naperville LLC, SCA-Naples LLC, SCA-New Jersey LLC, SCA-Newport Beach LLC, SCA-Northeast Georgia Health LLC, SCA-PORTLAND LLC, SCA-Palm Beach LLC, SCA-Palm Beach MSO Holdings LLC, SCA-Paoli LLC, SCA-Phoenix LLC, SCA-Pocono LLC, SCA-Practice Partners Holdings LLC, SCA-River Valley LLC, SCA-Riverside LLC, SCA-Riverside Partners LLC, SCA-Rockville LLC, SCA-Sacred Heart Holdings LLC, SCA-San Diego Inc., SCA-San Luis Obispo LLC, SCA-Sand Lake LLC, SCA-Santa Rosa Inc., SCA-Shelby Development Corp., SCA-Somerset LLC, SCA-South Jersey LLC, SCA-Sparta LLC, SCA-Spartanburg Holdings LLC, SCA-St. Louis LLC, SCA-St. Lucie LLC, SCA-SurgiCare LLC, SCA-Swiftpath LLC, SCA-VERTA LLC, SCA-Wake Forest LLC, SCA-Western Connecticut LLC, SCA-Westover Hills LLC, SCA-Wilmington LLC, SCA-Wilson LLC, SCA-Winchester LLC, SCA-Winter Park Inc., SCA-Woodlands Holdings LLC, SCAI Holdings LLC, SCP Specialty Infusion, SCP Specialty Infusion LLC, SHC Atlanta LLC, SHC Austin Inc., SHC Hawthorn Inc., SHC Melbourne Inc., SPINETRACK 20/20 Inc., SRPS LLC, SXC Comet, Sacred Heart ASC LLC, Saden S.A., Salem Surgery Center LLC, Salveo Specialty Pharmacy, Salveo Specialty Pharmacy Inc., Sand Lake SurgiCenter LLC, Santa Cruz Endoscopy Center LLC, Santa Helena Assistencia Medica S.A., Santos Administracao e Participacoes S.A., Savvysherpa Administrative Services LLC, Savvysherpa Asia Inc., Savvysherpa LLC, Scanner Centromed S.A., ScripNet, ScriptSwitch Limited, Seisa Servicos Integrados de Saude Ltda., Senate Street Surgery Center LLC, Senior Benefits L.L.C., Senior Care Partners, Serquinox Holdings LLC, Serquinox LLC, Servicios Integrados de Salud Ltda., Servicios Medicos Amed Quilpue S.A., Servicios Medicos Bio Bio Limitada, Servicios Medicos Ciudad del Mar Ltda., Servicios Medicos Santa Maria Limitada, Servicios Medicos Vespucio Ltda., Servicios de Entrenamiento en Competencias Clinicas Ltda., SharedClarity LLC, Shelby Surgery Properties Inc., Sierra Health Services, Sierra Health Services Inc, Sierra Health Services Inc., Sierra Health and Life Insurance Company, Sierra Health and Life Insurance Company Inc., Sierra Health-Care Options, Sierra Health-Care Options Inc., Sierra Home Medical Products, Sierra Home Medical Products Inc., Sierra Nevada Administrators, Sierra Nevada Administrators Inc., Sirona Infusion, Sistema de Administracion Hospitalaria S.A.C., Small Business Insurance Advisors Inc., Sobam  Centro Medico Hospitalar S.A., Sociedad Editorial para la Ciencia Limitada., Sociedad de Inversiones Santa Maria S.A., Somerset Outpatient Surgery L.L.C., Southwest Medical Associates, Southwest Medical Associates Inc., Southwest Michigan Health Network Inc., Southwest Surgery Center LLC, Southwest Surgical Center of Bakersfield L.P., Space Coast Surgical Center Ltd., Specialists in Urology Surgery Center LLC, Specialized Pharmaceuticals Inc., Specialty Benefits, Specialty Benefits LLC, Spectera, Spectera Inc., Spectera of New York IPA, Spectera of New York IPA Inc., Spotlite, Spotlite Inc., St. Cloud Surgical Center LLC, StoneRiver P2P Link, StoneRiver Pharmacy Solutions, Stonegate Surgery Center L.P., Streamlines Health LLC, Summit Home Infusion, SunSurgery LLC, Surgery Center Holding LLC, Surgery Center at Cherry Creek LLC, Surgery Center at Kissing Camels LLC, Surgery Center of Boca Raton Inc., Surgery Center of Clarksville L.P., Surgery Center of Colorado Springs LLC, Surgery Center of Des Moines LLC, Surgery Center of Easton LLC, Surgery Center of Ellicott City Inc., Surgery Center of Louisville LLC, Surgery Center of Maui LLC, Surgery Center of Muskogee LLC, Surgery Center of Rockville L.L.C., Surgery Center of Southern Pines LLC, Surgery Center of Spokane LLC, Surgery Center of Summerlin LLC, Surgery Center of The Woodlands LLC, Surgery Center of Vero Beach Inc., Surgery Center of Wilmington LLC, Surgery Center of Wilmington Properties LLC, Surgery Centers of Des Moines Ltd. an Iowa Limited Partnership, Surgery Centers-West Holdings LLC, Surgical Care Affiliates, Surgical Care Affiliates LLC, Surgical Care Affiliates Political Action Committee, Surgical Care Partners of Melbourne LLC, Surgical Center of South Jersey Limited Partnership, Surgical Center of Tuscaloosa Holdings LLC, Surgical Health LLC, Surgical Health of Orlando LLC, Surgical Hospital Holdings of Oklahoma LLC, Surgicare LLC, Surgicare of Belleville LLC, Surgicare of Jackson LLC, Surgicare of Joliet Inc., Surgicare of La Veta Inc., Surgicare of Minneapolis LLC, Surgicare of Mobile LLC, Surgicare of Oceanside Inc., Surgicare of Owensboro LLC, Surgicare of Salem LLC, Surgicenters of Southern California Inc., Symphonix Health Holdings, Symphonix Health Holdings LLC, Symphonix Health Insurance, Symphonix Health Insurance Inc., THE SURGICAL CENTER OF THE TREASURE COAST L.L.C., TeamMD Holdings Inc., TeamMD Iowa Inc., TeamMD Physicians of Texas Inc., TeamUP Insurance Services Inc., Tecnologias de Informacion en Salud S.A., The Advisory Board (Chile) SpA, The Chesapeake Life Insurance Company, The Lewin Group, The Lewin Group Inc., The Magan Medical Group, The Outpatient Surgery Center of Hilton Head LLC, The Polyclinic MSO LLC, Thomas Johnson Surgery Center LLC, Thousand Oaks Endoscopy Center LLC, Three Rivers Holdings, Three Rivers Holdings Inc., Three Rivers Surgical Care L.P., Tmesys, Tmesys LLC, Topimagem Diagnostico por Imagem Ltda., Touchpoint Health Plan, Trails Edge Surgery Center LLC, Travel Express Incorporated, TriMed LLC, Trinity Infusion, Trio Motion LLC, Tucson Arizona Surgical Center LLC, U.S. Behavioral Health Plan, U.S. Behavioral Health Plan California, UHC Finance (Ireland) Unlimited Company, UHC Global Health Services BC Ltd., UHC International Services, UHC International Services Inc., UHC of California, UHCG Holdings (Ireland) Limited, UHCG Services (Ireland) Limited, UHCG  FZE, UHG Brasil Participacoes S.A., UHIC Holdings, UHIC Holdings Inc., UICI Funding Corp. 2, UMR, UMR Inc., USHEALTH Academy Inc., USHEALTH Administrators LLC, USHEALTH Advisors L.L.C., USHEALTH Career Agency Inc., USHEALTH Funding Inc., USHEALTH Group Inc., USMD Administrative Services, USMD Administrative Services L.L.C., USMD Affiliated Services, USMD CT (Mo), USMD Cancer Treatment Centers, USMD Cancer Treatment Centers GP, USMD Diagnostic Services, USMD Holdings, USMD Holdings Inc., USMD Inc., USMD PPM, USMD PPM LLC, USMD of Arlington GP, Ultima Rx, Unidad Medica Diagnostico S.A., Unimerica Insurance Company, Unimerica Life Insurance Company of New York, Unison Administrative Services, Unison Health Plan of Delaware, Unison Health Plan of Delaware Inc., United Behavioral Health, United Behavioral Health of New York I.P.A., United Behavioral Health of New York I.P.A. Inc., United Group Reinsurance Inc., United Health Foundation, United HealthCare, United HealthCare Services Inc., United Management Services Inc., United Resource Networks IPA of New York, United Resource Networks IPA of New York Inc., UnitedHealth Advisors, UnitedHealth Advisors LLC, UnitedHealth Group Finance Inc., UnitedHealth Group Global Healthcare Services Limited, UnitedHealth Group Global Services, UnitedHealth Group Incorporated, UnitedHealth Group Information Services Private Limited, UnitedHealth Group International Finance (Ireland) Unlimited Company, UnitedHealth Group International GP, UnitedHealth Group International L.P., UnitedHealth International, UnitedHealth International Inc., UnitedHealth Military & Veterans Services, UnitedHealth Military & Veterans Services LLC, UnitedHealth UK Limited, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Benefits Plan of California, UnitedHealthcare Benefits of Texas, UnitedHealthcare Benefits of Texas Inc., UnitedHealthcare Children's Foundation Inc., UnitedHealthcare Community Plan, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan Inc., UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of California, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of California Inc., UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Georgia, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Georgia Inc., UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Ohio, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Ohio Inc., UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Texas, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Texas L.L.C., UnitedHealthcare Consulting & Assistance Service (Beijing) Co., UnitedHealthcare Consulting & Assistance Service (Beijing) Co. Ltd., UnitedHealthcare Europe S.a r.l., UnitedHealthcare Europe S.a.r.l., UnitedHealthcare Global Canada Limited, UnitedHealthcare Global Medical (UK) Limited, UnitedHealthcare Inc., UnitedHealthcare India Private Limited, UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company, UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company of Illinois, UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company of New York, UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company of the River Valley, UnitedHealthcare Insurance Designated Activity Company, UnitedHealthcare Integrated Services, UnitedHealthcare Integrated Services Inc., UnitedHealthcare International Asia, UnitedHealthcare International Asia LLC, UnitedHealthcare International I B.V., UnitedHealthcare International I S.a.r.l., UnitedHealthcare International II B.V., UnitedHealthcare International II S.a r.l., UnitedHealthcare International II S.a.r.l., UnitedHealthcare International III B.V., UnitedHealthcare International III S.a r.l., UnitedHealthcare International III S.a.r.l., UnitedHealthcare International IV S.a r.l., UnitedHealthcare International IV S.a.r.l., UnitedHealthcare International V S.a.r.l., UnitedHealthcare International VI S.a r.l., UnitedHealthcare International VII S.a r.l., UnitedHealthcare International VIII S.a r.l., UnitedHealthcare International X S.a r.l., UnitedHealthcare Life Insurance Company, UnitedHealthcare Plan of the River Valley, UnitedHealthcare Plan of the River Valley Inc., UnitedHealthcare Service LLC, UnitedHealthcare Services Company of the River Valley, UnitedHealthcare Specialty Benefits, UnitedHealthcare Specialty Benefits LLC, UnitedHealthcare of Alabama, UnitedHealthcare of Alabama Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Arizona, UnitedHealthcare of Arizona Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Arkansas, UnitedHealthcare of Arkansas Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Colorado, UnitedHealthcare of Colorado Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Florida, UnitedHealthcare of Florida Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Georgia, UnitedHealthcare of Georgia Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Illinois, UnitedHealthcare of Illinois Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Kentucky, UnitedHealthcare of Kentucky Ltd., UnitedHealthcare of Louisiana, UnitedHealthcare of Louisiana Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Mississippi, UnitedHealthcare of Mississippi Inc., UnitedHealthcare of New England, UnitedHealthcare of New England Inc., UnitedHealthcare of New Mexico, UnitedHealthcare of New Mexico Inc., UnitedHealthcare of New York, UnitedHealthcare of New York Inc., UnitedHealthcare of North Carolina, UnitedHealthcare of North Carolina Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Ohio, UnitedHealthcare of Ohio Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Oklahoma, UnitedHealthcare of Oklahoma Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Oregon, UnitedHealthcare of Oregon Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Pennsylvania, UnitedHealthcare of Pennsylvania Inc., UnitedHealthcare of South Carolina Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Texas, UnitedHealthcare of Texas Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Utah, UnitedHealthcare of Utah Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Washington, UnitedHealthcare of Washington Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Wisconsin, UnitedHealthcare of Wisconsin Inc., UnitedHealthcare of the Mid-Atlantic, UnitedHealthcare of the Mid-Atlantic Inc., UnitedHealthcare of the Midlands, UnitedHealthcare of the Midlands Inc., UnitedHealthcare of the Midwest, UnitedHealthcare of the Midwest Inc., UpFront Insurance Agency LLC, Upland Holdings LLC, Upland Outpatient Surgical Center L.P., Urgent Care Holdings, Urgent Care Holdings Inc., Urgent Care MSO, Urgent Care MSO LLC, Urology Associates of North Texas, Urology Associates of North Texas P.L.L.C., VERTA MANAGEMENT SERVICES LLC, Valley Hospital L.L.C., Valley Physicians Network, Valley Physicians Network Inc., Vida Tres Internacional S.A., Vidaintegra S.A., Vivify Health Canada Inc., Vivify Health Inc., WESTMED Practice Partners LLC, Wauwatosa Outpatient Surgery Center LLC, Wauwatosa Surgery Center Limited Partnership, Wayland Square Surgicare Acquisition L.P., Wayland Square Surgicare GP Inc., WebInsure Benefits LLC, WellMed Medical Management, WellMed Medical Management Inc., WellMed Medical Management of Florida, WellMed Medical Management of Florida Inc., WellMed Networks  DFW, West Coast Endoscopy Holdings LLC, Western Connecticut Orthopedic Surgical Center LLC, WillowB Labs LLC, Wilmington ASC LLC, Winchester Endoscopy LLC, Winter Park LLC, XLHealth Corporation, XLHealth Corporation India Private Limited, Your Health Options Insurance Services, Your Health Options Insurance Services Inc., Your Partner in Health Services, divvyDOSE, eCode Solutions LLC, gethealthinsurance.com Agency Inc., hCentive Inc., inPharmative, inPharmative Inc., and ppoONE.The following companies are subsidiares of Illinois Tool Works: A V Co 1 Limited, A V Co 2 Limited, A V Co 3 Limited, ACCU-LUBE Manufacturing GmbH - Schmiermittel und -gerate -, AIP/BI Holdings Inc., Accessories Marketing Holding Corp., Advanced Molding Company Inc., Allen Coding GmbH, Allen France SAS, Alpine Automation Limited, Alpine Engineered Products, Alpine Holdings Inc., Alpine Systems Corporation, Anaerobicos S.r.l., AppliChem GmbH, Arylux Hungary Elektromechanikus Alkatreszgyarto Kft, Avery Berkel France, Avery India Limited, Avery Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Avery Weigh Tronix, Avery Weigh-Tronix (Suzhou) Weighing Technology Co. Ltd., Avery Weigh-Tronix Finance Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix Holdings Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix International Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix LLC, Avery Weigh-Tronix Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix Properties Limited, Azon Limited, B.C. Immo, Beijing Miller Electric Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Berkel (Ireland) Limited, Berrington UK, Brapenta Eletronica Ltda., Brooks Instrument (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, Brooks Instrument B.V., Brooks Instrument GmbH, Brooks Instrument KFT, Brooks Instrument Korea Ltd., Brooks Instrument LLC, Buell Industries Inc., CAPMAX Logistica S.A. de C.V., CCI Realty Company, CFC Europe GmbH, CS (Australia) Pty Limited, CS (Finance) Europe S.a.r.l., CS Mexico Holding Company S DE RL DE CV, CSMTS LLC, Calvia Spolka z Ograniczona Odpowiedzialnosci, Capital Ventures (Australasia) S.a r.l, Capmax Logistica S.A. de C.V., Celeste Industries Corporation, Coeur, Coeur (Shanghai) Medical Appliance Trading Co. Ltd, Coeur Asia Limited, Coeur Holding Company, Coeur Inc., Compagnie Hobart, Compagnie de Materiel et d'Equipements Techniques-Comet, Constructions Isothermiques Bontami C.I.B., Crane Carrier Company, Despatch Industries, Diagraph Corporation Sdn. Bhd, Diagraph ITW Mexico S. de R.L. De C.V., Diagraph Mexico S.A. DE C.V., Dongguan Ark-Les Electric Components Co. Ltd., Dongguan CK Branding Co. Ltd., Dorbyl U.K. (Holdings) Limited, Duo Fast de Espana S.A.U., Duo-Fast Korea Co. Ltd., Duo-Fast LLC, E.C.S. d.o.o., ECS Cable Protection Sp. Zoo, ELRO (Holding) AG, ELRO Grosskuchen GmbH, ELRO-WERKE AG, Elga Skandinavian AS, Elro Group, Eltex-Elektrostatik-Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Envases Multipac S.A. de C.V., Eurotec Srl, FEG Investments L.L.C., Fasver, Filtertek, Filtertek De Mexico Holding Inc., Filtertek De Mexico S.A. de C.V., GC Financement SA, Gamko B.V., Gun Hwa Platech (Taicang) Co. Ltd., HOBART Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Hartness International, Hobart (Japan) K.K., Hobart Andina S.A.S., Hobart Brothers International Chile Limitada, Hobart Brothers LLC, Hobart Dayton Mexicana S. de R.L. de C.V., Hobart Food Equipment Co. Ltd., Hobart Foster Belgium, Hobart International (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Hobart Korea LLC, Hobart LLC, Hobart Nederland B.V., Hobart Sales & Service Inc., Hobart Scandinavia ApS, Hobart Techniek B.V., Horis, ILC Investments Holdings Inc., ITW (China) Investment Company Limited, ITW (Deutschland) GmbH, ITW (EU) Holdings Ltd., ITW (European) Finance Co. Ltd., ITW (European) Finance II Co. Ltd., ITW (European) Finance III Co. Ltd., ITW (Ningbo) Components & Fastenings Systems Co. Ltd., ITW AEP LLC, ITW AOC LLC, ITW Aircraft Investments Inc., ITW Alpha Sarl, ITW Ampang Industries Philippines Inc., ITW Appliance Components EOOD, ITW Appliance Components S.A. de C.V., ITW Appliance Components S.r.l.a, ITW Appliance Components d.o.o., ITW Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, ITW Australia Property Holdings Pty Ltd., ITW Australia Pty Ltd, ITW Automotive Components (Chongqing) Co. Ltd., ITW Automotive Components (Langfang) Co. Ltd., ITW Automotive Japan K.K., ITW Automotive Korea LLC, ITW Automotive Parts (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, ITW Automotive Products GmbH, ITW Automotive Products Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Bailly Comte, ITW Befestigungssysteme GmbH, ITW Belgium, ITW Brazilian Nominee L.L.C., ITW Building Components Group Inc., ITW CER, ITW CP Distribution Center Holland BV, ITW CS (UK) Ltd., ITW Canada Inc., ITW Celeste Inc., ITW Chemical Products Ltda, ITW Chemical Products Scandinavia ApS, ITW Colombia S.A.S., ITW Construction Products (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., ITW Construction Products (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., ITW Construction Products AB, ITW Construction Products AS, ITW Construction Products ApS, ITW Construction Products CZ s.r.o., ITW Construction Products Italy Srl, ITW Construction Products OU, ITW Construction Products OY, ITW Contamination Control (Wujiang) Co. Ltd., ITW Contamination Control B.V., ITW Covid Security Group Inc., ITW DS Investments Inc., ITW DelFast do Brasil Ltda., ITW Delta Sarl, ITW Denmark ApS, ITW Dynatec, ITW Dynatec Adhesive Equipment (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., ITW Dynatec GmbH, ITW Dynatec Kabushiki Kaisha, ITW EAE B.V., ITW EAE Mexico S de RL de CV, ITW EF&C France SAS, ITW EF&C Selb GmbH, ITW Electronic Business Asia Co. Limited, ITW Electronic Components/Products (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., ITW Electronics (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., ITW Epsilon Sarl, ITW Espana S.A., ITW FEG Hong Kong Limited, ITW FEG do Brasil Industria e Comercio Ltda., ITW Fastener Products GmbH, ITW Finance Designated Activity Company, ITW Finance Europe S.A., ITW Fluids and Hygiene Solutions Ltda., ITW Food Equipment Group LLC, ITW France Finance Alpha S.A.S., ITW GH LLC, ITW GSE ApS, ITW GSE Inc., ITW Gamma Sarl, ITW German Management LLC, ITW Global Investments Holdings LLC, ITW Global Investments Holdings Y Compania Sociedad en Comandita por Acciones, ITW Global Investments II Inc., ITW Global Investments Inc., ITW Global Tire Repair Europe GmbH, ITW Global Tire Repair Inc., ITW Global Tire Repair Japan K.K., ITW Graphics (Thailand) Ltd., ITW Graphics Asia Limited, ITW Graphics Italy S.R.L. in liquidazione, ITW Great Britain Investment & Licensing Holding Company, ITW Group France (Luxembourg) S.ar.l., ITW HLP Thailand Co. Ltd., ITW Holding Quimica B.C. S.L. Sole Shareholder Company, ITW Holdings Australia L.P., ITW Holdings I Limited, ITW Holdings II Limited, ITW Holdings III Limited, ITW Holdings IV Limited, ITW Holdings IX Limited, ITW Holdings Inc., ITW Holdings UK, ITW Holdings V Limited, ITW Holdings VI Limited, ITW Holdings VII Limited, ITW Holdings VIII Limited, ITW Holdings X Limited, ITW Holdings XI Limited, ITW Hungary Finance Beta Kft, ITW ILC Holdings I Inc., ITW IPG Investments LLC, ITW Imaden Industria e Comercio Ltda., ITW India Private Limited, ITW International Holdings LLC, ITW Invest Holding GmbH, ITW Ireland Holdings Unlimited Company, ITW Ireland Unlimited Company, ITW Italy Finance Srl, ITW Italy Holding Srl, ITW Japan Ltd., ITW Korea LLC, ITW LLC & Co. KG, ITW Limited, ITW Lombard Holdings Inc., ITW Lys Fusion S.r.l., ITW M FILMS II LLC, ITW MH LLC, ITW Meritex Sdn. Bhd., ITW Metal Fasteners S.L., ITW Mexico Holding Company S. De R.L. de C.V., ITW Mexico Holdings LLC, ITW Morlock GmbH, ITW Mortgage Investments II Inc., ITW Mortgage Investments III Inc., ITW Mortgage Investments IV Inc., ITW Netherlands Administration BV, ITW Netherlands Beta B.V., ITW Netherlands Finance Alpha BV, ITW New Universal LLC, ITW New Zealand, ITW Novadan Sp. Z.o.o., ITW PPF Brasil Adesivos Ltda., ITW Packaging Technology (China) Co. Ltd., ITW Participations S.a r.l., ITW Pension Funds Trustee Company, ITW Performance Plastic (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids Japan Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids Korea Limited, ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids OOO, ITW Performance Polymers (Wujiang) Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers ApS, ITW Performance Polymers and Fluids Group FZE, ITW Peru S.A.C., ITW Philippines Holdings LLC, ITW Poly Mex S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Polymers Sealants North America Inc., ITW Pronovia s.r.o., ITW Pte. Ltd., ITW Qufu Automotive Cooling Systems Co. Ltd., ITW Real Estate Germany GmbH, ITW Residuals III L.L.C., ITW Residuals IV L.L.C., ITW Rivex, ITW SMPI, ITW SPG Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Simco-Ion (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd., ITW Slovakia s.r.o., ITW Spain Holdings S.L., ITW Specialty Film LLC, ITW Specialty Films France, ITW Specialty Materials (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., ITW Spraytec, ITW Sverige AB, ITW Sweden Holding AB, ITW Test & Measurement Equipment (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, ITW Test & Measurement GmbH, ITW Test and Measurement Italia Srl, ITW Test and Measurement Services Industry and Trade Ltd., ITW Texwipe Philippines Inc., ITW Thermal Films (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., ITW UK, ITW UK Finance Beta Limited, ITW UK Finance Delta Limited, ITW UK Finance Gamma Limited, ITW UK Finance Limited, ITW UK Finance Zeta Ltd., ITW UK II Limited, ITW Universal II LLC, ITW Welding, ITW Welding AB, ITW Welding GmbH, ITW Welding Products B.V., ITW Welding Products Group FZE, ITW Welding Products Group S. DE R.L. De C.V., ITW Welding Products Italy Srl, ITW Welding Products Limited Liability Company, ITW Welding Produtos Para Solgdagem Ltda., ITW Welding Servicios Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Welding Singapore Pte. Ltd., ITW de France, ITW do Brasil Industrial e Comercial Ltda., Ideal Molding Technologies LLC, Illinois Tool Works (Chile) Limitada, Illinois Tool Works (ITW) Nederland B.V., Illinois Tool Works Norway AS, Impar Comercio E Representacoes Ltda., Industrie Plastic Elsasser GmbH, Inmobiliaria Cit. S.A. de C.F., Innova Temperlite Servicios S.A. de C.V., Innovacion y Transformacion Automotriz S.A. de C.V., Instron (Shanghai) Ltd., Instron (Thailand) Limited, Instron Brasil Equipamentos Cientificos Ltda., Instron Foreign Sales Corp. Limited, Instron France S.A.S., Instron GmbH, Instron Holdings Limited, Instron International Limited, Instron Japan Company Ltd., Instron Korea LLC, International Leasing Company LLC, International Truss Systems Proprietary Limited, Isolenge - ITW Sistemas de Isolamento Termico Ltda., KCPL Mauritius Holdings, Kester, Kester Components (M) Sdn. Bhd., Kleinmann GmbH, Krafft S.L., Loma Systems, Loma Systems (Canada) Inc., Loma Systems BV, Loma Systems sro, Lombard Pressings Limited, Lumex Inc., Lys Fusion Poland Sp. z.o.o., M&C Specialties (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd., M&C Specialties Co., MAGNAFLUX GmbH, MEHB Holdings Limited, MGHG Property LLC, MOA Enterprises Inc, Manufacturing Avancee S.A., Meritex Technology (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., Meurer Verpackungssysteme GmbH, Miller Electric Mfg. LLC, Miller Insurance Ltd., NDT Holding LLC, NOVADAN APS, Norden Olje AB, North Star Imaging Europe, North Star Imaging Inc., Nova Chimica S.r.l., Orbitalum Tools GmbH, PENTA-91 OOO, PR. A. I. Srl, PT ITW Construction Products Indonesia, Pacific Concept Industries Limited (Enping), Panreac Quimica S.L., Paslode Fasteners (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Peerless Machinery Corp., Penta Dnepr LLC, Penta Sever OOO, Penta Volga OOO, Polyrey, Premark FEG L.L.C., Premark HII Holdings LLC, Premark International, Premark International LLC, Prolex Sociedad Anonima, QSA Global Inc., Quimica Industrial Mediterranea S.L., Ramset Fasteners (Hong Kong) Ltd., Rapid Cook LLC, Refrigeration France, S.E.E. Sistemas Industria E Comercio Ltda., ST Mexico Holdings LLC, Sealant Systems International Inc., Sentinel Asia Yuhan Hoesa, Shanghai ITW Plastic & Metal Co. Ltd, Simco (Nederland) B.V., Simco Japan Inc., Societe de Prospection et dInventions Techniques  SPIT, Speedline Holdings I Inc., Speedline Holdings I LLC, Speedline Technologies GmbH, Speedline Technologies Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Speedline Technologies Mexico Services S. de R.L. de C.V., Stokvis Celix Portugal Unipessoal LDA, Stokvis Danmark ApS, Stokvis Holdings S.A.R.L., Stokvis Promi s.r.o, Stokvis Prostick Tapes Private Limited, Stokvis Tapes (Hong Kong) Co. Limited, Stokvis Tapes (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes (Taiwan) Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes BVBA, Stokvis Tapes Benelux B.V., Stokvis Tapes Deutschland GmbH, Stokvis Tapes France, Stokvis Tapes Italia s.r.l., Stokvis Tapes Limited, Stokvis Tapes Limited Liability Company, Stokvis Tapes Norge AS, Stokvis Tapes Oy, Stokvis Tapes Polska Sp Z.O.O., Stokvis Tapes Sverige AB, Stolvis Holdings II S.A.R.L., Technopack Industria Comercio Consultoria e Representacoes Ltda., Teknek (China) Limited, Teknek (Japan) Limited, Teksaleco Ltd., The Miller Group Ltd, Thirode Grandes Cuisines Poligny, Tien Tai Electrode (Kunshan) Co. Ltd., Tien Tai Electrode Co. Ltd., Unichemicals Industria e Comercio Ltda., VR-Leasing Sarita GmbH & Co. Immobilien KG, VS European Holdco BV, Valeron Strength Films B.V.B.A., Veneta Decalcogomme S.r.l., Versachem Chile S.A., Vesta, Vesta (Guangzhou) Catering Equipment Co. Ltd, Vesta Global Limited, Viltronics Soltec, Vitronics Soltec B.V., Wachs Canada Ltd., Wachs Subsea LLC, Weigh-Tronix Canada ULC, Weigh-Tronix UK Limited, Wilsonart International Holdings LLC, Wynn Oil (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd., Wynn's Automotive France, Wynn's Belgium BVBA, Wynn's Italia Srl, Wynn's Mekuba India Pvt Ltd, ZF TRW (Engineered Fasteners and Components), and Zip-Pak International B.V..Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corp. engages in the provision of equipment, systems, and value-added services for the rail industry. It operates through the following segments: Freight and Transit. The Freight segment involves in the manufacture and offers services components for new and existing locomotives and freight cars; supplies rail control and infrastructure products such as electronics, positive train control equipment, and signal design and engineering services; overhauls locomotives; and provides heat exchangers and cooling systems for rail and other industrial markets. The Transit segments includes the manufacture and providing services components for new and existing passenger transit vehicles, including regional trains, high speed trains, subway cars, light-rail vehicles, and buses; supplies rail control and infrastructure products such as electronics, positive train control equipment, and signal design and engineering services; builds new commuter locomotives; and renovate passenger transit vehicles. The company was founded in 1869 and is headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA.

Read MoreZurich Insurance Group AG is a holding company. The Company and its subsidiaries provide insurance products and related services. Its segments include General Insurance, Global Life, Farmers, Other Operating Businesses and Non-Core Businesses. The General Insurance segment provides a range of motor, home and commercial products and services for individuals, as well as small and large businesses. The Global Life segment is engaged in providing unit-linked, protection and corporate propositions through global distribution and proposition pillars. The Farmers segment, through Farmers Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries, provides certain non-claims administrative and management services to the Farmers Insurance Exchange, Fire Insurance Exchange, Truck Insurance Exchange, and their subsidiaries and affiliates. The Other Operating Businesses segment includes the Company's Holding and Financing activities. The Non-Core Businesses segment includes its insurance and reinsurance businesses.

Read MoreBaker Hughes, a GE company provides integrated oilfield products, services, and digital solutions worldwide. Its Oilfield Services segment offers drilling, wireline, evaluation, completion, production, and intervention services; and drilling and completions fluids, completions tools and systems, wellbore intervention tools and services, artificial lift systems, pressure pumping systems, and oilfield and industrial chemicals for integrated oil and natural gas, and oilfield service companies. The company's Oilfield Equipment segment designs and manufactures products and services, including pressure control equipment and services, subsea production systems and services, drilling equipment, and flexible pipeline systems; and onshore and offshore drilling and production systems, and equipment for floating production platforms, as well as provides a range of services related to onshore and offshore drilling activities. Its Turbomachinery & Process Solutions segment provides equipment and related services for mechanical-drive, compression, and power-generation applications across the oil and gas industry, as well as products and services to serve the downstream segments of industry. Its product portfolio includes drivers, compressors, and turnkey solutions; and pumps, valves, and compressed natural gas and small-scale liquefied natural gas solutions. This segment serves upstream, midstream, onshore and offshore, industrial, engineering, procurement, and construction companies. The company's Digital Solutions segment provides sensor-based measurement, non-destructive testing and inspection, turbine, generator and plant controls, and condition monitoring, as well as pipeline integrity solutions for a range of industries, including oil and gas, power generation, aerospace, metals, and transportation. It serves through direct and indirect channels. The company is based in Houston, Texas. Baker Hughes, a GE company is a subsidiary of General Electric Company.

Read MoreThe following companies are subsidiares of The Travelers Companies: 10762962 Canada Inc., 350 Market Street LLC, 8527512 Canada Inc., Aetna Life and Casualty Co, American Equity Insurance Company, American Equity Specialty Insurance Company, Aprilgrange Limited, Arch Street North LLC, Auto Hartford Investments LLC, Bayhill Restaurant II Associates, Camperdown Corporation, Constitution State Services LLC, Discover Property & Casualty Insurance Company, Discover Specialty Insurance Company, F&G UK Underwriters Limited, Farmington Casualty Company, Fidelity and Guaranty Insurance Company, Fidelity and Guaranty Insurance Underwriters Inc., First Floridian Auto and Home Insurance Company, Gulf Underwriters Insurance Company, IHP Capital Partners Fund VIII L.P., Northbrook Holdings Inc., Northfield Insurance Company, Northland Casualty Company, Northland Insurance Company, Phoenix UK Investments LLC, SPC Insurance Agency Inc., Select Insurance Company, Simply Business Holdings Inc., Simply Business Inc., St. Paul Fire and Marine Insurance Company, St. Paul Guardian Insurance Company, St. Paul Mercury Insurance Company, St. Paul Protective Insurance Company, St. Paul Surplus Lines Insurance Company, Standard Fire Properties LLC, Standard Fire UK Investments LLC, TCI Global Services Inc., TPC Investments Inc., TPC U.K. Investments LLC, The Automobile Insurance Company of Hartford Connecticut, The Charter Oak Fire Insurance Company, The Dominion of Canada General Insurance Company, The Family Business Institute LLC, The Phoenix Insurance Company, The St. Paul Companies Inc., The Standard Fire Insurance Company, The Travelers Casualty Company, The Travelers Home and Marine Insurance Company, The Travelers Indemnity Company, The Travelers Indemnity Company of America, The Travelers Indemnity Company of Connecticut, The Travelers Lloyds Insurance Company, TravCo Insurance Company, Travelers (Bermuda) Limited, Travelers Brazil Acquisition LLC, Travelers Brazil Holding LLC, Travelers Casualty Company of Connecticut, Travelers Casualty Insurance Company of America, Travelers Casualty UK Investments LLC, Travelers Casualty and Surety Company, Travelers Casualty and Surety Company of America, Travelers Casualty and Surety Company of Europe Limited, Travelers Commercial Casualty Company, Travelers Commercial Insurance Company, Travelers Constitution State Insurance Company, Travelers Distribution Alliance Inc., Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company, Travelers Global Inc., Travelers Indemnity U.K. Investments LLC, Travelers Insurance Company Limited, Travelers Insurance Company of Canada, Travelers Insurance Designated Activity Company, Travelers Insurance Group Holdings Inc., Travelers Lloyds of Texas Insurance Company, Travelers London Limited, Travelers MGA Inc., Travelers Management Limited, Travelers Marine LLC, Travelers Participacoes em Seguros Brasil S.A., Travelers Personal Insurance Company, Travelers Personal Security Insurance Company, Travelers Property Casualty Company of America, Travelers Property Casualty Corp., Travelers Property Casualty Insurance Company, Travelers Seguros Brasil S.A., Travelers Syndicate Management Limited, Travelers Texas MGA Inc., Travelers Underwriting Agency Limited, Ultramar Travel Management, United States Fidelity and Guaranty Company, Xbridge Limited, Zensurance Brokers Inc., and Zensurance Inc..Zayo Group Holdings, Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides bandwidth infrastructure solutions for the communications industry in the United States, Canada, and Europe. The company operates in six segments: Fiber Solutions, Transport, Enterprise Networks, Zayo Colocation (zColo), Allstream, and Other. The Fiber Solutions segment provides dark fiber, and fiber-to-the-tower and small cell mobile infrastructure services for carriers and other communication service providers, Internet service providers, wireless service providers, media and content companies, large enterprises, and other companies. The Transport segment offers lit bandwidth infrastructure solutions comprising wavelength, Ethernet, wholesale IP services, and SONET services through its metro, regional, and long-haul fiber networks for carriers, content providers, financial services companies, healthcare, government entities, education institutions, and other medium and large enterprises. The Enterprise Networks segment provides connectivity and telecommunications solutions comprising Internet, wide area networking products, managed products, and cloud based computing and storage offerings to medium and large enterprises. The Zayo Colocation (zColo) segment offers data center infrastructure solutions consisting of colocation space, and power and interconnection services to a range of enterprise, carrier, cloud, and content customers. The Allstream segment provides cloud VoIP and data solutions, such as voice offerings; and unified communications, as well as telecommunications services, including Ethernet, and IP/MPLS VPN solutions. The Other segment provides network and technical resources to customers in designing, acquiring, and maintaining their networks. Zayo Group Holdings, Inc. was founded in 2007 and is headquartered in Boulder, Colorado.

Read MoreThe following companies are subsidiares of Anthem: 1-800 Contacts, AIM Specialty Health, AMERIGROUP Community Care of New Mexico Inc., AMERIGROUP Corporation, AMERIGROUP Maryland Inc., AMERIGROUP New Jersey Inc., AMERIGROUP Ohio Inc., AMERIGROUP Tennessee Inc., AMERIGROUP Texas Inc., AMERIGROUP Washington Inc., AMGP Georgia Managed Care Company Inc., ATH Holding Company LLC, America's 1st Choice of South Carolina Inc., America's Health Management Services Inc., American Imaging Management Inc., Americas 1st Choice, Amerigroup, Amerigroup Delaware Inc., Amerigroup District of Columbia Inc., Amerigroup Health Plan of Louisiana Inc., Amerigroup IPA of New York LLC, Amerigroup Insurance Company, Amerigroup Iowa Inc., Amerigroup Kansas Inc., Amerigroup Mississippi Inc., Amerigroup Oklahoma Inc., Amerigroup Partnership Plan LLC, Amerigroup Pennsylvania Inc., Anthem Blue Cross Life and Health Insurance Company, Anthem Financial Inc., Anthem Health Plans Inc., Anthem Health Plans of Kentucky Inc., Anthem Health Plans of Maine Inc., Anthem Health Plans of New Hampshire Inc., Anthem Health Plans of Virginia Inc., Anthem Holding Corp., Anthem Innovation Israel Ltd., Anthem Insurance Companies Inc., Anthem Kentucky Managed Care Plan Inc., Anthem Life & Disability Insurance Company, Anthem Life Insurance Company, Anthem Partnership Holding Company LLC, Anthem Services Company LLC, Anthem Southeast Inc., Anthem UM Services Inc., Anthem Workers' Compensation LLC, Applied Pathways LLC, Arcus Enterprises Inc., Aspire Health Inc., Aspire Healthcare Corp, Associated Group Inc., Beacon Health Options, Blue Cross Blue Shield Healthcare Plan of Georgia Inc., Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wisconsin, Blue Cross of California, Blue Cross of California Partnership Plan Inc., CareMarket Inc., CareMore Health Plan, CareMore Health Plan of Arizona Inc., CareMore Health Plan of Nevada, CareMore Health Plan of Texas Inc., CareMore Health System, CareMore LLC, Cerulean Companies Inc., Claim Management Services Inc., Community Care Health Plan of Louisiana Inc., Community Care Health Plan of Nevada Inc., Community Insurance Company, Compcare Health Services Insurance Corporation, Crossroads Acquisition Corp., DBG Holdings Inc., DeCare Analytics LLC, DeCare Dental Health International LLC, DeCare Dental Insurance Ireland Ltd., DeCare Dental LLC, DeCare Dental Networks LLC, DeCare Operations Ireland Limited, Delivery Network LLC, Designated Agent Company Inc., EHC Benefits Agency Inc., EasyScripts Cutler Bay LLC, EasyScripts Hialeah LLC, EasyScripts LLC, EasyScripts Westchester LLC, Empire HealthChoice Assurance Inc., Empire HealthChoice HMO Inc., Federal Government Solutions LLC, Freedom Health Inc., Global TPA LLC, Golden West Health Plan Inc., Greater Georgia Life Insurance Company, HEP AP Holdings Inc., HMO Colorado Inc., HMO Missouri Inc., Health Core Inc., Health Management Corporation, Health Ventures Partner L.L.C., HealthKeepers Inc., HealthLink HMO Inc., HealthLink Inc., HealthLink Insurance Company, HealthPlus HP LLC, HealthSun Health Plans, HealthSun Health Plans Inc., HealthSun Holdings LLC, HealthSun Management LLC, HealthSun Physicians Network I LLC, HealthSun Physicians Network LLC, Healthy Alliance Life Insurance Company, Highland Acquisition Holdings LLC, Highland Holdco Inc., Highland Intermediate Holdings LLC, Highland Investor Holdings LLC, Imaging Management Holdings LLC, IngenioRx Inc., Legato Health Technologies LLP, Legato Health Technologies Philippines Inc., Legato Holdings I Inc., Legato Holdings II LLC, Living Complete Technologies Inc., Matthew Thornton Health Plan Inc., Memphis Supportive Care Partnership LLC, Meridian Resource Company LLC, Missouri Care Incorporated, NGS Federal LLC, Nash Holding Company LLC, National Government Services Inc., New England Research Institutes Inc., Optimum Healthcare Inc., Park Square Holdings Inc., Park Square I Inc., Park Square II Inc., Pasteur Medical Bird Road LLC, Pasteur Medical Center LLC, Pasteur Medical Cutler Bay LLC, Pasteur Medical Group LLC, Pasteur Medical Hialeah Gardens LLC, Pasteur Medical Holdings LLC, Pasteur Medical Kendall LLC, Pasteur Medical Management LLC, Pasteur Medical Miami Gardens LLC, Pasteur Medical North Miami Beach LLC, Pasteur Medical Partners LLC, Resolution Health Inc, Resolution Health Inc., RightCHOICE Managed Care Inc., Rocky Mountain Hospital and Medical Service Inc., SellCore Inc., Simply Healthcare Holdings, Simply Healthcare Plans Inc., Southeast Services Inc., State Sponsored DM Services Inc., The Anthem Companies Inc., The Anthem Companies of California Inc., TrustSolutions LLC, UNICARE Health Plan of West Virginia Inc., UNICARE Illinois Services Inc., UNICARE National Services Inc., UniCare Life & Health Insurance Company, UniCare Specialty Services Inc., Valus Inc., WPMI LLC, WellCare of Nebraska Inc., WellPoint Acquisition LLC, WellPoint California Services Inc., WellPoint Dental Services Inc., WellPoint Health Solutions Inc., WellPoint Holding Corp., WellPoint Information Technology Services Inc., WellPoint Insurance Services Inc., WellPoint Military Care Corporation, Wellmax Health Medical Centers LLC, Wellmax Health Physicians Network LLC, and Wisconsin Collaborative Insurance Company.Arconic Corporation manufactures and sells aluminum sheets, plates, extrusions, and architectural products in the United States, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hungary, Russia, and the United Kingdom. It operates through three segments: Rolled Products, Extrusions, and Building and Construction Systems. The Rolled Products segment provides a range of aluminum sheet and plate products for ground transportation, aerospace, industrial, and packaging markets; and roofing, architectural composite panels, ventilated facades and ceiling panels, spacers, culvert pipes, and gutters for building and construction markets. The Extrusions segment offers extruded products, including aerospace shapes, automotive shapes, seamless tubes, hollows, mortar fins, and high strength rods and bars for ground transportation, aerospace, and industrial markets. The Building and Construction Systems segment provides various products and building envelope solutions, such as entrances, curtain walls, windows, composite panels, and coil coated sheets for fabricators and glazing subcontractors under the Kawneer, Reynobond, and Reynolux brands. The company offers its products directly to customers, as well as through distributors. The company was formerly known as Arconic Rolled Products Corporation and changed its name to Arconic Corporation in Arpil 2020. Arconic Corporation was founded in 1888 and is headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Read MoreThe following companies are subsidiares of Eli Lilly and: 1096401 B.C. Unlimited Liability Company, ARMO BioSciences Inc, ARMO Bioscience, Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Alnara Pharmaceuticals, Alnara Pharmaceuticals Inc., Andean Technical Operations Center, Applied Molecular Evolution Inc., AurKa Pharma, Avid Radiopharmaceuticals, Avid Radiopharmaceuticals Inc., ChemGen, CoLucid Pharmaceuticals, CoLucid Pharmaceuticals Inc., Dermira, Devices for Vascular Intervention(DVI), Disarm Therapeutics, Dista Ilac Ticaret Ltd. Sti., Dista S.A., Dista-Produtos Quimicos & Farmaceuticos LDA, ELCO Dominicana SRL, ELCO Insurance Company Limited, ELCO Management Inc., ELCO for Trade and Marketing S.A.E., ELGO Insurance Company Limited, Elanco Animal Health Ireland Limited, Elanco Switzerland Holding Sarl, Eli Lilly (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Eli Lilly (Philippines) Incorporated, Eli Lilly (S.A.) (Proprietary) Limited, Eli Lilly (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Eli Lilly (Suisse) S.A., Eli Lilly Asia Inc., Eli Lilly Asia Pacific SSC Sdn Bhd, Eli Lilly Australia Pty. Limited, Eli Lilly B-H d.o.o., Eli Lilly Benelux S.A., Eli Lilly Bienes y Servicios S de RL de CV, Eli Lilly CR s.r.o., Eli Lilly Canada Inc., Eli Lilly Cork Limited, Eli Lilly Danmark A/S, Eli Lilly Egypt for Trading, Eli Lilly European Clinical Trial Services SA, Eli Lilly Export S.A., Eli Lilly Finance S.A., Eli Lilly Ges.m.b.H., Eli Lilly Group Limited, Eli Lilly Holdings Ltd., Eli Lilly Hrvatska d.o.o., Eli Lilly Interamerica Inc., Eli Lilly Interamerica Inc. y Compania Limitada, Eli Lilly International Corporation, Eli Lilly Ireland Holdings Limited, Eli Lilly Israel Ltd., Eli Lilly Italia S.p.A., Eli Lilly Japan K.K., Eli Lilly Kinsale Limited, Eli Lilly Nederland B.V., Eli Lilly Nigeria Ltd., Eli Lilly Norge A.S., Eli Lilly Pakistan (Pvt.) Ltd., Eli Lilly Polska Sp.z.o.o. (Ltd.), Eli Lilly Regional Operations GmbH, Eli Lilly Romania SRL, Eli Lilly S.A., Eli Lilly Saudi Arabia Limited, Eli Lilly Services Inc, Eli Lilly Services India Private Limited, Eli Lilly Slovakia s.r.o., Eli Lilly Sweden AB, Eli Lilly Vostok S.A. Geneva, Eli Lilly and Company, Eli Lilly and Company (India) Pvt. Ltd., Eli Lilly and Company (Ireland) Limited, Eli Lilly and Company (N.Z.) Limited, Eli Lilly and Company (Taiwan) Inc., Eli Lilly and Company Limited, Eli Lilly de Centro America S.A., Eli Lilly do Brasil Limitada, Eli Lilly farmacevtska druzba d.o.o., Eli Lilly y Compania de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Eli Lilly y Compania de Venezuela S.A., Glycostasis Inc, Greenfield-Produtos Farmaceuticos Lda., Heart Rhythm Technologies Inc, Hybritech, Hypnion, ICOS Corporation, ImClone GmbH, ImClone LLC, ImClone Systems Holdings Inc., ImClone Systems LLC, Imclone Systems, Irisfarma S.A., Ivy Animal Health, Kinsale Financial Services Unlimited Company, Lilly (Shanghai) Management Co. Ltd, Lilly Asia Ventures Fund I L.P., Lilly Asia Ventures Fund II L.P., Lilly Asian Ventures Fund III L.P., Lilly Cayman Holdings, Lilly China Research and Development Co. Ltd., Lilly Deutschland GmbH, Lilly France S.A.S., Lilly Global Nederland Holdings B.V., Lilly Global Services Inc., Lilly Holding GmbH, Lilly Holdings B.V., Lilly Hungaria KFT, Lilly Japan Financing G.K., Lilly Korea Ltd., Lilly Nederland Finance B.V., Lilly Nederland Finance B.V. - GCC, Lilly Nederland Holding B.V., Lilly Pharma Ltd., Lilly Portugal - Produtos Farmaceuticos Lda., Lilly S.A., Lilly Suzhou Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Lilly Trading Co. LTD, Lilly USA LLC, Lilly Ventures Fund I LLC, Lilly del Caribe Inc., Lilly ilac ticaret limited sirketi, Lohmann Animal Health, Loxo Oncology, Lylly Centre for Clinical Pharmacology PTE. LTD., Novartis Animal Health, OY Eli Lilly Finland AB, Origin Medsystems, PT. Eli Lilly Indonesia, Pacific Biotech, Pharmaserve-Lilly S.A.C.I., Physio-Control, SGX Pharmaceuticals, SGX Pharmaceuticals Inc, Spaly Bioquimica S.A., UAB Eli Lilly Lietuva, Valquifarma S.A., and Vital Pharma Productos Farmaceuticos.The following companies are subsidiares of Valero Energy: AIR BP-PBF DEL PERU SAC, BELFAST STORAGE LTD, CANADIAN ULTRAMAR COMPANY, COLONNADE TEXAS INSURANCE COMPANY LLC, COLONNADE VERMONT INSURANCE COMPANY, DIAMOND ALTERNATIVE ENERGY LLC, DIAMOND ALTERNATIVE ENERGY OF CANADA INC., DIAMOND GREEN DIESEL HOLDINGS LLC, DIAMOND GREEN DIESEL LLC, DIAMOND K RANCH LLC, DIAMOND OMEGA COMPANY L.L.C., DIAMOND SHAMROCK REFINING COMPANY L.P., DIAMOND UNIT INVESTMENTS L.L.C., DSRM NATIONAL BANK, ENTERPRISE CLAIMS MANAGEMENT INC., GCP LOGISTICS COMPANY LLC, GOLDEN EAGLE ASSURANCE LIMITED, HAMMOND MAINLINE PIPELINE LLC, HUNTWAY REFINING COMPANY, MAINLINE PIPELINES LIMITED, MAPLE ETHANOL LTD., MICHIGAN REDEVELOPMENT GP LLC, MICHIGAN REDEVELOPMENT L.P., MRP PROPERTIES COMPANY LLC, NECHES RIVER HOLDING CORP., NORCO METHANOL LLC, OCEANIC TANKERS AGENCY LIMITED, PARKWAY PIPELINE LLC, PENTA TANKS TERMINALS S.A., PI DOCK FACILITIES LLC, PICKARD PLACE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, PORT ARTHUR COKER COMPANY L.P., PREMCOR USA INC., PROPERTY RESTORATION L.P., PURE BIOFUELS DEL PERU S.A.C., PURE BIOFUELS HOLDINGS L.P., Parkway Pipeline, Premcor, Pure Biofuels Del Peru, SABINE RIVER HOLDING CORP., SABINE RIVER LLC, SAINT BERNARD PROPERTIES COMPANY LLC, SUNBELT REFINING COMPANY L.P., THE PREMCOR PIPELINE CO., THE PREMCOR REFINING GROUP INC., THE SHAMROCK PIPE LINE CORPORATION, TRANSPORT MARITIME ST. LAURENT INC., ULTRAMAR ACCEPTANCE INC., ULTRAMAR ENERGY INC., ULTRAMAR INC., Ultramar Diamond Shamrock, V-TEX LOGISTICS LLC, VALERO (BARBADOS) SRL, VALERO (PERU) HOLDINGS GP LLC, VALERO (PERU) HOLDINGS LIMITED, VALERO ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO ARUBA ACQUISITION COMPANY I LTD., VALERO ARUBA FINANCE INTERNATIONAL LTD., VALERO ARUBA HOLDING COMPANY N.V., VALERO ARUBA HOLDINGS INTERNATIONAL LTD., VALERO ARUBA MAINTENANCE/OPERATIONS COMPANY N.V., VALERO BROWNSVILLE TERMINAL LLC, VALERO CANADA FINANCE INC., VALERO CANADA L.P., VALERO CAPITAL CORPORATION, VALERO CARIBBEAN SERVICES COMPANY, VALERO COKER CORPORATION ARUBA N.V., VALERO CUSTOMS & TRADE SERVICES INC., VALERO EAST BAY LLC, VALERO ENERGY (IRELAND) LIMITED, VALERO ENERGY ARUBA II COMPANY, VALERO ENERGY INC., VALERO ENERGY LTD, VALERO ENERGY PARTNERS GP LLC, VALERO ENERGY PARTNERS LP, VALERO ENERGY UK LTD, VALERO ENTERPRISES INC., VALERO EQUITY SERVICES LTD, VALERO FINANCE L.P. I, VALERO FINANCE L.P. II, VALERO FINANCE L.P. III, VALERO FOREST CONTRIBUTION LLC, VALERO GRAIN MARKETING LLC, VALERO H2 PIPELINE COMPANY LLC, VALERO HOLDCO UK LTD, VALERO HOLDINGS INC., VALERO INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS INC., VALERO LIVE OAK LLC, VALERO LOGISTICS UK LTD, VALERO MARKETING AND SUPPLY (PANAMA) LLC, VALERO MARKETING AND SUPPLY COMPANY, VALERO MARKETING AND SUPPLY DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO MARKETING AND SUPPLY DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO MARKETING AND SUPPY INTERNATIONAL LTD., VALERO MARKETING IRELAND LIMITED, VALERO MKS LOGISTICS L.L.C., VALERO NEDERLAND COOPERATIEF U.A., VALERO NEDERLAND COOPERATIEF U.A., VALERO NEW AMSTERDAM B.V., VALERO OMEGA COMPANY L.L.C., VALERO OPERATIONAL SERVICES DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO OPERATIONAL SERVICES DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO OPERATIONS SUPPORT LTD, VALERO PARTNERS CCTS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS CORPUS EAST LLC, VALERO PARTNERS CORPUS WEST LLC, VALERO PARTNERS EP LLC, VALERO PARTNERS HOUSTON LLC, VALERO PARTNERS LOUISIANA LLC, VALERO PARTNERS LUCAS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS MCKEE LLC, VALERO PARTNERS MEMPHIS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS MERAUX LLC, VALERO PARTNERS NORTH TEXAS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS OPERATING CO. LLC, VALERO PARTNERS PAPS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS PORT ARTHUR LLC, VALERO PARTNERS SOUTH TEXAS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS TEXAS CITY LLC, VALERO PARTNERS THREE RIVERS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS WEST MEMPHIS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS WEST TEXAS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS WYNNEWOOD LLC, VALERO PAYMENT SERVICES COMPANY, VALERO PEMBROKESHIRE LLC, VALERO PEMBROKESHIRE OIL TERMINAL LTD, VALERO PLAINS COMPANY LLC, VALERO POWER MARKETING LLC, VALERO RAIL OPERATIONS DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO RAIL OPERATIONS DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO RAIL PARTNERS LLC, VALERO REFINING AND MARKETING COMPANY, VALERO REFINING COMPANY-ARUBA N.V., VALERO REFINING COMPANY-CALIFORNIA, VALERO REFINING COMPANY-OKLAHOMA, VALERO REFINING COMPANY-TENNESSEE L.L.C., VALERO REFINING-MERAUX LLC, VALERO REFINING-NEW ORLEANS L.L.C., VALERO REFINING-TEXAS L.P., VALERO RENEWABLE FUELS COMPANY LLC, VALERO SECURITY SYSTEMS INC., VALERO SERVICES INC., VALERO SKELLYTOWN PIPELINE LLC, VALERO TEJAS COMPANY LLC, VALERO TERMINAL HOLDCO LTD, VALERO TERMINALING AND DISTRIBUTION COMPANY, VALERO TERMINALING AND DISTRIBUTION DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO TEXAS POWER MARKETING INC., VALERO ULTRAMAR HOLDINGS INC., VALERO UNIT INVESTMENTS L.L.C., VALERO WEST WALES LLC, VRG PROPERTIES COMPANY, VTD PROPERTIES COMPANY, WARSHALL COMPANY LLC, and ZELIG COMMERCIAL INC..Belmond Ltd. engages in the hotel and travel businesses. As of December 31, 2017, the company owned, invested in, or managed 36 deluxe hotels and resort properties in the United States, Mexico, The Caribbean, Europe, Southern Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia; 1 stand-alone restaurant in New York; 7 tourist trains in Europe, Southeast Asia, and Peru; 1 river cruise in Myanmar; and 1 canal boat business in France. Its portfolio of hotels includes 3,203 individual guest rooms and multiple-room suites. The company was formerly known as Orient-Express Hotels Ltd. and changed its name to Belmond Ltd. in June 2014. Belmond Ltd. was founded in 1971 and is based in Hamilton, Bermuda.

Read More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.On February 20, 1960, police officers placed Johnita Dues mother in handcuffs as bystanders heckled her with racial slurs. The officers arrested the then 20-year-old Florida A&M University student for disorderly conduct after she and sixteen other protesters led a sit-in at Woolworths store in Tallahassee, Florida. Their goal was to end the stores policy of serving only white customers at its lunch counter.

Patricia Stephens Due was presented with two options: pay the $300 fine or spend weeks in jail. She chose to stay in jail.

Patricia was locked up for 49 days and became one of the first to use the jail, no bail strategy to combat social injustice. Johnita commemorates that time period with a picture of her mother being arrested at a 1963 demonstration that hangs in her Atlanta office til this day.





She was just a kid, says Johnita, vice president and assistant general counsel, CNN. Mom had to face many obstacles and overt prejudice.

Growing in up Miami, Florida, Johnita celebrated the many races, ethnicities and cultures that formed her community. To her, it felt not only just but natural to live among diverse people. Her mother and father, also a civil rights leader, fought for this spirit of inclusivity. They made sure Johnita never forgot her roots and obligation to lift up the community that helped shape her.

And so, her mission to create change began in high school. While interning at the Miami Herald, Johnita was presented with The Silver Knight Award, which is given to students who best exemplify an unselfish and continuous use of ones talents in helping others.

I always knew I wanted to make a difference, she says. My mom always told me, We fought so you wouldnt have to. But she was not naive. Through the decades, we could sometimes see the clock roll back in terms of the gains weve made.

After completing her undergraduate psychology degree at Harvard and masters at the University of Sussex in England, studying race relations, organizational culture and social change, Johnita obtained her law degree from Cornell with a specialization in international legal affairs. She immediately went to work in Rome for a non-profit organization dedicated to fighting discrimination against immigrants and people of color. In her eyes, the law was a method for social change. Though her mother used grassroots methods to combat injustice, she instilled in Johnita that it was inside the boardrooms that significant progress could be made.

When Johnita became CNNs chief diversity advisor in 2005, a position she held for almost a decade, she sought to make those social improvements a reality. She saw her job as an opportunity to give employees and audiences a voice. During her tenure, CNN was awarded significant industry honors, including the 2009 Corporate Diversity Award from the American Institute of Managing Diversity.

But even after forging a legacy of social justice, there was a time when Johnita had to rethink her mission. After leaving her post as leader of CNNs diversity efforts soon after her mother's passing, she spent a couple of years wondering whether she could still make a difference without a formal diversity role. Then in 2017, the Black Professionals at Turner (BP@T) business resource group asked her to become co-chair of the organization.

I thought about the decision for a while, because I wasnt sure I was ready. But joining BP@T was one of the best decisions I made in the past year, Johnita says.

BP@T is dedicated to uplifting African-American employees. Open to people of all cultures and ethnicities, its mission is "building resilience, driving excellence and moving forward during times of change." The goal is to nourish talent that will fuel Turners growth.

For Johnita, BP@T provides the community that her mother and father cultivated when she was a little girl in Miami. Despite her mothers passing, Johnita feels her sprit reflected in her colleagues. Now, she shares her mothers story with anyone looking for examples of courage to create change.

Mom always said, Stories live forever, but storytellers dont. Listen to the storytellers while you can.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. Ltd., Caterpillar (China) Machinery Components Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (HK) Limited, Caterpillar (Huainan) Machinery Service Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (Langfang) Mining Equipment Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (Luxembourg) Investment Co. S.a r.l., Caterpillar (NI) Limited, Caterpillar (Newberry) LLC, Caterpillar (Qingzhou) Ltd., Caterpillar (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (Suzhou) Logistics Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (Thailand) Limited, Caterpillar (U.K.) Limited, Caterpillar (Wujiang) Ltd., Caterpillar (Xuzhou) Ltd., Caterpillar (Zhengzhou) Ltd., Caterpillar Acquisition Holding Corp., Caterpillar Americas C.V., Caterpillar Americas Co., Caterpillar Americas Funding Inc., Caterpillar Americas Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Asia Limited, Caterpillar Asia Pacific L.P., Caterpillar Asia Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar Asset Intelligence LLC, Caterpillar Belgium S.A., Caterpillar Brasil Comercio de Maquinas e Pecas Ltda., Caterpillar Brasil Ltda., Caterpillar Brazil LLC, Caterpillar Castings Kiel GmbH, Caterpillar Centro de Formacion S.L., Caterpillar China Limited, Caterpillar Commercial Australia Pty. Ltd., Caterpillar Commercial LLC, Caterpillar Commercial Northern Europe Limited, Caterpillar Commercial S.A., Caterpillar Commercial S.A.R.L., Caterpillar Commercial Services S.A.R.L., Caterpillar Communications LLC, Caterpillar Corporativo Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Cote DIvoire, Caterpillar Credito S.A. de C.V. SOFOM E.N.R., Caterpillar DC Pension Trust Limited, Caterpillar Digital Services & Solutions SARL, Caterpillar Distribution International LLC, Caterpillar Distribution Services Europe B.V.B.A., Caterpillar East Real Estate Holding Ltd., Caterpillar Emissions Solutions Inc., Caterpillar Energy Solutions Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar Energy Solutions GmbH, Caterpillar Energy Solutions Inc., Caterpillar Energy Solutions S.A., Caterpillar Energy System Technology (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Engine Systems Inc., Caterpillar Equipos Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Eurasia LLC, Caterpillar FS (QFC) LLC, Caterpillar Finance France S.A., Caterpillar Finance Kabushiki Kaisha, Caterpillar Financial Acquisition Funding LLC, Caterpillar Financial Aftermarket Solutions Corporation, Caterpillar Financial Australia Leasing Pty Limited, Caterpillar Financial Australia Limited, Caterpillar Financial Commercial Account Corporation, Caterpillar Financial Corporacion Financiera S.A. E.F.C., Caterpillar Financial Dealer Funding LLC, Caterpillar Financial Funding Corporation, Caterpillar Financial Kazakhstan Limited Liability Partnership, Caterpillar Financial Leasing (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Financial New Zealand Limited, Caterpillar Financial Nordic Services AB, Caterpillar Financial Nova Scotia Corporation, Caterpillar Financial OOO, Caterpillar Financial Receivables Corporation, Caterpillar Financial Renting S.A., Caterpillar Financial SARL, Caterpillar Financial Services (Dubai) Limited, Caterpillar Financial Services (Ireland) plc, Caterpillar Financial Services (UK) Limited, Caterpillar Financial Services Argentina S.A., Caterpillar Financial Services Asia Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar Financial Services Belgium S.P.R.L., Caterpillar Financial Services CR s.r.o., Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation, Caterpillar Financial Services GmbH, Caterpillar Financial Services India Private Limited, Caterpillar Financial Services Leasing ULC, Caterpillar Financial Services Limited Les Services Financiers Caterpillar Limitee, Caterpillar Financial Services Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Caterpillar Financial Services Netherlands B.V., Caterpillar Financial Services Norway AS, Caterpillar Financial Services Philippines Inc., Caterpillar Financial Services Poland Sp. z o.o., Caterpillar Financial Services South Africa (Pty) Limited, Caterpillar Financial UK Acquisition Funding Partners, Caterpillar Financial Ukraine LLC, Caterpillar Fluid Systems S.r.l., Caterpillar Fomento Comercial Ltda., Caterpillar Forest Products Inc., Caterpillar France S.A.S., Caterpillar GB L.L.C., Caterpillar Global Investments S.a r.l., Caterpillar Global Mining America LLC, Caterpillar Global Mining Equipamentos De Mineracao do Brasil Ltda., Caterpillar Global Mining Equipment LLC, Caterpillar Global Mining Europe GmbH, Caterpillar Global Mining Expanded Products Pty Ltd, Caterpillar Global Mining Germany Holdings GmbH, Caterpillar Global Mining HMS GmbH, Caterpillar Global Mining Holdings GmbH, Caterpillar Global Mining Hong Kong AFC Manufacturing Holding Co. Limited, Caterpillar Global Mining Hong Kong Limited, Caterpillar Global Mining LLC, Caterpillar Global Mining Mexico LLC, Caterpillar Global Mining Pty. Ltd., Caterpillar Global Mining SARL, Caterpillar Global Mining U.S. Parts LLC, Caterpillar Global Services LLC, Caterpillar Group Services S.A., Caterpillar Holding (France) S.A.S., Caterpillar Holding Germany GmbH, Caterpillar Holdings Australia Pty. Ltd., Caterpillar Hungary Components Manufacturing Ltd., Caterpillar Hydraulics Italia S.r.l., Caterpillar IPX LLC, Caterpillar IRB LLC, Caterpillar Impact Products Limited, Caterpillar India Private Limited, Caterpillar Industrial Inc., Caterpillar Industrias Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Industries (Pty) Ltd, Caterpillar Insurance Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Insurance Company, Caterpillar Insurance Holdings Inc., Caterpillar Insurance Services Corporation, Caterpillar International Finance Designated Activity Company, Caterpillar International Finance Luxembourg Holding S. a r.l., Caterpillar International Finance Luxembourg S. a r.l., Caterpillar International Holding S. a r.l., Caterpillar International Luxembourg I S. a r.l., Caterpillar International Luxembourg II S. a r.l., Caterpillar International Product SARL, Caterpillar International Services Corporation, Caterpillar International Services del Peru S.A., Caterpillar Investment Limited, Caterpillar Investment One SARL, Caterpillar Investment Two SARL, Caterpillar Investments, Caterpillar Japan LLC, Caterpillar Latin America Services S.R.L., Caterpillar Latin America Services de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Latin America Services de Panama S. de R.L., Caterpillar Latin America Servicios de Chile Limitada, Caterpillar Latin America Support Services S. DE R.L., Caterpillar Leasing (Thailand) Limited, Caterpillar Leasing Chile S.A., Caterpillar Leasing GmbH (Leipzig), Caterpillar Leasing Operativo Limitada, Caterpillar Life Insurance Company, Caterpillar Logistics (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Logistics (UK) Limited, Caterpillar Logistics Inc., Caterpillar Logistics ML Services France S.A.S., Caterpillar Logistics Services China Limited, Caterpillar Luxembourg Group S.ar.l., Caterpillar Luxembourg LLC, Caterpillar Luxembourg S.a r.l., Caterpillar Machinery Nantong Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Marine Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar Marine Asset Intelligence, Caterpillar Marine Power UK Limited, Caterpillar Marine Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Maroc SARL, Caterpillar Materiels Routiers SAS, Caterpillar Mexico LLC, Caterpillar Mexico S.A. de C.V., Caterpillar Mining Canada ULC, Caterpillar Mining Chile Servicios Limitada, Caterpillar Motoren (Guangdong) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Motoren GmbH & Co. KG, Caterpillar Motoren Henstedt-Ulzburg GmbH, Caterpillar Motoren Rostock GmbH, Caterpillar Motoren Verwaltungs-GmbH, Caterpillar Netherlands Holding B.V., Caterpillar North America C.V., Caterpillar Operator Training Ltd., Caterpillar Overseas Credit Corporation SARL, Caterpillar Overseas Investment Holding SARL, Caterpillar Overseas Limited, Caterpillar Overseas SARL, Caterpillar Panama Services S.A., Caterpillar Paving Products Inc., Caterpillar Paving Products Xuzhou Ltd., Caterpillar Pension Trust Limited, Caterpillar Poland Sp. z o.o., Caterpillar Power Generation Systems (Bangladesh) Limited, Caterpillar Power Generation Systems L.L.C., Caterpillar Power Systems Inc., Caterpillar Power Ventures International Ltd., Caterpillar Precision Seals Korea, Caterpillar Prodotti Stradali S.r.l., Caterpillar Product Services Corporation, Caterpillar Propulsion AB, Caterpillar Propulsion International Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Propulsion Italy S.R.L., Caterpillar Propulsion Namibia (Proprietary) Limited, Caterpillar Propulsion Production AB, Caterpillar Propulsion Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar Propulsion Singapore Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar R&D Center (China) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Ramos Arizpe LLC, Caterpillar Ramos Arizpe S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Ramos Arizpe Servicios S.A. de C.V., Caterpillar Reman Powertrain Indiana LLC, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Drivetrain LLC, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Services (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Renting France S.A.S., Caterpillar Reynosa S.A. de C.V., Caterpillar SARL, Caterpillar Services Germany GmbH, Caterpillar Servicios Limitada, Caterpillar Servicios Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Servizi Italia Srl, Caterpillar Shrewsbury Limited, Caterpillar Skinningrove Limited, Caterpillar Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd., Caterpillar Special Services Belgium S.P.R.L., Caterpillar Switchgear Americas LLC, Caterpillar Switchgear Holding Inc., Caterpillar Tianjin Ltd., Caterpillar Torreon S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Tosno L.L.C., Caterpillar Transmissions France S.A.R.L., Caterpillar Tunneling Canada Holdings Ltd., Caterpillar Tunnelling Canada Corporation, Caterpillar Tunnelling Europe Limited, Caterpillar UK Employee Trust Limited, Caterpillar UK Engines Company Limited, Caterpillar UK Group Limited, Caterpillar UK Holdings Limited, Caterpillar Undercarriage (Xuzhou) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Underground Mining Pty. Ltd., Caterpillar Used Equipment Services Inc., Caterpillar Venture Capital Inc., Caterpillar Work Tools B.V., Caterpillar Work Tools Inc., Caterpillar World Trading Corporation, Caterpillar Xuzhou, Caterpillar of Australia Pty. Ltd., Caterpillar of Canada Corporation, Caterpillar of Delaware Inc., Centre de Distribution de Wallonie SPRL, CleanAir Systems, Downer Freight Rail, ECM Railway Evolution Romania s.r.l., ECM S.p.A., EDC European Excavator Design Center GmbH, EMC Holding Corp., EMD International Holdings Inc., ERA Information & Entertainment (BVI) Limited, ERA Mining Machinery Limited, Electro-Motive Diesel Limited, Electro-Motive Locomotive Technologies LLC, Electro-Motive Technical Consulting Co. (Beijing) Ltd., Energy Services International Limited, Equipos de Acuna S.A. de C.V., Eurenov S.A.S., F. G. Wilson (Proprietary) Limited, F. Perkins Limited, FG Wilson (Engineering) Limited, GB Holdco (China) Inc., GFCM Comercial Mexico S.A. de C.V. SOFOM E.N.R., GFCM Servicios S.A. de C.V., Gremada Industries - Assets, Hong Kong Siwei Holdings Limited, Inmobiliaria Conek S.A. de C.V., JCS Co., Kemper Valve & Fittings Corp., Leo Inc., Locomotive Demand Power Pty Ltd., Locomotoras Progress Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Lovat, M2M Data Corporation, MGE Equipamentos & Servicos Ferroviarios, MWM, MWM Austria GmbH, MWM Benelux B.V., MWM Energy Australia Pty Ltd, MWM France S.A.S, MWM Real Estate GmbH, MaK Americas Inc., MaK Americas Inc. (Canada), Magnum Power Products LLC, Marble, Maschinenbau Kiel GmbH, Mec-Track S.r.l., Metalmark Financial Services Limited, Motoren Steffens GmbH, Nippon Caterpillar LLC, P. T. Solar Services Indonesia, PT Caterpillar Finance Indonesia, PT. Bucyrus Indonesia, PT. Caterpillar Indonesia, PT. Caterpillar Indonesia Batam, PT. Caterpillar Remanufacturing Indonesia, Perkins Engines, Perkins Engines (Asia Pacific) Pte Ltd, Perkins Engines Group Limited, Perkins Engines Inc., Perkins Group Limited, Perkins Holdings Limited LLC, Perkins India Private Limited, Perkins International Inc., Perkins Japan LLC, Perkins Limited, Perkins Machinery (Changshu) Co. Ltd., Perkins Motores do Brasil Ltda., Perkins Power Systems Technology (Wuxi) Co. Ltd., Perkins Small Engines (Wuxi) Co. 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..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.

Read MoreConagra Brands, Inc. engages in the manufacture and sale of processed and packaged foods. It operates through the following segments: Grocery and Snacks; Refrigerated and Frozen; International; and Foodservice. The Grocery and Snacks segment includes branded, shelf stable food products sold in various retail channels in the United States. The Refrigerated and Frozen segment comprises branded, temperature controlled food products sold in various retail channels in the United States. The International segment consists branded food products, in various temperature states, sold in various retail and foodservice channels outside of the United States. The Foodservice segment focuses in the branded and customized food products, including meals, entrees, sauces, and a variety of custom-manufactured culinary products packaged for sale to restaurants and other foodservice establishments in the United States. The company was founded by Alva Kinney and Frank Little in 1919 and is headquartered in Chicago, IL.

Read MoreRayonier Advanced Materials, Inc. engages in the production and sale of cellulose products, which is a natural polymer commonly used in the production of cell phone and computer screens, filters, and pharmaceuticals. It operates through the following segments: High Purity Cellulose, Forest Products, Paperboard, Pulp and Newsprint, and Corporate. The High Purity Cellulose segment manufacture and market high purity cellulose, which is sold as either cellulose specialties or commodity products in U.S., Canda, and France. The Forest Products segment manufacture and market construction-grade lumber in North America through seven sawmills located in Canada. The Paperboard segment comprises paperboard products. The Pulp and Newsprint segment involves in the production of pulp and newsprint in Canada. The Corporate segment consists senior management, accounting, information systems, human resources, treasury, tax, and legal administrative functions that provide support services to the operating business units. The company was founded in 1926 and is headquartered in Jacksonville, FL.

Read More16 Wall Street research analysts have issued "buy," "hold," and "sell" ratings for Deutsche Wohnen in the last twelve months. There are currently 9 hold ratings and 7 buy ratings for the stock. The consensus among Wall Street research analysts is that investors should "hold" Deutsche Wohnen stock. A hold rating indicates that analysts believe investors should maintain any existing positions they have in DWNI, but not buy additional shares or sell existing shares.

View analyst ratings for Deutsche Wohnen or view top-rated stocks.Edgewell Personal Care Company is a manufacturer and marketer of personal care products in the wet shave, sun and skin care, feminine care and infant care categories. As of September 30, 2016, the Company had a portfolio of over 25 brands. It manages its business in four segments: Wet Shave, Sun and Skin Care, Feminine Care and All Other. Its Wet shave products are sold under the Schick, Wilkinson Sword, Edge, Skintimate, Shave Guard and Personna brand names. Its Sun and Skin Care products are sold under the Banana Boat, Hawaiian Tropic, Wet Ones and Playtex brand names and offers Wet Ones, portable hand wipes category, and Playtex household gloves, the branded household glove in the United States. Its Feminine Care segment markets its products under the Playtex, Stayfree, Carefree and o.b. brands and markets pads and liners. Its All Other segment includes infant care, pet care and miscellaneous other products.

Read MoreFaron Pharmaceuticals Oy operates as a clinical stage drug discovery and development company in Finland. It has a pipeline of drug development projects focusing on acute trauma, cancer growth and spread, and inflammatory diseases. The company's lead product candidates are Traumakine, a recombinant human IFN beta-1a, which is in Phase III clinical trial for the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); and Clevegen, an immunotherapy candidate, designed to prevent tumor growth and metastasis that targets the tumor immune suppressor molecule; and D-ARDS, a diagnostic tool to estimate ARDS severity and to follow ARDS outcome. Faron Pharmaceuticals Oy has a collaboration with MediCity unit of Turku University Medical School. The company was founded in 2003 and is headquartered in Turku, Finland.

Read MoreSunTrust Banks, Inc. operates as the holding company for SunTrust Bank that provides various financial services for consumers, businesses, corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit entities in the United States. It operates in two segments, Consumer and Wholesale. The Consumer segment provides deposits and payments; home equity and personal credit lines; auto, student, and other lending products; credit cards; discount/online and full-service brokerage products; professional investment advisory products and services; and trust services, as well as family office solutions. This segment also offers residential mortgage products in the secondary market. The Wholesale segment provides capital markets solutions, including advisory, capital raising, and financial risk management; asset-based financing solutions, such as securitizations, asset-based lending, equipment financing, and structured real estate arrangements; cash management services and auto dealer financing solutions; investment banking solutions; and credit and deposit, fee-based product offering, multi-family agency lending, advisory, commercial mortgage brokerage, and tailored financing and equity investment solutions. This segment also offers treasury and payment solutions, such as operating various electronic and paper payment types, which comprise card, wire transfer, automated clearing house, check, and cash; and provides services clients to manage their accounts online. The company offers its products and services through a network of traditional and in-store branches, automated teller machines, Internet, mobile, and telephone banking channels. As of December 31, 2018, it operated 1,218 full-service banking offices located in Florida, Georgia, Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Maryland, South Carolina, and the District of Columbia. SunTrust Banks, Inc. was founded in 1891 and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.

Read MoreGenesee & Wyoming Inc. owns and leases freight railroads. It operates through three segments: North American Operations, Australian Operations, and U.K./European Operations. The company transports various commodities, including agricultural products, autos and auto parts, chemicals and plastics, coal and coke, food and kindred products, lumber and forest products, metallic ores, metals, minerals and stone, petroleum products, pulp and paper, waste, and other commodities. It owns or leases 122 freight railroads, including 105 short line railroads and 2 regional freight railroads located in the United States, 8 short line railroads located in Canada, 3 railroads located in Australia, 1 railroad located in the United Kingdom, 1 railroad in Poland and Germany, and 2 railroads in the Netherlands with a total of approximately 16,200 miles of track. The company also operates 6,200 additional miles of track that is owned or leased by others. In addition, it operates deep sea maritime containers and provides bulk haulage, including coal, aggregates, cement, and infrastructure services. Further, the company provides rail service at approximately 40 ports; rail-ferry service in North America, Australia, and Europe; and contract coal loading and railcar switching for industrial customers. Genesee & Wyoming Inc. was founded in 1899 and is headquartered in Darien, Connecticut.

Read MoreHannover RAck SE, together with its subsidiaries, provides reinsurance products and services worldwide. It operates through Property & Casualty Reinsurance, and Life & Health Reinsurance segments. The Property & Casualty Reinsurance segment offers specialty lines comprising marine, aviation, facultative and direct business, credit, surety, and political risks reinsurance products; and treaty, catastrophe XL, and structured reinsurance, as well as insurance-linked securities. This segment also provides risk solutions for agricultural, livestock, and bloodstock businesses; aviation and space business; and marine and offshore energy business. The Life & Health Reinsurance segment offers group and individual credit life, enhanced annuities, group life and health, and Sharia-compliant Takaful reinsurance products. This segment also provides risk solutions in the areas of critical illness, disability, health, longevity, long term care, and mortality and morbidity, as well as underwriting services. In addition, it offers various financial solutions, including new-business financing; monetization of embedded value; reserve and solvency relief; and divestiture of non-core businesses. The company was formerly known as Hannover RAckversicherung AG and changed its name to Hannover RAck SE in March 2013. The company was founded in 1966 and is headquartered in Hanover, Germany. Hannover RAck SE is a subsidiary of Talanx AG.

Read MoreThe following companies are subsidiares of Sysco: 2234829 Alberta ULC, 2234842 Alberta ULC, A. M. Briggs Inc., A.M. Briggs, Almacen Fiscal Frionet Caldera S.A., Almacen Fiscal Frionet Limon S.A., Appert's Foodservice, Arnotts (Fruit) Limited, Asian Foods, Bahamas Food Holdings Limited, Bahamas Food Services Limited, Brake Bros, Brake Bros Foodservice Ireland Limited, Brake Bros. Foodservice Limited, Brake Bros. Holding I Limited, Brake Bros. Ltd., Brakes Foodservice NI Limited, Buchy Food Service, Buckhead Beef Co., Buckhead Meat & Seafood of Houston Inc., Buckhead Meat Company, Buckhead Meat Midwest Inc., Buckhead Meat of Dallas Inc., Buckhead Meat of Denver Inc., Buckhead Meat of San Antonio LP, Buzztable Inc., CAKE Corporation, Central Seafood Co., Christys Wine & Spirits Limited, Clafra Aktiebolag, Colorado Boxed Beef Co - Specialty meat-cutting division, Corporacion Frionet Sociedad Anonima, Crossgar Foodservice, Crossgar Foodservice Limited, Crown I Enterprises Inc., Cucina Acquisitions (UK) Limited, Cucina Finance (UK) Limited, Cucina French Holdings Limited, Cucina Fresh Finance Limited, Cucina Fresh Investments Limited, Cucina Lux Investments Limited, Curleys Quality Foods Limited (Third Party), Davigel Belgilux S.A., Davigel Espana S.A., Desert Meats & Provisions, Distagro, Doerle Food Service, Doughtie's Foods Inc., Dust Bowl City LLC, Eko Fagel Fisk o mittemellan AB, Enclave Insurance Company, Enclave Parkway Association Inc., Enclave Properties LLC, European Imports, European Imports Inc., Figg Inc., Freedman Meats, Freedman Meats Inc., Freedman-KB Inc., Fresh Direct (UK) Limited, Fresh Direct Group Limited, Fresh Direct Limited, Fresh Holdings Limited, FreshPoint, FreshPoint Arizona Inc., FreshPoint Atlanta Inc., FreshPoint California Inc., FreshPoint Central California Inc., FreshPoint Central Florida Inc., FreshPoint Connecticut LLC, FreshPoint Dallas Inc., FreshPoint Denver Inc., FreshPoint Hawaii LLC, FreshPoint Inc., FreshPoint Las Vegas Inc., FreshPoint North Carolina Inc., FreshPoint North Florida Inc., FreshPoint Oklahoma City LLC, FreshPoint Pompano Real Estate LLC, FreshPoint Puerto Rico LLC, FreshPoint San Francisco Inc., FreshPoint South Florida Inc., FreshPoint South Texas Inc., FreshPoint Southern California Inc., FreshPoint Tomato LLC, FreshPoint Vancouver Ltd., Freshfayre Limited, Fruktservice i Helsingborg AB, GHS Classic Drinks Limited, Gilchrist & Soames Inc., Gilchrist & Soames UK Limited, Guest Packaging LLC, Guest Supply, Guest Supply Asia Limited, Guest Supply Singapore Pte. Ltd., International Food Group, Isakssons Frukt & Gront AB, J & M Wholesale Meats, J. Kings Food Service Professionals, J. Kings Food Service Professionals Inc., Kent Frozen Foods, Les Ateliers Du Gout, Liquid Assets Limited, M&J Seafood Holdings Limited, M&J Seafood Limited, Manchester Mills LLC, Mayca Autoservicio S.A., Mayca Distribuidores S.A., Menigo Foodservice AB, Mitshim Etatu Supply LP, Newport Meat Company, Newport Meat Northern California Inc., Newport Meat Pacific Northwest Inc., Newport Meat Southern California Inc., Newport Meat of Nevada Inc., North Star Holding Corporation, North Star Seafood, North Star Seafood Acquisition Corporation, North Star Seafood LLC, PFS de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Palisades Ranch Inc., Pallas Foods, Pallas Foods Farm Fresh Unlimited Company, Pallas Foods Unlimited Company, Pauleys Produce Limited, Promotora del Servicios S.A. de C.V., Restaurangakdemien AB, Restaurant of Tomorrow Inc., Rohan Viandes Elaboration SAS, SMS Bermuda Holdings, SMS GPC International Limited, SMS GPC International Resources Limited, SMS Global Holdings S.a.r.l., SMS International Resources Ireland Unlimited Company, SMS Lux Holdings LLC, SOTF LLC, SYY Netherlands C.V., SYY Panama S. de R.L., Serca Foodservice, Servicestyckarna I Johannes AB, Servicios Ameriserve S.A. de C.V., Shenzhen Guest Supply Trading Co. Limited, Societe Civile Immobiliere (SCI) Bianchi Montegut, Societe Civile Immobiliere (SCI) De Boiseau, Societe Civile Immobiliere (SCI) De Garcelles, Societe Civile Immobiliere (SCI) J.D. Lanjouan, Societe Civile Immobiliere (SCI) Le Dauphin, Specialty Meat Holdings LLC, Stockflag Limited, Stockholms Fiskauktion AB, Supplies on the Fly, Sysco Albany LLC, Sysco Asian Foods Inc., Sysco Atlanta LLC, Sysco Autoservicio S.A., Sysco Baltimore LLC, Sysco Baraboo LLC, Sysco Bermuda Partners L.P., Sysco Boston LLC, Sysco Canada Holdings S.a.r.l., Sysco Canada Inc., Sysco Central Alabama LLC, Sysco Central California Inc., Sysco Central Florida Inc., Sysco Central Illinois Inc., Sysco Central Pennsylvania LLC, Sysco Charlotte LLC, Sysco Chicago Inc., Sysco Cincinnati LLC, Sysco Cleveland Inc., Sysco Columbia LLC, Sysco Connecticut LLC, Sysco Corporation, Sysco Corporation Director's Deferred Compensation Plan Trust, Sysco Corporation Employee's 401(k) Plan Trust, Sysco Corporation Executive Deferred Compensation Plan Trust, Sysco Corporation Good Government Committee Inc., Sysco Corporation Retirement Trust, Sysco Corporation Supplemental Executive Retirement Trust, Sysco Corporation Supplemental Unemployment Benefits Plan Trust, Sysco Detroit LLC, Sysco Disaster Relief Foundation Inc., Sysco EI VI S. s.r.l., Sysco EU II S.a.r.l., Sysco EU III S.a.r.l., Sysco EU IV Capital Unlimited Company, Sysco EU IV S. s.r.l.., Sysco EU V S. s.r.l., Sysco Eastern Maryland LLC, Sysco Eastern Wisconsin LLC, Sysco Foundation Inc., Sysco France Holding SAS, Sysco France SAS, Sysco George Town II LLC, Sysco George Town Limited S. s.r.l.., Sysco Global Finance LLC, Sysco Global Finance LLP, Sysco Global Holdings B.V., Sysco Global Resources LLC, Sysco Global Services LLC, Sysco Grand Cayman Company, Sysco Grand Cayman II Company, Sysco Grand Cayman III Company, Sysco Grand Rapids LLC, Sysco Guernsey Limited, Sysco Guest Supply Canada Inc., Sysco Guest Supply Europe Goods Wholesalers LLC, Sysco Guest Supply Europe Limited, Sysco Guest Supply LLC, Sysco Gulf Coast LLC, Sysco Hampton Roads Inc., Sysco Hawaii Inc., Sysco Holdings II LLC, Sysco Holdings LLC, Sysco Indianapolis LLC, Sysco International Food Group Inc., Sysco International Inc., Sysco Iowa Inc., Sysco Jackson LLC, Sysco Jacksonville Inc., Sysco Kansas City Inc., Sysco Knoxville LLC, Sysco Labs Europe Limited, Sysco Labs Pvt. Ltd., Sysco Leasing LLC, Sysco Lincoln Inc., Sysco Lincoln Transportation Company Inc., Sysco Long Island LLC, Sysco Los Angeles Inc., Sysco Louisville Inc., Sysco Memphis LLC, Sysco Merchandising and Supply Chain Services Canada Inc., Sysco Merchandising and Supply Chain Services Inc., Sysco Metro New York LLC, Sysco Minnesota Inc., Sysco Montana Inc., Sysco Nashville LLC, Sysco Netherlands Partners LLC, Sysco North Central Florida Inc., Sysco North Dakota Inc., Sysco Northern New England Inc., Sysco Philadelphia LLC, Sysco Pittsburgh LLC, Sysco Portland Inc., Sysco Raleigh LLC, Sysco Resources Services LLC, Sysco Riverside Inc., Sysco Sacramento Inc., Sysco San Diego Inc., Sysco San Francisco Inc., Sysco Seattle Inc., Sysco South Florida Inc., Sysco Southeast Florida LLC, Sysco Spain Holdings SLU, Sysco Spokane Inc., Sysco St. Louis LLC, Sysco Syracuse LLC, Sysco Technologies Cayman Ltd., Sysco Technologies LLC, Sysco UK Holdings Limited, Sysco UK Limited, Sysco UK Partners LLP, Sysco USA I Inc., Sysco USA II LLC, Sysco USA III LLC, Sysco Ventura Inc., Sysco Ventures Inc., Sysco Virginia LLC, Sysco West Coast Florida Inc., Sysco Western Minnesota Inc., The SYGMA Network Inc., Upsys, Victua SAS, Walker Foods Inc., Waugh Foods, and Wild Harvest Limited.The following companies are subsidiares of Archer-Daniels-Midland: ADM (Shanghai) Management Co. LTD, ADM (Thailand) Ltd, ADM Ag Holdings Ltd, ADM Agri-Industries Company, ADM Agriculture Limited, ADM Agro Iberica S. L. U., ADM Agro Indust Latur and Vizag Pvt Ltd, ADM Agro Industries India Private Limited, ADM Agro Industries KOTA and AKOLA Pvt. Ltd., ADM Agro SRL, ADM Agroinvestimentos LTDA, ADM Alliance Nutrition of Puerto Rico LLC, ADM Americas S de RL, ADM Andina Peru SRL, ADM Antwerp NV, ADM Arkady Ireland Limited, ADM Asia-Pacific Trading Pte. Ltd., ADM Australia Holdings I PTY Limited, ADM Bio Science And Technology (Tianjin) Co Ltd, ADM Bioproductos SA DE CV, ADM CZERNIN SA, ADM Caribbean Inc, ADM Chile Comercial LTDA, ADM Clinton Bioprocessing Inc, ADM DO Brasil LTDA, ADM Direct Polska SP. ZO.O, ADM Dominican Holdings Inc., ADM Dominicana SA, ADM Edible Bean Specialties Inc, ADM Europe HoldCo SL, ADM European Holdings LLC, ADM European Management Holding GMBH, ADM Export Co, ADM Food Technology (Beijing) Co. Ltd., ADM France, ADM Germany GmbH, ADM Grain River System Inc., ADM Hamburg Aktiengesesllschaft, ADM Holding (Thailand) LTD, ADM Holdings LLC, ADM Hungary Agro Trading LLC, ADM Industries Centers Ltd, ADM International Holdings Inc, ADM International SARL, ADM Interoceanic LTD, ADM Investments LTD, ADM Investor Services Inc, ADM Investor Services International LTD, ADM Ireland Receivables Company Limited, ADM Israel, ADM Japan Ltd, ADM MALBORK SA, ADM Mainz GMBH, ADM Medsofts Sarl, ADM Mexico Inc, ADM Mexico SA DE CV, ADM Milling Co, ADM Milling LTD, ADM New Zealand Limited, ADM Olomouc S.R.O., ADM Paraguay SRL, ADM Protexin Limited, ADM Pura Limited, ADM Receivables LLC, ADM Rice Inc, ADM Ringaskiddy Unlimited Company, ADM Romania Logistics SRL, ADM Romania Trading SRL, ADM Specialty Ingredients - Europe BV, ADM Spyck GMBH, ADM Szamotuly SP Z O.O, ADM Trading Australia Pty. Ltd., ADM Trading Co, ADM Transportation Company, ADM Trucking Inc, ADM Vietnam CO. LTD, ADM WILD Europe GmbH and Co. 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LTD., Vantage Corn Processors LLC, WILD Amazon Flavors Ltda, WILD Flavors, Wild Flavors Inc., Wild Flavors International GmbH, Wild Flavors Singapore Pte. Ltd., Wild Intermare GmbH, Wild Russia LLC, and Wisium SA (PTY) LTD.Kew Media Group Inc. operates as a content company worldwide. The company operates in two segments, Production and Distribution. It develops, produces, and distributes a range of genres comprising drama, comedy, documentary, crime, home improvement, paranormal, and entertainment. The company also offers fiction and non-fiction content from a range of third-party producers and suppliers. In addition, it publishes music, as well as manages content library. Kew Media Group Inc. was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

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Imagine you want to book a trip which includes a car, hotel, and a flight. If something cannot be booked, why would you bother going? If we would build this in Scala it would probably involve calling some external API's. These API's can go down, what happens if one of these API's is down?

You could use recover to execute a compensating action (an action which reverses the side-effect), but it will only work with one action. Of course, you could apply this to all your actions, but this will get messy because you need to keep track of your compensating actions.

How to describe that nicely?

To describe a program that can handle failure you need to couple the outcome of a successful action to it's compensating action.

A short example of a Saga program

import cats.effect.IO import cats.implicits._ import cats.effect.concurrent.Ref import goedverhaal._ import scala.util.control.NonFatal def prg(ref: Ref[IO, Int]): Saga[IO, Unit] = for { _ <- Saga.recoverable(ref.tryUpdate(_ + 1))(_ => ref.tryUpdate(_ - 1) *> IO.unit).replicateA(500) _ <- Saga.recoverable(ref.tryUpdate(_ + 1))(_ => ref.tryUpdate(_ - 1) *> IO.unit).replicateA(500) _ <- Saga.nonRecoverable[IO, Nothing](IO.raiseError(new Throwable("Error"))) } yield () def main: IO[Int] = for { ref <- Ref.of[IO, Int](0) _ <- prg(ref).run.recoverWith { case NonFatal(_) => IO.unit } current <- ref.get } yield current

The outcome of the main function will be zero, as the prg will crash at the end. The first action will increase the Ref[IO, Int] to 500 and the second action by another 500, but since it crashes the compensating actions will roll it back to 0.

The importance of lazy evaluation

The compensating action needs to be description of an action. A description means, that's it is not executed immediately (lazy evaluation) and it may be a side-effect. This is called a computation in functional programming. The opposite of lazy evaluation is eager evaluation. An example of a type which is eager is Future and Try .

Couple success with compensation

In my Saga the signature of the a recoverable combinator is defined as:

def recoverable[F[_] : Sync, A](comp: F[A])(rollback: A => F[Unit]): Saga[F, A]

The type class Sync constrain on F[_] is to enforce a type which supports lazy evaluation. The thing we need for our description of a Saga . The function itself takes two arguments, an actual comp (short for computation) which is the do action, and the rollback which uses the outcome of the do action to construct a rollback/compensating action.

Saga, a specialized Free Monad

As you can it returns a Saga[F, A] . A Saga itself is a description of several computations. In fact it's a slightly altered variant of a Free Monad:

case class Pure[F[_], A](action: A) extends Saga[F, A] case class Next[F[_], A](action: F[A], compensate: A => F[Unit]) extends Saga[F, A] case class Bind[F[_], A, B](fa: Saga[F, A], f: A => Saga[F, B]) extends Saga[F, B]

The Pure and Bind are descriptions of operations that you'll find on a Monad as well. The Next case, however, is not. This will store the parameters of the recoverable method as is for later evaluation.

This data is interpreted by the decide method on Saga , which looks like this:

def decide[B](f: (A, List[F[Unit]]) => F[B]): F[B]

It will fold the description of computations as described in the Saga data type to a F[B] . If anything fails (due a Sync.onError ) it will execute the compensating actions accumulated so far. If it succeeds, it will execute the f: (A, List[F[Unit]] => F[B] function. This function lets you decide what to do with the outcome of the computation. This is useful when you work with an EitherT or OptionT . The outcome may be None or Left . In that case, you might want to rollback all the actions.

You can also use the run variant on Saga which uses the decide

def run: F[A] = decide { case (a, _) => F.pure(a) }

Conclusion

As you can see Saga is a useful tool when interacting with multiple API's which are crossing an asynchronous boundary and might not offer transactional guarantees. It might not be the best solution, but in a lot of cases you don't have a better choice I guess (welcome to the microservice/API era)!

If you want to have a closer look at how that's done or have feedback. Have a look at the source code on Github

Happy hacking!Power Financial Corporation provides financial services in Canada, the United States, Europe, and Asia. It offers life, disability, critical illness, and health insurance products, as well as wealth savings and income products, and specialty products. The company also provides financial products, including employer-sponsored defined contribution plans, individual retirement accounts, enrollment services, communication materials, investment options and education services, fund management services, and investment and advisory services. In addition, it offers protection and wealth management products, such as payout annuity products; reinsurance products; and sub-advisory services. Further, the company provides mutual funds, pooled funds, segregated funds, separate accounts, and other investment vehicles; securities, mortgages, and other financial services; and investment management services. It offers its products primarily through distribution network of third-party financial advisors, consultants, and independent financial advisors. The company was founded in 1984 and is based in Montreal, Canada. Power Financial Corporation is a subsidiary of Power Corporation of Canada.

Read More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. Bhd., Fameccanica Data S.p.A., Fameccanica Industria e Comercio Do Brasil LTDA., Fameccanica Machinery (Shanghai) Co., Fater S.p.A., Fountain Square Music Publishing Co., Gillette (China) Ltd., Gillette (Shanghai) Ltd., Gillette Aesop Ltd., Gillette Australia Pty. Ltd., Gillette Canada Holdings, Gillette Commercial Operations North America, Gillette Diversified Operations Pvt. Ltd., Gillette Egypt S.A.E., Gillette Group UK Ltd, Gillette Gruppe Deutschland GmbH & Co. oHG, Gillette Holding Company LLC, Gillette Holding GmbH, Gillette India Limited, Gillette Industries Ltd., Gillette International B.V., Gillette Latin America Holding B.V., Gillette Management LLC, Gillette Nova Scotia Company, Gillette Pakistan Limited, Gillette Poland International Sp. z.o.o., Gillette Poland S.A., Gillette U.K. Limited, Gillette del Uruguay, Giorgio Beverly Hills Inc., Hyginett KFT, Industries Marocaines Modernes SA, LLC "Procter & Gamble Novomoskovsk", LLL "Procter & Gamble Distributorskaya Compania", Laboratorios Vicks, Liberty Street Music Publishing Company, Limited Liability Company 'Procter & Gamble Trading Ukraine', Limited Liability Company with foreign investments Procter & and Gamble Ukraine, MDVIP, MERCK KGAA NPV, Marcvenca Inversiones, Modern Industries Company - Dammam, Modern Products Company - Jeddah, New Chapter, New Chapter Canada Inc., Olay LLC, Oral-B Laboratories, P&G Distribution Morocco SAS, P&G Hair Care Holding, P&G Industrial Peru S.R.L., P&G Innovation Godo Kaisha, P&G Israel M.D.O. 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 Accenture: 2nd Road, 2nd Road Pty Ltd., ?What If!, ?What If! China Holdings Ltd, ?What If! Holdings Limited, ?What If! Innovation Singapore Holdings Pte, ?What If! Limited, ?What If! Shanghai Co. Ltd, ?What If! USA LLC, ACN Consulting Co Ltd, AD Dialeto Agencia de Publicidade SA, AD.Dialeto (Digital Agency acquired by Accenture), AGS Business and Technology Services Limited, ASM Research Inc., ASM Research LLC, ATAN, Accenture (Beijing) Mobile Technology Co Ltd, Accenture (Botswana) (Proprietary) Limited, Accenture (China) Co Ltd, Accenture (Shenzhen) Technology Co. Ltd., Accenture (South Africa) (Proprietary) Limited, Accenture (South Africa) Pty Limited, Accenture (UK) Ltd, Accenture 2 Business Process Services S.A., Accenture 2 LLC, Accenture A/S, Accenture AB, Accenture AG, Accenture AS, Accenture Africa Pty Ltd, Accenture Australia Holding B.V., Accenture Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, Accenture Australia Pty Ltd, Accenture Azerbaijan Ltd, Accenture BPM Operations Support Services S.A., Accenture BPM S.C.R.L., Accenture BV, Accenture Branch Holdings B.V., Accenture Bulgaria EOOD, Accenture Business Services for Utilities Inc, Accenture Business Services of British Columbia Limited Partnership, Accenture Business and Technology Services LLC, Accenture C.A, Accenture CAS GmbH, Accenture Canada Holdings Inc., Accenture Capital DAC, Accenture Capital Inc, Accenture Central Europe B.V., Accenture Chile Asesorias y Servicios Ltda, Accenture Cloud Services GmbH, Accenture Cloud Software Solutions Ltd, Accenture Cloud Solutions Australia Pty Ltd, Accenture Cloud Solutions LLC, Accenture Cloud Solutions Ltd, Accenture Cloud Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Co Ltd, Accenture Co Ltd., Accenture Communications Infrastructure Solutions Ltd, Accenture Company Ltd, Accenture Consulting Services Ltd Tanzania, Accenture Consultores de Gestao S.A., Accenture Consultoria de Industria e Consumo Ltda, Accenture Consultoria de Recursos Naturais Ltda, Accenture Credit Services LLC, Accenture Customer Services Distribution SAS, Accenture Customer Services Limited, Accenture Danismanlik Limited Sirketi, Accenture Defined Benefit Pension Plan Trustees Ltd, Accenture Defined Contribution Pension Plan Trustees Ltd, Accenture Delivery Poland sp. z o.o., Accenture Dienstleistungen GmbH, Accenture Digital France Holdings SA, Accenture Digital Holdings GmbH, Accenture East Africa Limited, Accenture Ecuador S.A., Accenture Egypt LLC, Accenture Enterprise Development (Shanghai) Co Ltd., Accenture Federal Services LLC, Accenture Finance (Gibraltar) III Ltd, Accenture Finance GmbH, Accenture Finance GmbH in liquidation, Accenture Finance II GmbH, Accenture Finance II GmbH in liquidation, Accenture Finance II Ltd, Accenture Finance Limited, Accenture Finance and Accounting BPO Services S.p.A., Accenture Finance and Accounting Services Srl, Accenture Flex LLC, Accenture GP LLC, Accenture Ghana Limited, Accenture Global Holdings Ltd., Accenture Global Services Ltd, Accenture Global Solutions Ltd, Accenture GmbH, Accenture HR Services Ltd, Accenture HR Services S.p.A., Accenture Healthcare Processing Inc., Accenture Holding GmbH, Accenture Holding GmbH & Co. KG, Accenture Holding GmbH in liquidation, Accenture Holdings (Iberia) S.L., Accenture Holdings B.V., Accenture Holdings France SAS, Accenture Holdings plc, Accenture Hungary Holdings Kft, Accenture Inc, Accenture Industrial Software Limited Liability Company (Accenture Endustriyel Yazylym Cozumleri Limited irketi), Accenture Industrial Software Limited Liability Company (Accenture Endustriyel Yazlm Cozumleri Limited Sirketi), Accenture Industrial Software Solutions Kft, Accenture Industrial Software Solutions SA, Accenture Insurance Services LLC, Accenture Insurance Services SAS, Accenture Insurance Services SpA, Accenture International BV, Accenture International Capital SCA, Accenture International LLC, Accenture International Limited, Accenture International Sarl, Accenture Japan Ltd, Accenture Korea BV, Accenture LLC, Accenture LLP, Accenture Lanka (Private) Ltd, Accenture Limited, Accenture Ltd, Accenture Ltda, Accenture Maghreb S.a.r.l., Accenture Managed Services SRL, Accenture Managed Services SpA, Accenture Management GmbH, Accenture Middle East B.V, Accenture Middle East BV, Accenture Minority I BV, Accenture Minority III Ltd, Accenture Mozambique Limitada, Accenture Mzansi (Pty) Ltd, Accenture NV/SA, Accenture NZ Limited, Accenture Newco LLC, Accenture Nova Scotia Unlimited Liability Co., Accenture OOO, Accenture Operations Sp. z o.o., Accenture Outsourcing SRL, Accenture Outsourcing Services, Accenture Outsourcing Services S.A., Accenture Oy, Accenture Panama Inc, Accenture Participations BV, Accenture Participations II Limited, Accenture Peru S.R.L, Accenture Peru S.R.L., Accenture Post Trade Processing SAS, Accenture Post-Trade Processing Limited, Accenture Process Ltd, Accenture Product Lifecycle Services, Accenture Properties, Accenture Pte Ltd, Accenture Puerto Rico LLC, Accenture S.A., Accenture S.C., Accenture S.L., Accenture S.R.L., Accenture SAS, Accenture SG Services Pte Ltd, Accenture SRL, Accenture Saudi Arabia Limited, Accenture Sendirian Berhad, Accenture Service Center SRL, Accenture Services (Mauritius) Ltd, Accenture Services AB, Accenture Services AG, Accenture Services AS, Accenture Services GmbH, Accenture Services Ltd, Accenture Services Morocco SA, Accenture Services Oy, Accenture Services Pty Ltd, Accenture Services S.r.l., Accenture Services SRL, Accenture Services Sp. z o.o., Accenture Services Sp. z.o.o., Accenture Services and Technology Srl, Accenture Services fur Kreditinstitute GmbH, Accenture Services s.r.o., Accenture Servicos Administrativos Ltda, Accenture Servicos de Suporte de Negocios Ltda, Accenture Solutions Co Ltd, Accenture Solutions Private Limited, Accenture Solutions Pte Ltd, Accenture Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Solutions Sdn Bhd, Accenture Sp. z o.o., Accenture Sp. z.o.o., Accenture SpA, Accenture State Healthcare Services LLC, Accenture Sub II Inc., Accenture Sub Inc, Accenture Sub LLC, Accenture Systems Integration Limited, Accenture Sarl, Accenture Tanacsado Kolatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Accenture Tanacsado Kolatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag KFT, Accenture Technologia, Accenture Technologia Consultoria e Outsourcing S.A., Accenture Technology Infrastructure Services Pty Ltd, Accenture Technology Solutions (Dalian) Co Ltd, Accenture Technology Solutions (HK) Co. Ltd., Accenture Technology Solutions (Thailand) Co. Ltd, Accenture Technology Solutions - Solucoes Informaticas Integradas, Accenture Technology Solutions - Solucoes Informaticas Integradas S.A., Accenture Technology Solutions GmbH, Accenture Technology Solutions Oy, Accenture Technology Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Technology Solutions S.A. de C.V., Accenture Technology Solutions SAS, Accenture Technology Solutions SRL, Accenture Technology Solutions Sdn. Bhd., Accenture Technology Solutions Slovakia s.r.o., Accenture Technology Ventures BV, Accenture Technology Ventures S.P.R.L., Accenture Uruguay SRL, Accenture Vietnam Co., Accenture Vietnam Co. LTD, Accenture Zambia Limited, Accenture do Brasil Limitada, Accenture plc, Accenture s.r.o., Acceria, Acquity Customer Insight Limited, Acquity Group, Adaptly LLC, Adaptly UK Limited, AddVal Technology, Adqptly, Advantium Inc., Agave Consultants Limited, Agilex Technologies Inc., Allen International, Allen International Consulting Group Ltd, Alnova Technologies Corporation S.L., AlphaBeta Advisors, Altima, Altima Asia Ltd., Altima SAS, Altitude, Altitude LLC, Analytics 8 LP, Analytics 8 Pty Ltd, Analytics8, Aorui Advertising (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Apis, Appaloosa Technology SAS, Arca, Ariba - BPO, Arismore, Aspiro Solutions (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Avanade, Avanade (Guangzhou) Computer Technology Development Co. Ltd., Avanade (Thailand) Co Ltd, Avanade Asia Pte Ltd, Avanade Australia Pty Ltd, Avanade Belgium SPRL, Avanade Canada Inc., Avanade Denmark A/S, Avanade Denmark ApS, Avanade Deutschland GmbH, Avanade Europe Holdings Ltd, Avanade Europe Services Ltd, Avanade Federal Services LLC, Avanade Finland Oy, Avanade France SAS, Avanade GZ Computer Technology Development Co. Ltd. (SH), Avanade Guangzhou, Avanade Holdings LLC, Avanade Hong Kong Ltd, Avanade International Corporation, Avanade Ireland Limited, Avanade Italy SRL, Avanade KK, Avanade Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Avanade Netherlands BV, Avanade Norway AS, Avanade Poland Sp. z o.o., Avanade Poland Sp. z.o.o., Avanade Schweiz GmbH, Avanade South Africa, Avanade South Africa Pty Ltd, Avanade Spain SL, Avanade Sweden AB, Avanade UK Ltd, Avanade do Brasil Limitada, Avanade Osterreich GmbH, AvantBiz Consulting Limited, Avenai, Axia Ltd., BABCN LLC, BCT Solutions, BCT Solutions Pty Ltd, BPO Servicos Administrativos Ltda, BRIDGE Energy Group, Beacon Consulting Group Inc., Beijing Genesis Interactive Technology Co. Ltd., Benext, Bionic, Blue Horseshoe, Boomerang Pharmaceutical Communications, Boomerang Pharmaceuticals Communications Ireland Limited, Bow & Arrow, Brand Learning, Brand Learning Group Limited, Brand Learning LLC, Brand Learning Ltd, Brand Learning Partners Limited, Brand Learning Pte Limited, Bridge Energy Group LLC, Brightstep AB, Byte Prophecy, CAS, CRMWaypoint, CadenceQuest Inc., Capable Marketer Limited, Capgemini - North American health practice, Capital Consultancy Services Inc., Certus Solutions Consulting Services Ltd, Certus Solutions Ltd, ChangeTrack Research Pty Ltd., Chaotic Moon Studios, Chengdu Mensa Advertising Co. Ltd., Cimation, Cimation UK Limited, Cirruseo, Cirruseo SAS, Clarity Insights, Clearhead, Clearhead Group, Clearhead Group LLC, ClientHouse GmbH, Cloud Sherpas, Cloud Sherpas (GA) LLC, Cloud Sherpas (SN) (PTE.) Limited, Cloud Sherpas New Zealand Ltd., Cloud Talent Limited, Cloudsherpas, Cloudsherpas Inc., Cloudworks, Codagenic Pty. Ltd., Computer Research and Telecommunications LLC, Concrete Desenvolvimento de Sistemas Ltda., Concrete Solutions, Concrete Solutions Ltda., Context Information Security, Coritel S.A., Corliant Inc., CreativeDrive, CustomerWorks Europe SL, Cutting Edge Solutions Ltd, D5 Global Holdings LLC, DAZ Systems Inc, DAZ Systems LLC, DAZSI Systems (India) Pvt. Ltd., DMA Solutions Limited, Davies Consulting, DayNine Consulting, DayNine Consulting (Australia) PTY LTD, DayNine Consulting (Deutschland) GmbH, DayNine Consulting (New Zealand) Limited, DayNine Consulting France SAS, DayNine Consulting Japan K.K., DayNine Consulting LLC, Declarative Holdings, Declarative Holdings LLC, Defense Point Security, Deja vu Security, Design Strategy and Research de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Designaffairs LLC, Digiplug S.A.S., Digiplug SAS, Digital Consulting & Software Services LLC, Droga5, Droga5 LLC, Droga5 Studios LLC, Droga5 UK Ltd., Duck Creek Technologies, Duck Creek Technologies LLC, Deja Vu Security LLC, ESR Labs, Elcurator SAS, Enaxis Consulting, Enaxis Consulting L.P., End-to-End Analytics, Energuia Web, Energuia Web S.A., Energy Management Brokers Ltd., Energy Quote Private Ltd., EnergyQuote JHA, EnergyQuote JHA Ltd., EnergyQuote Trading Ltd., Enimbos, Enkitec, Enterprise System Partners, Enterprise System Partners B.V. , Enterprise System Partners Bilisim Danismanlik Ticaret Anonim Sirketi, Enterprise System Partners Global Corporation, Enterprise System Partners Limited, Enterprise System Partners PR LLC, Enterprise System Partners S.A.S., Entropia, Epylon, Ethica Consulting Group, Evopro Group, Exactside Limited, Exton Consulting, Fairway Technologies Inc, Fairway Technologies LLC, Filmproduction ApS, First Annapolis Consulting, First Annapolis Consulting Inc., First Annapolis Consulting LLC, First Annapolis International, Fjord, Focus Group Europe, Focus Group Europe Limited, Formicary, Formicary Holdings Limited, Formicary Limited, FusionX, FutureMove Automotive, Gapso Servicos de Informatica Ltda., Genfour, Genfour Limited, George Group Consulting L.P., Gestalt LLC, Gestion Altima Canada Inc., Gevity, Global Public Firm S.L., GlobalView SAS, GoodFilm GmbH Filmproduktion Stuttgart, H.B. Maynard and Co. Inc., HRC Retail Advisory, Hagberg Consulting Group, Hangzhou Aiyunzhe Technology Co. Ltd., Happen, Hjaltelin Stahl, Hjaltelin Stahl K/S, Hytracc Consulting AS, Hytracc Consulting Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Hytracc Consulting UK Limited, Hytracc Holding AS, I-Faber S.p.A., IBB Consulting, IMJ Corp, IMJ Corporation, INCAD, INSITUM, IT One Company Limited, ITBS Servicios Bancarios de Tecnologia de la Informacion SL, Icon Integration, Imagine Broadband (USA) Ltd, Imagine Broadband USA LLC, Imaginea Inc, Industrie&Co, Infoman AG, Infoman Schweiz AG, Informatica de Euskadi S.L., Infusion Development Inc., Infusion Development UK Limited, InfusionDev LLC, Innoveer Solutions India Pvt Ltd, Insitum Consultoria Argentina SRL, Insitum Consultoria Brasil LTDA, Insitum Consultoria Colombia SAS, Insitum Consultoria Europa SL, Insitum Consultoria Peru SAC, Insitum Consultoria S.A. de C.V., Intrepid, Intrigo Systems Inc, Intrigo Systems India Pvt. Limited, Intrigo Systems LLC, Inventor Advertisement (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Inventor Technology Limited, InvestTech, Investtech Systems Consulting LLC, Javelin Group, Javelin Group (Bulgaria) EOOD, Javelin Group Limited (UK), Javelin Group SASU, K Comms Group Limited, KCS.net AG, KCS.net AG West, KCS.net Deutschland GmbH, KCS.net Holding AG, KCS.net Osterreich GmbH, Kaper Communications Limited, Karma Communications Debtco Limited, Karma Communications Group Limited, Karma Communications Holdings Limited, Karmarama, Karmarama Comms Limited, Karmarama Limited, Knowledge Rules Inc., Knowledgent, Knowledgent Group LLC, Kogentix, Kogentix LLC, Kogentix Ltd, Kogentix Singapore Pte. Ltd, Kogentix Technologies Private Limited, Kolle Rebbe, Kolle Rebbe GmbH, Kream Comms Limited, Kunstmaan, Kunstmaan NV, Kurt Salmon, Kurt Salmon Canada LTD, Kurt Salmon UKI, Kurt Salmon UKI Ltd., Kurt Salmon US LLC, LEXTA, LINKBYNET, LabAnswer, LabAnswer Government, LemonXL Limited, Logistics Market Place Limited (UK), Loud & Clear Creative Pty Ltd, MAXIM Systems Inc., MCG US Holdings LLC, Mackevision CG Technology and Service (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Mackevision Corporation, Mackevision Japan Co. Ltd., Mackevision Korea Ltd, Mackevision Medien Design, Mackevision Medien Design GmbH, Mackevision Singapore Pte. Ltd., Mackevision UK Ltd, Maglan, Maglan Information Defense Technologies Research Ltd., Maihiro, Matter, Matter Llc, Maud Corp Pty Limited, Maxamine International, Media Audits Ltd., Media Hive, Mediasenz Pty Ltd., Meredith Specialty LLC, Meredith Xcelerated Marketing, Meredith Xcelerated Marketing Corporation, Meridian Informed Purchasing Ltd., Mindtribe, Mindtribe Product Engineering LLC, MobGen, MobGen Technology S.L, Moonrise NV, Mortgage Cadence, Mortgage Cadence an Accenture Company, Most Champion Ltd, Mudano, N3 LLC, NBS Marketing Inc., NYTEC, Nanjing Demeng Advertising Co. Ltd., Nashco Consulting, NaviSys Inc., NellArmonia, Neo Metrics Analytics S.L., Neo Metrics Chile, Neo Metrics Chile S.A., New Content, New Content Chile SpA, New Content Editora e Produtora Ltda., New Energy Aborda, New Energy Associates Ltd, New Energy Group, New Energy S.r.l., NewsPage, NewsPage (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, NewsPage China Ltd., NewsPage Pte Ltd, Nice Agency Limited, Northstream, Northstream AB, Northstream Holding AB, OCTO Technology, OPS Rules Management Consultants, Octagon Research Solutions Inc., Octo Technology LTDA, Octo Technology Pty Ltd, Octo Technology SA, Octo Technology SPRL, Octoman SAS, Odgaard ApS, Olikka, Openmind, Openminded, Operaciones Accenture S.A. de C.V., OpusLine, Orbium, Orbium Consulting Ltd, Orbium GmbH, Orbium Holding AG, Orbium Inc., Orbium International AG, Orbium International sp. z o.o., Orbium Licences AG, Orbium Limited, Orbium Pte. Ltd., Orbium Pty Ltd, Orbium Services sp. z o.o., Orbium Sarl, Origin Digital, PCO Innovation, PCO Innovation Canada Inc., PCO Innovation EURL, PIXO PUNCH Limited, PLM Systems S.r.l, POC Holdings, PRION GmbH, PT Accenture, PT Asta Catur Indra, PT Kogentix Teknologi Indonesia, Pach Invest SARL, Pach Invest SAS, PacificLink Group, PacificLink iMedia Ltd., Paja Finanssipalvelut Oy, Parker Fitzgerald Inc, Parker Fitzgerald Inc., Parker Fitzgerald International Limited, Parker Fitzgerald Limited, Parker Fitzgerald PTY Ltd, Parker Fitzgerald Services Limited, Parker Fitzgerald Solutions Limited, Partners Technology Mexico Holdings BV, Pecaso Ltd., Pegasus Production K/S, Perseroan Terbatas. Accenture, Phase One Consulting Group, Pillar Technology, Pollux, Pragsis Bidoop, Pragsis Bidoop UK Ltd, Pragsis Technologies S.L, PrimeQ, PrimeQ Australia Pty Ltd, PrimeQ Ltd, PrimeQ NZ Pty Ltd, Procurian Germany GmbH, Procurian Inc., Procurian International I LLC, Procurian International II LLC, Procurian LLC, Procurian Singapore Pte. Ltd., Procurian Switzerland GmbH, Procurian USA LLC, Proquire LLC, PureApps Ltd., Qi Jie Beijing Information Technologies Co Ltd, Radiant Services, Radiant Services LLC, Random Walk Computing Inc., Reactive Media Limited, Reactive Media Pty Ltd., Real Protect, Realworld OO Systems Ltd., Redcore, Redcore (Asia) Pte Ltd, Redcore (India) Private Limited (India), Redcore (New Zealand) Limited, Redcore Group Holdings Pty Ltd, Redcore Pty Ltd, Renacentis IT Services, Revolutionary Security, RiskControl, Rothco, Rothco Holdings Designated Activity Company, Rothco Unlimited Company, S.C. EnergyQuote S.r.l., S3 TV Technology Limited, S3 TV Technology Ltd., SEC Servizi, SEC Servizi S.p.A., SOPIA Corp., Sagacious Consultants, Sagacious Consultants LLC, Salt Solutions, Sanchez Capital Services Pvt Ltd, Schlumberger Business Consulting, Seabury Airline Planning Group, Seabury Aviation & Aerospace (UK) Limited, Seabury Aviation & Aerospace Asia (Hong Kong) Limited, Seabury Aviation Consulting LLC, Seabury Cargo Advisory B.V., Seabury Consulting, Seabury Corporate Advisors LLC, Seabury Human Capital LLC, Seabury Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Seabury Structured Finance LLC, Search Technologies BPO, Search Technologies BPO Inc., Search Technologies GmbH, Search Technologies International LLC, Search Technologies LATAM, Search Technologies LATAM S.A., Search Technologies LLC, Search Technologies Limited, Sente Partners LLC, Sentelis, Servicios Tecnicos de Programacion Accenture S.C., Shackleton, Shackleton Barcelona S.L., Shackleton Chile S.A., Shackleton Madrid S.L., Shackleton S.A., Shanghai Baiyue Advertising Co. Ltd., Shun Zhe Technology Development Co. Ltd., Silveo, Simian Pty Limited, SinnerSchrader AG, SinnerSchrader Commerce GmbH, SinnerSchrader Content GmbH, SinnerSchrader Deutschland GmbH, SinnerSchrader Praha s.r.o., SinnerSchrader Swipe GmbH, Sinnerschrader, Sistemes Consulting S.L., Solutions IQ, Solutions IQ LLC, SolutionsIQ, SolutionsIQ India Consulting Services Private Limited, Storm Digital, Storm Digital B.V., Structure Consulting Group, Structure Consulting Group LLC, Sutter Mills, Systor AG, TQuila Limited (UK), Tadata Creative Unlimited Company, Tara Insurance DAC, Tara Risk DAC, TargetST8, TargetST8 Consulting LLC, Tech - Avanade Portugal Unipessoal Lda, Tecnilogica Ecosistemas S.A., Tecnilogica Ltd., Tecnilogica, The Brand Learning Partners Limited, The Callisto Integration Corporation, The Monkeys, The Monkeys Pty Limited, The Myrtle Group, Total Logistics, Total Logistics Supply Chain Consultants Limited, Tquila, Trivadis AG, Troop Studios Pty Ltd, VanBerlo, Verax Solutions, Verax Solutions Corporation, Vertical Retail Consulting (Shanghai) Ltd., Vertical Retail Consulting Hong Kong, Vertical Retail Consulting Hong Kong Ltd., Vertical Retail Consulting Ltd., Vivere Brasil Servicos e Solucoes SA, Vivere Brasil Solucoes De Credito Ltda., Wabion GmbH, Weblinc Pty Ltd, Wire Stone, Wire Stone LLC, Wire Stone Sarl, Wolox, Workforce Insight Inc, Yesler, Zag, Zenta, Zenta Global Philippines, Zenta Global Philippines Inc., Zenta Mortgage Services LLC, Zenta Recoveries Inc, Zenta US Holdings Inc., Zielpuls, Zielpuls (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Zielpuls GmbH, avVenta, designaffairs, designaffairs Business Consulting (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., designaffairs GmbH, designaffairs group China Co. Ltd., dgroup, i4C Analytics, iDefense, and solid-serVision.com GmbH.ICICI Bank Ltd. engages in the provision of banking and financial services, which includes retail banking, corporate banking, and treasury operations. It operates through the following segments: Retail Banking, Wholesale Banking, Treasury, Other Banking, Life Insurance, General Insurance, and Others. The Retail Banking segment includes exposures of the bank, which satisfy the four qualifying criteria of regulatory retail portfolio as stipulated by the Reserve Bank of India guidelines on the Basel III framework. The Wholesale Banking segment deals with all advances to trusts, partnership firms, companies, and statutory bodies, by the Bank which are not included in the Retail Banking segment. The Treasury segment handles the entire investment portfolio of the bank. The Other Banking segment comprises leasing operations and other items not attributable to any particular business segment of the bank. The company was founded on January 5, 1994 and is headquartered in Mumbai, India.

Read MoreWall Street analysts have given Paragon Shipping 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 Paragon Shipping 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 Teledyne Technologies: Alia Corporation Inc, Bolt Technology Corp, Bowtech Products, CARIS, CDL do Brasil Equipamentos e Servicos Submarinos Sociedade Empresaria Ltda., CETAC Technologies, DALSA, Demo Systems, Detcon Holdco Inc., Ensambles de Precision S.A. de C.V., Falcon Analytical, Frontline Test Equipment, GMI Group Holdings Limited, Hafmynd ehf, Hanson Research Corp, IST Oldham Instruments India Private Limited, Industrial Control Machines, Intelek, Intelek Limited, Intelek Pension Trustees Limited, Intelek Properties Limited, LeCroy (Beijing) Trading Co. Ltd., LeCroy Corporation, Lidar Aviation Services Inc., Maple Imaging LLC, Micralyne Inc, Ocean Design Ltda., Oldham Instrument (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Oldham Simtronics SAS, Oldham-Winter GmbH, PDM Neptec, Reynolds Industries Limited, Rhombi Canada LP, Rhombi Holdings Limited, Rhombi Netherlands B.V., Rockwell Scientific Company, Simtronics AS, TDY Jersey Limited, Teledyne Advanced Pollution Instrumentation, Teledyne Australia Pty Ltd, Teledyne BlueView, Teledyne Bogatin Enterprises LLC, Teledyne Bowtech Limited, Teledyne Brown Engineering Inc., Teledyne C.M.L. Group Limited, Teledyne CARIS B.V., Teledyne CARIS Inc., Teledyne CARIS UK Ltd., Teledyne CARIS USA Inc., Teledyne CDL Inc., Teledyne CDL Limited, Teledyne Catalyst Enterprises Inc., Teledyne Computer Access Technology Corporation, Teledyne Controls LLC, Teledyne Cougar, Teledyne Czech s.r.o., Teledyne DALSA (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., Teledyne DALSA Asia-Pacific Ltd., Teledyne DALSA B.V., Teledyne DALSA GmbH, Teledyne DALSA Inc., Teledyne DALSA Industrial Products Inc., Teledyne DALSA K.K., Teledyne DALSA Semiconductor Inc., Teledyne Dalsa, Teledyne Defense Electronics LLC, Teledyne Denmark A/S, Teledyne Detcon Inc., Teledyne Digital Imaging Inc., Teledyne Digital Imaging US Inc., Teledyne Energy Systems Inc., Teledyne Europe Holdings C.V., Teledyne France, Teledyne France SAS, Teledyne Gas Measurement Instruments Limited, Teledyne Gavia ehf., Teledyne Germany GmbH, Teledyne Hanson Research Inc., Teledyne ICM SA, Teledyne ICM SPRL, Teledyne Innovaciones Microelectronics S.L.U., Teledyne Instruments Inc., Teledyne Instruments Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Teledyne Japan Corporation, Teledyne Korea Ltd., Teledyne Labtech Limited, Teledyne LeCroy AB, Teledyne LeCroy Delaware LLC, Teledyne LeCroy GmbH, Teledyne LeCroy Inc., Teledyne LeCroy India Trading Private Ltd., Teledyne LeCroy Japan Corporation, Teledyne LeCroy Korea Ltd., Teledyne LeCroy OakGate Inc., Teledyne LeCroy S.A.R.L., Teledyne LeCroy S.R.L., Teledyne LeCroy SA, Teledyne LeCroy Singapore Pte. Ltd., Teledyne Limited, Teledyne Micralyne Inc., Teledyne Monitor Labs, Teledyne Monitor Labs P.R. Inc., Teledyne Netherlands B.V., Teledyne ODI, Teledyne Optech Inc., Teledyne Paradise Datacom Limited, Teledyne RD Instruments, Teledyne RD Technologies (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Teledyne RESON, Teledyne RESON A/S, Teledyne RESON B.V., Teledyne RESON GmbH, Teledyne RESON Holding B.V., Teledyne RESON Inc., Teledyne RESON Pte. Ltd., Teledyne RESON UK Limited, Teledyne RISI Inc., Teledyne Rad-icon Imaging Corp., Teledyne Redlake MASD LLC, Teledyne Reynolds Inc., Teledyne SG Brown Limited, Teledyne Scientific & Imaging LLC, Teledyne Scientific Imaging GmbH, Teledyne Scientific Imaging Limited, Teledyne Signal Processing Devices Sweden AB, Teledyne Singapore Private Limited, Teledyne TSS Limited, Teledyne Taiwan Company, Teledyne Technologies (Bermuda) Limited, Teledyne Technologies (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Teledyne Technologies International Corp., Teledyne Technologies Israel Ltd., Teledyne Tekmar Company, Teledyne UK Limited, Teledyne VariSystems, Teledyne VariSystems Inc., Teledyne Wireless LLC, Teledyne e2v, Teledyne e2v (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Teledyne e2v (Overseas) Holdings Limited, Teledyne e2v Asia Pacific Limited, Teledyne e2v Limited, Teledyne e2v Semiconductors SAS, and The Oceanscience Group Ltd..As Chinese demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG) surges amid the coal-to-natural gas switch, companies are looking to secure suppliesand one of the biggest Chinese firms is turning to the worlds biggest LNG exporter, Qatar. As Oil Price writes in the article PetroChina Looks To Secure LNG From Worlds Biggest Exporter, PetroChina is in advanced talks with Qatar to buy short-term and long-term LNG supplies, Reuters reports, citing three sources briefed on the discussions.

China wants to secure LNG supplies and avoid last winters natural gas shortages, when natural gas demand spiked in the coldest months amid the massive push to have millions of households and thousands of industry users switch from coal to natural gas.

The push to cut pollution and make households switch to natural gas for heating resulted in China becoming the worlds second-largest LNG importer in 2017, outpacing South Korea and second only behind Japan, the EIA said this past winter.

Qatar, for its part, aims to boost its LNG export capacity from the current 77 million tons to 100 million tons annually by 2024.

According to two of Reuters sources, PetroChina and Qatar are negotiating a possible deal for several million tons of annual LNG supply beginning this year and ending in 2022. The Chinese company is also in talks to sign a longer-term deal with Qatar, according to a third source.

The short-term deal is to supplement an existing long-term agreement, one of the sources, a Beijing-based industry executive, told Reuters.

Although Qatar faces increased competition from Australia, the United States, and Russia, for example, it is one of the most competitive suppliers to China because of its low costs, large production volumes, and geographical proximity, Chen Zhu, managing director at consultancy SIA Energy, told Reuters.

Last week, China included for the first time U.S. LNG in its list of goods up for a potential 25-percent import tariff in the ongoing trade war. Chinese LNG end-users and suppliers say that they would likely deter spot procurement of U.S. LNG cargoes in the near term amid the uncertainty over the possible tariff.KBR, Inc. engages in the provision of differentiated professional services and technologies across the asset and program life-cycle within the government services and hydrocarbons industries. It operates through the following segments: Government Solutions, Technology Solutions, Energy Solutions, Non-strategic Business, and Other. The Government Solutions segment provides full life-cycle support solutions to defense, space, aviation, and other programs and missions for military and other government agencies. The Technology Solutions segment combines KBR's proprietary technologies, equipment, and catalyst supply and associated knowledge-based services into a global business for refining, petrochemicals, inorganic, and specialty chemicals as well as gasification, syngas, ammonia, nitric acid, and fertilizers. The Energy Solutions segment provides full life-cycle support solutions across the upstream, midstream and downstream hydrocarbons markets. The Non-strategic Business segment represents the operations or activities which the company intends to exit upon completion of existing contracts. The Other segment includes corporate expenses and general and administrative expenses not all

Read MoreStantec Inc. provides professional consulting services in the area of infrastructure and facilities in Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company provides consulting services in engineering, architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, surveying, environmental sciences, project management, and project economics. It also offers water, transportation, and public works; transportation planning and traffic engineering; and resource assessment, mine development, reclamation, hydrology, and geotechnical and infrastructure engineering services, as well as urban planning, traffic assessments and optimization, environmental impact assessments, and public consultation services. In addition, the company provides structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and hydraulics engineering services. It serves urban regeneration, infrastructure, education, public and private sector, tourism and leisure, and waste and water sectors, as well as office and commercial, residential, and retail and town centers. The company was formerly known as Stanley Technology Group Inc. and changed its name to Stantec Inc. in October 1998. Stantec Inc. was founded in 1954 and is headquartered in Edmonton, Canada.

Read More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.There are only two ways that the diplomatic rift between the U.S. and Turkey can end: a compromise that salvages the relationship as best possible, or a complete rupture with devastating consequences both for Turkey's economy and America's regional strategic interests. Either way, there is no going back to the way things were, Bloomberg writes in the article U.S.-Turkey Relations Will Never Be the Same.

The arrest in Turkey of American pastor Andrew Brunson nearly two years ago has led to a diplomatic spat that threatens a full-blown economic meltdown in Turkey. Brunson, along with many foreign nationals that were detained in the wake of the failed 2016 coup attempt, has been accused of "supporting terrorism." A deal for Brunson's release seemed likely as Turkish officials traveled to Washington this week, but fell apart apparently over last-minute Turkish demands.

Meanwhile, tensions have ratcheted up. The Trump administration has imposed sanctions on Turkey's interior and justice ministers. Erdogan threatened retaliation and got the support of most of the Turkish opposition. On Wednesday, Stars and Stripes reported that a group of pro-government lawyers in Turkey have filed charges against several U.S. officers at the Incirlik Air Base, accusing them too of ties to terrorist groups. They are demanding all flights leaving the base be temporarily suspended and a search warrant be executed.

The standoff is partly the accumulation of years of resentment, despite the pretenses of a faithful partnership. Turkey's once-unassailable support among U.S. foreign policy leaders, and in Congress, has been weakened by years of authoritarian creep, a worsening human rights record and cooperation with Russia and Iran in Syria. Turkey's plans for a $2 billion purchase of Russian-made S-400 surface-to-air missiles, which NATO has said are incompatible with allied systems and restrictions on American use of the Incirlik Air Base, haven't gone down well.

The feeling is mutual. Erdogan has never quite recovered from his anger at the way his allies seemed to sit on the fence in the hours after an attempted coup was announced in July 2016.

The Turkish leader is also furious at American support for the Kurdish militia fighting Islamic State in northern Syria. Earlier this year, he threatened American troops with an "Ottoman slap" if the U.S. tried to block Turkey's military incursion into northwest Syria.

One major source of contention has been the U.S. refusal to turn over the Pennsylvania-based cleric Fethullah Gulen, a one-time Erdogan ally and now an enemy, whom Erdogan alleges was behind the coup and other attempts to undermine him. Trump's abandonment of the Iran nuclear deal is another sore point; nearly half of Turkey's oil imports come from Iran, and the re-imposition of sanctions against Iran hurts Turkey's economy.

The Brunson case made all of that impossible to ignore, as U.S. evangelicals took up the cause.

But "impossible to ignore" is not to say that the Trump administration has become a principled defender of human rights in Turkey. Far from it. Trump, whose name adorns luxury properties in Turkey, expressed only praise for Erdogan when they met in 2017. When Erdogan's supporters and guards attacked protesters in Washington, the affair was handled quietly.

The administration has been silent on other arrests of U.S. and foreign nationals in Turkey. But it was ready to strike a deal for Brunson's release. The U.S. had already asked Israel to release Ebru Ozkan, a Turkish national who was arrested there on suspicion of aiding Hamas (Israel deported her the day after Trump called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu). The Trump administration was also reportedly ready to allow Hakan Atilla, a former top executive of state-owned Halkbank, convicted for violating Iran sanctions, to serve out the rest of his prison sentence in Turkey. The deal was scuppered, reportedly, when Turkey wanted relief on a multibillion-dollar fine against Halkbank and an assurance that any investigations be dropped.

The U.S. can afford to play a longer game. The June 24 election may have strengthened Erdogan's power further, but he didn't win by a Putin-sized margin. (Erdogan cleared just over 52 percent, and that's if we all agree to ignore the voting irregularities that presumably bolstered his numbers.) Turkey is divided politically, and the longer Erdogan rules by coercion, the more vulnerable he may become, especially if Turkey's economy continues to suffer. As the main barometer of confidence in the country, the lira's decline speaks volumes.

Even so, a diplomatic solution is clearly preferable to continued escalation. Erdogan is sacrificing the Turkish economy in order to keep Brunson as a bargaining chip. A fractured relationship with the U.S. will also put a strain on Turkey's EU relationships and will give investors, already spooked, even more pause.

American support for Turkey doesn't crumble in a day. The relationship is baked into ties on multiple levels, both inside and outside government, and for good reason. As Asli Aydintasbas and Kemal Kirisci argue in an April 2017 Brookings paper, however bad it looks, Turkey is crucial:

Without Turkey, it is difficult to see how a rule-based U.S.-led world order could be sustained in this region, and how a successful policy on containing chaos in the Middle East could be envisioned. Similarly, there are arguably no Muslim-majority nations apart from Turkey that can serve as a bridge with the Western world or achieve the democratic standards, to which Turks have grown accustomed and, inadvertently or not, still expect.

And yet, it has definitely changed, thanks not so much to national interests, but to failings in leadership. The U.S. will have to settle for something less loyal, less an alliance and more a transactional relationship. But then that seems to define these times pretty aptly.TeraGo Inc., together with its subsidiaries, provides connectivity, colocation, and enterprise infrastructure cloud services for businesses primarily in Canada. The company owns and operates a carrier-grade multi-protocol label switching enabled wireline and fixed wireless, and Internet protocol communications network that provide Internet access, private interconnection, and data connectivity services. It also offers data connectivity services that allow businesses to connect their various sites within a city or across the company's geographic footprint through a private virtual local area network; and a range of diverse Ethernet-based services over a wireless connection to customer locations. In addition, the company provides data center colocation services that protect and connect its customers' valuable information assets; disaster recovery services; and managed hosting solutions. It provides data center services for national government agencies, financial services companies, IT service providers, content and network service providers, and small and medium businesses. Further, the company offers cloud services, including infrastructure as a service for compute, storage, disaster recovery cloud solutions, and other services to customers in various industry verticals, federal, provincial and municipal governments and agencies, as well as non-profit organizations. The company provides its services through direct and indirect sales channels. TeraGo Inc. was incorporated in 2000 and is headquartered in Thornhill, Canada.

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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.Wall Street analysts have given iShares MSCI Germany 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 Germany ETF 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 Quest Diagnostics: AmeriPath, AmeriPath Cincinnati Inc. (OH), AmeriPath Cleveland Inc. (OH), AmeriPath Consolidated Labs Inc. (FL), AmeriPath Florida LLC (DE), AmeriPath Hospital Services Florida LLC (DE), AmeriPath Inc. (DE), AmeriPath Indianapolis PC (IN), AmeriPath Kentucky Inc. (KY), AmeriPath Lubbock 5.01(A) Corporation (TX), AmeriPath New York LLC (DE), AmeriPath Texas Inc. (DE), AmeriPath Tucson Inc. (AZ), American Medical Laboratories, American Medical Laboratories Incorporated (DE), Associated Clinical Laboratories L.P. (PA), Associated Clinical Laboratories of Pennsylvania L.L.C. (PA), Athena Diagnostics, Athena Diagnostics Inc. (DE), Blueprint Genetics, Blueprint Genetics FZ-LLC (UAE), Blueprint Genetics Inc. (DE), Blueprint Genetics Oy (Finland), California Laboratory Associates, Cape Cod Healthcare - Business, Celera, ClearPoint Diagnostic, Clearpoint Diagnostic Laboratories LLC (TX), Cleveland HeartLab, Cleveland HeartLab Inc. (DE), Clinical Laboratory Partners, Colorado Pathology Consultants P.C. (CO), ConVerge Diagnostic Services, Consolidated DermPath Inc. (DE), DFW 5.01(a) Corporation (TX), DGXWMT JV LLC (DE), Dermatopathology of Wisconsin S.C. (WI), Diagnostic Laboratory of Oklahoma LLC (OK), Diagnostic Pathology Services Inc. (OK), Diagnostic Reference Services Inc. (MD), ExamOne Canada Inc. (New Brunswick), ExamOne LLC (DE), ExamOne World Wide Inc. (PA), ExamOne World Wide of NJ Inc. (NJ), Focus Diagnostics, HemoCue, Hoffman M.D. Associated Pathologists Chartered (NV), Institute for Dermatopathology Inc. (PA), Isabella Street Urban Renewal LLC (NJ), Kailash B. Sharma M.D. Inc. (GA), Kilpatrick Pathology P.A. (NC), LabOne, LabOne LLC (MO), LabOne of Ohio Inc. (DE), Laboratorio de Analisis Biomedicos S.A. (Mexico), Lancet Labs, MACL, Med Fusion LLC (TX), Med fusion, MedPlus, Mid America Clinical Laboratories LLC (IN), Nomad Massachusetts Inc. (MA), Nuclear Medicine and Pathology Associates (GA), Ocmulgee Medical Pathology Association Inc. (GA), Pathology Building Partnership (MD) (gen. ptnrshp.), PeaceHealth Laboratories, PhenoPath Laboratories, PhenoPath Laboratories PLLC (WA), Q Squared Solutions Holdings LLC (DE), Q Squared Solutions Holdings Limited (UK), Quest Diagnostics (Shanghai) Co. Ltd. (China), Quest Diagnostics Brasil Holdings Ltd. (UK), Quest Diagnostics Clinical Laboratories, Quest Diagnostics Clinical Laboratories Inc. (DE), Quest Diagnostics Domestic Holder LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics HTAS India Private Limited (India), Quest Diagnostics Health & Wellness LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics Holdings Incorporated (DE), Quest Diagnostics Holdings Ltd. (UK), Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (MD), Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (NV), Quest Diagnostics India Private Limited (India), Quest Diagnostics Infectious Disease Inc. (DE), Quest Diagnostics International Holdings Limited (UK), Quest Diagnostics International LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics Investments LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics Ireland Limited (Ireland), Quest Diagnostics LLC (CT), Quest Diagnostics LLC (IL), Quest Diagnostics LLC (MA), Quest Diagnostics Massachusetts LLC (MA), Quest Diagnostics Mexico Holding Company Trust (Mexico), Quest Diagnostics Mexico S de RL de CV (Mexico), Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute (CA), Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute Inc. (VA), Quest Diagnostics Receivables Inc. (DE), Quest Diagnostics Subsidiary Holdings Ltd. (UK), Quest Diagnostics TB LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics Terracotta LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics Venture LLC (PA), Quest Diagnostics Ventures LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics do Brasil Ltda. (Brazil), Quest Diagnostics of Pennsylvania Inc. (DE), Quest Diagnostics of Puerto Rico Inc. (PR), Quest HealthConnect LLC (CA), ReproSource, Reprosource Fertility Diagnostics Inc. (MA), Solstas Lab Partners, Sonora Quest Laboratories LLC (AZ), Specialty Laboratories Inc. (CA), Summit Health, UMass Memorial Medical Center - Anatomic Pathology Outreach Laboratory Business, Unilab Corporation, and Unilab Corporation (DE).In secret, behind locked gates, our Nation's Oldest City dumped a landfill in a lake (Old City Reservoir), while emitting sewage in our rivers and salt marsh. Organized citizens exposed and defeated pollution, racism and cronyism. We elected a new Mayor. We're transforming our City -- advanced citizenship. Ask questions. Make disclosures. Demand answers. Be involved. Expect democracy. Report and expose corruption. Smile! Help enact a St. Augustine National Park and Seashore. We shall overcome!By West Kentucky Star Staff Aug. 12, 2018 | 08:02 AM | CARLISLE COUNTY

According to Kentucky State Police, the shooting occurred about three and a half miles north of Bardwell inside a home.



An investigation found that 42-year-old Harold Doug Compton, of Grand Rivers, was shot by the homeowner, 30-year-old Matthew K. Turnbow, of Bardwell. Compton was airlifted to Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville. He is listed in fair, but stable condition.



Turnbow also shot, and killed, 52-year-old Kelly D. Clanahan, of Barlow.



Troopers say an altercation took place inside the home of Turnbow, who fired a shotgun, striking both Clanahan and Compton.



An autopsy was performed Sunday on Clanahan, and preliminary results indicate she died of a gunshot wound.



Turnbow was arrested, charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and was served an arrest warrant for violation of a Kentucky, EPO/DVO. He was lodged in the Ballard County Jail.



State Police say the results of their investigation will be presented to a Grand Jury.

A shooting in Carlisle County at approximately 9:00 pm on Saturday night has claimed one life, and left another in critical condition.Indian carrier Jet Airways Ltd sought to reassure investors on Saturday, saying it is meeting its payment obligations to lenders and other dues, such as staff commitments. (Photo: PTI)

Mumbai: Indian carrier Jet Airways Ltd sought to reassure investors on Saturday, saying it is meeting its payment obligations to lenders and other dues, such as staff commitments.

Indias biggest-full service airline issued the statement a day after its shares fell to a three-year low following an announcement that it had deferred its quarterly earnings report.

Jet, which is part-owned by Qatars Etihad Airways, was due to report quarterly earnings on Thursday but said in stock exchange filings that its audit committee had not signed off on them pending closure of certain matters.

Our account with all the banks as on date is Standard, Jet Airways said in a statement on Saturday. It said it had not been placed in any special mention accounts by the banks, referring to the name given to accounts for borrowers that are behind in their loan servicing payments.

The chairman of State Bank of India, the countrys top bank and a key lender to Jet, said on Friday that the airlines loan is on the banks watch list and special mention accounts. He didnt give details.

Jet needs to repay about 30 billion rupees (USD 436 million) in loans and bonds over the next three years, with a third falling due by the end of 2019, Reuters data shows. The company has denied suggestions it told staff earlier this month it was running out of money.

On Saturday, Jet said it was working on cost and revenue initiatives to cushion the sharp rise in fuel costs and the depreciation in the Indian rupee. We have had scheduled amortizations in the past so many years and the company has met its repayment obligations all the time, it said.

Airlines in India, the worlds fastest-growing major aviation market, operate on thin margins. Carriers have struggled to stay profitable despite filling nearly 90 percent of seats as they compete fiercely to keep ticket prices low to woo passengers.Having cleared global retail giant Walmart's USD 16 billion acquisition of home-grown Flipkart, fair trade watchdog CCI has opined that complaints about the deal violating FDI rules "may merit policy intervention" but do not fall under its ambit.

New Delhi: Having cleared global retail giant Walmart's USD 16 billion acquisition of home-grown Flipkart, fair trade watchdog CCI has opined that complaints about the deal violating FDI rules "may merit policy intervention" but do not fall under its ambit.

The Competition Commission also observed that the complaint about Flipkart's discounting practice or preference to select e-tailers is not specific to this merger deal and is "already prevalent" in the market.

It also made it clear that there is no bar on the regulator to examine these issues under relevant provisions of the Competition Act about anti-competitive agreements and abuse of dominance.

The deal has triggered opposition from several quarters including traders lobby groups and the Swadeshi Jagaran Manch and several of them had submitted their complaints to the CCI, which was approached in May for approval of the acquisition.

In its detailed order clearing the deal, the CCI has said it is "not likely" to have an appreciable adverse effect on competition in India.

It also said that a majority of the concerns expressed by various trade organisations on the impact of the deal in the country are beyond the scope of the CCI Act.

Walmart announced in May the acquisition of 77 per cent stake of Flipkart in its biggest takeover till date.

However, in the following month, more than 100 trader organisations opposed the deal stating it will cause "irreversible damage" to small traders and endanger jobs for thousands.

The regulator said it received representations against the proposed combination from various entities which had expressed concerns on compliance of FDI norms by Flipkart and pricing practices and preferential treatment to specified sellers in Flipkart's online marketplaces, among others.

"The Commission notes that majority of the concerns expressed in the representations...have no nexus to the competition dimension of the proposed combination," the CCI said in its 12-page order.

"Issues falling beyond the scope of the (Competition) Act cannot be a subject matter of examination by the Commission, though they may merit policy intervention," it said.

Noting that as per the foreign direct investment (FDI) policy an e-commerce platform cannot influence market prices directly or indirectly, the regulator said this is a matter of consideration for the "appropriate regulatory/enforcement authority".

It also observed that the discounting practice of Flipkart and its preference, if any, to select e-tailers in its online marketplaces are not specific to the proposed combination, as these are "already prevalent" in the market even without the proposed acquisition by Walmart.

Section 6(1) of the Competition Act regulates combinations that are likely to cause appreciable adverse effect on competition.

"The Commission deliberated extensively on the concerns raised in the representations but concluded that the instrument of regulation of combinations cannot address these and different policy and legal instruments maybe taken recourse to.

"Thus, this review process cannot be a window to resolve concerns that are not incidental or arise from the proposed combination," the CCI said.

However, the regulator noted that there is no bar on it at any point of time to examine the issues regarding the deal under the relevant provisions of Section 3 and 4 the Competition Act and regulations made thereunder.

Section 3 and 4 of the Competition Act deal with anti-competitive agreements and abuse of dominant market position, respectively.

"... the Commission is of the opinion that the proposed combination is not likely to have an appreciable adverse effect on competition in India and therefore, the same is hereby approved in terms of... of the (Competition) Act," the CCI said.

Mergers and acquisitions beyond a certain threshold require the approval of the CCI.

Traders' body CAIT, which has been opposed to the deal, had described the CCI approval as "most unfortunate" and said it would approach the court against the decision.

However, while noting that the information provided by Walmart is "confidential at this stage", the regulator said that this order will be revoked if, at any time, the information provided by the US retail giant "is found to be incorrect or misleading".

According to the order, Walmart and Flipkart have not made a distinction between organised and unorganised cash and carry of goods (B2B sales) and considered both these as part of one relevant market.

"However, even if both the segments are defined as separate markets and the parties (Walmart and Flipkart) are considered to be present in organised B2B sales, such market still looks competitive due to the presence of larger players such as Reliance Retail, Metro Cash and Carry, Amazon wholesale etc," the order said.

Unorganised sector also poses a significant constraint on organised wholesalers, it added.

The regulator noted that the proposed combination "is not likely to have any adverse implication on competition" irrespective of the whether the market is taken as all B2B sales or narrower B2B markets.

The proposed combination is not resulting in elimination of any major player in the relevant market, as per the order.

"The Flipkart marketplace platform will remain under the operation of Walmart, thus not only preserving a successful e-commerce platform but also enhancing the financial strength of the platform," the CCI said.

"This would enable the combined entity to compete effectively with competitors in a dynamic e-commerce market ...," it added.

As per the notice submitted to the CCI, the acquisition of majority stake in Flipkart will be done through Walmart International Holdings.

The proposed transaction would be effected pursuant to the share purchase agreement and the share issuance and acquisition agreement entered into on May 9 by and among Walmart's subsidiary and Flipkart, the notice said.The Nirav Modi fraud-hit Punjab National Bank (PNB) led the pack with the largest amount of NPAs worth Rs 86,620 crore during 2017-18.

New Delhi: The gross non-performing assets (NPAs) of 19 nationalised banks witnessed a huge increase by Rs 1,54,470 crore during 2017-18 over the previous fiscal of 2016-17, a spurt of 33.4 per cent.

The Nirav Modi fraud-hit Punjab National Bank (PNB) led the pack with the largest amount of NPAs worth Rs 86,620 crore during 2017-18.

According to figures available with this newspaper, NPAs of 19 public sector banks as on March 31, 2018 were Rs 6,16,584 crore. During 2016-17, the bad loans of these banks had stood at Rs 4,62,114 crore. Therefore the NPAs saw a burgeoning rise of Rs 1,54,470 crore or 33.4 per cent.

PNB, which is the countrys second largest lender, witnessed a massive jump of 56 per cent in its bad loans during FY18, as they had stood at Rs 55,370 crore in FY17.

Bank of India, Bank of Baroda and Union Bank of India stood at second, third and fourth positions in the list with NPAs worth Rs 62,328 crore, Rs 56,480 crore and Rs 49,370 crore respectively during 207-18.

Last week, PNB had posted a net loss of Rs 940 crore during the Q1FY19. Though it was lower than the humungous loss of Rs 13,417 crore loss which it had incurred in the Q4 of FY18 owing mainly due to the Nirav Modi fraud case, the fact that NPAs have been hurting the financials of public sector banks for the past two fiscals now, has forced the Centre to go back to the drawing board to counter the ever-growing problem.

The RBI however has forecasted that there is going to be a further rise in financial stress of the nationalised banks due to their gross NPAs, which would continue during the current financial year also.

In June this year, the RBI had said in a forecast that 11 nationalised banks could face a worsening scenario in relation to their gross NPAs, which from 21 per cent in March 2018 could go up to 22.3 per cent in March 2019.

Some of these 11 banks namely IDBI Bank, Central Bank of India, Bank of India, Indian Overseas Bank, Dena Bank, Oriental Bank of Commerce, United Bank of India and Allahabad Bank among others, had earlier this year appeared before the parliamentary standing committee of finance. These 11 banks are also a part of the 19 public sector banks, whose bad loans have witnessed a jump during FY17 and FY18.

The Centre on its part has been trying to combat the problem by undertaking various measures like enactment of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. Also under the reforms agenda, PSBs have created stressed asset management verticals for recovery, official sources said.archives 10 Oct - 17 Oct (1) 22 Aug - 29 Aug (3) 15 Aug - 22 Aug (1) 8 Aug - 15 Aug (3) 1 Aug - 8 Aug (1) 25 Jul - 1 Aug (3) 18 Jul - 25 Jul (1) 11 Jul - 18 Jul (1) 27 Jun - 4 Jul (4) 20 Jun - 27 Jun (3) 13 Jun - 20 Jun (1) 30 May - 6 Jun (2) 23 May - 30 May (4) 2 May - 9 May (3) 25 Apr - 2 May (4) 4 Apr - 11 Apr (2) 28 Mar - 4 Apr (4) 28 Feb - 7 Mar (1) 7 Feb - 14 Feb (2) 10 Jan - 17 Jan (2) 27 Dec - 3 Jan (2) 13 Dec - 20 Dec (3) 6 Dec - 13 Dec (1) 29 Nov - 6 Dec (1) 15 Nov - 22 Nov (6) 8 Nov - 15 Nov (1) 25 Oct - 1 Nov (1) 18 Oct - 25 Oct (3) 4 Oct - 11 Oct (1) 27 Sep - 4 Oct (1) 20 Sep - 27 Sep (2) 13 Sep - 20 Sep (4) 6 Sep - 13 Sep (3) 30 Aug - 6 Sep (1) 23 Aug - 30 Aug (1) 16 Aug - 23 Aug (4) 9 Aug - 16 Aug (1) 2 Aug - 9 Aug (3) 26 Jul - 2 Aug (4) 19 Jul - 26 Jul (5) 12 Jul - 19 Jul (2) 5 Jul - 12 Jul (7) 28 Jun - 5 Jul (2) 21 Jun - 28 Jun (7) 14 Jun - 21 Jun (4) 7 Jun - 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12 Jul (21) 28 Jun - 5 Jul (15) 21 Jun - 28 Jun (20) 14 Jun - 21 Jun (10) 7 Jun - 14 Jun (13) 31 May - 7 Jun (13) 24 May - 31 May (13) 17 May - 24 May (15) 10 May - 17 May (16) 3 May - 10 May (11) 26 Apr - 3 May (21) 19 Apr - 26 Apr (17) 12 Apr - 19 Apr (20) 5 Apr - 12 Apr (16) 29 Mar - 5 Apr (19) 22 Mar - 29 Mar (17) 15 Mar - 22 Mar (23) 8 Mar - 15 Mar (22) 1 Mar - 8 Mar (21) 22 Feb - 1 Mar (22) 15 Feb - 22 Feb (25) 8 Feb - 15 Feb (25) 1 Feb - 8 Feb (21) 25 Jan - 1 Feb (23) 18 Jan - 25 Jan (19) 11 Jan - 18 Jan (35) 4 Jan - 11 Jan (23) 28 Dec - 4 Jan (27) 21 Dec - 28 Dec (28) 14 Dec - 21 Dec (23) 7 Dec - 14 Dec (22) 30 Nov - 7 Dec (19) 23 Nov - 30 Nov (22) 16 Nov - 23 Nov (19) 9 Nov - 16 Nov (15) 2 Nov - 9 Nov (17) 26 Oct - 2 Nov (10) 19 Oct - 26 Oct (12) 12 Oct - 19 Oct (13) 5 Oct - 12 Oct (19) 28 Sep - 5 Oct (14) 21 Sep - 28 Sep (17) 14 Sep - 21 Sep (19) 7 Sep - 14 Sep (22) 31 Aug - 7 Sep (15) 24 Aug - 31 Aug (14) 17 Aug - 24 Aug (9) 10 Aug - 17 Aug (5)There is no doubt that Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singhs daughter Sara Ali Khan is a patakha!

Every time she steps out, all eyes automatically shift towards her like a magnet gets attracted to iron.

That is one reason why she should join social media right away, and we are just beginning about why the social media world needs her this moment!

Sara is a gym addict and she is often spotted outside her gym, in her perfectly fitted wear. She is often seen working out with her step-mother Kareena Kapoor Khans BFF Amrita Arora, giving everyone fitness goals. Imagine seeing all such videos on a lazy Monday morning. It makes for the perfect Monday motivation!

Wait hold on, theres more to her! Sara has flaunted her bikini body and even though she got trolled for it, the debutante actress carries herself with pride and she totally should considering how many fans love her.

Sara Ali Khan can also dance so well and fearlessly it is almost like she owns the world. In case you need proof, go back and see her dance video from Sandeep Khoslas nieces wedding. The lady rocked it in Saat Samundar with her pretty and hot white saree. It actually was no wonder that the video went viral in a jiffy thanks to that. It makes for all the more reason for Sara to connect directly with her fans.

The actress today on her birthday is rehearsing for a song in her upcoming big banner Simmba, a Rohit Shetty directorial also starring Ranveer Singh. The project is bagged by Karan Johar, who can obviously guide her in becoming a social media expert, not that we doubt she wont be awesome out there.

Janhvi Kapoor, who is touted to be Saras biggest competitor, share a video on her Instagram account, that of her chatting away with Sara as her Dhadak co-star Ishaan Khatter and baby sister Khushi Kapoor went goofy. If Sara starts sharing such amazing moments on her page, she is sure to bring storm to social media.

Saras fans too want to see her on social media, as they made #WeWantSaraOnSocialMedia trend. So there couldnt be a better time than this for Sara to make at least an Instagram account since were sure if she has to even promote her film there, it would be a cherishing experience.Karachi: Bollywood star Kangana Ranaut has a message for Pakistan's Prime Minister-designate Imran Khan.

The 31-year-old, while wishing Khan good luck, said she was impressed by his speech.

At an event, when the 'Queen' star was asked if she thought the relations between the two countries will improve, Kangana said, "Hopefully, we can only hope that we don't have to shed more blood."

"It's unfortunate that our soldiers are dying. But, the kind of speech that Imran Khan has given is very nice and I wish him all the best and with folded hands, I really hope and appeal, that we have a really beautiful relationship," she added, as reported by Geo News.

The actor recently made headlines after she bestowed praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi terming him as the 'rightful leader of democracy.' She also batted in favour of a second term for the Prime Minister.

On the work front, Kangana is currently gearing up for 'Manikarnika -The Queen of Jhansi', which is based on the life of warrior Rani Laxmi Bai.Actress Rakul Preet Singh has been living out of her suitcase lately. With as many as four films, the Spyder star has been travelling extensively over the last three months.

I spent a month in July in London for my Hindi film starring Ajay Devgn, and from there I went to Ukraine for my Tamil film. After coming back to India, I have been shooting in Chennai and other places, she reveals, adding, I feel homesick and am waiting to come back to Hyderabad; I cant wait to eat home food. In fact, I am pleased to learn that a schedule from one of my current films will commence soon in Hyderabad.

Interestingly, Rakul has been on a signing spree in Tamil. Its a coincidence, she replies, adding, Although I heard the narrations of the various projects at different times, strangely, all the films are materialising at almost the same time. Amidst such chaotic and uncertain shooting schedules, what keeps the actress going?

I am passionate about films, and can do four films simultaneously only because I am excited about my work. But I want to be selective and slow down after I wrap up my current commitments. I want to take a break soon to rejuvenate, shares Rakul, who is all praise for director Selvaraghavans style of filmmaking in her forthcoming film.

As an actor, we get used to a certain style of working to approach a scene. But the way Selva sir conceives a scene is different and interesting; he is known to bring out the best out of actors, she shares, adding, He follows a three second rule it means the actor should wait for three seconds (after the director shouts action) and then deliver the lines. The idea is to give enough time for the actor to deliver the lines in a natural way.Mahesh Babu fans seem to have gone the way of PK fans, who are ready to troll anyone who disrespects their idol, as actors Nagarjuna and Sobhita Dhulipala recently found out.

The trouble erupted after Nagarjuna attended a film event a few days ago, where he listed only Mahanati, Rangasthalam and Goodachari among this years hits without mentioning Mahesh Babus Bharat Ane Nenu, which was also a hit.

Nagarjuna was actually not completely off the mark. Compared to the other 3 films, Bharat Ane Nenu made only marginal profits. But soon after his omission, Mahesh Babu fans started trolling Nagarjuna on social media, even raking up how bad the collections of his dud film Officer were.

Meanwhile, Mahesh Babu recently tweeted that he liked the spy thriller Goodachari to which the films lead actress, Sobhita Dhulipala simply wrote, Thank You.

The superstars fans felt that her reply was an insult as she is a rank newcomer and that she ought to have added Sir, garu or superstar to her reply. Soon, they started trolling the actress too.

Interestingly, the fans are undeterred by the fact that Nagarjuna and Mahesh Babu are actually good friends who regularly talk to one another about their films.

HT06Rana Daggubati, who is playing N Chandrababu Naidu in the NTR biopic directed by Krish, is leaving no stone unturned to do justice to his role. He recently met the AP Chief Minister along with Balakrishna and Krish in connection with the role, and is also currently watching a lot of videos of CBN.

Rana met a few of Naidus friends to get information about him and how he talks and behaves. He is also watching videos of the A.P. Chief Minister and keenly observing him, says a source, adding, He is mainly concentrating on Naidus accent. The films shooting has already begun in Hyderabad.

Recently, Balakrishna and Krish also visited NTRs native village Nimmakuru, and spoke to a few people there.

HT06An aerial view of the city of Bahrain is a good precursor to what you can expect to see in this archipelago of islands. The turquoise blues and greens merge with the sandy browns to create a landscape that is straight out of a painting. Even as you enter the city of Manama, the first thing you see is a large life-size colourful camel sculpture Caravan of Peace. This is part of a project by artists and students of different areas of Bahrain to promote national unity and the idea of citizenship and co-existence among Bahrainis. And much like the rest of the experiences here this is a country that is as warm as it is friendly and welcoming.

Sights & Sounds

A good place to start your exploration is the Bahrain National Museum that will take you on a trip down memory lane, and acquaint you with the 4,000-year-old history of the country. With nine halls housed in a beige hued building, the museum is spread over three levels. The ground floor has sections dedicated to graves, the history of Dilmun as well as the customs and traditions. On the first floor, you can check documents and manuscripts, Tylos and Islam, and trades and crafts. The lobby level has an art gallery, invested in culture exhibitions, temporary exhibition spaces, a cafe, gift shop and auditorium. Do look at the brilliant sculptures on the exterior of the museum that are framed by stunning sea views. Adjacent to this is the Bahrain National Theatre spread over 12,000 square metres with a seating capacity of 1,001. Opened in 2012, the architecture of this building has been inspired by 1001 Arabian Nights. A visit to the Qalat Al Bahrain or The Bahrain Fort is also recommended, especially towards th

e evening as you can visit the fort as well as see the fantastic light and sound show that takes you through the countrys history, the legend of Gilgamesh as well as Dilmun and the pearling journey. Also make time for the Beit Al Quran a museum dedicated to the Quran that has a number of Qurans some dating back to the 1st century.

Modern architecture in Manama.

Cosmo Vibes

In spite of being a relatively small country, Bahrain has a vibrant night life scene replete with pubs, bars, night clubs and lounges, especially in most five stars. These are extremely popular with the youth. Among some of the popular watering holes in Manama are Club XS, W Club Lounge and Apollo Club Bar. Thursdays at W-Night at Bushido Lounge are recommended for DJ Alberts thumping music. Women must check out Klub 360, every Sunday and Wednesday as they can enjoy free drinks and also take part in raffles to win spa vouchers, perfumes and designer bags.

Exhibits at the National Museum.

When in Manama, a great way to spend your evening is to visit Adliya, Block 338. This is a locality that has a motley mix of art galleries and restaurants but it is its vibrant street art that is its most attractive feature. Of course, the food choices here are great an eclectic mix of Indian, Arabic, Mediterranean, Japanese, there is never a dull culinary moment here. The locale is filled with art galleries like the Al Riwaq Gallery that displays art by emerging artists from Bahrain and the region as well as the Al Bareh Gallery, a private space that hosts exhibitions by regional artists. Being neighbours with Saudi Arabia, a short 25 minute drive on the King Fahad Causeway brings you to the border of Saudi. From this spot, it is lovely to see the azure vast expanse of the ocean, especially in the evening. For some shopping, you must check out the local souk Bab Al Bahrain where you can buy traditional souvenirs. The Seef Mall is a good place for urban shoppers. Of course, all race buff have to visit the Bahrain International Circuit, for a spot of adventure where you can experience a 4X4 land rover drive that is full of thrills and spills.

Street art at Adliya, Block 338.

Getting Arty

A stop at the Al Jasra Handicraft Centre is a must whether you love arts and craft or not, simply because this is a space where you can get up close with all traditional arts and crafts of the country under one roof. There is a separate room dedicated to each craft form whether it is production of musical instruments, boat building, weaving, gypsum engraving, traditional chest making and pottery. The artisans work here so you can also interact with them. A small store retails these products so you can buy a piece of Bahrain for your home. This is a country that lives up to its tourism tagline Ours. Yours. And its yours to discover.

 Photographs by Bindu Gopal RaoIn this historic town rest the tombs of 80 Swiss officers of the Swiss de Meuron Regiment who fell in battle, or were felled by disease and the vagaries of nature?

Centuries ago, men crossed frontiers considered sacrosanct to defend their honour, to even fight as mercenaries and did not mind living and dying in foreign lands as long as it served their ideals and their needs. But who could have imagined that a regiment of the Swiss, from a peace loving country which has endeavoured to remain neutral amid all the bloodletting and tortuous wars, lived, fought and died in our own Srirangapatna, near Mysuru? That in this historic town rest the tombs of 80 Swiss officers of the Swiss de Meuron Regiment who fell in battle, or were felled by disease and the vagaries of nature? M.B.GIRISH travels back in time to trace the lives and times of soldiers of a different age, who have been forgotten in the land they fought but are still remembered and revered by their progeny, who have not hesitated to make the trip from faraway Switzerland to Srirangapatna to restore these graves with love and devotion.

The town of Srirangapatna has undergone many a transformation since its birth 1,200 years ago when it was the Mysore dynastys capital. It later became a military outpost and then an operational garrison and is presently, a famous pilgrim site because of the Ranganathaswami temple located on the banks of River Cauvery.

The tiny town and its surroundings are dotted with several historic sites of different periods. There is Lal Mahal belonging to the erstwhile ruler of Mysore, Tipu Sultan, his, armouries, mosque, and the moats of the old fort among others. One among these historic sites is the Garrison Cemetery a burial ground of Swiss officers which tells the poignant story of army officers of various ranks, and their families who lived at Srirangapatna and were later buried here.

Among those buried are the 80 officers of the Swiss de Meuron Regiment, founded by Charles-Daniel de Meuron, and their family members. In fact the British Garrison along with the Swiss Regiment stayed at Srirangapatna for a considerable length of time during which many died due to malaria and other tropical ailments.

From outside, the Garrison Cemetery looks like any other burial ground but a closer look at the tombs and the names etched on them is enough to remind any visitor of a stormy period in history two hundred years ago when the forces of Tipu Sultan and the British fought the bitter fourth Anglo-Mysore War at Srirangapatna.

Tombs of British and Swiss soldiers and their families who stayed at Srirangapatna at the time of the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War.

The cemetery is spread across three acres of land, off the Mysuru-Bengaluru Highway near a checkpost at Srirangapatna and can be reached via a narrow path from the highway behind a private school, or through a road leading to Krishnamurthy bungalow. There are no signages and so any visitor has to depend on the help of local people to reach the cemetery. An old fashioned wooden gate with a heavy iron lock attached to it still remains while the compound wall of the cemetery has a stone engraved on it to indicate that this is a burial site with tombs from 1800 to 1860 AD.

Someone has done restoration work here which is evident from the newly grown ornamental flowers and in their midst, the several burial sites and tombs of various sizes. This burial ground falls under the Department of Archaeology, Heritage and Museums and is on government land.

Records say that Le Regiment de Meuron, a Swiss mercenary unit, served the Dutch East India Company in Ceylon and Sri Lanka. But the inability of the Dutch East India Company to pay their wages in 1795, made the regiment negotiate with the British East India Company and 800 men of the Swiss Regiment joined the British East India Company.

The regiment of the Swiss was divided into two battalions of five companies of infantry each, under Lieutenant Colonel Wellesley. In 1799 AD, during the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War, the regiment was chosen as the storming party against Tipu Sultans defending army at Srirangapatna. Emerging victorious from the war, the de Meuron Regiment remained in India until 1806 AD and served in several campaigns. Some of them died and their tombs now dot the Garrison Cemetery-those of captains, colonels and lieutenants in different sizes depending on the ranks they held in those days.

The tombs were constructed using bricks and mortar with stone slabs attached to them specifying the names of those buried, their designation and the date of death. Some of the tombs resemble the Greek style of architecture, say officials. There are even tombs built in the Brindavan style resembling Hindu architecture. There are also places where all members of particular families are buried.

But owing to lack of maintenance, some of the tombs started to tilt and got damaged. There is no one here to attend to visitors particularly those who come from abroad with the site covered with guava, mango and other fruit bearing trees. Not much was done to help visitors identify the place with ease and also clean up the vegetation.

THE DE MEURON MAKEOVER

Having heard about their courageous forefathers, Louis Dominique made several trips to Srirangapatna with his wife Monique de Meuron to locate the cemetery as he was determined to restore it to its original glory. The couple met Mysuru conservation architect Ravindra Gundurao in 2002 and commissioned him to undertake the cemetery restoration work with the approval of the archaeology department. Director of the department Venkatesh Machaknur too took special interest in the restoration of the cemetery and provided valuable inputs.

The late Dr M.S. Nagaraja Rao, former director general of ASI along with Dr Gayathri, retired deputy director of the department, were in the advisory committee to restore the cemetery which was redone to its original state in 2007.

The de Meuron family has continued to be involved in its upkeep and repair when the need arises. There are 309 tombs and only nine of them have members of the de Meuron family. After Louis Dominique and Monique, their son Jean-Leonard and daughters Sophie and Heloise have felt the same emotional connection with the Garrison Cemetery and have enthusiastically backed the restoration effort which has been taken up again.

Narrating the emotional journey of the family and its roots in Srirangapatna, son of Louis Dominique de Meuron, Jean-Leonard de Meuron, says The Garrison Cemetery is the property of the Karnataka government but we as lovers of Indian heritage, feel the need to conserve it as it is part of our family history. We have been striving to keep it in the same condition as my father Louis Dominique de Meuron did in collaboration with the archaeology department in 2007.

Mysuru based architect Ravindra Gundurao agreed to oversee the restoration work on a voluntary basis because of his sentimental connection with the cemetery. He says This cemetery project is labour of love for me. A month after we took up the project in 2007, Louis Dominique passed away, it was as if this was his last mission in life.

His colleague in the project Malavika M. Murthy, also an architect, says The de Meuron family has been actively involved in the restoration. Seeing their emotional connection, the project has become emotional for us too.

Support has also been forthcoming from the British Association for Cemeteries in South Asia (BACSA) a London-based voluntary organization represented by Mrs Phillida Purvis and Jeernodhar Conservation Private Limited, a specialist restoration agency in Mumbai, which are undertaking the latest round of restoration work.

History is replete with tales of bravery and sacrifice, of battles for land and pride to make sure ones name is not forgotten in the long course of a hundred or thousand years. Countless Indians too have died on foreign soil, in Africa and Europe like the Swiss did in Srirangapatna, for they believed their cause was worth fighting and dying for. In an age when people are running out of causes, when valour and sacrifice are rare to find, the Garrison Cemetery in Srirangapatna and the Swiss effort to restore the tombs, should be enough to remind everyone that a nation and its people live and thrive on memories, on lineages and causes and can hardly afford to neglect them.

B08The woman further alleged that she was brutally assaulted when she refused to give in to the accused demands. (Representational Image)

Bhopal: After a fourth woman came forward and filed a complaint against the director of a hostel for speech and hearing impaired people located in Bhopal, more chilling details have emerged in the case. The woman accused the director of keeping her in captivity and raping her for six months.

The Bhopal hostel rape case came to light after a 19-year-old speech and hearing impaired girl filed an FIR in the police station in Dhar in Madhya Pradesh against the director, Ashwini Sharma, accusing him of repeatedly raping her during her stay in the hostel over the last three years when she was staying there to complete her course in the local Industrial Training Institute (ITI).

Ashwini Sharma was arrested on Wednesday under sections 376 (rape), 354 (outraging modesty), 344 (wrongful confinement) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the IPC and relevant sections of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

Two more girls, who had previously stayed in the hostel, also filed a case of molestation against the accused on Thursday, following which the police slapped charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act as well since one of them was a minor when the alleged incident took place in 2017.

According to reports, the fourth survivor told the police that she was held in captivity, forced to watch porn films and had unnatural sex with the director and was raped for six months.

The woman further alleged that she was brutally assaulted when she refused to give in to his demands.

The opposition Congress on Saturday claimed that Sharma is an "activist of the RSS" and "enjoys the blessings" of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Madhya Pradesh Congress's chief spokesperson Shobha Oza released a video, in which Sharma is seen standing close to Chouhan and touching the latter's feet. Oza alleged that Sharma's Facebook account was deleted to hide his connection with BJP leaders.

She accused Chouhan of "hypocrisy", saying while the chief minister described himself as the "mama" (maternal uncle) of the girls of the state, he was blessing those accused of rape.

State Congress chief Kamal Nath also shot off a letter to Chouhan, seeking a probe into the incident by the Central Bureau of Investigation.

Following the incident, the Madhya Pradesh government ordered monthly inspection of women's hostels in the state.

(With PTI inputs)Rameswaram: In yet another jolt for the fishing community here, the Sri Lankan Navy arrested two groups of country-craft fishermen numbering 27, one from Thondi in Ramanathapuram district and another from Nagapattinam, in the wee hours of Saturday while fishing in the Palk Straits. They also seized four country-craft in which they had put out to sea late on Friday night for allegedly straying into Sri Lankan territorial waters.

The arrested fishermen- 22 from Thondi and five from Nagapattinam- were taken to the Karainagar Naval camp, reports reaching here said. After a medical examination there, all the arrested Tamil Nadu fishermen were handed over to the office of the Inspector of Fisheries in Jaffna for further legal action. This incident has come as yet another blow to the fishermen's community as the Union Agriculture and Fisheries minister, Mr. Radhamohan Singh, during his visit to Rameswaram last month had assured the fishers that henceforth there would be no problem of harassment or indiscriminate action in the high seas by the Sri lankan Navy. But today's arrest has again dipped the confidence of fishermen in the Central and State governments to find a solution to their long-term ills.When the officials checked his bag, they found nothing. However, on suspicion, the officials checked him and found three gold pieces concealed in his jeans, the sources said. (Representational image)

Chennai: Customs officials at the Chennai airport seized 665 grams of smuggled gold worth Rs 20 lakhs from a passenger on Saturday night. According to airport sources, officials stopped Sheik Hussain (32) of Chennai, who had arrived from Dubai in an Emirates Airways flight.

When the officials checked his bag, they found nothing. However, on suspicion, the officials checked him and found three gold pieces concealed in his jeans, the sources said.

Initially, the officials had let him pass through the green channel after he had declared he had nothing to pay customs duty on.

However, the officials stopped him outside the exit and brought him back to check again. The officials seized the gold worth Rs 20 lakh and arrested Sheik Hussain.

As he had travelled to Gulf countries several times, the officials are interrogating Hussian to determine whether he had smuggled gold on earlier occasions too.The elevation of Ms Indira Banerjee, present Chief Justice of Madras High Court (to be replaced by Ms. Justice Tahilramani another woman Chief Justice) to adorn the bench of the Supreme Court of India,

(8th woman) is a truly historical and epochal event in the 68-year-old judicial history of the institution. From gender composition, her joining the ranks of two puisne judges Justices R. Banumathi and Indu Malhotra to make it a threesone, is a first. Hope, it is a sign of things to come and a blow to gender justice, where it truly matters.

Today, there are three Associate Justices Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan, among The Nine on the US Supreme Court (SCOTUS) (now 8, upon retirement of Justice Anthony Kennedy, awaiting confirmation hearings for Brett Kavanaugh - Trumps nominee) and that truly is remarkable. Remember, it was not long ago, after 192 years, that the first woman Judge of the SCOTUS, was appointed in Sandra Day OConnor, in 1981, since 1789.

The three women Justices have brought a breath of fresh air to the nations discourse. Recent judgments of these three Justices, even in dissent, have been so distinct that they have enhanced the quality of the opinions. Sonia Sotomayors - a Latino- elevation has been a trailblazer that the  law schools are now inundated by coloured immigrants like never before. The coloured are adding colour to inclusiveness, and the 3 women have had a huge impact on parenthood, marriage, abortion, crimes, property rights et al causes, with their gender perspective.

Why a woman Judge? In United Kingdom Supreme Court, there is but a single woman Judge in Lady Hale, out of 12 Justices. Do women on the bench make a difference? Is law gender sensitive? or rather is gender, law sensitive? Read what Nani Palkhivala said in 1973.

Lord Gifford, QC, said last year that British judges were ignorant and biased, the bias being the product of their education and social position. In his book, Wheres the Justice? Lord Gifford observes that a male-dominated judiciary, is unable to understand the problems of women. Personally, I think the remark was justified in view of some of the amazingly lenient sentences handed down in England in cases of rape where the rapist was let off lightly on the ground that his career would otherwise be ruined, while the judge thought nothing of the cruel and wicked crime.

Closer home, it took a woman judge in Justice Prabha Sridevan to eulogise the role of a homemaker in evaluating her unpaid services for grant of compensation, in Minor Dipikha Vs National Insurance Co Ltd (2008). Hitherto missing.The decision was so transformational that our Supreme Court readily approved it in Arun Kumar Agrawal (2009) in double quick time.

Ms. Padmini Jesudurai (1986-93) became the first woman Judge of Madras High Court- a 150 year old court. And Ms. Fateema Beevi (1989-92) opened the account before at the Supreme Court. Presently, Madras High Court boasts the highest number of women judges, 12, among the sanctioned strength of 75. Nothing to genuinely crow over, considering women constitute 40% among the lakhs of practitioners.

While we may pat ourselves on the back for this seminal event, we need to bear in mind that our politicians are still engaged in verbal warfare over 33% reservations to women in Parliament. Consensus continues to elude, disclosing a mindset steeped in near misogyny. Nothing less.

Consider this. Indira Gandhi, Golda Meir, Benazir Bhutto, Julian Gillard, and failed attempt of Hilary Rodham Clinton-are unlikely to be replicated in the near future. They were first and last and not pioneers but symbols of tokenism. And the testing times Hilary and Julian Gillard faced from the barbs and taunts are too fresh to forget. Julian Gillards famous speech in the Australian Parliament against blatant misogyny is no tribute to a sporting nation. Jacinda Adern, the present New Zealand Prime Minister, attaining motherhood in 2018, as CEO has gone viral.

Yes, CEOs of many companies and banks today are women, and they have earned their place by sheer dint of competence and hardwork-and despite being women--and yet the glass ceiling is not even cracked, leave alone breached for good.

We have a long way to go. From a societys perspective, education and health issues are the key. We are still groping there (no pun intended). And burgeoning sexual crimes are a blot on the nations soul. Yet, 3 women as Supreme Court Judges, first time ever, is no ordinary occurrence .We need to celebrate for sure, but hope that it is the start of a gender revolution of sorts- at least in Judiciary- and not tokenism, to be a precursor of change everywhere else.

(Author is practising Advocate in the Madras High Court)A section of doctors, teaching faculty and top authorities of RIMS had lobbied for full autonomous status to RIMS to protect their interests. (Representational Image)

Adilabad: The semi-autonomous status to the Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Adilabad and the prevalent caste politics has led to a huge shortage of doctors and teaching faculty in the institution. Locals, however, feel that the conversion of the institute into a government medical college may be the only solution to such problems.

During an inspection, the executive committee of MCI found 22 deficiencies at RIMS. Therefore, it had not recommended the recognition of the MBBS degree granted by NTR University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada for students trained at RIMS. The medical institution was given one months time for rectification of the deficiencies.

The MCI found that there was nearly a 36 per cent shortage of faculty at RIMS which was a major concern.

A section of doctors, teaching faculty and top authorities of RIMS had lobbied for full autonomous status to the institute allegedly to protect their interests without bothering about the people of old Adilabad district. Adilabad had a pre-dominantly tribal population whose income levels were less and they could not afford to pay medical charges if it became autonomous.

If it turned autonomous, it had to generate funds on its own without charging the nominal fee (user fee) from patients for medical and health services. It also could not depend on state and central governments allocations.

The top authorities of RIMS were so adamant that they were not ready to display the number of doctors with their specialisation working at the hospital so that patients could know about the services available.

There were also strong allegations of misappropriation of funds by the in-charge Director K. Ashok of RIMS. He was also accused of misbehaving with the other doctors.

S. Rakesh of Adilabad said, Even the medical treatment at RIMS is given to a patient based on his or her caste and also if the patient was recommended by any political leader. This reflects the sorry state of affairs at RIMS.

The contractual doctors and teaching faculty were getting hiked salaries but the question remained un-answered whether they were delivering services as expected by the people.

Even some of the local doctors did not want these doctors to stay so that they could run their illegal show and control the institution.

The local political leaders of Congress and TRS were using the RIMS as a platform to get political advantage and score on their political opponents instead of fighting to set the institute right.

There were strong allegations that a group of doctors working at the RIMS were so rigid that they were deliberately stopping the entry of new doctors and super specialty doctors during recruitments by the Director of Medical Education (DME).

The medical college had also become a platform to show off community strength with recruitment of more numbers of doctors and other staff belonging to certain communities.

Caste politics has affected the credibility of RIMS which was already suffering ever since its establishment.There are reports that the biennial event, which was last held in Bengaluru in February 2017, would now be held in October-November this year in Lucknow. (Photo: File)

Bengaluru: Amid reports of the Defence Ministry planning to shift the venue of Aero India, the country's biennial air show and aviation exhibition, from Bengaluru to Lucknow, Karnataka on Saturday asked the Centre to clarify its stand on the matter.

A miffed Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara said under the NDA regime, the state was losing key defence projects to other states.

His remarks came after Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday urged Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to shift the venue of Aero India as it would benefit the defence production in the state.

There are reports that the biennial event, which was last held in Bengaluru in February 2017, would now be held in October-November this year in Lucknow.

However, the Defence Ministry has not yet made any formal announcement in this regard. If this happens, it will be the first time that the event will be hosted outside Bengaluru since its inception in 1996.

The neighbouring states of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, along with Chhattisgarh, will go to polls during the same time. It will also be one of the big events in the politically crucial state before the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Adityanath was speaking at an event in Aligarh where an announcement of a defence corridor encompassing the Aligarh, Agra, Kanpur, Lucknow, Jhansi and Chitrakoot corridor was made.

Sitharaman, her deputy in the ministry, Subhash Bhamre, Uttar Pradesh Industries Minister Satish Mahana and senior officials of the Defence Ministry and the Uttar Pradesh government were present at the event.

"I request the defence minister to hold the Aero India show in Uttar Pradesh. We will provide every type of facility. In this context, I request her to announce this at the earliest so that we can proceed with the preparations," Adityanath said.

Reacting strongly to this, Parameshwara tweeted, "Reports of #AeroIndia being moved out of Bengaluru are very unfortunate. We have been India's Defence Hub since Independence, but under the NDA we are constantly losing key defense projects and flagship programs. I request @nsitharaman to clarify her stand on the issue."The stereotypical image of the man in khaki  pot-bellied, lazily lumbering along streets wielding a lathi or idly chatting at a busy street corner while puffing at a beedi, may soon not fit the Kalaburgi city policeman if Superintendent of Police N Shashikumar has his way.

Kalaburagi: The stereotypical image of the man in khaki  pot-bellied, lazily lumbering along streets wielding a lathi or idly chatting at a busy street corner while puffing at a beedi, may soon not fit the Kalaburgi city policeman if Superintendent of Police N Shashikumar has his way.

Acting on the orders of Director General of Police, Neelamani S Raju to pay attention to the physical and mental health of policemen, Mr Shashikumar has launched a Healthy Police for Healthy Society programme comprising of daily yoga sessions and physical excercise for the men in khaki not only to trim their waistlines but also help them fight diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure.

The programme is also intended to help the policemen give up alcohol and gutka. The policemen suffer from a lot of health problems as they lead stressful and indisciplined lives owing to their long and odd hours of duty, explains Mr Shashikumar.

When police men and women from the rank of constable to ASI were screened in 12 police stations in the city, it was found that around 80 men were over the prescribed weight of 87 kgs and around 20 women were over 70 kgs. We also found that some were not only pot- bellied, but also suffered from various health problems, the officer adds.

The health checks were followed by daily outdoor and indoor exercise routines including yoga, walking, jogging, both in the morning and evening for a month. The result has been encouraging.

One week after the launch of the programme, when we held a walkathon for these men and women for a distance of 14 kms, many found it extremely difficult to cover it. In the second week there was some improvement even when the distance was increased to 22 kms. Last Sunday when the distance was extended to 35kms, around 70 persons covered it in the time limit set, while the rest reached the flag post after a while. This is highly encouraging,  adds a satisfied Mr Shashikumar.

B08Kochi: Different Coast Guard teams are undertaking flood relief operations in different parts of the state in coordination with Kerala State Disaster Management Authority and is also undertaking sorties for the recce of Periyar and adjacent low lying areas for flood assessment of Ernakulam and Aluva.

A release from the organisation said that the Coast Guard teams also are working actively in state relief camps opened at various locations.

"Despite the prevailing monsoon weather conditions and incessant rain, coast guard disaster relief teams are functioning at Chellamattom (CGDRT I), Aluva (CGDRT II), Munambam (CGDRT III) and CGDRT IV and V teams are standby at different locations for dealing any emergent situation in the state," the release added.

Coast Guard diving teams are also deployed in flood affected areas for undertaking search and rescue and providing help.

Coast Guard helicopter CG 805 with aircrew divers were deployed from 10.30 am on August 11 in affected areas along Aluva and Iddukki district," the press release added.Brajesh Thakur ran a state-funded shelter home where sexual abuse of more than 30 inmates was confirmed in medical tests. (Photo: File)

Muzaffarpur: Brajesh Thakur, prime accused in the Muzaffarpur shelter home rapes, was on Saturday found by Bihar police officials with a list of 40 mobile phone numbers.

According to reports, the incident took place in the visitor's area of the Muzaffarpur Central Jail where Thakur is lodged.

The Bihar police while carrying out simultaneous raids across jails in the state found Thakur with two handwritten pages with phone numbers and names of around 40 people.

On those two pages, the names of some powerful people, including a minister, were written.

Also Read: Bihar shelter home rapes: Social welfare minister Manju Verma resigns

Brajesh Thakur ran a state-funded shelter home where sexual abuse of more than 30 inmates was confirmed in medical tests.

The Bihar government had cancelled the registration of the NGO earlier this week.

Also Read: In Bihar shelter home case, Brajesh Thakur's NGO license cancelled

Meanwhile, a CBI team on Saturday took into custody the son of Brajesh Thakur, another accused in the shelter home sex scandal, after 11 hours of search operation and questioning at the premises owned by them.

The CBI team, which had reached Thakur's Sahu Road residence at around 9 am, left at around 8 pm with his son Rahul Anand.

The CBI team, which was also accompanied by a number of forensic experts, is understood to have inspected the shelter home after getting its seal opened, and collected documents and other items it found to be of value in the investigation.

Sexual exploitation of girls at the shelter home first came to light in the report of a social audit conducted by Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, which was submitted to the state social welfare department in April.

The FIR in the case was registered on May 31 against 11 people, including Thakur.

(With inputs from PTI)BENGALURU: Indiranagar has been plagued by the twin scourge of rampant commercialisation of residential areas and rapid erosion of tree cover. United Bengaluru along with IChange Indiranagar and residents of the locality staged a protest on Saturday against the felling of 171 trees to make way for the proposed redevelopment of Indiranagar BDA Complex. The BDA plans to redevelop the complex at an estimated cost of Rs 657 crore, under a PPP model, and the new structure is expected to come up in two years.

The proposed complex could violate the National Green Tribunal's (NGT) guidelines on buffer zone, as Binnamangala Lake is in close proximity. Reminding the residents about their constitutional right to live, Rajya Sabha member Rajeev Chandrasekhar said, "No BBMP or BDA can take away the right to live from us. With regards to buffer zone, the NGT has laid down guidelines and if private builders violate the guidelines, they will do so at the risk contravening the law."

Currently the sprawling complex houses trees such as peepal, banyan, Indian beech, silver oak etc and some of them are 70 years old. The Rajya Sabha MP further suggested that the BMRCL could convert the vacant space into parking rather than renting it out for commercial outlets. Sneha Nandihal, a resident of Indiranagar, pointed out that even a bakery in a commercial area would lead to increase in the number of vehicles and attract a minimum of fifteen people. "Commercial establishments should be on the arterial roads," she remarked. Lok Sabha MP P.C. Mohan said that on Monday he would meet the BDA commissioner and BBMP officials over the issue of illegal commercial establishments in the vicinity.

"Pubs have become a nuisance and despite the complaints being registered with the police stations by the residents no action has been taken. If my meetings with the BDA and BBMP officials not yield constructive result, we will stage a protest before the Police commissioner's office," he added. The residents complained of loud music from Hangover and Siam pubs in the area. Some even added that most of pubs play music till 1 am.

Build more floors, retain empty spaces: Architect

R.K. Gautham, Director, Sustainability India, Cushman and Wakefield, is of the opinion that if BDA goes ahead with the demolition of the current complex at Indiranagar, it should go vertical in terms of height with additional facility for parking. "In Mumbai, high rise buildings can go up to 21 floors, but at Indiranagar I think it can go till 12 floors with a few retail outlets and government spaces in the few floors. These old buildings have given up life. Given the congestion in the city the construction should be vertical," he said.Chennai: The AIADMK's organ - Namadhu Amma launched an all out attack on T.T.V. Dinakaran and said thieves and looters cant dream to hijack the party of MGR (founder and former CM M. G. Ramachandran) and Amma (late CM J. Jayalalithaa).

A poem published along with a cartoon, on Aug. 11, ridiculed the attempts of Dhinakaran, AMMK leader, in trying to usurp the AIADMK, and questioned whether a person of his stature can ever dream or long to take over the reins of the ruling party that was nurtured by Makkal Thilagam (as MGR was called) and Puratchi Thalaivi (Jayalalithaa).

Can those with greed for money ever ask for the diadem? the poem asked without directly naming him. Can those oscillating from jail and bail or condition bail, dream of capturing the party of MGR who lives in the hearts and homes of the Tamils, it asked.

The poem recalled the extraordinary traits of MGR who indulged in philanthropy and rolled out numerous welfare schemes including food (rice) to feed the hungry mouths, and light to illuminate huts, to indicate that the likes of Dhinakaran is no match to the iconic leader who founded the party and that Dhinakaran can never gain proximity to the party which still followed the legacy of the two revolutionary leaders.

Shooting yet another barb at him, the author asked, can the Satan, aspire to occupy the temple where the gods dwell?

This is not the first time the party organ had lashed out at Dhinakaran. In the last few months, the paper has been highly critical of him.The AAP government said that if the school principal is not able to send a detailed report to higher authorities, telephonic information is to be given immediately followed by a detailed report later on the same day. (Photo: File)

New Delhi: The Delhi government has directed all schools in the national capital to immediately report to it about any untoward incident such as accident, violence, molestation or protest before it reaches the media so that quick action can be taken and also there is no "embarrassment" to the education department.

The directive assumes significance in light of the alleged rape of a minor girl by an electrician in a NDMC school premises in the city.

Also Read: NHRC notice to Delhi govt, police over rape of 6-yr-old in school by electrician

"In order to ensure better monitoring of any untoward incident and take preventive measures at higher administrative levels, all heads of schools are directed to report immediately any untoward incident like violence, accident, dharna, quarrel, fire, protest, demonstration, theft, stampede, molestation, serious injury, suicide attempt or death to senior education department official whosoever is available at the moment," a communication sent to school principals by the Directorate of Education (DoE) said.

"In certain cases the reports of such incidents are received at the headquarters through media or other sources instead of the head of school due to which appropriate action cannot be taken in time and increases the threat to safety and security of students and also causes otherwise avoidable embarrassment to department. Therefore, all such occurrences must be brought to the notice of senior officers without any delay," it added.

The AAP government said that if the school principal is not able to send a detailed report to higher authorities, telephonic information is to be given immediately followed by a detailed report later on the same day.

"Non compliance of the directive will be viewed seriously and action deemed fit will be initiated against the erring head of the school," the DoE letter said.

Rape of the class 2 girl here last week has revived the debate on safety and security of students inside school premises.

Following the incident, the Delhi Commission For Women (DCW) and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) had issued notices to Delhi Police demanding details of the case.

The NDMC too had initiated disciplinary action against the school authorities and suspended four of its officials including the headmistress. The Delhi government had last month issued fresh guidelines to schools for ensuring students' safety, with a special focus on the security of the pupils travelling to schools by private vans.

The guidelines were issued following recommendations from a high-level committee which was formed in the wake of the murder of a seven-year-old boy in a Gurgaon school and alleged rape of a five-year-old girl in a school in Shahdara.Jama Masjid Aiwan-E-Begumpet, maintained by Paigahs, an aristocratic family, was built in 1906 and known for its intrinsic beauty and unique architectural style blending Moorish and Turkish features. (Photo : File)

Hyderabad: The over a century-old Jama Masjid Aiwan-E-Begumpet in Hyderabad will be thrown open to people from all religions this Independence Day for a guided tour, a move aimed at promoting inter-faith harmony.

Popularly known as the 'Spanish Mosque' for its Moorish architecture, the heritage masjid, for the first time, has invited people from all religions to visit it on August 15, between 10 am and 7 pm, as part of the 'Visit My Mosque' programme, an official said.

The 112-year old historic mosque in Begumpet area, maintained by the Paigahs, an aristocratic family, was built in 1906 and known for its intrinsic beauty and unique architectural style blending Moorish and Turkish features.

"We invite people from all religions to attend the 'Visit My Mosque' programme. This initiative promotes national integrity and communal harmony and it is an opportunity to meet, share and experience the values and culture of the Indian Muslim community," M A Faiz Khan, a member of the Paigah family and 'mutavalli' (caretaker) of the mosque, said.

Commissioned by Paigah noble Sir Viqar-ul Umera after his European tour of 1887 during which he was inspired by the Moorish architecture of Spain, it was completed by his successor. The mosque received the Intach Heritage Award in 2010.

"In today's world, there are a lot of misconceptions... Unfortunately, barriers are being created and so we would like to undo that and bring people together... This is to promote brotherhood and all are welcome," Khan told news agency PTI.

He described it as a landmark monument and one of the unique mosques in the country. Apart from feeling the structural beauty of the monument, they wanted the people to know what actually happens in the mosque, he said.

Khan said it would be an interactive guided tour and people can seek clarifications. "People can share good time, discuss out the things and feel good about it especially on our Independence Day. Presently this programme is for one day," he added.

Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), Telangana, co-convenor P Anuradha Reddy said the mosque was distinctive in more than one way. The mosque's design incorporated Turkish elements, including Turkish calligraphy which decorated its interiors, she said.

Describing it as a fascinating architectural gem of the city, she said the mosque has a fairy-tale appearance with unique minarets and a matching dome. Reddy said she had visited the Masjid-e-Quba in Mehdipatnam here in June this year as part of the 'Open mosque programme'.

On 'Spanish Mosque' opening to all faiths on Independence Day, she said "It is a good idea... People of all communities can learn about each other. It is a happy thing for other people to go and recognise its beauty."Thanjavur: Reaching water to tail-end Cauvery delta districts remains a major problem even in surplus years not because there are no rivers and canals, ponds and lakes in the districts, but because of poor irrigation and water resource management.

Consider the reality: Mettur dam has surplussed, i.e. crossed its full level of 120-ft twice this year that too within a short span of time-on July 23 and now again on August 11.(Water level touched 120 ft on Friday evening. Inflow into the dam was 1,32, 755 cusecs). But demand for water comes from farmers in tail-end areas, more so Pudukkottai and Tiruvarur districts.

Water was released from Mettur dam on July 19 this year when desilting and maintenance works were still going on in many rivers, canals and lakes. Many of the works could not be completed. So water could not be stored, In some places, at the upper reaches, because of poor maintenance of river bunds, canals breached and water wasted. It is unfortunate that water is going waste into sea even though Mettur dam reached its full level twice this year. Immediately PWD engineers could do one thing. They can give water to Chennai city and fill up Veeranam, said S. Ranganathan, secretary, Cauvery Delta Farmers Welfare Association, who was happy that copious showers in catchment areas have filled up Mettur dam but very much concerned over wastage of water.

In Tiruvarur district, water has not reached many areas and farmers have announced agitations demanding water. According to P.R. Pandian, coordinator of the Thamizhaga Anaithu Vivasaya Sangangalin Orunginaippu Kuzhu, 25,000 acres of land could not be cultivated as water has not been let out into Vadavar extension canal. Fifty per cent of the Kudimaramathu works taken up have not been completed. There is large scale corruption in utilising the funds allotted for PWD works. Because of this, though Mettur dam has suplussed twice this year, ponds, lakes, canals remain dry in Tiruvarur district. Chief Minister Edappadi K.Palaniswami should visit delta areas and see water reached tail-end areas, Pandian urged.

Farmers of Pudukottai district also have been demanding water. Though water had been released into GA canal, it has not reached system tanks in Pudukottai district. Major portion of the district is rain-fed, but the major crop cultivated is paddy. If water fills up system tanks of GA canal and other tanks which are rain-fed fill up, one paddy crop can be taken successfully. Out of the total gross cropped area of 1,23,722 hectares, paddy is raised on 90,000 hectares. Paddy needs large quantity of water and hence farmers depend upon system tanks mainly fed by GA canal.

Pudukottai district has 5,451 tanks in the district. According to S. Somasundaram, district development manager, National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (Nabard) they should be regularly rejuvenated which includes clearing of inflow channels, outflow channels, deepening of tanks strengthening of bunds, strengthening of Kalingu (excess water will flow through this to other tanks). Most of the tanks created during royal period have excellent water connections with each other. Encroachments in the inlet to rivers, improper desilting, lack of renovation of tanks have made them not in a position to get and store water. Encroachments should be removed and PWD should take up desilting, deepening, strengthening of bunds, works, said farmers of Pudukottai district.The incident took place on the TTK Road at around 3:50 am. (Photo: Twitter | ANI)

Chennai: Tamil film actor Vikram's son Dhruv was arrested after a car allegedly driven by him rammed into a parked autorickshaw here, injuring its driver, early on Sunday, police said.

He was released on his personal bond later, police said.

A case had been registered for rash, negligent driving and causing hurt by act endangering life of others.

The incident took place on the TTK Road at around 3:50 am.

Auto driver Kamesh had been admitted to the Government Royapettah Hospital, city Traffic Police said.

The autoricksaw had been damaged severely, a police official told news agency PTI.

When asked how the accident occurred, police said further investigations were on.Lucknow: The Bhartiya Janata Party in Uttar Pradesh will go to polls with the slogan, Phir Ek Baar, Modi Sarkar. The party has set a target of 73+ seats for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh and BJP president Amit Shah has asked party workers to ensure 51 per cent votes for the party from all sections of voters.

BJP president Amit Shah, who addressed the state executive, asked party workers to take the achievements of the Modi and Yogi governments to the people. He lauded the work done by the Yogi government in the state. Later briefing reporters party general secretary Vijay Bahadur Pathak said that the party will launch a series of state-wide rallies from October 2 to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.Kochi: The development policies followed in Kerala for the past many years without any regard for the ecology of the state has been termed as suicidal by Prof Amita Singh of the Centre for Study of Law and Governance, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi.

Prof. Singh, part of a five-member team of professors from JNU, undertaking a study funded by University Grants Commission on vulnerabilities of Western Ghats, says floods ravaging the state for the past few days could be described as a chronicle of a disaster foretold.

Systematic violation of rules in areas like coastal regulation, destruction of mangroves, widespread encroachment in ecologically sensitive hill ranges and the multiplicity of regulatory bodies are some of the major issues facing the state, she said. The flood situation in the state should be treated as a wake-up call for policymakers for a course correction. If they continue to pursue the same policy prescription it will lead to further disasters, she said.

We travelled through the length and breadth of the state a few months ago, and the damage and destruction seen in places such as the Kochi Coast, Munnar Hills, Wayanad and High Ranges of Malappuram district could be termed only as disastrous."

In the name of development what is happening is worse than maniacal, she added.

The inconsistency of the judicial eco-system in the country in dealing matters with ecology has also contributed to the worsening of the situation, she said.

In an article named Coastal Ballads and Conservation Ironic; Understanding Implementation Slippages of the CRZ Law, she pointed out: Fragile ecosystems of water bodies have not been appropriately located in many judgments delivered in the last two decades.

Inconsistent judicial interpretations can be demonstrated to swirl around three pillars; the CRZ land use restrictions, public trust doctrine and the irresponsible and unaccountable governance institutions.

She cited the contradictory judgments by the Kerala High Court in a case related to violation of CRZ norms by DLF in Kochi.The NGT on August 9 ordered access to the company officials to the administrative blocks located in the plant premises.

Chennai: With the National Green Tribunal (NGT) allowing the mining major Vedanta to access the administrative unit inside its Sterlite plant in Thoothukudi, Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami discussed measures to be taken to ensure that the government initiative on the plants closure is not defeated. He chaired a meeting at the Secretariat on Sunday to decide on the next course of action in the wake of NGT ruling.

Sources indicated that the government is keen on ensuring that the copper smelter plant is permanently shut down. On June 4, while justifying the police action on those who unleashed violence during the anti-Sterlite protest on May 22, Mr Palaniswami had informed the TN Assembly that no government should encourage anti-social elements.

He asserted that the G.O. on permanently shutting Vedanta groups Sterlite plant in Thoothukudi is valid and strong enough and that no one can reopen the unit as all vital approvals (to the plant) have been cancelled.

The plant cannot be opened. It is permanently closed and sealed. All permissions like boiler licence and power connection were cancelled, he had said.

However, an official release did not mention the decision taken at Sundays meeting. It is also not known if the government would challenge NGTs order in the Supreme Court. NGT had on Thursday granted interim relief to Vedanta Limited to access the administrative section of its Sterlite copper plant, while making it explicitly clear that it would not have access to its production unit. NGT said the district authorities should ensure that the company does not access the plants production unit.

Besides Deputy Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam, Ministers: Dindigul C. Sreenivasan (Forest), K. A. Sengottaiyan (School Education), P. Thangamani (Electricity), S. P. Velumani (Local Administration), C. Ve. Shanmugham (Law), K. P. Anbalagan (Higher Education), M. C. Sampath (Industries), K. C. Karuppannan (Environment), Chief Secretary Girija Vaidyanathan, Industries Secretary K. Gnanadesikan and Advocate General Vijay Narayan and Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) Member-Secretary T. Sekar participated in the meeting.On December 16, 2010 she could not even move her right limb and she became almost unconscious and was rushed to a private hospital, which found that three catheter pieces were still found in her vascular system. Later, she was treated at a private hospital.

Chennai: The State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Chennai, has upheld the order of Coimbatore District Consumer Forum directing a private hospital to pay a compensation of Rs 5 lakh to family members of a woman for committing negligence in operation performed on the woman eight years ago. While a coronary angiogram was being performed on her, the apparatus broke into three pieces.

In the original complainant Chitra, a lab assistant in the Department of Soil and Science, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University Coimbatore, submitted that she was a healthy person. She was admitted in the Sri Ramakrishna Hospital, Coimbatore on July 17, 2010 for a hernia operation. The doctors had decided to conduct pre-medical check-up and accordingly coronary angiogram evaluation was done. During that procedure, the catheter inserted into the complainant broke and the pieces migrated to her right lower limb.

The pieces started obstructing the blood supply to the limb and her pulse rate came down drastically. After receiving a fee of Rs 64,475 the hospital agreed to perform an operation to remove the pieces. Later, the hospital had informed her that the pieces were removed. However, she continued to suffer from pain and numbness and the pain increased every day.

On December 16, 2010 she could not even move her right limb and she became almost unconscious and was rushed to a private hospital, which found that three catheter pieces were still found in her vascular system. Later, she was treated at a private hospital.

In its reply, the hospital management denied the allegations. The management stated that it had not committed any negligence in the service. The Coimbatore District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum in 2011 held that hospital and doctors were guilty of deficiency in service arising out of medical negligence. She was entitled to get a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for causing her mental agony and other sufferings in addition to Rs 3,000 towards costs. She died during the pendency of this appeal.

In the appeal, the hospital stated that the District Forum had failed to note that there was no medical negligence on the part of the hospital and there was no medical experts opinion adduced by the complainant.

Dismissing the appeal, the bench comprising President Dr Justice S. Tamilvanan and Judicial Member K. Baskaran said that she faced severe mental agony and hardship as she had to carry three pieces of foreign metallic objects in her vascular system till she breathed her last during the pendency of the appeal.

Her family doctor Dr R. Selvaraj, a consultant cardiologist, did coronary angiogram to ascertain her fitness to undergo hernia operation by evaluating her heart condition. The operation was performed at Sri Ramakrishna Hospital on July 17, 2010.

It is disheartening to note that the chief cardiovascular surgeon of the Sri Ramakrishna Heart Foundation & Research Centre, despite his stature, reputation and experience in the field of vascular surgery, had exhibited callous indifference in the matter of removal of three foreign metallic pieces left in the vascular system of the complainant occurred during angiogram procedure.Hyderabad: Irrigation minister T. Harish Rao on Sunday accused the Congress of stoking anti-TRS government sentiments under the guise of AICC president Rahul Gandhi's two-day tour to Telangana. Mr Harish lashed out at Congress saying that the party wants to provoke students, unemployed youths and farmers against the TRS government in the public meetings to be addressed by Mr Gandhi.

Mr Harish said the TRS or Chief Minister and party chief K. Chandrasekhar Rao never promised a government job to each household as being claimed by Congress. He dared Congress to show at least one proof for its claim. The Congress has now convened a public meeting of students and unemployed youths to provoke them against the TRS by falsely claiming that we had promised a job to each household when Telangana state was formed. I ask the Congress to disclose how many jobs they provided in their 60 years rule at the Centre, he said.

Mr Harish accused the Congress of being always anti-Telangana. They are raising a hue and cry over Mr Rahul Gandhi not getting permission to visit Osmania University campus. It is because of the Congress party, hundreds of OU students lost their lives during the Telangana statehood agitation. They obstructed and delayed the formation of Telangana state. Now the same people want to visit OU campus, meet students and shed crocodile tears. They also want to visit Telangana martyrs' memorial and pay tributes. People of Telangana are aware of all these gimmicks. The Congress leader cannot fool them with these tours and meetings, he said.Hyderabad: In December 2015, the police had caught Mohammed Abdullah Basith, Syed Omer Farooq Hussaini and Maaz Hasan Farooq when they had attempted to escape to Afghanistan and Iraq via Kashmir to join the Islamic State.

Then two of them, who were students, had told the police that they were supposed to meet Dukhtaran-e-Millat chief Asiya Andrabi and seek help to cross the border into PoK. From there, they had planned to travel to Afghanistan and other countries. All three are nephews of ex-SIMI president Syed Salahuddin.

The then joint commissioner of police, T. Prabhakar Rao, had said that they were motivated by online videos and IS propaganda. The recent setbacks IS suffered also motivated them to go and join the outfit.

They left their mobiles at home so that they could not be tracked. It was the second time Basith and Maaz were caught by the police.

In September 2014, Basith was arrested along with Maaz when he was allegedly trying to go to Syria or Iraq via Bangladesh, along with two other young men. But the police foiled their attempt in Kolkata and brought them to Hyderabad.

They were counselled in the presence of their parents and let off.

Basith is the son of Mohammed Abdul Arif, a furniture store owner. A resident of Naseeb Nagar, he dropped out of his B Tech (CSE) course.

Basith again had a tryst with the law enforcement agency in May 2017, when the police registered a case of sedition against him and two others Salman Moinuddin and Anan Qureshi. This was after a news channel aired their interview allegedly claiming that they were continuing links with ISIS. Both the cases are being investigated.Hyderabad: Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao has lined up the launch of major welfare schemes, covering a huge chunk of the population, for August 15 to mark the Independence Day celebrations. The CM will launch Kanti Velugu, a scheme to conduct free eye screening tests, perform surgeries and distribute spectacles free of cost in all districts, Rythu Bhima, a scheme to provide all farmers with Rs. 5 lakh free insurance, and distribute Rs. 2000 crore loans to BCs for self-employment schemes.

Over 28 lakh farmers have enrolled for the Rythu Bhima scheme so far. The distribution of insurance bond certificates to farmers started this week in all the districts. The insurance cover will come into force from August 15. All farmers in the age group of 18 to 59 years are eligible for the scheme. The government has entered into an MoU with the Life Insurance Corporation of India to implement the scheme. The government has already paid Rs. 630 crore to LIC towards payment of premium on behalf of farmers.

The CM said "This is the largest life insurance scheme in the world being implemented by the Telangana government for the welfare of farmers. In the event of death of a farmer for any reason, the LIC will pay an insurance amount of Rs. 5 lakh to the nominee of the farmer within 10 days. The Agriculture Extension Officer and the Panchayat Secretary are entrusted with the job of ensuring that the compensation reaches farmer's nominee within 10 days by submitting the death certificate to LIC and completing all procedural formalities."

Besides, the distribution of loans to Backward Classes without bank linkage will also be launched in all the 31 districts on August 15. Finance Minister Etela Rajender on Sunday held a meeting with officials to finalise the modalities for distribution of loans. He said the government had allotted Rs. 2000 crore for the scheme and the loans would be distributed purely on merit without giving any scope for favouritism. The Kanti Velugu programme will be taken up for six months starting August 15, covering all districts in phases.Governor Banwarilal Purohit and the new Chief Justice of Madras high court Vijaya Kamlesh Tahilramani with the latters Warrant of Appointment during the swearing-in ceremony in Raj Bhavan on Sunday. Also seen is Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami. (Photo:DC)

Chennai: The Madras High court Judges were provided seats in rows behind Ministers and top police officials in the function as the first four rows were allotted to Ministers and police officials. The judges also faced difficulties in reaching their seats as they were placed close to each other.

Raising serious concern over allotting seats to the Madras High court judges behind Ministers and Police officials during the function, Justice M.S. Ramesh has sought an explanation. In a statement, Justice Ramesh said with dismay, I am constrained to bring on record the incautious protocol extended to the Judges of the Madras High Court at todays swearing-in ceremony by the organizers of Raj Bhavan. It was not only a disappointment but an issue of serious concern.

He asked whether the Raj Bhavan was unaware of the hierarchy between Constitutional dignitaries and police officers? Or is it their understanding that the HC Judges rank below the order of Ministers and Police Officers?

Being an official function, there cannot be a second opinion that the protocol to be extended was for the post and not the individual. I am given to understand from the High Court Registrarliaison that his prior request to oversee the seating arrangements for the HC Judges was denied by Raj Bhavan. If it could be true, it is rather unfortunate that it can only be termed to be deliberate act of extending a cold shoulder to us, the message read.

We deserve an explanation...!! It would not be out of place to mention here that earlier this year, the HC Judges were pushed out of their legitimate seats during the Thirukalyanam at Meenakshi Amman temple at Madurai to accommodate Ministers and politicians. The concern we had raised in this regard is yet to be answered, the judge said.

Madras HC sworn-in

Justice Vijaya Kamlesh Tahilramani was sworn in as the Chief Justice of the Madras High Court on Sunday with Governor Banwarilal Purohit administering the oath of office at a ceremony in Raj Bhavan.

Justice Tahilramani, who was the acting chief justice of the Bombay High Court, was recently appointed Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, succeeding Justice Indira Banerjee, who has been elevated to the Supreme Court.

Justice Tahilramani is the third woman chief justice of the Madras High Court. Banerjee, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami, his deputy O Panneerselvam, besides judges of the Madras High Court and a team of 11 judges from the Bombay High Court were among those who attended the swearing in ceremony.Cathy Tie has accomplished more in her 22 years than most people do in a lifetime.

Her research on genomics has been published in science journals, she's founded a profitable genetic testing company and she recently became the youngest partner to join Silicon Valley venture capital firm, Cervin Ventures.

But for Tie, this is just the beginning.

Tie moved from China to Toronto with her parents when she was four years old. She was a gifted child and by the time she entered high school, her deep interest in biology and chemistry required an outlet beyond the traditional classroom.

"Doing research on my own outside of school became part of my identity," said Tie. She was astute enough to realize that she needed to tap into a network of college professors and researchers to help guide her work.

Her sophomore year she started cold-calling dozens of university science professors about her research into two protein cells in white blood cells and their relevance to protective immunity.

"I'd call for two straight years at the beginning of each school year and would be rejected by all of them," she said.

Eventually, she got her break: A professor at the University of Toronto's immunology department agreed to take the 15-year-old on for eight months to conduct research at the college's lab.

"I went straight from [high] school to the lab and would be there until 7 or 8 p.m.," she said. At 16, Tie's research was published in Canadian Young Scientists Journal and Genome Research.

After graduating in 2014, Tie enrolled in the University of Toronto to study bioinformatics, but she only stayed less than a year.

While she was doing research into rare disease genes in the university's lab, she had an idea: She wanted to start a company focused on improving the accuracy of genetic testing and better assessing a person's risk for disease.

"The challenge with genetic testing right now is that there are lots of rare mutations that surface, which haven't been analyzed. It's an obstacle that makes it harder to obtain a person's full diagnosis," said Tie, who dropped out of college to pursue the venture. "Our goal is to create a knowledge base of every possible mutation in common cancer genes."

Tie partnered with PhD student Leo Wan, who was conducting research at a molecular genetics lab in the same building. Wan had the technical expertise she needed to get the company off the ground.

The two named the startup Ranomics -- a fusion of the words "rare" and "genomics" -- and in early 2015, accepted $100,000 in seed funding from San Francisco-based biotechnology accelerator, IndieBio, which also provided them with office and lab space and mentoring.

"At the time, there was also a lot of investor interest in companies focused on genetics and genetic testing," said Tie. This interest, and the smart young Tie herself, grabbed the attention of investors, helping them to raise more than $2 million in funding since the company was incorporated in 2015.

Tie has since moved the company back to Toronto and has expanded her team and roster of customers.

So far, Ranomics has analyzed 2,000 mutations in breast, colon and prostate cancer for global genetic testing firms such as Beijing Genomics Institute, Veritas Genetics and Advanced Molecular Diagnostics, a division of Mount Sinai Hospital.

Related: She's 35 and runs a $3 billion company

Last year, Ranomics launched a new business unit called VariantFind, which helps create DNA libraries specifically for use by customers in synthetic biology and protein engineering industries. Their applications would include gene therapy treatment for diseases and creating new products in the agricultural industry.

With the two businesses doing well, Tie decided to take on a new challenge: venture capital.

It's an area that has captivated since she began raising money for Ranomics.

Through a friend, she was introduced to Palo Alto-based VC firm Cervin Ventures, an early stage investment firm that typically invests $1 to $2 million in seed stage companies in the enterprise technology space.

She met with the firm's partners last year and they offered her a position as partner. "They were respectful of what I had achieved and my operational experience. Most importantly, they were open-minded," she said.

In January, Tie moved to Silicon Valley to become the youngest of four partners at the firm. Tie remained on Ranomics' board, but turned over her role as CEO to Wan.

So far, she loves the VC experience. But, she admits, it's been a steep learning curve.

"My core expertise was in genetics, but I had a good understanding about how early stage companies grow from the perspective of the founder, particularly in areas such as revenue, hiring and taking a product to market," she said.

Eight months in, she's most excited about the potential of investing in blockchain technology companies that will disrupt traditional industries. Tie said she will probably stay in the venture capital industry for a while.

"I'm still involved with Ranomics, but I really do think it's a great experience being on both sides of the business equation," she said. "I've launched a startup and am now finding innovative startups to fund."Bengaluru: Stating that caste and regional disparity are the reasons behind the surge of one political party (read Bharatiya Janata Party) in the country, former prime minister H.D. Deve Gowda expressed his apprehension about this development. Speaking after releasing the Kannada translation of The Indian Parliament, A democracy at Work OIP written by B.S. Shankar and Valerian Rodrigues here on Sunday, the Janata Dal (Secular) supremo regretted that no efforts were made to identify leaders from the South from the day of Independence. In North India, due to the influence of Hindi language, that region was getting politically influential, he remarked.

Recalling that the first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru laid a strong foundation for Indian democracy, he lamented that people talk lightly about him even in the Lok Sabha though his contribution to the country is huge. When Indira Gandhi was prime pinister, there was instability in nine states and she brought in good programmes for these states. Even I am originally a Congressman. I have undergone a lot of pain and I dont want to talk about that, he said.

Highlighting the contributions of former chief minister late Devaraj Urs, Gowda said that he was the best chief minister of Karnataka particularly when it came ti legislature sessions. Though the strength of the Opposition was only 24 then, he used to listen patiently to the charges made by the Opposition and answer their queries by citing statistics, he said.The NIA officials said that during further investigation, a fresh input was received from reliable sources that one Abdullah Basith, a resident of Hyderabad, was in regular touch with accused Adnan Hassan. (Representational Image)

Hyderabad: Two people were arrested by the National Investigation Agency on Sunday in connection with an Abu Dhabi-based ISIS module case registered in 2016.

The officials arrested Mohammed Abdullah Basith, 24, of Chandrayangutta and Mohammed Abdul Qadeer, 19, of Pahadishareef as they were allegedly conspiring to further the ISIS ideology and carry out terrorist activities in India. The two accused have been in touch with Adnan Hassan, who was earlier arrested in the 2016 ISIS module case and is facing trial.

NIA officials had also conducted searches in seven locations in and around the city.

The initial questioning has revealed the involvement of accused Abdullah Basith, Mohd Abdul Qadeer and other associates to the ISIS. A lot of incriminating material was recovered and seized. It has been sent to CFSL Hyderabad for analysis and data extraction, officials added.

The agency, in the chargesheet filed for the arrested trio, had also named a few people from the city, including Mohd Abdullah Basith of Chandrayangutta, Mohammed Mujtaba of Edi Bazaar, Hannan Qureshi, Adnan Ahmed and Sana who the agency said were members of the Hyderabad-based ISIS module.

The NIA in 2016 had arrested Sheikh Azhar ul Islam, Mohammed Farhan Shaikh and Adnan Hassan on allegations that the three persons and their other unknown associates were members of ISIS and were involved in a conspiracy to identify, motivate, radicalise, recruit and train Indian Muslim youth on behalf of the proscribed outfit.

The agency had registered a Case RC-04/16/NIA/DLI dated 28.01.2016 at PS NIA, New Delhi under Sections 120B of IPC and 18, 18A and 18B Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. After completion of the investigation, NIA filed a charge-sheet on July 25, 2016 against the three accused in the NIA Special Court, Patiala House Courts, New Delhi.

The NIA officials said that during further investigation, a fresh input was received from reliable sources that one Abdullah Basith, a resident of Hyderabad, was in regular touch with accused Adnan Hassan. Some of his associates too were in touch with each other and were conspiring to further the activities of ISIS in India, the NIA stated. NIA officials for the last one week have been questioning more than 10 people, including Basith and Qadeer, as part of the investigation.The NIA had conducted a search at the residence of Qadeer last Monday and reportedly seized incriminating material. (Representational Image)

Hyderabad: Parents of Mohd Abdul Qadeer, who was arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), claimed that their son was innocent and in no way connected with either the ISIS or any terror activity.

His father Mohd Abdul Qudoos said that his son followed the Ahl-i-Hadees school of thought and sold Islamic books at various mosques and religious gatherings. He visits various mosques in the state and sells these books. Once, about a year ago, he had gone on a tour of a few states in the country, the man said.

Qudoos further said that their relatives stay in Pakistan and they talk over the phone with them. My son might know Basith because they could have met at some mosque as they follow the Ahl-i-Hadees group. My son is not connected with the ISIS and is innocent, he said. The NIA had conducted a search at the residence of Qadeer last Monday and reportedly seized incriminating material.

The agency also seized a laptop and a mobile phone belonging to Qadeer. The family lives in a rented house in the Shaheennagar area of Pahadishareef.

However, the parents of Abdul Basith preferred to be indoors when the media arrived at their house.HYDERABAD: Congress president Rahul Gandhi is all set to launch the partys campaign in Telangana state for the upcoming general elections with his two-day visit to the state, beginning from Monday. This is Mr Gandhis first visit to Telangana state after taking over the reins of the party in December 2017.

Mr Gandhis tour has already generated political heat in the state with the ruling TRS and main Opposition Congress engaged in a verbal war over the denial of permission to Mr Gandhi to meet students at the visit OU campus, the epicentre of Telangana statehood agitation. Congress leaders and cadre have pinned high hopes on Mr Gandhis tour hoping that he will energise the party which is still reeling under the severe drubbing in the hands of the TRS in the 2014 elections.

Mr Gandhi will take part in Praja Chaitanya bus yatra and is scheduled to address two public meetings during the two-day visit. TPCC Chief N. Uttam Kumar Reddy, who was instrumental in bringing Mr Gandhi to Telangana and convincing him to take part in the bus yatra, said, Rahul Gandhi's tour is the beginning of the end of KCR rule in Telangana. Mr Reddy added, All sections of Telangana society and the Congress are eagerly and enthusiastically preparing to receive the future Prime Minister of India. The TRS Government has cheated all sections and failed on all fronts. Rahul Gandhi will expose how the TRS failed Telangana after the Congress granted it statehood in 2014 fulfilling the six-decade dream of Telangana people.

As per revised schedule released by TPCC on Sunday, Mr Gandhi will arrive at Shamshabad airport at 2.30 pm on Monday. He will interact with women self help groups in Classic Covention Centre, Shamshabad from 3 pm to 4 pm. Later, Mr Gandhi will reach Sherilingampally and address a public meeting to be held from 5.30 pm to 7 pm. After the meeting, he will proceed to Hotel Haritha Plaza for the night halt.

On Tuesday, Mr Gandhi will hold a teleconference with booth committee presidents in all districts at 9 am. He will meet industrialists at Hotel Taj Krishna from 12 noon to 1 pm. Mr Gandhi will visit Telagana Martyrs Memorial and pay floral tributes at 3.30 pm. He will meet students, youth and meeting organisers at Saroornagar stadium at 4.45 pm. Mr Gandhi will address a public meeting of unemployed and youth at Saroornagar stadium from 5 pm to 6.15 pm and leave for Delhi at 7 pm.Kalaburagi: Congress President Rahul Gandhi will kickstart the campaign for the forthcoming Lok Sabha election in the state from Bidar on Monday. The Congress is on a strong pitch in the district where it had won four of the six Assembly seats. Mr Gandhi will launch the 'Jana Dwani Yatra' from Bidar with about two lakh workers from various assembly segments in Bidar and neighbouring Kalaburagi likely to attend the rally.

Leader of the Congress group in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge, AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal, KPCC President Dinesh Gundurao, former CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM Dr G Parameshwar will attend. The rally will be a big occasion for three term MLA from Bhalki and KPCC working president, Eshwar Khandre.

According to KPCC Working President Eshwar Khandre, Mr Gandhi will launch the 'Jana Dwani Yatra' from Bidar. About two lakh workers from various assembly segments of Bidar district and neighbouring Kalaburagi district will attend the rally which will be held at the Nehru Stadium at 11 am. Senior Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, K.C. Venugopal, Dinesh Gundurao, Siddaramaiah, G Parameshwar and D.K. Shivakumar will attend the programme.

Besides addressing the rally, the local unit of the Congress will felicitate Mr Gandhi, who was recently elected President of the AICC. The rally will be a big occasion for three term MLA from Bhalki Khandre, who was recently appointed the working president of KPCC, to exhibit his strength and also organising skills. It's the first time that a leader from the district has been elevated to the second top position in the party.

With the Congress having won four of the six Assembly seats in the district in the recent Assembly election, party leaders are in an upbeat mood. In so far as the Bidar Lok Sabha seat is concerned, the Congress is in a very strong position this time with five of the seven Assembly segments under its control.

"With the Bidar Zilla Panchayat and most taluk panchayat in its bag, the Congress is sitting pretty this time. Although the Bidar Lok Sabha seat was a pocketborough of the saffron party since 1991 when late Ramachandra Veerappa won it for the first time, the party appears to have become considerably weaker now with most of its leaders losing the Assembly election or quitting the party.

It's only in Aurad Assembly seat that the BJP candidate has won. But the relationship between Aurad MLA Prabhu Chavan and the incumbent BJP MP Bhagwant Khuba is such that they don't see eye to eye. By kickstarting the campaign here, Mr Gandhi wants to send a strong message that his party is determined to wrest the Bidar Lok Sabha seat from the BJP, a senior political analyst observed.Union home minister Rajnath Singh visits a relief camp at Elanthikara near Paravur in Kochi on Sunday accompanied by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan (Photo: PRD)

Kochi: The Union government has sanctioned Rs 100 crore as immediate assistance to the rain-ravaged Kerala while the state demanded Rs 1,220 crore.

Union home minister Rajnath Singh announced the aid after making a whirlwind tour to some of the flood-affected places on Sunday.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had given him a representation citing rough estimation of damages at Rs 8,316 crore and demanding an interim relief of Rs 1,220 crore.

Promising every help for the state to meet the present situation Mr Singh, however, remained non-committal on declaring it as a national calamity.

Describing the flood situation the worst since the 1924 deluge, he said the Union government had released Rs 80 crore each earlier. He said the demand for more would be considered.

The minister along with Mr Vijayan, Union tourism minister Alphons Kannanthanam and others made an aerial survey of the flood-hit Idukki and Ernakulam districts.

He also visited a relief camp on the outskirts of Ernakulam. Mr Vijayan sought a special package to overcome the calamity.

His memorandum pointed out that out of the Rs 1,220 crore the state demanded, `820 crore was under the National Disaster Relief Fund guidelines placed earlier.

The Central team that visited the state before the fresh spell of flooding had also recommended the same amount as immediate assistance, it said.

The state is facing the monsoon ravages for the second time within a month, and new team should be sent for assessing the loss and damages afresh, it said.

The compensation under the NDRF norms is limited and would not meet the requirement of the state. The government should release funds taking into account the prevailing situation.HYDERABAD: Bhartiya Janata Party legislator from Goshamahal, T. Raja Singh warned of "mob lynching" if Telangana police failed to stop the slaughter and sale of cows and healthy bulls during Bakrid. Our volunteers will go the spots where the cows and bulls are being slaughtered illegally. There can be a confrontation between the butchers and our volunteers. We have prepared 1,000 volunteers to check on the illegal transport of cattle, he told reporters on Sunday.

The BJP MLA said that there were several thousands of people who are ready to face arrest for the cause of gau raksha. We can sacrifice our lives and at the same time, take lives too. We will not step back when it comes to the protection of cow, come what may, he said. Mr Raja Singh further said that there is an atmosphere of mob lynching in the country and if the police fail to check the transport of cattle into the state it can happen here too.

To avoid such situation, the police should check the sale of cows and healthy bulls. The government departments are accepting bribes and issuing certificates saying the animals are not fit for agriculture or any other purpose. The corruption needs to checked, he said. The legislator said, Earlier the government used to set up check-posts a month prior to the Bakrid but no such measures are being initiated now.Chennai: Union Minister of State for Finance and Shipping Pon Radhakrishnan who had earlier opposed the state governments decision to transfer the idol wing cases to the CBI has demanded an impartial investigation leading to the arrest of real culprits in idol theft cases.

The Union Minister also came out in support of industrialist and TVS Motor Company Ltd Chairman Venu Srinivasan, who apprehending arrest by the idol wing police, sought anticipatory bail. Mr. Srinivasan is the chairman, board of trustees of Srirangam Sri Ranganathar Swamy temple.

It is very crucial to trace out and bring the culprits involved in temple idol smuggling cases to book. Under no circumstances the real culprits should be left unpunished. Initiating cases on the innocent will not only divert the attention but also turn to the advantage of the culprits, Mr. Radhakrishnan said on Sunday. The general perception among people, Mr. Radhakrishnan said, was that Srinivasan had spent his own money for improving the temples besides bettering the lives of the poor. Many devotees wonder if accusing a person like Srinivasan was meant to divert the investigation or help the real culprits, the Union Minister added.

Party president Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan and state general secretary Vanathi Srinivasan too had expressed similar sentiments. The BJP is not alone. Several other political leaders too have voiced in support of Mr. Venu Srinivasan against whom a FIR has been lodged in an idol missing case.

Backing him, CPI leader R. Mutharasan, said it was astonishing that Srinivasan, the head of TVS Motor, was being charged in a temple idol theft case. He sought to know on whose instance Srinivasans name had been included in the FIR.

MDMK chief Vaiko had demanded dropping of Srinivasans name from the FIR. Dragging his name in the idol theft case is unpardonable and an attempt to tarnish the image of a person who had not done anything even minimally wrong, he said.The NDA government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has under nine months till the next Lok Sabha election. Multilaterally, the UN General Assembly session that is commencing next month and the November East Asia Summit in Singapore may be on the Prime Ministers diplomatic itinerary. The New Pakistan Prime Minister, Imran Khan, is likely to pitch strongly for a Kashmir solution, and is expected to be the star at his first UNGA in New York. But overall, as the governments attention turns towards vote consolidation by focusing on selective issues, often with a divisive agenda, foreign policy will have to take a back seat for the time being. Nevertheless, some matters will continue to demand attention.

The news leak that US President Donald Trump would be the Republic Day chief guest next January was neither confirmed nor denied by New Delhi. The government may have seen it as a likely public relations triumph on the eve of a crucial do-or-die Lok Sabha election, or possibly may have backpedalled, fearing the Trumpian propensity for off-script self-projection or seeking transactional concessions in trade and defence purchases that may play badly domestically. It is also possible that the White House did not bite the bait. But as the much delayed 2+2 meeting of the foreign and defence ministers of India and the US takes place next month, three issues with broader geopolitical ramifications overhang it.

One, while the Presidents of the US and Russia act as buddies, the US is sanctioning Russia over its poisoning of civilians in Britain, its Ukraine policy and alleged cyberwarfare. The Countering Americas Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (Caatsa), which applies secondary sanctions to countries engaging in energy or defence business with Moscow, casts a shadow over Indo-US relations. India can hardly abandon its defence relationship with its oldest defence equipment supplier, or afford pushing it deeper into the Pakistan-Chinese embrace. A waiver, if it actually materialises, will enjoin India to gradually reduce its defence purchases from Russia and to favour US supplies. After the Opposition uproar over the inexplicably opaque tweaking of the Rafale fighter deal with France, giving in to such US pressure would be politically expensive domestically.

Second, India-Iran relations are at a critical point. Reports indicate that the Indian Oil Corporation is set to reduce its current 140,000 barrels offtake per day of Iranian crude. But India cannot abandon the Chabahar port project, critical to obtaining connectivity to Afghanistan and Central Asia. China gained greater access to Iranian oil, gas and goods market after UN sanctions were imposed in 2006. China may simply resurrect its alternative yuan-based financial networks that bypass Western controls. China is unlikely to abandon either its Iranian oil imports or investment in oil and gas sectors. CNPC has a 30 per cent stake in South Pars gas field and the North Azadgan oil field, which was offered to India in 2003-04. But if Total withdraws, China alone lacks the capability to establish LNG terminals at South Pars. Russia has toyed with letting Gazprom and Lukoil invest in Iran, but strategically it suits Russia that Iranian gas remains unextracted as that safeguards its European market, already threatened by Americas shale gas.

The third critical issue is China. Trade skirmishing, if not war, is already underway between the US and China. Initial reports indicate rising concern in China over a possible misread of Mr Trump. On the other hand, Mr Trump doesnt see India as a strategic necessity in his containment of China, as did his two predecessors George W. Bush and Barack Obama. Thus, Prime Minister Modi undertook some corrective measures after the two-month-long Doklam standoff last year. Beginning with India attending the Brics summit in September last year and then the informal summit at Wuhan this year, there is a gradual softening of Indias confrontational cross-Line of Actual Control stance.

Meanwhile, President Trump is ratcheting up his Iran-baiting by encouraging the development of a Sunni Middle East Strategic Alliance (MESA), consisting of the six GCC members, Jordan and Egypt, minus of course Turkey. He will meet their leaders in Singapore, perhaps on the sidelines of the East Asia summit. Such a grouping presupposes Mr Trump settling serious intra-GCC differences over Saudi Arabia and the UAE pillorying Qatar, supported in turn by Iran and Turkey. Oman and Kuwait prefer neutrality in that quarrel. Russia appears reluctant to help resolve the Syrian imbroglio if that is at the cost of long-time ally Bashar al-Assad, or the Yemen mess which keeps its oil rival Saudi Arabia tied down. Mr Trumps Iran policy may end up as his Vietnam, as he will only complicate the scenario with more divisive alliances.

These geostrategic developments show the marginalisation of India as a global or even regional player. The Indian response began with kowtowing to China, perhaps tactically to await Chinese embroilment in a trade war. Our Saarc neighbours are also readjusting, some unwisely, to the perceived new reality. The Maldives is cheekily forcing the return of Indian helicopters. Bangladesh must be aghast over the mass declaration of 40 million people in Assam as stateless, implying most are Bangladeshis. This will play into its domestic politics. Pakistan has a charismatic new leader close to the military, thus producing both opportunity, which the Modi government may not risk ahead of a crucial election, as indeed the risk of a new voice globally to Pakistans warped logic, despite Pakistans financial mess which may compel China to write another bailout cheque, with the IMF seeking tough concessions. In Nepal, the Communist rulers are re-balancing between India and China, tilting towards the latter. Finally, Bhutan has received the Chinese vice-foreign minister, ending its India-only approach, although reportedly New Delhi was kept informed. All are assuming a permanent Chinese ascent, appearing already unsteady after the first trade war blows.

Against this background Indian diplomacy has few options but, in sporting terms, to play defence rather than offence till the next Lok Sabha election or until greater geopolitical clarity emerges.A bench of the Supreme Court headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Attorney-General K.K. Venugopal last Friday expressed dismay over the state of affairs, exactly what we may expect any well-intentioned institution or individual to do.

In recent times, violence by organised elements has caught national attention. No less striking has been the inability or the failure of the organs of the state  including the judiciary  to take any meaningful step that may act as deterrence even if complete prevention or stoppage may appear impractical.

It is this context that may excite public scepticism with the state apparatus, although a bench of the Supreme Court headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Attorney-General K.K. Venugopal last Friday expressed dismay over the state of affairs, exactly what we may expect any well-intentioned institution or individual to do.

They were concerned with public violence when we see mobs or organised individuals causing destruction of third party property  that is property of individuals or governmental assets. They were hearing a petition from earlier this year which concerned members of a particular caste group indulging in violence over the film Padmaavat.

In the first place, it is instructive that the troublemakers have long gone home. The PIL relating to that sorry episode is being taken up many months too late. In a country where a million mutinies are erupting all the time, violence related to that film is now stale news, and is unlikely to bring forth fruitful policy actions or help punish any of the key troublemakers.

A real infirmity of the A-Gs case, and a weakness of the bench hearing him, is the amorphous nature of the pleading and the failure of judges to note thus. Mr Venugopal in his wisdom mixed up the Padmaavat case with the SC-ST agitation, the ongoing Maratha agitation for reservation, and the recent violence by Kanwariya  the so-called Shiva devotees who were in reality armed hoodlums who appeared to enjoy patronage of the Uttar Pradesh government  violence that recently rocked UP and Delhi.

Each is a different malady. Mechanically looking only at the aspect of destruction of property, and thinking that making the top police officer of the area accountable will solve the issue, as the A-G suggested, appears to be a case of wishful thinking. This may even be muddled thinking which gives the wrongdoers a free pass.

The Maratha agitation and the SC-ST protests have deep-rooted causes. In such contexts, purposeful wielding of the police danda is unlikely to do the trick, and may even make such agitations intensify. On the other hand, meaningful police action in the case of the Padmaavat and Kanwariya violence could have proved effective.

But the police are unlikely to stick their neck out when those enjoying the benevolence of the ruling party and the state are the ones causing trouble. In the Friday hearing, the spate of cow-related violence in the country found no mention. That may have been the perfect situation for the A-G and their lordships to recommend police accountability.

B10RENO, Nev. (AP) - Nevada authorities stopped and arrested a suspect in a California bank robbery after a 95-mile (153-kilometer) chase during which he drove through Reno on the rims of at least two of his truck's tires.

Officials say there were no injuries in the pursuit and capture late Friday south of Reno of Noah David Bodwell of Sacramento, who was the subject of a pursuit that started in Susanville soon after the robbery of a bank.

Multiple law enforcement agencies participated in the pursuit as it passed through various jurisdictions and across the California-Nevada border, and a Twitter post by the Washoe County Sheriff's Office called it "a well-coordinated effort."

Washoe County jail records said Bodwell was held on suspicion of DUI and other crimes.

(Copyright 2018 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)The new alliance partners in Karnataka are already grappling with the reality of running a coalition government. The transfer of babus has become a point of conflict between the Congress and the JD(S).

The H.D. Kumaraswamy-led government has effected several transfers in the recent past. This has not gone down too well with a section of Congress leaders, including Siddaramaiah, it is said, as the party was not consulted. For instance, the state government is learnt to have withdrawn its request to the Centre seeking an extension for chief secretary Ratna Prabha, whose tenure ended June 30. She was handpicked for the top post by the previous Siddaramaiah-led Congress regime.

Mr Kumaraswamy has also reworked the chief ministers office (CMO) by transferring officials Mr Siddaramaiah had appointed during his tenure. Senior IAS officer L.K. Atheeq, who served as Mr Siddaramaiahs principal secretary, was transferred without a new posting. Another senior IAS officer Tushar Girinath, who was also Mr Siddaramaiahs principal secretary along with Mr Atheeq, has been moved out and posted as BWSSB chairman. Another IAS officer B.S. Shekharappa, who was additional secretary to the chief minister, has been transferred as well.

Mr Siddaramaiah, who heads the coalition coordination and monitoring committee, is said to be particularly upset over the transfer of Mr Shekharappa as director of the Command Area Development Authority. Mr Siddaramaiah is also angry that Mr Atheeq and Dayanand have not been given new postings.

The question is how long will it take before the cracks appear?

A change of mind

Making a departure from its decision on the top position at Steel Authority of India (SAIL), the Centre has given the additional charge of chairman and managing director to Saraswati Prasad, a 1985-batch IAS officer of the Assam-Meghalaya cadre. Mr Prasad was special secretary and financial adviser, ministry of steel and replaced P.K. Singh who has retired.

While it sounds like a routine transfer, it needs to be remembered that initially the steel ministry had issued a notification assigning the additional charge of SAIL to Anil Kumar Chaudhary, currently director of finance at SAIL for a period of three months but within four days it changed its mind. Interestingly, the public sector head-hunter PESB too had recommended the name of Mr Chaudhary for the top post of state-run SAIL. It was expected that the appointments committee of the cabinet (ACC) would clear the appointment of Mr Chaudhary as SAIL CMD but the abrupt U-turn has set tongues buzzing.

Ex-babus behind evictions

Six former chief ministers of Uttar Pradesh were recently made to vacate their government bungalows by the Supreme Court. But few, beyond babu circles, know that the eviction campaign was led by an NGO called Lok Prahari, which has former IAS, IPS officers and judges, among its members. It is interesting to note that the campaign was started 14 years ago!

Sources say that Lok Prahari filed a petition for the first time in 2004 regarding government bungalows. This petition was against the rule of 1997, under which arrangements were made to provide government accommodation to former chief ministers. Lok Prahari president and retired IAS officer Nitin Majumdar says that it is not the only achievement of the organisation. Even before this verdict, Lok Prahari had contributed in making many major decisions happen. For example, in 2013, they had filed a petition after which RJDs Lalu Prasad Yadav and three MPs were disqualified for being convicts, overturning a 62-year-old provision.

B11He was the Congress unanimous choice to fight the election to the deputy chairpersons post after all other Opposition parties backed out. In an interview to Sreeparna Chakrabarty, Rajya Sabha member B.K. Hariprasad says that despite knowing it was a tough battle, his party decided to fight the polls as a matter of principle to save democracy and the new political equation shows that it is the Congress responsibility to stitch together an Opposition alliance to taken on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP in 2019.

Your name was fielded knowing fully well it was a losing battle. But still your party decided to fight it out. What does this signify?

It was not a losing battle, but a tough battle. We believe in democracy. Just because somebody is powerful, we cant give up. If at all this government had some sense of consensus...

For the last four years we have been seeing there has been no consensus. It is this almost authoritative attitude of the government that makes up our resolve to strengthen democracy.

How was your name decided upon?

As the major Opposition block in the Rajya Sabha, it was our responsibility to give the smaller parties the option of whether they wanted to fight or not. It was offered to the Nationalist Congress Party, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and Trinamul Congress. And when they said they would not fight, it was a collective decision of the Opposition to field a candidate from the Congress Party. Then the Congress took a decision to field me.

Who were the other candidates that were considered?

DMKs Tiruchi Siva, NCPs Vandana Chavan and Trinamul Congress Sukhendu Sekhar Roy were the other candidates who were considered.

Was Mr Roys name discussed in the Opposition meeting?

No, there was a formal discussion earlier between leaders. They (the Trinamul Congress) gave the choice to the NCP.

Who spoke to BJD chief Naveen Patnaik apart from Sharad Pawar? Did the Congress leaders speak with him?

Yes, of course. P. Chidambaram, Kapil Sibal and Kamal Nath all approached Mr Patnaik. They were told that the BJD is not in a position to support the united Opposition candidate.

They called him after your name was announced?

Of course. In Odisha, he (Mr Patnaik) did not want to leave a space for us. By supporting the JD(U) candidate, he has given an indication.

What about other parties?

The Telangana Rashtra Samiti was part of the NDA. They had a pre-poll alliance with the NDA. There was no chance of them supporting the Congress. He cant join the Congress.

As far as the Aam Aadmi Party is concerned, it all depends on Delhi politics. Their presence is in Delhi. It is all encircled in Delhi politics. We cant help it.

Is the TDPs joining the Opposition block going to boost its chances?

Nobody is taking cognisance of this. The TDP was a major partner of the NDA. They broke away and now they have joined the Opposition.

So the Congress emerges as the single largest Opposition block

Naturally. The Congress has got presence in all states and villages. Maybe not in terms of votes, but definitely in terms of organisation. We will never compromise with the BJP. We have to take a stand and we took a stand to take them head on in the Rajya Sabha. As you said, we knew pretty well that we do not have the numbers, but that doesnt mean we give them a free run.

The man who spoke yesterday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his speech by quoting August 9. It was on this day that the foundation for a free India, for democracy and for the Constitution was laid. On that foundation, democracy has come a long way for 70 long years. The beauty of that democracy is that the people who opposed August 9 Kranti Divas can also occupy the highest position. And they have forgotten this.

So does this new equation mean that any kind of Opposition block has to be around the Congress?

Of course, as a major political party. It is the responsibility of the Congress to stitch together a proper alliance to fight the BJP, especially PM Modi.

B11When the Swedish Academy announced it was giving the Nobel Prize for Literature to Sir Vidia Naipaul, I happened to be in India. The BBC rang me up and the researcher at the end of my mobile phone asked if I had a landline. I asked what this was about and she said she wanted to speak to me about my friend V.S. Naipaul. The first thought that occurred was that he was dead.

What? Why? I asked, and she calmly said it was because he had won the Nobel Prize. Phew!

She booked me for the programme and I immediately rang Vidias Wiltshire home. Nadira, Lady Naipaul, answered the phone and said the place had gone wild with TV crews and reporters from all over the world invading the neat and quiet village of Salterton.

She said he was being serially interviewed, but hed interrupt these and come to the phone as she was sure hed like to speak to me. Vidia came on.

Farrukh, Farrukh, youve heard of my little spot of good luck, he said.

I recall the moment because it was part of Vidias modesty, an attribute which is strongly evident in his writing and was, to me, in his personality  though to his detractors, calling V.S. Naipaul modest is tantamount to calling Hitler compassionate.

Yes, Vidia didnt tolerate fools gladly. The definition of fools was for him quite wide and he made his dissension from their opinions or points of view quite evident.

His famous novel, A Bend in the River, begins: The world is what it is and Vidia wanted to see it exactly as it was without any fog of ideology, lens of nationalism, distorting mirrors of received opinion or filter of political correctness. Abandoning those mediating media or instruments, he offered himself as a target for ideologues, for the unbalanced nationalists of India, the Caribbean or Africa, for readers and followers of cliched opinion and for the Politicallycorrectwallas (No, thats not yet a Parsi surname!).

His first book on India was, as he said to me, the product of disillusion. He came to India to acquaint himself with the country of his forefathers and though he was brought up with its religious myths and its nationalist fervour, his writers mind was a clean slate. Theres a sense of shock in the book. Observation trumps ideological or nationalist bias. If Indians defecated in the streets and in very many places where he looked, he would say so. If a prominent Indian scientist who could make a nuclear bomb using advanced modern physics in which he believed could also get his daughter married through the pronouncements of her horoscope, he would point out the intellectually schizoid nature of some Indian thinking. If he was the guest of some rich Indian family who had gathered pretentious imitation-Picasso pictures and hung them in their drawing rooms with the conceit of being connoisseurs of art, he would ridicule them. It wasnt surprising then that the critics of the book called it, in line with other cri

tical, perhaps politically motivated books such as Katherine Mayos Mother India, the gutter inspectors report.

I read this first book on India while I was in college in Pune, intrigued by the accuracy and the obdurate insistence on honest observation and comment. I didnt tell my determinedly nationalist or patriotic friends that this gutter was absolutely necessary to inspect, and perhaps pour some literary disinfectant on. I read it in cowardly agreement.

I met V.S. on a few occasions in London but my first real encounter with him was when the BBC asked me to review his third (or fourth, if you count shorter essays) book, India: A Million Mutinies Now, and interview him. We talked about the possible territory wed cover and then went on camera. I observed that the judgments in this last book were discernably more positive than those in the first two or three books.

Oh dear, youre giving me marks already! he said.

All I could do was to attempt a justification of giving him marks by quoting from the books and asking him to agree that a progress was evident. There was in Mutinies a determination to find the seeds of positive social growth through the personal stories of the people he interrogated.

I dont think he liked that interview and when I asked him to sign the first editions of his books which I had hopefully brought along, he said hed sign just one  having done which he left the interview room and walked down the pavements to his flat in South Kensington. No small talk.

Years later Nadira and Nancy Sladek, the editor of the Literary Review, showed Vidia that interview which Nancy had recorded, pointing out to him that the interviewer (me) was falling over himself to be positive and meeting with a sullen response.

That was a year or so before I got a call in my office  I was earning my living as a TV bureaucrat at the time  from Gillon Aitken, Vidias agent, who said Vidia wanted to have lunch with me. I was a bit astounded and said I didnt think he liked me.

Thats all changed, Gillon said. You know hes married Nadira and she is a great fan of your books and your columns in The Asian Age, which she diligently reads and has persuaded him to invite you to lunch.

The lunch took place and I noticed that while Nadira was very amiable, Vidia remained sullen until I was asked what my latest TV offering on Channel 4 would be. I said I had just returned from Jamaica where my TV crew had recorded the proceedings in a hospital in Kingston.

My story was that one day I and the crew encountered a tall security guard at the gates, who detained us saying we had to record him singing as he was The Nat King Cole of Jamaica.

Vidia at last looked curious. I said I had asked the cameraman to switch on and record Jamaicas King Cole, who began to sing Mona Lisa, Mona Lisa... etc. He was a minute into the song when loud gunshots rang out from somewhere nearby.

We naturally were inclined to duck for cover when Nat said Dont mind dem boys, dont mind dem! and kept singing even louder to drown the gunshots.

We ran into the hospital. Soon the wounded and the dead from that encounter followed us.

I said I wanted to start the series about the Jamaican hospital with that scene. Vidia laughed  and laughed. It was probably Jamaica as he knew it.

It was the beginning of a deep friendship. His death has left a dimension-shaped hole in my short and happy existence.The DMK supremos death on August 7 comes less than two years after the passing of arch-rival and former AIADMK chief minister Jayalalithaa on December 5, 2016. (Photo: File)

In the aftermath of the passing of DMK patriarch Muthuvel Karunanidhi earlier this week, and despite the speculation to the contrary, there is unlikely to be any electoral vacuum in Tamil Nadu or political poaching of any kind  whether by the ruling BJP at the Centre even if the Narendra Modi wave is visible elsewhere in the country or by star-politicians in the state like an unsure Rajinikanth or an already-committed Kamal Haasan enter the fray more seriously than in the past. It is not without reason.

The DMK supremos death on August 7 comes less than two years after the passing of arch-rival and former AIADMK chief minister Jayalalithaa on December 5, 2016. True, their death between two elections (2016 and 2019) has left a void in terms of charismatic leadership, but both parties have settled down to business without them. Voters and cadres alike have also come to accept that these parties and their non-Dravidian competitors will be facing the parliamentary elections next year without their towering personalities and leadership.

Around the time, nonagenarian Karunanidhi had become near-irrecoverably ill owing to age-related ailments. The party had come to be identified in more ways than one under his son and party treasurer M.K. Stalin for more than a decade by then. Karunanidhis bed-ridden condition meant he was party president only in name, though the voters and cadre still identified it with the man. But thats all there is to it.

The ruling AIADMK is still a house divided, with the breakaway Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) of rebel T.T.V. Dhinakaran drawing substantial crowds at his regional rallies, when compared to the official party leadership of chief minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami and his deputy CM, O. Panneerselvam, even jointly at times. Yet the fact remains that as the ruling party now, they are in focus. For any anti-incumbency advantage accruing to their rivals, the latter should be in place and in full preparation.

The DMK is out there, ready for a good electoral fight. The AMMK may also have established itself at the grassroots level by Elections 2019. The last time the BJP-NDA projected Narendra Modis leadership to win the parliamentary polls of 2014, which worked elsewhere in the country, Jayalalithaas Modi-ya, Lady-ya? campaign call demolished it in Tamil Nadu and the adjoining Union territory of Puducherry.

Though the DMK suffered the most by drawing a blank, against the AIADMKs 38 out of 40, including Puducherrys sole Lok Sabha seat, the party is now back in action. The subsequent Assembly polls of 2016 saw the losing DMK combine (under Stalins direct guidance and control) still making the highest and very respected number of 98 seats out of 234, and with the narrowest of voteshare margins anywhere: 41-40.

The death of Karunanidhi a little too early for the 2019 parliamentary polls may have robbed the DMK of a possible sympathy wave that followed the assassinations of Indira Gandhi (1984) and Rajiv Gandhi (1991), which worked against the party in the elections that followed. But so is it for the AIADMK and/or AMMK, as they could not hope for any sympathy wave flowing from Jayalalithaas death years earlier.

Every time a senior political leader exits, especially in an insular state like Tamil Nadu, analysts and political busybodies have jumped to the conclusion that minus the face, there is no future for the political party, and there thus emerges an electoral vacuum for anyone waiting on the wings to exploit and make good. It is too simplistic an argument that has not proved itself, either in Tamil Nadu or elsewhere.

It was thus that the exit of the Atal Behari Vajpayee-L.K. Advani duo from the BJPs leadership at the national level did not create a vacuum for regional parties to fill in.

Mr Modi emerged, and rather it is his emergence from Gujarat to centrestage that caused the sidelining of Mr Advani in particular, given that Mr Vajpayee is already ailing and home-bound for many years.

In Tamil Nadu, too, the death of DMK founder and chief minister C.N. Annadurai (1969) and M.G. Ramachandran (1987) did not wipe out the parties that they had left behind. There were internal readjustments, but they bounced back, even capturing whatever voteshare that a national party like the Congress (41 per cent voteshare in 1967, reduced to 20 per cent in 1989) still had. Again, the reasons are not far too seek.

The Congress was not a cadre-based party, but both the DMK and the AIADMK were. Above all, they threw up charismatic leaders who had their hearts where it should belong. The two leaders, like Karunanidhi, were admired for their leadership qualities, like his admirers see in Mr Modi at the national level, but for which the BJP, for instance, has thrown up no one in Tamil Nadu, which is accustomed to strong leaders and stable governments, barring the maiden general election in 1952. The state has refused to return to those days.

Even without it, arguments that the BJP under Mr Modi could provide the foil are all misplaced. The PMK, a Vanniar community party with a sub-regional presence, for instance, has retained around a five per cent voteshare since its electoral arrival in 1991. The BJP, with a purported statewide presence, has not crossed the 2.5-per cent voteshare mark, concentrated still only in a few Lok Sabha constituencies, starting with southernmost Nagercoil.

The less said about the actor-politicians and their election hopes the better. Voters in star-struck Tamil Nadu do love a good actor, and may even raise the likes of MGR or Jayalalithaa to the level of semi-gods. But that is for the good that they had done to the people as leaders, drawing their initial strength from the cadre base that they have created and/or inherited.

This apart, the last time an actor-politician entered the politico-electoral fray, the DMDKs Vijaykanth, he could garner eight per cent voteshare in his maiden outing in 2006, increasing it to 10-plus per cent in 2009, and gave up instantaneously for the succeeding 2011 Assembly polls. The DMDK joined hands with Jayalalithaas AIADMK, helped her to return to power, and then lost out in the bargain  for good.

There are imponderables still, but not of the Narendra Modi, Rajinikanth or Kamal Haasan variety. It could be due to pending court cases against Dhinakaran and the investigations into revenue-related issues by Central agencies against some friends and aides of the present rulers getting fast-tracked overnight, as is being widely apprehended. With Jayalalithaa showing the way, unless such procedures/proceedings lead to conviction, confirmed by the highest court in the land in good time, again, there is unlikely to be any electoral disturbances of the kind that is being visualised by some people.

There is, of course, the pending Madras high court third-judge verdict in the disqualification case, affecting 18 MLAs belonging to Dhinakarans AMMK. Either way, the case may end up in the Supreme Court, before some sense of finality is reached  and again, the cadre and voter movement is mostly likely to be between the two, not to the outsider. By that time, Stalin may have settled down as DMK president, replacing his current status as working president, with the party meeting due on August 30, which was decided before Karunanidhi was hospitalised this time around.Nestled atop a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy  one of the worlds most powerful rockets  with a third stage added, Parker Solar Probe will blast off toward the Sun with a whopping 55 times more energy than is required to reach Mars. (Photo: NASA via AP)

At 1:01 p.m. IST on August 12, NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida will be abuzz with excitement. At that moment, NASAs Parker Solar Probe, the agencys historic mission to touch the Sun, will have its first opportunity to lift off.

Launching from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, Parker Solar Probe will make its journey all the way to the Suns atmosphere, or corona  closer to the Sun than any spacecraft in history.

Watch live: NASA's Parker lifts off for touching the Sunhttps://t.co/HFMkR04t4c  DC Technology (@_DCTech) August 12, 2018

Eight long years of hard work by countless engineers and scientists is finally paying off, said Adam Szabo, the mission scientist for Parker Solar Probe at NASAs Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland.

Nestled atop a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy  one of the worlds most powerful rockets  with a third stage added, Parker Solar Probe will blast off toward the Sun with a whopping 55 times more energy than is required to reach Mars. About the size of a small car, it weighs a mere 1,400 pounds.

Thats a relatively light spacecraft, said Andy Driesman, project manager for the mission at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab. And it needs to be, because it takes an immense amount of energy to get to our final orbit around the Sun.

Zooming through space in a highly elliptical orbit, Parker Solar Probe will reach speeds up to 430,000 miles per hour  fast enough to get from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C., in a second  setting the record for the fastest spacecraft in history. During its nominal mission lifetime of just under 7 years, Parker Solar Probe will complete 24 orbits of the Sun  reaching within 3.8 million miles of the Suns surface at closest approach.

Well be going where no spacecraft has dared go before  within the corona of a star, said project scientist Nicky Fox of APL. With each orbit, well be seeing new regions of the Suns atmosphere and learning things about stellar mechanics that weve wanted to explore for decades.

But getting so close to the Sun requires slowing down  for which Parker will use the gravity of our neighbour planet, Venus.

Parker Solar Probe uses Venus to adjust its course and slow down in order to put the spacecraft on the best trajectory, said Driesman. We will fly by Venus seven times throughout the mission. Each time we fly by we get closer and closer to the Sun.

In an orbit this close to the Sun, the real challenge is to keep the spacecraft from burning up.

NASA was planning to send a mission to the solar corona for decades, however,

we did not have the technology that could protect a spacecraft and its instruments from the heat, said Szabo. Recent advances in materials science gave us the material to fashion a heat shield in front of the spacecraft not only to withstand the extreme heat of the Sun, but to remain cool on the backside.

The heat shield is made of a 4.5-inch thick carbon composite foam material between two carbon fiber face sheets. While the Sun-facing side simmers at 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit, behind the shield the spacecraft will be a cozy 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Parker Solar Probe is also the first NASA mission to be named after a living individual: Dr. Eugene Parker, famed solar physicist who in 1958 first predicted the existence of the solar wind, the stream of charged particles and magnetic fields that flow continuously from the Sun, bathing Earth. The spacecrafts path through the corona allows it to observe the acceleration of the very solar wind that Parker redicted, right as it makes a critical transition from slower than the speed of sound to faster than it.

The corona is also where the solar material is heated to millions of degrees and where the most extreme events on the Sun occur, such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections  accelerating particles to a fraction of the speed of light. These explosions create space weather events that can pummel Earth with high energy particles, endangering astronauts, interfering with GPS and communications satellites and, at their worst, disrupting our power grid.

This will be the first time that solar scientists can see the objects of their study up close and personal.

All of our data on the corona so far have been remote, said Nicholeen Viall, solar physicist at Goddard. We have been very creative to get as much as we can out of our data, but there is nothing like actually sticking a probe in the corona to see whats happening there.

And scientists arent the only ones along for the adventure  the spacecraft holds a microchip carrying the names of more than 1.1 million participants who signed up to send their name to the Sun. Sometime between August 11 and 23, the close of the launch period, these names and 1,400 pounds of solar protection and science equipment will begin their journey to the center of our solar system.

Three months later, Parker Solar Probe will reach its first close approach of the Sun in November 2018, and will send the data back in December.

For scientists like myself, the reward of the long, hard work will be the unique set of measurements returned by Parker, said Szabo. The solar corona is one of the last places in the solar system where no spacecraft has visited before. It gives me the sense of excitement of an explorer.

(source: NASA)

Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter.Russell worked for Horizon Airlines, a sister carrier of Alaska Airlines, as a ground service agent who helped baggage handlers and was part of Horizons tow team, which moved planes around on the tarmac. (Photo: AP)

Seattle: The airline worker who stole an empty airplane from a Seattle airport on a flight that ended in his death once ran a bakery with his wife and enjoyed the benefits that came with his job to travel the world, social media posts showed.

Richard Russell, who liked to be called Beebo, was a 29-year-old man living in Sumner, Washington, who was born in Key West, Florida, and moved to Wasilla, Alaska, when he was 7 years old, according to a Web page he set up for a college communications class.

He has not been officially named by authorities, but his family and multiple news media outlets have reported his identity.

Russell worked for Horizon Airlines, a sister carrier of Alaska Airlines, as a ground service agent who helped baggage handlers and was part of Horizons tow team, which moved planes around on the tarmac. It was a job that gave him the perk of being able to fly to Alaska at my leisure, he wrote on the page.

In his final moments captured by partial recordings of his conversations with air traffic controllers that were published online by Broadcastify.com, Russell spoke calmly and said he was sorry to disappoint people who cared about him and described himself as a broken guy.

Got a few screws loose, I guess, he is heard saying in the recording. Never really knew it until now.

Authorities say he commandeered an empty Bombardier Q400, 107-foot long turboprop aircraft on Friday night from a maintenance area at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. He flew for about an hour, often erratically with attempts at aerial stunts, before crashing on Ketron Island in Puget Sound, about 40 km to the southwest.

He appeared to have acted alone and was suicidal, according to the local sheriffs department.

His family members said in a statement they were stunned and heartbroken.

It may seem difficult for those watching at home to believe, but Beebo was a warm, compassionate man, the statement said.

Russells social media posts often showed him on adventures with his wife, who he said he met in Oregon in 2010.

We were married one year later, and one month after that we opened a bakery which we successfully ran for 3 years, he wrote on his Web page. We consider ourselves bakery connoisseurs and have to try a new one every place we go.

The couple later moved to Washington state, where he got a job with Horizon. His wife could not immediately be reached for comment.

The Seattle Times quoted Rick Christenson, an operational supervisor with the airline who retired in May, as saying Russell was a well-liked, quiet person.

In a video posted on YouTube last December, Russell shows luggage coming off and being loaded onto aircraft, and describes what the life of a ground service agent can entail.

That means I lift a lot of bags, like a lot of bags, so many bags, he says, adding, it allows me to do some pretty cool things, too.

There are then shots of trips he took, including flying over Alaskan fjords, visiting lavender fields in France, touring in Yucatan, Mexico, and attending a hurling match in Dublin, Ireland.

It evens out in the end, he says to end the video.Adam Purinton of Olathe shot and killed 32-year-old Kuchibhotla, and injured two others, Indian national Alok Madasani and Kansas resident Ian Grillot, at Austins Bar and Grill in Olathe, Kansas, in February 2017. (Photo: File)

New York: US Attorney General Jeff Sessions has erroneously referred to Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla, who was shot dead in a hate crime at a suburban Kansas City bar in 2017, as Sikh.

A US Navy veteran was last week awarded three consecutive life sentences on federal hate crime charges for killing Kuchibhotla and wounding two others at a suburban Kansas City bar last year.

Read: US navy veteran gets 3 life sentences for killing Indian techie Srinivas Kuchibhotla

Adam Purinton of Olathe shot and killed 32-year-old Kuchibhotla, and injured two others, Indian national Alok Madasani and Kansas resident Ian Grillot, at Austins Bar and Grill in Olathe, Kansas, in February 2017.

Jeff Sessions, America's top law enforcement official said this while addressing the Alliance Defending Freedom's Summit on Religious Liberty on August 8, a day after Purinton was awarded three consecutive life sentences.

"Yesterday, we obtained a life sentence for a man who murdered an Indian-American man, a Sikh as it turned out, because he thought he was a Muslim," Sessions said in his remarks at the summit.

"This is the kind of horrible things we do not need to allow in this country," Sessions added in his speech, the video of which is available online.

While Sessions did not name Kuchibhotla, the reference was to the August 7 sentencing of Purinton when he was handed down three consecutive life terms for killing the Hyderabad native.

The mistake of wrongly identifying Kuchibhotla as a Sikh was pointed out by PTI in New York to the Department of Justice's Office of Public Affairs.

Later, an official from the public affairs office, responding to PTI's email seeking comment on the error, said that an updated speech has been uploaded on the Department of Justice's website. In the updated version of Sessions' remarks, the error has been rectified.

The updated version of Sessions' remarks removed the Sikh reference and now states that "yesterday, we obtained a life sentence for a man who murdered an Indian-American man because he thought he was Muslim."

It mentions at the end of the remarks that "The original version of this speech mistakenly identified the victim of a hate crime as Sikh."

Kuchibhotla hailed from Hyderabad and had worked at Garmin as a senior aviation systems engineer in Kansas. He and Madasani were sitting in the Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe when Purinton approached them and demanded to know where they were from and how they entered the country. Purinton poked Kuchibhotla in the chest, called him a "terrorist" and an epithet disparaging persons of Middle Eastern descent, and shouted, "Get out of my country!"

Read: 'Get out of my country': Man shoots dead Hyderabad engineer in US bar

Aiming at Kuchibhotla and Madasani, Purinton fired eight rounds from his semi-automatic pistol, at least four of which struck Kuchibhotla, who died from his injuries, and one of which struck Madasani, who was injured. Hours after the shooting, Purinton stated over the phone to a friend, and later in person to a bartender, that he had just killed some "Iranians."

In his remarks, Sessions also said the Department is aggressively enforcing the country's civil rights laws, hate crimes laws, and laws protecting churches and faith groups.

Since January 2017, the Department obtained 11 indictments and eight convictions in cases involving arson or other attacks or threats against houses of worship. The Civil Rights Division has also obtained 13 indictments in other attacks or threats against people because of their religion.

"And we are not slowing down. Three weeks ago, we obtained a jury verdict against a man who set fire to a mosque in Texas and a man from Missouri for threatening to kill members of a mosque," he said.Destroyed buildings are seen on August 12, 2018 following an explosion that reportedly killed 12 people at an arms depot in a residential area in the Syrian town of Sarmada, Idlib province. (Photo: AFP)

Beirut: An explosion at a weapons depot in a rebel-held town in northwest Syria killed at least 39 civilians including a dozen children on Sunday, a monitor said.

An AFP correspondent at the site in Sarmada in Idlib province near the Turkish border said the explosion of unknown origin caused two buildings to collapse. Rescue workers used a bulldozer to remove rubble and extract trapped people, the correspondent said.

Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor, said a previous toll of 12 civilians killed increased after more bodies were retrieved from the rubble.

"The explosion occurred in a weapons depot in a residential building in Sarmada," said the head of the Britain-based monitor, which relies on a network of sources inside Syria. But the cause of the blast was "not yet clear", Abdel Rahman added. He said most of those killed were family members of fighters from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, an alliance led by jihadists from Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate, who had been displaced to the area from the central province of Homs.

A rescue worker carried the motionless body of a small child from the wreckage to an ambulance, the AFP correspondent said. Behind mounds of rubble, the facade of a building was scorched black, due to a fire after the blast.

A civil defence source told AFP that women and children were among the dead. But rescue workers had pulled out "five people who were still alive", the source said. Most of Idlib is controlled by rebels and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, but the Islamic State group also has sleeper cells in the area.

The regime holds a small slither of southeastern Idlib. In recent months, a series of explosions and assassinations -- mainly targeting rebel officials and fighters -- have rocked the province.

While some attacks have been claimed by IS, most are the result of infighting since last year between other groups.

In recent days, regime forces have ramped up their deadly bombardment of southern Idlib and sent reinforcements to nearby areas they control.

President Bashar al-Assad has warned that government forces intend to retake Idlib, after his Russia-backed regime regained control of swathes of rebel-held territory elsewhere.

Around 2.5 million people live in the province, half of them displaced by fighting in other parts of the country. More than 350,000 people have been killed and millions displaced since Syria's civil war started in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.A woman deserted by her husband ganged up with her boyfriend and his friend to honeytrap gullible men and extort money from them.

Arpitha B N, 22, her 25-year-old boyfriend Pavan Kumar, 25, and his 45-year-old friend, Siddhartha, were arrested by the Soladevanahalli police following a complaint by a grocery shop owner.

Arpitha lured the victims by opening accounts on social networking sites with her fake profile pictures. She would send friend requests to different men and invite them over. Once the victim came home, she would lock the door and seduce him. At the same time, she would signal Pavan and Siddhartha.

The duo, as per a pre-planned strategy, would barge into the house by posing as a police officer and as a news reporter. They would go on to rob him. They would also threaten to frame him in an immoral trafficking case and send him to jail. The gang robbed a number of people by using this modus operandi, a senior police officer said.

The gang, however, ran out of luck after a grocery shop owner, one of their victims, went to the police. According to his complaint, Arpitha took groceries from him and promised to pay later. She invited him over on the pretext of making the payment. Pavan and Siddhartha barged into the house and robbed him of gold jewellery worth Rs 1.3 lakh by threatening him. They also forced him to withdraw Rs 55,000 from an ATM on July 31.

They later blackmailed him, saying they had clicked and filmed him during his "intimate moments" with Arpitha. They threatened to upload the photos and videos to social media if he didn't pay up Rs 1 lakh.

Police investigation showed that Arpitha had married a relative five years ago but her husband deserted her. She then moved to Bengaluru and befriended Pavan. The couple came up with the idea of honeytrapping people to make a quick buck. Pavan roped in his friend, Siddhartha, who posed as a policeman.Chief Justice of India Justice Dipak Misra instructed the State government and the High Court to take steps to appoint court managers for each district court to work as facilitators, saying that MBA holders can be considered for these posts.

Speaking after inaugurating the new court complex built at a cost of Rs 122 crore, here on Sunday, he stated that lack of funds should not be an excuse for the government while providing required infrastructure to the courts, which should have adequate facilities to deliver justice to litigants in time.

Modern technology should be adapted in courts. Courts should have quality-oriented atmosphere to deliver justice for all, Justice Misra added.

Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy stated that only a few courts in the State are being run in rented buildings, and they would have their own buildings soon. The government is extending full co-operation to develop infrastructure in the courts, he added.

Mentioning the flex menace in Bengaluru, Kumaraswamy stated that officials are removing them on a war footing after the High Court chief justice gave an order. "Officials would not have shown so much interest if we had ordered them. Give more such orders on burning issues, so that we we can work well," he told the judiciary.

High Court of Karnataka Chief Justice Justice Dinesh Maheshwari noted that a committee headed by the chief secretary has been constituted, for which High Court registrar is also a member, to cater to infrastructure needs of the judiciary, especially in the subordinate courts, on a fast track mode.

Around 20% of cases in the State in 2017-18 were resolved through alternative dispute redressal mechanism like mediation and arbitration, he added.

MP Pralhad Joshi stressed the need for a nation-wide debate on having Supreme Court benches at different places in the country.

Supreme Court Judges Justice Mohan M Shantanagoudar, Justice S Abdul Nazeer, High Court judges Justice Ravi Malimath, R B Budihal, Legislative Council pro-tem Chairman Basavaraj Horatti, PWD Minister H D Revanna, MLA Jagadish Shettar, and others were present.Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy said that the Defence ministry was shifting the world-renowned Aero India show (being held in Bengaluru so far), to Lucknow this year with the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in mind.

Speaking to reporters at the Hubballi airport here on Sunday, before taking part in the inauguration of a new taluk court complex; along with Chief Justice of India Dipak Mishra, the CM alleged that the venue was being shifted to Lucknow as BJP has a firm voter base in Uttar Pradesh.

"Aero India is synonymous with Bengaluru; and our city has all the infrastructure required to host the show. Yet it is being shifted to Lucknow," he remarked. Kumaraswamy however said he had not received any official communication from the Defence minister in this regard.

Shifting KSHIP offices south

Kumaraswamy, said the decision to shift Karnataka State Highways Improvement Project (KSHIP) offices in Belagavi to Hassan and Madikeri, was taken by the Public Works, Port & Inland Water Transport Department (PWP & IWTD) department; and not by state government.

"The departments which have completed World Bank projects have been shifted to Hassan," the CM noted. He did not deny more shifting of offices down south. "The concerned departments will take those decisions," he added.

Kumaraswamy, who visited Hubballi for first time after becoming chief minister, said that he would tour north Karnataka villages and towns after the restrictions of the model code of conduct for urban local body elections are lifted.The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs has not been able to adopt a draft report on Doklam in the past two sittings following objections from BJP MPs, sources have said.

The BJP MPs were not in favour of the contents of the report, which had divergent views from the officials of Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Defence.

While the defence ministry officials claimed credit for resolving the 73-day stand off in Doklam, the MEA officials claimed that it was through diplomatic channels.

Opposition MPs in the panel headed by Congress lawmaker and former Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor claimed that BJP MPs had objections to the contents of the report.

Tharoor, who is out of the country, could not be contacted for his version.

The panel could not finalise the report in its meetings held on August 7 and 9 and table it in the Monsoon session, sources said adding in both the meetings, BJP MPs raises objections.

An Opposition MP claimed that the divergent views of the two ministries were the reason for the BJP MPs' stand.

Indian and Chinese troops were locked in a stand-off in Doklam in Sikkim sector from 16 June 2017 after the Indian side stopped construction of a road in the disputed tri-junction by the Chinese army.

According to the draft report, the panel wanted the country to encourage Bhutan to ensure increase in the deployment of soldiers around Northern Doklam in the Sikkim sector to check activities of Chinese military.

It also suggested that India should remain alert in Doklam though last year's stand off was amicably settled, sources said.

The members of the panel included Congress president Rahul Gandhi. The panel was briefed several times on the situation in Doklam by former foreign secretary S Jaishankar, his successor Vijay Gokhale and defence secretary Sanjay Mitra among others.Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for greater democracy and the restoration of an independent judiciary in the Maldives ahead of a presidential election in September.

The Indian Ocean archipelago nation has been in turmoil in recent months, with strongman President Abdulla Yameen jailing or forcing into exile all of his main opponents.

Modi told the Times of India newspaper in an email interview that political developments in the Maldives "have been a matter of considerable international concern".

"We hope that (the) Maldives government will ensure early resumption of the political process and allow democratic institutions, including the judiciary to function independently in a fair and transparent manner," the Indian prime minister said.

"This will create (a) conducive environment for the presidential elections."

The election is scheduled for September 23 but the opposition has expressed fears that it could be delayed.

Yameen declared a state of emergency in February after the nation's top court ordered that MPs sacked by the president be restored and dissidents freed from jail.

The Maldives' chief justice and Supreme Court judges were subsequently arrested, along with Yameen's half-brother Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, who ruled the country for 30 years until 2008.

The European Union and the United States have expressed concern over the crackdown.

New Delhi's relations with the Maldives -- better known as an upmarket tourist destination -- have also become rocky and the tiny state's president has become closer to China in the past year.

India will hold its own national election in 2019, and Modi told the Times of India that he was confident of winning an even bigger majority despite a major opposition campaign.

Modi's right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) could face a united opposition alliance in the elections to the parliament's lower house.

bb/tw/qanLeaders from across the political spectrum condoled the demise of Nobel Laureate author V S Naipaul, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying, it was a major loss for the world of literature.

Naipaul, known for his critical commentary on colonialism, idealism, religion and politics, died at the age of 85, his family said early on Sunday.

He is the recipient of numerous honours, including the Man Booker Prize in 1971 and a knighthood for services to literature in 1990. Naipaul was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001.

The prime minister wrote on Twitter, "Sir VS Naipaul will be remembered for his extensive works, which covered diverse subjects ranging from history, culture, colonialism, politics and more."

"His passing away is a major loss to the world of literature. Condolences to his family and well-wishers in this sad hour."

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also condoled the author's death and said the world lost a genius.

"Deeply saddened to learn about the death of literary giant and Nobel Laureate Shri #VSNaipaul. He has inspired a whole generation of writers," he said.

"In his death, the world loses a genius today. Offering my prayers to the departed soul," Chouhan said.

Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala also took to Twitter to condole the death of the "literary giant".

"My condolences on the passing away of Nobel Laureate #VSNaipaul - a literary giant and a modern philosopher who enthralled and influenced the world with his keen observations, creativity and often critical descriptions. May his soul rest in peace," he tweeted.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik tweeted, "Saddened to learn about the passing away of celebrated author & Nobel laureate #VSNaipaul."

"His works exploring colonisation, migration & unravelling of the British empire were exemplary & thought-provoking," he said.

Sir Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul was born on August 17, 1932, in Trinidad into an Indian Hindu family and moved to England at 18 after receiving a scholarship to University College, Oxford.

He subsequently settled in England, although he travelled extensively thereafter.

Naipaul married Patricia Ann Hale in 1955. After her death in 1996, he married divorced Pakistani journalist Nadira Khannum Alvi.When Congress president Rahul Gandhi stood up to speak against Prime Minister Narendra Modis government during the no-confidence motion on July 20, he did not try to corner the government on the state of the economy, the many unfulfilled promises and alleged false claims of the government, or even the governments inability to stop the spate of lynchings by cow vigilantes. Instead, he focused on the governments refusal to make public the price details of the deal to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force from Frances Dassault Aviation in a government-to-government deal. The inference, as the government sought to hide behind a secrecy pact and refused to reveal what India was paying for each Rafale fighter, was that the government indeed had something to hide. The whiff of a scam in a high-profile defence purchase. And that, too, in a deal that was decided upon by none other than Prime Minister Modi himself.

That decision, made during the prime ministers state visit to France in April 2015, came following a long and arduous process of selecting a combat aircraft to replace the IAFs ageing fleet of fighters. It began in 1999, with the air force planning for the coming obsolescence of its MiG-21, MiG-23 and MiG-27 fighters. It requested for more Mirage-2000 fighters to replace these. By the time the request passed through the Indian bureaucratic process, Dassault, the maker of the Mirage fighters, had decided to shut down the assembly line, and the IAFs own view of its requirements had changed. It sought a new generation of multi-role combat aircraft. In 2007, the government put out a Request for Proposal (RFP) for 126 Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA), budgeting $10 billion (about Rs 42,000 crore then) for the buy. Six companies responded, with a mix of single engine and twin-engine fighters  Lockheed Martins F-16 and the Swedish SAAB Gripen 39 were the single-engine contenders; the Russian MiG-35, the Boeing F/A 18, the Eurofighter Typhoon of a four-nation European consortium and Dassaults Rafale were the twin-engine contenders. Extensive field trials later, in 2011, the Typhoon and the Rafale were shortlisted as the two aircraft that best met the requirements set out in the RFP. When commercial bids were opened, it was declared that Dassault had quoted the lowest price. It was declared L1 in the tender process.

Earlier this week, the Economic Times reported details of a brief made by the government which established clearly that after taking everything  life-cycle costing and technology transfer -- into account, Dassault Aviations pitch was not the L1 bid, after all. This is not the first time this fact has emerged. This journalist, writing in the defence news site StratPost, had as far back as October 2015 cited comments made by former air chief Arup Raha, in which he admitted that the MMRCA negotiations fell apart because of various issues that cropped up in terms of compliance of the RFP.

But even earlier, in 2012, shortly after Dassaults bid for the Rafale was declared L1, Mail Today reported that two defence ministry officials, who were members of the Contract Negotiation Committee (CNC), had refused to sign the minutes of the committee before the L1 announcement. According to the report, the two officials noted that certain assumptions had been made about Rafales bid to declare it as the lowest bidder, but no one had validated it. The two officials ultimately signed off on the selection, after placing their reservations on record.

What did defence minister AK Antony do about this? In an apparent abdication of responsibility, he instructed that the committee should settle the issue internally. The winning bid in the MMRCA tender was not L1, but everyone seems to have played along. The current government has also acknowledged that Dassaults bid should never have been declared L1.

In a press release issued in February 2018 defending its decision to stick with the Rafale, the defence ministry said, In 2012, the then defence minister exercised an unprecedented personal veto on the laid-down institutional process then underway for procurement of 126 Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft. In effect, the then government went ahead with the Rafale despite indications that Dassaults bid was not the lowest.

A fundamental part of the MMRCA acquisition was technology transfer and licensed production of 108 fighters by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The NDA governments analysis said that, By applying a factor of 2.7 on the man-hours quoted by Dassault Aviation and EADS (which made the Typhoon fighter), the ratio of Net Present Value (NPV) based total cost of acquisition as on November 2011 would have undergone a material change to the extent that Dassault Aviation would have no longer remained L1 vendor and would have become L2 vendor. If the French bid was not the lowest commercial bid, how was it declared L1 in the first place?

As negotiations continued interminably, first with the UPA government and then with the Modi government, it would have become apparent that the L1 decision was a flawed one. Paragraph 26 (d) of the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) of 2006, which governed the MMRCA process, clearly offers a justification for such a move. Submission of incomplete format enclosed along with commercial offer will render the offer liable for rejection.

Why then did either government not declare the bid void and move on to the next bid in the MMRCA tender?

Instead, the Modi government decided to withdraw the tender and dropped the idea of acquiring 126 fighters. In its place, Modi decided to buy 36 fighters off the shelf. But the vendor and the product remained the same  Dassaults Rafale.

The reason for sticking with the Rafale was ostensibly the fact that it had already been selected by the IAF. But if this selection was about technical qualifications, the Eurofighter had also qualified. And if it was about the L1 declaration, it had become abundantly clear by now that the Eurofighter and not the Rafale was the lower of the two bids. Why did the government not feel it worthwhile to check with the Eurofighter team for a quote for 36 aircraft?

In its February press release, the defence ministry countered, It seems to have been conveniently forgotten that the then government itself had rejected that companys (Eurofighters) unsolicited offer made days after closure of the bid process, declared Rafale (DA) as the L1 bidder and had commenced negotiations with it in February 2012. That defence is flawed.

The decision to order 36 Rafales was separate from the MMRCA tender. The Modi government would have had to reject the unsolicited offer from Eurofighter if it had to stick to the MMRCA tender. But in the separate case of the 36 Rafale aircraft order, there was no reason not to check with Eurofighter, given that not only had the Eurofighter Typhoon, like the Rafale, technically qualified but it was the actual L1. Whats more, it was willing to submit a revised offer.

Even if the Modi government had its heart set on the Rafale, an offer from Eurofighter would have encouraged the French to make a more competitive offer. Finally, after dropping the idea of acquiring 126 fighter aircraft, the government has again initiated a contest for 110 fighters, with the majority of them to be built in India. The same six aircraft are competing, including the Rafale and the Eurofighter, underlining the absurdity of cancelling the earlier tender.

And given that experience, how seriously could any of the bidders in the new contest be expected to take the integrity of the process, if the Government of India can select the wrong bid as L1 and then adamantly persist with it.

(The writer is the Editor of the defence news website StratPost)

Also read: Itll take 4-5 years to seal new deal for 110 fightersEditors note: This is the first article in a three-part series that looks at how smaller arts groups along the Wasatch Front and Utah create a name for themselves and find success.

SALT LAKE CITY  Its no secret that Utahns love the arts.

Take a walk in downtown Salt Lake City and within a few blocks radius youll run into the home of the Utah Symphony, Ballet West, Utah Opera and the Eccles Theater, Utahs home for Broadway Across America shows.

But the states dedication to the arts goes even deeper than these large, big-name organizations.

Take that same walk downtown and youll come across even more small, niche groups. Perhaps youll find Wasatch Theatre Company preparing its new home at the Gateway, Sackerson theatre performing a play at varying locations around town or Plan-B Theatre Company taking the stage at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center. Or, depending on the time of year, the Rose may offer performances by dance groups as varying as Salt Contemporary Dance, Tablado Dance Company and WOFA Afro Fusion Dance.

The list goes on and on as hundreds of smaller arts groups such as these provide diverse, specialized artistic experiences along the Wasatch Front and across the state.

One unique thing about Utah and something that a lot of people dont realize is how much art we actually have here, Cami Munk, Salt Lake County Center for the Arts communication manager, said in an interview with the Deseret News. These small arts groups are a huge proportion of the arts that we offer.

According to a 2015 National Endowment for the Arts poll, Utah tops the country with 51 percent of adults who attend live music, theater or dance performances. But even with half the states adults attending live performance events, Utah's small arts groups have to work to remain relevant, secure funding and create a name for themselves for a chance to survive and thrive.

When I look at Utah, Im incredibly proud of our performing arts scene, especially in the last few years, said Jason Bowcutt, community arts manager for the Utah Division of Arts & Museums. I think weve seen the growth of some really interesting and different kinds of organizations in the performing arts, people who are starting to decide that the old model of how to do it is something to challenge and are doing things in new, different ways that I think are pretty exciting.

Over the course of our three-part series, "Beyond Abravanel Hall," well examine how these smaller arts groups take a different approach to bring unique voices to the arts community, discuss how the groups find funding and how they find physical spaces in which to build a future.

The power of different voices

Salt Contemporary Dance founder and artistic director Michelle Nielsen saw a need in Utahs dance community and decided to fill it.

According to Lexie Corbett, the companys executive director, Nielsen took a deep look five years ago at longstanding dance companies like Ballet West, Repertory Dance Theatre, Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company and Odyssey Dance Theatre. While she saw that each company targeted a specific part of the dance world, Nielsen also felt contemporary dance needed a stronger voice in Utah.

(Utah) didnt really have a place for emerging artists that are in contemporary dance, Corbett said in an interview. The newest form of dance that have evolved is contemporary dance, so Salt has jumped into the ring and theyre now serving as the professional dance company in Utah for contemporary dance.

Salt is meeting a need for the community and is here to stay, Nielsen added via email. We started Salt in an effort to provide more opportunities for the many talented dancers we have in Utah and provide a complementary addition to our states existing dance companies.

Salts story is similar to many small arts groups in Utah. Bowcutt  whose work for the Division of Arts & Museums includes managing the states performing arts programs through professional development and the statewide Mountain West Arts Conference  said the mission of many of Utahs smaller arts groups is to provide a forum for new perspectives.

(These people) realize there are other voices that need to be heard, he said.

Bowcutt spent several years working professionally as an actor and director in New York City before joining the Utah Division of Arts & Museums and sees parallels between New Yorks off-off-Broadway independent theater scene and Utahs small performing arts groups. Unlike major arts organizations with sizable budgets, smaller arts group often operate with limited funding  which, by necessity, can lead them to greater experimentation.

There is a place of true artistry in that dangerous space, he said. I feel like that is the value of some of (Utahs) smaller arts organizations: They are a voice that might not otherwise be heard in these communities.

Shaping an identity

Among the emerging voices are new types of art, as well as culture-specific groups.

Were seeing new performance trends like the aerial arts in addition to more traditional cultural groups producing cultural celebrations and dances at the Rose Wagner, said Melinda Cavallaro, Salt Lake County Center for the Arts associate division director over event services, who works with small arts groups as she oversees the events at Salt Lake County Center for the Arts venues, including the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center.

Carving out room for these new voices is not only the reason these groups exist, but also how they survive. Jim Martin, artistic director and one of the founders of Wasatch Theatre Company, said finding a unique voice can be a challenge and admitted it is something WTC has struggled with over its 20-year history. The group performed at the Rose Wagner for more than a decade, and at times found it hard to differentiate itself from the other theater companies performing there.

I think one of the hardest things is just really having an identity that gets a consistent audience base to commit to us, he said, adding that he feels the company has found its stride by focusing on stories about human relationships.

Yet, at the same time, being one of many voices in the artistic community is something Martin believes has also helped the company grow.

I dont think we can oversaturate the theater or arts market in Salt Lake. Theres a lot of it, but thats a good thing because theres a lot of talent, he said, adding that performers often cross-pollinate and perform for multiple companies in town. I think (the different groups) can build each other up and support each other  (because) the more we can build up theater in general, the more we benefit too. Its a very thriving artistic community, a very supportive artistic community.

Part Two of our series, "Beyond Abravanel Hall," will examine how Utah's smaller arts groups find the funding to survive. It will be available Sunday, Aug. 5.American Enterprise Institute President Arthur Brooks has been trying to persuade conservatives and liberals to have a different kind of discussion for several decades. He tells individuals and organizations to Go where youre not welcome. Get out of your comfort zone! Expand your horizons, and engage with true believers, persuadables, and even hostiles.

He isnt saying go into places and pick a fight, but he is saying that preaching to only your own choir is no longer an option. He is suggesting that leadership requires the willingness to go into unconventional places, the courage to share principles with those who may disagree and the confidence to stand up and speak out even in the face of overwhelming opposition.

Finding leaders willing to go into hard places is increasingly difficult. Far too many leaders prefer to stay in the safe and sanitized spaces where consultants and staff can control everything and prevent the leader from having an uncomfortable or potential gaff-producing moment.

On the night of the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., Bobby Kennedy, against the advice of his handlers and security team, went into an inner city ghetto to address an already angry, weary and devastated crowd. Standing in the back of a pickup truck, in a hostile environment and reading from scribbled notes, Kennedy delivered the news of Dr. Kings tragic death. Then he powerfully issued an inspired call to unity. It remains one of the most powerful speeches ever given because Kennedy was willing to go into a difficult spot.

While moments such as Kennedys speech are rare, the opportunity to go where you, or your principles and ideas, may not be welcomed, physically or virtually, are plenty. Joseph Smith, founder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which owns this paper, said that The truth  will go forth boldly, nobly and independent." That is a good model for leaders to follow.

Truth should be declared boldly  meaning with confidence, passion and energy. The nation is at its best when principles and policies compete in the marketplace of ideas.

Truth, even when not popular or counter to the whims of society, can be shared nobly  meaning with great humility and in the spirit of understanding.

Truth must also stand independent  free from prejudice, malice, bias or contempt. Independent truth, based on a rigorous examination of the facts, is the foundation for maximum influence.

Utah is fortunate to have examples of leaders and organizations willing to engage with those they disagree with, partner with those who may believe differently from them and forge relationships in innovative ways. Often, such efforts are misunderstood, and the importance is underestimated.

Sen. Hatchs legendary relationship with Democratic Sen. Ted Kennedy has received both criticism and the highest praise and produced important legislation. Shortly after Sen. Mike Lee was sworn in, he went across the aisle to speak with Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin from Illinois to begin work on criminal justice reform. Interestingly, when liberal Sen. Corey Booker from New Jersey was elected, he too walked across the floor of the Senate to talk to Sen. Lee about joining the fight for criminal justice reform.

Rep. Mia Love is the only Republican member of the Congressional Black Caucus. The LDS Church recently announced a new partnership with the NAACP to provide programs around self-reliance, entrepreneurship and continuing education. Such engagement may be head-scratching for national pundits, but it is the essence of leadership.

William George Jordan described how going where youre not welcome can be perceived. He said, The reformer in morals, in education, in religion, in sociology, in invention, in philosophy, in any line of aspiration, is ever a pioneer.  The reformer must realize that he must face injustice, ingratitude, opposition, misunderstanding, the cruel criticism of contemporaries, and often, hardest of all, the wondering reproach of those who love him best.

It is time for leaders and citizens to not only go where theyre not welcome, but to go where they might be most uncomfortable. Solutions and understanding on issues including immigration, integrity, religious liberty, LGBT rights, addiction, homelessness, health care, national debt, terrorism, truth, hate speech, teen suicide and a host of others will require all of us to go into new spaces. It may be the road less traveled, but it is the best road to understanding and influence and the only way forward for the nation and its communities.Editors note: This is the third article in our three-part series "Beyond Abravanel Hall" that looks at how smaller arts groups along the Wasatch Front and Utah create a name for themselves and find success.

SALT LAKE CITY  As Wasatch Theatre Companys website puts it, It all started in a lobby. And moved to a deli.

When Jim Martin and a group of his friends from the theater department at Westminster College founded the group in 1997, they initially performed in the lobby of the Jewett Center on campus. But when the college could no longer serve as a venue, the group set up shop in the West Valley deli Martins parents owned at the time.

We were able to use that on the weekends and turn it into a stage and had lighting trees and curtains that we hung and we tried to make it the best possible space that we could, said Martin, the group's artistic director.

Once Martin's parents sold the deli in 2001, the group bounced around from venue to venue before spending 12 years at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center. Now, the company recently moved to The Gateway, occupying what used to be the Acoustic Space.

This opportunity came up and we thought it was a great opportunity to grow in some ways that we had wanted to explore but hadnt been able to just because of space constraints, Martin said. There are other groups that use the Rose Wagner so we had to share it, so we had a lot of ideas of things that we wanted to do in our own space and we thought this was a great opportunity to do this.

That constant search for a building  a space, a home, perhaps  in which a group can build its future and identity is something many a small arts group administrator can relate to. Its a decision that involves consideration of budget  should the group rent, build or buy?  and asks these organizations to consider their groups' mission and potential for future growth.

Finding the right home

Salt Contemporary Dance is in the midst of its own consideration process. The group currently rehearses at the Pointe Academy in Highland and performs at various spaces  from the Rose Wagners Jeanne Wagner Theatre to its recent concert at American Fork Boat Harbor at Utah Lake  but is looking to build a home of its own.

Weve made some great connections with the local community  but we are very aware that we need a home, said Lexie Corbett, Salt's executive director, so we are actually in the process of making that happen and building our own space.

For groups who dont want to build their own space or are unable to, Salt Lake County Center for the Arts hopes to provide a solution. The government agency manages four performing arts venues in Salt Lake City  the Eccles Theater, Abravanel Hall, Capitol Theatre and the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center  that are rented out to local and national arts groups for performances.

Salt Lake County makes significant investments in these facilities that accommodate most any size arts group, said Melinda Cavallaro, Salt Lake County CFAs associate division director over event services. The Rose was built for smaller arts groups and since its opening in the late 1990s, weve seen our bookings increase steadily and today we are nearly at capacity.

With the Rose Wagner almost at capacity, Salt Lake County CFA is in the process of bringing a similar venue to the county as plans continue to move forward for a Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center in Taylorsville. According to Cami Munk, Salt Lake County CFAs communication manager, the demand at the Rose Wagner made the need for an additional professional venues for small arts groups apparent.

The MVPAC grew out of the countys 2008 Cultural Facilities Master Plan and is located in the fast-growing mid- to southwest area of the valley, Munk said. The facility brings professional theater spaces, services and opportunities closer to home for many county residents. There is great interest from groups all over the county in the venue and we think that over time, MVPAC will be as popular as the Rose.

The new venue is slated for a fall of 2020 completion.

Philosophically, we consider ourselves stewards of these beautiful buildings, Cavallaro said. Its a wonderful opportunity to provide spaces, places and services that allow so many people to fulfill their performance dreams.

Home is where the art is

Although renting spaces like the Rose or eventually the MVPAC is a viable option for some groups, for others, rent is still a prohibitive factor.

"For a lot of our arts organizations, there is a lot of money that needs to go into rent and that is not feasible for a lot of our newer arts organizations," said Jason Bowcutt, community arts manager for the Utah Division of Arts & Museums. So instead of renting a space, Bowcutt says he sees newer arts groups using public spaces for performances, rent free.

Encouraging arts groups to use underutilized urban space is part of The Blocks initiative, which Salt Lake City and County unveiled in July. Although a large part of the initiative is focused on marketing, The Blocks also hopes to facilitate the use of less conventional spaces for performances, murals and more.

(Activating underutilized urban space) is definitely a big part of our goal," Ryan Mack, the Downtown Alliances communication and marketing director, said in an interview. "We want to utilize and help foster these kinds of experiences through our relationships with local arts groups, plus the city and county, to make these unique events.

Bowcutt and Mack both pointed to Sackersontheater as an example of a smaller arts group that's already putting this idea into action. The group recently staged "Hindsight," a play set on the streets of downtown Salt Lake City where the audience followed the actors from location to location, including using public transit.

"Its a really cool way to showcase this performing art and utilize a space that wouldnt otherwise be used for that purpose," Mack said. "Wed love to see more performances like that around the city."

Something for everyone

Yes, its no secret that Utahns love the arts, and its the goal of smaller arts groups to make sure their art isn't a secret.

"We have so many amazing smaller performing arts groups and some people may just not know about them," Mack said. "I think it would be great to build upon it, but the arsenal of performing arts groups that we already have is impressive and we want as many people to know about it as possible."

And as local arts groups  both big and small  continue to seek ways to share differing voices, fund productions and find physical spaces in which to build their futures, the result is an incredibly varied, one-of-a-kind cultural landscape Utahns can be proud of.

"I love it all: I love the professional; I love the big, well-produced shows, but Im also just as drawn to small, bare-bones, innovative work," Bowcutt said. "Because I can do all of that in Utah, I find it to be incredibly satisfying."PROVO  Two BYU engineering professors have been tasked with a $5.8 million project to build a super antenna for the giant telescope dish featured in the 1995 James Bond film "GoldenEye."

"Astronomers will use our array feed to map dark matter clouds around galaxies and better understand how structures in our universe formed billions of years ago at the cosmic dawn," said BYU electrical engineering professor Karl Warnick.

Based in Puerto Rico, Warnick and BYU professor Brian Jeffs have worked for over a decade on the massive, 1,000-foot diameter Arecibo Observatory radio telescope featured in the finale of the action movie.

The telescope better processes signals from deep space.

Now, with a $5.8 million grant from the National Science Foundation, they'll take it another step further.

Without steering the dish, we can now cover a significantly larger area of the sky with this new phased array feed, Jeffs said in a press release. Its like building a massive digital camera for radio astronomy.

The super antenna Jeffs and Warnick will build and install over the next couple months, known as a "phased array feed," is expected to increase the telescope's capabilities five times over, they said.

"BYU has many research groups that are doing work that is on par with colleagues at the world's greatest universities," Warnick said. "Winning a highly competitive grant like this is tangible recognition that our work is of high enough quality to be recognized with funding support."

Researchers from Cornell and the University of Central Florida will join the BYU duo, along with BYU graduate students, when they build and install the world's first full-sized "cryogenically cooled phased array feed" on the telescope.

"The project will provide graduate thesis topics for these students, as well as financial support," Warnick said. "When they graduate, they will leave with cutting-edge skills in electrical and computer engineering that are eminently marketable and will allow them to work at the forefront of scientific and technical research and development."

The new array will be a computer-controlled group of smaller antennas that create a beam of radio waves, processing signals from space.

Part of the mission the BYU professors are helping is tracking new pulsars  especially millisecond pulsars that help signal the presence of gravity waves.

"(Astronomers) will use it to find pulsars, which can be used as highly accurate clocks. Tiny jitters in pulsar signals can be used to detect gravitational waves predicted by Einstein," Warnick said. "The array feed will be used to look for unexplained fast radio bursts, which are mysterious, super bright objects that flare up for a few seconds in the sky."

Gravity waves are produced by catastrophic events, such as two colliding black holes, and they cause ripples in the fabric of space-time, according to BYU.

Part of the new phased array feed will be used to search for the existence of extraterrestrial life, Warnick said.

This isn't Warnick and Jeffs' first rodeo. They installed a gold-plated array of many small antennas on the telescope nine years ago. That work made the telescope's surveying ability seven times better.

"Brian Jeffs and I have been working on engineering research projects related to astronomy for almost 20 years," Warnick said. "For me, this has been a major part of my academic career."SALINA, Sevier County  Over the past several weeks, Deeanna Price says she has learned a lot about her pioneer roots thanks to technology and perseverance.

A few weeks ago, Price first took a serious interest in visiting the graves of all of her pioneer ancestors in honor of Pioneer Day.

"I started up in Heber City, Price said. I have gone out to Nephi, down to Wayne County, these are where some of my ancestors were buried.

The Family Search app helped Price find information even her mother didnt know.

She told me that she had 35 grandparents or relatives who came across the Plains, and she was going to visit all for those graves, Linda Chappell, Prices mother, said.

Her stop in Salina a few days before the holiday to find the grave of a great-great-grandfather, Daniel Cook, who has been buried here since 1875, put her effort to find each of those 35 graves by Pioneer Day to a complete stop. The headstone was nowhere to be found.

The Pioneer Cemetery in Salina was the first established in the community, and while it is still well maintained, time has taken a toll.

With the help of a cousin, Alice Christenson, who lives nearby, they searched for a few hours with no success.

We looked and looked, and it was pretty much grass all over, Christenson said.

But in recent days, thanks to a cemetery caregiver, the headstone was found buried under 5 inches of sod and dirt.

It was really like finding a treasure. It was exciting, Christenson said.

The caregiver didn't give up and has since uncovered another 30 to 40 flat headstones that over time had disappeared in the pioneer cemetery.

I didnt know I had a great-great-grandfather here in the Salina Cemetery, Price said. I would not have known without that Family Search app, and I have enjoyed discovering these different pieces of information that I had no idea were there, but I want it preserved so my kids can come out and see this and maybe my grandchildren will get interested.

But it is this headstone that has helped connect these women to their pioneer past.

Not that you even know them, but it just makes you feel closer to them knowing where they are and their lives, Christenson said.

And a renewed commitment to help keep that history alive for future generations.

I think it is history worth preserving, Price said. I think we can do better.SALT LAKE CITY The call came in  there is a two-alarm fire in West Valley. So the airborne news helicopter diverted from its planned course, our photographer placed a long lens on the scene and discovered this was no ordinary fire.

Fire and heat is dominating much of the news coverage across the West as California is burning  again  and Utah is suffering through weeks-long heat and fires that have kept a blanket of bad air stretched across the Wasatch Front.

In Spanish Fork, ash is dropping on cars and the citizenry as the Coal Hollow Fire in southeastern Utah continues to blacken hillsides and cause challenges for livestock and those who make a living close to the land.

So on Thursday, Deseret News photographer Ravell Call joined his KSL colleagues in Chopper 5  one of the benefits to readers and viewers of our combined Deseret News and KSL newsroom  in covering breaking news across the state. They were headed toward the Coal Hollow Fire when the West Valley call came in.

Structure fires happen regularly around the Wasatch Front and though they are certainly difficult personal loses for those effected, the extended news value is often minimal. Not so this fire.

Ravell said a house was burning, but there was also a city vehicle that seemed to be burned out. Why the city vehicle? What was it doing there? Reporters were dispatched on the ground and the tragic circumstances of an altercation were revealed. Code enforcement officer Jill Robinson, 52, was shot and killed at the scene. A 64-year-old man who lives in the neighborhood is accused of killing her, as well as setting her vehicle and a neighbor's house on fire, destroying them.

The breaking news stories turned from what happened to why did it happen, and the more in-depth stories we wrote revealed the trouble at the West Valley home, the angry words of the suspect, and ultimately put in context the dangers facing code enforcement officers who face daily confrontations.

It shows the value of local media as the Deseret News and KSL can bring both breaking news and in-depth, comprehensive coverage, and can do so with the trust of the public at a time when national media is taking a hit.

I spoke with readers this week thanking us for our complete coverage, even as they commented on other in-depth work we're doing, including the piece showing a conflict with free speech and religious liberty (Mormon, Muslim and Sikh student groups kicked off Iowa campus amid legal battles) and helping teens find solutions to life-stalling anxiety (Technology, dating, college, career: Here's why today's teens are the most anxious ever).

Last year, research by the Media Insight Project, a collaboration by the American Press Institute and the Associated Press' public affairs research arm, noted the following about media trust:

"The findings show that on many fronts, Americans are skeptical of 'the news media' in the abstract, but generally trust the news they themselves rely on. And most people mention traditional or mainstream news sources as the ones they turn to."

During the past year, national media has been routinely criticized by the public and trust in national media has gone down. But a national survey at the beginning of the year showed that while media is falling short, it has a role to play and confidence remains in local media.

As reported in Forbes: "According to a report published by Gallup and the Knight Foundation that surveyed nearly 20,000 people, Americans strongly believe that the media have an important role in democracy  providing the public with information they need and holding the powerful accountable. But the study also delivers bad news: Americans don't believe the media in this country is doing a good job on those important tasks."

Digging deeper, the survey revealed that 54 percent of respondents said they had "a lot" or "a fair amount" of confidence in a local newspaper, higher than other news outlets.

Whether it is writing about the safety of our community, the air we breathe, the impact of changing values on the family, or the right of people of faith to participate in the public square, the Deseret News is working to be a trusted, valuable voice.

Transparency is also crucial, and a key reason for this column as it allows me to bring readers into the newsroom and show not just how we make decisions, but why we make them. We understand that trust can be earned or lost every day we publish online and in print.WASHINGTON  In 2016, some of the Republican Partys most reliable voters  members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints  rebuked candidate Donald Trump at the ballot box. Two years later, many are so uneasy with President Trump that they could sit out the midterms, jeopardizing GOP candidates in several states and races critical to Republican control of Washington.

Indeed, with just 13 weeks before the November congressional elections, political operatives are warning that members of the church might stay home, denying Republican candidates not just their votes but their typically robust financial and volunteer support.

Mormons were more of a reliable voting bloc before the Trump era. And now things are more up in the air, said Steven Conger, a Nevada Republican political strategist who is a member of the church. You see that with both voters and donors.

The church members are a small but significant portion of the GOP base. Although less than 2 percent of the U.S. adult population are members of the faith, they typically vote overwhelmingly for the GOP. According to a 2014 Pew Research Center study, 70 percent of church members in the United States identify with the Republican Party or say they lean toward the GOP. That compares with 19 percent who identify as or lean Democratic, the largest gap of any other religious group in the country.

While many members of the faith said they appreciate the tax cuts Trump signed into law, the judges he has nominated to the Supreme Court, and the outreach hes made to their community, many cant overlook his hardline immigration positions, divisive rhetoric and the Stormy Daniels scandal.

Thats raised concerns for Republicans running for office this fall, especially in the Mountain West, where the lions share of the countrys LDS population is located.

Arizona, Nevada and Utah are hosting competitive House, Senate or gubernatorial races in November.

If its a close election and turnout is down among Mormon Republicans, that could make a difference in a number of states, said Quin Monson, a consultant for several GOP campaigns in Utah who has studied the LDS vote extensively at Brigham Young University.

After George W. Bush won 80 percent of the LDS vote in 2004 and Mitt Romney, himself a church member, won 78 percent in 2012, support for Trump among church members dropped to 61 percent in 2016, according to exit polls.

Not much has changed in the numbers since November 2016. Recent Gallup tracking poll data show that while 87 percent of Republicans nationally approve of Trumps job performance, just 61 percent of LDS curch members do.

And Monson and others noted that figure doesnt tell the whole story, adding that it would be much higher at this point for most other Republican presidents.

You might think at first glance Mormons are overwhelmingly pro-Trump, but theyre not overly enthusiastic about Trump, Monson said. Some Mormons are a little lost. Theyre not Democrats, but theyre not sure of where the Republican Party is going.

Take Rick Roskelley. A church member and a GOP activist from Las Vegas, he had been attending caucus meetings and donating to GOP candidates since the Nixon administration. But after Trump won the 2016 Republican presidential nomination, Roskelley changed his voter registration from Republican to Libertarian and cast his ballot for Gary Johnson.

Heading into the midterms, Roskelley isnt sure how hes going to vote. But given Trumps current positions on immigration and trade, he said hes going to give third-party candidates a harder look and would even consider voting for a moderate Democrat.

(Trump) has brought to light an element of the Republican Party that I dont really care for. They used to have a small voice, but now they have a much bigger voice, Roskelley said. So right now I have no inclination to go back to the Republican Party.

Immigration is a particularly important issue for church members, many of whom have ancestors who settled out west to escape religious persecution in the 1800s. The church, which typically stays out of politics, released a statement earlier this summer saying it was deeply troubled by the Trump administrations policy that separated immigrant families at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Unlike Roskelley, others are willing to look past that aspect of the Trump presidency. West Allen, another Republican activist from Las Vegas and a church member, said that while he doesnt agree with everything Trump does, he believes that Trump has been positive for the country on the whole, and is certainly preferable to a Democratic administration.

They look at Trump like a brother or child, Allen said of the fellow members of his congregation. When he does something thats untoward, we encourage him to do better. But we dont kick him out of the family.

Trump has made an effort to be a member of that family since taking office. He met with LDS leaders during a visit to Utah last December. On July 24, he released a statement commemorating Pioneer Day, which celebrates the arrival of the first Mormons to the Salt Lake Valley. And members of the church have praised his administrations religious liberty task force.

Politically, theyve actually done a really smart job of reaching out to the Mormon community, said Chad Heywood, a church member who previously served as the executive director of the Arizona Republican Party.

And yet, Republicans running in areas with a significant LDS electorate see the environment as challenging. Several church members themselves are running for office, such as Dean Heller and Cresent Hardy in Nevada and Mitt Romney and Mia Love in Utah, and Republicans hope that will allow them to establish their own brands separate from Trump. Love is facing Salt Lake County mayor Ben McAdams, a Democrat who can draw his own distinction between Love and the president as a church member in Democrat-rich Salt Lake City.

Dave Hansen, who is managing Loves campaign, acknowledged they might have a more difficult time than usual pushing church members to the polls, but that having a well-known figure such as Romney on the ballot will be a boon to their efforts.

Having Mitt Romney there has kind of taken away whatever negative there could be on turnout of people not voting because of Trump, Hansen said. I mean that was a godsend, to be honest with you, having him there.

As was the case in 2016, some church members who are unhappy with the direction of the GOP will still pull the lever for the Republicans this fall when faced with the alternatives of liberal Democrats, long-shot independents or not voting at all. Heidi Wixom, a longtime Nevada GOP activist and church member, said that while she cant tolerate Trump and has tried to ignore whats happening in Washington, she will still most likely vote Republican again this fall.

But if candidates are looking for the additional assistance shes provided before, theyll have to go elsewhere.

My heart just isnt in it right now as it has been in the past, Wixom said.SALT LAKE CITY  By signature count, it is Utah's most popular ballot initiative, in an election year full of them.

It has overcome formidable regulations on voter-driven initiatives and even an organized signature removal campaign. Polls indicate public opinion in the Beehive State has been fertile ground for its appeal to voters.

But exactly how did the Utah Medical Cannabis Act transform medical marijuana legalization from an idea promoted by a small band of passionate patient advocates at the Utah Legislature into a disruptive force in Utah politics? And what role has money played in forwarding these advocates' cause?

A Deseret News review of the ballot initiative's campaign finance records and interviews with donors found that 1) influential national lobbying group Marijuana Policy Project has had a major financial hand in supporting the signature push, 2) the same group played an important role in the initial drafting of the initiative, 3) the campaign has raised less than almost any other Utah initiative despite its popularity, and 4) the campaign has received hundreds of small donations.

People feel comfortable with the idea that medical patients should have access to medical cannabis for very specific medical needs.  DJ Schanz, director of the initiative campaign, the Utah Patients Coalition

Like everything else attached to this publicly contentious political issue, how to interpret money's role in the medical marijuana initiative depends on whom you ask.

DJ Schanz, director of the initiative campaign, the Utah Patients Coalition, offers a simple explanation for its resonance with voters: Utahns are compassionate, he says, and the prospect of relieving patients' suffering has struck a fundamental chord with them.

"The public is largely committed where they are at on this issue," Schanz said. "People feel comfortable with the idea that medical patients should have access to medical cannabis for very specific medical needs."

But Drug Safe Utah, a group formed in April specifically to oppose the ballot initiative, claims the popularity has come on the back of slick messaging perfected by outsiders interested in seeing the proliferation of permissive recreational marijuana laws around the country.

Walter Plumb, Drug Safe Utah president, claims much of the support for the initiative arises from an imported and misleading strategy of presenting the drug's medical properties as a settled issue.

Big marijuana is attacking our culture, no question about it.  Walter Plumb, Drug Safe Utah president

"This is definitely 'big marijuana,'" Plumb contends. "'Big marijuana is attacking our culture, no question about it. (They are) recognizing that it's an addictive industry (and) their revenues are high because people are high."

Schanz said the phrase "big marijuana" used by opponents is misleading: "We're not getting big money from big marijuana anywhere," he argues, and "the idea that there's all this big money with the medical (marijuana initiative) is a complete farce."

So what is true?

Money breakdown

Public financial disclosure data shows the Utah Patients Coalition raised about $698,000 in direct donations, plus $47,000 worth of in-kind staff time contributed.

Its largest donor is the advocacy nonprofit Marijuana Policy Project, based in Washington, D.C., which has given more than $218,000 directly and also contributed all of the staff time that was donated to the campaign. (Donation figures in this story are up to date through June 14.)

Other big donors outside Utah are comprised of a political campaign firm, a libertarian advocacy group, and a body and home care business.

The campaign's largest in-state donor has been the Lehi-headquartered Libertas Institute, a libertarian lobbying and advocacy group that has given $135,000.

Campaign financial disclosures also show the Utah Patients Coalition received about 390 contributions of $100 or less for a total of about $11,400. Several dozen contributions from individual Utah residents exceeded $100, including seven that were $1,000 or more.

Chief among those is Linda Fontenot, listed at a residential Salt Lake City address, who has donated $40,000 total via four separate payments. Fontenot declined to comment about her lucrative support of the initiative.

Inside the state, the other big financial contributions came from a relatively unknown nonprofit dedicated to filming pro-initiative testimonials, as well a group of Utahns who gave to an Arizona-headquartered organization used to donate on behalf of individuals who didn't want to publicly release their names.

BYU political science professor David Magleby, who has published several works on campaign finance, said the out-of-state funds from Marijuana Policy Project and others are not surprising, nor is the total amount having been spent on the campaign so far.

"That's very typical in a state that's hard to qualify in," such as Utah, Magleby said. "It takes big bucks (to get on the ballot).  You have to have something approaching that kind of money."

Magleby added that "the fact that so many states have already voted on it, I think minimizes  national (money)."

Magleby also believes the campaign has "got to raise quite a bit more" in the fall to keep up its favorable numbers, as opposing groups such as Drug Safe Utah also ramp up their messaging criticizing the initiative.

Schanz said despite his efforts, businesses that can benefit from the sale of marijuana have almost exclusively flocked to supporting law changes or otherwise investing in states larger than Utah  particularly California, where recreational marijuana use was recently legalized.

"None of them see this medical program (in Utah) as anything financially lucrative whatsoever," he said.

Initiative comparison

The amount of money raised to get enough signatures for the medical marijuana initiative was low compared to the other measures being sought in the state, campaign finance records show.

The $744,827 in combined direct and in-kind contributions raised by the Utah Patients Coalition is only a little more than half of the more than $1.4 million brought in by anti-gerrymandering campaign Better Boundaries, and less than one-third of the nearly $2.6 million raised by Medicaid expansion campaign Utah Decides Healthcare, with more than $2 million in help from the Fairness Project, based in Washington, D.C.

Count My Vote, an initiative campaign that sought to preserve the dual path to the primary ballot via either signature gathering or the caucus convention system and which was ultimately defeated by a signature removal campaign, brought in about $1.35 million in contributions.

Even the Our Schools Now campaign had spent more than medical marijuana advocates, bringing in more than $1.1 million by the time its officials ceased their signature gathering efforts in March in a compromise with state lawmakers over education funding.

Keep My Voice, an initiative campaign seeking to preserve the caucus and convention system as candidates' only path to the ballot, was the only major initiative that raised less than the Utah Patients Coalition. Keep My Voice raised about $495,000, but didn't get enough signatures to put its issue before voters.

But despite its low overall spending, the Utah Patients Coalition stood king among Utah's initiatives in the signature gathering phase, getting more signatures than any other measure.

"We've run this campaign on a bootstrap (budget), on literally tens of thousands of volunteer hours, which I think has demonstrated the public's interest and willingness to make this happen," Schanz said.

The biggest donor

Plumb takes issue with the Marijuana Policy Project's strong involvement in the campaign, saying the Washington, D.C.-based group's game plan nationally has been focused on how to "use the gullible media and legislators," or voters directly where necessary, to further a cause those audiences haven't researched for themselves and don't understand.

They've got everything to gain by (promoting the initiative) and nothing to lose.  Rep. Brad Daw, R-Orem

In Utah, Plumb said, the national group's strategy with donating $218,000 is "based on the compassion of Utah, that we want to help people." But, he asks, "what's the social cost?"

"More availability means more usage and honestly, I don't think Utah voters  understand that this is really a whole new system of distribution," he said, leading to a major influx of dispensaries in a newly opened market. "We don't use Rite Aid, we don't use Walgreens."

Plumb and the Utah Medical Association have each argued that giving patients marijuana through a dispensary is playing fast and loose with a potent substance, skipping the pharmaceutical safeguards required for the distribution of other drugs.

Rep. Brad Daw, R-Orem, who has sponsored bills allowing terminally ill patients to try cannabis and permitting the growing of the substance in Utah, but has not seen eye to eye with the aims of the initiative or its supporters, has lamented at various times this year that he and others who argue against the measure face a steep financial disadvantage.

"They've got everything to gain by (promoting the initiative) and nothing to lose," Daw said of Marijuana Policy Project.

Daw also said it's "crystal clear" that "full legalization of full recreational marijuana" is that group's long-term goal.

The executive director of the Marijuana Policy Project was candid about having had a hand in helping the initiative campaign in Utah establish itself.

Matthew Schweich told the Deseret News the group "played a key role in" the drafting of the initiative. He was quick to add, though, that "the drafting process  was almost entirely comprised of Utahns."

Marijuana Policy Project also assisted the campaign with signature gathering in a "collaborative effort," Schweich noted. About $47,000 in in-kind staff hours provided by Marijuana Policy Project are also listed in public campaign documents.

Still, Schweich said, "A significant portion of the funding has already come from in the state, so right off the bat I have to contest the (assertion) that this has been an out-of-state effort."

"Poll after poll shows support above 70 percent, so we're not coming into a state forcing a policy that the people disagree with," he said. "(This was) after years of efforts to get the legislation to do something for these patients to change the law so that patients are no longer treated like criminals.  Now we're going to give the people the opportunity to take this matter into their own hands."

The polls

Utah voters' support of the initiative hovered between 75 and 77 percent in three polls commissioned by the Hinckley Institute of Politics and Salt Lake Tribune released between July 2017 and January 2018.

That support remained strong but appeared to dip noticeably in a June poll commissioned by those same organizations in which 66 percent of respondents said they were in favor of the measure.

Those polls asked Utah voters, "Do you support or oppose a proposed ballot initiative that would legalize marijuana use for people with serious medical conditions?"

A pair of separate Utah Policy polls asked Utah voters whether they support "legalizing doctor-prescribed use of non-smoking medical marijuana for certain diseases and pain relief," to which 73 percent of respondents answered yes in November and 77 percent did the same in February.

The initiative's supporters and detractors disagree on whether that question is accurate enough to fairly gauge support for the measure itself.

Schweich said the Marijuana Policy Project has found that state ballot initiatives are "a very effective way to change laws."

"We are always looking at state levels for reform efforts, and that's why we're working in Utah," he said.

Marijuana Policy Project is also putting its support behind a ballot proposal in Michigan that would legalize the use of marijuana for recreation, Schweich said. The nonprofit says in its vision statement that it would like to see marijuana "legally regulated similarly to alcohol."

Libertas ties

Libertas Institute  along with Together for Responsible Use and Cannabis Education  was where advocates' pro-medical marijuana leanings incubated into political will at the Utah Legislature in recent years, getting lawmakers to debate the merits of various legalization bills, the most extensive of which have failed to pass.

It is also the campaign's largest Utah donor, having contributed $135,000.

Schanz is officially the vice president at Libertas but has taken a leave of absence from the organization for the past year and a half to focus on directing the Utah Patients Coalition Campaign.

Connor Boyack, president of Libertas Institute, said the group permitted Schanz to take his leave as a way of being especially careful not to cross ethical or legal lines relating to promoting the initiative.

"This is an issue that when we were working on it legislatively, DJ was great support up at the Capitol (in) working with legislators and  patient groups," Boyack said. "He's now working on it in a different context, but for obvious legal and financial reasons, that work has to be done through a separate organization."

Libertas Institute is eager to support the Utah Patients Coalition financially, Boyack said, because federal laws prohibiting all marijuana use are "to us a matter of injustice and cruelty, to subject patients to the criminal justice system."

"We've been working hard on this issue for several years, and have largely failed to find enough support in the Legislature to get the law changed in any substantive way," he said.

Other non-Utah donors

Besides the Marijuana Policy Project, the Utah Patients Coalition's significant out-of-state financial backers are an organic body and home care company, another libertarian advocacy group, and a campaign consulting firm.

The three groups explained why they put some skin in the Utah game.

 Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps  which sells all-purpose cleaning products and other household items  is outspoken on social causes it supports and in recent years has contributed to campaigns in several states seeking various marijuana reform laws, including measures seeking to legalize recreational use.

The company based in Vista, California, contributed $50,000 to the Utah Patients Coalition in January.

Some Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps products contain hemp seed oil, but the business doesn't sell any recreational or medical marijuana products, says company CEO David Bronner.

The company believes in supporting ballot initiatives as "the most democratic way of reflecting the people's will" when "inertia or political hazards" stall state lawmakers, Bronner told the Deseret News.

"Oftentimes on more controversial issues  it's easier for them to do nothing," Bronner said of state lawmakers generally.

Bronner says the initiative succeeding in Utah would validate the company's conviction that marijuana policy reform is "not all about left-leaning (states), but this issue has  support across the political spectrum."

Bronner said that while his company favors legalizing recreational marijuana use "in a carefully regulated way," it also enthusiastically supports efforts to advance the "narrow issue of medical cannabis."

 DKT Liberty Project, a libertarian advocacy organization based in Washington D.C., describes itself as a group that "advocates vigilance over regulation of all kinds."

In a pair of donations that came in February and then May of this year, DKT Liberty Project gave $35,000 to the Utah Patients Coalition.

"The DKT Liberty Project has donated to the Utah medical cannabis campaign because we strongly believe that Utah patients and professional caregivers should no longer be treated as criminals," AC Bushnell, the project's program director, said in a prepared statement.

"We have great confidence in the Utah Patients Coalition as they work toward victory on Election Day, and we're proud to help support their important work."

 September Group, located in Cheyenne, Wyoming, is a campaign consulting firm that has served Utah clients such as Rep. Mia Love, former Rep. Jason Chaffetz and Sens. Orrin Hatch and Mike Lee.

Clients pay September Group for any of a broad range of services that include polling, crisis management, market research and policy analysis, the firm says.

Last fall, the firm donated $10,000 to the Utah Patients Coalition campaign.

The group also plans to throw additional financial support behind the medical marijuana ballot initiative this coming fall, said Chuck Warren, managing director of September Group.

Warren said he and others at the firm believe people "deserve the opportunity to try" marijuana for medical purposes "in consultation with their doctors." He stressed that "we as a firm are completely opposed to recreational drugs or marijuana," but hold the belief that its medical use could help fight the scourge of opioid addiction in the United States.

Though the group gets paid for political activities, it's "not an odd circumstance" for the group to flip the script and "donate  to various public policy issues," Warren told the Deseret News.

"We don't have any financial gain in the outcome of this  we're not opening dispensaries," but rather the initiative aligns with the firm's values, Warren went on to say.

September Group also employs Alex Iorg, a campaign manager for the Utah Patients Coalition, though Iorg has taken a leave of absence from the consulting firm to work on the initiative. It is also the workplace of Hillary Koellner, who oversees a Utah nonprofit, Our Story, which is a significant donor to the campaign.

"(Iorg and Koellner) weren't influential at all in my decision or giving. I respect both of them greatly  we just happen to think alike as everybody does in the office on this issue," Warren said. "We think it's a very compassionate issue to help people, if done properly."

Utah donors

 Our Story has donated substantially to the Utah Patients Coalition, giving a total of $124,000 to the campaign, including a $49,000 transfer in February.

The organization registered as a nonprofit in Utah in October of last year, according to a state database. In campaign finance documents, it is listed with a Murray address.

On social media, where Our Story has about 15,900 Facebook followers, the sole political focus of the group is its support of the Utah Medical Cannabis Act.

An Our Story GoFundMe page that has raised a few hundred dollars for the initiative campaign implores visitors: "With just a $5 donation, you can help get the solution and medicine that so many Utah families need."

The organization's website (whose domain name recently expired) and Facebook page include videos "paid for and authorized" by Our Story and show messages from Utahns who support the initiative, including Overstock CEO Patrick Byrne and Together for Responsible Use and Cannabis Education founder Christine Stenquist.

"It's just something we wanted to create because there are so many people suffering," she said. "That's really the gist of it. We wanted to tell people's stories and show the humane side of it."

Those videos have helped lead to donations via Our Story by those sympathetic to the issue, Koellner told the Deseret News.

 Pass the Balanced Budget Amendment contributed a total of $49,000 to the Utah Patients Coalition in 2017. It hasn't donated in 2018.

In campaign finance disclosure records, Pass the Balanced Budget Amendment's physical address is listed as a P.O. Box at a UPS store in Murray, but the Deseret News could not find any other records showing instances of it operating directly in Utah.

Warren said the organization is an Arizona-headquartered nonprofit that serves as a donation "vehicle" to which he and his colleagues refer active members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who support the initiative and want to contribute to it, but have reservations about publicly putting their name to their donation "on such a sensitive issue."

Those individuals' contributions are what make up Pass the Balanced Budget Amendment's contribution to the initiative campaign, according to Warren, though he said it has been in existence for several years and served as a means for supporting different campaign issues in the past.

Pass the Balanced the Budget Amendment is formally organized in Arizona, Warren said, but the initiative "donors were Utahns." Arizona records show the group was first established in 2011.

The LDS Church has expressed reservations about the issue of medical marijuana legalization. The church said in a statement in May that an extensive legal analysis it commissioned "raises grave concerns about this initiative and the serious adverse consequences that could follow if it were adopted."

"We invite all to read the (analysis) and to make their own judgment," the church said in its statement at the time.

Opposition funding

Plumb's dedication to opposing marijuana use has a long history.

Plumb  a real estate developer, the owner of Riverton-headquartered nutritional product business Pharmics, and former law partner to Hatch  says he became concerned about marijuana use among teenagers beginning long ago in his work with youth in a religious capacity. In 1998, he authored a pamphlet sent to tens of thousands of Salt Lake County parents, warning them about the pitfalls their children could face by using marijuana.

The Deseret News reported at the time that the pamphlet "ruffled some feathers" in the county over its excerpt asserting that "excessive preoccupation with social causes, race relations, environmental issues, etc." are signs a person uses marijuana. Plumb told the Deseret News recently that his critics at the time took issue with that language because they didn't want to "admit what the real issues are."

Among the most important of such issues, he argues, are the effects on the cognitive development of young people who use marijuana.

"There's no doubt in anyone's mind  that it affects adolescent minds," Plumb said. "They're still developing."

With that worry prompting him to action, Plumb said, he formed Drug Safe Utah in April, and has since donated about $112,000 of his own money to it in order to fund its opposition to the ballot initiative.

The Utah Medical Association, known for its outspoken opposition to the initiative, has also given $10,000 in in-kind contributions, plus a $500 donation. But Drug Safe Utah remains badly outspent by its opponents by roughly six times over in total.

That will change soon, Plumb said  possibly this month.

"It's going to take a lot more money and right now we're putting together a group to assist with that," he said.

The group and its backers "will become more vocal as we get closer" to the election, he said. "We're just going into a new stage."

"When people understand what is in this initiative, they're going to vote against it," Plumb said.

Despite Drug Safe Utah's late arrival in the fight, Magleby says it still has the opportunity to resonate with voters if it can put up sufficient money. Magleby said advertising dollars for a "no" campaign against an initiative are generally "more effective than dollars on the 'yes' side."

"There is a kind of a status quo orientation in most voters when they're presented reasons to doubt a measure," Magleby said.

Fewer voters generally have their minds made up well in advance when it comes to ballot initiatives as compared to individual candidates, Magleby added, "and therefore advertising  can be more consequential" than in a traditional campaign.

Plumb declined to comment on specifically what groups might be adding more funding to Drug Safe Utah. Reached for comment, Utah Medical Association spokesman Mark Fotheringham said he was not privy to "any plans for UMA to contribute anything other than expertise" in its opposition to the initiative.SALT LAKE CITY  The new millennium means a new everyday attire in today's workplace environment, a recent survey shows, trending away from the traditional shirt and tie to a more casual style.

According to an Employers Councils miscellaneous benefits and pay practices survey, results from five surveys dating to 2009 indicated an overall shift toward a more casual workplace, as the everyday casual dress policy has become more prevalent.

Additionally, the number of respondents acknowledging a formal written appearance/dress code policy at their place of employment declined 4 percent since 2009.

One of those employers is Utah-based CHG Healthcare in Midvale. The nation's largest privately held health care staffing company has been named to Fortune magazines "Best Company to Work For" list for nine years in a row and has been sans a formal written dress policy for the past several years, explained Christine VanCampen, senior director of culture at CHG Healthcare.

"We had one historically, and we've gone from the earliest days of the company  suits and white shirts (for men) and skirts for ladies, kind of the standard business attire," she said. "(We) slowly just evolved from that."

She said the process happened over time and included some discussions of what was appropriate attire for the workplace and provided a suitable work environment.

"We just slowly over time realized that if we had a conversation where our values are guiding our approach to quality and professionalism (we could find a solution)," VanCampen said. "It's really simple, Don't be offensive and don't be inappropriate. You need to be professional for the workplace, but that can be what's professional for you as long as it doesn't cross the line of being offensive to your colleagues."

With no official policy in the employee handbook, the company's leaders are asked to maintain an appropriate environment for people to work in, she said.

"We really do like to allow our people to express their individuality," VanCampen said. "We want them to be comfortable at work, so the way we approach dress is right in line with that."

People at the company can wear shorts and flip-flops if they do not interact with customers  like software developers that generally sit behind a computer most of the day, she said. However, people with other duties that require interpersonal interaction might be expected to maintain a more business-casual style of dress as needed, she added.

"From a generation perspective, there is this more casual approach to life in general and also from a business perspective," said Ryan Nelson, Utah president of Employers Council. "'Do I really need to wear a shirt and tie to accomplish what you want me to accomplish?' Sometimes not."

He said many companies are responding to this intellectual shift by allowing greater leniency in their dress code requirements, particularly if they want to attract and retain an increasingly millennial-age workforce.

"The dress code policy is just one example of adjustments that employers are making to attract that demographic and retain them as a quality employee," he said.

Nelson mentioned former Apple founder Steve Jobs as someone who made casual attire more normal in the everyday workplace.

"(He) made that kind of a dress code standard acceptable in a highly successful, highly productive, very cutting-edge company," he said. "The focus for him wasn't so much on how you looked but the output you produced that made you most valuable as an employer."

He said the survey data indicated that employers are drifting away from, "I want you to look the part" to "I want you to do the job."

"As long as you're appropriately dressed for the circumstances that you'll be engaged in, we're not too concerned about the suit and tie formality or business formal attire," he explained. "It's a shift toward performance-based expectations, not so much the dress code expectations."

While some employers may eschew a formal dress policy, others continue to use one as a way to maintain certain standards within the workplace.

The Western Electricity Coordinating Council has a 'dress for your day' policy, explained communications manager Julie Booth.

"It basically says you dress for what your (work) day looks like," she said.

We really do like to allow our people to express their individuality. We want them to be comfortable at work, so the way we approach dress is right in line with that.  Christine VanCampen, senior director of culture at CHG Healthcare

With approximately 125 workers in Utah, the Salt Lake City-based nonprofit corporation advocates for a reliable bulk electric system in the geographic area known as the Western Interconnection. The WECC region includes the Canadian provinces of Alberta and British Columbia, the northern portion of Baja California, Mexico, along with all or parts of 14 Western states in-between.

Booth said the organization requires employees who are meeting with people outside on the company's behalf to wear business casual to formal business attire, while those whose day-to-day responsibilities may be behind a desk, then they could wear khakis, jeans with a collared shirt.

"It's well-embraced here," she said. "Everybody loves it." One exception is when employees attend the council's quarterly board of directors meeting, they must wear business attire with everyone else in the office wearing business casual attire that day, she noted.

She said the shift away from the traditional business dress was part of the organization's attempt to change its culture to fit the changing times. Over the past few years, the shift has been welcomed and created a more relaxed yet productive environment, she said.

"This is all wrapped up into one big culture (transformation) initiative where productivity is a great byproduct of it," Booth said. "Everybody loves it and at this point, we actually use it as one of our selling points when we recruit."WEST VALLEY CITY  It may sound like a problem so big that an individual could never do anything about it; many scientists believe the world is in the midst of an extinction crisis.

As it turns out, though, a network of volunteers is helping  at least a little  by raising an endangered species in their own home.

Chuck Roberts, for one. His effort to stave off extinction revolves around a tiny fish most people have never heard of.

"At first glance they're kind of a duller fish," Roberts said. "But then, as the light catches them, they are quite pleasing to look at."

The fish, each just a couple of inches long, are called ameca splendens, a species that is obscure and vanishingly rare. They're popularly know as "butterfly splitfins" because of their patches of bright color.

"They kind of look like butterflies when they shine in the light," Roberts said admiringly as he peers into his home aquarium. He's raising six of the rare fish in the basement of his West Valley home.

"(I) wanted to keep some fish that kind of had a purpose," he explained, "beyond just something that looks nice in your house."

In their home waters deep in the heart of Mexico, butterfly splitfins are up against big problems. Some experts consider them "extinct in the wild."

Their natural habitat is in shallow, high-elevation rivers west of Guadalajara. But today, only two small populations still exist, according to John Lyons, curator of fishes at the University of Wisconsin Zoological Museum. He said the existing wild populations in Mexico are actually hanging on in two commercially operated water parks  about 1,000 fish in one and about 100 in the other.

"It's out there," Lyons said of the beleaguered species. "It's certainly critically endangered and something could happen tomorrow that could eliminate them."

Lyons believes the biggest factor in the species' decline is the introduction of nonnative predatory fish that prey on the smaller splitfins.

Other possible causes, according to Roberts, include construction of dams, water shortages and chemical pollution from nearby farming operations. Whatever the cause, something has pushed ameca splendens to the brink.

"And I think it's important to keep as many species alive," Roberts said, "so that we don't have a catastrophic failure of our ecosystems."

Roberts is part of a loosely organized network  Lyons estimates it's fewer than 500 aquarium hobbyists around the world  who care enough to provide a home for ameca splendens and about 40 other species in the Goodeid family of live-bearing fish.

"It's one of the few things that keeps a lot of fish around," Roberts said. "If not for the aquarium hobby, there would be countless species that would be wiped out."

Lyons said it's like keeping "fish in the bank." He believes hobbyists in recent years have used the concept to save about 100 fish species from extinction.

The tiny splitfins seem to be doing very well in Roberts' home aquarium. He feeds them several times a day; their favorite snackables seem to be boiled zucchini and brine shrimp from the Great Salt Lake.

"I just go out there with a net and scoop them up," Roberts said.

Meanwhile, he's been noticing some hints that his three male butterfly splitfins are ready to become fathers.

"They'll get up next to the female and kind of shake," Roberts said, describing the apparent mating ritual. "It's kind of a shaking and shimmying. It almost looks like the fish was vibrating."

His hope is that his ameca splendens will produce babies he can donate to other aquariums and someday, perhaps, help reintroduce the species into the wild. Lyons is hopeful that such an effort will eventually be made. A species similar to ameca splendens is currently being reintroduced in the same part of Mexico and the project seems to have strong support from people living in nearby communities.

"They are actively suppressing nonnative fish, removing them," Roberts said. "I'd say I'm cautiously optimistic."

Two organizations provide support for aquarium hobbyists. They can be contacted online at caresforfish.org and livebearers.org, the website of the American Live Bearers Association.

Roberts is glad he joined the effort to give butterfly splitfins a second shot at survival.

"Humans have kind of messed things up around the world," Roberts said, "and I just feel like I'm doing my part to undo that, or do something good in the world."Donegal Tourism representatives along with representatives from Harveys Point, and the Waterfront Hotel, in Dungloe and Donegal Airport are heading on a trade mission to US.

The delegation intends to engage with major American Tour Operators and Irish Diaspora in three US states, including the largest ethnic festival in the world in Milwaukee.

The week-long trip will take in the cities of New York, Philadelphia, Chicago and Milwaukee. It starts on Monday, August 13, in the Big Apple.

The group take in Philadelphia, August 14, Chicago, August 15 before spending four days in Milwaukee, from August 16 to 19.

These events will provide the delegation with an opportunity to cement the links that exist between parts of the US and Donegal. Each of these three events will consist of an evening of celebration of all that is Donegal, with members of the tourism team meeting with some of Americas major tour operators providing them with first-hand accounts and information about Donegal.

In the lead up to this promotional campaign, Donegal Tourism has been working closely with Tourism Ireland in these cities to build connections with tour operators and significant stakeholders within the industry that can open up new routes and packages aimed specifically at people who may wish to visit Donegal over the coming years.

Donegal Tourism also wishes to extend an invitation to these events to all of our diaspora that may live or work in these regions. Tickets to these events are free and are available from Eventbrite.

In Milwaukee the delegation will to host an area at the Irish Fest which is a festival to promote and celebrate all aspects of Irish American and Celtic Cultures and attracts over 130,000 attendees.

The Irish Fest is primarily a music festival, but there is also a focus on Irish heritage and culture with a section devoted to travel to Ireland.

The festival features separate areas highlighting travel, genealogy, Irish theatre, culture and heritage. Donegal Tourism will host a branded destination display stand only at the show.

For three days Donegal Tourism will host and area at the festival promoting Donegal and all its glory.

Donegal Tourism is also anxious that all Donegal people are made aware of the festival.

So spread the word to anyone you may know in the Milwaukee, Illinois region. The trip is being supported by Tourism Ireland.The Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) has issued a warning about the catching of Bluefin tuna following the landing of the protected species in Donegal.

The SFPA issued the warning after a privately owned pleasure boat on its arrival at Teelin pier was found by SFPA officers to have Bluefin tuna on board.

Those on board the boat were questioned and a file is being prepared for submission to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

It is also understood a number of other similar incidents are currently under investigation.

Bluefin tuna is a protected species due to declining stocks worldwide and the fish are specifically protected under Irish law due to European conservations measures and it is illegal to catch, land or sell this fish.

The SFPA is also reminding recreational fishing businesses that it is illegal to advertise fishing/charter trips targeting Bluefin tuna.

The fish visit Irish waters during the late summer and autumn.

Some EU member states issue permit for the fishing of Bluefin tuna in their waters under strict guidelines.Are Turkey's Christians As 'Fine' As They Say?

An Assyrian lights candles following a mass on Christmas at the Virgin Mary Syriac Orthodox Church in Diyarbakir, Turkey, Dec. 25, 2017. ( Reuters/Sertac Kayar) As tensions simmered between Ankara and Washington over detained American pastor Andrew Brunson, the leaders of Turkey's non-Muslim minorities issued a joint statement July 31 to deny that they faced any oppression in the country. The timing of the move was rather remarkable, and for Garo Paylan, an ethnic Armenian lawmaker for the Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP), the issuance of such a declaration was "in itself a proof that we are not free."

The 18 Christian and Jewish community leaders who signed the declaration asserted that they practiced their faiths freely, that "statements alleging and/or alluding to oppression are completely untrue" and that "many grievances experienced in the past have been resolved." Leading the signatory list was Greek Orthodox Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople, whose community has been waiting for 47 years now to have its theological school reopened, followed by Archbishop Aram Atesyan, the acting spiritual head of the Armenian community, which is unable to elect its own patriarch because of government interference. Fourth on the list was Yusuf Cetin, the acting patriarch of the Syriac community, which has seen many of its church properties seized by the state, while most other signatories represented foundations crippled by red tape. Read the full story hereAt the June Louth County Council meeting, a progress report on housing was presented, addressing areas including; housing demand, social housing supports and stocks, Rebuilding Ireland and future developments.

The Dundalk Democrat takes a look here at what progress is being made in terms of housing in Dundalk.

Housing stock managed by Louth County Council

In Dundalk, Louth County Council owned 1765 homes in Dundalk and had 186 homes on a long-term lease.

The Council also owns 76 housing units which are under the management of Approved Housing Bodies (AHB's), as well as having 115 other Payment and Availability Agreements with AHB's, and 12 Mortgage to Rent units with AHB's.

Vacant properties

Across County Louth, the Council have 49 vacant properties that are un-tenanted and unoccupied but require major refurbishment.

PICTURE: Louth County Council are in possession of 19 vacant properties similar to the above

It also has 19 vacant properties that are awaiting minor works and seven vacant properties that are awaiting allocation. To give some perspective on these numbers, the percentage of vacant properties in Louth out of the total stock available to Louth County Council is 2.17%.

Housing demand in Dundalk

At the end of April 2018 there were 856 applications on the Housing List. This is a reduction of 34 on the previous month.

There were 28 applicants on the transfer list from HAP.

Rent Management

As of 2 February 2018, a new rents scheme came into effect in Louth which is available on the Louth County Council website.

Under the standard tenancy agreement, tenants are obliged to notify the Council of any occupancy change and/or change in financial circumstances.

Outlined in the housing report, are the number of rent and annuity accounts in Louth that are in arrears.

There are 1758 accounts in arrears, 184 in arrears of between 4-6 weeks, at a value of 55,068. 193 accounts are in arrears of between 7-12 weeks with a value of 115,363.

There are also 1381 accounts where the arrears are greater than 12 weeks. The total value of these accounts are 4,773,841.

Rebuilding Ireland

Rebuilding Ireland is the Government's initiative to ramp up the delivery of housing in Ireland. With regards to the initiative's progress in Louth, a target has been set for the provision of 1,074 units over the period 2018 to 2021. 306 of these units are to be delivered in 2018.

PICTURE: The above property in Seatown, Dundalk is being refurbished under Rebuilding Ireland

Among the housing units set to be delivered in 2018 in Dundalk, are 43 units in Manorhamilton, seven units in Saltown, two in Bishop's Court and one in Slieveroe Crescent.

Other projects that are ongoing but will not be complete in 2018, or are yet to commence work, include 22 units in Cox's Demense, ten at Barrack Street, 41 in Muirhevnamor, 75 at Mount Avenue, 112 in Haggardstown and 64 in Halliday's Mill  the old Ard Dealgan complex in Seatown.

A start date has yet to be confirmed for the developments in Muirhevnamor, Mount Avenue and Haggardstown.

Future developments

Louth County Council is also in possession of approximately 49.78 hectares (123 acres) of land banks which may be developed if an appropriate project and funding is forthcoming.

The Dundalk Democrat understands that these land banks were acquired by Louth County Council prior to the 2008 recession. on interest only loans.

The interest element of these loans is to end in 2019, with the principal amounts to be paid at this point.

Land banks owned by Louth County Council at present include the following:

Location Site area (hectares) Mullvalley, Louth Village 8.82 Kilkerley 11.59 Ballymakenny 16.53 Mount Avenue 7.64 Point Road 5.2

Homelessness

Louth County Council, as the Responsible Housing Authority for the North East Region, manages homelessness in order to achieve the goals set out in the North East Homelessness Action Plan, 2013-17.

Included in the housing report are homelessness figures relating to the period 23 April - 29 April 2018. The figures show that there were 68 males and 60 females in the North East region.

Five of these people are over 65 years of age. 73 were accomodated in Private Emergency Accommodation (PEA), 54 in Supported Temporary Accommodation (STA) and one was in Temporary Emergency Accommodation (TEA).

According to the report, work is continuing on the development of a new Regional Homeless Action Plan, an item that was discussed at the most recent meeting of the North East Regional Forum meeting on 29 May 2018.Sweden is an excellent location for a vacation. Its largest cities, Stockholm and Gothenburg, are rich in culture, history, and scenery alike. One moment, you can be browsing shops in the middle of an urban city centre, the next you can be strolling along an idyllic waterfront street. Both cities have a bustling nightlife, and yet both are incredibly quiet and relaxing places to be. With their friendly, laid-back disposition, the Swedish are fun and calming people to be around, and they are always willing to offer help to tourists looking for directions.

If youre planning to travel to Sweden, there are a few tips and tricks that you should keep in mind to make your holiday as relaxing and enjoyable as possible. Heres a look at what to expect and plan for.

Brush Up on Your Swedish Language Basics

Although a great percentage of the Swedish population does speak English, there are still many people who do not. There are also many signs in places like the airport and train stations that will not necessarily be translated. Before you travel to Sweden, pick up a phrase book that will help you with the basics, especially things like greetings, how to ask for things, and the essentials of making a purchase in a store. Here are a couple of words and phrases to get you started:

Hello = Hej (pronounced hay)

Goodbye = Hej da (hay doa)

Yes = Ja (ya)

No = Nej (nay)

Excuse Me = Ursakta (ur-sheck-ta)

Where is = Var ligger (var lih-gur)

Please = Snalla (snel-la)

Thank you = Tack (tak)

Be Prepared to Spend on Accommodation and Travel, Save with Early Booking

The only downside of traveling to Sweden is that it is an expensive city to visit. Hotels in Sweden can be appallingly expensive for even the most basic of accommodation. A bed in a dormitory-style hostel can cost anywhere from 20-50 ($30-80 USD/CAD) or more. Your best bet for finding cheap hotels in Sweden is to browse websites like Expedia or Travelocity, which often offer special deals for online bookings.

The public transportation in both Stockholm and Gothenburg is highly efficient  both cities have trains, buses, and trams. Do not hesitate to book a hotel room that is located in the suburbs of the city you are staying in, rather than right in the city centre. This will help you save a lot of money on your accommodation costs, without the expected downside of losing a lot of time on transportation.

Despite the efficiency of transportation in Sweden (or perhaps because of it), traveling between cities can be very expensive. Make sure that you do your research before you arrive to ensure that you get the cheapest travel deal available. While there are both buses and trains between Swedens main cities, it can sometimes be the case that flights to Stockholm and Gothenburg are cheaper than travel by land. Comparison shop online and find out what will work best and save you the most.

Invest in a City Card, Warm Clothing When Traveling to Sweden

Another big money-saver during a trip to Sweden is a city card, like the Gothenburg Pass or the Stockholm card. These can usually be purchased at central station or at a tourist information booth. The cards have varying time validities (ex. 24 hours, 48 hours, and so on) and get you discounts and/or free admission to a number of museums and attractions in Stockholm or Gothenburg, as well as allowing you to use any form of public transit. If you plan on visiting lots of museums, find out where you can sign up for a city card as soon as you land in Sweden  in most cases, it will pay for itself in a matter of hours.

Finally, being as far North and surrounded by water as it is, Sweden can feel chilly, even in the summer months. Make sure that you bring layers to wear on cooler days and when you are on the water (as you may very well be in Stockholm, where traveling by boat can be quicker than on land).https://www.aish.com/jw/id/In-a-Bomb-Shelter-in-Southern-Israel.html

What its like to be awakened by a 'Code Red' siren alerting you to the incoming Palestinian missile.

Most Americans have never had the experience of being wakened in the middle of the night by a Tzeva Adom (Code Red) siren, rushing to the closest bomb shelter, and hiding in the shelter while listening for the explosion of a Palestinian missile. I recently had this experience and am writing to share it with non-Israelis.

Together with nine other Sar-el volunteers, for three weeks this summer, I was stationed on an IDF base in fairly close proximity to the Gaza Strip. Immediately after flag raising on our second day on the base, the soldier (Danielle) in charge of our team of volunteers called us together: Now theres no reason to be nervous, but you should know that this morning Hamas fired 28 missiles from Gaza into Israel. Iron Dome shot down most of them but five landed in Israel. Three fell in unpopulated areas, but two did not. One of the latter fell in the playground of a kindergarten, and luckily no one was hurt. Since we are not too far from Gaza, you shouldnt worry, but I will show you now the closest bomb shelter.

The site where a projectile from the Gaza Strip hit a house in the Eshkol region of southern Israel, injuring two people, on August 9, 2018. (Eshkol Security)

We were far enough away from the Gaza border that the Hamas missiles that morning had not triggered the Tzeva Adom sirens in our area. The news about the nearby missile attack did not alarm us, and most of us forgot about it by the time we went to work. We worked side-by-side with the soldiers engaged in manual labor and we were on our feet all day. So by the end of the day, we were tired and went to bed uncharacteristically early  lights out by 9:00.

At 10:30, the Tzeva Adom sirens jolted us awake. Danielle ran down our corridor, banging on our doors: Code Red Alert! Missile attack! Get to the bomb shelter fast! We could tell by the urgency of her tone that this was not a drill. And so we all jumped out of our beds and ran to the bomb shelter.

What did I think about when hiding in a bomb shelter? As long as my family was not with me, I need not worry about them. But what about my volunteer colleagues? Were they all out of their bunks and safe in the bomb shelter? Yes. Phew!

Standing in the bomb shelter were volunteers and female soldiers. The volunteers (like me) were older but the soldiers were 18  20 year old young women. A couple of the young women were crying. Others hugged to comfort each other. I could see the fear in their eyes as they stood, staring at the floor. In uniform and carrying weapons during the day, these women looked tough. But in the bomb shelter, they looked like scared 12-year-old girls.

What did I think about in the bomb shelter while we waited to hear whether a missile would explode nearby? My first thought was a feeling of anger, directed at the Palestinians who were firing missiles at us. I knew that, if we were in a bomb shelter, so were tens of thousands of Israeli civilians who lived between our base and the Gaza Strip. I was angry that mothers and fathers had to scoop up their terrified children and hide in bomb shelters because the Palestinians seek to terrorize the Israeli population.

As I stood in the bomb shelter feeling helpless, my anger morphed into a second thought. None of this proportionate response stuff! For every missile fired into Israel, I wanted Israel to retaliate with 100 missiles. I knew that Israels response, unlike the Palestinians who target Israeli civilians, would be directed towards military targets and would strive to minimize civilian casualties. Certainly, if North Korea fired missiles at the US, the US response would be massive, not proportionate. And no one would expect less.

Theres an old adage that there are no atheists in a foxhole. Let me add a corollary to that adage  there are no pacifists in a bomb shelter. The urge to strike back at your attacker is instinctive.

That night, the Tzeva Adom sirens jolted us awake at 10:30, 1:30, and 3:00. Returning to our bunks from the bomb shelters the third time, Danielle joked: See  were giving you guys the full treatment of how it feels to live like an Israeli. No charge. Danielles joke evoked no laughs. We were sleep-deprived, exhausted, and consequently lacking a sense of humor.

Luckily, no missiles landed on our base for the three weeks we were there. Leaving the bomb shelter, each time I thanked God that no missiles had landed nearby and no one was hurt. The experience put me in a better position to empathize with those Israelis who live in southern Israel and have to endure those Code Red sirens and missile attacks on an almost daily basis. No one should have to live like that. And so peace can only be possible once the Palestinians cease their violence towards Israel. No one should expect more of a people forced to live in bomb shelters.LAWRENCE -- In ethnic enclaves, Mexican immigrants tend to spend less on food per week while East Asian immigrants spend more, which could explain the difference in assimilation rates and contrast in ethnic population density among the two groups, according to a University of Kansas study.

The findings address questions on consumer behavior in the ethnically dense areas concentrated with businesses owned by immigrants of the same country. They also examine potentially why certain ethnic groups prefer to maintaining these types of enclaves instead of integrating their businesses more into the mainstream economy, said researchers ChangHwan Kim, professor of sociology, and Scott Tuttle, sociology graduate student.

Most past research on immigrant enclaves has only focused on how the conditions affect entrepreneurs in these metropolitan areas, and it has typically shown that Mexican-immigrant entrepreneurs tend to be less successful in ethnic enclaves than small business owners in other ethnic enclaves, such as Koreatown in Los Angeles.

"If we look at the flip side of this, it might benefit consumers," Kim said. "For Mexican immigrants living in Mexican communities, their cost of living is less."

The researchers will present their findings Aug. 12 at the American Sociological Association's annual meeting in Philadelphia.

Tuttle said they wanted to understand the complexity of enclave economies by examining how East Asian immigrants have higher assimilation rates as entrepreneurs than Latin American immigrants, particularly those from Mexico.

"We just want to try to understand why," he said. "Once we controlled for all the related variables, like income, educational level and whether they speak English, the level of spending on food is still a factor."

He added their findings also could implicate that for East Asian immigrants, living in ethnic enclaves might pose as a penalty for them as consumers.

"This might help explain, at least partially, why East Asian immigrants are less likely to self-select into enclave areas," Tuttle said.

The researchers examined the effect of co-ethnic immigrant density on degrees of consumer spending per week on food using data from the 1995-2015 Current Population Survey. As part of the survey, respondents report how much they spend per week on groceries.

They also found a difference in density among metropolitan statistical areas, or MSA, between the two immigrant groups. The East Asian immigrant density per MSA never exceeded 8 percent, but in some MSAs the numbers of Mexican immigrant density were as high as 58 percent.

"Of course, it's doubtful that the cost of groceries is the sole explanation, but it might shed some light onto the next series of steps future researchers should take," Tuttle said.

Kim said the findings could also explain the performance of business owners in these enclaves and how they fare economically, but the effect of what it means for consumers has been overlooked.

"Mexican immigrants as businessmen or women can be beneficial to Mexican immigrant consumers," he said.

###LAWRENCE -- A group of Americans and Europeans has relocated to a Costa Rican community in recent decades, and despite the government cheering the economic jolt, their isolation from locals there more highlights the privilege of these migrants who drastically transform coastal villages, according to a study by a University of Kansas researcher.

"Americans and Europeans are not thought of as migrants, more like expatriates or tourists," said Erin Adamson, a doctoral candidate in sociology. "But they have a really large economic impact on the places they go."

Adamson is presenting her findings Aug. 12 at the American Sociological Association's annual meeting in Philadelphia.

In her research, Adamson conducted interviews with locals and two months of participant observation in a Costa Rican Caribbean coastal town identified with the pseudonym Los Reyes. She sought to give voice to the local understandings about the utopian idea of tropical beaches and rainforest there as "paradise" that they see as attracting migrants to live and work on the coast.

Instead, the process has left likely unintended consequences, including a type of gentrification when U.S. and European migrants build large housing and businesses and price out locals in places where they traditionally lived.

"The biggest influences are the land development and also the economic impact because many of the migrants are becoming employers," Adamson said. "Most of them end up opening up tourist-centered business, and the locals often experience them as the boss, even though the migrants think of themselves as someone opting out of the system back home to go live at the beach."

The flux of wealthier migrants in the community has also created a de facto racial segregation in a community that before was home mostly to black locals because the white migrants tend to build in their own housing developments and even send their children to private schools. She said the perception is interesting because most of the white migrants are likely politically liberal and see themselves as egalitarian people who want to experience another culture.

"I don't think that's what they are intending to create, but it is what is being created," Adamson said.

The locals do see some benefit to the influx of migrants as well.

"People also talk about how important lifestyle migrants are to the economy and providing jobs," Adamson said. "So they don't say all negative things."

For sociologists, studying this type of migration that has good intentions on the surface is important, she said.

"It is a kind of migration that is increasing globally," Adamson said. "There are a lot of countries with the exact same situation going on. You can call it neo-colonialism, but it is often ignored in that sense because those governments want the foreign investment. In some ways, they will bring real material investment that can pay for nice roads and infrastructure, but the long-term impact is that local people will get pushed out over time."

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NOTE: These settings will only apply to the browser and device you are currently using.August 14, 2018, Tuesday, guesting with Marilyn Redmond on "Love Never Fails" Tuesday, August 14, 2018 will be Norman Shealy, M.D., Ph.D., D. Sc. It is 6:00 PM ET/3:00 PM PT on the boldbrave media.com. He is a neurosurgeon. In addition, he is the Founder and President of International Institute of Holistic Medicine and was Founder and first President of the American Holistic Medical Association in 1978. He has 14 patents in Energy Medicine, has published 35 books and over 350 articles. He is one of the world's leading experts in pain and depression management. He was the first physician to specialize in the resolution of chronic pain.

His experience is available to you if you call in for his answers at 866-451-1451 at 6:00PM ET/3:00PM PM on the boldbravemedia.com internet radio show. He is also President of Shealy Wellness, LLC and Holos Energy Medicine Education. He is editor of Journal of Comprehensive Integrative Medicine. He has 14 patents in Energy Medicine, one I am familiar with is his Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), and His clinical work includes comprehensive holistic management of cardiovascular problems.

Do not miss this episode that can help your health and answer your questions. Every week, "Love Never Fails" brings current topics with the opportunity to call in for answers or with your comments. Join the many listeners weekly for the latest news, information, and ideas to enrich your life.

"Love Never Fails" will embrace many subjects as Relationships, Holistic Health and Healing, Regression, Therapeutic and Past Life Therapy, Counseling, Empowerment, Self-esteem, Domestic Violence, Addictions, Education, Spirituality, Angels, Mediumship/ Psychic, Meditation, Tarot, and more. Suggest your own topic, too.

Marilyn has unique knowledge and wisdom of the human dilemma, also and the solutions that will work for you, too. She shares her experience, strength, and hope including tools to help you find your inner strength for health, healing, empowerment, and a higher consciousness. Her pioneering and innovative work in restoring traumatic lives, healing emotional causes of illness, and releasing negative energy restores health and reality. Marilyn is multi-talented and wishes to share all her abilities with everyone.

Marilyn graduated from Western Washington University and attended the University of Washington for her graduate work. She is a retired school and college teacher. Marilyn was ordained as a spiritual minister for spiritual counseling along with becoming a healer, regressionist, past life therapist, and other related proficiencies as a psychic/medium to give readings. .

In addition, she is teaches in colleges, wellness centers, and for metaphysical groups. She is an International award winning writer, author, and an artist of angels that she sees, as well as being available for readings, counseling, and painting portraits of your angel.

Her monthly column is in "The Sussex Newspaper" on the internet as their wellness and spirituality expert. Marilyn channels Ascended Masters, Archangels, and your family members passed over. She has 10 paperback books and EBooks at Amazon.com. Check out her website Angelica's Gifts.com and her blog at marilynredmondbooks.blogspot.com. and her many video interviews, lectures, and spiritual information You Tube

Marilyn is a member of the International Board of Regression Therapy, American Board of Hypnotherapy, and lifetime member of Edgar Cayce's Association for Research and Enlightenment.

"Love Never Fails" is every Tuesday afternoon at 6:00 PM ET on boldbravemedia.com Do not miss each exciting show and the archives to the great shows of the past.Travelers planning a land tour or cruise with tour companies Overseas Adventure Travel or Grand Circle Travel can take advantage of a special first time traveler offer.

"As a prior traveler with both of these companies one of the special privileges is the ability to offer others a special first time traveler discount," shares Jesse Slome, director of the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance. The special savings offer extended by Slome to members of the organization he directs can also be used by others.

"I am an enthusiastic explorer of the world and also fanatical about savings opportunities," Slome explained. "Anyone considering a first time tour with these two travel companies can take advantage of the savings opportunity." Slome has completed 10 trips with the two companies, reviews of which he posts on his travel blogs.

To take advantage of the special savings offer, a traveler merely need to mention Slome's name and the Code 932019 when making their reservation. "There is no catch to this program, indeed I took advantage of it when we booked our first trip with the company," the AALTCI director noted.

Jesse Slome is director of several small insurance trade organizations that advocate for the importance of planning and support insurance professionals who market long-term care insurance, Medicare Supplement insurance and other health-related products. Slome takes at least one or two international trips annually. His latest trip this past summer was the Overseas Adventure Travel tour to Mongolia and the Gobi Desert.https://www.aish.com/sp/pg/From-Montana-to-New-Square-Breaking-Out-of-My-Bubble.html

This summer I broadened my geographical and religious horizons.

Countless stars filled the heavens, the Milky Way was visible to the naked eye and Jupiter was as noticeable as the moon. A star shot through the sky. As we stood 6,000 feet above sea level in Glacier National Park in Montana, it occurred to me that the magnificent view we couldnt tear ourselves away from is actually present each and every night. I had never seen it before  not because it isnt available, but simply because I had never been in a place without artificial light and from which this magnificent, wondrous view could be seen.

I went to sleep that night feeling closer to God, more aware of the vastness of His cosmos and with the nagging thought of how incomplete my life would have been if I never got to see that, at least once.

What was true for the experience of stargazing was true about the entire trip to Montana. Yocheved and I are grateful to Rustic Elegance, the wonderful tour company that invited us to participate as a scholar in residence on the extraordinary trip earlier this summer. Glacier National Park is 1.2 million acres of Gods artistry. It is filled with snowcapped mountains, rushing waterfalls, stunning views, running rivers. An encounter with moose, mountain goats, chipmunks, exotic birds and even bears is not unusual.

The sights, sounds and experiences in Glacier are breathtaking, but what enables the full enjoyment of them is the absence of any cell tower from the entire area. From the time you enter the park until the time you exit you are in a place with absolutely no cell phone coverage. This means the time spent hiking, fishing, kayaking, or just plain sitting and contemplating, is done without distraction, interruption or competition for attention.

God is the ultimate artist and the world is His canvas. We come to know God through the Torah, His word, but we also know Him through His creation, His world.

We tend to live in a bubble, feeling that our experience is the sum total or the be-all and end-all of the world. This trip was a stark reminder to me that Gods world doesnt end in Boca Raton, Teaneck, or the Five Towns. There are magnificent views, sites and places in the world filled with beauty, splendor and communicating the greatness of God. We are more complete people when we add those places and experiences to our portfolio of life.

Not everyone is able to travel and explore freely, but we can all do more to break through our personal comfort zone, investigate the canvas and become closer with the Artist as a result. Technology has become ubiquitous. It has enriched our lives in countless ways, but it has also caused us to forget that sometimes the greatest beauty is in the natural, the simple, the unaffected by human intervention or interference.

Disconnecting from technology and convening with nature should be a religious experience, a rendezvous with the great Artist.

Breaking Through My Religious Bubble

What is true for getting out of our geographical bubble is equally if not more true for breaking through our religious bubble. We live under artificial labels and tend to limit our religious exposure to those who think, practice and observe just like us. When we pigeonhole ourselves we deprive ourselves from taking the best of what different Torah groups and cultures have to offer. We are smaller, less well-rounded, and more limited as a result.

The Shabbos following our Montana trip, Yocheved went back to Boca and I went to New Square, a village outside Monsey comprised exclusively of Skverer chassidim. A Shabbos in Skver is like taking a time machine back to a shtetl in Europe. For many born and raised there, English is the second or third language. There is one Beis Medrash (study hall) where thousands pray together and yet you can hear a pin drop and feel the walls reverberate as Amen and Kaddish are responded to in deafening unison.

Meeting the Skverer Rebbe

The highlight of Shabbos was participating in the Rebbes tisch. Friday night it began at 12:30 am and concluded close to 3:00 am. Thousands of chassidim packed bleachers while the Rebbe sat at the dais surrounded by his sons and sons-in-law. At the table below were his grandsons and great grandsons, strategically arranged. I was honored to be invited to sit next to them and was even more honored and caught off guard when during the tisch, the Rebbe (through his gabbai) invited me to start a niggun, a tune. The coordinated singing, and choreographed dancing in the bleachers create an electric atmosphere.

The Rebbes third meal tisch began at 9:15 pm, when most near New Square were already making havdallah. The first 45 minutes of singing took place in pitch black, an unforgettable experience. Maariv and Havdallah took place around 11:00 pm and around 1:00 am I had the great opportunity to spend some time with the Rebbe, who is warm, personable, wise and inquisitive.

I dont want to move to Montana and I am not prepared to live in New Square. But my visit to both made me more complete; looking back I cant imagine being deprived of the inspiration I drew from both.

The gematria (numerical value) for the Hebrew word Elul, the month leading up to Rosh Hashanah, is the same numerical value for chaim, life. This is the time of year to come alive, to explore and find God in His Torah and through His world. Wake up from the momentum and monotony of the whole year. Break through your bubble, broaden your experiences, and you will come alive by discovering so much about God and about yourself.The mayor of San Juan, Puerto Rico, took the territorys government to task during a visit to San Antonio on Saturday night for being complicit in inaccurately counting the number of people who died after Hurricane Maria.

The Puerto Rican government decided to play alongside the good-news story that President Trump and his administration put forward, said Carmen Yulin Cruz Soto during a news conference at the Grand Hyatt in San Antonio. And in doing so, in being quiet, they became complicit to the botched effort and the neglect that gave way to what happened and continues to happen in Puerto Rico.

The mayor of Puerto Ricos capital city traveled to San Antonio to accept an award from the San Antonio Association of Hispanic Journalists. The organization recognized her at its annual gala Saturday night for her advocacy on behalf of Puerto Rico after Maria caused widespread destruction to the U.S. territory last September.

Cruz rose to international prominence in the storms aftermath when she fiercely criticized the emergency response efforts of President Donald Trumps administration as insufficient and argued that Puerto Ricans were largely left on their own after structures were damaged and power was knocked out across the island.

Editorial: A national tragedy in Puerto Rico

Her visit comes just days after the Puerto Rican governments admission in a report that the death toll from Maria was likely more than 1,400, a staggering difference from the official count, which still remains at 64. That low number, she said, flew in the face of evidence on the ground and from the anecdotes of Puerto Ricans, in addition to independent studies like one by Harvard researchers in May that estimated the death toll at more than 4,600.

Cruz said the federal governments efforts to aid the people of Puerto Rico should have been imperative, regardless of the precise number of casualties.

It doesnt matter if its 1,400 or 4,000  what matters is that the Puerto Rican people did not receive the aid that we were entitled to receive as humans, she said. There was a legal obligation, but theres a better obligation, which is a moral obligation. And what we need to do is we all need to learn from this so that it doesnt happen again.

Nearly a year after the storm ravaged the island, the residents of Puerto Rico remain in a state of shock, Cruz said, because at different levels, everyone lost something. The storm decimated not only physical structures  thousands of buildings still lack permanent roofs while the power grid, though restored, remains fragile  but also the islands health care and education systems, she said.

Related: In hurricane's aftermath, Puerto Rico moves from survival to revival

Despite her criticism of the government response, Cruz commended the American people for spreading awareness of Puerto Ricos plight and donating money toward recovery efforts.

Where the American government failed the Puerto Rican people, the American people stepped up, and the Latinos stepped up, and the diaspora stepped up, Cruz said. Im going to ask everybody to not forget us. Keep us not only in your prayers, but make sure the Puerto Rican disaster is kept on peoples minds and that we can work together to do something about it.

During her visit to Texas, Cruz said she intends to educate herself about immigration, adding that large numbers of Puerto Ricans lack permanent immigration status.

She said she wanted to learn more about how San Antonio and Texas handle immigration issues, including the separation of migrant families at the U.S.-Mexico border, adding that she wanted to know what we can do as fellow Latins and as Puerto Ricans to help reunite those families and ensure that policies like this dont become a thing of the future.

Lauren Caruba covers several school districts, charter schools and private universities in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | lcaruba@express-news.net | Twitter: @LaurenCarubaSAN MARCOS  Mysterious noises. A mans shout. A remnant of a bag of charcoal. A sample of a wall.

Those are some of the clues from a catastrophic fire that engulfed a San Marcos apartment complex before dawn July 20, leaving five young adults dead and another with severe burns.

Investigators are trying to piece together how the inferno started and ultimately destroyed a building at Iconic Village Apartments, two blocks from the Texas State University campus  a painstaking effort that involves testing evidence found in the charred rubble, interviewing survivors, and reviewing records and photographs.

Authorities have taken debris from the building where the victims died, along with materials from the structures exterior to be tested in a laboratory.

One resident who narrowly escaped injury said two federal agents showed her photos of several men and asked if she recognized any of them.

RELATED: San Antonio fire victim remembered for his love, joy

That survivor also reported hearing perplexing and persistent sounds somewhere outside her apartment for two minutes just before panic ensued at 4:27 a.m.

It was just the sound of tiny things falling over and over and over again, Texas State graduate Alexandria Andi Campbell, 21, said of the odd noises she heard.

Three weeks into the investigation, authorities say they know but arent disclosing where the blaze originated. Theyre still trying to determine what sparked it, and they continue to scrutinize the path the flames traveled.

All those who died  Dru Estes, 20, of San Antonio; Haley Michele Frizzell, 19, of San Angelo; David Ortiz, 21, of Pasadena; Belinda Moats, 21, of Big Wells; and James Miranda, 23, of Mount Pleasant  had been living or staying in second-floor apartments in Building 500 of Iconic Village, located at 222 Ramsay St.

Now on ExpressNews.com: A fire killed Zachary Sutterfield's friends. A leap saved his life. After 23 surgeries, his recovery is grueling but with significant victories.

The damage to that structure was so grave that it looked like a bomb had gone off. But no one reported hearing an explosion. The fire spread to two nearby apartment buildings.

Many survivors had to jump from their apartment windows. Some had broken bones, burns and lacerations.

Zachary Sutterfield, 20, of San Angelo suffered head trauma and third-degree burns over 70 percent of his body. He remains in critical condition after having undergone several surgeries and skin grafts at the U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research Burn Center in San Antonio, according to a statement released Wednesday by his parents.

Authorities havent revealed any theories about the fires cause, but San Marcos Fire Marshal Kelly Kistner offered this explanation of their work.

Our whole job is elimination  its not proving up, he said. We dont go in and go, Hey, we think this is a light fixture and then turn around and try to prove its a light fixture. We try to disprove everything.

Kistners office is leading the investigation. The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives National Response Team sent 50 agents to San Marcos from all over the country to help with the case.

The Texas State Fire Marshals Office, San Marcos police and the city marshals office also are assisting.

Pure charcoal?

Public records and survivors who were interviewed by authorities offer hints of the leads investigators are chasing.

One of the items retrieved from the ruins was a remnant of an 8-pound bag of Viva Pancho 100% Mesquite Charcoal, according to a list of evidentiary items attached to a search warrant filed in a state district court in Hays County by the state fire marshals office.

Investigators are testing the chemical composition of the material to determine whether the charcoal contributed to the spread or growth of the fire, Kistner said. Viva Pancho is said to be a natural product with no chemicals that would cause a fire to accelerate, he said.

We just want to make sure that its pure charcoal like were being told it is  to make sure theres nothing else with it, Kistner said.

Investigators also collected three samples of debris from the fire and samples from a buildings exterior, including walls, wood and concrete. They also took two samples of material collected at floor level from the area where the charcoal bag remnant was found.

RELATED: 'Everyone was so young.' San Marcos apartment fire stuns college town.

The building components are being analyzed to determine how quickly they burned, which will help officials understand how the fire spread, Kistner said.

The search warrant and the list of items removed are consistent with how authorities proceed if they suspect a fire was set by someone using a flammable liquid, said one forensic fire investigator not involved in the case. The investigator, interviewed on the condition his name not be published, reviewed the records at the request of the San Antonio Express-News.

It looks like they probably brought a dog in there and the dog may well have alerted to several places where the dog thought there might be ignitable liquids, he said. You cant collect samples at random. You just dont.

Even if investigators dogs didnt alert to any specific spots, authorities would still test samples of debris if they believed that the blaze was set using an ignitable liquid or if they saw a pattern on the floor that suggests a puddle of liquid may have been poured there, the expert said. Such patterns can also show up after accidental fires, he noted.

The testing of the charcoal bag remnant could indicate that authorities are considering whether someone was barbecuing, the investigator said.

The search warrant was filed the day after the fire, before any of the victims bodies had been found. Obtaining such a warrant would allow investigators to use evidence recovered from the scene in a criminal prosecution. Because the evidence was collected under a court-approved warrant, it would be more difficult for a defendant or defendants to challenge its admissibility at trial, the forensic fire investigator said.

He noted that the number of ATF National Response Team agents who traveled to San Marcos to assist is not typical. They usually dont send that many  20 is usually a big number for them, he said.

An angry yell

Campbell, who narrowly escaped from her downstairs apartment in Building 500, recalled hearing strange noises and what sounded like a mans angry yell somewhere outside immediately before tenants awoke to flames.

The Katy native said shed been lying awake in her bed for about an hour when the puzzling noises outside caught her attention around 4:30 a.m.

It sounded like tiny things falling, was all I could think at first. No connection to fire whatsoever in my mind, Campbell told the Express-News. It all sounded like relatively small things, but still kind of loud. And it went on for a solid couple of minutes. I was getting really annoyed.

Then Campbell heard what sounded like an angry yell from a man, followed by a sentence of about eight words that sounded like an admonishment of some kind. She could not make out the words, she said. That was immediately followed by panicked yelling, she said.

It could have been the same person because it flowed so smoothly, she said.

The sounds of distress prompted Campbell to look out her bedroom window, which faces a narrow alleyway separating Iconic Village from Vintage Pads Apartments. She saw a flickering, orange light but didnt know where it was coming from. She couldnt smell smoke, but her boyfriend could.

We didnt have a sense of urgency right then, she said. We thought that a fire was somewhere in the distance.  We didnt think it was on top of us or anything.

Campbell went to her front door, which faces the apartment buildings center courtyard. She opened it to a wall of fire in my face, she said. It looked like it was in the door frame.  Im really surprised and thankful that it didnt flash into the room on to me.

Campbell ran toward her roommates bedroom and pounded on her door. The two women and Campbells boyfriend escaped through the bedroom windows into the back alley.

She saw her upstairs neighbor and his roommate sitting on the ground outside, close to the burning building. Both men had severely broken ankles and appeared to be in shock. Campbell said she, another woman and her boyfriend helped them move a safe distance from the building.

In the parking lot, dazed residents watched as their building was consumed by fire. Some were holding anxious pets. One man walked through the parking lot wearing only his underwear until someone gave him a jacket, Campbell recalled.

A fraction of a second

The flames reached twice the height of the two-story building, Campbell said.

Investigators have been considering whether a large tree that stood in the courtyard played any role in the spread of the blaze.

As tenants who escaped the fire gathered outside, an ominous feeling settled over Campbell.

I felt like there were way fewer people than there should be, she said. Plus the fact that we woke up to people who were screaming really, really loudly.  I was getting a really bad feeling, but I didnt want to dwell on it too much because there was no way to know at the time.

It was a down-to-the-fraction-of-a-second-kind of escape for everyone, I feel like. And on some level, its luck of the draw whether youre a sound sleeper, whether you were wearing earplugs that night, whether youd taken a sleeping pill because you couldnt sleep. ... It was really close for everybody.

Campbell told an ATF agent who interviewed her by phone two days after the fire about the strange sounds and the shout she heard that morning.

She also sent the agent some time-stamped photos she took of the flames with her cellphone.

Nearly a week after the catastrophe, Campbell was working at her job at a taco restaurant when she started a conversation with two ATF agents dining there. She told them shed been in Building 500 when it caught fire. She said the agents asked her questions and used a phone to show her photographs of five men. They asked if she recognized any of them. None looked familiar, Campbell said.

The agents provided no context whatsoever on why they showed her the photos, she said.

Another woman who lived in Building 500 said ATF agents asked if she knew of any disputes at Iconic Village or of any neighbors who didnt get along.

Authorities have been reluctant to discuss some aspects of their work. Thomas Moats  father of fire victim Belinda Moats  told an Express-News reporter who went to his home in Big Wells that the state had forbidden him to talk to the media.

Investigators hope that the testing of items from the rubble will be finished by October, Kistner said.

Final autopsy results showing how the victims died may not be ready for another two to three months, he said.

Fire investigations are one of the most complex types of investigations because of not just the human element, but also the scientific element, he said Friday.

Once authorities determine how the fire started, they will classify it one of four ways  incendiary, meaning the fire was intentionally started by someone; accidental; natural, which includes fires started by phenomena such as lightning strikes; or undetermined.

An incendiary fire doesnt always mean the person who started it committed arson. If someone was legally burning leaves on their own property in a rural area, for instance, that would be an incendiary fire but not a crime.

Regardless of how the fire ignited, Campbell is just grateful to be alive.

I feel so lucky, she said. Im thankful that I happened to be awake. Im thankful that people yelled and screamed and made a big noise.  And Im so thankful I lived on the first floor.

Peggy OHare is a staff writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | pohare@express-news.net | Twitter: @Peggy_OHareBefore the bullets cut through the church wall and sent shards of wood flying through the air, Julie Workman thought she heard firecrackers outside.

She realized what was happening was something much worse when, around 11:15 a.m., a nearby parishioner cried out, Im hit! Another bullet pierced the light fixture directly above Workman, sending pieces of glass crashing over her seat in the second pew of the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs.

Minutes earlier, Workman had been hugging Brooke Ward, a 5-year-old girl who, like Workman, attended church regularly. She recalled how Ryland Ward, Brookes 5-year-old brother, had been sprinting around the church while members greeted each other, shaking hands with their neighbors and catching up.

Ryland was always running around, said Workman, 54. He gave me a look that he knew he had to sit down.

THE GUNMAN'S WIFE: Danielle Kelley speaks for first time about her husband, Devin Kelley, and the day of the massacre

By the time Devin Patrick Kelley walked through the front entrance of the church, Workman had already dialed 911 twice. Her first call, at 11:17, failed. She tried again a minute later and reached an operator. She remembers yelling, First Baptist Church, Sutherland Springs, active shooter!

The 911 operator asked Workman if the shooter was alone, and she said yes. The call dropped. Then Kelley entered.

Workman was sitting near the front of the church, opposite the entrance, with her adult sons Kris, 34, and Kyle, 25. She remembered how the bullets penetrated the church wall in a line, at the chest level of those sitting in the pews.

Workman dove under her pew. A nurse for 34 years, shed been trained to stay down and hide if anything like this happened. Shed also picked up pointers from her husband Kip Workman, a retired fire chief of the La Vernia volunteer fire department.

Kyle Workmans fiance Morgan Harris, 21, was shot twice in the calf. She sat in the sound booth to the left of the church entrance, a section Julie Workman estimated was about 2 feet off the ground, a height that might have saved her life.

Its hard to breathe in here, Harris heard Kelley say. He wore full tactical black attire, Workman said, with a Kevlar front, black pants, a black vest and a black mask. Even Kelleys helmet was black, Workman said.

After he stepped through the entrance, Kelley began spraying bullets over the right side of the pews, at times picking out individual people to shoot.

If he saw someone move or gasp or make a noise, hed shoot them, Workman said.

She recalled how methodically Kelley seemed to move from victim to victim, watching in horror as her friends were gunned down. Kelley killed Brooke Ward and critically injured Ryland Ward. He killed their mother Joann and sister Emily, and 23 others.

I watched several of my babies get their heads blown off, Workman said.

At one point, Kelley exited through the entrance to reload. Then he re-entered.

Oh, my God, here he comes again, Julie Workman thought.

Kelley worked his way up the aisle until he reached the first pew, crossing over to the left side, standing next to Workman as she hid under her pew.

When the gunman was standing arms reach away from me, I thought about reaching out to grab his foot to try to trip him, she said.

She made a quick calculation: If I pull his foot out from under him, Workman thought, he has to hit his head on the step of the nearby stage and get knocked out.

Otherwise, I have a man down, eye level, with a gun, Workman said. It was too many ifs. I couldnt guarantee I would knock him out.

Kris and Kyle hid near Workman. She recalled how Kelleys foot was at Kriss shoulder, about an inch away. Kelley stepped back and fired at Kris point blank, hitting him in the back. The bullet went through Kris abdomen and shattered a few vertebrae.

Kris Workman, a Rackspace employee, survived, but doctors said theres a 90 percent chance hes permanently paralyzed from the waist down.

One of Kelleys bullets grazed Julie Workmans left breast. Another scraped high up on her left calf. After she was shot, she looked down to see Kris laying on the ground. Kyle was nowhere to be seen.

Kyle later told her he ran down the aisle between the far left side of the pews and the wall, making a mad dash for the entrance. He stepped on David Colbath, who was shot but survived with extensive injuries. Kyle later apologized to Colbath.

Near the entrance, between the sound booth and the pews, Kyle dropped to an army crawl, then broke into a run. A bullet had grazed Kyles shoulder, Workman said, but he was mostly unharmed.

Lorenzo Flores, an employee at the Valero gas station across the street, said he saw someone running out of the church, assuming it might be the shooter. He locked the doors.

Kyle soon reached the gas station and began banging on the door begging to be let in. Flores, recognizing Kyle, let him into the gas station. He dropped to the floor and crawled, terrorized, until he slumped against the wall.

Ill never forget the look on his face, Flores said. He was glowing with fear.

After the bullets stopped and a hush fell over the town, Flores realized Joann Ward, who worked at Theresas Kitchen in the Valero, was at the church. Minutes before Flores arrived at work, Ward had left with her children, headed to services after her work shift.

She was like a daughter to us, said Flores.

At 11:28 a.m., Workman called 911 again. At that time, Kelley had sped off in his vehicle after a shootout with a man outside the church. The terror and carnage lasted no longer than 13 minutes, she said, including the roughly seven minutes Kelley spent firing inside the church.

Then, Workmans instincts from spending 34 years in operating rooms kicked into gear.

As the first responders sped toward First Baptist Church, Workman grabbed a handful of rags  10 to 12, she estimated  from her Ford Expedition in the parking lot. She fashioned them into tourniquets, then moved from person to person, checking to see who was still alive.

By the time a medical team arrived, Workman said she had applied about six tourniquets to various peoples extremities. Her friend Juan Gunny Macias, a former Marine, yelled at Workman to keep my wits about me and focus on bandaging the critically injured.

They teach you to move past those that you cant help and to move to the living, Workman said of her medical training. Thats what I kept my mind focused on. Otherwise I would have lost it.

What I saw was beyond anything I had to prepare for, she added.

Workman said shes thought about a lot of things since the shooting. Her emotions have bounced from hope to darkness. Shes felt sick to her stomach but also been uplifted by the outpouring of love for victims and injured people.

Shes thought about Therese Rodriguez, 66, a fellow breast cancer survivor who was killed Sunday.

Shes thought about Annabelle Pomeroy, the 14-year-old daughter of Pastor Frank Pomeroy, who died while her father was out of town for the day.

Workman remembers how she enjoyed hanging out with Annabelle at Thursday night midweek services. Annabelle had been learning sign language.

The gentlest heart Id ever known, Workman said. Always wanted to help people and be around people.

She remembered how Karla Holcombe, 58, a youth leader at First Baptist, always seemed to put the church first.

If you needed something done in the church, she would get it done, Workman said.

Four days after the attack on the small-town congregation, her son Kris remained in a lot of pain Thursday after his abdominal surgery, she said. Hes being treated at Brooke Army Medical Center, she said, with the possibility of being moved out of intensive care if he does well tonight.

Staff Writer Silvia Foster-Frau contributed to this story | jscherer@express-news.net | Twitter: @jaspschererSUTHERLAND SPRINGS  Responding to calls for transparency after a bitter fight over financial aid, leaders of First Baptist Church revealed for the first time Sunday that nearly $3 million in donations had poured in to assist victims of last years massacre and their families.

That looks like a lot of money, but with the medical conditions and the things that are going on  that can burn away really quick, Pastor Frank Pomeroy said to the congregation in an informational meeting after Sunday services.

The millions of dollars sent to the church in a charitable spirit became a source of contention for a community that was already suffering tremendous loss. On Nov. 5, gunman Devin Kelley opened fire in the First Baptist Church sanctuary during services, killing 26 and wounding 20. It was the fifth deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history.

The congregation struggled to handle the deluge of donations: cash, checks and thousands of cards and homemade items. It took months to sort through it all and arrange a system for distribution.

THE GUNMAN'S WIFE: Wife of Sutherland Springs gunman Devin Kelley speaks for first time about day of the massacre

Some victims family members began questioning church leaders methods, and community members attacked each other online, causing the pastors wife, Sherri Pomeroy, to dissolve in tears at home, the Pomeroys said. In April, the Sutherland Springs Facebook group, created to support those affected by the tragedy, erupted into mayhem and was eventually frozen. At the time, Pastor Pomeroy appealed for unity.

After Sundays services, church leaders offered their first accounting of the donations, announcing the total  $2.91 million  and handing out to congregants a one-page spreadsheet showing the balance in various relief funds and the broad purposes designated by donors. The donations were sent to the church, a Wells Fargo relief fund and two PayPal accounts.

Nearly 29% of the sum donated  $840,000  was designated for victim relief, according to the spreadsheet. Pomeroy said that money is being doled out to survivors and victims family members, though he said he didnt know how much had been disbursed to date.

Almost $2 million was undesignated, for the church to use as it wishes, Pomeroy said. He said that for any expenditure above $1,000, the church is going to vote on it.

The rest of the money  about $130,000  was designated by donors for a memorial at the shooting site, the churchs food pantry and funerals, among other purposes.

The $2.91 million in total contributions does not include $24,146 earmarked by donors for specific survivors and victims family members. That money was forwarded to those individuals, said church member Pat Dziuk, chair of the committee charged with distributing aid.

Congregants asked no questions about the financial accounting, and the church emptied out quickly.

In an interview, Pomeroy said he typically reported how much the church raised once a year. He said in this case, the church leaders were not in a position to make the financial disclosure until now.

Ive always believed in transparency. I know it may have made it look like we were not trying to be transparent before, but we just werent ready, Pomeroy said. Thats how you get in trouble, when you start presenting things youre not ready to present.

Across the country, communities hit by mass shootings have endured the difficult, complicated process of deciding who should be eligible for financial aid and how much they should receive. After the 2016 Pulse night club shooting in Florida, unmarried partners of those slain did not qualify for assistance, sparking frustration in the LGBTQ community. After the deaths of 17 people at a high school in Parkland, Florida, this year, arguments broke out over whether those who were on campus but did not witness the shooting should be eligible.

Churches, unlike other tax-exempt, nonprofit organizations, are not required to make public their revenue, expenditures and other financial details.

In keeping with IRS requirements, the church has been distributing aid when survivors and victims family members submit forms and receipts for expenses related to the tragedy, including hospital bills and the cost of renovating homes for disabilities.

Lisa McNulty, whose daughter Tara McNulty was killed in the massacre, was particularly concerned about how money would be distributed to surviving family members. After the massacre, she became the caretaker of her two grandchildren. A few months ago, she called on Pomeroy and Dziuk to reveal how much the church had spent.

We just want to know how much. Give us the amount. And then we want to know how much is left. Its simple, simple, math, and all you get is a runaround, McNulty said in an April interview with the Express-News.

Now that she knows the number, she said she was surprised at how large it is. She said she is still concerned about how the money will be handled.

The people of the United States poured their hearts out for their victims. And I think its a pity its taken this long for anybody to receive it, she said.

Some church members who were intimately affected by the massacre have helped manage the receipt and distribution of donations.

Michelle Shields, who lost her mother in the tragedy and is the mother-in-law of the gunman, helped oversee the Wells Fargo relief fund. John Holcombe, who lost nine family members, including his wife, three children and parents, helped keep track of PayPal transactions.

Dziuk said hes not convinced Sundays disclosure will quell concerns. Pomeroy said he thought it could rile people up more.

Id rather be transparent and let them make up their stories as they want, and that way I have nothing to hide. Its just a matter of honesty, he said.

Pomeroy closed out the informational meeting with a prayer.

Father God, I thank you for the opportunity weve had to share these things, he said. And God? I just thank you for a great day.

sfosterfrau@express-news.net | @SilviaElenaFFFAIRFIELD  When Allison Roll, 16, starts her junior year at Fairfield Ludlowe High School later this month, she will be armed with a bit more knowledge.

Roll was part of an inaugural group of girls who took part in a two-week program at Wheaton College that focused on subjects like biomechanics, tissue engineering, pharmacology and environmental science.

The program was created exclusively for girls, and participants got hands-on experiences that included learning surgical skills.

Roll talked recently about the program.

Q: How did you hear about this program?

A: I received an interesting brochure from EXPLO in the mail, which described in detail the different summer programs taking place at Yale, Wellesley and Wheaton. Immediately I was drawn in by the bold and fascinating courses they provided, and after consulting with one of the program directors, they recommended the Bioengineering for Girls course at Wheaton.

Q: What was a typical day like in the program?

A: It was fast-paced. From the moment we laid foot on campus, we were hitting the ground running. Immediately after breakfast, we headed straight for the classroom, where we learned topics such as biomechanics, pharmacology and anatomy that were supplemented by hands-on experiments. Often this entailed being in the computer lab and examining tissue under microscopes, using electrodes to read the electrical pulses in our own neurons, or dissecting and identifying the different regions of the brain  all before its even noon. Some days, we would then see (at least one) guest speaker from vastly different professional backgrounds; one was a highly distinguished female science writer for Scientific American, while another found a way to grow human tissue in a spinach leaf. Then we would move on to the workshop, or makerspace, to build our very own prosthetic. Each day was an adventure of its own that provided an exhilarating medley of unique challenges and enriching learning experiences.

Q: What got you interested in bioengineering?

A: Personally, I have always been geared to math and science, though I also see myself as a creative and inventive person. While I love biology and chemistry, I feel that in many ways those disciplines do not allow much room for creativity. This is why bioengineering is so appealing to me: It encompasses possibilities for putting together these disciplines in new ways that can contribute to the greater good on a grand, even global scale. Taking this course broadened my perspective on all the different possibilities that bioengineering creates.

Q: Theres been a big movement to get girls interested in science and technology. Do you think its working?

A: Absolutely. I believe that we have come very far in terms of the number of women in STEM fields. Many of our female speakers reported that there are more women in STEM than there have ever been.

However, there is still a tilted playing field, which means that we have a lot of work to do as a society. There has always been more sexism in STEM than in any other field, and to this day women find themselves lacking the confidence to advocate for themselves in times of confrontation.

For this reason, the most truly effective way we can get more women into STEM is by giving them the confidence to trust their own competence.

Q: What would you say to classmates who might find a course on bioengineering a bit intimidating?

A: Keep an open mind. I think, more than anything, it is the building aspect of engineering that is the most intimidating  especially for girls, who tend to be more perfectionistic and flinch at the prospect of failure.Two years before the Wright Brothers made their historic flight in Kitty Hawk, N.C., a local man took flight right here in the Fairfield beach area. On Aug. 14, 1901, Gustave Whitehead took off in a plane on Turneys Farm in his No. 21 Flyer. This weekend marks the 117th anniversary of what many now agree was the first manned, sustained, powered flight.

On Saturday, Aug. 11, the Fairfield Museum will commemorate this event by hosting a free Fly In with a replica of Whiteheads plane built by Andy Kosch on display and aerial demonstrations of aircraft and drones by HobbyTown USA of Fairfield. Visitors can learn about Whiteheads historic flight experiments and meet the Fairfield Flying Aces. Children can assemble and fly their own balsa wood plane.Wall Street analysts have given iShares MSCI EAFE 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 EAFE ETF wasn't one of them. MarketBeat thinks these five companies may be even better buys.

View MarketBeat's top stock picks here.China Hydroelectric Corporation is a developer, owner and operator of small hydroelectric power projects in China. The projects are located in Zhejiang, Fujian, Yunnan and Sichuan. As of December 31, 2012, wholly owns 22 operating hydroelectric power projects and have controlling interests in three operating hydroelectric power projects. In March 2012, the Company sold 100% of the Yuanping hydroelectric power project. In April 2013, the Company sold the Yuheng hydroelectric power project, a 30 megawatt (MW) project located in Fujian province. In July 2014, the Company announced that it has completed the merger with CPT Wyndham Sub Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of CPT Wyndham Holdings Ltd.

Read MoreThe following companies are subsidiares of Exxon Mobil: AKG Marketing Company Limited, Aera Energy LLC, Al-Jubail Petrochemical Company, Ampolex (Cepu) Pte Ltd, Ancon Insurance Company Inc., Barnett Gathering LLC, Barzan Gas Company Limited, Caspian Pipeline Consortium, Celtic Exploration Ltd., Coral FLNG S.A., Cross Timbers Energy LLC, Ellora Energy Inc., Esmeroon Oil Transporta Imperial Oil Limited, Esso (Thailand) Public Company Limited, Esso Australia Resources Pty Ltd, Esso Deutschland GmbH, Esso Erdgas Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH, Esso Exploration Angola (Block 15) Limited, Esso Exploration Angola (Block 17) Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Angola (Overseas) Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Chad Inc., Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria (Deepwater) Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria (Offshore East) Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited, Esso Exploration and Production UK Limited, Esso Global Investments Ltd., Esso Italiana S.r.l., Esso Nederland B.V., Esso Norge AS, Esso Petroleum Company Limited, Esso Raffinage, Esso Societe Anonyme Francaise, Exxo Holdings Inc., Exxon Azerbaijan Limited, Exxon Chemical Arabia Inc., Exxon International Finance Company, Exxon Luxembourg Holdings LLC, Exxon Mobile Bay Limited Partnership, Exxon Neftegas Limited, Exxon Overseas Corporation, Exxon Overseas Investment Corporation, ExxonMobil (China) Investment Co. Ltd., ExxonMobil (Taicang) Petroleum Co. Ltd., ExxonMobil Abu Dhabi Offshore Petroleum Company Limited, ExxonMobil Alaska Production Inc., ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., ExxonMobil Australia Pty Ltd, ExxonMobil B Resources Company, ExxonMobil Capital Finance Company, ExxonMobil Capital Netherlands B.V., ExxonMobil Central Europe Holding GmbH, ExxonMobil Cepu Limited, ExxonMobil Chemical France, ExxonMobil Chemical Gulf Coast Investments LLC, ExxonMobil Chemical Holland B.V., ExxonMobil Chemical Services (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., ExxonMobil China Petroleum & Petrochemical Company Limited, ExxonMobil Development Africa B.V., ExxonMobil Development Company, ExxonMobil Egypt (S.A.E.), ExxonMobil Exploracao Brasil Ltda., ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Malaysia Inc., ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Norway AS, ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Romania Limited, ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Tanzania Limited, ExxonMobil Finance Company Limited, ExxonMobil Financial Investment Company Limited, ExxonMobil France Holding SAS, ExxonMobil Gas Marketing Europe Limited, ExxonMobil General Finance Company, ExxonMobil Global Services Company, ExxonMobil Golden Pass Surety LLC, ExxonMobil Holding Company Holland LLC, ExxonMobil Holding Norway AS, ExxonMobil Hong Kong Limited, ExxonMobil International Services SARL, ExxonMobil Iraq Limited, ExxonMobil Italiana Gas S.r.l., ExxonMobil Kazakhstan Inc., ExxonMobil Kazakhstan Ventures Inc., ExxonMobil LNG Services B.V., ExxonMobil Lubricants Trading Company, ExxonMobil Oil Corporation, ExxonMobil PNG Limited, ExxonMobil Petroleum & Chemical BVBA, ExxonMobil Petroleum & Chemical Holdings Inc., ExxonMobil Pipeline Company, ExxonMobil Production Deutschland GmbH, ExxonMobil Production Norway Inc., ExxonMobil Qatargas (II) Limited, ExxonMobil Qatargas Inc., ExxonMobil Ras Laffan (III) Limited, ExxonMobil Rasgas Inc., ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company, ExxonMobil Russia Kara Sea Holdings B.V., ExxonMobil Sales and Supply LLC, ExxonMobil Technology Finance Company, ExxonMobil Ventures Finance Company, ExxonMobil Ventures Funding Ltd., Fujian Refining & Petrochemical Co. Ltd., Golden Pass LNG Terminal Investments LLC, Golden Pass LNG Terminal LLC, Gulf Coast Growth Ventures LLC, Imperial Oil Limited, Imperial Oil Resources Limited, Imperial Oil Resources N.W.T. Limited, Imperial Oil/Petroliere Imperiale, Infineum Italia s.r.I., Infineum Singapore Pte. Ltd., InterOil Corporation, Jurong Aromatics Corporation Pte Ltd, MPM Lubricants, Marine Well Containment Company LLC, Mobil Australia Resources Company Pty Limited, Mobil California Exploration & Producing Asset Company, Mobil Caspian Pipeline Company, Mobil Chemical Products International Inc., Mobil Corporation, Mobil Equatorial Guinea Inc., Mobil Erdgas Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH, Mobil Exploration & Producing Australia Pty Ltd, Mobil International Petroleum Corporation, Mobil Oil Australia Pty Ltd, Mobil Oil Exploration & Producing Southeast Inc., Mobil Oil New Zealand Limited, Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited, Mobil Producing Texas & New Mexico Inc., Mobil SerLimited, Mobil Venezolana De Petroleos Inc., Mobil Yanbu Petrochemical Company Inc., Mobil Yanbu Refining Company Inc., Mountain Gathering LLC, Mozambique Rovuma Venture S.p.A., Palmetto Transoceanic LLC, Papua New Guinea Liquefied Natural Gas Global Company LDC, Permian Express Partners LLC, Phillips Exploration LLC, Qatar Liquefied Gas Company Limited, Ras Laffan Liquefied Natural Gas Company Limited, Ras Laffan Liquefied Natural Gas Company Limited (II), SPI Limited, Saudi Aramco Mobil Refinery Company Ltd., Saudi Yanbu Petrochemical Co., SeaRiver Maritime Inc., South Hook LNG Terminal Company Limited, Tengizchevroil LLP, Terminale GNL Adriatico S.r.l, Trend Gathering & Treating LLC, Wolverine Pipe Line Company, XH LLC, XTO Delaware Basin LLC, XTO Energy Canada, XTO Energy Inc., and XTO Holdings LLC.Drax Group plc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the generation and supply of electricity in the United Kingdom. The company operates through three segments: Generation, Customers, and, Pellet Production. It produces low carbon and renewable electricity; and provides system support services to the electricity grid. The company owns and operates Drax Power Station that produces electricity from biomass and coal with an installed capacity of 3,906 megawatts (MW) located in Selby, North Yorkshire; Cruachan Power Station, a pumped hydro storage station, with an installed capacity of 440 MW located in Argyll and Bute, western Scotland; and Lanark and Galloway hydro-electric power stations with an installed capacity of 126 MW located in southwest Scotland. It also owns and operates combined cycle gas turbine power stations, including Damhead Creek power station with an installed capacity of 805 MW; Rye House power station with an installed capacity of 715 MW; Shoreham power station with an installed capacity of 420 MW; and Blackburn power station with an installed capacity of 60 MW located in England. In addition, the company owns and operates Daldowie fuel plant that processes sludge from a wastewater treatment plant and converts it into dry and low-odour fuel pellets. Further, it manufactures and sells compressed wood pellets for use in electricity production; supplies and manages electricity and gas for large industrial and commercial sector customers, as well as small businesses; and provides debt recovery services. Drax Group plc was incorporated in 2005 and is based in Selby, the United Kingdom.

Read MoreWall Street analysts have given iShares MSCI Chile 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 Chile ETF wasn't one of them. MarketBeat thinks these five companies may be even better buys.

View MarketBeat's top stock picks here.Kinder Morgan, Inc. operates as an energy infrastructure company. The firm engages in the operation of pipelines and terminals that transport natural gas, gasoline, crude oil, carbon dioxide (CO2) and other products and stores petroleum products chemicals and handles bulk materials like ethanol, coal, petroleum coke and steel. It operates through the following segments: Natural Gas Pipelines, CO2, Terminals, Product Pipelines and Kinder Morgan Canada. The Natural Gas Pipelines segment engages in the ownership and operation of major interstate and intrastate natural gas pipeline and storage systems, natural gas and crude oil gathering systems and natural gas processing and treating facilities. The CO2 segment focuses on the production, transportation and marketing of CO2 to oil fields that use CO2 as a flooding medium for recovering crude oil from mature oil fields to increase production. The Terminals segment consists of the ownership and operation of liquids and bulk terminal facilities located throughout the U.S. and portions of Canada that trans load and store refined petroleum products, crude oil, chemicals, ethanol and bulk products, including coal, petroleum coke, fertilizer,

Read MoreCARBO Ceramics Inc., a technology company, provides products and services to the oil and gas, industrial, and environmental markets worldwide. It operates through two segments, Oilfield and Industrial Technologies and Services, and Environmental Technologies and Services. The Oilfield and Industrial Technologies and Services segment manufactures and sells oilfield ceramic technology products, base ceramic proppants, and frac sand proppants to pressure pumping companies, and oil and gas operators for use in the hydraulic fracturing of natural gas and oil wells. It also provides technology to design, build, and optimize the Frac; sells fracture stimulation software under the FracPro brand; and offers fracture design and consulting services to oil and natural gas exploration and production companies under the StrataGen brand name. The Environmental Technologies and Services segment provides spill prevention, containment, and countermeasure systems for the oil and gas industry. CARBO Ceramics Inc. was founded in 1987 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.

Read MoreUK food and drink has hit a new record as figures show exports reached 10.6bn in the first half of 2018.

UK food and drink businesses are now selling their products to over 200 global markets.

Seasonal favourites are also in demand abroad  in the first half of the year 64 million litres of ice cream and over 500 tonnes of strawberries were shipped.

Traditional barbeque produce, such as sausages and cuts of beef have risen by 48% and 17% respectively.

This is due in part to new meat export markets opening in recent years  and will be bolstered further in the future by the recent announcement that China will lift their BSE ban on British beef, which is estimated to generate 250 million in the first five years alone.

Taiwan will also soon be importing UK pork for the first time  worth an estimated 50 million over five years to the UKs industry.

Iconic British produce such as whisky, worth 2 billion, beer worth 235 million, and smoked salmon worth 308 million are also being snapped up from international supermarket shelves.

Buy British

Farming Minister, George Eustice said consumers across the globe know British produce is high in quality and backed by high standards of animal welfare.

This is why we are continuing to see a huge growth in the worldwide demand for the best of what British farmers and food producers have to offer, Mr Eustice said.

This world-leading industry already boosts our economy by over 110 billion each year, and leaving the EU will give our food and drink producers an unparalleled opportunity to tap into more markets and take advantage of the UKs position as a truly global nation, he added.

A team of the trade experts are on hand to provide guidance to farm businesses as they enter into overseas markets for the first time or consider expanding their current global customer base.

This is complemented by the governments Food is GREAT campaign, which highlights the success of current exporters and showcases the UKs top quality food and drink.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.Vikram is arguably one of the niggest names in the Tamil film industry tday and he enjoys a strong fan following thanks to his versatility as an actor. At present, the I star is gearing up to launch his son Dhruv. The young man will be seen playing the lead role in Varma which is the official remake of the Telugu sleeper hit Arjun Reddy. The film is being helmed by the noted director Bala and the feeling is that it's a good launch vehicle for the young lad.

Now, Dhruv is in the news for a shocking reason.

In a shocking development, earlier today(August 12, 2018) he allegedly rammed his vehicle into three autorickshaws in Chennai and apparently injured a person quite severely. Following this he was arrested and booked for 'rash driving' and 'causing hurt by act endangering life'.

As soon as this controversy erupted, rumours of Dhruv being drunk while driving began doing the rounds. Reacting to the issue, Vikram's manager issued a statement and said that the mishap happened because of a lapse of concentration and nothing else.

"While returning from a friend's house on early Sunday morning, Dhruv's car crashed into autorickshaws. One person was injured in the accident and he was immediately rushed to the hospital. He was treated for his injuries and later discharged. We would like to clarify that the accident happened only due to lack of attention behind the wheels and no other reason,"added the manager.

In the meanwhile, Dhruv has been released on bail and further investigations are underway.Bigg Boss 12 Promo Out: Salman Khan becomes Class Teacher  FilmiBeat

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan is extremely busy these days. The actor is not only shooting for his Bollywood projects, but also shooting for television shows. As the viewers are aware, the actor is currently hosting Sony TV's Dus Ka Dum. He also recently shot for Colors' Bigg Boss 12 promo. As we revealed, the actor had already shot for four promos of the show. In the promos, the actor will be seen in different avatars - actor, teacher, government official and narrator.

The makers have revealed the first promo, in which the actor is seen as a teacher. With the promo, the theme of the show which is 'vichitra jodi' is also revealed. In the video, Salman can be seen introducing to his students who belong to different walks of life. While a few students appear individually, some others are seen in pairs. This indicates that that the contestants will enter the house individually as well as in pairs! Salman promises that this time the show will have a lot of twists!

In another promo, Salman will be seen as an actor (promo yet to be released), where he will be seen talking about the world of showbiz and the different jodis like Ram Lakhan or Karan Arjun that became popular.

Regarding his other two avatars, a source was quoted by Bollywoodlife as saying, "Salman will be seen as a babu working in a government office, discussing the pros and cons of the job. This will be followed by him dressed as a village sutradhar, clad in a kurta pyjama. He won't have any jodidaar with him in the sneak-peek, but will be the task master for all the contestants."

Well, this time the show will kick-start a month (i.e., on September 16, 2018) earlier than usual. Apparently, among commoners, the mother-son jodi - Robin Gurjar and his mother Shyamvati are confirmed on entering the show!

If reports are to be believed, Splitsvilla fame Scarlett Rose & her best friend Ryan Peterson, estranged sisters Shafaq & Falak Naaz, mother-son duo Vibha & Puru Chibber, couples Siddharth Sagar & Subuhi Joshi and Srishty Rode & Manish Naggdev might participate.

Other celebrities who have been approached for the show are Dipika Kakar & Shoaib Ibrahim, Milind Soman & Ankita Konwar and Mihika Sharma & adult star Danny D.

Stay locked to this space for the latest updates of the show.

Latest TRP Ratings: Star Plus Back On Top Slot; Gul Khan's Nazar Enters The TRP Chart!BJP chief Amit Shah on Sunday asserted that illegal Bangladeshi settlers would not be allowed to stay in the country. Shah, who was in the city to address a meeting of party workers, expressed confidence that the BJP will emerge victorious in the next general elections even if the Opposition parties cobble up an alliance.

Meerut: BJP chief Amit Shah on Sunday asserted that illegal Bangladeshi settlers would not be allowed to stay in the country. Shah, who was in the city to address a meeting of party workers, expressed confidence that the BJP will emerge victorious in the next general elections even if the Opposition parties cobble up an alliance.

We will not allow illegal Bangladeshi "intruders" to stay in the country even though we will make efforts to ensure that refugees who come seeking shelter are given citizenship, Shah is learnt to have told party workers. While media persons was not allowed in the meeting, senior BJP leader Bhupendra Yadav and the party's Uttar Pradesh unit chief Mehendra Nath Pandey gave details of Shah's address to party workers

According to the two leaders, Shah emphasised that the BJP was concerned about the well being of Hindus as well as Muslims living in the country. Shah urged party workers to spread awareness about the developmental work carried out by the Modi and Yogi governments at the grassroots level adding if this was done the saffron party's triumph in the next general elections was a foregone conclusion.

The BJP chief said the party would contest the next elections on developmental agenda with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the centre of the campaign. He set a target of '73-plus' for BJP in Uttar Pradesh in the next Lok Sabha elections. Uttar Pradesh has 80 Lok Sabha seats and BJP and its allies had won 73 of these in the 2014 polls. People ask what would happen if SP-BSP come together but I want to say we have defeated such alliances in Uttar Pradesh in the past, Shah said according to the two BJP leaders.

Referring to Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, Shah said in 2017 two "boys (ladke)" joined hands but the BJP secured over 300 seats in the Assembly. This time if all the three (SP, BSP and Congress) join, we will win at least 74 seats, Shah said, according to the two BJP leaders.

In the meeting, a resolution was presented which lauded the work done by the Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh. Earlier in the day, BJP leader Vijay Bahadur Pathak told reporters that the party had prepared its roadmap for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. He said the party would work at all the 60,000 booths in the state in this regard.GOMA, Democratic Republic of Congo (Reuters) - Militiamen in eastern Congo attacked trucks belonging to Banro Corp's Namoya gold mine, killing two people and kidnapping four others, the army said on Saturday, in at least the third attack on mine personnel since last year. The attack was carried out by militiamen from the group Mai Mai Malaika on Thursday in the Tubangoyi forest about 35 km (22 miles) from the mine in Democratic Republic of Congo's Maniema province, local army spokesman Dieudonne Kasereka told Reuters. 'The two people killed are not Banro workers but passengers that the drivers picked up along the road

GOMA, Democratic Republic of Congo (Reuters) - Militiamen in eastern Congo attacked trucks belonging to Banro Corp's Namoya gold mine, killing two people and kidnapping four others, the army said on Saturday, in at least the third attack on mine personnel since last year.

The attack was carried out by militiamen from the group Mai Mai Malaika on Thursday in the Tubangoyi forest about 35 km (22 miles) from the mine in Democratic Republic of Congo's Maniema province, local army spokesman Dieudonne Kasereka told Reuters.

"The two people killed are not Banro workers but passengers that the drivers picked up along the road. For the moment, the hostages have not been found but the Congolese army has launched operations to recover them," Kasereka said.

He added that the hostages were two drivers and two soldiers who were protecting the trucks.

Banro did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Repeated attacks by the Mai Mai on Namoya and Banro's Twangiza mine in neighbouring South Kivu province in the past two years threw the Canadian company's survival into question late last year.

It was delisted from the Toronto Stock Exchange in January but is pursuing a recapitalisation plan to continue its operations.

Militias like the Mai Mai, who believe blessed water has magical properties like protecting fighters from bullets, have preyed on eastern Congo's population and exploited mineral resources since the end in 2003 of a regional war that killed millions, most from hunger and disease.

Mai Mai Malaika is one of several groups allied with another militia in the zone called Mai Mai Yakutumba, which briefly threatened to capture the city of Uvira last September before being pushed back by Congolese and U.N. forces.

(Reporting By Fiston Mahamba; Additional reporting by Susan Taylor in Toronto; Writing by Aaron Ross; Editing by Andrew Bolton)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.The shootout at Batmaloo's Deyarwani area sent alarm bells ringing as the incident occurred less than a kilometer from Bakshi Stadium, the venue for the Independence Day function

Srinagar: The early morning attack by militants in the heart of Srinagar in which one policeman was killed and five others injured, coming just days ahead of Independence Day function in Jammu and Kashmir signifies the challenge faced by security establishment. Inthe run-up to the function, security at all entry and exit points of Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir, has been tightened amid reports about a possible attack by militants on Independence Day. Security officials had asserted that it was almost impossible for militants to breach this security wall.

However, the shootout at Batmaloo's Deyarwani area set off alarm bells within the security apparatus as the incident occurred less than a kilometer from Bakshi Stadium, the venue for the Independence Day function. On Sunday morning, people were still asleep when the Jammu and Kashmir Police's Special Operation Group launched a joint operation with CRPF at 3:30 am after receiving a tip-off about presence of militants in Deyarwani.

The moment we established contact with militants during the search operation, they fired at us. Six security personnel were injured during initial fire Parvez Ahmad, one of the injured, later succumbed, VK Birdi, Deputy Inspector General of Police, central Kashmir, said. He added that the four militants took advantage of the darkness to flee. However, according to Birdi, two accomplices were arrested from the spot. The owner of the home in which the militants were hiding was also injured in the exchange of fire.

A senior police official said it seems the house was used by militants earlier and added that two militants were injured in the shootout. According to locals, CRPF personnel were seen following the blood trail of the injured militants. The information was precise but they (militants) took advantage of the darkness, said Munir Khan, AGP, Law and Order, Jammu and Kashmir Police.

Batmaloo is walking distance from Lal Chowk, the commercial hub of the Valley. It is a congested locality with narrow alleys, which makes carrying out anti-militancy operations difficult and dangerous. Had we not taken precautions, there would have been collateral damage, Khan said, while attending the wreath-laying ceremony of the slain policemen in Srinagar. We are leaving no stone unturned. We will catch them soon," Khan added.

A senior counter-insurgency official said the entire intelligence grid has been mobilised to catch these militants, who will pose a serious challenge in the days to come. What worries the establishment is the intelligence that these militants are specifically targeting the Independence Day venue.

Sources said the attackers came from south Kashmir. They gave the police the slip at a barricade established at an entry point towards the south of the city. Barricades have been established at all of Srinagar's entry and exit points. It's a big city, Khan said. You never know where they (militants) will try to enter from.

Compared to the past two years, this year has seen a sharp rise in the number of casualties suffered by security forces. Forty-nine security personnel have been killed since January as compared to last year, when 39 security personnel were killed.

Kashmir has seen a spurt in militancy in 2018 with 128 local youth taking up arms. Compare that to the figures in 2017 and 2016 respectively: 126 and 88 youth took up arms. These figures, which come under the PDP-BJP rule, seem to indicate that the government's iron-fisted policy of dealing with the militants has failed to produce dividend.Congress hit out at the RSS by calling the rape accused in Bhopal hostel case as their member. It also said that the accused enjoyed the 'blessings' of Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Bhopal: The opposition Congress on Saturday claimed that a director of a hostel, who has been arrested for allegedly raping a deaf and mute tribal girl and molesting two others, is an "activist of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)" and "enjoys the blessings" of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Ashwini Sharma, the director of a hostel for deaf and mute persons located in the Awadhpuri area of Bhopal, was arrested on Wednesday on the basis of a police complaint filed by an inmate, who accused him of repeatedly raping her during her stay in the hostel over the last three years.

Two more girls, who had previously stayed in the hostel, also filed a case of molestation against the accused on Thursday, following which the police slapped charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act as well since one of them was a minor when the alleged incident took place in 2017.

"Ashwini Sharma is an activist of the RSS and he enjoys Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's blessings," Madhya Pradesh Congress's chief spokesperson Shobha Oza said.

She also released a video, in which Sharma is seen standing close to Chouhan and touching the latter's feet.

Oza alleged that Sharma's Facebook account was deleted to hide his connection with BJP leaders.

She accused Chouhan of "hypocrisy", saying while the chief minister described himself as the "mama" (maternal uncle) of the girls of the state, he was blessing those accused of rape.

While the police had on Saturday announced the setting up of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the case, Oza said the Congress did not have "faith" in it.

Inspector General (IG) of Police (Bhopal) Jaydeep Prasad had told PTI yesterday that the SIT would comprise Rahul Lodha, Superintendent of Police (SP), Bhopal City South, additional superintendents of police Rashmi Mishra and Dinesh Kaushal, city SP Virendra Mishra and Awadhpuri Inspector ML Bhati.

"The state government has hurriedly formed an SIT. We do not have faith in it. The accused has political patronage, so a CBI inquiry has become all the more important," Oza said.

State Congress chief Kamal Nath had on Saturday shot off a letter to Chouhan, seeking a probe into the incident by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Oza also lashed out at the state government's announcement on Saturday that the collectors and SPs of all the districts would inspect the hostels for women on a monthly basis to ensure that such incidents do not happen again.

She said a similar incident had happened in a hostel in Sehore, the chief minister's home district, "two-three years ago" and despite announcements of monthly inspections at the time, nothing of the sort happened.

Meanwhile, SP Lodha said the members of the SIT met on Saturday and they were probing the case from all angles.

IG Prasad said the police were close to filing a chargesheet in the case.Activists in Rajasthan's Jhalawar held a bike rally against Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, asking her to quit the constituency and 'go back'

Kota: Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje is facing opposition from a section of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers in her home constituency of Jhalawar even as she claimed that her party will score a clean win with 180 seats in the upcoming Assembly elections.

Activists in Jhalawar, led by BJP worker Pramod Sharma, organised a bike rally with placards that read "Vasundhara, go back" and "Vasundhara, quit Jhalawar" on the anniversary of the Quit India Movement on 9 August.

The rally, with over 1,000 activists riding nearly 500 motorcycles, passed through the markets of Jhalawar and adjoining Jhalrapatan cities of the home constituency of chief minister Raje. They were protesting against corruption and lack of development works in Jhalawar, the organisers said.

"We have launched the 'Vasundhra, quit Jhalawar movement' on the lines of Quit India Movement, as the public in chief miniater Raje's home constituency are fed up with corruption, non development in the 30 years of her rule," Pramod Sharma, a BJP worker for 20 years, said.

"Raje had been elected member of Parliament for five times, member of Legislative Assembly for three times from Jhalawar and is completing her second term as chief minister. But, she has done nothing for the common man of her constituency," Sharma alleged, and added that she destroyed the BJP unit in her area by politically assassinating true workers and promoting people with vested interests.

The activists are taking the 'Vasundhra, quit Jhalawar movement' to the people to convince them to vote against Raje in the upcoming elections, Lalit Vaishnav, an activist associated with the movement, said.

When contacted, Jhalawar district BJP president refuted all allegations levelled by the activists, saying overwhelming developmental works have been carried out in Jhalawar during Vasundhara Raje's tenure as chief minister.

He, however, admitted that a rally was organised in Jhalawar by the supporters of BJP MLA Ghanshyam Tiwari, the veteran state BJP leader who has been rebelling against the Raje government ever since she has assumed power in the state.

Notably, Raje's son Dushyant Singh represents the Jhalawar-Baran parliamentary constituency.The Centre is seeking to project the passage of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act as a major step in its fight against corruption.

The Narendra Modi government is seeking to project the passage of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018 in both Houses of Parliament as a major step in its fight against corruption. The government claims that this law will serve as a strong deterrent against corruption. Through this legislation, some existing provisions have been amended and some new ones have also been brought in.

Key aspects of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment Act), 2018

The Act has increased the punishment for those found guilty of offering a bribe. Earlier, the law had a provision for punishment ranging from six months to three years' imprisonment, whereas now it is up to seven years' imprisonment. The punishment for repeat offenders has also been made more stringent: those found guilty can be handed a prison sentence between five and ten years.

The amended law also has provisions to deal with bribes by corporate entities, and government employees possessing disproportionate assets. The process of investigation and trial of any government employee is to be completed within two years, and this period can be extended up to a maximum of four years.

Before an investigation is conducted on any government employee, permission will be required from the concerned department or the government. This provision is in place for serving and retired government employees. A decision on such a permission has to be taken within three to four months.

Both the givers and receivers of bribes are covered under the provisions of the Act. However, no punitive action will be taken in cases where people are compelled to pay a bribe, and they inform the law enforcement authorities about it within seven days.

An IAS officer working with the central government said, Initially, there was a provision for seeking prior approval of the concerned authority for initiating action against erring officials at the joint secretary level and above. This was removed on the pretext of Article 14 of the Constitution (equality before law). Because of this, in one case, an official was convicted, although no proof of bribery could be found against him. This happened because a certain party benefitted from a decision that he took. It is akin to a decision of a judge, through which one of the parties contesting a case is bound to benefit. If things like this happen, why will an officer take a tough decision?"

In the amended law, Section 13(1)(d)  which deals with criminal misconduct and abuse of position by a public servant  has been removed.

Another former IPS officer, Sachin Sridhar, said, The world is changing fast, and we need quick decision-making. However, our officers are in constant fear of various agencies such the Central Bureau of Investigation, Comptroller and Auditor General and Central Vigilance Commission. It is no secret that on several occasions, grave injustice has been done to officers."

Criticism of the Act

The legislation is also facing opposition from several quarters. Several IPS and IRS officers, in a lighter vein, have referred to it as a 'Protection of Corruption' Act.

A government official says, "Articles 311 and 312 of the Constitution safeguard officers against any unfair action. While the new law will ensure that some honest people will not get into trouble, it will also ensure that a large number of corrupt people will have a field day."

A senior IPS officer working in the central government says, "This Act will enable some honest people to take decisions in a holistic manner. However, it will also help corrupt elements."

In a similar vein, a director-general rank officer said, "It is true that there were chances of Section 13(1)(d) of the Prevention of Corruption Act being misused. However, the number of officials who have been charged and convicted under this provision can be counted on one's fingers. With the introduction of Section 17A, it will become difficult to initiate an inquiry against corrupt officials."

Senior advocate Prashant Bhushan said, "How can a crime be proved without an investigation? Evidence can only be gathered through a probe. But as per the new law, proof must first be given, after which the government may allow the investigation. This will promote corruption instead of preventing it. We will challenge this Act in court.

He added, This is the third time that the government is making such an attempt, which is in direct contradiction to the decision of a constitutional bench of the Supreme Court.

Questions are also being raised over prosecuting the bribe giver as well as the bribe seeker. In the past, bribe givers used to become witnesses for the prosecution, and would help agencies in their case.Congress accused Narendra Modi of hoodwinking the country by playing with statistics on job creation. Spokesperson Pawan khera said prime minister wanted people to believe that its failures are the 'achhe din'

New Delhi: The Congress Sunday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of hoodwinking the country by playing with statistics on job creation and claimed that he wants people to believe his "failure" to follow through on his promises as "achhe din".

Reacting to an interview of the prime minister to a national daily published Sunday, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said Modi was asked to point out three big achievements of his government but he "refused to enumerate" them.

"He said he can't. That is the only honest admission in these interviews. He could not speak about his three achievements even after four years in power. He is the prime minister, he can not hoodwink the country like this. Do not play with statistics," Khera told reporters.

He said the Modi government has no major achievement to show to people even though it is just nine months short of its five-year term, adding that the prime minister has given himself an extension of 48 more months by pushing the deadline to deliver the projects by 2022.

The Congress claimed that there is a difference of opinion among the Union cabinet members, pointing out that while the prime minister says his government has given jobs to one crore people, his cabinet minister Nitin Gadkari says there is no job.

Responding to reporters' questions on an agitation by Marathas for reservation in Maharashtra last week, Gadkari had said that reservation will not guarantee employment as jobs are shrinking.

"How can the government mix the statistics of Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) with job statistics," Khera asked, referring to Modi's claim in the interview about creation of lakhs of jobs based on EPFO data.

Quoting international agencies Centre For Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), the Congress said it is now being said that 1.26 crore people lost their jobs after sudden demonetisation of high-value currency in November 2016.

The party said the International Labour Organisation (ILO) data has said 77 percent Indian people would either loose or would be at the verge of loosing jobs by 2019.

"The prime minister never challenged the data," Khera said.

He alleged that the government having failed to deliver on its main schemes such as 'Swachch Bharat' has pushed the deadline and wants people to believe that its failures are the "achhe din" the BJP had promised to people during its 2014 election campaign.

"In 2014, Shri Modi promised a lot of things but now all his 'so-called targets' are to be fulfilled in 2022 (108 months) now - a self-extension of 48 more months," Khera said.

The Congress leader said his party would like to tell Modi categorically, that his government should not last beyond the next nine months.Prabhat Jha also claimed that there was no anti-incumbency factor and BJP, which is in power in the state for the last 15 years, is receiving 'tremendous' support from people.

New Delhi: The Congress is a "faceless, senseless and baseless" party that has no public leader and will be wiped out of Madhya Pradesh in the upcoming Assembly polls, former BJP state president Prabhat Jha said.

Jha, a Rajya Sabha MP and a BJP national vice president, also claimed that there was no anti-incumbency factor and the saffron party, which is in power in the state for the last 15 years, is receiving "tremendous" support from the people. Polls are due in the state in a few months.

"We will form government again here (Madhya Pradesh). We will form government in the state for the fourth consecutive time and Shivraj Singh Chouhan will be the chief minister again," the BJP leader told PTI in an interview.

Out of the 29 Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh, 26 are with the BJP and the Congress has just three MPs - Jyotiraditya Scindia, Kamal Nath and Kantilal Bhuria, he said. "It explains that nothing is left for the Congress in the state. It is already divided into various factions. They do not have a face (to project as Chief Minister)...They are faceless, senseless and baseless. The party will be wiped out," Jha said.

Speaking to PTI over phone from MP's Rajgarh district, he said over 25,000 people attended a programme under the BJP's Jan Ashirwad Yatra on Saturday to show their support to chief minister Chouhan. This shows that the people are with us, Jha said. "I took part in the campaigning for the 2008 and 2013 Assembly elections, but this time the support of people is tremendous," he said.

Over distribution of tickets to sitting ministers and MLAs, the Rajya Sabha MP said the party will decide on it and focus will be on win-ability of a candidate. The BJP's target is 200 seats out of the 230 Assembly constituencies in the state, he said, adding that the party's slogan for the polls is "Abki bar 200 par (This elections, more than 200 seats)".

The saffron party had won 165 seats in the 2013 Assembly elections, while its main competitor Congress had won 58. On the appointment of Scindia and Nath as the state's campaign committee chief and state unit president, respectively, he said, "Kamal Nath is a man of the corporate sector and Scindia belongs to a dynastic family... They are not public leaders. They are restricted to Chhindwara and Guna constituency only." "They have failed to ensure victory in the constituency adjacent to there's. Basically, they are not state leaders," the former BJP Madhya Pradesh unit president said.

Over the ruling party's defeat in several by-elections for Assembly constituencies in the state, Jha said all the four seats were earlier held by the Congress. They had just retained the seats and "we failed to snatch it from them", he said.

The Congress had won the by-polls to the Mungaoli, Kolaras, Chitrakoot and Ater Assembly seats, held between April 2017 and March 2017, while the BJP had retained the Bandhavgarh seat. On Gujarat Patidar leader Hardik Patel's announcement of holding a yatra in the state to create "awareness" among voters, Jha said, "He has no image in Madhya Pradesh. The Patidars are with chief minister Chouhan and the BJP."

Claiming that only farmers' leader of the Congress protest against the state government, he said, "We organised a rally on 5 August in Piplya Mandi where farmers got shot in the protest last year. The public programme was at 2.40 am in the night, still more than 40,000 farmers took part in it. This shows they are with us."

Six people had lost their lives when police opened fire on them during the farmers' agitation at Piplya Mandi village near Mandsaur on 6 June last year.From celebrated novelist and Nobel Laureate VS Naipaul passing away at 85 to Arsenal taking on defending Premier League champions Manchester City, here are the top stories for Sunday.

Novelist VS Naipaul passes away

VS Naipaul, the Trinidad-born Nobel laureate whose celebrated writing and brittle, provocative personality drew admiration and revulsion in equal measures, died Saturday at his London home, his family said. He was 85.

In an extraordinary career spanning half a century, the writer travelled as a self-described barefoot colonial from rural Trinidad to upper class England, picked up the most coveted literary awards and a knighthood, and was hailed as one of the greatest English writers of the 20th century. Naipaul was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001 for having united perceptive narrative and incorruptible scrutiny in works that compel us to see the presence of suppressed histories.

Toll in Kerala rains rises to 37

After being pounded by rains for the past few days, there was a brief let-up in the downpour on Friday in Kerala, but the government remained on high alert with more rains forecast, even as the toll in the monsoon fury since 8 August climbed to 37. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who undertook an aerial survey of rain ravaged areas of Idukki and Wayanad, said Kerala was in the midst of an unprecedented flood havoc and the calamity has caused "immeasurable misery and devastation".

Encounter in Jammu and Kashmir kills one

A policeman has been killed and three security forces personnel injured during an early morning encounter with militants in Batmaloo area in Srinagar on Sunday, police said.

"On a specific information about the presence of terrorists in a hideout, an operation was launched in Batmaloo Srinagar leading to exchange of fire, one SOG boy martyred, one Jammu and Kashmir Police and two CRPF Jawans sustained injuries, operation continues," Director General of Police (DGP), Jammu and Kashmir, SP Vaid wrote on Twitter.

IOC Q1 net profit up by 50 percent to over Rs 7,000 crore

Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) on Friday reported 50.27 percent jump in consolidated net profit at Rs 7,092.42 crore for the first quarter of the current fiscal. The country's largest fuel retailer had posted net profit of Rs 4,719.71 crore in the same quarter of last fiscal. IOC said in a regulatory filing that its net income increased to Rs 1,52,377 crore during April-June quarter of the 2018-19, from Rs 1,32,234 crore in the year-ago period.

NASA to try re-launching Parker Solar probe

After a last-minute technical problem forced NASA to postpone by 24 hours the launch of its first mission to explore the Sun, the agency plans to try again on Sunday. The new, 60-minute launch window opens at 3.31 am (0731 GMT) for the Parker Solar Probe, a $1.5 billion unmanned spacecraft that aims to get closer than any human-made object in history to the center of our solar system.

India vs England, 2nd Test, Day 4

With a lot of rain expected, England will look to seal an innings win after ending the third day a with a 250-run lead. India seemed to have the opening to bounce back in the second Test match after taking four wickets in the first session but Jonny Bairstow and Chris Woakes stitched together a mammoth 189-run stand to put the hosts back in control. India will face a stiff task to save the Lord's Test.

Premier League

Arguably the biggest clash of the weekend will be played on Sunday with Arsenal taking on defending champions Manchester City. Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool meet West Ham United while Southampton lock horns with Burnley FC.The Delhi government has directed all schools in Delhi to immediately report to it about any untoward incident such as accident, violence, molestation or protest before it reaches the media.

New Delhi: The Delhi government has directed all schools in the national capital to immediately report to it about any untoward incident such as accident, violence, molestation or protest before it reaches the media so that quick action can be taken and also there is no "embarrassment" to the education department.

The directive assumes significance in light of the alleged rape of a minor girl by an electrician in an NDMC school premises in the city.

"In order to ensure better monitoring of any untoward incident and take preventive measures at higher administrative levels, all heads of schools are directed to report immediately any untoward incident like violence, accident, dharna, quarrel, fire, protest, demonstration, theft, stampede, molestation, serious injury, suicide attempt or death to senior education department official whosoever is available at the moment," a communication sent to school principals by the Directorate of Education (DoE) said.

"In certain cases the reports of such incidents are received at the headquarters through media or other sources instead of the head of school due to which appropriate action cannot be taken in time and increases the threat to safety and security of students and also causes otherwise avoidable embarrassment to department. Therefore, all such occurrences must be brought to the notice of senior officers without any delay," it added.

The AAP government said that if the school principal is not able to send a detailed report to higher authorities, telephonic information is to be given immediately followed by a detailed report later on the same day. "Non compliance of the directive will be viewed seriously and action deemed fit will be initiated against the erring head of the school," the DoE letter said.

Rape of the class 2 girl in Delhi last week has revived the debate on safety and security of students inside school premises. Following the incident, the Delhi Commission For Women (DCW) and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) had issued notices to Delhi Police demanding details of the case.The NDMC too had initiated disciplinary action against the school authorities and suspended four of its officials including the headmistress.

The Delhi government had last month issued fresh guidelines to schools for ensuring students' safety, with a special focus on the security of the pupils travelling to schools by private vans. The guidelines were issued following recommendations from a high-level committee which was formed in the wake of the murder of a seven-year-old boy in a Gurugram school and alleged rape of a five-year-old girl in a school in Shahdara.Salman Khurshid said that this was 'strategically' the best thing the Congress could have done to ensure that the BJP is not successful in creating gaps between the Opposition parties as they work towards an alliance.

New Delhi: Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid on Sunday cautioned Opposition parties such as the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) against excluding the Congress from the alliance in Uttar Pradesh for the 2019 polls or making the party look like a "dwarf" in the state, saying such a move will be "myopic" and benefit the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP).

He also said Congress chief Rahul Gandhi has given the message that "lets not get caught up" with the issue of Opposition's prime ministerial candidate for now, as "collectively" winning the general election was the main focus.

In an interview to PTI, Khurshid said that this was "strategically" the best thing the Congress could have done to ensure that the BJP is not successful in creating gaps between the Opposition parties as they work towards an alliance.

Khurshid, who has been Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee Chief twice, asserted that parties should not write off the Congress in the state and it was important that it is part of an alliance with the SP and the BSP to take on the BJP in the 2019 polls.

Asked about talk of Congress being given very few seats in Uttar Pradesh or excluded from the grand alliance, Khurshid said, "I would think it will be very myopic. I am not saying it because we stand to gain from the opposite view, but I think excluding the Congress or making Congress look (like a) dwarf in UP will be myopic." He said the BJP would also benefit if such a scenario pans out.

Khurshid said that it should be kept in mind that the Congress had done well in the state in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls. "And we did that, while we still were considerably behind them (the SP and BSP) in vote share because the big cities voted for us in a major way. Today, at the worst, we are 7 percent and they (SP and BSP) are three times our vote share. But if we were to go out on our own, we are not going to be 7 percent, we will probably once again touch 10, 11 or 12 percent that we have shown repeatedly we can touch," he said.

The SP and BSP can certainly go up to 24, 25 or to 26 percent vote share, but it doesn't mean that the Congress is "nothing", the 65-year-old leader said. It will not be correct to write-off the Congress as despite being battered repeatedly in polls, it has about 10 percent vote in the state that has stuck to it which is crucial in many seats, Khurshid said. "So, I believe that for a serious, sustainable alliance ...a government that is genuinely a good government for India in the next five years, a creative and constructive participation of the Congress is necessary and that participation will not be creative, constructive and substantive if Uttar Pradesh is missing from it," he said.

There would be a risk in undermining Congress too much in Uttar Pradesh and the projection of sustainability for five years will suffer if the Congress participation in the state is not a satisfactory one, the former Union minister said.

Khurshid, however, conceded that in forging state-specific alliances, in the long run, the Congress may end up ceding ground to regional parties. Khurshid asserted that though striking alliances was the "dictate of our times", but somebody in the party will have to keep thinking of 10 or 20 years down the road. "In an alliance there is always a give and take, we cannot assume that an alliance will only be one way, that we will gain. Why will anyone give to us if we are to gain. An an alliance is a two way thing," he said.

On Congress indicating that the issue of the Opposition's prime ministerial candidate will be decided after the outcome of the 2019 polls, he said, "The party's choice is explicit, it is transparent in his (Rahul Gandhi's) favour, but he has himself taken the lead in saying that lets not get embroiled and caught up in this futile argument just now, lets first collectively win this election (and then) we will sit down and talk."

Khurshid also hailed the changes brought about by Rahul since taking over the party as president and said that his way of taking the old and the new guard along was the best path forward. While noting that those who are active among the old guard of the party were being given positions of responsibility and respect, Khurshid said there were also "significant generational changes" with very bright young people from a fresh generation coming into their own.

He also lauded Rahul for setting the agenda with issues of "big corruption", farmers' plight, lack of jobs and problems faced by Dalits, tribals, minorities and other weaker sections of the society. Asked if alliances which are state-specific will be fragile at the central level, Khurshid said, "Our leader is working towards a stable alliance. Mr Rahul Gandhi is trying very hard to ensure that we don't just make a rag-tag alliance, but we make an alliance which is formidable, stable and substantive."India's ties with Maldives suffer after Mali asked New Delhi to remove the Indian military helicopters and personnel deployed on the island

New Delhi: The Maldives wants India to withdraw military helicopters and personnel posted there following the expiry of an agreement in June, its envoy said, the latest snub to New Delhi by President Abdulla Yameens China-backed government.

India and China are going head to head in the Maldives, the Indian Ocean island chain where Beijing is building roads, bridges and a bigger airport, upstaging India which has been the countrys prime provider of military and civilian aid for decades.

India has opposed Yameens crackdown on political rivals and the imposition of an emergency this year and some of the presidents rivals have called on New Delhi for military intervention, creating worries in the Maldivian government.

The tensions are impacting aid programmes such as security assistance that New Delhi has given to smaller countries in the region to help them protect exclusive economic zones, carry out surveys and combat piracy.

The Maldives ambassador in India, Ahmed Mohamed, told Reuters that two military helicopters provided by India were mainly used for medical evacuations but were no longer required as the islands had built up enough resources of its own. They were very useful in the past but with the development of adequate infrastructure, facilities and resources we are now in a position to handle medical evacuations on our own, he said.

However, India and the Maldives are still conducting joint patrols in the islands exclusive economic zone every month, Mohamed said. The Maldives, 400 km (250 miles) to the southwest of India, is close to the worlds busiest shipping lanes, between China and West Asia.

Along with the helicopters, India had stationed around 50 military personnel, including pilots and maintenance crew, and their visas had expired. But New Delhi has not yet withdrawn them from the island chain. We are still there, our two helicopters and the men, an Indian navy spokesman said on Wednesday, adding the foreign ministry was handling the situation. The foreign ministry did not respond to a Reuters request for comment.

It's the personnel

India has been demanding that Yameen free political rivals including former President Abdul Gayoom and Supreme Court justices. It also criticised Yameens decision to hold elections in September saying the rule of law should be restored before embarking on such an exercise.

India was a close supporter of Gayoom during his long years of stewardship of the island chain and sent troops to foil an attempted coup against him in 1988. China, which opened an embassy in the Maldives in 2011, has rapidly built ties with the tropical island chain as part of its Belt and Road Initiative. It says it is opposed to any country interfering in the internal affairs of the Maldives.

Providing helicopters and patrol boats and satellite assistance to countries such as the Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles has been part of Indias naval diplomacy to retain influence in the Indian Ocean.

But in recent years China has moved in, building ports and roads backed by loans. In the Maldives, Beijing Urban Construction Group Company Limited took over a project to expand the airport servicing the capital Male, after the government cancelled a $511 million (400 million) deal with Indias GMR Infrastructure.

The Maldives has also given the Chinese a few islands to develop, officials said. Abhijit Singh, a former Indian naval officer who specialises on Indian Ocean politics at the New Delhi-based Observer Research Foundation, said the Indian helicopters were deployed near the islands where the Chinese were present.

Now the issue is Yameen wants the helicopters out, but more importantly he wants the personnel out. It is not the helicopters that trouble him so much, it is actually the fact that there are these people there. Yameen has invited China to do a lot of infrastructure building and he suspects that India is trying to keep a watch on what the Chinese are doing and so wants to keep the Indians out, said Singh.

Ambassador Ahmed declined to comment on that view.Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Working President MK Stalin announced Rs one crore flood relief to the Kerala government, on behalf of his party

Chennai: Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Working President MK Stalin Sunday announced Rs one crore flood relief to the Kerala government, on behalf of his party and expressed his condolences to the bereaved families.

A DMK statement said, "Unprecedented floods in Kerala have affected many people and has caused damage to properties worth crores. The party's working president MK Stalin has decided to contribute Rs 1 crore to Kerala Chief Minister's Relief Fund."

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami had on 9 August announced a contribution of Rs 5 crore to rain ravaged Kerala as a mark of support to the neighbouring state.

According to the latest official figures, more than 60,000 people, including women, toddlers and senior citizens, have been lodged in various relief camps across 14 districts of the southern state following the unprecedented monsoon rains that triggered floods and landslips in several places.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had Saturday announced Rs 10 lakh as compensation to those who lost their houses and land in the rain, and Rs 4 lakh to those who lost a member of their family. The toll in the monsoon fury since 8 August has climbed to 37.In recent years, landslides have been occurring in Kerala frequently during the monsoon

Over fifty tourists were rescued by the Indian Army from a posh resort in Kerala's Munnar. The tourists, including 24 foreigners from the United States, Russia, Singapore and West Asia, were stranded after landslides blocked the roads leading up to the resort after incessant rain lashed Kerala. The army fought an uphill battle to rescue the tourists, but things could have been far worse: many tourists could have been killed had the boulders fallen on the Plum Judy resort. Such an incident would have dealt a huge blow to Kerala's tourism industry, the main driver of the state economy.

The resort was closed twice after boulders from the nearest hill fell near it during the last monsoon. However, the resort owners obtained special orders from the court and opened it up again. The resort is located at Pallivasal village, an area which has been classified as high hazard and very high hazard by the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA). Many such resorts are functioning in the high hazard areas at Munnar, a tourist hotspot in the Western Ghats. Sreeram Venkitaraman, a young IAS officer, tried to identify such vulnerable buildings and demolish them after he was posted as sub-collector of Devikulam. However, the state government shunted him out when his bulldozers moved towards the big fish.

A majority of the 34 people who lost their lives after incessant rain were killed by landslides. Noted environmentalist John Peruvanthanam said the areas that suffered maximum damage in the past 10 days were those classified as ecologically-sensitive zones (ESZs) by Western Ghats Expert Ecology Panel (WGEEP). Idukki and Wayanad bore the maximum brunt of the monsoon fury. A majority of the 123 villages classified by ESZs in Kerala by the Kasthurirangan Commission fall under these districts. The environmentalist said the people in these areas are paying the price for the WGEEP recommendations not being implemented by the state.

Both the original Gadgil Committee and the subsequent Kasthurirangan Commission recommended restrictions on construction activities in the ESZs. However, illegal resorts started mushrooming in tourist spots in Idukki and Wayanad when the state government showed signs of bowing to pressure from the resort lobby and settler farmers led by Catholic bishops and priests.

Curiously, government organisations also defied the restrictions and set up tourist facilitation centres in ESZs. According to a report in The Times of India, the Kerala Tourism Development (KTDC) has been constructing buildings and cottages at Kuravan Mala, just 80 metres from Idukki dam. This flouts rules which state that any construction within 100 metres of the dam must be approved by the Dam Safety Authority.

The report pointed out that the area is prone to landslides and construction activity and an increased flow of tourists would make it more vulnerable to natural disasters. Peruvanthanam questioned how the government could act against illegal resorts when its own bodies are flouting rules.

The government has also been soft in dealing with illegal quarries, sand mining and check dams, which are the other major factors behind the alarming increase in landslides. The Gadgil Committee identified 2,700 quarries across the crest line of Kerala's Western Ghats. Of these, 1,700 quarries which mostly crush stone into sand, are functioning illegally.

Though check dams are built on seasonal rivers to prevent wastage of rain water flowing into the sea and to provide fresh water bodies for local use and strengthen the ecosystem, private groups are constructing them indiscriminately in estates and tourism spots. Such a check dam atop a hill at Karinchola allegedly led to a landslide in June in which seven people were killed.

The high court ordered demolition of a check dam illegally built by ruling front MLA P Anwar in Malappuram district as part of a water theme park following protests triggered by the Karinchola disaster. While the Kozhikode district administration launched a survey to identify illegal check dams, the Kerala River Management Fund decided not to permit construction of further check dams.

No one knows how many of Kerala's check dams are illegal. However, environmental activists claim there are lots of check dams across most of Kerala's 44 rivers, which not only disrupt free flow of rivers but also bring in more silt and sand, thus affecting the water flow upstream. They can prove fatal when the need arises to discharge water from reservoirs.

Scientists say indiscriminate construction in ESZs is the major reason for recurring landslides in the Western Ghats. In recent years, landslides have been occurring in Kerala frequently during the monsoon. More than 300 people lost their lives in around 90 major landslides between 1961 and June 2018. According to the plan prepared by the Kerala Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), 14.4 percent of the states area is susceptible to landslides which not only claim lives but also destroy homes and agricultural land. Most of the landslide-prone areas are in the Western Ghats.

This can be checked if the WGEEP recommendations are implemented in their true spirit. If authorities realise this and act accordingly, Kerala can be saved from further disaster, said Dr S Abhilash S, assistant professor of Atmospheric Studies at the Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT). He added that human intervention shrunk floodplains across Kerala, thus affecting the absorption of rain water. He said the recent amendment to the Kerala Paddy Land and Wetland Act permitting reclamation of paddy fields and wetlands for public interest projects may compound the problem.

A convention of environmentalists and wetland conservation activists held at Thrissur on Sunday demanded scrapping of the controversial amendment. The speakers pointed out that the amendment would encourage large-scale paddy field reclamation and cause floods and groundwater depletion. Professor Kusum Joseph, one of the organisers of the convention, said big business started planning reclamation of vast stretches of paddy fields in their possession in the name of public interest and are citing Section 10 of the amendment allowing infrastructure development projects.

The convention urged the Kerala government to repeal the amendment in view of the huge destruction wreaked by the Southwest Monsoon.'I had gone to Haridwar as a Kanwar. On Friday, when I went to a mosque in Uttar Pradesh, some people assaulted me and stopped me from offering namaz', said Babu Khan.

Baghpat: A Muslim man, who took part in Kanwar yatra, was allegedly stopped from offering namaz at a mosque in Baghpat in Uttar Pradesh, prompting the police to arrest three persons in this regard.

"I had gone to Haridwar as a Kanwar and offered water at the temples. On Friday, when I went to a mosque, some people assaulted me and stopped me from offering namaz. They even forced me to run away from there," Babu Khan said in his complaint registered with the police.

Khan, a resident of Racharh village of the district, alleged that after he was beaten up, his wife and children went to their relatives. When contacted, inspector Devendra Bisht said, "On the complaint lodged by Babu Khan, three persons have been arrested for disrupting peace, while another person is absconding."

Police along with prominent citizens of the area are making efforts to resolve the matter through talks. At present, the atmosphere in the village is absolutely peaceful, Bisht added. The accused persons, however, alleged that Babu Khan was trying to enter the mosque in an inebriated state and hence he was stopped from entering.

Meanwhile, District President of Hindu Jagran Manch Deepak Banmauli said, "The Manch is with Babu Khan and if anyone harass him then we will not tolerate it."

In the Hindu holy month of Shravan, Kawariyas (devout pilgrims carrying Ganga water) offer prayers at Shiva temples.A CBI team on Saturday took into custody the son of Brajesh Thakur, prime accused in the shelter home sex scandal, after 11 hours of search operation and questioning at the premises owned by them.

Muzaffarpur (Bihar): A CBI team on Saturday took into custody the son of Brajesh Thakur, prime accused in the shelter home sex scandal, after 11 hours of search operation and questioning at the premises owned by them.

The CBI team, which had reached Thakur's Sahu Road residence at around 9 am, left at around 8 pm with his son Rahul Anand.

Anand is the publisher and editor of Hindi daily Pratah Kamal, the office of which is situated within the same premises as the residence and the shelter home which have since been sealed.

Headed by DIG Abhay Kumar, the CBI team was flanked by a number of armed commandoes who locked the main gate of the premises from inside, preventing entry of mediapersons and a number of other curious onlookers.

The CBI team, which was also accompanied by a number of forensic experts, is understood to have inspected the shelter home after getting its seal opened, and collected documents and other items it found to be of value in the investigation.

CBI sleuths also inspected the courtyard, which was dug up last month by the police, following allegations by inmates that one of the girls was beaten to death by staff members a few years ago and her body was buried at the spot.

Nothing incriminating was found after the day-long excavation and the eight-feet-deep pit was again filled up.

The CBI deployed heavy earth mover machines at the site but no excavation took place during the day.

Thakur, who is in jail, heads the NGO Seva Sankalp Evam Vika Samiti, which ran the state-funded shelter home where sexual abuse of more than 30 inmates has been confirmed in medical tests.

The Bihar government had cancelled the registration of the NGO earlier this week.

Sexual exploitation of girls at the shelter home first came to light in the report of a social audit conducted by Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, which was submitted to the state social welfare department in April.

The FIR in the case was registered on 31 May against 11 people, including Thakur. On 26 July, the Bihar government recommended a CBI inquiry in the matter.

Bihar social welfare department minister Manju Verma had to resign after links of her husband with the key accused Brajesh Thakur surfaced.Maulana Badruddin Ajmal, a Muslim leader and Lok Sabha MP from Assam, defended the practice of nikah halala saying that the very idea of having to let his wife sleep with another man challenges and hurts the manhood of a husband, and thus prevents him from instantly divorcing his wife

Nikah halala is a measure to punish Muslim men who indulge in instant and arbitrary divorce, says Maulana Badruddin Ajmal, a Muslim leader and Lok Sabha MP from Assam. Ajmal says that the nikah halala system punishes the man by hurting his masculinity and the fear of that prevents him from arbitrarily divorcing their wives.

"Some Muslim men divorce their wives hastily without thinking about the consequence. Later they repent their decision and want their wives back. The practice of nikah halala prevents Muslim men from resorting to hasty and arbitrary divorces, he said.

Interpreting his view, Ajmal, who is one of the most influential leaders among Bengali Muslims in Assam, says that the very idea of having to let his wife sleep with another man challenges and hurts the manhood of the husband and traumatises him, and this fear prevents him from divorcing his wife arbitrarily.

"Muslim men know that if they indulge in instant divorce or unnecessarily divorce their wives, then a day might come when they will have to allow their wives to marry another man and also let her consummate that marriage in order to get her back. This is the biggest challenge for a man. So, the very fear of having to go through this ordeal prevents them from estranging their wives without giving themselves enough time to review the decision to divorce and also to reconcile with their spouses.

Ajmal's interpretation of nikah halala has come at a time when Nida Khan, a Muslim woman who claims herself to be a victim of nikah halala, has joined BJP in order to carry forward her struggle against triple talaq and nikah halala. The Lok Sabha MP, who heads the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), a popular political party among Bengali Muslims in Assam, was declared as ruling BJP's prime enemy by Himanta Biswa Sarma, a leader in the saffron party.

Nikah halala has been a subject of much heated debates after BJP threw its weight behind the women rights activist fighting against the practice even though the Islamic clergy continues to support the practice.

As per Islamic law, a husband and wife cannot unite after divorce until the wife marries another man and consummates the marriages, gets a divorce from the second and observes a period of separation period called 'iddat', or if the second husband meets death.

Special marriages are arranged to reunite divorced Muslim couples where the wife marries another person under the condition that he would divorce her after which she would reunite with her first husband. This kind of marriage is known as nikah halala.

According to The Indian Express, Nikah halala requires a woman to marry and sleep with another man in order to return to her first husband. There have been instances where the husband regrets divorcing his wife through triple talaq and in the hope of reconciliation hands over his wife to another man for marriage, under the condition that the latter would divorce the woman the next day.

https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://indianexpress.com/article/what-is/what-is-nikah-halala-how-it-was-established-and-where-it-stands-in-modern-india-triple-talaq-4618415/lite/&ved=2ahUKEwjn6OP8oeTcAhWGvo8KHUeVCncQFjABegQIBxAB&usg=AOvVaw1w4K72zDiFOvvRVnjK0qC2&cf=1

The case of Khan, who is from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, and a crusader against triple talaq, Muslim polygamy and nikah halala brought the issue to the forefront as she claimed that she was subjected to triple talaq and both nikah halala.

At present a case is also being heard at the Supreme Court against nikah halala, in which the Government of India is also a party. The government has decided to incriminate nikah halala.

But Ajmal questions as to why only the issues of Muslim women are singled out by some politicians and not the issues related women of other communities.

I want to question the politicians who want to pass law against nikah halala that what about the issues faced by Hindu women? What about the issues faced by Assamese women? I will support these politicians if they also take up the issues faced by women from other communities, he asserted.

Ajam informs that instant divorce is looked down upon in Shariah and by the Prophet, and that nikah halala was introduced to prevent such sinful practice.Santanu Naik, a former RSS member, said he had submitted documents which prove his father as a voter in Assam, but his name was not in the NRC final draft.

Editor's Note: Of the 4 million who didn't make it to NRC, 2.48 lakh have been marked as 'D' voters. The Supreme Court has asked Assam government not to take any coercive action on those who are found to be without proper documents as required under recent National Register of Citizens. NRC, a product of Assam Accord, is expected to solve the fear of Bangladeshi immigrants that has been prevalent in the state for quite some time now. The Centre proposed in 1999 an updated NRC in Assam to solve the problem of "illegal immigration" and two pilot projects were conducted in Dhubri and Barpeta districts. But breaking out of a riot in Barpeta grounded the project. In 2005, when All Assam Student Union opposed the prime minister's visit to the state, tripartite talk between AASU, State government, and the Centre resulted in a decision to prepare a model for the NRC process, which was delayed yet again by over 5 years by the state government. It was only when Abhijeet Sharma of Assam Public Works (APW), an NGO, filed a writ petition in 2009 that the SC's direct intervention led to the start of NRC process in 2014. Firstpost will run a series which will feature 30 profiles in 30 days of those residents of Assam who have not been covered under the final draft of NRC which will decide if they continue to live in the state that they call 'home'.

***

Silchar: Santanu Naik's roots may be in Gujarat, but for him, Assam  where he was born in 1964  is home. An advocate and a former RSS functionary, Santanu can speak Gujarati, Bengali and Assamese with equal finesse, and participates in Bihu with as much vigour as he does in Durga Puja. But today, he is faced with the prospect of being termed a 'foreigner' in a country where his family has lived for decades.

Santanu, a resident of Silchar, and his two children have been excluded from the final draft of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) released on 30 July.

"I can't think of living anywhere else. Assam is where we belong. Despite being Gujaratis, we never felt like outsiders here. This is a land of diversity, it welcomed us and through the years, we imbibed its culture and tradition," said Santanu, former president (North East zone) of RSS' lawyers' wing Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad.

Santanu's father, Phakor Bhai Naik, was a freedom fighter from Ancheli village in Navsari district, Gujarat, who moved to Assam in 1945. "He was part of a team sent by RSS to spread the message of revolution in these parts. The nation got independence, but my father never left," Santanu said.

He added that he had submitted the documents which prove his father as a voter in Assam, but his name was not in the final draft. His mother and wife, however, made it to the list.

Santanu said he is hopeful of his name being featured in the updated NRC, which is likely to come out in December this year.

"The NRC is a complex procedure. It is an initiative meant to remove illegal immigrants from our country, not genuine citizens. We have documents to prove our citizenship, why should we fear? I'm sure this issue will be resolved and my name, along with my children, will be featured in the updated NRC," he said.

His mother, however, found it hard to share his optimism.

Santa Naik said, "I moved to Silchar from Tripura in the late 1950s after my marriage. Those were turbulent times. A lot of Hindus fled Bangladesh fearing religious persecution. My husband worked tirelessly for their rehabilitation. My son is also working for the betterment of the community and I feel proud of him. But his name, along with those of my grandchildren, did not feature in the NRC draft. My son has assured me that there is nothing to worry. But I can't help feeling anxious."

Santanu is now busy providing free legal aid to others whose names have been left out of the NRC in a camp set up in Barak Valley. The procedure of filing claims and objections began on 10 August.

The camp has been set up by North Eastern Linguistic Ethnic Co-ordination Committee (NELECC), an organisation formed earlier this year in the Barak Valley. Santanu is a part of NELECC, which has raised its voice in support of Hindus who came to India from Bangladesh post-independence. The organisation is working in support of Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2016.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 was introduced in the Lok Sabha to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955. The amendment allows illegal immigrants belonging to minority communities from Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Pakistan to apply for Indian citizenship after six years of their residence in India. These minority communities include Hajongs (Hindus), Sikhs, Chakmas (Buddhists), Jains, Parsis and Christians.

Dhrubendu Shekhar Bhattacharjee, a lawyer in the Supreme Court and member of the NELECC, said, "Many Hindu families from Bangladesh came to India after Partition and it is the responsibility of the Indian government to give them shelter. There were treaties signed by former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and his daughter Indira Gandhi that gave unconditional shelter to persecuted Hindus in India. However, the Assam Accord signed by Rajiv Gandhi has led to harassment of many Hindus for more than three decades. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 will bring them relief."

(The author is a Silchar-based freelance writer and a member of 101Reporters.com)The extent of the effect of Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS) is not commonly discussed or known to many.

The extent of the effect of Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS) is not commonly discussed or known to many. The fact that a woman undergoing PMS is faced with irritability, tension, depression, breast tenderness, bloating and mood swings are things PMS is associated with. But can it actually cause a woman to commit a crime?

In what is a first in Indian jurisprudence, the defence of unsound mind caused due to symptoms of PMS was upheld by the Rajasthan High Court. New questions have emerged in light of the judgment  is there any proximate connection between PMS and insanity? If such a connection could be established by the accused, can it be upheld as a general defence under the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC)?

In popular discourse, the stigma associated with menstruation ensures that the issue is not discussed freely, even among women. The understanding of menstruation and associated symptoms in the general populace is also lacking. The issue remains a closeted topic for discussion, almost exclusively between women. As a consequence, academic and legal research in India suffers from a lack of extensive literature on the topic.

Facts of the case

The prosecution's case was that the accused, while escorting three children back from their school on the pretext of showing them a temple, pushed them into a nearby well. Out of the three, one boy ended up drowning in the well.

The trial court convicted her for murder (Section 302 IPC), attempt to murder (Section 307 IPC) and unlawful compulsory labour (Section 374 IPC). On appeal before the high court, the defence lawyer set up the defence under Section 84 IPC  referring to PMS as a mental disease, and that this was the underlying the cause of the unsoundness of mind.

The appreciation of evidence

While looking into the defence of the accused, the high court accepted the arguments of the accused, relying on the testimonies of various expert witnesses. One of the witnesses, Dr Mahesh Chandra Aggarwal, referred to her condition as "psycho-neurotic disease" resulting out of the premenstrual stage which causes acts of violence and suicide.

Another witness, Dr GB Advani, professor and head of the department of psychiatry at SP Medical College, Bikaner, stated that there are two symptoms of PMS: bodily symptoms and psychological symptoms. He stated that in 5 percent of the cases, women were capable of being psychotic and dangerous to themselves and others.

Curiously, the high court was not inclined to look into the testimony of the children as they felt that there could have been a possibility that they were tutored by the prosecution.

The high court acquitted her and stated that the accused was suffering from unsoundness of mind and was labouring under a defect of reason triggered by premenstrual syndrome.

Literature on the subject

Several authorities were relied on by the high court to understand the nature of PMS in women which stated that behavioural changes induced by PMS can affect females to such an extent that they can commit crimes or engage in unlawful behaviour.

The report further stated that criminal behaviour associated with symptoms of PMS could even be admissible as evidence in trial and might form a plea of insanity for some female offenders.

International stance on PMS and the link to insanity

In Europe, England and France have accepted the concept of PMS syndrome as a form of insanity by reducing the sentence in such cases.

A similar issue regarding the appreciation of evidence in cases involving women undergoing Battered Wife Syndrome (BWS) had previously arisen in foreign jurisdictions. BWS is a scenario where a woman is so traumatised by her partner's abuse that she may believe she is in danger even when she's safe.

Courts in foreign jurisdictions have expressed disagreement on whether the study on such subjects like BWS has been sufficiently developed to permit an expert opinion. The US courts have held in cases such as Ohio vs Thomas, that BWS has to be tested on the touchstone of common accepted scientific knowledge and that it had not attained a sufficient degree of acceptance in the scientific community.

The fallout of the judgment

The high court has now established the phenomenon of PMS triggering violence in women through this judgment, in effect recognising that it is common accepted scientific knowledge. The high courts view is supported by published materials of many researchers who have concluded that PMS may, along with other factors, produce striking personality changes in patients. Research and literature on PMS studies state that release of endocrine during PMS can cause disturbed or even psychotic states in women.

On a positive note, the approach used by the Rajasthan High Court  using expert witness testimonies and placing heavy reliance on academic and research literature, is a welcome step. Lest we forget, a retired judge of the same high court made some rather memorable statements on the reproductive processes of peacocks.

Doubts still remain as to whether PMS will be an accepted form of defence and how the Supreme Court would interpret this issue over time. The accused merely has to establish her defence on the standard of preponderance of probabilities. This means that the accused just needs to prove enough evidence, so as to tip the balance.

Is this a good enough standard of proof for such specific cases like PMS, where establishing a proximate connection with insanity is dubious at this point of time? Whether this opens a can of worms or ushers in a new chapter in criminal jurisprudence is what will intrigue criminal lawyers and jurists alike.

Malavika Rajkumar is a Research Fellow at Nyaaya which is a free, non-profit resource explaining Indian laws. It is one of the verticals of Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy.Uh-oh! It could be you, or it could be us, but there's no page here.President Ram Nath Kovind gave his assent to the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act that seeks to provide stringent punishment or death penalty for raping minor girls

New Delhi: President Ram Nath Kovind has given assent to the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018, that provides for stringent punishment, including death penalty for those convicted of raping girls below the age of 12 years.

The amendment replaces the criminal law amendment ordinance promulgated on 21 April after the rape and murder of a minor girl in Kathua and another woman in Unnao.

"This Act may be called the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018. It shall be deemed to have come into force on the 21st day of April, 2018," a gazette notification said. The Act will further amend the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Indian Evidence Act, 1872, the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012.

The President's assent, given on Saturday, came after Parliament approved the amendments to the law last week.

The Home Ministry drafted Criminal Law (Amendment) Act stipulates stringent punishment for perpetrators of rape, particularly of girls below 16 and 12 years.

Death sentence has been provided for rapists of girls under 12 years. The minimum punishment in case of rape of women has been increased from rigorous imprisonment of seven years to 10 years, extendable to life imprisonment.

According to the new law, in case of rape of a girl under 16 years, the minimum punishment has been increased from 10 years to 20 years, extendable to imprisonment for rest of life, which means jail term till the convicts "natural life". The punishment for gang rape of a girl below 16 years will invariably be imprisonment for the rest of life of the convict.

Stringent punishment for rape of a girl under 12 years has been provided with the minimum jail term being 20 years which may go up to life in prison or death sentence. Gang rape of a girl under 12 years of age will invite punishment of jail term for the rest of life or death, the Act says.

The measure also provides for speedy investigations and trial. It has prescribed the time limit for investigation of all cases of rape, saying it has to be mandatorily completed within two months.

The deadline for the completion of trial in all rape cases will be two months. A six-month time limit for the disposal of appeals in rape cases has also been prescribed.

There will also be no provision for anticipatory bail for a person accused of rape or gang rape of a girl under 16 years.Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Saturday addressed Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad as 'Pandit Ravi Shankar', leaving the senior BJP leader embarrassed.

Guwahati: Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Saturday addressed Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad as "Pandit Ravi Shankar", leaving the senior BJP leader embarrassed.

"I would like to specially thank Pandit Ravi Shankarji," Sonowal said in the beginning of his speech at the launch of the Digital North East Vision 2022 document in Guwahati.

Pandit Ravi Shankar was a sitar maestro, who passed away in 2012.

However, Prasad, who was sitting on the dais, was quick to interrupt Sonowal. "Ah, you made me Pandit!" he quipped, evoking a round of laughter from the audience that included Sonowal's counterparts from Meghalaya and Tripura, along with a host of other ministers and senior bureaucrats.

Rectifying himself, Sonowal continued with his speech, mentioning the proper name and designation of the Union information technology minister.

However, the chief minister tried to defend the blooper in the concluding part of his speech.

"I am sorry for calling you (Prasad) in that way. But whenever I pronounce your name, I have the tendency to call you as Pandit. God has been kind enough to bless you with such wisdom, maturity and courage. You do everything so sincerely. I always feel so (addressing you as Pandit)," he said.

In his speech, Sonowal highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiatives in developing the north-east, especially the connectivity.

Without naming former prime minister Manmohan Singh, he said, "Our representative remained as prime minister for 10 years, but he did not launch any exemplary scheme for the North-East."

Singh was a Rajya Sabha MP from Assam.Tamil Nadu chief minister K Palaniswami on Sunday chaired a meeting of ministers and officials to discuss the next course of action in the Sterlite copper smelter plant closure issue.

Chennai: Tamil Nadu chief minister K Palaniswami on Sunday chaired a meeting of ministers and officials to discuss the next course of action in the Sterlite copper smelter plant closure issue.

In a statement issued here, the government said that Palaniswami chaired a meeting of ministers and officials to decide on the next course of action after the National Green Tribunal's (NGT) orders on the case filed by Vedanta Ltd that owns the Sterlite copper smelter plant in Tuticorin, around 650 kilometres from Chennai.

The NGT on 9 August ordered access to the company officials to the administrative blocks located in the plant premises.

A couple of months back, the state government had ordered the closure of the copper smelter plant following protests and the death of 13 persons in police firing on 22 May in Tuticorin.

The state government release is silent on the next course of action on the NGT order, particularly on the issue of filing an appeal in the Supreme Court.A controversy has arisen over the death of two inmates of a shelter home for differently-abled women with the hospital authorities and Bihar social welfare department providing conflicting narratives and reportedly keeping police in the dark.

Patna: A controversy has arisen over the death of two inmates of a shelter home for differently-abled women with the hospital authorities and Bihar social welfare department providing conflicting narratives and reportedly keeping police in the dark.

The two inmates of the state-run shelter home died under unknown circumstances, a day after a man was arrested for allegedly asking the inmates of the home to escape by luring them with gifts.

The women were staying at 'Aasra' shelter home in Nepali Nagar locality of the city.

Rajiv Ranjan Prasad, superintendent, Patna Medical College and Hospital, said two women, aged 17 and 40 years, were brought to the hospital on the intervening night of 10 and 11 August were declared "brought dead". He said the postmortem examination was conducted Saturday.

Meanwhile, the police have blamed the hospital and shelter home authorities for not informing about the incident to the police station concerned. "It was a lapse on part of the shelter home authorities and the hospital administration as neither of the two informed the police stations concerned before the postmortem was conducted. We came to know about the deaths only this morning," NH Khan, Inspector General of Police (IG), Patna Zone, said.

When asked about the incident, Raj Kumar, director, Social Welfare Department, said, "Our department official who accompanied the two inmates of 'Aasra' shelter home to the hospital claimed that they died during treatment, but the hospital authorities say otherwise". "We have ordered an enquiry into the matter and District Magistrate Kumar Ravi and Senior Superintendent of

Police Manu Maharaj are also personally investigating the matter," he said.

Kumar said body of the 17-year-old inmate was cremated by NGO 'Anumaya' which runs the shelter home. He said the last rites of the second woman were not performed since her religion was not clear. "We have also deputed two officials of our department to join the investigation since questions may be raised over the conduct of the official under whose supervision the women

were taken to the hospital.

"In fact, even after the deaths took place, he informed the department by writing a letter instead of rushing to the directorate or make a telephonic call," Kumar said. The IG said instructions have been issued to conduct a second postmortem on the body of the 40-year-old inmate even as four persons associated with the shelter home were being interrogated. The incident has surfaced at a time when the CBI is investigating another sex scandal at a shelter home in Muzaffarpur in the state.Reacting to Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's corruption allegations in the Rafale deal, the Rajasthan BJP unit on Friday said the issue was thoroughly discussed in Parliament and no irregularities were found.

Jaipur: Reacting to Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's corruption allegations in the Rafale deal, the Rajasthan BJP unit on Friday said the issue was thoroughly discussed in Parliament and no irregularities were found.

"All wrong deeds happened during the Congress rule. Both UPA-1 and UPA-2 dispensation are known for corruption. They do not want to eliminate corruption," state BJP president Madan Lal Saini said at a press conference in Jaipur.

Gandhi on Saturday targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the Rafale aircraft deal as he launched his party's campaign for the Assembly polls later this year in Rajasthan.

Saini also hit out at the Congress chief over the latter's claim that the deal had snatched job opportunities from young Indians, including engineers.

He said the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) government has created many employment opportunities for youths.

"Employment is not limited to government jobs. Several youths have got jobs and are self-employed through skill development programmes," the Rajasthan BJP chief said.

Rajasthan parliamentary affairs minister Rajendra Rathore said the issue of Rafale fighter planes was elaborately discussed in Parliament.

He also claimed that the launch of Congress campaign for the state polls on 11 August was "inauspicious according to Hindu calendar".

it is unfortunate to start any new work on 11 August as per the Hindu calendar, Rathore said.Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao is likely to go for polls along with Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh as he is not keen to get trapped in the binary and polarised narrative set by Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi

Hyderabad: The Chief Minister of Telangana, K Chandrasekhar Rao, will shortly recommend an early dissolution of the Assembly and opt for fresh elections in the state, along with the states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chattisgarh later this year, sources close to the decision have indicated.

Rao, sources close to the inner circles of the Telangana Rashtra Samithi, say, had discussed this with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their recent meeting. Reiterating his consistent support for the idea of One Nation, One Polls, Rao had shown his inclination to wait for elections in the state along with the general elections provided they are completed before end of February 2019.

As per the sources, Modi, while thanking the chief minister for the support for One Nation, One Polls had expressed his unwillingness to alter the schedule of the Lok Sabha elections, post which the TRS chief indicated to Modi that he would like to have elections in his state along with three BJP ruled states slated to go to polls later this year.

There are three broad reasons for the decision of the Telangana chief minister for seeking earlier elections in his state.

Muslim vote

Despite having constantly expressed his support for simultaneous elections, KCR is not keen to get trapped in the binary and polarised narrative set by Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi. Since his own reading is that the campaign would be highly polarised, TRS, which has All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) as an alliance partner in the existing state government, would not like to lose their current support amongst the Muslims in the state.

The Telangana government of TRS, in which the Asaduddin Owaisi-led AIMIM is an ally, has a high support of the minority community but a Congress-led campaign that KCR will join the Modi-led NDA after 2019 elections is denting that support.

"There is little doubt in the minds of the Muslims of Telangana, and the AIMIM, that the TRS led by KCR is a B-team of Modi. Their undeclared partnership, like the secret pact of Stalin and Hitler, is a barter where BJP supports the TRS in the State, and in exchange, TRS supports the BJP at the Centre, said Nalamada Uttam Kumar Reddy, president, Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee.

"KCR wants to go for early elections so that his pink turned saffron hues are not visible to all people," he adds.

Rythu Bandhu

The State of Telangana since its formation, and earlier as a region when it was part of the combined Andhra Pradesh state, has been one of the top three zones of extreme agrarian distress. Since coming to power, KCR has tried to transform the eco-system for agriculture, with irrigation schemes, drinking water schemes, distribution of sheep, loan waiver and the pioneering Rythu Bandhu, where the state sanctioned Rs 4,000 per acre to every farmer as an investment to reduce agri loans burden.

The scheme, a resounding success, had compelled rival Congress to up the ante and declare a loan waiver of up to Rs 2 lakh per farmer.

KCR wants to go for elections while the farmers are in good mood, hoping a good rainfall and a promise of the next instalment after coming to power giving him a huge rural fill-up.

"Our chief minister does not want election after the summer. Come what may, our outer limit was February; and since the Centre is not willing to have general elections even a day before the term is completed, we will go for an October-November schedule, with the three BJP-ruled states, a senior TRS leader said.

Opposition unity

The third major factor that KCR is counting on in going for a surprise election announcement after the Independence Day celebration is to encash on the lack of preparedness of the Congress and its marked disunity amongst its leaders as opposed to an election-ready TRS.

Dismissing all talks of Congress not being prepared, Reddy, said, The Congress party is fully prepared for next elections, whenever they are held. When we launched Praja Chaitanya Bus Yatra in February this year, the first message I gave to my party cadre was to gear up for early polls. There are clear indications that Assembly elections might be held in November or December this year. The KCR government has failed on all fronts. The anti-incumbency is rising with each passing day. TRS MLAs are unable to enter villages in many constituencies because they did not fulfil electoral promises. People have realised they have been cheated by KCR who lured them with tall promises.

Personal challenge

Such is the mood of the Congress, which is now waiting for its national president, Rahul Gandhi, to tour Telangana and its possible victory, that Reddy has stopped shaving his beard for months now.

"I will shave only after the TRS is defeated and Congress comes to power," said Reddy. "Congress is all set to win election at any time from now. Different surveys conducted by various agencies have predicted a clear victory for Congress in Telangana. We will win at least 75 seats if the election is held today.

Countering his boast, KT Rama Rao, the charismatic son of KCR and Minister for IT and Urban Development, said, I will quit from public life if TRS loses this election.

The Congress is hoping the angst amongst the Dalits and students who were promised one job in every family, and two bedroom houses for all, among others, will help its chances. An early election is likely to end internal bickering in Congress and strengthen Reddy.

"Senior Congress leaders who were putting their entire focus and efforts on reaching out to the high command to replace Reddy will now make peace because as PCC president he will have a crucial say in the allotment of tickets," says Mohan Guruswamy, a senior political analyst.

It would be misplaced to think the election is foregone conclusion in favour of the TRS. If the Congress ties-up with Telugu Desam, which still has a huge OBC following and cadre across most districts, they can stun KCR, he informs.

Will KTR retire, or Uttam shave, or will the people of Telangana get an answer in 2018? Or, would they have to wait for longer till 2019? ItT will soon be out.

The writer is author of the bestselling novel, Autobiography of a Mad Nation, long-listed for the MAN Asian Literary prize, and The Spiritual Supermarket. His next novel, One Farmer Less, will be out next.Paresh Rawal sparked off a row after he posted a tweet saying that the exercise of updating the NRC should be made 'mandatory for all states.'

BJP MP and actor Paresh Rawal sparked off a controversy on Sunday after he posted a tweet saying that the exercise of updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) should be made 'mandatory for all states.'

NRC should be made mandatory for all the states .  Paresh Rawal (@SirPareshRawal) August 12, 2018

While some Twitter users expressed their support for his statement, some others criticised his statement, saying that the NRC was borne out of the Assam Accord and thus was relevant only to that state.

This is not the first he has spoken on the Assam NRC issue. On 1 August, Rawal used much more colourful language to comment on the releasing of the draft NRC, saying, "The first trend of 2019 has come out. The Opposition trails by 40 lakh votes." This was a reference to about 40 lakh applicants whose names did not figure in the NRC.

2019       ' ''40  ''      '   Paresh Rawal (@SirPareshRawal) August 1, 2018

His statement came two days after the list was published, generating a political storm in Assam as well as other states.

On many occasions before, Rawal has hit the headlines, and attracted some criticism, over his sardonic comments on various issues. In May 2017, he tweeted saying that writer Arundhati Roy should be tied to an Army jeep  a reference to the incident involving Major Leetul Gogoi using a Kashmiri man as a human shield to deter stone-pelters.

The BJP had then distanced itself from his statement, with party leader Smriti Irani saying, "Nowhere will we, in any way, support any violent message by anybody, against any individual of the country.""

Rawal had also stoked a row with a comment hitting out at the Congress, in which he had said, "Our chaiwala is any day better than your bar-wala."

He later deleted the tweet and issued an apology, saying the statement was in 'bad taste.'Former Union minister Prithviraj Chavan attacked the Central government on Sunday on a number of issues including 'lack of jobs' for the youth.

Nashik: Former Union minister Prithviraj Chavan attacked the Central government on Sunday on a number of issues including "lack of jobs" for the youth.

He alleged the government was pursuing the Bullet train and the Samruddhi Corridor projects which are of no use for the common man.

The bullet train project envisages connecting Mumbai in Maharashtra to Ahmedabad in Gujarat through the high-speed train.

The proposed Sammrudhi Corridor project aims at constructing a mega-highway connecting Mumbai to Nagpur, a distance of over 700 kilometres.

"The BJP governments at the Centre and in Maharashtra have failed to generate jobs for the youth. The situation is also grim on the agriculture front, as farmers are committing suicide due to distress," he said while addressing a function in Nashik city in Maharashtra.

He said the fare of the bullet train will prove "exorbitant" for the common people.

Chavan alleged that people will be made to pay a heavy toll for using the Samruddhi corrdior.

The former chief minister alleged the loan waiver announced by the state government last year is inaccessible for most of the farmers.

"The process to claim the loan waiver is tedious, as the farmers have to fill online application forms containing as many as 66 columns," he alleged.

He also criticised the Centre for "importing 20 lakh tonnes of sugar despite bumper production in the country".Rahul Gandhi on Saturday addressed a gathering of party workers in Rajasthan's Jaipur and hit out at the Narendra Modi government over farmer suicides, unemployment and safety of women.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday addressed a gathering of party workers in Jaipur, during which he hit out at the Narendra Modi government over the Rafale deal, farmer suicides, unemployment and the Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Rahul said that Modi promised two crore jobs, Rs 15 lakh in every bank account and safety of women but, failed on every front.

PM Modi promised 2 crore jobs, 15L in every account and women's safety, but failed in all fronts: Congress President @RahulGandhi #RajWelcomesRahulGandhi pic.twitter.com/mgYLIntsHi  Congress (@INCIndia) August 11, 2018

The Congress party president said that the Rafale deal made by the Modi government to be a scam. Referring to China, he said that the country gives jobs to 50,000 youths in 24 hours, whereas only 450 youths in India get employment in the same span. "The chief minister (Vasundhara Raje) says lakhs of youths were given jobs but, only the youths of Rajasthan know the reality," the Congress chief added.

He also raised the issue of farmer suicides and said he had asked the prime minister for loan waivers for farmers. However, Modi's response was silence, the Congress chief added. He said that when big industrialists are unable to repay their loans, they are termed 'non-performing assets (NPA)' but, when a farmer cannot repay his debt, he is termed a 'defaulter'.

Referring to Modi government's slogan of 'beti bachao, beti padhao', he said that it actually meant 'saving daughters from BJP MLAs'. Women cannot even step out of their houses without fear, the Congress president said, while adding that it is the duty of the prime minister to protect women and farmers.

Attacking the government over the Goods and Services Tax (GST), he said that it became a further burden on small traders after demonetisation. He further said that if voted to power, the Congress party will also bring petrol and diesel under the ambit of the GST.Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore on Sunday took a jibe at Congress president Rahul Gandhi over his temple visit, saying one tends to get worried in difficult times.

Jaipur: Union information and broadcasting minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore on Sunday took a jibe at Congress president Rahul Gandhi over his temple visit, saying one tends to get worried in difficult times.

Jab mushkil aati hai to nani bhi yaad aati hai, Rathore said talking to reporters at Jawahar Kala Kendra where he inaugurated an exhibition on achievements of government. The Congress president had on Saturday visited Govinddevji temple after addressing party workers during his one-day event for launching party's election campaign in Rajasthan where polls are due later this year.

Referring to Rajasthan tourism campaign tagline 'Jane kya dikh jaye', Rathore said that the Congress president is welcome here as the state is beautiful and famous on tourism map. Replying to question, he said the people of the state have been supporting the BJP for a long time.

"BJP has formed government in 20 states and everyone has seen the working style of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and wants to move forward under his leadership, he said.

Rathore also took out a 'Tri-colour Rally' in his parliamentary constituency Jaipur Rural to motivate youths to participate in the country's progress.The TMC on Saturday dubbed the rally of BJP president Amit Shah a 'flop show' and refuted the charge that the TV coverage of his meeting was blacked-out due to pressure from the ruling party.

Kolkata: The Trinamool Congress on Saturday dubbed the rally of BJP president Amit Shah a "flop show" and refuted the charge that the TV coverage of his meeting was blacked-out due to pressure from the ruling party.

Shah, who addressed the rally at Mayo Road in Kolkata on Saturday, criticised the ruling TMC for blacking out news channels which covered his programme.

"You can blackout channels, but our BJP workers will carry my message to every corner of the state," he said at the meeting.

Refuting the charges, the TMC said in a statement, "The BJP has just concluded another flop show in #Bangla. After the flop meeting, BJP is looking for excuses. They are saying their meeting was blacked-out. Black outs and blackmailing is what BJP does. Do not insult the media. All showed. We challenge BJP. Either they prove it or resign".Reuters

Def Con, one of the worlds largest security conventions, served as a laboratory for breaking into voting machines on 10 August, extending its efforts to identify potential security flaws in technology that may be used in the November US elections.

Hackers will continue to probe the systems over the weekend in a bid to discover new vulnerabilities, which could be turned over to voting machine makers to fix.

The three-day Las Vegas-based Voting Village also aimed to expose security issues in digital poll books and memory-card readers.

We see a lot of value in doing things like this. We think its important, said Jeanette Manfra, assistant secretary of cybersecurity and communications at the US Department of Homeland Security, in an interview.

The idea is when we find things here, how do we connect them with the actual vendors and make sure that we are closing this loop back to a coordinated vulnerability disclosure process.

Organizers have returned ahead of the November elections, in which Democrats hope to take control of the US House of Representatives. Trumps national security team last week warned that Russia had launched pervasive efforts to interfere in the elections.

These vulnerabilities that will be identified over the course of the next three days would, in an actual election, cause mass chaos, said Jake Braun, one of the villages organizers. They need to be identified and addressed, regardless of the environment in which they are found.

Participants will have a chance to hack into more than five types of voting machines from manufacturers including Elections Systems & Software and Dominion Voting.

Last year a Danish researcher figured out how to take control of a touchscreen voting system used through 2014 in a remote hack that organizers said could work from up to 1,000 feet away.

A group representing US secretaries of state lauded the goal of bolstering election security but warned that the findings might be skewed.

It utilizes a pseudo-environment which in no way replicates state election systems, networks or physical security, the National Association of Secretaries of State said in a statement.

Verified Voting, an advocacy group that helped organise the hacking village, said that some of the voting machine models being tested are still used to tally votes across the United States.

One system, the Dominion Premier/Diebold AccuVote TSx system, is used in 20 states and 23,784 precincts, according to Verified Voting.Reuters

A US free speech group on Friday asked President Donald Trump to unblock 41 Twitter users after a federal judge in May ordered him to restore access to a group of individuals who filed suit.

US District Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald in Manhattan ruled on 23 May that comments on the presidents account, and those of other government officials, were public forums and that blocking Twitter users for their views violated their right to free speech under the First Amendment of the US constitution.

The Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University on Friday sent the Justice Department a list of 41 accounts that remain blocked from Trumps @RealDonaldTrump account. The seven users who filed suit had their accounts unblocked in June.

As the district court has held, the First Amendment prohibits the president from blocking Twitter users simply because theyve criticized him, said Katie Fallow, senior staff attorney at the Knight Institute.

The White House did not immediately comment on Friday.

The blocked users include a film producer, screenwriter, photographer and author. It appears to us that all or nearly all of these individuals were blocked from the @RealDonaldTrump account because they criticised Trump or his policies, the group said Friday.

The group said the list was not comprehensive.

Trump has made his Twitter account, with 53.7 million followers, an integral and controversial part of his presidency, using it to promote his agenda, announce policy and attack critics. He has blocked many critics, preventing them from directly responding to his tweets.

The Justice Department said in an appeal filed on Tuesday that the ruling was fundamentally misconceived.

The appeal said Trumps account belongs to Donald Trump in his personal capacity and is subject to his personal control, not the control of the government.

The appeal compared Trumps actions to a presidential address by John F Kennedy at his Cape Cod home. It plainly would not violate the First Amendment for him to exclude certain members of the public from his own property because they had previously criticised him, the Justice Department said.

Buchwald rejected the argument that Trumps First Amendment rights allowed him to block people with whom he did not wish to interact.

Trump could mute users, meaning he would not see their tweets while they could still respond to his, she said, without violating their free speech rights.Agence France-Presse

Monsanto's German owners insisted on Saturday that the weed killer Roundup was "safe," rejecting a California jury's decision to order the chemical giant to pay nearly $290 million for failing to warn a dying groundskeeper that the product might cause cancer.

While observers predicted thousands of potential future claims against the company in the wake of Monsanto's defeat, Bayer  which recently acquired the US giant  said the California ruling went against scientific evidence.

"On the basis of scientific conclusions, the views of worldwide regulatory authorities and the decades-long practical experience with glyphosate use, Bayer is convinced that glyphosate is safe and does not cause cancer," the company said in a statement.

It said other court proceedings with other juries might "arrive at different conclusions" than the jury which ruled in the California lawsuit, the first to accuse glyphosate of causing cancer.

Jurors unanimously found that Monsanto  which vowed to appeal  acted with "malice" and that its weed killers Roundup and the professional grade version RangerPro contributed "substantially" to Dewayne Johnson's terminal illness.

Johnson, diagnosed in 2014 with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma  a cancer that affects white blood cells  says he repeatedly used a professional form of Roundup while working at a school in Benicia, California.

"The cause is way bigger than me. Hopefully this thing will get the attention it needs," Johnson, 46, said after the verdict.

Johnson wept openly, as did some jurors, when he met with the panel later.

The lawsuit built on 2015 findings by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, part of the World Health Organisation, which classified Roundup's main ingredient glyphosate as a probable carcinogen, causing the state of California to follow suit.

"We are sympathetic to Mr Johnson and his family," Monsanto said in a statement, but promised to "continue to vigorously defend this product".

"The jury got it wrong," Monsanto vice-president Scott Partridge told reporters.

But Johnson's attorney Brent Wisner said the verdict "shows the evidence is overwhelming" that the product poses danger.

"When you are right, it is really easy to win," he said.

More to come?

Wisner called the ruling the "tip of the spear" of litigation likely to come.

"The jury sent a message to the Monsanto boardroom that they have to change the way they do business," said Robert F Kennedy Jr  an environmental lawyer, son of the late US senator and a member of Johnson's legal team.

"You not only see many people injured, you see the corruption of public officials, the capture of agencies that are supposed to protect us from pollution and the falsification of science," he said.

Carl Tobias, a law professor at the University of Richmond in the US state of Virginia, said the plaintiff's evidence that Monsanto "knew or should have known that Roundup caused his cancer" could benefit those currently seeking damages from Monsanto, as well as encourage new filings.

Tobias said Monsanto's promised appeal could result in the charges being reduced  but said the company "might want to consider settling now, depending on its calculus of the risk that it might lose on appeal and the adverse publicity that might arise from losing or from continuing to contest the verdict."

But he cautioned that settling now could "make it appear that Monsanto believes it has a weak case."

Partridge, meanwhile, announced that Monsanto had no intention of settling the slew of similar cases in the legal queue.

"It is the most widely used and most widely studied herbicide in the world," Partridge said.

'Win for all of humanity'

Roundup is Monsanto's leading product.

"The Johnson vs Monsanto verdict is a win for all of humanity and all life on earth," said Zen Honeycutt, founding executive director of non-profit group Moms Across America.

In France, a leading anti-Monsanto campaigner told AFP that the California ruling would strengthen the resolve of those doing battle with the agrochemicals giant across the world.

"I was thinking of them and I said to myself that this ruling will help them and give them lots of hope," said Paul Francois, author of "A farmer against Monsanto" ("Un paysan contre Monsanto").

France's minister for ecological transition, Brune Poirson, hailed the "historic decision," tweeting that it validated President Emmanuel Macron's push to ban glyphosate use within three years.

Records unsealed previously by a federal court lent credence to Johnson's claims -- internal company emails with regulators suggested Monsanto had ghostwritten research later attributed to academics.

Founded in 1901 in St Louis, Missouri, Monsanto began producing agrochemicals in the 1940s. It was acquired by Bayer for more than $62 billion in June.

Monsanto launched Roundup in 1976 and soon thereafter began genetically modifying plants, making some resistant to Roundup.Agence France-Presse

NASA on Sunday blasted off a $1.5 billion spacecraft toward the Sun on a historic mission to protect the Earth by unveiling the mysteries of dangerous solar storms.

"Three, two, one, and liftoff!" said a NASA commentator as the Parker Solar Probe lit up the dark night sky aboard a Delta IV-Heavy rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida at 3:31 am (0731 GMT).

3-2-1 and we have liftoff of Parker #SolarProbe atop @ULAlaunchs #DeltaIV Heavy rocket. Tune in as we broadcast our mission to touch the Sun: https://t.co/T3F4bqeATB pic.twitter.com/Ah4023Vfvn  NASA (@NASA) August 12, 2018

The unmanned spacecraft aims to get closer than any human-made object in history to the center of our solar system.

While we wait for the main engine to start up again around T+23:19, here are some additional photos of the liftoff. #ParkerSolarProbe #DeltaIVHeavy pic.twitter.com/mYgYgvUevf  NASA_LSP (@NASA_LSP) August 12, 2018

The probe is designed to plunge into the Sun's atmosphere, known as the corona, during a seven-year mission.

It is protected by an ultra-powerful heat shield that can endure unprecedented levels of heat, and radiation 500 times that experienced on Earth.

Strange veil

NASA has billed the mission as the first spacecraft to "touch the Sun."

In reality, it should come within 6.16 million kilometers of the Sun's surface, close enough to study the curious phenomenon of the solar wind and the Sun's atmosphere, known as the corona, which is 300 times hotter than its surface.

The car-sized probe is designed to give scientists a better understanding of solar wind and geomagnetic storms that risk wreaking chaos on Earth by knocking out the power grid.

These solar outbursts are poorly understood, but pack the potential to wipe out power to millions of people.

A worst-case scenario could cost up to two trillion dollars in the first year alone and take a decade to fully recover from, experts have warned.

"The Parker Solar Probe will help us do a much better job of predicting when a disturbance in the solar wind could hit Earth," said Justin Kasper, a project scientist and professor at the University of Michigan.

Knowing more about the solar wind and space storms will also help protect future deep space explorers as they journey toward the Moon or Mars.

Heat shield

The probe is guarded by an ultra-powerful heat shield that is just 4.5 inches (11.43 centimeters) thick, enabling the spacecraft to survive its close shave with the fiery star.

Even in a region where temperatures can reach more than a million degrees Fahrenheit, the sunlight is expected to heat the shield to just around 1,371 degrees Celsius.

If all works as planned, the inside of the spacecraft should stay at just 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

The goal for the Parker Solar Probe is to make 24 passes through the corona during its seven-year mission.

"The sun is full of mysteries," said Nicky Fox, project scientist at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab.

"We are ready. We have the perfect payload. We know the questions we want to answer."

91-year-old namesake

The spacecraft is the only NASA probe in history to be named after a living person  in this case, 91-year-old solar physicist Eugene Parker, who first described the solar wind in 1958.

Parker said last week that he was "impressed" by the Parker Solar Probe, calling it "a very complex machine."

NASA chief of the science mission directorate, Thomas Zurbuchen, said Saturday that Parker is an "incredible hero of our scientific community," and called the probe one of NASA most "strategically important" missions.

Scientists have wanted to build a spacecraft like this for more than 60 years, but only in recent years did the heat shield technology advance enough to be capable of protecting sensitive instruments.

Tools on board will measure high-energy particles associated with flares and coronal mass ejections, as well as the changing magnetic field around the Sun.

A white light imager will take images of the atmosphere right in front of the Sun.

When it nears the Sun, the probe will travel rapidly enough to go from New York to Tokyo in one minute  some 430,000 miles per hour, making it the fastest human-made object.The Babrra massacre of the Khyber Pakhtunwa region is an incident which happened 71 years ago on this day and is rarely mentioned in the history books of either Pakistan or India.

A few days ago, the fourteenth Dalai Lama drew a lot of flak for saying that India would have remained a united country if Muhammad Ali Jinnah would have become the first prime minister of India. He regretted his statement later but the truth remains that many incidents that led to Partition (and followed it) will probably remain buried in the shrouds of time and ignorance. The Babrra Massacre in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region of Pakistan is one such incident, which happened 71 years ago on this day, and is rarely mentioned in the history books of either Pakistan or India. The relatives of the victims, many of whom were part of the Khudai Khidmatgar (Servants of God or Red Shirts) led by Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan also known as Frontier Gandhi, continue to face consequences of the incident till now, years after communal politics divided the vast Indian land into two countries on the world map, and later into three with the formation of Bangladesh in 1971.

A brief history of Khudai Khidmatgars

Back in 1946, the British imperial government were in favour of a separate Muslim land based on religious philosophy. Pakistani socialist, author and son of Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, Khan Abdul Wali Khan, in his book Facts are Facts  The Untold Story of India's Partition, wrote that the first British loyalists formed the Muslim League which sowed the seeds of hatred in the centuries-old pluralistic Indian land. And then with the support of feudal, parachute and planted politicians and religious clergy, the imperialists created a state (Pakistan) based on religious ideology.

Till date, the religious philosophy, upon which Pakistan was crafted in 1947, has not been implemented in the country. The philosophy was probably a mere political slogan for a secular Jinnah and his mates.

The communal tussle, which forced mass migration and killing of innumerable people on both sides of Wagah and Atari, is a part of the shared history of Pakistan and India. The new generation of Pakistanis consider Partition and the consequent violence as a bleak chapter of human history. However, for the Pashtun-dominated North West Frontier Province (NWFP), now part of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province, the history of violence is something they will not forget for a long time to come.

In 1947, the region, neglected by the British, was caught in the power tussle between India and Pakistan, and the Khudai Khidmatgars support for United India left them desolate; on the right side of history but on the wrong side of both Indian and Pakistani governments.

The Khudai Khidmatgars led by Khan (also known locally as Bacha Khan), were always staunch supporters of United India and opposed Lord Mountbatten's plan for a Hindu majority India and a Muslim majority Pakistan.

The NWFP bordered Afghanistan with most of the residents being Pashtun/Pakhtun who spoke Pashto language. The region was deliberately kept backward by the British Raj to be used as a buffer zone because the residents were known for their resistance and warrior approach. Till 1930, there was not much political awareness in the region, but after Bacha Khan launched the Khudai Khidmatgar movement, indigenous people took keen interest in politics and joined him.

In 1937, Khudai Khidmatgars won the election and later in 1946, a year before Pakistan came into being, the party of anti-Partition Khudai Khidmatgars again won with an absolute majority.

But before the official announcement of Pakistan or Partition, the Muslim League started to topple the elected government of Khudai Khidmatgars including using undemocratic ways.

The position of the Muslim League was that since the Khudai Khidmatgars, represented by Bacha Khan, then chief minister of the province, didnt attend the flag-hoisting ceremony of the newly formed state of Pakistan on 14 August, 1947, their loyalties to the nascent country of Pakistan were questionable. This was also the reason why the Pakistan government sacked the provincial government of Bacha Khan.

Others, however, dispute that view. A letter was written by Governor Lockhart to Viceroy Lord Mountbatten, in which he stated: The Muslim League wants to dissolve Khans ministry before 15 August. Hence, I, along with my colleagues, decided that Pakistan government shall find a way for it. But I will be opposing any such act and it will be harmful to Pakistan. (National Archives, Serial No 634, 11 August, 1947, page 161, Special Branch on 7 August).

On 10 August, 1947, Mountbatten wrote to Liaquat Ali Khan, I am instructed by the Secretary of State that dismissing Dr Khans government will be undemocratic and unconstitutional.

For harsher critics of what came next, it was the beginning of horse trading and unconstitutional decisions in Pakistan during Jinnahs life. It is claimed that the new government of Pakistan sacked an elected provincial government. Further, it is said, the process was spearheaded by one of Jinnahs important leaders, Qayyum Khan, in a ruthless manner. It must be noted that until at least 1945, Qayyum Khan himself was part of the Khudai Khidmatgar movement, and even dedicated his lone book (Gold and Guns on the Frontier) to Khan in 1944; he banned in later after becoming he replaced Bacha Khan as the chief minister of the province. It made the non-violent followers of Khudai Khidmatgar (street workers) furious but they did not resort to violence.

In his research paper on the Babrra Massacre, Professor Minhaj-ul-Hassan wrote: In May 1948, the renowned anti-colonial leader of the Khudai Khidmatgars, Bacha Khan, had started his annual visit to villages and towns of NWFP after the participation in Legislative Assembly. He had been arrested in district Kohats Bahadur Khel village for three years under 40 FCR, of British draconian Frontier Crimes Regulations. The authorities in newly-formed Pakistan alleged that Bacha Khan was working on a plan along with the separatist militant Faqir of Ipi to topple the government."

The Khudai Khidmatgars passed four resolutions where they asked the government to provide details of the amount and receipt that Bacha Khan had given to separatist Faqir of Ipi, and that if the charges were proven they would separate from him, while also demanding fresh elections in the country.

The Khudai Khidmatgars workers also announced a peaceful protest against the illegal detention of Bacha Khan.

The State organs were against the protest and the provincial government deployed paramilitary forces and police in the area. They even set their guns and other heavy weapons on different buildings of Babrra village. The Khudai Khidmatgars workers also started to gather on the specific ground.

On the day of Babrra Massacre

On 12 August, 1948, a Khudai Khidmatgar worker, Speen Malang led a protest in Charsadda district of NWFP. As Malang marched holding high a red flag along with other protesters, indiscriminate firing began from the top of Ghazi Gul mosque. Malang fell, but the firing continued killing more than 600 Pashtuns both young and old and injuring over 1,200.

When both Pakistan and India were busy preparing for their first Independence Day celebrations, the Pashtun region of Pakistan was mourning the death of their loved ones.

You have thrown us to the wolves, the historical sentence of Bacha Khan after Congress led by Jawaharlal Nehru voted in support of Lord Mountbatten's plan for Partition, echoed in the surrounding hills that day. No reconciliation took place, unfortunately, and the effects are felt till today.

Muhammad Tahir, a fourth-grade student at the time of the massacre, narrated the tragedy to this scribe in his own words. We were at the school playground when we heard gunfire and thundering of heavy weapons. The teachers rushed us into classrooms, 83-year-old Tahir said.

The firing had taken enough time leaving everyone terrified and unaware of the outside situation, Tahir recalled. He couldnt remember the total time the firing lasted, as the shots ceased and everyone rushed towards their homes.

After the massacre

The main door and other room doors were open, I shouted and cried when I saw no one was inside, Tahir said. Then Tahir ran towards the incident ground where he saw his mother tearing her shawl and bandaging the injured to stop the bleeding. Calling it doomsday, Tahir said wives, sisters, and mothers were wailing, crying and shouting on the 12 August, 1948, "the ugliest day in Pakistans history".

Muflis Durrani's father was a tehsildar during the British rule but he left the illustrious job and started teaching at Azad School, which was formed by Khudai Khidmatgars, and became a freedom fighter. Durrani was also studying in a nearby school. At the time of Babrra Massacre, Durrani was inside the school building. When they visited the spot after the firing had stopped, all they saw were bodies and injured persons lying everywhere, said Durrani.

British atrocities against Pashtuns had continued even after the formation of the State of Pakistan, Durrani informed.

After the shooting, most of the bodies were taken away and thrown into the river, he revealed, explaining why most families couldnt bury their near and dear ones.

Chairman of Pashto Department at Abdul Wali Khan University, professor Sohail Khan, during his research work, met with some of the victim's families.

Sohail recounts meeting Jaypur, 83, at Nowshera district's Mohib Banda village. Jaypur's father Surrendar was a staunch supporter of Khudai Khidmatgars. He was part of the protest and never returned home. Surrendar's body could not be found, like many others, and his death left the family in dire financial straits. For many months, Jaypur visited hospitals and graveyards but couldn't find his father's body.

In Charsadda district's Prang village, 70-year-old Murad Kakas father Sultan Khan was among the protestors. "We were waiting for father in our mud kitchen late in the night. As the disturbing news of shooting came from Babrra, I vaguely recall my mother and grandmother wearing tense faces as father arrived at midnight. My grandmother was very angry at him when my father said that I was busy digging graves and buried more than one person in each grave," Murad Kaka said.

Sohail said that the Qayyum Administration was charging Rs 50 per grave. He added that the government had also collected the expenses for this operation, and even the bullets, from Khudai Khidmatgars workers.

"The Babrra Masssacre was the result of British policy against Red Shirts," Aimal Wali great-grandson of Bacha Khan said.

"They still stigmatise, bomb with suicide bombers and kill us but we remain determined," he said firmly.

"Bacha Khan has prepared a force of non-violent red shirts who dont have a breaking point, dont step back, and dont surrender," said Aimal recalling his great-grandfather's teachings.

Sohail sheds light on the reasons behind the Babrra Massacre, The Pakistani state was created in the name of Islamic welfare and democratic state, it wasnt in favour of selfish politicians, feudal and generals so they introduced a narrative that Pakistan was in the danger of diverting its attention from its problems and promises. Thats why the state's baseless narrative has never been challenged and if anyone does, he/she is labelled a traitor."

The professor says that it's hypocritical how in Pakistan's history books, Jallianwala Bagh massacre is widely publicised but the Babrra tragedy is not even mentioned since the State was involved.

The Indian National Congress, and particularly Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's relations with Bacha Khan didnt remain loyal till the end. Sohail says that because of their bewafai Khudai Khidmatgars faced severe consequences and are still facing it.

It was another day of mourning when Bacha Khan, freed from jail, stood at the site of the massacre with people asking him to take revenge. However, Bacha Khan told Khudai Khitmatgars' workers that all those who want violence should leave him as he has pledged non-violence till his last breath and wont deviate from it.

The Babrra Massacre was never investigated independently, which is why officially the Babrra incident lies under layers of dust even though the Awami National Party (ANP) formed by Bacha Khan and his followers demand a free and transparent inquiry of the bloody incident.

The current editor of Pakhtoon Magazine, which was founded by Bacha Khan in 1928, Hayat Roghani arranges theatre every year to tell the young generations about the sacrifices of Khudai Khidmatgars and state cruelty.

Unfortunately Pashtun freedom fighters are labelled as traitors by the State of Pakistan and thats why Bacha Khan spent 17 years in prison after Partition (he had already spent over 14 years in jail before that), says Roghani.

"Bacha Khan is also deliberately kept out of Pakistani textbooks, but we tell to our young Pashtun that he and his Khudai Khidmatgars are heroes and champion freedom fighters," Roghani added.

Every year, a monument is built at the same spot to keep the history alive and pay tribute to those killed in the massacre. The party workers gather at the famous Ghazi Gul mosque, from where the security forces fired at the protesters and recall the sacrifices for democratic rights and supremacy of the Constitution.

Party general secretary Mian Iftikhar said that for Pashtun, the Babrra massacre is not over yet, as they lost more than 800 workers including the top leaders in a long war against militants and even now in the recent two elections they were not provided a level-playing field.

The author is a Peshawar-based freelance journalist in Pakistan. He tweets @theraufkhanIn 2016, the citizens of the United Kingdom (meaning the residents of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) took part in the 'Brexit' referendum.

Nations usually dont directly take decisions. Democratic nations decide what they are to do through agents  meaning legislators. In places where the executive is elected directly, like the United States, the potential decision-maker announces his or her intent to do certain things, and that manifesto becomes the basis for choosing them.

Once in office, they are expected to carry out the promises made in the manifesto. The complaint from American voters one hears of most often is that Washington does not change and does not listen to them. Candidates make promises but do not carry them out.

The reason is not that politicians ignore their electorates, but that once they are elected, their manifestos encounter reality. Mature democracies do not usually have the space for great change, because it is rarely the case that the talents of one individual of genius are awaited.

The only time nations take decisions directly is through a referendum. A referendum is a general vote on a single political question, usually with a yes/no answer that the nation must provide.

In 2016, the citizens of the United Kingdom (meaning the residents of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) took part in a referendum. The question they had to answer was: Should the United Kingdom remain a member of the European Union or leave the European Union?

Two boxes were provided below for the voter to tick with the options: Remain in the European Union and Leave the European Union.

As readers may know, the Britishers chose to leave the European Union, of which they had been a part since 1973, by around 52 percent to 48 percent.

The main reasons that Britishers wanted to leave Europe were two. First that their rural areas had seen a lot of migration from Eastern Europe, mainly Poland. This was legal migration. The idea of a European Union revolves around what is called the Four Freedoms. These are the free movement of goods, services, people and capital.

European citizens can stay, work in and invest wherever in Europe that they want to, without much restriction. They can also import and export from another European country without customs or any checks.

Poland joined the European Union in 2004, and over 8 lakh of them today live and work in the United Kingdom. Many of them are unskilled or semi-skilled workers who labour on farms. There was some resentment towards such people, particularly in the rural areas that later voted overwhelmingly in favour of leaving the European Union, or Brexit, meaning the British exit from the EU.

The second reason that some Britishers felt offended was that the European Union has a common set of laws and rules that member states have to follow. For example on human rights. No EU state can have the death penalty, for example. In the area of business and commerce, the EU set up a list of common standards that all its member states had to follow.

Looking at it from the outside, it seems that these were beneficial things, but to some Britishers, it felt that this was an intrusion on their sovereignty. For these reasons, the British voted to leave the EU.

The Brexit vote happened more than two years ago, in June 2016. But the United Kingdom has still not managed to negotiate the terms of its new relationship with Europe. One of the most difficult sticking points is about Northern Ireland.

As we know, England is part of an island, to the left of the coast of Western Europe. To Englands left is another island, Ireland. This is divided into two parts. About 80 percent of the country is the Republic of Ireland, which is an independent nation and member of the European Union. About 20 percent is Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom. The population of Northern Ireland has a mix of Protestants and Catholics unlike the Republic of Ireland, which is almost entirely Catholic. The United Kingdom is, of course, mostly Protestant (under the Church of England). In many ways, the issue resembles that of India, Kashmir and Pakistan.

Anyway, in 1998, meaning 20 years ago, after decades of fighting and killing, the three parties agreed to a peace called the Good Friday Agreement. Under it, the border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland would be opened up fully and there would be free movement. Because both the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom were members of the European Union, this made even more sense.

For 20 years this arrangement was followed and peace has held.

Now, with the United Kingdom wanting to leave the EU and its single market, the question of the border between the UK (including Northern Ireland) and the EU (including the Republic of Ireland) has reappeared.

Once the UK leaves, and this will happen at 11 am on 29 March, 2019, there will have to be visa checks and customs checks between the two entities. This will inevitably produce the same sort of anger that led to the violence of the past when some Irish thought that they were being separated or being kept apart deliberately.

This is the sort of thing that the UK population had not fully considered when it decided to vote to leave the European Union. It will be fascinating to see how the UK is able to manage this problem and that of its access to the worlds best market, in a few months as it finds its way in the world alone.A bus driver in UK's Easton demanded a 20-year-old woman to remove her niqab and accused her of being a 'terrorist'

London: A niqab-wearing Muslim woman in the UK was treated like a "terrorist" after a bus driver demanded that she should remove her face cover over safety fears as he felt that she could "bomb the bus", according to media reports.

The woman, who was travelling on the First bus 24 from Easton to Bristol city centre, said she was shocked when the driver began berating her for wearing the niqab - a face veil that leaves the area around the eyes clear - soon after she boarded the bus with her two-month-old baby, BBC reported.

The 20-year-old woman said the driver told her "this world is dangerous" and demanded to see her face, it added.

"He said I was scary and I was dangerous, and he kept talking about it during the journey. He was insinuating I was going to bomb the bus. How is that possible, when I've got a baby with me?," she was quoted as saying by the Bristol Live.

"He (the driver) continued to insult me, and he made me out to be a terrorist, and kept saying everyone should see each other's faces. He asked why I was wearing a balaclava," she added. "I've been humiliated in public, and I'm disappointed. It's 2018, we shouldn't be like that. I'm being stereotyped."

However, the First Bus has now apologised, saying the driver made a huge mistake and has been censured through the company's disciplinary procedures.

"We would like to fully and unreservedly apologise to the customer for the distress caused when one of our drivers expressed his personal opinions," said a spokesman for the First Bus.

"The driver behaved in an offensive fashion that in no way reflects our deeply held values as an inclusive company which welcomes all people, irrespective of background, race, nationality or religion as customers or employees."

Other passengers on the bus - one of whom was wearing a hijab, a headscarf worn by Muslim women - jumped to the defence of the humiliated young mother.

The woman wearing a hijab confronted the driver, saying: "I don't understand why you care how she's dressed. It's her choice what she wears."

The driver responded: 'I care because this world is dangerous... we should see our faces.Congo faces its tenth outbreak of Ebola, killing 11. The war zone witnessed WHO officials fanning out to contain the disease

Beni (Congo): In a new reminder of the dangers in containing an Ebola outbreak in a war zone, suspected rebels killed seven civilians overnight in northeastern Congo and sent local residents fleeing, an official said.

Global health officials have warned that combating this outbreak is complicated by the presence of multiple armed groups in the mineral-rich region and a restless population that includes 1 million displaced people and scores of refugees leaving for nearby Uganda every week.

The insecurity means health workers might have to change a vaccination strategy that proved successful in Congo's previous Ebola outbreak, the World Health Organization's (WHO) emergency preparedness chief Dr. Peter Salama said yesterday.

The so-called "ring vaccination" approach of first vaccinating health workers, contacts of Ebola victims and their contacts might have to give way to the approach of vaccinating everyone in a certain geographic area such as a village or neighborhood.

That would require a larger number of vaccine doses.

Vaccinations began Wednesday in the current outbreak, which was declared on 1 August and has killed 11 people in the densely populated region. WHO has said more than 3,000 Ebola vaccine doses are available in Congo.

While Congo's previous Ebola outbreak, declared over barely a week before the current one began, set off alarm by spreading to a city of more than 1 million on the other side of the country, the current outbreak comes with the threat of armed attack.

The overnight assault that killed seven people in Mayi-Moya, about 40 kilometers (24 miles) from Beni city, was likely carried out by rebels with the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), the administrator of Beni territory, Donat Kibwana, told The Associated Press. The rebels have killed more than 1,500 people in and around Beni in less than two years.

The rebels sent the local population fleeing, Kibwana said. Beni residents already had been shaken by the discovery on Tuesday of 14 bodies of civilians who had been seized by suspected ADF rebels.

The latest attack occurred as the WHO director-general, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, was visiting the area to see the response to the Ebola outbreak, which is being carried out in some cases under armed escort. United Nations (UN) peacekeepers, Congolese police and at times Congolese troops have been traveling with convoys of health workers as they fan out to contain the outbreak. Hospitals are guarded by Congolese police and military police.

"This will be a highly complex operation because it is occurring in an area that has been embroiled in armed conflict for 20 years," said Hanna Leskinen, a spokeswoman for the International Committee of the Red Cross. "People are regularly moving as waves of violence force new communities to flee.

This makes tracing infected cases much harder." Health care workers may be forced to flee as well, she said.

Parts of North Kivu province, where most of the Ebola cases have been reported, have been inaccessible to aid groups because of the fighting, Leskinen said.

"It is critical that the disease is contained before it spreads to areas where there is more active fighting or it will be incredibly challenging to reach those in need (and) ensure safe vaccination campaigns," she said. That includes keeping the vaccines at the optimal temperature of minus 70 degrees Celsius (minus 158 degrees Fahrenheit), a challenge in a region with hot temperatures and unreliable power supplies.

So far, Congo's health ministry has said 48 cases of hemorrhagic fever have been reported in this outbreak, 21 of them confirmed as Ebola.

Nearly 1,000 people are being monitored. Screenings for the virus are being carried out at the heavily traveled border; officials have said travel restrictions are not necessary.

This is Congo's tenth outbreak of Ebola, which is spread via contact with bodily fluids of those infected, including the dead. There is no licensed treatment, and the virus can be fatal in up to 90 percent of cases, depending on the strain.DUBAI (Reuters) - Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called for 'swift and just' legal action after the head of the judiciary said the country faced an 'economic war', state television reported. The comments followed a public outcry over the high cost of living and alleged financial corruption. 'The current special economic conditions are considered an economic war,' judiciary chief Ayatollah Sadeq Amoli Larijani said in a letter to Khamenei, calling for the setting up of special courts to deal quickly with financial crimes, the television report said

DUBAI (Reuters) - Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called for "swift and just" legal action after the head of the judiciary said the country faced an "economic war", state television reported.

The comments followed a public outcry over the high cost of living and alleged financial corruption.

"The current special economic conditions are considered an economic war," judiciary chief Ayatollah Sadeq Amoli Larijani said in a letter to Khamenei, calling for the setting up of special courts to deal quickly with financial crimes, the television report said.

Khamenei agreed, saying: "The purpose (of the courts) should be to punish those guilty of corrupt economic practices quickly and fairly," the TV added.

(Reporting by Dubai newsroom; editing by David Stamp)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.Ivanka Trump condemned the Charlottesville white supremacist rally that took place in 2017. She tweeted that there was no place for 'racism' and 'neo-nazism' in US

Washington: Ivanka Trump, President Donald Trump's daughter and a White House adviser, explicitly condemned "white supremacy, racism and neo-nazism" late Saturday in a manner her father seems reluctant to do.

The tweets come on the anniversary of deadly unrest triggered by a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. A similar far-right rally is scheduled for Sunday outside the White House.

"One year ago in Charlottesville, we witnessed an ugly display of hatred, racism, bigotry and violence," Ivanka Trump tweeted.

"While Americans are blessed to live in a nation that protects liberty, freedom of speech and diversity of opinion, there is no place for white supremacy, racism and neo-nazism in our great country. Rather than tearing each other down with hatred, racism & violence, we can lift one another up, strengthen our communities and strive to help every American achieve his or her full potential!" she said.

The tweets are notable because her father drew scorn after the Charlottesville bloodshed for initially avoiding any condemnation of the torch-bearing white supremacists who took part in that rally.

President Trump was roundly condemned for saying that there were "very fine people, on both sides" among the racists and the counter-protesters.

Two days later, after a firestorm of criticism, the president said: "Racism is evil and those who cause violence in its name are criminals and thugs, including the KKK, neo-Nazis, white supremacists, and other hate groups."

On Saturday the president issued a generic condemnation of racism in one of seven tweets of the day. "The riots in Charlottesville a year ago resulted in senseless death and division," he wrote.

"We must come together as a nation. I condemn all types of racism and acts of violence. Peace to ALL Americans!"Myanmar had asked Bangladesh to stop providing aid to 6,000 Rohingyas stranded on the border between the two countries since a military crackdown prompted a mass exodus of the Muslim minority in 2017

Dhaka: Myanmar had asked Bangladesh to stop providing aid to 6,000 Rohingya stranded on the border between the two countries since a military crackdown prompted a mass exodus of the Muslim minority in 2017, the foreign ministry in Dhaka said.

The group refused to enter Bangladesh in the months during and after Myanmar's military campaign, which drove 700,000 other Rohingya across the frontier in an act the United Nations, United States and other western countries have condemned as ethnic cleansing.

They are now stuck in a narrow "no mans land" relying on international aid sent by Bangladesh.

"Myanmar called for the aid to be halted in talks between Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali and Myanmar's top diplomatic envoy, Kyaw Tint Swe, in Myanmar's capital Napyidaw on Friday," the foreign ministry said late Saturday.

"Myanmar particularly requested Bangladesh to stop providing humanitarian assistance to those people... and proposed to arrange supply of humanitarian assistance from Myanmar side," the ministry said.

According to the ministry, Bangladesh made no commitment but "responded positively" to Myanmar's proposal to conduct a survey of the no mans land area.

A Myanmar minister on a visit to the strip of land earlier in 2018 warned the Rohingya refugees that they will face "consequences" if they do not take up a Myanmar offer to return.

Dil Mohammad, a Rohingya community leader among the group on the border, told AFP the latest pressure from Myanmar to vacate the no mans land area would add to their hardship.

"There will be uncertainty whether Myanmar will regularly provide us with food and humanitarian assistance. If Bangladesh stops helping us from their side, we will have a huge problem," he said.

Kyaw Tint Swe, a minister in the office of Myanmar's de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi, also made a new pledge to speed up implementation of a repatriation deal agreed with Bangladesh in November.

Myanmar committed to taking the Rohingya back in that deal, but none have returned.

Rohingya leaders say that those sheltering at overflowing refugee camps in Bangladesh will not go back until their safety is guaranteed.

The majority of Myanmar's Rohingya fled the country following a crackdown that started August 2017 after attacks by Rohingya militants on police posts.

They have joined about 300,000 in camps around Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar district who fled earlier waves of violence in Myanmar.

Myanmar views the Rohingya as illegal migrants and has long denied them citizenship and basic rights, despite their long roots in the country's west.As PTI ally Pervez Elahi of Pakistan Muslim League will also vacate his two National Assembly seats after deciding to sit in the Punjab Assembly,

Islamabad: Pakistan's newly-elected Parliament is meeting on Monday for the first time to start the process of transition and handing over powers to the new government.

President Mamnoon Hussain has already summoned the maiden session of National Assembly, the lower house, at 10 am in Parliament House. According to law, the speaker of the previous Assembly, Ayaz Sadiq, will administer the oath to the new lawmakers, followed by election of the speaker and the deputy speaker. After the election of the new speaker, the outgoing speaker will give him the oath and hand over charge of the new house.

Prime Minister-in-waiting Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) emerged as the single largest party with 116 seats in the 25 July election. Its tally increased to 125 after nine independent members joined it. The final tally of the PTI has reached 158 after it was allowed 28 out of 60 seats reserved for women.

The party is still 14 short of simple majority of 172 in the house of 342. But it has support of several smaller parties and it is expected to get support of at least 180 lawmakers in the election for speaker, deputy speaker and prime minister.

PTI spokesman Fawad Chaudhry said the party has already nominated Khan as Prime Minister and Asad Qaisar as speaker. It has not announced the candidate for deputy speaker so far.

Party sources said the cabinet list has not been finalised but there is general consensus that Shah Mahmood Qureshi will be the new foreign minister and Pervez Khattak as interior minister. Asad Umar is expected to get the key post of finance minister and Khan is also expected to appoint prominent businessman Abdul Razzak Dawood as advisor on finance. Dawood served in the cabinet of former military dictator Pervez Musharraf.

Chaudhry said that PTI has decided to invite Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) chief Shehbaz Sharif and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for Khan's oath taking ceremony as Prime Minister. It is not clear if they will attend the ceremony scheduled to take place on 18 August in the President House.

There are reports that President Hussain has cancelled his three-day trip to Ireland to administer the oath to the new prime minister. Meanwhile, leaders of PML-N and PPP have met in Lahore to decide their strategy for the first session. The two parties have decided to field joint candidates for posts of speaker, deputy speaker and prime minister.

The PML-N has a final tally of 82 seats after the addition of 18 reserved seats including 16 for women and two for non-Muslims and PPP has 53 with addition of 11 reserved seats, nine for women and two for non-Muslims.

The Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal (MMA) now has 15 seats after the addition of three reserved seats, two for women and one for non- Muslim. The combined strength of the major Opposition parties will be at least 150.

The actual strength of PTI will be reduced to 152 because Khan won on five seats but will have to vacate four seats before taking the oath. Two other PTI leaders won on two seats each and will vacate the additional seats. This means that the total strength of the house will be reduced from 342 to 336 after the seats are vacated.

As PTI ally Pervez Elahi of Pakistan Muslim League will also vacate his two National Assembly seats after deciding to sit in the Punjab Assembly, while elections were not held on two seats and result of one seat has been delayed due to litigation, the final strength of the house will further come down to 331. Hence, a winning candidate will need support of 166 lawmakers instead of 172. It means PTI still needs support of 14 members of smaller parties and joint Opposition needs 16.

On paper, the PTI is expected to carry the day by a thin margin due to open support of several small parties but still a tough competition is expected for the top posts of speaker and prime minister. These parties include Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) with seven seats, Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) with five, Balochistan National Party (BNP) with four, Pakistan Muslim League (PML) with three, Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) with three, and Awami Muslim League and Jamori Watan Party have one each.

But still the PTI will be heavily dependent on the smaller parties and its government may be virtually at their mercy.

As far as provincial Assemblies are concerned, PTI is leading in Punjab with 179 seats in the house of 371 but it has not so far announced its chief ministerial candidate. Reportedly, several leaders are in the running for the coveted seat, which is second only to the premier in importance.

In Sindh, PPP is leading with 97 seats in the house of 168, in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, PTI is in clear majority with 84 seats in the house of 124, while Balochistan Awami Party has 20 seats in majority in the house of 65 in Balochistan and is expected to form the government with support of PTI and other parties.At least six people, including three Chinese nationals, were wounded in a suicide attack on a bus in southwestern Pakistan on Saturday, officials said.

Quetta: At least six people, including three Chinese nationals, were wounded in a suicide attack on a bus in southwestern Pakistan on Saturday, officials said.

An attacker struck the vehicle in the Dalbandin region of Balochistan province, as it transported Chinese engineers working on a mining project in the area.

Local administration and police officials told AFP that three Chinese nationals, two paramilitary soldiers from their security detail, and the bus driver were wounded in the attack.

"The attacker, waiting in a small truck along the route... (detonated) the vehicle when the bus carrying Chinese engineers came close to him," said Dostain Dashti, a senior police officer in the region, around 340 kilometres (210 miles) southwest of the provincial capital Quetta.

Saifullah Khaitran, a senior local administration official, confirmed the attack, adding that all the injured were in stable condition.

Balochistan is home to a long-running ethnic insurgency aimed at seeking greater control over the province's abundant mineral resources.

The engineers were working on the Saindak project, Khaitran said, a joint venture between Pakistan and China to extract gold, copper and silver from an area close to the Iranian border.

Muhammad Ibrahim, the driver of the targeted bus, told AFP from his hospital bed that he had averted major loss by slamming the brakes before the bus hit the attacker's vehicle.

"The whole bus would have burnt if I had not applied the brakes," he said.

Ethnic Baloch insurgents later claimed responsibility for the attack.

"We targeted this bus which was carrying Chinese engineers," Jihand Baloch, a spokesperson for Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), told AFP by phone.

"We attacked them because they are extracting gold from our region, we won't allow it."

Bordering Iran and Afghanistan, Balochistan is the largest of Pakistan's four provinces, and many of its residents have long complained that it does not receive a fair share of its mineral wealth.

Pakistan regularly accuses its eastern neighbour India of funding and arming Baloch separatists, and of targeting development projects in the province.

Beijing has ramped up investment in its South Asian neighbour's infrastructure as part of an ambitious plan to link its far-western Xinjiang region to the Arabian Sea port of Gwadar in Balochistan.This is not the first time that Saudi Arabia has come to Pakistans rescue. The close ties between the two countries began during Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto's tenure.

The Saudi Arabia-backed Islamic Development Bank (IDB) is expected to grant Pakistan a loan of around $4 billion to repair the countrys acute balance of payments problem. This much-needed financial assistance will enhance Riyadhs influence when Imran Khan takes over as prime minister of nuclear-armed Pakistan. Pakistan has also returned the favour by supporting Saudi Arabia in its diplomatic fight with Canada over the release of womens rights activist Samar Badawi.

The Saudi loan would be in addition to a $12 billion bailout package being sought from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Pakistans foreign exchange reserves have plummeted so much over the past year that Chinese loans have kept the country afloat.

Pakistani currency has been devalued four times since December last year.

The unintended consequence of the IDBs loan would be to relieve the pain on Pakistan being currently inflicted by American actions. Washington has not only withheld hundreds of millions of dollars in security aid to Islamabad, but is taking punitive actions to pressurise Pakistan to take decisive action over terror sanctuaries.

This is not the first time that Saudi Arabia has come to Pakistans rescue. In 2014, Riyadh had gifted Islamabad $1.5 billion to shore up its foreign currency reserves. The close ties between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan began during the tenure of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto. According to a CIA report, Bhutto had 'obtained assurances of generous aid from Saudi Arabia' during a state visit in 1975. In exchange for such support, Pakistan 'furnished military technicians and advisers to the armed forces of Saudi Arabia.' Pakistan helped the Saudis free the Grand Mosque in Mecca in 1979 and stationed its military forces on their territory during the Iran-Iraq War. Most of the troops were recalled after the war ended in 1988, but a smaller contingent stayed on.

Both countries co-operated very closely in supporting the Afghan Mujahideen in their so-called jihad against the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan. Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), with support from America and Saudi Arabia, helped the Afghan resistance to force the USSR to withdraw in 1989. The Saudi leadership enjoys excellent ties with Pakistans military and political leadership. When former prime minister Nawaz Sharif was overthrown in a military coup in 1999 by General Pervez Musharraf, it was Saudi Arabia which provided him with political asylum.

When the Taliban movement had captured Kabul, it was only three countries  Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates  which offered them recognition as the legitimate rulers of Afghanistan. Saudi Arabia largely went along with Islamabads policies in managing relations with the new Afghanistan. Riyadh has been anxious to restrict Tehrans role in Afghanistan, and by extension over Pakistans Shia population.

Pakistans ill-gotten nuclear weapons also bind Islamabad and Riyadh together. Pakistan is the only country that can potentially provide Saudi Arabia with nuclear weapons, or with a nuclear umbrella. It needs to be recalled that Riyadh had provided liberal aid to Islamabad for the development of an 'Islamic bomb.' When Washington imposed severe economic sanctions against Pakistan for carrying out nuclear tests in 1998, it was Riyadh which had come to Islamabads rescue. Visits by the Saudi defence minister to the Pakistani nuclear research centre in 1999 and 2002 had underlined the closeness of their relationship. In his book titled 'Eating the Grass: The Making of the Pakistani Bomb', a Pakistani Major General, Feroz Hassan Khan, clearly mentions: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have extremely close military ties and several formal defence agreements. Saudi Arabia provided generous financial support to Pakistan that enabled the nuclear programme to continue, especially when the country was under sanctions. Hassan has also disclosed that when an air alert was declared over all military and strategic installations in Pakistan on 28 May 1998, it was based on an intelligence tip-off from Saudi Arabia.

The thinking in Saudi Arabia is that in the event of an Iranian nuclear attack, Pakistans nuclear umbrella will protect the kingdom in one way or another. Moreover, nuclear weapons deployed on Saudi territory and managed by Pakistan can also reinforce Islamabads second-strike capabilities and can be used as a hedge to neutralise Indias potential nuclear first strike.

The primary reason behind Saudi Arabias recent courting of Imran Khan is bitter rival Iran. Riyadh is not sure what his policy would be towards Iran. In the post-election televised speech, Imran mentioned Pakistans ties with both Riyadh and Tehran, while expressing his desire 'to improve ties with Iran.' He further noted that, Saudi Arabia is a friend who has always stood by us in difficult times. Both Riyadh and Tehran have invited Imran to visit their countries.

Saudi Arabia views Pakistan as an important strategic tool in helping contain Iranian influence. Saudi Arabias considerable religious influence in Pakistan is also because of having the most important Islamic holy sites. Over the years, Riyadh has promoted the Wahabi strain of Islamic orthodoxy through liberal financial donations to mosques and madrasas in Pakistan. Many violent sectarian groups of Pakistan have long been recipient of Saudi benevolence. The Saudi royal family still walks a tightrope between the liberalisation necessary for economic development and conservative demands of the Wahabi movement.

Despite very close relations, Pakistan opted out of the Arab coalition fighting in Yemen since 2015 against the Iranian-supported Shiite forces. This refusal was sufficient to spark friction between Islamabad and Riyadh, leading to erosion of trust between Pakistan and the Gulf countries. In fact, there was a sense of shock over Pakistan daring to choose neutrality in a confrontation with Iran. But Pakistan partially reversed that decision, most likely to placate the Saudis. The head of the Saudi-led Islamic Military Counter-terrorism Alliance is the former Pakistan Army chief General Raheel Sharif, underlining the strategic partnership between the two countries. Pakistans military establishment has been prompted to counterbalance Indian influence in Saudi Arabia in a more vigorous manner.

Riyadh has been developing a multi-faceted partnership with New Delhi. Counter-terrorism is one of the areas where cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia has been increasing since the India visit of then Saudi King Abdullah in 2006. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modis April 2016 visit to Saudi Arabia further cemented this partnership. During his visit, both the countries condemned terrorism and decided to enhance their counter-terrorism cooperation.

The joint statement between the two leaders called on all states to reject the use of terrorism against other countries; dismantle terrorism infrastructures where they happen to exist and to cut off any kind of support and financing to the terrorists operating and perpetrating terrorism from their territories against other states; and bring perpetrators of acts of terrorism to justice. The reference to terrorism was interpreted as directed against Pakistan, whose enduring rivalry and strategic competition with neighbouring India has proved very dangerous for regional security.

India has been suffering from terrorism, financed and supported by Pakistans state and non-state actors. Therefore, security cooperation and intelligence sharing are important elements of the partnership that New Delhi and Riyadh are trying to forge. The Saudis have put some Pakistani terror groups on lists of groups deemed a threat to the kingdom. The Saudi government has been frequently helping India apprehend key terror suspects. In 2012, Saudi Arabia arrested and deported Zabiuddin Ansari alias Abu Jundal, who had travelled to Saudi Arabia on a Pakistani passport. The Saudi authorities also deported a suspected founding member of the Indian Mujahideen (IM), Fasih Mehmood, for the 2010 blast in Bangalore. In December 2016, Saudi Arabia deported a ring leader of fake Indian currency note racket, Abdul Salam, who was arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) upon his return to India. In the first week of August, a suspected terrorist belonging to the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) has been arrested by the NIA after Saudi Arabia deported him.

The political leaderships of India and Saudi Arabia have been focusing on the positive aspects of their bilateral relationship. Saudi Arabia has emerged as Indias fourth largest trade partner after China, the US and the UAE. The volume of bilateral trade during 2016-17 stood at around $25 billion. Indias growing proximity with the US, Saudi Arabias oldest and principal ally, has also contributed to New Delhis growing warmness with Riyadh. Recently, Washington was instrumental in persuading Riyadh to withdraw its crucial support to Islamabad, which eventually led to Pakistan being officially placed on the Financial Action Task Forces (FATF) grey list in June.

The increased focus on security and counter-terrorism cooperation suggests an increasingly maturing relationship between India and Saudi Arabia that has moved beyond energy partnership. But that is unlikely to impact Riyadhs unique relationship with Islamabad, which continues to reiterate its commitment to Saudi Arabias territorial integrity. Despite recent irritants in the Saudi-Pakistani relationship, New Delhi needs to be realistic about the limits of weaning Riyadh away from Islamabad.President Donald Trumps administration has quietly started cutting scores of Pakistan officers from coveted training and educational programmes that have been a hallmark of bilateral military relations for more than a decade.

Islamabad/Washington: President Donald Trumps administration has quietly started cutting scores of Pakistani officers from coveted training and educational programmes that have been a hallmark of bilateral military relations for more than a decade, US officials say.

The move, which has not been previously reported, is one of the first known impacts from Trumps decision this year to suspend US security assistance to Pakistan to compel it to crack down on Islamic militants.

The Pentagon and the Pakistani military did not comment directly on the decision or the internal deliberations, but officials from both countries privately criticised the move.

US officials, speaking to Reuters on the condition of anonymity, said they were worried the decision could undermine a key trust-building measure. Pakistani officials warned it could push their military to further look to China or Russia for leadership training.

The effective suspension of Pakistan from the US governments International Military Education and Training program (IMET) will close off places that had been set aside for 66 Pakistani officers this year, a State Department spokesperson told Reuters.

The places will either be unfilled or given to officers from other countries.

Dan Feldman, a former US special representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, called the move very short-sighted and myopic.

This will have lasting negative impacts limiting the bilateral relationship well into the future, Feldman told Reuters.

The State Department spokesperson, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the IMET cancellations were valued at $2.41 million so far. At least two other programmes have also been affected, the spokesperson said.

It is unclear precisely what level of military cooperation still continues outside the IMET programme, beyond the top level contacts between US and Pakistani military leaders.

The US military has traditionally sought to shield such educational programmes from political tensions, arguing that the ties built by bringing foreign military officers to the United States pay long-term dividends.

For example, the US Armys War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, which would normally have two Pakistani military officers per year, boasts graduates including Lieutenant General Naveed Mukhtar, the current director-general of Pakistans powerful spy agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence agency (ISI).

The War College, the US Armys premier school for foreign officers, says it has hosted 37 participants from Pakistan over the past several decades. It will have no Pakistani students in the upcoming academic year, a spokeswoman said.

Pakistan has also been removed from programmes at the US Naval War College, Naval Staff College and courses including cyber security studies.

'Lies and deceit'

In his first tweet of 2018, Trump slammed Pakistan, saying the country has rewarded past US aid with nothing but lies & deceit. Washington announced plans in January to suspend up to roughly $2 billion in US security assistance to Pakistan.

But weeks later, Pakistans foreign secretary was quoted by local media saying that Islamabad had been told the United States would continue funding IMET programs.

Officially allies in fighting terrorism, Pakistan and the United States have a complicated relationship, bound by Washingtons dependence on Pakistan to supply its troops in Afghanistan but plagued by accusations Islamabad is playing a double game.

Tensions have grown over US complaints that the Afghan Taliban militants and the Haqqani network that target American troops in Afghanistan are allowed to shelter on Pakistani soil.

Current and former US officials said Defense Secretary Jim Mattis argued against excluding Pakistani officers from IMET courses.

I am shocked... We worked so hard for this to be the one thing that got saved, said a former US defence official, who was involved in the conversations.

The Pentagon declined to comment on internal government discussions, but Dana White, a Pentagon spokeswoman, said Mattis long believed in the value of the IMET programme as a way to build relations between foreign militaries.

Pakistani Senator Mushahid Hussain, chairman of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, told Reuters that a US decision to cut off such exchanges would be counter-productive and push Pakistans military towards other countries.

It is one of those silly, punitive measures that they have deployed, said Hussain, who sat next to a Chinese and Pakistani flag in his office.

Russia and Pakistan signed an agreement earlier this week that would allow for Pakistani military officers to train at Russian institutes.

Pakistans military has ruled the country for about half of its history and traditionally seen the countrys foreign policy in its domain.

IMET courses have been able to withstand poor relations between the two countries in the past, even after Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was killed in a US Navy SEAL raid in the Pakistani town of Abbotabad in 2011.

A NATO helicopter raid killed 28 Pakistani troops later that year in a friendly fire incident on the Afghan-Pakistan border.

Feldman said that after the raid, when relations were at a low point, the United States limited large security assistance items, but made active efforts to continue the IMET programme.

Unintended consequence

In the 1990s former US president George HW Bush refused to certify that Pakistan did not have nuclear weapons, triggering the so-called Pressler Amendment that required cutting off all military assistance. That included IMET courses.

The unintended consequence was we didnt know a decade of the Pakistani military leadership as well, and therefore couldnt engage as effectively with them when we needed to, Feldman said.

Mattis, in private discussions within the government, had warned that excluding Pakistani officers from IMET courses could contribute to a similar situation in years to come, the former US defence official said.

Pakistan had been the largest recipient of IMET between 2003 and 2017, according to the Security Assistance Monitor which tracks US assistance.

You can advocate for cutting off everything else and this was the one thing we were not supposed to touch, the former official said.VS Naipaul was a stupendous writer who perhaps missed being great because he was not morally up to a visionary.

Sir Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipauls death on 11 August 2018, at the age of 85, brings to an end a rather controversial life and literary career. Naipaul was born in the West Indies and his ancestors were indentured labourers, originally from India. Later, he discovered that the family on his fathers side were actually from Nepal.

Naipauls father was himself a man of letters, a journalist and the author of a collection of stories and Naipaul did not have an underprivileged childhood; his mothers Capildeo family wielded much influence locally. Judging from Naipauls early writing, he saw Trinidad as a place he wanted only to get out of: History is built around achievement and creation; and nothing was created in the West Indies." But after graduating from a government-run college he got a Commonwealth scholarship to study in Britain and he got into Oxford, where he met Patricia Anne Hale, whom he later married.

His first novel The Mystic Masseur came out in 1957 and Miguel Street, a collection of short stories he had actually written earlier, appeared in 1959. Both won prizes but the first book to make him noticed as a major writer was A House for Mr Biswas (1961). In this novel we see the famous prose style that Naipaul later became renowned for already emerging:

He thought of the house as his own, though for years it had been irretrievably mortgaged. And during these months of illness and despair he was struck again and again by the wonder of being in his own house, the audacity of it: to walk in through his own front gate, to bar entry to whoever he wished, to close his doors and windows every night, to hear no noises except those of his family, to wander freely from room to room and about his yard, instead of being condemned, as before, to retire the moment he got home to the crowded room in one or the other of Mrs Tulsis houses, crowded with Shamas sisters, their husbands, their children.

As may be seen here, there is a certain empathy which declines in his later novels, where there is a summary, judgemental quality to the descriptions, heightened by the shortness of the sentences.

After this novel, the Naipauls began to travel, and VS Naipaul discovered his penchant for travel writing with The Middle Passage: Impressions of Five Societies  British, French and Dutch in the West Indies and South America (1962). In 1962 they went to India, the home of Naipauls ancestors and the result of the shock was An Area of Darkness (1964). This book is a vivid indictment of Indian society as he saw it, its excesses and its evils; still, there are passages in it that seem less observation than invention. In one passage, for instance, a stenographer in a government office crawls at the feet of his superior rubbing the dust off his shoes with his sweating palms when he is threatened with dismissal. Dismissing a government employee in India is not an easy matter and Naipaul could not have also witnessed the event. One wonders if he has not taken the hyperbole/metaphor in a reported event as an actual happening and described it vividly as observation because it fits in with his India.

More than his novels, it is Naipauls travel writing that fetched him his reputation and it is not accidental that his sharp pen is usually pointed at the Third World: the West Indies, South America, Africa and the Islamic world. The only travel book of his to take place in the First world  A turn in the South (1989), about the southern part of the US, is not widely available. Often, Naipaul does not quite understand the complexity of what he is dealing with. In An Area of Darkness, for instances, he writes about Premchand as follows:

Poverty not as an urge to anger or improving action, but poverty as an inexhaustible source of tears, an exercise of the purest sensibility. They became so poor that year, the beloved Hindi novelist Premchand writes, that even beggars left their door empty-handed. That, indeed, is our poverty: not the fact of beggary, but that beggars should have to go from our doors empty-handed.

Naipaul evidently misses an important aspect of Premchands story. Beggars leaving their door empty-handed implies that the householders were unable to give alms to beggars  as was their dharma. Poverty preventing them from fulfilling their dharma has a different implication from the one Naipaul imputes to the story.

Naipauls novels, like his travel writing, rarely scrutinise the First World and its citizens, although he spent the greater part of his life in Britain. In this respect, he has a kinship with Salman Rushdie, who almost never writes about the West except as spaces into which immigrants from the Third World move (The Golden House, 2017). The role the two writers play, it can be argued, is to represent the Third World in a way that an insider in Western society cannot. But while Rushdie, by and large, tries to empathise with the place of his origins since he is genuinely nostalgic about it, Naipaul tried to distance himself from the developing world through his writings and his viewpoint echoes a First World perspective that cannot be given expression to by an insider because it would be offensively incorrect. Although he is an excellent prose writer, Naipauls viewpoint is ultimately petty and what he brings to his subjects is essentially sensibility, ie: sensitivity to sensory stimuli with a writers ability to describe them.

VS Naipauls life was not a particularly happy one and he was known to have been particularly cruel to the women in his life, especially Patricia who died of cancer in 1996. He appears to have taken enormous trouble to construct himself retrospectively even in youth as a fully developed writer with mature opinions: whatever early letters were published later bear some evidence of having been subsequently corrected for publication. Naipaul perhaps wanted to forget his humbler origins and this effort perhaps went there. Here, for instance, is a passage from a letter purportedly written by him to his older sister when he was only 17, containing the hallmark short sentences found in his later fiction:

I wonder what is the matter with this typewriter. It looks all right now, though. I am enclosing some cuttings which, I am sure, will delight you. You will note that I went after all to the Old Boys' Association Dinner. I can count those hours as among the most painful I have ever spent. In the first place, I have no table manners; in the second, I had no food. Special arrangements, I was informed after the dinner, had been made for me, but these appeared to have been limited to serving me potatoes in various ways  now fried, now boiled. I had told the manager to bring me some corn soup instead of the turtle soup that the others were having. He ignored this and the waiter brought up to me a plateful of a green slime. This was the turtle soup. (Between Father and Son: Family Letters, 1999).

Naipaul was disliked by his contemporaries in the West Indies. Derek Walcott, also a Nobel Prize winner like Naipaul, expressed anger at what he saw as Naipaul's rejection of his Caribbean heritage in order to gain acceptance from the British literary establishment. Naipaul thanked Britain and India in his Nobel acceptance speech, but not the country of his birth. Walcotts poem The Mongoose begins as follows: "I have been bitten. I must avoid infection. Or else I'll be as dead as Naipaul's fiction." VS Naipaul was a stupendous writer who perhaps missed being great because he was not morally up to a visionary.Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff thinks that the German team's win in Hungary shows that they've made significant progress when it comes to hotter races, as the Hungaroring heated up to as much as sixty degrees Celsius.

Hot tracks are, or were, a chink in Mercedes' armour, as the Germans tended to struggle on tracks like Bahrain, where air and track temperature get really high on a race weekend. However, Wolff now explained that his team's win in Hungary shows how much progress they've made on that front.

"I think free air plays a big role," Wolff told RaceFans when asked if he was surprised that Lewis Hamilton could run ultra-softs at the start of the Hungarian Grand Prix.

"But its a little bit of a mystery that sometimes you perform on a tyre and not on the other one.

"And I think it was the other way around with Ferrari.

"So more data to collect, more to understand, but the over-arching feeling for us is that we won a race in Budapest with 60 degrees track temperatures.

"That is something we would have thought would not be achievable for us and that gives me a good feeling that we have understood more and we can be more competitive in the hot races in the future."

Next up on the calendar is the Belgian Grand Prix at the end of the month. Temperatures aren't expected to be as high in Spa Francorchamps, but Mercedes will want to build on their freshly retaken lead in the constructors' championship.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 12)  The Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) on Sunday said it will hold an investigation to look into alleged collusion between government officials and drug smugglers, which led to the entry of billions worth of illegal drugs in the country.

PACC commissioner Manuelito Luna said, in a statement, the body will not hesitate to recommend to the President the firing of officials found to be involved in the shipment of over P10 billion worth of methamphetamine hydrochloride or "shabu".

"PACC finds the facilitated smuggling of over P4 billion and P6.8 billion worth of illegal drugs very disturbing and will not take this sitting down," Luna said.

Surigao del Norte Representative Robert "Ace" Barbers said the lower house will also conduct an investigation regarding the drug shipment.

In an interview with CNN Philippines, Barbers said the issue is expected to be brought up in the meeting of House committee on dangerous drugs on Tuesday.

The congressman said the inquiry should determine the flaws in the system, the background of importers and consignees, as well as the other individuals accountable.

He is also convinced some officials of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) were involved in the smuggling.

"May collusion yung mga drug lords diyan sa mga opisyales diyan eh," Barbers told CNN Philippines. "Of course we cannot identify now, but hopefully in the course of our investigation, baka ma-identify natin (kung) saan yung mga flaws and loopholes doon sa sistema ng importation at release ng goods."

(Translation: There is collusion between the drug lords and the officials there. Of course we cannot identify now, but hopefully in the course of our investigation, we would be able to identify the flaws and loopholes in the system of importation.)

"Relentless ang ating fight against drugs and still, meron pa ring may lakas ng loob mag-smuggle into the country ng ganitong kalaking halagang shabu."

"So obviously, may contact yan sa loob," he added.

(Translation: Our fight against drugs is relentless, and still, there are people who have the guts to smuggle into the country these huge amounts of drugs. So obviously, they have contacts within the country.)

Barbers added the lower chamber can do a simultaneous probe with the PACC regarding the matter.

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency on Tuesday intercepted a suspected shabu shipment estimated at 4.3 billion at the Manila port.

Authorities, however, said Friday they were unable to seize P6.8 billion worth of illegal drugs, which were allegedly brought by a Taiwanese drug syndicate inside the country.Seoul, South Korea is home to two tech rivals - LG and Samsung. While the latter is the larger company, LG has also brought plenty of innovation in tech even if it often goes underappreciated. So, let us tell you its story and see if you gain more respect for the company.

Let's start with the LG Prada - it first emerged in December 2006 and launched in May 2007, it was the first phone with a capacitive touchscreen. Yes, LG beat Apple by a few months. The company even suspected that Apple ripped off the design, though nothing came of that.

Alas the Prada could never be the success that the iPhone was. Its smaller screen (3.0" vs. 3.5") had a limited color range (256K vs. 16M) and didn't support multi-touch, meaning fancy pinch gestures wouldn't work.

Worst of all was the storage - only 8MB (megabytes!) built in. Sure, there was a microSD card, but it only supported up to 2GB (expensive at the time). Despite Apple's usual stinginess, its first phone had 4GB of storage as base, which was a lot in 2007.



LG KE850 Prada

Another phone from the same era was the LG Viewty. It was a cameraphone with a 5MP sensor (compared to 2MP for the Prada and iPhone), it had Schneider Kreuznach optics with autofocus and digital image stabilization. And it had a xenon flash!

Its claim to fame, however, was its slow-motion mode - it could record 320 x 240px video at 120fps. Not bad considering its usual recording mode was 640 x 480px at 30fps.

LG stated that in five weeks of sales, the Viewty moved over 300,000 units in Europe. A UK retailer even suggested that it outpaced the iPhone. However, it was never made available in the US, which limited its impact.



LG KU990 Viewty

LG, Samsung, Nokia and Sony Ericsson were in a competition for the most impressive cameraphone - it was the camera that drove the sales back then (and to a large extent today still).

The LG Renoir came out in 2008 marked another first - the first full touchscreen phone with an 8MP camera. It beat rival Samsung Pixon by a few months and there were a few non-touch 8MP shooters to contend with. It was the slimmest 8MP phone among them at 14mm.

The Renoir boasted a built-in GPS for geo-tagging photos, manual focus, blink detection and other goodies.



LG KC910 Renoir

LG briefly toyed around with Symbian, but in 2009 it placed its bets on Android. Its first Android phone was the LG GW620 aka Eve or InTouch Max. Like the original G1, this one packed a slide-out hardware QWERTY. LG said that it would release more Androids and even Windows phones, but it wasn't done with featurephones.



LG GW620

Earlier that year the impressive LG Arena came out. It boasted a super sharp screen - 311ppi with 480 x 800px resolution - and it was covered with Gorilla Glass. The metal chassis of the phone solidified the impression that this is a premium device.

LG prepared visual feast with S-Class Touch UI with a 3D cube replacing tabs and a 3D carousel serving as menus. While not a smartphone, the Arena supported multitasking (at a time when the iPhone could not), featured a multi-touch browser, Google Maps (with built-in GPS, but no voice-guided navigation) and a Microsoft Office package.



LG KM900 Arena

In some ways LG presaged the ultra-widescreen craze that is upon us now. The LG New Chocolate had a 4" screen with an insane 21:9 aspect ratio and supported Dolby Mobile, a boon for movie watching on the go.

The phone also used the S-Class UI, complete with multitasking (the app switcher UI was styled to look like the Symbian one). And it did have voice-guided navigation thanks to Wisepilot, the app worked much better than Google Maps (which didn't quite match Chocolate's screen). Unfortunately, this was only a trial app.



LG BL40 New Chocolate

By the way, it's "New Chocolate" since the original phone was the LG Chocolate (from 2006). It was the first of the Black Label Series phones and it traded on its design. The capacitive keys around the D-Pad disappeared when the phone was closed, making for a sleek exterior.



LG KG800

Mobile phones were in an awkward period in 2009 - the market was still transitioning from key-operated phones to touchscreen. The major push was done by smartphones, but they were expensive, so LG supplied budget-friendly alternatives.

The LG Cookie had a resistive screen and a stylus - a 3" 240 x 400 screen. LG cut down the features, even basics like 3G, Wi-Fi and GPS, but it didn't matter - the price was right (200) and it became a best-seller. The best-selling touch phone, says LG.

It sold a whopping 2 million units in five months and 5 million in 9 months.



LG KP500 Cookie

Before moving on, let's mention that LG made some Windows Phone 7 handsets. There, we just spent as much time thinking about them as LG did.



LG E900 Optimus 7  LG C900 Optimus 7Q  LG Quantum  LG Jil Sander Mobile

LG's most recent history is defined by the LG Optimus, a mid-range phone designed for smartphone first-timers. It followed Cookie's game plan: an affordable price will bring in the crowds. After a short detour through 3D, the Optimus series brought us the LG Optimus 2X - the world's first smartphone with a dual-core processor.

Powered by an Nvidia Tegra 2 chipset, it was also the first phone to have enough power to record 1080p video (supposedly at 24fps, but in reality less than that). The update story was surprisingly good, launching with Android 2.2 Froyo and being brought up to 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich.

The performance was Optimus 2X's best feature. We had Nvidia promising games with Unreal Engine 3 and "perhaps even" the iD Tech 5 engine (Doom 4!) and Frostbite (Battlefield: Bad Company). That didn't come to pass, unfortunately.



LG GT540 Optimus  LG Optimus 3D P920  LG Optimus 2X

But really, we're looking for the LG Optimus G - the first widely available phone with the Snapdragon S4 Pro, Qualcomm's first chipset with a quad-core processor (but not the first quad-core phone, that was the Optimus 4X HD with a Tegra 3). The processing power was put to good use with the Q Slide option - LG's multitasking solution that used windows instead of screen splitting. The 16:10 screen gave you the necessary room to maneuver. Q Slide didn't work for all apps, but it was a start.

The hardware was used as the base for the Nexus 4 - the phone that redefined the word "flagship". It cost $300 at launch, a steal for a Snapdragon S4 Pro phone, and the price would go on to drop to $200. Competing phones could easily cost 2-3 times as much. This was one of the earliest phones to support Qi wireless charging too.



LG Optimus G E975  LG Nexus 4 E960

The next-gen phone dropped the "Optimus" and used the now familiar G-series branding - the LG G2. It was a bezel-less phone before it was cool and had unusual key arrangement - the volume rocker and the power button were on the back.

At the same time the company unveiled one of the most futuristic phones in years - the LG G Flex. Not quite a foldable phone like the ones we see in the rumor mill today, but it did flex. Everything, the screen, the battery, the motherboard, everything flexed. And we loved the idea of the self-healing coating on the back panel. Bye, bye, scratches!

The early generation P-OLED panel was low-resolution (720p) and it suffered from other issues. LG would fix many of those with the LG Flex 2, but it abandoned the Flex line after that.



LG G2

Moving on to the LG G3, one of the first phones with a 1440p QHD screen. LG worked hard to get acceptable battery life (and control the heat) out of the 2014 chipsets, which weren't well suited for rendering at QHD (even today many flagships default to 1080p internal resolution).

The Laser autofocus system was an improvement over the slow AF systems of the time too. Selling nearly 10 million units in less than a year made the G3 a success.



LG G3

LG tried to be fancy with the LG G4. It was a curved phone and had optional leather back covers with decorative stitching. The back buttons were enhanced with a fingerprint reader, another forward-looking move by LG. The Quantum IPS display (QHD, of course) fixed some of the color rendering complaints about the G3 screen, but the Snapdragon 808 chipset was not ideal (LG wisely avoided the S810).

Later that year LG introduced its Note competitor - the LG V10. It was a phone that meant business, it was MIL-STD-810G tough and had a grippy back. Its unique feature was the secondary line display that held notifications, shortcuts and other tools. The selfie camera was pushed into a proto-notch on the side.

And it was a dual camera - one of the first of its kind. Not used for 3D, it offered two fields of view 80 and 120.

Around this time the bootloop issues (that plagued previous LG phones too) were becoming a meme, which wasn't great.



LG G4  LG V10

LG also built the Nexus 5 and Nexus 5X (which was available alongside the Huawei-built Nexus 6P). Not quite as cheap as its predecessor, the Nexus 5 was still among the most affordable flagships and it went on to become a fan favorite. The 5X was, well, expensive - $380/480 for a 16GB phone was never going to fly.



LG Nexus 5  LG Nexus 5X

Then came the LG G5 - LG's take on a modular phone. But more importantly, it moved the dual camera magic to the back - it was among the first usable dual camera phones, again showing LG's capacity to innovate. But the modular system flopped and the shift to a metal body was marred by the strange coating that gave it a plastic-like feel. On the upside, the Always On Display worked quite well and the battery was user-accessible.

The G5 was followed up by the LG V20, which dropped the practical exterior of the V10 for a sleek metal unibody. It was still MIL-STD-810G compliant, though, and the battery was still user-accessible (the removable back cover had soft padding). The V20 was the first phone to launch with Android 7.0 Nougat.



LG G5  LG V20

The LG G6 launched last year and adopted the military toughness of the V-series and improved on them with an IP68 rating. The screen was enhanced with HDR10 and Dolby Vision, but short supply of chipsets left it with an old Snapdragon 821. The failed modular system was dropped, unfortunately, the removable battery went with it.

The LG V30 is more of a G6+ - gone is the secondary screen, swapped for a P-OLED display. Despite supporting HDR10 and Dolby Vision again, the screen caught some criticism. But the V30 has much to be proud of, it did upgrade to Snapdragon 835 and its dual camera boasted the brightest aperture (at the time) at f/1.6.



LG G6  LG V30

This brings us to today and there's not much to report. The LG G7 ThinQ felt like a small upgrade on the V30 (but with a notched LCD screen), then LG refreshed the V30 with the V30S (a simple memory upgrade) and again with the V35 (V30 screen and camera, G7 chipset). There may have been a Plus version or two in there, but we feel like we're spinning in circles.

As you can see, LG has a long history of innovation, especially when it comes to cameras, but also when talking about processing power and screens. However, despite being the first on many occasions, it feels like the company rarely managed to be on top (especially lately).

This leaves us with a multi-million dollar question: what can LG do to turn "first to market" into "first in the market"?Published on 2018/08/12 | Source

Korea's top institution of higher learning, Seoul National University, is struggling to attract enough foreign students as it strives to boost its international kudos.

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SNU teaches far fewer classes in English than some private universities in Korea and lacks support for international scholars. Students are divided between those who support more classes being taught in English and those who are against accepting foreigners who cannot speak Korean.

The university only has 1,711 foreign undergraduate and graduate students, 388 of whom are exchange students. That is just around six percent of the student body, which is low for a university aspiring to international status.

At Oxford University, by comparison, the proportion is 17 percent among undergraduates alone.

In the mid-2000s, as interest in Korea mounted among foreigners and the university expanded classes taught in English, there was a brief surge in foreign intake, but it peaked at 2,166 in 2014 and has been falling since.

Rita Galves (24), who comes from the Philippines and is the vice president of the foreign students' organization at SNU, said, "Foreign students who come to SNU are surprised and disappointed when they find out how few classes are taught in English".

In some instances, professors advertised classes in English but changed their minds and ended up lecturing in Korean, either because their own or the Korean students' English was not up to scratch.

Galves, who majors in material engineering, said, "In some classes that are taught in English, key terms are explained in Korean or the professors' teaching assistants can't speak English and can't get the material across to foreign students".

Out of 3,480 undergraduate lectures, only 10 percent are in English, while at private Yonsei and Korea universities, the proportion is over 30 percent.

Gissele Chicas (20), who comes from El Salvador and began studying chemistry at SNU this year, said, "I chose to study at SNU because I was impressed by the advanced level of science education, but the classes in Korean are too difficult to understand and there are not enough taught in English".

An SNU admissions officer said if foreign students want to complete all the necessary credits under the present curriculum, they must listen to lectures available in Korean, but very few foreign students learn Korean before coming here. "It's getting more and more difficult to attract foreign students", the officer added.

Professors are divided about the need to offer classes in English, making it more difficult for the university to expand their number.

Noh Yoo-sun, a professor at SNU, said, "There are many students who have problems due to the language barrier since we accept foreigners whose Korean language skills are weak. But it's hard to ask prospective students to learn Korean before applying".

Disappointed foreign students leave with negative attitudes toward SNU, which discourages others from applying. "We need to offer systematic support, such as offering Korean-language classes to foreign students", Noh said.

Read this article in KoreanPublished on 2018/08/12 | Source

Officials from the two Koreas shake hands in the truce village of Panmunjom on Saturday. /Yonhap

South Korea handed a final list of 93 people and North Korea a list of 88 for family reunions at Mt. Kumgang on Aug. 20-26.

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Liaison officials solemnly swapped the lists in the truce village of Panmunjom last Saturday.

The 93 South Koreans will meet long-lost relatives from the North on Aug. 20-22, and on Aug. 24-26, the 88 North Koreans will be reunited with their relatives from the South.

The original target had been 100 people from each side, but since candidate are very elderly more than 60 years after the war, some are unable to travel.

A Unification Ministry official told reporters on Sunday, "Some applicants have given up because their health has deteriorated or because they don't want meet with relatives other than their husbands or wives, parents or children".

Earlier, the two sides exchanged lists of relatives of the candidates so they could find out whether they are still alive.

Of the 250 names South Korean applicants asked about, it turned out that 122 are still alive, 41 dead, and 87 unidentified. Of the 200 North Korean applicants asked about, 122 are still alive, seven dead, and 71 unidentified.

The oldest person on the lists is a 101-year-old South Korean man surnamed Baek. Thirty-five people on the South Korean list are over 90.By William Schwartz | Published on 2018/08/11

Woozoo (played by Kang Doo) is a company worker. I wasn't totally clear on what Woozoo's company actually does, but apparently they do a lot of business in Osaka, since that's where Woozoo hangs out for pretty much the whole movie. Almost all of the dialogue is in Japanese. Incidentally, Woozoo is a really weird way to transliterate that name. Usually it's just written in English as Woo-joo. That name has the same common meaning as universe, although the Chinese characters probably mean something more poetic than that.

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Anyway, as per the plot, Woozoo ends up spending way more than he intended to at a local guest house by the name of Pier 34. He ends up deciding to just not bother going back to Korea at all and just bums around playing the guitar. I guess there's also a mystery wrapped in there because Woozoo sees a random guy in the street who vaguely reminds him of some guy from his company. Then there's Haruna (played by Hori Haruna) who's also playing guitar for her...dad or something I guess.

Even though nearly every other scene in "The Goose Goes South" is just exposition, the plot never goes anywhere. You might think that, as the male and female leads, Woozoo and Haruna would have some kind of romance. But then Haruna just disappears for large stretches of the movie, and other characters have to explain Haruna's backstory in her absence. In all fairness, Woozoo's quest to find that random guy in the street is also largely undertaken by the supporting cast.

Not that we actually get to see anybody do these things, mind you. The most we ever get to see Woozoo and Haruna do is play the guitar, and in one critical scene one of them manages to avoid even doing that much. This would be less ridiculous except that we almost never actually get to hear either Woozoo or Haruna play the guitar. They just practice a lot, and any attempt at a serious song is always played over in montage.

There's so little going on in "The Goose Goes South" I'm honestly very perplexed as to why this movie was even made. The best explanation I can come up with is that the movie is intended to promote tourism in Osaka. Although even that's a pretty mixed message. I'm not sure I want to visit a city where it's common to see drunk foreigners with guitars passed out on neighborhood playgrounds.

That big ferris wheel in the background that keeps getting emphasized looks pretty fun though. Too bad we never get to see it up close. "The Goose Goes South" is like that with pretty much all of its plot hooks really. There's a voyeuristic quality to parts of the story that might be interesting, yet instead of actually developing the drama, the script just blithely repeats the same points again and again. That's how "The Goose Goes South" manages to be almost two hours long without anything actually happening.

Review by William Schwartz

"The Goose Goes South" is directed by Baek Jae-ho, Lee Hee-seop and features Kang Doo, Hori Haruna, Ji Dae-han and SnowBy Vasia Orion | Published on 2018/08/11

The casting season has hit us hard, and many known, but also newly announced upcoming projects have made their big news entrance. Today I give you but a smidgen of the names and dramas we can expect, while shows almost upon us have their promotional efforts in full swing.

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New Casting Horizons

This has been a casting-heavy week, and I have gathered some news to give you a little taste of exciting names and projects. "Two Lives One Heart" has new casting additions, including Jang So-yeon, while "Room No.9" has finally confirmed its three leads. Park Ki-woong joined "Prometheus", and Yeo Jin-goo is up for "The Crowned Clown". Kim Ji-suk will be starring in "Top Star Yoo Baek", and Han Go-eun has signed on for "Love Alert".

Upcoming Drama Goodies

"100 Days My Prince" has released a comedic third teaser followed by two more videos. "The Guest - Drama" has released its second teaser and its first stills, while "The Ghost Detective" drops supernatural heebie jeebies with stills of its hero and co-stars, and with its own creepy first teaser. "Devilish Happiness" has released its own short video opener as well as a teaser poster, and OCN's "The Player" greets us with money, stealing and action.

Followed Dramas

My to-watch list has officially hit that terrifying size, where I want to pick a few dramas and continue others, but end up procrastinating due to the amount of choices. I am not ready to big "Life on Mars" farewell, but I think that the time has come. We must learn to let go.

Written by: Orion from 'Orion's Ramblings'Although no mainstream party in Punjab is backing the referendum, politicians are blaming each other for covertly sympathising with the SFJ.

Chandigarh: The US-based pro-Khalistan group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ)s plan to issue a London Declaration for a referendum on Punjabs independence at Trafalgar Square on August 12 has stirred up politics in the Punjab even though there is no popular support for Khalistan in the agrarian state.

Sikh Referendum 2020 is planned by UK-based radical group SFJ in support of a separate Khalistan homeland for the Sikhs outside India. Some recent reports suggest it the has backing of Pakistans (ISI).

Although no mainstream party in Punjab is backing the referendum, politicians are blaming each other for covertly sympathising with the SFJ.

First to talk about the Sikh referendum in Punjab was AAPs leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira, who claimed that it was a result of a consistent policy of bias, discrimination and persecution towards Sikhs by successive governments in India.

Though Mr Khaira clarified that he did not support the referendum, he said giving the Sikhs a truncated Punjab, unfair distribution of river waters, the 1984 Operation Blue Star military action inside the Sikhisms holiest shrine Golden Temple and the anti-Sikh violence of 1984 after Indira Gandhis assassination were among the major reasons behind the Sikhs demanding a referendum.

His comments invited criticism and his own party distanced itself from him. This forced Mr Khaira to claim that he was misinterpreted but rival parties did not spare him.

Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh was the first to condemned Mr Khaira for backing secessionism with his categorical support for Sikh Referendum 2020, propounded by Sikh radicals for the creation of Khalistan.

The chief minister said that Punjab and its people had suffered for years due to the secessionist movement unleashed by the radicals.

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and former Cabinet minister Bikram Singh Majithia demanded that appropriate legal action under the anti-sedition laws be taken against the AAP leader Mr Khaira for his open support to the initiatives aimed at dismemberment of the country.

He referred to reported statements of Mr Khaira for supporting the so-called referendum,

Mr Majithia ridiculed Mr Khairas attempts to link the so-called referendum to genuine Sikh grievances, saying that Mr Khaira has spent 23 of his 25 years in politics with the Congress party. All this while, which was much closer to the tragic events of 1984 than now, he has stood by the very people who are responsible for discrimination against the Sikhs for which he pretends to seek relief now.

Not leaving a chance to attack Akalis on Sikh Referendum 2020, Congress MP Ravneet Singh Bittu, grandson of former chief minister Beant Singh, said, When secessionist elements are raising their ugly head, I stand here in grief not because I lost my grandfather to terrorism in Punjab but because MPs of a certain party (read Akali Dal) are demanding leniency for the killer of the late Punjab chief minister, who was assassinated for backing national unity.

Mr Bittu was referring to Akali Dal MPs recent petition to Union home minister Rajnath Singh for commuting the death sentence of Babbar Khalsa terrorist Balwant Singh Rajoana, the assassin of Beant Singh, to life imprisonment.Provo police seeking driver in hit-and-run incident

Provo police are asking for residents' assistance in locating the driver of a newer silver Nissan SUV with some minor front-end damage. At 5:18 p.m. Thursday, an 8 year-old boy was hit by a vehicle fitting that description. The boy was riding his bike in the area of 200 North and 800 West. He was taken to a local hospital and was treated for moderate injuries, according to Sgt. Nick Dupaix, spokesman. Police are hoping either a home camera or business surveillance camera may have recorded the events. The incident was in the vicinity of Dixon Middle School, which also has cameras. The ...For Subscribers New restaurant to open in downtown Hagerstown

"It's just time that folks just relax and get back to having a good time and loving on one another," owner says of her planned restaurant.The inmates, aged 17 and 21 years, were staying at Aasra Shelter Home in Nepali Nagar locality of the city.

The 'Aasra' case surfaced at a time when the CBI is investigating another sex scandal at a shelter home in Muzaffarpur in the state. (Representational Image)

Patna: Two women inmates of a state-run shelter home here have died under mysterious circumstances, days after a man was arrested for reportedly asking the inmates of the home to escape by luring them with gifts.

The inmates, aged 17 and 21 years, were staying at Aasra Shelter Home in Nepali Nagar locality of the city.

"While the shelter home claimed the women died during treatment at Patna Medical College last night (Saturday), the hospital authorities said the inmates were brought dead.

Police was informed about the deaths only this (Sunday) morning," Deputy Superintendent of Police, Law and Order (Patna), Manoj Kumar Sudhanshu told news agency PTI.

The shelter home came into news when it was recently reported that four of its inmates had tried to run away. The police then carried out an investigation and arrested a person, living in the vicinity.

The man was alleged to have been luring the inmates by offering gifts.

Sudhanshu said according to the shelter home authorities, the two inmates were taken to the hospital following complaints of diarrhoea and high fever. The police are investigating the circumstances under which the two inmates died.

The 'Aasra' case surfaced at a time when the CBI is investigating another sex scandal at a shelter home in Muzaffarpur in the state.The lawyers said that the Ambedkar statue installed near the district court had turned impure after the BJP leader touched it.

A group of dalit lawyers in Meerut district bathed a statue of Dr B.R. Ambedkar with milk and gangajal to purify it after it was garlanded by BJP state secretary Sunil Bansal. (Photo: ANI)

Lucknow: A group of dalit lawyers in Meerut district bathed a statue of Dr B.R. Ambedkar with milk and gangajal to purify it after it was garlanded by BJP state secretary Sunil Bansal on Friday.

Mr Bansal was in Meerut to attend the state executive of the BJP.

The lawyers said that the Ambedkar statue installed near the district court had turned impure after the BJP leader touched it.

We are purifying this statue because Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) leader and BJP MP Rakesh Sinha also came and garlanded it. The BJP government oppresses dalits and they have nothing to do with Ambedkar, but they still they use his name just to promote their party and attract the dalit community, said one of the lawyers.

It may be recalled that in a similar incident some time ago, a temple was purified in Hamirpur after BJP MLA Manisha Anuragi visited it and offered prayers. Anuragi had visited the temple on 12 July while she was in her Assembly constituency to attend a function.The court was of the view that it struck a blow at the rule of law and no court could ignore such a conduct.

New Delhi: Taking a serious view against a man for lying on oath, the Delhi High Court has sentenced him to jail for a month for contempt of court and said it will be a great public disaster if the fountain of justice is allowed to be poisoned by anyone giving false statements in a court of law.

Justice Manmohan said as the man had admittedly made false statements under oath, the court was of the view that it struck a blow at the rule of law and no court could ignore such a conduct, which had the tendency to shake public confidence in the judicial institutions because the very structure of an ordered life was put at stake. Besides sentencing the man to simple imprisonment for a month, the court also imposed a fine of Rs 2,000 on him.

The court was hearing a trademark infringement suit filed by Louis Vuitton Malletier, a French fashion house and luxury retail company, seeking to restrain a Delhi-based man from selling counterfeit products bearing the company's registered trademark and logo. While the recording of the testimony of the man, who ran a shop at Karol Bagh, he had stated that he had never sold any branded products.

During an inspection, the court-appointed local commissioners found a stock of more than 500 counterfeit products of 34 different brands at the man's shop. The court held that as the man had perjured himself by admittedly making false statements before the court under oath, it was of the opinion that it was entitled in law to invoke its contempt jurisdiction.

"In fact, in the present case, the statements made by the man under oath, contrary to the two local commissioners' reports, prejudice and/or interfere and/or tend to interfere with the due course of the judicial proceeding and/or obstruct and/or tend to obstruct the administration of justice," it said.

"It would be a great public disaster if the fountain of justice is allowed to be poisoned by anyone giving false statements and/or fabricating false evidence in a court of law. The stream of justice has to be kept clear and pure and anyone soiling its purity must be dealt with sternly so that the message percolates loud and clear that no one can be permitted to undermine the dignity of the court and interfere with the due course of judicial proceedings or administration of justice," the court said.By June 1 of this year, US President Donald Trump had made 3,259 false or misleading claims, according to The Washington Post Fact Checkers database, which tracks and categorises every suspect statement uttered by the president. Thats an average of more than 6.5 false claims a day, up from a daily average of 4.9 untrue claims in his first 100 days, and reaching eight per day in May. Trump is clearly going for a record.

Trumps supporters justify his mendacity on the grounds that all politicians lie. Indeed they do, and a little introspection leads us to admit that all humans lie. But the amount and type of lying make a difference. Too many lies debases the currency of trust.

Not all lies are born equal. Some are self-serving. A president may lie to cover his tracks, avoid embarrassment, harm a rival, or for convenience.

Other presidential lies serve a loftier purpose. In some circumstances, historians even applaud the fact that a president decided to deceive the public for what he considered a larger or later good. John F Kennedy misled the public about the role of American missiles in Turkey in the deal that ended the Cuban missile crisis in 1962; but that was certainly better for their interests than a high risk of nuclear war.

A more ambiguous example occurred in 1941, before the United States entered World War II. In trying to persuade an isolationist public that Hitlers Germany was a threat, President Franklin D Roosevelt said that a German submarine had attacked a US destroyer, when in fact it was the American side that had initiated the action. In wartime, when loose lips can sink ships and secrets are crucial, Winston Churchill argued that the truth may be so precious that she should always be attended by a bodyguard of lies.

Machiavellian deception is often part of a strategy in bargaining to get a deal, and Trump claims to be a master of that art. Perhaps that explains his lies about North Korean weapons, European tariffs, and Russian President Vladimir Putins interference in the 2016 US presidential election. But his dishonesty concerning the size of the crowd at his inauguration, the payment of hush money to women, or his reasons for firing former FBI Director James Comey has nothing to do with statecraft. It is purely self-serving manipulation of others and the public.

Even when a presidents motives are not self-serving, he should be cautious about choosing to lie. Before he turns to lying as an instrument of statecraft, he should consider the importance of the goal, the availability of alternative means to achieve it, and whether the deception can be contained or is likely to establish a pattern.

The more a leader deceives the public, the more he erodes trust, weakens institutions, and creates damaging precedents. Roosevelts lies in 1941 were intended to awaken the American people, but he also set a precedent that Lyndon B Johnson could use in 1964 to win congressional support for the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, which led to a dramatic escalation of the Vietnam War. The danger is that leaders tell themselves they are lying for the public good when they are doing so for political or personal gain.

Johnson did not want to seem cowardly or to be portrayed as the man who lost Vietnam. He continually lied to the American people about the progress that was being made in the war. He also wanted to keep the war limited.

One of the moral benefits of a limited war is the prevention of damage through escalation. But such wars involve an element of bluffing. To maintain credibility in bargaining with the enemy, a president must maintain a relentless public optimism, which serves to misinform the public. In Johnsons case, this imperative was reinforced by his personal motives. By 1968, people were saying that the only way to tell if he was lying was to see if his lips were moving. He decided not to run again.

Johnsons successor, Richard Nixon, also lied about the Vietnam War, including his expansion of it into Cambodia. This was followed by his lying about his role in the cover-up of the break-in at the Democratic Partys headquarters, which had been carried out at the behest of his administration. When this was finally revealed by the Watergate tape recordings, Nixon resigned the presidency in 1974 to avoid impeachment.

The damage that Johnson and Nixon did was not only to their presidencies but also to public trust. At the beginning of the 1960s, polls showed that three-quarters of Americans had a great deal of confidence in government. By the end of the following decade, only a quarter felt that way. While the causes of the decline were complex, presidential lies played a part.

Some observers, pointing to his record in the private sector, argue that Trump merely lies out of habit. Others believe that the frequency, repetition, and blatant nature of his lies reflect not habit but a deliberate political strategy to damage institutions associated with truth. Either way, Trump has eroded the credibility of institutions such as the press, the intelligence agencies, and the US Department of Justice, making everything relative and playing to his extremely loyal base.

Can a post-Trump America recover? It is worth remembering that Johnson and Nixon were succeeded by Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter, who were notably more honest, and that public trust in government rose somewhat under Ronald Reagan in the 1980s. But as the sheer number of lies indicates, the US has never seen a president like Donald Trump.

Joseph S Nye is a professor at Harvard and author of Is the American Century Over?

The views expressed are personal

@projectsyndicateDeepika Padukone has been enjoying her time off from busy shoot schedules and had even gone on a vacation with her sister Anisha and boyfriend Ranveer Singh to the US. The actor, who was last seen in Padmaavat that released in January has been chilling and sharing some great moments from her life on Instagram. The most recent post is about none other than her sister Anisha.

The actor shared a pretty colourful candid shot in which Anisha is leaning on to her elder sister and captioned the picture, me and my little...coz sisters are the bestest!! The picture of the two sisters was captured by none other than Ranveer himself. It looks like a shot captured during their recent vacation together. Anisha commented on the post with the kisses emoticon.

Fans also could not get over the beautiful photo and the amaze couple. One wrote, Youre the best DeepVeer, while another said, Get married both of you.

Deepika Padukone may not have signed new projects yet, but the actor is enjoying herself and her Instagram reflects the mood that she is in. After Shahid Kapoor and Mahesh Babu, Deepika Padukone is the next Indian actor to get a wax statue of hers in the famous Madame Tussauds museum.

She is reportedly also preparing to tie the knot with Ranveer in November and the ceremony is reportedly said to take place in Italy. The families of the two actors had also enjoyed a vacation together recently, further fuelling speculations about their wedding.

Follow @htshowbiz for moreSanju has been a massive success, with the film effortlessly becoming a part of the biggest blockbusters ever in Hindi cinema. However, the success of the Ranbir Kapoor film came with allegations of whitewashing, media bashing and glorification of Sanjay Dutts controversial life. The films director, Rajkumar Hirani, has been fielding allegations since the films release in June, now he has some questions of his own.

If I start on that, I can talk on it for the full day, Rajkumar Hirani said when asked to comment on talks about the media bashing in Sanju, which is playing at the ninth edition of the International Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) here. Abhijat Joshi, who has co-written the biopic with Hirani, was quick to add: There is no media bashing at all. We are great fans of the media. What we are bashing is a certain section which sensationalises things and uses a question mark to make things chatpata (spicy). That has been critiqued, and I am amazed there has been no introspection on that side. No one has even said that it happens.

The reference is in context to a scene featuring a newspaper cutting titled RDX in a truck parked in Dutt house? This question mark journalism is their problem. Today if the world believes that he had RDX, its based on that one news, so we have criticised that. But now when we are told that the whole film is about media bashing, its again picking up a headline, Hirani said. When we show a corrupt police officer, it doesnt mean all policemen are wrong! Its a section, he added.

From Sanjays drug addiction, personal affairs, a jail term for possession of arms in connection with the 1993 serial blasts, to his bonds with his parents and friends -- Sanju has delved into different aspects of the actors life but has also left out a lot.

Hirani, who has hits like Munna Bhai series, 3 Idiots and PK to his credit, also wonders why is there talk that he has whitewashed Sanjay through Sanju. Whitewashing as a word is being thrown open. If youve watched the film, what was Sanjus crime, he counter-questioned.

Sanjay had a gun. Yes, he kept the gun, and we have shown that. We have shown that he served five years in jail and that he is saying it was a mistake... So where is the question of whitewashing? What have I whitewashed? I want to understand that, Hirani asked.

Joshi added: The crime has been shown graphically. He is destroying the gun, we have shown that, the bullets are thrown away, we are showing that. So whatever is the crime is, is clearly shown. Hirani went on: People are using this word whitewash. I want to know what have I whitewashed? I have shown that he had 308 girlfriends, that he was so addicted to drugs, he slept with his friends girlfriend. Is this whitewashing? If we had to whitewash anyone, we would have made him Mahatma Gandhi... What have we whitewashed? Tell us his crime?

RSS mouthpiece Panchjanya had questioned whether Sanjay, son of late actors Sunil and Nargis Dutt, had qualities that his life story should be glamourised or glorified on the big screen or be portrayed as if he is an idol.

Again, where have I glorified is what I want to ask? Is this glorification that he slept with his friends girlfriend, kept a gun, did drugs, made a girl wear a commode on her neck? We have shown all this... Still, people are saying we have glorified his life. Who knew this that instead of putting a mangalsutra, he put a commode on a girl, Hirani asked.

Joshi said the worst allegation is that they made the film for money. It is ridiculous because if money was the criteria, we would have made 5 Munna Bhais back-to-back... They would have been bigger hits, or 3 Idiots parts 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.

Hirani said when he was making the movie, he was told by people that Sanju will mark his first flop as Sanjay was a negative character. Now when the film has been made, everything is reversed that this has been made for money, jr sffrf.

Joshi questioned: Do you think Rajkumar Hirani, at this time in his career, would spend 3 years of his life just to whitewash somebody? What upsets them is people (who needed to introspect) have not introspected at all. But the audiences have, luckily. Hats off to the Indian audience, Joshi said.Salman Khan has his hands full with work right now but the actor found out time for the love of his life  mother Salma. Salman shared a photo with Salma Khan from Malta where he is shooting for Bharat. With the love of my life, the actor wrote with a photo featuring both of them. He later posted a video where he and his mother Salma are exploring the country together. The actor wrote, Exploring #malta...

While fans flooded the social media posts with likes and comments, actor Preity Zinta commented,  Awww!! So sweet. Varun Dhawan and Manish Malhotra also liked the photo. Within five hours of the video being posted, it has got over a million likes. At the same time, Salmans first promo for Bigg Boss 12 also landed.

Exploring #malta .. A post shared by Salman Khan (@beingsalmankhan) on Aug 12, 2018 at 2:30am PDT

With the love of my life pic.twitter.com/bHHSALxAE6  Salman Khan (@BeingSalmanKhan) August 12, 2018

Salman Khan leaving for Malta with mother Salma, sister Alvira Agnihotri and brother-in-law Atul Agnihotri.

While announcing the first schedule wrap of Bharat, Alia Abbas Zafar had tweeted, First schedule of @Bharat_TheFilm completed in Mumbai, two dramatic action sequences done . thank you cast & crew  Here we come Malta .. get ready for Desi rock n rolla Salman had earlier shared a photo from Malta, writing, Starting the shooting schedule of Bharat in Malta, lovely country.

Bharat stars Salman along with Katrina Kaif, Disha Patani, Tabu and Nora Fatehi. This is the third collaboration of Salman with Ali Abbas after Sultan and Tiger Zinda Hai. Bharat spans over 60 years with a major portion being set in the backdrop of a circus.

On a talk show hosted by Farah Khan years ago, Salma Khan had made a rare appearance with her son. Talking about Salmans jail experience, she had broken down.

When Farah asked Salma about meeting Salman in jail, she had said, I can never forget woh din jab main isko milne gayi this Thana jail mein...but I am very happy hes taken it very nicely. Seeing his mother crying, Salman had joked about the situation, If you are thinking Thana (jail) was bad, you should see Arthur road (jail) and Jodhpur (jail).Anupam Kher getting introduced to the real Sonali Bendre in the last few days reflects all of us, in a way. We have all known and admired Sonali Bendre as an actor over the years but it is only in the last few weeks that we saw her show grit, determination and grace as she battled cancer. Anupam Kher, who got to know Sonali in the last 15 days in New York, shared this realisation.

I have done few films with @iamsonalibendre. Weve met socially many times in Mumbai. She always has been bright & a very warm person. But it is only in the last 15days that I got the opportunity to spend some quality time with her in NY. And I can easily say, She is my HERO, he wrote on Twitter. He also posted a photo of Sonali that she had shared after cutting her hair short in July. While Sonali is undergoing treatment for cancer in New York, Anupam is shooting for his new series in the US.

I have done few films with @iamsonalibendre. Weve met socially many times in Mumbai. She always has been bright & a very warm person. But it is only in the last 15days that I got the opportunity to spend some quality time with her in NY. And I can easily say,"She is my HERO." pic.twitter.com/z6iBe2s7fy  Anupam Kher (@AnupamPKher) August 12, 2018

The 43-year-old actor was diagnosed with high grade cancer a few weeks ago. The actor keeps her fans updated about her life with inspirational posts on social media. On Saturday, she had shared an emotional message for son Ranveer who turned 13.  Ranveeeeer! My sun, my moon, my stars, my sky... Okay, maybe Im being a bit melodramatic, but your 13th birthday deserves this. Sonali mentioned that she misses being with her son on his special day and wrote: Wow, youre a teenager now. Will need some time to wrap my head around that fact. I cant tell you enough how proud I am of you... Your wit, your humour, your strength, your kindness, and even your mischief. Happy happy birthday, my not-so-little one. Its the first one that were not together... I miss you terribly. Lots and lots of love always and forever.... biiiiig hug! she wrote.

Sonali Bendre with friends Gayatri Oberoi and Sussanne Khan in new York.

Anupam is shooting for the American drama series, New Amsterdam. Inspired by Bellevue, the oldest public hospital in the US, the series follows the brilliant and charming doctor Max Goodwin played by Ryan Eggold, the institutions newest medical director who sets out to tear up the bureaucracy and provide exceptional care.

In addition to Anupam and Eggold, the cast of the series includes Janet Montgomery, Jocko Sims and Tyler Labine. On the Bollywood front, Anupam will soon be seen in The Accidental Prime Minister as former prime minister Manmohan Singh.

The film is based on a book by Sanjaya Baru, a media advisor to Singh. Akshaye Khanna features as Baru, and Divya Seth Shah plays Manmohan Singhs wife Gursharan Kaur in the movie.Harvard Business Schools India-born Dean Nitin Nohria will step down from the board of directors of Tata Sons next month.

I can confirm to you that Dean Nohria is not extending his term on the board, Harvard Business School Director of Media and Public Relations Jim Aisner told PTI in an email, responding to a query on whether Dean Nohria is stepping down from the Tata Sons board.

Aisner said that based on more than three decades of experience here, its quite common for Harvard Business School faculty members (including HBS Deans, who are also professors here) to have a changing portfolio of board service.

In addition, like his colleagues, Dean Nohria takes seriously the responsibilities of board membership, including the ability to participate in meetings in person, and this was a concern, given the required travel to India.

Nohria had been appointed as a non-executive director on the Tata Sons Board in September 2013. His five-year term ends next month.Most of us are acquainted with the persona of Lt Gen Baljit Singh Jaswal (retd), a dapper, whiskered defence expert prominent on prime time TV. He retired as the Northern Army Commander in 2010, his forthright stance on the Chinese threat so having irked Beijing that he was famously refused a visa, sparking off a diplomatic row. On retirement, he took up residence at Amravati Enclave, Pinjore, and promptly figured on the wilder side of news!

A leopard stole into his house and sought refuge behind a washing machine, the tail poking out catching the attention of his wife, Ritu Jaswal. The big cat turned into a media celebrity following a nervy rescue operation though the retired officer maintained the demeanour worthy of a cool cat! Had the leopard an inkling of the retired officers prowess with a gun and how it shaped his career path since his cadet days, the big cat would have steered a course miles away from the washing machine!

A brace of flying partridges shot expertly on the wing in 1970, and thereby getting the better of his senior instructor (SI) in marksmanship, had influenced Jaswals career path, then a cadet at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, and president of the IMA Shikar Club.

We cadets were shooting partridge near Saharanpur along with Goverdhan Singh Jamwal (later major general), who was then an IMA senior instructor (SI). A partridge flew between Jamwal and myself and both of us fired with our shotguns. Both of us claimed the bird. Jamwal examined the dead partridge and found it had been hit on the left wing. This meant that my shot had bagged the bird as I was on the left flank. After an interval, a partridge again flew and both fired and a similar dispute arose, which was settled in my favour after Jamwal examined the second dead partridge. Jamwal, who was from the JAK Rifles, took a liking to me and asked if I would like a commission into his regiment. Though my father and brother were from the Armoured Corps, my career path took a different turn when I accepted his offer and opted for the Infantry. Jamwal got me inducted into 3 JAK Rifles, then deployed in Sikkim, a special protectorate of India. The rest is history and Gods grace! Jaswal told this writer.

CULT OF COPROPHAGY

Out it flung/Its yellow tongue/To taste the dung! was the poetic spin imparted by wildlife photographer Deepa Mohan to jungle beauties gorging on beastly dung. Zoology even has a queer word for species eating dung or faeces: coprophagy. While butterflies, moths and other species benefit from coprophagy, in humans such proclivity is an augury of mental illness or extreme sexual deviancy.

Butterflies gorge on cattle dung. (Rick Toor)

Just after the rains ebb, a ramble along the ribbon-like, serpentine rivulets of the Shivaliks affords viewership of butterfly movies. Some kitty parties of diverse butterflies are mud/dung-puddling on rivulet banks swamped with fresh mineral-rich silt while other flying flowers flutter like nervous eyelashes on bushes peeping over the rivulets.

Puddling is the phenomenon of butterflies gathering on substrates like wet soil, dung and carrion (rotting serpents also!) to obtain nutrients such as mineral salts, sodium and ammonium ions, amino acids and simple carbohydrates, which may be absent in the plants they feed on. Even sweat on human skin may be attractive to butterflies and more unusual sources include blood and tears. Male butterflies appropriate chemicals from dung and pass them to females. This gift, amounting to more than half a puddler males total body sodium, is in large measure apportioned by the female to egg formation.

vjswild1@gmail.comDelhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was trying to scuttle the AAP governments flagship CCTV project through lieutenant governor (L-G) Anil Baijal.

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari, however, refuted the allegation dubbing Kejriwals comment as irresponsible.

The L-Gs office refused to comment on the issue.

Kejriwal claimed that a BJP leader had told him that the party is exploring options to somehow stall the project by either lodging a CBI case in the matter or making the L-G refer the project to the President.

The chief ministers comment came just a day after the cabinet, chaired by Kejriwal himself, approved the Rs 571 crore project. The AAP government plans to install 2,000 CCTV cameras in each of the 70 assembly constituencies in Delhi, focusing mainly on residential and market areas.

A BJP leader has told me that his party will not allow installation of CCTVs at any cost. The BJP is working on two options  either obtaining all files (related to CCTVs) after registering a fake case with the CBI and stall the project or the L-G referring the project back to the President. If the BJP stops CCTV cameras then people will not tolerate this at all, Kejriwal said in a tweet.

Delhi BJP chief Tiwari, however, said that Kejriwals fears were unfounded.

Kejriwal is misusing his post of being a chief minister. He never tried to reach out to the Opposition regarding the project and is now only trying to hide his failures. I have got a CCTV project worth Rs 12 crore cleared for my northeast Delhi constituency. Cameras worth Rs 8 crore have already been installed, he said. Tiwari added that had the BJP been against CCTVs then he would not have installed cameras in his constituency.

The matter had also been raised by the AAP on Saturday which alleged that the BJP and L-G are using sections of bureaucracy to take revenge from the people of Delhi.

AAP legislator from Chandni Chowk Alka Lamba said that the brutal rape of a 6-year-old in a NDMC school has only added to the belief that CCTVs were a must for safety and security of women and children in the city. People of Delhi want their elected government to install CCTV cameras in public places, residential areas, market places and schools, she said.

Leader of opposition in Delhi assembly Vijender Gupta said Kejriwal was making rubbish, baseless and fake statements. Instead of fulfilling commitments made during elections, he is trying to be in news by making baseless allegations. He must tell the people of Delhi when the city will get CCTV cameras. They are waiting for more than three years, he said.In a move that could be a breather for CNG users in the national capital, the Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) is planning to come up with 50 more CNG stations in Delhi-NCR by February 2019 to reduce the long queues at stations across the city.

The new CNG-filling stations are to come up across Delhi and four districts in the neighbouring states, including Noida, Greater Noida, Rewari and Ghaziabad. These are expected to have more than 150 dispensing units, which will massively help in reduction of queues across Delhi-NCR, said an official.

In a meeting earlier this month, IGL had told the Supreme Court mandated Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) that it will take up several measures to reduce the long queues at CNG pumps. The SC had directed the gas distributor to set up more stations to cater to the growing demand.

Some of the most crowded CNG stations include CGO Complex, Sarai Kale Khan and Nizamuddin among others. Most problems in setting up new stations are faced in south and central Delhi, because of acquiring clearances from multiple agencies.

Also, a number of vehicle owners from neighbouring regions come to Delhi to get CNG filled, which increases the traffic.

IGL, the sole supplier of CNG in the city, has also introduced a new model where people can offer their land/plots for setting up fuel stations.

So far, IGL has been facing a problem in acquiring land for setting up of more stations as the number of vehicles, both private and commercial, switching to CNG has been on the rise.

Since acquiring land takes a lot of time, the gas utility has come up with Dealer Owned Dealer Operated model asking land owners for setting up CNG stations on their plots. Until now, seven such allocations have been done in the region, said an official spokesperson.

The IGL had, initially, received applications from both Delhi and Greater Noida for the same, the official said. At present, there are 450 CNG-filling stations in Delhi-NCR. Also, in order to increase the capacity of existing stations, it is to install additional 40 to 50 dispensers by August-end.

The gas distribution company is also in talks with the Delhi governments transport department and the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to set up CNG stations in their terminals and depots for public filling.A 26-year-old motorist had a miraculous escape after his Baleno car was sandwiched between a truck and a bus in an accident on Ring Road near north Delhis Pitampura on Saturday afternoon.

After the trucks brakes failed, it collided with a Haryana roadways bus, and the car was stuck between them.

Seven other people were injured in the accident after the truck crashed into eight more vehicles, police said.

Aslam Khan, deputy commissioner of police (north-west), said Puneet Jain miraculously escaped any life-threatening injuries. Jain remained hospitalised with five other people. Two others were released.

Quoting the initial probe, the officer attributed the pile-up to the trucks brake failure. These vehicles were moving down the slope because of which the momentum was high, said the DCP.

Since the accident involved a Haryana Roadways bus, police said there could be more people with minor injuries, but only eight needed to be hospitalised.

The truck driver, who escaped, has been identified as Pushpender, a resident of Kannauj in Uttar Pradesh. His helper, Vinay Kumar Singh, has been detained.

The DCP said the truck was heavily loaded with metal sheets collected from outer Delhis Mundka and were to be driven to Kanpur.

The accident happened around 3 pm while the truck was moving down the slope on the carriageway opposite Haiderpur metro station near north Delhis Pitampura.

Police said after apparently the brake failure, the truck rolled down the slope for over 100 metres, hitting the vehicles on its way.

Since the truck hit a bus, the two vehicles together caused a lot of damage, said the DCP.

A tempo, scooters and motorcycles were damaged, the officer said.

The accidents resulted in a long traffic jam and cranes were used to remove the damaged vehicles.

Police said they registered a case of rash and negligent driving.Move comes in wake of complaints about police officersdemanding bribes from pilgrims at various checkpoints.

Una superintendent of police Diwakar Sharma said the decision was taken after he received complaints alleging that police personnel at checkpoints demanded bribes from pilgrims entering the hill state. (Representational Image

Shimla: In a bid to curb corruption, the police chief of Himachal Pradeshs Una district has issued a unique diktat barring police personnel manning checkpoints from keeping more than Rs 200 with them.

Una superintendent of police Diwakar Sharma said the decision was taken after he received complaints alleging that police personnel at checkpoints demanded bribes from pilgrims entering the hill state.

The decision was taken after we received a slew of complaints alleging that policemen at checkpoints were seeking bribes, especially from pilgrims coming from neighbouring Punjab to pay their obeisance at the temples located in Himachal Pradesh, the SP said.

Mr Sharma said the district was the entry point for thousands of pilgrims coming from Punjab to pray at the states various holy shrines including Chintpurni, Jawalji and Kangra. The directive was issued on Friday and implemented from Saturday.

If a particular cop posted at any check-post wants to keep more than the permissible limit of Rs 200 as personal cash with him or her, then the police personnel will have to mention the exact amount in the daily diary of the concerned police station, Mr Sharma said.

The SP further said he had suspended five cops after catching them red-handed while taking bribes from pilgrims at Mubarakpur check-post on March 28.

Subsequently, the policemen posted at Marwari check-post were transferred on suspicion of taking a bribe on June 20, he said, adding that the power to issue challans and compound vehicles of some cops was withdrawn after they were found guilty of corruption.

Despite the crackdown, the complaints of cops at check-points seeking bribes kept pouring in forcing Sharma to issue the unique directive, he said.

I have carried out several surprise raids as a commoner since my posting as SP in Una on January 4 and found that corruption is rampant at check points, he said.

I am hopeful this decision will act as a deterrent, he added.Actor Chris Hemsworth who is popular for portraying the God of Thunder in Marvels Cinematic Universe celebrated his 35th birthday on Saturday. There was a birthday accident that involved Chriss face being smashed on the cake that had flaming candles on it. The actor took to Twitter to narrate the incident and mentioned that he is now ready to play Deadpool, that is if Ryan Reynolds were to pull the pin.

The actor wrote, Immediately after this shot was taken my son viciously attacked me from behind (due to his ninja training) and slammed my face into the flaming candles, Ill now be playing Deadpool if @VancityReynolds pulls the pin #bestbirthdayever @ElsaPataky_

Weird. My daughter JUST stabbed me in the right eye. (Shes not a ninja, but she IS a bit of a dick) Point is, We can finally trade roles... (Happy Birthday Bubba!) https://t.co/TsDLuTACaO  Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) August 11, 2018

Of course, the sassy star Ryan Reynolds was quick to respond and said that he is now eligible to play Thor because his daughter stabbed him in the right eye. On Twitter, the actor wrote, Weird. My daughter JUST stabbed me in the right eye. (Shes not a ninja, but she IS a bit of a di** Point is, We can finally trade roles... (Happy Birthday Bubba!).

Chris has also been receiving some love on social media from his family. His wife Elsa Pataky shared a picture on Instagram and wrote, Happy birthday to my biggest child! I love you to death @chrishemsworth .Lets be kids forever!!

His brothers Luke and Liam also took to Instagram and wished their brother.

Follow @htshowbiz for moreA policeman of the special operations group (SOG) was killed in a gunfight as security forces raided a militant hideout in the Batmaloo area of Srinagar on Sunday. The militants however managed to escape while two of their accomplices were detained, police said.

Four security personnel, including two Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troopers, were also injured in the shootout that broke out when a pre-dawn raid was launched in the area after police received specific information about the hideout. The highly-congested area is also surrounded by the zonal police headquarters, the police control room and the civil secretariat.

Director general of police (DGP), Shesh Paul Vaid said that SOG jawan, Pervaiz Ahmad, was killed in the exchange of firing. Ahmad, a selection grade constable, was a resident of village Dandote of the states Rajouri district.

Police officials said that Ahmad and four others were wounded in the initial burst of fire. While the searches in the area were going on, terrorists hiding in a house, which had a proper hideout for them, fired indiscriminately on the security forces, a police spokesman said.

Security forces exercised maximum restraint in retaliation considering the residential population and other civil establishments around the area, he added.

A massive search operation is underway in the area as it is understood that in the exchange of fire, terrorists are also injured, the spokesman said.

Deputy inspector general, central Kashmir, V K Birdi said the hideout was busted and they have detained two accomplices of the militants.

There are signs that a militant has been wounded and we are searching the area, he said.

Police have also recovered some incriminating material from the site of encounter.

Meanwhile, authorities also suspended mobile internet services in the capital.

Senior civil and police officers paid tributes to the slain policeman and laid floral wreaths on his mortal remains at the district police lines, Srinagar.

The encounter comes just three days after five militants were killed by security forces in Rafiabad in Baramulla district. It also comes a day after inspector general of police, Kashmir, SP Pani held a meeting to review security readiness for Independence

Day on August 15 in the capital.

In a shoot and scoot attack in Batmaloo last month, militants had killed a CRPF jawan and injured another close to the police control room.

Kashmir has witnessed an increasing number of gunfights between security forces and militants in August, including infiltration attempts across the Line of Control.

So far, 23 persons, including 16 militants, five soldiers and a policeman have been killed in six encounters in August while a civilian was killed in protests after one of the encounters.Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru spoke about a new Indias hopes and the call of history when the nation got independence. In August 1947, Hindustan Times published a story extracted from Nehrus famous Tryst with Destiny speech, which he delivered on the eve of Indias independence. Read the full text of the speech here:

Long years ago we made a tryst with destiny, and now the time comes when we shall redeem our pledge, not wholly or in full measure, but very substantially. At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom. A moment comes, which comes but rarely in history, when we step out from the old to the new, when an age ends, and when the soul of a nation, long suppressed, finds utterance. It is fitting that at this solemn moment we take the pledge of dedication to the service of India and her people and to the still larger cause of humanity.

At the dawn of history India started on her unending quest, and trackless centuries are filled with her striving and the grandeur of her successes and her failures. Through good and ill fortune alike she has never lost sight of that quest or forgotten the ideals which gave her strength. We end today a period of ill fortune and India discovers herself again. The achievement we celebrate today is but a step, an opening of opportunity, to the greater triumphs and achievements that await us. Are we brave enough and wise enough to grasp this opportunity and accept the challenge of the future ?

Freedom and power bring responsibility. That responsibility rests upon this Assembly, a sovereign body representing the sovereign people of India. Before the birth of freedom we have endured all the pains of labour and our hearts are heavy with the memory of this sorrow. Some of those pains continue even now. Nevertheless the past is over and it is the future that beckons to us now.

That future is not one of ease or resting but of incessant striving so that we might fulfil the pledges we have so often taken and the one we shall take today. The service of India means the service of the millions who suffer. It means the ending of poverty and ignorance and disease and inequality of opportunity. The ambition of the greatest man of our generation has been to wipe every tear from every eye. That may be beyond us but as long as there are tears and suffering, so long our work will not be over.

And so we have to labour and to work and work hard to give reality to our dreams. Those dreams are for India, but they are also for the world, for all the nations and peoples are too closely knit together today for anyone of them to imagine that it can live apart. Peace has been said to be indivisible, so is freedom, so is prosperity now, and so also is disaster in this one world that can no longer be split into isolated fragments.

To the people of India, whose representatives we are, we make appeal to join us with faith and confidence in this great adventure. This is no time for petty and destructive criticism, no time for ill will or blaming others. We have to build the noble mansion of free India where all her children may dwell.

I beg to move, Sir.

That it be resolved that :

(1) After the last stroke of midnight, all members of the Constituent Assembly present on this occasion do take the following pledge:

At this solemn moment when the people of India, through suffering and sacrifice, have secured freedom, I, .., a member of the Constituent Assembly of India, do dedicate myself in all humility to the service of India and her people to the end that this ancient land attain her rightful place in the world and make her full and willing contribution to the promotion of world peace and the welfare of mankind.

(2) Members who are not present on this occasion do take the pledge (with such verbal changes at the President may prescribe) at the time they next attend a session of the Assembly.

Text: Nehru Memorial Museum and LibraryThe Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) defeated the Congress in the elections for Rajya Sabhas Deputy Chairmans post. The NDA managed this feat despite not having a majority in the house.

Three major non-NDA non-United Progressive Alliance (UPA) parties  the All India Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS)  voted for the NDA candidate. Abstentions from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the YSR Congress further lowered the Congress candidates tally.

While this is another important political victory for the BJP, it will be premature to dismiss the prospects of a larger anti-BJP coalition in the 2019 election on the basis of these results. Heres why.

An anti-BJP front in 2019 is more likely to function at the state-level rather than as a pan-India alliance under the leadership of the Congress. In an interview to Hindustan Times, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Sharad Pawar attributed this to the Congress losing its erstwhile dominance in Indias polity. Such a process is bound to face two kinds of contradictions.

A coming together of one set of regional parties with the Congress will also create a counter-polarisation behind the BJP. Let us take Tamil Nadu for example. The Congress is likely to have an alliance with the DMK, while the AIADMK appears to be heading towards a pre-poll alliance with the BJP.

Similarly, while the Shiv Sena has been indulging in anti-Modi rhetoric for some time, it also realises that parting ways with the BJP will significantly diminish its electoral prospects in case the Congress and the NCP restore their pre-poll alliance in the state. This probably explains why the Shiv Sena voted for the NDA candidate in the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman election even though it abstained in the voting on the no-confidence motion.

In some states local antagonism among parties is bound to prevent a grand alliance against the BJP despite broad ideological congruence. The case of the AAP and the Congress in Delhi, the Left and the Congress in Kerala and the Left and the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal are some such examples. The resistance by local units of these parties against an all-in-unity pre-poll alliance against the BJP is not very difficult to explain. Any such alliance is likely to do long-term damage to the prospects of the junior partner in the alliance.

For example if the Congress cedes leadership of the anti-BJP alliance in Delhi to the AAP, itll be a clear admission that it sees itself as the distant third player in Delhis politics. Such forces will probably be more comfortable doing business with an anti-BJP front in a post-poll scenario. To be sure, the Opposition is not only one facing such contradictions. In some states, the BJP might be planning to enter into new alliances as a junior partner. The behaviour of the TRS and the BJD  they did not vote during the no-confidence motion and voted for the NDA in the Deputy Chairmans election  in Telangana and Odisha fits into this category. In case such alliances happen, there is bound to discontent within the BJP ranks in such states, because the electoral ambitions of local leaders will now have to be sacrificed.

The following table shows how different political parties voted in the Deputy Chairmans election. It also shows the likely attitude of a party in its state of influence vis-a-vis the Congress and the BJP in the 2019 elections. All parties which voted for either the Congress or the BJP have been considered as potential allies. (Table 1 here: party-wise voting).

We use these scenarios to calculate the number of Lok Sabha seats where the Congress and the BJP are likely to have pre-poll alliances. This has been done by adding the number of seats in a given state where such alliances are likely to happen. Our calculations show that the Congress is likely to have a pre-poll alliance in 324 seats. For the BJP this number is just 204. To be sure, these calculations do not include alliances with parties which do not have members in the Rajya Sabha. This could add pre-poll alliance seats for both the Congress and BJP. For example, the Congress might have an alliance with the National Conference in Jammu & Kashmir and the BJP is likely to retain is smaller allies in Uttar Pradesh. Similarly, a pre-poll alliance between the Congress and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) outside Uttar Pradesh has not been considered here. There are reports of such discussions between the two.

The short point is, it is still early days to make exact predictions about political alliances for the 2019 elections. However one can say with a reasonable degree of confidence that anti-BJP parties are likely to have pre-poll alliances in more major states than the BJP led NDA. For example, Karnataka (Congress-Janata Dal Secular), Tamil Nadu (DMK-Congress) and Uttar Pradesh (SP-BSP and probably Congress-INLD) are three big states where the degree of Opposition unity is likely to improve significantly compared to what it was in 2014. What is also true however is that expectations of all non-NDA parties coming together in 2019 are extremely unlikely if not totally impossible.Claiming threat to his life from underworld don Dawood Ibrahim, a BSP MLA from Ballia has lodged a complaint with police, which are probing the case.

On August 6, I got a text message asking me to check my email. I did not take it seriously then and thought I would check it later, as at that time, I was in Delhi. Generally, I get emails from youngsters who send their biodata to me, so I thought I would check it some time later, MLA Uma Shankar Singh told reporters in Lucknow on Sunday.

Singh is an MLA from Rasra in Ballia district. He said, two days later he got another message from the same number. On August 8, I got a message from the same number which read last warning, jeena yaa marna Rs 1 crore, he said.

On checking the email, I saw a photograph of Dawood Ibrahim. The email also said Uma Shankar, you are serving the people of Ballia. If you want to continue this, then give Rs 1 crore, else one bullet is enough for you. And we can kill you at any point of time, the legislator said.

The BSP MLA said, When I checked the number on truecaller (a mobile application to detect the person handling a particular mobile number), it said Dawood Ibrahim.

Singh has lodged a police complaint in this regard and an FIR has been registered against unknown persons under various sections of IPC and IT Act for threatening him via text messages and email, said SO Gomtinagar DP Tiwari.Congress has alleged that they have proof that government gave assistance to the boys hostel run by rape accused Ashwini Sharma at a time when the BJP is trying to distance itself from Sharma.

Sharma has been accused of raping and molesting four hearing and speech impaired women who stayed in his hostel. Sharma has since been arrested and is in police custody till Monday.

Congress vice-president Bhupendra Gupta produced an official letter dated December 28, 2016 from the director, social justice department, Ajit Kumar to the joint director, social justice department, Bhopal in which he says that Kripalu Boys hostel (which was run by Sharma) be given Rs 1800 per head every month towards food for 74 specially-abled students who were studying in Industrial Training Institute, Bhopal. The letter goes on to say that this assistance was being given under a special scheme for physically challenged students who were studying in ITIs and was for the year 2016-17.

Gupta alleged that social justice minister Gopal Bhargava had said that they had only given scholarships to the specially-abled students directly and had not given any assistance to Sharma, and this letters gives evidence on the contrary. He demanded that Gupta should resign from his post, like ministers in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh after the rape incidents in Muzaffarpur and Devaria.

Gopal Bhargava said, I have been misquoted. Also my officials never informed me that we had given any assistance to this person. You see there are so many organizations that are getting assistance. We know some of the big ones and it is not possible to monitor all. I have not seen the document which the Congress party is showing, but I will ask my officials to look into it.

The Congress has been insisting that Sharma has political patronage and also help from social justice department officials. On Saturday Congress State media in-charge Shobha Oza had had produced in video clip showing chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan patting and blessing Sharma on his back at a fund raiser programme organized in Bhopal for Uttarkhand floods of 2013.Yoga guru and entrepreneur Ramdev said on Sunday that gau rakshaks (cow protectors) are forced to come out on streets as police and civil administrations fail to deal strictly with the menace of cow smuggling.

He said that strict action should be taken against those involved in illegal cow slaughter and added that a few gau rakshaks go overboard, which malign the image of 90% genuine people who work for cow protection.

No one speaks about cow smugglers. Why are cow slaughterers given encouragement. It should never happen. We are not in favour of those having licence for cow slaughter house and those transporting animals, he told reporters on the sidelines of an event in Jaipur.

Advocating a complete ban on cow slaughter in the country, he said that Centre should enact a law on the matter.

Who else can be a bigger rashtra bhakt and gau bhakt than Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He should enact a law to ban cow slaughter in the country, Ramdev said.

Replying to a question on the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam, Ramdev said that nearly 3-4 crore people live illegally in the country which poses a huge threat to the countrys integrity, unity and sovereignty.

Be it a Bangladeshi, Pakistani or American, no one should be allowed to live illegally in the country, he added.The Centre has cautioned state governments against directly dealing with agencies of some countries of concern like China, Iran and Afghanistan on matters of internal security saying any such communication must be routed through it for the sake of national security.

In a recent communication to all chief secretaries, the ministry of home affairs said state police forces should be directed not to facilitate or entertain any such requests from organisations or agencies from countries of concern without prior consultation with it.

It has come to the notice of the ministry of home affairs that some foreign organisations/ agencies from countries of concern are extending invitations for mutual cooperation, training, joint exercise, exchange of views etc., directly to state/ union territory police without routing such requests through ministry of home affairs, it said.

The ministry said while it appreciated that law enforcement related cooperation at international level is desirable, a cautious and calibrated approach is to be adopted while dealing with foreign organisations or agencies, especially from countries of concern, in the interest of national security.

Accordingly, state/ union territory organisations may be directed not to facilitate or entertain any such requests from foreign organisations/ agencies from countries of concern without prior consultation with the ministry of home affairs, the communication said.

According to ministry officials, depending on the nature of international cooperation like training of officers related to forensics, explosions, investigation, procurement of weapons or security equipment, there were different countries of concern identified by the government with the help of central intelligence agencies.

For example, when it comes to internal security cooperation, Pakistan, China and Afghanistan are countries of concern and if states or local police start dealing with private companies or government organisations of these countries directly, it may compromise different aspects of internal security, an official said.

On matters such as counter-terror programmes, fake currency, drugs, human trafficking etc., countries like Iraq, Iran, Syria, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh were put in the country of concern category from time to time.

Similarly, several private foreign organisations which deal with security equipment or organise security related conferences or seminars need to be verified properly, another official said.INDIA INDEPENDENT: BRITISH RULE ENDS.

These five words formed the lead headline of Hindustan Timess front page on August 15, 1947, reporting the greatest event in Indias modern history. The newspapers edition on the day of Indias independence reported a range of events--from governors being sworn in to homage to Mahatma Gandhi.

Reproduced here is a verbatim version of the Hindustan Timess independence day lead story from 1947:

(By Our Special Representative)

NEW DELHI, Thursday  At midnight tonight the Constituent Assembly consisting of the chosen representatives of the Indian people, assumed sovereign power and the members solemnly took the pledge to serve India and her people. We end today a period of all fortune and India discovers herself again, said Pandit Nehru in calling upon the members to take the new pledge.

Earlier the president of the constituent assembly, Dr Rajendra Prasad , said: To all we give the assurance that it will be our endeavour to end poverty and squalor and its companions, hunger and disease to abolish distinctions and exploitation and to ensure decent conditions of living.

After the assembly had sat for 75 minutes, during which it assumed powers of governance and endorsed the appointment of Lord Mountbatten as Governor-general. Dr Rajendra Prasad and Pt. Nehru proceeded to the Government House to inform Lord Mountbatten of the assemblys decisions. Later, the National Flag presented to the Assembly by Mrs. Hansa Mehta on behalf of the women of India was hoisted amidst cheers of thousands who had gathered outside the council House

The climax was reached when at the last stroke of midnight there was blowing of conches and spontaneously the cry of Mahatma Gandhi ki Jai  went up. That these were the first words uttered by the representatives of Indian people on attaining freedom was an expression of the peoples

gratitude to the architect of the nation to whom both Pandit Nehru and Dr Rajendra Prasad paid glowing tributes in their speeches.

The birth of a free India was witnessed by diplomatic representatives of the nations representing more than half the population of the globe. Ambassadors of the U.S.A and China were there and also High Commissioners of Canada and Australia and diplomatic representatives of other countries.

It was the greatest hour for Delhi. This capital of many mighty empires became today for the first in its history the seat of Lok Raj, government of the people, by the people and for the people.

The Assembly Hall was full to capacity and appeared most impressive. The National Flag adorned the dozen large panels some of which formerly had life size portraits of British dignitaries. The flags provided the proper background for the momentous meeting. Loudspeakers carried the proceedings to the thousands who had thronged outside.

The visitors inside the hall were certainly in a select gathering, mostly wives of officials resplendent silks and relations of members of the assembly. It was a pity that the man in the street got little chance of seeing the function. Perhaps there was philosophic justice in the ceremony being observed mostly by those who were loyal to the former regime.

The most pleasing part of the function was that among members Khadi dress predominated and that even those ordinarily accustomed to European costume came in achkan. These included Ambedkar, Mr B. L. Mitter, Mr Panikkar and Mr Zaida. The assembly secretariat officials were all dressed in achcan only the deputy secretary, Mr Tayabji wore Pakistani turban. Many welcomed Mr Mavalankar, the president of the defunct Central Assembly who joined the house today. The new Ministers who will be sworn in tomorrow sat to the left of the President.According to reports, the incident took place in the visitor's area of the Muzaffarpur Central Jail where Thakur is lodged.

Brajesh Thakur ran a state-funded shelter home where sexual abuse of more than 30 inmates was confirmed in medical tests. (Photo: File/PTI)

Muzaffarpur: Brajesh Thakur, prime accused in the Muzaffarpur shelter home rapes, was on Saturday found by Bihar police officials with a list of 40 mobile phone numbers.

According to reports, the incident took place in the visitor's area of the Muzaffarpur Central Jail where Thakur is lodged.

The Bihar police while carrying out simultaneous raids across jails in the state found Thakur with two handwritten pages with phone numbers and names of around 40 people.

On those two pages, the names of some powerful people, including a minister, were written.

Also Read: Bihar minister Manju Verma resigns over Muzaffarpur shelter case

Brajesh Thakur ran a state-funded shelter home where sexual abuse of more than 30 inmates was confirmed in medical tests.

The Bihar government had cancelled the registration of the NGO earlier this week.

Also Read: In Bihar shelter home case, Brajesh Thakur's NGO license cancelled

Meanwhile, a CBI team on Saturday took into custody the son of Brajesh Thakur, another accused in the shelter home sex scandal, after 11 hours of search operation and questioning at the premises owned by them.

The CBI team, which had reached Thakur's Sahu Road residence at around 9 am, left at around 8 pm with his son Rahul Anand.

The CBI team, which was also accompanied by a number of forensic experts, is understood to have inspected the shelter home after getting its seal opened, and collected documents and other items it found to be of value in the investigation.

Sexual exploitation of girls at the shelter home first came to light in the report of a social audit conducted by Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, which was submitted to the state social welfare department in April.

The FIR in the case was registered on May 31 against 11 people, including Thakur.

(With inputs from PTI)Bihar Police on Saturday recovered a list of 40 mobile phone numbers from Brajesh Thakur, the main accused in the rape of 34 minor girls who is lodged in Muzaffarpur Central Jail, during simultaneous raids on prisons across the state, police said.

According to police, the officers spotted Thakur in the visitors area of the jail and recovered two handwritten pages with 40 mobile phone numbers and the names of those they were issued against.

A district administration official said the names of some powerful people, including a minister, were written on two pages recovered from Thakur during the search.

Bihar Police on Saturday conducted raids on over a dozen of jails in the state and recovered objectionable items from prisoners.

Thakur has spent five days in the Muzaffarpur Central Jail since he was arrested on June 2.

He has been staying in the medical ward of the jail on health grounds and managed to avoid staying in the prisoners ward, the police said.

The Patna high court is monitoring the ongoing CBI investigation into the case.India and China have a border dispute but the fact that they have not even fired a single bullet at each other in the last four decades shows their maturity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said in an interview to Hindustan Times.

Modi, in the email interview, spoke about Doklam, a disputed border area in Bhutan, where Indian and Chinese troops where locked in a stand-off for more than two months. The standoff was resolved in late August 2017 when the two countries agreed to withdraw their troops, and Beijing indicated it had halted work on a road that triggered the row.

There have been occasional incidents in the border areas due to differing perceptions about the Line of Actual Control. However, both countries have always managed to resolve these incidents peacefully through dialogue on the ground as well as through diplomatic channels. It is noteworthy that over the last four decades not a single bullet has been fired across the India-China border and peace and tranquility have been maintained in border areas. This shows that we are both mature countries, capable of peacefully resolving our differences, said Modi.

Modi said his informal summit with President Xi Jinping in the Chinese city of Wuhan in April 2018 allowed the two countries to build trust, saying the candid atmosphere was fruitful. Wuhan was the second meeting between the two leaders after the successful disengagement at Doklam, first being at Xiamen during BRICS conference 2017.

I have met President Xi Jinping a number of times over the last four years. In recent months, we have added a new dimension to our engagement in the form of the Informal Summit in Wuhan in April 2018. It allowed us to interact in a very free and candid atmosphere to understand each others concerns without being forced into a diplomatic straightjacket, he said.

We have been meeting regularly on the sidelines of multilateral summits as well. Such frequent interactions and close communication have been very useful in building mutual trust at the leadership level and allowing it to percolate to other levels. We look forward to receiving President Xi in India in the coming year for our next informal summit.

Chinas support for Pakistan, its growing influence in South Asia, sharing river waters, trade surplus and the border dispute continue to nag its ties with China, but Modi was confident that the countries can cooperate.

Both India and China are members of various multilateral mechanisms, such as East Asia Summit, BRICS, Shanghai Cooperation Organization, G-20 and many others. From environment to trade to reform of institutions of global governance, there are a number of issues of global importance where India and China have a long history of cooperation and leadership, he said.India on Sunday handed over the first lot of houses built for Indian-origin people in Sri Lankas tea plantation areas.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined a special ceremony through video conference at Dunsinane Estate, Nuwara Eliya to hand over the houses built under the Indian Housing Project in Plantation Areas.

It is the largest Indian assistance project in any country with a grant of over $350 million.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe thanked his Indian counterpart for the assistance.

I thank Prime Minister Modi. He has kept the promise he made last year, Wickremesinghe said.

Modi said India continues to keep Sri Lanka in a special place in its neighbourhood first policy.

Some 404 houses were handed over at the central district of Nuwara Eliya.

Out of the 60,000 houses, close to 47,000 have been completed so far, Modi said, adding that the $350 million grant to build the houses was one of the largest grants by India in any country.

Sri Lanka has been special for us, and it will remain special, Modi said.

Wickremesinghe, recalling the historical links between India and Sri Lanka, said Modis suggestion today to establish direct air links between Colombo and Varanasi to facilitate pilgrims from Sri Lanka is most welcomed.India is going ahead with the resumption of services on the Jainagar-Janakpur broad gauge railway link with Nepal, raising hopes of better connectivity between the two countries.

Indian Railways conducted a trial run on the 8.5-km line from Jayanagar railway station to Khajuri in Nepal on Wednesday, which was declared successful. A cargo train with 53 bogies reached Khajuri station without any problems, officials said.

There have been no services on the line for the past four years. The trail run is being seen as a precursor to the resumption of full-fledged operations.

According to media reports, the cargo train carried 5,000 tons of ballast from India. From now on, construction materials will be carried via railway. We have faced difficulties while transporting construction materials by road, said Ravi Sahay, site chief with IRCON, the Indian Railways construction arm.

He said there will no problems in resuming train services following the successful trial run. A huge crowd gathered to watch the trial run.

The move is being seen as part of efforts to counter Chinas plans to forge rail links with Nepal. After Beijing decided to extend its railway network up to Kathmandu, New Delhi proposed the construction of new railway links during Prime Minister KP Sharma Olis recent visit to India.

Nepal and India have plans for four cross-border railway links, including one to link Raxaul to Kathmandu.

The construction of the new Janakpur-Jayanagar-Kurtha broad gauge rail link, being done with Indian assistance, is in its final phase. The line was originally built during the British Raj to transport logs from forests at Mahottari to India. At that time, the line Jayanagar in Bihar to Bijulpura in Mahottari was 52 km long. Around 15 years ago, floods swept away the Bighi bridge, disrupting railway services on the 29-km stretch from Janakpur to Jayanagar.

The Rs 5.5-billion (Nepalese Rs 8.8 billion) project is divided into three phases. The first includes construction of a 34-km segment between Jayanagar and Kurtha, the second comprises construction of an 18-km segment from Kurtha to Bhangaha in Mahottari district, and the third comprises construction of a 17-km segment from Bhangaha to Bardibas. Of the total length, only three kilometres is in Indian territory.The in-charge and a head constable of Bagh police station in Madhay Pradeshs Dhar district were suspended after a man died inside the police station on Saturday night, police said, with officers claiming that he hanged himself while the family accusing them of beating him up to death.

Bagh town, which is situated around 250km west of state capital Bhopal, remained tense after the incident, and additional force had to be rushed in.

Dhar superintendent of police Virendra Singh said Soheb Khan (25) had been brought to the police station in the evening after he was accused of eve-teasing, and he hanged himself.

He was taken to Barwani town for treatment but he had died by then, the officer added.

Prima-facie the police station incharge Kamal Singh Pawar and head constable Mangilal Goyal have been found guilty and have been suspended. A full inquiry has been ordered. Video recording of the post mortem is being done, SP Singh said.

As news of Sohebs death spread, large number of people from the minority community gheraoed the Bagh police station demanding action against the policemen.

Khans uncle Salam Pathan said Soheb was beaten mercilessly which resulted in his death. We demand that cases be registered against the policemen responsible for his death.Two men have been arrested for alleged rape and abduction of a 19-year-old woman, following which she is suspected to have committed suicide by jumping into the Chenab river, in Jammu and Kashmirs Reasi district, a police officer said on Sunday.

The womans father had lodged a missing complaint on July 24, the officer added.

After analysing the womans call record details, Paramjeet Singh was arrested, the officer said. Singh told the police that his friend, Pankaj Khajuria, was using the phone number on his name to entice the victim.

An FIR was registered after the womans relatives accused Khajuria, his friend Naresh Kumar and Singh of abducting her. Subsequently, police arrested Khajuria from his shop at Talwara, and Kumar, who had fled to Amritsar.

The officer said, During questioning, it came to the fore that Khajuria was in a relationship with the woman and used to call her using Singhs SIM card and also promised to marry her.

The police said Khajuria had called the woman at Baradari Bridge from where he and his friend Kumar took her to a secluded under-construction house in Talwara and raped her.

The officer said, soon after, the woman went to the Chenab bridge, called up Khajuria several times and had threatened to commit suicide by jumping into the river.

A cellphone confiscated from Khajuria had a vital clue in the form of an audio recording..., the officer added. The audio clip purportedly revealed the phone conversation between woman and Khajuria from the bridge.

Police said massive efforts were on to trace the woman.

The relatives of the woman staged a protest at Talwara on Sunday demanding severe punishments for the culprits.The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday arrested two persons in Hyderabad for their alleged connections with the Islamic State.

The accused were identified as Mohammad Abdullah Basith (24), son of Mohammad Abdul Arif of Hafeez Baba Nagar and Mohammad Abdul Qadeer (19), son of Abdul Quddus of Chandrayangutta, both in the old city of Hyderabad, a NIA release said.

The arrests followed a series of raids conducted by NIA sleuths at seven places on August 6 and subsequent interrogation of several suspects in the last one week. A lot of incriminating material was seized from the accused and has been sent to Central Forensic Science Laboratory in Hyderabad for analysis and data extraction, the release said.

The NIA authorities said during the interrogation, it was revealed that both Basith and Qadeer had pledged their allegiance to the IS to carry out terror activities in India. They were arrested to ascertain the details of the ongoing conspiracy and also their role played in furthering the IS ideology to carry out terrorist acts in India, they said.

On January 28, 2016, the NIA registered a case in New Delhi, under provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, against Sheikh Azhar-ul-Islam, Mohammed Farhan Shaikh and Adnan Hassan, charging them and their unknown associates with being members of the IS and involved in motivating, radicalising, recruiting and training Indian Muslim youth in its ideology so as to carry out terror activities.

After completion of investigation, the NIA filed charge-sheet against the three on July 25, 2016 in the NIA Special Court in New Delhi. While Sheikh Azhar-ul-Islam and Mohammed Farhan Shaikh pleaded guilty and were sentenced to seven years of imprisonment, the trial of Adnan Hassan was still going on.

During further investigation, fresh input were received from reliable sources that Basith was connected with Hassan and that some of his associates are in regular touch with each other and allegedly conspiring to further their IS activities.

Based on these inputs, raids were conducted on the residences of Basith and others in Hyderabad, the NIA release said.The attempt of Opposition parties to form a Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) against the government for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections is political adventurism thats bound to fail, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said in an interview to Hindustan Times.

These groups that are being formed, Mahagathbandhan, or whatever they may call it, cannot create a gathbandhan of the electorate. Indian electorate has always kept the national interest paramount and I have a faith that it will not compromise its vote for such incongruent groups whose only focus is, as you say, anyone but Modi, the Prime Minister said in the email interview.

His comments come after Opposition parties failed to get their act together in election for the Rajya Sabha deputy chairmans post and the candidate of the ruling National Democratic Alliance won easily on Thursday.

A non-ideological alliance of desperate and disparate groups is not a Mahagathbandhan but political adventurism. It is a failed idea which never succeeded in past. History tells us that such adventurism failed in the past and will never succeed in the future. The people want a strong and a decisive government that is sensitive to their interests and gives them results, he said.

The political pundits as we all know, proved themselves completely wrong in 2014. Once again, we and the people of this country will prove them wrong. These groups and mahagathbandhans have no development, no growth, no bright, stable future to offer to this country. Their limited vision of getting together to remove Modi is what will expose them to the discerning public. It is what will spell their doom.

Opposition parties have in recent months tried to pin down the government on a range of issues but their effort to form an alliance for the elections has been hampered because ideological differences and leadership. A no-trust motion they moved against the government on July 20 was soundly defeated in the Lok Sabha.Aggressively critiquing the proposed unified front, or Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance), of opposition parties in the run-up to the 2019 elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that it reflects political opportunism, and has failed in the past and will fail in the future because people want a strong and decisive government. It will, he has argued, not succeed in creating a gathbandhan of the electorate.

At a time when there is speculation about the governments key agenda for the next elections, Modi has also said that his campaign platform for 2019 will be all-round development, quick development, and development for all.

With this, Modi has indicated the two central planks of his campaign in the 2014 elections -- a strong, decisive government and vikas (development) -- will be his themes once again.

In written responses to a wide range of questions from Hindustan Times, Modi spoke about the political challenge in 2019, defended his governments record on the economy, and articulated a broad worldview on relations with major powers, particularly the US, Russia and China.

Read: Full interview

When asked about the prospects of a grand Opposition alliance, which observers consider a powerful challenge because it can prevent the fragmentation of the anti-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) vote, Modi said that after a long time, a performing, strong and stable government was in power in Delhi.

People have seen the benefits of such a dispensation. People also have a very bitter experience of coalition governments in the past that were burdened by coalition politics of compulsions. These groups that are being formed, Mahagathbandhan, or whatever they may call it, cannot create a gathbandhan of the electorate, he said.

Modi claimed that a non-ideological alliance of desperate and disparate groups was merely opportunism. People want a strong and decisive government that is sensitive to their interests and gives them results.

Referring to the recent defeat of the Opposition candidate for the post of the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman against the National Democratic Alliances pick, Modi said some of the rival parties were joining hands not because they have one ideology but it is because people are rejecting them.

If you look at the electoral performance of the last four years, the Congresss geographical and political base has shrunk. The BJP has won a large majority in states that went for bilateral elections. Talk of the Opposition alliance is really because of the Congresss inability to take on the BJP, the PM said.

He hit out at commentators and analysts - political pundits - for reading 2014 wrongly and predicted they would get it wrong again. These groups and Mahagathbandhans have no development, no growth, no bright stable future to offer to this country.

The PM also, at a time when there is a debate on whether religious polarisation would constitute a major element of the BJP campaign, said his platform would be centred around development. He referred to the Ujjwala scheme, under which free cooking gas connections are being given to poor families, rural electrification, the MUDRA loan scheme for small businesses, Jan Dhan bank accounts, Direct Benefits Transfer of subsidies, the Swachh Bharat sanitation programme, start-up push, and housing for all, as the major flagship schemes that have had an impact on the lives of citizens.

On foreign policy, when asked how he managed conflicts, in particular the US sanctions against Russia with India needing to purchase Russian defence equipment, Modi said: Both USA and Russia are Indias long-standing strategic partners. Our relationships with them stand on their individual merits. We have time-tested relations with Russia in all spheres. They are based on the strong foundation of friendship and goodwill at the level of peoples. Our relationship with the US has undergone a major transformation, including in the spheres of defence and security cooperation. Both the countries understand our legitimate interests, including our security interests.

On China, Modi said that it was noteworthy that not a single bullet had been fired across the India-China border for the last four decades and peace and tranquillity had been maintained in border areas. This shows that we are both mature countries, capable of peacefully resolving our differences. He outlined the environment, trade, and reform of institutions of global governance as areas where India and China have long cooperated, and referred to his frequent meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The informal Wuhan summit, Modi said, had allowed them to interact in a very free and candid atmosphere to understand each others concerns, without being forced into a diplomatic straightjacket.Lynchings are deeply unfortunate but citing them for political gain is a travesty, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said in rare comments about mob attacks that have killed dozens across India.

My party and I have spoken in clear words, on multiple occasions against such actions (lynching) and such a mindset. It is all on record. Even a single incident is one too many and deeply unfortunate. Everyone should rise above politics to ensure peace and unity in our society, said Modi in an interview to news agency ANI when he was asked a question about Opposition parties criticising his government for crimes against women and lynchings.

It would be a great travesty to reduce these incidents to mere statistics and then indulge in politics over them. That shows a kind of perverse mindset that looks at violence and criminality as something to be milked, instead of unitedly opposing, he said.

Mohammed Azam, a UK-educated IT worker from Hyderabad, died and at least two of his friends were badly injured when a mob beat them in Bidar district of Karnataka on July 13. Eight police officers who went to Murki village were also attacked  the latest in a series of attacks based on false rumours about child kidnappers.

Police and government warnings to people not to believe in such messages have gone unheeded: in Tripura, a mob lynched a person hired by the government to dispel such rumours.

The government says it is not tracking data for lynchings, but data portal IndiaSpend has tallied more than 30 deaths from nearly 70 such incidents since January 2017.

The Supreme Court on July 17 asked Parliament to come up with an anti-lynching law to tackle cow vigilantism and lynch mobs and laid down preventive, remedial, and punitive measures against the backdrop of a spate of such incidents across the country.

Horrendous acts of mobocracy cant be allowed, a bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and justices AM Khanwilkar and DY Chandrachud had said.It is the largest Indian assistance project in any country with a grant of over USD 350 million.

PM Modi joined special ceremony through video conference at Dunsinane Estate, Nuwara Eliya to hand over houses built under Indian Housing Project in Plantation Areas. (Photo: ANI | Twitter)

New Delhi/ Colombo: India on Sunday handed over the first lot of houses built for Indian-origin people in Sri Lankas tea plantation areas.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined a special ceremony through video conference at Dunsinane Estate, Nuwara Eliya to hand over the houses built under the Indian Housing Project in Plantation Areas.

It is the largest Indian assistance project in any country with a grant of over USD 350 million.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe thanked his Indian counterpart for the assistance.

I thank Prime Minister Modi. He has kept the promise he made last year, Wickremesinghe said.

Modi said India continues to keep Sri Lanka in a special place in its neighbourhood first policy.

Some 404 houses were handed over at the central district of Nuwara Eliya.

Out of the 60,000 houses, close to 47,000 have been completed so far, Modi said, adding that the USD 350 million grant to build the houses was one of the largest grants by India in any country.

Sri Lanka has been special for us, and it will remain special, Modi said.

Wickremesinghe, recalling the historical links between India and Sri Lanka, said Modis suggestion today to establish direct air links between Colombo and Varanasi to facilitate pilgrims from Sri Lanka is most welcomed.The Dalit in-laws of the girl, who allegedly became a victim of honour killing in Rohtak, have alleged that the police did not let them take part in their daughter-in-laws cremation that took place on Saturday evening. They alleged that from the past one year, the Rohtak police have been torturing their family and hurling casteist abuses at them as their son married an upper caste Jat woman.

We wanted to cremate her body with all the rituals. But the police advised us that if we perform her last rites, her family would fume further and could attack us. We agreed and dropped the plan. The least we wanted was to be present at her cremation. But the police did not even let us do that by informing us late. Instead, they allowed her family that killed her to be present, said Dinesh Kumar, victims brother-in-law.

Meanwhile, station house officer Sunita, who is leading the investigation, maintained that the police served the notice about the cremation to the family on time. She further said that the family had itself signed the document saying they do not want to cremate the body.

The unclaimed body of victim Mamta Kumari was kept at the mortuary of Rohtak hospital for three days before the state women commission cremated her on Saturday. Mamtas husband Sombir, who was jailed for forging her age proof to marry her when she was a minor, was also not allowed leave to attend her cremation.

I moved his bail plea thrice. But the judge turned it down everytime taking in view a threat to his life from his wifes family. He cried on phone, told us that he wants to see his wifes face for the last time. But his wish could not be granted, said Dinesh.

Mamtas mother-in-law Saroj Devi said the police have been torturing her family since an year. Ever since they eloped in August last year, the police have been harassing us so much that we had to leave our village for three months. The policemen repeatedly hurled vulgar abuses at us for being from a lower caste and said that how dare our son marry a Jat woman. They even arrested my husband on false charges and kept us in custody for long hours to harass us. Our life has been a living hell since their marriage, she said.

Devi further said that the harassment was going on even now. The policeman recording our statements said that we were faking our misery. They said we lost nothing and that the real loss was for the girls family because they lost their daughter and will now have to be in jail for killing her. They cant apprehend that we also loved our daughter-in-law and it is them (her family) who killed her. Though she was in police custody in Karnal, we used to go meet her twice every month when she was brought to Rohtak court for her case hearings, said Saroj.

The family said they were not aware of their sons relationship with Mamta till the time they eloped. They said when their son called them from Delhi, they warned him not to marry her because they were Dalits and could sense trouble that would follow.

Meanwhile, superintendent of police (SP) Jashandeep Singh Randhawa did not respond despite a number of calls.Telangana Police on Sunday arrested Rajya Sabha MP D Srinivas son D Sanjay on charges of sexually harassing students of a nursing college he owns and runs.

Sanjay, a former mayor of Nizamabad, was taken into custody after he surrendered before the local police in connection with the case registered on August 3.

He was formally arrested after the police grilled him for more than three hours. A local court remanded him in two-week judicial custody.

Besides the Nirbhaya Act, the police booked Sanjay under Sections 354 (demanding sexual favours and making sexual advances), 354A (passing sexually coloured remarks) and 342 (wrongful confinement) of the IPC.

The cases were registered on August 3, a day after 11 woman students from the college submitted a memorandum to state home minister Naini Narasimha Reddy and Telangana director general of police M Mahender Reddy. Following a suggestion from them, the students lodged a formal complaint with the Nizamabad police.

In their complaint, the girls alleged that Sanjay regularly misbehaved with them and made sexual advances. If they refused to oblige, he allegedly abused them in foul language. The girls also produced some text messages received by them from Sanjay as evidence.

Sanjay denied the charges against him. He claimed that he hardly ever went to the college , let alone interact with the students. The allegations are politically motivated and aimed at targeting my family, he said.

Soon after the case was registered, Sanjay went underground, trying for an anticipatory bail. However, he did not succeed.

Sanjays father Srinivas, who was the PCC president twice in Andhra Pradesh, defected to the TRS after 2014 elections and was subsequently nominated to Rajya Sabha in 2016.

Recently, Srinivas fell out with the TRS leadership, particularly Nizamabad MP K Kavitha, who lodged a complaint with party president alleging that he was indulging in anti-party activities.The Congress will project more than one probable chief minister in Chhattisgarh ahead of the assembly polls in the state due later this year, party leaders familiar with the strategy said. This is being done to woo the states powerful other backward classes (OBCs). Kurmis and Sahus are two dominant communities among OBCs, and account for around 36% of the states population.

Bupesh Bhagel, a Kurmi, and Tamradhwaj Sahu will be among the prominent faces for the partys election campaign, the leaders said. Sahu is a member of Congress Working Committee (CWC), the partys highest decision-making body, while Bhagel is the partys state chief.

The leaders said the Congress first made Tamradhwaj Sahu head of the partys national OBC cell and then nominated him to the CWC as it sensed a chance to win back the Sahu community. By elevating the Sahu leader to the CWC, we are giving a signal, that he could be the next chief minister, said a Congress leader who did not wish to be named. He said Baghel is the other probable candidate. He said his Kurmi community accounts for the states 20% population. Our strategy is to strike a balance between the two dominant OBC communities, he said. He added other prominent caste leaders like opposition leader T S Singhdeo, too, will find a place in the campaign strategy. Singhdeo, a Thakur like the states current chief minister, the Bharatiya Janata Partys Raman Singh, was until recently considered a front-runner among potential Congress candidates for the top post .

The Congress has mainly banked on tribal and Dalit votes (42%) in the state. Kurmis and Sahus had shifted their allegiance to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party as they felt sidelined during former Congress chief minister Ajit Jogis tenure over a decade back. Jogi, a tribal, left the Congress in 2015 to float his Chhattisgarh Janata Congress.

Kurmis and Sahus are mainly farmers and traders. Sahus account for about 16% of the states population. As many as 18 of the 90 seats have about 40% Sahu voters.

Getting Sahu votes is crucial for the Congress. There was less than one percentage point (0.75%) difference between the Congress and the BJPs vote shares in the last assembly election in 2013.

Most of the Sahus vote for the BJP because they are basically small traders (the partys traditional voter base), said Congresss national OBC cell coordinator Sandeep Sahu.

He claimed the community has decided to vote for the Congress as the BJP did nothing for them when demonetisation of high-value currency notes in 2016 and introduction of the Goods and Services Tax hit them hard. Sandeep Sahu claimed the community feels the BJP has not given them proper representation in the state government and the party.

BJP spokesman Sacchinand Upasane contested the claims saying the partys vice president Motilal Sah and a minister Ramshila Sahu in the Chhattisgarh cabinet are from the community. Instead of questioning us, the Congress should settle its internal party disputes first, he said.

Upasane insisted Sahus will not desert the BJP as the state government has done a lot for them . He added that there is ideological alignment between the Sahus and the BJP.

Political analyst Ashok Tomar says Tamradhwaj Sahus promotion is a good move. He added there is a strong feeling in the community that Tamradhwaj could be the chief minister if the Congress comes to power. If the Congress manages to win 5% of the Sahu vote, it can be in power in the state.

Chhattisgarh Sahu Samaj president Vipin Sahu called the promotion a good thing for his community. I believe the Congress will do well this time and manage to dent the BJP vote bank.

Vinod Verma, the Congresss chief strategist in Chhattisgarh, said the Sahu community is the only one, other than tribals, which votes in large numbers for the party. Congress has been giving them political space and if the party comes to power Sahus will get their due. We feel Sahus will vote for us.Three minor girls, who went missing from two shelter homes in Khunti and Ranchi, are untraceable despite a week-long search operation, police said.

Two minor girls went missing from Khunti-based Sahyog village on August 5 night while one fled from Nari Niketan Snehashraya in Kanke, Ranchi, on Tuesday. A team comprising four members of Child Line and Sahyog village, which had been to Kolkata since Thursday to trace the Khunti girls, returned empty handed, officials said.

Khunti district child protection officer (DCPO), Altaf Khan, who is investigating the case, said the team returned Sunday after it failed to trace the girls. However, the government railway police and railway Child Line have been informed about the girls and their photographs were shared with them, Khan said.

One of the two girls who went missing from Khunti had called up the shelter home superintendent last Wednesday to inform that they were in Howrah and would return to the shelter home.

However, the girls neither returned nor made any calls thereafter, officials said.

The DCPO said, We have collected CCTV footage from the shelter home. The footage shows the girls scaling the boundary wall around 11pm on August 5. He said two other girls had helped them escape but they denied when questioned by the officials.

Khan said, I also talked to the passenger who had helped the girls to make the call to the shelter superintendent. He said the girls had requested for his mobile phone at Howrah station to call the superintendent.

We hope the girls are still in Howrah and they would be traced soon, he said.

Meanwhile, another minor girl, who fled from Nari Niketan Snehashraya in Kanke, Ranchi, last Tuesday, is also untraceable. The shelter home is run by Ranchi district social welfare department. Ranchi district social welfare officer Kanchan Singh said, Police is investigating the case but the girl is still missing.

Jharkhand state commission for protection of child rights (JSCPCR) chairperson Aarti Kujur said, I will request commissions of other states to help us locate the girls in their respective states and share information if they get any.

The JSCPCR teams visited both the homes and found security lapses. JSCPCR chairperson said, There was no CCTV camera and the home did not have the adequate number of employees.At the stroke of midnight, on August 15, 1947, India achieved freedom from more than two centuries of colonial rule after a multi-faceted struggle for independence comprising both non-violent and violent means.

From Mahatma Gandhis marches to Bhagat Singhs bomb in the Parliament, from the sessions of Indian National Congress to the trial of the three soldiers of Netajis Indian National Army, the long struggle for freedom culminated in 1947, albeit with the unfortunate partition of the country into India and Pakistan, which saw the largest cross-border migration ever in the world.

As we celebrate our 71st Independence Day, heres a look at the major headlines of Hindustan Times before and after August 15, 1947. These headlines provide a glimpse into the sentiment prevailing in the country at the time, and the developments leading up to the countrys freedom.

Millions rejoice

Hindustan Times was a weekly at that time and the edition on August 17 (a Sunday) reported on the joy of independence.

The riots

The district of Noakhali, now in Bangladesh, witnessed massive communal riots in 1946, killing more than 5,000 people in the region. Just before India attained freedom, there was another communal flare-up in Noakhali, and Gandhiji visited the affected areas.

Jinnahs farewell and communal tensions

The headlines capture the scenario as India stepped towards Partition. Gandhi threatened to spend his life in Pakistan in light of the violence against minorities and Mohammed Ali Jinnah, the founding father of Pakistan, delivered his farewell message wishing Hindustan prosperity and peace.

Leaving for Pakistan?

Newspieces on the creation of the new nation state, Pakistan, give a glimpse the concerns of Hindus and Muslims caught in the mesh of Partition politics.

The destiny of the nations of India and Pakistan were sealed on the fateful midnight.

Promises of a free India

Colonial imperialism was sent away, and, holding Nehrus hand, we announced the beginning of a new chapter.

Pandit Nehru addressing people who gathered at the Red Fort on the morning of August 16

Politics over the Tricolour

The greatest importance should be attached to the fact that the National Flag should be honouredAfter an altercation during a Tiranga yatra on Republic Day claimed a life and led to violence in Kasganj, officials with the district administration said they have denied permission for any such procession on Independence Day.

Besides, two companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) are set to be deployed in the area to help maintain law and order, and 150 suspected troublemakers have been bound under Section 116 (3) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), officials added.

Section 144 of CrPC  the power to issue order in urgent cases of nuisance of apprehended danger  has also been imposed in Kasganj.

An official said various organisations had sought permission to organise Tiranga yatras on August 15, claiming it was a tradition. However, district magistrate RP Singh told Hindustan Times on Sunday, We have not granted any permission for taking out Tiranga yatras, or any such rallies, in the district this Independence Day.

We are not taking any chances. Vigil will be enhanced in the district on Independence Day. Two companies of PAC have been called and Section 144 of CrPC is being invoked..., he added.

Singh said, We already have various programmes being organised at schools and colleges, besides the one that will be held at the collectorate. Those intending to celebrate Independence Day are welcome to join us.

We have bound 150 people, asking them to execute a bond for keeping peace and maintaining good behaviour, he added.

Kasganj witnessed violent clashes in January this year after a youth participating in a Tiranga yatra was killed on Republic Day.A committee of four doctors from KEM and Sion Hospitals will be set up to investigate the incident of an alleged medical reaction to pills dispensed by the civic body in Shivaji Nagar, Govandi. The panel, constituted upon the direction of the additional municipal corporator, is slated to submit its report within seven days.

On Friday and Saturday, over 563 children residing in Shivaji Nagar were rushed to civic hospitals in Govandi and Ghatkopar following a scare caused by the death of 12-year-old Chandani Mohd Shaikh on Friday morning.

Shaikh, along with 975 other students of Sanjay Nagar school in Govandi, was on Monday given iron, folic acid and deworming tablets as part of the National Iron Plus program. The program was introduced address the issue of iron deficiency in students studying in government-run schools. Shaikhs parents have alleged that her death was caused by a reaction to the medicine.

Dr Avinash Supe, director, medical education, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), said, The committee will investigate if there is any truth to these allegations. In the meantime, Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) officials have collected samples of the drugs given to the children. Until both the reports are submitted, BMC has discontinued the supply of two tablers, Iron Folic Acid (batch number TAF 8069AL) and tablet Albendazol (batch number FAR6L733), he added.

According to forensic experts from JJ Hospital who conducted the autopsy said there was evidence of acute bleeding in the lungs, a condition known as broncho-pulmonary haemorrhage, but the cause of death was not confirmed. Her viscera samples are sent to Kalina Forensic Laboratory and internal organs are preserved for histopathology at JJ Hospital. Both investigations will reveal the cause of her death.

Of those rushed to the hospital, over 10 children are still under observation at Shatabdi Hospital in Govandi and Rajawadi Hospital in Ghatkopar. Doctors said they are likely to be discharged soon as there are no signs of any major ailment or infection. Some children had complained of giddiness and nausea, but were discharged owing to the lack of a specific medical complication.The Sri Lankan film industry needs support, said Dharmasiri Bandaranayake, director general of cultural affairs, Sri Lanka. He was in the city attending the festival of films from Sri Lanka as the chief guest. The event was organised by the Pune International Centre (PIC).

The Sri Lanka has no film school. Our film-makers are all self-taught and have never been to any film school. We want to bring film schools to our country and while I am here, I plan to speak to the National Film Archive of India (NFAI) and Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) to share their skill sets and perhaps begin short-term courses in Sri Lanka, said Bandaranayake

Initially, I was a political activist and was attracted to theatre since my school days as I felt that art is my life, he said. I am a theatre man. The first time I stepped on to the stage, it was as an actor in a drama. Later, I acted in five films and I went on to write the script of Hansa Vilak (The Swan Lake). I directed it in 1980 and it was screened in Manheim international film festival, a festival for first-time directors. Incidentally, director Mrinal Sen saw my film in Germany, said Bandaranayake, who is also a well-known award-winning film director, actor, producer and playwright.

When Bandaranayake walked into the premises of the NFAI, he recalled his first visit to the institution and his meeting with the founder director PK Nair.

I first visited Pune to enrol in the film appreciation course conducted by NFAI in 1986. I wanted to study film-making, but it was too late to do so as I had no degree. Similarly, I was here again in 1989 when I had to run away from my country from the civil war. Once again Nair helped me stay in Pune for a month, recalls Bandaranayake.

Bandaranayake was influenced by polish film-maker Andrzej Munks film The Passenger, that he watched in Sri Lanka. The film changed his attitude towards life and found a new calling in the form of performing arts. He also hails film-makers Satyajit Ray from India, Akira Kurosaw from Japan and James Leslie Perez from Sri Lanka, as the fathers of Asian cinema for they have played a major role in his life and the cinema he made.

He was very pleased to see that there is no divide between independent and commercial Indian films. In Sri Lanka, it is a sad situation that film-makers make films only for film festivals and not for the audience, unlike India, where Indian cinema is made for the masses.Under pressure from Sikh radicals and a section of Congress leaders, the Captain Amarinder Singh-led government has finally ordered to include the names of four police officials in the first information report (FIR) registered on October 21, 2015, in the Behbal Kalan firing incident in which two protestors were killed.

A government release issued here on Saturday said the names of police officials were included in the FIR following recommendations of the Justice Ranjit Singh Commission that had on June 30 submitted its report to the government on violent incidents following the sacrilege of Guru Granth Sahib in the state.

SEQUENCE OF EVENTS October 11, 2015: Two protesters killed in police firing at Behbal Kalan in Faridkot district October 14: SIT formed after the incident triggered statewide outrage across the state October 21: SIT recommended registration of a murder case against unidentified cops with a reference that the police party was led by Charanjit Sharma June 30, 2018: Commission submits report to the state government recommending FIR against four cops

The names of then Moga SSP Charanjit Singh Sharma (now retired), then SP detective, Fazilka, Bikramjit Singh, inspector Pardip Singh and sub-inspector Amarjit Singh have been added to the FIR registered on October 21, 2015, under Sections 302 (murder) and 307 (attempt to murder) and 34 (acts did by several persons in furtherance of common intention) of the IPC and the Arms Act at the Bajakhana police station in Faridkot following directives of chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh, an official statement said.

The move has surprised many as Punjab director general of police (DGP) Suresh Arora was said to be against naming cops in the FIR and he told HT on Thursday that the name of Charanjit and other cops was already there in the FIR registered at the Bajakhana police station. He was not available for comments on Saturday.

The 2015 FIR was registered on the recommendation of a special investigation team (SIT) led by additional director general of police (ADGP) IPS Sahota. The SIT was formed after the deaths of two protesters in the police firing at Behbal Kalan on October 11, 2015. The deaths resulted in statewide outrage against the then SAD-BJP government. Charanjit was leading a police party that allegedly opened fire at the protesters.

Even as the DGP reportedly put his foot down against naming cops in the FIR, a senior government functionary said the decision was taken after senior Congress leaders, including some ministers, said that not nominating police officials in the FIR would damage the partys image. While in opposition, the Congress had been demanding FIR against cops who allegedly fired at the protesters in Behbal Kalan.

In accordance with the recommendations of the Justice Ranjit Singh Commission, the role of five other police officers, including inspector Harpal Singh, the then SHO of Ladhowal, and constables Shamsher Singh, Harpreet Singh, Gurpreet Singh and Parminder Singh, all gunmen of Charanjit Sharma, will also be investigated, said an official spokesperson.

Even as the commission recommended registration of an FIR against police officials in the Kotkpura firing incident that also took place on October 11, 2015, the police registered the case of attempt to murder against unidentified cops on Wednesday.Work is on for nine Indian scripts, namely, Bengali, Devanagari, Gujarati, Gurmukhi, Kannada, Malayalam, Oriya, Tamil and Telugu.

ICANN, the non-profit corporation with the responsibility for Internet's Domain Name System management worldwide, has been on the job to support domain names in numerous languages spoken in India, including the 22 scheduled languages of the country. (Representational image)

Kolkata: Getting an Internet domain name in English is passe; now get ready to have it in your own regional language.

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the non-profit corporation with the responsibility for Internet's Domain Name System (DNS) management worldwide, has been on the job to support domain names in numerous languages spoken in India, including the 22 scheduled languages of the country.

"Work is on for nine Indian scripts - Bengali, Devanagari, Gujarati, Gurmukhi, Kannada, Malayalam, Oriya, Tamil and Telugu. These scripts are expected to cover many different local languages," ICANN India head Samiran Gupta told PTI.

ICANN has been working towards building the rules for secure and stable definition of the top-level domains for scripts used globally, so that people with no knowledge of English are able to go online and access the websites with the domain names completely in their languages.

For example, one can enter the domain in Hindi to get Hindi content, instead of typing a domain name in English for this purpose, which is the current practice.

About 52 per cent of the world population have access to Internet now and ICANN is contributing towards bridging the digital divide, he said.

"Many of the remaining 48 per cent are non-English speaking people and those who do not have the ability to type in English. The work will allow domain names to be available for these people in their languages," the ICANN India head said.

When asked that searching content in regional languages is already possible in Google and other search engines, he said the current effort is focused on enabling the domain names in regional languages, which in turn would enable the system to publish local language content being searched.

"This work for defining rules for the domain names for languages spoken in India is underway with a dedicated community based panel," he said.

The Neo-Brahmi Generation Panel, as it is called, consists of more than 60 technical experts and linguists from India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Singapore, where these languages and scripts are used, Gupta said.

The proposals for six scripts - Devanagari, Gujarati, Gurmukhi, Kannada, Oriya and Telugu - are already released for public comment.

"One can review these proposals and provide comments by visiting www.icann.org/idn," he said.

Currently there are 4.2 billion Internet users globally which may rise to 5 billion by 2022, Gupta said.Former White House aide Omarosa Manigault Newman told a TV news anchor on Sunday she had recorded chief of staff John Kelly firing her inside the situation room to protect herself.

If I didnt have these recordings, no one in America would believe me, Manigault Newman told NBC during an interview to promote her book Unhinged, an explosive tell-all about her days in the White House before she was fired in December.

The show went on to play the conversation, in which Kelly asks Manigault Newman to leave over serious integrity issues, says her exit is non-negotiable, and that President Donald Trump needs to be in the loop.

If we make this a friendly departure we can all ... look at your time here in the White House as a year of service to the nation without any difficulty in the future relative to your reputation, Kelly can be heard saying on the tape.

The White House has not reacted yet to the revelation, as experts and former White House officials discussed the implications of the tape, with some suggesting it was a massive security breach.

In normal times, all communications devices are supposed to be left/deposited OUTSIDE the Situation Room for security, Alyssa Ayres, an Obama administration official, tweeted.

And even Republicans appeared shocked. Who in their right mind thinks its appropriate to secretly record the White House chief of staff in the Situation Room? Ronna McDaniel, head of the Republican committee chair, tweeted.The airline worker who stole an empty airplane from a Seattle airport on a flight that ended in his death once ran a bakery with his wife and enjoyed the benefits that came with his job to travel the world, social media posts showed.

Richard Russell, who liked to be called Beebo, was a 29-year-old man living in Sumner, Washington, who was born in Key West, Florida, and moved to Wasilla, Alaska, when he was 7 years old, according to a Web page he set up for a college communications class.

He has not been officially named by authorities, but his family and multiple news media outlets have reported his identity.

Russell worked for Horizon Airlines, a sister carrier of Alaska Airlines, as a ground service agent who helped baggage handlers and was part of Horizons tow team, which moved planes around on the tarmac. It was a job that gave him the perk of being able to fly to Alaska at my leisure, he wrote on the page.

In his final moments captured by partial recordings of his conversations with air traffic controllers that were published online by Broadcastify.com, Russell spoke calmly and said he was sorry to disappoint people who cared about him and described himself as a broken guy.

Got a few screws loose, I guess, he is heard saying in the recording. Never really knew it until now.

Authorities say he commandeered an empty Bombardier Q400, 107-foot long turboprop aircraft on Friday night from a maintenance area at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. He flew for about an hour, often erratically with attempts at aerial stunts, before crashing on Ketron Island in Puget Sound, about 40 km to the southwest.

He appeared to have acted alone and was suicidal, according to the local sheriffs department.

His family members said in a statement they were stunned and heartbroken.

It may seem difficult for those watching at home to believe, but Beebo was a warm, compassionate man, the statement said.

Russells social media posts often showed him on adventures with his wife, who he said he met in Oregon in 2010.

We were married one year later, and one month after that we opened a bakery which we successfully ran for 3 years, he wrote on his Web page. We consider ourselves bakery connoisseurs and have to try a new one every place we go.

The couple later moved to Washington state, where he got a job with Horizon. His wife could not immediately be reached for comment.

The Seattle Times quoted Rick Christenson, an operational supervisor with the airline who retired in May, as saying Russell was a well-liked, quiet person.

In a video posted on YouTube last December, Russell shows luggage coming off and being loaded onto aircraft, and describes what the life of a ground service agent can entail.

That means I lift a lot of bags, like a lot of bags, so many bags, he says, adding, it allows me to do some pretty cool things, too.

There are then shots of trips he took, including flying over Alaskan fjords, visiting lavender fields in France, touring in Yucatan, Mexico, and attending a hurling match in Dublin, Ireland.

It evens out in the end, he says to end the video.

On a SoundCloud site, Russell interviews fellow ground service agents, asking them questions that include: What was one of your best travel experiences using your flight benefits?

There was no mention in the social media posts of studying to become a pilot but in some posts he spoke of his Christian religious faith and the possibility of joining the military.Pro-India and pro-Khalistan groups were engaged in a noisy face-off during an event to call for a so-called referendum for the independence of Punjab at Londons Trafalgar Square on Sunday.

More than 2,500 pro-Khalistan supporters gathered to issue what the organiser, US-based Sikhs for Justice, called a London declaration to hold the referendum in 2020. Many travelled from other parts of Europe and elsewhere for the event, with some participation by UK-based groups.

The event was allegedly backed by elements in Pakistan.

There was considerable police presence to segregate the pro-India and pro-Khalistan groups. British authorities had earlier rejected Indias demand that permission be denied for the event on grounds of freedom of expression, leading to renewed strain in bilateral relations.

New Delhis ennui with London over the event was reflected in official statements: that allowing it to go ahead amounted to a separatist activity which impinged on Indias territorial integrity and seeks to propagate violence, secessionism and hatred.

The pro-India group included members of the Overseas Friends of BJP, whose president Kuldeep Shekhawat claimed that allowing the event betrayed Britains hidden agenda to support Khalistan and Pakistan. (HT Photo)

The pro-India group held placards (including some with images of Prime Minister Narendra Modi), sang patriotic songs and danced to the accompaniment of loud dhols, as the rival group tried to drown out the chorus with slogans in support of Khalistan and against the Indian government.

The pro-India group included members of the Overseas Friends of BJP, whose president Kuldeep Shekhawat claimed that allowing the event betrayed Britains hidden agenda to support Khalistan and Pakistan.

Relations between India and Britain are strained at the moment. Giving permission for this event will not help. Britain is clearly encouraging separatist activity. We came here to give out the message that we stand for a united India, Shekhawat said.

Speakers at the event included Pakistan-origin Nazir Ahmed, member of the House of Lords, who declared his support for Khalistan for my Sikh brothers and sisters, and announced a demonstration outside the Indian high commission on August 15.

Pro-Khalistan supporters included women and children carrying placards against the Indian government, as speakers recalled Operation Bluestar and the anti-Sikh riots in the aftermath of Indira Gandhis assassination, as well as the lack of justice for the victims.Pakistan jail authorities here on Sunday released 26 Indian fishermen as a goodwill gesture on the eve of the inaugural session of the National Assembly where newly-elected members will take oath of their office, the media reported.

The freed fishermen were taken to Cantonment Railway Station to travel to Lahore, where they will be handed over to Indian border officials at Wagah on Monday, the Geo News reported.

Speaking to the media at the railway station, an Edhi official, the charity that paid the travel expenses of the Indian fishermen, called on the governments of Pakistan and India to relax rules for the poor fishermen.

They represent the poorest section of the two countries. They should be freed as early as possible and there should be less restrictions on fishing, he said.

The move comes a day before Pakistans newly-elected National Assembly members take oath. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chairman Imran Khan is expected to take oath as Prime Minister on August 18.VS Naipaul, the Nobel laureate who documented the migrations of peoples, the unraveling of the British Empire, the ironies of exile and the clash between belief and unbelief in more than a dozen unsparing novels and as many works of nonfiction, died Saturday at his home in London. He was 85.

His family confirmed the death in a statement, The Associated Press reported.

In many ways embodying the contradictions of the postcolonial world, Naipaul was born of Indian ancestry in Trinidad, went to Oxford University on a scholarship and lived the rest of his life in England, where he forged one of the most illustrious literary careers of the last half century. He was knighted in 1990.

Compared in his lifetime to Conrad, Dickens and Tolstoy, he was also a lightning rod for criticism, particularly by those who read his portrayals of Third World disarray as apologies for colonialism.

Yet Naipaul exempted neither colonizer nor colonized from his scrutiny. He wrote of the arrogance and self-aggrandizement of the colonizers, yet exposed the self-deception and ethical ambiguities of the liberation movements that swept across Africa and the Caribbean in their wake. He brought to his work moral urgency and a novelists attentiveness to individual lives and triumphs.

Naipaul personified a sense of displacement. Having left behind the circumscribed world of Trinidad, he was never entirely rooted in England. In awarding him the Nobel Prize in literature in 2001, the Swedish Academy described him as a literary circumnavigator, only ever really at home in himself, in his inimitable voice.

Yet his existential homelessness was as much willed as fated. Although he spent his literary career mining his origins, Naipaul fiercely resisted the idea of being tethered to a hyphen, or to a particular ethnic or religious identity. He once left a publisher when he saw himself listed in the catalog as a West Indian novelist. A Hindu, though not observant, Naipaul was a staunch defender of Western civilization. His guiding philosophy was universalism.

What do they call it? Multi-culti? Its all absurd, you know, he said in 2004. I think if a man picks himself up and comes to another country he must meet it halfway. It was the kind of provocative statement that won him both enemies and admirers over the years.

An often difficult man with a fierce temper who dressed sedately in tweed jackets, Naipaul had a face of hawklike severity. After one look from him, I could skip Yom Kippur, Saul Bellow once joked. If displeased by questions, Naipaul would sometimes walk out on public appearances and hang up on journalists. Although he could be mischievous and had a deep sense of humor, he was prone to melancholy.

Naipaul practiced yoga until his back grew too weak, and often lamented that writing took a physical toll. He would spend months cogitating at home in London or more often in his book-filled cottage in the Wiltshire countryside, outside Salisbury, which he shared with his first wife and later his second, and with a black-and-white cat named Augustus.

He continued to write novels even after declaring the form a 19th-century relic, no longer able to capture the complexities of the contemporary world. Yet his fiction was always in conversation with his nonfiction; each new book built on the ones that came before. Naipaul wrote relatively slowly, sometimes only a paragraph a day, and was intensely protective of his work. Diana Athill, who edited 19 of his books at the London publisher Andre Deutsch between the 1950s and the 70s, said editing Naipaul involved providing him with much reassurance.

You didnt actually ever have to do a single thing to any of his books, Athill told The New Yorker in 1994. But you did have to do a lot of attempting to cheer him up, because he would deliver a book and he would be happy when he delivered it, and then really soon he would go into a pit: What is the point? What is the point of writing books? Im never going to write another book.

An ancestry in India

Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul was born on Aug. 17, 1932, in Chaguanas, Trinidad, where his paternal grandfather had emigrated from India in the 1880s as an indentured servant to work on the sugar plantations. His father, Seepersad, was a newspaper reporter for The Trinidad Guardian and an aspiring fiction writer who as a child was luckily allowed to go to school; his older brother was sent to work in the cane fields for 8 cents a day and his sister remained illiterate. His mother, Droapatie Capildeo, was from a large, prosperous family, and when Naipaul was 6 the family moved in with them in a big house in Port of Spain.

The second of seven children, he was particularly close to his older sister, Kamla. His younger and only brother, Shiva, who was also a novelist, died in 1985.

Educated in English schools in Trinidad, Naipaul said he owed his writing ambitions to his father, who read to him, among other things, from Booker T. Washingtons Up From Slavery.

His first years in England in the 1950s were full of panic and anxiety. In 1952, while at University College, Oxford, he had a mental breakdown.

Before I became secure as a writer, it was a long, unbroken period of melancholy, he told The New Yorker in 1994.

From 1954 to 1956, he edited a radio program on literature for the British Broadcasting Corp.s Caribbean Service. His voice was perfect for the airwaves  rich and mellowed by tobacco. His crisp English accent had a slight Caribbean twist, and he often repeated phrases for emphasis. I speak 130 words a minute, he told The New York Times in 2005. I know this precisely from my radio days.

It was in 1954, while toiling in the old Edwardian-Victorian hotel that housed the BBC freelancers office, that Naipaul began writing fiction, conjuring up memories of his childhood in Port of Spain on an old BBC typewriter, and on smooth, non-rustle BBC script paper, as he recounted nearly 30 years later in an essay, Prologue to an Autobiography.

To become a writer, that noble thing, I had thought it necessary to leave, he wrote elsewhere. Actually to write, it was necessary to go back. It was the beginning of self-knowledge.

His first novel, The Mystic Masseur (1957), about Ganesh Ramsumair, a failed schoolteacher who becomes a masseur and later guru and politician in Trinidad, was well received.

Ferociously prolific, Naipaul published a book every year or two for much of his career. His breakthrough was his joyous, deeply autobiographical fourth novel, A House for Mr. Biswas (1961). Set in Trinidad, it is the story of a middle-aged journalists efforts to free himself of his dependence on his wifes wealthier, domineering family and lay claim to his own corner of the world.

Written when he was not yet 30, the book cemented Naipauls standing among the most important writers of his generation; writing in The Times in 1971, Nadine Gordimer, the South African novelist and later a fellow Nobel laureate, called it magnificent. It was eventually published by the Modern Library of 20th-century classics.

In 1955 Naipaul married Patricia Hale, an Englishwoman he had met at Oxford. The two were extremely close  she read all his work in progress  but their relationship was puzzling to outsiders, many of whom saw her as self-effacing and subservient. Although she often traveled with Naipaul, Hale is mentioned only once in his books, and not by name. The couple never had children.

His childlessness, he told The New Yorker in 1994, really comes from a detestation of the squalling background of children that I grew up with in my extended family. He also confessed that he had been a great prostitute man in the early years of his marriage and acknowledged that in the 1970s he had fallen in love with an Anglo-Argentine woman who became his longtime mistress. After Hale died of cancer in 1996, Naipaul dedicated a new edition of A House for Mr. Biswas to her memory.

To explore the world

Naipaul began writing nonfiction in the 1960s. I thought nonfiction gave one a sense to explore the world, the other world, the world one didnt know fully, he said in 2005. I thought if I didnt have this resource of nonfiction I would have dried up perhaps. Id have come to the end of my material.

For his first nonfiction book, The Middle Passage (1962), Naipaul returned to the West Indies. He charted inter-island racial tensions in Trinidad; analyzed the cultural mimicry he saw as central to colonial identity; questioned how the region, then on the brink of self-rule, would govern itself; and observed that the smaller Caribbean islands in the name of tourism, are selling themselves into a new slavery.

Some found his portrayal distasteful. Derek Walcott, the Caribbean-born poet and winner of the 1992 Nobel Prize in literature, called him V.S. Nightfall in a poem, and said his prose was scarred by his repulsion towards Negroes and the self-disfiguring sneer that is praised for its probity. Yet Walcott was pleased when Naipaul won the Nobel Prize. It will mean something for the region, he told The Guardian.

In 1964 Naipaul published the first of three travelogues about India, An Area of Darkness. He found that despite his Indian origins, he did not belong there at all.

No other country was more fitted to welcome a conqueror; no other conqueror was more welcome than the British, he wrote. While dominating India they expressed their contempt for it, and projected England; and Indians were forced into a nationalism which in the beginning was like a mimicry of the British.

Naipaul began to travel in Africa in the 1970s. His collection In a Free State, from 1971, about a gay English civil servant and a compound wife who take a road trip through an unnamed African country that closely resembles Idi Amins Uganda, won the Booker Prize that year.

No one else around today, not even Nabokov, seems able to employ prose fiction so deeply as the very voice of exile, the critic Alfred Kazin wrote in The New York Review of Books.

Naipauls novel A Bend in the River (1979) centers on an Indian from East Africa in an unnamed, newly independent African nation that resembles Zaire under the dictator Mobutu Sese Seko. Naipaul had written about Mobutu in his 1975 essay A New King for the Congo, in which he compared the contemporary place to the one Conrad had described in Heart of Darkness.

Seventy years later, at this bend in the river, something like Conrads fantasy came to pass, Naipaul wrote. But the man with the inconceivable mystery of a soul that knew no restraint, no faith and no fear was black, and not white; and he had been maddened not by contact with wilderness and primitivism, but with the civilization established by those pioneers.

In a 1974 essay that marked a breakthrough in his own understanding of himself as a writer, Naipaul wrote of his debt to the Ukrainian-born Conrad, who had also willed himself to be an artist in England and also traveled to the far corners of the colonized world. I found that Conrad  60 years before, in a time of a great peace  had been everywhere before me, he wrote. But in an interview with The Times in 2005, Naipaul revised this judgment. While conceding that Conrad was great, he insisted that he had no influence on me.

Actually, I think A Bend in the River is much, much better than Conrad, Naipaul said.

Naipauls writing about Africa drew criticism from many who were unsettled by his portraits of Africans. Nigerian writer Chinua Achebe called him a new purveyor of the old comforting myths of the white West.

He was also criticized for his unflattering portrayals of women. In A Bend in the River, the protagonist spits on the naked body of his Belgian lover. In his 1975 novel Guerrillas, the English girlfriend of an exiled South African resistance hero acts on her fantasies of native sexual power to disastrous effect.

Always attuned to the tides of history, Naipaul began to travel in non-Arab Islamic countries around the time of the Islamic Revolution in Iran. He visited Iran, Pakistan and Malaysia in the late 1970s, when they were witnessing a rise in political power and Islamic fundamentalism. His first travelogue, Among the Believers, was published in 1981. A sequel, Beyond Belief, followed in 1998.

He started his inquiry, he later explained, by asking simple questions: To what extent had people who lock themselves away in belief shut themselves away from the active, busy world? To what extent without knowing it were they parasitic on that world? And why did they have no thinkers to point out to them where their thoughts and their passion had led them?

The books are grounded in Naipauls belief that Islamic societies lead to tyranny, which he essentially attributed to a flaw in Islam, that it offered no political or practical solution.

It offered only the faith, he wrote.

These books were harshly criticized. The critic and Palestinian rights advocate Edward Said argued Naipaul had interviewed only those who would confirm his pre-established thesis about flaws in Islam while playing down local political situations that might better explain the rise in Islamic fundamentalism.

Observing America

Naipaul also wrote perceptively about the United States. A Turn in the South (1989) is a travelogue about the Deep South, and in an essay on the 1984 Republican National Convention in Dallas, The Air-Conditioned Bubble, he dissected American political pieties. The fundamentalism that the Republicans had embraced went beyond religion, he wrote. It simplified the world in general; it rolled together many different kinds of anxieties  schools, drugs, race, buggery, Russia, to give just a few; and it offered the simplest, the vaguest solution: Americanism, the assertion of the American self.

Naipaul increasingly lamented the limitations of fiction. The novel had reached its peak in the 19th century, he said, and Modernism was dead. Instead, he thought nonfiction better captured the complexities of the world. He said he wrote his novel Half a Life (2001) only to fulfill a publishers contract.

In 1996, two months after the death of his first wife, Naipaul married Nadira Khannum Alvi, a divorced Pakistani journalist more than 20 years his junior. She survives him. He had met her at the home of the U.S. consul-general in Lahore, Pakistan. In 2003 Naipaul adopted Nadiras daughter, Maleeha, who was then 25.

A complete list of survivors was not immediately available.

The writer Paul Theroux, who was one of Naipauls closest friends, had a falling out with Naipaul not long after the marriage to Alvi. In his book Sir Vidias Shadow (1998), Theroux documented the arc of their complicated literary friendship, which began in Uganda in 1966 and ended abruptly in 1997 after Theroux saw books he had written and inscribed to his mentor listed for sale in an auction catalog. He depicts Naipaul as a great inspiration as a writer, but also petty, cruel and needy. The two men later reconciled.

For all his pessimism, Naipaul was confident that what he called Our Universal Civilization would prevail. In a 1992 lecture, he said his optimism derived from his belief in the idea of the pursuit of happiness, which lay at the heart of the attractiveness of the civilization to so many outside it or on its periphery.

It is an elastic idea; it fits all men, he said. It implies a certain kind of society, a certain kind of awakened spirit. I dont imagine my parents would have been able to understand the idea. So much is contained in it: the idea of the individual, responsibility, choice, the life of the intellect, the idea of vocation and perfectibility and achievement. It is an immense human idea. It cannot be reduced to a fixed system. It cannot generate fanaticism. But it is known to exist; and because of that, other more rigid systems in the end blow away.Ministry of Home Affairs said that their immediate challenge is to take a decision on fate of those tagged as 'illegal foreigners' in Assam.

Apart from disenfranchising them, security sources said that Home Ministry would also push for depriving them of right to buy immoveable property in the state. (Photo: AFP)

Guwahati: The Ministry of Home Affairs has started working out strategy to propagate the idea of issuing biometric work permit to all those who, out of 40 lakh, will declared illegal foreigners in the ongoing process of updating the National Register of Citizens in Assam.

Disclosing that Home Ministry may also propose Assam like NRC in all the states of the country, security sources told this newspaper that successful publication of NRC in Assam has strengthen the confidence of the government. Pointing out that preparation of NRC was more challenging and complex in Assam due to problem of influx, security sources said that publication of draft NRC has added to the confidence of the government.

Informing that political leadership has to take a call on implementing the NRC in all the states, sources in the Ministry of Home Affairs said that their immediate challenge is to take a decision on fate of those tagged as illegal foreigners in Assam.

Admitting that it was not possible to deport lakhs of people likely to be tagged as illegal foreigners, security sources said that Home Ministry was of view that it would also not be a practical solution to confine such huge number of people into the detention camps.

Asserting that biometric work permit may help in keeping track of such illegal foreigners, security sources said that Home Ministry is looking into all these aspects as Supreme Court may ask the government about their action plan to tackle the people declared as illegal foreigners.

Apart from disenfranchising them, security sources said that Home Ministry would also push for depriving them of right to buy immoveable property in the state.

Informing that Home Ministry was keeping a close watch on the situation in Assam, security sources said that there have been attempts to create law and order problem in the state after the publication of the final draft of the NRC.

Security sources said that Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has taken up the issue of influx from Bangladesh with his counterpart in Dhaka, security sources said that even after being a friendly government, it was not possible to ask a sovereign country to take back lakhs of immigrants. Referring that Bangladesh has recently taken back 52 immigrants deported from Assam, security sources said that Dhaka may not agree to accept the deportation of lakhs of people from India.Action Bronson was arrested for the mildest of offences while he took the stage in Kosovo at a music festival. The video below documents Bronsolini's illegal action before it was reprimanded by local police. A slick guitar riff offers him a brief intermission to light up his favorite strain. According to TMZ, the Queens-bred rapper was booked right after his set, before exiting festival grounds.

According to the report obtained by TMZ, after lighting his joint and taking a few puffs, Action Bronson tossed the joint into the crowd, where it either burned someone on contact, or made someone's day. Kosovar law prohibits the possession or consumption of pot under any circumstances. The marijuana that surfaces in Kosovo is generally exported from Albania, where Bronson's father grew up.

Bronson seems to have posted bail or reach a backroom deal, because reports indicate that Kosovar police granted him his release. TMZ was able to translate this sentence without a language expert on hand: "Following the interview with the competent prosecutor's order the same was released." While less than coherent, it does communicate a formal discharge of some kind, from a spokesperson from the local sheriff's office I might add.The woman who accused Casanova of confiscating her phone and breaking her jaw has essentially pressed charges against the rapper and his crew. TMZ has learned that Casanova is now a wanted man in the State of New York, as NYPD has issued a warrant for his arrest. His accuser Niya Rucker broke the story to a local news outfit as law enforcement worked clandestinely to locate the missing patchwork. In fact, the warrant was issued hours before she broke her silence, as the sun was setting in NYC.

Casanova and his crew are alleged to have attacked the woman after they perceived her to be filming without their consent. Niya Rucker says she was simply documenting her "meal" as a foodie would their plate. Rucker is said to be suffering from a possible fracture in her jaw and a facial laceration requiring 4 stitches. The attack was allegedly a tag-team effort, with certain members of the entourage restraining her movement, and others striking all across her upper body.

Casanova and his attorney deny the attack even took place. His lawyer Scott E. Leemon told TMZ, "Casanova adamantly denies the allegation that he assaulted anyone. Any contention he did is totally false. We are in the process of conducting our own investigation into these false allegations."

Keep it locked for updates on this developing story.DeMar DeRozan has been known to rock the most gorgeous Kobe A.D.s on the court, and it looks like that isn't going to change anytime soon. DeRozan even has his own collaboration sneakers with Nike and Kobe Bryant, which were inspired by the legendary Laker's "airball game." The horrible game occurred during Bryant's rookie season, and several overly confident shots turned into air balls that taught the young Kobe a lesson. DeRozan says that watching that moment taught him how to battle adversity, and still rise up after defeat. His fandom for the Black Mamba has always been strong, and his sneaker game has been even stronger.

DeRozan took to the court with his Drew League team today (Aug. 11), and the new San Antonio Spur debuted a pair of Kobe A.D.s that no one had seen before. Speculative observers began to suggest that the sneakers would drop on Kobe Day, which is on 8/24. The new Kobe A.D.'s colorway is made up of grey, navy, and yellow with pink laces, and a bronze crescent on the heel. "KOBE" is displayed in rainbow colors on the back of the right sneaker, while the left sneaker has a pink Kobo logo imprinted on the same spot.Yesterday (Aug. 10), we reported that Idris Elba was in the front running to play James Bond. The original story came from U.K. tabloid The Daily Star, which claimed that director Antoine Fuqua spoke with James Bond producer Barbara Broccoli about implementing a Black James Bond into the franchise. "You need a guy with physically strong presence. Idris has that," was the quote that The Daily Star claimed Fuqua made, and they also stated that Broccoli was responsive to the idea.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, reps from Fuqua's camp reached out to them to reveal that the conversation in question between the director and Broccoli never happened. "He never had a conversation with Barbara about the franchise or about any casting. Its all made up stuff. Not sure how it got started," stated the rep. A rep from Elba's team declined to comment, but THR claims sources within his camp are saying that they are not aware of any overtures.

Daniel Craig will continue his role as James Bond for one final film. He has infamously revealed that he isn't a fan of playing the spy, but whoever picks up the mantle next will have big shoes to fill. Fans have been calling for Elba to play Bond for years now, but it isn't looking promising at this point.Marvel's Cinematic Universe is expansive. Although it began with Iron Man, and most recently continued via Avengers: Infinity War, Netflix holds the key to the television counterpart of the superhero team. On the galactic scale we have The Avengers, but on the street level, we have The Defenders. Luke Cage, Daredevil, Jessica Jones, and Iron Fist combine to create the super team that protects New York from threats big enough to destroy the city, but small enough not to gain the attention of Captain America and company. The last time the team was all together, Daredevil "died," and Iron Fist vowed to protect the city in his absence.

The first season of Iron Fist received a mountain of criticism for the lack of fight choreography and lackluster acting. Marvel plans to fix that with the upcoming second season. The first glace we got of the new and improved Iron Fist came via a team-up episode with Luke Cage on the latter's second season. The King Fu hero was much more enjoyable to watch alongside Cage, and we can only hope they team up again once more. Raven Metzner was hired as the new showrunner for Iron Fist, and he took to Twitter for a Q & A today (Aug. 11) to answer fans' questions.

Several Marvel fans have been vocal about their desire to see Moon Knight join The Defenders. He would fit nicely with the street level heroes, and can even be implemented in The Punisher, a less friendly ally of the heroes. One fan asked if Metzner had read Jeff Lemire's run on the comic series, and the showrunner revealed that he's a fan. "Loved it. Moon Knight came up many times in the writer's room as we discussed Typhoid Mary," Metzner responded. Typhoid Mary, a telekinetic who can also manipulate and control fire, will be the main villain in season 2.Mr Rahul was here for a day to launch the partys campaign for assembly elections in the state later this year.

Jaipur: Congress president Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi here on Saturday. He said that the Prime Minister was not only corrupt but maintains a stony silence on this matter.

Mr Rahul was here for a day to launch the partys campaign for assembly elections in the state later this year. After a 13-km long impressive road show that took nearly four hours to reach the venue of his meeting, in a blistering attack he said that the Prime Minister promised moon before coming to power but doesnt speak a single word on corruption unemployment, farmers suicide, rape and atrocities against dalits, tribals and minorities.

Mr Rahul was especially severe on the PM regarding Rafale deal. He alleged that the PM himself was party to corruption in this deal. The cost of a Rafale jet went up from Rs 520 crore under UPA government to Rs 1600 crore after the PM went to France accompanied by his businessman friend Anil Ambani.

Attributing Mr. Parrikar that the PM did not ask him about changing the deal, the Congress president said, The contract was changed by the PM himself. He has a hand in corruption and theft in Rafale deal. Aapke PM ne Rafale mai bhrashachar kiya, chori ki. He said that when he raised the issue in Parliament, the PM couldnt look in his eyes.

Accusing the PM of favouring his businessman friend, Rahul said Anil Ambani has a debt of Rs 45000 crore. He has no experience of making fighter planes. Still, his company that came into existence just a week before getting the contract simply he is friend of the PM.Isaiah Thomas is apologizing for making disparaging comments about Cleveland. Thomas was traded to the Cavaliers last off-season, in a deal that sent Kyrie Irving to Boston. Because of an injury, Thomas didn't play until January of this year. After struggling to mesh with the team, the Cavs sent Thomas to the Lakers in a deal that also saw Larry Nance Jr. and Jordan Clarkson join LeBron in Cleveland. Thomas failed to impress Lakers' fans and he signed on with the Denver Nuggets this off-season as a free agent. He is now on his sixth team since being drafted in 2011.

Thomas posted a live video on social media where he speaks about all the cities that he has played for. "Sac, LA, and Boston was all love," he began while Nipsey Hussle's "Hussle & Motivate" plays in the background. "Cleveland was a shithole. I see why 'Bron left," he joked. His comments earned him backlash from Cleveland residents, and Thomas took to Twitter to apologize.

"I apologize for my choice of words about Cleveland. I was on my live playing around," he wrote. "They dont show you everything for a reason smh. Right after that I clarified what I said.... All love to everybody who had love for me in Cleveland," he continued, referencing the fact that subsequent videos of his insult about Cleveland are edited to end right after the comment.Skinnyfromthe9, a rapper from Somerville, New Jersey, was arrested along with his father, his brother and another accomplice for kidnapping and assaulting a 21 year old man. Skinnyfromthe9 has amassed over 500,000k Instagram followers in his short career. He has a single with PnB Rock to his credit which dropped this past week.

Patrol units were called to the Villegas' home (Skinny's namesake) where the hostage was liberated after several days in captivity. The victim who was well acquainted with his attackers,was asked to accompany them on a trip. Unfortunately the four men had other plans in mind. As the vehicle set off, Skinny snatched the victim's cell phone and allegedly started punching him in the abdomen. The three other men interjected as well, for about an hour until they felt they'd proven their point.

The four men were apprehended almost instantaneously upon arriving at their destination. All four men are currently being held at a local jailhouse while they await trial. According to My Central Jersey, the Villegas family has won as many friends as it has detractors. Those who disapprove of Skinnyfromthe9's woozy disposition took to Facebook to voice their displeasure over the fracas, taking place momentarily in their driveway. Earlier in the year, Skinny had come under fire for allegedly beating a man in a convenience store. Video footage of the attack was obtained by NJ.com. Skinny recently signed to L.A. Reids new record label Hitco, also home to Big Boi & Dinah Jane of 5th Harmony.Travis Scott's latest piece of work, Astroworld, is garnering rave reviews and millions upon millions of streams. While the album was conceptualized and performed immaculately, the mixing was spotty on a few records. Mike Dean, who usually engineers for Kanye West, had his hands all over Astroworld, and some fans are blaming him for the mixing inconsistencies. Some tracks peak, or become distorted, when the volume is turned up, while other songs ride out just fine when blasted at high levels. It was Nav's verse on "Yosemite" that really threw everybody off though. His verse sounded muffled, and less impactful sonically than Travis'. Although Nav only has a short moment on the track, it stood out. He even took to Instagram to joke about how his verse was mixed horribly.

It appears that Travis Scott and Mike Dean have heard the jokes and comments online, because Nav's verse has been updated. The volume has been turned up and the quality of the sound also appears to have been tweaked. Now, Nav's short outro is sonically on par with Gunna and Travis Scott. At first, the update only appeared on Apple Music, but it appears the Tidal and Spotify have also received the new mix as well.Richard S. Cardarelli only wanted to retrieve some eye drops from the carry-on bag he had just given an American Airlines employee at Philadelphia International Airport.

They weren't just eye drops, either. They were medications necessary for his health, owing to a cornea transplant years earlier.

But the American Airlines baggage handler - who had taken the bag at the door of the jet aircraft because there was no room for carry-ons in the small plane - told Cardarelli that he couldn't touch the bag again, even though it was still sitting in plain sight a few feet away on the boarding bridge.

An argument began, things became heated, and although Cardarelli got his eyedrops, he also got arrested.

And so began yet another battle over security apparatuses that sometimes abuse airline passengers in the name of keeping them safe.

Cardarelli, a Rochester, New York, contractor who died in January of pancreatic cancer, was eventually acquitted of criminal charges. But his widow wants to hold the airline accountable for the March 2017 incident. She has filed a lawsuit in the Court of Common Pleas in Philadelphia, seeking more than $1 million in damages and punitive charges.

"It was a nightmare," Debbie Cardarelli said in an interview. Her lawsuit, filed in spring on behalf of her and her husband's estate, says the American Airlines baggage handler concocted a phony bomb threat out of spite after she and Cardarelli had argued over the eye drops.

Now Playing: The owner of The Abbey in West Hollywood says he was discriminated against on an Alaska Airlines flight from New York to Los Angeles. Video: FoxLA

The lawsuit accuses American Airlines of acting badly, too. In addition to its responsibility for its employee's bad behavior, American Airlines refused to respond to legal subpoenas in the criminal case, thereby delaying Richard Cardarelli's trial, the lawsuit says. It also says the airline barred him at the last minute from a flight from Rochester to Philadelphia to attend his criminal trial that day - even after the Cardarellis had called the airline in advance to ensure that there would be no problems.

American Airlines spokesman Matt Miller said the airline would have no comment on a matter that's in litigation. Craig D. Mills, American Airlines' attorney in the case, didn't return a call or email seeking comment.

The Cardarellis' unpleasant experience - whose story was told earlier by Philly.com - adds to a growing stack of complaints about alleged abuses by commercial airlines or the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints passengers must pass through to board their flights.

For the Cardarellis, the nightmare began on the way home from vacation. The couple - high school sweethearts who had been together 42 years - had celebrated his 59th birthday with a trip to Miami.

Their return required a brief layover in Philadelphia before catching a regional flight to Rochester aboard Flight 4081, which was operated by American Eagle, a regional partner of American Airlines.

As they prepared to board the 1:25 p.m. flight March 24, 2017, they were told that there was no room for carry-ons. Richard Cardarelli handed his to an airline baggage handler identified in court papers as Tawanda Ward of Philadelphia.

He took no more than three steps toward the aircraft when he remembered the eye drops, and asked if he could retrieve them, his widow said. The bag was still on the boarding bridge floor at Ward's side.

But she refused.

"I'm sorry, sir, but now that you've handed me the bag, you can't have the bag back," Debbie Cardarelli recalled her saying.

Richard Cardarelli tried to explain that the eye drops were critical for his health. After they began to argue, he headed back to the ticketing desk to appeal to someone else. He returned soon after with a ticketing agent, Debbie Cardarelli said.

The ticketing agent - identified in court papers as Marsha Batchelor - argued with Ward, too, until Ward threw up her hands and relented, Debbie Cardarelli said.

"I don't care what you do with the bag," Debbie Cardarelli recalled her saying.

Richard Cardarelli retrieved the eye drops and they took their seats aboard the aircraft with 44 other passengers. As the Cardarellis ate their lunch and watched from the window, Ward carried on as if she were still extremely angry, Debbie Cardarelli said. She said they saw Ward throw a pair of chocks used to immobilize aircraft wheels.

Twenty minutes or more passed with still the plane sat near the gate, and some passengers began wondering what the holdup was.

Then a group of Philadelphia police officers boarded the plane, along with the same American Airlines ticketing agent who had intervened to retrieve the eye drops. Debbie Cardarelli said she thought the baggage handler must be in trouble, and the police needed a statement from them.

Instead, the police told her husband that he was under arrest and hauled him off the airplane in handcuffs. Everyone else had to evacuate the plane, while police K-9 teams searched the baggage and the plane for explosives. The flight took off after a substantial delay.

Meanwhile, Debbie Cardarelli said she became so worked up she vomited. Police refused to tell her why they were taking her husband off the plane, or where they were taking him. She began calling other family members for help.

"When I got the call, my initial reaction was, 'Are you kidding?' " said Ashley Cardarelli, their daughter. She said the allegations later filed against her father just didn't fit the man she knew.

"He gave everything and anything to other people," she said. "It just was not even feasible."

After a night in the city lockup, Richard Cardarelli was charged with disorderly conduct, making a terroristic threat and threatening to use a weapon of mass destruction. Bail was set at $25,000 cash, which was posted the next day.

When the trial date came round, after several court delays, the Cardarellis headed to the Rochester airport again, along with two character witnesses, for the flight to Philadelphia. The day before, the couple contacted American Airlines to make sure there would be no problem with Richard Cardarelli boarding the plane, Debbie Cardarelli said.

But when they reported to the gate at 5:30 a.m. on Oct. 26, 2017, Richard Cardarelli was denied boarding, Debbie Cardarelli said.

While he scrambled to book an alternative flight, she flew on to Philadelphia, along with her husband's two character witnesses. He found a flight to New York City, where he rented a car and drove the rest of the way. He also missed most of the proceedings, having waived his right to attend and allowing the bench trial to proceed because his wife was there, she said.

Ward, the baggage handler, testified that Richard Cardarelli had threatened that his bag "would blow up." But she also didn't tell anyone about the purported threat for at least 15 minutes. That made no sense to Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas Judge Vincent N. Melchiorre, who acquitted Cardarelli of all charges, the lawsuit says.

The criminal case cost the couple more than $20,000 in legal fees and other expenses, Debbie Cardarelli said. She also said the couple went into therapy after the incident, and her husband descended into depression so bleak that he attempted suicide because of what happened.

"She lied through her teeth," Debbie Cardarelli said. "It's so ridiculous what I'm going through just because someone lied."EL PASO  Beto O'Rourke likes to tell the story of a campaign stop in Archer City, a highway junction of about 1,750 souls on the north central plains that was portrayed as a dying Texas town in "The Last Picture Show."

On his way to a town hall at Murn's Cafe, O'Rourke says a local approached him with a picture of his dad posing with Lyndon Johnson in 1948. As far as anyone could recall, LBJ's stop  he landed in a helicopter in front of the courthouse  was the last time a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate had campaigned there.

O'Rourke's visit came during a sweep of all 254 counties in Texas over the past year. Many of the miles were clocked in a white Dodge Grand Caravan. It was a trip that would have been easy to dismiss as a one-time campaign stunt. But this month, he was back in rural West Texas as he launched a 34-day road trip across the state.

It's a new playbook, born of Democratic futility in Texas.

The first three days of O'Rourke's journey took him 765 zig-zagging miles  from a friendly, Latin-flavored send-off in downtown El Paso to sparsely-attended stops in gun-friendly Republican strongholds like Muleshoe, in Bailey County, where he would get quizzed by skeptical locals about the Second Amendment.

The time and effort the El Paso congressman is investing in small-town Texas has become a hallmark of his small-dollar, no-PAC campaign to unseat incumbent GOP Sen. Ted Cruz, a former presidential candidate and conservative icon who won the state by 16 points in 2012.

It also represents a quantum shift in Democratic strategy in the Lone Star State, which has always relied on running up the numbers in the large urban enclaves of Austin, Houston and San Antonio. The desolate cow towns that dot the state's vast expanses make wonderful backdrops for homey political campaigns, but the resources O'Rourke is throwing at his statewide strategy suggest that it's about more than creating a Norman Rockwell tableau.

Democrats acknowledge that O'Rourke may not win over conservative rural voters in Archer County, near the Oklahoma state line, but he might be able to wrangle a few more votes here and there, enough to make a difference in a race that some polls say has tightened into single digits.

"You can't get beat 80-20 in Brownwood, Texas, and get elected to the United States Senate," said former Texas Land Commissioner Garry Mauro, the last Democrat to win statewide office  in 1994. "You have to show people that you are culturally attuned to them, and for Beto that should be easy. There's nobody more Texan than Beto O'Rourke."

CASH FLOW: O'Rourke vs. Cruz draws millions in contributions from outside of Texas

Baptized Robert Francis O'Rourke, he acquired the nickname Beto as a child. It's short for Roberto in Spanish, a language he speaks fluently.

Beto rolls off the tongue in both languages more easily than O'Rourke, and is easier to spell. In a state where Democrats still struggle to mobilize the 40 percent of the population that's Hispanic, it comes as little surprise that O'Rourke campaigns simply as Beto.

But his road trip is aimed at a broader audience than the state's burgeoning Latino population. In scarlet-red Texas, he knows he needs to make inroads among centrists, independents and maybe even a few moderate Republicans in places like King County, population 282. Sitting halfway between Fort Worth and Lubbock, 94 percent of the votes cast there helped make Donald Trump president in 2016.

Tomorrow morning, we're kicking off our grassroots drive across Texas! Hope to see you during the first few days in:

El Paso

Fort Davis

Fort Stockton

Pecos

Odessa

Seminole

Lubbock

Muleshoe

Amarillo

Full list of dates & locations https://t.co/Rc3oSGCiTa  Beto O'Rourke (@BetoORourke) July 29, 2018

Solidifying O'Rourke's grassroots chops are the 215,714 mostly small-dollar contributions in the last quarter that helped him raise $10.4 million, more than double the $4.6 million raised by Cruz during the same period. It was the fourth reporting period in which O'Rourke outraised the heavily favored Cruz, garnering his upstart campaign a lot of national buzz.

All the same, O'Rourke's long-shot quest to scavenge votes in the state's most solidly Republican strongholds has its skeptics.

"You don't have all the time and money in the world," said Texas GOP strategist Brendan Steinhauser, who has done campaign work for former House Majority Leader Dick Armey and U.S. Sen. John Cornyn. "You're looking at winning a statewide election in Texas, and some 8 million people are going to vote, more or less. How is it an efficient use of your scarce time and money to travel to small towns ... to pick up five votes here or 10 votes there? The voters, especially Democratic voters, are still in the cities."

O'Rourke's answer is that the old playbook hasn't been working.

"You've got this history where a Democrat hasn't won statewide in more than 20 years," said campaign spokesman Chris Evans. "You kind of got this question: What hasn't been going right?"

So on July 29, with 100 days left before the election, O'Rourke embarked on a new journey that is to cover miles and miles of Texas.

Day 1: Not a time to fear one another

The sun rises at 6:23 a.m. Jesus Valdez is there to greet it with a mournful blow on a ram's horn from a promontory above the city. As Valdez and his family pray, the twinkling expanse of streetlights gives way to a brightening skyscape of yellow, orange and red.

O'Rourke often says that Texas is less a conservative state than a non-voting state. Valdez is a case in point, a Mexican-born, Spanish-speaking avatar of the challenge O'Rourke faces over the next 100 days. Valdez doesn't know Beto O'Rourke, and he does not make it a practice to vote or take sides in politics.

"The Lord provides," Valdez says. "We have to pray for all our leaders."

Down below in the city, workers put up a tent in the parking lot of the three-story stucco building that houses O'Rourke's campaign headquarters. People are starting to gather for a celebratory "Menudo y Mariachi" send-off.

O'Rourke's new extended-cab Toyota Tundra pickup is pointed at the highway that will carry him, his wife Amy and their youngest son, 7-year-old Henry, east across the Chihuahuan Desert to a town hall in the mountain village of Fort Davis.

Una hermosa manana con este Mariachi en El Paso! pic.twitter.com/gKsreRleCP  Beto O'Rourke (@BetoORourke) July 29, 2018

While the Mariachi Estrella band warms up a crowd that's grown to about a thousand, retired teacher Sue Hudson sizes up O'Rourke's odds. "I don't know. It's Texas," she says. "But he's not afraid to talk to people who don't agree with him. There's discourse. They may not vote for him, but they're listening."

Between mariachi numbers, O'Rourke takes the stage for a 20-minute pep talk outlining one of the central themes of his campaign: That the immigrants who give El Paso its vibrance and vitality are a net plus for Texas, not a threat.

"We're going to be sharing the story of El Paso at every stop along the way," he promises. "This city should be an example for the rest of the country. This is not a time to fear one another, not a time to be motivated by the small stuff, the paranoia, the anxiety, the walls ... "

The politics O'Rourke brings to the race generally check all the boxes of the liberal left: gun control, universal health care, public education, abortion rights, legal marijuana. He voted against the Republican tax cuts. He opposes Trump's proposed border wall, and though he hasn't called for Trump's impeachment, he says he'd be open to it if it came up.

His central message on immigration: The border with Mexico "has never been safer;" the region does not need to be "militarized"; Dreamers brought into the country illegally as children should be granted citizenship; and many others who were "inspired by the opportunity and ideals that we present to the rest of the world" should be granted legal status and a fair path to citizenship.

In a campaign jingle earlier this year, Cruz mocked both O'Rourke's name and ideology, branding him as too liberal for Texas.

But on this day, as for many of the rest, O'Rourke is having none of the big ideological divide.

"We are going to be not against anyone," he tells his supporters, his arms raised for emphasis, as if he's testifying. "We're not going to be against any party. We're not going to be organized and animated against anything. We are going to be for one another. We're going to be for the United States of America, for the great state of Texas, for the big bold ambitious things that we can only do together."

The feel-good optimism is reminiscent of another tall, gangly candidate: Barack Obama in 2008. O'Rourke's earnestness is accentuated by his skinny slacks, Hush Puppies and a sweaty, open-collar shirt.

There are no signs of the cowboy boots favored by Cruz. There are no vows to turn Texas blue or vanquish Republicans. Cruz hardly gets a mention, except to point out that even with the help of big "special interest and corporate PACS," he has been badly out-fundraised by O'Rourke.

O'Rourke's maiden speech is followed by picture-taking with supporters. It's not just about the one-on-one contact. It's part of a social media strategy for a candidate who is still largely unknown to large swaths of Texas outside El Paso.

"It's brilliant," says onlooker Bruce Lesley, an El Paso Democrat who worked for Ann Richards, the state's last Democratic governor. "He's talking to people one-on-one, and they take a picture and share it on social media. He's getting his word and what he's about to the people directly."

CASH ADVANTAGE: Beto O'Rourke hauls in $10.4 million, more than double total for incumbent Sen. Ted Cruz

The drive to Fort Davis is a reminder of the personal stresses of any campaign. The plan is for the O'Rourkes to drop off little Henry at a summer camp in the Davis Mountains, joining his older 11-year-old brother, Ulysses, and 10-year-old sister, Molly, who have already been there a week.

In a hurry to make a scheduled town hall in the courtyard of the historic Hotel Limpia, they write notes for their older children, who are out on a camp excursion when they arrive.

Several miles down the road, Amy thinks better of it. Turning the truck around  "grudgingly," O'Rourke recalled later  he circles back to the camp, where the children have just returned.

The U-turn in the mountains easily adds another half-hour to the trip, delaying their much-anticipated entrance at the town hall in Fort Davis, where a classical guitar player keeps the vibe mellow.

But it might be weeks before O'Rourke gets back home. The campaign could wait. "Molly gave me the biggest, strongest, most loving, with-tears-in-her-eyes hug that I've ever had," O'Rourke tells the crowd at the Hotel Limpia.

Day 2: Stand up and say enough

The cool mountain air in Fort Davis has made it an oasis for retirees and transplants from other parts of Texas, some of them making up the more well-heeled, white-haired set that went to hear O'Rourke the night before.

Situated in Jeff Davis County, named for the president of the Confederacy, it went by 24 points to Trump in 2016.

Readying for a series of town halls back down in the high desert plains, O'Rourke treats himself to a 4-mile morning run. Returning to the hotel in his running shorts, he exudes energy and a certain peace of mind.

He may still be in Cruz country, but what has he got to lose? "It gives you a certain freedom to run your own race," he says.

First stop is a park building in Fort Stockton, Pecos County, which Trump won by 22 points. About 25 people show up, including Yolanda Chavez, a 59-year-old nurse who remembers segregated schools. Chavez says she's not politically inclined but that an upsurge in "prejudice" in Trump's America has made her tune in enough to hear what O'Rourke has to say.

"I've never come out for things like this, but politics has never been as bad as it is now," she says. How so? "I hate to say the name, but Trump," she continues. "We have to stand up and say, 'Enough.'"

The tiny audience fills less than half the room, and not everyone is a fan.

Dolores Blanco Flores, a state health worker in Fort Stockton, wants to know what O'Rourke has done to reduce the $20 trillion national debt and "drain the swamp" in Washington.

He tells her both parties share the blame for the debt problem. But he emphasizes the price of the continuing U.S. wars overseas and the Republican tax cuts, which he says disproportionately favor the wealthy and corporations.

WEDGE ISSUE: Ted Cruz attacks Beto O'Rourke over talk of Trump impeachment

"I got a raise from the tax cuts," Flores shoots back. "Those tax cuts did help me. They gave me more money to take home."

O'Rourke gets some help from others in the audience, sparking a free-flowing debate with Flores  a contrast to more controlled settings of most political events with invited guests.

Flores, a Catholic who opposes same-sex marriage and abortion, stands her ground. "I don't think he answered my question," she says afterwards. "He bloviated about the military."

The ride from Fort Stockton to the town of Pecos is a harrowing one. The truck-clogged Texas 285 is a testament to the area's oil and gas boom. Lining the two-lane road are countless oil derrick pumpjacks and "man camp" trailers, placed at random intervals amid the mesquite and juniper trees that dot the flat landscape.

O'Rourke guns his truck past long tractor-trailers while Amy silently motions for him to slow down. A rosary rests on the dashboard, a trace of his Catholic upbringing. There's also a St. Michael medal, a parting gift from a supporter in El Paso.

Asked about his religious beliefs, O'Rourke talks about a march he helped lead to the immigrant child detention camp in Tornillo, just east of El Paso. "For me, that was a religious experience," he says. "I happen to have been raised Catholic, and what I take away from my religion is you do your best to love everyone, to be good to everyone."

The crowd gathered at the Reeves County Civic Center in Pecos is slightly bigger  about 35. Reeves County, close to New Mexico, is one of the few West Texas counties that went to Hillary Clinton, by 8 points.

Continued our day with a town hall in Pecos. Important conversation about NAFTA, trade wars, immigration, and making sure everyone is healthy enough to live to their full potential. pic.twitter.com/o1DNAhmP1T  Beto O'Rourke (@BetoORourke) July 30, 2018

To replicate that success in the Senate race, Erica Esparza, who is married to an oil field worker, says she's looking for a Democrat who's willing to compromise with Republicans. "The unanswered question," says the 33-year-old mother, "is what are we going to do about the gridlock? To challenge a Republican incumbent, we're going to need to be a little more centrist, a little more moderate."

O'Rourke talks about the need for "controlled" immigration, citing legislation he's sponsored with Cornyn to beef up security at border ports of entry. But he also talks about the deportation of a high school salutatorian in the North Texas town of Booker. "Folks there get that what we are doing is not working," he says.

That satisfies Esparza, but not Stacey Roberts, a Republican activist who shows up in the back of the hall wearing a cowboy hat and boots. There's a Cruz patch on her sleeve. Roberts, a home-school mom who runs a cleaning company in nearby Balmorhea, believes that the Democratic Party has turned toward "blatant socialism" and that O'Rourke's stump speech offers only a thin veneer of pragmatic centrism.

"It's very skim, on top of what his actual beliefs are," Roberts says. "He opposes our Second Amendment rights, he's not pro-life, he wants a one-payer health care system, and he's obviously very 'open borders.'"

Odessa, in the heart of the oil-producing Permian Basin, turns out about 300 people for O'Rourke's evening gathering in the Los Arcos Ballroom.

One of the first questions is about O'Rourke's budding friendship with Will Hurd, the Republican 23rd District congressman with whom he made a well-publicized "bipartisan" cross-country drive. O'Rourke's refusal to endorse Hurd's opponent, Democrat Gina Ortiz Jones, has come up before, and O'Rourke has the same answer: It is time to move past America's tribal politics. To get anything done in Congress, he says, you have to have Republican allies.

BIPARTISAN ROAD TRIP: After storm canceled flights, Texas reps make the drive to D.C.

"By disavowing Will," he adds, "I would be part of the problem."

***

Day 3: Time to stop dreaming

Road weariness strikes in Seminole, a melting pot of ethnic Germans, Mennonites, Hispanics and, of course, oil workers. A gathering of about 30 in the local community center will be one of the smallest of the tour's opening days.

A television in the hotel lobby where O'Rourke is staying is tuned to Fox, which is recounting the high murder rate in Mexico. The candidate walks in for breakfast.

"Trying to scare us some more?" he says offhandedly.

But the mood in the community center is lightened by Marcus Ware, a power company linesman who took time off work to hear O'Rourke. "There aren't a lot of Democratic representatives who come through here," says Hare, who considers himself an independent voter, despite his conservative upbringing. "So this gives us hope."

To Ray Savage, the Democratic chairman in Gaines County, where Trump got 85 percent of the vote, O'Rourke's mere presence in Seminole is a testament to the politics of optimism.

It has become a cliche in the national media to imbue O'Rourke with Kennedyesque qualities  toothy smile and all.

But Savage sees a more apt comparison in the late Minnesota Sen. Paul Wellstone, a fervent college professor who took on and beat an entrenched Republican incumbent in 1990 by barnstorming practically every town in the state in a green school bus.

For Savage, that's the model  the elusive path to victory.

"This is Paul Wellstone. Just look at him," Savage says as O'Rourke leaves the Seminole town hall. "Paul Wellstone demonstrated that he cared about Minnesota."

It isn't until O'Rourke gets to the historic Cactus Theater in the college town of Lubbock that he receives the kind of rock star treatment that had propelled him from his hometown of El Paso. The 404-seat theater is standing room only, with the crowd spilling out into the lobby.

"It's time to stop dreaming," says Lubbock City Councilwoman Shelia Patterson Harris, who introduces O'Rourke to a cheering crowd. In response to a question, O'Rourke promises that, if elected, he will open a district office in Lubbock, something Cruz has so far failed to do.

Susan Eppright, a former teacher, leaves the theater on a high. "I'm starting to see Beto signs around town," she says. "Which is something I thought I'd never see."

DEBATES: Ted Cruz vs. Beto O'Rourke debates will be risky for both of them

Started the day with a town hall in Seminole. Several of the questions focused on how we can be a check on the president's trade wars so these tariffs don't continue to hurt Texas' planters and growers. pic.twitter.com/scaNrVomle  Beto O'Rourke (@BetoORourke) July 31, 2018

The road to Muleshoe (population 5,158) is another frantic dash, munching on sandwiches and burritos at the wheel, speeding past cattle ranches and cotton fields, listening to everything from Latin jazz to the Rolling Stones.

About 50 people are waiting when he gets to the Bailey County Coliseum, along the railroad tracks. Many of those who show up are friends and family of Erin Gonzales, a nurse practitioner who organized the event  largely on Facebook.

Though voter registrations are overwhelmingly Republican in Bailey County, Gonzales believes there could be a hidden well of Democratic voters  if a Democratic candidate can mobilize them, something that's become easier to do in the era of Trump.

"I know a lot of people here believe a lot of the things that Beto stands for," she says. "We just need to get them here and hear him."

One who doesn't believe a word O'Rourke says is Donna Ratke, a Cruz supporter from nearby Farwell, where she works as a pharmacist.

"I worry that he wants more big government, and I want the government out of my life," she says.

Ratke tells O'Rourke she uses her guns to shoot rattlesnakes and challenges him to explain his position on gun rights. He responds that he favors universal background checks for gun purchases, a position that polls show is favored by the vast majority of Americans.

"I'm all for shooting rattlesnakes," he quips. "I'm not for taking guns away from people."

The town hall ends with more give-and-take between Ratke and some neighbors, with a lot of verbal jousting about whether you really need an assault weapon to hunt deer.

"I don't use them to kill deer," Ratke said. "But I use them to keep the coyotes away."

More friendly territory is the Six Car Pub & Brewery in downtown Amarillo, where a crowd of several hundred  a significant number of them millennials  are in a festive mood for a "Beers with Beto" rally. O'Rourke recounts his first date with Amy at the Kentucky Club in Ciudad Juarez, allegedly the birthplace of the margarita. It's another data point in his narrative of international harmony.

The story serves as the subtext for O'Rourke's entire tour, which he tells the crowd is meant as an answer to "this smallness, this pettiness, this meanness, this anxiety, this hatred, this bigotry, this racism and this paranoia that seems to dominate our national politics."

He closes with a call to get active.

"We can be despondent, we can be depressed, we can despair, or we can get after it and start traveling the counties of Texas."

Come November, Texas will find out whether much changes after that kind of road trip.

About this story

Reporter Kevin Diaz and photojournalist Godofredo Vasquez rode in the backseat of Beto O'Rourke's new truck at times as they followed the El Paso Democrat for 750 miles, and more than a dozen campaign stops over three days. Diaz has written extensively on the Senate race between O'Rourke and incumbent Sen. Ted Cruz, including a recent report on how the race has drawn financial backers from across the U.S.

Kevin Diaz has covered Washington for 15 years and also has reported from Italy, Brazil, Mexico and Cuba. He covered the 9/11 terrorist attacks from Washington and New York, the Iraq War from U.S. Central Command in Qatar and the 2006 presidential election standoff from Mexico City. You can follow him on Twitter, @DiazChron, or email him at kevin.diaz@chron.com.

Godofredo A. Vasquez is a staff photographer for the Houston Chronicle, primarily covering breaking news. He was born in El Salvador but grew up in the Bay Area, where he attended San Francisco State University and graduated with a B.A. in photojournalism. Before joining the Chronicle in early 2017, Godofredo spent two years working for the Corvallis Gazette-Times and the Albany Democrat-Herald in Oregon. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @godovasquez, or reach him by email at godofredo.vasquez@chron.com.

Interactives, design and audience engagement by Rachael Gleason

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***Pilots flying one of the Air Forces principal training planes, the troubled T-6A Texan II, have reported 39 unexplained physiological episodes caused by a lack of oxygen since the fleet resumed operations early this year.

The number of incidents, averaging nearly 8 a month from the end of February through June, is higher than the average last year, when the most reported in a single month was five.

The planes were briefly grounded after an exceptionally high number of incidents  22  were reported in January alone.

The Air Force training command in San Antonio said the T-6A, a single engine, two-seat turboprop craft, is safe to fly. The command said it has done more inspections, bought new testing equipment and increased the frequency of maintenance.

Pilots are getting extra training, learning more about physiological episodes and are being armed with new procedures to help them respond to possible oxygen system malfunctions, the command said.

A chief complaint by T-6A instructor pilots is that even after months of investigation, the military still hasnt found the root cause of problems with the Onboard Oxygen Generation System, called OBOGS. They say many pilots wonder if the plane is safe.

When I explained it to my wife, it was all the wrong reasons, said an instructor pilot who asked not to be identified, fearing retribution from commanders. Im fearful for second lieutenants that are flying a bad piece of machinery, Im fearful for how this could be detrimental to my career with the airlines, and my wife is like, You should be afraid for your life. You should be afraid that youre going to crash an airplane and youre going to die.

The oxygen delivery system also is used in a number of fighter jets and in a Navy training plane called the T-45 Goshawk. A raft of changes to bolster confidence in the Goshawk reduced physiological episodes to nine last year.

Cmdr. Scot Cregan, a spokesman for the Navys Physiological Episodes Action Team, said eight of the those nine incidents were classified as minor, with the other listed as moderate low. None of the episodes hindered the ability of aviators to land the aircraft safely, he said. Four of the nine occurred at Naval Air Station Kingsville.

The T-6A first flew at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph in 2000 and had enjoyed one of the lowest occurrences of physiological incidents over the past 10 years.

But a Randolph aviator suffered a physiological episode early this year so serious that a number of fliers there refused to fly. Their chief concern was hypoxia, a lack of oxygen that is potentially fatal with symptoms ranging from fear, anxiety and giddiness to complacency and loss of consciousness.

Hypoxia was suspected when a T-45 from Naval Air Station Kingsville went down Aug. 14, 2016, prompting an instructor pilot and student to bail out.

Pilots concerned about the militarys inability to fully understand OBOGS failures told the San Antonio Express-News that up to 11 aviators at Randolphs 12th Flying Training Wing had refused early this summer to fly the aerobatic prop plane.

One strategy to combat the problem is to fly without the oxygen system, letting pilots breathe ambient cockpit air while flying modified missions at lower altitudes.

At Randolph, instructor pilots cannot fly the T-6A alone. Novices, however, have to fly solo as part of their training, a requirement that worries some instructors.

Its almost unthinkable that the most experienced guys are restricted from flying, but yet the junior, most novice dude can go up and fly it alone in a bad aircraft that we know makes people sick, one of the Randolph instructor pilots said.

Unexplained mysteries

Developed for fighters in the early 1980s, OBOGS draws outside air from a plane's engine. The air is cooled and passes through a device called a molecular sieve concentrator that uses a chemical process to produce concentrated oxygen.

A Congressional Research Service brief said OBOGS delivers 95 percent oxygen and 5 percent argon to pilots. The Navy says the air is cleaner than that in a typical office.

One of the mysteries in the OBOGS failures in two-seat training planes is that in some cases only one pilot has suffered an episode, even though OBOGS feeds the same air to both of them.

Some things are known. The Air Force confirmed that inspections have continued to show that the OBOGS shutoff valve, which funnels air from the engine into the system, failed at a much higher than anticipated rate.

The Air Force said the inspections showed that 85 percent of the shutoff valves inspected failed in the open position, allowing unrestricted air flow.

The Air Force is looking into new technology to help pilots monitor their life-support systems in hopes of preventing hypoxia and other physiological episodes. A feasibility study evaluating the inclusion of an automatic backup oxygen system in the T-6A will be completed this month.

In the meantime, 98 percent of the 444 T-6As are back in the air. All of the Navys Goshawks are flying.

Squadron commander takes action

Lt. Col. J.C. Gorman, who had just taken command of the 559th Flying Training squadron, said he canceled all of the T-6A missions on June 25 after meeting that morning with his pilots. Gorman said that some who had ruled out flying changed their minds after talking it over. The squadron returned to a regular schedule the following day, logging 40 to 45 sorties.

Gorman said pilots always have the option not to fly, and that he wouldnt take punitive action against those who decided not to, explaining, I don't need guys being afraid or unconfident in the airplane. In my mind, it's my responsibility to address their concerns and that's what we did, and what we continue to do.

The unusual action came a few days after an instructor was incapacitated on June 21 by a physiological episode while flying the T-6. He was reported to have forgotten which was the lead aircraft in a formation, and also had trouble remembering parts of the sortie the next day. Some officers in the squadron said the sickened pilot credited his student with landing the plane and saving his life.

The student was a qualified aviator learning to become a T-6A instructor pilot  not a novice.

So the (instructor pilot) asked the student, Where is lead? The student said, Sir, were lead, one of instructor pilots said.

He didnt know where lead was, another instructor pilot said, adding, He had lost coherency to anything and everything at that point in time.

Flying after an episode

Maj. Kinsley Jordan, a T-6A instructor at Vance AFB in Oklahoma, said he suffered a physiological episode during a routine student sortie.

Flying at an altitude of about 1,800 feet, an area typically buzzing with air traffic, Jordan noticed he was thinking sluggishly and was slow to track information from his instruments. Then came a strange, metallic taste in his mouth.

Thats what really led me to talk with my student, saying, Hey, are you feeling anything? Are you feeling OK? The student said, Yeah, Im feeling fine, recalled Jordan, who has with 3,000 hours in the air, 1,500 of them in combat. So as we were going through the final turn thats when I realized, somethings not right, somethings not right about this.

He dropped his mask to get a breath of fresh air in the cockpit. The student, who Jordan described as a slightly above-average novice with 25 hours in a T-6A, showed no symptoms and handled a touch-and-go landing on his own. They then declared an emergency and returned for a second landing, which Jordan made himself.

Jordan said the episode concerned him, but not enough that he would refuse to fly the plane.

It wasnt necessarily a concern in the sense of Oh, my gosh, Im not going to go back into the air. It was a concern of, I wonder what caused that? he said. So it wasnt anything that I went home and curled up in a ball and sat in my wifes arms and said, I never want to go back. That was not the case.

sigc@express-news.netREYNOSA, Mexico - Months of traveling by bus, foot and freight trains have brought Maria Torres, an unborn daughter and nearly 4-year-old son to a walled compound perched on the Mexican bank of the Rio Grande, which they hope to cross by raft in search of U.S. asylum.

We left with almost nothing and there is nothing to go back for, said Torres, 39, who hails from a small town in Honduras where the narcotics trade augments the farm economy. We can't live in our country any more. There is so much crime and so little work.

The Trump administration has argued that its zero-tolerance policy toward undocumented border jumpers would deter migrants who are fleeing from violence and poverty-racked corners of Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala.

Under the crackdown, U.S. border agents this spring separated migrant parents from their children until a public outcry forced an end to the separations. A federal court ordered the administration to reunify the families last month, yet hundreds of them remain separated.

RELATED: ICE denies report of child death at Texas immigration facility

The deterrent strategy appears to have had little effect. Border Patrol agents arrested 9,258 people jumping the border in family units in July, down just slightly from the tallies in May and June. The number of migrants apprehended as family units in July was up more 140 percent compared to the same month last year.

It doesnt appear that zero tolerance has yet had much impact, said Andrew Selee, president of the Migration Policy Institute in Washington, D.C.

For Torres and other mothers hunkered in this shelter in Reynosa, a gangster-besieged industrial city of nearly 1 million people just south of McAllen, the toughened U.S. policies arent their biggest concern.

Dread of returning home, they say, far outweighs any risks they'll face north of the border.

Its not easy to get here, said Ruth Flores, 31, who arrived at the Senda de Vida shelter in July with her husband and four children, ages 2 to 12 years old. We are just going to stay here to see what changes. It seems things change all the time.

We are only trying to live, to protect our children, the rail-thin woman said, grasping the hand of her 12-year-old daughter.

Evangelical minister Hector Silva said he's heard thousands of such stories in the two decades that he has run the shelter. Though he believes only a fraction of the tales, Silva said, he's convinced of the dire need of anyone arriving at his door.

All of these people are in very desperate shape, Silva said as he applied a fresh coat of paint in the shelters small office. We arent trying to get involved in the politics of any of it.

Silva's ever-expanding compound - financed in part with contributions from church groups from the U.S. and elsewhere - sits behind a metal gate and high walls on a riverfront bluff not far from Reynosa city hall. Another refuge operated by Roman Catholic nuns stands a few blocks away.

Senda de Vida, which has beds for at least 60 people, has separate quarters for women and children and bunkhouse-type dormitories for men. As migrants have become stranded for longer periods at the border, rules have been relaxed to allow for longer stays.

Flores and Torres said their families had been at the shelter for about a month.

People staying at these shelters have traveled through Mexico on the cheap, without the aid of smugglers. More fortunate migrants pay thousands of dollars for transit to U.S. destinations. They stay in stash houses operated by the trafficking gangs in Reynosa and other border cities until they can be crossed.

Then four months pregnant, Torres set out for the U.S. border in late April with her son and the unborn child's father, hoping to deliver the baby in Houston. After crossing into Mexico from Guatemala, the family traveled for two months, usually staying in church-run shelters, stopping for days at a time to earn money to continue their trip.

RELATED: Reunifications still fall short in chaotic process

They have been waiting in Reynosa for relatives to send the $300 per head demanded by gangs who control a 30-yard raft ride to the U.S. shore.

The father, Jose Angel Lopez, 34, said he was fleeing a local drug dealer in his hometown who police had forced him to testify against. Returning to Honduras, Lopez said, will mean certain death.

Still, Lopez said he has no intention of crossing the border himself because he would face almost certain prison time. Since first migrating to the U.S. at 16 years old, he's been deported nine times following arrests for driving infractions, public intoxication and other lesser offenses, Lopez said. His last deportation was in 2016 from Houston, where he was working construction.

But even Lopez's troubled history in the U.S. explains the strong pull northward for many Central Americans. He was earning $130 a day on that construction job in Houston, Lopez said. The only work he could find upon returning to Honduras paid $6 a day. When he lands an occasional day's work in Reynosa, he said, he's lucky to pocket $11.

There is no future in Honduras, Lopez said, slipping occasionally into English. The gangs are killing more, robbing more, extorting more. In my town, everyone either has left or is talking about leaving.

More than anything I want to give my daughter a chance at a U.S. life, he said.Union Minister, who made an aerial survey, said rains had caused 'massive damage' to farm sector and infrastructure.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh interacts with flood affected people at Elanthikkara relief center in Ernakulam on Sunday. Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan and Union Minister KJ Alphons are also seen. (Photo: PTI)

Kochi: Terming the flood situation in Kerala following heavy rains as something never witnessed by the state since Independence, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday announced Rs 100 crore as an immediate central relief.

The minister, who made an aerial survey of badly affected areas in Idukki and Ernakulam districts, said the rains and floods had caused "massive damage" to the farm sector and infrastructures like roads and power.

"Kerala is facing an unprecedented flood situation. It is unprecedented because never before in the history of independent India has Kerala witnessed such massive floods," he told reporters here.

He was speaking after reviewing the situation with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Minister of State for Tourism Alphons Kannanthanam, state ministers and senior officials.

Singh assured all help from the Centre to meet the "very serious situation".

"I understand the suffering of the people of Kerala from the present crisis. Since assessment of the damage will take time, I hereby announce immediate relief as advance of Rs 100 crore," the Minister said.

Read: Rains pound Kerala again; Rajnath Singh surveys flood-hit regions

The state government submitted a memorandum to Singh, seeking urgent sanction of Rs 1,220 crore from the National Disaster Relief Fund (NDRF) to meet the situation.

In the memorandum, the Chief Minister said preliminary estimates suggested that Kerala suffered a loss of Rs 8,316 crore in the rains, floods and landslides.

Singh recalled the flood situation in Kerala last month and said that just before he came to the state on Sunday, he sanctioned release of the second instalment of Rs 80.25 crore in advance for the State Disaster Relief Fund.

The first instalment of a similar amount of the Central share of SDRF for 2018-19 was released last month, he said.

"The Centre is extremely sensitive to the needs of the Kerala at this critical juncture," he said.

The minister said three teams of NDRF had been pre positioned in Kerala during the current monsoon season.

"Eleven more NDRF teams have been deployed in the state, taking the total number of NDRF teams to 14. If needed we will press in additional teams," Singh said in a tweet.

Earlier, Singh visited a relief camp at Elanthikkara in Paravur Taluk in Ernakulam district.

"Today we conducted an aerial survey of flood affected areas with the Chief Minister and I reached the conclusion that the situation is very serious in Kerala due to floods," he said.

"And I would like to assure the state government that all sorts of support will be provided by the central government to meet the challenges of the flood situation," he said.

Singh also heard the grievances of people who lost their homes and land in the floods.

The Union Minister made an aerial survey of areas affected by landslides and rains in Idukki and Ernakulam districts.

He was accompanied by Vijayan, Alphons, Chandrasekharan and Additional Chief Secretary P H Kurian.SAN FRANCISCO  With his arms folded, Jack Dorsey paced back and forth in a conference room at Twitters headquarters Friday afternoon.

In a rare look inside one of the social media companys policy meetings, the Twitter chief executive gathered with 18 colleagues, including the safety team, to debate ways to make the social media service safer for its users. The discussion quickly turned to how to rid the site of dehumanizing speech, even if it did not violate Twitters rules, which forbid direct threats of violence and some forms of hate speech but do not prohibit deception or misinformation.

Twitter asked that members of its safety team not be identified, for fear of them becoming targeted by internet trolls. Please bear with me, said one team member at the meeting. This is incredibly complex.

For about an hour, the group tried to get a handle on what constituted dehumanizing speech. At one point, Dorsey wondered if there was a technology solution. There was no agreement on an answer.

HOUSECLEANING: Twitter suspended 58 million accounts in 4Q

The discussion capped a difficult week for Twitter. For the past five days, the company has been embroiled in internal conversations about how to evolve and explain its policies for what can and cannot be posted on its site. The debates were urgent, fueled by criticism against Twitter for its lack of action against the posts from the far-right conspiracy site Infowars and its creator, Alex Jones.

While Apple, Facebook and Googles YouTube this week purged videos and podcasts from Jones and Infowars  which have regularly spread falsehoods, including that the Sandy Hook shooting was a hoax  Twitter let the content remain on its site. In a string of tweets Tuesday, Dorsey said Twitter would not ban Jones or Infowars because they had not violated the companys rules.

In the aftermath, many of Twitters users and own employees heaped ire on Dorsey and the company. (Sample comments included jaw dropping and pathetic.) Several journalists also picked apart Twitters decision to leave up the posts from Jones and Infowars, pointing to examples of the content that appeared to violate the companys policies.

Newspix/Newspix via Getty Images

On Friday, to provide more transparency about its decision making, Twitter invited two New York Times reporters to attend the policy meeting. During the one-hour gathering, a picture emerged of a 12-year-old company still struggling to keep up with the complicated demands of being an open and neutral communications platform that brings together world leaders, celebrities, journalists, political activists and conspiracy theorists.

CONUNDRUM: Tech giants still stumbling in the social world they created

MORE TECHBURGER Get more tasty tech news at TechBurger. And follow us on Twitter and Facebook. Subscribe to the Chronicle for regular access to TechBurger stories and to be able to comment. See More Collapse

Even settling on a definition of dehumanizing speech was not easy. By the meetings end, Dorsey and his executives had agreed to draft a policy about dehumanizing speech and open it to the public for their comments.

In an interview Friday, Dorsey, 41, said he was OK with people not agreeing with his decision to keep Jones account live.

I dont see this as an end point, I see this as maintaining integrity with what we put out there and not doing random one-off interpretations, he said.

But Dorsey also said that while Twitters longtime guiding principle has been free expression, the company is now discussing that safety should come first. He added, Thats a conversation we need to have. He said he was thinking deeply about human rights law and listening to audiobooks on speech and expression.

Karen Kornbluh, a senior fellow of digital policy at the Council of Foreign Relations, said Dorsey had mishandled the Infowars situation but added that dealing with matters of free speech on social media is highly complex.

There is no due process, no transparency, no case law, and no expertise on these very complicated legal and social questions behind these decisions, she said.

VOTING: Hackers already attacking midterm elections

Just a week ago, debates around dehumanizing speech were not the main topic of conversation at Twitter. At a staff meeting at the time at the companys headquarters, Twitter employees were buoyant as they watched a break dancing executive on stage, a cameo by Dorseys mother, and attended an after-hours dance party.

In all my time at @Twitter, Im not sure Ive ever seen folks so energetic, enthusiastic, & ready to collaborate as after #OneTeam, Del Harvey, head of Twitters trust and safety team, tweeted at the time.

Then late Sunday, Apple yanked most of the content from Jones and Infowars off its iTunes store, quickly followed by deletions at Facebook, YouTube, and Spotify. At Twitter, executives met Monday morning to debate their own response. They ultimately decided that Jones had not committed enough infractions to result in a permanent ban from the site.

Dorsey discussed that decision Tuesday in an internal post on Periscope, the live-streaming video platform owned by Twitter, according to an employee who watched the stream and who was not authorized to speak publicly.

GRIEDER: InfoWars' toxic Alex Jones is being shunned, not censored

Yet Twitter publicly kept silent about its process, drawing a barrage of criticism from users who said the site was protecting Jones and Infowars. Jones later went on Twitter to blast other social media companies for what he said was their censorship, and called on President Donald Trump to weigh in on the takedowns.

Jones did not respond to a request for comment.

On Tuesday evening, Dorsey finally posted about Twitters decision to keep up the posts of Infowars and Jones. In his tweets, the chief executive suggested that other social media companies had caved to political pressure by removing Jones content. He also said the task of fact-checking Jones sensational claims should fall to journalists on the platform rather than Twitters moderators, prompting confusion.

Emily Horne, a former Twitter spokeswoman, lashed out at Dorsey for blaming the communications staff for failing to adequately explain rules. These decisions arent easy, but they arent comms calls and its unhelpful to denigrate your colleagues, Horne tweeted, adding that leaving up Jones posts was the wrong call.

Internally, Dorsey, aiming for transparency, encouraged employees to post publicly about their opinions regarding Jones. Several hours later, Dorsey appeared on a radio show with conservative media personality Sean Hannity and tried to refute claims that the site is biased against conservatives.

By Wednesday, Twitter had started softening its tone. Harvey wrote in a companywide email that afternoon that the company would adjust its policies and accelerate its efforts to combat speech that dehumanizes Twitter users. Dehumanization, she wrote, was often a precursor to violence and therefore a top priority for the company.

That did little to quell the criticism. Late Thursday, CNN reported that it had found several examples of Twitter posts from Jones that violated the social media companys rules. The posts were deleted after CNNs report but Twitter said it had not removed them. Twitter said it could not confirm if Jones took down those posts and said it found only one example of those presented by CNN that appeared to violate its rules. Twitter later updated that number to seven examples.

In Fridays meeting at Twitter, the 18 attendees, all standing around a wooden conference room table, debated topics including whether tweets that disparaged immigrants could be considered dehumanizing. One executive insisted that it was important for Twitter to enable debate about immigration policy.

Immigration is a really valid political debate in many countries around the world and I think we want to make sure we protect the ability of people to say things like, Immigration has affected my community. My local factory employs different people now; I cant get a job.' said Nick Pickles, a policy strategist.

Any new rules also had to allow victims of rape to openly discuss their experience online, Harvey said. We dont want to make people feel less comfortable, she said.

Dorsey stroked his beard and nodded.

In the interview afterward, Dorsey said he was contemplating broader changes, including systemic solutions that arent a one-off. But those conversations, he said, have not been explicit. Twitter is early in the process, he said.

Well talk more, he said.

This article originally appeared in The New York Times.

Get more tasty tech news at TechBurger. And follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Subscribe to the Chronicle for regular access to TechBurger stories and to be able to comment.Veronika writes to PM that Baghpat DM is blocking registration of marriage.

Lucknow: A girl from Ukraine has sought help from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, home minister Rajnath Singh, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj and chief minister Yogi Adityanath to marry her boyfriend who lives in Baghpat.

The girl Veronika Khliebova has sent a series of tweets to the leaders claiming that the district magistrate of Baghpat, where her boyfriend lives, is creating unnecessary hurdles in registering her marriage even though the couple have furnished all necessary documents.

Veronika had come to India on June 4 to tie the knot with her Baghpat-based boyfriend Akshat Tyagi. During the marriage registration process, she was allegedly harassed by the district magistrate who refused to accept an NOC granted by the Indian embassy.

In her first tweet, Veronika said, Hello Sir, I need your help I am citizen of Ukraine and I am in love with Indian guy who is from district Baghpat. We applied for marriage in district magistrate office Baghpat. We give all documents what they have asked.

In her second tweet, she alleged that Baghpat district magistrate Rishirendra Kumar had behaved rudely with the couple, even after providing a valid NOC and getting police verification done. In spite of the fact that it is already been 35 days since the couple submitted their documents, the district magistrate remain unrelenting.

Veronikas friend Akshat Tyagi told news channels that the district magistrate that the DM office had assured the couple that their marriage will be registered under the Special Marriage Act, but when the district magistrate was approached, he allegedly told them, Ukraine is a blacklisted country and hence the marriage is not possible.

After a heated argument, their marriage application was accepted and they were given a date for verification of documents.

When the couple went to his office on the given date with all the required documents, the district magistrate said that the NOC is not acceptable. The staff also allegedly asked them to cough up Rs 2 lakh because she was a foreign national.Imperial Valley News Center

Kavanaugh likely to be confirmed as Associate Justice Kennedys successor on the Supreme Court

Washington, DC - Senate Democrats seek to put up a united front against President Trumps selection of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to replace Associate Justice Anthony Kennedy on the Supreme Court. But, political analysts - Democrat and Republican - seem to believe it is a losing battle, says Dan Weber, president of the Association of Mature American Citizens.

Those opposed to Kavanaugh have sought to convince moderate Republicans Lisa Murkowski of Arkansas and Susan Collins of Maine to vote against his confirmation. But, in recent weeks both Collins and Murkowski have indicated they are comfortable with his nomination. Meanwhile, there are a slew of Red State Democrats who are up for re-election who can take their places if either of them or both have last minute reservations, according to Weber.

Weber says he is confident that Kavanaugh has enough support to pass muster in the Senate. Democratic leaders are deceptively and disingenuously attempting to persuade their colleagues otherwise. They are seeking to convince the American people that he is not qualified but his credentials and his career show that he is eminently up to the task.

A simple majority in the Senate is all that it will take to confirm Kavanaughs appointment to the Supreme Court. And, even if Senator John McCain [R-AZ] is unable to travel to Washington for the vote due to ill health, it still leaves Republicans with a 51 to 49 advantage since Vice President Pence would cast the deciding ballot.

It should be noted that not all who call themselves Liberals are opposed to the Kavanaugh selection. Liberal Yale Law School professor Akhil Reed Amar recently published an Opinion Article in the New York Times extolling the virtues of Judge Kavanaugh. It was entitled A Liberals Case for Brett Kavanaugh and in it Amar wrote: The nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to be the next Supreme Court justice is President Trumps finest hour, his classiest move. Last week the president promised to select someone with impeccable credentials, great intellect, unbiased judgment, and deep reverence for the laws and Constitution of the United States. In picking Judge Kavanaugh, he has done just that.

In addition, there are nine Democrats who are up for reelection in states that voted heavily for President Trump in November 2016 and they risk alienating voters if they go against Kavanaugh. They are Joe Manchin of West Virginia, Joe Donnelly of Indiana, Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota, Claire McCaskill of Missouri, Doug Jones of Alabama, Bill Nelson of Florida, Jon Tester of Montana, Sherrod Brown of Ohio and Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin.

Its unlikely that all of them will oppose their Democratic Senate colleagues and support Mr. Trumps pick for the court. It is likely that a few could and would do just that, but I dont think that enough of them will vote to derail his appointment, Weber opined.

The fact is that Kavanaugh is widely considered the best person to succeed Justice Kennedy. Not because he is a conservative, but because he is a thoughtful and honest jurist who has shown that he will protect the Constitution. He is opposed on the left because there are those who would like a more flexible candidate on the Courtsomeone who would not be bound by the Constitution and who would legislate from the bench. They would like to see a deciding vote on the Supreme Court bench who would enable the progressive elements in America to turn our constitutional republic into a socialist state. Thats not going to happen.Imperial Valley News Center

Vaquita Cells Saved in Frozen Zoo

San Diego, California - Researchers at the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research received tissue biopsies from two rare and critically endangered vaquita porpoises at the end of 2017. The material, containing living cells, was collected from two female vaquitas that came under human care during an attempt to bring individuals of the species into a breeding program. Although growing vaquita cells had never before been attempted, tissue culturists at the Institute for Conservation Research were able to successfully establish the first cell lines for this species, now accessioned into the Frozen Zoothe largest and most diverse collection of its kind in the world.

The tissue was collected by scientists working in partnership with the Mexican government and conservationists, during a last-ditch effort to capture the few remaining vaquitas that live in the waters of the northern end of the Gulf of California. This rarely seen, tiny porpoise is the smallest of the cetaceans, and scientists estimate fewer than 30 remain in the wild. Their numbers have dwindled despite efforts by the Mexican government to ban fishing with gillnets, which inadvertently trap and drown these endangered marine mammals.

The material was brought to the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research so that it could be cultured and stored in the Frozen Zoo. The cell material has been successfully stored in the biobank, and it is expected to provide significant new information about the vaquita. However, geneticists caution that the samplesfrom only two individuals, both femalesdo not provide much hope for rescuing the species if the last remaining individuals perish.

Although we are announcing remarkable success in our ability to save viable tissue culture cells from two vaquitas, we must recognize that this small step will not allow us to save the species, said Oliver Ryder, Ph.D., director of Conservation Genetics for San Diego Zoo Global. We hope and trust that useful information will result that may benefit other endangered species of threatened porpoises. And we are saddened to think that one day, these tissue samples may be all that is left of this animal.

The Frozen Zoo is a bank of tissue and genetic material that has been collected by conservation researchers since the repository was founded in 1975. Frozen, viable cell cultures from nearly 10,000 individual animals, comprising over 1,000 species, are included in the collection. Banked DNA and tissue samples from rare and endangered species provide material for new studies that help point the way forward for managed populations and assist in monitoring and planning for sustainability of wild populations. The library of genetic material includes cell cultures, sperm samples and other tissues with reproductive potential. In the Frozen Zoo, cell cultures are maintained in liquid nitrogen freezers at a temperature of -320 degrees Fahrenheit.

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 Zoo 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 childrens 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.Imperial Valley News Center

Los Angeles-area man who allegedly led prescription drug ring arrested on new charges of fraudulently procuring US citizenship

Los Angeles, California - A Burbank man who operated a string of allegedly sham medical clinics  and who already faces federal charges of using the clinics to orchestrate a massive narcotics scheme  was arrested Tuesday on new charges that he unlawfully procured United States citizenship.

Armen Simonyan, 44, who was free on bond in the narcotics-trafficking case, was arrested after being named in a two-count indictment returned today by a federal grand jury. The new indictment charges Simonyan with unlawful procurement of United States citizenship and making a false statement on a passport application.

The benefit fraud investigation was conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the U.S. Department of States Diplomatic Security Service, and was conducted under the aegis of HSIs Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force.

Todays indictment outlines Simonyans 15-year history of securing United States immigration benefits via fraud and identity theft. Simonyan allegedly entered the United States from Armenia under a stolen identity and a fraudulent passport. Simonyan then sought asylum in the United States, allegedly concocting a false narrative that he was born in Azerbaijan to parents of supposed mixed Armenian-Azerbaijani nationality; that his family suffered ethnic violence, including the murder of both his parents; and that he fled to the United States via Russia. The indictment alleges that, in fact, Simonyan was born in Armenia to Armenian parents, that he entered the United States from Armenia, and that both of his parents were alive.

Simonyan will lose his United States citizenship if convicted of the immigration fraud charge.

The indictment also charges Simonyan with lying on his application for a United States passport after he gained citizenship. The alleged false statements related to his place of birth, his date of birth, and his claim that his mother was deceased.

Simonyan was previously indicted in August 2017 on charges that he and other conspirators disseminated more than 2 million pills of controlled prescription drugs to the black market, mostly oxycodone and hydrocodone. Simonyan is currently scheduled to go on trial in that case on February 12, 2019.

In the immigration fraud case, Simonyan is expected to be arraigned on the indictment this afternoon in U.S. District Court in downtown Los Angeles.

If convicted of the charges in the new indictment, Simonyan would face a statutory maximum of 20 years in prison, in addition to the statutory maximum of 60 years in federal prison that he faces in the narcotics case.

Substantial assistance in this case was provided by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Fraud Detection and National Security unit, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin Barron and Jamie Lang of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force.Imperial Valley News Center

ICE removes murder suspect wanted in Guatemala

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) removed a fugitive citizen of Guatemala Aug. 8, wanted by Guatemalan authorities for murder.

Identifying and removing foreign fugitives from the United States is an ICE priority, said Simona L. Flores, field office director of ERO Philadelphia. The cooperation between the United States and Guatemala governments resulted in this foreign fugitive being safely returned to his home country where he will face justice.

Alexander Revolorio, 27, entered the United States on an unknown date and place without inspection or parole by an immigration officer.

On Feb. 17, 2011, the Los Angeles, California Police Department arrested Mr. Revolorio on May 29, 2012, the Superior Court of California in Los Angeles, California convicted, him of force/assault with a deadly weapon, and sentenced him to three years of incarceration.

On Aug. 28, 2012, Mr. Revolorio was taken into custody and issued a final administrative removal order.

On Sept. 19, 2012, ERO Los Angeles removed him from the United States.

On an unknown date, he re-entered the United States without being admitted or paroled.

On Sept. 29, 2013, United States Border Patrol (USBP) encountered and apprehended him near Brackettville, Texas.

On Oct. 1, 2013, USBP charged him with illegal re-entry into the United States.

On Dec. 12, 2013, the United States District Court, Western District of Texas, convicted him of illegal re-entry into the United States and sentenced him to 57 months of incarceration.

On June 29, ERO Philadelphia took Mr. Revolorio into custody. While in ICE custody, ERO Philadelphia discovered and confirmed an active warrant of arrest from the Government of Guatemala for Mr. Revolorios apprehension.

On August 8, Mr. Revolorio was removed from the United States and turned over to Guatemalan law enforcement authorities without incident.Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen M. Nielsen traveled to Sacramento and Redding

Sacramento, California - Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen M. Nielsen traveled to Sacramento and Redding, California to address the ongoing wildfires. While in California, the Secretary participated in a briefing with state and local officials regarding the damage caused by the recent wildfires. She also participated in a ground survey of areas affected by the Carr fire. Secretary Nielsen discussed the importance of individual preparedness, fire safety and prevention in the United States, and the response and recovery support provided by the Department of Homeland Security and Federal Emergency Management Agency to state and local partners.

Additionally, Secretary Nielsen visited the United States Coast Guard Air Stations in Sacramento to meet with personnel. She thanked them for their service and dedication to the Departments mission and acknowledged the challenging work they do for DHS and the American people.



On August 9, Secretary Nielsen met with California Governor Jerry Brown to discuss wildfire response and recovery efforts. They had the opportunity to address the need for long-term risk reduction to better protect communities across the state. Secretary Nielsen reiterated that the Department would continue to support California during what is looking to be a long and challenging wildfire season.Troika Statement on South Sudan Peace Talks

Washington, DC - The members of the Troika (the United States, the United Kingdom, and Norway) support the engagement of the region in the recent Khartoum-based negotiations on outstanding governance and security issues. We acknowledge the role of Sudan in hosting these negotiations. Considerable challenges lie ahead, and we are concerned that the arrangements agreed to date are not realistic or sustainable. Given their past leadership failures, South Sudanese leaders will need to behave differently and demonstrate commitment to peace and good governance.

Above all, we support the people of South Sudans aspirations to lead lives unburdened by fear, and to experience peace, pluralism, and prosperity. We remain steadfast that the best hope for sustainable peace is a process inclusive of ordinary men and women, civil society, religious leaders, ethnic minorities, and other excluded groups. We urge mediators to ensure the open and free participation of these groups and other participants in the negotiations, to ensure their interests are fully protected. Moreover, the process should culminate in free, fair, and credible elections, and allow for a peaceful transition in leadership in the most expeditious and responsible manner.

During the next stage of the talks, parties must bring in a wider range of stakeholders, and develop clear plans for the transition period, including how resources will be used in a transparent and accountable way for the benefit of all South Sudanese. Critical questions remain, such as how security will be provided in Juba during the transition period and how meaningful checks will be placed on executive power.

We call on the parties to develop clear and realistic governance and security timelines and plans for the transition period, and on the Intergovernmental Authority on Development member states and the AU to continue and intensify their involvement in the implementation phase of any agreement.

We note that there has been some reduction in fighting, the most serious confidence-building measure of all. Sustained peace is a necessary condition for the legitimacy of a transitional arrangement. In furtherance of this, we call on our regional partners to uphold the United Nations Security Council arms embargo and on their financial institutions to ensure that the proceeds from corrupt and war-making activities do not flow through their jurisdictions. We now expect to see a change in the situation on the ground, beginning with a further significant reduction in violence, and all parties taking measures to allow full humanitarian access.Secretary of State Pompeo's Call With Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov

Washington, DC - Secretary Michael R. Pompeo spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Secretary Pompeo reiterated that the United States seeks an improved relationship with Russia and agreed to future dialogue.

The Secretary discussed with Minister Lavrov recent sanctions imposed on Russia pursuant to the Chemical and Biological Weapons and Warfare Elimination Act of 1991 (CBW Act), and the Secretary discussed the ongoing challenges in Syria.Do You Know Why Toilet Doors are Cut From Bottom in Malls and Offices? Read On to Find OutAmit Shah also lashed out at the Opposition and said that intruders would not be allowed to stay in the country.

BJP president Amit Shah is greeted by party workers at Rajnagar Extension in Ghaziabad on Sunday while he was on his way to Meerut to attend the BJPs state working committee meeting. (Photo: PTI)

Lucknow/Meerut: The BJP plans to go to the polls in Uttar Pradesh, and possibly across the country, with the slogan Phir Ek Baar, Modi Sarkar. The party has set a target of 73-plus seats for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in UP, and BJP president Amit Shah has asked party workers to ensure 51 per cent votes for the party from all sections of voters.

Mr Shah, who addressed the party state executive session in Meerut on Sunday, asked workers to take the achievements of the Narendra Modi and Yogi Adityanath governments to the people. He lauded the work done by the Yogi government in the state. The media was not allowed access to this session.

Mr Shah also lashed out at the Opposition and said that intruders would not be allowed to stay in the country. We will not allow illegal Bangladeshi intruders to stay in the country even though we will make efforts to ensure that refugees who come seeking shelter are given citizenship, the BJP chief is learnt to have told party workers.

Referring to Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, Mr Shah is understood to have said that in 2017 two boys (ladke) joined hands, but the BJP won over 300 seats in the Assembly. This time, he is learnt to have added, if all three  SP, BSP and Congress  joined hands, we will win at least 74 (Lok Sabha) seats. In 2014, the BJP had won 73 of the states 80 Lok Sabha seats.

Briefing reporters, party general secretary Vijay Bahadur Pathak said the BJP will launch a series of statewide rallies from October 2 to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Through these rallies, the party hopes to demonstrate its achievements at the Centre and in the state in order to attract voters.

He said the party will hold a variety of programme from August 15 to September 30 at the booth level to connect with voters and open a fresh membership drive.

The BJP top brass has asked party leaders to restructure its booth-level committees in all the 1.60 lakh booths in the state. The booth-level committees will comprise 50 workers, including 10 members each from the Scheduled Caste and OBC communities. The party leadership has also sought a list of 100 names of volunteers and party supporters from each district, who would be included in election-related activities. The BJP cadre has also been asked to review the voters lists in their respective areas to ensure that new voters are also included in the list.

The BJP will also seek a Election Commission directive to enroll new voters in the voting list. A new toll-free number  18002661001  has also been launched to register the new members, he said.

There are over 1.60 lakh polling booths in UP and the BJP is the only party which has committees in all of them. The BJP leader said that the party will celebrate Independence Day as Bharat Parva with a four-day programme.

On August 15, all booth committees will hold a massive plantation drive, with each booth given a target to plant at least 11 saplings. On August 16, the Kisan Morcha will hold programmes across the state to honour the families of freedom fighters and martyrs, while on August 17 BJP Yuva Morcha activists will bring out Prabhat Pheris in the state. On August 18, the Mahila Morcha will organise patriotic programmes, including kavi sammelans, he said.Sir Michael Caine may have cleared up the ambiguous final scene of Inception, which was released in the UK 10 years ago.

In a clip from 2018 which recently resurfaced on Reddit, the British actor is seen introducing a Film 4 screening of the acclaimed Christopher Nolan film. According to Caine, the filmmaker explicitly told him which scenes were real and which were a dream.

When I got the script of Inception, I was a bit puzzled by it and I said to him I dont understand where the dream is, Caine told the crowd. I said, When is it the dream and when is it reality? He said, Well when youre in the scene its reality. So get that  if Im in it, its reality. If Im not in it, its a dream.

The debate surrounding Inceptions ending has waged on ever since its release in 2010, with the mystery surrounding whether the final scene was real or whether it was taking place in the dream of the lead character, Dom Cobb (Leonardo DiCaprio).

The scene in question  in which hes granted access to the US after having his criminal history erased  sees him reunited with his children and father, played by Caine.

Audiences have wondered whether this scene was, in fact, a dream thanks to Nolans final shot of the spinning top  Cobbs totem that spins indefinitely in a dream but topples in the real world  which cuts off before viewers have a chance to find out.

Nolan has continually maintained that the ending issubjective and that the only thing that matters is that Cobb doesnt care if hes dreaming or not. Going by Caines words, however, his appearance in the scene confirms the events were all real.

Inception is currently being re-released in cinemas around the world to celebrate the films 10th anniversary. The film will hit screens on 12 August internationally and on 21 August in the US.

In his speech, Caine branded Nolan the new David Lean and attributed him with being the one who restarted [his] acting life after casting him in 2005 film Batman Begins.

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Is this the real life? Marion Cotillard and Leonardo DiCaprio in Inception (Warner Bros)

I regard him as my lucky charm because when I got to an age of about 70 and the world started closing in on me, he came to me with one Batman Begins and he restarted my acting life, he said. Because from then on when I thought you get to 70,75, and you think its all over I then made seven of the best movies I was ever in.

Caine has also starred in The Prestige, The Dark Knight, The Dark Knight Rises, Interstellar and has a voice cameo in Dunkirk. Hell also appear in the directors forthcoming thriller Tenet.Kanye West has claimed his silence following a question about Trump asked by TV host Jimmy Kimmel was due to having no time to reply.

Following his appearance on Kimmel's US chat show, West's lack of an answer after being asked whether he thought the president cared about black people has since been highlighted by the media forcing the rapper to clarify the moment.

On Twitter, the rapper denied he was stumped by the question, writing: On Jimmy Kimmel. we had a great time having a dialogue. Im reading that I was stumped by a question. Let me clarify the click bait. I wasn't given a chance to answer the question.

The interview saw West address his continued support for Trump with the African-American artist telling Kimmel everyone around me tried to pick my candidate for me.



Despite the perception that blacks can only be Democrats, the 41-year-old rap star told Kimmel that his support isnt about politics, as he is not a politician, it is about overcoming fear.

It was here where Kimmel questioned West on Trump's views, highlighting West's previous 2005 claim that President George W Bush doesn't care about black people.

'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes Show all 10 1 /10 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes "I was the best new artist this year" Kanye asserted this after losing the New Artist of the Year award at the 2004 American Music Awards Getty Images 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes I am the number one human being in music. That means any person that's living or breathing is number two. Kanye made this claim while appearing on the Wendy Williams show in 2007. He had recently released the album 'Graduation' to critical acclaim Getty Images 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes Yo Taylor, I'm really happy for you, I'mma let you finish, but Beyonce has one of the best videos of all time. One of the best videos of all time! In arguably the most famous incident of his career, Kanye bravely stole the microphone from then 19 year old Taylor Swift during her acceptance speech for the Female Music Video of the Year at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards REUTERS 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes "I walk through the hotel and I walk down the street and people look at me... like I'm Hitler" Kanye said this during a mid-set rant while on stage at the Big Chill festival in 2011. Despite releasing the acclaimed 'My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy' in 2010, he was still widely disliked following the Taylor Swift incident PA Archive/PA Images 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes "I am Picasso. I am Michelangelo. I am Basquiat. I am Walt Disney. I am Steve Jobs" Kanye compared himself to these visionaries in a mid-set rant on stage in Paris, 2013 AFP/Getty Images 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes My greatest pain in life is that I will never be able to see myself perform live. In 2013, Kanye opened up to reveal more Kanye. His pain is understandable, considering such performances as his at the BRITs in 2015, where he came on stage with an entourage of flamethrower wielding grime artists (pictured) Getty Images 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes I have to dress Kim everyday so she doesnt embarrass me. Kanye tweeted this in 2014, around the time that he was designing the first Yeezy range AFP/Getty Images 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes By 50 percent [I am more influential than] Stanley Kubrick, Apostle Paul, Picasso f***ing Picasso and Escobar. By 50 per cent more influential than any other human being. Kanye made this claim backstage after appearing on Saturday Night Live in 2016, he did not show his working out Getty Images for Yeezy Season 3 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes "My wife just called me and she wanted me to make this clear to everyone. I don't agree with everything Trump does. I don't agree 100% with anyone but myself." This quote followed Kanye's recent expression of love for Donald Trump on Twitter, in which he claimed that he and Trump were "dragon energy" Getty Images 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes "When you hear about slavery for 400 years... for 400 years? That sounds like a choice." Kanye made this comment in a May 2018 interview with TMZ. He later clarified that, in saying slavery was a choice, he meant "we can make our own reality" PA Wire/PA Images

He asked: What makes you think that Donald Trump does - or any people at all? and West's silence prompted a commercial break.



The outspoken artist has previously expressed his support for the president by wearing a red Make America Great Again hat and referring to President Trump as my brother.Swirls of yellow paste made from ground tree bark decorate the cheeks of Rohingya Muslim women and girls in the refugee camps of southern Bangladesh.

Thanaka, a type of sun protection that dates back centuries, is a common sight on the faces of the women, who say the use of the traditional cooling paste helps bring a sense of normality to their difficult lives in the camps.

The makeup is my hobby, and its our tradition, says Juhara Begum, 13, who arrived in Coxs Bazar in September last year after fleeing a military attack on her village in Myanmars Rakhine state.

The military fired guns and slaughtered us, says Juhara, who had to walk for five days to reach the border. Now, she lives on a hilltop in the crowded refugee camp of Jamtoli.

I live on top of the hill and it is too hot with the strong sun, says Juhara, who wears the protective paste on her face.

She is among more than 700,000 Rohingya who have taken shelter in the district after fleeing a military crackdown in Myanmar last year, the United Nations and human rights groups say.

Reuters photographed some of the refugees who believe the use of the paste keeps their skin smooth and cool, safe from exposure to the sun, and fends off acne.

Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin Show all 18 1 /18 Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin A Rohingya refugee girl named Rumana, aged 10, poses for a photograph as she wears thanaka paste at Kutupalong camp in Cox's Bazaar, Bangladesh Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin Thanaka, a type of sun protection that dates back centuries, is a common sight on the faces of the women, who say the use of the traditional cooling paste helps bring a sense of normality to their difficult lives in the camps Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin Swirls of yellow paste made from ground tree bark decorate the cheeks of Rohingya Muslim women and girls in the refugee camps of southern Bangladesh Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin Shamima, aged 10 Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin "The make-up is my hobby, and it's our tradition," said Juhara Begum, 13, who arrived in Cox's Bazar in September last year after fleeing a military attack on her village in Myanmar's Rakhine state. "The military fired guns and slaughtered us," said Juhara, who had to walk for five days to reach the border. Now, she lives on a hilltop in the crowded refugee camp of Jamtoli. "I live on top of the hill and it is too hot with the strong sun," said Juhara, who wore the protective paste on her face. Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin The refugees who believe the use of the paste keeps their skin smooth and cool, safe from exposure to the sun, and fends off acne Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin Sakila Begum, aged 15 Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin Photos Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin Zannat Ara, a nine-year-old Rohingya girl, said the paste protected her against the swarms of insects in the Kutupalong refugee camp where she now lives. "I wear make-up to keep my face clean and there are some insects that bite my face and this keeps them away, so this protects me," she said. Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin Dil Kayas, aged 10 Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin Thanaka is produced from the bark of a tree found in the dry central parts of Myanmar. A flat stone called a kyauk pyin is used to grind the bark into a milky yellow paste. Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin The paste is applied to the face in various patterns and dries into a protective layer. While it is used medicinally elsewhere in Asia, women in Myanmar also use it as a cosmetic. Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin Rozia, aged 10 Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin Rohingya girls and women use traditional methods to make the paste from thanaka tree bark which is sold in the camps. Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin Rufia Begum, aged 9 Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin Romzida, aged 8 Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin Zinu Ara, aged 4 Reuters Life in a Rohingya camp: how Muslim women and girls protect their skin Amina Reuters

Zannat Ara, a nine-year-old Rohingya girl, says the paste protects her against the swarms of insects in the Kutupalong refugee camp where she now lives.

I wear makeup to keep my face clean and there are some insects that bite my face and this keeps them away, so this protects me, she says.

Thanaka is produced from the bark of a tree found in the dry central parts of Myanmar. A flat stone called a kyauk pyin is used to grind the bark into a milky yellow paste.

The paste is applied to the face in various patterns and dries into a protective layer. While it is used medicinally elsewhere in Asia, women in Myanmar also use it as a cosmetic.

Rohingya girls and women use traditional methods to make the paste from thanaka tree bark which is sold in the camps.

I can live without eating rice but I cannot live without makeup, says Juhara, to whom the paste brings some comfort amid a gruelling life in the camps.

ReutersFormer Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio has described his appearance on Who Is America? as a bad mistake.

Sacha Baron Cohen introduced a brand new character in the fourth instalment of his comedy series which continues to dupe political figures into performing controversial acts.

He targeted Arpaio as eccentric Finnish YouTuber OMGWhizzBoyOMG and got the Republican Senate candidate debate the benefit of guns with a toy doughnut and say he'd accept oral sex from Donald Trump.

Quite frankly, I made a bad mistake security-wise, Arpaio told the Washington Examiner about the interview which took place in August 2017. They said, were doing a feature for Showtime  the top 20 people in the United States. It looked pretty nice [that] I made the top people.

He added: They take me to a warehouse type-thing and they had a couple of security guys. Im by myself in a warehouse, and I was a little suspicious. They didnt have a green room. It was just a warehouse.

Arpaio was convinced his interviewer was immensely popular in Finland.

Cohen's character - who revealed he bought 43 guns in preparation for the upcoming race war - was told by Arpaio that Trump would be a fan of his ideas.

Arpaio became aware he was duped by the Borat funnyman following Sarah Palin's war of words against her appearance which is yet to be televised.Edouardo Jordan went to culinary school to be a chef, he says, not to be a black chef. To avoid being pigeonholed early in his career, he strayed from the Southern fare he found most familiar and instead pursued Italian and French cuisines  two of the most popular in fine dining, both of which shine at his Seattle restaurant Salare.

I needed to diversify my culinary knowledge, he says, even if that meant not technically being able to cook my own food.

Once Salare earned local renown, Jordans fears of feeling boxed in abated, and he opened a soul food restaurant called JuneBaby last year. The chef, 38, went on to score a rare double victory at the James Beard Foundations awards ceremony in May: Best New Restaurant for JuneBaby and Best Chef: Northwest for Salare.

The Beard Foundation has made a concerted effort to increase the diversity of its awardees, joining a number of organisations that work to highlight the talents of minority chefs. But black chefs say discrimination and restricted upward mobility make it difficult for them to achieve Jordans level of success.

The Bureau of Labour Statistics reports that 13.9 per cent of food service workers last year identified as black or African-American  slightly higher than the corresponding percentage of the population  but people of colour remain concentrated in the lower ranks when it comes to fine dining. A study published by Restaurant Opportunities Centres United (ROC United) in 2015 found that 81 per cent of management positions in 133 fine dining restaurants were held by white employees. Among workers who had been denied a promotion, 28 per cent cited race as the main reason.

Jerome Grant plates a dish at the Soul Food Sessions dinner (The Washington Post/Deb Lindsey)

The inequity begins as early as the hiring process. ROC United co-founder Saru Jayaraman once conducted a study in which she sent 400 pairs of white and minority applicants to fine-dining restaurants in New York, Chicago, Detroit and New Orleans. She found that white applicants were twice as likely to land a position, even in situations where the person of colour had a better CV.

White people were hired pretty much without experience, Jayaraman says, and people of colour were really grilled as to whether they really had the experience listed on their resume.

***

After the struggle to enter the industry comes the fight for recognition, according to Brian Hill, owner of Chef Brians Comfort Kitchen in downtown Washington. Hill, 49, has worked as a personal chef for the likes of Mary J Blige and Mariah Carey. He now works private events from time to time, during which satisfied diners will walk into the kitchen and ask him where Chef Brian is.

Mind you, I have a white jacket on that says Chef Brian, he says. Theyre looking for someone non-black.

Michael Bowling, a private chef in Charlotte, North Carolina, can relate. Back when he owned a successful food truck  he is particularly proud of the ramen and homemade corned beef  appreciative customers would skip right over him and thank the sous-chef instead.

Id just stand there and let him talk, he says. At the time, I wasnt bold enough to be, like, No, because I was scared people wouldnt support my truck because it was black-owned.

Greg Collier (centre) leads the Soul Food Sessions chefs in a moment of solidarity before the plating begins (The Washington Post/Deb Lindsey)

Bowling, 41, founded Soul Food Sessions with four other chefs in 2016. The Charlotte-based organisation hosts pop-up dinners to highlight the often overlooked talent of black people in the industry. In late July, the group hosted a Southern-inspired meal at Washingtons Mess Hall.

Shortly before serving the first of seven courses, the five founders  along with a few other chefs brought on board for the night  huddle in the open kitchen. They whisper encouraging words to one another, then separate to do their thing.

While hosting the dinner, Bowling invites guests to drink and yell across the table to one another. This night is all about applauding good food and the people who make it.

Laughter echoes through the hall, and there is a debate about Coca-Cola (whose distributor Coca-Cola Consolidated was the nights sponsor) vs longtime rival Pepsi once Bowlings course arrives. His dish  seared trout and five-pea succotash, with grits and collard greens  is the only one paired with the sponsors soda.

The nine best restaurants in the world (2017) Show all 9 1 /9 The nine best restaurants in the world (2017) The nine best restaurants in the world (2017) 1. Eleven Madison Park, New York, USA World's Best 50 Restaurants The nine best restaurants in the world (2017) 2. Osteria Francescana, Modena, Italy World's Best 50 Restaurants The nine best restaurants in the world (2017) 3. El Celler de can Roca, Girona, Spain World's Best 50 Restaurants The nine best restaurants in the world (2017) 4. Mirazur, Menton, France World's Best 50 Restaurants The nine best restaurants in the world (2017) 6. Asador Etxebarri, Axpe, Spain Mariano Herrera The nine best restaurants in the world (2017) 7. Gaggan, Bangkok, Thailand FB://Allwecandid The nine best restaurants in the world (2017) 8. Maido, Lima, Peru Jose Caceres The nine best restaurants in the world (2017) 9. Mugaritz, San Sebastian, Spain World's Best 50 Restaurants The nine best restaurants in the world (2017) 10. Steirereck, Vienna, Austria World's Best 50 Restaurants

The chef roams the hall with a smile on his face. He wants the next generation of black cooks to experience firsthand the joy of putting on a dinner with people who look like them. He also wants it to be normal for diverse groups of chefs to cook together. It shouldnt be a shocker when women or people of colour win big at the James Beard awards, he says.

For me, its a ground-roots movement and a push to change things on a broad scale, Bowling says. That starts with that one black chef, that one Latino chef in a kitchen.

Greg Collier, a Soul Food Sessions founder and co-owner of the Yolk diner in Rock Hill, South Carolina, says it is so commonplace to be the only black person in the kitchen. After attending culinary school in Scottsdale, Arizona, he worked in a fine-dining restaurant with a majority-white staff. He remembers the first time he encountered another black cook on the job.

We were like, Yo, wassup, man! says Collier, 36. It was kind of the kindred spirit thing. We were both like, Were the only black people in this whole kitchen, man.

***

Pastry chef Jamie Suddoth stands in front of the Mess Hall kitchen, facing a crowded room of diners and is eager to conclude the meal with her praline chocolate torte. The elaborate dessert features an orange creme, complemented by candied hazelnuts and a little glop of cherry pearls.

I poured my heart and soul into this, she says, beaming.

Suddoth, 37, works at a market-cafe hybrid called Earls Grocery and runs Jamies Cakes and Classes, both in Charlotte, but she has dabbled in other specialities. No matter what part of the kitchen she walks into, she feels a need to prove her talent as a woman of colour.

Its a male-dominated field, Suddoth adds. I dont get respect right off the bat.

Jennifer Hill Booker puts the finishing touches on her vegetable course (The Washington Post/Deb Lindsey)

Jennifer Hill Booker, the only other female chef at the event, says women are rarely welcome with open arms. Booker, cookbook author and owner of a catering business, is responsible for the dinners vegetable course: roasted sweet pepper and hominy grits, served with vidalia onions and a smoky tomato-okra gravy. Her dish elicits passionate commentary from diners: one remarks how similar it tasted to a stew his grandmother used to make. Another marvels at the okras lack of goopiness.

Collier says he wishes the public understood how important the black woman is to Southern cookery in general, and he notes that Soul Food Sessions plans to host an all-female chef dinner one day. If youve ever seen a kitchen run by a female chef, the kitchen is neater, its cleaner, its quieter, its more organised, he says. We want to let them do their thing, and well be there to support it.

Two black women received Beard awards in May: Dolester Miles of Highlands Bar and Grill in Birmingham, Alabama, won Outstanding Pastry Chef after being nominated for three years in a row, and Compere Lapin owner Nina Compton became the first black woman named Best Chef: South. Barbecue pitmaster Rodney Scotts Best Chef: Southeast honour recognised all he has done for whole-hog barbecue, and Jordans Best New Restaurant win makes him the first African-American to receive that honour.

Collier applauds a black chef being recognised for soul food. Like Jordan, he once feared being pigeonholed, but after moving to the South, he was bothered by mostly white chefs getting lauded for cooking the things our ancestors are responsible for.

Greg Collier makes smoked paprika biscuits with corn butter and green strawberry sofrito (The Washington Post/Deb Lindsey)

So he decided to return to soul food, which involved proving that he could elevate Southern ingredients. While some chefs, including Hill, view this as perpetuating a stereotype, Collier considers it a way to honour his ancestors. By putting a fresh spin on the classics, the Soul Food Sessions dinner showcases the chefs innovation.

The hors doeuvres are both Colliers: crab salad, pickled okra and charred orange served on a tomato rice cracker and topped with brown butter vinaigrette; and corn butter and strawberry sofrito spread on a smoked paprika biscuit. The latter has a smokiness also found in the meat course, courtesy of chef Jerome Grant: smoked short rib and charred corn with popcorn rice, accompanied by a burnt sweet potato sauce.

Like Jordan, Grant, 36, who helms the National Museum of African American History and Cultures Sweet Home Cafe, says he never wanted to be looked at as a black chef or a chef that cooked black food. For me, the goal was to be the best chef possible. But he discovered that one way to do that was to showcase his diverse family history through food  even perfecting his fathers crappy fried chicken.

This nation was raised on food cooked by black people, he says, and events such as the Soul Food Sessions dinner showcase a piece of American history.

This style of food was brought over on the backs of African women that were able to make what we have now from the things they used to have, he says. No matter what anyone said, African Americans were always behind some of the greatest meals we have in history.

Only five black chefs have ever been nominated for the Beard Foundations Best Chef award. But, as Bowling notes in his closing address at the Soul Food Sessions dinner, early victories pave the way for later ones.

Barack Obama wasnt the only black president, he says. He was the first.

 The Washington PostNot many people are interested in the Galaxy Note 9. For about two hours on 9 August, as Samsung CEO DJ Koh announced the thousand-dollar device on a stage in New York, online searches for the new phone briefly peaked above the similarly-priced iPhone X. It had been almost a year since Apple  Samsung's chief antagonist in the smartphone space  announced its flagship handset, yet within minutes of Koh leaving the stage, searches for the Galaxy Note 9 plummeted back below that of its rival.

It is not that the iPhone X is inherently better than the Note 9. In fact, on almost every metric that matters, the Note 9 outperforms Apple's best iPhone. Its 4,000 mAh battery is almost 50 per cent bigger than than the iPhone X's, which makes sense considering the amount of power the Samsung device is packing behind its 6.4-inch screen. The top-of-the-line Note 9 features 8GB of RAM and enough capacity to fit more than 1TB of storage.

These specs make it perhaps more appropriate to compare the Note 9 to a laptop than a smartphone. Tools like DeX mean it only takes a cable connected to a screen to transform it into a pocket-sized PC, meaning some users may even choose to forego their laptops entirely. This is also where the over-sized screen of the so-called phablet  a portmanteau of 'phone' and 'tablet'  comes into good effect, as it doubles as a keyboard and trackpad. New bluetooth-capabilities of the stylus S-Pen, which slides out from the bottom of the device, means it also comes with a remote control when playing videos and music, taking pictures or presenting slides.

The S Pen stylus doubles as a blue-tooth remote control (The Independent)

Styluses continue to divide smartphone users and manufacturers (Steve Jobs famously once said "Who wants a stylus?... Yuck") but each new version of the s Pen makes it even more useful. There may only be one button on the S Pen but it is infinitely customisable, with a single click, double click and long-hold click all offering differing functionality. For example, a long click could open the camera app, a double click could switch it from the rear-facing to the front-facing camera, while a single click could take the photo. And with great power comes great rechargeability, with just 40 seconds back inside its slot enough to boost the S Pen back to 100 per cent.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 9 looks almost indistinguishable from its predecessor (The Independent)

Speaking of the camera, the introduction of artificial intelligence into its software makes a big difference when taking pictures when compared to the same 12-megapixel dual-lens snapper used in the Galaxy S9+. The AI recognises 20 different scenes, including portraits, sunsets and plates of food, allowing it to automatically adjust its settings to capture the best possible image.

The AI-enabled camera follows on from similarly-capable offerings from LG and Huawei, however one area Samsung stubbornly refuses to follow other high-end Android is in the introduction of a 'notch'. The decision to stick with a rectangular design may limit the size of the screen but it also allows the Note 9 to remain visually distinct from its Apple rival, which Samsung mocked as gimmicky when it was first introduced.

The number of online searches for the Galaxy Note 9 peaked above the iPhone X for approximately two hours on 9 August, 2018 (Google Trends)

It would take more than a notch to garner the same levels of buzz and intrigue that still surrounds the iPhone X. But for Samsung this is not what matters.

The Note 9 isn't meant for the masses, nor is it marketed in the mould of over-hyped hubris that comes with any new Apple gadget. Instead, as Koh put it, the Note 9 is designed for an ardent band of "power users" that care more about performance than the prestige of what's in your pocket. "Note fans are Samsung's most loyal," Koh said when he unveiled the smartphone. "We know they want it all, to get the most out of work and play, and Galaxy Note 9 is the only phone that can keep up with their busy lives."

It is therefore unsurprising that there is nothing very remarkable about how the new Note looks. Even held in the hand, it is almost indistinguishable from its predecessor  the Galaxy Note 8  but inside it packs every one of its 201 grams with the power and performance that will probably please every single person who actually does care. And that, so Samsung says, is what matters most.The British public are being failed because huge demand and stretched resources mean police are not responding to crimes they would have dealt with in the past, the new head of the Police Federation has warned.

John Apter, who has been a police officer for 26 years, told The Independent that policing in some areas was broken and said that government cuts had created a crisis.

We are moving into an area where some crimes will not be investigated, whereas two to five years ago they were, he said.

We cant do everything  there are going to be situations where we simply cant deliver the policing we want to deliver.

In those cases we are failing the public but thats not the fault of police officers on the ground, and in some cases its not the chief constables fault. You can only slice the financial cake so many ways and you have to prioritise ... the public are already suffering and they are going to suffer more and more.

Last year the Metropolitan Police announced the creation of a new crime assessment policy, which gave officers new guidelines on when to stop investigations.

Details suggested that incidents involving a loss of under 50 would not be investigated, as well as offences where there is not a realistic chance officers will be able to solve it.

Shoplifting, car crime and criminal damage were among the lower level offences being downgraded amid a rise in violent crime, sex offences and 999 calls.

Scotland Yard said the measures were needed to balance the books as the force works to make 325m savings by 2022.

 Cressida Dick: 'Naive' to think cuts to police haven't had impact on rising crime

In response to questions by The Independent, several other forces said they had implemented measures aiming to make better use of their finite resources.

Thames Valley Police has changed its policies on dealing with shoplifting and drivers who flee petrol stations without paying for fuel to reduce demand on the frontline.

The force is giving business owners packs allowing them to collect their own evidence and CCTV footage for police, so officers can investigate without travelling to the scene.

New structures have been designed to provide more flexibility to ensure Thames Valley Police better prioritises, and effectively and efficiently targets resources to the areas of greatest need, a spokesperson said.

West Yorkshire Police chief constable Dee Collins said her force had to completely change the way we work.

We have to make incredibly difficult decisions, as we seek to balance significantly reduced resources against very high levels of demand that is often not crime-related, she added.

I would really like to dispatch more officers to more victims on more occasions than we do but given the current situation and demands for our services, sadly we have to be realistic and pragmatic.

Bedfordshire Police said the increase in hidden crimes like cyber offences, modern slavery and sexual exploitation had changed policing dramatically in recent years.

Deputy chief constable Garry Forsyth said the force had started giving appointments to victims of crimes where there is no threat to the wider public.

We have to make difficult decisions every day about the crimes we can respond to and whether there is sufficient evidence to warrant a full investigation, he added.

Obviously we will always prioritise those high-harm crimes which change peoples lives, where there is a threat to the publics safety, but we are exploring a range of options where there might be alternative resolutions to dealing with incidents to help maximise our officers time.

The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Show all 21 1 /21 The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Oluwadamilolda Odeyingbo Oluwadamilolda Odeyingbo, 18, was killed in a fight in Chislehurst on 10 January 2018 Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Hasan Ozcan Hasan Ozcan, 19, was stabbed to death on the Gascoigne Estate in Barking on 3 February 2018 Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Sabri Chibani Sabri Chibani, 19, was stabbed fatally in the chest in Streatham on 11 February 2018 Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Promise Nkenda Lord Promise Nkenda, 17, was stabbed to death in Canning Town on 14 February 2018 Facebook The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Lewis Blackman Lewis Blackman, a 19-year-old rapper from Kentish Town, was stabbed to death in Kensington on 18 February 2018 Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Abdikarim Hassan Abdikarim Hassan, 17, was stabbed to death near his home in Camden's Peckwater estate on 20 March - less tahan two hours before another man was stabbed to death nearby Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Kelvin Odunuyi Kelvin Odunuyi, a 19-year-old rapper known as DipDat and Lampz, was shot dead in Wood Green on 8 March Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Lyndon Davis Lyndon Davis, 18, was chased down and stabbed to death in Chadwell Heath on 14 March Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Tanesha Melbourne-Blake Tanesha Melbourne, 17, was killed in a drive-by shooting in Tottenham on 2 April PA The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Amaan Shakoor Amaan Shakoor, 16, was shot dead in Walthamstow on 2 April Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Israel Ogunsola Israel Ogunsola, 18, was stabbed to death in Hackney on 4 April Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Rhyhiem Ainsworth Barton Rhyhiem Ainsworth Barton, a 17-year-old rapper and aspiring architect, was shot dead in a Kennington Street on 5 May Handout The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Jordan Douherty Aspiring rapper Jordan Douherty died of his injuries outside a birthday party in Romford on 23 June Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Katrina Makunova Katrina Makunova, 17, was stabbed to death in Camberwell on 12 July 2018 Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Latwaan Griffiths 18-year-old Latwaan Griffiths was fatally stabbed on 25 July and died in hospital after being thrown off the back of a moped in Camberwell Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Guled Farah Guled Farah, 19, was shot in Walthamstow on 22 September Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Ethan Nedd-Bruce Ethan Nedd-Bruce, 18, died after he was shot outside a party at a flat in Greenwich, south-east London, on 22 October. He had also been stabbed, but the gunshot wound was the cause of death. Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Jay Hughes Jay Hughes, 15, died was fatally stabbed outside a chicken shop in Bellingham, south-east London, on 1 November Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Malcolm Mide-Madariola Malcolm Mide-Madariola, 17, was found suffering from a stab wound outside Clapham South Tube station on 2 November Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 John Ogunjobi John Ogunjobi, 16, died in front of his parents after he was stabbed in Greenleaf Close, Tulse Hill, on 5 November Metropolitan Police The teenagers murdered in London in 2018 Aron Warren Aron Warren, 18, was found stabbed in a flat block in Greenwich on 8 December and died at the scene Metropolitan Police

A Leicestershire Police spokesperson said it was using limited resources most effectively to deliver public value for money, adding: We have to prioritise investigations that cause the highest harm.

The National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) has been urging police forces to use the Thrive model which prioritieses emergency calls according to threat, harm, risk, investigation possibilities, vulnerability and engagement.

Every police service is facing continuous challenges re financial constraints and service delivery, demand and resourcing to public expectations and needs, said a document published last April. Each service has adopted its own approach, project and programme thinking regarding future policing delivery.

North Yorkshire Police said the system is not a one-size-fits-all-policy on different crime types and still allows a bespoke response for each incident.

There is no doubt that we have to manage our resources carefully and cannot attend every incident thats reported to us, a spokesperson added.

Over the past year Thrive has helped us to reallocate around 2,000 hours of police-officer time from incidents that didnt really need police attendance to incidents where they can make a real difference.

HM Inspectorate of Constabularys annual report found that forces are failing to respond to low-priority crimes because of significant stress caused by budget cuts and rising demand, saying that prioritisation assessments can sometimes be misapplied or poorly managed and put people at risk.

Inspectors also warned that if a victims first experience with police is not positive, they may not report crimes in the future.

Research published exclusively by The Independent earlier this month showed that confidence in the criminal justice system is declining among victims, with one woman saying her experience left her wondering what is the point in ringing the police.

Police forces have been working to improve their technology and procedures, but many cite the impact of unprecedented demand driven by factors including increasing 999 calls, rising violent crime and complex sexual offence cases and fraud.

Sajid Javid promised police officers he would fight for more funding shortly after being made home secretary (PA)

The number of police officers in England and Wales has fallen to a record low after plummeting by around 22,000 since 2010, while the past year has seen homicides rise by 12 per cent, knife crime by 16 per cent and robbery by 30 per cent.

The government says there is no conclusive evidence of a link between rising crime and falling police officer numbers, but Mr Apter insisted there was absolutely a relationship, adding: The demand has massively increased while officer numbers have considerably been cut.

The maths just does not add up and the government are purely responsible.

Almost half of all criminal investigations are being closed with no suspect identified, and the proportion ending with someone being charged or summonsed to court fell to just 9 per cent in the year to March.

Mr Apter said funding cuts were also increasing the strain on police officers themselves, amid a rise in long-term sickness and a record number taking second jobs to supplement their incomes.

The reality is that policing in some places is broken, we are most certainly in crisis and that is a direct result of the pressure the government has put on by a reduction in funding, he added.

Im not saying that in the early days of austerity there were not efficiencies to be made, but what we are finding now is that weve been cut so much we start to become inefficient.

Were not giving the service we want to the public and were certainly not looking after our officers as much as we should be.

Sajid Javid has promised to fight for more resources for policing in a government-wide spending review but admitted he has no magic wand to increase funding.

A Home Office spokesperson said: Police have the resources they need to carry out their vital work and we have provided a strong and comprehensive settlement that is increasing total investment in the police system by over 460m in 2018/19, including funding for local policing through council tax precept.

However, we know the nature of crime is changing. That is why the policing minister spoke to every police force in the country to understand the demands they are facing and why the home secretary, in May, committed to prioritising police funding in next years spending review.Islamophobic attacks on Muslim women who wear veils have risen since Boris Johnson compared them to letterboxes, a watchdog has found.

Tell Mama, which records hate crimes, said there was a direct link between the former foreign ministers comments and an uptick in incidents targeting women who wear the niqab  which covers the face and hair apart from the eyes.

At least four women have been called letterboxes in public since Mr Johnson ignited a row over Islamophobia with an article published in the Daily Telegraph on 5 August.

In the previous week, no incidents targeting women who wear face veils were reported to Tell Mama  although there were several involving those wearing headscarves.

But women wearing the niqab were targeted on 8 August in London, followed by another three incidents in London and Luton the next day, and a fourth in the capital on Friday.

Rabina Khan, a councillor from Tower Hamlets, said one of her friends was called a letterbox while boarding a train.

Over the weekend, I went on a trip with a group of women and a male passenger allowed us to board the train first, she wrote in The Independent.

One of the women was wearing a niqab and she was the last one to get on the train. The man laughed and said: Hold on, you forgot the letterbox.

Freedom of speech should not extend to being highly offensive to someone who has done nothing more than step onto a train for an enjoyable day out.

Fiyaz Mughal OBE, the founder of Tell Mama, said that women who wear the veil are known to rarely report any anti-Muslim hate since they become desensitised to it through being targeted many times.

There is a direct link with Mr Johnsons comments and an impact on visibly Muslim women as a whole, he told The Independent.

Many of these women are from black and minority ethnic communities and we know from the work of Tell Mama that in many cases, racial and anti-Muslim hate intersect.

Mr Johnson thinks his flippant comments were funny, and while his comments were about the burqa, perpetrators see any visibly identifiable woman and off they go with their bigotry and prejudice.

Mr Mughal said the Tory MPs comments had not only dehumanised Muslim women, who he also compared to bank robbers, but emboldened mainly male perpetrators to have a go at visible Muslim women as a whole.

Research shows that reported Islamophobic attacks mainly target women who wear clothing signalling their faith, and Tell Mama warned last month that incidents were being fuelled by political discourse that emboldens perpetrators.

Police found that Mr Johnsons comments did not meet the threshold for a hate crime investigation but the Conservative Party has launched an investigation over possible breaches of its code of conduct.

Boris Johnson's resignation letter Show all 2 1 /2 Boris Johnson's resignation letter Boris Johnson's resignation letter Boris Johnson's resignation letter

A ComRes survey found 53 per cent of British voters were opposed to punishment for the former foreign secretary, against 40 per cent who said he deserved to be disciplined.

Mr Johnson has returned to the UK from a holiday in Italy amid an escalating Tory civil war over the incident, with claims four cabinet ministers have privately expressed dismay at the way it has been handled.

Arch Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg denounced the investigation as a show trial motivated by the prime ministers personal rivalry with a man many see as her likely successor, while fellow Conservative MP Andrew Bridgen warned of open warfare if he was barred from a future leadership contest.

But Lord Cooper, a Conservative peer and former director of strategy for 10 Downing Street, said: The rottenness of Boris Johnson goes deeper even than his causal racism and his equally casual courting of fascism.

He will advocate literally anything to play to the crowd of the moment. His career is a saga of moral emptiness and lies; pathetic; weak and needy; the opposite of strong.

Donald Trumps former chief strategist Steve Bannon, who was the chairman of alt-right website Breitbart News, was in contact with Mr Johnson during a recent UK visit where he worked to set up a new Europe-wide populist alliance called The Movement.

Mr Bannon has urged him not to bow at the altar of political correctness by apologising, while the US president undermined Theresa May by saying Mr Johnson would make a great prime minister last month.

Damian Green, who was Ms Mays de facto deputy, said he feared Mr Johnson was being turned into a martyr by the alt-right in what would be a disaster for him and the Conservative Party.

There is a direct link with Mr Johnsons comments and an impact on visibly Muslim women as a whole, says the Tell Mama founder (Alamy)

Far-right groups including the pan-European Generation Identity, Anne Marie Waters For Britain party and Tommy Robinsons aides have been vocally supporting Mr Johnsons comments in recent days.

It comes amid a rise in extreme right-wing terror plots and arrests, with anti-Muslim hate fuelling the deadly attack on worshippers in Finsbury Park last year.

Tell Mama recorded a 30 per cent rise in Islamophobic street incidents and a 16 per cent rise in 2017, taking the number of verified reports to a record of 1,201.

Its annual report warned of a marked shift towards more serious offline incidents like physical attacks, vandalism and abuse, as hatred continues to spread on social media.

Recommended The Boris Johnson veil debate ignores the women at the centre of it

Researchers said: Events which stimulate public discourse on immigration and Islam can correspond with a demonstrable spike in anti-Muslim hate crimes and incidents.

It is vital to note that these events are not the underlying cause of anti-Muslim incidents, but rather act as triggers, where people with latent racial prejudices feel emboldened to act on their views, violently or otherwise.

Victims were predominantly women of Asian ethnicity, while 72 per cent of perpetrators where their identity was known were white men and boys.

Last month a report by HM Inspectorate of Constabulary found that despite concerted efforts some police forces were still responding poorly to hate crime by failing to properly identify incidents, or inform and support victims.

A spokesperson for Mr Johnson declined to comment.A British man who survived an Isis attack has been released from a prison in Bangladesh after more than two years of being held without charge over baseless terrorism accusations.

Hasnat Karim had been celebrating his daughters 13th birthday at the Holey Artisan Bakery cafe in Dhaka on 1 July 2016 when militants burst in and massacred 22 people.

Relatives said the former university professor, who is a British-Bangladeshi national, was forced to act as a human shield by jihadi gunmen who threatened to kill his children.

Mr Karim and his family survived the atrocity, but he was imprisoned after being wrongly accused by Bangladeshi police of colluding with the terrorists.

Relatives travelled to British embassies and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London to plead for officials to secure his freedom, but the appeals came to no avail until Thursday.

Authorities released the father-of-two from Kashimpur jail in Gazipur after police filed a charge sheet that did not name him among the accused.

He is a British citizen. The British government did absolutely nothing to secure his release

Mr Karims involvement was not found during any stage of investigations, Monirul Islam, chief of Dhakas counterterror police, told local media. Thats why we have not included his name in the charge sheet.

Mr Karims wife, Sharmina Parveen, told The Independent she had feared her husband would be killed during the 10-hour ordeal.

Hasnat Karim leaves after his court appearance in the Bangladesh capital Dhaka on 13 August 2016 (AFP/Getty) (AFP/Getty Images)

I think they chose him because they knew he would not run away if his family were there too, she said.

I cannot describe to you in words how it felt. They kept taking him away and then bringing him back and every time they took him I had no idea if we would ever see him again.

The Isis militants massacred 22 people after ordering hostages to recite verses from the Quran and torturing anyone who could not, before the cafe was stormed by security services.

Recommended British man locked up without charge over Isis massacre

The victims included nine Italians, seven Japanese, several Bangladeshis and students from America and India, while Bangladeshi police admitted mistakenly shooting the restaurants pizza chef dead after mistaking him for a militant.

Isis published the names and photographs of militants who launched the attack but made no mention of Mr Karim, who lived, studied and worked in the UK for decades before returning to his country of birth to teach.

He became a professor in the business faculty of Dhakas North South University in 2008, where one of the attackers had studied, but later left to run his fathers engineering business.

Mr Karims sister, Sabera Khan, told The Independent he had never been associated with extremists or criminality of any kind.

There was never any evidence, they searched every corner of his laptops, his phones, his offices, my familys offices, they turned everything upside down  I dont know why it took so long, I dont know what they were looking for, she said.

Its unbelievable because we didnt know if he was going to make it out of the attack alive. We were so happy when he came out and then this happened.

People help an injured person after a group of gunmen attacked a restaurant popular with foreigners in Dhaka, Bangladesh (AP)

Ms Khan said the British government had not been responsive to the case, even after she travelled from the US to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London to beg for help.

The British government gave me just a textbook answer saying hes in Bangladesh so we can only visit him from time to time, she added. They did the bare minimum, I was disappointed they didnt do more.

Hes a British citizen  he studied in the UK, he did his engineering degree at Imperial College London, then a masters. He lived there for many years.

Seeing that he was a citizen of theirs I didnt think they did enough.

A lawyer who acted for the family described the British government as useless and said they had done absolutely nothing to ensure Mr Karims release.

He was allowed contact with his family once a month but his father died while he was in prison and he wasnt allowed to go to the funeral and his mother is very unwell now, the lawyer added.

Ms Khan said her brothers family were overjoyed to have him home in Dhaka, with his son and daughter  now aged 10 and 15  constantly at his side.

He is resting but he said he can sleep, she added. Hes been sleeping on a floor for two-and-half years. They dont have beds in prison, no pillows, nothing.

Hasnat Karim with his two children, who were with him and their mother during an Isis attack in Bangladesh

He is having difficulty settling in, just the reality of it. I think he still has to work through that for a very long time.

Ms Khan, who lives in the US, said her brother has not yet been able to talk about the night of the attack and has lost weight after suffering from stomach upsets and infections in jail.

Mr Karims wife lost her job as a teacher as a result of the baseless accusations, while their children were ordered out of their school but eventually allowed to return.

The family business has also been suffering after significant publicity around the polices original claims in Bangladesh, and Mr Karims future remains uncertain.

The family are still waiting for authorities to return Mr Karims car, passport and those belonging to his wife and two children.

Kate Allen, the director of Amnesty International UK, said his detention had been inhumane and illegal.

Hasnat Karim and his family were victims of a terror attack, she added. They should have never have been forced through two years of further trauma with Karim suffering unfairly behind bars  detained without charge and denied specialised medical treatment that saw his health deteriorate.

The end of his suffering is a cause for celebration, but we must not forget that sadly, he is not alone in being a target of the Bangladeshi authorities arbitrary force of law.

A spokesperson for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office said its staff had been in contact with the family of a detained Bangladeshi-British man who has been excluded from a list of those charged with involvement in the Holey Bakery terror attack in 2016 and the Bangladeshi government over the case.Biometric work permits likely for illegal foreigners in Assam.

Guwahati: High on confidence after the successful publication of National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam, the Union ministry of home affairs may propose an Assam-like NRC in all the states, security sources said.

Pointing out that preparation of the NRC was more challenging and complex in Assam due to problem of influx, security sources said that the ministry is not expecting much trouble during similar exercises in other states.

In Assam, where the final draft of the NRC left out names of 40 lakh people out of the 3.29 crore applicants, the ministry has also started working out a strategy to propagate the idea of issuing biometric work permit to all those who may be declared illegal foreigners. This has been decided as it is physically impossible to deport such a large number of people to their country of origin, sources said.

Claiming that the political leadership has to take a call on implementing NRC in all states, sources in the ministry said that their immediate challenge is to take a decision on the fate of those who face the possibility of being tagged as illegal foreigners in Assam.

Assam National Register of Citizens (NRC) is a record of all legal citizens of a state. The first list of NRC was created way back in 1951. During the anti-illegal foreigners movement in Assam in 1980, demands were raised to update the list.

Under Supreme Courts monitoring, the registrar general of India released the final draftof the Assam NRC on July 31 in which names of 2.89 crore out of 3.29 crore applicants were included, but 40 lakh didnt find mention. Those left out of the NRC final draft now face a nearly month-long process, of claims and objections to the draft that starts from August 30.

Security sources said that home ministry was keen on the biometric work permit concept in Assam as it would also not be a practical to confine a huge number of people, who might be declared as illegal foreigners, in detention camps.

Asserting that biometric work permit may help in keeping track of illegal foreigners, sources said that home ministry is looking into all these aspects as the Supreme Court may ask the government about its action plan to deal with illegal foreigners.

Apart from disenfranchising them, the home ministry would also push for depriving them of the right to buy immoveable property in the state, sources said.

Pointing out that Union home minister Rajnath Singh has taken up the issue of influx from Bangladesh with his counterpart in Dhaka, sources said it was not possible to ask a sovereign country to take back lakhs of immigrants.

Sources said that Dhaka may not agree to accept the deportation of lakhs of people from India even though it recently took back 52 immigrants deported from Assam.Christine Hamilton, the wife of the Ukip leader in Wales, has been dropped as a charity ambassador after she compared the burqa to the infamous white hoods worn by the Ku Klux Klan.

Two charities, Balls to Cancer and Muscular Dystrophy UK, severed links with the broadcaster and reality television contestant after she sparked outrage with the incendiary post on her personal Twitter account.

The remarks from Ms Hamilton, the partner of the former Conservative MP Neil Hamilton, came as she waded into the ongoing row over a column by the former foreign secretary Boris Johnson, which suggested women wearing the religious headgear resembled letterboxes.

Ms Hamilton posted the image of members of the Ku Klux Klan, next to the comment: If the burqa is acceptable then presumably this is too?.

After receiving criticism for the post, she added: For heavens sake  no, I am not comparing Muslim women to KKK members and yes, thank you, I do know the difference. I was graphically illustrating how full facial cover can be sinister, which is how many people view the burqa.

(Christine Hamilton Twitter)

Clearly I have offended people, she continued. To avoid any embarrassment to the charities I named on my profile I have removed all reference to them.

But responding to her comments on Twitter, the Muscular Dystrophy UK charity said it had severed its links with her. Its chief executive, Robert Meadowcroft, said the decision fully reflects the values of the charity.

The male cancer charity, Balls to Cancer, also asked Ms Hamilton to stand down as an ambassador as it described her tweet as inappropriate, adding: This tweet was on her personal account and in no way the opinions of Balls to Cancer.

We would wholeheartedly like to thank her for her support and her work helping out charity into the public eye and helping save more lives.Leading disability activists have backed The Independents call for a referendum on the final Brexit deal, as the number of people signing the Final Say petition surged past 600,000.

With the prospect of a no-deal Brexit looming, groups representing disabled people have joined a variety of politicians and organisations in supporting the case for a public decision on the final deal.

In an open letter to The Independent, disability campaigners, including former Olympic star Tanni Grey-Thompson and a string of leading academics, warn that the chaotic, uncertain and discordant atmosphere surrounding the Brexit negotiations could be psychologically damaging for disabled people.

While the government gave assurances ahead of the EU referendum that a Leave vote would not place the rights of the disabled population at risk, the letter warns that these are now looking increasingly tenuous as concerns mount over medical staffing, legal protections and benefit provisions.

The time has come to demand much more detail  and, as it now seems likely that Brexit will lead to reduced quality of life, we should join the rising clamour for a peoples vote on the terms of any Brexit deal, states the letter.

Citing chronic cuts in social care, campaigners say recently announced funding for the NHS provides very little assurance to disabled people.

Since the June 2016 vote, there has been a 96 per cent drop in nursing applications from non-British EU citizens and one in five EU doctors have made plans to leave the UK.

They also warn that it is disconcerting that the recent Withdrawal Act, which removes the link to the EUs Charter of Fundamental Rights from British law, gives power to government to amend the equality laws without consulting parliament. The quality of life of millions is in jeopardy, they state.

James Partridge, founder and former chief executive of charity Changing Faces, told The Independent: To call for a second referendum is something you need to be sure about it. Its not a view that you can take lightly.

But we feel that the assurances we were given during the campaign, and particularly the NHS and assurances about rights, are looking pretty difficult to support now. We need to be assured that leaving is not going to be damaging to disabled peoples prospects and health.

He added: The staffing issues in the NHS and the care sector is a really worrying issue. Theres been a phenomenal drop in nursing applications and if thats shared across the care sector an awful lot of disabled people are going to find it very difficult.

The boost for the NHS isnt looking quite so likely now. We are ever concerned about the trade negotiations and the risk that disabled people who are already disproportionately out of work and could find themselves in an even worse position.

The notion of a second vote is one we all agree with because we think now that the terms are becoming clear, we should have the chance to say do we agree.

Tom Shakespeare, professor of disability research at East Anglia University, raised concerns that a no-deal could lead to shortage of medical supplies that are vital for disabled and people and those with long-term illnesses.

People rely on imports of drugs, catheters and other vital medical supplies, many of which come from overseas, he told The Independent.

In theory they will be available in the event of a no-deal, but things like insulin need to be very carefully imported, and many people are worried there will be a shortage in supply.

Many disabled people were initially optimistic; they believed the assurances from government and thought it was great. But the fact is in the modern independent world we all rely on trade and to leave the biggest free trade network in the world is an ideological idiocy.

It is not the first time concerns have been raised that proposals put forward for Brexit could have a negative impact on disabled people.

People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Show all 30 1 /30 People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Rex People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal AFP/Getty Images People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal A young protestor shouts as she takes part in the People's Vote demonstration against Brexit Getty Images People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Reuters People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal A protester's pro-EU t-shirt EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal AFP/Getty Images People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal AFP/Getty People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Gina Miller and Caroline Lucas EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Tens of thousands of people march through London EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Demonstrators at the People's Vote March Getty People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal 'Two months too young to decide on my future' REUTERS People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal A young girl joins in the march PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal An EU flag is draped across the statue of Winston Chruchill in Parliament Square REUTERS People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal AFP/Getty Images People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Vince Cable MP, Pro-EU campaigner Gina Miller, Tony Robinson and Caroline Lucas MP join with crowds PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Crowds gather on Pall Mall PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal A man resembling Britain's Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, joins EU supporters Reuters People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Reuters People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal People gather in Trafalgar Square REUTERS People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Pro-EU campaigner Gina Miller and Tony Robinson PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EU supporters, calling on the government to give Britons a vote on the final Brexit deal, participate in the 'People's Vote' march REUTERS

A report by the Work and Pensions Committee earlier this year warned that the loss of the European Social Fund (ESF), which provides 500m per year of EU funding to programmes providing support for disadvantaged groups, would be disastrous for disabled people.

A separate report by Disability Rights UK warned that people with disabilities could slide back into nursing homes if Brexit restricts the numbers of care staff coming from the EU and funding for support services is reduced.

The charity said the impact of Brexit on disability rights has barely been mentioned in policy debates, despite disabled people making up one in five of the British population.A Chinese tourist has died after being bitten by a hippo while taking pictures at a wildlife resort in Kenya.

Chang Ming Chuang, 66, was attacked on the shores of Lake Naivasha just hours after a hippo killed a local fisherman in the same area.

A second Chinese tourist, Wu Peng Te, 62, was also injured in the attack on Saturday night and was taken to the local hospital for treatment.

Six people have been killed by the mostly herbivorous mammals around Lake Naivasha so far this year.

Environmental experts say conflict between humans and hippos has increased because of encroachment into the animal's grazing areas.

Paul Udoto, a spokesman for Kenya Wildlife Service, said attacks on tourists are rare because they are usually protected by guides.

Witnesses told The Star newspaper in Kenya that the hippo bit Mr Chuang on the chest after he got too close while taking pictures near Sopa Hotel.

"The hippo that attacked the Chinese was looking for pasture near the hotel," said David Kilo, chairman of the Lake Naivasha Boat Owners Association.

"This is not the first time, he adding that the animals were being forced to stray into nearby hotels and farms for grazing because of rising water levels.

The Kenya Wildlife Service said they were tracking the hippo.

Police said the fisherman was also bitten on the chest a few miles away from the scene of the attack on the tourists.

"His injuries were serious and he died minutes after he was retrieved from the lake," said Rift Valley head of criminal investigations Gideon Kibunja.

In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history Show all 15 1 /15 In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history Reuters In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history Traditional Maasai tribesmen pose for a photograph near elephant tusks, part of an estimated 105 tonnes of confiscated ivory to be set ablaze, stacked onto a pyre at Nairobi National Park near Nairobi, Kenya, April 28, 2016. Reuters In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history A Kenya Wildlife Services ranger guards the burning of an estimated 105 tonnes of Elephant tusks confiscated ivory from smugglers and poachers at the Nairobi National Park near Nairobi, Kenya, April 30, 2016. Reuters In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history Reuters In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history Reuters In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history Reuters In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history Reuters In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history Reuters In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history Reuters In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history Reuters In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history Reuters In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history Reuters In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history Reuters In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history Reuters In pictures: Kenya stages largest ivory burn in history Reuters

In January a fisherman was killed by a hippo while preparing his nets for a fishing expedition in Lake Naivasha.

The Rift Valley's highest lake is a popular destination for travellers hoping to spot hippos, giraffes and zebras.

Additional reporting by agenciesA neo-Nazi rally outside the White House has fallen flat after about 20 white nationalists were dwarfed by thousands of counter-protesters.

The march in Washington came a year after an infamous gathering of far-right extremists in the Virginia town of Charlottesville, which left one woman dead after a man drove a car into a group of anti-fascists.

In the capital on Sunday, dozens of police formed a tight cordon around the small group of white nationalists, separating them from shouting counter-protesters within view of the White House.

Donald Trump, who a year ago defended white nationalists as featuring "fine people", was not in Washington, having been at his golf club in New Jersey for more than a week on a working holiday.

Jason Kessler, the principal organiser of last year's "Unite the Right" event, led the Sunday gathering he called a white civil rights rally in Lafayette Square.

Mr Kessler said in a permit application that he expected 100 to 400 people to participate, but the actual number was far lower: only around 20.

 Donald Trump challenges, and cherry-picks, coverage of his Charlottesville statements at rally

Counter-protesters, who assembled before the rally's scheduled start, vastly outnumbered Mr Kessler's crowd. Thousands showed up to jeer and shout insults at the white nationalists.

Makia Green, who represents the Washington branch of Black Lives Matter, told Sunday's crowd: "We know from experience that ignoring white nationalism doesn't work."

By about 5pm, those in Mr Kessler's group packed into a pair of white vans and left, escorted by police.

Washington police chief Peter Newsham said only one person was arrested all day despite several tense moments, with police essentially shielding the white nationalist demonstrators from several thousand enraged counter-protesters.

Mr Newsham called it "a well-executed plan to safeguard people and property while allowing citizens to express their First Amendment rights".

The demonstrations  a similar counter-protest was seen in Charlottesville about a mile away from where 32-year-old Heather Heyer was killed last year  had pushed officials in the area to announce states of emergency, preparing for the potential that the demonstrations would once again turn violent.

While verbal clashes were heard  counter protesters denounced fascists at a Virginia metro station while nationalist demonstrators were guided onto a train  the relative calm came in contrast to the violence seen one year ago, when white supremacists marched in Charlottesville, protesting the proposed plan to remove a Confederate memorial in the city.

Charlottesville one year on Show all 15 1 /15 Charlottesville one year on Charlottesville one year on Mary Grace, from Durham, North Carolina, walks through the downtown mall area August 11, 2018 in Charlottesville, Virginia. Charlottesville has been declared in a state of emergency by Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam as the city braces for the one year anniversary of the deadly clash between white supremacist forces and counter protesters over the potential removal of Confederate statues of Robert E. Lee and Jackson. A "Unite the Right" rally featuring some of the same groups is planned for tomorrow in Washington, DC. Getty Charlottesville one year on Chris Jessee (R) hands out placards to people visiting downtown Charlottesville as the city marks the anniversary of last year's 'Unite the Right rally' in Charlottesville, Virginia, USA, 11 August 2018. On 12 August 2017, a bloody clash between white supremacists and counterprotestors in Charlottesville left three people dead and dozens injured Getty Charlottesville one year on A member of the Virginia State Police waits outside the park where a statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee is located August 11, 2018 in Charlottesville, Virginia. Charlottesville has been declared in a state of emergency by Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam as the city braces for the one year anniversary of a deadly clash between white supremacist forces and counter protesters over the potential removal of Confederate statues of Robert E. Lee and Jackson. A "Unite the Right" rally featuring some of the same groups is planned for tomorrow in Washington, DC Reuters Charlottesville one year on A woman displays a shirt ahead of the one-year anniversary of 2017 Charlottesville "Unite the Right" protests, in Charlottesville, Virginia, U.S., August 10, 2018. Reuters Charlottesville one year on A sign reading "Strength, which was taken down at the request of police officers, hangs by the statue of Civil War Confederate General Robert E. Lee, ahead of the one-year anniversary of 2017 Charlottesville "Unite the Right" protests, in Charlottesville, Virginia, U.S., August 10, 2018. Reuters Charlottesville one year on Law enforcement arrives ahead of the one year anniversary of 2017 Charlottesville "Unite the Right" protests, in Charlottesville, Virginia, U.S., August 10, 2018 Reuters Charlottesville one year on A vendor displays wares on the mall as State Police lock down the downtown area in anticipation of the anniversary of last year's Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018. The Governor has declared a state of emergency in Charlottesville AP Charlottesville one year on A Police bike patrol takes a break in the downtown area in anticipation of the anniversary of last year's Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018. State and local authorities framed the weekend's heightened security as a necessary precaution. AP Charlottesville one year on State Police arrest a local resident, John Miska, in the locked down downtown area in Charlottesville, Va., Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018. Miska purchased razor blades, which are banned items, in a downtown drugstore. On the the anniversary of white supremacist violence, state and local authorities framed the weekend's heightened security as a necessary precaution. AP Charlottesville one year on State Police escort local resident, John Miska, red hat, after he was arrested in the locked down downtown area in Charlottesville, Va., Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018. Miska purchased razor blades, which are banned items, in a downtown drugstore. On the the anniversary of white supremacist violence, state and local authorities framed the weekend's heightened security as a necessary precaution. AP Charlottesville one year on A group Anti-fascism demonstrators, march in the downtown area in anticipation of the anniversary of last year's Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Saturday, AP Charlottesville one year on A group anti-fascism demonstrators march in the downtown area in anticipation of the anniversary of last year's Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., AP Charlottesville one year on People receive first-aid after a car accident ran into a crowd of protesters in Charlottesville, VA on August 12, 2017. A vehicle plowed into a crowd of people Saturday at a Virginia rally where violence erupted between white nationalist demonstrators and counter-protesters, witnesses said, causing an unclear number of injuries AFP/Getty Charlottesville one year on Alt-right rally members in Lee Park in Charlottesville, VA on Saturday August 12, 2017 White nationalist 'Unite the Right' rally, Charlottesville, USA Rex Charlottesville one year on A counter protester who got hit with a stick by alt-right member covered with blood on his face in Lee Park in Charlottesville, Rex

Those demonstrations descended into violence after the two sides  some on the right armed with firearms, and some on the left with shields and clubs  met, and several people were injured. Later, a white supremacist drove his vehicle through a group of counter protesters who had gathered peacefully on a street.

The events in Charlottesville in 2017 shocked the country, and were met with shifting responses from Mr Trump, who condemned racism and violence before also drawing a moral equivalence between white supremacist protesters and the counter demonstrators who had come to protest racist tendencies in America.

James Fields Jr, 21, of Maumee, Ohio, is charged in state court with murder in Ms Heyer's killing and faces separate hate crime charges in federal court. He pleaded not guilty last month to the federal charges.

The day's death toll rose to three when a state police helicopter crashed, killing lieutenant Jay Cullen and trooper-pilot Berke Bates.

The riots in Charlottesville a year ago resulted in senseless death and division. We must come together as a nation. I condemn all types of racism and acts of violence, Mr Trump said in his latest comments on the issue on Saturday. "Peace to ALL Americans!

As Mr Trump sent out that message, though, demonstrators had once again gathered in that college town to mark the occasion  with the voices of the anti-white supremacy crowd reportedly carrying the day.

Those protesters, seeing little opposition from the white supremacists who had convened in large numbers just a year before, instead criticised the police presence there  calling out with chants and signs the presence they said targeted people of colour in the United States while also preserving a status quo that has allowed what has been seen as a resurgence of white nationalism in the US.

Recommended Man accused of driving into Charlottesville protesters charged

Among the other anniversary events was a Sunday morning community gathering at a park that drew more than 200 people. The group sang and listened to speakers, among them Courtney Commander, a friend of Ms Heyer's who was with her when she was killed.

"She is with me today, too," Ms Commander said.

Law enforcement officials faced blistering criticism after last year's rally for what was perceived as a passive response to the violence that unfolded. A review by a former US attorney found a lack of coordination between state and city police and an operational plan that elevated officer safety over public safety.

The anniversary weekend was marked by a much heavier police presence, which also drew criticism from some activists.

Demonstrators on Sunday marched through Charlottesville chanting, "Cops and Klan go hand in hand," and "Will you protect us?"

The city of Charlottesville said four people were arrested in the downtown area.

Two arrests stemmed from a confrontation near the Lee statue where a Spotsylvania, Virginia, man stopped to salute, a Charlottesville woman confronted him and a physical altercation took place, officials said.

Additional reporting by APA mother detained in Dubai with her four-year-old daughter allegedly for drinking a complimentary glass of wine on a flight from London has been given the all-clear to return to the UK.

Ellie Holman, a Swedish dentist who lives in Kent with her partner and three children, said she was pleased the "nightmare is coming to an end" after charges against her were dropped.

Dr Holman faced an uncertain future after being arrested on 13 July having drunk one glass of wine on her eight-hour Emirates Airline flight to Dubai.

After landing, the 44-year-old says she was questioned about her visa and asked if she had consumed alcohol, before being taken into custody.

Dr Holman and her daughter Bibi were reportedly denied food, water and access to a toilet at the beginning of their ordeal when they were held in a cell together for three days.

She was faced with detainment in Dubai for up to a year while awaiting a court hearing, but human rights group Detained in Dubai confirmed the charges had been dropped.

Dr Holman said: "I am shocked and excited to be returning home to England and that this nightmare is coming to an end.

 UN asked to intervene over Dubai ruler's daughter Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammad al-Maktoum 'being detained against her will' after failed escape from UAE

"When I answered the phone this morning and was told that I was being let go and needed to collect my passport, I couldn't believe it and wondered if it was a trap.

"Radha (Stirling, Detained in Dubai chief executive) told me to go ahead and collect my passport, that this has happened before.

"They apologised on behalf of the immigration official and was told that I was free on Sheikh Mohammed's orders and welcome to return to Dubai. They helped me to arrange flights out of the country.

"This situation has cost us tens of thousands and we have had to use all of our savings, which is devastating to us."

Dr Holman and Bibi were travelling to Dubai for a five-day break to visit friends, having visited a number of times before.

In a statement, Ms Stirling said: "We are very happy for Dr Holman that the government of Dubai decided not to pursue the charges they brought against her for consuming the complimentary glass of wine provided by their own government-owned airline.

"Obviously this case never should have happened, and Dr Holman and her four-year-old daughter should never have been detained and mistreated.

Dubai's new 3bn theme park Show all 6 1 /6 Dubai's new 3bn theme park Dubai's new 3bn theme park The Bollywood theme park Dubai Parks and Resorts Dubai's new 3bn theme park The Legoland Water Park Dubai Parks and Resorts Dubai's new 3bn theme park The Boardwalk area housing retail and food outlets Dubai Parks and Resorts Dubai's new 3bn theme park The Motiongate area Dubai Parks and Resorts Dubai's new 3bn theme park Motiongate Dubai Parks and Resort Dubai's new 3bn theme park A map of the entire complex Dubai Parks and Resorts

"She should not have suffered the considerable financial loss incurred by her detention, and her daughter should never have been subjected to this needless trauma.

"However, the fact is, this case was not a 'mistake'; it was perfectly in keeping with the confused laws of the UAE pertaining to alcohol, and what should never have happened will inevitably happen again to another unsuspecting traveller who accepts a free alcoholic beverage from Emirates Airlines on a flight to Dubai.

"Dismissing the case of Dr Holman does not resolve the problematic policies in the UAE that allowed this case to happen; and tourists must understand that they still face serious risk of prosecution in Dubai for any number of offences that they may not even know are offences.

"They will offer you alcohol on their airline, and arrest you at the airport for accepting it. This can only be regarded as such a deliberate attempt to misrepresent UAE rules on alcohol that it amounts to entrapment.

"So while we are happy for Dr Holman, we continue to fear for other travellers to and through the UAE who may well find themselves in legal trouble through no fault of their own."

Dubais Attorney General, Issa Al Humaidan, has, however, questioned her claim that she was stopped for having a glass of wine on the flight and said Dr Holman had arrived in Dubai with a Swedish passport that expired in June this year.

She was advised by the immigration officer that she could not enter the country with an expired passport. She then produced an Iranian passport, and was informed by the officer that she could enter the country by issuing a new temporary visa, which allowed a 96-hour stay, and had to change her departure flight according to the new visa. Mr Al Humaidan said she refused angrily due to the additional payment fees the process would require, and proceeded to verbally insult the immigration officer and take photos of the officer via her phone.

He said charges of profanity and photographing a government official at the border crossing, a restricted area were issued against Dr Holman, and that she and her daughter spent less than 24 hours in the airport security office where services were provided to them.

The prosecution decided to drop the charges against Ellie Hollman and to deport her instead, he said.

Additional reporting by PAAs the decibel levels rise on both sides of the Boris Johnson burqa divide, with claims of a cabinet rebellion in his support mingling with reports of a rise in racial assaults, two voices are oddly muted.

One belongs, predictably, to the provocateur himself. Ever adept at scarpering from the doorstep to watch the fun unfold from the bushes, Westminsters current knock down ginger champion remains reticent after returning from his holiday in Italy.

Ten things Boris Johnson doesn't want you to know Show all 11 1 /11 Ten things Boris Johnson doesn't want you to know Ten things Boris Johnson doesn't want you to know pg-12-boris-2-pa.jpg BBC Ten things Boris Johnson doesn't want you to know Boris-Johnson-mother.png BBC Ten things Boris Johnson doesn't want you to know Boris-Johnson-boy.png BBC Ten things Boris Johnson doesn't want you to know Boris-Johnson-Great-Grandfather.png BBC Ten things Boris Johnson doesn't want you to know Boris-Johnson-Oxford-Union-President.png BBC Ten things Boris Johnson doesn't want you to know Boris-Johnson-Allegra.png BBC Ten things Boris Johnson doesn't want you to know Boris-Johnson-Bullingdon.png BBC Ten things Boris Johnson doesn't want you to know Boris-Johnson-Bullingdon-2.png BBC Ten things Boris Johnson doesn't want you to know Boris-Johnson-young-man.png BBC Ten things Boris Johnson doesn't want you to know Boris-Johnson-Petronella-Wyatt.png BBC Ten things Boris Johnson doesn't want you to know anish.jpg PA

As speechless as a letterbox, as stealthy as a bank robber, he appears quite content to delegate all the talking to his fan club attack dogs. Most (Andrew Bridgen, Andrea Jenkyns, etc) are among the usual suspects whenever it comes to rounding up a posse of Tory back bench eighth-wits. But the pack leader must be taken more seriously.

In The Sunday Times, Steve Bannon doubles down on his admiration for the man on whom hes settled as the most promising mini-Trump currently on show.

Boris doesnt need to ape Trump, he disingenuously insists, talking up the power of authenticity. He needs to be himself. Yes, this insightful commentary has you wondering, but which of Boris selves? The self whose authentic love of multiculturalism had him twice elected mayor of London? Or the authentic Edwardian who used the word piccaninnies in a much earlier Telegraph column, and shows some Trumpian talent as a virtuoso on the dog whistle?

Stood side by side with the erstwhile White House chief strategist, Breitbart overlord and co-founder of Cambridge Analytica, we can easily guess. Bannon, with whom Johnson spent time before composing his concerto for burqa and niqab, is on a mission. A believer in the purifying quality of flame (a time-honoured fascistic trope), he intends to spread the white supremacist wildfire he helped to spark in America right across the democratic world.

Deploying Johnson as his most useful British idiot in the quest for an inflammatory Brexit settlement is the least of it. He plans to spend six months on a European tour dedicated to inciting enough support for isolationist-nationalistic far-right parties in next Mays European elections to sow the seeds of the EUs annihilation.

To this end, the list of immigrant-bashing European politicians he is hugging close includes (along with Marine Le Pen and Matteo Salvini of Italys La Lega) Hungarys muscular prime minister. He lauds Viktor Orban as a proto-Trump ally in the crusade for the survival of the Judeo-Christian west.

The Johnson who was recently so zealous in rebuking Jeremy Corbyn over antisemitism must have missed this. But while Orban seldom shares platforms with Palestinian representatives, he has legislated to silence liberal organisations funded by George Soros, whom his gang demonise as a real-life Emmanuel Goldstein (chief object of the five-minute hate in Nineteen Eighty-Four) in the fashion of Bannons Breitbart.

As for Jews in general, without using the word, but complete with popular antisemitic stereotypes, Orban said this in March: They do not fight directly, but by stealth. They are not honourable, but unprincipled  They do not believe in work, but speculate with money. They have no homeland, but feel that the whole world is theirs. They are not generous, but vengeful

Whenever next Johnson consents to a media chat, the interviewer might invite him to dissociate himself from the Bannon to whom Orban is a populist hero. If theres time, the interviewer could rattle out just a few of the hundreds of thousands of hateful Islamophobic comments Bannon was pleased to allow on Breitbart message boards, and invite his thoughts on those.

At the very least, the interviewer should ask what he imagines hes playing at by consorting with the kind of Tommy Robinson superfan whom his beloved Churchill would have stamped on, and then disgustedly scraped off the sole of his shoe.

While the former foreign secretary leaves the talking to Steve Bannon, the silence of his main leadership betting rival is almost as deafening.

Sajid Javid hasnt been shy about questioning Corbyns fitness to lead his party. Now would seem a good moment to hear more from him in two guises  as the home secretary responsible for preventing racially motivated attacks, and as a Muslim himself.

He may reckon the smarter move is to sit it out, on the logic that only a fool interrupts an enemy in the midst of destroying himself. He may judge that, though Johnson has boosted his popularity with the unlovely Conservative base, he has made himself less likely to be among the final two selected by MPs for the members to choose between.

Even if so, as one hopes without much confidence, the dividing line between savvy and cowardice is thinner than usual in febrile times such as these.

If Javid fancies himself as the leader to begin rescuing his party from its endemic Islamophobia, he cannot go Awol now.

Looking weak and craven to his colleagues looks like a higher tariff gamble than inflaming the inherent racism of the Tory membership. If he is fretful about attacking Johnson head on, for the clinically calculated insensitivity if nothing else, Steve Bannon makes an indecently perfect proxy.

With this high priest of race-baiting preparing for that extended European tour, this moment of danger demands a bare minimum of courage from those who find him and his anarcho-nihilist, scorch-and-burn attitude to race relations utterly repulsive. It will be instructive to learn if Javid has it.As Tammy Wynette knew well: sometimes its hard to be a woman. And this week it has been especially hard to be a Muslim woman.

Apparently, according to various circles of public opinion, I am not getting the joke, Im over sensitive, Im bullied, oppressed, unintegrated, politically motivated, dividing Britain  this list goes on and it is exhausting.

The latest line in defence of Boris Johnson as upheld by Rowan Atkinson is now: why cant you just take a joke? Letterboxes are well known for their undeveloped sense of humour.

But the jokes not on me and Muslim women, the jokes on all of us in Britain because this just isnt funny. In a time of austerity, Brexit chaos, anti-Semitism debate, trade sanctions and growing division across the world Mr Johnson thinks the most pressing issue is the handful of women who dress in a way he doesnt approve of.

Perhaps his Etonian education did not enable him to understand that in polite society, its rude to comment with ridicule on the way women dress. If a woman did so, shed be called catty, or something worse. I have been teaching children in my care to laugh with, and not at, someone for many years  why should politicians not also apply this principle?

We as a nation and a society have got bigger fish to fry. How many days will this debate drag on with more and more desperate people trying to jump on the bandwagon in the hopes of getting a little speck of the spotlight on them?

And its not really about clothing. This is about manners and a simple principle. Are people in Britain free to dress the way they choose? Should a man in power ridicule and mock women and their clothing? Its about the freedom to choose what you wear and upholding of common decency because something Im sure Johnson did learn, but has perhaps has forgotten, is that manners maketh man. And that is no laughing matter. So, unlike Ms Wynette, I wont be standing by my man, but will the Tory party feel the same?

Sarah Khan

London, SW2

Some have correctly compared Boris Johnsons comments to Enoch Powells Rivers of Blood speech  but not quite in the manner they imagine.

Powell committed the unforgivable political sin of being unable to suppress his old academic training, demanding facts be illuminated, and thus read out loud the publics own words right back at them  exposing that small minded nation the elites ignored, hoping it would clear up in time by itself like a bruise. Johnson, by contrast, wrote what he thought was jokey social commentary before his summer holiday on the absurdity of restrictive clothing with a clear misogynist agenda during one of our hottest Julys on record. Powell felt duty bound  Johnson was only Italy bound.

What both have in common is that they are weak, prickly, distrusted leaders with overinflated senses of their own talents. Both have felt threatened by media popular colleagues with a fine turn of phrase, and have been perceived by the general public as having a refreshing air of honesty to them in a period where alienation between society and state has become a chasm. In both cases theyve espied an opportunity to get rid of the pretender to their throne for good under a hypocritical cloak of political correctness, only for it to backfire spectacularly by proving whom is in tune with public opinion and whom is hopelessly out of touch.

If the Tories dont get why the public loves Boris, theyll never get why Jeremy Corbyn will crucify them at the next general election, no matter what bumbling gaffs he also makes.

Mark Boyle

Renfrewshire

So now Rowan Atkinson has now jumped into the burqa fray, supporting Mr Johnsons description of burqa wearers as resembling letterboxes, arguing that all jokes about religion cause offence, so its pointless apologising for them.

Mr Atkinson has long been a proponent of the right to make jokes about religious belief, seeing this as a fundamental freedom of society. However, in doing so, he has made a declaration of what constitutes a belief that is open to criticism. For millions of Muslims and followers of other religions, their beliefs, which Mr Atkinson has deemed worth of ridicule, are the very foundation of their existence, and give meaning to their lives.

Free speech is a fundamental right. We must be free to ask questions of any faith and practice, but the way we do so, forms the basis of a civilised and peaceful society. We need to be clear where the boundaries of this freedom lie. When jokes about a faith cause offence to a whole group, a boundary has been crossed and instead of creating greater interfaith understanding, fracture lines are created in communities.

Millions of Muslims were deeply hurt by the Danish cartoon attacks on the character of the holy prophet Muhammad, who we hold to be dearer to ourselves than our own family. Where does this right to ridicule end? In London, we have a seen a rise in anti-Semitism, and increased calls to the Tell Mama anti-Muslim hate reporting line.

To create greater understanding between various faiths, The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has, since its inception over a hundred years ago, held regular interfaith meetings, where faith representatives can share their beliefs with others. These happen not only in the UK, but across the world. The experience has been that this leads to greater understanding and mutual respect. Perhaps Mr Atkinson should try and come to one of our events and learn more about why faith is so much more than a set of beliefs to us. I know that he would be warmly welcomed.

Sarah Waseem

Worcester Park, Surrey

Jacob Rees-Mogg says the Boris Burqa row is being used to prevent Boris from becoming the Tory leader. Excellent! In this case the ends really do justify the means.

David Rose

Sutton Coldfield

We are living in the 21st century, where are my rights?

I am a 23-year-old Muslim woman living in Britain who chooses to wear a hijab and cover parts of my face. I have been doing this since I was around 15, out of my own choice and to follow my faith. I do not wear a niqab or burqa but I find it highly offensive and appalling that a British politician ridiculed and insulted Muslim women who wear burqas by comparing them to letterboxes and bank-robbers. We are living in the 21st century Great Britain, which proudly speaks of its freedom of choice and rights of women. It is a society where people from diverse backgrounds, cultures and beliefs are celebrated rather than reproached.

Politicians like Boris Johnson are doing nothing but damaging the peace of society at a time when we need unity. It is very highly duplicitous of him to speak against the burqa ban in Denmark and revile the Muslim women at the same time. He speaks of live and let live, but cant restrain himself from criticising a section of society who doesnt dress as he likes. I would like to tell him that they do not care if he likes their appearance or not, because they are grown-up women who have every right to decide for themselves what they want to or do not want to wear.

I would also like to tell all the people defending Mr Johnsons comments in the name of free speech, including Rowan Atkinson, that there is a difference between free speech and hate speech. Mr. Johnson is not a comedian who needs to make jokes to make people laugh. He is a politician, a public representative and he owns a responsibility to represent and unify all types of people in his country. Lastly, I would like to tell all of those who think that burqa should be banned, that they shouldnt for one second, think that they are any better than the governments and individuals who force women to wear the burqa.

Stop telling women what to wear.

Basira Ajmal

Havant

Free parking wont help the high street crisis

Ian McNicholas is right to complain about access to high street shops but wrong to believe that free parking would help (Letters). Town centres are densely populated  there is little land available for car parks. And do we really need more exhaust fumes? The answer surely is free public transport, regulated and provided by local authorities.

It seems, though, that we cant afford local services at all because the government has run out of money. And like a household or a company, it must shut down. I just cant figure out how quantitative easing worked

Carol Wilcox

Christchurch

We hear of more shops every year sequentially closing on the UKs high streets. M&S is just one example of the ongoing destructive saga that is happening to the high streets in the UK due to their 2022 hatchet closure announcement of many of their stores. Many others have gone before them, like British Home Stores and many are only just surviving. But this is inevitable with all the destructive forces that are at play. The nails in the coffin of retail businesses are as follows:

1. Out of town shopping centres

2. Outdated planning systems that are responsive to business needs and take years for town centre developments to get the green light.

3. Uncompromising and non-innovative councils who, instead of reducing rates et al, do the opposite and put the councils costs up on those that are remaining, making it even harder for those left standing to survive on the high street.

4. Property owners who incessantly put up their rents and cause business to close due to their shareholders insatiable demands for ever more dividends.

5. Councils that deter people visiting the high street by putting in place obstacles such as penalty fine bus lanes together with higher than should be parking fees in town centres where they do not understand the psyche of why people actually do shop.

6. Online retail giants like Amazon who took 11.4bn of the sale of goods out of the UK economy last year, where equivalent growth rates are not seen in other sectors annually, draining ever more the retail sales from the high streets.

Eventually, the high streets days will definitely be over for retail. It is only a matter of a couple of decades, in my opinion, before town centres become purely leisure centres and high street retail sales are just a distinct thing of the past. But it has to be said that although this is the way that things are currently going by the year, there is an even more severe case in that without innovative council and business thinking, ghost towns will emerge. In this respect, all the major overwhelming forces are currently growing stronger against the existence of high street retail shops.

David Hill

Address supplied

Absence of evidence is not proof of absence

Monsanto vice president Scott Partridge states that there have been over 800 medical scientific peer review published studies that have established there is no link whatsoever between glyphosate and adverse health effects.

As head of a company that must employ many scientists, he should be aware that no matter how many studies are done  even those not directly or indirectly sponsored by Monsanto  which fail to find links, does not prove there is no link whatsoever. Absence of evidence is not evidence of absence!

G Forward

Stirling

Media is leading opinion, not reporting it

I strongly believe that the finding of the BMG opinion poll for The Independent that one person in four believes that Jeremy Corbyn is prejudiced against Jews is a reflection of the influence of media reporting, rather than a true picture of the Labour leaders conviction. While I agree that Corbyns stubborn adherence to his principles serves him better as a campaigner than as a party leader who seems unable to predict, or respect the importance of public opinion, Ive noticed a disturbing tendency towards the media leading opinion, rather than reporting it. I hope The Independent wont follow this trend.

Mary Wilson

North Berwick, ScotlandIn 2012, Danny Boyle presented a powerful and resonant Olympic Games opening ceremony that portrayed a multicultural Britain. In 2015, Nadiya Hussain became the winner of The Great British Bake Off.

In 2014 and 2015, four young school girls from the East End left to join Isis. And in 2016, David Cameron called Muslim women submissive. But anti-Muslim rhetoric would have you believe that the latter two are the only aspects of our culture worth paying attention to.

The latest furore with regards to policing British Muslims has been over Boris Johnsons comments about being opposed to banning veils in public, yet believing that it was absolutely ridiculous that people should choose to go around looking like letter boxes  begging the question: has the debate become more about the objectification of Muslim women rather than who these women are in terms of their identities, successes and aspirations?

In pictures: Muslims in London protest against Isis Show all 7 1 /7 In pictures: Muslims in London protest against Isis In pictures: Muslims in London protest against Isis Muslims gather with flags in Trafalgar Square on October 1, 2017 Getty In pictures: Muslims in London protest against Isis People listen to a speaker in Trafalgar Square on October 1, 2017 Getty In pictures: Muslims in London protest against Isis Protesters gather with placards ahead of the annual Ashura march in Marble Arch on October 1, 2017 Getty In pictures: Muslims in London protest against Isis Muslims pray ahead of the annual Ashura march in Marble Arch on October 1, 2017 Getty In pictures: Muslims in London protest against Isis Protesters holding placards demonstrate along Oxford Street on October 1, 2017 Getty In pictures: Muslims in London protest against Isis Protesters gather with placards during the annual Ashura march in Marble Arch on October 1, 2017 Getty In pictures: Muslims in London protest against Isis Protesters holding flags and placards demonstrate along Oxford Street on October 1, 2017 Getty

If Boris wishes to criticise the way someone looks based on their personal choice, then can we not equally say its absolutely ridiculous that a high-profile politician should go around looking as though he never brushes his hair, or criticise the clothing choice of many other people in Britain? It seems that it is Muslim women who are targeted more than others in that respect.

Over the weekend, for example, I went on a trip with a group of women and a male passenger allowed us to board the train first. One of the women was wearing a niqab, and she was the last of us to get on the train. After spotting her, the man laughed and said: Hold on, you forgot the letterbox. If freedom of speech means accepting highly offensive behaviour towards people who have done nothing more than step onto a train for an enjoyable day out, we have a lot of self-reflection to do.

For years, Muslim women have been accused of not integrating into British society, but the sad fact is that many of them have faced huge challenges, much like the example above, in being accepted, even though they are keen to engage fully in British life. Fortunately, my fellow Conservative councillor colleagues have never been Islamophobic to me, but a number of people across party lines have spoken of issues with Islamophobia, which is worth noting.

In 2016, Boris Johnson backed the campaign for Britain to leave the EU, despite claiming that the decision to do so was agonising. There were claims that many people voted Leave because they were stirred up by real or imagined images about immigration. Alarmingly, in the week following the Brexit referendum, there was a 475 per cent increase in the number of anti-Muslim hate crimes, particularly towards Muslim women wearing Islamic clothing.

But it is Boriss controversial comments of late that have sparked a war within the Conservative Party, with four top ministers criticising the way in which the investigation has been handled, whereas Tory peer Lord Cooper accused Johnson of moral emptiness and courting fascism, in a squabble over what the government thinks is and isnt morally acceptable.

Figures from Tell Mama, an organisation that records anti-Muslim incidents in the UK, suggest hate crimes against Muslim women escalated in the week since Boriss comments, instilling fear into innocent, peace-loving, hardworking people in our communities. Its another example of dismissing peoples humanity  and diversity and inclusion  for political gain, without realising the detrimental effect (mentally as well as physically) that it has upon those targeted.

In March 2013, it was a Conservative government that established Britains first Islamic Finance Task Force. In 2014, ministers launched a Sharia law-compliant version of the help to buy scheme to enable Muslim house buyers to take advantage of the incentive. In the same year, the United Kingdom became the first western European country to issue a sovereign sukuk bond with a five year dated 200m issuance.

It is a paradox, therefore, that a Conservative Party that takes such radical steps is the same party that is incapable of eradicating Islamophobia within its own ranks.

The debate around Islam, inequality and integration has changed with the context of time. Britain now faces radicalisation and extremism, and Isis and Muslim women struggle to carve their place in British society. Neither of the two main political parties seems capable of facing their own problems with Islamophobia and antisemitism, so how can Britain build on integration hopes in an era where Muslim women are still labelled as submissive and letterboxes?Since the spiralling civil conflict of the Troubles in the early 1970s, unionism in Northern Ireland has always been more preoccupied with asserting its opposition to Irish unification, as opposed to articulating a vision of what it is and aspires to be, and how it fits into an increasingly multicultural United Kingdom.

People in Northern Ireland stoically resisted a campaign of republican violence throughout the 30 years of the Troubles. But the reasons for this understandable hunkering down are long gone. The battlefield is now cultural and unionism is losing.

Northern Ireland: A land still troubled by its past Show all 2 1 /2 Northern Ireland: A land still troubled by its past Northern Ireland: A land still troubled by its past 148441.bin REUTERS Northern Ireland: A land still troubled by its past 148428.bin PA

I was born 65 years ago in the predominantly Protestant environs of south Belfast; for me, Northern Ireland represents the corner of the Union that is both Irish and British. My cultural identity is bound up in this place and its symbolically endowed landscape that incorporates both these dimensions alongside a strong cultural and historical Scottish link.

This space of the imagination and real cultural interaction remains potentially fluid. While unionism in the past has been associated with narrow triumphalism and religious dogma, such influences are on the wane even if the pace appears frustratingly slow. To be out of step with wider liberalising currents in the UK is to invite embarrassment  that peculiar relative in the attic of the Union. But any attempt to distil the essence of unionism in more neutral, dry, constitutional relationships, obligations or even economic interests does not address the more fundamental cultural factors that define each group.

Recommended May says it is now up to EU to prevent hard border on Irish visit

My unionist culture is part of a broader British culture which I unapologetically embrace. It has no truck with discriminatory sectarian practices, which some have uncharitably labelled the very lifeblood of unionism. But the idea that unionist culture is shallow, based on economic supremacy and a hangover from a colonial presence, still prevails.

The 1998 Good Friday Agreement that ended the Troubles recognises the importance of culture in acknowledging differences between the two major traditions in Northern Ireland. But after 20 years, the hoped-for generation of an emergent civic culture bridging the ethnic divide has failed to appear.

While unionism pragmatically saw the deal on the whole as the best available, republicanism sees the agreement as a transitional step towards full Irish political unification. The result has been difficulty in moving beyond a war of cultural attrition; the potential fluidity of identities has been frozen.

What is needed is a notion of two identities embedded within a culture of openness and dialogue that is not closed to the potentially new, novel and unexpected. In re-imagining itself, unionism must think beyond a Sinn Fein projection of cultural superiority and its cool reception to the idea of British-Irish identity. To engage effectively in cultural debate, unionism needs to have a more considered and long-term strategy.

Sinn Feins call to join in building a new Ireland (as opposed to a united Ireland) with a rainbow of identities, is a soft approach which gives unionism cause to be sceptical. And the way republicans have denigrated unionist tradition, portraying it as a stereotypical sectarian monolith, is frequently criticised by seasoned political commentators and academics. But this is not to deny that certain unionist voices can also be insulting towards nationalist culture.

Unionists need to set out their own stall. First they must assert their own brand of Irishness which is infused with Britishness as well. This involves more than recognising that the Irishness of Catholics requires legitimate expression in Northern Ireland  it must include the belated appropriation of Irishness as a constituent part of the Protestant unionist identity too. Engaging with current debates about identity and belonging in Brexit Britain is a substantial but vital challenge for unionism, whose past record has been poor.

Northern Ireland is often dismissed as a place apart, ignoring the historical bonds and close cultural relationship with Britain. But identities can become static if theyre not open to change as circumstances alter. Here unionism has not adapted well; it has to engage in the debate over what defines Britishness in an increasingly diverse society. A positive and less defensive case must be made for the Union.

 Irish Deputy Prime Minister Simon Coveney says a hard border with Northern Ireland won't work

Difference can be celebrated and respected, but it must be accompanied by shared values. The argument that British and Irish are not mutually exclusive categories needs strong voices as the Republic of Ireland calls on unionism in uncertain Brexit times to throw in its lot with an evolving nation on a different European trajectory. Any response must go beyond saving the Union for unionists and make a case to the middle ground of Northern Irish Catholic opinion, which lack of vision has almost squandered.

The prospect of a prosperous, secular, multicultural and Eurocentric Republic of Ireland is a strong one. The watchwords of any counter offer must be courtesy, due recognition of cultural difference, reasonableness and compromise. And not sweating the small stuff. For unionism, circling the wagons is not an option. It will more likely survive through kind words than belligerence.

Returning recently to Ireland from a foreign trip I presented my British passport to a border official at Dublin airport. Glancing at it, he said, Welcome home sir. Those three kind words did more to waken my Irish roots than three decades of armed IRA struggle.

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Disputes over flags, marching and place names are of course emotive, but the high ground does not promote parades that are not welcomed by locals. It does not seek to insult. It contemplates compromise on Gaelic language rights and sees advantages in the rich and varied cultures of the UK.

As Brexit sees the middle ground of those open to such ideas recede further, the leader of political unionism, Arlene Foster, has begun to change tack with outreaching gestures that reclaim the civic dimension of unionism with a more inclusive citizenship and rights agenda. But whether such belated and slow-moving attempts will be enough to lead on to a necessary reframing of unionism has yet to play out.

A unionist response has been too long in the making. Moderate unionism must reassert itself, because adhering staunchly to an identity bound up in the past has outlived its sell-by date.

William Neill is visiting professor at the Centre for Irish Studies, QUB and emeritus professor of spatial planning, University of Aberdeen

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article here.A priest in Dublin has stood aside while an investigation into historical allegations takes place, a spokeswoman for the Diocese of Dublin has said.

The allegations relate to several decades ago and is not connected to the parish where he currently serves.

Standing aside does not imply the truth or falsehood of what is being investigatedDiocese of Dublin

In a statement, the Diocese of Dublin said: In line with Church Policy on Safeguarding Children, a parish priest of Dublin has voluntarily stood aside from his position because of concerns brought

to the Diocese and reported to the Gardai.

The information received relates to several decades ago and is not connected to the parish.

Standing aside does not imply the truth or falsehood of what is being investigated.

It allows an appropriate investigation by relevant Church and State authorities to take place.

Anyone who, at any time, may have concerns or information regarding the safety of children should contact the Child Safeguarding and Protection Service of the Diocese on 01 8360314.

As the matter remains the subject of investigation by State and Church authorities, the Archdiocese will not be confirming the identity of the priest or the parish where he served.According to a statement given to police by the victim's wife, Sikandar was stabbed by his nephews Rakesh and Cheenu.

The police were informed by the hospital that Sikandar had died wile undergoing treatment, a senior police official said, adding since the victim sustained severe injuries, the hospital had declared him unfit to make a police statement. (Representational image)

New Delhi: A 29-year-old man was stabbed to death in front of his wife allegedly by his nephews at JJ camp in south Delhi's Tigri, following which one of the accused was arrested, the police said on Saturday.

According to a statement given to police by the victim's wife, Sikandar was stabbed by his nephews Rakesh and Cheenu around 12.45 am on Friday.

The police were informed about the incident around 1 am, following which police personnel reached the spot. But by the time they arrived there, the victim was taken to a hospital.

Around 5.45 am on Friday, the police were informed by the hospital that Sikandar had died wile undergoing treatment, a senior police official said, adding since the victim sustained severe injuries, the hospital had declared him unfit to make a police statement.

A case has been registered in connection with the incident and one of the accused, Cheenu, was arrested, the police said.Joe Gilmore says the airport is 80pc reliant on the UK and Brexit is potentially catastrophic. Photo: Keith Heneghan / Phocus

It's all go at Ireland West Airport, or Knock as it is known locally in Co Mayo. There's a frisson of excitement about the place and managing director Joe Gilmore is upbeat about the exposure the airport will get from the arrival of Pope Francis later this month. He will fly into the airport on August 26 for an hour-long visit to the nearby Knock Shrine.

"It's obviously going to be tremendous event," said Gilmore.

"It's like a culmination of what the airport was put here for in the first place - it's the closing of a chapter started by the visionary Monsignor James Horan," he added.

Monsignor Horan was the man behind the controversial construction of the airport back in the 1980s on a "foggy, boggy hill" as one politician described the location of it at the time.

But Gilmore isn't taking much credit for securing the visit of the Pope later in the month.

"From an airport point of view we had little input. It's all down to the Archbishop and Father Richard Gibbons of Knock Shrine that convinced the powers that be in Rome.

"While it's symbolic and great to have him fly into the airport, it was all down to the shrine really," he said.

The Pope's arrival coincides with a transformational time at the airport.

It is undergoing a facelift as part of a 15m investment which is being spent on new passenger facilities, terminal upgrades and infrastructural works across the airport facility and runway.

The runway investment alone is 12m, with 75pc of that funding coming from the Exchequer.

But the infrastructure upgrade is needed, explained Gilmore.

"The base infrastructure of the airport is over 30 years old and we are now in the process of upgrading the runway - we are at the pre-planning stage with that," he said.

"The contract is out to tender and the expectation is that the contract will be awarded in the next few weeks to the successful bidder - you're talking about the usual international players like BAM, Lagan, CRH and Colas - the main infrastructure firms that are involved in the development of our other airports, like Dublin and Cork.

"That's why investment in the regions from the Exchequer is important, because airports like ourselves don't have the funds for major capital investment. We can fund our operational and overhead costs for the most part. The Taoiseach visited here recently and was very upbeat about the future and we have to acknowledge the support from Government," he added.

While Ireland West Airport it is not state-owned, it does receive state aid under the Public Policy Remit Operational Expenditure Subvention Scheme.

A development fee of 10 is charged to all departing passengers from the airport who are aged over 12 years, and this money supports the day-to-day operations.

Pre-tax profits at the company that operates Ireland West Airport Knock in 2016 increased more than fivefold to 642,788, according to the most recently available accounts.

In a record-breaking year for the airport, passenger numbers increased by 7pc or 48,000 to 733,869 as revenues increased by 3pc to 12.6m.

The airport is now experiencing strong growth figures, but there were much leaner times during the recession, says Gilmore.

"I joined the airport in 2009 and the recession was in full flow," he says.

"We didn't have any job losses, but we had to look at a voluntary redundancy programme at the time. And in fairness to staff they took pay cuts and we had to pare back on costs anywhere we could.

"Our core business with the UK remained strong, because in a strange way we benefited from people commuting to work there.

"Then the tourism business benefited from the lower Vat rate and business began to grow from that. It's swings and roundabouts. I can't commend the staff enough for their work through it - it was three or four years of focusing on survival. Our core customers also stuck by us. There's a strong brand here and with low-cost travel and easy access to markets it has grown," he says.

He added that the value it brings to the regions is well recognised now as endorsed by the investment from local authorities.

"We employ close to 200 people here and onsite there's another 50 to 60 people employed through the airlines, car hire, etc. So, from a local perspective, we're quite a big employer," Gilmore says.

He added that there's about another 1,000 jobs supported downstream - from suppliers to the airport, the tourism sector, food sector and hotels.

Last year over 200,000 passengers flew into the airport and stayed in the region for an average of five days.

They spent 150m locally, says Gilmore adding that the data is tracked closely.

He added that the Wild Atlantic Way has been a great boost for the airport, as it serves as a central access point, particularly from the UK where the airport gets all-year business.

"There are nine cities served from the UK and we've seen big increases in the past four or five years. Even this year, we're are seeing strong numbers," he says.

Passenger numbers at the airport have grown by 20pc over the past five years and Gilmore is hopeful it will get close to 800,000 by the end of this year.

The longer-term plan is that by 2024/25, the airport would have secured an investor and would be in a position to stand alone financially.

However, it would continue to seek Exchequer funding for infrastructure upkeep and development.

Airport executives sat down with Government officials in 2014/2015 and developed a 10-year growth plan in association with the Department of Transport and seven local authorities. Following on from that, the authorities took a 17.5pc stake and invested 7m. This was completed last year.

The Horan International Trust owns the remaining stake.

But Gilmore said the airport is looking for outside investors who would come on board as a development partner and be willing to take a longer-term look at a return on investment.

"The type of investor we are talking about is one who would come in and actively promote the region, tourism and economic development. You are looking at a 10- to 15-year period before you would see returns on this type of investment. It's more suited towards a pension fund maybe," he added.

The longer-term objective also includes growing passenger figures and to get the figure well north of one million, maybe 1.5 million, by 2024/2025.

The airport is also looking at new markets.

So could passengers by flying to Paris from Knock in 2019? It's possible.

Gilmore added that airport executives are talking to airlines such as Aer Lingus and Ryanair about Germany and France - with Frankfurt, Dusseldorf and Paris as potential destinations that could be reopened and added to existing strong markets such as Spain, Portugal and Italy.

The airport also has a co-operation agreement with Stewart Airport in New York and has charter services going to Boston and New York for the past few years, with the US another potential growth market.

Of course, there are challenges - and top of the list is Brexit.

"So far, no, there hasn't been a Brexit bite. I think the challenge with Brexit is the uncertainty and obviously our business is about 80pc dependent on the UK - so anything to do with UK trade or traffic could have a serious impact on us.

"As we get closer to the deadline we are taking all the steps we can, contingencies if there's going to be increased security checks, immigration and on that side we're looking at what infrastructure requirements there might be.

"From a west of Ireland and from a SME perspective, Brexit presents the biggest risk over the next few years and if there is what they are terming a hard Brexit and if the UK crashes out in March there is a significant risk of major disruption to the aviation sector in the short term.

"That could be potentially catastrophic for us, but how it manifests itself remains to be seen. If we couldn't provide our services there would be an impact on employment, tourism. We believe the business model is still strong, but if there are legal, or safety situations that would not permit flights then that would be the worst-case scenario.

"But we don't expect a catastrophic outcome and we remain hopeful that the political powers will find a way to allow that not to happen," he adds.

Gilmore appears to be a natural optimist and he is focusing on his vision for the future, maybe taking a lead from the Monsignor himself.

"My idea for Ireland West Airport in 2025 is that we would have passed well over one million customers, we would have an additional 10 to 12 routes into Europe and also direct access, at least direct seasonal access, to the US through Stewart, and potentially other airports."

He adds that there are other potential development prospects at the airport.

Last year a 300-acre land bank around the airport was designated as an Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) and there's a full SDZ planning scheme being developed by Mayo County Council that will go to consultation later in the year for the region.

"That gives certainty around planning for aviation-related and other commercial businesses.

"It will give people an incentive to come in and invest in ancillary services like aviation-related businesses like maintenance and repairs businesses, maybe flight training schools. In relation to that, there's a reason to believe we could have a small hotel being built here. I'd like to think by 2025 there would be another 1,000 to 2,000 jobs located in the vicinity of the airport if we can get the right mix."

It might now seem hard to believe that Ireland West Airport was once scoffed at for its location on a 'boggy hill' and was the butt of many jokes.

"In my past I worked down in Shannon in the industrial park with GE and I admired what they achieved there.

"There's no reasons why airports can't act as gateways or enablers for other businesses and I think there's great opportunity," he says.Forecourt operator Maxol has opted to build housing instead of a petrol station at another of its key sites in Dublin.

The Irish petrol retailer has applied for planning permission to build 29 residential units at a prominent site it owns in the centre of Saggart village, in south west Dublin.

The plan follows a similar proposal by Maxol to construct a new five-storey, 90-unit apartment building in place of a prominent petrol station it operates in Sandymount in Dublin 4.

That proposal would see the petrol station and a nearby car dealership demolished.

Maxol - which is owned by the McMullan family - is one of the largest petrol retailers in the country, with 230 service stations, half of them owned by the company.

Maxol has made a big push into the booming food services business, but has also established a "fighting fund" for potential acquisitions.

Booming property prices driven by a housing shortage are likely to have caught the eye of the petrol retailer. New figures last month showed that property continued to rise at double-digit rates with prices at national level increasing by 12.4pc in May over the last year. Warnings of a slowdown in residential property prices in Dublin came to fruition with prices up 10.7pc in May compared to 13pc in April.

If approved by South Dublin County Council, the Saggart scheme will see the refurbishment of a pub and its change of use to an office.

The plans to build four apartment blocks also include two retail units.

The local authority has already agreed to allow the application to include a portion of land it owns itself in exchange for the provision of some social housing on the site.Not too long now until Paschal Donohoe's next Budget or, as I call it, 'Oscar Night' for accountants.

The Tax Strategy Group (TSG) is a government think tank chaired by Donohoe's Department of Finance, with its membership comprising senior people from a number of civil service offices. Their Budget 2019 papers were published recently in line with the Government's commitment to facilitate informed discussion.

The TSG is not a decision-making body and the papers contain a list of options and issues to be considered in the Budgetary process. As I've always said, consultation with us decreases consternation among us, and we'll see more of this as the year progresses.

These papers cover all tax heads and some other policy issues, but some points stand out including one I discussed in this column recently: the rate of Capital Gains Tax (CGT). The TSG estimates that "in the absence of behavioural change", each 1pc reduction in the CGT rate would reduce yield by about 34m annually.

Here's the thing, behaviours do change. Remember the economist John Maynard Keynes's dictum: "When the facts change, I change my mind. What do you do, sir?"

This is something that is recognised by TSG. It explains that CGT can result in delays in selling investments that have large unrealised gains. Therefore, people can hold assets too long which can reduce economic growth because it blocks the beneficial shifting of resources from lower- to high-value uses. This can be problematic for small startup companies, because investors may have a reduced incentive to sell investments in favour of newer companies' offerings.

It continues that reduced CGT can encourage entrepreneurship. Low taxes also boost outside investment from those not directly involved in the management of companies because their reward for taking risks on unproven young companies is a possible gain years from now.

On the flip side, the TSG notes that arguments against reducing the rate are "also compelling". It recognises the possibility of an initial rise in tax revenue from a CGT rate reduction, but argues that it might be transitory based only on the increased sell-offs immediately after the change.

A reduced rate may also bring forward asset sales that would have happened anyway. It continues that a reduction in the tax rate would further undermine the progressivity of the tax system "because relatively wealthy individuals tend to receive capital income".

The TSG argues that quantifying the above is difficult since investors' behaviour would inevitably change. It argues that a rate reduction would incentivise investors to take returns of capital gains rather than income and "may spawn" economically inefficient schemes to disguise income as capital gains for tax purposes.

Okay, I get that, but there are significant anti-avoidance provisions to counter such activity. And, if all else fails, then a tax advantage can be removed by the General Anti-Avoidance Rule (GAAR) where it was "reasonable to consider" that something was done primarily to achieve a tax advantage. There's a whole book on the GAAR but modesty prevents mentioning its author.

So let's play devil's advocate here: a rate reduction could bring cash into the Exchequer today rather than tomorrow. Bringing sales forward which would have happened anyway means that there is a de facto Exchequer reduction given the lower rate - but how far into the future would we wait for that cash because the time value of money matters?

The TSG notes the wealthy may benefit but regular readers of this column will know Nobel prize-winning economist Myron Scholes's maxim: "Success is achieved when the tax rules subsidise activities that benefit society as a whole more than they benefit the individuals engaging in the activities."

There are so many causes that need cash now rather than cash tomorrow and I don't have to list them here. Cash eats good intentions for breakfast.

So the TSG outlines a number of options: (1) introduce a 30pc rate over one or two budgets, ie a 3pc rate reduction (estimated cost: 102m, which ignores a behavioural change ie the 34m explained earlier x 3); and (2) move to a 25pc rate over a two- or four-year period (estimated cost: 272m, ie 34m x 8).

A two-tier rate isn't considered because it would add complexity and could encourage holding assets of preferred types etc.

The TSG's "alternative" to changing rates involves a more targeted approach. They say that if the specific policy option aim is to improve the environment for the formation or maintenance of business activity, then changes at a sectoral level may be more appropriate. At that level it's considered that a reduced rate of CGT can reward entrepreneurship and innovation and TSG suggests a change to Entrepreneur Relief.

Right now that relief allows a 10pc CGT rate on chargeable gains arising on a disposal of qualifying business assets up to a lifetime limit is 1m. Suggested options include increasing the lifetime limit to 5m, 10m, or 15m or indeed a level somewhere between these amounts.

The respective cost of increasing the limits is 49m, 54m and 56m respectively in a full year. The paper notes that the cost to the Exchequer of introducing a 15m lifetime limit is lower than the cost of a 3pc reduction in the overall rate. The UK's current limit is way beyond our current one and you have to remember the basic UK CGT rate is currently 20pc with 28pc applying in certain instances.

So why not combine the TSG suggestions - ie reduce the rate and improve the regime?

On income tax, the TSG explains the Universal Social Charge (USC) is a component factor in our top marginal tax rates of 52pc for all income over 70,000 and 55pc for non-PAYE income over 100,000. High marginal tax rates are a virus which can infect international competitiveness. The TSG suggests reducing the USC's highest rate (8pc on income of 70,000 plus) and increasing lower rate thresholds could improve Ireland's comparative competitive advantage. It also suggests increasing the standard income tax rate band thereby raising the entry point to the higher income tax rates. So let's do that.

You know the line from the movie Jaws: "We're gonna need a bigger boat." In the meantime, let's rock the one we have.

Tom Maguire is a tax partner in DeloitteEntrepreneur Matt McCann, from Celbridge, Co Kildare, got the idea to start the firm after a frustrating experience at a hotel in London. Photo: Frank McGrath

It's easy to see how the likes of Tripadvisor and other travel review websites and apps have revolutionised the travel market, but given the special requirements of travellers with disabilities, it was only a matter of time before a tailored service popped up.

There are already a few, but Maynooth-based Access Earth has blazed a trail by starting out with a global rather than just a local focus.

It provides users with information about the accessibility of hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions the world over based on ratings given by other users with disabilities. It generates its income mainly via affiliate fees from bookings made to accessible hotels and restaurants that its users decide to purchase.

"We couldn't really be local with a name like Access Earth," says Matt McCann, who hails from Celbridge, Co Kildare.

"What we found when I was looking around to see what other people were trying in the area, was that it was difficult for them to maybe get out of their own local area.

"With Access Earth we'd came up with this immediate global focus and decided to go straight for it and just see what we can do.

"So far than it's been received really well we've gotten good traction in the US and got good contacts from in Scandinavia and Australia. So it is living up to its name."

The company now has 5,000 registered users who together have rated over 80,000 places globally. It has partnered with the two largest veteran associations in the US, and was selected as one of the Top 40 Accessibility Practices at the United Nations Zero Project earlier this year.

Matt also reached the grand final of the Best Young Entrepreneur competition, where he won the Google Award and, with that, a spot on Google's Adopt a Startup Programme for this coming August.

But the other key to the success of Access Earth may well be down to its status as a social enterprise.

There are a lot of misconceptions about what constitutes a social enterprise, but the broadest definition is a business that trades in order to provide essential services or tackle specific problems in society or environmental issues.

But the main question for founders like Matt starting out is whether they should structure them like charities or like regular businesses.

The answer depends on each social enterprise; some are set up as charities or not-for-profits, while others are for-profits but any surpluses are usually reinvested back in pursuit of the social objectives of the enterprise rather than paid as dividends to individual shareholders.

For Matt, who has cerebral palsy, the idea to start the firm came after a frustrating experience in London where he had booked a hotel online that was ostensibly accessible only to find on his arrival that there were steps up to the entrance, which mean that he couldn't get his rollator into the room.

This was during his time at Maynooth University doing an IT conversion Hdip (after getting a degree in Computer Science from TCD). "After that I went on to do a Masters in software engineering, and once I graduated I set up Access Earth because I knew if I went and got a job somewhere else I would regret not giving Access Earth a go."

But setting Access Earth as a for-profit made more sense to him than as a charity in order to make it a sustainable, enduring business.

"Starting out I had that choice, to make it a not-for-profit or a what we now term as 'profit with purpose' and I found that was the profit for purpose approach was an easier option for me because it opened up better funding opportunities.

"Initially, I just wanted to get more information out there and then the second step was to ask, how can I make this sustainable? Because that's the key really, isn't it? We wanted to be there for people and not just to go away after a couple of years."

He adds that many people assume that the firm is a not-for-profit, "but in a way that's an advantage in that we do get an immediate buy-in".

"They see what we're doing and the reason why we're doing it, and then we clarify that we want this to be a sustainable business and are we're keen to set up partnerships and all that kind of thing."

Getting initial funding was still a challenge, however. "I'm from a computer science background. It took a while for me to kind of get my head around the business management side and what constituted a sustainable revenue model.

"That was the biggest challenge we had initially to get that down on paper so that we could get the buy in, and then to get people to see this was a commercial opportunity behind us as well.

"I think we've struck a nice balance now I think at this stage, but in the beginning ... we were chopping and changing with different revenue streams.

"The biggest challenge we had was telling that story from a commercial angle."

The company, which currently employs two part-timers alongside Matt, but hopes to expand the team to five by the end of the year, is currently in receipt of both Local Enterprise Office and Enterprise Ireland Competitive Start Fund funding. It is also working to complete a seed investment round by the end of the year where it is looking to raise in the region of 550,000.

Although the app and website depends mainly on its users providing accessibility insights from their travels, Access Earth is looking at supplementing that with artificial intelligence and machine learning help to verify this information.

In addition, it is partnering with local organisations "where we would get representatives from these organisations to go out and map areas of their city that they feel need more information, and from that we're able to get some good business buy-in as well".

It is also working on linking up with global sporting events such as the Paralympics.

"I can't reveal a lot at this stage but we're currently in negotiations with some of the highest-profile competitions in the world," he says.

On a day-to-day level, Matt most enjoys talking to people about Access Earth.

He admits that networking didn't come naturally to him, but it's much easier now that he has a compelling story to tell.

"It was something that I felt I had to learn quite quickly, but I realised that you know once you have a story to tell and that you have that passion for what you do, then it will come across when you're talking to people and reflect well on you."Fittingly for an Alpine country, Switzerland offers a mountain of opportunity for Irish businesses. Although small, at just over half the size of Ireland, Switzerland is highly business-focused, boasting the second-highest gross domestic product (GDP) per capita in the world.

Its manufacturing sector includes many names with an Irish presence.

These include ABB Technologies, a global leader in power, robotics and automation technology, and Liebherr, one of the world's largest manufacturers of construction machinery, helping to shape technological advances.

The development and implementation of digital applications is supported by the country's infrastructure, data governance, education and workforce, subsidies, and other factors. This requires a comprehensive and reliable supply chain, creating opportunities, particularly for companies developing smart manufacturing and industrial internet of things (IIoT) solutions.

Ralf Gunthner, senior partner at Swiss consultancy Team-Factory, said: "Most technology companies in Switzerland are aware of the value IIoT and digitalisation could create for them.

"Developing a new mindset and holistic approach, combining technology, organisational changes and human behaviours, as well as building up a strong ecosystem, would boost value realisation."

Ireland's IoT industry is one of the most dynamic in the world, with companies largely focused on the industrial space, and providing software, platforms, sensors, integrated circuits, antennas, and more.

It targets a range of sectors including manufacturing, transport, logistics and engineering.

Enterprise Ireland hosted a trade mission to Zurich in June to help Irish companies explore IIoT opportunities in Switzerland. Over two days, 10 Irish companies engaged with industry associations, visited Swiss world-class manufacturers, and attended targeted workshops.

Swiss multinational Schindler was one company Irish attendees visited. It is well known for its elevators, escalators, and moving walkways, carrying both people and materials, and connecting vertical and horizontal transport systems through intelligent mobility solutions. Schindler's futuristic Port Technology lab showcases ideas for innovative new transit management systems and urban living concepts.

Based in Zurich, ETH University is famous for cutting-edge research in microelectronics and robotics, and is one of the world's top 10 institutions. Enterprise Ireland collaborated with ETH to host a workshop that brought together Irish companies and Swiss industry experts.

Compelling questions addressed included: How do machines optimally collect and share data with other machines? How can they operate with increasing autonomy?

Which applications are most impacting the development of IIoT and Machine-to-Machine (M2M)? How can opportunities for suppliers of everything from antennae and chips, to sensors and software, be captured?

Enterprise Ireland's Dusseldorf office is focused on helping IoT companies identify and exploit opportunities arising from the digitalisation of Swiss industry, and across the wider German-language region.

We are extending this to actively promote Ireland as a technology provider for the IIoT value chain.

Technology business consultant Brigid O'Donovan facilitates collaboration between world-class Swiss and Irish technology organisations and believes there is huge potential: "Both countries are well positioned to take advantage of the productivity and economic growth opportunities of digitalisation."

To further scale those opportunities, Enterprise Ireland will host a series of targeted events including, in October, a cross-sectoral trade mission to the Zurich area entitled 'The digitalisation of work'.

There is a significant opportunity for Irish companies to be part of Switzerland's enhanced value chain. That is a summit worth achieving.

Jens Altmann is a market adviser based in Enterprise Ireland's Dusseldorf officeFarms are valuable assets and, as with any business, maximising the value from that asset makes good commercial sense. Dairy farmers, in particular, make their money from the milk produced. But the holy grail for some farmers is to make the transition from traditional farming to further up the value chain. If they can produce saleable products that utilise the asset and the manpower of the people, that has to be a good thing.

Of course, that's easier said than done. However, there are countless success stories of iconic Irish agri-businesses that are now significant brands on the world stage. Kerry Group, Glanbia, Dawn Foods and Queally meats all started on an Irish farm.

From Caterpillar to Butterfly

Wexford man Nicholas Dunne considers himself to be very fortunate. This humility is genuine. But in my view, it masks the real drive, passion and entrepreneurship that has turned his family farm into a powerhouse for making yogurt. After spending a year in Australia, Nicholas returned in 1991 to take over the family farm of 80 Friesian cows from his dad, Tom Dunne. Within five years, he built the stock to 200 cows. He immersed himself in learning by being on the board of Wexford Creamery, doing a one-year part-time diploma in corporate direction in UCC and visiting Kerry Foods' plants in the US.

This opened his eyes and made him realise the 'art of the possible' and that there were other ways to get a return on his investment, time and effort. Nicholas the entrepreneur started to explore other options.

The Killowen Purchase Milestone

When your lifetime is spent around dairy cows, the business ideas obviously centre on milk. Nicholas investigated and just as quickly turned away from cheese, frozen yogurt, ice-cream and more.

In 2003, his sister Pauline (who now works with him in a sales and marketing role) told him about a local yogurt-maker called Killowen that was closing down. That evening Nicholas made contact with the owners and within days he was in the yogurt business. It seemed that all the time spent exploring his options was paying off.

Paul and Laura Kinsella, the previous owners, were passionate about quality and Killowen had been a premium product since the 1980s. After renting their premises for a year, Nicholas moved the plant to its current site, the Dunne family farm. This was essential for control and to reduce the transporting of milk. It also removed the split focus on two locations. The next couple of years were a huge learning curve for production, quality control, dealing with state agencies and banks, sales, marketing and so on.

Strategy and Scones at the Kitchen Table

By now the business was expanding at pace. Pallas Foods became an important customer for their food service division, which put the Killowen brand into hotels across Ireland. The large multiple retailers also became very interested and the brand is now listed in many of the leading chains around Ireland.

All major meetings and decisions are made at the kitchen table of the original family home. Nicholas' mother and father greet every visitor with a cup of tea and a scone. I myself was charmed on my visit with their warmth and hospitality. Inside, the kitchen is like a time warp, yet across the yard is a sophisticated and modern facility making the creamiest and best-tasting yogurt I've ever come across. A retail buyer was so intrigued that he took photos to share with his colleagues back home.

Scaling Up

Two significant milestones are worth mentioning. One is the debate around private label. Many retailers like to have a product with their own label which they promote heavily. Nicholas's view is that it brings volume and cash to the business. That then gives him the resources to invest in his own brand. For me, any company in this situation ought to consider this seriously. I guess the percentage split between private and own label is the watch-out for the long term.

Secondly, Fine Foods Eire is a Dubai-based agency specialising in introducing Irish produce to the Middle East and Far East markets. Nicholas gives full credit to it for Killowen Yogurt now being available in the Burj Al Arab in Dubai and in the first-class cabin of Emirates airline. That company is marching east and has secured listings for Killowen in Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Japan.

The Last word to Nicholas

Nicholas acknowledges that there were many times during the years that were particularly tough. Cash has been tight, but the farm as an asset was a great cushion for bank borrowing. He has no problem giving personal guarantees to whoever he owes money to, as he sees it almost as a moral duty to honour debts.

His one piece of advice is to ensure you partner up only with people that have a mutual ambition for success. For him that includes Enterprise Ireland, Teagasc, Bord Bia, bankers and accountants. He lives and breathes win-win thinking. That, of course, requires trust and reciprocal thinking.It seems that the National Broadband Plan isn't dead. Yes, SSE won't be replaced. But the Government is now satisfied that it doesn't need to be.

In SSE's place, a number of senior network architects and designers have come in to take charge of designing and building a rural broadband network that will reach 540,000 rural businesses and homes.

These include senior former executives from North American networks, including Canada's biggest telecoms company, Rogers Telecom.

They appear to have convinced key Department of Communications figures, up to and including Communications Minister Denis Naughten, that they can handle the network build.

Against the backdrop of incessant criticism over the SSE departure, people close to the process in government and in industry are now insistent that the planning and construction process is moving forward.

Some even say that things have improved in recent weeks.

In the last few days, the most public declaration of this was from Business Minister Heather Humphreys, who said that a contract (with Enet) is expected to be signed next month, despite the departure of SSE.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has backed this position up.

And the Government is internally planning a launch date of September 16 for the announcement of Enet as the winner of the state-backed competition.

So how come SSE's departure is being handled like it's no big deal?

The answer may lie in the manner by which SSE faded out of the process.

From talking to those close to the process on all sides, my understanding is that SSE had gradually disengaged from a technical partnership role earlier this year. Instead, the Scottish energy giant had drifted into an equity backup position.

That was still useful: SSE has revenues of some 40bn a year. It's a huge company with lots of money.

But then a handful of things happened that created internal difficulties within the consortium, including the departure of former chief executive Conal Henry in February.

So SSE started to lose enthusiasm for the project. Along the way, insufficient progress on a project plan that SSE and Enet had publicly embarked on - a private regional fibre broadband network that would connect 115,000 homes and businesses.

(The two companies, led by David McCourt and Stephen Wheeler, even got Minister Denis Naughten to launch the project in his own constituency last September, as it was in western towns that the fibre network was to be built.)

So with insufficient progress on the network they had committed to and interest in the NBP's machinations waning, SSE finally said goodbye.

One key question that arises now is finance. The Department appears to believe that Enet still possesses the technical know-how and capability to build the rural network out.

But it's not clear (at all) how (or who) the equity and finance is being backed up.

SSE was an anchor. Who might step in to cover that position? Does anyone need to or is Enet's (wealthy, but maybe not that wealthy) American boss David McCourt preparing new financial backing? John Laing is a consortium partner, but may not want to expand its exposure.

One wouldn't doubt the hustling or organisational ability of McCourt to put together new backers. At this stage, he must already have done that or the bid, presumably, would be in meltdown.

These details will be in Enet's final submission to government, which is due in the next three weeks.

One thing that seems definitely off the table is any enhanced structural role for Eir.

Eir executives have dismissed the notion, as have other insiders around the process.

However, Eir still has a pivotal role to play in the overall operational success of the network rollout.

Policy makers and network planners remain worried about a standoff between Eir and Enet over how much Eir would charge Enet to cross its rural network (using its poles). There isn't really any way around Eir's network, partially because of the way the incumbent telco set up its own 300,000-home rural fibre network. (This was the tranche of semi-rural homes that Eir sliced off the state's original 840,000 intervention area, which ultimately resulted in Siro and Eir leaving the NBP process because of the difficulty in connecting the remaining 540,000.)

Eir says there's an existing regulated price set by ComReg and that Enet has to cough up the full price. Enet says that's ridiculous, that the regulated price was created with an entirely different set of competitive conditions in mind, before any notion of a state-subsidised rural network was even imagined.

The key players here are the Government and ComReg. The Government wants Eir to compromise on the price and is talking about legislation to force them to do it. It's possible that ComReg could get more powers over Eir as part of this legislative push, something Eir really wouldn't want.

So that question could come down to a strategic decision by Eir's new owners as to how much they want to be at loggerheads with the Government.

If it's not resolved, Enet's subsidy from the taxpayer may need to be considerably larger.

On the other hand, Eir knows that the Government is desperate to get this process into construction. It's a fair bet that the Government will be willing to pay Eir more so as not to occasion more delays.

No matter how anyone around the process spins it, time is at a greater premium than money right now.

I think Paddy Power would set odds that this will still proceed, despite all the setbacks. But it's going to be close.Entrepreneur Frank Salmon's technology-distribution firm is working to a five-year growth plan that aims to double its sales to 1bn.

CMS Distribution, which is headquartered in Kiltimagh, Co Mayo, has also reorganised its Dublin operation, moving a logistics function serving this country and Britain to the UK, and opening a new international sales and support office in Dublin's Smithfield, for which it is recruiting sales people and data scientists.

The business - which employs 350 people across 12 locations here, in Britain, the Netherlands, Sweden, Spain, France, Australia and China - saw record revenues in results announced in May for last year, with turnover up by 38pc to 510m and earnings up by 40pc to 19.6m.

Speaking to the Sunday Independent, Salmon said: "Having achieved this sales record, my management team and I have made a five-year plan, aiming to double our sales to 1bn by the end of 2022."

Asked whether he might consider an IPO of the business at that stage, he added: "If we achieve that, it will open up several options to us. An IPO would be one of those."

The reorganisation in Dublin involved a loss of about 12 jobs in logistics in Ballycoolin, with about 12 new ones in the Smithfield office being created, said Salmon, who is a former EY Entrepreneur of the Year finalist.

Asked whether the business has a strategy for a no-deal Brexit, Salmon added that it could re-open a function here to serve this country if necessary. It already has a warehouse in Amsterdam playing a key logistics role serving continental Europe.

CMS is the largest independent distributor of data storage, networking and IT infrastructure solutions in the UK and Ireland, servicing over 50 manufacturers and 2,800 resellers.

It supplies both business and consumer technologies. This is the firm's 30th year in business.

Last year saw the firm open new offices in Paris, Amsterdam, Stockholm and Madrid. It also acquired emerging technology and accessories distributor TNS Connect from Corkman Liam Casey's company PCH.

Salmon, who is based in the UK, is a sponsor and co-founder of the Junior Entrepreneur Programme here, which teaches children about business. The other co-founders include Tweak.com founder Jerry Kennelly, Netwatch co-founder David Walsh, Ergo Group co-founder John Purdy, and Aspire Technology founder Bill Walsh.Prime Minister Narendra Modi, veteran leader L.K. Advani and Congress president Rahul Gandhi have visited Mr Vajpayee at the hospital since.

New Delhi: Union home minister Rajnath Singh and BJP president Amit Shah visited AIIMS on Saturday evening to enquire about the health condition of former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee, who has been undergoing treatment at the premier institute.

Amit Shah visited AIIMS at around 6.30 pm and Rajnath Singh reached there around 8.15 pm to enquire about Mr Vajpayees health condition, a source at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) said. While there were some reports that the former prime ministers condition had deteriorated further, hospital sources denied those. Mr Vajpayee was admitted to the hospital on June 11 with kidney tract infection, chest congestion, urinary tract infection and urine output on the lower side.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, veteran leader L.K. Advani and Congress president Rahul Gandhi have visited Mr Vajpayee at the hospital since.Getting a bit old: It's 20 years since 'The Lovely Girls' episode aired

Quick fire question: Which is more out of date? The Rose of Tralee or your ready-to-go Father Ted-inspired 'Lovely Girls' joke? It's been over 20 years since the 'Rock a Hula Ted' episode first aired.

The main storyline focused on hot-headed musician Niamh Connolly - based on Sinead O'Connor - but it's the subplot everyone remembers, the bit where Fr Crilly judges the 1996 'Lovely Girls' competition.

Writer Arthur Mathews described the fictional contest as a "low-budget version of the Rose of Tralee" mixed with the Calor-Kosangas Housewife of the Year.

In the show, the 'Lovely Girls' weave between traffic cones like Collie dogs to showcase their Lovely Walks. They demonstrate their Lovely Laughs and take part in a sandwich-making competition in which the crusts must not exceed precise proportions.

And then there is the famous "of course, they all have lovely bottoms" punchline.

The episode satirised what academic Fintan Walsh dubbed the 'homeysexuality' of Irish pageants. He defined that as "domesticated women" who were "devoid of eroticism but integral to the brand concept of Irishness".

And it was an Irishness that was one part Mother Ireland, two parts Comely Maidens lepping at the crossroads. In short, Dev's Dream Girls.

Over the years, Roses have tried to reclaim the "lovely and fair" brand as it appears in the original ballad. The 2014 winner, Maria Walsh, often pointed out that being 'lovely' shouldn't be considered a bad thing.

Sydney Rose Brianna Parkins turned the Fr Ted gag on its head when she referred to Daithi O Se's 'lovely' backside. But in the last few years, Mathews and Graham Linehan's joke seems to be wearing rather thin with the Roses.

"If I hear that one more time," one of the women said in exasperation at this week's ROT launch. Another Rose, Eimear Reynolds from Roscommon, spoke about how the loveliness stereotype had allowed people to underestimate the contest and everyone in it.

Video of the Day

Look, criticising Father Ted wins you no friends. It was a seismic comedy, that both presented and challenged many Irish stereotypes. It was modern, beautifully structured, and laugh-out-loud funny, a comedy that Irish people could actually be proud of.

But the series does have its limitations and its depiction of women is one of them. The female characters are nowhere nearly as nuanced as the men. They can basically be divided into broad categories; domestic drudges, repressed nuns, asexual cailini, and aggressive career women.

Mathews and Linehan would probably argue this reflected the Catholic Church's views of femininity rather than their own. And for a while that was accepted by Irish viewers. Because the pair were criticising and ridiculing Catholicism, they seemed to be woke before it was even really a thing.

But perhaps they were also moulded by the parochial patriarchy in a way they couldn't see. In 'Rock A Hula Ted' - and pretty much every single episode of the comedy - the men deliver practically all the punchlines.

The priests may be caricatures - but there's a huge variety within them - over 80 priests appear across the three series, all with distinct ticks and traits.

The women on the other hand do little more than repeat stock phrases about tea, cake and chocolate. Their roles are limited and limiting.

But because Father Ted is bulletproof, no one really questions the female representation on screen.

In a weird way, through the endless repetition of their parody of the Rose of Tralee, it is now considered a more realistic depiction than the festival itself.

Even if it was a plausible representation 20 years ago, that isn't the case these days.

If you want an inferiority complex, go down to the festival - your typical Rose is either a doctor, or a humanitarian who can play the harp.

But rather than listen to the hundreds of women who have competed in the contest talk about what it means to them, we prefer to rely on Linehan's and Mathews' out-of-date interpretation.

In fact, some use it as an excuse to say the most unbelievably derogatory things about those competing. One year a troll tweeted me saying none of the women "deserved respect" because they were "running around like chimps in the lovely girls contest".

How gross is that? Also, if you're writing off the women on stage as nothing more than lovely airheads, it's no longer a parody.

Your views are just as backward as the society Mathews and Linehan sought to deride. Maybe the festival is more than a 20-year-old joke? Perhaps it's time to stop considering Father Ted the sacred cow of Irish comedy, and for RTE to ease up on the repeats?

Heroz of the bizarro boyband yarn

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I want to take a moment to thank Boyzone. Not only did they give us 'Key to My Life', but they really have gone above and beyond when it comes to gifting the Irish nation with bizarro boyband moments.

They've had falling outs, got in brawls with P Diddy, and set up off-shoot and hybrid boybands, Keith 'N' Shane and BoyzLife.

They've become Panto Kings, featured on Love Island, Celebrity Big Brother, Cirque de Celebrite (that's just Shane) and starred in a feature film once described as a "poor man's version of Mortal Kombat... set in Trim" (I'm looking at you, Mikey Graham).

This week, another gem.

It's been reported that a woman's dream wedding day was ruined after Shane and Keith barrelled into her bridal suite the night before her wedding.

Apparently it was all a terrible, and completely innocent misunderstanding, involving mixed-up key cards but that didn't ease bride-to-be Sarah Martinson's pain.

"On my wedding day, I felt like a zombie... It ruined what was meant to be the most perfect day of my life," she said.

I was sorry to hear that it had all ended so badly for Sarah. Having half a 1990s boyband burst into your room unexpectedly in the early hours of the night must be a bit of a shock to the system.

But surely this was a salvageable situation - she could have had a word with Boyzone's management, and roped them into belting out a few ballads as she wandered down the aisle. Or get them to recreate that infamous Late Late Show performance at the afters. Either way, there wouldn't have been a dry eye in the house.

Tops

Heathers revisited

Winona Ryder and Christian Slater back on the big screen.

Christina in the capital

Exploring her Irish roots and bopping away to 'Dirrty'. A noughties dream.

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Flops

Belter bags

Nowt but a souped-up bumbag.

Ladies Day deja vu

Feels like a never-ending merry-go-round of familiar faces and fascinators.

Say what?

We want people to leave a bit of blood and guts on the floor

Brendan OConnors new chat show sounds... gory.VS Naipaul at his home near Salisbury (Chris Ison/PA)

Nobel Prize winner Sir VS Naipaul died peacefully after reading a poem by Lord Tennyson, his friend Geordie Greig has said.

The editor of the Mail On Sunday, who will soon take over editorship of the Daily Mail, had been friends with the British author for 20 years and was with him at his bedside as he died at the age of 85.

Greig told BBC Radio 4s The World This Weekend that he rushed to be with the writer after a call from his wife Lady Nadira Naipaul.

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He said: It was very moving. I got a call from Nadira to come round and it literally was at his deathbed.

Nadira talked about a poem by Lord Tennyson, Crossing The Bar, which had great resonance and meaning to him and I just turned on my phone and found it and we read it.

He added: He drifted off and it was peaceful and very, very sad but what a life, what an achievement, what a legacy.

The writer, who penned more than 30 books over his lifetime, died at his London home, his family said.

Announcing his death on Saturday night, Lady Naipaul said he had lived a life full of wonderful creativity and endeavour.

Naipaul was famously outspoken throughout his career, and notoriously fell out with author Paul Theroux, whom he had mentored.

Video of the Day

But the pair later reunited, and Theroux spoke fondly of Naipaul as he paid tribute to one of the greatest writers of our time.

He told the Associated Press: He never wrote falsely. He was a scourge of anyone who used a cliche or an un-thought out sentence. He was very scrupulous about his writing, very severe, too.

Greig added that Theroux visited the writer shortly before he died.

Naipaul, whose books often dealt with colonialism and attacked religion, politicians and pillars of the literary establishment, also had a tense relationship with author Salman Rushdie, once describing Ayatollah Khomeinis 1989 fatwa on Rushdie as an extreme form of literary criticism.

In a Twitter post, Rushdie conceded that the pair had disagreed all our lives, about politics, about literature, but added: I feel as sad as if I just lost a beloved older brother. RIP Vidia.

We disagreed all our lives, about politics, about literature, and I feel as sad as if I just lost a beloved older brother. RIP Vidia. #VSNaipaul  Salman Rushdie (@SalmanRushdie) August 12, 2018

In a statement to the Press Association on Saturday night, Lady Naipaul said her husband was a giant in all that he achieved, adding: He died peacefully surrounded by those he loved having lived a life which was full of wonderful creativity and endeavour.

The author was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001 for having united perceptive narrative and incorruptible scrutiny in works that compel us to see the presence of suppressed histories.

The Academy singled out his 1987 work The Enigma Of Arrival, saying he created an unrelenting image of the placid collapse of the old colonial ruling culture and the demise of European neighbourhoods.

Naipaul was knighted in 1990, and won numerous other major writing prizes throughout his life, including the Booker in 1971 and the David Cohen British literature prize in 1993.

His 1961 novel A House For Mr Biswas is regarded by many critics as one of his most influential works.

The book was based on the life of his father Seepersad, who was a reporter for the Trinidad Guardian.

Naipauls books on Islamic fundamentalism  the 1981 work Among The Believers and the 1998 book Beyond Belief  were written after he travelled through non-Arab converted Islamic countries.

His attacks on the religion prompted leading English professor Edward Said to say: It is hard to believe any rational person would attack an entire culture on that scale.

He died peacefully surrounded by those he loved having lived a life which was full of wonderful creativity and endeavourLady Nadira Naipaul

In the 1990s, Naipaul concentrated on non-fiction, and it was in 1994 that his long-awaited novel appeared, A Way In The World, an autobiography and a fictional history of colonialism, presenting stories from the times of Sir Walter Raleigh to the 19th century revolutionary Francisco Miranda.

There developed a decades-long friendship between Naipaul and Theroux, but in an angry and unforgiving book, Sir Vidias Shadow, Naipaul rejected Theroux.

The feud lasted until the pair finally buried the hatchet in 2011, when writer Ian McEwan persuaded them to shake hands at the Hay literature festival.

Theroux told the Associated Press that there had been a great satisfaction in reconnecting, adding: It took him a long time to make his mark, but when he did, it happened in a big way.

Naipaul  whose full name was Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul  was born in Chaguanas, Trinidad, and his family moved to the countrys capital, Port of Spain, when he was six.

It would later become the setting for his first novel, written in 1959 and titled Miguel Street.

In 1948 he won a government scholarship to read English at Oxfords University College, where he suffered a nervous breakdown.

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He married Patricia Hale, whom he met at Oxford in 1955.

She died in 1996 and he went on to marry Lady Naipaul, who was some 20 years his junior, shortly afterwards.

Last month, Naipauls 1971 work In A Free State was shortlisted for the one-off Golden Man Booker, which marked the 50th anniversary of the Booker Prize.

Describing their friendship, Greig said: His prose was as sharp as glass but his kindness was as warm as sunlight, is what I found.

I met him 20 years ago and was as nervous and trepidatious as any journalist who went to see him, as his reputation was as being intolerant and grumpy and even sending journalists packing after a couple of questions as they were inadequately prepared to ask him questions and get answers he felt they deserved.

His wife saw me arrive at the door at his house in Wiltshire and said, Please be kind to Geordie and he was. It was a kindness that lasted 20 years and it was a friendship that went on through many different folds.Danielle McLaughlin was murdered while travelling in Goa

Former Guns N' Roses guitarist Ron 'Bumblefoot' Thal is to donate all the proceeds from a charity gig in Ireland to the family of Danielle McLaughlin.

The 28-year-old Donegal woman was found dead in Goa, India on March 14 2017.

Local man Vikat Bhagat (24) is currently on trial accused of raping and murdering her.

Bumblefoot is due to perform with Donegal band The Midnight Preachers at a charity gig in the Plaza, Buncrana on August 25.

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Speaking on his Facebook page, Bumblefoot said all the proceeds will go towards the McLaughlin family to cover the legal costs for the ongoing trial.

The ex Guns N' Roses man is hosting a guitar camp on Inch Island between August 22 and 26.

"Thinking of holding the first-ever Bumblefoot Music Camp up by the northern coast of Ireland at beautiful Inch Island (an island on the lake that inspired the song Amazing Grace)," he said back in July.

"Will include classes on guitar, vocals, songwriting, business, gear, plus jamming & a gig for a local charity."

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Ms McLaughlin left on a backpacking adventure in February 2017.

She was found dead on March 14, 2017 in the Indian resort of Canacona, where she had been celebrating the Holi festival.

She had severe injuries to her head and face.

Bhagat was charged under Sections 302 (murder), 376 (rape), 394 (robbery) and 201 (destruction of evidence) of the India Penal Code (IPC).

Later Bhagat claimed, in a 29-page letter to his sister, that his three friends murdered Ms McLaughlin.

He claimed that he was in a relationship with the the Donegal woman but on the night of the attack his friends attacked her.

However police told local reporters they have interrogated the three men and their role in the death "cannot be established".An Irish DJ was caught supplying large amounts of cocaine and ecstasy to the Australian party scene. Stock photo

A lawyer who represented an Irish DJ charged with trafficking drugs was previously in court over buying cocaine in a car park.

Stephen Donnelly (37), from Co Meath, was sentenced to six years and nine months at the Supreme Court in Darwin on Wednesday for supplying large amounts of cocaine and ecstasy to the Australian party scene.

Independent.ie can reveal that Donnelly's lawyer, Matthew Hubber, previously pleaded guilty in the Darwin Local Court to buying one gram of cocaine on two separate occasions at different car parks.

Mr Hubber escaped conviction and was sentenced to a 12-month good behaviour bond set at $1,000 (639).

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His lawyer described him as a "decent, reliable, honest and honourable young man".

Judge Sarah McNamara added the "mortification" and "embarrassment" would "significantly deter" him from reoffending in the future, ABC News reported.

The court heard the matter was under consideration by the NT Law Society.

Independent.ie contacted Mr Hubber and the Northern Territory Law Society for comment.

This week, Mr Hubber, who has been representing Donnelly in court over the past number of months, said his client started peddling drugs to "feed his own habit".

He also said Donnelly would suffer more than other inmates during his stint behind bars.

Donnelly previously played in clubs across Ireland before moving to Australia in 2011.

"I totally accept I am an absolute idiot," he said whilst giving evidence at a previous hearing.

Tommy Ransley, a 32-year-old UK national who was leader of the drug syndicate, was also jailed for six years, while French glamour model Sebastian Ducros (24) will be released and deported in October.

Donnelly and Ransley paid Ducros and a Darwin local to pick up a package of 5,000 ecstasy tablets and almost $700,000 (447,595) worth of cocaine hidden in noodle containers, police said.

The pair then travelled back to Darwin and dropped the package at a Darwin CBD storage shed. They were arrested shortly after.

Police said the drug syndicate transported the drugs from Europe into Australia.

A package containing 1.2kg of MDMA pills and 127 grams of cocaine hidden in containers was seized.

"This is another excellent result for Taskforce Nemesis, which is committed to providing a multi-agency approach to combat illicit substances that enter the Territory," Detective Senior Sergeant Stringer said on Northern Territory's Facebook page.

"The message to drug traffickers is simple: Your business is not welcome here, and we will continue to use all resources available to dismantle your trade and bring you to justice.

Police allege that on 8 October, two males traveled to Mount Isa where they collected a package containing drugs.

"The pair then travelled back to Darwin on 11 October and dropped the package at a Darwin CBD storage shed. They were arrested shortly after.

"A third male attended the shed and collected items from the package. Upon doing so, members from Taskforce Nemesis and the Territory Response Group arrested him."An outspoken priest has said that he has received oceans of hate and threats for speaking out in support of the LGBT community.

Fr James Martin will be travelling to Ireland for the first time later this month to speak at the World Meeting of Families event in Dublin and earlier this week a petition calling for him to be disinvited from the event following his pro-LGBT comments gained almost 10,000 signatures.

The petition was started by the Irish branch of Tradition, Family, Property and claimed Fr Martin should not attend as he supports transgenderism for children, and favours homosexuals kissing during the mass.

The organisers of the WMOF have confirmed there will be no change to the current line-up and Fr Martin has said will be speaking on the subject of welcoming LGBT Catholics to the event.

Talking about the backlash he gets for his views, Fr Martin told Independent.ie that he has received oceans of hate and threats, had a few talks cancelled, but said that it does not bother him.

"What kind of Jesuit would I be if I let hatred stop me from loving? he said.

Besides that, homophobia represents a very small percentage of Catholics, and I have the support of my Jesuit superiors, several cardinals, archbishops and bishops, and, also, the majority of the faithful, many of whom have LGBT people in their families.

Speaking about those who send him angry messages, he said: These protesters are not only on the wrong side of history, they're on the wrong side of the Gospel.

Read More

Fr Martin continued to say that he is not bothered by petitions like that.

I've seen them many times before, he said. My book, 'Building a Bridge', is well within church teaching, has the approval of my Jesuit superiors, as well as the endorsement of several cardinals, archbishops and bishops.

But for some people, the idea of treating our LGBT brothers and sisters with the 'respect, compassion and sensitivity' that the Catechism calls for is too much. Love is too much for them. Sadly, there is still a lot of homophobia and hatred in the church.

Fr Martin thinks that even though the Churchs teaching on LGBT rights may not have changed, the Churchs tone certainly has.

To begin with, Pope Francis's famous comment 'Who am I to judge?,' first made about gay priests and then about gays and lesbians in general, was a dramatic shift in tone, he said.

Francis is the first Pope to use the word 'gay'; he met publicly with a gay former student of his and the man's partner; he has appointed more LGBT-friendly bishops and archbishops; and so on. And the Vatican has just begun to use the phrase 'LGBT.' So the tone and the approach are changing, and LGBT people are noticing it.

Fr Martin said that his invitation to speak at Papals event is a clear indication of support to LGBT Catholics from the Vatican: I'm very grateful to the Vatican for inviting me, and even more grateful that they are reaching out to LGBT people in this way.

It's a clear signal from the Vatican to Catholics worldwide that LGBT Catholics are as much a part of the church as the Pope, as their local bishop or their parish priest. LGBT people are part of our families and they're part of our church.

The cleric said that it is very exciting for him to visit Ireland, and spoke about his Irish roots.

He said: It's my first visit to Ireland. And for someone who is half Irish - my father's family is from Screen in County Wexford - it's very exciting.A number of unavailable apartments are being advertised on rental websites

An Irish couple that were duped into handing over 2,046 this month to a false landlord have described the situation as a "nightmare".

Brian (39) and his partner Rory (40) had been living in an apartment in Dublin city centre for eight years when they found themselves looking for somewhere new to live.

The couple claim that they came across a listing on Daft.ie for an apartment on Westland Square, off Pearse Street in Dublin, for 1,000 a month.

After contacting the alleged landlord, who claims to be a 'deputy manager' with Aer Lingus living in Switzerland, the couple were told to transfer the first month's rent and deposit through Airbnb.

"Because the owner said he wasnt in the country, he told us to pay through Airbnb as it was more secure," Brian told Independent.ie.

"We used my partners Airbnb account and wed never had any problems before."

Using a link provided by the seller, the couple transferred 1,000 for the first months rent, 1,000 for the deposit and 46 booking fee to the seller.

"After making the booking we received a reference number from what looked like an Airbnb email account, but we now believe it was a fake link as the site appears to be hacked," Brian said.

"It turns out the bank account we transferred to was located in Germany and the booking was fraudulent."

An email from the seller said they would come to visit the couple after their first month living in the property.

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Whatsapp An email received by the couple in July from the seller about the return of the money

"I listed the apartment to Airbnb now you can book it from 01 August to 01 September. After this month, I will come to know you personally, I hope you understand me and agree with that, because also for us it is the first time when we rented without personally see the new tenant," the email said.

After doing some research online, the couple discovered that the alleged seller had listed multiple properties on various rental sites. The property in question was traced back to the original listing on a verified letting agents website.

The alleged false listing has since been removed from Daft.ie and Rent.ie.

Brian explained that the seller continued to contact them through email after the booking was made and said the money would be returned to them after Brian became suspicious.

Emails seen by Independent.ie show the seller claiming that the Airbnb money would be returned for them to transfer into his bank account instead.

"We felt very stupid in hindsight, but at the time we thought that we had to move. The pictures looked legit, the photos were nice, and we stupidly jumped at it," the couple said.

After further research, Independent.ie discovered that the same email scam has been going around as far back as July last year, using various names.

Read More

Another reader who contacted Independent.ie said they had fallen victim to the same advertisement as Brian, for a property also advertised on Pearse Street.

The man sent money over to the alleged landlord before realising the Airbnb link was fake. Receipts from the page show reviews from alleged holiday-makers who have stayed in the venue, praising the owner's hospitality.

The scammer appears to use the same story, that he is a 'general manager' at Aer Lingus living in Switzerland and wants someone to "look after" his apartment while he is away.

A spokesperson for Aer Lingus confirmed that the 'deputy manager' role does not exist.

"We can confirm that there is no such role as 'deputy manager' at Aer Lingus," a spokesperson told Independent.ie.

The person then uses a fake Airbnb link to retrieve the money from house hunters, with bank accounts registered outside Ireland. The seller is believed to have gone under different names over the past year.

In May, a Reddit user warned against a house listing by a seller with a similar email to the one the couple received this month.

Another user claimed they received the same email in July 2017.

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Brian wants the lesson learned to become a warning for those seeking a place to live in Dublin, particularly as students begin to look for rooms to rent this season.

"Im a working adult and I couldnt afford it, how could a student? Its a nightmare," Brian said.

"Its worrying - how many times has this person done this and succeeded?"

Brian claims a report was filed with Gardai and, although their bank was contacted, they have yet to receive the money back.

"Because we paid with a debit card, the bank couldnt stop the payment. Were 99pc sure that the money has already been withdrawn from the German bank account, unless by some miracle its still there," he said.

Daft.ie recommend that house hunters "be vigilant" when interacting with 'long-distance landlords' and to treat 'sob stories' with caution.

"Be vigilant if the user you are interacting with appears to be in a foreign country and claims to be interested in renting out or buying a home," they said on their website.

"Users who impart details of familial or financial issues need to be treated with caution, especially if such information is imparted as a reason to not personally meet you or to acquire money."

An Airbnb spokesperson told Independent.ie: "This website has nothing to do with Airbnb. Airbnb provides a secure platform for people to find, book and list unique accommodation around the world.

"Airbnb protects hosts and guests by handling all payment and communications through our secure platform - its one of the reasons that so many people book through Airbnb.

"We encourage users to report fake emails or websites to our Trust and Safety team on report.phishing@airbnb.com, who will investigate.

"We work closely with external partners to help report fake websites and have them removed."A parish priest has stood aside as gardai have launched an investigation into concerns regarding the safeguarding of children.

The Archdiocese of Dublin has confirmed that they are also probing the issue.

A spokeswoman said in a statement: "In line with Church Policy on Safeguarding Children, a parish priest of Dublin has voluntarily stood aside from his position because of concerns brought to the Diocese and reported to the Gardai.

"The information received relates to several decades ago and is not connected to the parish.

"Standing aside does not imply the truth or falsehood of what is being investigated. It allows an appropriate investigation by relevant Church and State authorities to take place."

They continued to say that they will not be identifying the priest or the parish where he served while investigations are ongoing.

Anyone with any concerns or information regarding the safety of children is urged to contact the Child Safeguarding and Protection Service of the Diocese on 01 8360314.A renter has revealed how she and her pal were almost duped into handing over 2,200 to a fake a landlord advertising a bogus property online.

Marketing executive Laura Griffin, from Co Kildare, told Independent.ie that she and friend Roisin Greaney were desperately seeking affordable accommodation close to Dublin city centre.

And when the 24-year-old spotted a two-bedroom Smithfield apartment for 1,100 a month on a well-known website she instantly contacted the advertiser.

Ms Griffin exchanged emails with the "landlord" who asked her to pay him a deposit and one-month's rent using well-known website AirBnB.

However the conman had created a proxy page, made to look like the AirBnB homepage, in a bid to extort cash from the pair.

Ms Griffin explained that she only spotted the fraud at the last minute and has now issued a warning to others to be careful online.

"There is so much pressure on people to rent really quickly because there is such huge demand out there that it is perfect for scammers," she said.

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"I just want to make sure that this doesn't happen to anyone else because I can genuinely see some poor person getting caught by this.

"It was only at the last minute, I was all set to pay this guy. Then I noticed the green SSL certificate was missing from the website and I thought that something wasn't right."

Ms Griffin and Ms Greaney are living in Naas, Co Kildare but working in Dublin.

"I got really excited about the prospect of actually getting something reasonable enough in town to rent. I thought 'this is great, this is fab'. It was 550 each to rent a two double-bed in Smithfield. I got my hopes up really high.

"I can see a lot of other people getting similarly excited."

Conman

The conman told Ms Griffin that there was big demand for the property and he asked her to pay 2,200 into a holding account to secure it before viewing.

"He was very clever because he gave me the link through his email for AirBnB. He made a proxy of the website so it was a mirror image of AirBnB. He had all these reviews, he had a profile of himself.

"He had all these ratings. It looked legit, really, really well thought out."

Ms Curtin was about to pay over the cash when she spotted there was no SSL certificate on the page.

She instantly contacted AirBnB who informed her that it was a hoax page and the site, whose European headquarters is in Dublin, advised her to cease communication with the hoaxer.

Read More

Stephen Large, Dublin Services Manager with Threshold, said they have encountered a number of similar cases.

"Unfortunately it does happen. People are vulnerable at this time. There are fewer properties available and rents are increasing.

"These scammers are playing on people's fears and desperation. There is so little out there."

He advised prospective customers that if it looks too good to be true then it probably is.

"Never pay any money until you have gone, viewed property and you are happy with tenancy agreement and the landlord."

For advice on avoiding scams click here.DISGRACE: Margaret Cash cried all night after her children (from left) Johnny (11), Rocky (2), Jim (4) Andy (1) Tommy (10) and Miley (7) were forced to sleep in Tallaght Garda Station

Margaret Cash has emerged from her homeless ordeal of sleeping with her children in a Garda station with a temporary roof overhead but reeling from an online savaging.

She was trolled, shamed and ridiculed for everything, from having seven children to handling stolen goods years ago when she was drunk in a car. Her Facebook page was mined for photographs that were gleefully shared on social media; one of a box of beers and another of her posing beside her daughter in a communion gown apparently not befitting the child of a homeless mother who has been on the housing list for 11 years and who allegedly once turned down a council house - a claim she has denied.

"They're saying you should be ashamed - I already know that. I am ashamed of being homeless," she said this weekend. "No matter what I have done in my past, it doesn't take away from the fact that I have a right to be housed."

The 27-year-old mother from the travelling community has actually done the State some service. She has exposed another bleak milestone in the creeping advance of homelessness that went unnoticed until she posted a photograph last Wednesday night of six of her seven children sleeping in the reception area of Tallaght Garda Station, five sprawled across hard plastic chairs and one in his buggy.

It is now the norm that when homeless families are told there is no room at the inn, and when they have nowhere else to go, they are advised to take their children to their local Garda station to get off the streets.

Cash's children, aged from one to 11, were among 16 children who slept in Garda stations on the night she tweeted from Tallaght station. The Dublin Region Homeless Executive (DRHE) revealed last week that 48 families slept in Garda stations in June and 47 the month before that.

Inner City Helping Homeless (ICHH), initially set up to help people sleeping rough in Dublin, is now pulling out its credit cards to book last-minute hotel rooms for homeless families when State-funded homeless initiatives cannot.

In the past year, the longest Margaret Cash has spent in one place was five weeks in Wicklow until the owner stopped taking council tenants. Finding a flat to rent online herself is not a runner. "Who is going to take a traveller with seven children?" she says.

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Margaret Cash became homeless last September after the private house she was renting was repossessed. She has lived in emergency accommodation ever since.

So many families are turning up with children that the ICHH has converted a basement in its north inner-city Dublin office into a family room with toys and DVDs for the kids.

According to Anthony Flynn, the volunteer chief executive of ICHH, there is nothing cushy about the daily trudge around local authority offices, drop-in centres and telephoning crisis helpline numbers several times a day.

The first port of call is to Parkgate Hall, near Heuston Station, to register as homeless. After that, some families are asked to 'self-accommodate' - find a room themselves from a list supplied by the local authority. If you haven't found a bed by 4.30pm, said Flynn, you phone a Family Action Team to get your name on a board. "The search can start at 10.30am. They ring back at 2.30pm and 4.30pm and again at 10.30pm, and then they might be told there are no beds and to go Crosscare [a homeless charity] and get sleeping bags," he said.

A Focus Ireland leaflet advises families to present at their local Garda station if they can't access any other services out-of-hours. The idea is that gardai will ring an out-of-hours social worker. But according to city-centre gardai, families usually stay for the night.

"They are coming in for their own safety, to get off the streets," said one garda speaking on condition of anonymity.

Rough sleepers have long taken refuge in public reception areas and porches of Garda stations, particularly on cold nights, but families doing so is a relatively recent phenomenon. "One couple with a child came in a couple of times in the past two weeks," he said. They usually leave at 7am, when the cleaners come in.

The official agency dealing with homelessness in the capital is the Dublin Region Homeless Executive, operated by Dublin City Council. It has a 20m budget to find emergency and longer-term accommodation for people who are homeless, with work contracted out to Focus Ireland, the housing and homeless charity, and the Peter McVerry Trust.

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Whatsapp Margaret Cash's children asleep in Tallaght Garda Station on Wednesday night

ICHH doesn't have a contract with the local authority to find emergency accommodation, but it finds itself acting as a booking agent for the increasing number of families in need who present to their city-centre offices. The group has built a relationship with a couple of short-term letting agents for apartments around the city, and otherwise they scour hotels.com or Airbnb.

When they find a room, they pay for it on ICHH's credit card out of the charity's own donated funds - it is not reimbursed by Dublin Region Homeless Executive (DRHE). The DRHE does not refer families to Anthony Flynn's group, but the ICHH regularly finds beds for families where the DRHE has failed.

"Two families presented here on Wednesday night, after they were told to present to Garda stations. Those two families that presented here, we were able to accommodate them in a matter of a half hour," Mr Flynn said. They found an apartment for one family and a bed and breakfast for the other.

"The thing is there is no joined-up thinking here. Why is it that Dublin Regional Homeless Executive could not pick up the phone to us and say 'what have you got available tonight?'" asked Flynn.

"We have no problem in saying this is what we've got, let's get those families accommodated. The last resort should be a Garda station."

Eoghan Murphy, the Minister for Housing, gave a nod to Anthony Flynn's concerns when he admitted the need for an "urgent review" of how state agencies deal with families presenting late at night in need of emergency accommod-ation. Specifically, he highlighted the need for "better communication" between the Dublin Region Homeless Executive, partner organisations and state agencies.

More than 9,874 people - 3,824 of them children - were officially homeless in June, a 28pc increase on last year. The pressures on finding emergency accommodation are about to get worse. Fr Peter McVerry, the veteran campaigner for homeless people, warned of an avalanche.

The minister has promised an additional 400 units, while there are long-term initiatives such as David Hall's attempt to buy some of the 2,700 empty homes from banks for social housing.

Eileen Gleeson, director of Dublin Region Homeless Executive, went on RTE radio last week to temper the outrage generated by Margaret Cash's photograph.

She said no one needed to sleep in a Garda station, and that if the family had kept in touch that night, they would have continued to work with them to find accommodation. She also said that it would be "much better if people came earlier in the evening to us".

Anthony Flynn responded: "What we are seeing is the spin around the offer. It was not a practical offer, it was not an empathetic offer and it was not a family-friendly offer.

"Margaret presented at the Garda station. Then she got a call back after 9pm that evening. She was told that there was accommodation for her and for five of her children - not all of her children - and she would have to travel to Meath. It was after 9pm and she was in Tallaght Garda Station with no transport." She also had to decide which two of her children to leave with family or friends.

Mr Flynn picked up Margaret Cash's tweet of her kids asleep in the Garda station and later shared it on social media, and contacted her last Thursday. The kids hung out in the family room while Flynn and the team phoned their contacts for rooms large enough for a family of eight.

In the end, they found a two-bed short-let apartment in the heart of the city centre that is normally let for 260 a night but which the ICHH got for 150 a night. Unless ICHH extends her stay, Margaret Cash will be back on the homeless roundabout come tomorrow. "I don't know what's going to happen or where I'm going to be. I'm dreading it," she said.In 2014, party had fielded over 400 candidates across India.

New Delhi: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) plans to restrict itself to fielding candidates in around 100 seats, primarily in Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

This is in contrast with the 2014 general elections, where the party had fielded over 400 candidates across the country but managed to win just four seats in Punjab.

The party feels that there is no point fighting in all the seats. So, plans are to contest around 80 to 100 seats where we are in a better position to influence the results, said AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh, who is also the in-charge of the partys Uttar Pradesh and Bihar units.

Punjab, Haryana, and AAPs home turf Delhi will be where the party would focus to win maximum seats in 2019, he said.

The party will also field candidates for some Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh. In Bihar and Uttar Pradesh too, AAP plans to field candidates in some seats.

In Uttar Pradesh, the party is looking to contest in 10-15 seats, Mr Singh said.

In Delhi, AAP has announced in-charges for five of the seven Lok Sabha constituencies. They have already actively engaged with local cadre in organising meetings and campaigns there.

The fate of two parliamentary constituencies  New Delhi and West Delhi  for which no one was named as in-charge amid rumours of a tie up with Congress, is yet to be decided. This is because AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal, during his visit to Haryana recently, ruled out the partys participation in any alliance.

In Punjab, where AAP managed to win four Lok Sabha seats in the last Lok Sabha elections and is the main opposition in the state Assembly, efforts will be made to enhance the influence of the party, he said.

We would like to enhance our footprint in Punjab by winning more than four seats this time, the AAP leader said, adding that the party may also contest in some seats in Gujarat where the organisation is strong.

Haryana is another state where AAP aspires to open its account in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Party leaders believe that voters of Haryana, which is the home state of Mr Kejriwal and where local leader Navin Jaihind has been involved in grassroots organisational work, are ready to respond favourably to AAP in the coming general elections.Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has revealed he was under pressure from his closest supporters to sack Minister for Health Simon Harris after the Fine Gael leadership contest.

The comments from a soon-to-be-published biography on the Taoiseach come as Fine Gael Cabinet ministers last week began to privately brief against Mr Harris over his handling of the health system. In Leo Varadkar - A Very Modern Taoiseach, the Fine Gael leader says he had a "strange relationship" with Mr Harris before the leadership campaign and decided to keep him in Cabinet after an intervention from former Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald.

''A lot of my supporters wanted me to sack him and that would have freed up a seat around the table. I decided not to. Frances certainly spoke up for him and he is a capable guy,'' he says.

The Taoiseach also says the Minister for Health "still gets the blame" for the "Judas Iscariot" attack on Mr Varadkar during the leadership race. Mr Harris, who supported Tanaiste Simon Coveney during the contest, has always denied he was behind the comments.

A source close to Mr Harris yesterday said the minister's relationship with the Taoiseach has "really strengthened" since the campaign. "They are in almost daily contact and a mutual respect and understanding has really developed," the source said.

The Taoiseach's comments follow a week of controversy for Mr Harris, who was criticised over health service waiting lists, hospital trolley numbers and the uncosted introduction of the Slaintecare implementation plan.

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Cabinet ministers are also growing frustrated with Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy over the escalating homelessness crisis after it emerged six children slept in a garda station. One senior Fine Gael minister said neither minister has "control of their departments" and both are failing to stand up to senior civil servants. "They are not ministers, they are just yes men to the civil service," the Cabinet minister said.

Another Cabinet minister said the Taoiseach should promote "experience over youth" if he reshuffles his Cabinet before the next general election, adding that "grumpy old men have a real role" to play in government and should not be side-lined for younger ministers.

The minister said Mr Murphy, Mr Harris and Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan were in the "drop zone" since last year but only Mr Flanagan has got a handle of his brief.

The attack on the two youngest members of Cabinet from their own party colleagues will present the Taoiseach with a dilemma should he decide to reshuffle his Cabinet.

Meanwhile, in the first biography on the Taoiseach, Mr Varadkar discusses for the first time accusations made against him in the Fine Gael leadership campaign.

With rumours circulating that Mr Varadkar was orchestrating a campaign to oust Taoiseach Enda Kenny as Fine Gael leader, the Irish Independent ran a front-page story under the headline 'Varadkar Panics Over FG "Judas" Accusations'. An unnamed Cabinet minister was quoted comparing Mr Varadkar to Judas Iscariot, the apostle who betrayed Jesus Christ.

In a interview for the biography, Mr Varadkar says Mr Harris ''still gets the blame'' for the off-the-record comment, adding, ''I'm not sure if it was him or not''. Harris always insisted it was not him.

''Simon and I would have had a strange relationship around that time but now we get on very well as Taoiseach and minister. We have never really discussed the leadership campaign. Maybe we should," he says.Tenants looking to rent accommodation are being warned to beware of scam artists who are asking for rent to be transferred before the property has even been viewed.

A number of these suspicious advertisements have appeared on rental portal pages for apartments in Dublin city centre.

One prospective tenant who made contact with the purported property owner was informed that the transaction would be carried out through an 'Airbnb agent'.

The 'landlord' claimed he lived in Italy and could not arrange a viewing in person but said the 'Airbnb agent' would handle all the financial transactions.

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However, he said a deposit and one month's rent would have to be transferred before the viewing.

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Independent.ie visited the apartment in question, which is located on Church Street in Dublin 7.

The pictures in the advertisement portrayed a high-end apartment.

The two-bed apartment was sold in 2016 for 190,000. However, it is not clear who owns it as it is currently not registered with the Land Registry.

When we spoke to a tenant living on the floor below this apartment and showed him pictures of the flat being advertised, he confirmed his apartment looked "nothing like that", saying it looked a lot nicer than his.

The sockets in the pictures advertised also appear to be two-prong which would indicate the property is not based in Ireland.

The person advertising the flat said via email: "Right now I'm currently living in Italy and for the moment I cannot come in person to show you the apartment. I used to come to Ireland every once in a while but for now I am very busy with my work and I really don't have enough time to come there in person to rent it.

"However, I hope this will not change your intentions to rent my apartment because we can do the transaction through Airbnb (www.airbnb.com). I have used this company in the past and I was very happy with them. You can inspect the apartment in the presence of the Airbnb agent."

He claimed rent would be 1,300 per month and asked for proof of financial stability.

The advertisement initially appeared on Rent.ie but was soon taken down.

Another Independent.ie reader got in touch to say they had been targeted by the same scam.

The property they were interested in was based in Ballsbridge.

They were informed it was a one-bed apartment, however when they looked up the property price register, it was listed as a two-bed apartment.

Martin Clancy of Daft.ie said: "I'd advise that this person ceases all contact with this person and as we suggest in blog posts around security and also our safety tips we recommend that no one transfers money before viewing a property as this sounds very much like a 'long distance' landlord scam."

A spokesperson for Airbnb said that they do not advertise any properties in this manner.

"This website has nothing to do with Airbnb. Airbnb provides a secure platform for people to find, book and list unique accommodation around the world. We encourage users to report fake emails or websites to our trust and safety team on report.phishing@airbnb.com, who will investigate. "Flavoursome options from Cork-based Arun Kapil who is a food entrepreneur, spice expert and founder of the Green Saffron range of sauces and spice mixes

Cali-Mex cool, Shrimp & seabass ceviche tostados, baja 'boom' sauce, chilli & coriander

Serves 4

Ingredients

Spice:  tsp Szechuan pepper, ground; few gratings of nutmeg

3 limes, juiced

 an orange, juiced

16 fat, big prawns, raw, peeled, de-veined, sliced into approx 25mm dice

4 sea bass fillets, skin removed, sliced into approx 25mm dice

8 small tortilla flatbreads, 10cm diameter, fried in oil to a crisp texture and a nutty colour

For the baja sauce: 1 tbsp grapeseed oil

2 cloves of garlic, roughly chopped

1 lime, boiled for 15 mins

2 roasted red peppers (the jarred peppers are perfect for this)

1 fat green finger chilli

2 tbsp tomato ketchup

Spices:  tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground black pepper

200g best quality mayonnaise

For the garnish: 2 ripe avocados, peeled, thinly sliced

3 green chillies, sliced thinly

Coriander leaves

1 fresh ripe mango, diced

1 red onion, peeled, sliced into thin wedges through the poles

Method

Make the sauce by popping all the ingredients except the mayo into a food processor and blitz to a smooth paste.

Fold the mayonnaise through, pop the sauce into a bowl, cover and set aside in the fridge.

Mix the spices with the lime and orange juice, coat the diced prawns and fish. Leave aside for 10 minutes, then drain reserving the juices, the 'leche de tigre'.

Arrange the garnishes on a large charger or individual plates, the diced, drained fish and prawns on another plate, the leche de tigre in a couple of shot glasses and take to table.

Place the baja sauce and fried tortilla to one side and let everyone build their own tostados. Enjoy!

Mujadara fragrant rice & lentil salad

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Serves 4

Ingredients

1 cup high quality Basmati rice

3 cups water

 tsp turmeric

3 medium brown onions, thinly sliced

30g butter

3 tbsp rapeseed oil

1 sachet Green Saffron Korma spice blend

2 medium carrots, peeled, then diced 20mm

2 sticks celery, peeled, then diced 20mm

1 small head of fennel, trimmed, fronds retained, diced 20mm

1 cup brown lentils, cooked in two cups water, drained and set aside

1 aubergine sliced through the poles into 20mm thick steaks

4 tbsp Greek yoghurt

Fresh mint leaves

For the elderflower pickle:

15 elderflower heads, shaken free of insects

200ml white wine vinegar

50g golden caster sugar

Small pinch sea salt

12 cubeb or black peppercorns

Method

To make the pickle, pop all the pickle ingredients into a jam jar, screw the lid on tightly, place in a pan of gently boiling water, leave to simmer for 8 minutes, then remove and set aside.

Cook the rice in the water with the turmeric, and set aside.

In a large thick bottomed saute pan, gently fry the onion slices in the butter and 1 tbsp oil until nicely caramelised, about 15 minutes, then remove half the onions and set aside. Leave the remaining onions in the pan.

Add another tbsp of oil and the Green Saffron spice blend. Place on a medium heat and gently fry for a minute, then add the diced carrot, celery and fennel. Stir to combine and cook for 5 minutes

Add the cooked lentils, stir through, then add the cooked rice and gently fold through. Set aside and keep warm.

Rub the aubergine slices with the remaining oil, then griddle, grill or BBQ both sides until just collapsed and nicely charred, about 8 to 10 minutes. Set aside.

To Serve

On warmed plates, place a slice of aubergine, spoon over the rice lentil mix, top with some cooked onions, a scattering of fennel fronds and mint, with a dollop of yoghurt to the side. Take to table with the pickle in a small bowl.

Gooey meringue, blistered spiced blackcurrants, lemon kulfi

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Serves 4

Ingredients

For the lemon kulfi:

2 unwaxed lemons, boiled for 20 mins, deseeded, then blitzed to a smooth paste texture and set aside to fully cool down

 tsp vanilla paste

1 heaped tsp fresh ginger, grated

250ml fresh cream

400g condensed milk

1 large egg white, gently whipped to a light foam

For the blistered spiced blackcurrants:

120g water

80g golden caster sugar

Spices: 5 green cardamom pods, crushed; 5 cloves; 10 black peppercorns

450g blackcurrants, fresh or frozen

For the meringue:

4 large eggs, whites only

200g white caster sugar

For the ginger syrup:

80ml water

250g golden caster sugar

Spices:  whole nutmeg, crushed; 1 tsp cumin seeds

50g fresh ginger, chopped fine

2 sprigs fresh mint

4 sprigs fresh basil

To garnish:

Fresh mint leaves, torn

Method

To make the kulfi, using an electric whisk, mix all the ingredients, except the egg white, to a smooth mousse texture. Fold through the egg white. Decant into a bowl or re-useable plastic container, cover and pop into a freezer for at least 5 hours or overnight to set.

To make the spiced blackcurrants, in a saucepan, heat up the water, sugar and spices. Once the sugar has dissolved, turn off the heat and set aside for 15 minutes, then strain the mixture through a sieve. Return the spiced sugar syrup to the saucepan, bring up to a gentle bubble, then add the blackcurrants. Once the currants release their juices, set aside. These will keep in the fridge for three or four days in a sealed container.

To make the meringue, preheat oven to 130C/gas mark 1. In a food mixer, decant the egg whites into the bowl, then begin to whisk on a medium speed, adding tablespoons of sugar at a time. Once incorporated, continue to whisk for another nine minutes. Spoon four even-sized dollops on to a wax paper covered baking sheet and pop into the oven for 1 hour. Then, turn off the oven and leave them in there until the oven has cooled down, about an hour to an hour-and-a-half.

To make the ginger syrup, heat up the water, sugar, spices, ginger and herbs in a saucepan. Once the sugar has dissolved, turn off the heat, set aside for 15 minutes, then strain through a sieve. Set aside.

To assemble, pop a meringue on to a plate, add 1 or 2 scoops of the kulfi, pour over a couple of tbsp of the blackcurrants, scatter with freshly torn mint leaves. Repeat for the other three servings, pour the ginger syrup into a small jug and take to table.Did you know, the experts now recommend that you drink Champagne out of a wine glass rather than a flute? That's because it is, in fact, a wine, and using a wine glass allows it to release its aromas so that you can appreciate it better.

This is particularly important when it comes to trying a Champagne like Leclerc Briant's Abyss, which has been aged for 15 months underwater at a depth of 60 metres. The bottle has no label, as it would have come off in the sea; instead, it has a tag attached to the muselet, the wire that keeps the cork in place. It gives the date of harvest, disgorgement and even the GPS co-ordinates for the exact location where it was aged in the sea, which was in the Bay of Stiff on the eastern tip of the Ile d'Ouessant, off the coast of Brittany.

Leclerc Briant was one of the first Champagne houses to farm biodynamically (which is organic, guided by the lunar cycle) and immersing the Abyss Champagne in the sea is akin to placing it in a giant dynamiser. The result is truly special, with a rich complexity of dried apricot, apple, brioche and nut flavours, with a ghost of salinity on the finish. It is one of a range of unique Champagnes from Leclerc Briant, and I've featured a slightly more affordable one in the line-up today.

How long a Champagne is aged contributes hugely to its unique flavours. During its second fermentation, which is used to create the bubbles, it can be left on the lees for a long time, which keeps it relatively fresh as it ages. Some Champagne houses, like Bollinger, hold back a number of select bottles for extended ageing and disgorge them, removing the sediment in the bottle, when they are ready to release. This is done by a process called 'riddling', where the bottle is gradually rotated and tilted until the neck points down. This is then frozen, and when the cap is removed, the plug of frozen sediment pops out. The date of disgorgement is very important because an aged bottle will taste very different a few months after disgorgement compared to two years after.

Another factor that influences the taste of Champagne is the grape varietal, and just three are permitted - Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Even though the last two are, in fact, red grapes, they have no contact with the skins in the winemaking process, so the juice is white. They can be used as a blend or as a single varietal, and if you have ever seen 'Blanc de Blancs' on a label, it means that the Champagne is made from 100pc Chardonnay. One of the most famous is Salon 'S', which was created in the early 1900s, using grapes from a single Grand Cru vineyard, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, with the wines cellared in the bottle for an average of 10 years. Charles Heidsieck (not to be confused with Piper Heidsieck) also makes an exquisite Blanc de Blancs.

So, is it time to throw all your flute glasses away? Certainly not. They are perfect for the more inexpensive bottles of Champagne, Cava and Prosecco you can pick up in the major supermarkets.

If you have a reason to celebrate coming up, I have four really exceptional Champagnes (see panel, right) for you to try, and even if you don't have a special occasion, why not crack out the wine glasses and fill them with a more affordable Champagne, like Aldi's consistently good Veuve Monsigny or Lidl's Comte de Brismand, both 19.99? Sante!

Grapevine

Perrier-Jouet - the beautiful summery Champagne with the Art Deco bottle - is featuring on an exclusive Belle Epoque Summer Tasting Menu at Wilde Restaurant in the Westbury Hotel in Dublin this month. The Terrace at Wilde's has been transformed with a beautiful installation of anemone flowers. On the menu, the starter of scallops is matched with Perrier-Jouet Grand Brut; the main course of Dover sole with homemade crispy gnocchi and asparagus is paired with Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque 2008, and an indulgent strawberry and basil leaf panna cotta is served with Perrier-Jouet Blason Rose, just the perfect summer match. See wilde.ie.

4 wines to try...

Delamotte Brut, 48-55

12pc, from Mitchell & Son CHQ and Glasthule, On The Grapevine, Deveney's, all Dublin; Thomas Woodberry, Galway

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It's worth seeking out Delamotte, the more affordable sister Champagne of Salon. Made from a blend of 55pc Chardonnay, 35pc Pinot Noir and 10pc Pinot Meunier, it has a perfumed nose with crunchy apple, taut lemon and a savoury, toasty quality on the palate.

Leclerc Briant Brut Reserve, 59

12pc, from Green Man Wines and Sommeliers in Your Pockets, siyps.com

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Not aged underwater, but very fine quality, this reserve Champagne has a floral nose, with notes of verbena and honeysuckle, and is fresh on the palate with crunchy red apple, citrus flavours of lemon and lime, a well-integrated toasty character and a stream of very fine bubbles.

Charles Heidsieck Blanc de Blancs, 99

12pc, from The Corkscrew, Jus de Vine, Redmonds of Ranelagh, Michaels Mount Merrion, Thomas's of Foxrock, all Dublin, and wineonline.ie

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With a perfumed nose and a touch of spice, 75pc of the Chardonnay grapes in this elegant Champagne come from the 2012 vintage. It is aged for four years on the lees for a rich, toasted almond creaminess, with crisp citrus flavours.

Champagne Bollinger RD 2004, 225

12pc, from Mitchell & Son CHQ and Glasthule, Donnybrook Fair, Jus de Vine and The Corkscrew, all Dublin

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The 'RD' stands for 'recently disgorged' and this rare vintage Champagne has been held back for an extended time, resting on its side and ageing on its lees. Disgorged after 13 years, it has rich flavours of brioche, roasted apple, nuts and a hint of orange peel.Determined pilgrims weighed down with backpacks dangling seashells, the symbol of the Camino de Santiago, could have made us feel guilty.

Set the mood

They were around every street corner in Bilbao and on a quest far more profound than ours. We, in contrast, were there to breathe in the sites and before idling in pintxo bars and soaking up Bilbao's atmosphere.

But these hordes of hikers do add colour and flavour - a reminder of this city's long and noble history. Squatting in a steep valley on either side of the often tempestuous Rio Nervion, Bilbao is a picture-postcard place proud of its separatist identity, its language and prosperity built on shipbuilding.

The 350,000 inhabitants see their Basque home as something much more than a regional capital destined to be forever in the shadow of Madrid.

Insider intel

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Bilbao is a neat and compact city, tucked snugly into surrounding hills that roll up steeply either side of the river. Getting around is easy and its must-sees are all within a decent ramble - though when the temperatures rise, I'd recommend the Euskotren Tranbia, the shiny caterpillar tram that runs on one line (even I couldn't get lost). It's a great way to catch everything through a series of fleeting vignettes for a 1.50 ticket.

Tranbia will take you past the Guggenheim (guggenheim-bilbao.eus). The, seductive modern titanium masterpiece, affectionately rechristened 'The Googen' by Bilbainos, has redefined this old city and is a must-wow. The tram then glides over to the medieval old quarter, Casco Viejo, where the locals shop for fresh fish, cheese and fruit.

Cheap kick

We learned quickly that Bilbainos don't just go out for dinner but instead bar-hop, sampling small plates as they roam. On a residential street opposite the glorious Jardines de Albia, Cafe Iruna is not only a wonderful space steeped in tradition, but is as cheap as it is cheerful. Most memorable is the pintxo moruno, or lamb tapas (2.50), which is teased on the grill before serving. We breakfasted there too and always got change from a humble tenner (cafeirunabilbao.net).

Top tip

The Guggenheim (16, above) may be tick-boxed by everyone, but the Museo Maritimo de Bilbao (3.50), a 15 minute walk up the river on Ramon de la Sota Kaia, is easily overlooked. It's a fascinating way of tracing the city's economic and historic DNA (museomaritimobilbao.eus).

Drink Up

We sniffed and sipped some amazing Riojas (a neighbouring region) at Bilbobeer (bilbobeer.com), which is essentially a chic bar in a basement. Don't dare pay any more than 1.50 to 2 a glass because there is no need.

Glitches

Bilbao has an endearing attachment to its Basque language. Street signs, transport maps and menus tend to give preference to it rather than the official national tongue. Those that haven't bothered to brush up on their Junior Cert Spanish will find wandering unfamiliar streets and ordering pintxos a bit perplexing. Don't expect them to have much English either. They don't. The few that might don't share it.

Get me there

We flew with Aer Lingus (aerlingus.com) direct from Dublin. Return flights in June for two came to 327.

We stayed at Hotel Abando (hotelabando.com) on Colon de Larreategui, not far from the old town across the river. Pristine, modern and with large, comfortable rooms, it cost us 330 for three nights. What it lacked in charm and atmosphere, it made up for in convenience and bang for our buck.

For more, see bilbaoturismo.net or spain.info.

Read more:Once upon a time, a man went into the hills of Western Cyprus.

Seeking to escape the crowds, he found a cave in the soothing shade of pine and cedar trees near Tala. He lived there as a hermit, but word of his sanctity spread. People began to bring food and gifts. Brilliantly colourful frescoes were painted on the cave ceiling. All he wanted was alone time, but 'Neophytus the Recluse' soon found himself at the centre of a religious community, a monastery sprouting among the trees.

It's a story that would make any eight-year-old yawn. But standing beside me, in that same cave, with those same frescoes popping like Instagram filters over our heads, my son Sam is riveted. "Eight hundred years ago?" he repeats to himself, wandering beneath the Byzantine faces overhead. "And they're still here?"

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There's a similar moment when we step into the church, added in later centuries as Agios Neophytus Monastery grew. An old woman pulls a veil over her head and works her way around the walls, kissing the icons as she goes. A mix of candlewax and ancient fustiness smells like powdered centuries in our nostrils. In shorts and T-shirts, we feel like time travellers.

The whole visit costs us 2. Afterwards, we buy a tub of thyme-scented honey to drizzle over breakfasts back home, before threading our way down tangled mountain roads to a Cyprus crazier than St Neophytus could ever have imagined.

Phew. This island is intriguing; a stunning mix of Greek, Turkish and Middle Eastern cultures set just 265km from Lebanon (roughly the distance from Dublin to Cork). But it took us days to connect, and more than once, I wondered whether it was worth the five-hour flight.

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We're on a package holiday in Paphos. Ayia Napa is Cyprus's best-known resort, but our base is the St George Hotel, a slick, pseudo-palatial four-star trickling towards twinkling seas on the west coast. The seawater is 25C or so, and we spend hours ambling between room, pool and the hotel's little lagoon (a breakwater holds off the choppy waters of the west).

It's the kind of place where towels are laid out to secure loungers by 8am and evenings are spent moseying along seafront and harbour, scoffing grilled fish and pizza and ice-cream and baklava way past normal bedtimes.

A sun holiday, in other words - and unsurprisingly, one also laced with ugly strip development, with English breakfasts and Irish bars. Stick to the strip and, barring a few tweaks to menus and signposts, we could just as easily be in Majorca, Corfu or the Costa del Sol. Which is fine, if that's what you're after. But I feel like the 'real' Cyprus is slipping through our fingers.

So we agree to rent a car. Our rep recommends an independent operator who brings a little Nissan Note by the hotel. She marks spots on my map in biro, leaves us with a half tank of fuel, and says she'll collect the car in three days. Twenty minutes later, we've driven off the main drag, leaving resorts like Kato Paphos and Coral Bay in the rearview mirror.

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Soon, generic hotels are replaced by Saint Neophytus' Monastery, by mountain villages like Drouseia, where a woman in a blue apron watches us next to wooden shutters. We loop past Akamas Peninsula National Park, a wilderness devoid of development, and carry on towards Pilos, on the northwest coast. There, we find a German lady named Tina serving gungy, homemade cakes (below) under the shade of vines at her Art Cafe ("I can't make them as fast as people eat them," she chuckles).

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We seek out Aphrodite's Baths - the goddess is said to have been born at Aphrodite's Rock (main photo) near Paphos, and to have bathed in this tiny grotto. It's a bit dingy and disappointing but, completely by chance, leads to the loveliest swim of our week in Cyprus.

How? Scoping from a cliff nearby, I spot a cove with water so clear I can see the sea floor. A sea stack rises; a ribbon of rocks tethering it to the shore. The sky is blue as bejaysus and there are all of a dozen people in the water.

We follow the steps down and wash the dusty drive away. Out to sea, boats ferry tourists to the 'Blue Lagoon', but I wouldn't swap our little spot.

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Afterwards, at a clifftop restaurant, we order lashings of fresh sardines and grilled halloumi. Food is another avenue into Cyprus's story, we discover.

There are Greek influences in crumbly feta, stuffed vine leaves (dolmades), tzatziki or kleftiko. Turkish touches show in pita breads crispy on the outside and fluffy within, in lightly spiced sheftalia sausages (below), or velvety loukoumi swimming in powdered sugar. Meze sharing courses evoke the Middle East. After our clifftop meal, plates of watermelon and pita drenched in local honey arrive - on the house, in the Greek, family-run restaurant tradition. Bit by bit, bite by bite, a thrilling taste of Cyprus is bubbling to the surface.

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I realise, of course, that not everybody wants to explore like me. That's the tension on our family holidays - balancing the needs of a busman with a general human right to relaxation. It's perfectly encapsulated at the Paphos Archaeological Site (below) when, after one too many Roman mosaics, I ask my daughter whether she'd like to see Aphrodite's Rock.

"Not really," she says.

Burn! Scooting off on our little safaris, however, allows a bit of both worlds. We explore ancient portals in weird proximity to modern life (in Paphos, the pillar where St Paul was lashed is a stone's throw from Pizza Express), devour ice-cream and dolmades, head for the hills or chill at the St. George or air-conditioned King's Avenue Mall. And ultimately, we arrive at a place where the 'real' Cyprus interacts with the 'real' us... and a Dad's realisation.

I'm no St Neophytus.

What to pack

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Cyprus gets stinging hot, so stock up on sunscreen and hats, and rash vests for swimming. Bring your driver's licence for rentals, mozzie spray for evenings, and headphone-splitters for movies on the long flight. UK-style three-pronged plus are used, so no need for adapters.

3 Travel Tips

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1. Our best Cypriot meal was at Mandra Tavern (mandratavern.com) in Paphos - the kleftiko could have been talked off the bone.

2. Daytrips to Nicosia, "the last divided capital in Europe", include a crossing of the Green Line separating Cyprus and the Turkish-occupied north (bring your passport).

3. Like walks? Outside of summer heat, hike between 30m walls in the Avakas Gorge (above).

Getting there

Pol travelled with Sunway (sunway.ie), which has packages to Cyprus from 539pp. Flights, transfers, rep service and seven nights' B&B at the St George Hotel start from 1,969pp during October mid-term.

Ryanair (ryanair.com) flies year-round to Paphos. It takes 5+ hours.

See also visitcyprus.com.

Read more:Michael Mullan had the world at his feet as he took up his scholarship at Harvard Law School.

Four months later, doctors told the young Irishman he had cancer and had only six months to live.

He and his long-term girlfriend Melissa Murphy had moved from Co Kildare to Boston when Michael was accepted into the Ivy League college. The "death sentence" crushed their dreams.

Almost three years later, Michael is still here and still fighting. Known as Mick and Mel to their friends, they chose to remain in the US because of new life-saving treatments that are not available in Ireland.

Michael (26) has the heart of a warrior. He beat cancer twice in the past.

As a law student at Trinity College, Dublin, he underwent renal cancer surgery to remove one-third of a kidney. A few months later, he sat his finals and earned a first-class honours degree.

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As a baby, he was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a cancer affecting his adrenal glands and stomach, and was given a one-in-four chance of cheating death. He survived.

In the US, Michael chose to fight this third onslaught of the disease and managed to earn a master's degree in law at Harvard in the midst of his cancer struggle.

He continues to battle stage four cancer, which had spread through his lungs and abdomen. It is his greatest challenge and Melissa (25) is his full-time carer.

"Mel is always there to show me the silver lining to every problem," he said.

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They live in a one-bedroom apartment thousands of miles from home but have strong support from family, friends and entire communities back in Ireland.

Fundraising in their native Kildare and around Ireland is helping to sustain them.

Michael is from Eadestown and Melissa from nearby Ballymore Eustace. They met at a GAA match in Ballytore. Michael was 16 and on the subs' bench when he noticed 15-year-old Melissa watching her brother's team.

They started going out and will celebrate 10 years together later this year.

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They had great fun together as young adults and enjoyed healthy lifestyles. Melissa went on to complete her studies for a career as a secondary teacher while Michael studied law at Trinity.

They became known as fundraisers for cancer research during their student days. Michael had a particular awareness about the need for cancer research, being a survivor of child cancer.

The couple helped organise the Kildare Relay For Life events in 2013 which raised more than 30,000 for the Irish Cancer Society. In December 2013, Michael started feeling unwell and his doctor sent him to Tallaght Hospital for a scan. He was diagnosed with renal cancer.

Melissa said: "That was pretty tough. I was to start teaching practice that January but then this massive curve-ball came along and I threw everything aside. All that mattered to me was Mick's health."

Michael underwent surgery to remove a third of a kidney. Later, scans did not show any trace of cancer remaining. He was able to resume his studies and sat his finals in August and got first-class honours.

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"I was studying law and business and had wanted to go into a commercial law firm to 'follow the money' but when I got sick, I re-evaluated. I decided I would concentrate on disability law to help people with disabilities," he said.

In his scholarship application to Harvard, he wrote about his cancer experiences and his aim to do what he could to help give a voice to people with disabilities.

After winning a scholarship to Harvard, he worked for a year in Dublin to raise money for their American adventure.

Before travelling to the US in July 2015, Michael asked that a scan for cancer scheduled for August be brought forward but he was told, as previous scans were clear, there was no need for another so soon, he said.

The couple travelled to Boston, filled with dreams of a wonderful future.

Michael entered the glittering world of Harvard. Mel later took up a job in Boston as part of her J-1 visa.

That November Michael developed a cough and he went to get it checked out. Scans showed his cancer had returned.

Melissa said: "It was on a Monday and I was in work when I got the news. I was to go to the hospital and that it wasn't good news. I ran out of work and I ran all the way to the hospital."

Tumours had spread into his lungs. It was stage four cancer and he was informed he may have only six months to live.

"Our whole future and our dreams came crashing down. We didn't know whether to go out and have fun for six months or fight it. Michael chose to fight it," she said.

His parents, Pat and Patricia, moved to the US to be with their son for the next nine months.

His studies were put on hold with the support of the college as he endured several difficult months fighting the grave illness. As it turned out, the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston was one of the best cancer hospitals in the world. Michael's doctor was Dr Toni Choueiri, who had a global reputation as a kidney cancer specialist.

Michael was placed on a new immunotherapy, which succeeded in stopping the spread of the cancer. A side effect was liver damage, so he was switched to a new targeted chemotherapy, cabozantinib.

Eventually, as his condition improved, his parents returned to Ireland and he re-started his studies.

Michael would attend lectures while Mel waited outside the lecture theatre with a sick-bag and a wheelchair as he was often overcome by nausea during lectures.

"I'd have to run out of some of the lectures to vomit. I found it hard to concentrate at times. But I had to keep up the studies in order to keep my student visa and health insurance," he said.

"A master's degree in Harvard is difficult at the best of times. Chemo and the opioids pain medication affected my concentration," he said.

But he succeeded in graduating in May last year.

"I was lucky I was in the right city at the right time to get this treatment," Michael said.

"The treatment, which kept me alive, would not have been available in Ireland.

"I would not be alive today if I had not got this specialised treatment. I was lucky too that I had health insurance because I was a student," he said.

"As long as I am a student I can retain my student visa to remain in the US and I can keep the health insurance to continue my cancer treatment."

The couple now live in Washington DC where Michael is enrolled as a PhD student in the law school at the American University.

He can get emergency hospital care locally and travels to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston every two months for ongoing treatment.

His work as a student is ensuring he continues to receive life-saving treatment.

He must pay $15,000 a year to study at the university. Even with health insurance, there are substantial extra medical costs for specialists, scans and drugs, which cost them $3,000 a month over and above what the insurance covers.

Michael said: "The busier I am in college, the better I feel. It's good not to be solely concentrating on cancer all the time.

"I have my tumours but I'm on medication that keeps them at bay. I'm on oral chemotherapy every day and I'm on about 40 tablets every day as well. It's anti-nausea medication and pain medication. It's going to be a long-term battle," he said.

"In the past year, me and Mel have become a bit more spiritual. The greatest support for me is Mel herself. Without her, I wouldn't be able to get through every day.

"While I find having a spiritual belief does help, having Mel is even better," he said. "Mel is so strong. Any time I'm down or feeling a bit depressed, I can always talk to her and she can talk me through it.

"She's always there to show the silver lining to every problem," he said.

"Hope and positive psychology are so important. It's easy to let things get on top of you but if you can find the silver lining, that's certainly half the battle," he said.

He likes to remember something he read in a book somewhere: "If you can solve it, don't worry about it. If you can't solve it, don't worry about it." They both believe that Irish people who get bad news from doctors should not hesitate to seek a second opinion from another specialist like people do in the US.

Michael and Melissa said they deeply appreciate all the vital fundraising work being done by friends and communities in Ireland, which is crucial in enabling him to continue to battle cancer.

More than 70,000 has been raised to date and a golf classic will take place at Craddockstown Golf Club on September 13.

Melissa said: "We just keep on going and with every setback we just have to say that we are lucky to be here and that we'll get through it. Find a silver lining, I suppose."

A gofundme fundraising link set up by friends is at gofundme.com/michaelmullanscancerfund and their website is michael mullancancerfund.com.Premium

Colm McCarthy Opinion If you are not explaining it properly, then you are losing

When a policy cannot be explained to a receptive audience, the problem is most likely the policy itself rather than the communications strategy. Voluntary adherence to the recommended public health measures, and willingness to accept vaccination when offered, will be critical determinants of this countrys success or failure in containing the pandemic and getting people back to work.The investigators said that they are yet to ascertain who all were in the loop of the plan and what roles had they been given.

Mumbai: In order to blow the lid of the alleged sinister plan of carrying out terror attacks at multiple locations in the state, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) are scanning the call detail records (CDR) of the arrested accused to identify who all were part of the conspiracy.

The investigators said that they are yet to ascertain who all were in the loop of the plan and what roles had they been given. The investigators said that the SIM cards being used by the main accused Vaibhav Raut, (40) a gau rakshak (cow protector) were registered in the name of another person. There are also several numbers with which calls had been exchanged. The identities of these persons are being verified.

The SIMs used by the accused have identity layers. After the numbers came under scanner, the owners were tracked down, however, it came to the fore that the SIMs had changed several hands before being used by the arrested accused persons, said an ATS officer.

The forensic analysis will also help find if Raut and other accused persons were in touch with each other via any encrypted internet-based messenger. The officials said that citing the close coordination required for planning and executing something sinister like this, the arrested accused and their foot soldiers would have been in close contact via safe means of communication.

Preliminary investigation has revealed that the terror ring had plans of carrying out crude bombs attacks in Satara, Pune, Solapur and Nalasopara. They are now being interrogated on the identities of accomplices and their roles.

Vaibhav Raut

The ATS officials raided two places including the residence and a shop of Raut on Friday and seized 20 crude bombs including several circuits, detonators and other material that was used to assemble the explosives.

Those arrested are members of right-wing Hindu outfit and seized eight crude bombs and suspicious white powder (suspected to be gunpowder). A team of ATSs Nagpada unit raided Rauts residence at Bhandar Aali in Sopara village at Nalasopara.

Raut, a member of the Hindu Govansh Raksha Samiti, was apprehended after the officials found eight crude bombs at his residence. Search of a shop establishment nearby led to the recovery of 12 more bombs, officials said.

The ATS is verifying the links of the accused with Narendra Dabholkar-Govind Pansare murders and Gauri Lankesh killing in Bangalore. Among other incidents, the 2008 low intensity blasts that pointed to Hindu outfits will also be looked into for their involvement.Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick attend the New York City Ballet's 2017 Fall Fashion Gala at David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center on September 28, 2017 in New York City.. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)

Marion Loretta Elwell Broderick, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Tabitha Hodge Broderick attend New York City Ballet 2018 Spring Gala at Lincoln Center on May 3, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Steven Ferdman/Getty Images)

Marion Loretta Elwell Broderick, Sarah Jessica Parker, andTabitha Hodge Broderick attend New York City Ballet 2018 Spring Gala at Lincoln Center on May 3, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Steven Ferdman/Getty Images)

Sarah Jessica Parker attends the Planned Parenthood's 2018 Spring Into Action Gala at Spring Studios on May 1, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)

Sarah Jessica Parker arrives at the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Gala (Met Gala) to celebrate the opening of Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination in the Manhattan borough of New York, U.S., May 7, 2018. REUTERS/Carlo Allegri

Hollywood star Sarah Jessica Parker and their son James Wilkie walking near their cottage home in Kilybegs, Co Donegal

Sarah Jessica Parker has ended her family's annual sojourn to Ireland with a poetic goodbye on Instagram.

The Sex and the City star (53) and her husband of 21 years Matthew Broderick (56) are both head over heels for our little island and regularly visit their modest cottage in Kilcar, Donegal, where they enjoy an anonymity away from their normal, paparazzi-filled lives. In contrast to their New York City base, where photographers camp outside their 30m townhouse to catch SJP's inspiring street style, both have spoken fondly of the privacy they enjoy when they visit Ireland.

And their love affair shows no sign of waning as the four-time Golden Globe winner shared an Instagram post saying her farewells, writing: "Farewell sultry and fickle skies. Farewell plumes of smoke from chimneys. Farewell ranges emitting the earthy and welcoming smell of turf.

"Farewell chips and tweed and open smiles. Farewell "marked bags", lamb cutlets and Kerrygold. Farewell to the most perfect spuds in all the world. Flowery or waxy. I will miss you most of all. X,SJC"

They touched down on Irish soil in late July and have just wrapped their two week holiday here.

The Hollywood power couple's love affair with Ireland is well documented and both rave about the country at every chance, which dates back to Matthew's childhood as he often spent summer in Kilcar, where his family hails from and now, he brings his own children - James (15) and twins Marion and Tabitha (nine) - to enjoy the same holiday.

It always feels like its a place that is perhaps foolishly more private to us, and theres a simplicity to the time that we spend there, and the people are so lovely. At this point it feels a little bit like home, in some way," Parker told the Irish Independent in 2015.

We would be delighted to decamp to Ireland. Move the children, put them in school there, have tea every day, a proper fry. Its just an exquisite, beautiful, relaxing, wonderful place for ourselves and for our children."

Broderick also said their children enjoy the freedom that comes from being away from NYC, adding: "The kids seem to love it. They keep asking when can we go back. They can run around and dont have to be watched so much."The theft of an empty plane by an airline worker who performed dangerous loops before crashing into a remote island in Puget Sound in Washington state has illustrated the potential perils of airline or airport employees causing mayhem.

Video footage shows a 76-seater Horizon Air Q400 aircraft which was stolen from Sea-Tac International Airport carrying out large loops and other dangerous manoeuvres as the sun set on Puget Sound near Seattle.

The flight lasted about 75 minutes, and ended when the pilot, named by sources as Richard Russell, crashed into the small island after being chased by military jets. The two F-15C aircraft scrambled from Portland did not fire on the plane, authorities said.

Erroll Southers, a former FBI agent and transportation security expert, said: The greatest threat we have to aviation is the insider threat.

Here we have an employee who was vetted to the level to have access to the aircraft and had a skill set proficient enough to take off with that plane.

Mr Southers said the man could have caused mass destruction.

He said: If he had the skill set to do loops with a plane like this, he certainly had the capacity to fly it into a building and kill people on the ground.

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Officials said the man had worked with Horizon for three-and-a-half years, and had clearance to be among aircraft. To their knowledge, he was not a licensed pilot, and he took the empty turboprop plane from a maintenance area.

It is unclear how Mr Russell attained the skills to carry out loops in the aircraft. Ground service agents direct aircraft for take-off and gate approach and de-ice planes, as well as handle baggage.

Horizon Air CEO Gary Beck said it was not clear how the man knew how to start the engine, which requires a series of switches and levers.

At a news conference, officials from Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air said they are working with authorities.

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Brad Tilden, the CEO of Alaska Airlines, said: Last nights event is going to push us to learn what we can from this tragedy so that we can ensure this does not happen again at Alaska Air Group or at any other airline.

Investigators expect they will be able to recover both the cockpit voice recorder and the event data recorder from the plane.

Mr Russell could be heard on audio recordings talking to air traffic controllers, who tried to convince him to land the plane.

There is a runway just off to your right side in about a mile, the controller said, referring to an airfield at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

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Oh man. Those guys will rough me up if I try and land there, Mr Russell responded, later adding: This is probably jail time for life, huh?

Later, Mr Russell said: Ive got a lot of people that care about me. Its going to disappoint them to hear that I did this  Just a broken guy, got a few screws loose, I guess.

Mr Russells family said in a statement that they were stunned and heartbroken.

They referenced the recordings and said it is clear Mr Russell, who went by the nickname Beebo, did not intend to harm anyone and he was right in saying that there are so many people who loved him.Prepare to read way more about swimming pools than you thought you would (Ian Rutherford/PA)

Childhood can be a confusing experience at the best of times, so its no surprise to hear that many of us had what appear now to be irrational fears.

That much became clear when Reddit user remyschnitzel asked members of the website: what were you irrationally afraid of as a kid?

Prepare to read way more about swimming pools than you thought you would.

1. Deathly sunflowers

2. Heartbeats

3. Garage giraffe

4. Unlikely sharks

5. Toilet

6. The dark

7. The universe

8. Unlikely turtles

9. Moose

10. Search light

11. School bus

12. Swimming pools part threePolice charged a man in the deaths of four people, including two police officers, and identified the civilians killed in a shooting last Friday in the eastern Canadian city of Fredericton. Police charged Matthew Vincent Raymond (48) with four counts of first degree murder, according to a statement yesterday. They identified the civilian victims as Bobbie-Lee Wright (32) and Donald Adam Robichaud (42). The four people killed, including police officers Sara Mae Burns (43) and Lawrence Robb Costello (45) were shot at an apartment complex in Fredericton, capital of the province of New Brunswick. Police said the officers responded to a report of shots and found two civilian victims on the ground.

Next stop the sun - once we lift off

A last-minute technical problem has delayed Nasa's unprecedented flight to the sun. The launch countdown was halted with just one-minute, 55 seconds remaining, keeping the Delta IV (four) rocket at Cape Canaveral, Florida, with the Parker Solar Probe.

This followed earlier trouble in the countdown. Nasa says it will try again today. Once on its way, the Parker probe will venture closer to our star than any other spacecraft. Thousands of spectators gathered in the middle of the night to witness the launch, including the University of Chicago astrophysicist after whom the spacecraft is named. Eugene Parker (91) predicted the existence of solar wind 60 years ago.

Texas tents for young migrants to stay

Texas lawmakers say they have been told the temporary tent shelter in far West Texas for immigrant minors will stay open for another month. State Reps. Ina Minjarez and Diego Bernal told the San Antonio Express-News that they toured the Tornillo facility last Friday. About 170 teen boys are being housed in tents at Tornillo. The US government opened the facility in June because its existing shelters were at capacity. More than 2,000 children were put in government shelters after being separated from their parents under Trump's zero-tolerance policy.

Three police killed storming hideout

Three members of Jordan's security forces were killed yesterday when they stormed a hideout of suspected militants that had been rigged with explosives, the government spokeswoman said. The officers had been chasing suspects in an explosion a day earlier in which a policeman was killed. Prime Minister Omar Razzaz portrayed Friday's bombing as a "terrorist attack." No group immediately took responsibility. Police raided buildings west of the capital of Amman as part of the manhunt. One of the buildings had been rigged with explosives, said government spokeswoman Jumana Ghuneimat. She said three members of the security forces were killed.

Disgraced monk held for Coptic killing

Egypt's public prosecutor has detained a disgraced monk, Isaiah al-Makari, on charges of killing a bishop at a desert monastery, his lawyer said yesterday, in a case that has rocked the Coptic community, the Middle East's biggest Christian minority. The killing last month of Bishop Epiphanius (64), a scholar who had led the Abu Makar Monastery in Wadi Natroun, an area some 110 km (68 miles) northwest of Cairo, prompted the church to impose strict new measures on its clergy.DYING MAN: Plaintiff Dewayne Johnson, right, reacts while attorney Brent Wisner, not seen, speaks about his terminal condition during the Monsanto trial in San Francisco. Photo: AP

A jury has ordered the chemical giant Monsanto to pay a terminally ill school groundskeeper $289m (252m) in damages in the first trial over claims that its Roundup weedkiller causes cancer.

Lee Johnson, whose doctors didn't think he'd live long enough to learn the verdict, prevailed this weekend in San Francisco state court after jurors deliberated for three days.

Expand Close DAMAGES: Monsanto has lost a court case in the US based on whether or not Roundup caused a groundskeepers cancer. Photo: AP / Facebook

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The trial was an important test of the evidence against Monsanto and will serve as a template for litigating thousands of other claims over the herbicide.

The company immediately said it would appeal against the decision and tried to reassure consumers - including those using Roundup elsewhere - that its weedkiller was safe.

Mr Johnson was seeking $412m in damages. Jurors awarded him $39m for his losses and $250m to punish the company after finding it liable for a design defect and failing to warn of Roundup's risks.

Monsanto vice president Scott Partridge told the Press Association: "Roundup has been safe for four decades and will continue to be safe. There is no credible scientific evidence that demonstrates otherwise.

"It is completely and totally safe and the public should not be concerned about this verdict... We will work through the legal process to see if we can get the right result. The science is crystal clear."

Germany's Bayer AG closed a deal to buy Monsanto for $66bn in June.

If the litigation generates large verdicts against Monsanto, it could have a material impact on Bayer's bottom line, said Chris Perrella, an analyst for Bloomberg Intelligence.

Since Roundup is ubiquitous in modern farming, there's a "huge potential liability," though it's very uncertain it will materialise, he said.

Bayer investors might not be aware of the risks because many analysts covering the company focus on pharmaceuticals, Mr Perrella said.

Glyphosate, the main ingredient in Roundup, was first approved for use in Monsanto's weedkiller in 1974.

While becoming the world's most popular and widely used herbicide, the question of whether it causes cancer has been hotly debated by environmentalists, regulators, researchers and lawyers - even as Monsanto has insisted for decades that it's perfectly safe.

Working for a school district in Benicia, California, about 40 miles east of San Francisco, Mr Johnson mixed and sprayed hundreds of gallons of Roundup.

He was diagnosed with cancer in 2014, and in July 2017, after chemotherapy and other treatments, his oncologist gave him six months to live.

Mr Johnson's lawyers, relying on his testimony and expert witnesses, argued that his exposure, including accidents that got him soaked from head to toe in Roundup, caused his non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Monsanto scientists knew of the cancer risk posed by Roundup as far back as the 1970s, but failed to inform the public and instead engaged in a "deliberate effort to distort the truth" as the weedkiller generated hefty returns, Mr Johnson's lawyer, Brent Wisner, told the jury in closing arguments last Tuesday.

"Monsanto made a choice to not put a cancer warning on the label," Mr Wisner said.

"That is a choice that shows their reckless disregard for human health, and today is their day of reckoning."

Monsanto argued that the type of cancer contracted by Mr Johnson takes many years to form. The short period between his first exposure in 2012 and his diagnosis in 2014 made any connection between his contact and the disease impossible, according to the company.

Monsanto lawyer George Lombardi insisted that science had found no connection between Roundup and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

He noted that the US Environmental Protection Agency continued to assert - after repeated assessments - that Roundup was safe.

In fact, Mr Lombardi told the jury, no one had yet figured out what causes the disease.

"We don't know why people get mycosis fungoides," he said, using the name of the specific form of cancer Mr Johnson has. "It would be nice if we could tell people why they get it, but we can't."The number is expected to increase, sparked by lightning strikes on bone-dry terrain, authorities said on Saturday.

A firefighter battles the Holy Fire burning in the Cleveland National Forest along a hillside at Temescal Valley in Corona, California on August 9, 2018. (Photo: AP)

Washington: Six large new wildfires erupted in the United States, pushing the number of major active blazes nationwide to over 100, with more expected to break out sparked by lightning strikes on bone-dry terrain, authorities said on Saturday.

More than 30,000 personnel, including firefighters from across the United States and nearly 140 from Australia and New Zealand, were battling the blazes that have consumed more than 1.6 million acres (648,000 hectares), according to the National Interagency Coordination Center.

We are expecting that there will be more fire-starts today, Jeremy Grams, lead forecaster with the National Weather Services Storm Prediction Center in Oklahoma, said in an interview on Saturday.

He said dry thunderstorms, which produce lightning but little rain, are expected for parts of the Rocky Mountain region, while the U.S. northwest has critical fire weather conditions that include strong winds and low relative humidity.

Firefighters were battling another day of extremely hot temperatures and strong winds on Saturday, the National Interagency Coordination Center said.

The fires have scorched states from Washington to New Mexico, with California among the hardest hit.

A mechanic helping to fight the Carr Fire near Redding in northern California was killed in a car crash on Thursday, the eighth person to die in that conflagration. The 190,873-acre (77,243-hectare) Carr Fire has destroyed nearly 1,100 homes.

About 100 miles (160 km) southwest of the Carr Fire, about 3,500 firefighters are battling the Mendocino Complex Fire, which has burned 328,226 acres (132,828 hectares) as of Saturday and was the largest fire on record in California.IN THE AIR: The twin-engine plane in mid-flight after it was stolen from Seattle-Tacoma airport. Photo: Getty Images

A "suicidal" mechanic stole an empty passenger plane from Seattle-Tacoma airport late last Friday, took it for a brief flight that included an aerial loop, then crashed it in an incident officials said was unrelated to terrorism.

Two F-15 fighter jets were scrambled to chase the stolen plane, but "were not involved in the crash", local officials said.

Video taken by a bystander showed the passenger plane making an unlikely upside-down loop, then flying low over Puget Sound before crashing into the sparsely populated Ketron Island in the north-western US state of Washington.

The crash sparked a fire in the dense forest. Flames lit up the night as they spread from the burning wreckage to nearby trees. Officials said there were no victims on the ground.

The stolen plane was a twin-engine turboprop Q400 belonging to its sister carrier Horizon Air, Alaska Airlines said in a post on Twitter. It normally carries 76 passengers.

"This is not a terrorist incident," Ed Troyer of the Pierce County Sheriff's office wrote on Twitter.

The plane thief "is confirmed a suicidal male", Mr Troyer wrote. "We know who he is."

The suspect was identified as a 29-year-old airline mechanic and local resident who "acted alone", he added, confirming that there were "no passengers on the plane" when it crashed.

The sheriff's office also said the F-15s arrived minutes after the plane was stolen and kept the aircraft "out of harm's way and people on the ground safe".

Horizon Air chief operating officer Constance von Muehlen issued a video statement describing the incident before the plane crashed.

"We believe it [the plane] was taken by a single Horizon Air employee and no other passengers or crew were on board," she said. "Our hearts are with the family of the individual aboard as well as all of our Alaska Air and Horizon Air employees."

The plane was stolen at around 8pm (3am GMT yesterday) and crashed 90 minutes later, officials said.

John Waldron, who took dramatic video of the stolen plane flying in a loop, told CNN that he was out for an evening stroll when he saw two fighter jets following the turboprop plane.

His first thought was that they were practising for an air show. "So, I started to capture video, just because I thought it was kind of bizarre," he said.

Mr Waldron said it seemed that the jets were chasing down the plane. "I thought this is really odd. Kept the video rolling," he added.

Then the passenger plane pilot "did a complete loop ... I couldn't believe he recovered", Mr Waldron said. He estimated that the plane at its lowest point was no more than 30.5 metres above the water.

"Then the pilot "pulled pretty much straight up, and kind of at an angle, and almost stalled the aircraft. Somehow he got it levelled back off. And then made his way down toward the island," he added.

Mr Waldron said he was prepared to "run and take cover". He briefly turned away, then turned back and saw the explosion as the plane crashed.

The pilot, identified as 'Rich', comes across as excitable, confused, and even apologetic in a conversation with the control tower. "Congratulations, you did it," the control tower tells 'Rich', according to audio aired on CNN. "Let's turn around the air and land it and not hurt anybody on the ground."

"I don't know, man," the pilot answers. "I don't want to. I was kind of hoping that was going to be it, you know."

'Rich' says he put some fuel in the plane "to go check out the Olympics", but then worried that he is low on gaso- line.

"I'm down to 2,100 [pounds]," he says, "I don't know what the burnage is like on take-off, but it burned quite a bit faster than I expected."

The control tower gently urges him to land at a nearby military base. "I wouldn't want to do that. They probably have anti-aircraft," he responds.

"This is probably jail time for life, huh?" he later asks, according to a recording provided by the Seattle Times.

'Rich' adds: "I've got a lot of people that care about me. It's going to disappoint them to hear that I did this. I would like to apologise to each and every one of them. Just a broken guy, got a few screws loose, I guess. Never really knew it, until now."

Pierce County Sheriff Paul Pastor described the incident at a press conference as a "joyride gone terribly wrong".Margaret Heckler was appointed United States Ambassador to Ireland in 1985 by President Ronald Reagan, although it was characterised as a "demotion" in sections of the US media, as she had served as a successful reforming Health and Human Services secretary in his first administration and she was taking a pay cut in her new appointment.

She had initially resisted the posting, but then thanked Mr Reagan for honouring an Irish-American with the job in Dublin. Unfortunately on this side of the Atlantic some then characterised Ireland as a "dumping ground" for former members of the administration, although during her four years in Ireland, Heckler was highly regarded, especially in the business community.

While she appeared low-key with regard to the vexed Northern Ireland question, which had gained much interest from Irish-American politicians since the onset of the Troubles, she was so influential promoting Ireland as an American investment destination and forging trade links between the two countries that the Industrial Development Authority (IDA) erected a plaque in her honour when she departed in 1989.

She was also seen as a practical figure in the peace process, securing $120m from the US government for the International Fund for Ireland which greased the wheels of the peace process with money for all sorts of cross-border and cross-community initiatives.

Described before her arrival as "shrewd and combative", she spent four years in the splendour of the US Ambassador's residence, Deerfield, in the Phoenix Park, Dublin, where she enjoyed "the Irish air", the company of her wolfhound Jackson O'Toole and the social and diplomatic scene where her vivacious nature made her a popular fixture.

A style-conscious woman, she had been described by the US columnist Jack Anderson as "I'd walk a mile for a camera Heckler" but it was this easy style and accessibility that endeared her to the public, and she became a familiar figure and name, compared with some of the anonymous occupants of the embassy before and since.

Mrs Heckler was known throughout her career as a supporter of women's rights, which led to a barbed comment from her successor Richard Moore, who noted that Irish women were not as liberated as some of their US counterparts.

It is an indication of how times had changed in Ireland and the US that on her return from Ireland, Margaret Heckler became a committed supporter of Catholic and anti-abortion organisations. "The creation of life is a sacred gift from God and has to be preserved," she said.

Born Margaret O'Shaughnessy, the daughter of Irish emigrants, in the suburb of Flushing, Queens, New York in June, 1931, she went to Albertus Magnus College in New Haven. It was there that she developed a talent for debating and an interest in politics.

As the only woman in the Boston College Law School class of 1956, the fiercely competitive Heckler graduated sixth in her class before doing post-graduate work and being called to the Boston Bar.

She was the first woman from Massachusetts elected to the US Congress who did not succeed her husband, and she served eight terms from 1967 until her defeat by a Democrat in a hotly contested election in 1983.

She was known as sociable and her ability to "get things done" led to many Democrats voting for her despite her strong Republican politics.

She had married a fellow college student John M Heckler in 1953 and they had three children, Belinda, Alison and John Jnr.

The couple divorced in 1984 during her time as Health Secretary, but she said at the time that President Reagan had been "very supportive" of her during a trying time.

In her job as Health Secretary, Heckler commissioned a study of health care among the black population that became known as 'The Heckler Report' and became a landmark document on health disparity between the wealthy classes and various minorities.

She was Health Secretary in the early days of the emerging Aids crisis, but found it difficult to raise the issue at cabinet level because of the ultra-conservative nature of the Reagan administration.

She was also ahead of her time in recognising the need for greater funding for research into Alzheimer's disease, which at the time was also emerging as one of the great threats to global health.

She was unpopular because of staff cuts which she had little choice about introducing as Reagan focused on bringing down the budget deficit.

At one point she complained that there was a "campaign against me by some members of the White House staff" and although she didn't name him it is believed that she was referring to Donald Regan, the architect of 'Reaganomics' who made no secret of his dislike for her.

After two-and-half years Regan dropped her from the cabinet and she refused a number of other postings, including one with Nasa before accepting the job of US Ambassador to Ireland on May 31, 1987. She served until her resignation in August, 1989 when she was succeeded by Richard Moore.

"Every American of Irish ancestry can appreciate the special place that Ireland is to each of us," she said following her return to the United States.

Margaret Mary Heckler died last Monday at the age of 87 at a medical centre in Arlington, Virginia from cardiac arrest. Her family said: "She was an inspiration to all who knew her."Ayush Kishore, a class X student of Bhopal, is turning out to be the lifeline for prisoners, who have served their jail term but are still behind bars because they cant pay the fine.

As he turned 14 this year, Ayush decided to get 14 such prisoners released on Independence Day by donating Rs 27,850 towards their fines. Twelve of them are from Indore jail and two from Bhopal  all are murder convicts. On Republic Day this year, he had secured the release of four such prisoners.

Winner of the National Child Award for exceptional achievement in academics in 2016, and felicitated by then President Pranab Mukherjee, Ayush has received several scholarships from his school for being an all-rounder. He has won gold medals in several national and international competitions.

It was the aftermath of the Bhopal jailbreak of October 2016 that proved a turning point. During the SIMI jailbreak, a jail constable was killed and his daughter was to get married a few days later. I wanted to help his family so I asked my mother to donate Rs 10,000 that I had got as prize money for his daughters wedding. Later, I was informed that she was helped by chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. On seeing my interest in helping people, my mother suggested that I donate my prize money for prisoners who have completed their punishment but are serving additional jail term because they are unable to pay the fine.

Representational Image

Prisoners joy inspired me, says Ayush

The joy of helping in the release of four prisoners in January this year cant be put in words, Ayush told TOI. They were so happy to meet their families. Their joy served as inspiration for me. I decided to help more such prisoners. I met a prisoner who had completed his punishment two years ago, but was still in jail. Seeing him I decided to help as many as I could. Many of them had fines of Rs 6,000, he added.

His mother, assistant IGplanning branch, Vinita Malviya said, Ayush is excellent in academics. He is in the Limca Book of Records for wining the Aloha International Arithmetic Competition. After he showed an interest in helping the martyred constables family after the SIMI jailbreak, I did not want him to lose the spirit of helping others. So, I suggested that he help prisoners.President Mamnoon Hussain has already summoned the maiden session of National Assembly, the lower house, at 10 am in parliament house.

According to law, the speaker of the previous assembly, Ayaz Sadiq, will administer the oath to the new lawmakers, followed by election of the speaker and the deputy speaker. (Photo: PTI)

Islamabad: Pakistan's newly-elected parliament is meeting on Monday for the first time to start the process of transition and handing over powers to the new government.

President Mamnoon Hussain has already summoned the maiden session of National Assembly, the lower house, at 10 am in parliament house here. According to law, the speaker of the previous assembly, Ayaz Sadiq, will administer the oath to the new lawmakers, followed by election of the speaker and the deputy speaker.

After the election of the new speaker, the outgoing speaker will give him the oath and hand over charge of the new house. Prime Minister-in-waiting Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) emerged as the single largest party with 116 seats in the July 25 election. Its tally increased to 125 after nine independent members joined it. The final tally of the PTI has reached 158 after it was allowed 28 out of 60 seats reserved for women. The party is still 14 short of simple majority of 172 in the house of 342. But it has support of several smaller parties and it is expected to get support of at least 180 lawmakers in the election for speaker, deputy speaker and prime minister.

PTI spokesman Fawad Chaudhry said the party has already nominated Khan as prime minister and Asad Qaisar as speaker. It has not announced the candidate for deputy speaker so far.

Party sources said the Cabinet list has not been finalised but there is general consensus that Shah Mahmood Qureshi will be the new foreign minister and Pervez Khattak as interior minister. Asad Umar is expected to get the key post of finance minister and Khan is also expected to appoint prominent businessman Abdul Razzak Dawood as advisor on finance. Dawood served in the cabinet of former military dictator Pervez Musharraf.

Chaudhry said that PTI has decided to invite Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) chief Shehbaz Sharif and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for Khan's oath taking ceremony as prime minister. It is not clear if they will attend the ceremony scheduled to take place on August 18 in the President House. There are reports that President Hussain has cancelled his three-day trip to Ireland to administer the oath to the new prime minister.

Meanwhile, leaders of PML-N and PPP have met in Lahore to decide their strategy for the first session. The two parties have decided to field joint candidates for posts of speaker, deputy speaker and prime minister.

The PML-N has a final tally of 82 seats after the addition of 18 reserved seats  including 16 for women and two for non-Muslims and PPP has 53 with addition of 11 reserved seats  nine for women and two for non-Muslims. The Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal (MMA) now has 15 seats after the addition of three reserved seats  two for women and one for non- Muslim. The combined strength of the major opposition parties will be at least 150.

The actual strength of PTI will be reduced to 152 because Khan won on five seats but will have to vacate four seats before taking the oath. Two other PTI leaders won on two seats each and will vacate the additional seats. This means that the total strength of the house will be reduced from 342 to 336 after the seats are vacated.

As PTI ally Pervez Elahi of Pakistan Muslim League will also vacate his two national assembly seats after deciding to sit in the Punjab assembly, while elections were not held on two seats and result of one seat has been delayed due to litigation, the final strength of the house will further come down to 331. Hence, a winning candidate will need support of 166 lawmakers instead of 172. It means PTI still needs support of 14 members of smaller parties and joint opposition needs 16.

On paper, the PTI is expected to carry the day by a thin margin due to open support of several small parties but still a tough competition is expected for the top posts of speaker and prime minister.

These parties include Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) with seven seats, Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) with five, Balochistan National Party (BNP) with four, Pakistan Muslim League (PML) with three, Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) with three, and Awami Muslim League and Jamori Watan Party have one each. But still the PTI will be heavily dependent on the smaller parties and its government may be virtually at their mercy.

As far provincial assemblies are concerned, PTI is leading in Punjab with 179 seats in the house of 371 but it has not so far announced its chief ministerial candidate. Reportedly, several leaders are in the running for the coveted seat, which is second only to the premier in importance. In Sindh, PPP is leading with 97 seats in the house of 168, in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, PTI is in clear majority with 84 seats in the house of 124, while Balochistan Awami Party has 20 seats in majority in the house of 65 in Balochistan and is expected to form the government with support of PTI and other parties.Bihar shelter rape accused Brajesh Thakur, unaware of surprise police checks around Independence Day, was caught chilling in prison. Thakur has connections with politically influential people and was found in possession of names and phone numbers of 40 people.

He was arrested for the rape and torture of more than 30 girls at a shelter home in Bihar.

When the team of district administrators and police officers visited jail hospital on Saturday, Thakur was found spending time in the visitors area.

A mobile phone wasnt recovered from him but only the list of phone numbers, indicating that he might be trying to connect with men who can assist his release.

News agency IANS said names of some powerful people, including a minister, were on these two sheets.

The sheet has been sealed and was sent to CBI for more investigation.In a small house in North Delhis Mukhmelpur village lives a Kargil war veteran, Satbir Singh, of the Rajputana Rifles, who was left disabled when Pakistan fired six bullets at him during the 1999 war.

The 53-year-old soldier limps as one of the bullets still remains in his right leg. Due to a severe injury, Singh had to take voluntary retirement from his post. A pile of letters showed that he was entitled to a petrol pump and one-acre land by the then government. However, 20 years later, Singh is running odd errands to serve a family of four as a juice-seller.

Kargil Soldier of Rajputana Rifles, Satbir Singh's residence in Mukhmelpur village, New Delhi

IndiaTimes visited Singh at his home in Mukhmelpur where he narrated his ordeal.

Singh was brought up in an environment where he was encouraged to raise slogans like Jai Jawaan, Jai Kisaan as he waved Indian flags with other villagers in every lane. He was five years old when he used to participate in this chore."I felt inspired to be a part of the Indian Army," he said. Singh was an ardent participant in school parades. Later, he even became a part of the NCC (National Cadet Corps) cadre where he received training for about two years.

Due to financial instability, he had to leave his education. For the next two and a half years, Singh worked for the Indian Home Guard. Finally, he got admitted in the Indian Army. He served as an Indian Army soldier in Srinagar for eight and a half years, out of a total of 14 years. After 1989, the situation in Kupwara and Bandipora started deteriorating.

Two bullets that were fired at Singh during the Kargil war

Once the regiment received information about the battle, Singh and other warriors were given rigorous training on how to climb the Tololing mountain, due to the difficult nature of this terrain. Tololing was a dominant position overlooking the Srinagar-Leh highway. Humaare liye Tololing ke pahad ko jeetna matlab Kargil jeetna tha.

Finally, on June 12, 1999 India launched an attack on the Pakistan army. Singhs unit consisted of 24 soldiers, out of which seven were killed and rest received grave injuries. Singh himself took six gun shots. One of the bullets still lies in the arch of his feet. He was admitted to the Army hospital on June 14, 1999 and was discharged on May 23, 2000 because he could barely walk.

Singh working in his juice shop

Private, government and army doctors advised him not to get an artificial limb as a natural limb would prove to be more beneficial than a prosthetic one. His fellow soldiers who got an artificial limb struggle to walk with it. "First, they have to wear proper socks then tie it properly. It is a cumbersome process. During monsoon and summer seasons, the prosthetic limb sometimes leads to blisters and pockmarks which bothers them a lot", he tells further. Therefore, ex-lance soldier uses a walking stick that is convenient for him.

When we asked him if he was promised anything post retirement, he claimed that his mates who were killed during the war, their families were immediately given either petrol pump, gas agencies or one acre land for their sustenance. "Due to my injury I was in the hospital for a long time and nobody was there in my family who would look after", he said with a sigh. His children at that time (two boys) were nine years old and nine months old respectively.

When he was discharged, he conducted an enquiry into the entitlement, he was sent off without any response. Kisi ke bacho ko naukri mil gayi, kisi ki biwi ko naukri mil gayi, kisi ko gas agency, kisi ko kheti karne ke liye zameen de di gayi. He was later told that he has to survive on a given pension of Rs 4,000/month only (as of 2000). At present, he is getting a pension of Rs 23,000/month.

Later, he approached the Army headquarters and filled a form for the acquirement of a petrol pump. He submitted those documents at Shastri Bhavan Petroleum Ministry office."Samvidhaan ke anusaar,1999-2000 mein ye niyam tha ki yudh mein ghayal fauji ko zameen ka ek tukda dekar sammaanit kiya jaayega" said a brave Satbir.

From left to right: A glimpse of letter written by Singh, A photograph of Singh standing on his farm, A newspaper cutting about Singh,Singh's residence

An action was therefore, taken by the then Central government to allot him with one acre land and petrol pump. However, his application remained buried in paperwork for around four years. He alleges, that he was allotted a piece of land later, on which he did extensive farming. However, it was snatched away from him four years later. His friends informed him that machines and bulldozers had run over the entire farm. Satbir had spent his entire savings in fertilization of that land.

He claimed that an entire package of Rs 40,332/month as pension was promised to him along with education for his children. "I am getting only half the amount as pension and no education fee for my children."

Since the past one year, he is running a juice shop in Mukhmelpur village. There is no bus stand, railway station here, so there are hardly any customers. Some 10 to 12 boys of Mukhmelpur who go to the gym visit his shop to drink juice. I barely, earn Rs 500 per day through this business. In the past 20 years, I have worked as a vegetable seller, farmer, electrician and at construction sites to earn a living.

I have all the documents ready. I was threatened several times that I should continue with my life as it is else, I shall face dire consequences. But I am not scared and I want to make sure that any other soldier doesnt have to suffer the same ordeal.

The juice shop where Satbir Singh now works

Satbir Singh awaits justice. In 2019, the battle of Kargil will complete 20 years of victory but Singh is still waiting to exercise his fundamental rights. As he stumbles on one leg, he struggles to pull the shutter of his juice shop. In an empty lane of Mukhmelpur, Satbir is a recipient of empty promises and statements.While the downpour subsided on Saturday bringing some relief, 11 out of the states 14 districts are submerged in water and a red alert has been sounded. So far, 37 people have lost their lives in the floods. Read more

Here's more top news of the day:





1) Nobel Prize-Winning Author VS Naipaul Dies At 85; Here's How Nation Is Expressing Grief Over His Demise

VS Naipaul, Reuters

Nobel prize-winning British author V.S. Naipaul has died at the age of 85, his family announced on Saturday. "He died surrounded by those he loved having lived a life which was full of wonderful creativity and endeavour," his wife Lady Nadira Naipaul said in a statement. Read more

2) PM Modi Condemns Cow Vigilantism & Mob Justice, Says Lynching Is A Crime No Matter What

AP

Mob lynching incidents related to cow vigilantism do not seem to stop anytime soon. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi has earlier condemned cow vigilantism, he once again clarified that such incidents will not be tolerated. Read more

3) NDRF Man's Brave Act To Rescue Sick Child Goes Viral; Wins Praise On Social Media

TOI

An NDRF officer rescued a sick child by sprinting across a bridge moments before it got submerged in gushing flood waters in rain-ravaged Kerala, with an image of his daring act going viral on the social media. Read more

4) Bihar Shelter Rape Accused Caught Chilling In Prison; Found With Numbers Of Influential People

Bihar shelter rape accused Brajesh Thakur, unaware of surprise police checks around Independence Day, was caught chilling in prison. Thakur has connections with politically influential people and was found in possession of names and phone numbers of 40 people. Read more

5) To Lay Emphasis On Sexual Consent, UP Police Launches Campaign With Hashtag No Means No

AFP

Its tweet, viewed by over 55,000 people within hours, got over 1,000 likes, 386 retweets and 64 replies within two hours. No means no is an antirape/harassment slogan that emphasises sexual consent. Read moreQatar is now about to lose its status as the richest place in the world to China's Macau. The global casino hubs economy by 2020 will reach the equivalent of about $143,116 per person.

macau / reuters

According to projections from the International Monetary Fund, the global casino hub's economy will reach the equivalent of about $143,116 per person by 2020. This will help in putting Macau ahead of Qatar, which will reach $139,151 in the same time frame.

Macau has become a gambling mecca since returning to Chinese control two decades ago.

qatar / reuters

Three European countries  Luxembourg, Ireland, and Norway made the top 10 places expected to be the worlds wealthiest by 2020, while the US came in at No. 12.An NDRF officer rescued a sick child by sprinting across a bridge moments before it got submerged in gushing flood waters in rain-ravaged Kerala, with an image of his daring act going viral on the social media.

The National Disaster Response Force team member, later identified as Kanhaiya Kumar, saw a man with a child asking for help from the other side of the narrow Cheruthoni Bridge near the Idukki Dam in the district, which was opened last week after a gap of 26 years.

TOI

He responded in a flash, ran across, grabbed the child and rushed back, unmindful of his safety.

A photograph of Kumar snapped while scurrying across the bridge with the child two days ago, has gone viral on the social media with netizens showering praise on him.

"As the waters were rising, I saw a man waving asking for help with a young child from the other side of the bridge. I crossed the bridge, grabbed the girl child and sprinted back as soon as I could to the other side," he said later.

The NDRF also rescued a man, two women and three children who had got stranded in the Kabini river at Orapally village of Waynad district.

ANI

"Passionate concern for all needy. Be it humans or animals," the NDRF tweeted posting pictures of its personnel rescuing some people and a dog.

Around 14 NDRF teams, comprising 100 members, ten columns of Army, besides personnel and helicopters from the Air Force and Navy are engaged in rescue and relief operations in different parts of the state.

#WATCH: NDRF Rescue officer Kanhaiya Kumar, on a video of him running through flooded bridge in Kerala's Idukki with a child close to his chest going viral, says, "I realised that I can help by taking the child to nearest hospital in a safer place for 1st-aid& I did exactly that" pic.twitter.com/WvKrv6owao  ANI (@ANI) August 11, 2018

Kerala has been hit by unprecedented floods with almost all the 40-odd rivers in spate following heavy rains since last week.

As the Cheruthoni bridge was the lifeline of the local people on the two banks of the Cheruthoni River, they have been put to great difficulty now as they have to take a detour of at least 15 km to reach the other side.

Meanwhile, a Defence release said the Army personnel restored connectivity to Virinjapara under Mankulam panchayat near Munnar in the district after a concrete bridge was washed away in floods, bringing relief to 800 families of the area.

Army personel from Pangode military station at Thiruvananthapuram and the Madras regiment were also involved in the reconstruction of a road damaged at Kochukodakallu- Machiplavu area in Idukki, it said.

They also distributed food and medicines at a camp at Adimali in Idukki, the release added.Wild African elephants are some of the most majestic animals to walk the face of the earth. However, their population is in steep decline.

But a new technological solution, which uses artificial intelligence, may hold the key to conserving elephants in the wild and protecting them for future generations.

save the elephants

A startup called Conservation Metrics, a Microsoft AI for Earth grantee based in Santa Cruz, California, uses breakthrough AI techniques to effectively monitor the population of wild elephants in Africa. It uses machine learning to apply sophisticated algorithms to help the Elephant Listening Project separate the sound of forest elephant calls and all the other noises found in a tropical rainforest's surrounding.

The Elephant Listening Project

Acoustic sensors are placed all over the rainforests of Africa, as part of the Elephant Listening Project. These sensors capture all the sounds in the national park and surrounding areas, and they're always on.

The effort is part of a massive exercise to better estimate elephant numbers in the wild by discerning their sounds as they pass by, and recognizing them through their voice signature.

But the problem is the sensors themselves can't differentiate between elephant sounds. They just capture all sound constantly -- which means there are stray noises of other animals like chimpanzees, gorillas, forest buffalo, birds and insects that are also picked up. Distinguishing between all the voices to find the sound of an elephant can mean months of work for a human, if not years -- a futile exercise.

But thanks to new technology, it's a perfect job for AI -- looking for the sound signature of an elephant and weeding out all the background noise.

As a result, scientist and biologists can track real-time movement patterns of wild elephants, alerting forest authorities of any poaching related activity (by flagging off gunshot sounds) and finding and blocking online ads that attempt to sell illegal ivory or elephant parts -- again thanks to image recognition based artificial intelligence which hunts down these online ads.

Hopefully, due to this AI technique, wild elephants will start flourishing again.There is no denying that Europe is the cultural capital of the world. The culture is deep-rooted and constantly sprouting in the form of art, architecture, music, literature, and philosophy that can be seen in every nook and corner of this continent.

A post shared by TRAVELLING THROUGH THE WORLD  (@travellingthroughtheworld) on Aug 11, 2018 at 10:32pm PDT

Following the same trend, many countries across the world are now trying to follow this trend by creating new forms of art. One such recent addition is the Golden Bridge outside Da Nang in Vietnam.

Standing tall at 1,400 m above sea level above the Ba Na hills, the bridge offers a majestic view of the surrounding countryside. Now, the plan is to build something similar in India. Moved by its bombastic opening and the number of people travelling to Vietnam to see this ginormous figure, the Indian government is also planning to construct colossal bridges to attract tourists.

The central government is now looking for options and proposals where a similar monument can be constructed in India to attract more tourists. An NHAI official said that there is a plan to build 1.5 km long bridge connecting Rameshwaram which will have designs of temples.

There has been a huge change in approach while designing bridges and beautifying them. This will get more push in the future as the focus is to make them look beautiful, particularly at night, said an official, reports TOI.The incessant rain in Kerala is anything but silent and unharming. After claiming nearly 37 lives, capsizing the boat of two fishermen, flooding the houses of many and leading to an indefinite powercut, the floods have done more harm than expected.

Though there was a respite in the state yesterday, the problems haven't ended for many of those who are on the streets in need of food, shelter and help. In this disturbance, a blanket merchant named Vishnu from Maharashtra donated his entire stock to help the distraught people.

Meet #Vishnu. He is a blanket merchant from Maharashtra. He came back to Kerala with 50 blanket to sell. But once he knew about the calamities this guy didn't have to think twice he donated his entire stock of blankets to the district collector. #KeralaFloodRelief pic.twitter.com/fcz7MTE5LL  Pishu Mon (@PishuMon) August 11, 2018

Vishnu bought 50 blankets to Kerala which he planned to sell, but after seeing the effects and victims of the flooding, donated his entire stock.

1.

The idea of India.......the sheer generosity and kindness of those who don't have too much https://t.co/symylzaxbB  Harini Calamur (@calamur) August 12, 2018

2.

God bless this https://t.co/g25jhlLVrE is always those with the least means who have the largest hearts. https://t.co/lRpPhW5FeW  LEENA (@kunfaaya) August 12, 2018

3.

Knowing how precariously these people live it is heartwarming to see such a gesture. God bless #Vishnu. We are truly blessed.  Mohan Nair (@drmohannair) August 11, 2018

Given that Vishnu came all the way to sell these blankets, chances are that he could have used the money after earning from the transaction. Yet, he did not think twice about helping the people who were in need. It's funny how those who themselves need help and support are the ones helping each other.Rome (AsiaNews)  Pope Francis spoke to thousands of young people taking part in Per mille strade (Along a thousand roads), a prayer meeting promoted by the Catholic Bishops Conference of Italy in preparation of the Synod of Bishops next October.

In his message, the pontiff said not to let anyone steal your dreams because they are the most important, the brightest stars, those that show a different path for humanity.

Some 60,000 to 70,000 young people joyfully invaded Romes Circus Maximus. The Holy Father mingled with them, answering questions from four of them, on the meaning of life, choices, the future, and love.

"Dear young people, Francis said, you have in your heart the shining stars that are your dreams: they are your responsibility and your treasure. Make sure they are your future as well! This takes courage, against resistance and difficulties. Of course, dreams must be grown, purified, tested and shared. Have you ever wondered where your dreams come from? Are they born watching television? Listening to a friend? Daydreaming? Are they big or small dreams, miserable dreams that are satisfied with as little as possible? Dreams of comfort, dreams of well-being, of tranquillity. Dreams that put young people to sleep. Youth, without dreams, who retire.

The Bible tells us that big dreams are those that can be fruitful, sowing peace and brotherhood, like today. These dreams are big because they think of everyone with an US. [. . .] The opposite of me is us. True dreams are dreams about us. [. . .] Big dreams include, involve, are extroverted, share, generate new life. Big dreams, in order to remain so, need an inexhaustible source of hope, an Infinity which blows in and expands them. Big dreams need God in order not to become mirages or delusion of being all powerful.

"Everyone's freedom is a great gift, which does not allow half measures, Francis noted. Love comes when it wants. Love is not a profession; love is life. This is why I ask parents to help love mature. In life love, true love, always comes first. [. . .] Love does not tolerate half measures. It must be sincere, open, courageous. At the end, the Bible says that God created them [humans] in his image and likeness and created them male and female. And what is the task of the wife, but to help her husband grow as a man and that of her husband is to help his wife grow as a woman."

"The dreams of young people are a little scary to adults. Perhaps because they have stopped dreaming and taking risks; perhaps because your dreams undermine their choices of life. Dreams that lead to criticism. But let no one steal your dreams. [. ..] Look for good teachers who can help you understand them and make them real, gradually and peacefully. As for yourselves, be good teachers, teachers of hope and trust in the new generations coming up behind you. What you have received for free, put it back in circulation, return it enriched with your passion and intelligence. Settling down to comfort is a trap. Boys and girls, take a risk. Life is not a lottery in which only the lucky ones can realise their dreams. Life is a challenge in which you really win if you win together, if you do not crush others, if you do not exclude anyone."

Finally, the Church "is not only the pope, the bishops, the priests, but all the baptised, and each one is invited to make it richer in love, more capable of communion, less attached to earthly things. If you, young people do not participate in the life of the Church, if you do not take up the message of the Gospel, the Church becomes poorer, loses vitality! The Churchs beauty and authenticity also depend on you. You do not lack the tools for listening and understanding the good words of the Gospel. It is certainly up to you to find the time, letting yourselves get involved in such wisdom, full of sweetness and light, but also the most subversive that exists. We can only believe by believing, just as we can only love by loving.

What is the secret? Prayer. It is the dialogue with the Father that gives breath to mind and heart. It is in prayer that your questions and pleas will find the right words to rise to heaven. Then, even faced with evil, pain and death, you will have the strength in the Holy Spirit to welcome the mystery of life and not lose hope.

"Dear friends, you have set out on your journey and have come to this meeting, and now my joy is to feel your hearts beating with love for Jesus, like those of Mary Magdalene, Peter, and John. Because you are young, I, like Peter, am happy to see you running faster, and like John, driven by the impulse of your heart, sensitive to the voice of the Spirit that animates your dreams. For this reason, I tell you: do not be satisfied with the cautious step of those who queue at the end of the line. It takes courage to risk a leap forward, a bold and daring leap to dream and realise, like Jesus, the Kingdom of God, and work for more fraternal humanity.A new pontoon which was opened in West Cork today is set to provide a major boost for marine leisure tourism in the south-west.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Patrick Gerard Murphy, performed the official opening of the 600,000 Schull Harbour pontoon this afternoon as part of Schull Regatta.

The pontoon project includes a pathway and bridge along with a gangway, to provide enhanced public access to the water.

Schull Harbour is one of the busiest in the country, especially during the summer with a large number of marine leisure craft vying with fishing vessels for very limited pier space.

The pontoon was designed specifically for short-term berthing of small marine leisure craft in a bid to relieve some of that pressure.

The project was funded by Cork County Council with grant aid from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the Town and Village Renewal Scheme.

The project contractors were Inland and Coastal Marina Systems Ltd, from Banagher, Co. Offaly, who manufactured the pontoon and gangway units.

Cronin Millar Consulting Engineers, based in Cobh, Co Cork undertook the design, and the structures were then installed by L&M Keating Ltd, the main civil contractor for the installation contract.

Contractors lift a section of the new pontoon into the water in Schull Harbour. Photo: Andy Gibson

Tim Lucey, the chief executive of Cork County Council, described it as a significant addition to the regions infrastructure which will benefit all users of the harbour.

Cork is Irelands maritime haven and our investment in Schull is a further reflection on how importantly we view our marine resources, both commercial and leisure, he said.

We are committed to the further enhancement of our facilities from Eyeries to Youghal.

The new pontoon will be an enormous benefit, not only to the local economy but to the entire Mizen Peninsula and I am confident that Schull pontoon will be a wonderful addition to all users of the harbour.

Mayor Murphy also highlighted the expected benefits of the new pontoon, in particular its advantage to leisure users.

We have an incredible coastline here and one that is ideally suited to marine leisure activities, he said.

By providing infrastructure such as this new pontoon we are enabling both leisure and commercial users to enjoy this harbour and ultimately see growth in both important sectors.

During the official opening ceremony, a wreath was laid to commemorate those who have lost their lives at sea.

Boats in the harbour were also blessed.Police in Croatia said they have intercepted a group of 10 migrants in a dense forest, and another two who had apparently died en route.

The group who entered the country illegally were found after a tip from locals, police in the central town of Karlovac said.Dateline The Military vs. Democracy 30 Years On

--

Kyaw Zwa Moe: Welcome to Dateline Irrawaddy! Aug. 8 marked the 30th anniversary of the 8888 pro-democracy popular uprising. On such an occasion, people are asking if the demand for democracy made then has been fully satisfied. We can see that those demands are yet to be met. We will try to find out why people from all walks of life, political parties, students unions who participated in the 8888 uprising havent seen their demands fulfilled. What were our weaknesses? Ko Sanny, also known as Ko Thiha Thu, and Ko Yan Myo Thein, who participated in the uprising, join me to discuss this. Im Kyaw Zwa Moe.

It has been 30 years since the popular uprising. As Ive said, it is fair to say that we have achieved a certain degree of democracy that we demanded 30 years ago. We now have an elected government. But the democracy we now enjoy is built on the political landscape paved by the military-drafted 2008 Constitution. So, Ko Sanny, what were our  I mean those who participated in the uprising  weaknesses and faults and what did we do wrong?

Sanny: It is not easy for such an uprising to take place. People from all walks of life came together to defy the government, the one-party political system. We wanted political freedom and demanded democracy. We demanded social and economic freedom from the government, which had been exercising a closed-door policy. People expressed their wishes and the entire nation joined in. But the entire nations people cant control the power. There are people who provided political leadership to take power through the popular movement. Leaders such as Aung- Suu-Tin (referring to Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, U Tin Oo and U Aung Gyi) emerged, and other unions also emerged. There was also (then-Prime Minister) U Nu. The military didnt want to give democracy, so it played dirty tricks to weaken the protesters. It promised multi-party democratic elections. It did hold elections, but then said that there was no constitution.

KZM: It refused to recognize the election results.

Sanny: Yes, it refused, giving the excuse that there was no constitution. The constitution had been drafted but it was not finished until 2008. The military maintained a firm grip through the constitution and gave us a so-called democracy. But it is fair to say that it is a sham democracy.

KZM: The uprising hoped to achieve genuine democracy. Ko Sanny said that people asked for democracy through that popular movement, but the military regime refused to give it. But around the world, no dictator or totalitarian regime is willing to give up power easily. Ko Yan Myo Thein, what were the weaknesses of pro-democracy activists?

Yan Myo Thein: The military seized power in 1962. Then all the institutions were toppled. There were no political parties or independent unions. When we got involved in the 8888 uprising all of a sudden, we were very weak at creating a systematic organization. Though people worked side by side, the understanding and connection between them was weak. Similarly, there were serious weaknesses in the connection between leadership and the people on the ground. The political will of our former rulers and the military was very weak during the democratic transition of our country. The opposition party (the National League for Democracy) proposed time and again to hold talks with the military regime after the 1990 elections but they didnt happen. It refused to hold talks because of (its plan to draft) the 2008 Constitution. It drafted the Constitution to give itself a (favorable) playing field to play with the opposition. Thats why it released Daw Aung San Suu Kyi only after 2010 and held talks with her through various channels, and finally she got into Parliament. What we demanded in 1988 was democracy and the downfall of dictatorship. Today, the domination of dictatorship largely remains and the democracy weve got is half-real and half-sham.

KZM: The NLD won a landslide victory in the 1990 elections but the military regime refused to transfer power. Then the whole world took different actions for a regime change in the country over the past 30 years. Myanmar people also took part in it. There are student unions as well as over 90 political parties now. So their pro-democracy efforts failed because they lacked better political strategies, shrewder moves, and closer cooperation? They were only oppressed by the other side because they lacked effective political strategies and were slower than the other side. We should review these issues. Only through self-assessment will we know what we should do in the future. Even Daw Aung San Suu Kyis government is under fire now. There has been criticism of her leadership, her weakness in operating policies, and the capacity of her cabinet members. Ko Sanny, what else do you want to say about this?

Sanny: The main problem of our country, our society is the military. Both active and retired military officials have political influence. Their attitude is that the military is the noblest institution in the country and their leaders have a monarchial mindset. The military has not yet decided how it would properly participate and behave in the society at large. (Real changes are unlikely) unless the military leaders accept that they must mend their ways and withdraw their role and interests for the development of society.

KZM: The military has no strong political will to implement change. This is the reason for todays situation. Comparing today with 1988, the NLD has gotten power after 30 years though the 2008 Constitution, (but the government) still doesnt meet democratic norms. They dont hold 100 percent of the seats, but they have become the government. There is a certain degree of press freedom. Civil society organizations have emerged, so this indicates that weve been given space. If we are to proceed to genuine democracy  the ultimate goal demanded by the people in 1988  how can we negotiate with the military leaders and change their political will? This will largely depend on the performance of those who demand democracy. The other side may not be willing to reduce their power to less than 25 percent (of the seats). Ko Yan Myo Thein, how can we change their attitude?

YMT: Trust-building is critically important, I think. As Ive said, there was little dialogue between the government and the opposition before 2010. The NLD became the ruling party and government after 2015, but there is a need to have more dialogue, engage more and make a greater effort to build trust. There is a dire need to build trust now not only between civilians and soldiers, but also between ethnicities and different political organizations. Without it, the democracy we demanded in 1988 will not take shape. Again, Ive found that the level of centralization is too high in both government and Parliament. Centralization is the opposite of democracy, so if we want to oppose dictatorship and establish a genuine democracy, we need to decentralize. But for the time being, there are weaknesses and shortcomings in grasping opportunities.

KZM: Civil-military relationships continue to exist in countries with unique political environments like ours. The Tatmadaw (military) needs to participate as an institution in political reforms of the country. Taking a look at our region, democracy doesnt flourish much in Southeast Asia. There are only a few democratic countries. It has been 30 years. So, Ko Sanny, what is your suggestion for us to get genuine democracy?

Sanny: Its not all bad; the gains weve achieved today are concessions weve won from the military.

KZM: It is the outcome of the efforts made in the 1988 uprising.

Sanny: Yes, in consequence we gained things such as the right to stand for election, and we got the right to legislate in Parliament, so we have gained a certain degree (of democracy). Though the General Administration Department is not under the control of the civilian government, other departments are. There are also things that need to be reformed in administration and legislation. We should also think about how we can make use of opportunities to persuade the military. We are still weak at doing this. We have only got what the military is willing to give, and we still dont get the things that it doesnt want to give. We should tell them how much they should give and make them give that. In that sense, there is a need for real dialogue. Dialogue may take place in different forms, but the most important thing is that it take place between real decision makers. The government should try to understand the concerns of the military and give it guarantees so that its concerns may ease, as in the case of Indonesia. It should be fine then.

KZM: Ko Yan Myo Thein, what are your suggestions for taking further steps?

YMT: I think the constitutional crisis is the most important thing to focus on. At the silver anniversary of the 8888 uprising five years ago, it was agreed that the Constitution should be amended or rewritten. If we cant solve the constitutional crisis at present, there will be delays in the peace process and in the development of the country. To solve this crisis, in my view, political, military and ethnic leaders should take time and hold thorough negotiations.

KZM: An agreement will come from negotiations.

YMT: We need to build the future of our country based on that agreement. We might not be able to enjoy it, but we should build a good foundation for our children and grandchildren.

KZM: It has been 30 years now, and well have to wait and see if we will achieve genuine democracy in the next 10 years. Thank you all!

Translated from Burmese by Thet Ko Ko.Chinese telecommunications equipment maker Huawei is likely to be allowed to play a role in the rollout of 5G networks in Australia, but will face curbs on provision of equipment for what are deemed sensitive parts of the networks.

The Australian reported on Monday that despite a number of allegations of the company being a security risk, it still enjoyed some support in Canberra.

One industry source was quoted as saying: "There wont be a ban and any decision on what role Huawei plays will be outlined within the framework of the Telecommunications Sector Security Reform."

But other companies that are likely to bid for a role in the 5G rollout have also come under a cloud.

Fairfax Mediaon Monday that both Nokia and Ericsson get most of their equipment manufactured in factories in China which are joint ventures owned by the state and led by Communist Party officials.

Critics of Huawei have produced no evidence to justify their claims that the company poses a security risk, only saying that it could have links to the Chinese leadership.

The TSSR will take effect on 18 September and will impose numerous obligations on telcos: a security obligation, a notification requirement, information gathering power and directions power.

Huawei has provided 4G equipment for both Optus and Vodafone mobile networks for use in the radio access network layer. If it is considered a high-risk provider, then it could be limited to operating in the core network that authenticates users.

The source said: In the 5G space, the core and the radio networks will be aligned a lot closer through software and thats what why concerns have been raised."

Huawei has pushed for setting up a security assurance centre in Australia, the same as it has in the UK, and this may come to fruition as part of deal for a limited role in 5G

The company has recently bolstered its lobbying in Canberra, enlisting Matt Stafford, the former cabinet secretary to Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull on its lobbyist roster, according to a report in InnovationAus.

The company has former Victorian Labor premier John Brumby on its board and its Australian operations are chaired by John Lord, a former rear admiral with the Royal Australian Navy.

Huawei was banned from bidding for contracts for Australia's national broadband network, the NBN, in 2012.

Australia has also acted to prevent the company participating in an undersea cable project linking the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea to Sydney.

The US has put considerable pressure on Huawei, locking it out of a number of American contracts. American spy agencies have also pushed Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull to keep Huawei out.

American fears about the company extend back nearly a decade with the NSA having hacked into Huawei's offices in Shenzhen in 2010, according to documents released by whistleblower Edward Snowden.

iTWire has contacted Huawei for comment.Support Local Journalism

Now, more than ever, the world needs trustworthy reportingbut good journalism isnt free. Please support us by subscribing or making a contribution.

Subscribe or contributeDuring the Angelus Pope Francis met almost 100,000 young Italians who came to Rome on pilgrimage. [I]t is necessary to live coherently with the promises of Baptism, renewed in Confirmation, not with hypocrisy: these promises have two aspects: renunciation of evil and attachment to goodness, he said. It is good not to do evil, but it is evil not to do good". The pontiff singled out priests and nuns to thank them for their patience with young people. He blessed the images of Our Lady of Loreto and the San Damiano Cross that were handed over to a delegation from Panama, site of the next World Youth Day.

Vatican City (AsiaNews)  Pope Francis greeted almost 100,000 young people gathered in St Peter's Square and along the Via della Conciliazione, who arrived yesterday on pilgrimage from many Italian cities to meet him.

In his address, the pontiff told them, "Dear young people, you have walked a lot these days! Therefore, you had a workout and I can tell you: walk in charity! Walk in love! Let's walk together towards the next Synod of Bishops whose theme is 'Young people, the faith and vocational discernment'.

Half an hour before the Angelus at noon, as the pope-mobile slowly drove around the square, Pope Francis mingled with the crowd greeting people, kissing children and newborns, receiving hats and t-shirts from the multicoloured crowd.

Francis had already met them yesterday at the Circus Maximus, where young people had arrived after a pilgrimage on foot. Many of them stayed behind for a vigil in St Peter's Square. This morning everyone participated in the Mass in the parvis of St Peters Basilica, led by Card Gualtiero Bassetti, head of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Italy.

When Francis arrived in the parvis, Card Bassetti addressed his greetings and the thanks of the Italian Church.

At the start of his address, Francis spoke about the passage in the Epistle to the Ephesians from today's Mass (19th year, B, Ephesians 4:30-5:2), in which Saint Paul exhorts his Christians to "not grieve the holy Spirit of God".

"But I ask myself: how does the Holy Spirit become sad? We have all received it in Baptism and Confirmation, so in order not to make the Holy Spirit grieve, it is necessary to live coherently with the promises of Baptism, renewed in Confirmation, not with hypocrisy: these promises have two aspects: renunciation of evil and attachment to goodness. To renounce evil means to say "no" to temptations, to sin, to Satan. More concretely, it means saying "no" to a culture of death, which manifests itself in the flight from the real towards a false happiness that is expressed in lies, fraud, injustice, in contempt for others."

"To all this must be said: no". Extemporising a dialogue with young people, he said: "What do you say to all this?". The crowd: No!" What? I cant hear [you]": (an even louder) no followed.

"It is not enough not to do evil to be a good Christian; it is necessary to attach oneself to goodness and do good ... Many times, we hear some people who say: 'I do not hurt anyone'. And that person believes they are a saint. All right, but are you good? How many people do not hurt, but neither do they do good, and their life goes on amidst indifference, apathy, lukewarmness. This attitude is contrary to the Gospel, and it is also contrary to the character of you, young people, who are by nature dynamic, passionate and courageous."

The pope again strongly emphasised this point citing Saint Albert Hurtado: "Remember this and repeat it: It is good not to do evil, but it is evil not to do good". He then asked the young people to repeat it.

"Today, he went on to say, I urge you to be main players in [doing] goodness! Do not feel good when you do not do evil; everyone is guilty of the good they could have done and did not do. It is not enough not to hate, it is necessary to forgive; it is not enough not to have a grudge, we must pray for our enemies; it is not enough not to be a cause of division, we must bring peace where it does not exist; it is not enough not to speak evil about others, we must stop [others] when we hear them talk evil. Stop the chatter. If we do not oppose evil, we tacitly nurture it. It is necessary to intervene where evil spreads because evil spreads where there are no daring Christians who oppose it with goodness, liv[ing] in love' (cf. Ephesians, 5:2) as it were, heeding the warning of Saint Paul.

Dear young people, you have walked a lot these days! Therefore, you had a workout and I can tell you: walk in charity! Walk in love! Let's walk together towards the next Synod of Bishops whose theme is 'Young people, the faith and vocational discernment'. May the Virgin Mary sustain us with her maternal intercession, so that each of us, every day, through [our] deeds, can say 'no' to evil and 'yes' to good."

After the Marian prayer, Francis thanked Card Bassetti and the Italian bishops. He also singled out with special greetings "the priests" and "the nuns" who live "every day" with the young, with love and "patience" ("because it takes a lot of patience to work with you", Francis said jokingly).

In greeting young people, the pontiff added: "As you go back to your communities, bear witness before your peers and all those you meet of the joy of brotherhood and communion that you have experienced during these days of pilgrimage and prayer".

In concluding, the Holy Father blessed the images of Our Lady of Loreto and the San Damiano Cross, which young Italians handed over to a delegation from Panama, as a sign of unity with the Church that will host the next World Youth Day (22-27 January 2019).VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 10, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MGX Minerals Inc. (MGX or the Company) (CSE: XMG / FKT: 1MG / OTCQB: MGXMF) is pleased to report results of diamond drilling from its Koot silicon project (Koot) north of Cranbrook, British Columbia. Nine drill holes were completed across 50 meter spacings to further expand known mineralization within the North and South zones. Five drill holes were located in the North Zone and were collared in quartzite and ended in quartzite. Four holes collared in the South Zone started in quartzite and two out of four holes ended in quartzite. The Company began evaluation of commercial applications for silica with silicon processing experts DORFNER ANZAPLAN this Spring; including testing of material for upgrading of metallurgical grade and solar-grade silicon with results expected shortly.

The relatively high percentage of total SiO2 content compares favorably with other silica deposits in nearby Golden, British Columbia. Impurity compounds of interest such as Al2O3 & Fe2O3, approach specifications required for silicon metal. Lower loss on ignition (LOI) values correlate directly with higher SiO2 values. Highlighted drill results are presented below:

DDH From

(m) To

(m) Interval

(m) %

SiO2 %

Al2O3 %

Fe2O3 %

K2O %

TiO2 %

LOI %

Total %

SiO2/

%

Total 18K-1 0.9 56.39 55.49 98.5 0.54 0.39 0.17 0.13 0.49 100.25 98.15 18K-2 0.9 76.20 75.3 97.9 0.51 0.24 0.10 0.14 0.30 99.30 98.64 18K-3 1.5 106.68 105.18 98.7 0.33 0.24 0.10 0.10 0.26 99.84 98.88 18K-4 0.0 86.0 86.0 98.3 0.37 0.38 0.14 0.12 0.36 99.81 98.5 18K-5 2.0 99.0 97.0 98.1 0.70 0.33 0.19 0.14 0.41 99.90 98.16 18K-6 2.2 36.0 33.8 99.0 0.97 0.09 0.29 0.06 0.33 100.89 98.28 18K-7 6.0 54.0 48.0 99.0 0.44 0.25 0.12 0.12 0.40 100.41 98.61 18K-9 2.3 77.72 75.42 98.4 0.43 0.37 0.11 0.11 0.42 99.95 98.43 18K-10 2.25 54.0 51.75 98.9 0.39 0.23 0.08 0.11 0.32 100.16 98.78

Geochemical sampling was carried out on split drill core from nine holes. A total of 212 split core samples (at 3 meter sample intervals) were analyzed by ALS Minerals, North Vancouver, British Columbia, using Li Borate fusion, whole rock analysis ME-XRF-06.

MGX operates three silicon projects in SE British Columbia, Koot, Wonah, and Gibraltar.

Qualified Person

Andris Kikauka (P. Geo.), Vice President of Exploration for MGX Minerals, has prepared, reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this press release. Mr. Kikauka is a non-independent Qualified Person within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 Standards.

About MGX Minerals

MGX Minerals is a diversified Canadian resource company with interests in advanced material and energy assets throughout North America. Learn more at www.mgxminerals.com.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking information or forward-looking statements (collectively "forward-looking information") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is typically identified by words such as: "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate", "potentially" and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking information provided by the Company is not a guarantee of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking information as a result of various factors. The reader is referred to the Company's public filings for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects which may be accessed through the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.Kilkenny woman Vicky Phelan, whose High Court case exposed the Cervical Check Scandal, has taken a step back from her public campaigning role.

On her personal Twitter the Mooncoin woman announced she will be taking a break from all campaigning because she needs a break before she becomes bitter and because her two children need their mammy.

Vicky, who has been outspoken about the need for a cervical cancer screening programme that can be trusted, following the revelations that there were errors in her own test results, also told her Twitter followers that she is deeply disturbed by the lack of empathy in some quarters towards the women and families affected by the scandal.

She also called on her critics to get off their high horses and help work for a screening process that works.

For those of you who are condemning me for 'bringing down the cervical screening programme', I never missed a smear and never had an abnormal smear until I was diagnosed in July 2014 with invasive cervical cancer.

IF my smear in 2011 had been correctly read, I would only have had to have a hysterectomy and would have had a 90% chance of being cured. I will be fighting to stay alive for the rest of my life so forgive me if I am angry and upset and fighting for change.

I want a screening programme that I can trust. I have a daughter that I will be leaving behind. So get off your high horses and help me to change and to ensure that we have a screening programme that we can trust.

However Vicky assured people that she is just taking a break from her public role of the last few months and plans to return to the campaign. I will be back but I need a break before I become bitter, and my children need their Mammy.

Earlier this summer the members of Kilkenny County Council paid warm tribute to Vicky when they held a civic reception in her honour.

Cathaoirleach of the County Council, David Fitzgerald, presented Vicky with her civic honour and told her: The people of Kilkenny are proud of their daughter and all that she has done.

The mother-of-two received civic recognition from Kilkenny County Council for her bravery in highlighting issues with the cervical screening programme and her service to the people of Ireland.

Speaking at that reception Vicky said: Im just a normal woman. A normal mother; with a normal job, theres nothing special about me.

One person can make change. You just have to believe in it and do it.

Vicky said she had refused to sign a non-disclosure agreement in her case after learning that she was not the only woman affected.

Her story sparked revelations that at least 162 women with cervical cancer had not been informed about CervicalCheck audit results and past false tests.Mayor of Kilkenny Peter 'Chap' Cleere received an enthusiastic reception from the 500 or so people from all over Ireland and abroad who gathered at the Bahai annual summer school at Kilkenny College last week.

The Bahai community is celebrating 50 years of Bahai summer schools in Ireland. Participants were delighted with the warm welcome to Kilkenny, and many overseas visitors who were very impressed with the city said they were determined to return next year.

The Mayor noted the theme of the school had a strong emphasis on integrating the arts into the life of the Bahai community.

Here in Kilkenny we value our heritage and celebrate diversity he said.

Kilkenny has a unique place in Irish history with its renowned architecture, authentic street-scapes and its reputation as a place where arts and crafts can flourish."

Mayor Cleere said that members of the Bahai community had not been found wanting in becoming involved in the life of society, working with the community in Kilkenny and with diverse groups.

Two books were also presented to Loughboy Library during the week.A good speech by Nick Smith on the bill requiring judicial consent to get married under age 18. He said:

I do want to comment on the broader issue around how New Zealand deals with this issue of cultural tolerance, because, yes, we want to be a country that welcomes a diverse range of countries. I am one of those of the view that we are a richer country for the wide range of people that come to our country. Today, theres been a very significant celebration in my own community of those that have come from Burma as migrants, as theyve marked the 8/08/88 of their communities and the harshness, and their culture. But where is that line that we need to find as a Parliament between being culturally sensitive to people that may not see things in the way in which New Zealands own cultures have developed, and, on the other hand, being firm enough that, actually, no, these things, regardless of culture, are not right.

This is a key issue. One should welcome our blend of cultures and tolerate or even appreciate the differences. I have no problem saying I do support multiculturalism. But not at the expense of our core beliefs  you dont kill apostates, stone gays, treat women as second class citizens, do arranged marriages of children etc.

The vast majority of migrants do integrate into New Zealand and we are fortunate that at almost every workplace and school in NZ, we have a diverse range of people and cultures.

But we do see in Europe areas that integration has not worked in some countries are areas. Where the cultures do not integrate, but clash. That is what we need to avoid.

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I thought this was a made up story when it was first told to me. Who would believe that hat a lawyer would face a complaint to the NZ Law Society because he referred approvingly of Jordan Petersen in an article.

Surely in the legal profession of all places, where courtroom arguments are about forceful advocacy, you would not find lawyers who want to censor another lawyer because they dont like someone he referred to.

But alas it is true. A shining example of the anti speech fascism that is becoming culturally ingrained.

Thomas Bloy published an article on LinkedIn about MeToo and Diversity. The Law Society asked if they could republish it on their site, and did so here.

He starts off saying:

The MeToo movement and the push for diversity in the workplace are indisputably good causes. Im glad diversity and inclusion are high on the agenda. And it is a good thing that the rotten attitudes and behaviour of various lawyers, particularly of male senior lawyers towards female junior lawyers and students, are being exposed.

He points out:

Heres an example of how diversity and inclusion works in practice. Tamina and I started a law firm and software company together. We are also great friends. Is that because she is a woman? Gay? Maori? Asian? Hell no. It is because Tamina is an intelligent, creative, hard- working, and compassionate individual who happens to be a great lawyer (and likes South Park). Those are the aspects of her identity that matter. Reducing a person to a demographics category is dehumanising.

I agree that liking Southpark is very important!

So far so good.

But he also wrote:

This weird impulse, of wanting to rip down an established hierarchy only to replace it with a risky, usually unnecessary, and inevitably flawed new one, is dangerous. I like the way Professor Jordan Peterson, arguably the most influential public intellectual in the world right now, has been explaining the nature of hierarchies recently.

So he said he likes something Jordan Peterson wrote, and said that Peterson is influential.

A week later a body called the NZ Womens Law Journal responded saying:

However, there is one aspect of Mr Bloys article that merits particular criticism, and which was the subject of a complaint by us to LawPoints and the Law Society.

Now I thought you complain to the Law Society about a lawyer because he or she is incompetent, a crook, an unfit person, has let clients down, acted unethically etc. So what is it that Bloy did that made them complain to the Law Society.

Mr Bloy says: This weird impulse, of wanting to rip down an established hierarchy only to replace it with a risky, usually unnecessary, and inevitably flawed new one, is dangerous. I like the way Professor Jordan Peterson, arguably the most influential public intellectual in the world right now, has been explaining the nature of hierarchies recently. (emphasis added). A quick Google search (for those who are not well acquainted with Petersons vitriol) reveals that Petersons work is described as a gospel of masculinity and he is widely regarded as racist, sexist and transphobic.

So this is what we come to. This group of lawyers complained about Mr Bloy not because he himself is racist, sexist and transphobic, but he because he quoted someone whom they believe to be the following.

Jesus weeps.

I imagine Winston Churchill is regarded as racist, sexist and transphobic. Lets strike off lawyers who quote Churchill.

Those lawyers should be ashamed for trying to suppress by making it an offence for a lawyer to quote Jordan Petersen. This is ironically why millions now follow Petersen, because of idiots like the New Zealand Womens Law Journal.

They even complain:

The Law Society has told us that it is committed to encouraging openness and transparency and sharing a diversity of views and opinions. But what if those opinions are bad or harmful?

So they think views they deem bad should not be allowed. Fascists.

Mr Bloys views cause much more harm to people than certain other views.

Its not just Petersen they think should be censored but also Bloy. His article is now deemed harmful.

For effs sake. These people should not be lawyers. If anyone should face disciplinary action, it should be then for being a disgrace to the legal profession.

So who makes up this body? It is hard to tell who actually wrote the complaint and supports it. But here are their various components:

Journals Advisory Board members are: Her Honour Justice S Glazebrook, Supreme Court

Her Honour Justice S Thomas, High Court

Mary Scholtens QC, Stout Street Chambers

Lady Deborah Chambers QC, Bankside Chambers

Kate Davenport QC, Bankside Chambers

Frances Joychild QC, Litigation Group Journals Academic Review Board members are: Associate Professor Julia Tolmie, University of Auckland

Khylee Quince, Auckland University of Technology

Associate Professor Linda Te Aho, University of Waikato

Brenda Midson, University of Waikato and New Zealand Law Journal

Associate Professor Yvette Tinsley, Victoria University

Professor Elisabeth McDonald, University of Canterbury

Professor Annick Masselot, University of Canterbury

Associate Professor Nicola Wheen, University of Otago

Helen McQueen, Commissioner, Law Commission

Natalie Walker, Kayes Fletcher Walker

Daisy Williams, Shortland Chambers

Stephanie Marsden, Canterbury Chambers

Lieutenant Colonel Jane Derbyshire, New Zealand Defence Force Editors-in-Chief Ana Lenard, Associate at Gilbert Walker Allanah Colley, Judges Clerk at the Wellington High Court. Deputy Editors

Josie Te Rata

Bridget McClay Marketing Managers

Ihlara McIndoe

Danielle Ou Associate Editors

Charlotte Agnew-Harrington

Renee Bayer

Charlotte Best

Harriet Farquhar

Frances Gourlay

Sophie Hayman

Christina Laing

Hannah Reid

Molly McCarthy Technical Editors

Libby Brown

Sarah Koo

Aimee Mackey

Poppy Mitchell Anyon

Imogen Little

Maddie Olliver

Diana Qiu

Tarqia Satherley

Bonnie Simmonds The complaint was lade on behalf of the NZWLJ so one cant know how many of the above concurred to it. Maybe it was just one editor. We cant know. But I know Id be ashamed to be associated with a body that complains about a fellow lawyer simply because you dislike someone he quotes in an article. UPDATE: Ana Lenard, an editor-in-chief has e-mailed to say: I did not make a complaint under the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act against Mr Bloy, and I agree that would be an inappropriate use of the complaints system. It was poor wording on my part  by complaint, I meant that I emailed Kathryn Beck and asked for her to (a) confirm there would be a process in place in future for reviewing references and (b) remove the line from Mr Bloys article referring to Jordan Petersen. I made a complaint in the informal sense  not in the professional sense that is discussed in your article. You queried who wrote the article. I did, and am solely and personally responsible for its contents. I dont mind you going after me personally for it, if thats what you wish to do. I just want to be clear that none of the other women on our boards or staff had anything to do with it.

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By Kang Hyun-kyung



South Korean actor Ki Ju-bong, 62, won the best actor award at the 2018 Locarno Film Festival for his performance in Hong Sang-soo's "Gangbyun Hotel" or "Hotel by the River."





Actor Ki Ju-bong / Korea Times fileThiruvananthapuram, August 12: The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team and the Indian Army along with Navy and Coastguard teams are involved in an unrelenting operation to provide relief and rescue to the people affected by floods in Kerala.

The worst flood hit districts in the state are Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Idukki and Mallapuram. According to news agency ANI, 10 columns comprising more than 40 composite teams are involved in a relentless rescue operation in these districts in Kerala. Watch the pictures of the rescue operation in the tweet below:

Worst hit by floods are areas of Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Idukki and Mallapuram. 10 columns comprising more than 40 composite teams are working round the clock to ensure that even the last person stranded at any remote floods hit area is rescued: Indian Army #Kerala pic.twitter.com/g7GgYqt5Zs  ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2018

Home Minister Rajnath Singh, along with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Union Minister of Tourism, KJ Alphons, conducted an aerial survey of the flood affected regions of the state. Watch the pictures below:

Kerala: Home Minister Rajnath Singh conducts aerial survey of the flood affected regions of the state. CM Pinarayi Vijayan and Union Minister KJ Alphons are also with him. pic.twitter.com/gT1Tv3sheL  ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2018

Connectivity to Virinjapara in Mankulam area, Idukki district, has been restored by Army. The concrete bridge conecting the village had washed away two days back. Over 800 families reside in the village. Watch pictures below:

Kerala: Connectivity to Virinjapara in Mankulam area, Idukki district, has been restored by Army. The concrete bridge conecting the village had washed away two days back. Over 800 families reside in the village. #KeralaFloods pic.twitter.com/TUoGC19gpZ  ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2018

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday said that the "State Police, NDRF, Army & other forces are working with the same motive - to help the people of the state. The PM called us and said that any more help needed, will be provided to us," reported news agency ANI.

Kerala is reeling under its worst floods ever after days of unrelenting rains. For the first time in the history, all the five gates of the Idukki dam have been opened, so as to release as much water as possible. The Chief Minister, in his statement said that "33 people have died in the floods and 6 are missing. Such a destruction has never before been witnessed in the state."

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 12, 2018 04:14 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).Kabul, Aug 12: Fifty militants, including a Taliban key commander, surrendered to Afghan authorities in Badghis province on Sunday, a police spokesman said.

"A total of 50 Taliban insurgents under Taliban key commander Mullah Toofan laid down arms and surrendered to the authorities in Qadis district today," the spokesman told Xinhua news agency.

Mullah Toofan commanded 300 fighters in Qadis over the past few years. His surrender would prove a major setback to the Taliban in the province and adjoining areas.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 12, 2018 12:34 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).Cairo, Aug 12: Security forces in Egypt have killed at least 12 Islamic militants in a shootout in the northern Sinai Peninsula, the country's official news agency said today.

In its report, the Middle East News Agency (MENA) said the fighting erupted when forces raided a suspected militant hideout in the city of al-Arish. It said troops also dismantled two explosive devices and seized weapons during the raid.

MENA didn't reveal when the raid took place or whether any members of the security forces were killed or wounded. Egypt heavily restricts media access to the northern part of the Sinai Peninsula.

Egypt has battled militants for years but the Sinai-based insurgency gained strength after the 2013 overthrow of the country's elected but divisive Islamist president, Mohammed Morsi. In February, Egypt launched a massive operation against militants in Sinai and elsewhere in the country.Next-generation BMW Z4 spied camo-free

Aug 12, 2018, 3:58am ET

BMW has already shown the roadster to prospective customers.

Three low-resolution images posted on Instagram have revealed the next-generation BMW Z4 a few weeks ahead of its scheduled debut at this year's Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

The photos were uploaded in two separate posts by user Liucunyi. Seemingly taken during an invite-only preview event for prospective buyers, they confirm the production model looks far less aggressive than the concept car shown last year to preview it, which was to be expected. The new Z4 nonetheless looks sportier than the model it replaces thanks to a sharper front-end design and styling cues like vents chiseled into the fenders. The trunk lid-integrated spoiler remains.

The M40i model shown in the images will sit at the top of the Z4 line-up. BMW has previously confirmed there's not enough demand to warrant the development of a full-blown Z4 M. The less expensive, less powerful four-cylinder variant could arrive with a softer design than the straight-six-powered model shown here. Full technical specifications remain under wraps.

Stay tuned; BMW will introduce the next Z4 in California on August 23rd. Sales will start shortly after, and the roadster will arrive in showrooms as a 2019 model. The Toyota Supra that will share most of its mechanical components with the Z4 will make its official debut in the coming months.Aug 12, 2018, 2:01pm ET

Luxury automotive themed resort planned for UK

The Bicester Heritage Hotel is a vacation spot for gearheads.

A new automotive-themed luxury resort is being proposed in the UK. The destination would include a high-end hotel, car museum, and race track.

The resort is planned for Bicester, about 90 minutes northwest of London. The area is already popular with tourists and shoppers, who visit the nearby Bicester Village to accumulate luxury goods. For car nuts, however, the nearby Bicester Heritage race track is probably more impressive than the Gucci outlet.

Located on the site of a former Royal Air Force base, its facilities  which include hangars, brick buildings, and avenues all lined with trees  have been restored by auto enthusiasts. They've turned the area into a hub of car activity, including shops offering everything from vehicle restoration to polishing wax. And, of course there's that race track.

With the addition of a proposed 344-room hotel, the 425-acre site would add a fine dining, a pool and sauna, and gym. The centerpiece is a 4-story atrium that would serve as a car display. The architect, Dexter Moren Associates, intends to draw design inspiration from the existing buildings.

The site is also located 20 minutes from Silverstone Circuit.Aug 11, 2018, 5:01pm ET

New Ferrari F176 teased

The image was shown to Ferrari owners only.

Ferrari is teasing a new car to be revealed in September. Though little has been revealed about it, clues hint at a front-engined V12 grand tourer.

The image was published on the Ferrari website, but in a section accessible only to Ferrari owners. No one on the Leftlane News staff is a Ferrari owner, but the image was leaked to the Italian press and is now online for all to see.

The image depicts a car in profile, possibly an open-top vehicle of some sort. The lines are a bit abstract, but look angular and wedge-like. Text across the image says "Icona Ferrari" along with a location, Maranello, and a date, September 17.

That date is when the next Ferrari Capital Markets event is scheduled to take place. It's when new CEO Louis Camilleri will outline the company's plans for the next few years.

Furthermore, Autocar has discovered that the image's filename was Ferrari F176, which implies the same lineage as the 1949 166 Inter. That car was a 2+2 grand touring coupe powered by a 2.0-liter V12, so it could be that this new car would be a special version of the 812 Superfast or at least use its 789-horsepower, 6.5-liter V12.

The 166 Inter turns 70 next year, and as it happens, the timeline falls in line with with Ferrari's 70th anniversary celebrations.For pedestrians on Broad Street in Bethlehem, it's hard to miss.

The wooden platform with benches and a table occupying a parking spot outside Joe's Tavern went in a month ago.

It's called a parklet, and it's a free-to-use platform designed to offer community spaces in an area of Bethlehem lacking public outdoor seating, said Adam Heidebrink-Bruno, a member of the four-person team behind the project. And, after being up for a little over a month, the parklet has generated enough data for the team to analyze, he said.

Chief among the takeaways are the differences between those who reacted to the parklet online -- seeing the structure in a news article or encountering it through a Facebook feed, for example -- and those who visited the area and interacted with the structure.

"Those who haven't seen the parklet, haven't experienced the parklet, are probably not going to be as comfortable with it," said Heidebrink-Bruno, a Ph.D. candidate in Lehigh's English Department. "Those who actually engaged with it had a much different experience."

Where 62 percent of online commentators held a negative view of the parklet, about 88 percent of survey respondents who filled out a questionnaire onsite rated its design as "excellent" or "good," according to data compiled on the project's website.

Many of the social media users with negative perceptions of the project expressed concern over its safety and use of street space, sentiments Heidebrink-Bruno said he could understand. Though the team didn't reach out to commenters to reveal the motivation behind their comments, he guessed most people had difficulties thinking of the idea in the abstract, and worries about the plan probably overpowered the project's potential benefits.

Those who visited the space, on the other hand, could see the sturdiness of the structure, with car stop bumpers on all sides and reflective traffic tape designed to distinguish the parklet from its surroundings, Heidebrink-Bruno said. They overwhelmingly perceived the parklet as an improvement to the area, and most said it increased their sense of safety in the neighborhood.

Of those who indicated they had spent money before or after visiting the parklet, the average amount spent was $59. The majority of this money was spent at Joe's Tavern, but respondents also spent money at neighboring businesses like Subway and Rosanna's Restaurant, as well as establishments further down Broad Street and on Main Street.

The project -- a joint effort between Lehigh University and New York's Pratt Institute, funded by LU's Mountaintop Initiative -- was conceived as a "low-cost, high-impact" solution to an area of the city lined with vacant storefronts and few public amenities, Heidebrink-Bruno said.

"Compared with nearby Main Street, which is so well-tended to, two blocks up on Broad Street, there's none of that," he said. "There's no flowers, no public seating."

The parklet, which has been up since June 22, comes after a pilot program last summer that brought 10 parklets to the Lehigh Valley. While some welcomed the additions, others called them an eyesore.

This year's sole parklet, said Heidebrink-Bruno, took into consideration these criticisms, with greenery around the structure meant to enhance its aesthetics. Combining last year's and this year's findings, he said he wants to get word out to community leaders about the benefits of projects like this.

"We'd like to take the data we do have and report it out to local elected officials, to let them see what parklets can do for the Lehigh Valley," he said. "We'd also like to use the data to turn it into new locations and designs for the parklets, and hopefully get a little more experimental."

Heidebrink-Bruno said he'll stay on for the rest of the project, and will help the next cohort of Lehigh students transition into the project once fall semester starts.

"Part of the reason I'm staying on through the rest of the summer is to round out the data set by hopefully getting tourists and out-of-towners to interact with the parklet," Heidebrink-Bruno said. "[The parklet is] outside of the Musikfest area, but we're hoping the festival will draw people up onto Broad Street so we can get between 20 and 30 random samples."

The parklet will remain at its Broad Street location until Nov. 1.

Jake Holland may be reached at jholland@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @jakewholland. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.A Mountmellick man who abused a district court judge and threatened to blow his head off has been given a chance to avoid a jail sentence by engaging with anger management.

John Horan (49), Mountmellick, appeared before the recent sitting of Portlaoise Circuit Court, appealing a three month sentence he received in the district court in October for threatening or abusive behaviour.

At the appeal at the end of November last, State solicitor, Mr Donal Dunne gave evidence that on December 20, 2016, the appellant had matters listed in the civil law court, but during the hearing of the matter he became abusive towards the other party and her partner.

He was asked to calm down, which he did, before he left the courtroom.

He returned some time later, when there was just the judge, the court clerk and a garda present, and became abusive towards the judge.

He made references to knowing the number of the judges car and said he would blow the head off the judge.

Garda William Whelan escorted him out and he told Garda Whelan not to put his hands on him.

The appellant had nine previous convictions.

Barrister, Mr Rory Hannify said his client wished to offer his sincere apologies as his conduct on the day had been outrageous and utterly unacceptable.

Mr Hannify said there was a very lengthy family law background to the case, with things very contentious between the appellant and the mother of his children. The appellants father had been gravely ill and on the day of the offence Horans primary concern had been for his children to get to meet their grandfather, when it became apparent that this would not be possible.

He accepted that his conduct was completely unacceptable, said Mr Hannify.

Judge Keenan Johnson said that family law cases tend to be highly emotive, but it was not in the interests of the appellants children for him to engage in this type of behaviour.

The judge adjourned the case to April 11 next, telling the appellant to undergo anger management and pay 1,000 to a domestic violence charity in Portlaoise.

He said if the court got a positive report back on the appellant, he would suspend the sentence. The judge also directed a probation report to assess the appellants suitability for community service.Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content.

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Support our mission and join our community now.THERE IS something seriously wrong when an agricultural show is hosting a forum on fodder and mental wellbeing in the middle of August.

But that is what is happening at Cappamore Show on Saturday, August 18. Paddy Ryan Luke, show secretary, said it is a community event and they are based in a rural area.

A big number of our community would be of farming stock. Anything we can do to alleviate the hardship of our fellow man I feel it is incumbent upon us to assist them, said Mr Ryan.

The forum on fodder and mental wellbeing begins at 2pm. The show committee, Teagasc, Dairygold and farming organisations are behind the venture.

The excellent line-up includes  Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed, Dairygold CEO Jim Woulfe, from Ardagh, and former Ireland and Munster great Tony Buckley, who has publicly discussed his battle with depression. It will be chaired by Limerick IFA chairman, Shay Galvin. Joe Healy, IFA president, is also expected to attend.

Mr Ryan said they will all speak and then there will be a question and answer session. He says the attendance of Minister Creed elevates the status of the show.

You have x amount of shows throughout the country and any one of them would feel privileged to accommodate the visit of a minister, he said.

Unfortunately it wont be a day full of shaking hands, smiling and posing for photos.

It is serious at the moment. It is hard for us as individuals at the moment to fully appreciate it. I was at a mart up the country a few days ago. When you go to a mart there is usually a buzz. People are looking at cattle, comparing prices etc. Somebody is saying, I thought it would make more or whatever but it was pretty depressing.

There were some cattle there that were sold for giveaway money. Some went out of the ring without a bid. I was visualising those farmers who brought cattle to the mart. Some of them brought cattle to offload the pressure on their fodder, others might have brought cattle to sell them to pay a bill. The money they were getting wouldnt pay for a bag of sugar. It was pretty reflective of the mood that is out there, said Mr Ryan.

It all stems from the winter that started in September  almost 12 months ago.

That prolonged and expensive winter extended up to May. People were clapping their hands then and saying, It is behind us. Then you go from one extreme to another  drought. They harvested silage and afterwards said, Well get a good second cut to build up the fodder reserves. That is questionable now. People are feeding the first cut. In addition, dairy farmers, in particular, have had huge expenses.

This is the time of the year to build up a reserve of fodder and a reserve of cash. They are eating through both. With the labour shortages farmers are under physical and mental pressure, said Mr Ryan.

Senator Kieran ODonnell said he spoke to his Fine Gael colleague to invite him and said Minister Creed was very keen to come to Cappamore.

He regards this forum as a very worthwhile initiative. He wants to hear from farmers on the ground about the fodder situation and the stresses they are facing on a daily basis.

Minister Creed coming to Cappamore sends out a strong statement that the Government is taking their views on board and they will be addressed. I want to commend Cappamore Show for this fodder forum, said Senator ODonnell, who also praised Teagasc, Dairygold, farming organisations and Kilteely farmer Robert Holmes.

Mr Ryan invited all farmers to the forum at 2pm on the main stage.

This is an opportunity to talk about the situation. Farming can be a very lonely and demoralising. There is a problem out there but a problem shared is a problem halved, said Mr Ryan.MAJOR FUNDING has been successfully secured by a Limerick-based company to develop a robotic legacy project originally started by a late Limerick surgeon who has been hailed a medical architect.

The late Paul OByrne, formerly of Barringtons Hospital, is warmly remembered for his significant input to the medical community.

Limerick-based automation and robotics company DesignPro has now successfully secured 260,000 in funding to further develop a safer robotic solution to endoscopy, a project the late surgeon was incredbily passionate about.

There is a massive loss of Paul OByrne in this as he was a real live-wire force and extremely passionate about trying to get this project done, DesignPro managing director Paul Collins said.

Dr OByrne was considered a true pioneer of medical advancements, as he embraced new technologies made possible by robotics, he added.

The original seed for the project was planted by Dr. OByrne back in 2015 when he brought DesignPro on board to build out the first stage of the project.

Now having gotten the fantastic news that we have secured the funding to take this to the next stage, its very important to us that as this progresses and grows, the solution were developing retains the POB name, the Paul OByrne, as a legacy to him.

Funding for the project has been secured through Enterprise Irelands Inno- vation Partnership Pro- gramme.

The 24-month project will see DesignPro working in conjunction with the University of Limerick to further develop a robotic solution to endoscopy that aims to improve patient safety.

The links with the University of Limerick are very important here as it gives us the opportunity to work with their robotics division who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, Mr Collins added.

The new robotic system will have passive safety features preventing sudden movements, which are considered a significant safety hazard in the existing manual procedure.

The system will also record all surgeon input, allowing a database of successful procedures to be captured that can later be leveraged to improve training.THE BOOK of evidence has been served on a County Limerick man charged with seven sexual assaults against two teenage girls.

The man, aged in his early sixties, cannot be named for legal reasons. Sergeant Ted Riordan gave evidence of arresting, charging and cautioning the defendant in Kilmallock Court last May.

Four of the sexual assault counts relate to one female and three to the other.

The offences are alleged to have occurred on dates between 1992 and 1998 in two different locations in County Limerick.

The complainants were teenagers at the time.

At the most recent sitting of Kilmallock Court, the book of evidence was served on the accused by Garda Marie Louise Armstrong.

Sergeant Michelle Leahy said the Director of Public Prosecutions has consented to trial on indictment and to be sent forward for trial.

Judge Marian OLeary sent the defendant forward to the next sittings of Limerick Circuit Criminal Court.

Judge OLeary also imparted an alibi warning to the man who stood in the body of the court.

The accused was remanded on continuing bail on his own bond of 300.

One of his bail conditions is to have no contact with the alleged injured parties or any witnesses in the case.

Con Barry, solicitor for the defendant, applied for free legal aid for his client and to cover one counsel. This was granted by the judge.

Judge OLeary imposed reporting restrictions on naming the defendant and any of the alleged injured parties to the media in attendance at Kilmallock Court.EIGHTEEN families in County Limerick will benefit from a total of 20,000 nursing hours from the Jack and Jill Childrens Foundation.

Bank of Irelands fundraising efforts for the charity have already reached a total of 11,000 hours.

The bank organised fundraising initiatives such as the Up the Hill event and Lip Sync Battle which raised over 56,000 resulting in 3,500 nursing hours.

Carmel Doyle, Interim CEO of Jack and Jill was delighted with Bank of Irelands efforts, prompting the charity to extend their age range.

This huge effort from our Bank of Ireland partnership has also enabled us to extend the age range of the children we look after up to 5 years old and to make that move sustainable, something weve wanted to do for a number of years, Ms Doyle explained.

Vincent Mulvey, the Group Chief Risk Officer at Bank of Ireland, said: We are honoured to be involved in raising funds for Jack and Jill whose team of nurses deliver such an incredible service for families of sick children around the country.THE popular former Parish Priest of Moyross, Fr Tony ORiordan has vowed to continue his missionary work in Sudan  despite a civil war ripping through the country.

Fr ORiordan, who served in Corpus Christi between 2011 and 2016, has swapped the streets of Moyross for Maban County in South Sudan, tackling the greatest humanitarian crisis of our time.

Leading the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS), the priest heads a team of 100 staff overseeing a school building project and teacher training programme.

In Maban County is one of the worlds most remote refugee camps  home to a massive 150,000 people.

The East-Central Africa country, which only gained independence from Sudan seven years ago, is blighted by poverty and civil war.

The conflict, which has claimed 300,000 lives since it started in 2013, is primarily between forces of the government and opposition forces.

And Fr ORiordan was right on the front-line of this last week, as 2,000 people set out to cause mayhem.

It is a miracle, he said, no lives were lost, with his compound one of the few to escape harm.

Amid all this, it would be easy for Fr ORiordan to join the 500-or-so humanitarian workers who have been evacuated from the Maban region.

But speaking to the Limerick Leader through social media (telecommunications in the region are poor), Fr ORiordan is determined to stay.

He said: What makes me more determined is the determination of the refugees and the people of Maban. For example, one young man, Simon, training to be a teacher with us has had his education interrupted three times now by war and violence.

He, like so many others, wants education so badly, he is considering walking to Ethiopia where he feels he could continue to go to the school. This is an amazing level of commitment: our commitment, and mine must match his.

Speaking about the attack on the camp, Fr O'Riordan said he first received word on his personal walkie-talkie.

News was filtering through on the radio of serious damage being done to property, buildings, and warehouses were being set on fire, cars were being trashed, and property was being looted, he recalled.

He contacted UN soldiers from Rwanda to extract them from the camp.

Fr ORiordan said the attackers attempted to breach his compounds fence, made of zinc metal sheeting.

Eventually, it was four members of the parish council who convinced the violent mob to retreat.

The priests immediate thought: protect my staff.

He has been heartened by messages of support from people back in Moyross, saying: Of course I miss home, and Limerick and Moyross. But I feel very supported, especially by the people of Moyross, many of whom send me regular messages of support.

Fr ORiordan believes there is a connection between the two communities, with folks on Limericks northside even organising fundraising.

Asked what lesson he has transferred from his time in Moyross, he says succinctly: the strength of the people.

The Cork-born priest said it remains unclear what prompted this latest attack.

There are a number of investigations. Politics here is complex, and there are many hidden political motives Im sure. South Sudan is a very risky place for humanitarian workers, he concluded.University of Limerick President Emeritus John OConnor has died, it has been announced.

Mr OConnor played a critical role in the foundation and development of UL through a lifelong service to the university.

He joined the then National Institute of Higher Education as Finance Officer in 1972 - the year of its establishment.

In 1980 he was appointed Director of Finance and Physical Development and subsequently, in 1998, he became Vice President Administration.

He took up the role of Acting President of University of Limerick between April 2006 and May 2007 following the resignation on medical grounds of the then president Professor Roger Downer.

John OConnor retired from UL in 2012.

He leaves a legacy behind him at University of Limerick. He saw no bounds to the potential of the university and his vision and drive helped to establish one of the finest university campuses in Europe at UL, said Dr Des Fitzgerald, UL President.

Mr OConnor was a graduate of NUIG where he studied History, Classics and Philosophy. He has also pursued Postgraduate Studies in Japanese Studies at UL and Higher Education Studies at the Institute of Education Management in Harvard University.

He was a Chartered Accountant and worked in Cement Roadstone Holding Ltd and Price Waterhouse Cooper prior to joining UL in 1972.

We are very fortunate to have had John OConnors dedication and drive for University of Limerick and we are grateful to have his memoir as an important contribution to the institutional history of UL. On behalf of the entire UL community I wish to express my condolences to his wife Seosaimhin, daughters Aine and Muireann and sons John and Hugh, continued Dr Fitzgerald.At the 22nd International AIDS Conference in Amsterdam last month, a group of researchers announced that, although their HIV-prevention trial isn't over yet, they know that the treatment is going to be a success. This isn't the first study of its kind to go extraordinarily well; a few years ago, a trial was stopped early because the treatment was obviously working.

Both of these teams were looking at a treatment method called PrEP, which prevents individuals who are at risk of contracting the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from getting infected. One version of this treatment, called Truvada, is available in the U.S., and research into other drug-delivery methods is blossoming.

But even though PrEP is meant to fend off infection in case HIV enters the body, PrEP isn't a vaccine. So what, exactly, is it? [5 Dangerous Vaccination Myths]

Although PrEP is associated mostly with HIV management, that acronym  which stands for "pre-exposure prophylaxis"  refers to the prevention strategy of taking medication to stop an infection that's been introduced into the body from taking hold.

It's similar to the technique behind malaria-prevention pills, which people take regularly when they travel to malaria-affected areas, said Dr. Jared Baeten, a professor of global health, epidemiology and medicine at the University of Washington. If someone is traveling to a place where he or she is more likely to be exposed to the malaria-causing parasite, having the drug in the body beforehand makes it harder for the infection to take hold.

The same goes for HIV, Baeten said: If someone's sexual partners are or might be infected, or if they share needles with infected individuals, PrEP could keep them from getting sick.

The PrEP treatment approved in the U.S., Truvada, is a pill containing two drugs, and is meant to be taken daily. The drugs, which were originally developed to treat people with HIV, hang out in the body's T cells, which are a type of immune cell, said Dr. Daniel Kuritzkes, chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases at Brigham and Women's Hospitalin Boston. T cells are the same cells that HIV targets. So, if there are enough of the drug molecules around, they stop the virus from replicating inside the cells  basically terminating the infection before it can proliferate. [27 Devastating Infectious Diseases]

But the Truvada drugs don't stick around in the body for very long, so users need to take the pill regularly, Kuritzkes told Live Science.

Research teams are working on other PrEP options, too  including injections, intravaginal rings and implants. As with birth control, plentiful options mean there's a strategy for every patient, Baeten told Live Science. Some people might want something they don't have to remember, or would prefer no one see them popping a preventive pill every day, he noted. "That's part of the beauty of trying choices," he said. "Everyone gets something that works."

The PrEP vaginal ring is almost done with the trials needed to make sure it works and is safe, and the PrEP injection might be three years away from becoming available, Kuritzkes estimated. Implanted devices are even farther away, he added  maybe five to seven years.

Baeten said that he expects that these other options will have rare and minor side effects, and Kuritzkes agreed that this will hopefully be the case. Otherwise-healthy people won't take preventive medications if the drugs make them sick, Baeten noted. There's also no way to "undo" the effects of a long-lasting injection once it's given, Kuritzkes said, so the injection form, in particular, needs to be understood very well.

Truvada could make people a little nauseated at the start, and some patients might see a drop in bone density. But this latter side effect hasn't led to an increase in bone injuries in any clinical studies, Kuritzkes said, and regular bone strength returns if patients come off of the medication. In extremely rare cases, liver complications might come up, too.

As researchers tinker with new PrEP methods, some teams are improving Truvada  for example, by modifying one of the two drugs so that it has less of an impact on bone density. But even with these improvements, there's only one way to make sure PrEP does its job: People need to see their doctors, and doctors need to ask about their patients' sex lives, Kuritzkes said.

Men, in particular, are less likely to visit physicians, even though men who have sex with other men are one of the groups at the highest risk for contracting HIV. And primary care physicians, the doctors who most often give checkups, have to ask healthy patients about their sex lives to see if they might be candidates for PrEP, Kuritzkes said.

"PrEP is only useful if people are prescribed it," he said.

Originally published on Live Science.An additional 88,000 pages of documents from Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh's time as a lawyer for the George W. Bush White House were released Sunday, even as Senate Democrats complain about the unusual process by which a former Bush aide is vetting which documents can be made public.

A review of the latest trove revealed no obvious bombshells about Kavanaugh, the federal judge whose confirmation hearing is set for the first week in September.

Some of the documents released Sunday show Kavanaugh dealing with issues that arose in the immediate aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, while others show him being invited to conservative think tank events or being asked about minor issues such as parking. The new batch contains thousands of copies of the same documents and lengthy press releases and clips sent to his attention.

In one series of emails, Kavanaugh is beginning to grapple with the issue of presidential war powers, seeking "the best con law treatises" on the subject. Another exchange with then-White House spokeswoman Anne Womack discusses a question that arose about the prospect of Bush creating a tribunal for the Sept. 11 suspects rather than putting them through the U.S. court system. On Sept. 13, 2001, Kavanaugh advises Womack to say that the administration was not discussing legal options, adding that "even talking about this kind of issue can pose problems down the road."

Other emails show Kavanaugh being called on for ethics-related advice about gifts and presidential travel, and his work as part of a team that assembled a batch of federal court nominees for a major rollout early in the Bush presidency. At one point, Kavanaugh polled members of the legal staff about whether they were members of the Federalist Society and the American Bar Association, explaining that he had been asked to gather the information "for possible press purposes."

Sprinkled throughout the new batch of documents are many others that reveal nothing about Kavanaugh's fitness for the Supreme Court.

Kavanaugh is asked whether memos should be single or double-spaced. There are invitations to Heritage Foundation events that hundreds of White House officials also received. There's correspondence related to keeping the airline industry afloat and White House talking points.

So far, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Charles Grassley's team of lawyers and aides have reviewed more than 200,000 pages of documents while vetting Kavanaugh. These include legal opinions he has written, his committee questionnaire and, mostly, documents from his tenure working as associate counsel for Bush and as a deputy in independent counsel Kenneth W. Starr's investigation into the Clinton White House.

But Senate Democrats have taken issue with the fact that the committee as of Sunday has released to the public only half of the 175,000 pages it has received since early August related to Kavanaugh's time in the Bush administration. The reason is the unusual way the committee is handling the Bush administration documents.

Though Grassley, R, followed the usual procedure of requesting presidential documents from the National Archives, officials there said there are so many documents that it would take them until the end of October to review and send them to the committee. Archives officials said they have "several million" pages of Kavanaugh documents, significantly more than prior Supreme Court nominees such Judge Elana Kagan, who had roughly 170,000 documents in the archives.

As a workaround, Bush himself requested the Kavanaugh records directly, and he enlisted former aide and current Bush records representative Bill Burck to oversee the process of releasing them to the public. In a letter to the committee last week, Burck said his team was producing "publicly releasable versions of documents that, in our view, do not contain information covered by a Presidential Records Act exemption or applicable privilege."

Sen. Dianne Feinstein (Calif.), the Judiciary Committee's top Democrat, said in a letter to Grassley on Friday that the panel is unjustifiably keeping certain documents confidential.

"Simply stated, this is unacceptable," she wrote. "The senators and the public must have access to Mr. Kavanaugh's full record. Additionally, this committee has never allowed a third party to control what information is kept confidential, and should not do so now when we are considering a lifetime appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court."

White House spokesman Raj Shah said Friday that the process has been "open, transparent and fair."

- - -

The Washington Post's Robert Barnes, Seung Min Kim, Robert O'Harrow, Beth Reinhard and Sean Sullivan contributed to this report.The calls, warning that they soon would have to leave and find their own places to live, came by robot.

Every two weeks or so, the automated voice would tell Analee Dalmau and hundreds of other displaced Puerto Rican families that the deadline was looming, that they would soon have to move out of their hotel rooms, that their refuge would no longer be covered by federal funds.

Dalmau, 24, fled her home near the island's tropical rain forest after Hurricane Maria lashed the U.S. territory more than 10 months ago. She landed in West Springfield, Massachusetts, where she, her sister and three nephews have been stuck. Finding a job has been nearly impossible. Though a local charity gave them a restriction-heavy housing voucher, every door they've knocked on has been closed because of the family's extreme poverty.

"It's been frustrating. We cry. We get angry. We panic. It's not just for us, but for our kids," Dalmau said. "We are in anguish, and I'm getting sick thinking about going back to living in a borrowed car with my entire family on the streets."

It has been a chaotic and uncertain year for the thousands of displaced Puerto Ricans who are still living in hotels across the country. Pushed out of their homes that were destroyed last September in the powerful hurricane, they have nowhere else to go.

LatinoJustice, a civil rights organization, has filed a class-action lawsuit challenging the Federal Emergency Management Agency's decision to end its Transitional Sheltering Assistance program without having a long-term plan for the U.S. citizens who effectively will be rendered homeless when federal aid runs out.

The case is playing out in Massachusetts District Court, where Judge Timothy Hillman is expected to take action at a hearing scheduled for Aug. 31, when more than 2,000 hotel dwellers might have to check out.

Federal authorities say the program can't continue forever, that it is meant to be a bridge from disaster to recovery, one that thus far has lasted nearly a year.

"FEMA has never been designed to be a final solution," said Michael Byrne, the federal coordinating officer for FEMA in Puerto Rico. "We care about these people, we've been working with them for months . . . This is not a cold, callous approach to anything."

LatinoJustice argues FEMA is treating Puerto Ricans differently from other U.S. disaster survivors, alleging the federal agency is stopping the sheltering program prematurely and is failing to activate a long-term housing program that it used to help storm victims on the mainland after Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy.

"I know FEMA has dumped a lot of money on this. But they didn't dump the money in the right pot," said Emmanuel Ayala, director of community engagement for the Episcopal Church's Latino Assistance in central Florida. Ayala has worked closely with Puerto Ricans who are now living in hotels. "It's not getting down to the people in the way that people need it."

- - -

The options FEMA has offered Puerto Rican hurricane refugees often haven't matched their circumstances, advocates say. The hundreds of families left in FEMA's hotel program as of late June represent the island's poorest, the elderly, the sick.

Of the more than 1.1 million Puerto Ricans who registered for FEMA help after Hurricane Maria,2 out of 5 applicants were deemed ineligible for various types of assistance. And when they tried to appeal, most - 80 percent - were rejected for the programs, FEMA data shows.

One FEMA program awarded families cash to partially rehab damaged homes to make them livable. But many evacuees had rented their homes, couldn't prove ownership because of difficulty obtaining the documents, or lived in houses that were built informally.

Maria Monet, a single mother in Philadelphia, scrambled after the hurricane destabilized the family home on Puerto Rico's east coast. Her mother had died two months earlier, leaving Monet the property; she also was left with the task of trying to obtain the title to apply for FEMA funds.

But the 49-year-old lost her biomedical factory job as conditions worsened on the island. She soon had no money for food. Moving to the mainland, and into a FEMA-funded hotel, felt like her only option.

While FEMA also offered rental assistance, or to lease housing units on the island, two months of rent wasn't enough for most families. For some, returning to Puerto Rico meant potentially severe health risks, such as for the chronically ill, like 7-year-old Viktoria Guzman.

Viktoria's health had been failing for months, as her liver stopped functioning. Her mother, Miriam Huertas, knew if she didn't leave their damaged home in Puerto Rico, it could claim her daughter's life. She aimed for Philadelphia because she knew the Children's Hospital there could help Viktoria receive a transplant. A social worker helped connect her to the FEMA hotel program after she was living in her daughter's hospital room for six weeks.

"I felt stranded at the hotel. I told FEMA I couldn't go home and I couldn't go to a shelter," said Huertas, 35. She lived in the Franklin hotel, along with 30 other evacuee families. "I didn't even know what it was to see my daughter play anymore because she was so sick."

- - -

It was a snowy day when Will Gonzalez discovered a peculiar but powerful proviso embedded in Pennsylvania's public housing law that would give scores of displaced Puerto Rican families a chance at a home after a monstrous hurricane took theirs.

Gonzalez, a lawyer and director of an umbrella Latino advocacy group in Philadelphia, was working with a coalition of faith, relief and community leaders to find long-term housing for nearly 80 families stuck in FEMA-funded hotels in the city of brotherly love.

Time was running out. The agency had set an expiration date for the program, and soon the survivors of one of the most powerful and destructive storms in Puerto Rico's history would have but two choices: a plane ticket back to San Juan or homelessness.

Gonzalez and the members of the Greater Philadelphia Long Term Recovery Committee found they could legally help place the families - who represent the island's most vulnerable - in public housing expeditiously because they were survivors of a federally declared disaster. The coalition, working with local government officials, secured a "super preference" that boosted the families to the front of the housing wait list.

The exhaustion in Monet's tired eyes dissipated momentarily, and the anxiety of the last year fell away the moment she crossed the threshold of her new public housing unit over the Fourth of July weekend, she said. She had been living with her three teenage children in a hotel for months.

"Ayyy," she exhaled and stretched her arms out gleefully after entering her new home on a recent day. She has a new housekeeping job, expects to fill the place with donated furniture, and she's getting to know her neighborhood - explaining to a local grocer what it was she was hoping to buy most: a "caldero," a traditional copper pot used for cooking large amounts of rice.

The walls were still bare, the refrigerator empty and each of the apartment's four rooms had nothing more than a box fan and air mattress for each member of Monet's family. But none of that mattered.

"Nothing bothers me anymore," Monet said. "That's how happy, no, relieved I am to finally have a home and restart our lives."

Not everyone has been so lucky.

- - -

Attorney Kira Romero-Craft and her LatinoJustice colleagues have been pulling all-nighters for weeks to prepare the case against FEMA and keep families in hotels until the federal government comes up with a long-term plan for the Puerto Ricans she represents.

"We are not seeing a systemic approach to addressing the needs of the evacuees," she said. "Other help was extended in other circumstances. Why isn't it happening here?"

What advocates want is for FEMA to implement its Disaster Housing Assistance Program, which pays for and locates long-term housing for low-income families.

FEMA said the program is expensive and inefficient, citing reports from its Office of the Inspector General detailing high costs and shortfalls in meeting specific needs. In court documents, agency attorneys say officials have discretion in doling out emergency aid and are immune from liability when they make those decisions.

The transitional housing or hotel program must end because FEMA says it can no longer absorb 100 percent of the costs. The government of Puerto Rico is supposed to take over payment for at least 10 percent of the program, but the territory is in the midst of a form of bankruptcy.

"It's not an effective program," said Byrne, of FEMA, noting that other programs, such as partnerships with Habitat for Humanity, which is rebuilding homes, have more permanence and success. "If I'm going to invest time and effort in a program, I'm going to do it in a program that is more effective. There are lots of other ways to get them help."

But affordable housing advocates say the agency has been deliberately undermining the program for years after Hurricane Sandy, when FEMA provided rental subsidies to survivors for at least a year so they could rebuild their lives. The Governor of Puerto Rico and members of Congress have requested the same program, but FEMA rejected it.

FEMA officials said that as of the end of June, 90 percent of disaster survivors who fled Puerto Rico after the hurricane reported that they could not return to the island. FEMA expects those who are displaced to depend on social service agencies and nonprofits in the states where they have relocated.

"If they've chosen to stay in the continental United States, we look to local states and communities to help supply that support framework," Byrne said. "We are spending billions of dollars . . . and sometimes the programs are just not enough for particular families."

New York City, the state of Massachusetts and nongovernmental organizations have been paying for extended hotel stays, moving families into existing homeless shelter programs or providing housing vouchers. The vast majority of evacuees went to Florida, where public housing wait lists are, in some cases, years long.

Dalmau is No. 502 on the Springfield, Massachusetts, waiting list. Her housing voucher pays for one year of rent, but landlords want to know what happens after that. She has visited more than two dozen places since April, but she suspects that property managers become skeptical when they learn she has three children - one with special needs - and a sister living with her.

Her lack of a permanent address has caused problems for her when she applies for jobs - without one, she can't get a call back.

In Puerto Rico, Dalmau had plans. She had a job and was going to start a physical therapy program at a university. The hurricane destroyed everything.

"I've been working since I was 18," Dalmau said. "I've never had to depend on anyone, or the government. People think that is why Puerto Ricans came here, but it's not true. We just want a real chance to make things work."It has been a year since a horrific tragedy in Charlottesville, Va., caused a loss of life and painfully reminded us that bigotry still exists and needs to be confronted.

It was bigotry also, and a backlash to the Civil Rights movement, that likely motivated state officials to hang a demonstrably false and incendiary plaque in our state Capitol during the late 1950s. Amazingly, this plaque remains, because there is simply no political will among the states top elected officials to remove it.

At issue is the Children of the Confederacy Creed plaque in the Capitol. Dedicated during an ugly period when many in public office resisted school desegregation, it honors an organization called the Children of the Confederacy. The plaque reads that the Children of the Confederacy pledge ourselves to preserve pure ideals: To honor our veterans, to study and teach the truths of history (one of the most important of which is, that the war between the states was not a rebellion nor was its underlying cause to sustain slavery) and to always act in a manner that will reflect honor upon our noble and patriotic ancestors.

We should not try to hide the fact that the Confederacy is part of our history. But in a public space like the Texas Capitol, we should also not promote falsehoods. At the Texas Secession Convention in early 1861, those in attendance adopted a declaration of the causes which impel the State of Texas to secede from the Federal Union. It read, in part, In this free government, all white men are and of right ought to be entitled to equal civil and political rights, that the servitude of the African race, as existing in these States, is mutually beneficial to both bond and free, and is abundantly authorized and justified by the experience of mankind.

The Children of the Confederacy is an auxiliary group to the United Daughters of the Confederacy. At a convention three years ago, the Daughters of the Confederacy removed the phrase nor was its underlying cause to sustain slavery from the creed. If this group no longer includes this language in its own creed, why should it be displayed in the Capitol?

It has been suggested that the Legislature needs to vote before any action on the plaque is taken. But this argument is simply a stalling tactic. The Texas State Preservation Board has the authority to preserve, maintain and restore the Capitol. The governor chairs the board, and the lieutenant governor and I (as speaker of the House) are vice chairs. The board includes three other members. The board has acted in the past to move Capitol monuments. In fact, during a Capitol renovation in the 1990s, this very plaque was moved from the south foyer of the Capitol to its current location on the other side of the first-floor rotunda. You could argue that anyone who does not think the board has the authority to move the plaque now should probably be advocating returning it to its original, and more prominent, location.

Last year, I wrote my fellow members of the preservation board to call for action, but none has been taken. I continue to hope that the governor will call a meeting of the board to take this up. The preservation board should use the authority that state law plainly gives us and move this plaque out of the Capitol  not because it mentions the Confederacy or Civil War, but because it describes those events in terms that are historically and morally wrong.

A final set of arguments fall into the slippery slope category: If this plaque is removed, what should happen to Confederate memorials, or even to place names that honor those who owned slaves? Such arguments raise a valid point that each memorial or designation should be considered in its full context. But these kinds of arguments also fallaciously assume that we lack the ability to draw distinctions. In the case of this particular plaque, no compelling defense of its content has been offered because none exists.

Those of us who support moving this plaque do not wish to erase history. But plain falsehoods do history no favors. The plaque was placed in the Capitol at a moment of division and hate. If we really want to show that weve made progress in the 60 years since, we need to stop the stalling and remove it.

Joe Straus is speaker of the Texas House and a state representative from San Antonio.Imagine youre one of the 1.4 million Texas adults with asthma. You have good health insurance through your employer, but you still have to pay about $130 at the pharmacy counter for your biweekly asthma medication. Its a big hit, but you work hard to afford it.

You find out one day that a friend without insurance also has asthma and takes the exact same medicine. You assume he pays more, but it turns out he actually pays just $15. Same drug, no insurance, and yet hes paying almost 90 percent less.

This example is hardly theoretical. Some Texans with insurance pay money for drugs than Texans without insurance.

How is this possible?

Pharmacy benefit managers, or PBMs, the obscure firms that administer prescription drug plans for insurers, are milking the system. Their unique perch between drug companies and pharmacies keeps them out of the spotlight  and has enabled them to boost their profit margins by saddling patients with ever-rising pharmacy bills.

Texas pharmacies process millions of prescriptions every year. In 2014, the states pharmacies filled nearly 250 million prescriptions at a total cost of some $17.6 billion.

Most of those drugs go to insured patients. Typically, health insurers dont run drug benefits directly; they contract that work out to PBMs. These companies determine an insurers formulary, process payment and, most importantly, negotiate prices with pharmaceutical firms. Of course, we can all agree that access to effective medicines is beneficial to people, communities, employers and, when provided in our public health programs, taxpayers. Keeping people healthy helps everyone, but that doesnt mean anyone should pay extra for drugs just to pad a profit line.

Drug manufacturers typically agree to huge discounts. In fact, the average brand-name drug comes with a rebate of more than 30 percent, which should total $130 billion in patient savings each year. But those savings rarely make it to patients.

The reason?

PBMs and health insurers keep these rebates for themselves. Since copays and coinsurance are generally based on a products full list price, consumers sometimes wind up paying more money than their insurer  or even more than those without insurance.

Indeed, until this past fall, some PBMs actually prohibited Texas pharmacists from letting insured patients know whether a drug would cost less if purchased directly, without insurance.

This scheme has proven lucrative. Just three companies  Express Scripts, Caremark and OptumRx  control about 70 percent of the PBM market. Their total annual revenues: $280 billion.

Need more proof that PBMs are the health care players raking in the dough? Look to the proposed mergers between health insurers and PBMs. CVS Health and Aetna, Albertson and Rite Aid, and Cigna and Express Scripts all have proposed deals. The proposals say these mergers will help lower costs, but given PBMs power, theyll also help to bulk up profits.

These deals are quite the change from a few years ago. Then, Anthem, one of the biggest health insurers in the country, sued Express Scripts, claiming the PBM overcharged on drugs by $3 billion a year.

In 2016, our own state auditor warned that PBM chicanery could burden the Texas Medicaid program with nearly $9 billion in excessive costs between 2016 and 2018.

This is big business, and its coming at the expense and health of Texans and their families.

Its high time for Texas officials to step in. Discounts on drugs dont belong solely in PBMs pockets  they also belong in patients pockets.

Its time PBMs shared these savings.

Chase Bearden is director of advocacy for the Coalition of Texans with Disabilities.In this week's paper, the Longford Leader suggested eight places in the county that could have been included in the Hidden Heartlands ad campaign. Part one of that feature was published earlier in the week.

Much has been made of Longfords apparent exclusion from the opening commercial broadcast signalling the initial rollout of Irelands Hidden Heartlands.

The tourism brand was launched amid considerable fanfare in April.

A total of nine counties stretching from Leitrim in the north to Limerick in the south were all pigeon-holed into a brand designed to boost tourism and drive visitor growth across the midlands region.

An initial 2m was set aside to coincide with its launch, with the promise of more to follow, the first signs of which were carried in a TV advertisement last month.

Despite the simmering anticipation greeting Longfords expected inclusion in the broadcast, the county failed to feature, sparking a torrent of criticism at local political level.

Failte Ireland, in response, attempted to cool any lingering discontent, insisting Longford would play a part in future advertisements to highlight the brand.

This week, the Leader has taken the lead on that pledge by compiling a list of eight key attractions state tourism bosses perhaps should have included at the outset.

Hidden history at Ardagh Village

The term Hidden Heartlands suggests there are secrets to be uncovered, and what better place to do that than in the heritage town of Ardagh, where the most intriguing of local mythology originates?

Ancient mythology dictates that Bri Leith - or Ardagh Mountain - was the home of Midir, a pre-Christian deity and Prince of the Tuatha De Dannan or the fairy people of Ireland.

There is so much folklore associated with Bri Leith, with the Book of Tara and the Book of Rights telling of how the bilberries on Bri Leith were part of the harvest meal for the High Kind of Ireland.

In fact, the tradition of gathering bilberries continues today - usually on the first Sunday of August.

All fairy tales aside, the village of Ardagh played a hugely important role in the development of Christianity in Ireland.

During the fifth century, the centre of religious worship - which was previously in Bri Leith - moved to Ardagh itself, and the village grew around the Christian settlement made by St Patrick and then St Mel, who became the first bishop of the area.

St Mel is even said to be buried under the ruins of the old St Mels Church in Ardagh Village.

In fact, the entire village of Ardagh is a heritage site and has won many awards over the years, including Supreme Winner of the prestigious National Tidy Towns Competition - three times.

Pay a visit to the Midhir and Etain Cafe & Craft Gallery; stroll through the peaceful park; hunt for fairies in the woods; or take in the sight of the beautiful, old buildings that are simply dripping with history.

Buried treasures at Corlea Bog

The discovery of a prehistoric trackway of large oak planks at Corlea Bog in 1984 has put the nearby village of Kenagh on the map, and added another heritage site to the county of Longford.

Dating to the year 148 BC, the trackway is an Iron Age road that crossed the bog.

In 1985, excavation work began, and four other trackways were discovered and, later, an additional sixteen tracks were found along the western edge of the bog.

According to the experts, who excavated Corlea Trackway, it would have been built to allow the passage of wheeled vehicles.

It was, however, not long in use before it actually sank into the peat where it then remained, preserved until its discovery in 1984.

The survival of these tracks through thousands of years tells a story of how early civilisations in Ireland lived.

Part of the trackway was excavated, treated and preserved and is now on display within the Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre, where tourists can see it for themselves.

Couple the intrigue of an ancient roadway with the beauty of the walkway that was opened up in the bog last year, the wildlife that can be spotted on a stroll through the scenic landscape, and the general beauty of miles and miles of bogland, and youve got the perfect location for visitors.

Who knows what else is hidden deep within the heartlands of this ancient bog?

Ancient beauty of Lough Ree

The Lake of Kings, more widely known as Lough Ree, is the second largest lake on the River Shannon after Lough Derg.

Stretching almost 30km from Lanesboro to Athlone, the beautiful, island-studded lake is popular for boating, fishing, water skiiing, canoeing, rowing, windsurfing and any other water sport imaginable.

The riverside town of Lanesboro has become famous for its fishing opportunities, with a number of competitions and festivals taking place each year and attracting anglers from all over the world to our humble county.

If its not fishing youre into, though, youll learn plenty of Irelands ancient history in the islands. Inishcleraun, locally known as Quaker Island, is one of the most historically interesting islands on the lake.

Its said to be where Queen Maebh met her death while bathing. Its also the site of a monastic settlement founded in 540AD and is steeped in historical intrigue.

More recently, the lake is home to the Lough Ree Monster Festival, which takes place in Lanesboro in the summer months.

Take a trip down to this beautiful lake and you might just be lucky enough to spot the infamous Lough Ree monster yourself!

Rich past of the Royal Canal

The Royal Canal which was built in 1789, was first opened in 1817 and its scenic beauty can be enjoyed in many different parts of Co Longford.

Perhaps the most significant section along the Longford stretch of this beautiful Irish waterway is Richmond Harbour in Clondra, where the Royal Canal meets the River Shannon.

Richmond Harbour was reopened in September 2010 and there were great celebrations in Clondra last year as President Michael D Higgins paid a visit to join the 200th anniversary of the opening of the Royal Canal.

Cruising the Royal Canal is a wonderful experience and a perfect introduction to the laid back way of life that is synonymous with rural Ireland and its people.

Draped in beauty, peace and tranquility, the heart of the Irish countryside can be explored along this waterway.

Clondra, with its magnificent cut stone harbour, is a particularly attractive village, with local pubs providing traditional Irish music, excellent food and drink and Failte Ireland registered accommodation.

You can also hire a boat from Clondra by contacting the boat company, Locaboat.

One of the most scenic waterways, stretching all the way from Dublin, any visit to Longford would be incomplete without a visit to the Royal Canal.Ahead of the historic visit by Pope Francis to Ireland West Airport on Sunday, August 26, Gardai have issued a traffic management plan to advise passengers of important information for those travelling to and from the airport on the day.

Gardai are advising passengers to allow extra time for their journey, as there will be road diversions and closures in place on the N17 and roads are expected to be busy.

ROAD CLOSURES

Those travelling to and from the airport on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th August are advised that from 12 midnight on Saturday 25th August until approximately 3pm on Sunday 26th August the N17 from Charlestown to Claremorris will be closed. Patrons travelling to Ireland West Airport, Knock are advised of the following

FROM CLAREMORRIS: Motorists intending to travel North to the Airport on the N17 are advised to divert in Claremorris onto the N60 to Castlebar.



FROM CASTLEBAR: In Castlebar, turn right onto the R373 to Moneen. Turn right onto the N5. Just after Swinford on the N5,, turn left at Cloonaghboy. Continue for 6.6km and turn right onto the Old Airport Road. Continue on for 6km. Turn left (Signpost Airport R376 and continue for 1.7km until you reach a roundabout. Turn right at the roundabout into Ireland West Airport



FROM BALLAGHADEREEN: Motorists intending to travel to the airport from Ballaghadereen should travel on N5 and turn right onto the L1331 at Carracastle. Proceed to Charlestown and continue straight onto Chapel Street for 1km. Turn left onto the Old Airport Road. Continue on for 6km. Turn left (Signpost Airport R376 and continue for 1.7km until you reach a roundabout. Turn right at the roundabout into Ireland West Airport



FROM SLIGO: Proceed on the N17 to Charlestown and take a right onto Chapel Street. Drive for 1km. Turn left onto the Old Airport Road. Continue on for 6km. Turn left (Signpost Airport R376 and continue for 1.7km until you reach a roundabout. Turn right at the roundabout into Ireland West Airport



CLOSURE OF ROAD INTO THE AIRPORT

All access to the Airport from the junction of the Shammer/Bushfield Rd and R376 will be closed between the following times on Sunday the 26th of August to facilitate the arrival and departure of Pope Francis.

The road into the airport will be closed between 8.45am and 9.45am and again from 10.40am to 11.30am and passengers travelling during these timeframes are advised to arrive earlier than normal to avoid delays and potential disruption to their travel. It is expected that there will be a significant increase in traffic volume on Sunday 26th August and passenger are advised to please plan more time for travelling to the airport, for parking and check in procedures at the airport. We advise that passengers arrive at the airport even earlier than two hours before your flight. It is important that persons travelling to the airport follow diversion signs and disregard Sat-Nav instructions as this may lead drivers into further road closures.

Also read: Roadworks to recommence along the N4 outside Longford townLongford TDs, business owners and community organisations were among those present to mark the third anniversary of the opening of Seetecs centre in Longford town.

Longford/Westmeath TDs Kevin Boxer Moran and Peter Burke were in attendance to celebrate the success of the JobPath service in Co Longford and to hear the positive impact it has had on the community.

Noeleen Nannery, Business Manager at Seetec Longford, said the Centre was opened three years ago to deliver JobPath and empower individuals to move into sustainable employment.

We have helped more than 800 people in Longford into employment and we continue to grow stronger ties within the community, she added.

We have partnered with more than 400 employers and our Employer Services Consultant Helena Foy has been vital to this as our relationships go from strength to strength.

We had people from local businesses, Longford County Council, TDs and the DEASP join us to celebrate, which shows you just how crucial the subject of employment is at so many levels.

Seetec is contracted by the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP) to run JobPath, which aims to help the long-term unemployed and those furthest from the labour market back into work.

Since its launch on July 28 2015, Seetec Longford, which is based at Redleaf House, Townparks has helped more than 700 people find full-time employment with a further 120 securing part-time work.

It has successfully partnered with 400 employers and currently has more than 850 participants active with the service.Ballymahon councillors received some satisfaction at a recent meeting when they finally received clarification as to which local graveyards are owned by the Council and which are not.

The issue was brought up at a Ballymahon Municipal District meeting in May and a heated discussion resulted in councillors reverting the issue back to the SPC for an update regarding clarity of ownership for various burial grounds in the area.

The list was produced in a meeting at the end of July and confirmed that 20 local burial sites are under the ownership of the Council, 11 belong to the Church of Ireland, while two are the property of the Catholic Church.

Ballymahon councillors seek clarity over graveyard ownership responsibilities

This is a comprehensive report. It was a bit vague to us for the past few years what was owned by the county council, said Cllr Gerard Farrell after Executive Engineer Paul Newell produced the complete list.

We have a responsibility now to look after these burial grounds.

The list may have been a small victory, but there were still concerns regarding the burial grounds in the area, with fears over graveyards being near capacity, being voiced by a number of councillors.

Carrickedmond is council-owned and it's nearly full to capacity, said Cllr Mick Cahill.

What's the process in terms of creating more capacity? We need to develop a process that allows it to happen. Once the graveyard is full, what's the next step?

Cllr Colm Murray was quick to agree, adding that several graveyards in the district were nearing capacity.

No space left in Kilcommock graveyard to bury the dead

The process has been very much over-complicated when it comes to extensions, he said, adding that the SPC should look into a solution.

Speaking to the Leader last week regarding the issue, Cllr Murray added that there are concerns with Kilcommick cemetery in Kenagh, which he says is one of the burial grounds nearing capacity at the moment.

I have a bee in my bonnet about Kilcommick because the Council have been problematic with handing the land over to the committee, he said.

There are also no clearcut policies on extensions for graveyards, and it's nearing capacity.

We're under serious pressure for an extension now.

Similar issues have been raised in other parts of south Longford, including Killashee, which Cllr Paul Ross has said is also in need of an extension.

We feel that the Council should be responsible for ongoing extensions to burial grounds, he said.

The biggest cost is in paying for additional land and we agreed (at the meeting) that we weren't happy with the current policy.

Currently, he added, it's up to the community to source and buy the land, while the council helps with planning permission, etc.

But five to ten years ago, the council would source and buy the land. And we think it should go back to that, he said.

Funding set aside for graveyards in Longford amounts to a total 7,500, with a budget of 2,171 going to burial grounds in south Longford.

At the recent Ballymahon MD meeting, it was agreed that 750 in funding be allocated to Kilcommick Cemetery.

That money will be used to repair the boundary walls on the existing cemetery, Cllr Murray explained to the Longford Leader.

Two other graveyards in the Ballymahon Municipal District will also benefit from that fund this year.

1,100 has been allocated to Shrule Cemetery, while Cloncallow Cemetery will benefit from funding of 350.

I had a motion earlier in the year in relation to Shrule (cemetery) and the boundary wall, which was covered in ivy and, unfortunately, was brought down during storm Ophelia, Cllr Pat O'Toole told the Leader last week.

I priced that job at 2,200 and at the meeting last week, it was agreed that 50% of the work would be done this autumn, and the other 50% of the work would be done next year.

And they've erected a new electric fence in Cloncallow Cemetery to stop animals from getting into the graveyard, so they'll be receiving 350 for that, he added.

At the recent Ballymahon MD meeting, councillors unanimously agreed that funding should be available to the graveyards that need it, with a proper application process in place for committees to aim for.

The fact that no closing date is set for graveyard maintenance committees to apply for funding from the council was cause for much discussion.

I think that the SPC are wrong not to have a closing date (for applications), said Cllr Murray.

The closing date should be set in mid-summer so we can plan for the rest of the year. I think we should have more to say about this.

We set aside 7.5k for this. We need to have more of a say because it's our money.

There needs to be a closing date and a final decision made by the Municipal District.

Speaking to the Longford Leader last week, Cllr Paul Ross stated that it was important that committees in smaller graveyards were aware that there are funds available to them.

There's money there, it's just a matter of accessing it, he said.

It's not very well advertised because we would be inundated with requests, but it's the smaller graveyards that will really need our help.

Overall, the news that the Council would be supporting smaller graveyards in the area was welcomed.

We knew this list (of 20 council-owned graveyards) would come back, even though the Council only came back with five the last time, said Cllr Ross.

We welcome the fact that the Council acknowledges all of these graveyards.

Graveyards are very sacred places to everyone and that acknowledgement from the council is important.Boston police are investigating a fatal shooting after a 55-year-old man was found shot to death inside a home Saturday.

Police were called to the area of 201 Manchester St. in Mattapan for a report of a person shot around 11:15 p.m.

"Officers arrived at the address to an indoor crime scene where they found a 55-year-old male victim suffering from what appeared to be multiple gunshot wounds," Boston police said.

The victim was taken to a local hospital where he died.

Detectives continue to investigate the killing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Boston Police Homicide Detectives at (617) 343-4470.Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker plans to put forward a proposal on criminal "dangerousness" in early September.

On Saturday, Baker pointed to Auburn Officer Ronald Tarentino, Weymouth Sgt. Michael Chesna and Yarmouth Sgt. Sean Gannon, calling their deaths at the alleged hands of men with lengthy criminal histories "horrible tragedies."

"We've got to come up with a smarter way of ensuring we keep really dangerous people off our streets," Baker said in Shrewsbury, where a crowd of supporters had gathered for the formal kick-off of the governor's re-election campaign.

Baker, a Swampscott Republican, and Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito, his running mate, are seeking a second four-year term.

Without delving into detail, Baker said his administration is working with members of the law enforcement community on legislation on "dangerousness."

In an appearance on WAAF's Hill-Man Morning Show days before Sgt. Chesna's funeral in July, Baker said there should be a "framework" on "dangerousness" as a tool for district attorneys.

People ask what should be done about the fatal shootings of police officers, Baker said on the radio.

"Well, the thing we ought to do about it is take this notion of dangerousness and incorporate it into the process so the DAs have the ability to make the case that somebody ought not to be out," the governor said.Heavy and frequent rains collapsed a culvert in Deerfield, trapped workers in Chicopee and have created localized flooding and downed trees in other parts of Western Massachusetts.

In Deerfield, rain washed out a culvert and closed Keets Road for several hours Sunday.

Police announced the road was closed around 10:30 a.m. The Department of Public Works spent about two hours making temporary repairs on the culvert and re-opened the road at about 12:30 p.m., police said.

In Chicopee, the Fire Department had to rescue three contractors who were working on a concrete platform in the Chicopee River near the Deady Bridge. Rains caused the river to swell and trapped them on the platform Thursday afternoon.

Firefighters used a ladder truck to help the workers make it to safety. Chicopee Electric Light also assisted on the scene, fire officials said.

Sunday afternoon showers are expected and thunderstorms could hit Western Massachusetts causing flash floods, according to the National Weather Service.

Rain is expected to continue through the early part of the week, the National Weather Service said.As southern New England pushes to import more hydropwer from Canada, energy developers are jostling for the right to build major transmission lines across the north.

In March, Massachusetts announced that its utilities would make use of a new, high-voltage line planned by Central Maine Power to import power from Hydro-Quebec. But the Maine line had been Massachusetts' second choice in a high-stakes clean energy competition. The first choice was Northern Pass, a line through New Hampshire planned by Eversource.

However, Northern Pass took a stumble in February when New Hampshire's Site Evaluation Committee rejected it. As a result, Eversource lost the opportunity to benefit from the lucrative power purchase agreements with Massachusetts.

Despite the setback, Eversource says it is still "fully committed" to advancing the project.

On Friday, Eversource appealed to the New Hampshire Supreme Court, seeking a reconsideration of the New Hampshire decision. The lawsuit claims the Site Evaluation Committee didn't follow its own rules. While Northern Pass has all federal and international permits lined up, the lack of state approval has blocked the project.

The 192-mile Northern Pass has been bitterly opposed by environmentalists. Traveling south from the Canadian border, sixty miles through the White Mountain National Forest would be buried, 100 miles would widen existing utility corridors, and 32 miles would create a new swath of towers across farm and forest land in the Granite State.

Eversource claims that Northern Pass would bring $3 billion in economic stimulus to New Hampshire and help New England meet its climate and clean energy goals.

The Conservation Law Foundation counters that while Northern Pass is marketed as "green," that large-scale hydropower has serious environmental problems.

"This narrow focus on Canadian hydropower threatens to stall innovation in true clean energy sources, such as low-cost, locally made solar and wind power," the foundation claims.

Eversource says Northern Pass would reduce Massachusetts' carbon emissions by 3.2 million tons per year. However, Central Maine Power makes a nearly identical claim for its proposed line, known as New England Clean Energy Connect.

Each line promises to deliver 9.45 terawatt-hours of Canadian hydropower to the New England power grid. It remains to be seen if one or both projects get built.

Even though Northern Pass lost the initial Massachusetts contracts, Rhode Island and Connecticut are also interested in Canadian hydropower, and Massachusetts utilities could be interested in more.

"The need for new sources of clean energy in New England to meet customers' demand for electricity is greater than ever, with continued retirements of older nuclear and fossil-fuel power plants, particularly during winter months when natural gas upplies are needed for home heating," said Eversource New Hampshire president Bill Quinlan.A Massachusetts man went to check the fluids to his car Saturday morning and discovered a boa constrictor when he opened the hood.

Joe Reed told WCVB when he opened the hood of his car, there was the snake just resting. He thought the snake was sleeping.

Stoughton police said Reed called the department for help.

"It gets dispatched and the brave officers, without having ever gone to snake charming school, head off to capture this fire breathing dragon," Stoughton police wrote in a playful Facebook post.

Three officers and an animal control officer captured the snake without any harm to the animal. Stoughton police joked that the supervising officer on duty hid from the snake as it was pulled from the car.

The snake's owner was later found after police shared pictured on Facebook. The snake escaped from a new enclosure earlier, according to police.SPRINGFIELD - Massachusetts State Police lured an escaped Doberman pinscher, who was running on the highway, to safety using a bright pink teddy bear.

Police received multiple calls of a dog dashing in and out of traffic on both sides of Interstate-291, Sunday morning. Trooper Corey Brown responded and spotted the wanted animal running in the left lane near Exit 5, state police officials said.

"The Doberman came to a stop but then ran again down the left lane," police said on Facebook.

Two other troopers arrived and slowed traffic while Brown attempted to capture the dog. He drove up to the animal, tossed it a stuffed pink teddy bear he had in the cruiser and the dog chased and grabbed it, police said.

When the dog grabbed the teddy bear, Brown told the animal to sit and the Doberman followed the commands, police said.

The troopers were able to apprehend the rogue dog and return it unharmed to the owner, who lives near the highway, police said.

People on Facebook complimented Brown for his quick thinking and for caring for the animal. One suggested police add dog treats to the many things they carry in their cruisers.

"Handy that there was a stuffed animal in the cruiser. Perhaps all police vehicles should be equipped with dog toys and treats just in case. And perhaps some corn for luring turkeys off of the road too," the comment said.

In May, a trooper in Worcester lured a dog off the highway using homemade deer jerky he had with him.When reporters would ask Charlie Baker about when he's hitting the campaign trail, he'd say there would be plenty of time for that after state lawmakers sent him their flurry of bills and left Beacon Hill for the rest of the year.

For the incumbent governor, that time appears to be now.

Amid chants of "four more years" from supporters in a park in Shrewsbury, Baker and his running mate Karyn Polito, the lieutenant governor, formally launched their efforts to secure a second four-year term.

A Swampscott Republican, Baker said that in his four years in office, the administration didn't raise taxes and brought reforms to state government.

As the economy boomed and unemployment fell, they've also increased spending on K-12 education and invested $700 million in transportation funds for cities and towns, he added.

"Together, folks, we are writing a great story," Baker said.

Democrats and Baker's GOP primary challenger, Springfield pastor Scott Lively, want to offer up competing narratives to voters.

Lively has charged that the governor hasn't offered enough support to President Donald Trump, who remains deeply unpopular in Massachusetts.

And Democrats looking to retake the Corner Office say Baker hasn't stood up enough to Trump, and they've noted a series of scandals, a number of them involving the State Police and alleged overtime abuse.

Having tapped the new State Police superintendent, Col. Kerry Gilpin, to clean up the law enforcement agency, Baker has called the alleged abuse a "conspiracy" and a "scam" that goes back years.

Former Deval Patrick budget aide Jay Gonzalez and environmental activist Bob Massie are vying for the Democratic nomination.

Both parties have primaries on Tuesday, Sept. 4. The winners will face off in November 2018.

In his speech to supporters Saturday, Baker also highlighted a nationally recognized effort to fight the opioid epidemic.

The governor also pointed to reforms at the MBTA through the installation of a finance control and management board, and the replacement of rail ties and tracks, and the creation of an inventory management system. Despite that, the public transit system still struggles to provide reliable service across all lines.

Baker acknowledged there is still work needed on the T, as well as other sectors, like housing.

In Massachusetts, many people can't afford to live near where they work, Baker said. "We need to solve that problem by creating more capacity."

And he said he plans to put forward a proposal in early September on criminal "dangerousness" after police officers from Auburn, Weymouth and Yarmouth were allegedly killed by men with lengthy criminal records.

Baker narrowly won the governor's office in 2014, beating Democrat Martha Coakley by 40,000 votes.

"We have to work for every vote," Baker told supporters Saturday. "We have to hustle and take nothing for granted."A convicted killer who escaped Puerto Rico and was living in Worcester was indicted on identity theft charges after he was snared in a benefit fraud sweep in July.

Jose Lopez Rosado, 54 of Worcester and two other men, an unnamed Lynn resident and 30-year-old James Alfred Pena Guerrero, a Dominican national living in Dorchester, were each indicted on one count of aggravated identity theft and one count of false representation of a Social Security number.

All three defendants are currently in custody and were indicted late last week.

Authorities said Lopez Rosado escaped from prison in Puerto Rico in 1994 while serving a 40-year sentence for second degree murder.

Investigators discovered his true identity during the federal investigation into document and benefit fraud. Lopez Rosado is currently in state custody on unrelated charges.

Lopez Rosado is accused of using someone else's Social Security number on an application submitted to the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles.

The unnamed Lynn resident and Pena Guerrero are accused of using someone else's Social Security number on applications they submitted to the state RMV.

All three men were among 25 people indicted in a federal benefit and document fraud case.Authorities recovered human remains at the Ketron Island crash scene where a Horizon Air plane crashed Friday night after its theft from the Sea-Tac airport, the FBI confirmed.

A 29-year-old Horizon Air employee stole a plane from Sea-Tac International Airport and took off, circling the area for a short time and performing stunts while being chased by military jets before crashing near Tacoma.

Police identified the man who took the plane as Richard Russell of Sumner, Wash. He engaged in a lengthy negotiation with air traffic control where he mentioned not intending to land the aircraft, before the fiery crash on Ketron Island in North Pierce County, just south of Tacoma. There were reportedly no passengers or other personnel on board.

The FBI awaits confirmation from the Pierce County Medical Examiner on the identity of the human remains taken from the crash site. The FBI also reported Sunday night that they found the flight data recorder and components of the cockpit voice recorder. The National Transportation Safety Board will process the evidence for more information.

Investigators were working Saturday to figure out how the man took the plane, the Associated Press reported.

Authorities confirmed to the AP that Russell had clearance to be among aircraft as a ground service agent, but are still uncertain how he possessed the skills to perform the maneuvers he did before crashing the plane.

They did however reveal how he used a machine called a pushback tractor to move the plane so he could board and takeoff.

Witnesses report that Russell, who identified himself to authorities as a ground service crew worker, did loops in the air around Pierce County before crashing. The crash started a few small fires in the area, which West Pierce Fire Department upgraded to a two-alarm fire at 10:44 p.m., sending more units to the area.

Here, the air traffic controller is trying to talk him into landing. pic.twitter.com/OxEe5T6JHJ  Jimmy Thomson (@jwsthomson) August 11, 2018

The fire department's latest update is that fire crews will remain on Ketron Island all Saturday to handle remaining brush fires.

The Department of Natural Resources sent more resources by ferry Saturday to Ketron Island. Thirty-six wildfire personnel were on scene as of 2:05 p.m., Saturday working to quell the fire, which had left 2-acres scorched by then.

RELATED: 'This is probably jail time for life, huh': Pilot of stolen plane talks with tower (audio)

Ed Troyer, Public Information Officer for the Pierce County Sheriff's Department confirmed on Twitter that the pilot of the plane was a "suicidal male. Acting alone." Troyer added they do not believe this to be "a terrorist incident."

"I've got a lot of people that care about me," the man said in audio obtained from Air Traffic Control radio communications. "It's going to disappoint them to hear that I did this. I would like to apologize to each and every one of them. Just a broken guy, got a few screws loose, I guess. Never knew it, until now."

LISTEN:

Around 11:30 p.m. Gov. Jay Inslee released a statement saying, "I want to thank the Air National Guard from Washington and Oregon for scrambling jets to keep Washingtonians safe. Those pilots are trained for moments like tonight and showed they are ready and capable."

Sea-Tac Airport was put on ground stop due to the incident, according to Alaska Airlines.

At 9:31 p.m. Sea-Tac Airport confirmed via Twitter that an airline employee conducted an unauthorized takeoff without passengers, and that normal operations had resumed.

Some planes were still being rerouted, however. Flight Alerts reported at 10:32 p.m. that flights from San Francisco, Honolulu, and Los Angeles were being diverted to Portland.

At 11 p.m. Horizon Air Chief Operating Officer Constance von Muehlen shared in a video update that the company believe that the man was a Horizon Air employee.

"Our hearts are with the family of the individual aboard, as well as all our Alaska Air and Horizon Air employees," she said. "We will provide more information as it becomes available."

Alaska Airlines, which operates Horizon Air, initially confirmed reports in a tweet, noting that they were "...aware of the incident involving an unauthorized take-off of a Horizon Air Q400."

Alaska Airlines's tweets also noted that they believed no passengers were on board of the flight, though just after 10 p.m. they said they were still working to confirm there were "no guests or crew on board other than the person operating the plane."

KOMO News reports that a source from Joint-Base Lewis McCord confirmed that two F-15 fighter jets were scrambled to intercept the rogue aircraft, and force the Horizon plane to land. According to the KOMO News, "The source says the military jet made contact with the stolen plane, which then began to nose dive and crashed in North Pierce County."

The Pierce County Sheriff's office was reportedly told that the F-15s made it within "...a few minutes of theft of plane. Pilots kept plane out of harms [sic] way and people on ground safe." Several news outlets report that the two military planes departed from Portland to intercept the aircraft, and were "not involved in the crash."

"Preliminary info is that a mechanic from unknown airlines stole plane," Troyer shared on Twitter. "Was doing stunts in air or lack of flying skills caused crash into Island."

Just before midnight, Troyer announced that the investigation would be handled by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The FBI said they also had no reason to suspect that this was an act of terrorism or further pending criminal activity.

RELATED: The latest on the Sea-Tac unauthorized take-off from Associated Press

In earlier Air Traffic Control communications, Russell asked questions like, "Alright, um, I just kinda want to do a couple of maneuvers to see what it can do before I put her down, you know?" He also said, "I wouldn't know how to land it. I wasn't really planning on landing it."

"Man, I'm sorry about this, I hope this doesn't ruin your day," he said later. "It's a blast, I've played video games before, so I, uh, know what I'm doing a little bit."

At one point the control tower pointed the pilot of the stolen aircraft towards the runway at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), to which he responded, "Aw those guys will rough me up if I tried landing there. I think I might mess something up there too. I wouldn't want to do that. Hopefully  oh they probably got anti-aircraft."

"No they don't have any of that stuff, we're just trying to find a place for you to land safely," the tower responded.

Although official accounts were slow to confirm reports of the unauthorized takeoff, many passengers at Sea-Tac took to social media to report that pilots had informed them of the plane theft.

"Halfway down the runway on Alaska airlines out of Seattle and the pilot slams on the brakes and shares we must go back to the gate," one wrote.

"Sitting on the runway at SeaTac, preparing for departure. Before takeoff, the pilot explains someone stole an airplane, and is flying around near Mt. Rainier," another shared on social media, adding, "They've been in contact with the culprit. He doesn't sound confident in his ability to land back at Sea-Tac. They are grounding all planes and waiting."

The airplane was a Horizon Air Q400, a turboprop, twin engine aircraft with 76 seats. Horizon Air is a division of Alaska Air Group.

This story is developing. It will be updated as more information becomes available.In recent years, attendance at the annual Pentagon event where officials report progress on finding remains of missing-in-action troops has dwindled. At this years event, held Thursday at a hotel near the Pentagon, members of more than 700 families showed up, overflowing the reserved space.

For the first time in years, the families of service members missing from the Korean War brought hope to the latest Defense Department progress report on the status of remains recoveries.

Attendance at the event more than doubled from the meeting last year, according to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA). A total of 771 family members of the missing were registered, compared to 375 in 2017, DPAA said.

Most relatives of those listed as missing in action came clinging to the belief that a breakthrough had been achieved with the repatriation of 55 sets of remains last week. Many of them clutched photographs and insignia of their loved ones, and some had the long-ago letter from an adjutant general on the "presumptive finding of death."

The families hope the remains return is the first of many repatriations. The reality remains to be seen.

"I guess you could say I'm kinda' hopeful," said Robert Johnston Moore, 67, of Kingsport, Tennessee, an Air Force veteran whose father, Army Sgt. James F. Johnston, fell in battle in what is now North Korea in 1950. "I'm also kinda' hopeful for the rest of the 700 people here," he said.

Some at the meeting came with a still lingering sense of guilt for not demanding more answers, or for once harboring a child's resentment of a father for going off to war and leaving them behind.

Shirley Minor, the daughter of Air Force Staff Sgt. Asa Lawrence "Tex" Law, recalled that her mother had been angry with him. He had fought in World War II but did not immediately tell her when he decided to return to uniform for the fight in Korea.

"My mother did not talk about this," she said.

Minor, 71, of Lancaster, South Carolina, recalled that as a five-year-old she wrote to her father -- why did he have to go away, why couldn't he come back to be with her? She wept at the memory.

Law, of Rosebud, Texas, was a tailgunner on a B-29A bomber nicknamed the "Double Whammy" from the 93rd Bomber Squadron, 19th Bomber Group, on a mission over Korea on Jan. 22, 1952. Three of the four engines on the Superfortress quit. The aircraft caught fire and was going down.

There was a problem with a hatch at the rear of the aircraft. Tex Law held it open for four crew members to parachute to safety. Law didn't make it out.

They were later captured, and one of them lived to tell of Law's heroics. Law went down with the plane that crashed in an area of North Korea known as the Chinnampo mud flats.

George A. Wedsworth, one of the crew members who made it out of the B-29, later told the Korean War Project that "We were forced to bail out at about 2:00 a.m., January 22nd 1952. I say 'we' -- some got out, some didn't."

"Those who did, made it because of [Law]. Without his help in that burning B-29, I certainly would not be here today. I'm not alone in that respect, for he helped others make it too," Wedsworth said.

DoD Pushes To Send Recovery Teams Back to Korea

At the meeting Thursday, director of the Defense Pow/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) Kelly McKeague, a retired Air Force major general, told the families that the Defense Department was "guardedly optimistic" that North Korea would cooperate with more remains recoveries.

However, the North's Korean Central News Agency propaganda outlet on the same day criticized the U.S. for failing to ease sanctions under agreements made at the June 12 Singapore summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

McKeague told the families "there's no way we can fathom the depths of your loss," but DoD "remains steadfastly committed to this mission" to provide a full accounting.

There have been no joint recovery operations with U.S. teams on the ground in North Korea since 2005, but McKeague has said previously that recoveries might resume in the spring if negotiations on North Korea's "denuclearization" make progress.

McKeague said that DPAA had a current budget of $146 million and the House was considering adding $20 million more for Korea recoveries.

DPAA estimates that about 7,700 are still missing in action from the Korean War -- 5,868 from the Army; 908 from the Air Force; 647 from the Marines; and 276 from the Navy. About 5,300 from the total of about 7,700 are believed to have been lost in what is now North Korea.

McKeague said he has been in touch with Russian and Chinese officials to enlist their help should more recoveries be permitted.

"Russia and China both view this as a humanitarian duty," McKeague said. But to date, he added, "they have not been as forthcoming as we would like."

The families were encouraged by the "honorable carry" ceremony on Aug. 1 at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii, when two Air Force C-17 Globemasters brought home 55 transfer cases believed to contain the remains of U.S. troops.

Dr. John Byrd, a forensic anthropologist and director of DPAA's labs in Hawaii, led the U.S. team that went to Wonsan in North Korea on July 27 to oversee the transfer of the cases. He said later that his preliminary review of the contents of the boxes showed that they were consistent with the remains of Americans.

At the ceremony in Hawaii, Vice President Mike Pence said "our boys are coming home," suggesting to the families that there would be more recoveries.

"It was odd to watch it on TV," Shirley Minor said of the Hawaii ceremony as the caskets emerged one-by-one from the belly of the aircraft, "and look at it and say --'Is that my Dad?' "

Robert Johnston Moore wondered the same thing about his father, Army Sgt. Army Sgt. James F. Johnston, of B Co. 32nd Infantry Regiment,7th Infantry Division. He went missing in the horrific battle at the Chosin Reservoir in North Korea on Dec. 12, 1950.

"All he ever wanted to be was a soldier," the son said. James Johnston, of Coeburn, Virginia, joined the Army at age 16 in 1940. He had gotten a local pharmacist to vouch that he was older, his son said. He fought in the Aleutians and then across the Pacific in World War 11.

Robert Johnston Moore had with him two letters the family received from the Army. The first notified them that Sgt. Johnston was missing. The second came in 1955 from Maj. Gen. William Bergin, the Army's Adjutant General.

It was a presumptive finding of death.

"I regret the necessity for this message but hope this is the ending of a long period of uncertainty and at least gives some small measure of comfort," the letter said.

Shortly after the C-17s left North Korea with the remains, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis told Pentagon reporters that it was a "step forward." But he also noted that the North Koreans had turned over only 55 cases, when the expectation had been that there might be as many as 200.

Following the Singapore summit, President Trump mistakenly said that 200 had already been returned.

"We know what [the North Koreans] said" at Singapore, Mattis said, but "for us, we simply say this is a gesture of carrying forward" a commitment to more recoveries.

"Obviously we want to continue with this humanitarian effort," on behalf of U.S. families and those of other nations who fought with the U.S. under the United Nations flag in the Korean War.

Mattis noted that some families were denied closure after receiving a telegram from the government informing them of a loved one's death.

"What we're seeing here is an opportunity to get those families closure," he said. "So this is an international effort to bring closure to those families."

At the meeting Thursday, Rick Downes, president of the Coalition of Families of Korean & Cold War POW/MIAs, noted previous broken promises by the North Koreans on recoveries. He said he believed the current state of negotiations was reaching a tipping point.

"Maybe it will tip forward [this time] instead of tipping backward," he said.

"Yeah, it's all connected," Downes said of the link between remains recoveries and progress on sanctions and the dismantling of North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

He said that the return of only 55 cases of remains was "probably because they [the North Koreans] don't want to give away all their leverage."

Downes' father, Air Force Lt. Hal Downes, Jr., went missing in the crash in North Korea of his B-26 bomber on Jan. 13, 1952.

On Thursday, the North's KCNA news agency put out a diatribe indicating how difficult future negotiations will be.

Kim Jong Un had been willing to implement agreements made at Singapore, KCNA said, but the U.S. had "responded to our expectations by inciting international sanctions and pressure."

"As long as the U.S. denies even the basic decorum for its dialogue partner and clings to the outdated acting script which the previous administrations have all tried and failed, one cannot expect any progress in the implementation of the DPRK-U.S. joint statement, including the denuclearization," KCNA continued.

Double Checks In Remains Identification Process

With the prospect of more recoveries in the offing, the Veterans of Foreign Wars has been pushing for all family members of the missing who haven't yet done so to provide DNA samples to DPAA to speed the process of identification.

McKeague said that DPAA currently has a DNA database for about 92 percent of the families.

At the meeting Thursday, young technicians from the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System (AFMES) were on hand to take samples. Shirley Minor was among those who lined up to have her mouth swabbed.

"At some point, all of it comes to our labs" to begin the preliminary work of identification, Dr. Timothy McMahon, director of DNA operations for AFMES, said of the remains returned to Hawaii last week.

Later this month, the bone fragments and other remains from the 55 cases were expected to be sent to the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory (AFDIL), which is part of AFMES, at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware, McMahon said.

The fragments will be cleaned, buffed and washed in 100 percent alcohol and turpentine to remove extraneous material before they can be ready for testing.

"It is a painstaking process," McMahon said, and "everything has to be done in duplicate."

On average, it can take as long as 55 days before a useable DNA sample can be extracted and ready for testing against the database, he said.

Jennifer O'Rourke, who has been supervising technicians at AFDIL for 12 years, said that each remains fragment is given an individual number and gets a folder assigned to it for AFDIL analysts. A second analyst has to confirm the findings of the first analyst, she said.

"We repeat everything," O'Rourke said, "from the start of the extraction through the whole thing."

Once a viable DNA sample is ready, AFDIL can begin the process of matching it against the database, or the sample can be sent back to DPAA labs in Hawaii to seek a match, she said.

McKeague and other DPAA officials have cautioned that identifications could take years. Former Air Force Capt. Ronald Lindquist has already been waiting 65 years since the armistice that ended the Korean War in 1953 for word on his older brother, Marine 1st Lt. Carl E. Lindquist.

1st Lt. Lindquist went missing on July 25, 1953, according to DPAA. He was 23 years old. The armistice ending the war was signed on July 27, 1953.

Carl Lindquist said his brother was in a bunker that was attacked as Chinese forces maneuvered to take more ground just before the armistice.

He believes his brother's remains could be found just a few hundred yards inside what is now the Demilitarized Zone at the 38th parallel separating the two Koreas, but he also recognizes that the DMZ is the most heavily mined place on earth.

"It's encouraging that they're talking," Lindquist said of the U.S. and North Korean sides, but "it could take years to see results."

Carl Lindquist said he would wait as long as it took. "He was my big brother, he took care of me," he said.

Now it was his turn.

-- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com.Still undetermined is whether the impact caused the October leak, or if the line was hit by something else at a later date.Key

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Natural gas leak in Mt. Morris tracked to local business

MT. MORRIS, MI - Consumers Energy workers are searching for the exact location of an underground natural gas leak in the city of Mt. Morris, according to the fire chief.

The incident began around 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 11 when Mt. Morris firefighters were called out to investigate a possible leak in the area of North Saginaw and Mt. Morris streets.

"During our investigation dangerously high levels of natural gas were detected in and around several businesses located in the southwestern corner of the intersection," said Mt. Morris fire Chief Michael Vogt. "Temporary evacuation and closure orders were issued to the businesses and a small apartment building located in the area."

The evacuations were completed and a safe area established so no one entered the area.

A natural gas leak was confirmed, but Vogt added "ambient air readings determined the public was no longer at risk and that the gas had dissipated to below dangerous limits."

Closure and evacuation orders were lifted at approximately 12:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 12, with Consumers Energy taking over control of the incident and remain on scene.

A Consumers Energy crew located a natural gas leak and continues working on pinpointing the location.

A partial closure of the aforementioned intersection will take place and a traffic lane reduction implemented by 9:30 a.m. Aug. 12, Vogt said.

"There is no danger to the public at this time and the City of Mt. Morris Fire Department will continue to work closely with Consumers Energy during this incident," commented Vogt. "We are asking for people to avoid the area to allow Consumers Energy and emergency crews to safely operate and mitigate the hazard as quickly as possible."

The City of Mt. Morris Fire Department has been assisted by the City of Mt. Morris Police Department and Department of Public Works during the incident.PORT SHELDON, MI -- Regulators say West Michigan's smog problem comes from across Lake Michigan, but environmental advocates argue that's overlooking the coal-fired power plant in our backyard.

Earlier this month the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's list of Michigan counties not attaining stricter standards of ground-level ozone, or smog pollution, went into effect. The designations make state regulators address emission sources to bring levels below the standards within three years' time.

Of the three West Michigan communities designated, Ottawa County is notably missing, lawyers for the Sierra Club say.

The Sierra Club recently sued the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, saying it failed to designate Ottawa County as a community not attaining air quality standards even though its J.H. Campbell coal power plant contributes to smog violations in neighboring Muskegon County.

"Certainly there's pollution coming from across the lake; we're not disputing that," said Elena Saxonhouse, a senior attorney with Sierra Club. "Just because there's pollution coming from across the lake doesn't mean you can ignore the in-state sources."

State regulators say emissions from J.H. Campbell are a "small, small, small little drop in the bucket" compared to those coming from across the lake in Chicago and Gary, Indiana.

Muskegon, Allegan and Berrien counties were the three West Michigan communities designated by the EPA as not attaining ozone standards updated in 2015. Seven Metro Detroit counties were also designated "non-attainment." The designations went into effect Aug. 3.

The designations were based on ambient ozone levels based on air quality monitoring in those counties.

Unlike the other West Michigan counties, Ottawa does not have a near-shore monitor. Allegan and Muskegon counties do, and only the western half of those counties is designated non-attainment.

"EPA is supposed to designate areas as non-attainment if they have a monitor that is showing violations in the air," Saxonhouse said. "But they're also supposed to designate neighboring counties of those with violating monitors if they're contributing to the violation."

The EPA states "Breathing ozone can trigger a variety of health problems including chest pain, coughing, and throat irritation. It can worsen bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma."

A non-attainment designation requires state regulators to address smog contributors in those counties to bring air quality to federal standards by 2021.

Although J.H. Campbell is already slated for a 2040 full decommissioning, Jordan Chrispell, a West Michigan clean energy organizer with Sierra Club, said a non-attainment designation for Ottawa County would hasten that timeline.

"It would put pressure on Consumers Energy to clean up nitrogen oxide pollution," Chrispell said. "It would push them to decide it makes economic sense to retire the coal plant earlier."

Nitrogen oxide is an ozone precursor. In 2014, J.H. Campbell contributed to about 38 percent of the county's nitrogen oxide emissions, according to EPA data.

Katie Carey, director of media relations with Consumers Energy, pointed to significant decreases in nitrogen oxide emissions at the plant over the past decade and stated ozone travelling from industry across Lake Michigan is the major problem.

"We have a coal-fired power plant in Ottawa County that has reduced its air emissions by 90 percent by installing over $1 billion of pollution controls over the past 10 years," Carey said. "The primary contributing factor in Ottawa County is ozone traveling over Lake Michigan."

Even if Ottawa County was declared as not attaining ozone standards, J.H. Campbell likely would be untouched unless it ramped up emissions, said Kaitlyn Leffert, an environmental quality analyst with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality.

"The ozone problem really comes from transported pollution, from Chicago, from Gary, Indiana," Leffert said. "Those emissions tend to sit over Lake Michigan -- perfect to form ozone -- then arrive on our shoreline.

"Even if you shut down that plant, you could still likely have non-attainment issues in that county because there's pollution coming in from out of the state."

DEQ is still working up its plan to address ozone levels, with a large focus on the Metro Detroit area, Leffert said.

The hope, she said, is that when Chicago and other across-the-lake polluters clean up their act, West Michigan levels will be aligned with federal standards.

The lawsuit by Sierra Club is a petition for review in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.

If successful, a judge would order the EPA to review specific portions of the rule, such as counties Sierra Club argues should be non-attainment. The group has not yet published the nationwide list of counties they're going to argue for but said Ottawa County is one of them.

Saxonhouse said the case could take nine months to a year before a decision is reached.ISLE ROYALE, MI - A severely dehydrated teenage hiker who was described as slipping in and out of consciousness was among three people rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard from a remote area of Isle Royale last week.

A ranger from the national park contacted the Coast Guard late last Monday, Aug. 6, saying they had gotten a call for help from a group of hikers, who'd sent an emergency message using a hand-held satellite communicator, according to the Duluth News Tribune.

A helicopter from Air Station Traverse City arrived on the Lake Superior island around midnight and a rescue swimmer was lowered to help three hikers into the aircraft.

The person having the most trouble appeared to be an 18-year-old woman who was reportedly severely dehydrated and going in and out of consciousness, the news site reported. Two other hikers also had symptoms of dehydration.

All three were taken to the Duluth airport, and helped by waiting emergency medical workers.BROOKLYN, MI - Telling race car drivers to slow down is rarely effective.

Team owner and former driver Richard Childress went flying around Michigan International Speedway on Sunday morning in a Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, giving pace car rides to media members before the Consumers Energy 400.

"I think it'd go 170 mph if we really could," Childress said. "They've been on me about going too fast."

Here's a look at one of his trips around the track.

Taking a Lap Around MIS in a Pace Car Former car owner for Dale Earnhardt, Richard Childress, gives you a spin around Michigan International Speedway in a Chevy Camaro pace car. Posted by MLive.com on Sunday, August 12, 2018

Childress has three wins at MIS in the Cup Series as an owner. Dale Earnhardt won for him in 1987 and 1990 while Kevin Harvick won in a Childress car in 2010.

He raced himself in the Cup Series at MIS from 1972 to 1981, with a best finish of sixth.

"It was new," Childress said. "They only had a little small grandstand, probably held 30,000, 40,000 people. It's really changed a lot since then."

While spinning around the track Sunday morning, the speedometer topped 150 mph for Childress. His race cars - the No. 3 of Austin Dillon and No. 31 of Ryan Newman - can go nearly 70 mph quicker at MIS.

"It's just a cool place to race," Childress said. "A lot of great memories up here, having a lot of fun. We've got some great race fans up here."BROOKLYN, MI - Dale Earnhardt Jr. is retired, but his celebrity status hasn't lessened any with his fans.

Now working as a broadcaster for NBC, Earnhardt Jr. is in the TV booth for Sunday's Consumers Energy 400 at Michigan International Speedway. And for a TV segment on Friday, the 15-time NASCAR Most Popular Driver hit the infield.

One stop came at a 1964 Bluebird bus - painted on one side in No. 88 green for Earnhardt Jr. and the other side No. 3 Wrangler blue and yellow for Earnhardt Sr. Earnhardt Jr. signed both numbers for the fans.

"It's exciting," bus owner Gary Burgett said. "It's real exciting to actually shake his hand, after all these years."

Burgett and his crew have come to MIS for 20 years, setting up camp near the fence inside Turn 2.

Former drivers and current NBC broadcasters Kyle Petty and Jeff Burton were also on the TV segment. They went on the platform on the roof of the bus, throwing beer koozies to onlookers below - many of whom were filming and taking photos on their phone.

"It's just a thrill," Alan Stroh said. "I'm 60 years old and it makes you feel like a kid to see your idols."

Another stop for Earnhardt and the NBC crew was with Dwayne Jodway and his hand-built quad bicycle that looks like a Chase Elliott car. Petty got in the bicycle and went for a stroll.

The quad bike is decked out with lights, a radio and a cooler in the back.

"The only problem is, right now, I ain't got no brakes," Jodway said. "(My shoe) is my brake."

Jodway, who's been coming to MIS since 1973, was also a bit starstruck. His favorite driver for years was Jeff Gordon, but switched to become an Elliott fan after Gordon retired.

"They dug it," Jodway said of the former drivers coming by. "It was cool, I loved it. It's like a new drug. Although when they came, I was kind of nervous, actually."

Jodway, a diesel mechanic from Warren, built the piece himself. It matches his 1985 International bus, with the Napa blue and white Elliott color scheme.

He also has a giant Jeff Gordon bar, a table built from a tire and a grill that looks like an engine.

Jodway may be good luck for Elliott - as he was painting the body for the bike last Sunday as Elliott was in Watkins Glen winning his first career race. Jodway came inside to check on the race status every so often.

"I'd seen (Elliott) win, and then 'Yeah, OK, cool, he won. I've got to go to Home Depot, now,'" Jodway said.MUSKEGON HEIGHTS, MI - A hotel in Muskegon Heights that has had a couple names already is changing flags once again.

Most recently known as the Red Roof Inn, the hotel at 150 Seaway Drive is converting to a Days Inn.

The new name will be a return to the hotel's original flag. It was opened as a Days Inn in 1977. It was expanded in 1985 and had several names until it was flagged as a Quality Inn & Suites in 1998. It later became the Causeway Bay Hotel. In 2009, it was reflagged as a Red Roof Inn.

The 127-room hotel is on 2.3 acres in a busy corridor of Muskegon Heights. It sits across from Mona Lake and near a recently rehabbed American Legion building.

Days Inn is a value or economy franchise tag by Wyndham. The brand was established in 1970 and is used on nearly 1,800 hotels globally. Its amenities include free breakfast, a pool or fitness center, in-room coffeemakers and free high-speed internet.

"That hotel site is an anchor in that corridor for sure," said Muskegon Heights City Manager Jake Eckholm. "We're excited to see that they're making site improvements and we're happy to have them as a partner in Muskegon Heights."

Two large Days Inn banners are posted on the building.

The most recent major update was in 2009 when the hotel was converted from the Causeway Bay Hotel to the Red Roof Inn. That was a $1 million makeover.

At that time, the hotel was sold on a land contract to a Canada-based hotelier, operating locally as DI Muskegon, Inc.

DI Muskegon signed the land contract over to Lin S. Keung on June 22, according to the Muskegon County Register of Deeds.

Keung also owns the Causeway Bay Lansing Hotel. The land owner at 150 Seaway remains Causeway Bay Muskegon.

Keung did not return a call for comment.

The hotel remains open during renovations. The renovation is expected to include updated carpet, furniture, bathroom and light fixtures and more, Eckholm said.SAGINAW TWP, MI -- Joey Horwath has played the bagpipes since he was was 6 years old, and now his longtime dedication to perfecting his skill with the musical instrument is paying off.

Horwath, a senior at Saginaw Township's Heritage High School, applied to compete in an international bagpiping competition on a whim. To his surprise, he was selected as one of 16 people to compete in the prestigious event in Scotland.

The musician will showcase his skills and compete against some of the best bagpipers in "Pipe Idol!," on Wednesday, Aug. 15 in Glasgow, Scotland. The competition features pipers age 21 and under.

Horwath has been involved in several bagpipe bands, such as the Great Lakes Pipe Band, in Cleveland, Ohio. A friend from the band encouraged him to try out for the competition.

"One guy said, 'You'll never know if you're good enough if you don't send in an application,'" Horwath said.

"When I got the email it was a shock and then it was a scramble to actually make it happen," he said.

Most of Horwath's family is musically inclined. His mother's involvement in a Celtic band and his Scottish and Irish roots led to his own interest in picking up the bagpipes.

"My first teacher lives two streets down from where I do, so it was convenient enough to start taking lessons from him once I showed interest," Horwath said. "It was really just being around them for such a long period of time at such a young age that really kind of made me want to try it out."

Horwath's acceptance into the competition is the first step. He will have to compete in a group of four and, depending on how he plays, he will move out of the qualifier and play against other musicians in the final.

Horwath was selected from a pool of 40 applicants along with 15 other contests hailing from Scotland, the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and New Zealand. He's the only piper competing from the United States.

"The first big accomplishment was actually getting accepted," Horwath said. "My goal is to get out of the qualifier, but realistically I'm just happy to be going."

Horwath's audition consisted of three musical selections that he recorded himself playing. The competition calls for a similar set-up. Each competitor will play a March, Strathspey and Reel, a four-part Hornpipe and Jig, and a musical selection of no more than five minutes in front of a live audience and a hidden panel of judges in the Street Cafe at the National Piping Centre, according to the Piping Live! website.

If the musician wins he will get bragging rights and a set of Fred Morrison reelpipes.

Even if Horwath doesn't win, the experience can lead to other opportunities in the bagpiping world, said Andrew Duncan, Horwath's bagpipe instructor.

"This is a great experience for him and hopefully can open the door for him to get in on other contests," Duncan said.

Horwath's family is excited for the trip as they will get to travel with him for a family vacation and to see him compete. While Horwath is undoubtedly excited to experience Scotland, he's staying focused on the competition.

"I feel like I have nothing to lose," Horwath said. "I'm not a favorite, no one really knows about me. I'm just going to go there and do what I do, and if the odds are in my favor that's one more thing I get to put on my resume."

To keep up with all the details of Horwath's journey, visit his website.We are in the last phase of the September quarter earnings season, and the results announced by the BSE 500 companies so far have shown signs of a sharp recovery, as compared to the June quarter, when the economic activity in the country was compromised due to lockdown in various regions. From the BSE 500 list, 216 companies have announced their September quarter results so far. We excluded banking and financial companies. Along with the index stocks we also analyse each sector quarterly earnings. (Data Source: ACE Equity)

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Amara Raja Batteries has posted 13.19 percent jump in its net profit at Rs 113.03 crore during the first quarter of the current fiscal on strong sales. Its net profit was Rs 99.85 crore in the April-June quarter of last fiscal, the company said in a regulatory filing.

The net income of the company increased to Rs 1,779 crore during the April-June quarter of 2018-19, from Rs 1,671.28 crore in the year-ago period.

Its expenses rose to Rs 1,622.85 crore as against Rs 1,534.24 crore in the said period.

The company said that the demand for batteries in replacement market saw growth in all vehicles categories, including two wheelers.

Both the preferred brands, AMARON and POWERZONE, continued to perform exceptionally well, thereby increasing market share.

As for exports, South-East Asia and the Middle East contributed to phenomenal growth in the international business, it said.

"The demand from Telecom segment continues to be under stress owing to overall telecom scenario prevailing in the market. Barring this all other segments of the industrial business registered double digit growth," the company added.

Amara Raja Batteries Vice Chairman and Managing Director Jayadev Galla said: "The economy of the country is poised to grow and provide opportunities for increasing production and consumption. In line with the growth and demand expectations, we are expanding capacities and adapting new technologies well in time."

The company is engaged in the manufacture and marketing of lead acid storage batteries. It has incorporated had in July 2018 an wholly-owned subsidary in Sharjah.Jet Airways| RS 4,244 crore loss (Image: Reuters)

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Aviation regulator DGCA is set to conduct a financial audit of the Naresh Goyal-promoted Jet Airways, amid its fiscal conditions under pressure due to the surging jet fuel prices and low fares, a source said.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has already evaluated the financial health of the national carrier Air India recently, besides conducting a special audit of Air Deccan, the source close to the development said.

The financial audit of airlines, which has been conducted in the past too, is done to assess their fiscal health and also ensure that they are not compromising on safety due to financial stress.

"We will conduct the financial audit of Jet Airways from August 27. A similar audit of Air India has been completed," the source said.

The financial audit of Air India was necessitated as the airline has been defaulting on salary payments to its employees, besides grounding a number of aircraft due to payment issues with vendors.

The DGCA has also carried out a special audit of Air Deccan and will soon be conducting a similar exercise on Air Odisha, following orders from the aviation ministry, the source said.

The two carriers, which together have been mandated to fly on 84 routes under the government's regional connectivity scheme, had recently canceled a number of flights, citing a shortage of pilots and a technical glitch in their aircraft, the source said.

Air Deccan had started operations in December last year while Air Odisha took to the skies in February this year.

The Ahmedabad-based GSEC Aviation and Monarch Networth Capital had last year acquired 100 percent stake in Air Deccan and 60 percent in Air Odisha.

The Naresh Goyal-promoted Jet Airways, in which Gulf carrier Etihad holds 24 percent stake, is grappling with financial woes and its share price has also taken a beating in recent weeks.

On August 9, the board of directors of Jet Airways deferred the matter of consideration of the unaudited financial results for the June quarter.

Regulator SEBI is looking into Jet Airways' deferring the announcement of the June quarter results following reservations expressed by the airline's audit committee.

The loss-making Air India, which failed to attract any buyer earlier this year, is also facing a cash crunch and is awaiting Rs 980 crore additional funding from the government.

It delayed the payment of salaries to its employees for the fifth consecutive month in July.live bse live

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Narnolia Financial Advisors

The Nifty is trading at an all-time high. At the current level, Nifty is trading at 21 times its expected FY19 EPS. Considering strong domestic inflows, Nifty is expected to trade between 18x and 22x of its expected one year forward earnings.

Inside this broad range of 18x-22x, where Nifty would exactly be, will depend basically on macros, global issues and how corporate facing banks perform. Monitoring corporate lenders performance is also important as it will have a big impact on how ultimately FY19 earning shapes up.

At the beginning of the current financial year, Nifty was expected to witness 23 percent EPS growth in FY19. Out of this 23 percent, the three large corporate lenders: SBI, ICICI Bank and Axis Bank contribution was 7.6 percent. It means if these corporate lenders do not show a profit in FY19 then for Nifty, EPS growth will be 15.4 percent only.

Corporate lenders have shown some sign of positive trend this quarter. The pre-provisioning profit (PPP) for PSU as well as private lenders have grown well.

Advances too have grown at a healthy rate and amongst advances; retail book mix for most banks is improving. Amongst the corporate advances, A-rated books have grown at a healthy pace.

The growth in PPP has not yet translated into healthy Profit After tax but, the management commentary of most of the lenders with high corporate exposure has been rather encouraging. Fresh slippages have been mostly from the watchlist and the high provision coverage ratio of companies gives confidence that by the end of FY19, banks will start reporting growth in net profit.

Below are key takeaways on watch list and slippage from quarterly results of corporate lenders:

SBI: Out of Rs 14,856 crore of gross slippages, Rs 9,984 crore were fresh slippages and rest was Non fund based slippages from NPA accounts. Out of Rs 9,984 crore slippages, corporate slippages were Rs 3,704 crore during the quarter and 91 percent of this was from the watch-list.

The bank maintained guidance of 2 percent fresh slippages for FY19. Watch-list now stands at Rs 24,633 crore against Rs 28,989 crore a quarter back.

ICICI Bank: Total corporate and SME slippages were Rs 2,916 crore. Bank has disclosed BB and below rated portfolio of Rs 24,629 crore which is a potential stress going forward.

Management expects the additions to non-performing loans to be significantly lower in FY19 as compared to FY18 and NPA should decline going forward.

Axis Bank: Slippage was Rs 4,337 crore out of which Rs 2,218 crore of slippage was from corporate portfolio of which 88 percent was from BB and below rated watchlist.

The pool of BB and below rated portfolio increased to Rs 10,400 crore (2.1 percent of total customer assets) against Rs 9,000 crore last quarter. After this downgrade in Q1FY19, management believes that rating downgrade cycle has now normalized.

Bank of Baroda: Total slippages were Rs 4,733 crore out of this fresh slippages were Rs 2,869 crore. 85 percent of fresh slippages was from watchlist.

Watchlist declined from Rs 10,000 crore to Rs 8,600 crore in Q1FY19.

Disclaimer: The author is the Head of Research at Narnolia Financial Advisors Limited. The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts/broking houses/rating agencies on Moneycontrol are their own, and not that of the website or its management. Moneycontrol advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.Prime Minister Narendra Modi has refuted claims that caste-based reservations were going to be done away with. In an interview to ANI, he reiterated the governments commitment to affirmative action and fulfilling the legacy of Dr. B R Ambedkar, a champion of the Dalit cause.

"The objectives of our Constitution and dreams of Dr. Babasaheb are still incomplete. It is the responsibility of every one of us to fulfill his dream and reservations are an important tool to achieve this," Modi said.

He laid emphasis on safeguarding the rights of the marginalised and destitute, as being central to the governments motto of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas. Modi also took aim at vested interests who were intent on misrepresenting the Bharatiya Janata Partys stand on reservation, saying that the same people who were politicising the issue of reservation were those who had deviously tried to smother Babasaheb's dreams.

Modi said that canards to this regard usually take root before elections, and are circulated by rival political parties to drive a wedge between communities. He reaffirmed that the status quo would be maintained, and that "Reservation is here to stay. Let there be no doubts about this."

He was critical of the Congress Partys record in promoting the backward classes, flaying the stance taken by former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on the Mandal Commissions recommendations. Modi went on to say that the very forces that tried to undermine the Commissions report were now trying to sow the seeds of doubt and mistrust between communities.

Look across the length and breadth of India, maximum MPs and MLAs from SC, ST and OBC communities are from BJP," he said.

The Prime Ministers words come on the back of the Maratha community's demand for reservation in government jobs and education. What started off as a low-key protests, turned violent in many parts of Maharashtra, bringing life to a standstill.

Moreover, the government will be seeking to promote the passing of the contentious 123rd Constitutional Amendment Bill, touted the OBC Bill, by Parliament. The new legislature gives the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) the power to examine complaints regarding non-inclusion of citizens. It will also empower the NCBC to revise the list of backward classes to include new groups.

A committee has been set up to work out the sub-categorisation of backward castes so that the distribution of government jobs and sets in public institutions is equitable to their population. The BJP will be trying to dispel the notion that it is against reservation by its recent outreach to backward classes in the run up to the 2019 general elections.

As a monolith, backward communities account for 52 percent of the populace.Home Minister Rajnath Singh has met all paramilitary DGs. Singh was briefed about the border situation. He gave specific instructions to all DGs for complete preparedness at the border and full strength deployment. Instructions were also given for safeguarding civilians and following standard operating procedures (SOPs) in case of any emergency. (Image: Moneycontrol)

Terming the flood situation in Kerala following heavy rains as something never witnessed by the state since Independence, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today announced Rs 100 crore as an immediate central relief.

The minister, who made an aerial survey of badly affected areas in Idukki and Ernakulam districts, said the rains and floods had caused "massive damage" to the farm sector and infrastructures like roads and power.

"Kerala is facing an unprecedented flood situation. It is unprecedented because never before in the history of independent India has Kerala witnessed such massive floods," he told reporters here. He was speaking after reviewing the situation with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Minister of State for Tourism Alphons Kannanthanam, state ministers and senior officials.

Also read  Passports damaged in Kerala floods to be replaced free of cost: Sushma Swaraj

Singh assured all help from the Centre to meet the "very serious situation". "I understand the suffering of the people of Kerala from the present crisis. Since assessment of the damage will take time, I hereby announce immediate relief as an advance of Rs 100 crore," the Minister said.

The state government submitted a memorandum to Singh, seeking the urgent sanction of Rs 1,220 crore from the National Disaster Relief Fund (NDRF) to meet the situation.

In the memorandum, the Chief Minister said preliminary estimates suggested that Kerala suffered a loss of Rs 8,316 crore in the rains, floods and landslides.

Also read  DMK announces Rs 1 crore flood relief to Kerala govt

Singh recalled the flood situation in Kerala last month and said that just before he came to the state today, he sanctioned the release of the second installment of Rs 80.25 crore in advance for the State Disaster Relief Fund.

The first installment of a similar amount of the Central share of SDRF for 2018-19 was released last month, he said. "The Centre is extremely sensitive to the needs of Kerala at this critical juncture," he said.

The Minister said three teams of NDRF had been pre-positioned in Kerala during the current monsoon season. "Eleven more NDRF teams have been deployed in the state, taking the total number of NDRF teams to 14. If needed we will press in additional teams," Singh said in a tweet.

Earlier, Singh visited a relief camp at Elanthikkara in Paravur Taluk in Ernakulam district. "Today we conducted an aerial survey of flood affected areas with the Chief Minister and I reached the conclusion that the situation is very serious in Kerala due to floods," he said.

Also read  Kerala rains: Rahul Gandhi urges Congress worker to help people in need

"And I would like to assure the state government that all sorts of support will be provided by the central government to meet the challenges of the flood situation," he said. Singh also heard the grievances of people who lost their homes and land in the floods.

The Minister made an aerial survey of areas affected by landslides and rains in Idukki and Ernakulam districts. He was accompanied by Vijayan, Alphons, Chandrasekharan and Additional Chief Secretary P H Kurian.

After a brief lull, rains started lashing several parts of Kerala since this morning, posing problems to relief work by multiple agencies in flood and landslide-hit regions. However, the water level in Idukki and Idamalayar dams reduced, bringing some relief, with authorities saying there was no need for people living downstream to panic.

No fresh casualties were reported since yesterday and the toll in the rain-related incidents since the current monsoon fury from August 8 stood at 37, officials said.

Also read  Half of Kerala reels under floods as 29 die; 54,000 rendered homeless

Thousands of people have been accommodated in relief camps set up in different areas, including in Wayand, where over 14,000 people had been sheltered. Ten columns of the Army, a unit of Madras Regiment along with personnel of the Navy, Air Force and NDRF are engaged in relief and rescue work in badly-hit districts, including Kozhikode, Idukki, Malappuram, Kannur and Wayanad, Defence sources said.

The National Disaster Management Authority had yesterday warned that heavy to very heavy rains were expected in 16 states, including Kerala, till tomorrow. The weather department has issued a 'Red alert', asking people to be cautious as there was a possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall in most places in Idukki, Wayanad, Kannur, Ernakulam, Palakkad and Malappuram districts.Representative Image

The Congress said the political parties that broke the opposition ranks to facilitate the victory of the NDA nominee in the election for the post of Rajya Sabha deputy chairman had exposed their "hypocrisy".

Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi also claimed that the Opposition unity was intact, even though some parties had voted against the Opposition nominee in the August 9 election.

Harivansh Narayan Singh of the Janata Dal (United) won the election against Opposition candidate B K Hariprasad of the Congress in the Upper House of Parliament.

Addressing a press conference here, Chaturvedi said the outcome of the election did not mean the opposition unity had broken.

"A lot of people and political parties that have been attacking the (Narendra) Modi government and claiming to represent the voice of the common people chose to abstain and not vote against the candidate put up by the government.

"They clearly shirked their own responsibilities and exposed their hypocrisy," she alleged.

During the election, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the ruling parties in Odisha and Delhi respectively, broke ranks with the Opposition to facilitate the NDA candidate's victory, despite their fierce political battles with the BJP in their states.

The Shiv Sena, which had abstained from voting on the no-confidence motion moved against the NDA government in the Lok Sabha recently, had joined the BJP to help Singh win the election for the post of Rajya Sabha deputy chairman.

The two YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) MPs had abstained from voting. In all, 16 members were not present.

Replying to a query, Chaturvedi said, "I don't think the opposition unity is breaking in any way."

In a veiled attack on the Shiv Sena, which is part of the NDA-led governments at the Centre and in Maharashtra, the Congress leader said, "It is shameful that one of the parties that shares power with the BJP in Maharashtra is attacking the state government and when the time comes, they choose power over accountability. We were hoping that those within the government would live up to their responsibilities when the time came, but that did not happen."

Chaturvedi claimed that it clearly emerged from the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman's election that the Modi government did not believe in taking everybody along.

"This is perhaps for the first time that the government did not reach out to the opposition parties to find a consensus candidate and chose to use its power. This is how democratic principles are being compromised to stay in power," she said.

Alleging that the deal to purchase Rafale fighter jets from France was a "scam", Chaturvedi said, "A lot of allegations were hurled against the Congress regarding the Bofors deal. However, the then Congress government did not shy away from any probe. The Congress held itself accountable and answerable to the people of India and the Supreme Court."

"When (Atal Bihari) Vajpayee was the prime minister, he had absolved us of all the charges," she claimed.

The Bofors deal between India and Sweden during the 1980s and 1990s had snowballed into a major political scandal, wherein several members of the Indian and Swedish governments were accused of receiving kickbacks for winning a bid to supply 155-mm field howitzer guns to India.

Chaturvedi said the Army had hailed the role of the Bofors guns in the 1999 Kargil War between India and Pakistan.Brexit

France deems unacceptable a European Commission proposal to exclude French ports from a re-routing of a strategic trade corridor between Ireland and mainland Europe after Brexit, the government said.

At the moment much of Ireland's trade with the continent goes via Britain in trucks. However, with less than eight months to go until Britain leaves the European Union there is still little clarity on its future trade relations with the bloc, nor the nature of the Irish Republic's border with the British province of Northern Ireland.

"France and Ireland maintain important trade channels, both overland via Britain and via direct maritime routes. The geographical proximity between Ireland and France creates an obvious connection to the single market," French Transport Minister Elisabeth Borne wrote to the EU's transport commissioner in a letter dated Aug. 10.

"Surprisingly, the Commission proposal in no way takes this into account. This proposal therefore is not acceptable to France."

At stake are jobs, millions of dollars' worth of port revenues and possibly EU infrastructure funding.

Borne said that French ports had the necessary resources to ensure they could handle the likely increase in trade flows, hinting at concerns of congestion in ports such as Calais, France's busiest passenger port.Pakistans Prime Minister Imran Khan wished all Hindu citizens on the occasion of Diwali. Prime Minister Imran Khan wishes a happy Diwali to all Hindu citizens, tweeted Prime Ministers Office in Pakistan.

Pakistan's newly-elected parliament is meeting on August 13 for the first time to start the process of transition and handing over powers to the new government.

President Mamnoon Hussain has already summoned the maiden session of National Assembly, the lower house, at 10 am in parliament house.

According to law, the speaker of the previous assembly, Ayaz Sadiq, will administer the oath to the new lawmakers, followed by an election of the speaker and the deputy speaker.

After the election of the new speaker, the outgoing speaker will give him the oath and hand over charge of the new house.

Prime Minister-in-waiting Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) emerged as the single largest party with 116 seats in the July 25 election. Its tally increased to 125 after nine independent members joined it.

The final tally of the PTI has reached 158 after it was allowed 28 out of 60 seats reserved for women.

The party is still 14 short of a simple majority of 172 in the house of 342. But it has the support of several smaller parties and it is expected to get the support of at least 180 lawmakers in the election for speaker, deputy speaker and prime minister.

PTI spokesman Fawad Chaudhry said the party has already nominated Khan as prime minister and Asad Qaisar as speaker. It has not announced the candidate for deputy speaker so far.

Party sources said the Cabinet list has not been finalised but there is a general consensus that Shah Mahmood Qureshi will be the new foreign minister and Pervez Khattak as interior minister.

Asad Umar is expected to get the key post of finance minister and Khan is also expected to appoint prominent businessman Abdul Razzak Dawood as an advisor on finance. Dawood served in the cabinet of former military dictator Pervez Musharraf.

Chaudhry said that PTI has decided to invite Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) chief Shehbaz Sharif and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for Khan's oath-taking ceremony as prime minister.

It is not clear if they will attend the ceremony scheduled to take place on August 18 in the President House.

There are reports that President Hussain has canceled his three-day trip to Ireland to administer the oath to the new prime minister. Meanwhile, leaders of PML-N and PPP have met in Lahore to decide their strategy for the first session. The two parties have decided to field joint candidates for posts of speaker, deputy speaker and prime minister.

The PML-N has a final tally of 82 seats after the addition of 18 reserved seats  including 16 for women and two for non-Muslims and PPP has 53 with the addition of 11 reserved seats  nine for women and two for non-Muslims.

The Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal (MMA) now has 15 seats after the addition of three reserved seats  two for women and one for non-Muslim.

The combined strength of the major opposition parties will be at least 150.

The actual strength of PTI will be reduced to 152 because Khan won on five seats but will have to vacate four seats before taking the oath. Two other PTI leaders won on two seats each and will vacate the additional seats.

This means that the total strength of the house will be reduced from 342 to 336 after the seats are vacated.

As PTI ally Pervez Elahi of Pakistan Muslim League will also vacate his two national assembly seats after deciding to sit in the Punjab assembly, while elections were not held on two seats and a result of one seat has been delayed due to litigation, the final strength of the house will further come down to 331.

Hence, a winning candidate will need the support of 166 lawmakers instead of 172. It means PTI still needs the support of 14 members of smaller parties and the joint opposition needs 16.

On paper, the PTI is expected to carry the day by a thin margin due to open support of several small parties but still, a tough competition is expected for the top posts of speaker and prime minister.

These parties include Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) with seven seats, Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) with five, Balochistan National Party (BNP) with four, Pakistan Muslim League (PML) with three, Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) with three, and Awami Muslim League and Jamori Watan Party have one each.

But still the PTI will be heavily dependent on the smaller parties and its government may be virtually at their mercy.

As far provincial assemblies are concerned, PTI is leading in Punjab with 179 seats in the house of 371 but it has not so far announced its chief ministerial candidate. Reportedly, several leaders are in the running for the coveted seat, which is second only to the premier in importance.

In Sindh, PPP is leading with 97 seats in the house of 168, in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, PTI is in clear majority with 84 seats in the house of 124, while Balochistan Awami Party has 20 seats in majority in the house of 65 in Balochistan and is expected to form the government with support of PTI and other parties.ADULT FICTION

My Name is Nathan Lucius by Mark Winkler: A disaffected and most often drunk advertising salesman is asked by his best friend to assist in her suicide as she faces a painful death from a fatal disease. As he asks himself whether he can fulfill her request, a series of events are sparked from which he can never return.

ADULT NON-FICTION

The Ascent of Gravity by Marcus Chown: Gravity was the first force to be identified and described, yet it is remains the least understood. Chown takes the reader through the fascinating history of gravity, from its first recognition in 1666 to the discovery of gravitational waves in 2015.

DVD

Jane: This film tells the story of Jane Goodall, the chimpanzee researcher who challenged the scientific community with her one-on-one interactions with primate communities. This documentary draws from more than 100 hours of previously unseen footage from the National Geographic archives.

JUVENILE FICTION

Where the Watermelons Grow by Cindy Baldwin: Della, 12, has lived her whole life knowing how to do many things. She even knows how to take care of her momma when her sickness spirals out of control again. Della decides she will fix her mamma, even if others say it cant be done. Della must learn that love means accepting her mamma just as she is.

CHILDRENS PICTURE BOOK

Geraldine by Elizabeth Lilly: Geraldine does not want to move to a new town or start a new school. However, she soon meets Cassie, who is just as much of an outcast as Geraldine is. As time goes by, Geraldine realizes that being yourself and making one really good friend can help you fit in.

Did You Know?

The library will present the last of this summers travelogue programs at 6:30 p.m. Thursday. Illinois College professor Bernd Estabrook will discuss his many visits to and experiences with the city of Berlin, sharing a unique perspective of having spent time in the city both before and after the Berlin Wall came down in 1989.GALVA (AP)  Sherrys Cafe is a singular, classic joint located in the downtown of this city of 2,600.

Breakfast is served all day. A short stack of pancakes and a bottomless unsweetened tea comes to $5.48 with tax.

The atmosphere is friendly and open.

Asked to name the best item on the menu, a waitress named Sue sang out Everything, of course and titled her head to emphasis the utter outsiderness of the question.

Asked about the state of Galva in the wake of the June 19 fatal shooting of a 19-year-old named Xavier Hartman, Sues smile faded and she offered, Hang on a second.

Moments later Deb Massingill emerged from the kitchen to explain.

You have to understand something right off the bat, Sherrys cook for the last six years said. This town is pretty divided over what happened.

And I dont think a lot of people want to talk about what happen. First, they dont want to been seen as taking sides in this. Second, there are so many rumors around now that people dont know what to think.

Ive heard so many stories, I just hope all us can know exactly what happened that night. I think that might help a lot of people.

What is alleged is James E. Love shot Hartman in his left thigh during an altercation June 19. That bullet struck Hartmans femoral artery, which resulted in his death.

According to investigators, the altercation between the two Galva men occurred after Hartman crashed a vehicle he was driving about 300 yards away from Loves property.

Love responded to the scene after hearing the crash and subsequent yelling. Two shots were fired by Love. Hartman was unarmed.

The case has only added to the confusion, according to a number of Galva residents.

On July 17, a Knox County grand jury declined to hand up an indictment of Love for first-degree murder, instead settling on charges of reckless homicide, aggravated battery causing great bodily harm, and aggravated discharge of a firearm.

In a rare move, the Knox County States Attorneys office has again filed a first-degree murder charge against the defendant.

The murder charge, if Love is convicted, carries a mandatory prison sentence of 45 years to natural life in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

Sherrys waitress Crissy OBryant came into the restaurant before the start of her afternoon shift and willingly offered her opinions on the case.

Yes, the town is divided over this, OBryant said. To me, whatever happened shouldnt have come down to a boy losing his life that night.

Why take a gun out to scene when you can call the police first?

OBryant said she resents media that pointed out Hartman was on probation for a charge of mob action and had a restraining order  later withdrawn  filed against him by his mother.

Nothing from that young mans past has anything to do with what happened that night. What, did James Love know who was out there before he went to the scene of that accident.

Others tried to defend Love. They wanted to remain anonymous.

The thing people have to realize that when you live in a rural area its not that strange to carry a sidearm or some weapon out the door with you at night, a local farmer offered. I dont claim to know what happened that night  but the idea that James Love went down that road with the intent to kill someone is ridiculous.

A number of locals explained Loves choice to carry a weapon to the scene of the accident as part-and-parcel of another aspect of rural life.

Trucks and cars hit deer all the time and end up in ditches, a woman said. There are times when you have to put down an animal thats been run over.

Three men echoed the womans sentiment. Those three men also grappled with a way to articulate just how much Loves shooting of Hartman has wounded their town.

We live in a time when people see the shooting of black men  and its disturbing on all these levels, one of the men said. To put it bluntly, heres an older white guy shooting a mixed-race kid.

Im not saying that has anything to do with anything else. But it just adds a layer to this that makes people really kind of scared. People really dont want to talk about this. There is no way I would ever give my name to this.

Back in Sherrys Cafe, a young woman ordered an omelet and offered some advice.

I would be careful who you ask about the shooting, she said. Im not trying to threaten anyone, but you should know you might get some hostility asking people how they feel or what they think.

A terrible, terrible thing has happened here. And I dont if anyone knows how to figure this out.Allow females to help shape technology  ...Associated Press Writer

An apologetic San Antonio gang member was executed Wednesday for the shooting death of a man during a robbery attempt in the driveway of his victim's home.

With two brothers of his victim watching nearby through a window, Mauriceo Brown told them he was "sorry you lost a brother, a loved one and friend."

Brown looked toward another window where his mother and two siblings were among the witnesses. He told them he loved them. "Keep your heads up and know that I will be in a better place," he said.

He then looked again toward his victim's relatives and friends and apologized a second time that you "lost a loved one this way. God bless you all."

As the drugs took effect, Brown's mother wailed and collapsed to the floor of the death house. She was escorted from the witness area a few minutes later.

Brown was pronounced dead at 6:47 p.m., eight minutes after the lethal flow of drugs began. The execution was delayed briefly while the U.S. Supreme Court considered appeals.

Brown, 31, confessed to the 1996 slaying of Michael LaHood Jr., 25, when he and three companions, high on marijuana and alcohol, were arrested about an hour after the shooting. One companion, Kenneth Foster, also received the death penalty but doesn't have an execution date. The two others, including one who testified against Brown, received long prison terms.

The early morning attack capped a spree by the street gang members who called themselves the Hoover 94 Crips. At least four other people were robbed that night.

"They were out pretty much on a rampage, stoned to the bone, victimizing people," said Jack McGinnis, one of the prosecutors in the cases against Brown and Foster. The two were tried together.

Brown was the 15th Texas prisoner executed this year in the nation's busiest capital punishment state. His execution was the first of two scheduled for consecutive evenings this week in Huntsville.

Brown had been recanting his confession, saying his accomplices threatened his family if he didn't take the fall for the slaying.

"That claim is preposterous," said Mike Ramos, who was a Bexar County assistant district attorney in 1997 and also prosecuted Brown and Foster. "He has absolutely no credibility. Any court could see he has zip."

In court before and during his trial, Brown also changed the circumstances of his confession, describing LaHood's death as self-defense and also an accident. He also blamed one of the other men in the car with him for the shooting.

Brown, in a recent interview on death row, called his trial "a mockery based on a lie that I made a statement and everybody else made a statement that I was the shooter."

"Even if his new story is true, that doesn't say he's not guilty of capital murder and deserving of the death penalty," McGinnis said. "His new story doesn't get him out of the woods. It gets him to where Foster is right now. They're both equally dangerous."

LaHood's two brothers witnessed Brown's execution.

"I was more thinking about his mama and brother and sister," Nicholas LaHood said. "I don't think a parent ever gets over losing a child.

"My parents suffer every day. I know my little brother and myself, we suffer every day but we deal with it and we move on."

LaHood, however, commended Brown for making an apology.

"He made the effort," he said. "Only God knows if he was sincere or not."

Foster, Brown, Dwayne Dillard and Julius Steen were cruising San Antonio and robbing people when they spotted LaHood and his girlfriend driving and began following them, winding up at LaHood's driveway about 2 a.m.

According to testimony, Brown jumped out, walked up to LaHood, demanded his car keys, then opened fire when LaHood couldn't produce the keys. LaHood, shot through the eye, died instantly.

Less than an hour later, Foster was pulled over for speeding and driving erratically. All of them were on probation for earlier felonies and were arrested for LaHood's death.

Brown blamed the shooting on Dillard, now serving life for killing a taxi driver across the street from the Alamo two weeks before laHood was killed. Steen testified at Brown's trial and received a life sentence in a plea bargain.

Brown testified the shooting was in self-defense, that he believed LaHood had a gun and that he heard it click. Authorities, however, never found another weapon near LaHood's body.

On Thursday, Robert Anderson, 40, faced execution for the 1993 slaying of a 5-year-old Amarillo girl who was abducted, sexually assaulted, beaten, choked and strangled before her body was stuffed into a cooler and thrown into a garbage container. Anderson has asked that no appeals be filed to stop his punishment.

___

On the Net:

Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Death Row http://www.tdcj.state.tx.us/stat/deathrow.htm

Mauriceo Brown http://www.deathrow-usa.us/MauriceoBrown.htmBETHEL  The town has named Wayne Gravius, a retired fire marshal, as its new deputy fire marshal.

The Bethel Board of Selectmen unanimously appointed Gravius at its meeting last week. Gravius retired last year as fire marshal in Brookfield, where he had worked since 1982. He is also the fire chief for the Brookfield Volunteer Fire Company and the towns emergency management director.

Gravius will work one day a week in Bethel and assist with calls on weekends, if necessary, Tom Galliford, Bethel fire marshal, told the selectmen at the meeting.

Galliford said Gravius will fill hours that the other deputy fire marshal is already budgeted to work, so the hire will not cost the town additional money.San Antonio police are searching for an armed man who robbed a Bill Miller Bar-B-Q at gunpoint early Sunday.

Officers responded about 6:20 a.m. to the 800 block of Bitters Road where an armed man held six employees at gunpoint and demanded money from the register, according to the San Antonio Police Department.

READ ALSO: Man killed outside Northeast Side home was 75

Officials said the suspect ran out the back door of the restaurant and is still at large. No injuries were reported.

Robberies have been occurring in the area, police said. They are investigating to see if there's a link between the Sunday morning robbery and the other recent incidents.MDC-T youth leader Happymore Chidziva, elected Highfield West legislator in the July 31 elections, went into hiding soon after police indicated that they wanted him in connection with the violent and deadly protests that rocked Harare last Wednesday.

Happymore Chidziva

The police, who during the demonstrations called in the military to crush the protest using lethal force, are keen to interview him on allegations that he incited the violence. NewsDay Weekender reporter, Blessed Mhlanga (ND), caught up with Chidziva (HC) at his hide-out to discuss his tribulations.

ND: The police have expressed interest in interviewing you. Are you going to hand yourself over to them?

HC: I will not commit suicide because the police are being overpowered by the army and the people who are coming to look for me, especially those that raided my home, are not police officers. These are Military Intelligence and Central Intelligence Organisation operatives.

Some are coming wearing masks and that is surely not about arrest. In my view, this is about torture or abduction. Is it not intimidation?

If I go there with the police obviously being overpowered by the army, it will just be like committing suicide.

ND: So are you going to skip the country and find a safe haven elsewhere?

HC: I am not going anywhere. This is my country. I was elected to represent the people in my constituency and I intend to fulfil that role.

I will remain in the country mobilising for the fight and defence of democracy.

We will not allow the vote to be stolen. We will not allow fear to rule our homes and families.

ND: How do you intend to represent your constituency while you are in hiding? Are you not being a coward?

HC: I am not a coward, but a dead leader cant fight another day to ensure victory of the peoples will.

We saw how people were shot dead in cold blood by government agents, people who had nothing to do with those demonstrations.

We will fight within the confines of the law until we have a peoples leadership. Right now, we have the leadership of the army.

ND: How do you intend to get the peoples leadership into office?

HC: The people must pursue all avenues open to them by way of the Constitution.

Demonstrations, court processes and peaceful civil disobedience are part of our democracy.

We cant keep funding a government that is for the few. We cant obey people who manipulate the law, which is our aim.

ND: You stand to lose your seat if you dont attend Parliament for a period of time stipulated at law. So what will happen if the situation continues?

HC: How does the situation continue if people speak with one voice to reject this manipulation of the election?

The people will rise and will be counted. This situation will not continue. Freedom is here. This will come to an end.

The peoples victory will be reclaimed. Nelson Chamisa will be inaugurated (president).

ND: You talk about Nelson Chamisa as incoming president, but does your party have the evidence to challenge the Zanu PF victory or its just talk?

HC: You will see the evidence when (the) court (hearing) starts. Evidence is not presented in newspapers.

People should follow the court case and they will hear the evidence we have. We will win in court.

The evidence is solid. Chamisa will be the President of Zimbabwe.

ND: There are allegations that you did not have polling agents in all parts of the country and, therefore, you might not have V11 forms from all polling stations, whats your comment?

HC: We had polling agents everywhere, those who are saying that are lying. They are lying to give themselves false hope and allow themselves room for propaganda and rigging.

We had polling agents and we had roving agents. We even have information on how they were rigging even from their own polling officers.

ND: Lets talk about your family. I hear they were beaten up and abducted from home? Are they safe?

HC: They are still in pain, but they still tell me that we have to keep fighting.

They have hope in our leadership and they say yes, we have been tortured, but our hope is in you.

Its not about the pain they have suffered, but its the future of the children, to bring food on their table.

They are looking at the issue of employment, the ending of corruption.

ND: You have been asked to accept the results, move on and try again in 2023. What is your response to such calls?

HC: Those people who are saying that are Zanu PF people and we dont have to listen to people who know they stole a vote.

We have to reclaim our stolen victory. Instead, they should have accepted our victory and moved on.

ND: Do you think anything is going to change in terms of the election results?

HC: Yes, its going to change because those results announced by [Zimbabwe Electoral Commission chairperson Justice] Priscilla [Chigumba] are fake results.

True results are coming through the courts. That is the reason why they have been going after polling agents.

They want to hide the evidence. That is the reason they have been calling presiding officers back to command centres. They want to hide the evidence. They failed to run this election.

ND: You have been sceptical about the judicial system. Do you trust the courts?

HC: Its not about trusting the courts, but its about laying the facts bare. Its not about trusting the courts because at times, we have seen political judgments. We have to lay the facts and thats what we will do.

 NewsDay

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Related Zimbabwe Latest NewsOpposition leader Nelson Chamisa finally filed his court challenge against President Emmerson Mnangagwas hotly-disputed victory in the July 30 election yesterday  thereby suspending tomorrows planned inauguration of Zimbabwes new leader.

In essence, Chamisa is seeking to either have the presidential election declared as null and void or to be affirmed as the rightful winner of that poll. Alternatively, the MDC Alliance leader wants a fresh presidential race to be held.

Meanwhile, Mnangagwa  who is said to have assembled as big and as impressive a legal team as Chamisa has done to defend his contested victory, has three days to respond to this court challenge.

In an interview on Wednesday, Zanu-PF Secretary for Finance Patrick Chinamasa confirmed the setting up of the 12-member legal team, saying the MDC Alliances threat of litigation was unwarranted.

Zanu-PF has assembled a 12-member legal team to prepare responses to the unwarranted litigation being threatened by the MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa challenging the validity of the Presidential vote, said Chinamasa.

The legal team include Zanu-PF Secretary for Legal Affairs, Paul Mangwana, himself a veteran lawyer just like Chinamasa.

Zanu-PF will defend the will of the Zimbabwean people as expressed through free, fair, transparent and credible elections that took place on 30 July, said Chinamasa.

The court case comes after Zimbabwe held its first ever post-independence elections without former leader Robert Mugabe  who resigned from office in November last year on the back of a military intervention.

However, the crunch elections were marred by the yet-to-be tested allegations of ballot cheating, culminating in Chamisas Constitutional Court (ConCourt) petition.

We have a bundle of evidence that deals with the matter that we have filed at the courts.

We are seeking a declaration to the effect that the election was not properly conducted, that it was not conducted in terms of the Constitution and that it was not conducted in terms of the Electoral Act.

It was not conducted in terms of the standards of fairness and transparency, Chamisas lead lawyer Thabani Mpofu told journalists yesterday.

Consequently, we also seek a declaration to the effect that the announcement by Zec (Zimbabwe Electoral Commission) chairperson Priscilla Chigumba declaring Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa as the president of Zimbabwe is null and void and that it should be set aside on the basis of evidence that has been placed before the court.

In the main we seek that the court declare that my client is the proper winner or alternatively that they be another election that complies with the rules governing free and fair elections, he added.

In the disputed presidential vote, Mnangagwa narrowly avoided a run-off after polling 50,8 percent of the ballot against Chamisas 44,3 percent.

Yesterdays ConCourt challenge by Chamisa means that plans to swear-in Mnangagwa tomorrow will be put on hold until the highest court in the land finalises the case.

At law, a losing presidential candidate has seven days to challenge results, with the ConCourt obliged to make its findings and to deliver a verdict within 14 days after that.

If the ConCourt upholds the election result, Mnangagwa must then be sworn in within 48 hours of the courts decision.

In determining the petition or application, the ConCourt may declare a winner or invalidate the election  in which case a fresh election will have to be held within 60 days after the determination.

There is no inauguration  it will not take place. I have faith in the judiciary. Look, some of us are court room animals, we live in the courts and whenever we think there is a case we will take it to court.

The determination is up to the court and what we can do is to bring the case to the court and it is for the court to make a determination and for us to argue the case, Mpofu said.

I have never felt this much pressure, but I am ready to defend the 16 million people in Zimbabwe. I am ready to defend the over two million people who voted for my client, he added.

Millions of Zimbabweans cast their vote in the historic July 30 elections, to choose both a new Parliament and president  following the dramatic fall from power of Mugabe last November.

The elections were the first since 1980 to be held in the country without Mugabes participation, whose 37-year, iron-fisted rule was stunningly ended by a military operation which triggered events that ended with his resignation.

The elections also marked the first time that the main opposition MDC was not represented by its founding leader Morgan Tsvangirai, who lost his brave battle with cancer of the colon on Valentines Day this year.

Zanu PF retained its two thirds parliamentary majority in last months elections, with Mnangagwa winning a tightly contested race by 50,8 percentage points.

But the peaceful campaigns and a camaraderie spirit that had characterised the run-up to the elections were sullied in the aftermath of the elections when deadly violence broke out in Harares central business district (CBD), following a clash between opposition supporters and security agents.

Seven people subsequently died when the army, which had apparently been called in to assist in managing the situation, used live ammunition to break the ugly protests.

Political analysts have said the violence and clampdown of opposition leaders might have done a lot of harm to Mnangagwas quests to mend years of frosty relations with Western governments.

They said Mnangagwa had done enough ahead of the polls to project himself and his administration as different from Mugabe  who was accused of running Zimbabwe into the ground.

On Wednesday, United States President Donald Trump extended sanctions on Zimbabwe in the aftermath of the poll dispute and the damaging allegations of human rights violations.

This followed the treatment that MDC Alliance officials received, including opposition kingpin Tendai Biti who was manhandled at the Chirundu Border post while trying to seek political asylum in neighbouring Zambia on Tuesday.

Biti was later handed back to Zimbabwean authorities by the Zambians, and has since appeared in court where he was granted $5 000 bail.

He appeared in court yesterday to challenge both his arrest and the charges of public violence and flouting the Electoral Act that he is facing.

 DailyNews

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Related Zimbabwe Latest News- Political thugs reportedly perpetrate fraud in Kogi bye-election

- Voters in some polling units are allegedly harassed by the thugs

- Mass turnout as Kastina senatorial by-election commences peacefully amidst tight security

The bye-election to fill the vacant seat in the Lokoja-Kogi federal constituency which started on a peaceful note on Saturday, August 11, was later marred by violence, vote buying and intimidation in Lokoja.

A News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) correspondent monitoring reported that the election was marred by political thugs going from one polling unit to another to perpetrate fraud.

Although policemen and other security agents were seen at the police stations, they looked the other way, while thugs terrorised people.

READ ALSO: Breaking: We will impeach Saraki - Oshiomhole

At the polling unit at Paparanda Square, voting could not hold as thugs invaded the venue, snatching election materials and beating up people queuing to vote.

The same scenario played out at polling units at Mary Primary School, Karaworo, Adnakolo and Crowther Secondary School, where thugs also disrupted voting.

At Adankolo, some thugs threw stones on people queueing to cast their votes at one of the polling units, chasing them away.

Some of voters who came in their vehicles had their windscreens smashed.

At St Peters Primary School, Felele, voters were seen receiving N2, 000 each after being certified to have voted for particular candidates.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app

Some officials of the Kogi government could be seen moving from one polling unit to another in convoys, accompanied by heavily armed policemen and other security operatives.

The federal commissioner of INEC in charge of Kogi, Niger and Nasarawa states, Alhaji Mohammed Haruna, has however, said that the election would be cancelled where discrepancies and violence were recorded.

INEC will review every case of violence, ballot snatching, voter intimidation and vote buying and take appropriate action, he said.

Haruna stated that the rules guiding conduct of elections in Nigeria were clear, noting that election would be voided at any polling unit where rules had been violated.

Meanwhile, the Katsina north senatorial by-election has begun peacefully and smoothly in the 12 affected local government areas of Katsina state on Saturday, August 11, amidst tight security.

Legit.ng gathered that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) commenced the conduct of the election on time and turn out of voters was impressive.

According to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the verification of names and accreditation of voters began at exactly 8:00 am at various polling centres in the Kastina north senatorial district.

NAN observed that voters trooped to their respective polling stations to cast their votes under an atmosphere conducive and devoid of rancour or intimidation.

Malam Ali Mani, the ward chairman of Sarkin Yara A in Daura, commended the high voters turnout in some of the metropolitan polling centres.

Ekiti State REC Reveals How INEC Will Stop Rigging In Forthcoming Election | Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit Newspaper- INEC presiding officer in veterinary polling unit, Faiza Mohammed, says turnout of women for the Bauchi south senatorial by-election was impressive

- Four women decline to comment after chanting campaign slogans of President Buhari while casting vote in the poll

- Intimidation ballot snatching reportedly mar Kogi bye-election

Some female voters at a polling unit in Bauchi caused a stir when each of them kissed her ballot paper and shouted Sai Baba before casting her vote.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the drama, involving four women, occurred at the veterinary polling unit of Dawaki Ward in Bauchi metropolis.

Their action raised suspicions that the women might have mistaken the Bauchi south senatorial by-election for the forthcoming general election, which will feature President Muhammadu Buhari as a contestant.

READ ALSO: PDP senators are not fighting for Bukola Saraki - Ben Bruce

Sai Baba is the common phrase used by supporters of President Buhari while campaigning for him.

The women declined to comment when contacted by NAN.

The presiding officer in charge of the polling unit, Faiza Mohammed, however said turnout of women was impressive, with some of them, over-enthusiastic.

The women are very excited and eager to cast their votes; some of them were kissing their ballot papers and shouting sai Baba before casting their votes.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app

I do not know which Baba they are referring to, she said.

Meanwhile, the bye-election to fill the vacant seat in the Lokoja-Kogi federal constituency which started on a peaceful note on Saturday, August 11, was later marred by violence, vote buying and intimidation in Lokoja.

A News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) correspondent monitoring reported that the election was marred by political thugs going from one polling unit to another to perpetrate fraud.

Although policemen and other security agents were seen at the police stations, they looked the other way, while thugs terrorised people.

At the polling unit at Paparanda Square, voting could not hold as thugs invaded the venue, snatching election materials and beating up people queuing to vote.

The same scenario played out at polling units at Mary Primary School, Karaworo, Adnakolo and Crowther Secondary School, where thugs also disrupted voting.

Ekiti State REC Reveals How INEC Will Stop Rigging In Forthcoming Election | Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit.ng- The All Progressives Congress (APC) has been accused of playing politics with Nigeria's unity

- This was the submission made by a presidential aspirant and foremost businessman, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim

- Olawepo-Hashim is a presidential aspirant under the fast growing political party, Alliance for New Nigeria (ANN)

Front-line presidential aspirant of the Alliance for New Nigeria (ANN), Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim has vowed that his party will restore Nigeria's national unity if elected into office in 2019.

Olawepo-Hashim, 53, an accomplished businessman, accused the ruling APC of playing politics with the country's unity.

He made the statement at the first national convention of the ANN held in Abuja on Saturday, August 11 in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

READ ALSO: 4 women cause stir during Bauchi by-election

According to him, the ANN would be used to enthrone a new Nigeria where the malaise associated with professional politicians are not found, adding that the partys commitment to build a new Nigeria would not be in mere slogans.

APC government has played politics with national unity. ANN will restore that unity. We will give everyone a sense of belonging and we will produce a president that will be a president for all Nigerians and not for some Nigerians, he added.

Meanwhile, the former spokesman of the party, Mr. Emmanuel Dania emerged chairman of the party that prides itself as the party of technocrats.

Delegates at the national convention were drawn from all the states of the federation with the of Lagos state whose delegates did not answer to the roll call of the states.

In his acceptance speech, Dania said that the party came to disrupt the existing system he claimed has held Nigeria back despite its abundance potentials.

He said: We did not come to this game like any other political party but here to disrupt the system and, indeed, we will disrupt the system. We have different strategies one of which is the engagement of grassroots participants; identifying people whom we know are already doing a lot of reform work in different parts of the Nigeria.

The strategy is to bring them into clusters and those clusters would enable us to see how they can integrate and exchange information to impact their immediate societies.

Dania emerged unopposed following the withdrawal of Jay Osi a few minutes to commencement of balloting by delegates from the 36 states of the federation and the FCT.

Other members of the National Working Committee (NWC) that were elected unopposed include Isa Tijanni (deputy national chairman), Thompson Isime (national organizing secretary), Ben Nwokoye (national legal adviser) and Victoria Ayo (national woman leader).

Akinloye Oyeniyi, an audience economist and legislative expert, emerged national publicity secretary of the party.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app

Olawepo-Hashim had earlier predicted that both the ruling APC and its main rival, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will lose the presidential seat at the forthcoming 2019 election.

He made the comment while addressing select journalists in the Nigerian capital, Abuja, on Friday, June 8, adding that Nigerians are tired of the leading political parties in the country and are yearning for a change of the country's political status quo.

2019: Ahmed Buhari tells Nigerians he is the best option for president on Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit- A Nigerian student has narrated how he was treated unfairly by Special Anti-Robbery Squad officers

- The student alleged that the officers extorted N17,000 from him

- He claimed the incident happened on Iwo road, while he was on his way to Ibadan

A Nigerian student identified as Adedayo has recounted the story of how he was allegedly extorted by some of officers of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). The young man claimed he had to give them N17,000 before he was released.

According to him, the officers had stopped him after he alighted from a bus at Iwo road, on his way to Ibadan. He said the officers asked for a means of Identification, which he compilied by giving them his business card.

Adedayo revealed that they asked for his phone and asked different questions about what he does. He claimed the officers immediately tagged him a yahoo boy when they realised they had nothing on him.

READ ALSO: Robbery victim offers N250k for the recovery of his passport and laptop in Lagos

The student recounted how they forced him into their vehicle and took him to the police station where they told hime to give them N50,000.

He revealed that they threatened to shoot him after he said he refused to give them money. Adedayo alleged that the officers later suggested that he should call people tp send money to him, so he could withdraw it for them.

PAY ATTENTION: Get the Latest Nigerian News on Legit.ng News

Adedayo who had feared for his life, obeyed and asked some friends to transfer money to him. He said the officers drove him to a bank, where he withdrew the money for them.

Read his story below:

PAY ATTENTION: Get your daily relationship tips and advice on Africa Love Aid group

Robbers Return Firearms to Nigerian Police (Crime News in Nigeria) | Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit- Senator Bukola Saraki is reportedly planning to declare Akpabio's seat vacant

- This is because the senator left the PDP even though there is no crisis in the party

- A senator in the north central insists the Senate is guided by principles

The defection of Senator Godswill Akpabio from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is being considered illegal which may be lead to his seat being declared as vacant.

According to The Punch, a senator from the north central who is an all of Senate president Bukola Saraki claimed there was no crisis in the PDP making Akpabios defection illegal.

READ ALSO: Breaking: APC candidate reportedly wins Katsina north by-election

He said: On resumption any moment from now, the APC senators would call for realignment so that those who defected would move to the seats reserved for members of their political party.

It is in the course of doing so that the Senate President will wield the big stick against Akpabio and others by asking them to justify their reasons for defection.

The activities of the Senate as an institution are guided by rules and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The only constitutional window for defection from one political party to another is if there is a faction or division in the party on whose platform a senator is elected.

For now, I am not aware of any division or faction in the PDP at the moment that could warrant the action of Akpabio and others.

The Senate President is expected to exercise his constitutional powers now to declare the seats of Akpabio and others vacant until they are able to justify the reasons for their defection.

We know that the development would provoke an uproar, but the Senate President would remain resolute. So, the only option that would be left for Akpabio and his co-travellers would be to approach the court to determine whether there is actually a division in the PDP or not.

Until the procurement of the legal interpretation of their status, those who defected from the PDP would be barred from entering the premises of the National Assembly.

They will probably remain in court till the end of the current 8th Assembly.

Source: Legit- Nine corps member drowned in a river in Taraba state while on a picnic

- A new photo has shown the dead nine corps members taking a selfie before the water came upon them with the speed of a lightning

- One of the survivors narrates how it all happened while an indigene reveals drowning is a yearly occurrence in the river

A newly released photo shows National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members who drown while on a picnic at a river in Mayo-Sebri village in Gashaka local government council of Taraba state taking a selfie at the waterfall just before drowning.

The 23 corps member had gone on a fun loving picnic on that fateful day of August 4, before nine of them lost their lives in the river upsurge.

One of the 14 survivors, a male corps member, who was lucky to be alive to tell the story narrated how the tragedy happened and his survival. He said:

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Photos showing Taraba 9 corps members taking selfie before drowning in river

We went for picnic, 23 of us. We went to a waterfall. That was the first place. After taking pictures, we went to another side where there are beautiful rocks with clean water flowing under them. The water was very low though. After taking pictures there, eating and drinking, we were about leaving when someone just shouted seeoooh.

When we turned, we saw very dirty water coming with so much force and speed, the kind of speed I have never seen in my life, coming from a distance of about 100 metres. We were almost leaving the place but within seconds, the water got to our position. I dont know how I jumped out.

READ ALSO: Robbery victim offers N250k for the recovery of his passport and laptop in Lagos

However, one Idris Musa who claimed to be a resident of the community where the river is located, Mayo Selbe, disclosed that yearly, one to two persons lose their lives in the river. This made the indigene to name the river the nickname Kogin Mutuwa (Hausa word for River of Death). He explained further that many tragedies have happened in the river over the years but were not reported. He said:

The water rushes down with great force and speed once it rains up here.

Legit.ng had earlier reported that tragedy struck in Taraba state on Saturday, August 4, as nine members of the National Youth Service Corps in the state drowned in River Mayo-Selbe, Gashaka local government area. It was also reported that only seven of the drowned bodies were recovered while the remaining two were seen days after.

NYSC members doing little wonders - on Legit.ng TV :

Source: Legit- As the 2019 general elections draws near, politicians are beginning to sell their manifestos to the public

- One of such politicians is Chief Musa Muhammed Maikaya, a leading governorship aspirant in Nasarawa state under the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC)

- He outlined his plans for the state in a recent interaction with journalists

Chief Musa Muhammed Maikaya, a leading governorship aspirant in Nasarawa under the APC has revealed his plans to provide access a minimum of N1billion every year for entrepreneurial ventures across the state, specifically for unemployed youths.

Maikaya made the disclosure recently during an interaction with select journalists over his ambition to lead the state in 2019.

Dishing out his plans of fighting unemployment in the state, Maikaya said he would establish the Nasarawa State Employment Trust Fund to cater for the unemployed youths in the state, and the fund would provide access a minimum of N1billion every year.

READ ALSO: Dogara reportedly withdraws plans to defect to PDP

He also stated that his government will take advantage of Nasarawa's proximity to Abuja and introduce a round the clock economy opportunities to boost the employment opportunities in the state.

We will encourage the creation of a corporate social responsibility trust fund by the private sector to be managed by board of trustees charged with the responsibility of identifying growth opportunities yearly and financing such opportunities to further boost economic development across sectors and communities in the state, Maikaya said.

Armed with his vision to make Nasarawa state the preferred investment destination in Nigeria, Maikaya believe by providing effective and transparent leadership that will harness the resources of the state for the benefit of all, Nasarawa state will move to it's next level.

His words: My Mission is to improve the wellbeing of the people of Nasarawa state through the development of world class infrastructure, social service, tourism, agriculture and solid minerals, Nasarawa state and is blessed and strategic to the nation.

I want to run a government that is based on justice, fair, equity, fair play and selfless service to humanity. Am offering myself for the service of my people as a democratic leader who has the fear of God and sincerely have the passion to take Nasarawa state to its promised land.

Maikaya said his ultimate goal, no matter where he stand on the political spectrum, is the upliftment of the state and political, economic cultural and social well-being of his people.

In pursuit of this goal, I have commenced consultation across the length and breathe of Nasarawa state on how to get the ticket of my great party, APC for the general election.

As I continue with this consultation and discussion with party elders, traditional rulers, various interest groups, I am open to questions and am will be ready to participate in any discussion that dwells on moving our state forward, he said.

Speaking on his chances of winning the party's ticket, Maikaya said in a free and fair primary election his chances are clear, adding that, I am in the race for victory irrespective of the zoning arrangement, a lot of our party members and groups are supporting our movement. I remain the man to beat come 2019 election for gubernatorial race and our party leaders knows this.

I am a dogged fighter, a firm believer of basic tenets of true democracy, a tireless man with a passion to see that his state is liberated from poverty, and experience general empowerment and the general well being of his people.

He's optimism in capturing the leadership of this great God loving Nasarawa state however, lies on his unshakable belief that God is the custodian of authority and power.

Giving insight on his plans for the educational sector, which according to him is part of his top priorities, Maikaya said he will ensure the sector get maximum attention if voted as governor in the forthcoming election.

His words: Education is key and bedrock of any human development, we will complement the federal government effort towards improving and providing quality education both at the primary up to higher institutions of learning, by providing conducive learning atmosphere in the existing secondary schools at the local government area, through provision of qualified teaching staff, provision of basic amenities such as furniture, learning materials and blocks of classrooms in order to augment efforts of successive governments.

Also, we will encourage the establishment of more primary schools to deserving communities and increase school enrollment rate through interaction and advocacy at the rural community. Scholarship and bursary awards for indigent students of tertiary institutions is also key to encourage our younger generation to take their studies serious.

He said his foundation, Maikaya Development Foundation (MDF) has been into education development in Nasarawa state over the years, due to past experience, I understand the educational needs of my people because my foundation has done greatly in that area, so payment of WAEC and NECO fees to final year indigent students in all the secondary school within the state jurisdiction is something I wont joke with.

We will also embrace ICT, by establishing of standard e-libraries in each of the local government council headquarters of the state.

Born in the 1970s, Maikaya a geology graduate of University of Jos is banking on his over 20 years of working experience in multi nationals and international exposure to change the fortunes of Nasarawa state.

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Meanwhile, Nigeria's minister of information and culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has clarified that he won't run for political office in 2019.

The minister stated this at a political summit organized by the Kwara chapter of the APC in Ilorin, the state capital, on Thursday, August 9.

He called on members of the party to subordinate individual ambitions to collective efforts in order to defeat the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

Nigerias agricultural revolution kick-starts in Nasarawa state on Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit- Ooni of Ife has denied marrying a new wife secretly

- Speaking through his brother-in-law, Prince Fadairo, the king said marriage is not on his mind for now

- Fadairo claims there is no how the king will marry secretly as his mariage entails more than what people are thinking

The Ooni of Ife Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwunsi has been in the news of late for planning to get married to another olori.

This is necessary since he has been officially divorced from his previous wife former Wuraola Ogunwusi (now Zaynab-Otiti Obanor) whom he married shortly after attaining the throne. The union was only able to last 17 months before finally hitting the rock in August 2017. The family of Zaynb were said to have returned the bride price the Ooni paid on her so that she can be free to marry another person.

In a recent rumour, the first class Yoruba monarch is said to be ready to pick a new wife since he cannot live alone for the rest of his life. Speculations were rife the young king is linked to Temitope Adesegun, the co-convener of Hope Alive. It was also rumoured that they have been secretly married.

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Ooni of Ife speaks on his rumoured marriage plan

Before the rumour will travel too far, the palace has reacted and has put the record straight on the position of the king on a new wife. Addressing the rumour, Jide Fadairo, a prince and CEO, House of Oduduwa Foundation, said in a statement made available to journalists that:

Oonis marriage cannot be done secretly. It involves not only the royal family, it involves Yoruba custom and a lot of elders and our tradition are to be taken into cognisance. Please dismiss the story, it is another fake news.

Speaking further, Fadairo said the monarch is engrossed with the renaissance of Yoruba culture and promotion of the races customs and traditions globally.

READ ALSO: DJ Cuppy reveals shes been Davido managers babe since 2011

Fadairo who is also a husband of the monarchs elder sister Princess Folasade revealed that Ooni Ogunwusi will not rush into taking a new wife.

Thats not on His Imperial Majestys mind. Marriage is not something he wants to do right away. Many names have been bandied around but I can tell you they are all false, just like this case.

There is light at the end of the tunnel - Ooni of Ife on Legit.ng TV:

Source: Legit.ng- Nigerian pilgrims have been defrauded in an attempt to fix gold and silver teeth during hajj in Saudi Arabia

- Many of the pilgrims have also lost their Basic Traveling Allowances (BTA) to the same set of fraudsters

- Alhaji Musa Yahya Abubakar, the coordinator of FCT Pilgrims decried the way some pilgrims become so obsessed with gold or silver teeth

In an attempt to fix gold and silver teeth during hajj, Nigerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia have been defrauded of thousands of Saudi Riyal by unidentified expatriates, The Guardian reports.

Fixing of artificial gold or silver teeth, though not part of the hajj obligations, has been a fad among most Nigerian pilgrims since time immemorial which symbolises their visit to Saudi Arabia.

Many of the pilgrims, mostly females who were not properly guided, also lost their Basic Traveling Allowances (BTA) to the same set of fraudsters, who unsuspectingly appeared to be assisting them to convert their dollar equivalents to Saudi currency.

READ ALSO: PDP candidate wins Cross River bye-election

The leader of Kebbi State pilgrims, Alhaji Abubakar Argungu, confirming the ugly trend to journalists in Medina, said the illegal money-changers deceived the pilgrims, especially the elderly people and dispossessed them of their BTAs.

Abubakar said: Our major concern this year is that some illegal residents in Saudi have been cheating and stealing our pilgrims money. Eight of our pilgrims were defrauded of their BTAs in less than two weeks.

He appealed to state governments to always appoint credible officials with the fear of God to take care of pilgrims welfare.

Similarly, Alhaji Musa Yahya Abubakar, the coordinator of FCT Pilgrims in Madinah, also lamented what he described as unwholesome behaviour of dupes.

Alhaji Musa also decried the way and manner some pilgrims become so obsessed with gold or silver teeth, which he said unnecessarily exposed them to the fraudsters.

The coordinator accused those he referred as Tukari, expatriates including Nigerian students in Saudi, illegal residents and the non-Saudi Arabs of being involved in the fraudulent activities.

We noticed that some Arabs and illegal residents in Saudi Arabia indulge in it. Apart from those two mentioned groups, some Nigerian students studying in the holy land, because they claim some percentage on each Pilgrim, they were also able to hoodwink pilgrims into the gold or silver teeth fixing business, he said.

The head of civic orientation, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Alhaji Umar Bala, reacting to the development, told journalists in Medina that NAHCON received series of complaints about the activities of fraudsters duping unsuspected pilgrims from Nigeria.

He said: Reports reaching us in Medina shows that there are some unscrupulous elements who dupe pilgrims in the name of assisting them convert their BTA to Saudi currency, Riyal. In fact, Hajiya Maryam Yahya Sani of Ummulkair Foundation complained about this development last week.

I can confirm to you that NAHCON officials in Medina have been going from house to house to educate, sensitise and enlighten pilgrims arriving on a daily basis on how to go about their civic responsibilities, but we would advise that states, too, should do their bit.

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Legit.ng previously reported that the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) on Friday, July 20, declared that the first batch of this years Hajj pilgrims from Nigeria will leave for Saudi Arabia today, Saturday, July 21.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria said that it is set for the inaugural flight signaling the commencement of 2018 Hajj operations.

NAHCON spokesperson, Fatima Usara, in a statement said the flag-off is scheduled to take place on Saturday, July 21, at the Domestic Wing of the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport, Abuja at 11:00 am.

Eid-el-Kabir: Why the ram killed must not exceed three days in your house - On Legit.ng TV:

Source: LegitWife of President Muhammadu Buhari, Aisha Buhari, has arrived Seoul ahead of her decoration as Doctor of Humanity by Sun Moon University tomorrow, Monday, August 13, 2018.

Recall that the Sun Moon University in South Korea awarded the president's wife with a honorary doctorate degree in humanities.

The president's wife will be decorated with doctorate degree in humanities on Monday, August 13. Photo credit: Instagram, Buhari Sallau.

The award was disclosed by Professor Hong Young-Shik of the political science department of the university, who led a team to pay a courtesy visit on the wife of the president on Thursday, June 21, at the presidential villa.

READ ALSO: I challenged DSS operatives thinking they were snipers - Boma Goodhead

Sun Moon University in South Korea will confer the honorary doctorate degree on Aisha Buhari tomorrow, Monday, August 13. Photo credit: Instagram, Buhari Salau.

Professor Hong said: The humanitarian activities of Mrs. Buhari have caught the attention of the world and the Senate of the Sun Moon University, especially her outstanding work with women and children."

Aisha Buhari having a photo session. Photo credit: Instagram, Buhari Salau.

The letter conveying the award read: I have been directed to notify you, Your Excellency, on the decision of the University to confer on you, a meritorious Doctor of Humanity (Hon. Causa).

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Aisha Buhari shaking hands. Photo credit: Instagram, Buhari Salau.

Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that the wife of the president, Aisha Buhari, expressed worry over the alarming rate of codeine consumption among Nigeria youths.

She called on relevant stakeholders to tackle the rising cases of drug abuse among youths in Nigeria.

Mrs Buhari, who expressed the concern on Tuesday, May 1, on her Instagram page, said it was alarming the rate at which the younger generation of Nigerians, especially in the north, engaged in substance abuse.

President Buhari on 2019 Presidential Election: Will You Vote For Him? | on Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit- Nollywood actress Mary Remmy-Njoku had gone to barbing salon to get a clean haircut in Ikeja GRA, Lagos

- She met a Lebanese barber tending the salon who told her he does not barb hair for Nigerians

- He was reported at the police station where it was discovered that he is in illegal immigrant

Nollywood actress Mary Remmy-Njoku who is currently rocking a bald hair wanted a new haircut and thus went to a barbing salon tucked in Ikeja GRA. Not knowing who she is, maybe because of her hairstyle, the man managing the salon yelled at her telling her his salon does not come for cheap.

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He made a racist comment reminding her that his salon is not the regular Nigerian one where they pay N200 to have a haircut.

READ ALSO: Photo shows 9 Taraba corps members taking selfie before drowning in river

The actress deciding not to join issues with the Lebanese guy went straight to the police station to report him.

On getting to the police station after being invited, he started by saying that he does not cut hair for Nigerians. Then it was later discovered that the barber is an illegal immigrant with no legitimate work permit.

His tone was said to have gone quickly from being aggressive to being apologetic when his immigration status was questioned by the police. He then offered to give everybody involved in the case, including the DPO, a free haircut as a means of bribing his way out.

Jason Njoku, the husband to the actress took to his Twitter handle to narrate the ordeal of his wife with the illegal immigrant barber. The Iroko TV founder lso revealed that the Lebanese should be glad he is not in the country to handle the case.

Legit.ng had reported the story of how Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh took to social media to call out a Nigerian airline for making her miss an important meeting. The actress explained that her flight was delayed for an hour and it was later postponed.

According to the mother of one, she had bought ticket for an early flight because she had to make an early appointment. On her Instagram post, Dikeh who was furious for missing her appointment, said her 10am flight was delayed for an hour and later postponed to 6pm. She called the airline our for being lazy and unprofessional.

Star Chat: We are not lovers - Broda Shaggi and Aunty Shaggi | Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit- There is a massive defection in Sokoto state as a former PDP chairman in the state alongside 10,000 supporters dumped the party for APC

- The ex-chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Shehu-Tambuwal, says the decision is for the purpose of engaging in developmental politics

- He says leadership and democracy should be about enhancing infrastructure and ensuring development for the people

A Former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairman in Sokoto state, Alhaji Abubakar Shehu-Tambuwal, has led about 10,000 supporters to decamp to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Tambuwal local government area of the state.

Addressing a crowd of supporters on Sunday, August 12 in Tambuwal, Shehu-Tambuwal said they made the decision freely based on their concern to participate in politics that would facilitate good development, NAN reports.

Legit.ng gathers that he said they were convinced to join the party because of the viable policies and projects of the APC-led government, stressing that leadership and democracy should be about enhancing infrastructure and ensuring development for the people.

READ ALSO: JUST IN: Aisha Buhari arrives South Korea for conferment of honorary doctorate degree (photos)

Alhaji Umar Maitafsir, the chairman of APC chapter in Tambuwal local government area, said no fewer than 100,000 people from Yabo, Kebbi, Tureta, Dange/Shuni, Bodinga and Shagari local government areas had also decamped from the PDP to the APC.

Maitafsir described the decamping as a landmark in the political history of Sokoto South senatorial district, attributing the move to Shehu-Tambuwals credibility and political contribution in the zone as well as the state.

Speaking while presenting the APC membership card to each of the new members, the chairman of the state chapter of the APC, Alhaji Sadiq Achida, assured the defectors of a level-playing ground.

Achida said President Muhammadu Buharis APC-led government would continue to address the challenges being faced by Nigerians through various projects and policies and urged the people to support the party to succeed at all levels.

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Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that after several weeks of speculation, Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto state on Wednesday, August 1, defected from the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) to his former party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The declaration followed a solidarity rally organised by the governors supporters across the 23 local government areas of the state.

Nigeria News: Will Senators, Lawmakers Defection from APC Change Power in 2019? | on Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit.ng- EFCC says it is not part of any alleged political script by Senate President Saraki

- The anti-corruption agency says freezing of accounts of Akwa Ibom and Benue followed thorough investigations and was not part of a political plot

- The agency hoped politicians would confirm their facts before making comments as the presidential aide did

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has described as outrageous allegations reportedly made by President Muhammadu Buharis aide Babafemi Ojudu linking the anti-corruption body with some political controversies in the country.

Premium Times reports that the EFCC, in a statement signed by its spokesperson Wilson Uwujaren, took exception to being accused of reportedly freezing accounts of Benue and Akwa Ibom in some political plot.

The agency accused the Senior Adviser on Political Matters to President Buhari of watering down EFCCs hard-work to mere stunt in a grand political game.

READ ALSO: INEC declares APC candidate winner of Kogi bye-election

It declared that it has nothing to do with the president of the Nigerian Senate Bukola Saraki and hoped the presidential aide and other politicians would watch their words in future.

EFCCs statement read: "The attention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has been drawn to a widely syndicated article by Senator Babafemi Ojudu, special adviser to the President on Political Matters entitled, fifth Columnists in Our Recent History, wherein he portrayed the Commission as a conscript in the devious plots by Senator Bukola Saraki to undermine the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari.

"According to Ojudu, From the shenanigans at the Benue House of Assembly, to the siege on National Assembly, the attack on judges home in the night, the so called barricade of the Senate Presidents house, the laughable kidnap of Boy Dino and his eleven hours on a tree, the freezing of Benue and Akwa Ibom accounts all are scripted, produced and acted by Oloye Productions.

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"The Commission takes exception at the attempt to impute false motive to its investigative activities. The recent placement of a Post No Debit Order on some accounts in Benue and Akwa Ibom States were the culmination of many months of painstaking investigation activities. To reduce such activities to the level of a stunt in a real or imaginary script by any politician is outrageous.

"It is important to state that the EFCC is NOT a party to the so called script by Saraki. Members of the public should disregard the innuendo in Ojudus article as it is unfounded.

"The Commission calls for circumspection on the part of political leaders, while urging them to seek clarification before making comments on matters they do not know about."

In a separate but related event, Legit.ng had reported that the special adviser to the president on political matters, Babafemi Ojudu, accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of being behind the Tuesday, August 7, siege on the National Assembly by the Department of State Services (DSS).

Ojudu made the claim on Wednesday, August 8, when speaking on a Channels TV programme Sunrise Daily.

The presidential aide insisted that there was a collusion between the opposition party and security agencies to elicit emotions of Nigerians for Senate president, Bukola Saraki.

Nigeria Latest News: Who is responsible for the siege on the National Assembly? - on Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit.ng- Governor Okorocha has condemned what he described as the pull-him-down-syndrome among the Igbo

- The Imo state governor said the pull-him-down syndrome which is high in Igbo land is the only likely problem he will have if he chooses to run for the presidency

- Okorocha expressed regrets that the Igbos do not honour their own, including their leaders

Imo state governor, Rochas Okorocha, has condemned what he described as the pull-him-down-syndrome among the Igbo, saying it is the only likely problem he will have if he chooses to run for the presidency, The Punch reports.

Legit.ng gathered that the Imo state governor while fielding questions from newsmen on Sunday, August 12 after a press briefing at the Government House, Owerri, expressed regrets that the Igbo do not honour their own, including their leaders, unlike what obtains in other parts of the country.

Okorocha added that Igbo alone cannot make or produce a president of Igbo extraction, adding that Igbo need other Nigerians to be able to have a president of Igbo origin who would also see himself as a Nigerian, first and foremost.

READ ALSO: APC defeats PDP again, wins Bauchi bye-election

He stated that it would be a foolish thought for any Igbo man eyeing the presidency at any time to think that the Igbo only would make him president.

However, he contended that any Igbo man wanting or aspiring to achieve the feat of being the president one day cannot rely on the Igbo alone.

He said: The Igbo do not know how to honour their own. They rather like to run down any of their rising leaders. The pull-him-down syndrome is high in Igbo land. And it is very unfortunate.

Anytime I come out to run for the presidency of this country, I will not suffer pull-him-down from the North or from the South West or South South, it is only in Igbo land that I will suffer it.

And they engage in this pull-him-down practice without knowing the overall implications on the Igbo. So, it will be out of place for an Igbo presidential aspirant at any given period to think that the Igbo will make him president, because Igbo do not value their own.

They dont value what they have, while they value outsiders. It is in their character. It is in their nature.

Read the newspapers and go to the social media, all the insults and attacks you get are all from the Igbo.

They go to any length to run you down without caring about your good intentions and all the efforts being made to see that things work out fine for the people of the area.

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It is a problem. It didnt start today. Go down memory lane and youll discover that the pull-him-down syndrome in Igboland didnt start today.

Legit.ng previously reported that Imo state governor, Rochas Okorocha, on Tuesday, July 1, declared that he would respect the court order stopping the swearing in of the new deputy governor, Calistus Ekenze.

This was contained in a statement by Okorochas chief press secretary, Sam Onwuemeodo in Owerri.

What is cooking in Imo state? - on Legit.ng TV:

Source: Legit NigeriaBy Thalif Deen, director & senior editor, UN Bureau, Inter Press Service (IPS) news agency. Deen has been covering the United Nations since the late 1970s. His track record includes a stint as deputy news editor of the Sri Lanka Daily News and senior editorial writer on the Hong Kong Standard. A former military editor Middle East/Africa at Janes Information Group, a columnist for the Sri Lanka Sunday Times and a longtime U.N. correspondent for Asiaweek, Hong Kong and Janes Defence Weekly, London, he is a Fulbright scholar with a Masters Degree in journalism from Columbia University, New York. Originally published at Inter Press Service

The rising heat waves in the worlds middle income and poorer nations are threatening the health and prosperity of about 1.1 billion people, including 470 million in rural areas without access to safe food and medicines, and 630 million in hotter, poor urban slums, with little or no cooling to protect them, according to the latest figures released by the United Nations.

At least nine countries, with large populations, face significant cooling risks, including India, Bangladesh, Brazil, Pakistan, Nigeria, Indonesia, China, Mozambique and Sudan.

Rachel Kyte*, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Special Representative to the United Nations Secretary-General for Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), says that in a world facing continuously rising temperatures, access to cooling is not a luxury.

Its essential for everyday life. It guarantees safe cold supply chains for fresh produce, safe storage of life-saving vaccines, and safe work and housing conditions.

But rising temperatures  made worse by global warming  is not confined only middle income and poorer nations.

In a July 30 piece in the US weekly Time magazine, Justin Worland points out that extreme heat recently melted roads in the UK; hit a record-shattering 120 degrees Fahrenheit in Chino, California; and led more than 70 deaths in Quebec, Canada.

These cases illustrate a vexing paradox for scientists and policy makers: air conditioning keeps people cool and save lives but is also one of the biggest contributors to global warming.

Erik Solheim of Norway, executive director the Nairobi-based UN Environment (UNE), is quoted as saying that air-conditioning has been an enormous, enormous drain on electricity.

Cooling is probably the biggest energy consumer, and people tend not to think of it, said Solheim, a former Chair of the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

Meanwhile, at one time, there were reports that when middle class families, with rising incomes in India, were able to access TV, air conditioners and refrigerators, there were environmental groups that were critical of this because it would add to global warming.

But the middle class argued this was never an issue when the rich and privileged luxuriated with air conditioners and refrigerators as part of essential living.

Asked for a response, Kyte told IPS: Sustainable Energy for All believes this is a fundamental issue of equity, as we need to ensure ALL have access to effective solutions. At the same time, we must recognize the needs of our planet and the future of our children.

She said it has been estimated that cooling is now responsible for 10% of warming and growing rapidly. So, we need to provide cooling solutions that are clean and sustainable over the long-term.

She said a new report titled Chilling Prospects: Providing Sustainable Cooling for All  released last month recommends all stakeholders accelerate their innovation efforts and think more holistically about the way we provide cooling, focusing firstly on reducing heat loads and then thinking about how to deliver remaining cooling as affordably and sustainably as possible.

Were calling on business and other private sector entities to provide those solutions. These groups have to come together as a matter of priority to provide low Global Warming Potential (GWP) technology and business models that are affordable and sustainable, and that address the needs of the poor and vulnerable populations most at risk, so no one has to make a choice between cooling and achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and Paris Climate objectives.

Asked if air conditioning and global warming are some of the lingering issues of the UNs global campaign for sustainable energy for all, Kyte told IPS that achieving both equity and sustainability is one of the reasons this new Chilling Prospects report is so timely and important.

Cooling is not a luxury. Its a human right and a fundamental issue of equity that underpins the ability of millions to escape poverty and realize the SDGs, she noted.

She said the findings of the report are a wake-up call for us all, and a call-to-action for government policymakers and industry to think and act more systematically about pathways to provide sustainable cooling that will benefit these communities, economies and current and future generations. 

Excerpts from the interview:

IPS: What is the practical answer to the lack of access to cooling in some of the worlds poorest nations where refrigeration and air conditioning are still luxuries?

KYTE: Its a great question, because practical and sustainable solutions are absolutely crucial to closing gaps in access to cooling, in all countries, but particularly in the developing world.

This new Chilling Prospects: Providing Cooling for All report tackles the challenge from several angles, including through some very practically-focused recommendations.

For example, the report recommends solutions that address consumer finance, which is a critical requirement for selling sustainable cooling solutions to the rural poor; government financing  governments can make direct investment with public bulk procurements to lower cost and improve efficiency; enterprise financing such as fundraising in the off-grid sector and financing for mini-grids; and then theres donor funding for concessional financing.

Given that products and markets for access to cooling are still poorly defined, grant and highly concessional financing is really important because it can support R&D on innovative technologies, capital for small businesses offering cooling services and financing for low-income consumers.

Its important to note that while there are major threats to life, health, economies and the climate, there are also huge opportunities in closing cooling access gaps: reducing the number of lost work hours, improving the productivity of the workforce, avoiding costs of healthcare for people with food poisoning or who are suffering because their vaccines werent stored properly, increasing the incomes of farmers, and increasing the number of jobs available to service a new cool economy.

IPS: Is there a role for governments to make these affordable to the poor? if so, how?

KYTE: The Chilling Prospects report calls on all stakeholders to embrace a paradigm shift  thinking more holistically about the way we provide cooling  and that definitely includes governments.

On a practical level, the report includes a recommendation that government policymakers should immediately measure gaps in access to cooling in their own countries, as an evidence base for more proactive and integrated policy-making.

More broadly, government policy-makers need to think and act more systematically about pathways to provide sustainable cooling that will benefit communities, economies and current and future generations.

One example noted in the report, is a 2017 program in India administered by EESL, which was a joint venture by the Indian Ministry of Power and Public Service Undertakings (PSUs). They used $68 million in public resources for a competitive procurement of 100,000 room air conditioners at efficiencies better than had generally been available in the market.

More concerted efforts like these, between governments (national and local) and industry are needed to develop and provide cooling solutions that are affordable and sustainable for all.

IPS: In the US, there are public cooling centres for senior citizens when temperatures reach beyond 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit? Are there any such facilities for the poor in any of the developing nations? Or should they?

KYTE: Ahmedabad in India is a very pertinent example cited in the Chilling Prospects report. It was the first city in South-Asia to formulate a Heat Action Plan after a devastating heat wave hit the city in 2010. Local authorities mapped areas with populations at high risk of heat stressincluding slumsand developed an easy-to-understand, early-warning system, as well as a strategy for mobilizing the city in advance of impending heat waves. Their plan uses a well-publicized color-coding system to warn citizens at risk of extreme heat to go to emergency cooling centers.

The program has proven its worth. Heat-related casualties in Ahmedabad remained low during a major 2015 heat wave, while thousands tragically died elsewhere across India. Last year, 17 cities and 11 states across India had released or were developing heat action plans.

There are also other simple and cost-effective solutions like white-washing rooves or using solar power to drive fans and create a more comfortable and safe living environment for people living in densely packed slums. We need to scale-up todays most efficient technologies, power them with renewables, and make them affordable for those that need it most. Governments will play essential roles to address cooling access gaps holistically.

*Rachel Kyte served until December 2015 as World Bank Group Vice President and Special Envoy for Climate Change, leading the Bank Groups efforts to campaign for an ambitious agreement at the 21st Convention of the Parties of the UNFCCC (COP 21). She was previously World Bank Vice President for Sustainable Development and was the International Finance Corporation Vice President for Business Advisory Services.Police in Germany rescue man being chased by baby squirrel Guardian

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Antidote du jour:

See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here.(Natural News) Gun control activists took to the streets for the March on the NRA recently. The August 4th protest took place in Fairfax, VA, just outside of the NRAs headquarters. Their rallying cries included calls to dismantle the Second Amendment and ban fully semiautomatic weapons, and chants of Shame! Shame! Shame!

Some were simply supporters of stricter gun laws, but others believe that American citizens should have their right to bear arms stripped away entirely. One protester, identified as Amy, told the National Rifle Associations camera crew that she supported a full repeal of the Second Amendment, and stated she did not think civilians need guns at all.

Another gun-grabber declared that people shouldnt have the right to defend themselves and their families against home intruders.

A gun ban is absolutely whats necessary. I think that we need to start from scratch with the whole gun issue, the woman laughed.

She added, We have people who think its okay to kill an intruder into their house.

SAVE THE BEST FOR LAST: This one #gun-grabbing #protestor thinks THAT YOU SHOULD NOT BE ABLE TO #DEFEND YOUR LIFE if an #intruder breaks into your house. The #NRA and our 6 million members know better than this and we will never stop fighting for the #2A! #EmptyHQ #FreeIceCream pic.twitter.com/SYWWztnl6Z  NRA (@NRA) August 6, 2018

She went on to state that a home intruder would not receive the death penalty from a judge  a totally bogus straw man argument. If an intruder breaks into your home with the intent of harming your family, and you prevent that  then the only crime is the intrusion. But if you dont act, the crime committed by the intruder could be far more serious.

It would be great if we lived in ideal world, where people didnt need guns to protect them from would-be criminals or an over-zealous, tyrannical government. But thats not the world we live in  and thats why we have the Second Amendment.

Other protesters said they supported a ban on fully semiautomatic weapons, or flat-out banning guns in entirety. Yet, the organizations which orchestrated the march continue to assert that No one is trying to take your guns away.

I believe in the ban of all guns, another protester tells the camera crew. I dont think its necessary for civilians to carry around firearms and things that can kill people in an instant of second. Kitchens and tool sheds must be frightening for these people.

Yesterday was #Saturday, which means our HQ employees were at home enjoying the sun with their family and friends. Meanwhile, #misinformed #gun-grabbing #protestors were chatting with our social media team. As promised, here is part 1 of 3. Stay tuned! Happy watching! pic.twitter.com/teB8eDvXB9  NRA (@NRA) August 5, 2018

Writing for Bearing Arms, Tom Knighton notes that in many cases, gun control advocates are misinformed on how gun ownership works in the United States.

Knighton contends, I cant help but be amazed at the number of people protesting who dont even understand the subject theyre supposedly so passionate about. I mean, if you think the gun laws are insufficient, how can I take your claim seriously when you dont even know what the gun laws are?

And its not just gun laws that many so-called gun control activists dont understand: They dont even know what kinds of weapons theyre against. These people say theyd like to see the AR-15 and the infamous fully semiautomatic weapon banned, but cant even explain what these things are. See below:

What do you think about fully semi-auto #firearms? These misinformed #protestors seem to think they exist and that ALL #GUNS SHOULD BE #BANNED. #Protest 101: before you make signs and hit the streets, know the basics of what youre #protesting! Stay tuned for more! #2A #NRA pic.twitter.com/S5mV8WOJoe  NRA (@NRA) August 5, 2018

See more coverage of stories like this at Guns.news.

Sources for this article include:

Breitbart.com

CNBC.com

BearingArms.com(Natural News) A recent report by The Daily Mails Investigations Unit found that fertility doctors often present exaggerated claims about the success rate of using frozen eggs during in-vitro fertilization cycles. In the undercover report, one fertility clinic claimed that using frozen eggs may help women conceive by as much as 65 percent. In contrast, official figures show that only about 15 percent of IVF procedures that used frozen eggs had successful results. Another doctor claimed that freezing 15 to 20 eggs may serve as an insurance policy. However, the fertility watchdog Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) confirmed that only one in 50 frozen eggs resulted in a successful pregnancy.

The report also found that fertility clinics are convincing poorer women to donate eggs for cash or free treatment. The practice, called egg sharing, allowed women who previously donated eggs to receive IVF. Egg sharing is a legal procedure, given the consent between potential donor and recipient. According to the recent report, distraught women were exploited by this scheme. However, the women reported feeling haunted by the idea of another person raising their children. Fertility clinics were found to charged couples as much as 7,500 British Pounds ($9,500) a time for donated eggs. In one instance, a fertility consultant was even filmed telling the undercover reporters that the establishment could offer discounts for the treatment, as the undercover reporters may receive more than 6,000 British Pounds ($7,660) for donating eggs. However, the consultant instructed the undercover reporters to not state financial reason as their decision to donate eggs. This, the consultant warned, would result in their application being rejected.

The HFEA has expressed concerns over the allegations, and announced that it will launch an urgent investigation on the matter. The organization has also urged the concerned individuals to contact them. HFEA has already connected with involved clinics and will conduct further investigations. Clinics exhibiting poor IVF practice will be shut down, the organization said.

Egg sharing practice is legitimate and can work well for those concerned, provided that it is combined with appropriate counselling for both donor and recipient. However, if there was adequate NHS funding of fertility treatments, many couples would not have the need to donate their own eggs in order to enable the funding of the treatment that they so desperately seek. Many patients are required to self-fund treatment and so it is essential that [it is] made clear exactly what they are being charged for, said Professor Adam Balen, the Chair of the British Fertility Society.

Fertility treatments not as effective as previously believed

Previous studies have long established that certain IVF treatments may not work as good as other fertility therapies in promoting pregnancy. In fact, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that using frozen eggs were less effective in making women pregnant compared with using fresh eggs. As part of the study, the research team examined more than 11,000 IVF procedures that used donor eggs in 2013. The findings showed that only 47 percent of IVF cycles that used frozen eggs resulted in live births, compared with 65 percent of live births in those who used fresh eggs.

While frozen donor egg cycles resulted in a somewhat lower percentage of live births than fresh in this national report, this outcome is not unexpected since recipients of frozen eggs typically get fewer eggs for a treatment half as expensive as traditional donor egg with fresh eggsegg-freezing has only recently been widely adopted, and these results show how effective this approach can be for those needing donor eggs. It is not yet known whether these reassuring outcomes will be seen in women in their 30s and 40s, said Dr. James Toner, president of the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology. (Related: Know more about the risk of fertility treatments.)

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

TheGuardian.com

CBSNews.com(Natural News) Trillion-dollar multinational corporation Apple is proud about its recent decision to remove all Alex Jones-related content from its iTunes and podcasting apps  and so are many leftist journalists who are now openly celebrating the complete destruction of free speech and the First Amendment.

In a recent statement, Apple stated that it will not tolerate hate speech on any of its platforms  hate speech, of course, referring to anything with which liberals disagree. The corporate behemoth, run by LGBT mafia kingpin Tim Cook, also admitted that it plans to remove other content that triggers leftists in the future.

we have clear guidelines that creators and developers must follow to ensure we provide a safe environment for all of our users, an Apple spokesperson stated in response to outrage over its draconian actions.

Podcasts that violate these guidelines are removed from our directory making them no longer searchable or available for download or streaming. We believe in representing a wide range of views, so long as people are respectful to those with differing opinions.

After reiterating Apples Orwellian actions against Alex Jones on Twitter, BuzzFeed News received plenty of responses of support from lunatic liberals who praised the decision as a positive step in the right direction.

Now, how do we get fox news off Comcast and DirecTV? asked one leftist Twitter user, obviously supportive of censoring free speech that bothers him.

Only a few years later than it should have happened. But yeahthis needs to happen, tweeted another crazy leftist in opposition to the First Amendment.

Yep. This will only get him off the official Podcasts app and iTunes, but hell still be available elsewhere. Its a start, tweeted another, adding in jest, Also, queue the OMG my First Amendment! trolls.

Remember when the Left used to oppose capitalist corporations for censoring free speech?

Ironically enough, these same leftist retards have been screaming and crying about OMG my fascism! ever since Donald Trump was elected president  even though absolutely none of their verbal diarrhea against the president in any way matches reality. Every single one of these ignoramuses still has their free speech rights  but depriving non-leftists of theirs, a key tenet of real-life fascism, is a-okay so long as it doesnt affect liberals.

Even more ironic is the fact that the leftists of old would have been diametrically opposed to multinational corporations censoring free speech  because in the past, it threatened their free speech. But not that its folks on the right who are being silenced, leftists are shifting their tune in full support of Orwellian, 1984-esque censorship and control over what people say and do.

Gone are the days of leftists hating on corporations and warning of a dystopian future world run by global capitalists and in are the days of leftists cheering a dystopian present where global capitalists shut down all speech they disagree with to crush a middle class revolt, writes Chris Menahan for InformationLiberation.com.

It just goes to show that the Left is comprised of nothing more than deranged, childish, groupthink drones who are completely consumed with a me, Me, ME! mentality. Its all love and tolerance, just so long as I dont have to be offended by anyone elses viewpoints, is basically the liberal narrative of today  hence why were now in a position where conservatives are being openly censored and persecuted by liberal tyrants.

Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, discusses this in a new video published to the Brighteon.com platform, explaining how leftists are completely destroying due process and other constitutional provisions that are meant to protect all forms of free speech.

You can be de-platformed, censored, smeared, slandered and have your entire reputation and business utterly destroyed based entirely on rumors and lies backed up by extreme censorship to silence your dissent, Adams writes.

Sources for this article include:

InformationLiberation.com

Brighteon.com

NaturalNews.com(Natural News) A San Francisco jury found Monsanto (now owned by Bayer) liable for the glyphosate-induced cancer of Dewayne Johnson, who is dying from non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Johnson sprayed glyphosate 20-30 times per year on public school grounds (near children, no less), and he was twice doused with glyphosate due to malfunctioning equipment.

Monsanto  which has been responsible for the mass chemical poisoning of our world going back more than 40 years  hid scientific evidence proving glyphosate caused cancer, pretending that glyphosate was as safe as salt.

This jury found Monsanto acted with malice and oppression because they knew what they were doing was wrong and doing it with reckless disregard for human life, said Robert F. Kennedy Jr., founder of the World Mercury Project. This should send a strong message to the boardroom of Monsanto.

Johnsons cancer has caused him to develop lesions over 80 percent of his body. He spoke in court about how the lesions tore into his self-confidence, embarrassed his children, and kept him from going out in public, reports CBS News in San Francisco. Monsanto was ordered to pay $250 in punitive damages (for engaging in intense evil and deception), plus another nearly $40 million actual damages.

Monsanto intimidated and silenced whistleblower scientists to cover up the truth

Johnsons lawyers argued over the course of a month-long trial in San Francisco that Monsanto had fought science for years and targeted academics who spoke up about possible health risks of the herbicide product, reports the UK Guardian. The news publisher goes on to report:

In the extraordinary verdict, which Monsanto said it intends to appeal, the jury ruled that the company was responsible for negligent failure and knew or should have known that its product was dangerous.

We were finally able to show the jury the secret, internal Monsanto documents proving that Monsanto has known for decades that  Roundup could cause cancer, Johnsons lawyer Brent Wisner said in a statement. The verdict, he added, sent a message to Monsanto that its years of deception regarding Roundup is over and that they should put consumer safety first over profits.

More than 4,000 lawsuits have already been filed against Monsanto over similar claims

If decided similarly, these glyphosate lawsuits could subject Monsanto / Bayer to over $1 trillion in financial liability  enough to completely bankrupt the corporation and end its mass poisoning of humanity.

In the video below, I call for Monsanto to be put out of business through civil lawsuits and criminal prosecutions of Monsanto executives, all of whom have knowingly mass poisoned hundreds of millions of human beings for the last four decades.

See also: Monsanto.news | Glyphosate.news | EVIL.news

Watch the video at Brighteon.com:

Brighteon.com/5820930396001

See more Counterthink videos at this Brighteon.com URL:

Brighteon.com/channel/counterthink(Natural News) Global warming alarmists can take a chill pill. A ground-breaking study by Californian scientists predicted that the radiation from the Sun will taper off during the middle of the 21st century, allowing Earth a chance to cool off, reported a Science Daily article.

This reduction in solar radiation is part of an irregular but recurring natural event called a grand minimum. Scientists believe it is triggered by changes in the Suns magnetic field. During a grand minimum, the Suns magnetism drops by a significant margin. Sunspots (a product of intense magnetic activity) will form less often and the levels of ultraviolet radiation sent Earths way also goes down.

Experts based this prognosis on geological and historical data. They believe the Maunder Minimum was responsible for a famous cold period in Europe during the middle of the 17th century. During that time, the weather got so cold that the Thames River froze on a regular basis. So did large parts of the Baltic Sea, allowing a Swedish army to invade Denmark by marching across sea ice. (Related: NOAA caught AGAIN altering temperature data to exaggerate global warming hoax.)

Sun-like stars also undergo grand minimums

This led a University of California San Diego (UCSD) research team to investigate the potential dimness of the Sun during the next grand minimum.

The study is titled Ultraviolet Flux Decrease Under a Grand Minimum from IUE Short-wavelength Observation of Solar Analogs. Sponsored by the state of California, the findings were published in the science journal Astrophysical Journal Letters.

Now we have a benchmark from which we can perform better climate model simulations, said study author Dan Lubin, a research physicist at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography of the UCSD. We can therefore have a better idea of how changes in solar UV radiation affect climate change.

The Sun is known to undergo an 11-year cycle when its UV radiation output rises and drops based on sunspot activity. If it takes place during a grand minimum, the UCSD team believe UV radiation will drop by an additional seven percent.

In order to estimate the intensity of a grand minimum, Lubins research team pored through two decades of data gathered by the International Ultraviolet Explorer satellite mission. They correlated radiation from Sun-like stars and pinpointed the stars that were undergoing those events.

After analyzing the sunspot patterns of these stars, the UCSD research team compared them with the sunspot patterns of the Sun during recent solar cycles. The similarities led them to predict a high chance of a grand minimum event taking place in the near future.

Time to cool down

According to the study, a reduction in the amount of UV energy emitted by the Sun will trigger a series of climate shift events on Earth. The ozone layer in the stratosphere will get thinner, which will affect the way temperature is distributed in that layer of the atmosphere.

This in turn affects the lower atmospheric layers, leading to changes in wind and weather patterns. The end result is that the planet will get cooler overall.

The cooling effect is not uniform. The aforementioned Maunder Minimum of the 17th-18th century saw warmer temperatures in Alaska and southern Greenland.

Other researchers turned to computer modeling for an estimate of how this event could affect the current global climate. One such study based its estimate on a 0.25 percent reduction of solar irradiance over a 50-year period starting in 2020. According to that computer model, the surface air temperature cooled by up to several tenths of a degree Celsius from 2020 to 2070.

Want to find out how the worlds climate is really doing? Visit ClimateAlarmism.News.

Sources include:

ScienceDaily

HistoricalClimatology.com(Natural News) March for Our Lives and other leftist anti-gun propaganda organizations routinely obfuscate the facts concerning firearm-associated crimes, perpetuating the lie that guns are always dangerous whenever theyre in the hands of ordinary citizens. But the fact of the matter is that guns save lives, too.

This was evidenced once again by a recent attempted mass shooting that was thwarted by a law-abiding citizen with a concealed firearm. Reports indicate that a bystander, who has not been named, brandished his legally-acquired firearm when a criminal began shooting up a public park in Florida where young children were attending a back-to-school event.

Dubbed Peace in the City, the gathering was reportedly billed as a day of fun, no violence!  which just goes to show that designated gun-free zones do nothing to stop criminals from using them there. The bystander, trained in firearm use, pulled out his gun at just the right time to stop a potential tragedy that may have resulted in many injuries and deaths.

The bystander who shot the suspect waited for officers and has been fully cooperative with the investigation, reported local Titusville news affiliate WFTV.

Deputy Chief Todd Hutchinson also had positive things to say about the bystander, expressing gratitude for his presence and ability to protect the children from gun violence using his own gun.

We are extremely grateful that nobody else was injured in this incident, said Deputy Hutchinson. This suspect opened fire at a crowded public park, and this could have been so much worse.

For more news about how guns are important for preventing crime, check out Guns.news.

Without the Second Amendment, dozens of children, parents, and teachers could have ended up dead

Streaming video of the incident captured on Facebook Live shows children, their parents, and their teachers seated at picnic tables looking at school supplies when the gunfire begins. It also depicts the bystander immediately intervening to stop it, which authorities say was done within the bounds of the law.

The bystander shot the suspect without killing him, though reports arent indicative as to his chances of survival. If he does live, the attacker will more than likely face serious charges for his crimes.

Meanwhile, the mainstream media is absent in reporting on the incident because it doesnt fit the fake news narrative that all guns are bad and need to be removed from society  even though, had the bystander not been present with his gun, many people, including children, could have ended up dead.

A similar incident occurred back in 2016 at a Minnesota mall, where a man with a concealed gun stopped a rampaging knife murderer from killing shoppers. Had the mall been a gun-free zone, however, the situation could have gone much differently.

And even though you likely arent hearing about it, incidents where guns save lives happen all the time. According to a study published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) back in the 1990s, nearly 2.5 million Americans use guns for self-defense, or to prevent a horrible tragedy, during the two-year period analyzed.

Guns were used defensively by victims about 3.6 times as often as they were used offensively by criminals, says criminology professor Gary Kleck.

More recent research has come to similar conclusions, revealing that an armed citizenry is vital to the safety of society. Contrary to the leftist narrative, if the American citizenry wasnt armed, there would likely be far more crime taking place, as criminals will obtain guns and use them, regardless of what the law dictates.

Armed and unarmed citizens engaged the shooter in 10 (mass shooting) incidents. They safely and successfully ended the shootings in eight of those incidents, reads a report from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on the benefits of the Second Amendment. Their selfless actions likely saved many lives.

See SelfDefense.news for more coverage.

Sources for this article include:

WesternJournal.com

NaturalNews.com(Natural News) An unintended consequence of automation and the speed in which it is improved is that humans cant keep up. While this may not seem important to you now, consider that the newly graduated surgeon performing on you may have no idea what hes doing. This is the warning given by Matthew Beane, an assistant professor of Technology Management at The University of California Santa Barbara, in his research article published online at Administrative Science Quarterly. In it, Mr. Beane says that the popularity of robot surgery has reached such a point that over a third of U.S. hospitals have at least one surgical robot. However, training methods have yet to catch up, leaving new surgeons insufficiently trained.

The result is that residents are forced to engage in what Mr. Beane describes as shadow learning. Resident surgeons are no longer exposed to traditional methods which involve the see one, do one, teach one strategy for surgical training. Robot surgery completely replaced this. Residents are now relegated to sucking at the bedside or sitting in a second trainer console, watching the surgical action and waiting for a chance to operate. But chances are the residents will have little to no practice operating the machinery. Whatever practice these residents have is inconsistent and at times, too general. Mr. Beane noted that many practicing surgeons simply give a helicopter type of feedback  frequent and public criticisms while repeatedly taking control of the robot.

One resident told Mr. Beane, If youre on the robot and [control is] taken away, its completely taken away and youre just left to think about exactly what you did wrong, like a kid sitting in the corner with a dunce cap. Whereas in open surgery, youre still working.

This hurts residents both legally and professionally, as they are highly encouraged to perform robotic surgeries once they finish their residencies.

A certain amount of cheating has evolved. Residents typically practice now via simulators or by watching recorded surgeries on YouTube. Some just learn on the spot  taking the phrase learning through fire way too seriously. These practices are not openly discussed but neither are they punished or forbidden. It seems apparent that senior management in these hospitals know that this is happening but are unsure of what to do to fix it, if at all.

These shadow learners however become too hyper-specialized. Residents who practice on their own usually develop a higher skill set, which lends them to have more console time when senior surgeons see that they perform better than their struggling peers. This not only creates a dog-eat-dog world in the surgery industry but has given birth to a group of surgeons who do not know how to operate general surgeries. Surgeons graduating from top programs are either too specialized or not trained at all.

Machines are only as good as those who operate them

To date, robots used in surgeries still need a human surgeon to operate them. If residents are not properly trained, or if they must learn by watching YouTube videos, then we are putting millions of lives in danger.

A Johns Hopkins study made in 2016 concluded that medical errors rank as the third leading cause of death in the United States. Authors of the study wrote an open letter to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to inform the public about the dangers of medical errors, most of which are made by an error in skill (particularly in surgeries).

Read MedicalTech.news for more coverage of medical technology.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

Breitbart.com

Journals.SAGEPub.com

NPR.org

DocumentCloud.org(Natural News) Repeatedly asked to explain why a deadly foreign pig virus called circovirus remains part of the formula for the RotaTeq Rotavirus oral vaccine, Dr. Paul Offit, of the Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, has no valid explanation. Offit, the most widely quoted apologist for the toxic jab industry today, recommends the rotavirus vaccine for infants, along with 9,999 other vaccines that Offit says any child could safely tolerate, apparently all administered at once. What Offit is really saying is that he could inject 5 liters worth of vaccines into an infant with no harm done, yet science would prove him wrong immediately, as this would kill any child (especially if carried out with vaccines that contain mercury, aluminum and formaldehyde).

A babys immune system could handle as many as 10,000 vaccines  Dr. Paul Offit

Forty years ago in the U.S.A., children only received 5 vaccines: diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, and smallpox vaccines (8 shots total), by the age of two. Now in 2018, children get stuck 20 times by age two, and receive up to 50 immunizations before age seven.

Doctors like Offit make a fortune off parents of children with autism by scheduling repeat visits, prescribing worthless and dangerous medications (like risperidone and aripiprazole), and recommending more vaccines that Offit himself created and patented for millions in profit. Then Offit publishes articles and misinformation books about the safety of vaccines, and how the vaccine-autism link is just a conspiracy theory.

Offit himself pushed for the CDC recommended vaccine schedule to include his toxic RotaTeq Rotavirus vaccine, that contains the deadly circovirus. Offit basically voted himself rich through his former position on the CDCs Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. Offit is the author of the now infamous narrative Every Child by Two, where he profits in the millions by convincing parents of toddlers to mass-vaccinate their child with at least 20 vaccines, including ones laced with infected African Green monkey kidney cells, human abortion cells, deadly pig virus strains, mercury, aluminum, MSG and formaldehyde.

In a single vote, Paul Offit made himself a multi-millionaire, while risking the lives of millions of babies with deadly pig virus vaccine contaminant

In a single vote, the ACIP, or Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, can create a commercial market for a new vaccine worth hundreds of millions. This is not possible with most patented products, but then again, vaccines are not like most products. For example, after the ACIP approved Offits and Mercks Rotateq vaccine to the official childhood vaccination schedule, Mercks Rotateq revenue rose from nothing to over $650 million within a couple of years (2006  2008).

It is important to note that Offit has also been exposed for holding a research chair at his Childrens Hospital funded by Merck & Co., to the tune of $1.5 million. Also, according to TruthWiki, from 1998 to 2003, Offit was a member of ACIP. Since three doses of Rotateq cost about $200, and about four million infants and children are mandated to get it each year, Offit the vaccine industry puppet became filthy rich.

So what else is in Offits dangerous and highly experimental Rotateq oral vaccine? Here are the ingredients listed  verbatim  on the Merck website:

5 live rotavirus strains (G1, G2, G3, G4, and P1). Sucrose, sodium citrate, sodium phosphate monobasic monohydrate, sodium hydroxide, polysorbate 80 and also fetal bovine serum. Parts of porcine circovirus types 1 and 2 have been found in RotaTeq. Special note: it is these strains of circovirus that infect pigs and are killing them off by the thousands in China.

One of the scariest aspects of getting Offits scam vaccine Rotateq is that some children suffer from a serious problem right afterwards called intussusception, where parts of the childs intestine gets blocked or twisted. Many children need emergency surgery to undo this horror, and a study conducted after approval of RotaTeq showed an increased risk of intussusception in the 21 days after the first dose of RotaTeq, especially in the first 7 days.

Maybe Offit the vaccine industry puppet and apologist should buy stock in the companies that sell surgery equipment used to operate on children with tangled intestines. Why not? Hes already involved in sinister dealings that convince parents to have their children poisoned with deadly pig viruses that have NO PLACE in vaccines at all. Watch the video below where Offit is exposed for contradicting his own quotes, claims about autism, and vaccine safety research that doesnt exist.

For more vital information about deadly ingredients inserted into vaccines, tune into Vaccines.news regularly and be sure to question injecting any known neurotoxins into your body or into your childs muscle tissue.

Sources for this article include:

SaneVax.org

TruthWiki.org

AgeofAutism.com

MerckVaccines.com

Merck.com

NaturalNews.com

Vaccines.news

CDC.gov

DolmanLaw.com

NCBI.nlm.nih.govWhat to Know The Holy fire started Aug. 6 near the Riverside and Orange county border in Cleveland National Forest

The fire spread quickly in dry brush, steep terrain and extremely hot weather

The fire is one of more than a dozen large wildfires burning this summer throughout California

A man arrested in connection with the 18,100-acre wildfire burning in Cleveland National Forest and charged with several arson-related counts appeared Friday in court.

Fifty-one-year-old Forrest Gordon Clark appeared to seek out the courtroom camera and stared directly into it. When the charges against him were read aloud, Clark said, "That's a lie."

His arraignment was postponed until Aug. 17.

When the court commissioner ordered bail to remain at $1 million, Clark shouted that he could easily afford to post the money.

Clark was arrested Tuesday, a day after the fast-moving wildfire started in dry brush and steep terrain near the Riverside and Orange county border. He was charged Thursday with one felony count each of aggravated arson of five or more inhabited structures, arson of inhabited property, arson of forest, criminal threats, two felony counts of resisting and deterring an executive officer, and a sentencing enhancement for arson burning multiple structures.

He faces a maximum sentence of life in state prison.

Details about how the fire started were not immediately available, but Clark is accused of setting the blaze in the Trabuco Canyon area. At least a dozen structures and more than 18,100 acres have burned.

A court appearance was initially scheduled for Thursday, but the suspect refused to come out of his cell as of early afternoon. Arraignment was re-scheduled for Friday, then postponed to next week at his attorneys' request.

A family member declined NBC4's request for a comment Thursday.

The Orange County Register reported that the suspect owns a cabin in the Holy fire area and allegedly sent an email warning "this place will burn." Volunteer Fire Chief Mike Milligan told the Register that he received the emails last week.

"He has issues," Milligan told the Register. "I hope they get him."

The Holy fire in Riverside and Orange counties is one of more than a dozen large wildfires burning in California, including the Mendocino Complex -- the state's largest wildfire on record. Major fires also are burning in Shasta County and in and around Yosemite National Park during what could be one of the worst years for wildfires on record in California.

The Holy fire is at least the second large wildfire this summer that authorities said was started by an arsonist. Last month, a Temecula man was arrested on suspicion of starting nine fires, including the 13,000-acre Cranston fire in the San Jacinto Mountains of Riverside County.

The Holy Fire was first reported about 1:15 p.m. Monday near Holy Jim Canyon and Trabuco Creek roads, according to Orange County Fire Authority Capt. Tony Bommarito. The fire grew to more than 4,100 acres by Wednesday morning. It was less than 5-percent contained.

The area has not burned since the early 1980s, leaving hillsides covered in dry brush that provides fuel for the fire.

A care and reception center was established at Temescal Canyon High School on El Toro Road in Lake Elsinore.

About 600 firefighters were called in to try to encircle the blaze, with the USFS taking the lead, aided by personnel from Cal Fire, Corona, the OCFA and other agencies.

California could be facing the toughest wildfire season ever as 12 gigantic blazes ravage the state. Some 14,000 firefighters are battling fires that have destroyed more than 2,000 buildings and claimed at least six lives due to wind-whipped flames that have caused an explosive spread through vegetation left tinder-dry by years of drought.

California's largest recorded blaze -- the side-by-side fires dubbed the Mendocino Complex -- needed just 11 days to blacken an area nearly the size of Los Angeles. A deadly fire that destroyed more than 1,000 homes in the Redding area of Northern California is less than 50 percent contained.Nearly two decades in the making, the Salesforce Transit Center in San Francisco is now open, set to connect thousands of Bay Area residents to the city's downtown area.

Crowds of people waited in line Saturday to see the brand new transportation hub in the heart of the city. In fact, too many people showed up and organizers for the opening party had to limit access due to safety reasons.

Access to new Transbay Terminal entrances were shut off at least 20 minutes due to the number of people.

San Francisco Municipal Transit Agency staff are managing capacity levels, according to a spokesperson. If an area goes over capacity, officials are stopping people from entering until someone leaves.

On Friday, several city and state officials joined members of the Transit Joint Powers Authority in a ribbon cutting, celebrating the spacious and modern center's opening.

"This represents San Francisco at our best. It represents our commitment to transportation, our commitment to environmental sustainability and community develop," San Francisco Mayor London Breed said.

"Our city is growing with both jobs and people, and we need to do a better job of moving everyone around this region, and this transit center will do just that. The transit center goes far beyond a transportation hub. It's a thriving place of economic opportunity," she said.

Stretching four city blocks, the $2.26 billion four-story transit center boasts pop-up retail shops, art displays, shopping, dining and a 5.4-acre rooftop public park.

"This is a representation of what can happen when people work together; public, private, nonprofit, community," House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi of San Francisco said.

Pelosi also acknowledged the late Mayor Ed Lee for his part in creating the transit center.

"It's about improving the quality of life, improving the quality of air, it's about the good health of our children, it's about the time we save," she said.

Friday's event was part of the culmination of the first phase of a larger project, eventually set to connect to Caltrain and a future California High Speed Rail via underground railways in the two stories below the transit center.

"As many of you remember, we were in the depths of a recession, and I still remember the day we celebrated our groundbreaking as we welcomed workers back to a job site for many, the first time in years." District 4 Supervisor Jane Kim said of the site's groundbreaking, which took place back in 2010.

"This was a huge project to bring to fruition," she said. "I want to thank our residents for our immense patience over the many years as this neighborhood was ground zero for construction, literally 24-hours a day. And thank you for investing in this neighborhood, choosing this neighborhood to live here and patiently living through the noise, the night construction and all of the traffic."

The next phase of construction, the $4 billion Downtown Extension Project, will connect 1.3 miles of underground rail between the center and the Caltrain station at Fourth and King streets. That project is expected to be completed in 2028.

The Salesforce Transit Center will hold a free block party today starting at noon to celebrate its opening.

On Sunday, the center will begin serving buses with Alameda-Contra Costa Transit, Greyhound, San Mateo County Transit District and Western Contra Costa Transit Authority. Buses with the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency already started service at the outside bus plaza in June.Rescue crews rushed to the North Berkeley BART station Sunday on reports of a male trapped underneath a train, according to BART and the Berkeley Fire Department.

The male was conscious and alert, Berkeley fire officials said, but the extent of his injuries were unknown.

Trains were not stopping at the station for about 90 minutes, BART said. The station reopened a little after 1 p.m.

No further details were available.The National Park Service Investigative Services Branch is seeking the publics help in identifying a San Jose native who was last seen near Yosemite National Park on July 25.

Scott Tenczar, 48, is an Afghanistan veteran who recently came back from Korea where he was teaching English, according to his brother Matt Tenczar. He is originally from San Jose and was last seen at the Bridgeport Ranger Station.



He planned to backpack from Robinson Creek to Crown Lake, Matterhorn Canyon, Smedberg Lake, Seavey Pass and Peeler Lake.

National park Service

Matt, who lives in San Jose, said that when Scott did not return on the day he was supposed to, they contacted the sheriffs department and they began their investigation.

On Friday, Scotts car was found where he was last seen and rangers officially began their search.

Deputies plan on dispatching a k9 unit and helicopter for the search on Sunday.

Scott has brown hair and hazel eyes, 6 feet tall, weighs 185 pounds and is familiar with the area and regularly hikes and fishes. He uses and wears mostly army-colored clothing and carries fishing gear.

Anyone thats been in the area of Robinson Creek, Crown Lake, Matterhorn Canyon, Smedberg Lake, Seavey Pass, or Peeler Lake between July 25 and August 5, 2018 is asked to contact the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch at 888/653-0009 or online.U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein visited Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge Friday morning to kick off a $177 million project to protect the Bay Area from the effects of sea-level rise.

The South San Francisco Bay Shoreline Project is slated to begin next summer and will be completed in about 20 years. Engineers will create coastal levees, pedestrian bridges, tidal marsh habitat and more infrastructure to protect the South Bay from a coastal flood in the next 100 years.

Feinstein said the project was possible because of a private-public partnership, after the Cargill company donated over 40,000 acres of salt ponds and sold additional space to the federal government in 2003.

"When you see those salt ponds turned to wetlands, and when you see an osprey flying over, or this huge osprey nest ... it says we're on our way back," she said. "That's what we need more of."

Federal disaster supplemental funding will provide upfront backing for the project. The state and Santa Clara Valley Water District will then reimburse more than half of the funds.

Voters in all nine Bay Area counties approved a $12 parcel tax in 2016 that will provide local funds for the project through 2037, protecting Sunnyvale, Mountain View, San Jose, Palo Alto and Alviso.

The project includes improvements to walking trails at the refuge, observation platforms, pond breaching and restoration.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the state Coastal Conservancy and the Santa Clara Valley Water District will oversee the project, in addition to several other agencies.State Sen. Nancy Skinner, D-Berkeley, plans to draft legislation to end late-night releases of county jail inmates statewide following the death of a young Berkeley woman after she left Santa Rita Jail in Dublin last month.

Jessica St. Louis, 26, was released from Santa Rita at 1:12 a.m. on July 28 and given a BART ticket. The closest BART station to the jail is the Dublin-Pleasanton stop, more than a mile away. Trains do not begin running until 5 a.m.

St. Louis' body was found four hours later near the passenger pick-up/drop-off area at the station. She is believed to have died from a drug overdose, but toxicology reports are still pending. The medical examiner concluded there was no foul play involved, according to the Alameda County Sheriff's Department.

Regardless of the cause of death, Skinner, activists with the Young Women's Freedom Center and St. Louis' family believe the woman would not have died had she been released during the day and provided access to support services upon leaving the facility.

"Releasing a woman in the dead of the night under these circumstances is a recipe for tragedy," Skinner said in a statement. "People need to be released at a reasonable hour and be given basic support to ensure they can enter our community safely and successfully."

Sheriff's spokesman Sgt. Ray Kelly has said St. Louis' death was "an unfortunate situation" but it appeared St. Louis had obtained drugs after leaving the jail. He said the jail releases up to 100 people a day around the clock and can't legally keep people in custody after their court-designated release times.

St. Louis had been at Santa Rita for 11 days on arrest warrants for a previous case, officials said.

The Young Women's Freedom Center is planning a march for 9 p.m. Aug. 19 from Santa Rita Jail to the Dublin-Pleasanton BART Station to demonstrate the experience of walking that route in the dark.A 29-year-old woman is dead and at least 27 others have been wounded in weekend gun violence across the city since Friday afternoon.

The citys first fatal shooting occurred just before 5 p.m. Friday afternoon in the 2500 block of East 79th Street, according to police. Authorities say a 29-year-old woman was getting an order of protection against a man, and the man became enraged, drew a weapon, and shot her in the back.

The woman was taken to University of Chicago Hospital, where she later died from her injuries.

Another person, a 15-year-old boy, was also shot in the incident. He was taken to Stroger Hospital in stable condition after being shot in the face.

The gunman has not been apprehended, and police are still investigating the shooting.

Here are the rest of the weekends shootings thus far:

Friday:

A 28-year-old man was sitting on a porch in the 5100 block of South Prairie when a person in a vehicle opened fire, striking him in the left leg and foot. The man was taken to University of Chicago Hospital in stable condition, police said.

In the 2300 block of North Major at 5 p.m., a 17-year-old boy was shot in the stomach, according to police. The boy was listed in stable condition at Illinois Masonic.

A 41-year-old man was shot during an argument in the 11900 block of South Michigan just after 5 p.m., police said. The man was shot in the right leg after he got into an altercation inside an abandoned residence. He was taken to Roseland in stable condition.

In the 6400 block of South Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, a 37-year-old man was shot in the left leg at approximately 6:15 p.m., police said. The man was taken to St. Bernard in stable condition.

A 20-year-old man was riding a bike in the 5200 block of West Washington at approximately 7:08 p.m. when another man on a bike began following him, and then opened fire. The victim was struck, and was taken to Stroger Hospital in serious condition.

A pair of teen boys were standing on a sidewalk in the 1300 block of South Independence just before 9 p.m. when they heard shots and were struck. A 17-year-old was taken to Mount Sinai in good condition after being shot in the abdomen, and a 15-year-old was grazed in the head and was also taken to Mount Sinai in good condition.

In the 100 block of East 123 rd Street, two men were standing on a sidewalk when a person in a black sedan fired shots at them. A 29-year-old was taken to Christ Hospital in stable condition after being shot in the right leg, and another man, a 33-year-old, was shot in the left foot and was taken to Roseland in stable condition, according to police.

Street, two men were standing on a sidewalk when a person in a black sedan fired shots at them. A 29-year-old was taken to Christ Hospital in stable condition after being shot in the right leg, and another man, a 33-year-old, was shot in the left foot and was taken to Roseland in stable condition, according to police. A 21-year-old man was standing on a sidewalk in the 2800 block of South Komensky just after 11 p.m. when a person in a black SUV fired shots at him, striking him in the abdomen. He was taken to Mount Sinai in stable condition, police said.

Many ideas of how to combat violence in Chicago have been brought upthe National Guard and Trump among themafter more than 65 people were shot last weekend. NBC 5s Mary Ann Ahern reports.

Saturday:

A man was standing outside a residence in the 4000 block of West Grenshaw just before 2 a.m. when two men began shooting at him, striking him in the buttocks. He walked into St. Anthonys in fair condition, police said.

A pair of 16-year-old boys were standing on a sidewalk in the 5200 block of West Congress Parkway when they heard shots. Both victims were taken to Loretto Hospital in stable condition, according to police.

In the 5200 block of West Congress Parkway, a 28-year-old man was shot in the chest, right leg, and stomach, police said. The man was taken to Stroger Hospital in stable condition.

Just after 9 a.m., a 26-year-old man was in the 4800 block of West Iowa when he was shot three times in his left leg, according to police. The man was taken to Mount Sinai in stable condition.

In the 3900 block of South Kedzie at approximately 12:33 p.m., a 29-year-old man was shot in the left side of his body and was taken to Mount Sinai in stable condition, police said.

Just after 2 p.m. in the 4400 block of West Van Buren, a 33-year-old man was shot in the left leg. He was taken to Mount Sinai in good condition, according to authorities.

While exiting a vehicle in the 0-100 block of West 125 th Street, a 23-year-old man was shot in the hand and lower backside, police said. The man was taken to Christ Hospital in stable condition.

Street, a 23-year-old man was shot in the hand and lower backside, police said. The man was taken to Christ Hospital in stable condition. A 17-year-old boy was walking in the 11600 block of South Yale when he was shot in the leg. He was taken to Christ Hospital, where his condition stabilized, according to police.

A 26-year-old woman was in the 2300 block of South Marshall when a man fired shots at her, striking her in the left leg. She was taken to Mount Sinai in good condition, police said.

Sunday:



Police are investigating the death of one person in a Connecticut three-car crash.

First responders arrived at the scene in New Haven on Saturday evening to find one person with serious injuries. That person was later pronounced dead at the scene.

Several ambulances took people away to an area hospital.

Police have not released details on the cause of the crash, or the extent of injuries.

A department spokesman could not be reached Sunday afternoon.

The crash happened at Derby Avenue and Ella Grasso Boulevard. The area continues to be closed off on Sunday as police investigate the crash.What to Know Former Dallas County Sheriff Jim Bowles died Saturday night at age 89

Bowles served as sheriff in Dallas County from 1985-2005

Before his terms as sheriff, Bowles was with the Dallas Police Department for three decades.

Former Dallas County Sheriff Jim Bowles died Saturday evening at the age of 89, his family confirmed in a statement.

James 'Jim' Carl Bowles' family said the former sheriff died Saturday surrounded by family in Mexia.

Bowles was first elected sheriff in Dallas County in 1985. He served as sheriff for the county until 2005.

Buck Fortner worked with Bowles at the Dallas County Sheriff's Department while he served as Dallas County Sheriff.

"Just overall he was a great man," Fortner said.

Fortner said Bowles accomplished a lot during his time as sheriff, including upgrading the officers' badges, uniforms and squad cars.

"He enjoyed public service I guess that was his calling because he was always first to be there," Fortner said.



Bowles was born and raised in Dallas and served in the Navy and Air Force. He then worked for the Dallas Police Department for thirty years.

In 1963, Bowles was the supervisor of the Dallas Police Department radio division during the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Downtown Dallas.

Bowles was interviewed by the House Select Committee on Assassinations. The group came to the conclusion that Lee Harvey Oswald was the lone shooter of President Kennedy.

Former Dallas County Sheriff Jim Bowles remembers HB McLain, a former Dallas police officer who rode in the motorcade of John F. Kennedy.

In a 2008 interview with The Dallas Morning News, Bowles said he believed Oswald acted alone, but wrote about a conspiracy as a 'spoof.'

"Most people feel there was some kind of conspiracy," he told The Dallas Morning News. "So they want a conspiracy, I'll give them a conspiracy."

He attempted another term in office in 2004, but lost in the Republican Primary. Bowles was indicted in 2004, accused of diverting more than $100,000 of campaign money for personal use. Those indictments were later dismissed after the primary by a judge in Dallas County.



Bowles' wife Martha died in 2016. The family asks in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Texas Fallen Officers Foundation, The RMS Listeners Foundation, Mexia Police/Fire Department and/or the Limestone County Sheriff's Department.

Voters in Dallas County will select a new sheriff in November. Republican nominee Aaron Meek posted a statement on Facebook about the loss of Bowles:

Meek will face current Sheriff Marian Brown in November. Her department released a statement Sunday:

"We offer our condolences to the family and keep them in our prayers. Sheriff Bowles is credited for providing steady leadership and turning the county's jails system into one of the best in the state. His influence and the things he accomplished are still felt and a part of the Dallas County Sheriffs Department history."

Authorities in Illinois arrested a Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Thursday, the Texas Department of Public Safety says.

Police in Glendale Heights, Illinois -- a town just west of Chicago -- arrested 62-year-old David Sauceda Medina.

Medina was released from a Texas jail in May 2016 and required to register as a sex offender for life. He had been wanted by the Bell County Sheriff's Office since January 2018 for indecency with a child, while the Austin Police Department issued a warrant for his arrest in March for failing to comply with sex offender registry requirements, according to Texas DPS.

Medina's earlier convictions were in 2008 and 2010. The first, in Florida, was for attempt to commit sexual battery, and the second was in Travis County for indecency with a child.

At the time of Medina's arrest, the reward for information leading to his capture had risen to $8,000.Two men were found dead Sunday in Pomona, and one suspect was arrested.

Christopher Peterson, 40, of Ontario was arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the shooting death of Robert Salinas, 37, of Pomona, and another man, whose name has yet to be released, said Pomona police Sgt. Brian Hagerty.

Officers were dispatched a little after 4:30 a.m., in response to a shooting in the 100 block of East Second Street, and found the men shot and badly wounded.

Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene, he said.

Shortly after the homicides, Pomona police received a call from Ontario police that they had information that a man there had reportedly been involved in a shooting in Pomona, he said.

Pomona and Ontario police went to the 1000 block of Berkeley Court in Ontario, where they detained Peterson, he said.

"Homicide detectives investigation revealed sufficient evidence to book the suspect for two counts of murder," Hagerty said. "The investigation is still going on."

Pomona police asked anyone with any information regarding the shooting deaths to call them at 909-620-2085.

What to Know Two armed men in construction vests abducted a woman at gunpoint at a Northeast Philadelphia Walmart parking lot

The suspects stole the woman's bank card and then fled the vehicle on foot.

The woman was not hurt, and the suspects remain at large

Police are searching for two men who they say abducted a woman at gunpoint at a Northeast Philadelphia Walmart.

The 43-year-old woman was in the parking lot of the Walmart on the 9700 block of East Roosevelt Boulevard Saturday at 4:48 p.m. Suddenly two armed men in yellow construction vests forced her into a vehicle and drove off, police said.

The suspects drove the woman to Cheltenham Avenue and Saul Street. They stole her bank card, exited the vehicle and fled eastbound on Cheltenham Avenue on foot, according to investigators.

The woman was not injured. Police have not released a detailed description of the two men.

Those with any information on the incident are encouraged to call Philadelphia police.



D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser interrupted her long-planned trade mission to El Salvador to be in the District for the Unite the Right rally and the counterprotests, Telemundo 44 reported.

"I will make a designation that the city administrator makes any decisions that I'm not able to make," she said previously. "But I should say that if I think that I need to be here, I'll be here."

The mayor's staff said there is no indication of an increased threat, but she is returning out of an abundance of caution.

Bowser said the trip was long overdue because of the presence Salvadorans have in the District.

I made the decision early in the year, feeling and seeing the anxiety among so many of my neighbors and friends and fellow Washingtonians that this was the time to make the trip here to El Salvador, she said.

President Donald Trumps administration announced earlier this year it will end temporary protected status for immigrants from El Salvador in September 2019, meaning thousands of Salvadorans would have to return to El Salvador.

My hope would be that the administration would have a change of heart, quite frankly, Bowser said.

During her visit, Bowser received the key to San Salvador from Mayor Luis Mason.

Saturday afternoon she went to the Metropolitan Cathedral of San Salvador to pay her respects to a revered figure there: Monsignor Oscar Romero.

She had planned to visit Intipuca Sunday, a town known as the most American city in El Salvador due to the many immigrants that have left for the D.C. area.

The mayor is expected to arrive at Dulles International Airport at 2:15 p.m. She plans to return to El Salvador Monday.

The white supremacist Unite to Right rally is scheduled from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, a year after the first Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, which turned violent and led to the death of counterprotester Heather Heyer when a man drove into a crowd.

Unite the Right is expected to be outnumbered by the several planned counterprotests.A second child has died following a shooting in a Northern Virginia apartment last week.

Fairfax County Police said the child died early Saturday morning, nearly a week after the shooting.

Veronica Youngblood, 33, is accused of shooting the two children inside an apartment in the 1500 block of Lincoln Circle in McLean, Virginia, on the night of Aug. 5. One of the children died at the scene, and the other suffered life-threatening injuries, police said in the wake of the shooting.

Police have not identified the victims due to a Virginia law passed in 2017 that says they need written permission from the families of juveniles to release their names. Authorities have not commented on the relationship between Youngblood and the victims.

But court documents reveal Youngblood has a 5-year-old daughter named Brooklynn Youngblood and an older daughter.

A medical examiner confirmed to News4 last week that a Brooklynn Youngblood died of a gunshot wound to the head.

Court records reveal Veronica Youngblood has spent years in court with her ex-husband in divorce proceedings and hashing out custody issues. At one time, her ex-husband got a protective order against her, according to documents.

Although they divorced, the pair lived together at a townhouse so they could both be part of the girls' lives, court documents said.

Youngblood's ex-husband was retiring from the Navy, and under a court agreement, the entire family was relocating to Missouri so both parents could stay involved in the girls' lives. Her ex-husband agreed to pay Youngblood's rent and other expenses.

But Youngblood recently moved into the new apartment in McLean after filing court papers saying she didn't want to go to Missouri and she'd found a new job here and wanted to get primary custody of the 5-year-old daughter.

Sources familiar with the case told News4 that Youngblood purchased a Glock at a gun show in Northern Virginia in the weeks before the shootings.

Police found three spent cartridges in the apartment, two in the master bedroom and one in the guest room, according to a search warrant for the apartment. Other cartridges were found in the guest bedroom, the master bedroom, on the living room floor and on the kitchen table. A Glock gun box was found in the guest bedroom.

There were also two boxes of 9 mm cartridges and other Glock accessories, according the search warrant. There were blood stains in the apartment.

Youngblood was arrested in Loudoun County on the night of the shooting after she knocked on the front door of an acquaintance and that person called police. A gun was recovered at the scene when Youngblood was arrested, police said.

After her arrest, Youngblood waived her Miranda rights and confessed to the crime, police said, giving detectives a detailed account of what happened.

Inside the rental car Youngblood used after leaving the apartment, police found two Glock magazines with ammunition and identification cards, another search warrant revealed.

Youngblood is being held without bond, police said. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Oct. 18.

Police said Saturday that additional charges are anticipated against Youngblood as the investigation continues.

More than a dozen members of the First Congregational Church in Winchester, Massachusetts participated in a week-long service trip to Puerto Rico to help with ongoing rebuilding efforts after the devastation of Hurricane Maria.

The group worked with Puerto Rico-based Hunger Corp. which hosted the First Congregational group as well as other volunteer groups from Texas, Chicago and New Jersey.

Volunteers were housed at a local church in Puerto Rico which provided shelter, food and water to those displaced after Hurricane Maria.

"It's not just going there and volunteering, the community pitches in," participant Tom Kahl told NBC 10 Boston. "the overwhemling sense [from the community] is real gratitude."



Hunger Corp., a nonprofit organization with social aid projects in the Amazon, Honduras, Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, works to rebuild homes and local farms over three to five years. During their trip, church congregants helped rebuild homes in the community of La Hormiga.

Throughout their stay, the volunteers experienced temporary power and water outages, which helped them understand how fragile the infrastructure remains in the region.

"The greatest need is anything involved in reconstruction," said Kahl.A dairy farm in Rhode Island has been named the state's outstanding dairy farm of the year.

The state Department of Environmental Management says Breene Hollow Farm in West Greenwich was chosen by the Rhode Island Green Pastures Committee for its commitment to dairy farming and the community.

Democratic Gov. Gina Raimondo says it's important to recognize farmers' contributions to the food supply, economy and their families and communities.

The agency says Kevin Breene established the farm with 20 cows at his parents' home in 1977 after he graduated from the University of Connecticut.

He still runs the farm. His daughter and son-in-law oversee the milking operation.

Several abutting properties have been purchased, bringing the farm to 360 acres.

Winning dairy farmers from New England will be honored Sept. 14 in Massachusetts.A California Highway Patrol motorcycle officer and another man were struck and killed by a pickup-truck driver during a traffic stop along Interstate 80 in Fairfield on Friday morning.

The officer was identified as 46-year-old Kirk Griess, who served in the Marine Corps, was a father of three and was a 19-year CHP veteran out of the departments Solano office.

The other victim was identified as 49-year-old Vallejo resident Jaime Bueza Manuel, CHP officials said.

The driver who plowed into the men was being treated at a local hospital, where he was being interviewed and was cooperating with investigators, CHP officials said. He was not identified.

Investigators have not determined what caused him to crash into the men. He was not under arrest, the CHP said.

The wreck happened shortly after 9 a.m. as Griess conducted an enforcement stop on a gray Saturn sport utility vehicle in westbound lanes of the interstate near Manuel Campos Parkway, officials said.

For an unknown reason, the driver of a white 3/4-ton Chevy pickup truck veered onto the right shoulder and hit Griess and the Saturn, the CHP said.

The impact was very significant, CHP Chief Ernie Sanchez said. The Saturn was almost half the size of what it should be, and the scene was not very pretty.

Paramedics took the three men in ambulances to local hospitals, where Griess and Manuel were pronounced deceased.

The CHP did not say why Griess had pulled over the Saturn but that it was an enforcement stop.

Our heart goes out to all the CHP staff, not only in the Solano office, but statewide, Sanchez said. This is what they do every day. They stop and help people on the shoulder. They enforce the law, making the freeways even safer for us to travel on.

Several lanes of the interstate were closed throughout the morning while paramedics and law enforcement processed the scene.

Griess and his wife, Kari, have two adult daughters, Kadi and Kaci, and a 14-year-old son, Kole. Before joining the CHP, he served in the Marine Corps and regularly volunteered in the community.

Officer Griess is going to be dearly missed, CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley said. He was the ultimate public servant. He loved what he did.

Sympathy from fellow law enforcement officials flooded social media as news of Griess death spread around California and beyond.

The Pittsburg Police Department offered its love, thoughts, prayers, and sincerest condolences. The Richmond Police Department said CHPs Solano office was in our thoughts and prayers. The West Sacramento Police Department said its hearts are heavy over the death.

Gov. Jerry Brown released a statement Friday afternoon extending heartfelt sympathies to Griess family and CHP colleagues. He ordered flags at the State Capitol to be flown at half-staff to honor the fallen officer.

Griess was the first CHP officer killed in the line of duty since Christmas Eve, when a driver killed Officer Andrew Camilleri on Interstate 880 in Hayward.

The driver in that crash, 22-year-old Mohammed Ali, was under the influence of marijuana and alcohol when he plowed into Camilleri and his partner, Jonathan Velasquez, as they were on patrol for intoxicated drivers, the CHP said.

Griess is the 229th officer to be killed in the line of duty since the CHP was formed in 1929.

Any witnesses are asked to contact CHP investigators at 707-917-4357.

Evan Sernoffsky is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @EvanSernoffskyCairo : Prosecutors in Egypt have charged a defrocked monk with the murder of a Coptic Christian Bishop at a desert monastery, the media reported.

Bishop Epiphanius, 64, was found dead at Saint Macarius Monastery in Wadi Natroun, north-west of Cairo, on July 29, reports the BBC.

Wael Saad, who had been a monk at the monastery, told prosecutors on Saturday he used an iron pole to bludgeon the bishop to death.

The possible motive is not yet clear.

The murder of Bishop Epiphanius shocked the Coptic Church, whose adherents make up about 10 per cent of Egypt's population.

Saad, who as a monk was known as Isaiah al-Makari, was stripped of his religious title following the bishop's death.

In the wake of the bishop's death, the Coptic Church instituted a crackdown on clergy behaviour and froze the recruitment of new monks for a year.

Monks were ordered to close their social media accounts.New York : Glaucoma, an eye disease which affects nearly 70 million people worldwide, may be an autoimmune disease, suggests a new research.

In a study of mice, the researchers showed that the body's own T cells are responsible for the progressive retinal degeneration seen in glaucoma.

Furthermore, these T cells appear to be primed to attack retinal neurons as the result of previous interactions with bacteria that normally live in our body, said the study published in the journal Nature Communications.

The discovery suggests that it was possible to develop new treatments for glaucoma by blocking this autoimmune activity.

"This opens a new approach to prevent and treat glaucoma," said study co-author Jianzhu Chen, Professor of Biology at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Glaucoma is a group of related eye disorders that cause damage to the optic nerve that carries information from the eye to the brain.

One of the biggest risk factors for glaucoma is elevated pressure in the eye, which often occurs as people age, and the ducts that allow fluid to drain from the eye become blocked.

The disease often goes undetected at first and patients may not realise they have the disease until half of their retinal ganglion cells have been lost.

Most treatments focus on lowering pressure in the eye (also known as intraocular pressure).

However, in many patients, the disease worsens even after intraocular pressure returns to normal.

In studies in mice, the researchers found the same effect.

"That led us to the thought that this pressure change must be triggering something progressive, and the first thing that came to mind is that it has to be an immune response," study co-author Dong Feng Chen, Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School, said.

Further studies revealed that the glaucoma-linked T cells target proteins called heat shock proteins, which help cells respond to stress or injury.

In human patients with glaucoma, the researchers found that they had five times the normal level of T cells specific to heat shock proteins.New Delhi : India and Nepal have agreed to enhance cooperation and coordination between their border guarding forces and emphasised timely sharing of information between their forces on trans-border crime and criminal activities, a statement from Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) said on Friday.



The decision was taken at a three-day 3rd India-Nepal Coordination meeting that began on August 8. The Indian delegation was led by SSB Director General Rajni Kant Mishra and a seven-member Nepalese team was headed by Shailendra Khanal, Inspector General of Nepal Armed Police Force.

The meeting was held at the south Delhi-based headquarters of the SSB -- the 94,000-strong paramilitary force mandated to guard 1,751 km India-Nepal and 699 km India-Bhutan borders.

"The main aim of the meeting was to enhance mutual cooperation and coordination between the border guarding forces. Both sides discussed various issues covering prevailing border situation, trans-border crimes, human trafficking for maintaining sanctity and security of the international border," said the statement.

Both sides agreed to continue holding regular coordination meetings at all levels, it said.

"The two forces discussed security scenario along the border and emphasized timely sharing of information between them on trans-border crime and criminal activities," said the statement.

The Nepalese delegation was on official visit from August 7 to 10.

On the first day, the Nepalese delegation met Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and discussed joint patrolling, common training of armed forces' officers and regular border meetings.

Appreciating the coordination between India and Nepal, the visiting delegation emphasised the need for periodic coordination meetings and common training courses for armed police officers of the two countries.New Delhi : India expects to save up to Rs 12,000 crore in foreign exchange over the next four years through blending ethanol in petrol, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday.

Addressing an event here to mark World Biofuel Day, Modi said the country saved Rs 4,000 crore worth of foreign exchange last year by ethanol blending which touched a record 141 crore litres in the last fiscal.

"India has saved forex worth Rs 4,000 crore in the last financial year due to savings from ethanol blending programme. The government aims to increase these savings to Rs 12,000 crore per annum over the next four years," he sai".

"Biofuel" can help reduce import dependency on crude oil. It can contribute to a cleaner environment, generate additional income for farmers and create rural employment. Biofuels have synergies with various initiatives, including raising farmers incomes and the Swachh Bharat programme.

Noting that India aims to produce around 450 crore litres of ethanol in the coming four years, the Prime Minister pointed to the other benefits of biofuel production.

"We also aim for an earning of Rs 20,000 crore solely through conversion of sugarcane to ethanol. This amount will aid the income of farmers. The government is also working to raise our capacity to convert agrarian produce such as potato and agrarian waste to ethanol," he said.

The government has targeted to increase ethanol blending in petrol to 10 per cent by 2022 and to 20 per cent by 2030.

It is in this direction that the government had approved the National Policy on Biofuels in June plans to invest Rs 10,000 crore to build 12 biofuel refineries, Modi said.

"These refineries would provide around 1,500 jobs each and 1.5 lakhs jobs in all," he said.

Addressing the gathering earlier, Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said ethanol blending in petrol increased from 38 crore litres in the ethanol supply year 2013-14 to an estimated 141 crore litres in 2017-18.Tehran : Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Sunday that Tehran has no plan to talk with the US on the sidelines of the upcoming UN General Assembly meeting.

"No meeting is expected to take place," Xinhua news agency quoted Zarif as saying.

"The Americans are not honest," he added.

On Friday, Majid Takht Ravanchi, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for European and American Affairs, also said he did not see "any reason" for talks with the US at the 73rd UN General Assembly meeting next month.

"What expectations could you have from a person who pulls out from international engagement and now says let's hold talks," Ravanchi said.

US President Donald Trump withdrew Washington from the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, on May 8 and demanded renegotiation of the pact.

Since then, the Trump administration has slapped a number of sanctions on Iran while vowing to apply more.Tirana : Eight persons were killed on Friday afternoon at Resulaj Village in Albania, where a 24-year-old man opened fire at his relatives over a property dispute, police said.

According to the police, all the victims were members of two Zykaj families, living in the same village.

Local media reported that the 24-year-old man Ridvan Zykaj, armed with Kalashnikov, first entered the home of his grandparents, shot them and two of their uncle's family members.

He went further to the other uncle's house, 30 meters away, to kill four others. There are also reports for a wounded person, Xinhua reported.

According to the police, Ridvan Zykaj quickly left the scene and is still being chased by police forces, from Vlora and Tirana. He is considered extremely dangerous and armed.

Albanian Interior Minister Fatmir Xhafaj, as well as director of State Police, Ardi Veliu, arrived at Resulaj Village, in the evening to follow closely the police operation.New Delhi : The monsoon session of Parliament was productive for the government with 21 bills passed by Lok Sabha and 14 by the Rajya Sabha even as it witnessed clashes between the Opposition and the treasury benches on a range of issues including NRC and Rafale fighter jet deal.

The government could not get the triple talaq Bill passed in the Rajya Sabha even though the cabinet on Thursday approved some amendments to the Bill passed by the Lok Sabha. But it gave a significant push to its legislative agenda by getting several pending bills passed and introducing a few others.The monsoon session began on July 18 and had 17 sittings.The ruling National Democratic Alliance scored an emphatic victory over a combined opposition in the election to the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman even though it is short of a majority in the Upper House. The victory is expected to provide a psychological boost to the BJP-led alliance in an election year as opposition parties try to come together to oust it in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.The session, which was a stark contrast with the nearly washed-out second part of Budget session, saw the first no-confidence motion against the Narendra Modi government which was defeated by a margin of 195 votes.The no-confidence motion was not taken up during the Budget session amid protests by members from Andhra Pradesh for a special package for the state.According to a parliamentary affairs ministry release, the productivity of Lok Sabha was 118 per cent and that of Rajya Sabha was 68 per cent."During the Session, 22 Bills (21 in the Lok Sabha and 1 in the Rajya Sabha) were introduced. The Lok Sabha passed 21 Bills and while the Rajya Sabha passed 14 Bills during the session. Twenty bills were passed by both the Houses of Pa"liament," the release said.Six of the bills are money bills, which have been sent to the Rajya Sabha and will be deemed to have been passed after 14 days.According to PRS Legislative, which tracks work of Parliament, it was the most productive monsoon session for Lok Sabha since 2000. Congress President Rahul Gandhi led the party's attack on the government on the Rafale deal as he sought answers from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The party repeatedly raised the issue in both Houses seeking a joint parliamentary committee inquiry.The issue of National Register of Citizens in Assam, which has left out over 40 lakh people, figured in both Houses with Opposition accusing the government of its tardy implementation.Trinamool Congress was at the forefront of the NRC protest and virtually prevented BJP president Amit Shah from speaking in the Upper House on issues concerning farmers.Several significant legislations were passed during the session including that on granting constitutional status to National Commission of Backward Classes and on restoring the immediate arrest provision in the SC/ST Act.Yet another Bill paved the way to enable the overseas electors to appoint proxies to cast their votes in the elections to Lok Sabha and state assemblies.PRS Legislative said that Rajya Sabha worked for 66 per cent of it scheduled time, but data provided by the Upper House said its productivity was 74 per cent.While Lok Sabha spent 50 per cent of its time on legislative business, the Rajya Sabha spent 48 per cent."It is the highest amount of time spent on legislative business by both Houses in the 16th Lok Sabha, second highest since 2004," said PRS Legislative.The Rajya Sabha discussed issues related to the misuse of social media to spread violence, and the "non-implementat"on" of the Andhra Pradesh Re-organization Act, 2014.The Lok Sabha lost 8 hours and 26 minutes due to disruptions, but the members sat for 20 hours and 43 minutes beyond the scheduled time.The Rajya Sabha lost 27 hours and 42 minutes and sat beyond scheduled time on four days gaining about three hours.Members of both houses keenly raised issues concerning their constituencies in the election year.Presiding officers of both Houses expressed their satisfaction at the significant improvement in the productivity compared to the previous session."I have several times laid stress on smooth conduct of the House which is essential to maintain the credibility of Parliament," Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said in her valedictory remarks at the conclusion of session.Rajya Sabha Chairman M. Venkaiah Naidu said the sessi"n "brought new tidings marking a break from the last two sessions."Parliament is expected to now meet for the winter session, which may be the last full session of Parliament before general election due next year.Kathmandu : Nepal and Bangladesh on Friday signed a memorandum of understanding to work together in the development of the energy sector for the first time.

Nepali Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Barsha Man Pun and Minister of State for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources of Bangladesh, Nasrul Hamid, signed the agreement.

Bangladesh had been showing interest in joint investment in the energy sector in Nepal since long.

As per the MoU, a joint executive committee at the Energy Secretary level and the joint technical group at the Joint Secretary level would be formed for bilateral collaboration.

The two bodies would convene their meetings within the coming two months to determine the future course of action.

According to statement issued by Nepal's Ministry of Energy, Bangladesh will purchase 500 megawatts power from the Himalayan country.

Bangladeshi Minister of State for Electricity, Energy and Mines Hamid said that his country had come up with the move to cherish the dream of his people and address growing energy needs in his country.

The government and private sector of both the countries will work together to tap Nepal's umpteen potential in hydropower, he said, terming the agreement signing a matter of "historic importance".

Informing that his country has set a target to graduate to the league of developed countries by 2041, he said that they would need around 60,000 MW power. Nepal is an appropriate alternative source for this, he added.

"We require 24,000MW electricity by 2021. Now, Bangladesh has the economic growth rate of 7.2 per cent and has set the target to increase this to 10 per cent by next year," Hamid said.

In a press meet after signing the MoU, Pun and Hamid said that they will hold talks with India on the issues of a transmission line.

It is expected that Oli and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina will hold talks regarding the issue with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in BIMSTEC meeting in Kathmandu on August 30.

Pun further expected that the electricity generated in Nepal could be exported to Bangladesh by developing a SAARC level grid.Chennai : The police team investigating the idol theft cases in Tamil Nadu on Friday told the Madras High Court that it will not arrest TVS Motor Company Ltd Chairman Venu Srinivasan for six weeks, informed sources said.

Srinivasan had earlier applied for anticipatory bail apprehending arrest in an idol theft case.

On Friday, Senior Advocate, B.Kumar, appeared for Srinivasan in the court.

According to the informed sources, Srinivasan has not seen the FIR copy as it can be kept under the wraps under certain circumstances.

The source added that Srinivasan will make an application to get a copy of the FIR.

In his bail application, Srinivasan referred to a writ petition filed by one Elephant G Rajendran. Srinivasan said that in paragraph 12 of an affidavit submitted in support of his petition, Rajendran had mentioned that an FIR has been filed against him.

Srinivasan said he was appointed Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Srirangam Temple and that he had spent Rs 25 crore from his own pocket for the renovation of the entire holy complex.

He said that Rs 70 lakh was spent by him on painting works at Sri Kabaleeswarar Temple here.

The industrialist also claimed that a private trust funded by him and his company has undertaken renovation of over 100 temples in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.Washington : US military institutions are struggling to fill the 66 slots they had kept aside for officers from Pakistan for the next academic year, as President Donald Trump's administration refused to provide funds for their training, official sources said.

The fund for training Pakistani officers came from the US government's International Military Education and Training Programme (IMET) but no funds were made available for Pakistan for the next academic year, Dawn online reported on Saturday quoting the sources as saying.

Dawn first learned about the suspension from the US National Defence University (NDU), Washington, which has had reserved seats for Pakistani officers for more than a decade now.

The outgoing Pakistani officers, however, were told that the university has been asked to fill the positions for the next year with officers from other nations.

The NDU is one of several US military institutions that train officers from Pakistan.

The Trump administration announced early this year that it was suspending security assistance to Pakistan over differences on Afghanistan but indicated that training programmes for military officers will continue.

The cancellation of slots kept aside for Pakistani officers, however, shows that the suspension now also applies to training programmes.

Pakistani officers have been receiving military training and education in the US since early 1960s, which were suspended in the 1990s but restored after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.New Delhi : India and Switzerland discussed on Friday various aspects of bilateral ties, including the issue of curbing black money, as well as regional and multilateral issues during a meeting between External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis.

According to a statement issued by the External Affairs Ministry, the two ministers took stock of the progress made in key areas of interest such as trade and investment, education, information technology and tourism.

Bilateral trade between India and Switzerland stood at $20 billion in the last financial year.

"Closer cooperation in the areas of skill development, renewable energy, traditional Indian medicine and climate change has the potential of mutual benefit and positive contribution at the global level," the statement said.

Following on the Indian government's drive to curb black money, the ministers discussed the activation of automatic exchange of information.

India's negotiations with the EU for a free trade agreement also came up in the discussion.

"A review was undertaken on the progress of the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement, which India and the European Free Trade Area countries are currently negotiating," according to the statement.

"The two ministers reiterated their strong commitment to early finalization of the agreement while showing flexibility on each other's concerns."

Both sides also had detailed talks on Ayurveda, which Switzerland recognizes as a system of medicine.

"The aspect of enhanced people to people interactions through facilitation of tourist and business visas was also discussed at length," the statement said.Sorry!

This content is not available in your regionDear Newsie Readers,

Newsie has now permanently ceased it's services as of Friday 20th December 2019.

Newsie has been an owner-funded operation since day one.

Coming up to three years old, while we still firmly believe Newsie has a place in the New Zealand media landscape, the cost in both time and money has become too burdensome for the owners to continue alongside other ventures.

With the current government looking to restructure public broadcasting, and seemingly supporting NZME buying a ring-fenced Stuff, the time seems right to call it a day.

Should it happen, the combination of NZME and Stuff will ensure New Zealands national media will die a death by a thousand opinion-based articles.

Newsie has always tried to stick to balanced news, to inform readers of the facts of a situation, amid being largely ignored by government. Hopefully, one day someone else will take up the challenge to fight the good fight.

The good news, however, is that there were no job losses as a result of Newsie closing. Thanks to careful structuring, everyone involved in Newsie will retain their current positions.

We hope you all have a happy Christmas and new year. Stay safe, and stay out of the news.

The team at NewsieAugust Rice

A driver was killed Saturday afternoon near Albany after he was hit by two drunk drivers on opposite sides of I-90, according to New York State Police.

Police said August Rice, 23, of Rexford, NY was driving east when he hit a vehicle, pushing it across the median and into the westbound lane. Then, Rex Tucker-Moss, 41, of Poughquag, NY, hit the same vehicle in the westbound lane.

Both Rice and Tucker-Moss were intoxicated, police said. Tucker-Moss had two children, ages 10 and 7, in the car.

Both men were arrested on charges of 2nd-degree Vehicular Manslaughter and drunk driving. Tucker-Moss was also charged with Aggravated DWI (Leandra's Law), for driving drunk with children in the car and Endangering the Welfare of a Child, police said.

The victim's name has not yet been released.Currently Reading

It's still the weekend: CT events Sunday Aug. 12 and beyondContributed Photo / Naugatuck Police Department / Contributed Photo

NAUGATUCK  Naugatuck police are looking for a man they say is responsible for a recent strong arm robbery.

Police said theyre looking for 31-year-old Michael Korzen who the department described as being 6 feet tall and between 150 to 160 pounds.Two New Jersey newlyweds had their wedding day interrupted by torrential downpours Saturday, causing the entire wedding party to get stranded in floodwaters before officers rescued them out of their vehicle.

The Bogota Police Department posted a video capturing the dramatic rescue to their Facebook page Saturday night, showing the bride in her wedding dress perched on top of a car surrounded by water that reached high enough to submerge the tires completely.

Bogota officers said in the post that the bride was stranded along with her husband and wedding party.

Unfortunately due to the quickly rising flood waters, this bride, her new husband and wedding party friends, got a rough start on things. The fortunate thing, is we were able to help them through their first rough patch. Obviously their day has not gone as planned, so lets congratulate them on their wedding and give them best wishes for a lifetime of love and adventure, starting now #boroughofbogota #bogotanj #bogotapolicedepartment #bogotapolicedept #bogotapolicenj #bogotapolice #bogotanjpolicedept #bogotanjpolicedepartment #bogotapd #BPD Daily Voice Bergen County CLIFFVIEWPILOT.COM News 12 New Jersey ABC7 CBS New York Law Officer Law Enforcement Today Posted by Bogota Police Department on Saturday, August 11, 2018

In a follow up post on Facebook Sunday afternoon, the department said they used their newest fleet addition "Humvee" to save the newlyweds and wished them all the best after an unexpected ending to their big day.

"Like we said, we hope the bride and groom had a great wedding day and we wish nothing but the best for them. If you know them, please pass that message along to them," the post read.

NJ Advance Media reached out to the Bogota Police Department for further details, however Sgt. Geoffrey Cole was not immediately available to comment.

Alexis Johnson may be reached at ajohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @alexisjreports. Find nj.com on Facebook.An escaped prisoner who was considered armed and dangerous is back behind bars after two days on the run, according to police.

And his father, who allegedly aided his escape across state lines, is now facing charges as well.

David Riley, 34, of Bridgeton, fled while he was being transported from Mercer County to a Cumberland County Superior Court hearing in Bridgeton Friday morning, authorities said.

He was located at a Baltimore bus terminal Saturday and taken into custody by U.S. Marshals, New Jersey State Police announced Sunday morning. He is being held in Baltimore and will be extradited to New Jersey.

Police said Riley's father, 58-year-old David Carty, of Bridgeton, helped him flee by driving him to Baltimore and purchasing him a bus ticket to Atlanta.

Riley was allegedly carrying a knife when he fled the custody of corrections officers wearing nothing but a tee-shirt and boxers.

It is not yet clear what charges Riley is facing, but court records show he was previously sentenced to six years in July 2010 for kidnapping and aggravated sexual assault.

His father, Carty, was apprehended by state police at a motel in Vineland. He faces charges of hindering apprehension, obstruction of justice, and aiding another in an escape, according to police. He is being held in Cumberland County Jail.

Amanda Hoover can be reached at ahoover@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @amandahoovernj. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tipsN.J. home makeover is a regular feature on NJ.com that showcases designer, contractor and DIY renovations, large and small. To submit your renovation for consideration, email home@starledger.com with your full name, email address, phone number and town/city. Attach "before" and "after" photos of what you renovated.

When Alan Vilchock purchased a 1960s ranch-style home in Sparta four years ago, the three-bedroom, two-bathroom house only needed a few modifications.

The work was mostly painting, getting new windows and kitchen counters, and having the wood floors refinished.

A little more than two years later, in July of 2016, he married his girlfriend, Elizabeth. They decided they could increase enjoyment of their 1.69 Sussex County acres by adding a swimming pool to the property.

"We knew we wanted a pool and a great space to enjoy the backyard with family and friends," he said.

So, a few months after their wedding, they hired a pool builder to begin work in fall.

"It was a way to save a little on the cost of the pool," Vilchock said of the October 2016 start of what would be a year-long project. The timing paid off with a late-season discount on the project despite some installation challenges.

When the pool company began excavating, they found a significant amount of stone throughout the backyard.

"There was actually a possibility it wasn't going to happen," Vilchock said. "If we hadn't been flexible, the cost would have been crazy."

Being flexible meant accepting that the 36-foot long, free-form concrete pool and circular spa they wanted could only be sited in one area of their backyard. Being flexible also meant that they would get a few more surprises the following May when they hired a landscape firm to install a patio and complementary plantings.

Their property had numerous elevation changes that needed to be graded appropriately to install the patio. Beyond that, their landscape contractor, Kris Holland of Black River Landscape Management in Rockaway, needed to control drainage for the project.

"In this instance, there is a hill that comes down near the pool," Holland said. To prevent runoff into the pool, they needed to build a 4-foot-tall retaining wall. Built of Cambridge stone pavers, it extends about 100 feet around one side of the pool.

Because of the challenges with underground stone, Holland said the pool company could not set the pool as deep as they would have ordinarily. The pool also needed to be installed closer to the house than what would have been ideal, he said.

"When we have a blank canvas, we will usually do a larger patio coming out of the house because you don't use your pool all year long," Holland said. "We will often have a big section for eating and barbecuing and have it lead to a separate patio for the pool."

At the Vilchock residence, they were somewhat limited in the patio's design because the distance between the house and the pool was about 14 feet at the closest point. The pool's curvaceous shape was a godsend, however. They were able to enlarge the patio area nearest the home's back doors to make way for a dining table, a grill and a grouping of six lounge chairs.

The biggest challenge related to the pool's placement was drainage, however. With the height of the pool's finished top and pavers that introduced impervious surfaces, the patio design needed adjustments to manage stormwater runnoff. A slight slope in a patio typically encourages water to drain to a desired area. At the Vilchock property, they could not have water running off the patio into the pool, so the only option was to pitch the patio toward the house - a potential nightmare for a home's foundation.

"We had to come up with a drainage solution to make sure there wasn't ever an issue," Holland said. To avoid water in the home's basement, they installed an oversized drain. "It's six inches wide with grates over it, and it runs along the length of the back of the house," he said. The drain then channels any water onto an open area a safe distance from the house, he said. "We had to get very creative on that one."

With the "hardscaping" completed, the firm's designer could go to work on the landscape. Plantings needed to be outside splash range of the saltwater that's used in place of chlorine to sanitize the pool.

"We definitely stayed on the side of lower maintenace plants," Holland said. "Both people in that house work a lot, so we didn't want to install things that would take them a lot of time to maintain. It is also a very sunny backyard, so we chose things that would be able to handle a day of full sun."

The landscape's shrubs include boxwood, spirea, skip laurel and dwarf hydragea complemented by a variety of ornamental grasses such as variegated liriope and fountain grass. Flowering perennials such as dwarf coneflower and coreopsis also were used. The plants are expected to be protected from the area's deer populationby by the fencing that encloses the pool area.

Vilchock, who works in construction, says they put new siding on the house so it would look great alongside the pool. However, the backyard project is their biggest spend so far, he says.

He and his wife, a teacher, have enjoyed the pool, but perhaps not as much as their black labrador, Brewski.

"We have a dog that loves water," Vilchock says. "We can't keep him out of the pool."

While the home's people may not be quite as avid about swimming, they and their guests love to gather in the pool to cool off in depths that go from 3 to 7 feet, Vilchock says. "Being able to come home and relax and enjoy yourself ... it was totally worth the investment."

What they renovated

They installed a pool, patio and landscaping in the backyard of 1960s ranch house in Sparta.

Who did the work?

Pool by Anthony & Sylvan of Fairfield; patio, retaining wall and plantings by Black River Landscape Management of Rockaway.

How long it took

"They started on the pool in late October and it was filled with water in June," Vilchock said. He explained that there were weather-related delays and that they needed to have their backyard fully fenced in before the pool could be filled. The patio and landscaping took roughly one month, he said.

What they spent

The homeowners would not disclose the cost of the two-part project, but Alan Vilchock said it exceeded $50,000. Kris Holland of Black River Landscape Management said most homeowners can budget between $20,000 to $25,000 for a patio and landscaping around a backyard pool.

Where they splurged

"There were a few more additions that we originally did not plan on (retaining wall and drainage system), but if you're going to do something, you might as well do it right the first time," Vilchock said.

How they saved

"We decided to go with a slightly smaller (landscape) design than the one that was originally proposed," Vilchock said. "We over-designed it and then we scaled back. We picked out what we really liked, and we changed what we didn't."

What they like most

"Everything."

What they'd have done differently

"We would have done it sooner," he said.

Kimberly L. Jackson may be reached at home@starledger.com. Find NJ.com Entertainment on Facebook.A hit-and-run driver caused a school bus carrying 42 people to overturn on the New Jersey Turnpike, sending dozens to the hospital on Saturday after an afternoon spent at a Newark-sponsored picnic at Black Bear Lake, police said.

New Jersey State Police Sgt. Jeff Flynn said Sunday that a car traveling north on the turnpike along mile post 79.9 in East Brunswick struck a guardrail before colliding into the school bus's left side.

The car did not stop, Flynn said. The bus then struck a Mercedes before overturning shortly after 5 p.m., he said.

The bus was returning from Newark Mayor Ras Baraka's annual picnic, a city-sponsored event, held this year at the Black Bear Lake Country Club in Millstone.

Video shows the bus flipped over the guard rail. It was taken just before 5:30 PM at mile post 79.9 in East Brunswick. @NJSP working to reopen lanes. pic.twitter.com/u8y4w6Buh1  Alexis Johnson (@alexisjreports) August 11, 2018

Baraka said 36 passengers, which included children, were taken to area hospitals but were in stable condition.

Seventeen passengers were taken to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick and others were taken to St. Peter's University and JFK Hospital in Edison. Of the 36 people taken to hospitals, 19 were a adults and 17 were under the age of 18.

All but four patients had been discharged from Robert Wood Johnson as of Sunday afternoon, a Newark spokesperson said. Three patients had been released from St. Peter's and all were released from JFK Hospital.

My source says there were several injuries on scene. Passengers and bystanders helped victims out of the bus before first responders arrived pic.twitter.com/RlCeYRobLU  Alexis Johnson (@alexisjreports) August 11, 2018

The city is providing a van from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 480 Clinton Avenue for anyone wanting to visit relatives at the hospitals.

"It scared us half to death," Baraka said at a press conference Saturday night. "People were having an outstanding time there, unfortunately this thing happened."

Enjoy a day of food, music, and fun for all ages this weekend at Mayor Ras J. Barakas 4th Annual Family Reunion.... Posted by City of Newark, NJ - City Hall on Wednesday, August 8, 2018

Karen Yi may be reached at kyi@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter at @karen_yi or on Facebook.JERSEY CITY -- It's been almost two months since the allegations against Orlando Martinez-Chavez first arose. But the healing process has only just begun for many church-goers.

Members of the Iglesia Pentecostal Lirio de los Valles church on Summit Avenue have spent the last few weeks confronted by the allegations that Martinez-Chavez, a pastor with the church for at least six years, had sexually assaulted a 10-year-old girl and fondled a relative.

He was first removed from his position on June 26 after he was accused of sending graphic pictures and videos to a 32-year-old woman who attended the church, sources have told The Jersey Journal.

Martinez-Chavez, 47, was then charged on July 27 and arrested three days later. He faces charges of sexual assault, endangering the welfare of a child, and criminal sexual contact.

"Everyone here feels destroyed," said an official with the church who declined to give his name. "We're all passing through a hard process and we just have to learn that this church belongs to God. It doesn't belong to him.

"We just have to keep moving forward."

Most members of the church who spoke to The Jersey Journal requested anonymity, but they all described a feeling of shock.

"What can I say... it's tough," said a Deacon with the church.

"He was a good person, but you never see it coming," another member said. "I don't know... it's hard to see what's in someone's heart."

The youngest alleged victim, who is now 15, told authorities that Martinez-Chavez reached inside her pants and touched her genital area in November 2012, the source said.

The pastor's relative also came forward with the allegation that the pastor -- who is married and has three girls, ages 4, 10 and 18 -- fondled her breasts over her clothing.

A source told The Jersey Journal that another 15-year-old girl has accused Martinez-Chavez of sexually assualting her when she was 13, but she it too traumatized to come forward.

When confronted by the girl's mother, Martinez-Chavez threatened to have the family, which is undocumented, deported, the source said. The victim and her family left the church and moved out of the state.

Other victims may be too traumatized to come forward.

The Rev. Joseph Andino, who oversees the Assemblies of God churches in northern New Jersey, gave a sermon to the crowded church Sunday afternoon.

While he did not address the allegations directly, he told the audience that "not everything that happens to us can be characterized as good" and that "aside from all of these difficulties, we have a God who... gives us wisdom."

"This church can overcome," he said during a passionate sermon. "The doors of hell will not prevail against my church... this church will be known for greater things."

Corey W. McDonald may be reached at cmcdonald@jjournal.com. Follow him on Twitter @coreymacc. Find The Jersey Journal on Facebook.JERSEY CITY -- The Hudson County Prosecutor's Office's homicide unit is investigating the death of a woman in a Forrest Street apartment building.

The HCPO confirmed in a tweet that a woman was found dead Sunday evening at 391 Forrest St, just off of Bergen Avenue.

Authorities initially responded to a call of a woman suffering from cardiac arrest in an apartment on Forrest Street. While performing CPR, they found a stab wound in her chest, sources said.

Police on the scene declined to comment.

An official with the HCPO could not confirm whether the incident has been ruled a homicide. As of 7 p.m. the medical examiner has yet to arrive.

Additional details surrounding the incident were not immediately available.

Corey W. McDonald may be reached at cmcdonald@jjournal.com. Follow him on Twitter @coreymacc. Find The Jersey Journal on Facebook.More than 100 people waved American flags, carried red, white and blue balloons and carried signs stating, "Back the Blue," "Let Police Do Their Job" and "We Can't Afford Indecisive Cops" in a rally Sunday supporting a South Whitehall Township police officer charged with manslaughter in a fatal shooting last month.

The rally took place at 2 p.m. Sunday near the Comfort Suites Hotel across from Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom on Hamilton Boulevard, where investigators said Officer Jonathan Roselle shot and killed a 44-year-old Hasbrouck Heights resident on July 28.

Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin last week charged Roselle, 33, of Parryville, Carbon County, with voluntary manslaughter in the death of Joseph Santos.

Authorities said Santos, who had been seen jumping on moving cars along Hamilton Boulevard, refused to comply with Roselle's orders to lie down on the ground. The officer fired the fatal shots after Santos continued walking toward him, according to investigators.

In the aftermath of the shooting, authorities said, Roselle told fellow officers he "f----d up," and Martin told reporters had determined Roselle's use of deadly force was objectively unreasonable "in light of the facts as they existed at the time."

Roselle is an Army veteran, a current major in the National Guard and rookie cop who graduated from the Allentown Police Academy in December. Roselle was released on $75,000 unsecured bail.

Sunday's event was mostly peaceful, with the exception of an appearance by one woman who told Roselle's supporters they were "promoting murder," according to the Morning Call newspaper. Upper Macungie Township police then arrived to watch the exchange, according to the report.

The rally in support of Roselle was at the same time an interfaith service was being held Sunday in Santos' memory at Resurrected Life Church, 144 N. 9th St. in Allentown. There were no protestors outside the church when the service began.

Sunday's demonstration also was held just a short distance away from the site of one 12 days earlier for Santos. Roselle's supporters said they couldn't get past Santos not following repeated commands to get on the ground, in which they believe led to his death.

"When it comes to law enforcement, these are unsung heroes ... who have gotten a bad rap in the last decade or so," said Chris Ford, of New Tripoli. "We're seeing less ability for civilians to stand up (and support police) and these officers go out every day and risk their lives every day."

Roxane Stout of Salisbury Township said her son Sgt. James Stout worked with Roselle in providing security to Dorney Park. Her son explained to her how difficult it is sometimes in police work to make split second decisions -- something that changed Roxane Stout's mind about the case, she said.

"People don't realize officers have a split second -- I tell them to blink their eyes. And can you make a decision that quick? Can you decide are you in danger or not?," she asked. "I don't think people understand what a split second means. And then have to come to your own conclusion."

Corey Fatzinger was one of the organizers of Sunday's rally. He said he merged his Facebook page with another Facebook page titled "Support Officer Johnathan Roselle and Our Men and Women in Blue." The woman who started that page declined to give her name, telling an NJ Advance Media photographer she feared a backlash of threats.

Fatzinger said he has two family members in law enforcement and that the incident hit home.

"I think what happened to the officer was wrong, he did his job," Fatzinger said. "That could have been my family member. If the guy (Santos) just got down on the ground and listened to the officer's commands, there would be no protest."

While there were no speakers at the rally, several carried signs and many shouted, applauded and gave the thumbs up to passers-by motorists honking horns. At least one patrol vehicle honked their horn at the group as it drove along Hamilton Boulevard.

Lisa Mearkle of Hummelstown, Dauphin County, echoed the difficulty in doing the job of a police officer, saying it's hard for someone to risk their life every day protecting the public.

"I believe the majority of police officers do their jobs the right way and have good intentions," she said. "I don't believe Officer Roselle went to work saying, 'I'm going to kill somebody.' His intentions were to go to work to do a good job for the community, be a good police officer and go home to his family at the end of the day."

The interfaith service for Santos was organized by Make the Road PA and other activist groups that have protested the shooting and called for an end to police brutality. Barbara Redmond, secretary of the NAACP Allentown Branch, said there was a good turnout in support of Santos' family Sunday.

Redmond, who was present at the rally in support of Roselle, called the event insensitive at the scene where Santos died. She said it should have been moved to another location in the township.

"It's very insensitive and disrespectful to the family. How would you feel if this was your family at this time?," she asked. "We have nothing against the police, but we're against police brutality."

Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @pamholzmann. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.A school bus carrying families returning to Newark from a picnic was involved in a crash and overturned late Saturday afternoon on the New Jersey Turnpike, according to state police.

Authorities aid 42 people, both adults and children were on the bus. The injuries of those taken to area hospitals were not life-threatening, police said.

The accident took place in the northbound lanes of the highway at Mile Post 79.9 around 5:25 p.m. in East Brunswick.

Bus crash NB on the @NJTurnpike at milepost 79.9. Lanes closures in both the local and express lanes. Tprs. on scene investigating. Still determining injuries to occupants of bus. No additional information available at this time. Will provide updates when available. #alert  NJSP - State Police (@NJSP) August 11, 2018

The bus was not being used for a school-related event.

On board were families returning to Newark after a day out at the Mayor's Family Reunion/Picnic in Black Bear Lake Country Club in Millstone, said Frank Baraff, communications director for the City of Newark.

The annual picnic is held for residents of his city by Newark Mayor Ras Baraka.

This was the fourth year for the event.

"There was a lot of kids crying and mostly everyone that got off the bus was bleeding," said Josh Keys, a witness. "The scene was a mess. But mostly everyone was able to walk out. Some people had to be carried out. I helped a few people out then I left because it started to get really hectic. When I left there was no police or ambulance on the scene. After driving North on the turnpike for five minutes I saw the police on the way."

State police had no immediate details on what caused the crash.

Newark officials said there were 36 people who had been on the bus who were taken to local hospitals.

Passengers were taken to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick and St. Peter's University and JFK Hospital in Edison where their injuries were being assessed, Baraff said. He said Baraka was at Robert Wood Johnson Hospital visiting the injured.

Baraff said of the 36 people taken to hospitals, 19 were a adults and 17 were under the age of 18.

Of the 17 patients taken to Robert Wood Johnson, five had been discharged as of late Saturday, Baraff said. The other 12 were listed in stable condition and still being evaluated.

The status of the 19 patients taken to St. Peters and JFK were not immediately available.

Photos taken by witnesses at the scene show the bus overturned on its side with police and rescue workers aiding those on board.

The bus was straddling the guard rail which separates the car and truck lanes on the northbound side of the turnpike.

Officials said they would provide further updates when they become available.

It was not clear whether the rainy weather played any role in the accident.

Sophie Nieto-Munoz contributed to this story. Bill Gallo Jr. may be reached at bgallo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow Bill Gallo Jr. on Twitter @bgallojr. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tipsJay Webber is falsely accusing his Democratic opponent for Congress, Mikie Sherrill, of saying she wants to abolish the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency.



His team tried to spread the same bogus story about Sen. Robert Menendez. Neither has said they want to abolish ICE. They simply want to reform our immigration policies. Big difference.



So take note: This is Webber's first real moment of stepping out in this race, to fill the 11th district seat of retiring Rodney Frelinghuysen, and he's flat-out lying.

This pro-Trump Republican gets big boost in fight to replace Frelinghuysen



It's impossible to say what voice Webber is hearing inside his head, but it is no doubt that of someone, anyone, he'd rather be running against than Sherrill, a Navy pilot and former federal prosecutor who has worked closely with Homeland Security.



"I do not support the abolishment of ICE," she said, more than a week ago. Could she have been any clearer?



Yet still, Webber is refusing to back down. Now he claims that because a speaker at a June rally against family separations - a student who took the podium after Sherrill had left - supported abolishing ICE, his opponent must have, too, and is flip-flopping.



Please. This is incredibly flimsy logic, which Webber's team also used to wrongly claim that Menendez supports abolishing ICE. It's evidence enough that the senator spoke at a rally where this slogan was chanted, Webber's spokesman said on Thursday - before learning that Menendez told a reporter on Monday that he does not want to abolish ICE, but reform it.



So do we. "Abolish ICE" is a slogan that even many of its own proponents don't literally support. It's a fringe position that makes no practical sense. The point is to enforce the law with some humanity, by changing immigration policy.



We should return to a rigorous focus on deporting serious criminals, not fathers dropping their kids off at school, or church volunteers who helped rebuild homes after Hurricane Sandy. We should crack down on employers who hire unauthorized immigrants, to discourage people from coming here illegally - not wrest toddlers from their parents as a deterrence strategy.



It's not ICE that should be abolished, along with its worthy prosecutions of gang members, sex traffickers and the like. It's this administration's worst policies, including an indiscriminate approach to deportations. We need to provide a path to citizenship for longtime residents, secure our borders, make ICE more efficient and sharpen its mission.



"I think enforcement should be humane, and I think serious criminals should be deported," Sherrill said. The trick, of course, is to strike the right balance. This is why she spoke out against family separations at the border.



"As a mother, I can imagine too well the trauma that it is causing. Not just to the parents and children, but to our border control agents," Sherrill tweeted, the same day that Laura Bush published her searing op-ed, saying this "breaks my heart."



"These ad hoc policies of administrations have not been good for the system," Sherrill reiterated to us. "It's not good for law enforcement officers, it's resulting in bad policy and a lot of uncertainty."



Webber didn't speak up until the Trump administration had already caved under intense public pressure, and announced that it would stop separating kids from their parents. Too little, too late.



Rather than trying to smear his opponent as an enemy of law enforcement, maybe he should rethink his partisan gamesmanship, and ask himself: Can't America do better?

Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook.V. S. Naipaul Biographical

Naipaul is Truly a Nobel Man in a Free State

by David Pryce-Jones

The Nobel Prize for literature has gone to someone who deserves it. Like the great masters of the past, V.S. Naipaul tells stories which show us ourselves and the reality we live in. His use of language is as precise as it is beautiful. Simple, strong words, with which to express the humanity of all of us.

Born in Trinidad in 1932, the descendant of indentured labourers shipped from India, this dispossessed child of the Raj has come on a long and marvellous journey. His upbringing familiarised him with every sort of deprivation, material and cultural. A scholarship to Oxford brought him to this country. Nothing sustained him afterwards except the determination, often close to despair, to become a writer. Against all likelihood, a spirit of pure comedy flows through his early books. It is a saving grace.

Footloose, he began to travel for long periods in India and Africa. It was at a time of decolonisation, when so many people the whole world over had to reassess their identity. Naipaul saw for himself the resulting turmoil of emotions, that collision of self-serving myth and guilt which make up todays bewildered world and prevents people from coming to terms with who they really are, and to know how to treat one another. On these travels he was exploring nothing less than the meaning of culture and history.

Victimhood might have been his central theme, granted his background. Not at all. That same determination to be a writer also liberated him from self-pity. Each one of us, his books declare, can choose to be a free individual. It is a matter of will and choice, and above all intellect. Critics have sometimes argued that people  in the Third World especially  are trapped in their culture and history without possibility of choice, and can only be free if others make them so. To them, V.S. Naipauls vision that they have to take responsibility for themselves can seem like some sort of First World privilege, and a conservative philosophy at that.

Quite the contrary: the absolute rejection of victimhood is necessary if we are to meet as we must on an equal footing, and it is no exaggeration to say that he has shifted public opinion towards this understanding as no other writer has done. Courage and persistence were required to hold a belief quite so unfashionable in recent years, but it is this belief that has made Naipaul the universal writer and humanist that he is.

The comic spirit is still present, though submerged in his later books beneath a darkening sense of tragedy. Naipaul has written about slavery, revolution, guerrillas, corrupt politicians, the poor and the oppressed, interpreting the rages so deeply rooted in our societies. Long before others, he began to report on the irrational frenzy loosed these past two decades by religion in the Islamic world from Iran to Indonesia and Pakistan. This phenomenon too was a retreat from history into self-serving myth. Self-pity possesses Islamic fundamentalists so absolutely that they are able to close out everything else. Yet Naipaul also observed with profound insight that even the most fanaticised among them know that the West will always be there setting the objective standards, and that they can do nothing about that. They are to be pitied for rage so helpless.

In himself, Naipaul is a private man, who lives in the country in order to have the solitude for thinking and writing. Everything that has ever happened to him is pigeonholed with exactitude in his memory. Formidably well-read, he can quote books he read years ago, and all the conversations he has had. Melancholy grips him at the spectacle of the steady grinding down of the old world as he put it, and he might complain to an interviewer that he is living in a plebeian culture that celebrates itself.

Other writers born abroad have settled here and enriched our literature, but there has never been one like Naipaul. His personal story is moving; his achievement extraordinary. There is a great moral to his lifes work, that the human comedy will come out all right because, when all is said and done, intellect is more powerful than vicissitude and wickedness.

The writer is the author of The Closed Circle: An Interpretation of the Arabs.

Whos Who 2000 Entry

NAIPAUL, Sir Vidiadhar Surajprasad, (Sir Vidia), Kt 1990; author; b. 17 August 1932; m. 1st, 1955, Patricia Ann Hale (d. 1996); 2nd, 1996, Nadira Khannum Alvi. Educ: Queens Royal Coll., Trinidad; University Coll., Oxford (Hon. Fellow 1983). Hon. Dr Letters Columbia Univ., NY, 1981; Hon. LittD. Cambridge, 1983; London, 1988; Oxford, 1992. British Literature Prize, 1993. Publications: The Middle Passage, 1962; An Area of Darkness, 1964; The Loss of El Dorado, 1969; The Overcrowded Barracoon, and other articles, 1972; India: a wounded civilisation, 1977; The Return of Eva Peron, 1980; Among the Believers, 1981; Finding the Centre, 1984; A Turn in the South, 1989; India: a million mutinies now, 1990; Beyond Belief: Islamic Excursions, 1998; Letters, 1999; novels: The Mystic Masseur, 1957; (John Llewelyn Rhys Memorial Prize, 1958); The Suffrage of Elvira, 1958; Miguel Street, 1959; (Somerset Maugham Award, 1961); A House for Mr Biswas, 1961; Mr Stone and the Knights Companion, 1963, (Hawthornden Prize, 1964); The Mimic Men, 1967 (W.H. Smith Award 1968); A Flag on the Island, 1967; In a Free State, 1971 (Booker Prize, 1971); Guerrillas, 1975; A Bend in the River, 1979; The Enigma of Arrival, 1987; A Way in the World, 1994. Address: c/o Gillon Aitken Associates Ltd, 29 Fernshaw Road, London SW10 OTG, UK.

From Les Prix Nobel. The Nobel Prizes 2001, Editor Tore Frangsmyr, [Nobel Foundation], Stockholm, 2002

This autobiography/biography was written at the time of the award and later published in the book series Les Prix Nobel/ Nobel Lectures/The Nobel Prizes. The information is sometimes updated with an addendum submitted by the Laureate.

V. S. Naipaul died on 11 August 2018.

Copyright  The Nobel Foundation 2001

To cite this section

MLA style: V. S. Naipaul  Biographical. NobelPrize.org. Nobel Prize Outreach AB 2021. Fri. 29 Oct 2021. <https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/literature/2001/naipaul/biographical/>Press release

English Swedish German

The Permanent Secretary

Press release

11 October 2001

The Nobel Prize in Literature 2001

The Nobel Prize in Literature for 2001 is awarded to the British writer, born in Trinidad, V. S. Naipaul

for having united perceptive narrative and incorruptible scrutiny in works that compel us to see the presence of suppressed histories.

V. S. Naipaul is a literary circumnavigator, only ever really at home in himself, in his inimitable voice. Singularly unaffected by literary fashion and models he has wrought existing genres into a style of his own, in which the customary distinctions between fiction and non-fiction are of subordinate importance.

Naipauls literary domain has extended far beyond the West Indian island of Trinidad, his first subject, and now encompasses India, Africa, America from south to north, the Islamic countries of Asia and, not least, England. Naipaul is Conrads heir as the annalist of the destinies of empires in the moral sense: what they do to human beings. His authority as a narrator is grounded in his memory of what others have forgotten, the history of the vanquished.

The farcical yarns in his first work, The Mystic Masseur, and the short stories in Miguel Street with their blend of Chekhov and calypso established Naipaul as a humorist and a portrayer of street life. He took a giant stride with A House for Mr. Biswas, one of those singular novels that seem to constitute their own complete universes, in this case a miniature India on the periphery of the British Empire, the scene of his fathers circumscribed existence. In allowing peripheral figures their place in the momentousness of great literature, Naipaul reverses normal perspectives and denies readers at the centre their protective detachment. This principle was made to serve in a series of novels in which, despite the increasingly documentary tone, the characters did not therefore become less colourful. Fictional narratives, autobiography and documentaries have merged in Naipauls writing without it always being possible to say which element dominates.

In his masterpiece The Enigma of Arrival Naipaul visits the reality of England like an anthropologist studying some hitherto unexplored native tribe deep in the jungle. With apparently short-sighted and random observations he creates an unrelenting image of the placid collapse of the old colonial ruling culture and the demise of European neighbourhoods.

Naipaul has drawn attention to the novels lack of universality as a form, that it presupposes an inviolate human world of the kind that has been shattered for conquered peoples. He began to experience the inadequacy of fiction while he was working on The Loss of El Dorado, in which after extensive study of the archives he described the appalling colonial history of Trinidad. He found that he had to cling to the authenticity of the details and the voices and abstain from mere fictionalisation while at the same time continuing to render his material in the form of literature. His travel books allow witnesses to testify at every turn, not least in his powerful description of the eastern regions of the Islamic world, Beyond Belief. The authors empathy finds expression in the acuity of his ear.

Naipaul is a modern philosophe, carrying on the tradition that started originally with Lettres persanes and Candide. In a vigilant style, which has been deservedly admired, he transforms rage into precision and allows events to speak with their own inherent irony.

The Swedish Academy

To cite this section

MLA style: Press release. NobelPrize.org. Nobel Prize Outreach AB 2021. Fri. 29 Oct 2021. <https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/literature/2001/press-release/>Nearly two years ago, Brennon Jones told his wife Tasha, "I want to go cut hair for the homeless." The next day, Jones hit the streets of Philadelphia with scissors and sprays in tow, dolling out styles and trims to the city's homeless population.

It was supposed to be a one time thing, but a video of Jones' philanthropic barbering went viral, kicking off the Haircuts4Homeless initiative.

Brennon and Tasha have been on tour ever since.

Most recently, they could be found in New Orleans on Sunday (August 12) underneath the overpass at Canal Street and Claiborne Avenue giving haircuts to homeless men and women. The homeless population living in that area warmly accepted the invitation to be professionally styled and pampered. Haircuts 4 Homeless, which is sponsored by Maestro's Classic barbershop out of Bristol, Pennsylvania, set up three stations and served about 40 homeless men and women throughout the day.

Some requested just a trim, while others asked for the removal of inches-long beards or the styling of elaborate braids. The hair stylists and barbers delivered for six hours as cars sped by and sirens wailed from the nearby University Medical Center. By 3 p.m., they not only had given dozens of fresh haircuts, but also bags filled with toiletries, socks and underwear.

Anthony Spadafora, the brand architect for Maestro's Classic, noticed one man with a sign asking for work. He offered him a gig sweeping up hair and the man happily accepted.

At one point, Justin LeBlanc, a New Orleans native, stopped by to drop off cases of water for the stylists and their customers under the overpass.

Haircuts 4 Homeless heads to Trenton, New Jersey, next. Jones said the goal is to show the homeless that people still care about them. It is an added bonus if the haircuts help get the men and women back on their feet.

"My very first haircut, his name was Braden. I cut his hair on 15th & Walnut (streets). A few days later, I went to check up on him and he wasn't there. I was hoping nothing bad happened to him. When we did catch up weeks later, he got offered a full-time job," Jones previously told CBS Philly.

At least 60 homeless men and women died in New Orleans last year, most of them on the streets. The figure was a 13-percent jump from 53 homeless people who died in 2016, according to a new count that catalogued last year's deaths in abandoned homes and cars, under elevated highways and in motels, shelters and hospitals.

A new, low-barrier, 100-bed homeless shelter opened in 2017 on the second-floor of the old Veterans Administration hospital downtown on Gravier Street.

Although generally viewed as a positive step, some worry the shelter's success will be limited because it plans to open without accessible substance abuse and mental health services at the same location -- a one-stop-shop approach that has succeeded in San Antonio and Houston. Without those services, some think New Orleans' new shelter could become just a place to sweep homeless men and women out of the view of tourists and locals.

NOLA.com | Times-Picayune's Katharine Sayre and Richard Webster contributed to this story.Democrats are a good bet to retake the U.S. House of Representatives when midterm elections are decided in November, but it won't mean they have fixed the problems and perceptions that cost them big with voters in the 2014 and 2016 cycles. They may even be getting worse.

Democrats were once known as the party of rural families, union members and the white working class. It is now associated with the coastal elites, nouveau socialists, the "resistance" and all manner of identity politics.

The point is that Democrats have turned their backs on the voters who once lifted them to consistent congressional majorities and occasionally into the White House. They may win in dozens of districts scattered across the country in the fall, it may even be a "blue wave" election. But they still haven't come to terms with the fact that thousands of their former supporters believe that a wealthy, former reality TV star, casino mogul and New York real estate developer understands America's working class better than Democrats.

Whatever the Russians did, it was Republican Donald Trump's connection to the "heartland of America" workers and families that pushed him to an Electoral College victory over Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton in 2016.

Perhaps no anecdote better explains the Democrats' failure than New York Times reporter Amy Chozick's story about the Clinton campaign's struggle to figure out how to talk about the middle class, let alone talk to them. And forget about talking for them.

In her book, "Chasing Hillary," Chozick says that Clinton "seemed like Rip Van Winkle, awake again after her stint as secretary of state to find a vastly different country. She'd missed the rise of the Tea Party. She'd missed the Occupy Wall Street movement and the rage over health care and bank bailouts and the 1 percent."

So when her advisers told her that "people no longer wanted to be called middle class -- a data point that seemed a fundamental shift in the American psyche and as clear a sign as any that there was something stirring in this election -- Hillary Clinton saw only a linguistic challenge."

Her high-paid consultants finally decided to label the 121 million Americans who were technically middle class as "Everyday Americans," which Chozick notes sounded a lot like "Walmart's Everyday Low Prices."

"'Everyday Americans need a champion and I want to be that champion,' Mrs. Clinton repeated this corporate catchphrase for several months until her campaign tested 84 possible replacement slogans," Chozick reports.

"Basket of deplorables," Clinton's own linguistic creation, rolled easily from her tongue but she had to call in focus groups to come up with a term to woo voters that had traditionally been the core of the Democratic Party.

And it's not just semantics. Democrats had occupied the White House for 16 of the 24 years leading up to the 2016 elections. In four of those years they had control of both houses of Congress.

But in that time they failed to stop the decline in working-class wages or provide much hope for economic security in the future. Polls began to show more and more working class voters expressing concern that their children's lives would be worse than their own. Democratic Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama both pushed for free trade agreements that cost millions of blue-collar workers their jobs.

People felt betrayed.

The Democratic Party still doesn't seem to understand how deep the resentment is rooted. Instead of healing rifts, the party is flirting with the ideas of the Democratic socialists and a Clinton-like delusion that Trump is eminently beatable just because he is Trump.

Do Trump and Republicans truly have the middle class' interests at heart? The real question is whether middle class voters think so.

An NBC/Wall Street Journal poll released last month found that from 2016 to 2018, the percentage of voters describing Democratic candidates as "in the mainstream" fell from 48 percent to 33 percent. The percentage describing Democratic candidates as "out of step with most Americans' thinking" rose from 42 percent to 56 percent.

Over the same period, the perception of Republican candidates remained virtually unchanged. About 31 percent of GOP candidates were described as "in the mainstream" in 2016 compared to 33 percent in 2018. The survey found 59 percent of Republican candidates "out of step" in 2016 and 56 percent this year.

Voters don't seem to be all that crazy about the candidates from either party, but it is clear the mistrust of Democrats is growing, especially on the question of whether they are "out of step with most Americans' thinking."

A victory in November could be both metaphorically and statistically hollow if they continue to ignore all those voters in the middle.

Tim Morris is an opinions columnist at NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune. He can be reached at tmorris@nola.com. Follow him on Twitter @tmorris504.The exercise is as old as the Republic, but the first thing you need to understand about redistricting is that hot-water cornbread is as ubiquitous in north Louisiana as etouffee is in the south, says Rick Gallot, the Ruston Democratic representatNorth Augusta, SC (29841)

Today

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 51F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 51F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph.Roseburg, OR (97470)

Today

Cloudy. Some light rain will fall throughout the day. High 56F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Cloudy this evening with showers after midnight. Low 49F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.

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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.Written when he was not yet 30, the book cemented Mr. Naipauls standing among the most important writers of his generation; writing in The Times in 1971, Nadine Gordimer, the South African novelist and later a fellow Nobel laureate, called it magnificent. It was eventually published by the Modern Library of 20th-century classics.

Image Mr. Naipauls autobiographical fourth novel, published in 1961 and written before he was 30, cemented his standing among the most important writers of his generation.

In 1955 Mr. Naipaul married Patricia Hale, an Englishwoman he had met at Oxford. The two were extremely close  she read all his work in progress  but their relationship was puzzling to outsiders, many of whom saw her as self-effacing and subservient. Although she often traveled with Mr. Naipaul, Ms. Hale is mentioned only once in his books, and not by name. The couple never had children.

His childlessness, he told The New Yorker in 1994, really comes from a detestation of the squalling background of children that I grew up with in my extended family. He also confessed that he had been a great prostitute man in the early years of his marriage and acknowledged that in the 1970s he had fallen in love with an Anglo-Argentine woman who became his longtime mistress. After Ms. Hale died of cancer in 1996, Mr. Naipaul dedicated a new edition of A House for Mr. Biswas to her memory.

To Explore the World

Mr. Naipaul began writing nonfiction in the 1960s. I thought nonfiction gave one a sense to explore the world, the other world, the world one didnt know fully, he said in 2005. I thought if I didnt have this resource of nonfiction I would have dried up perhaps. Id have come to the end of my material.

For his first nonfiction book, The Middle Passage (1962), Mr. Naipaul returned to the West Indies. He charted inter-island racial tensions in Trinidad; analyzed the cultural mimicry he saw as central to colonial identity; questioned how the region, then on the brink of self-rule, would govern itself; and observed that the smaller Caribbean islands in the name of tourism, are selling themselves into a new slavery.

Some found his portrayal distasteful. Derek Walcott, the Caribbean-born poet and winner of the 1992 Nobel Prize in Literature, called him V. S. Nightfall in a poem, and said his prose was scarred by his repulsion towards Negroes and the self-disfiguring sneer that is praised for its probity. Yet Walcott was pleased when Mr. Naipaul won the Nobel Prize. It will mean something for the region, he told The Guardian.

In 1964 Mr. Naipaul published the first of three travelogues about India, An Area of Darkness. He found that in spite of his Indian origins, he did not belong there at all.Ms. Steier sometimes clutters this staging with an excess of carnival antics. Still, the production offers a deeply personal reading of a staple without crossing a line and imposing an interpretation upon it.

That more ideological approach has been the province, his many critics have said over the years, of the avant-garde director Hans Neuenfels, now 77. Ive certainly seen some agenda-driven Neuenfels productions, including his Salzburg debut in 2000, a staging of Cosi Fan Tutte riddled with kinky sexual play and leather. The experience led the soprano Karita Mattila to complain in a later interview of feeling like a beaten dog after every performance. But Mr. Neuenfelss new staging of Tchaikovskys Pique Dame, also presented at the main festival hall, despite some baffling touches, shows a compelling director in his element.

In a conversation with Yvonne Gebauer, the productions dramaturge, printed in the program, Mr. Neuenfels makes some penetrating comments about why the main character, Herman, an officer of no means, spends his time in gambling houses without actually gambling. Herman is frustrated by the randomness of existence, Mr. Neuenfels says, whereby people born to privilege enjoy the freedom and power only money can provide. Herman becomes obsessed with the randomness of gambling, where perhaps he could prevail if only he could game the system. That chance comes when he hears of the aged Countess (the operas Queen of Spades), who is thought to possess a winning formula: the secret of the three cards.

Herman is almost saved by falling in love with Liza, a young noblewoman engaged to the handsome, honorable Prince Yeletsky. Love involves a real choice between two people; there is nothing random about it. But Hermans obsession wins out, which drives the disgraced Liza to suicide and Herman to the gambling table, where, having wrested the secret from the Countess, or so he deludes himself, he wins big, then loses everything, and shoots himself.

Employing stark, somewhat abstract sets and costumes that blend realistic and surreal touches, the production plumbs the teeming yet murky emotions of the opera. Mr. Neuenfels draws gripping performances from a strong cast. The tenor Brandon Jovanovich brings heroic vocal heft and tormented intensity to Herman. The mix of earthy colorings and vulnerability in the singing of soprano Evgenia Muraveva are ideal for Liza. She is a gambler too, in that she rejects a safe life with an adoring prince to take a chance on passion with the desperate Herman, which turns out to be a bad bet. The baritone Igor Golovatenko makes a noble, rich-voiced Yeletsky. The renowned mezzo-soprano Hanna Schwarz, at 74, still claims the stage and sings with dramatic urgency as the faded Countess.

As usual, Mr. Neuenfelss interpretive slants come through the most in the way he lumps groups of people together during episodes with chorus. In the opening scene some young boys are rolled out in cages, like pets, until they emerge wearing matching silvery uniforms and wigs: They are being groomed to become soldiers, the staging touch emphasizes. The rowdy children are tended to by chortling nannies in fluffy dresses who have bulging breasts, ready for nursing, hanging from their necks. If obvious, the images are certainly theatrical.

The Vienna Philharmonic sounded glorious under the dynamic conducting of Mariss Jansons. And the impressive choristers proved ready to follow an imposing director wherever he wanted to take them dramatically. It was almost over as soon as it began.

A small group of white nationalists marched through downtown Washington on their way to a rally in front of the White House, on the anniversary of their divisive Unite the Right march in Charlottesville, Va. They were met by thousands of counterdemonstrators denouncing racism and white supremacy.

And then the white nationalists were gone.

In Charlottesville, organizers and participants from last years counterdemonstrations there massed in a park. With no sign of white supremacists there, tensions were confined to interactions between the left-leaning protesters and the heavy deployment of police officers.Becky Painter and Gavin Baker were married Aug. 11 at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. Dr. Susan Weaver, a friend of the couple, was granted permission by the State of Massachusetts to officiate.

The bride, 27, and groom, 42, met at Fidelity Investments in Boston, where she is an analyst and portfolio manager and where he had been a portfolio manager until September 2017.

Mrs. Baker graduated from Swarthmore College, where she was a McCabe scholar.

She is a daughter of Donna D. Painter and Jeff S. Painter of Swarthmore, Pa. The brides mother works there as a director in IBMs distribution industry group. She previously served on the Philadelphia mayors transition team for economic development. Her father, who worked in Swarthmore, retired from IBM, where he worked in technology sales after being a management consultant specializing in health care.

Mr. Baker graduated cum laude from Dartmouth.

He is the son of Suzanne B. Baker and Jan Baker of Garrison, N.Y. The grooms mother retired as a law professor at the University of Houston. She later served as the head of the appellate practice group and member of the management committee at Beirne, Maynard & Parsons, a law firm, also in Houston. His father, who worked in New York, retired as a bankruptcy lawyer and partner in Latham and Watkins, for which he also served as a global chair of the firms corporate restructuring practice.Emily Jane Haug and Jonathan de Perio Hernandez were married Aug. 11. The Rev. Sean M. Wallace performed the ceremony at St. Pauls Episcopal Church in Brooklyn.

Mrs. Munro-Hernandez, 35, is the chairwoman of the history department at the Convent of the Sacred Heart, a private school for girls in Manhattan. She graduated from the University of Washington and received a masters degree in ancient history and Mediterranean archaeology from the University of California, Berkeley.

She is the daughter of Hideko Munro of Olympia, Wash., and Charles W. Munro of Kent, Wash. The brides father retired from the United States Army, where he attained the rank of first sergeant and served at the end of his career in the 10th Mountain Division, at Fort Drum in New York. He now is a project manager in Tukwila, Wash., for Boeing and works on its contributions to the F-22 Raptor, a fighter jet developed for the United States Air Force.

Mr. Munro-Hernandez, 30, is a staff lawyer specializing in housing matters at the Legal Aid Society in the Bronx. He graduated from Seton Hall University and received both a law degree and a masters degree in environmental law and policy from Vermont Law School.Erica Nicole Cardwell and Zhaleh Ligaya Afshar are to be married Aug. 12 at the Brooklyn Society for Ethical Culture. Tiffany Lenoi Jones, a Universal Life minister, and a friend of the couple, is to officiate, with Pharon Ford, another friend, leading the couple in their vows during a ceremony that is to incorporate Christian, Muslim, African-American, Iranian and Filipino traditions.

Ms. Cardwell (left), 36, is a writer and an adjunct English professor at the Borough of Manhattan Community College. In September, she is to also begin working as a part-time instructor in the civic engagement and social Justice Department at the New School in Manhattan. She has written art criticism for the Believer, a bimonthly literature, arts and culture magazine based in Las Vegas. She is also on the editorial board of the Radical Teacher Journal, a socialist, feminist and anti-racist journal dedicated to the theory and practice of education. She graduated from Marymount of Manhattan College and received a Master of Fine Arts in creative nonfiction from Sarah Lawrence College.

She is a daughter of Archie B. Cardwell Jr. of State Line, Pa., and the late Willarena L. Cardwell. Ms. Cardwells father retired as the deputy director for the United States Army Small Business Programs at Fort Detrick, Md. Her mother was a teacher at Parkway Elementary School in Frederick, Md.

Ms. Afshar, 34, is based in Brooklyn as a core trainer for the Anti-Oppression Resource and Training Alliance, a national worker-owned cooperative of facilitators devoted to movements for social justice and a solidarity economy. She helps organizations, mainly in New York City, work on social justice issues. She graduated with honors from McGill University and received a master of public administration from N.Y.U.Jennifer Ann Mettler and James Francis Hunt were married Aug. 11 at the home of the brides parents in Rancho Santa Fe, Calif. Richard P. Grove, a Universal Life minister, officiated.

Mrs. Hunt, 34, was until January a director for licensing and merchandising at Cherokee Global Brands, a manager of clothing and footwear brands in Los Angeles. She graduated from Southern Methodist University.

She is the daughter of Susan T. Mettler and Robert L. Mettler. The brides father retired as the chief executive of the Western region of Macys department store; his office was in San Francisco.

Mr. Hunt, 37, is an independent commodities trader in Manhattan Beach, Calif. He graduated from Western Michigan University.An American diplomat involved in an effort by the Trump administration to prevent the introduction of a breast-feeding resolution at a global health conference this spring denied making threats to Ecuador, the country that initially sponsored the resolution.

In an interview, Todd C. Chapman, the United States ambassador to Ecuador, said that allegations reported by The New York Times on July 8 that he threatened Ecuadorean officials with trade sanctions and withdrawal of some military assistance were patently false and inaccurate.

The article, based on interviews with three Ecuadorean officials who declined to be named for fear of losing their jobs, said that Mr. Chapman had made such threats in an effort to get the country to drop the resolution. Before publication of the article, the United States embassy in Quito declined two requests from the Times to make Mr. Chapman available for an interview. The State Department had also declined to comment, saying it could not discuss private diplomatic conversations.

In his recent interview with the Times, Mr. Chapman said he was asked by the Department of Health and Human Services, the agency leading the negotiations at the World Health Assembly in Geneva, to meet with officials in Ecuador to raise concerns that H.H.S. had about the timing and substance of the resolution that Ecuador wanted to introduce. He said that during his meetings, with the Ecuadorean minister of health and the acting minister of foreign affairs, there was no mention of trade sanctions or military assistance.LOS ANGELES  Going into the weekend, The Meg looked like a big, fat belly flop for Warner Bros.

Surveys indicated minimal interest in the killer shark movie, which cost at least $200 million to make and market. Rival studios snickered that Warners new marketing chief had made a rookie mistake in backing The Meg with a campy ad campaign: Make a joke of your own noncomedic movie, the Hollywood conventional wisdom holds, and ticket buyers will stay home.

Guess who is getting the last laugh? The Meg, a brassy, brainless, computer-generated mishmash, took in $44.5 million at North American theaters  roughly 120 percent more than most analysts had expected. The Meg collected an additional $97 million overseas, with China contributing half of that total.

The Meg was co-financed and co-produced by Gravity Pictures, a Chinese company, and designed to sell tickets in China. The movie co-stars a Chinese actress, Li Bingbing, and the 70-foot shark at its center threatens a crowded Chinese beach in one action sequence. The Meg stars Jason Statham and was directed by Jon Turteltaub, whose last big-budget movie was the 2010 flop The Sorcerers Apprentice.HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON, N.Y.  No one was in the doghouse, not even Quigley and Snowflake, two Pomeranians on a car trip with their owners, Alan Ruta and Jennifer Wright of Cambridge, N.Y.

Quigley and Snowflake sniffed the doghouse  actually, there are two large, cream-colored doghouses next to the front doors of the Ardsley rest stop on the New York State Thruway, and they checked out both.

As Quigley noticed  or was it Snowflake?  these are not conventional doghouses. They are made not of wood but of powder-coated aluminum. They are air-conditioned. They have internet connectivity, although that is for owners to pay 30 cents a minute so the dogs can lounge inside, not for the dogs to watch cat videos or anything. The idea is to park mans best friends in a comfortable place while their owners go where they cannot  into the rest-stop building, with the usual no pets allowed signs on the doors.

These are, um, the dog days of summer. A dog cannot be left in a car. Some people do, and also leave the engine running and the air-conditioning on (and maybe worry that Rover would slide behind the wheel and drive off, as in the Walt Disney comedy The Shaggy Dog). But mostly, there is the question: Whats a dog owner to do?Malcolm X Boulevard in Harlem around 125th Street is now lined with artisanal French restaurants, wood-fired pizza joints and brunch places serving kale salad. A new Whole Foods supermarket shines from the corner. On Sundays, luxury tour buses idle at curbs, unloading foreign tourists who want to experience a gospel church service or a neighborhood meal.

So it is an apt time to remember what lies behind the rapidly changing streetscape, particularly the legacy of the man for whom the boulevard is named. That is the mission of Katie Merriman, a 32-year-old Ph.D. student from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, who gives free walking tours about the Muslim history of Harlem about five times a year to help preserve a legacy that is at risk of being forgotten.

On the last Sunday in July, about 30 people gathered on a warm morning to walk through the Harlem streets for nearly three hours, to visit Muslim-related sites past and present. Many of the places Ms. Merriman pointed out were already gone or transformed beyond recognition. The site of the African National Memorial Bookstore, where Malcolm X studied black history into the night, is now a 19-story state office building. A local mosque, Masjid Aqsa, that served the areas African Muslim immigrants, was pushed out in 2012 after its rent more than tripled, and its former site is now a vacant lot. (Two years later, it found a new home in East Harlem.)To the Editor:

I guarantee that when the inevitable economic downturn comes, President Trump will refuse to own it. He takes credit only for good things, even if he has nothing to do with them. He would claim credit for the sun rising each morning if he could.

Mr. Trump will undoubtedly blame someone else: the Federal Reserve, the Chinese, the North Koreans, the European Union, the Democrats, Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, Nancy Pelosi, Chuck Schumer. On second thought, maybe even the Russians. But not Donald Trump.

He must have a plaque on his desk: The buck stops somewhere else. Anywhere else but here.

Daniel Fink

Beverly Hills, Calif.Online advertising companies have struggled for several years as Google and Facebook solidified their grip on digital dollars, slowing revenue for the others.

Now, many ad tech companies and their investors are throwing up their hands.

Venture capital money going into ad tech start-ups is falling sharply, helping push a wave of consolidation. Financing reached a high of $2.92 billion in 2015, but this year, it is on pace to be less than half that, according to CB Insights, a financial research firm.

The number of independent ad tech companies has fallen 21 percent since 2013, to 185 as of the second quarter of 2018, according to LUMA Partners, which analyzes digital media and marketing.

And the pace of contraction has been quickening considerably. This summer has seen a flurry of activity, with AT&T buying the online ad exchange company AppNexus in June, and the private equity firm Vista Equity Partners acquiring a majority stake in Integral Ad Science the same month. In early July, the Interpublic Group acquired the data aggregator Acxioms marketing division for $2.3 billion.KABUL, Afghanistan  Afghan government forces lost more than 200 officers and soldiers in fighting over the past three days as Taliban insurgents launched sustained attacks on four different fronts.

The hardest-hit area was the southeastern city of Ghazni, where more than 100 police officers and soldiers had been killed by Sunday, a hospital official said, and the insurgents appeared to be in control of most of the strategic city aside from a few important government facilities.

Ninety miles west, in Ghazni Province, the Taliban seized control of the Ajristan District. The elite army commando unit that had been defending the district disappeared for two days, and their superiors were uncertain of their fate. When they found out on Sunday, estimates of the dead ranged from 40 to 100. Twenty-two survivors were carried to safety on donkeys by rescuers who found them lost in the mountains.

In Faryab Province, 250 miles to the northwest, an isolated Afghan National Army base of 100 soldiers lost more than half of its men in a Taliban assault that ended early Sunday morning. The defenders said they did not expect to last another night.

And 275 miles east of the Faryab base, in northern Baghlan Province, at a base at Jangal Bagh on the strategic highway between Pul-i-Kumri and Kunduz, insurgents killed seven policemen and nine soldiers and captured three other soldiers on Saturday.

With the tempo of the Afghan conflict steadily increasing, it was a bad few days for the Afghan government. The fighting has demonstrated that the insurgents have a capacity for carrying out ambitious operations on multiple fronts, while the government has struggled to respond on a single front in Ghazni.

Baz Mohammad Hemat, the director of the Ghazni Hospital, said by telephone that 113 bodies had been taken to the hospital, along with 142 people who had been wounded, most of them in uniform.

Were running out of hospital rooms; we are using corridors and available space everywhere, Mr. Hemat said. Fighting is quite close to the hospital. The situation is really bad here. Were receiving more and more wounded and dead every hour.

The death toll appeared sure to rise, with numerous reports of bodies left unrecovered around the city. The fall of Ghazni, if it happens, would be the Talibans most important victory yet, as the city is on the main north-south highway, and its capture would effectively cut off the capital, Kabul, and the north from the insurgents Pashtun homeland in the south.She waited outside her home for the monk, who arrived for the offering at his regular time, chanting a short blessing before leaving for the next house. As his alms bowl was filled with bags of food and packaged drinks, he transferred its contents to a bucket carried by an assistant. Within 10 minutes, the bucket was filled to the brim with culinary offerings.

I dont really know about obesity in monks, Ms. Vilawan said. But I do realize that the monk who comes at 6 oclock is pretty heavy, and his health seems to have deteriorated lately.

Working with the Thai government and religious authorities, Professor Jongjit manages the Healthy Monk-Healthy Nutrition Project. Funded by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, an autonomous government agency, its goal is to improve monks lifestyles through education about nutrition and physical fitness.

Its pilot program in 2016 involved 82 monks at temples and a monastic college, and its results were positive, with weight loss and lowered cholesterol levels recorded.

Now the project publishes recipe booklets that Buddhist devotees can use to make healthy and inexpensive meals for monks. Some suggestions include brown rice with a small amount of protein and lots of vegetables. (While traditional Thai food mixes a little meat or fish with plentiful vegetables, modern cuisine uses much more fat and sugar.)

The project encourages monks to keep a log of their daily physical activities. Exercise, something as simple as walking around the temple for at least 40 minutes a day, can make up for the quiet pace of their monastic duties.Sundays agreement potentially opens the sea for underwater oil and natural gas pipelines, which Russia had opposed, ostensibly on environmental grounds, though it has built such pipes in the Black and Baltic Seas.

Only nations whose seabed territories are crossed by the pipelines would have to agree to lay the new pipelines, the convention says, though all five states could have a say on environmental protections. A proposed trans-Caspian oil pipeline could ease exports from the Kashagan oil field in Kazakhstan, which is managed by Exxon.

Starting in the Clinton administration, the United States has pushed for energy, transport and trade across the sea and through Azerbaijan and Georgia, a route known as the Southern Corridor. The diplomatic strategy greased American oil company deals in the Caspian Basin.

An effort in the administration of President George W. Bush to put military might behind the policy by expanding the North Atlantic Treaty Organization to Georgia became a backdrop for a war between Georgia and Russia in 2008, in an indication of the seriousness of Russias intent to control the region.

Russia may have agreed to finally resolve the seas status now, after three decades of objections, not because of continued Western pressure but because of rising trade competition from Chinas One Belt One Road policy, according to Shota Utiashvili, a senior fellow at the Rondeli Foundation for Strategic and International Studies in Georgia.

Trade in and out of Central Asia had been diverted not to Russia but to Iran, with Chinese backing, he said. And some Central Asian energy exports have not gone to Russia, but instead east to China because of difficulties exporting west over the Caspian Sea, he added.MOSCOW  From Moscow to Washington to capitals in between, the past few days have showcased the way President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia nimbly exploits differences between the United States and its allies.

Yet recent events have also highlighted the downside to Mr. Putins geopolitical escapades and accentuated where he falls short on matters of vital importance to both himself, and ordinary Russians.

President Trump had barely finished catapulting a belligerent tweet and new sanctions at Turkey on Friday before Mr. Putin was working the phone with his Turkish counterpart, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

It was vintage Putin, showcasing his seizure of any opportunity to divide the West.

But at the same time, the Western sanctions he hoped to get lifted have only been tightened this past week, pushing the ruble down to its lowest levels in years.Utility workers stumbled upon a mammoth piece of prehistoric history last month when a long bone fragment was found during the North 2 Utility Expansion Project.

The bone, measuring just about one foot in length and 10 inches in width, is believed to be the remnants of a large extinct trunked-mammal, most likely a mastodon or woolly mammoth.

Its a fairly large bone fragment and is unlikely to be the only bone in the area, said Ryan Franklin, assistant director of the Archeological and Historical Conservancy Inc., which was called to assess the fossil bone discovery.

Their field assessment states that the bone likely came from a horizon of gray clayey sand below several more superficial horizons of fine poorly drained sands and clays.

The bone recovered was part of the distal end of the humerus, or, the bone in the arm that runs from the shoulder to the elbow. This specific fossil would have connected the humerus to the elbow.

The fragment is considered to be at least 12,000 years old, predating human life in Florida, though Franklin said, Dating is difficult.

The report continues that finding fossils of this type are seldom found in isolation, and that there is likely a larger fossil bed in the immediate vicinity with the fossilized remains of this and other animals.

It is not uncommon to find these fossils in the Caloosahatchee River area, the assessment stated.

There are only two recorded sites in Lee County. This is a likely result of the sites being under-reported, rather than not existing, since most fossil beds are found during deeper excavations (quarrying, deep utility, and lake excavations), the report detailed.

State statutes involving fossils only cover lands owned or leased by the state. If the land is not state owned, no additional assessment or stoppage is required.

The AHC works in cultural resource assessments across south Florida, with their typical research being in the archeological field.

The bone fragment will be donated to the Cape Coral Historical Society.

 Connect with this reporter on Twitter: @haddad_cjLONDON  The police in Manchester, England, were investigating a shooting that injured at least 10 people early Sunday in the Moss Side area as an attempted murder, and officers were working on the premise that a shotgun had been used, an official said.

The shooting unfolded in the predawn hours, shortly after revelers attended the first day of an annual Caribbean carnival in the area.

It is unclear at this stage what the motive, what the reason behind this attack, was, the chief superintendent of the Greater Manchester Police, Wasim Chaudhry, said at a news conference Sunday afternoon.

However, weve got to be clear, it would be obvious to any particular person that discharging a firearm in a large crowd like this is completely reckless, he said.On the morning of Jan. 17, he entered the farmhouse.

Just after sunset, the Falcons team alerted General Falih that something was wrong.

Munaf called their usually stern father, who broke down.

I had never seen him cry before, Munaf said. He kept pleading with me to save his son, but there was nothing I could do.

Because Tarmiya was an Islamic State stronghold, it took three days for Iraqs security forces to plan and mount a rescue operation. A combined army and police force raided the farmhouse. One Iraqi officer was killed.

When the building was cleared, there was no sign of Captain Sudani.

For six months, the Falcons gathered evidence. They discovered the bugs in the Kia truck. Informers suggested that the jihadists had taken Captain Sudani to Qaim, an Iraqi town controlled by the Islamic State and beyond the governments reach.

In August, the Islamic State released a propaganda video showing militants executing blindfolded prisoners. The Falcons were certain that Captain Sudani was one of them.

I grew up with him, shared a bedroom with him, Munaf said. I dont need to see his face to know my brother.

A Wound on My HeartTwo joint budget workshops between the Cape Coral City Council and its Budget Review Committee were an exercise where both looked at numerous what-if scenarios through the eyes of a computer model and lengthy discussions.

But a few things stood out at the sessions held Tuesday and Thursday at City Hall.

The City Council has little desire to subsidize the Cape Coral Charter School System with the BRC recommending a nuclear option in its report.

A majority on the elected board also wants to bring in more code enforcement officers to address the many violations residents say they see on a daily basis as well as hire grant writers for the Fire Department as it could result in a great return on investment.

City Manager John Szerlag presented the funding core of the proposed General Fund budget of $211,642,492: a property tax rate of 6.75 mills with a rollback rate of 6.4402; a 62 percent cost-of-operations fire service assessment and a public service tax on electric bills of 7 percent, the current rate.

One mill is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of taxable valuation. The rollback rate is the rate at which the same amount of revenue would be raised from property taxes.

Peter Napoli of Stantec, formerly Burton & Associates, brought the computer model and showed the council and the BRC real time results of any variable they could come up with over a 10-year period.

When it showed a proposal for the municipal charter school system getting $3 million in assistance by having the city to take over some of the services, there was disagreement.

There needs to be another revenue source for the charter schools. I really dont agree with bailing them out, Councilmember Rick Williams said. Without that $3 million we look pretty good. But we cant anticipate what the economy will be.

Szerlag said the citys charter schools system isnt a mom-and-pop operation anymore and is being challenged to change its business model to fulfill the citys insistence it be self-sustaining.

Theres this rural/urban continuum. Were not a small town but we continue to be like one even though were grown. No ordinance has said the city will not fund public schools, Szerlag said.

When George Starner, chairman of the BRC, made his groups recommendations Thursday, it went one step further, saying the system should consider shelving the high school in favor of another elementary school.

Starner said educating high school students is a financial loss of $2,234 per student, with its inability to fill the school, creating a total burden of $330,000 per year.

Since the elementary and middle schools have waiting lists, it would make sense to turn the high school into one or the other.

The city is expected to finish its best-practices tracking of the charter schools in January.

In the General Fund budget there are 28 new full-time employment positions proposed. Most are new school resource officers required by the state.

Some city council members want to see additional code enforcement officers added to the new positions list.

Department of Community Development Director Vince Cautero showed his proposed budget on Tuesday, which called for only one new position for a code enforcement officer.

Thats not enough, some on the board said a the first workshop.

We have had an increase of 75 percent in population, but code enforcement isnt keeping up. They want more code enforcement on Chiquita and Skyline. The optics speak for themselves, Councilmember John Carioscia said.

Code enforcement always comes up at town meetings. Theres room for improvement because this is a quality-of-life issue, Councilmember John Gunter said. We need to be proactive and reevaluate.

On Thursday, Szerlag said he found the money by taking money from the General Fund and putting it into the building fund.

Also questioned early on was funding for Public Works sidewalk program.

Councilmember Jessica Cosden, upon hearing the city funds its sidewalks entirely through grants, said she found that unusual.

I want to see us start budgeting for sidewalks instead of using just grants. Were a big city, Cosden said.

Ill see that and Ill raise you streetlights, Councilmember David Stokes said. We have kids walking to school in the dark. We have $100,000 budgeted for lights. Cant we take some money out of paving and into lights?

He wanted to see more invested in streetlights, since many kids go to school or wait for the bus in the dark, Stokes said

Stokes was told that LCEC only has the capacity for $200,000 per year, or about 350 to 400 streetlights, though some money could come from the transportation fund up to $100,000.

Those discussions morphed into the importance of grant writers, people who can get money from non-profits and state and federal governments for things the city needs.

Ryan Lamb, chief of the Cape Coral Fire Department, said he has been looking for a grant writer and said they are worth the investment.

Mayor Joe Coviello said he wants to push the button for grants because there are so many that the city may be missing out on.

We have missed out on a few of these grants. There is so much money that can be obtained. Is there any way we can have one for the city?

Its one of the best returns on investment a city can have, said Gunter. They pay for themselves if you have a writer with the right skills.

A third workshop will be held Aug. 23.

Public hearings will be held Sept. 6 and Sept. 20 at 5:05 p.m. in council chambers.British American Tobacco Uganda (BATU) recorded a net profit of Shs 6.1 billion in the six months to June 2018, up from Shs 3.5 billion over the same period, largely due to lower financing costs, according to its unaudited accounts.

The company witnessed a strong rebound after a tough year where new regulations to control public smoking took a bite off the companys revenues. The performance is a reflection of a company that has over the years realigned its business model by largely concentrating on limiting its costs in the country.



A drop in the financing costs could be attributed to a slash in interest payments on debt. Still, BATU had to go through some hectic period to record a profit.

I am pleased with the progress of the business in the first half of the year, notwithstanding the adverse impacts of illicit trade and increased costs of doing business resulting from fuel price hikes witnessed during this period. I reiterate BAT Ugandas commitment to building a strong and sustainable business to deliver value for its shareholders and other stakeholders, Elly Karuhanga, the chairman of the board of BATU, said.

At Shs 30,000 per share, BATUs bourse is one of the most sought after at the Uganda Securities Exchange. The share price has, however, remained flat for months, largely due to the illiquidity of the stock. On June 21, 2018, BATU issued out a dividend of Shs 246 per share.

Still, BATU has to navigate a tough terrain to make money. Although the company said it dished out Shs 40.4 billion as tax during the first six months of this year, it continues to call for a more predictable and stable taxation regime.

Our engagements with relevant government agencies continue to advocate a more stable taxation regime, reduction in the illicit trade incidence and regulations that are sound, evidence-based and that have gone through a formal consultative process, the company noted.

justuslyatuu89@gmail.comDiamond Trust bank (DTB) has started offering Mastercards premium card payment solutions in the country, which includes the Mastercard Gold Debit Card and Platinum Credit Card.



The introduction of the debit and credit card solutions is in support of introducing innovation to the banking sector, enhancing the consumer experience and boosting payment security for the benefit of all citizens, said Varghese Thambi, DTB managing director.





Raghav Prasad (2nd left), the Mastercard division president for sub-Saharan Africa, at the launch

Cardholders will open up a world of rewards when becoming a Gold or Platinum member. These include special offers when traveling locally or abroad, as well as memorable experiences, including spa, dining and entertainment offers and access to Mastercard Priceless Cities platform.



Ugandans are demanding enhanced banking experiences that are safe and easy to access and use, said Raghav Prasad, division president, sub-Saharan Africa, Mastercard.Floridians concerned over the water quality issues happening across the Sunshine State will stand together as one in a peaceful demonstration called Hands Along The Water.

Sunday morning, at 10:15 sharp, hundreds and potentially thousands of residents will lock hands for 15 minutes in silence to show that we do not, and will not, stand for our beautiful beaches, wildlife, homes and livelihoods to continuously be destroyed and impacted by the water released from Lake O, said the events Facebook page.

Thirty different beach sites across the state will stage the event that asks people to arrive by 10 a.m.

Along with the locking of hands in unison, volunteers of Hands Along The Water encourage those to speak with residents, hear the stories of loss, illness, and devastation that we all suffer and help support this peaceful movement, share and be instrumental in allowing our voices to be heard.

This is a family event spanning coast to coast and made possible solely by volunteers and is not supported or funded in any way by groups or organizations.

Florida is not only loved by its residents but by hundreds of thousands of people across the world. The tourism alone creates countless jobs for our populations and we cant allow that to diminish and fail, read a release from the volunteers.

We must unite as people and take a stand to create solutions for the future of this state and its residents. Without YOU helping the people of this great state be heard, our fight is unheard, they continued.

The volunteers ask that attendees wear a mask if concerned about their health/immune system, to wear shoes on the beach to avoid bones from dead fish, to wear a blue or aqua colored shirt, to bring water in a reusable bottle and to not bring signs, banners or the like.

They also ask attendees not to bring pets for safety reasons.

This is a family event, being held by volunteers along the coasts. This event is not being sponsored by any organization. There will be no money or donations being collected, and we will not be promoting any one organization. We are locals that want our beaches back and to save marine life, the release stated.

Lee County event sites include the Cape Coral Yacht Club Beach, Fort Myers Beach, Bonita Beach and Sanibel/Captiva.

Together, we can make a difference. This will speak louder than any sign or angry words, Dominique Kuzer, organizer of the Cape Coral event said.

The idea stemmed from a Facebook post about standing in solidarity along the water and spread like wildfire-a positive aspect of social media.

The original event location was to be on Fort Myers Beach, but Kuzer quickly volunteered to host a Cape event.

Various other residents from all over Florida volunteered to represent their city or town that shared the same passion.

This was made possible by the teamwork of all coordinators. We reached out to local news outlets and radio stations, as well as a lot of social media promotion. Erin Brockovich even re-tweeted the event, said Kuzer

Brockovichs substantial following allowed more eyes than ever to educate themselves on the matter and grow the event into what is has become.

I cant put into words how amazed I am to see how much its grown. Its surreal, said Kuzer. Its very humbling. Im grateful to be part of something so crucial to our environment. Its amazing to see the support and backing from so many different communities.

Her involvement in the Hands Along The Water movement has inspired the hopeful veterinarian to become more involved in community issues and volunteer work.

Come on out. Wear a blue shirt. Put a mask on. Lets get together so we can make a change. Its going to take a community to fix this, she said. Together, we can make a difference.

Connect with this reporter on Twitter: @haddad_cjBank of Uganda (BOU) has come out to address the bad press around the business of dfcu bank, saying the lender remains strong, writes ALON MWESIGWA.



Speaking at an informal dinner organized by Uganda Bankers Association (UBA) in Muyenga last Friday, BOU governor Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile said:



Regrettably, dfcu bank has recently been subjected to a series of false allegations in the social media and online publications, concerning changes in its ownership structure, governance, and liquidity position.



He added: These false allegations sought to malign the bank. Fortunately, they have failed. dfcu banks operations have progressed normally and the bank remains in a strong liquidity position.





Dfcu boss Juma Kisaame (L) with Rabo bank officials who are some of the investors in dfcu

Dfcu has recently been at the centre of beating from some online publications. From assumed liquidity crisis to alleged departure of key staff at the bank.



The speculations were heightened by the news that UK-based development finance institution CDC Group, one of the banks shareholders, was selling its remaining stake. It is normal for investors to sell their stakes in firms after a certain period of holding.



Mutebile said the most regrettable episode [of fake news] demonstrates the need to build resilience to reputational risk by widening and deepening the moats [defences] for protecting public confidence in the banking system, especially in the current age where falsehoods spread rapidly through digital channels.



He urged directors and management of financial institutions to prioritize reputational risk management, and develop proactive communications strategies with effective crisis control measures as well as the capacity to thwart fake news.



And because prevention is better than cure, I urge all members of UBA to maintain strict adherence to the Code of Good Practice, particularly, by avoiding negative references to competitors while marketing specific banking services and products, Mutebile said.



We are all aware of the reputational damage suffered by several major financial institutions in the industrial economies as a result of misconduct by their staff, such as in the LIBOR fixing and the miss-selling of mortgages scandals in Europe and the United States.



Dfcu banks 2017 performance was particularly impressive, with the lender announcing a 176 per cent increase in net profit while assets leaped by at least 76 per cent compared to 2016.



The banks after-tax profit grew from Shs 46bn in 2016 to Shs 127bn last year  the first time the bank crossed the Shs 100bn mark. In 2016, it had not acquired crane bank  an indicator that the move has had a huge impact on its fortunes.



Its assets in the region of Shs 3 trillion places it among the top four biggest banks in the country. On the Uganda Securities Exchange, the dfcu counter remains impressive to investors with its share price jumping from Shs 700 mid-last year to now Shs 900  an indicator of the confidence stockholders have in the bank.



On the whole, the total assets of Ugandas banking sector grew by 12 per cent between December 2016 and December 2017, from Shs 23.7 trillion to Shs 26.5 trillion, according to BOU.



This was mainly on account of a 204.1 percent increase in banks holdings of BOU securities, from Shs 0.8 trillion in December 2016 to Shs 2.5 trillion in December 2017.



amwesigwa@observer.ugEfforts to mitigate water-quality issues throughout Lee County continue under the leadership of the Lee Board of County Commissioners with county staff, contracted vendors and several state entities, including the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Florida Department of Health.

Board actions:

The Board at its regularly scheduled Aug. 7 meeting:

Voted unanimously to ask for federal resources. The Boards resolution urges President Trump to recognize a major disaster exists in Lee County because of the high concentration and prolonged presence of harmful red tide in the Gulf of Mexico and harmful blue-green algal blooms in the Caloosahatchee River and surrounding waters.

Heard from mayors and representatives the countys six municipalities, who adopted their own State of Local Emergency.

Extended the existing county State of Local Emergency for blue-green algae and issued a second State of Local Emergency for red tide.

The Board at its Aug. 21 meeting is anticipated to approve several agenda items that will use Tourist Development Tax reserve funds for beach cleanup and marketing (see below under Coastal update).

Waterway update (blue-green algae):

The county has also created a test program to remove the blue-green algae from some of its most impacted waterways using a $700,000 grant from the state Department of Environmental Protection. It will remove, process, treat and dispose of harmful algae blooms from select test sites in unincorporated Lee County and affected municipalities, most notably Cape Coral. Lee County has mobilized AECOM, one of the nations largest construction and engineering firms with expertise in environmental cleanup, under a state contract for emergency cleanup deployments.

This week:

Crews today (Friday) continued to work near the Clipper Bay condos in Cape Coral, north of Cape Coral Bridge and just east of Del Prado Boulevard.

The amount of slurry pulled from Lee County waterways to date totals at an estimated 17 tankers at 5,000 gallons each for a total of 85,000 gallons.

Recovered material will begin processing for disposal this weekend. The material will be processed at the site of the North Lee County Reverse Osmosis Plant.

The algae/water mix collected is tested to assist and verify treatment methods being deployed to meet state-imposed water-quality standards.

This is a pilot program. County staff is in contact daily with the state DEP and the contractor. We continue to refine the process and evaluate the results.

Coastal update (red tide and red-drift algae):

Lee County Parks & Recreation staff has been cleaning county beaches, parks and boat ramps affected by the red tide fish kill. The county has hired CrowderGulf, a debris-removal contractor, to assist in cleaning the beaches and shorelines, using both on-land and boat operations.

Areas cleaned on land this past week included:

Boca Grande

Sanibel Causeway islands

Fort Myers Beach (including Access 40 north to Crescent Beach, Lynn Hall Park and Bowditch Point Park)

Bonita Beach

Areas cleaned by boat this week included:

Captiva Island bayside (South Seas to Tween Waters)

Upper Captiva / Safety Harbor canal

Pine Islands southern canals in St. James City

Public fish waste Dumpsters remain in place until further notice.

Note: The City of Sanibel, Town of Fort Myers Beach and Captiva Erosion Prevention District continue their clean-up efforts in their areas.

The Lee County Tourist Development Council met Thursday. Actions taken include votes on the following recommendations to the Board to approve:

Funding necessary to cover emergency beach clean-up expenses through the end of fiscal year, which ends Sept. 30.

Up to $1 million for a marketing campaign to launch after current conditions improve.

Purchase of two Surf Rake ($61,000 each) machines for beach and shoreline cleanup.

Note: All requests would be funded from existing tourist tax funds.

Additional updates:

Tallahassee representatives of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission met with Lee Countys senior leadership team Wednesday to discuss red tide and blue-green algae.

The Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau participated in a statewide conference call Thursday with Visit Florida, the Florida Department of Health, Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission and MOTE Marine Laboratory and Aquarium regarding the red tide bloom affecting six counties along the Gulf of Mexico.

VISIT FLORIDA is working with county tourism industry partners, state agencies and other stakeholders to mitigate the red tides effects from a visitor perspective, and will communicate with visitors when the beaches are clear and back to normal. In addition, VISIT FLORIDA presented an action plan to ensure our partners, stakeholders and consumers are armed with updated information as we work together to manage and minimize the impacts of red tide.

Website:

www.leegov.com/waterqualityinfo

Source: Lee County governmentPuneeth no more: Govt directs police to tighten security in respective jurisdictions

Arrangements at Kanteerva Stadium for fans to pay last respect to Puneeth Rajkumar

Cruel twist of fate, no age to go: PM Modi condoles Puneeth Rajkumars death

RIP Puneeth Rajkumar: Family requests fans to maintain peace; Funeral to be held at Kanteerava Stadium tomorro

Puneeth Rajkumar passes away: Here is how politicians, top celebrities, cricketers react to actors death

Dalai Lama rues sectarian clashes in Middle East

Bengaluru

oi-Madhuri

Bengaluru, Aug 12: Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama rued sectarian clashes among Muslims in the Middle East, saying killing in the name of religion is unthinkable.

He emphasized that developing oneness among people would solve various crisis the world is facing today.

Referring to countries like Afghanistan, Syria and other Islamic nations, the Dalai Lama said, "They all follow the same god Allah, same Quran, every day (offer) five-time prayers. Yet they are killing each other. It's unthinkable, really.

Killing due to political power or economic interest is somewhat understandable. In the name of religion killing each other is unthinkable. But it is a fact and it is happening," he said.

'Institution of Dalai Lama' no more politically relevant, its up-to people to decide: Dalai Lama

The Dalai Lama was delivering a lecture here on the topic 'Courage and compassion in the 21st century', which was organized by Vana Foundation under their Vidyaloke initiative.

Emphasising that developing oneness among seven billion people is his major commitment, he was all praise for India for its religious harmony and tolerance.

Though the country has various homegrown religious traditions such as Sankhyaism, Jainism, Buddhism and Sikhism besides Judaism, Christianity, Zoroastrianism, and Islam, they had all settled here peacefully and harmoniously, he said.

"India is a big country with over a billion population, but religious tolerance, religious harmony are there. So, therefore, religious harmony is very much possible.

We always say India is the only example that different religious traditions can live together," the Dalai Lama said.

Here is why Dalai Lama called Nehru self-centred

He also hailed Shias and Sunnis living together in India peacefully in contrast with the situation in Muslim nations, where they often clash with each other.

The Tibetan leader rued that religion today has become a factor to divide people, whose job is to bring inner peace, love, forgiveness, tolerance, and self-discipline.

The Dalai Lama also pointed out that his mission was to revive ancient Indian spiritual traditions in their original form, whether it be Buddhism, Jainism or Vedic traditions.

Violence is man made problem not by god: Dalai lama

He urged people to understand the Nalanda tradition of Buddhism, which originated in India and is still preserved with the Tibetans.

For More Bengaluru News, Click HereHaryana Unlock Guidelines: What is open, What is not; Check details

ATM fraud: 2 Romanian nationals arrested

India

oi-Madhuri

Chandigarh, Aug 12: Two Romanian nationals were arrested in connection with an alleged ATM fraud, police said.

The accused, identified as Miclea Lecian Lonut and Paraschiv George Aletandru, both 37 years of age, were arrested from Vasant Kunj in New Delhi and were staying in a hotel, they said.

During interrogation, the accused disclosed that they arrived in Chandigarh on August 2 with the intention of putting skimmers (a device used by fraudsters to steal credit/debit card information) and spy cameras at ATMs.

ATM fraud: Romanians may have been part of larger conspiracy

After collecting data of ATM card-holders, they used to make a clone of it and then use the ATM cards for online shopping or withdrawing money.

To hoodwink police, they used to disguise themselves by wearing caps, spectacles and wigs.

With the increasing complaints regarding illegal withdrawal of money, the Crime Branch of the Chandigarh Police suspected the involvement of some foreigners in the incident, police said.

They collected data pertaining to foreigners visiting the city in the recent days and came to know about the involvement of Romanian nationals who stayed in local hotels here, they said.

ATM fraud: 2 arrested in Delhi

On August 4, bank officials had detected a skimmer and spy camera at an ATM in Sector 17 here, police said.

In the CCTV footage, it was found that two different persons were fitting the external devices at ATM kiosks, they said.

Economic security of people jeopardised due to demonetisation: Mamata Banerjee

The external devices were also found at Manimajra here.

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Story first published: Sunday, August 12, 2018, 12:09 [IST]3 dengue deaths reported in Durg district

India

oi-Madhuri

Raipur, Aug 12: At least three people have died of dengue and over 200 have been found to have contracted the mosquito-borne disease in Chhattisgarh's Durg district, a senior health official said.

As many as 209 persons were found positive for dengue infection in the district in the last one month, Health and Family Welfare Department Commissioner R Prasanna said.

Three dengue deaths were confirmed in hospitals in Durg and Bhilai cities during last two weeks, he added.

Thirty-two teams of health officials are conducting door-to-door screenings for the disease and carrying out an awareness campaign, he said.

There were already three mobile medical units in Durg and the number has been now increased to five, Prasanna said.

Dengue Fever: Know its symptoms, causes and treatment

Enough testing kits and medicines are available in the district, he said.

The administration is providing financial assistance to dengue patients admitted in private hospitals too.

The health department has reserved five beds in ICU at Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Memorial Hospital, Raipur, for dengue patients in case their condition becomes critical.

Its not even summer and three cases of Dengue reported from Delhi

An additional 100 beds have been arranged at Chandulal Chandrakar Medical College and Shankaracharya Medical College in Durg, the commissioner added.

Doctors from Raipur All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and government medical college have also been roped in for the treatment of patients, he said.

WB turns tech-savvy to fight mosquito menace, uses drone against dengue

The health commissioner said people should ensure cleanliness around their houses and prevent accumulation of stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed.

People can dial 104 to report suspected dengue cases, he said.

Following dengue outbreak in Durg, Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) of the district Dr Subhash Pandey has been shifted as joint director, Raipur division of the health department. Dr G S Thakur has replaced him as Durg CMHO, another official said.

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Story first published: Sunday, August 12, 2018, 10:57 [IST]Son of a Hindu Mahasabha leader to become CPM MP; faces defeat from Mamata

Former Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee's condition critical

India

oi-Madhuri

Kolkata, Aug 12: Former Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee's condition is critical and he is on ventilator support. Chatterjee was re admitted to hospital on August 10 following kidney ailments.

Chatterjee, admitted to a private hospital in Kolkata, is suffering from age-related issues and kidney complications.

[Prakash Karat lobby not good for Left's future: Somnath Chatterjee]

89-year-old Chatterjee has breathing and cardiac problems, hospital sources said.

He was earlier admitted to a Kolkata hospital in June. He was released after his health improved after a few days. "Chatterjee is gradually improving but will take more time (to recover)," the senior hospital executive had said.

[Somnath criticises Narendra Modi on the 'issue of intolerance']

The family members and doctors attending him did not disclose the ailment due to which the 89-year-old former parliamentarian was admitted to the ICU earlier this week. The family members do not want the ailment to be disclosed, the official had said.Mission 2022: Who is Anupriya Patel? One of the seven women to join PM Modi's new team

India is ageing faster than you thought

India

oi-Madhuri

New Delhi, Aug 12: India is ageing faster than previously projected. The government has said that the number of people above 60 will rise to around 340 million by 20150.

Junior minister for health, Anupriya Patel informed the Lok Sabha that he growth rate of the 0-14 population is slowing but that of older people is rising. The age distribution of India's population is more even as compared to China which has been skewed by the one-child policy resulting in a smaller and declining working age citizenry.

The number revealed by the minister is higher than the protections made by the United Nations. The UN projected the 60-plus population to grow to 316.8 million by 2050, whereas estimates by HelpAge India pegged the number at 324 million.

Why is India's population so high and how do we deal with it

"India Ageing Report 2017" by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) says the share of population over the age of 60 could increase from 8% in 2015 to 19% in 2050. By the end of the century, elderly will be 34% of the total population. During 2000-2050, the overall population of India is expected to grow by 56% while the 60-plus population will increase by 326%.

During the same period, the 80-plus population will grow 700% with a predominance of widowed and highly dependent very old women. While India is expected to report around 19% elderly by 2050, the absolute numbers will be very large.

India to overtake China's population by 2024: UN

India however will be better off than China, which is expected to report a 34 per cent population of above 60 by 2050.

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Story first published: Sunday, August 12, 2018, 8:28 [IST]India watches closely as ISI backed Sikhs hold Referendum 2020 rally today

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

New Delhi, Aug 12: India would keep a close watch on an ISI sponsored event, Referendum 2020 set to take place in the United Kingdom today. Indian agencies say that the event taking place at the Trafalgar Square today has not been able to gain traction in India.

India had expressed concerns over the event and had even requested the UK to prevent it from taking place. However the British government refused to stop the event and India had expressed its disappointment over the same.

Over the years there has been an attempt to revive militancy in Punjab and Referendum 2020 is yet another attempt in this direction. The London rally is being organised by a group called Sikhs for Justice and the Chief Minister of Punjab, Captain Amarinder Singh had said that the event had no takers back in Punjab.

He dubbed the proposed rally in London on Sunday by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) an attempt by a handful of frustrated ISI-backed Sikhs abroad to foment trouble in Punjab and India by raising divisive voices.

Referendum 2020: Under the guise of social justice, a dreaded plan to revive Khalistan

The chief minister said he was not at all worried about the "fringe elements" and their rally. "They have been at it for long and have been playing into the hands of the ISI, which has an open agenda to foment trouble in Punjab and India," he told reporters. He added he would not allow anyone to create trouble in Punjab.

"If these elements think they can come and disturb the peace in my country and my state, they are mistaken," he said. Singh said he has asked the state police to deal strictly with any attempt to revive terrorism. He said in the past 15 months of his government, the police have cracked down on several terror modules, seizing arms and narcotics.

He said only a handful of frustrated Sikhs, based in countries like the UK, Canada, the USA and Germany, were backing the campaign, which he said will not last long.

What is 'Referendum 2020,' the ISI plot, AAP was accused of backing

What is Referendum 2020:

Around two months back, the Punjab police had busted a major plot known as Referendum 2020 which was hatched by Khalistani terrorists. Investigations revealed that the referendum was being promoted by some youth from Punjab at the behest of the ISI.

Officials familiar with the probe said that this was an attempt at reviving terrorism in Punjab. The police said that the plan was to get all like-minded persons under one roof and make a major declaration. These persons had also planned on targeting a few IPL matches in Punjab before making the declaration.

The Facebook page 'Referendum 2020' was set up by an ISI agent who went by the alias Fateh Singh, the police also learnt. He had also roped in four youth to popularise the page. The main idea was to get a lot of people under one platform and then create terror before declaring Punjab as a separate nation.

The organisers of the event say that Punjab Referendum 2020 is a campaign to liberate Punjab, currently occupied by India. The campaign aims to gage the will of the Punjabi people with regards to reestablishing Punjab as a nation state. Once we establish consensus on the question of independence, we will then present the case to the United Nations for reestablishing the country of Punjab.

Who is behind Referendum 2020:

On the radar of the Indian agencies is Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who is a US-resident and also closely associated with the SJF as its legal advisor. He is one of the main persons behind the August 12 event. It may be recalled that he had tried to stall the arrest of Jagtar Singh Tara's extradition from Thailand to India. Tara who is an accused in the murder of former chief minister of Punjab, Beant Singh is a member of the Khalistan Tiger Force, which is declared as a terrorist outfit in India. Officials say that Pannun had even fought the case for Paramjit Singh Pamma, a Khalistan terrorist arrested in Portugal. While Tara was extradited from Thailand, in the case of Pamma, the Portuguese refused.

Indian agencies say that there is a clear ISI hand behind this event. They have been instrumental in fuelling passions in a bid to revive the Khalistan movement. An ISI officer was in fact the one who set up the Referendum 2020 social media page and tried to trigger tensions.Install CCTV cameras in CBI, NIA, ED offices where accused are held and interrogated, SC tells Centre

Kejriwal expresses fear that BJP may stall CCTV project

India

oi-Madhuri

New Delhi, Aug 12: Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal expressed the fear that the BJP might stall their ambitious project to install CCTV cameras in the city, a day after the Delhi Cabinet approved a proposal for the scheme.

As per the plan, the Delhi government will install around 1.4 lakh CCTV cameras across the national capital.

"A BJP leader has told me that they will not allow installation of CCTV cameras. The BJP is working on two options -- registration of fake cases in the CBI after picking up all files to get project stalled and making LG refer the matter to the president," Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi.

Arvind Kejriwal has compromised national security with his CCTV scam, says Ajay Maken

"If the BJP stalls installation of CCTV cameras, people will not tolerate this," he said.

The chief minister yesterday told the Delhi Assembly that the Cabinet has approved the project.

Taking a dig at the opposition, Kejriwal had said the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Congress would now find it tough to dole out money and liquor during elections.

AAP govt-LG power tussle continues over control of services department

The project was embroiled in a controversy with Lt Governor Anil Baijal forming a committee to frame rules for installation, operation and monitoring of CCTV cameras. The AAP had slammed the move as "delaying tactics".

Picking holes in the committee formed by the L-G, the chief minister yesterday said it had recommended license for installing CCTV cameras.

Kejriwal, LG stand-off far from over; disagreement likely to deepen over control of CCTVs

It means money will have to be paid for getting the licenses, he had said.

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Story first published: Sunday, August 12, 2018, 10:20 [IST]Delhi HC asks Centre to respond to pleas by FB, WhatsApp challenging IT Rules

NCB 'misinterpreting' WhatsApp chats to implicate me in drugs case: Aryan Khan to Bombay HC

Centre in HC defends IT rule requiring WhatsApp to trace originator of message

Man active on several Pakistan WhatsApp groups detained

India

oi-Madhuri

New Delhi, Aug 12: A man active in several Pakistani groups on WhatsApp was detained in Rajasthan's Banswara district, the police said.

Identified as Ayan, a resident of Meerut in Uttar Pradesh, he was staying in a hotel for the last few days. He came here in search of a job and was working at a garment factory, SP Banswara Kaluram Rawat told PTI.

"When his mobile phone was checked during routine checking yesterday, he was found active in several groups operated from Pakistan," he said.

WhatsApp forwards limited to just 5: Here is how it works

SHO, Kotwali police station, Shaitan Singh said he was interrogated jointly by the local police and the Anti-Terrorist Squad.

"He came in touch with the owner of the factory through WhatsApp," he said.

DoT seeks industry views on blocking mobile apps like FB, Whatsapp, Instagram in specific situations

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Story first published: Sunday, August 12, 2018, 10:43 [IST]Prashant Kishor in viral video: With or without Modi, BJP will be centre of Indian polity for decades

Mob lynchings being politicised is unfortunate, it shows oppositions mindset: Modi

India

oi-Vikas

By Vikas

New Delhi, Aug 12: Asserting that everyone should come together to oppose mob lynchings, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that politicising such incidents shows the "perverse mindset" of the opposition.

PM Modi spoke on a range of issue during an interview to news agency ANI. When asked about opposition's allegation on his silence over crime against women and lynching incidents, Modi said "even a single incident is one too many and deeply unfortunate."

"It would be a great travesty to reduce these incidents to mere statistics and then indulge in politics over them. That shows a kind of perverse mindset that looks at violence and criminality as something to be milked, instead of unitedly opposing," Prime Minister Modi told ANI.

Draft proposal recommends life term and Rs 5 lakh fine in mob lynching case making

"My party and I have spoken in clear words, on multiple occasions against such actions (lynching) and such a mindset. It is all on record. Even a single incident is one too many and deeply unfortunate. Everyone should rise above politics to ensure peace and unity in our society," he added.

On crime against women, the Prime Minister said his government had made provisions of capital punishment in certain category of crimes against women.

Soon after I assumed office, I had said from the ramparts of the Red Fort that it is everyone's responsibility to ensure the dignity of women, whether Government, Society, Family or Individual. At the level of Government, we have gone to the extent of making provisions of capital punishment in certain category of crimes against women," he told ANI.

None seem to bother about people getting lynched says SC

"You might have noted that results in terms of quick disposal of such cases leading to even capital punishment have started coming in. Let there be no doubts about the will of my Government to implement the Rule of Law in its true letter and spirit," Modi added.

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Story first published: Sunday, August 12, 2018, 16:13 [IST]Muzaffarpur Shelter Home: CBI releases accused Brajesh Thakur's son after questioning

India

oi-Madhuri

New Delhi, Aug 12: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday prime accused in the shelter home sex scandal, Brajesh Thakur's son after questioning. He had been detained yesterday. The CBI team, which had reached Thakur's Sahu Road residence at around 9 am, left at around 8 pm with his son Rahul Anand.

Anand is the publisher and editor of Hindi daily "Pratah Kamal", the office of which is situated within the same premises as the residence and the shelter home which have since been sealed.

[Muzaffarpur shelter home case: Prime accused alleges conspiracy]

The CBI team, which was also accompanied by a number of forensic experts, is understood to have inspected the shelter home after getting its seal opened, and collected documents and other items it found to be of value in the investigation.

Thakur, who is in jail, heads the NGO Seva Sankalp Evam Vika Samiti, which ran the state-funded shelter home where sexual abuse of more than 30 inmates has been confirmed in medical tests.

[Muzaffarpur rape case: Bihar CM orders inspection of child shelter homes]

The Bihar government had cancelled the registration of the NGO earlier this week.

Sexual exploitation of girls at the shelter home first came to light in the report of a socia audit conducted by Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, which was submitted to the state social welfare department in April.

The FIR in the case was registered on May 31 against 11 people, including Thakur. On July 26, the Bihar government recommended a CBI inquiry in the matter.

[Muzaffarpur shelter home case: Bihar Minister Manju Verma resigns]

Bihar social welfare department minister Manju Verma had to resign after links of her husband with the key accused Brajesh Thakur surfaced.

(with PTI inputs)Mehul Choksi may have taken girlfriend on romantic trip to Dominica, got caught: Antiguan PM

Nirav Modi gets closer to being declared fugitive economic offender

India

oi-Madhuri

Mumbai, Aug 12: A special Fugitive Economic Offenders Act in Mumbai today issued public summons to the sister and brother of absconding diamantaire Nirav Modi, the main accused in the USD 2 billion bank fraud case, asking them to appear before it on September 25.

It said if they fail to appear, their assets will be confiscated under the newly enacted Act aimed at curbing big ticket economic crimes.

The court of M S Azmi, also the special judge for Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) cases in Mumbai, issued three public notices in leading dailies today naming Nirav Modi's sister Purvi Modi and brother Neeshal Modi as they have been "enumerated as an interested person" in an application made under the new Act by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against the diamond merchant.

The two have been charged by the ED to have indulged in money laundering and subsequently, escaping from India as the alleged scam came to light.

Nirav Modi's extradition proceedings set in motion

The notice against Purvi and Neeshal show causes them to explain as to "why the properties mentioned in the application (filed by the ED earlier), in which you have pecuniary interest and/or otherwise, should not be confiscated under the said Ordinance (now the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act)."

The court has asked the duo to appear before it on September 25 at 11 am, the same date on which Nirav has also been summoned by it under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act.

The third public notice against Nirav Modi asked him to depose on the same date and time as it said that he is accused in a money laundering case and "as you have left India and are refusing to come back to face trial in that case, you should be declared a fugitive under the above-mentioned Ordinance (now the Act)."

Customs Dept seeks to proclaim Nirav Modi absconder in duty evasion case

Therefore, the judge said in the public declaration, "I issue notice to you (Nirav) to show cause as to why the said application for declaring you a fugitive should not be allowed and as to why the the properties mentioned in the application, in which you have pecuniary interest and/or otherwise, should not be confiscated under the said Ordinance (now the Act)."

"I, therefore, direct Nirav Deepak Modi to remain present before me... On or before September 25 at 11 AM falling which the said application shall be proceeded with as per the Ordinance/Rules thereafter," the notice said.

The notice bears two addressees of Nirav --4, Grosvenor House, 2nd floor on Peddar Road and four flats in Samudra Mahal apartments on Dr Annie Besant Road-- in Mumbai.

The same court had on July 25 issued the summons to Nirav Modi after the ED made an application seeking to declare the designer diamond jeweller a 'fugitive economic offender'.

Nirav Modi in UK: India makes formal request for extradition

It had issued a similar notice of appearance under the fugitive law against Nirav Modi's uncle and co-accused in the case Mehul Choksi and had asked him to appear before it the next day-- on September 26.

The agency had moved the court seeking to declare the diamond traders as 'fugitive economic offenders' and to confiscate their assets worth Rs 3,500 crore in the case.

The central probe agency, empowered to enforce the new law brought out by the Modi government to curb big economic crimes and to check the escape of perpetrators from India, had filed two separate applications against the them.

The ED, earlier, had moved a similar application against businessman Vijay Mallya in the Rs 9,000-crore alleged bank loan fraud case and the court has summoned him for August 27.

In this case of the diamantaires, the agency seeks to confiscate assets, both movable and immovable, including those located in the United Kingdom and the UAE.

The move has been made on the basis of the two PMLA charge sheets filed by the agency against the two designer diamond jewellers on charges of alleged money laundering.

"Investigations have revealed that Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi have committed the offence of cheating against Punjab National Bank (PNB) in connivance with certain bank officials by fraudulently getting the LOUs/FLCs issued without following prescribed procedure and caused a wrongful loss to the bank.

"They have further siphoned off the proceeds of crime so generated through layering through multiple dummy, related, connected entities in India and abroad," the agency had said in its application.

Nirav Modi and Choksi are being investigated by the ED and the CBI after it was detected that they allegedly cheated PNB of more than Rs 13,400 crore with the purported involvement of a few of its employees.

The scam, which reportedly began in 2011, was detected in January this year, after which PNB officials reported it to the probe agencies.

Two criminal complaints were filed by the ED in these instances after taking cognisance of CBI FIRs.

Non-bailable warrants were issued against the two, while an Interpol 'red corner' arrest warrant has been issued against Nirav Modi on the request of the ED.

The ED had conducted 260 searches in this case across the country.

The Fugitive Economic Offenders Act came into force from July 31.

Cases of frauds, cheque dishonour or loan default of over Rs 100 crore would come under the ambit of this ordinance.

The government has said the ordinance offers necessary constitutional safeguards in terms of providing hearing to the person through counsel, allowing him time to file a reply, serving notice of summons to him, whether in India or abroad and appeal before the high court.

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Story first published: Sunday, August 12, 2018, 8:17 [IST]How Sikhs for Justice is donning the role of Hurriyat in Punjab

'Referendum 2020' is a useless exercise, it has no support from Punjabis across world: BJP

India

pti-PTI

Chandigarh, Aug 12: The BJP on Sunday termed the 'Referendum 2020', a campaign by an organisation Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) for a so called "separate Sikh state", as a useless exercise by desperate group of radicals who have no support from Punjabis living across the globe.

Tarun Chugh, the national secretary of the BJP, said the idea of 'Referendum 2020' was an anti-national proposal designed to break the communal harmony among the people of the community in and outside Punjab.

"It is a useless exercise by desperate group of radicals who have no support from Punjabis living across the globe," he said in a statement.

"Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) mastermind Gurpatwant Singh Pannun was following the commands of Pakistan based ISI and trying to brainwash and misguide youth to bring back black days in Punjab, but his efforts won't be successful," the BJP leader said.

Chugh said the vigilant network of central intelligence agencies and the Punjab Police would fight any conspiracy against Punjab and India. He said the Union Government was committed to protect the sovereignty and integrity of the country.

"Besides that, the Punjabi community was well aware and committed not to allow the evil designs of the radicals to succeed, come what may," he said.

He appealed to the community to maintain peace and rise above political and religious lines to thwart the nefarious attempts of disruptive forces. Earlier, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh had said there are no takers in Punjab for 'Referendum 2020'.

Singh had on Friday dubbed the proposed rally in London on Sunday by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) as an attempt by a handful of frustrated ISI-backed Sikhs abroad to foment trouble.

"They have been at it for long and have been playing into the hands of the ISI, which has an open agenda to foment trouble in Punjab and India," he had said.

The chief minister said he was not at all worried about the fringe elements and their rally. He said there are no takers for this campaign in the state as people want peace and development. Singh had said only a handful of frustrated Sikhs, based in countries like the UK, Canada, the USA and Germany, were backing the campaign, which he said will not last long.

"We are prepared to deal with these Khalistani elements", he had said.

PTIPrashant Kishor in viral video: With or without Modi, BJP will be centre of Indian polity for decades

Visit to Rome, Glasgow: Here is what is on PM Modis agenda

Puneeth Rajkumar passes away: Here is how politicians, top celebrities, cricketers react to actors death

Sri Lanka is special to us', says Modi after handing over first lot of houses for estate workers

India

oi-Vikas

By Vikas

New Delhi, Aug 10: "Sri Lanka will always remain special to India", said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday after handing over the first lot of houses built for Indian-origin people in Sri Lanka's tea plantation areas.

Prime Minister Modi joined a special ceremony through video conference at Dunsinane Estate, Nuwara Eliya to hand over the houses built under the Indian Housing Project in Plantation Areas.

Modi said that India wants peaceful and secure future for Sri Lanka where aspirations for development are met.

"Hopeful that additional 10000 houses would be constructed in shortest possible time.Out of our commitment for 60000 houses in SriLanka, completed close to 47000 houses so far..Indian Housing Project in SriLanka with grant of over US$350 mn is one of the largest Indian grant assistance project in any country.SriLanka is special for us and will remain so," he said.

It is the largest Indian assistance project in any country with a grant of over USD 350 million. Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe thanked his Indian counterpart for the assistance.

"I thank Prime Minister Modi. He has kept the promise he made last year," Wickremesinghe said. Modi said that India continues to keep Sri Lanka in a special place in its neighbourhood first policy.

[Mob lynchings being politicised is 'unfortunate', it shows opposition's mindset: Modi]

Some 404 houses were handed over at the central district of Nuwara Eliya. Out of the 60,000 houses, close to 47,000 have been completed so far, Modi said, adding that the USD 350 million grant to build the houses was one of the largest grants by India in any country.

Modi unperturbed by opposition unity, says 'its all about power politics, not people's mandate'

Wickremesinghe, recalling the historical links between India and Sri Lanka, said Modi's suggestion today to establish direct air links between Colombo and Varanasi to facilitate pilgrims from Sri Lanka is most welcomed.

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Story first published: Sunday, August 12, 2018, 19:12 [IST]Court orders salary of cop to be stopped for non-appearance in SP leaders murder case

How a noose is knotted: What it takes to be a hangman

UP BJP working committee meet begins in Meerut

India

oi-Madhuri

Meerut, Aug 12: The second day of BJP's State Working Committee Meeting begins in Meerut. CM Yogi Adityanath, Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya and other leaders were also present. The party's national president Amit Shah is also likely to attend the event.

The two day meeting of the State executive committee of Bhartiya Janata Party was inaugurated on Saturday by the Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh who set a target of winning more seats in Uttar Pradesh in the Lok Sabha elections of 2019.

In his address to the party workers, Singh asserted that the "expressway" of forming the government in the parliament election of 2019 will start from UP. He said that a target of 350 seats has been set for this election, which is achievable.

The Home Minister also claimed that terrorism has been brought under control under the BJP rule.

On the Adityanath government, Singh said he cannot claim that all criminals have run away from the state but the government has created a "sense of fear" among criminals.

According to a statement issued by the BJP state unit, Pandey said that discussions were also held on preparing the road map for the crucial 2019 Lok Sabha elections.Indian citizen kidnapped in Kabul: In touch with Taliban says New Delhi

Kabul govt, Taliban both claim embattled Afghan city

International

oi-Madhuri

Kabul, Aug 12: Both Taliban and government forces claimed they were in control of the eastern Afghan city of Ghazni today, after insurgents stormed the provincial capital, triggering fierce fighting.

Afghan officials said they were in control of Ghazni late yesterday with authorities in Kabul saying security forces were conducting a clearance operation targeting Taliban fighters who had taken up positions in residential homes.

But information about who controlled the city was difficult to confirm with power and mobile services cut to the area after the Taliban destroyed a telecommunications tower, according to Ghazni MP Shah Gul Rezaye.

Afghanistan: 8 killed, 12 wounded as explosion hits Gardez city

"The central government in Kabul said the situation in Ghazni was under their control, but we managed to contact officials in Ghazni who said that fighting was underway in areas surrounding Ghazni," said the parliamentarian.

Rezaye said additional reinforcements had been rushed to Ghazni late yesterday, after US forces deployed attack helicopters and launched at least one drone strike to push back the Taliban fighters.

The Taliban, however, claimed victory saying their fighters were now in control of Ghazni after routing Afghan forces.

Uneasy neighbours Pak, Afghanistan kick off peace & solidarity programme

"Last night, our mujahideen have completely conquered a battalion in Ghazni, seizing weapons and ammunition and four pickup trucks," said Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid in a message to journalists today.

"Our mujahideen are protecting the city of Ghazni." The insurgents frequently exaggerate their battlefield gains and downplay losses incurred during clashes.

Ghazni -- less than two hours by road from Kabul -- has been under increasing danger from massing Taliban fighters for months with reports suggesting insurgents had already infiltrated the city.

Taliban's inertia on peace talks not acceptable says US

The attack, which began late Thursday, was the latest attempt by the Taliban to seize an urban centre and comes as pressure mounts on the insurgents to enter peace talks with the government to end the nearly 17-year-old war.

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Story first published: Sunday, August 12, 2018, 13:29 [IST]NASA's Parker Solar Probe launched, its world's first mission to 'touch' the Sun

International

pti-PTI

Washington, Aug 12: NASA's Parker Solar Probe, mankind's first mission to 'touch' the Sun, was successfully launched on Sunday on an unprecedented, seven-year-long journey to unlock the mysteries of the star's fiery outer atmosphere and its effects on space weather.

Liftoff of the USD 1.5 billion mission took place from Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in the US at 3:31 am EDT (1:01 pm Indian Standard Time).

The launch of the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket carrying the spacecraft was scrubbed yesterday due to a violation of a launch limit, resulting in a hold.

"The spacecraft is in good health and operating on its own. Parker Solar Probe has begun its mission to 'touch' the Sun," NASA said in a blog post, about two hours after the lift off.

The mission is the first to be named after a living scientist -- 91-year-old Eugene N Parker, who first predicted the existence of the solar wind in 1958. The heliophysics pioneer watched the liftoff from NASA's Kennedy Space Center. A plaque dedicating the mission to Parker was attached to the spacecraft in May.

It includes a quote from the physicist, "Let's see what lies ahead." It also holds a memory card containing more than 1.1 million names submitted by the public to travel with the spacecraft to the Sun. The mission's findings will help researchers improve their forecasts of space weather events, which have the potential to damage satellites and harm astronauts on orbit, disrupt radio communications and, at their most severe, overwhelm power grids, NASA said.

"This mission truly marks humanity's first visit to a star that will have implications not just here on Earth, but how we better understand our universe," said Thomas Zurbuchen, associate administrator of NASA's Science Mission Directorate.

"We've accomplished something that decades ago, lived solely in the realm of science fiction," Zurbuchen said.

During the first week of its journey, the spacecraft will deploy its high-gain antenna and magnetometer boom. It also will perform the first of a two-part deployment of its electric field antennas. Instrument testing will begin in early September and last approximately four weeks, after which Parker Solar Probe can begin science operations.

"Today's launch was the culmination of six decades of scientific study and millions of hours of effort," said project manager Andy Driesman, of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL).

"Now, Parker Solar Probe is operating normally and on its way to begin a seven-year mission of extreme science," said Driesman.

Over the next two months, Parker Solar Probe will fly towards Venus, performing its first Venus gravity assist in early October - a manoeuvre a bit like a handbrake turn - that whips the spacecraft around the planet, using Venus's gravity to trim the spacecraft's orbit tighter around the Sun. This first flyby will place Parker Solar Probe in position in early November to fly as close as 15 million miles from the Sun - within the blazing solar atmosphere, known as the corona - closer than anything made by humanity has ever gone before.

The spacecraft will transmit its first science observations in December, beginning a revolution in our understanding of the star that makes life on Earth possible. Throughout its seven-year mission, Parker Solar Probe will make six more Venus flybys and 24 total passes by the Sun, journeying steadily closer to the Sun until it makes its closest approach at 3.8 million miles.

At this point, the probe will be moving at roughly 700,000 kilometres per hour, setting the record for the fastest-moving object made by humanity. At closest approach, the solar shield of the probe will face temperatures approaching 1,377 degrees Celsius. The spacecraft and instruments will be protected from the Sun's heat by a 4.5-inch-thick carbon-composite shield, which will need to withstand temperatures outside the spacecraft.

PTIReferendum 2020: Action against Khalistan sympathiser SJF was need of the hour

How Sikhs for Justice is donning the role of Hurriyat in Punjab

To counter Referendum 2020, Independence Day celebrations planned in UK

International

oi-Madhuri

London, Aug 12: India's Independence Day celebrations have been planned in the UK to counter a pro-Khalistan rally at London's Trafalgar Square on Sunday.

The organisers of the event, 'We Stand With India', accused the group behind the pro-Khalistan rally, 'London Declaration for a Referendum 2020', of spreading lies about the event being cancelled.

"Why is Sikhs for Justice (SFJ)... spreading lies about the Indian Independence Day rally being cancelled," organiser Navdeep Singh questioned on social media.

India watches closely as ISI backed Sikhs hold Referendum 2020 rally today

Thousands are expected to descend upon the iconic Trafalgar Square from both sides after the UK said it would not ban any group protesting peacefully.

A UK government spokesperson had said that "in the UK people have the right to gather together and to demonstrate their views, provided that they do so within the law".

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi had issued a statement on Thursday, expressing its disappointment at the stance.

What is 'Referendum 2020,' the ISI plot, AAP was accused of backing

"We have said that it seeks to propagate violence, secessionism and hatred and we expect them to take into account the larger perspective of the relationship when they take a decision on such matters," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.

Chairman of the British Sikh Association Dr Rami Ranger dismissed the pro-Khalistan rally as a move by a "handful of un-elected and self appointed Sikhs".

"If they have any merit in their argument, then they should go to Punjab and fight election on the agenda of Khalistan. There is no point embarrassing Sikhs at large along with their Gurus by behaving in an undemocratically manner in a foreign country with a demand of a referendum which is not binding on any one," he said.

Referendum 2020: Under the guise of social justice, a dreaded plan to revive Khalistan

Meanwhile, the SFJ said its rally is intended to raise awareness for a non-binding referendum in 2020, calling for the Sikh-majority state of Punjab to be granted independence.

Besides the UK's left-wing Green Party, no major British political party or leader has come forward to back the rally.

Scotland Yard said it had not received any complaints regarding the event which will be allowed to go ahead without any restrictions.

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Story first published: Sunday, August 12, 2018, 9:11 [IST]Hope India, US will be able to resolve differences over S-400 deal: Sherman

Aromatherapy spray manufactured in India linked to two deaths in US, faces recall

Top US general says China hypersonic missile test is 'very concerning'

US suspends military training with Pakistan

International

oi-Madhuri

Washington, Aug 12: The Trump administration has suspended more than a decade-long military training programme of Pakistani personnel at the US institutions, a media report said today, days after Islamabad and Moscow signed an agreement to allow Pakistani troops to receive training at the Russian defence centres.

Pakistan and Russia signed an agreement on Tuesady at their first Joint Military Consultative Committee (JMCC) meeting in Rawalpindi during which the two sides discussed the present status of the bilateral defence relations and agreed that Pakistani troops will receive training at the Russian military training institutes.

The relations between Pakistan and the US nosedived this January after President Donald Trump accused Islamabad of giving nothing to Washington but "lies and deceit" and providing "safe haven" to terrorists.

The US Congress also passed a bill to slash Pakistan's defence aid to USD 150 million, significantly below the historic level of more than USD one billion per year.

The US military institutions are struggling to fill the 66 slots they had kept aside for officers from Pakistan for the next academic year, as the Trump administration refused to provide funds for their training, the Dawn newspaper reported, quoting official sources.

US aid reimbursement for support in fight against Al-Qaeda: Pakistan

The fund for the training of Pakistani officers came from the US government's International Military Education and Training Programme (IMET) but no funds were made available for Pakistan for the next academic year, it said.

The suspension of the training first became apparent when the US National Defence University (NDU) in Washington, which has had reserved seats for Pakistani officers for more than a decade, told the outgoing Pakistani officers that the varsity has been asked to fill the positions for the next year with officers from other nations.

The NDU is one of several US military institutions that train officers from Pakistan.

The Trump administration had announced early this year that it was suspending security assistance to Pakistan over differences on Afghanistan but indicated that training programmes for military officers will continue.

The cancellation of slots kept aside for Pakistani officers, however, shows that the suspension now also applies to training programmes, the report said.

Pakistani officers have been receiving military training and education in the US since early 1960s, which were suspended in the 1990s but restored after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

Previously, it was not just Pakistan that valued the training and education of its officers received in the US.

US military institutions also proudly owned training officers who assumed senior positions after returning home, such as former Army chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, and Lt Gen Naveed Mukhtar, the current director general of the Inter-Services Intelligence, the report said.

"This is an unfortunate and ultimately counterproductive decision. There are certainly ways to send a strong message to Pakistan, but this isn't the way to do it," Michael Kugelman, an expert of Pakistan affairs at the Washington think tank 'the Wilson Center', was quoted as saying in the report.

"This move could squander what little goodwill and trust remains in the military-to-military relationship, and it reduces the likelihood that Pakistan will act in the ways that Washington would like it to act," Kugelman said.

He said there was a long history of educational and training cooperation between the US and Pakistani militaries, and this cooperation had withstood the pressures and tensions of the relationship.

"The fact that these educational exchanges have suffered this blow now suggests that the relationship could be entering into a new phase where even the supposedly safe and protected dimensions of the relationship can become casualties of wider tensions and ill will," Kugelman said.

Pakistan suspends military, intelligence cooperation with US: Reports

So far there is no response from Pakistani official to this move by the US.

Pakistan's defence ties with Russia have moved past the bitter Cold War hostilities in recent years and the chill in the relations between Pakistan and the US has further pushed the country towards Russia and China.

Pakistan has shown eagerness to build military-to-military level ties with Russia.

Pakistan negotiates with Russia to procure modern military hardware

Earlier this year, the then foreign minister Khawaja Asif visited Moscow during which the two sides agreed to set up a commission to boost military cooperation.

Russia has over the past three years provided four Mi-35M combat and cargo helicopters to Pakistan and the militaries of the two countries also held joint drills codenamed 'Friendship'.

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Story first published: Sunday, August 12, 2018, 13:15 [IST]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.

"The constituents of Board District 5 endured a tainted election in 2015 and have suffered the absence of a legitimate office holder since July 1, 2015, and therefore immediately deserve a respected and experienced voice and representation on the Governing Board of the Los Angeles Unified School District"

- LAUSD Board Member Scott Schmerelson

Ref Rodriguez resigned in disgrace from his Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Board seat on July 23, 2018. Despite the fact that this left the stakeholders of District 5 without any representation on the School Board, Board President Monica Garcia has not found any urgency in scheduling a special meeting of the School Board. To make matters worse, the issue has not even been included in the Board's next meeting. Instead, she and Nick Melvoin have announced that they will wait until the regularly scheduled board meeting on August 21, 2018, to place "a Resolution that calls for a March 5, 2019, Special Election" on the agenda. Their announcement did not mention anything about a placeholder for the seat, but the fact that Garcia chose Melvoin to co-sponsor her resolution instead of reaching across the aisle seems to indicate that the issue will not rise above the Board's usual divisions.



Jackie Goldberg confronts the felon she seeks to succeed

(Image by Carl J Petersen) Details DMCA



The pro-charter industry Los Angeles Times Editorial Board has pushed against appointing a temporary replacement using the argument that a "fill-in would have an unquestionable and unfair edge as the incumbent once an election was held." As noted in the Resolution, Goldberg has stated that she "would not be a candidate" in any special election that is scheduled. Therefore, her appointment will not skew the results by having achieved incumbent status undemocratically.

Given Goldberg's status as a co-founding member of Transparency, Equity, and Accountability in Charter Schools (TEAch), the three Board Members who were elected with the support of the charter industry will likely oppose Schmerelson's Resolution. If they do, they owe the stakeholders of District 5 the courtesy of proposing a candidate that has both the proven support of the constituents that they will serve and has experience comparable to what Goldberg will bring to the Board. They should also make the same pledge not to run in the Special Election. Both candidates should then be discussed in a public meeting that is held as quickly as possible.

You can show your support for immediately calling a special election and the appointment of a temporary Board Member with voting privileges by signing the petition on Credo Mobilize. This petition was created before Schmerelson introduced his resolution, but you can show your specific support for Goldberg by including a comment.



Jackie Goldberg confronts the felon she seeks to succeed

(Image by Carl J Petersen) Details DMCA



____________________________________________

Carl Petersen is a parent and special education advocate, elected member of the Northridge East Neighborhood Council and was a Green Party candidate in LAUSD's District 2 School Board race. During the campaign, he was endorsed by Network for Public Education (NPE) Action and Dr. Diane Ravitch called him a "strong supporter of public schools." His past blogs can be found at www.ChangeTheLAUSD.com. Opinions are his own.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.

Brazil recently banned glyphosate in a judicial decision.

click here

Reuters:

A federal judge in Brazil ordered the suspension of all products containing glyphosate until the government re-evaluates the chemical's toxicology, Reuters reported recently, citing legal papers, a decision which prohibits the registration of new products containing the herbicide and suspends existing registrations within the next 30 days, the report said. This affects Monsanto, the maker of glyphosate-based weedkillers such as Roundup and "Roundup Ready" seeds that are genetically modified to resist the chemical. Brazil is the world's largest soybean producer and exporter and plants Monsanto's herbicide-tolerant soybeans on a wide scale.

"I think the judge is wrong and that the decision will be revoked somehow," Director Luiz Lourenco of agribusiness industry association Abag told the news service. "It is impossible to do agriculture without these products."

Glyphosate, as the world's most popular herbicide, has been at the center of controversy since 2015, when the chemical was classified as a "probable human carcinogen" by the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer.

In the U.S., Monsanto is facing about 4,000 lawsuits from plaintiffs claiming that exposure to the herbicide caused them or their family to develop non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The lawsuits allege that the company suppressed scientific evidence concerning the health risks of its weedkillers.

Monsanto was recently purchased by German pharmaceuticals Bayer for $62.5 billion, and has vociferously defended the safety of its products. In a statement given to Reuters, Monsanto said that glyphosate has been used for four decades in Brazil and that reviews worldwide have concluded the herbicide can be used safely. It also respects the procedures used by Anvisa, Brazil's national health authority, to ensure the chemical's safe use, the statement added.

click here

Glypohosate in Breast Milk in Northeast Brazilian state:

"The presence of glyphosate in breast milk indicates direct contamination by this agro-toxin," said researcher Inacio Pereira Lima, or, as well, that the quantities utilized in agricultural activity in the region must be so high that the plant metabolism or microbiology did not degrade the excess. Nearby regions where agricultural activity is not present, we suspect that agro-toxins have contaminated the water."

Inacio Pereira Lima is a master's student in Women's Health at the Federal University of Piaui's (UFPI) Center of Health and Sciences, 83.4 percent of the breast milk samples were found to contain glyphosate or aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) or both substances.

According to Pragmatismo Politico, these samples were taken from the maternity ward at the Dirceu Arcoverde Regional Hospital (HRDA) in the municipality of Urucui, located 450 kilometers from the capital city Teresina, the largest producer of soya in the state, and its crops are sprayed with large quantities of agro-toxins.

Over 80 percent of breast milk samples examined in a study in Urucui, Brazil were found to contain agri-toxins\. In 2016, a total of 10.1 million kilos were consumed in the state. It is the equivalent of 3.18 kilos per person, a percentage that is comparable to the national average. The same contamination level was detected in the municipality of Oeiras, roughly 750 kilometers from the Urucui, where agricultural activity is the least in the state.

With a 20 percent stake in world's total consumption since 2008, Brazil has become the primary consumer of pesticides on the planet! This impacts the large-scale agricultural food production and has also been linked to a high number of deaths each year.

>>>>>>

Brazil's public health agency will appeal judge's nationwide suspension of glyphosate

s ee also: click here



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I'm aware that Canada, unlike its southern neighbor in which I live, has just recently, ever so slightly, stood up to certain of the horrors of the Saudi government. I'm aware of the role Canada has played, albeit imperfectly, as refuge for people fleeing U.S. slavery and U.S. wars and general U.S. backwardness. I'm aware of how many times through history the United States has attacked Canada. I'm aware that just several yards in front of me as I sit in my outdoor office (the downtown mall of Charlottesville) a small army is gleefully creating a police state on the anniversary of a Nazi rally at which similar numbers of soldiers, similarly armed, stood by and watched fascist violence last year. I agree with Robin Williams' characterization of Canada as a nice apartment over a meth lab.

But here's the thing. I'm a world citizen not owned by the Pentagon. When we hold World BEYOND War's annual global conference in Toronto next month, Canadians will, if they are like most people on earth, be eager to discuss Canada's shortcomings, not its highpoints. I've been reading about some of those shortcomings, and they are not insignificant. Canada is a standout player when it comes to environmental destruction, and in the colonial brutality that still feeds that destruction.

The theme of our upcoming conference is the rule of law, its uses, its abuses, and its potential as a local and global tool. I've just read Tamara Starblanket's Suffer the Little Children: Genocide, Indigenous Nations, and the Canadian State. This is a lawyer's view of the Canadian history and present practice of forcibly removing children from families. While the U.S. removal of immigrant children from their families has been in the news of late, it's not been newly invented. Both settler-colonist Canada and Nazi Germany learned from the U.S. practice of removing Indigenous children from their families in order to "educate" them into another culture.

A major focus for Starblanket is the legal and linguistic case for applying the term "genocide" and the crime of genocide to the forcible removal of Indigenous children in Canada and their placement in so-called residential schools. It ought to be no mystery that kidnapping is evil and criminal, just as it ought to be no mystery that murder is evil and criminal. But "genocide" is something different from those crimes -- different not in quantity or grandeur, but in type. Genocide is an act "committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group." Such an act can involve murder or kidnapping or both or neither. Such an act can "physically" harm no one. It can be any one, or more than one, of these five things:

(a) Killing members of the group; (b) Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group; (c) Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part; (d) Imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group; (e) Forcibly transferring children of the group to another group.

The actions in item "e" can transfer children to a materially better condition where they are educated in a culture that views itself as dramatically superior, and yet genocide have been clearly committed. That is a clear matter of international law. It is not a claim that all acts of genocide are equally evil, that all victims are equally tragic, that all types of genocide can best be prevented in the same way, or any other such unstated claim.

But the idea of removing children to a materially better condition is a theoretical one irrelevant to the Canadian context, at least when viewed as a whole. The Indigenous children removed from their families in Canada were forced into "schools" where over 40% and likely over 50% of them quickly died, from disease, starvation, torture, rape, suicide, and physical and mental abuse. Of those forced into Dachau by the Nazis, 36% died, Buchenwald 19%, Mauthausen 58%. The Canadian "schools" employed a list of torture techniques that could make a CIA agent drool with envy.

A survivor, Emily Rice, is quoted by Starblanket:

" I clung to Rose until Father Jackson wrenched her out of my arms. I searched all over the boat for Rose. Finally I climbed up to the wheel house and opened the door and there was Father Jackson, on top of my sister. My sister's dress was pulled up and his pants were down. I was too little to know about sex; but I now know he was raping her. He cursed and came after me, picked up his big black Bible and slapped me across the face and on top of the head. I started crying hysterically and he threw me out onto the deck. When we got to Kuper Island, my sister and I were separated. They wouldn't let me comfort her. Even today, all my sisters are strangers to me."

Numerous top Canadian officials over the years stated clearly that the intention of the child-removal program was to eliminated Indigenous cultures. Placing their words and Heinrich Himmler's words about a similar Nazi program side-by-side finds them virtually interchangeable. In the words of various Canadians, the intent was to utterly remove "the Indian problem." I suspect, though Starblanket doesn't discuss it, that part of why U.S. as well as Canadian genocidists perceived an "Indian problem" was that it was impossible to persuade Indigenous adults to adopt the settler-colonist culture, while numerous settlers happily adopted the Indigenous culture and refused to give it up. In other words, fierce methods were needed to destroy cultures precisely because of their desirability -- making the acts crimes against humanity, and not-incidentally against the rest of the natural environment.

Proving the crime of genocide does not require the statement of intent, but in this case, as in Nazi Germany, as in today's Palestine, and as in most if not all cases, there is no shortage of expressions of genocidal intent.

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In 2000, Al Gore won the popular vote for president of the United States. The election was decided in a state in which his opponent's brother served as governor. The Supreme Court, in a vote along party lines, ordered the Florida recount (which by many analyses Gore would have won) to be STOPPED, throwing the electoral college to Bush. For the sake of the country, Al Gore accepted his loss and urged his supporters to accept it as well.

In 2008, at campaign events for John McCain, particularly those head-lined by Sarah Palin, racism and xenophobia reared their ugly heads, but at an event in Minnesota, that decent man, John McCain, had had enough, and said to a chorus of boos among his "low-information" attendees, "I have to tell you. Sen. Obama is a decent person and a person you don't have to be scared of as president of the United States." Meaning McCain wanted to be president, but he knew the country would also be fine if he lost the election to Obama. To a woman who said, "He's an Arab," McCain replied, "No, ma'am. He's a decent family man and citizen that I just happen to have disagreements with on fundamental issues and that's what this campaign's all about."

Last week Donald Trump appeared at rallies in Florida, Pennsylvania and Ohio, ostensibly to "help" the campaigns of Republican candidates in those states. But, with Trump, everything becomes about him. His speeches were all about "fake news," "crooked Hillary," the Mueller "witch hunt," rehashing his 2016 win, and the media being the "enemy of the people." They were filled with his unending lies. As usual, the "low-information" supporters attending the rallies lapped it up. I saw footage of the loud, foul-mouthed, ugly mob they became after being egged on to HATE by this president! They became threatening to the reporters covering the event.

We have had 45 presidents in history. Forty-four have realized they are president of ALL the people -- even the people who did not vote for them and those who hated them. But not THIS president. Instead of seeking differing points of view in order to make more informed decisions, he attacks and demeans everyone who criticizes him or who even dares express a contrary opinion. We have seen him at campaign events telling people to "beat up" any protestors there -- that he would pay their bail if they did!! At EVERY rally he deliberately encourages hatred against those who disagree with him and those who report his lies and misdeeds!!

Trump is what he is. It is his rabid supporters who are TRULY scary!! Who believes, in similar circumstances to those cited at the beginning of this article, Trump would do what McCain or Gore did and put TRUTH and the well-being of the country and its people first? More likely he would incite his followers to violence simply to feed his own ego, because to him their willingness to commit violence on his behalf would demonstrate how much they loved him.

As Charles Krauthammer, the late conservative columnist trained as a psychiatrist, wrote, "Trump is beyond narcissism. I used to think Trump was an 11-year-old. An undeveloped school-yard bully. I was off by about 10 years. His needs are more primitive, an infantile hunger for approval and praise, a craving that can never be satisfied. He lives in a cocoon of solipsism where the world outside himself has value -- indeed exists -- only insofar as it sustains and inflates him." His sad, sick need to be adored by his base drives him to the detriment of all.

Any president who takes the word of a murderous dictator over that of the men he appointed to head our intelligence agencies, degrades those who work in our Justice Department, encourages Americans to hate each other and who incites violence by his words and tweets is not fit for the office of president and should be removed!! Even some Republicans are saying that now. IF ONLY our Republican Congress had the spine to put country before party and to do what is in the best interests of the nation and its people, invoke Article 25 and remove this "National disgrace and... international pariah... he appeals to the worst angels of the GOP nature." General Colin Powell -- Secretary of State under Bush.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 Smirking Chimp



Donald Trump - Caricature

(Image by flickr.com) Details DMCA



President Trump keeps vowing to create more jobs in America. But his actions often speak differently. The most egregious example was Trump's cancellation of the multi-national Iran nuclear treaty that had been welcomed by the world as a major step to Mideast denuclearization.

In abrogating the international treaty signed by the US, Britain, France, Germany, Russia and China, the US humiliated its allies and rivals who were strongly in favor of the accord. Iran had already handed 97% of its enriched uranium to Russia, shut down reactors and centrifuges, and allowed UN inspectors to run all over its nuclear facilities when Trump tore up the deal that had been under negotiation since 2015.

Iran has been under a harsh US-led trade embargo since its 1979 revolution that was designed to cripple its economy and military and drive the people to rebel against their government. Washington used the same tactics -- without success -- against Saddam Hussein's Iraq and Fidel Castro's Cuba.

So intense is the Trump administration's hatred for Islamic Iran that it decided to scrap the multinational nuclear deal that would have meant opening Iran to western commerce and a bonanza for US and European companies. The key element of the deal was to have been the sale of some 210 commercial jet airliners to Iran by the US and the European Union, a deal worth some $40-50 billion, not counting future sales of spare parts.

The US embargo of Iran since 1979 has made it unable to modernize its commercial airline fleet. Iran was denied modern aircraft, spare parts, engines and instruments, leaving it with decaying aircraft from the 1970's.

The grim result of the US-imposed embargo has been 17 crashes of Iranian civilian aircraft with 1,500 deaths.

Most of Iran's commercial aircraft -- a grab bag of old, mostly 25-year old Boeing, Airbus, Chinese and Soviet aircraft -- are flying coffins. Iran's maintenance, training and air traffic control are substandard. Flying over and around Iran's lofty mountains is a challenge for the best of pilots, even for a handful of newer ATR turboprop aircraft.

Washington's denial to Iran of Boeing Aircraft (and Airbus planes because they contain US-made parts), means the loss of tens of thousands of highly-paid jobs in the US and Europe. Israel's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, claims he talked Trump into canceling the Iran nuclear deal and the Boeing orders.

It's hard to validate Netanyahu's claim but it is clear that America's ever more powerful Israel lobby and its ally fundamentalist Christian Zionists played a key role in thwarting the Iran nuclear deal and sale of commercial aircraft.

We don't yet know the full cost of lost American jobs and business to help keep Iran isolated. But one could argue that part of the $20 billion lost should be counted as part of annual US aid to Israel.

Russia and China's aircraft industries will soon be able to deliver modern passenger aircraft to Iran and accept payment in oil. China's C919 and ARJ21 are now nearing service. Russia's Sukhoi Superjet 100 will be ready soon. Trump could be cutting off his nose to spite his face.

Trump and his allies are trying to push Iran into a corner and provoke it to lash out at US forces that are poised around it. A navel clash in the Gulf is the obvious pretext for war.

While the US goes after Iran, it has opened a new anti-Muslim front against old ally Turkey by imposing heavy duties on Ankara's exports to the US and attacking the always vulnerable Turkish lira. This, in turn, has set off a financial crisis across Europe, notably among EU banks that have large, soft loans made to Turkey.

Trump & Co. are trying to force Turkey to bend the knee and support US-Israeli-Saudi policy goals. Turkey and Iran remain the last significant supporters in the region of the Palestinians. Trump and the New York City real estate developers, and the money men who surround him, are determined to show the independent-minded Iranians and Turks who is the big boss.

Copyright Eric S. Margolis 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.

From Robert Reich Blog



Donald Trump - Caricature

(Image by DonkeyHotey) Details DMCA



Donald Trump promised to be America's dealmaker-in-chief, touting his "extraordinary" ability to negotiate. But so far, Trump has shown he can't make a deal. Here's the list of biggest no-deals:

1. No deal with North Korea. Following his summit with Kim Jong Un, Trump declared on Twitter that "there is no longer a nuclear threat" from North Korea. But in fact, there's no deal. Kim conceded nothing on weapons and missile programs. Recent satellite imagery shows North Korea is actually improving its nuclear capability.

2. No deal with Russia. At the Helsinki summit, Russia agreed to nothing. But Trump gave away the store, even casting doubt on Russia's collusion in the 2016 election in the face of the conclusions of America's own intelligence agencies.

3. No deal with China on trade. Instead, we're on the brink of a trade war with China, which is retaliating against U.S. tariffs.

4. No deal with Europe on trade. Instead, Europe has merely agreed to negotiate towards a resolution of the trade war Trump provoked in the first place.

5. No deal on Iran. Trump announced America's exit from the Iran nuclear deal. Since then, no negotiations.

6. No deal on climate change. Trump simply pulled out of the Paris accords. There have been no negotiations since.

7. No deal with the Group of 7 leading economic powers. Instead, Trump just pulled out of the joint communique.

8. No deal on immigration or the DREAMers. Trump promised a new immigration bill, and a new deal from the young people brought to America as children. But since then, nothing.

9. No budget deal with Congress. The government is still operating under a "continuing resolution."

10. No deal on replacing the Affordable Care Act. Trump promised to "repeal and replace" the Affordable Care Act. But there's been no repeal, and no replacement. He and the Republican Congress never agreed to a new plan.

11. No deal on gun control. After the Parkland shooting, Trump promised to tighten background checks for gun buyers and said he'd consider raising the age for buying certain types of guns. Instead, he bowed to the NRA.

Bottom line: Trump can't make deals. He can only pull out of deals already made, or pretend he's made deals that soon evaporate, or give away the store.

He's perfected the art of the no deal.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.

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.

From Caitlin Johnstone Website



Jeremy Corbyn

(Image by garryknight) Details DMCA



One of the weirdest things about the post-Iraq invasion world is how the mass media has actually gotten lessaccountable instead of moreaccountable for its reporting since that time. Right now in the UK there's an amazingly viral smear campaign against Jeremy Corbyn running across all mainstream outlets, which, from what I can tell, consists entirely of narrative spin and no actual evidence. The powerful elites who control British mass media have an obvious vested interest in keeping the UK government from moving to the left, so they advance the absolutely insane narrative that Corbyn is a secret Nazi. They just keep saying it and saying it like it's true until people start believing it without feeling any pressure at all to substantiate their narrative with facts. It's been jaw-dropping to watch.





More and more we are seeing narratives about cyber-threats being used to advance reports of "attacks" and "acts of war" being perpetrated which, as far as the public is concerned, consist of nothing other than the authoritative assertions of confident-sounding media pundits. There was a recent NBC exclusive which was co-authored by Ken Dilanian, who is an actual, literal CIA asset, about the threat of hackers working for the Iranian government. The alleged Russian interference in the 2016 US elections is now routinely compared to Pearl Harbor and 9/11, despite no hard, verifiable evidence that that interference even took place ever being presented to the public. Based on bogus charges of anti-Semitism: Details emerge of plot to oust #Corbyn or split UK Labour Party - World Socialist Web Sitehttps://t.co/HRg6dXEkH3 pic.twitter.com/ZsDjVabpWP -- World Socialist WS (@WSWS_Updates) August 11, 2018 After the mass media's complicity in selling the Iraq invasion to the western world, we should have seen scores of people fired and changes put in place to prevent such unforgivable complicity from ever occurring again. Instead, no changes whatsoever were made to ensure that news media outlets never facilitate another disaster at the hands of secretive government agencies, and now these same outlets are allowed to promote world-shaping narratives on no evidentiary basis beyond "It's true because we said so."

There's a consensus, agreed-upon narrative about what's going on in the world that is advanced by all mass media outlets regardless of what political sector those outlets market themselves to. Exactly what should be done about individual events and situations might vary a bit from pundit to pundit and outlet to outlet, but the overall "how it is" narrative about what's happening is the same across the board. This is the official narrative, and the plutocrat-owned media/political class has full control over it.

We all know the official narratives, right? The US and its allies are good, the latest Official Bad Guy is bad. You live in a democracy where your vote counts and your government is accountable to you and your countrymen, just like they taught you in school. The two political parties are totally different and their opposition is totally real.

The news man on TV never reports any falsehoods because if he did he'd lose his job, which means that the Russian hacking thing, the Syria thing, the 9/11 thing, all happened exactly as the government told us they happened. Iraq was maybe kinda sorta a mistake, but nothing like that could ever happen again because... mumble mumble cough... hey look what Kanye West is doing.

"Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence."

~ Sagan

"What can be asserted without evidence can be dismissed without evidence."

~ Hitchens

"We have to believe that Russia is attacking our democracy because the TV and the CIA told us to."

~ Russiagaters -- Caitlin Johnstone (@caitoz) July 22, 2018

Let's consider a hypothetical scenario, though. Let's imagine a world where there were no official narratives. About anything. At all.

What if there was no dominating elite class telling the public how they were meant to interpret events and situations? What if there was only the raw, publicly available information about what's going on in the world, and people individually interpreted that information for themselves?

And what if they came to differing conclusions, and that was allowed to be okay? What if there was no elite class telling everyone that whoever doesn't believe X, Y and Z is a paranoid conspiracy theorist, a raving lunatic, and/or a Kremlin propagandist who needs to be shunned and silenced? What if all that were solely determined by the collective, without the control or oversight of any powerful, dominating class?

What would that be like?

You may find that your results in this thought experiment depend largely on where you place your trust. If you trust the dominating class more than you trust people as a collective, you probably find this idea terrifying. What if everyone starts thinking wrong thoughts and believing wrong beliefs? What if everyone decides that humans can fly and running with scissors is safe? What if everyone decides the Holocaust never happened and says "Hell, that means we get a freebie! Let's get our Final Solution on y'all! Yeehaw!"

If, however, you trust humanity as a collective more than you trust a small group of sociopathic, omnicidal, ecocidal oligarchs who killed a million people in Iraq, you might suspect that whatever happened would surely be better than what happens in the current paradigm.

Without an elite class manipulating the way people think and vote into alignment with plutocratic interests, people would still be able to take actions in response to their best guess about what's going on in the world. The narrative of anthropogenic climate change for example would, in my opinion have a much better fighting chance of winning out in the marketplace of ideas if it were permitted to stand on the merit of the raw supporting data, rather than the manipulations of big oil on one hand and an elite faux liberal class convincing everyone that climate chaos can be averted by banning straws and buying a Prius on the other, and the collective would be able to democratically mobilize to avert catastrophe far more effectively than it can now.

"All the suspicious behaviors of the mass media can be understood by considering the fact that mass media outlets are controlled by a few powerful elites who are acutely aware that they are vastly, dangerously outnumbered by the general population they exploit every day." -- Caitlin Johnstone (@caitoz) August 11, 2018

Now let's consider another hypothetical scenario: what if, one day, everyone gets tired of official narratives? What if something happens and everyone gets fed up with being told how they have to think about the world by a thoroughly discredited media and political class? What if, to borrow from a popular Marxist meme, the public decides to seize the means of narrative production?

This might look like the increasingly distrusted propaganda machine of a failing empire pushing an increasingly oppressed populace too far and too hard at some point, maybe in the direction of war, mass censorship or austerity, and losing control of the narrative in a nonviolent populist information rebellion.

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by Kevin Stoda

by eslkevin

The following comes from James C. Juhnke's & Carol M. Hunter's, The Missing Peace: The Search for Nonviolent Alternatives in United States History. The chapter the quote comes from is entitled, "The Cold War: Pyrrhic Victory". It begins with the subtitle: UNWINNABLE WARS.

"In 1951, in the face of failures by world powers to create a stable peace out of the wreckage of World War II, George F. Kennan admonished the American people to stop thinking that they had won the war." [1]

Despite all of the facts, cited throughout this well-written chapter "The Cold War: Pyrrhic Victory" , since the late 1940s Americans by the millions and millions have been taught that they--or at least the West--won WWII. The facts that Juhnke and Hunter refers to include the cost of the world's largest and most expensive arms race--an arms race that continues to this day. The facts also include a description of the unnecessarily long division of Europe--well into the present day, as seen by Russian activity and Cold War-like tactics in modern Europe, the USA, Turkey, and other NATO lands today. These facts also include a narration of the cost of the Cold War for liberated and developing nations from 1945 onwards to the present day.

In their work, Junke and Hunter have explained that Kennan had very often shared that almost unequivocally, "Americans who expected the full fruits of total victory [in the late 1940s]" had failed to understand the war. It was one case of a wider phenomenon, the 'failure to appreciate the limitations of war in general--any war--as a vehicle for the achievement of the objectives of the democratic state.'"[2]

Moreover, besides being hoodwinked by America's own post-World War II propaganda, many Americans have been taught another badly-thought-out world history--a history that directly or indirectly implies that the Cold War was won by the West--when in fact, a great deal of the Cold War, especially the Cold War in developing nations from the 1950s onwards, may certainly be with us for a long time in terms of what occurred between 1945 and 1990 on the world stage. These events include the Communist take-over of the largest third-world nation ever--China. The subsequent decision by the Western powers to make certain that after 1973 China moved into western orbit is likely to find the 21st and 22nd centuries to be ones dominated by China.

In short, just as WWII became the Cold War and the Cold War became a failed Pax-Americana (again), Americans have been consistantly hoodwinked by media and demagogues into believing that war is a necessary evil.

This sort of bipolar view of the world has been also further exasperated by the post-1960s USA and UK political landscape dominated by the wishes of the wealthiest and most libertarian, in which austerity has been largely promoted at the cost of human development and welfare. [As most readers of progressive blogs and newspapers know, austerity is a war on the 99% while making trillions for the 1%.]

Based on the key material, i.e. as organized by Juhnke and Hunter in the Cold War chapter of The Missing Peace: The Search for Nonviolent Alternatives in United States History, it is high time that all Americans demand better education on war and peace--both in the press and in the classrooms.

Textbooks, like Juhnke's and Hunter's, The Missing Peace: The Search for Nonviolent Alternatives in United States History, should become mainstays to development of new and long-needed curricula on all areas of social science and history.

NOTES

[1] James C. Juhnke & Carol M. Hunter, The Missing Peace: The Search for Nonviolent Alternatives in United States History . Kitchener, Ont.: Pandora Press, 2001, p. 235.

[2] Ibid.Artificial Intelligence in Travel and Tourism Market Segments, Opportunity, Growth and Forecast By End-use Industry 2018-2025

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Homeowner Association Software is an all-in-one management tool comprised of a website builder, online contact database, communications system (email), finance & payment system, event platform, and more. It can alleviate the challenges of tracking various services for both the organization and individual members. This software can keep residents happy by giving them easy and secure ways to manage their payments, fees and submit maintenance requests online, improve member communication with automated invoices, emails, newsletters and maintenance requests.Global Homeowner Association Software Market research report studies market competition landscape, trends, challenges, risks, entry barriers, channels, distributors and Porters Five Forces Analysis. This market report strategically analyzes market segments with respect to individual growth prospects and contribution to the overall market. The industry report assesses key opportunities in the market and outlines the factors that are and will be driving the growth. This market report delivers a basic overview of the industry including its definition, applications and developing technology.Ask for Sample PDF of Homeowner Association Software Market research report @Top Key Players: Yardi Systems, RealPage, Entrata, MRI Software, CoreLogic, AppFolio, Chetu, Syswin Soft, Property Boulevard, Buildium, Rockend, Console Group, PropertyBoss SolutionsGlobal Homeowner Association Software Market research study provides complete information about developers, suppliers, distributors, traders, customers/end user, investors and major types as well as applications. Import and export status along with expected growth rate in terms of revenue, sales are also provided in this market report. The market principles & strategies driving the business growth of this market along with top key players are also discussed in this report. This analysis covers upstream, downstream client survey, promotion stations, economy development tendency and suggestions, which specifically consist of invaluable information about the market.Global Homeowner Association Software Market research survey ends with a SWOT analysis for fresh, dominate players and feasibility of investment analysis for new investors. All in all, each type of stakeholder can benefit from this report as this report covers all major areas of the industry. This market analysis had been conducted with a goal blend of primary and secondary advice comprising inputs from key participants from the business.Make an Enquiry Before Purchasing this research report @Table of Content:Global Homeowner Association Software Market Research Report 2018-2023Chapter 1 Global Homeowner Association Software Market OverviewChapter 2 Global Economic ImpactChapter 3Market 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 Homeowner Association Software Market Manufacturing Cost AnalysisChapter 9 Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream BuyersChapter 10 Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/TradersChapter 11 Market Effect Factors AnalysisChapter 12 Homeowner Association Software Market Forecast (2018-2023)Chapter 13 AppendixEarly Buyers will get up to 30% discount on this report @We 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.Jones John(Sales Manager)+91-9764607607sales@qyreports.comGlobal Project Portfolio Management Software Market to Grow At Impressive CAGR of +12.34% during the Period 2017-2023: Analysis, Key Players, Trends, Opportunities, Growth Factors

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A new report presents a comprehensive assessment of the portfolio management market. The report, titled Global Project Portfolio Management Software Market takes the key trends and important market factors in consideration to carry out this research.Task management software is expected to oversee work between individuals from a gathering and authorize arrange in the ventures they are overseeing. As a device for arranging and overseeing work, the utilization of task administration programming keeps on developing at a quick pace crosswise over enterprises. As enterprises create in size and unpredictability, all the more comprehensive arrangements are expected to facilitate a whole association's arrangement of undertakings. The project portfolio management software market is expected to grow a CAGR of +12.34% for time of 2017-2023.Download sample copy: Click hereTop Key Players:Oracle, SAP SE, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Microsoft, Wrike, Clarizen, EOS Software, Atlassian, Bubble, Onepoint Project, Planview, , Mavenlink, Workfront, Sciforma, Sopheon, Upland Software, VersionOneProject portfolio management software market segment by type split into, SaaS-based, On-premises. By application, software can be split into BFSI, Construction and Infrastructure, Information and Technology, Healthcare, Other.Discount on this report: Click hereThe project portfolio management software market report focuses on the regional markets of United States, EU, Japan, China, India, and Southeast Asia. Also, the major details such as product types manufactured, production capacities, production values, gross margins, product production global share, company contact information, product pictures, manufacturing processes, product cost structures, etc. are included for better understanding. A number of analysis tools such as Porters five forces analysis and SWOT analysis have been employed to provide an accurate understanding of this market.Reasons for Buying this Report: This report provides pin-point analysis for changing competitive dynamics It provides a forward-looking perspective on different factors driving or restraining market growth It provides a forecast assessed on the basis of how the market is predicted to grow It provides pin point analysis of changing competition dynamics and keeps you ahead of competitors It helps in making informed business decisions by having complete insights of market and by making in-depth analysis of market segmentsFor more information: Click hereIf you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want.Table of Content:1. Overview of Project Portfolio Management Software Market2. Market Competition Analysis by Players3. Company (Top Players) Profile4. Market Size by Type and Application5. US Market Status and Outlook6. EU Market Status and Outlook7. Japan Market Status and Outlook8. China Market Status and Outlook9. India Project Portfolio Management Software Market Development Status and Outlook10. Southeast Asia Market Development Status and Outlook11. Market Forecast by Region, Type and Application (2017-2023)12. Market Dynamics13. Market Effect Factor Analysis14. Research Finding/Conclusion15. AppendixAbout Us:Report Consultant - A global leader in analytics, research and advisory that can assist you to renovate your business and modify your approach. With us, you will learn to take decisions intrepidly. We make sense of drawbacks, opportunities, circumstances, estimations and information using our experienced skills and verified methodologies.Our research reports will give you an exceptional experience of innovative solutions and outcomes. We have effectively steered businesses all over the world with our market research reports and are outstandingly positioned to lead digital transformations. Thus, we craft greater value for clients by presenting advanced opportunities in the global market.Contact us:Rebecca Parker(Report Consultant)Akasaka biz tower,5-3-1 akasaka minato-ku,Tokyo, Japan+91-9607100004sales@reportconsultant.comSendrakhi.com Declares Profitable Discounts on Dry Fruits for Rakhi Celebration, 2018

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New Delhi, Delhi, 10-Aug-2018  Rakhi is the most celebrated festival in India. An expert of the gift portal SendRakhi predicts that buyers would prefer innovative gifts to the ordinary ones on the Rakho season. The e-commerce store gears up its soft toy collection and gifts from other categories such as handbags, apparels etc.Sendrakhi is among the reputed gift portals that provide a humongous gift collection in many categories like perfumes, apparels, customized gifts, soft toys, jewellery, home decor items, handbags etc. The store provides an eclectic collection of rakhis such as mauli, zardosi, handcrafted, rudraksha, kids, bracelet, fancy rakhi etc. Buy rakhi from the wide collection that is available at SendRakhi.The e-stores have made the online shopping experience a rewarding one. It gives the freedom to the customers to buy rakhis and gifts from the huge variety of items from anywhere and anytime. Send rakhi to India () along with other special gift items and make the Rakhi celebration for your brother memorable. SendRakhi has a partnership with proficient delivery services providers.While sharing updates about dry fruit collection, the store expert of SendRakhi stated, During the Raksha Bandhan festival, we offer a wide variety of dry fruits for the convenience of our buyers. The dry fruits can form a wonderful combo when teamed with other gifts items such as personalized items, flowers etc. We offer dry fruits such as cashew nuts, almonds, and raisins in various amounts and budgets. Sister can buy designer rakhi for brother and send it along with a box of dry fruits.The store expert continues saying, Dry fruits are increasing in popularity day by day as they are easy to preserve, handle and transport. They have nutritious value and are tasty. For all these reasons, more and more customers are opting for dry fruits as Rakhi gifts. We acquire the dry fruits from ace manufacturers to ensure we provide a high-quality product to our customers.We offer various modes of delivery such as regular, same day or Express Delivery (). With the help of the Express Delivery services, you can send fancy rakhi and other perishable gif items such as flowers, cakes, dry fruits, sweets across birders to the countries of Canada, Australia, UAE, USA and UK within a couple of hours. Avail our Same Day delivery services and be assured of timely delivery of the gift items. We are ready to accept orders for the forthcoming Raksha Bandhan festival of 2018.About Sendrakhi.comSendrakhi.com has established itself as a popular gift store that offers a wide collection of gift items across several categories like jewellery, garments, home decor items, lucky plants, perfumes, fashion accessories, and cosmetics, clutches, handbags, and wallets. The store has formed an association with effective delivery providers for sending gifts to the major Indian cities like Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Ahmedabad etc. and to the countries such as UK, UAE, USA, Singapore, Dubai, Canada, etc.ContactSendrakhi.comAddress:Primo Gifts Pvt. Ltd.P-11,2nd Floor Pandav NagarMayur Vihar 1New Delhi-110091India: 91-8510934032Email: info@sendrakhi.comWebsite:New DelhiIndiaGlobal Microfluidics Market Size, Share, Trends Analysis Report By Product, By Application, By Region And Global Forecast 2018-2023

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UpMarketResearch offers a latest published report on Global Microfluidics Market Industry Analysis and Forecast 2018-2023 delivering key insights and providing a competitive advantage to clients through a detailed report. The report contains 133 pages which highly exhibits on current market analysis scenario, upcoming as well as future opportunities, revenue growth, pricing and profitability.Microfluidics market research report delivers a close watch on leading competitors with strategic analysis, micro and macro market trend and scenarios, pricing analysis and a holistic overview of the market situations in the forecast period. It is a professional and a detailed report focusing on primary and secondary drivers, market share, leading segments and geographical analysis. Further, key players, major collaborations, merger & acquisitions along with trending innovation and business policies are reviewed in the report. The report contains basic, secondary and advanced information pertaining to the Non-Microfluidics global status and trend, market size, share, growth, trends analysis, segment and forecasts from 2018 - 2023.The scope of the report extends from market scenarios to comparative pricing between major players, cost and profit of the specified market regions. The numerical data is backed up by statistical tools such as SWOT analysis, BCG matrix, SCOT analysis, PESTLE analysis and so on. The statistics are represented in graphical format for a clear understanding on facts and figures.The generated report is firmly based on primary research, interviews with top executives, news sources and information insiders. Secondary research techniques are implemented for better understanding and clarity for data analysis.Get sample report:The report for Microfluidics market industry analysis & forecast 2018-2023 is segmented into Product Segment, Application Segment & Major players.Region-wise Analysis Global Microfluidics Market covers: North America Europe China Japan Southeast Asia IndiaThe Report covers in-depth analysis as follows: Chapter 1Microfluidics Market Overview Chapter 2 Global Economic Impact on Microfluidics Industry Chapter 3 Global Microfluidics Market Competition by Manufacturers Chapter 4 Global Microfluidics Production, Revenue (Value) by Region (2013-2018) Chapter 5 Global Microfluidics Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by Regions (2013-2018) Chapter 6 Global Microfluidics Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by Type Chapter 7 Global Microfluidics Market Analysis by Application Chapter 8 Global Microfluidics Manufacturers Analysis Chapter 9Microfluidics Manufacturing Cost Analysis Chapter 10 Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers Chapter 11 Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders Chapter 12 Market Effect Factors Analysis Chapter 13 Global Microfluidics Market Forecast (2018-2023)Buy this report :Global Microfluidics Market Industry Analysis and Forecast 2018-2023 report helps the clients to take business decisions and to understand strategies of major players in the industry. The report also calls for market-driven results deriving feasibility studies for client needs. UpMarketResearch ensures qualified and verifiable aspects of market data operating in the real-time scenario. The analytical studies are conducted ensuring client needs with a thorough understanding of market capacities in the real-time scenario.Key Reasons to Purchase: To gain insightful analyses of the market and have a comprehensive understanding of the Global Microfluidics Market Industry Analysis and Forecast 2018-2023 and its commercial landscape Learn about the market strategies that are being adopted by your competitors and leading organizations To understand the future outlook and prospects for Microfluidics market industry analysis and forecast 2018-2023.Customization of the Report:UpMarketResearch provides free customization of reports as per your need. This report can be personalized to meet your requirements. Get in touch with our sales team, who will guarantee you to get a report that suits your necessities.For more information:About UpMarketResearch:UpMarketResearch () is a leading distributor of market research report with more than 800+ global clients. As a market research company, we take pride in equipping our clients with insights and data that holds the power to truly make a difference to their business. Our mission is singular and well-defined  we want to help our clients envisage their business environment so that they are able to make informed, strategic and therefore successful decisions for themselves.Contact Info:Name: Alex MathewsEmail: Alex@upmarketresearch.comOrganization: UpMarketResearchAddress: 500 East E Street, Ontario, CA 91764, United StatesDevelopers and designers are starting to embrace cross-laminated timber, which is showing up in new buildings throughout the Portland area.

First Tech Federal Credit Union began moving into its new corporate office in Hillsboro last month. At five stories and 156,000 square feet, it's the nation's largest structure built with the new technology. But perhaps not for long.

Across the river, the Vancouver School District plans to incorporate the massive wood panels into its Marshall Elementary and McLoughlin Middle School rebuilds. At a combined 175,000 square feet, the schools would surpass First Tech as the largest CLT installation in the country.

"It's a nice, natural, very Northwest look," said Todd Horenstein, district assistant superintendent for capital planning. Plus, it was slightly less expensive than steel, he said.

Cross-laminated timber  multiple layers of dimensional lumber that's been glued, heated and pressed into large panels  could get its highest profile use yet if Adidas North America moves ahead with plans to incorporate it into its North Portland headquarters expansion. Industry sources say the company has already signaled plans to use the laminated panels in at least one of its two new office buildings. The company declined to comment.

With a lot of encouragement and funding from state and local officials, Oregon has become a leader in the burgeoning industry. Though cross-laminated timber was developed in Europe two decades ago, it is just beginning to crack the U.S. market.

Enthusiasts contend the fabricated wood can match the strength of steel and concrete. It is strong enough to provide buildings structural support, yet attractive enough to serve as finished walls.

They also say the panels come with big environmental advantages, because the wood stores carbon while steel and concrete emit greenhouse gases.

But the infant Oregon market seemingly took a hit this spring and summer.

Construction of Peavy Hall at Oregon State University was halted in March after a panel collapsed. Engineers have since determined that least 85 of the panels will need to be replaced, putting the Corvallis building a year behind schedule and far over budget. In Portland last month, developers put their 12-story Framework building on hiatus due to high construction costs. It would have been the tallest CLT building in the country.

But others are charging ahead.

Beam Development broke ground in June on a six-story, 110,000-square foot office building at Southeast Stark Street and Martin Luther King Boulevard.

The Nature Conservancy plans to include the panels in a small addition to its Portland headquarters.

Clackamas County is considering using the technology in its new courthouse.

Beam's new building will feature panels manufactured by DR Johnson, the same Douglas County company that provided the faulty panels to OSU. DR Johnson built its CLT fabrication plant in the Douglas County town of Riddle in 2015. It's one of only two such factories in the country.

Beam principal Jonathan Malsin said he's studied the Peavy Hall project and is convinced that DR Johnson has remedied the production glitch. Much like a grocer who highlights locally sourced produce, Malsin said that he will position "District Office" as the building featuring Oregon wood.

"It's pretty exciting to be able to source a product that is fabricated here," he said. "It's driving a unique and virtuous connection between the urban and rural worlds in Oregon."

Timm Locke, forest products director for the Oregon Forest Resources Institute, said about two-dozen buildings featuring cross-laminated beams are under construction, in the planning stage or have been recently completed. "The marketplace loves the stuff," he said. "They love the look, they love that they can potentially save money and they love the environmental story. It checks a lot of boxes."

-- Jeff ManningRep. Knute Buehler and the Oregon business community's calls for more cuts to the Public Employees' Retirement System and funding existing PERS on the backs of schools is a disservice to our dedicated educators and, most importantly, our children.

As a newer teacher, I am tier three in the PERS system, meaning my retirement benefits are significantly less than most of my colleagues'. The retirement promised to the majority of tier one PERS retirees who worked 30 years for Oregon still averages little more than enough to afford a typical one-bedroom apartment in Portland.

Everyone talks about wanting better schools, but for that to succeed we need highly qualified educators. From my graduating class, less than half are still teaching in Oregon. The majority either left the profession or left Oregon. Nobody cares to work for an agency that constantly threatens their retirement while increasing their workload.

No one going into public service expects to get rich. As a teacher, I do my job because I love helping young people find direction in life. Public employees can historically count on one guarantee: a reliable and safe retirement. We need highly qualified teachers with reasonable class loads that allow them time to engage every student. If Oregon further reduces PERS -- especially while cutting school budgets -- we should not expect qualified educators to stick around or for our schools to improve. We must stop funding these promises on the backs of children.

-- Jeffrey Fuller, Northeast Portland

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! Submit 250 words or less and please include your first and last name, hometown and a phone number for verification.A motorcyclist traveling westbound on Oregon 22E in Linn County crossed the centerline, clipped a minivan then crashed head-on with a SUV before dying at the scene Saturday morning, said Oregon Police.

Around 9:10 a.m. on Aug. 11, police and emergency personnel responded to the three-vehicle crash on state Highway 22E near milepost 71 west of the Santiam Junction.

Police said Gregory D. Gummere, 64, of Boise, Idaho, crossed the centerline in a 2015 Triumph motorcycle and hit a 1996 Plymouth minivan driven by David Privratsky, 62, of McMinnville, before crashing into a 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV driven by Caleb J. Pilling, 33, of Beaverton.

Gummere was pronounced dead at the scene. No one else was injured, police said.

Highway 22E was closed for about five hours following the crash.

Janet Eastman | 503-799-8739

jeastman@oregonian.comGregory Jenkins, 57, of Eugene, was working on a billboard near Grand Ronde before 1:50 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 10, when he lost his balance and fell about 75 feet to the ground.

He died at the scene, according to Polk County sheriffs.

Witness statements claim Jenkins was not tethered to the platform by a safety harness.

Investigators from the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are looking into the job death.

The Polk County Sheriff's Office was assisted by the West Valley Fire Department and the Grand Ronde Tribal Police Department.

Janet Eastman | 503-799-8739

jeastman@oregonian.comAuthorities have identified the man who stole a Horizon Air plane from an airport in Seattle, Washington, that ended with him crashing into an island.

The Horizon Air employee who commandeered an empty turboprop passenger plane at Seattle's main airport Friday night, flying it over Puget Sound before crashing it into a small island, has been identified as Richard Russell, authorities said.

Russell had been described as "suicidal."

The FBI Seattle field office on Friday said early signs do not point toward terrorism. Pierce County Sheriff's Department spokesman Ed Troyer described the suspect as an unnamed suicidal 29-year-old man from the county "doing stunts in the air" before the crash.

The man, referred to as "Rich" and "Richard" by air traffic controllers in tense recordings, said he was "just a broken guy" as authorities tried to divert the 76-seat Bombardier Q400 away from populated areas.

Russell took off with the stolen aircraft at about 8 p.m. Friday from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, and was an employee of Horizon Air, the Alaska Air Group said in a statement.

The aircraft slammed into Ketron Island about an hour later, authorities said, triggering an intense blaze. The wooded island, about 25 miles southwest from the airport, has a population of about 20 people, the Seattle Times reported, and is only accessible by ferry.

Pierce County Sheriff Paul Pastor called it a "joyride gone terribly wrong." He said it appears that Russell died in the crash and that there were no injuries on the ground, according to the Times.

Russell appears to have been a ground service agent, the paper said. Those agents guide planes, handle bags and de-ice planes, Horizon Air says.

Investigators have not disclosed how Russell was able to steal the plane and take it aloft, but the suicidal state evident in his radio exchanges is likely to revive the debate about the background checks of aviation employees with access to secure areas, analysts say.

Help available

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The United States has approximately 900,000 aviation workers, according to the most recent federal data, and the screening procedures they are subjected to are "pretty rudimentary," said Mary Schiavo, the former inspector general of the U.S. Department of Transportation. While pilots undergo periodic medical exams, she said, airline mechanics and ground crew members are checked on a much more limited basis that does not include mental health exams.

The incident has also raised questions about the physical security of the planes. Though aircraft mechanics have broad access and routinely taxi planes along the tarmac, crew members are not supposed to be allowed inside the cockpit.

But Schiavo said those security procedures are not always observed, especially for smaller aircraft like the 76-seat Bombardier Q400 hijacked Friday night. "It can be a little more casual and a little loosey-goosey, especially if they are doing overnight maintenance," said Schiavo, a former pilot and aviation professor.

A video posted to social media shows the aircraft flying loops as the F-15s flew in pursuit. The aircraft nose-dives toward the water before pulling up, flying low and sending locals into a panic.

The two F-15s were scrambled and in the air within minutes of the theft, flying at supersonic speeds from their Portland Air Force base to intercept the aircraft, said the North American Aerospace Defense Command, which oversees airspace protection in North America.

The jets were armed but did not fire on the aircraft, Air Force Capt. Cameron Hillier, a NORAD spokesman, told The Washington Post on Saturday. They attempted to divert the aircraft toward the Pacific Ocean while maintaining radio communication with controllers and Russell. The jets flew close enough to make visual contact, he said.

The incident fell under the ongoing mission of Noble Eagle, the air-defense mission launched after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Hillier said. There have been 1,800 intercepts of nonmilitary aircraft since, according to NORAD's statement.

Communication between Russell and air traffic controllers revealed a conversation between authorities and Rich, who boisterously says he fueled the plane "to go check out the Olympics [mountains]."

Russell detailed his experience flying from video games and asked for the coordinates to the killer whale shepherding her dead calf through Washington coastal waters for nearly three weeks.

"You know, the mama orca with the baby. I want to go see that guy," Russell explains, according to audio obtained by Canadian journalist Jimmy Thomson.

At one point, an air traffic controller advises he should land at the airfield of the nearby military base, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, the Times reported.

"Oh man," Russell says, "Those guys will rough me up if I try and land there. I think I might mess something up there, too. I wouldn't want to do that. They probably have antiaircraft."

The air-traffic control says they don't have those weapons.

"We're just trying to find a place for you to land safely," he says.

Russell replies: "I'm not quite ready to bring it down just yet . . . But holy smokes, I got to stop looking at the fuel, because it's going down quick."

He explains he had not expected to expend fuel so quickly, as he thinks about what comes next. "This is probably jail time for life, huh?" he says. "I would hope it is for a guy like me."

At one point, Russell appears to believe he will not live through the moment.

"I've got a lot of people that care about me. It's going to disappoint them to hear that I did this. I would like to apologize to each and every one of them. Just a broken guy, got a few screws loose, I guess. Never really knew it until now."

The last known transmission was from about 8:47 p.m., the Times reported.

"I feel like one of my engines is going out or something," Russell says, according to audio posted by aviation journalist Jon Ostrower at the Air Current website.

The controller responds: "OK, Rich. . . . If you could, you just want to keep that plane right over the water. Keep the aircraft nice and low."

The incident prompted authorities to temporarily ground flights at SeaTac. Flights resumed at about the same time the crash occurred, the airport said in a statement. The FBI said Friday night it was investigating the incident alongside other agencies.

Russell wrote on a blog that he met his wife in Coos Bay in 2010 while they were attending school. They later opened a bakery that they ran for three years. He lived in Sumner, Washington, at the time of the writing.

Russell's family said in a statement that they are stunned and heartbroken. They referenced the recordings of him talking to air traffic controllers and said and that it's clear Russell, who went by the nickname "Beebo," didn't intend to harm anyone and "he was right in saying that there are so many people who loved him."

Here is a statement from the family of Richard Russell, the Horizon Air employee who stole a plane, crashed it into Ketron Island.

This is a complete shock to us. We are devastated by these events and Jesus is truly the only one holding this family together right now. pic.twitter.com/5z4BYRBrcU  Kierra Elfalan (@KierraElfalanTV) August 12, 2018

Coaches at Wasilla High School in Alaska, where Russell was a football player, wrestler and discus thrower, told the Anchorage Daily News they are shocked at the news.

Track and field coach Gary Howell said he was "absolutely the kind of kid you want on your team."

"He had that energy, that vibrance," Howell said. "He was that kid you high-five in the hallway even if you don't know him."

Royal King, a Seattle-area resident in the area to photograph a wedding, was near the island when the plane cratered into the island, the Times reported.

"It was unfathomable; it was something out of a movie," he said. "The smoke lingered. You could still hear the F-15s, which were flying low."

Richard Bloom, an aviation security expert at Arizona's Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, said he wasn't aware of another incident in which a ground crew member managed to heist an airplane. Incidents of aviation workers attempting "inside jobs" that benefit extremists or drug traffickers are far more common.

A screening system to evaluate the mental health of aviation workers would be difficult, Bloom cautioned. "There are such significant challenges to preventing inappropriate security behavior," he said. "It's kind of surprising that these types of things don't happen more often."

A bipartisan House bill approved last year, 409 to zero, would tighten employee background checks and increase surveillance of secure areas at airports. But a Senate version of the bill has not advanced to a vote.

The House bill followed a February 2017 House Homeland Security report warning of vulnerabilities to terrorists and criminals seeking to land jobs as aviation workers. Concerns over mental health were not a major focus of the inquiry.

But concern about the mental state of aviation workers has grown in recent years, analyst say, particularly after the 2015 crash of Germanwings 9525 flight in France, when a pilot deliberately steered his plane into a mountainside, killing 144 passengers and five crew members.

The pilot, Andreas Lubitz, had been treated for depression and psychiatric problems, but he had concealed the information from his employer. Once the flight was airborne, Lubitz locked his co-pilot out of the cockpit and set the plane on its fatal course.

-- The Washington Post

The Associated Press and Eder Campuzano of The Oregonian/OregonLive staff contributed to this reportA grieving orca whale has released the body of her dead calf after carrying it for at least 17 days through the Pacific Ocean in an unprecedented act of mourning, according to researchers.

On Saturday, Tahlequah, as the mother has come to be called, was observed swimming without the body of her calf, according to Center for Whale Research Founder Ken Balcomb.

"Her tour of grief is now over and her behavior is remarkably frisky," read an update on the research center's website.

The center said whale-watchers near Vancouver, British Columbia, had reported seeing Tahlequah without her calf's body last week, but Saturday was the first time researchers were able to confirm those reports.

Tahlequah's mourning had astonished and devastated much of the world.

The orca gave birth on July 25 in what should have been a happy milestone for her long-suffering clan.

As Allyson Chiu wrote for The Washington Post, the pod of killer whales that roams between Vancouver and San Juan Island has dwindled to 75 members over the decades. The cause is no mystery: Humans have netted up the whales' salmon, driven ships through their hunting lanes and polluted their water, to the point that researchers fear Tahlequah's generation may be the last of her family.

The 400-pound, orange-tinted baby that wriggled out of her that morning was the first live birth in the pod since 2015, Chiu wrote. It lived about half an hour.

People love to anthropomorphize animals, often fallaciously. But studies have found that orcas really do possess high levels of intelligence and empathy, and emotions that may not be totally alien to our own.

So, when Tahlequah did not let her emaciated calf sink to the bottom of the Pacific, but rather balanced it on her head and pushed it along as she followed her pod, researchers thought they understood what was happening.

"You cannot interpret it any other way," Deborah Giles, a killer whale biologist with the University of Washington, told Chiu. "This is an animal that is grieving for its dead baby, and she doesn't want to let it go. She's not ready."

That was the beginning of a long funeral procession. "The hours turned into days," Chiu wrote two days after the death. "And on Thursday she was still seen pushing her baby to the water's surface."

And still the next day, and through the weekend, and into the next week and next month.

The act itself was not unprecedented, but researchers said it was rare to see a mother carry her dead for so long. It couldn't have been easy for her. Tahlequah's pod travels dozens of miles in a day, Chiu wrote, and she pushed her baby's hundreds of pounds every inch of the way. She was forever picking up the body as it sank, hoisting it out of the water to take a breath, and repeating.

Researchers with the Canadian and U.S. governments and other organizations tracked her all the while, the Seattle Times wrote. They hoped to capture the calf once Tahlequah finally let go, and discover why it had died - as nearly all the babies in this pod seemed to.

But Tahlequah would not let go. Eventually, researchers stopped calling what they were witnessing "rare" and began using the word "unprecedented."

And the phenomenon was no longer of purely scientific interest.

People wrote poems about Tahlequah and drew pictures. People lost sleep thinking about the whale. A scientist cried thinking of her. Tahlequah inspired politicians and essayists - and a sense of interspecies kinship in some mothers who had also lost children.

And still, Tahlequah carried her child. The world's interest in her feat finally grew to encompass her whole family.

Last week, the Times wrote, biologists and government officials began working on a plan to save the youngest living member of Talhequah's pod - a 3-year-old orca that appears to be on the brink of starvation. They are tracking the young whale - Scarlet - in an attempt to feed her antibiotic-laced salmon.

In that sense, maybe, Tahlequah's doomed calf did bring new hope to the pod, which had previously swum and struggled in near-anonymity.

At the same time, the mother's obsession had become gravely concerning to researchers. They worried that the effort of pushing her calf - for about 1,000 miles - would make Tahlequah weak and keep her from finding enough food. Fortunately, that doesn't appear to be the case.

The Center for Whale Research said Tahlequah "vigorously chased a school of salmon with her pod-mates" when researchers spotted her on Saturday.

-- Avi SelkAdapted from a recent online discussion.

Hey Carolyn:

Where do you draw the line between controlling behavior and wanting a relationship you are comfortable with? Example -- I don't want to be with someone who hangs out in bars on the regular. Am I being controlling by telling my significant other, "I don't like it when you go out drinking with friends so much"? Aren't I allowed to make that request and act accordingly depending on their response?

-- Preference

You can mention it, sure, and see what comes of it, and act accordingly based on the response. That's the easy answer.

It's not controlling just to ask something once or on occasion; control involves a combination of requests and manipulation, including punishments for "wrong" answers.

I think there's a subtler point to be made here, though.

Before telling your partner something like this, pragmatism demands some thought first to how much you're asking and expecting a person to change.

To use this example: "I don't want to be with someone who hangs out in bars on the regular." That's fine on its face, and it's your prerogative. Your partner might well be happy to know this about you and happy to go out less because s/he could take or leave these nights out anyway.

But if your partner is someone who hangs out in bars "on the regular" and really enjoys it, isn't that who your partner will be, whether s/he is at a bar at the moment or not?

And if you speak up and if your partner agrees not to go out as much, will s/he be happy living that way from now on? Will it be OK in the near term but start to chafe over time? Will your partner revert to type when your relationship moves from new and magnetic to something more comfortable -- where your togetherness takes more effort and commitment?

And what of the personality traits, social nature, values, etc., behind enjoying bars -- those will be in place regardless too, and might be mismatched with your nature no matter what setting they're in.

So, maybe this is all just other dimensions of the control issue, but maybe too it's easier to think of this in terms of realism: Should a person who balks at going to bars even be with someone who likes to hang out in bars?

Either way, it seems fair -- to yourself and to a partner -- only to ask for changes on the margins. Wanting bigger ones suggests any changes should start with you.

And of course you need to accept the response, be it words or deeds or inaction, to any such request for what it is -- then respond accordingly from there. Continuing to press for change that keeps not happening is misery for you, misery for the person you're constantly trying to correct, misery for all the people you're complaining to about your misery about this person's refusal to change -- because who in this situation doesn't also complain? -- and misery for anyone within earshot of your correcting, misery and complaining.A single ticket sold in New York state won Saturday's Powerball jackpot worth $245.6 million, lottery officials announced early Sunday.

The winning ticket was sold at the Stop & Shop, 2754 Hylan Boulevard, on Staten Island, according to the New York State Lottery's Web site. There was no immediate word on who holds the winning ticket.

Also Saturday there was a winner in Florida of a secondary prize of $2 million and a winner in Georgia of a $1 million prize.

Here are Saturday's winning numbers:

05-43-56-62-68, Powerball: 24, PowerPlay: 2x

The lump sum payment before taxes will be about $147 million for the winner of Saturday's jackpot.

Because there was a jackpot winner, the amount resets to $40 million for next Wednesday's drawing.

The last big payout occurred when a single winning ticket worth $150.4 million sold in Oregon won on June 21.

Powerball is held in 44 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

A $2 ticket gives you a one in 292.2 million chance at joining the hall of Powerball champions.

The drawings are held at 10:59 p.m. Eastern Wednesdays and Saturdays. Deadline to purchase tickets is 9:45 p.m.If you saw a firetruck driving wildly in York County this morning, it wasn't one of the fire company's members behind the wheel. The rescue truck, fire officials say, had been stolen.

Police are now investigating the incident, reported early this morning at the Strinestown Community Fire Company.

According to the fire company, someone broke into the station at 5690 Susquehanna Trail in Manchester and stole a full set of gear, as well as a rescue truck.

"If anyone saw this unit being operated in a reckless or erratic manner, we apologize," fire officials said on the company's Facebook page. "At that time we were unaware that it had been stolen."

The firetruck was found, and is currently out of service as firefighters assess the damage.

The Northern York County Regional Police Department is investigating.PITTSBURGH (AP) -- The bishop of Pittsburgh's Roman Catholic diocese said a few priests named in a soon-to-be-released grand jury report on clergy sex abuse are still in ministry because the diocese determined allegations against them were unsubstantiated.

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that Bishop David Zubik reiterated to reporters Friday that "there is no priest or deacon in an assignment today against whom there was a substantiated allegation of child sexual abuse."

Zubik said after the report's release he would meet with parishioners whose priests may have been named in it to explain why the diocese's own review did not substantiate any allegations.

READ MORE:

Zubik spoke Friday with the Post-Gazette and KDKA-TV at a taping of the weekly current-events program KDPG Sunday Edition.

The state Supreme Court disclosed recently that the grand jury had identified more than 300 "predator priests" in the six dioceses that were investigated: Allentown, Erie, Greensburg, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh and Scranton. Together, those dioceses minister to more than 1.7 million Catholics.

The release of the nearly 900-page report has been held up by challenges by some priests and former priests. The court ruled that a version with some names blacked out can be made public soon.

READ MORE:

The Harrisburg Diocese has identified 72 priests and other members of the church who had been accused of child sex abuse. The Erie Diocese released its own findings on clergy abuse in April.

Zubik, who has been bishop for 11 years, earlier vowed to release the names of any members of his clergy named in the report, which he called "a sad and tragic description of events that occurred within the Church."

Previous investigations found widespread sexual abuse by priests in the state's two other dioceses: Philadelphia and Altoona-Johnstown.Health department urges flu vaccine amid COVID-19 outbreak

The Health Department of Northwest Michigan announced Thursday it is urging everyone to get a flu vaccine as soon as possible.Photo: Contributed

UPDATE 10:30 A.M.

A manhunt is still ongoing in the area in and around Polson Park in Vernon this morning (Tuesday) after police received a report of shots fired shortly before 8 a.m.

RCMP spokesman, Gord Molendyk, says police received the report of shots fired near the Fruit Union Plaza and the Green Valley Motel by Highway 97 and Highway 6.

"Individuals took off running so we flooded the area," says Molendyk.

"We have the helicopter up, dogs and we continue to follow up on that investigation."

Molendyk says it does not appear anyone was injured.

"There was a report it started at the Fruit Union Plaza and went into Polson Park and the Green Valley is involved," says Molendyk.

"We are not 100 per cent sure whether it came from Green Valley into the park...but all three are involved."

Police continue to talk to witnesses and are trying to locate the suspects.

RCMP have a section of Highway 97, at the bottom of Hospital Hill in Vernon, under surveillance as they hunt for a suspect Tuesday morning.

A witness says the officers were chasing several men down the highway after an incident at the Green Valley Motel next to Polson Park.

The suspects may be in the ravine that runs along a creek in Polson Park.

People are asked to stay clear of the area.

An employee at the motel says whoever the police are chasing were not registered guests, and that a sniffer dog tracked the scent to the motel parking lot.

Police are still on scene, and no arrests have been made at this time.

More details to follow.

Send photos and video to [email protected]170 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard

By Brendan Pierson

NEW YORK (Reuters)  Michael Cohen, a longtime personal lawyer of U.S. President Donald Trump, on Friday asked a judge to bar adult film star Stormy Daniels lawyer from intervening in Cohens legal attempt to limit prosecutors review of documents seized from his home and office.

Michael Avenatti had asked U.S. District Judge Kimba Wood in Manhattan for permission to appear in the case in order to represent the interests of his client, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford. Daniels has said she was paid $130,000 by Cohen to keep a sexual encounter with Trump secret.

In a court filing on Friday, however, Cohens lawyers said Avenatti should not be allowed to appear in the case because he had made numerous inaccurate statements in public about Cohen, violating court rules.

The filing also said Avenatti had publicized information about Cohens financial transactions that was accurate but had no lawful source. The New Yorker reported on Wednesday that a law enforcement official had leaked financial records relating to Cohen.

Mr Avenatti appears to be primarily focused on smearing Mr Cohen publicly in his efforts to further his own interest in garnering as much media attention as possible, Cohens lawyers said in the filing. They said Avenatti had appeared on national television and talked about Cohen 147 times in the past 10 weeks, sometimes making inaccurate statements.

Avenatti in an email called Cohens filing baseless, but said he was pleased they admit the factual accuracy of what we previously disclosed.

Avenatti has publicly discussed transactions between Cohen and companies including drugmaker Novartis AG <NOVN.S> and Columbus Nova LLC, a New York-based investment firm linked to Russian businessman Viktor Vekselberg.

The case before Wood concerns authorities search of documents from Cohens home and office as part of a criminal investigation. Wood has appointed a special master to review the documents to identify those that may be protected by attorney-client privilege.

The investigation into Cohen stems in part from a referral from Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who is investigating whether Trumps 2016 presidential campaign colluded with Russia. Trump has denied any collusion.

(Reporting By Brendan Pierson, Editing by Rosalba OBrien)By Brendan OBrien and Alex Dobuzinskis

(Reuters)  Federal authorities on Saturday were seeking to learn what drove an airline worker to steal an empty airplane from Seattles airport in a security scare that caused the scrambling of U.S. fighter jets and ended when the plane crashed onto a sparsely populated island.

A Horizon Air ground service agent got into a Bombardier Q400 turboprop aircraft on Friday night in a maintenance area at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and took off, Horizon sister carrier Alaska Airline said.

He flew for about one hour, often erratically, before crashing on Ketron Island in Puget Sound, about 25 miles (40 km) to the southwest.

The 29-year-old man, who has not been named, was suicidal and appeared to have acted alone, according to the Pierce County Sheriffs Department, which said the employee was believed to have been killed in the crash.

Doing stunts in air or lack of flying skills caused crash into Island, the Sheriffs Department said on Twitter.

In partial recordings of his conversations with air traffic controllers that were published online by Broadcastify.com, the man said he was sorry to disappoint people who cared about him and described himself as a broken guy.

Got a few screws loose, I guess, he is heard saying in the recording. Never really knew it until now.

The Federal Aviation Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the National Transportation Safety Board were investigating the incident.

Until the FBI has the opportunity to get better background on the person, find out what motive they had, its a little too early to make a determination on what the objective was, Debra Eckrote, the NTSBs western Pacific region chief, said at a news conference.

Two F-15 fighter jets took to the air from a base in Portland, Oregon, and were on the scene within minutes. The jets were armed but did not open fire, North American Aerospace Defense Command spokesman Cameron Hillier said by phone.

Instead, the F-15 pilots and air traffic controllers tried to guide the plane west, away from populated areas, said Hillier. No one was hurt on the ground, authorities said.

It was unclear how the employee was able to taxi the plane on a runway and take off without authorization.

Were working to find out everything we possibly can about what happened, Brad Tilden, chief executive of Alaska Air Group said in a statement.

The Bombardier Q400 turboprop is designed for short-distance flights and can seat 76 passengers, Alaska Air said.

Slideshow gallery:

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(Reporting by Brendan OBrien in Milwaukee and Alex Dobuzinskis in Los Angeles; Editing by Mark Potter and Steve Orlofsky)2.2k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard

Fox News host Jeanine Pirro introduced a totally crazy new theory about special prosecutor Bob Mueller during her Saturday night show. She said that the highly respected special counsel and former FBI Director is actually a criminal who will soon need his own attorney. She accused the straight-laced Mueller of taking money from a Russian billionaire, apparently in exchange for his investigation of President Donald Trump.

Speaking directly to the special counsel Pirro said:

Bob, I really think its time to give up your phony investigation and get yourself your own criminal defense attorney.

She started off her show telling Mueller he should drop the Russia probe.

@JudgeJeanine to Special Counsel Mueller: How could you possibly be investigating Donald Trump when there is absolutely no credible basis for your investigation?

.@JudgeJeanine to Special Counsel Mueller: "How could you possibly be investigating Donald Trump when there is absolutely no credible basis for your investigation?" pic.twitter.com/5kbyvR2BVw  Fox News (@FoxNews) August 12, 2018

And this morning, to no ones surprise, the President of the United States decided to weigh in on this important topic, tweeting:

.@JudgeJeanine Bob Mueller, isnt your whole investigation premised on a Fake Dossier, paid for by Hillary, created by a man who hates Donald Trump, & used to con a FISA Court Judge. Bob, I really think its time for you to give up your phony investigation. No Collusion!

.@JudgeJeanine Bob Mueller, isnt your whole investigation premised on a Fake Dossier, paid for by Hillary, created by a man who hates Donald Trump, & used to con a FISA Court Judge. Bob, I really think its time for you to give up your phony investigation. No Collusion!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 12, 2018

Pirros had begun her show with a monologue claiming that the Mueller investigation was a fraud, ignoring the fact it has yielded dozens of indictments and several guilty pleas.

Are you using the Christopher Steele fake dossier as the basis of your investigation? Pirro asked, apparently forgetting about the fact that Donald Trump Jr. discussed getting dirt on Hillary Clinton through Kremlin agents.

Pirro really went out of control after she began to talk about Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska, who she accused of funding an FBI operation. Right-wing media, for no logical reason, has been promoting the theory that dossier author Christopher Steele was advocating for the oligarch who has a relationship with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin.

Why would you ask for millions of dollars from a Russian oligarch banned from the United States to fund an FBI operation? she said, addressing Mueller. Then she went on:

Should you have even asked the oligarch for tens of millions of dollars and for his services. Because thats a crime, isnt it Bob? Im sure you know the anti-deficiency act prohibits you, as a government agency, from accepting voluntary services. and if it came out that you took money, Bob, from a Russian oligarch whose name you intentionally left out of Manaforts indictment, that would be an embarrassment, wouldnt it?

It was unclear what Pirro was talking about during her unhinged rant. Of course, with Pirro andTrump, their goal is not to make sense but to make baseless accusations, muddy the waters, create confusion, and undermine legitimate law enforcement investigations.

Cynics have noticed that ever since she had a new book to promote she has been doing everything possible to get in Donald Trumps good graces, with the hope that he will promote the book and help her book sales.

The sad thing, no matter how crazy her rantings really are, her strategy will probably work. Donald Trump has shown he will publicly praise anyone who says positive things about him, no matter how untrue they are. Her rantings may benefit her book sales but they will not help Donald Trump escape his legal problems, which are mounting every day.778 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard

As Washington braces for the far-right anniversary rally of their murder of an innocent woman, senior adviser to President Trump Kellyanne Conway was focused on fighting back against allegations by Omarosa in her book that President Trump is a racist, so she claimed that the media was just not covering the presidents repeated denunciations of white nationalists.

Hes calling for unity among all Americans and he denounced all forms of bigotry and acts of violence and racism, Conway said on ABCs This Week.

Watch Jonathan Karl struggle with reality v Kellyanne Conway here:

Transcript from ABC:



CONWAY: And I  I do have correct the record, you said that the president has never denounced white supremacists. I want to read you his quote from August 14 of last year because its missing from the conversation.

And I quote, racism is evil, all those who cause violence in its name are criminals and thugs quote including the KKK, neonazis, white supremacists and other hate groups that are repugnant to everything we hope to do (ph) as Americans.

KARL: Kellyanne, as  as you know, the president also said there were very fine people on both sides in that rally. That was a rally led by neo-Nazis and white supremacists. Does he 

CONWAY: And  and he denounced them, but youre not covering that.

KARL: No, no, but he said there were very fine people on both sides.

CONWAY:  why doesnt that matter? Why doesnt it matter that youre not taking the totality of his comments over the stretch of days, John?

KARL: Well because I think its still a question of who were the very fine people on the side of the neonazis?

CONWAY: Well hes telling you whos not, hes saying he denounces, quote, the KKK, neonazis, white supremacists and all those who cause violence in the name. And yesterday, in a very, very strong statement, he said that last year there was senseless and death and division.

Hes calling for unity among all Americans and he denounced all forms of bigotry and acts of violence and racism. And 

KARL: Still  still not specifically calling out the neonazis or the white supremacists or 

CONWAY:  (inaudible) you just dont cover it.

Do you even have  excuse me, does ABC even have the quote in your file that youre able to put it up right now for all your viewers? Probably not. But I just read it 

KARL: I think  I think the fact that he said very fine people on both sides, and one of the sides was lead by neonazis and white supremacists.

CONWAY: He denounced 

KARL: I still dont understand 

CONWAY: He said theyre criminals and thugs 

KARL: So who were  who were the very fine people marching with the neonazis?

CONWAY:  white supremacists. He  he denounced all of them, youre just not covering it.

KARL: OK youre not  youre not answering that question

CONWAY: I answered the question. But youve got to show all the quotes to be fair.

Thats Kellyanne for you. Whining about a lack of fairness while parsing the presidents words and then condemning the media for covering the part she left out. You know, the important part where he blamed innocent people who stand against neo-Nazis as being just as bad as neo-Nazis or the part where he couldnt manage to unequivocally condemn white supremacists and neo-Nazis. And still cant.

Issues:

1. Hes calling is present tense, it happened semi-fully this once; it was not repeated, so how could the media have covered something that did not happen.

Saturday was the first time the Republican President has managed to form those words without equivocating, sharing the blame, or backtracking (and theres still time for that and its probably coming). And he still didnt denounce white supremacists and neo-Nazis.

On Saturday, Trump finally managed to condemn all types of racism a whole year after the tragedy in Charlottesville, Virginia when an Ohio man, James Fields, drove his car into a crowd of counterprotesters and killed Heather Heyer.

At that time, Trump said there were very fine people on both sides, equating counterprotesters of white supremacists and neo-Nazis with actual white supremacists and neo-Nazis.

Trump called for Peace for Americans! which is exactly like screaming about war and expecting peace (something some on the alleged far left do with regularity, along with calling anyone who doesnt vote green a corporate wh*re as their actions elect the biggest corporate enablers over and over again). Name-calling does not beget peace, nor is it a sign that you dealing with someone who actually values peace; quite the opposite.

2. Unity is not something you call for and it appears magically. Unity is not a unicorn.

Unity is not something you can call for with a straight face when you behave like a spoiled child and insult everyone who doesnt give you your way, only govern for the people who voted for you, left Puerto Ricans to die because you couldnt be bothered dealing with people who didnt vote for you, insult and falsely malign California as they struggle with the largest wildfire in modern history  that now appears to be have been started by a QAnon, read TRUMP SUPPORTER, conspiracy believer whose thinking, if it can be called that, mirrors our presidents) by blaming them incorrectly for the fire, mock Republican Senator John McCain as he struggles with brain cancer, insult Democrats and then wonder why they wont negotiate with you even though you dont stick to your side of agreements, and on and on. These are not actions designed to bring about unity; quite the opposite.

Name-calling is not the path to unity. Trump has insulted people on both sides of the aisle, and our allies, when he doesnt get what he wants right away.

It doesnt work to announce that he denounces bigotry and racism after offering supporters paid legal fees if they beat up protesters. Yes, it will take a bit more than a begrudging statement a year in the making.

Denouncing racism is the easy part. Trump shouldnt have taken a year to get there.

The hard part, the real part, is action that follows, like actually caring about the systemic inequities in our judicial system and the issues with some bad apples in our police forces who are routinely protected from their actions (yes, Im saying bad apples because most people who are police officers do want to help people, but the profession also attracts its share of sociopathic abusers, much like politics, Hollywood and sports, and much like politics, Hollywood and sports, power seeks to hide its abuses, which means the good people get tainted by the bad people because they are not speaking up enough).

Trump himself is the walking embodiment of division and hate. He creates animosity wherever he goes. He employs a mob mentality when dealing with other nations and any adversary. He won an election by stoking division and hate, and spreading falsehoods.

Bad news for Ms. Conway: Unlike the Trump White House, we cant just make stuff up. So we cant cover things that havent happened. That is why the media is not covering Trump fully, like a grown up, denouncing white supremacists repeatedly. Because he has not actually done this.1.7k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard

Donald Trump called the news media the enemy of the American people just one month after taking office. In the following year, according to CNN, he used the phrases fake news, fake stories, fake media or fake polls  over 400 times.

And now a major newspaper has organized a coordinated response from editorial boards of other newspapers across the country to Trumps excessive attacks on the news media which many people believe are attacks on freedom of the press.

We are not the enemy of the people, said Marjorie Pritchard, deputy managing editor for the editorial page of The Boston Globe. Her comment was a reference to a commonly used description of the press used by Trump who often says he has been covered unfairly by the news media.

Through Pritchards efforts The Globe has reached out to editorial boards across the United States asking them to write and publish editorials on August 16th denouncing what they are calling Trumps dirty war against the free press.

Pritchard said that so far there are over 70 news organizations that have committed to writing and publishing editorials on the topic. She said the list may grow over the next several days also.

Publications involved include daily newspapers in major cities, such as the Houston Chronicle, Minneapolis Star Tribune, Miami Herald and Denver Post, to weekly newspapers in small towns with circulations as low as 4,000.

The Globes request has been circulated through newspaper industry groups such as the American Society of News Editors and the New England Newspaper and Press Association. They asked that editorial boards take a unified stand against Trumps words regardless of their politics, saying the battle they are waging is not partisan in nature. Even if a newspaper supports Trumps policies they still want them to take part in protecting freedom of the press.

Our words will differ. But at least we can agree that such attacks are alarming, The Globes appeal said. They know that different newspapers will take different approaches which is fine because they have a common goal.

Pritchard, said the decision to seek a coordinated response from so many different news outlets came about after Trump stepped up his verbal assaults on the press over the past few weeks. She said she hopes that what they are doing will make a lasting impression on their readers.

I hope it will educate our readers to realize that an attack on the First Amendment is unacceptable, she said. We are a free and independent press, it is one of the most sacred principles enshrined in the Constitution.

Concerns were raised on August 2nd when Press Secretary Sarah Sanders had a full meltdown and refused to state that the press is not the enemy of the people. Other people have expressed fears that Trumps harsh rhetoric may get people killed.

Several journalists were killed in June in Annapolis, Maryland causing Trump to come under intense criticism for his inflammatory rhetoric.135 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard

By Joseph Ax

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (Reuters)  Hundreds of students and left-wing activists took to the streets of Charlottesville, Virginia, on Saturday, as a rally to mark the anniversary of last years white nationalist gathering turned largely into an anti-police protest.

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With chants like, Cops and Klan go hand in hand, the protesters criticisms of both police and the University of Virginia underscored the resentment that still exists a year after torch-bearing neo-Nazis marched through campus, shouting anti-Semitic messages and beating counterprotesters.

Several students said they were angry that the police response was far larger this year compared with last year, when people carrying tiki torches the white nationalist rally went mostly unchecked.

At one point on Saturday, dozens of officers in riot gear formed a line near where the rally was taking place, prompting many protesters to rush over yelling, Why are you in riot gear? We dont see no riot here.

The standoff ended without any clashes as organizers urged the crowd to move away and begin marching off campus. Police, who appeared to be avoiding a confrontation, rode bicycles ahead of the march to stop traffic.

The newly installed president of the University of Virginia, James Ryan, apologized for the schools inaction last year while speaking at an event to memorialize the anniversary.

Saturdays march capped a day of hope, grief, anger and remembrance in Charlottesville, one year after the Unite the Right rally brought racially charged street violence to the scenic college town.

The organizer of last years rally, local blogger Jason Kessler, has planned a sequel for Sunday in Washington after being denied a permit in Charlottesville.

With hundreds of police maintaining a tight security perimeter around a 15-block downtown area, Charlottesvilles normally bustling business district was relatively quiet on Saturday. The buzz of a police helicopter overhead was a constant throughout the day.

The massive police response was not welcomed by everyone, including some residents and business owners who complained that the restrictions were an overreaction.

The result, however, was a day largely devoid of conflict. Authorities arrested three men for minor offenses, including a 64-year-old disabled man who appeared to deliberately challenge the prohibition on certain items in the secured area.

The man, John Miska, who was wearing a handgun in a shoulder holster, visited a drugstore and purchased razor blades, which qualified as contraband under the citys emergency declaration. The gun, however, was not banned, based on state law.

When he refused an officers request to take the razors to his car, he was arrested for disorderly conduct.

This is the loss of our constitutional rights here in Charlottesville, he shouted, as officers led him away in plastic hand ties.

A group of anti-fascist protesters, sometimes known as Antifa, marched in the afternoon, carrying signs with messages like Good Night White Pride. They stopped to pay their respects at the corner where a local woman, Heather Heyer, was killed when an Ohio man drove his car into a crowd of counterprotesters following last years rally.

While some businesses closed for the weekend, many merchants remained open in a show of solidarity.

Its my town, and Im not afraid, said Karen Walker, whose floral shop Hedge was open on Saturday even though she did not expect much business. Outside her front door, a bucket of freshly cut flowers was available for passersby to take for free.

Many local residents also made a point of coming downtown to mark the anniversary. Kathe Falzer, 67, changed a flight to California so she could spend Saturday in town.

I felt the need to be here and support the businesses, Falzer said as she ate lunch at a diner on Main Street.

(Reporting by Joseph Ax; Editing by Daniel Wallis and Alistair Bell)3.4k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard

The AP blasted President Trump for pulling numbers out of thin air when it comes to the economy, jobs and the deficit in a fact check.

Trumps claims that his job creation is so big as to be unthinkable:

Its true that in the 20 months since Trumps election, the economy has generated 3.9 million jobs. In the 20 months before his election, however, employers added 4.3 million jobs.

Trumps claims that the economy is doing record and close-to-record GDP:

THE FACTS: No. These are the latest in a string of exaggerated claims that Trump has made about the U.S. economy.

Trumps claims that the economy has never been better:

THE FACTS: Hes exaggerating. The economy is healthy now, but it has been in better shape at many times in the past.

Trumps bizarre claim that his economy harming tariffs will magically reduce the deficit and he has lowered taxes for the American people at large:

THE FACTS: This isnt going to happen.

Furthermore, tariffs are just another form of tax on the people, so #ThanksTrump:

The president seems to believe that foreigners pay tariffs, but they are import taxes paid for by American businesses and consumers. They may make it harder for other countries to sell things in the United States, but they are just another form of tax and do not result in lower taxes for the American people overall.

The AP had similar problems with Senator Sanders claims, writing that Trumps claims capped a week of grandiose and erroneous claims by Trump and his critics, including questionable rhetoric from Sen. Bernie Sanders that his Medicare for all plan would reduce U.S. health spending by $2 trillion.376 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard

Donald Trump went bonkers on Twitter on Saturday, accusing Attorney General Jeff Sessions of being scared stiff and missing in action. It was the latest episode in his ongoing attacks against his own Justice Department. The president continues to say that people in his administration acted inappropriately in their investigation of his presidential campaigns connections with Russia.

Referring to dossier author Christopher Steele, a former British spy, Trump wrote:

The big story that the Fake News Media refuses to report is lowlife Christopher Steeles many meetings with Deputy A.G. Bruce Ohr and his beautiful wife, Nelly. It was Fusion GPS that hired Steele to write the phony & discredited Dossier, paid for by Crooked Hillary & the DNC.

The big story that the Fake News Media refuses to report is lowlife Christopher Steeles many meetings with Deputy A.G. Bruce Ohr and his beautiful wife, Nelly. It was Fusion GPS that hired Steele to write the phony & discredited Dossier, paid for by Crooked Hillary & the DNC.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 11, 2018

Trump mentioned Deputy Attorney General Bruce Ohr and Ohrs wife Nellie,  whose name he misspelled as Nelly  because he said Nellie Ohr works for Fusion GPS, the research firm that hired Steele to compile the dossier.

.Do you believe Nelly worked for Fusion and her husband STILL WORKS FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE. I have never seen anything so Rigged in my life. Our A.G. is scared stiff and Missing in Action. It is all starting to be revealed  not pretty. IG Report soon? Witch Hunt!

.Do you believe Nelly worked for Fusion and her husband STILL WORKS FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE. I have never seen anything so Rigged in my life. Our A.G. is scared stiff and Missing in Action. It is all starting to be revealed  not pretty. IG Report soon? Witch Hunt!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 11, 2018

For years Trump has been saying (incorrectly) that Steeles dossier led to the initial involvement of the Justice Department which in turn led to Muellers investigation. In fact a congressional report disclosed that the DOJ involvement began months before the Steele dossier was created, after they received a tip about George Papadopoulos, a Trump campaign foreign affairs adviser. Despite the truth, Trump wont let go of his baseless allegations.

Trump has also repeatedly attacked Attorney General Jeff Sessions for recusing himself from Special Counsel Muellers probe into Russian meddling. On August first the president appeared to demand that Sessions intervene and stop the Mueller probe when he tweeted Sessions should stop this Rigged Witch Hunt now.

Saturdays comments by Trump were a response to a statement by the conservative watchdog group Judicial Watch, which is suing the Justice Department for records of communications involving Ohr, his wife, Steele and Fusion GPS. Judicial Watch has also filed a lawsuit seeking text messages and emails of Andrew McCabe relating to his wife, a pediatric emergency physician who ran unsuccessfully for the Virginia state Senate in 2015.

Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton appeared on Fox Newss Hannity to promote his case.

Were fighting the FBI over text messages for the corrupt FBI official Andrew McCabe, Fitton said. The FBI doesnt want to turn over one text message to us.

The Justice Department denied the Freedom of Information Act request, saying the search parameters for McCabes communications were too broad.

Sessions fired McCabe earlier this year, days before his scheduled retirement, following months of public criticism by Trump. Sessions said he took the action on the recommendation of FBI investigators who argued McCabe had been dishonest about his role in an October 2016 Wall Street Journal article on an FBI investigation into the Clinton Foundation.

Trumps attacks on Sessions at this point seem to be nothing more than another desperate attempt by him to deflect attention from his legal troubles, but clearly it wont work.By Ginger Gibson and Joseph Ax

WASHINGTON/CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (Reuters)  Washington was bracing for a white nationalist rally on Sunday organized to coincide with the anniversary of last years racially charged violence in Charlottesville, Virginia.

The Unite the Right 2 event was set to take place at 5:30 p.m. in Lafayette Square, across the street from the White House. Several demonstrations by counterprotesters, who were expected to outnumber the white nationalists, were due to be held nearby.

Authorities have promised an enormous police presence to keep both sides apart and avoid the street brawls that broke out last year in downtown Charlottesville. A local woman, Heather Heyer, was killed when an Ohio man, James Fields, drove his car into a crowd of counterprotesters.

At the time, President Donald Trump said there were very fine people on both sides, spurring criticism from across the political divide that he was equating the counterprotesters with the rally attendees, who included neo-Nazis and other white supremacists.

On Saturday, Trump condemned all types of racism in a Twitter post marking the anniversary.

Kellyanne Conway, a senior adviser to Trump, said on Sunday that the media was just not covering the presidents repeated denunciations of white nationalists.

Hes calling for unity among all Americans and he denounced all forms of bigotry and acts of violence and racism, Conway said on ABCs This Week.

Democratic U.S. Representative Elijah Cummings, the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, said Trump was not doing enough to disavow racists.

He has not gone far enough, Cummings said on ABCs This Week. I think its a low bar for the president of the United States to simply say hes against racism. Hes got to do better than that. Hes got to address the  the people who are spouting racist-type comments and do racial, racist-type acts.

In Washington on Saturday evening, nearly two dozen police officers patrolled Lafayette Square, where members of the Washington chapter of Black Lives Matter were sprinkled through the park, seemingly standing on guard.

Organizers of #OccupyLafayettePark, a civil rights group that holds nightly protests in the square, held up posters reading Love America, Hate Trump and Defend The District From White Supremacy just steps away from the White House.

In the picturesque college town of Charlottesville, hundreds of police officers maintained a security perimeter around the normally bustling downtown district throughout the day on Saturday. Vehicular traffic was barred from an area of more than 15 city blocks, while pedestrians were allowed access at two checkpoints where officers examined bags for weapons.

Hundreds of students and activists took to the streets on Saturday evening. Many of the protesters directed their anger at the heavy police presence, with chants like cops and Klan go hand in hand, a year after police were harshly criticized for their failure to prevent the violence.

Earlier on Saturday, a group of anti-fascist protesters walked through the downtown area, holding signs with messages like Good Night White Pride. But the day was largely free of confrontation.

On Sunday morning, activist Grace Aheron, 27, donned a Black Lives Matter T-shirt and joined hundreds of fellow Charlottesville residents who gathered at Booker T. Washington Park to mark the anniversary of last years bloodshed.

We want to claim our streets back, claim our public space back, claim our city back, Aheron said at the park.

Several events were scheduled in the city including a gathering that will include veteran civil rights activist Reverend Al Sharpton and Susan Bro, the mother of the woman who was killed a year ago.

(Reporting by Ginger Gibson in Washington and Joseph Ax in Charlottesville; Additional reporting by Katanga Johnson in Washington; Editing by Jonathan Oatis and Grant McCool)Photo: Contributed

Join Montreal artist Amelie Brindamour in Vernon later this month to explore what parallels exist between the information and resource circuit of fungi and plants, and our own contemporary digital communication systems.

Brindamour explores various issues related to the natural and urban environment through place-specific projects including temporary actions, participatory performances, eat-art and photography.

Her current project, In Oscillation, intends on materializing visually the symbiotic and intelligent systems between trees and fungi referred to as the mycorhizal network.

Brindamour joined in on multiple hikes around the Okanagan Valley and many mushrooms were picked, then moulded and cast in transparent resin with an LED light encased inside.

Experimentations were made to connect those lights to a battery-powered electric circuit to turn them on, and for them to act as a simple synthesizer producing sounds, which can be activated by touch.

A prototype is being created that represents a small part of the installation, as well as a model of the whole circuit and how it would look in an exhibition space.

The electronic circuit will be completed in September at the artist-run-centre Avatar in Quebec City, in order to show it publicly in 2019.

The artist would like to thank the Vernon Outdoors Club, the North Okanagan Naturalist Club, and other Vernon residents for welcoming her in their hikes and sharing their knowledge of mushrooms and the region.

The event will take place at Allan Brooks Nature from Aug. 28 at 9 a.m. to Aug. 31.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.Veterinary medicine is among the courses of study that South Carolina residents can pursue at at universities in several participating states, and pay in-state tuition. A SeaWorld veterinarian tends to a manatee in 2016 after its rescue in the Cooper River. Provided/SeaWorld OrlandoCharleston, SC (29403)

Today

Mainly clear. Low 51F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Mainly clear. Low 51F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph.Adam Parker has covered many beats and topics for The Post and Courier, including race and history, religion, and the arts. He is the author of "Outside Agitator: The Civil Rights Struggle of Cleveland Sellers Jr.," published by Hub City Press.Gregory Yee covers the city of Charleston. He's a native Angeleno and previously covered crime and courts for the Press-Telegram in Long Beach, CA. He studied journalism and Spanish literature at the University of California, Irvine.Gov. Henry McMaster (right) said that South Carolina does not have the lethal drugs needed for an execution of a death row inmate that is schedule in December. He was joined at a press conference on Monday in Columbia by South Carolina Department of Corrections Director Bryan Stirling (left). Jamie Lovegrove/Staff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.Political Reporter

Caitlin Byrd is a political reporter at The Post and Courier and author of the Palmetto Politics newsletter. Before moving to Charleston in 2016, her byline appeared in the Asheville Citizen-Times. To date, Byrd has won 17 awards for her work.Capt. Marc Pincus (left) and angler Chris Prince of Hilton Head with the winning 52.8-pound fish from the 2017 Fishing for Miracles King Mackerel Tournament. File/Tommy BraswellRe: Trump haters deranged

The writer is correct in his general observations that the current U.S. president hasnt wrecked the American economy yet. As with anything, his performance should be put in context, though.

U.S. oil production has skyrocketed since about 2012, and natural gas production had seen steady increases since 2005. New technology did this, not a president.

Diplomacy  North Korea has started on an enhanced missile and nuclear weapon program as of news reports on July 28. Russian friendship is personally great.' Iran  diplomacy or threats? Canadas relationship is at a historic low. Europe and Britain? Dont start with saying China and the U.S. are great friends.

His GDP growth rate has been relatively low since Q4 2016. The recent 4.1 per cent rate does not beat out 4.5 per cent Q3 2010; 4.8 per cent Q4 2012; or the 5.7 per cent of Q4 2014. Recession is suggested for the 2020-2022 time frame, possibly accelerated by tariffs.

Wall Street has been on a bull run since July, 2010. The stage was set by previous administrations. Big tax breaks dominantly to the rich and companies have given 2018 a short-term boost.

Tariffs and major tax cuts will probably only benefit the rich. The U.S. economy is at full employment  if tariffs are to create jobs via a restart of shut-down industry, who will be working these jobs? Increased immigration, I suppose. All the cheap goods Americans (and Canadians) crave from Asia are going to cost more  theyre cheap for a reason. The lumber tariff has increased U.S. building costs; aluminum and steel tariffs raised world wide prices hugely, and prematurely.

Imagine the effect of a 25 per cent increase to U.S. vehicle costs imported from Canada. Harley-Davidson is moving an operation overseas  too bad it wasnt to Canada.

U.S. unemployment has steadily decreased since Q4 2010. If anything, the last year or so has seen a decrease in that rate toward flattening of the curve.

The southern border has seen a huge decrease in illegal crossing activity since 2000.

Health care, welfare, and the poor really havent been addressed.

I dont think Trump haters hate him as much as his apparent acceptance of bullies, and a following that approves of poor treatment of minorities, women, allies, and the environment.

Canadas leaders should not think preaching to the world we are the antithesis of the American president is a commendable way forward for our economy and citizens. There is a balance required, and we arent there.

Neil Stephenson, KelownaIt's OK. The error is fixable and not intentional

Terrible lack of due diligence

I am not sure

I don't care

Vote

View ResultsArise and take our stand for freedom as in the olden time. Winston Churchill

Proclaim Liberty throughout All the land unto All the Inhabitants Thereof. Inscription on the Liberty BellPhoto: Contributed

Join our wine writer, Allison Markin, every week for a wine review complete with food and music pairings. Featuring Okanagan and Canadian wines, with an occasional international bottle, Castanet celebrates the bottles of our Valley and the diversity of the Canadian wine industry and influences from around the world. For current availability and pricing, consult the winery. Unless indicated, international selections are generally available at government liquor stores or private wine shops.

Wine: Malbec, 2012

Winery: Quinta Ferreira, Oliver

Why drink it? Malbec typically has a deep purple-inky colour making it easy to spot in a lineup of reds, and also slightly softer tannins than other deep red wines just like this one. The winery smartly holds back its reds to age a bit and integrate its flavours before releasing bottles for purchase, and while this bottle can rest for another couple of years, its drinkable now. A swirl in the glass releases dark cherry and ripe blueberry notes with a hint of vanilla bean. A sip? Raspberry, some plum, spice notes from the oak treatment, and a very subtle note of mint on the finish.

Price: $35

Pair with: Even with its smoother tannins than other bold reds, this wine pairs well with most meats  lamb, leaner cuts of red meat like skirt steak, and even slow cooked pulled pork sandwiches. Anything with blue cheese (including veggie burgers, or in a salad dressing), will be tasty.

Music pairing: Pipe Dreams, Nelly Furtado

Have a wine to suggest? Email Allison at [email protected]I wrote here a couple weeks ago about my running theme (perhaps to be a book) about what Im calling the suicide of the university, where declining enrollment and the excessive politicization of the social sciences and humanities will destroy many smaller and second-tier schools. My most recent post looked at politically-correct Earlham College, which is slowly eating its endowment to keep going, along with the data of the plummeting student interest in the increasingly inhumane humanities on offer at too many colleges today.

Todays Boston Globe reported yesterday that many small colleges in New England are in dire straits and may not survive long term:

Financial conditions are deteriorating at many of New Englands quintessential small private colleges, with tuition revenue failing to keep up with expenses at more than half of the schools, a Globe review shows. The review of federal data found a number of financial warning signs at many of the schools, which have become increasingly reliant on tuition, even as enrollment has declined. The College of St. Joseph in Vermont, for example, relies on tuition for 90 percent of its revenue, but the tuition covers just 58 percent of the schools annual expenses. At Eastern Nazarene College in Quincy, tuition makes up 77 percent of the schools revenue but covers just 65 percent of its expenses. At Newbury College in Brookline, enrollment has declined 24 percent over a five-year period, but it depends on tuition for 74 percent of its revenue. These findings echo a national trend. Two reports issued recently by national credit rating agencies forecast more troubles for small schools as the gap between their revenue and expenses widens. Moodys found in July that one in five small private colleges nationwide is under fundamental stress. It predicted more are likely to close or merge in the coming years.

I wonder how many of these institutions have jumped on the environmental sustainability bandwagon without noticing the irony?

And then theres this telling but entirely predictable detail:

Many schools are restructuring their curriculum to attract students. Colby-Sawyer recently eliminated its English and philosophy majors in an attempt to shift toward majors like nursing and business that students see as more likely to guarantee them a job.

Well, this is sortof redundant, given than many English departments have essentially self-abolished already, by becoming departments of current political ideology instead of literature, so who will notice? This is all of a piece with my theme that colleges and universities will shift more deliberately toward STEM fields and other practical disciplinesessentially they will become trade schools. The ones that survive, that is.

Postscript: Im actually en route home today from visiting Grove City College in northwestern Pennsylvania, where I attended a regional meeting of the National Association of Scholars. Grove City, like Hillsdale, doesnt take a dime of federal money, and actually teaches something. And guess what: it is thriving, like Hillsdale with applications and enrollment increasing. I wonder if any other colleges will ever look to figure out what theyre doing right.Twitchy has the story: a 25-year-old man did a lengthy Facebook post in which he claimed that Congressman, Deputy DNC Chairman and Minnesota Attorney General candidate Keith Ellison abused his mother, a woman named Karen Monahan:

In the middle of 2017, I was using my moms computer trying to download something and I clicked on a file, I found over 100 text and twitters messages and video almost 2 min long that showed Keith Ellison dragging my mama off the bed by her feet, screaming and calling her a f*cking bitch and telling her to get the f*ck out of his house. The messages I found, were mixed with him consistently telling my mom he wanted her back, he missed her, he knew he f*cked up and we wished he could do things different, he would victim shaming, bully her, and threaten her if she went public.

This is evidently Karen Monahans Twitter feed. She is a left-wing activist who describes herself as an organizer at Sierra Club and campaigner against narcissist abuse. Ms. Monahan has confirmed her sons claims on both Facebook and Twitter:

I am so proud of my son for his courage. But this situation impacted me. If you have anything to say, please say it me and leave him out of it. No nasty comments to him https://t.co/UC84loHz1m  Karen Monahan (@KarenMonahan01) August 12, 2018

With the primary only days away, two rival candidates for Attorney General, Debra Hilstrom and Matt Pelikan, have called on Ellison to respond to the Monahans claims. So the matter is squarely in the public domain. Whether local media will touch the story is another question.

I, of course, have no idea whether the Karen Monahan story is true or not. But speaking as a Republican, I hope the story blows over and Ellison wins the primary on Tuesday. We havent had a Republican Attorney General in 40 years, and if the Democrats nominate an anodyne candidate, he or she will win. Ellison is the one candidate in the race who is well-known and controversial enough that he could lose, especially with a domestic abuse allegation hanging over his head.

UPDATE: More, also via Twitchy: Ellisons own Twitter feed confirms his romantic relationship with Karen Monahan:

Karen Francis Monahan especially loved "Little Red Corvette" at the Revolution Reunion @FirstAvenue . pic.twitter.com/zbSgWDogUZ  Keith Ellison (@keithellison) September 3, 2016



Ellison tweeted this photo of Monahan with her son Austin, who apparently wrote the Facebook post:

One of Minnesota's own EJ superstars, Karen Francis Monahan and her son, Austin, on her birthday! pic.twitter.com/qS4mSGl3lW  Keith Ellison (@keithellison) April 11, 2016



As of this writing, Ellison has not made a public statement, nor have local media covered the story.Decades ago, after Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn took up residence in the United States, he noted that some of the same journalists he now observed behaving so rudely toward government officials in America had acted like pussycats when they were assigned to the Soviet Union. His comment, though very likely true, may have been a bit harsh.

The fact that a journalist isnt prepared to risk his freedom in a foreign country shouldnt estop him from being tough on officials in their own free country. On the other hand, a journalist who is hyper-aggressive with officials at home shouldnt grovel before foreign ones. Stay out of jail, yes. Suck up, no. Defer, not unless the alternatives are too dangerous.

Solzhenitsyns comment came to mind when I read this piece about Jim Acosta by Humberto Fontova. He writes:

If CNNs Jim Acosta spoke to the mass-murdering Stalinist dictator Raul Castro with half the insolence he sputters at White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders who could blame him? After all, Jim Acostas father fled Stalinist Cuba as an 11 year- old, while Raul Castro destroyed his homeland and shattered his family, same as the Castros  through mass-executions, mass-jailings, mass larceny and exileshattered practically every family in Cuba. But no. While addressing the mass-murdering Cuban dictator Jim Acostas nervous brownnosing outdid both Eddie Haskell upon his every greeting of June Cleaver and The Scarecrows upon meeting the Wizard of Oz.

Here is the exchange between Acosta and Castro to which Fontova refers:

Jim Acosta: Gracias, President Castro. Thank you, President Castro, for your hospitality here in Havana. I wanted to know, please sir, if you have Cuban political prisoners and why you dont release them. Raul Castro: Well, give me a list of the political prisoners and I will release them immediately. Just mention the list. What political prisoners? Give me a name or names or when  after this meeting is over, you can give me a list of political prisoners, and if we have those political prisoners, they will be released before tonight ends.

If he had received this answer from Sarah Sanders or President Trump, Acosta would have insisted on following up, yelling out his questions if necessary  e.g., Are you seriously denying that your government holds political prisoner? Instead, according to Fontova, Acosta murmured another thank you and sat down.

Did Acosta follow up on Castros offer to receive a list of political prisoners and release them? Not as far as I can tell, though such lists are readily available. (If I learn that Acosta provided a list, I will gladly correct this portion of the post).

Would Acosta have risked anything had he pressed Raul Castro? I suppose so. In the context of a session with President Obama and the warming of U.S.-Cuban relations, Acosta wouldnt have been whisked off to prison. However, the Cuban government could have retaliated in other ways against Acosta and/or his network. It could have taken his journalist visa or even closed CNNs Havana operation (though, again, this seems unlikely because it would have blown the thaw in relations the Cubans wanted).

A courageous journalist would have taken these risks, which also carried risks for Cuba, rather than being shamelessly lied to. But Acostas courage and journalistic integrity, on full display at the White House Easter Egg Roll, doesnt apply to real tyrants.

Thus, I think the title of Fontovas article is fair: Jim Acosta: Roaring Lion to Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Purring Kitty to Raul Castro.The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to immediately lift the ban on Jay FM 101.9 Jos, stopping the radio station from playing songs such as Falzs This is Nigeria, Wande Coals Iskaba and Olamides See Mary, See Jesus, and rescind the unlawful fine of N100,000 imposed on the station.

The organisation said the action by the NBC amounts to illegal restrictions on media freedom, the right to freedom of opinion and expression and free information and ideas.

The NBC had in a letter dated August 6th, 2018 and addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, JODAJ Global Communications Limited, Jos, owners of Jay FM 101.9 stated varying reasons for the ban and fine ranging from vulgar and indecent lyrics in contravention of the bodys regulations.

But in a statement Sunday signed by SERAP deputy director, Timothy Adewale, the organisation expressed concern about the censorship of the media and songs deemed vulgar and indecent by the NBC, as such action risks undermining legitimate expression and independent voices. The NBC must immediately lift the ban on the radio station and rescind the arbitrary fine.

The organisation said, The right to freedom of expression, information and ideas is applicable not only to comfortable, inoffensive or politically correct opinions, but also to ideas that offend, shock and disturb. The constant confrontation of ideas, even controversial ones, is a stepping stone to achieving a vibrant democratic society, transparency, accountability and respect for the rule of law.

The statement read in part: Vague rules on vulgarity and indecency should not be used subjectively to ban or fine independent media outlets, particularly radio and television channels. The action by the NBC can create an uncertain environment for radio and television stations and media professionals in general and lead to fostering self-censorship and shunning any meaningful criticism of public policies and authorities.

The NBC is adopting vague rules vulgarity and indecency to undermine freedom of expression, right to information and opinion. By banning the radio station from playing the songs, the NBC is not only undermining and harming the station, but also undermining everyones right to information, public participation and open and democratic governance

Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights to which Nigeria is a state party includes the right of individuals to criticize or openly and publicly evaluate their Governments without fear of interference or punishment.

It is important for the NBC to strive to promote diversity of views, and the medias importance as a platform for public debate about important matters of public interest and ideas. Censorship or impermissible restrictions in the exercise of media freedom and freedom of expression can restrict free circulation of ideas and opinions and impose obstacles to the free flow of information.

Freedom of the press and other news media afford the public one of the best means of discovering and forming an opinion of the ideas on political and social issues and other issues of public interest. Not only does the NBC have the task of ensuring that radio stations and other media organizations can function effectively to impart such information and ideas: the public also has a right to receive them.

SERAP notes that three clear-cut conditions must be respected for any limitation on the right to freedom of expression and free information: (a) restrictions must be established in law; (b) they should pursue an aim recognized as lawful, and (c) they must be proportional to the accomplishment of that aim. SERAP considers the action by the NBC against the radio station to be inconsistent with the principle of proportionality and therefore impairing the free exercise of the right both to impart and to receive information and ideas.

It would be recalled that the NBC had cited the radio stations airing of a song by Falz titled This is Nigeria saying the song was laced with vulgar lyrics, this is Nigeria, look how we living now, everybody be criminal. Also, the NBC cited the airing of a song by Wande Coal titled, Iskaba as laced with vulgar lyrics, Girl you de make me kolo, shaking the ass like kolo in contravention of Section 3.6.1 and 3.13.2.2c..

The NBC also cited Jay FM airing a song by Olamide titled See Mary, See Jesus which it claimed was laced with casual use of the names of Mary and Jesus regarded as sacred by the Christian faith which contravenes Section, 4.3.1e.Below is the full text of the speech delivered by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Adams Oshiomole, at a press conference he addressed on August 10, 2018 to respond to issues raised by the President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, at world press conference on August 8, 2018.

===============================

We decided to call this press conference basically to respond to issues raised by the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, during his press conference.

It is important that we respond to some of the issues he canvassed so that the public is not misled into turning villains into heroes and twisting the facts that are not hidden to the Nigerian public. It is important that we help the Nigerian public by refreshing their memories.

The Senate President raised the issues of the fact that he has always acted not on the basis of his own personal interest, but that he has always acted on the basis of national interest. The truth is that it is doubtful if the Senate President has ever acted either in the national interest or in the interest of his own political party before his defection recently. Without going back to ancient history, it is important to look at how Senator Bukola Saraki became the President of the Senate. He decided, clearly, against the partys position to enter into a deal with the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and got a faction of the PDP, taking advantage of the fact that majority of the APC senators were holding a meeting at the International Conference Centre to resolve the issue of leadership of the senate and other principal officers that are expected to be produced by the ruling party with majority senators.

Because he has put his personal interest over and above the interest of the party, he went into alliance with the PDP and conceded the position of deputy senate president to the opposition in other to obtain their support for him to become the senate president. So, for the first time in our democratic history in Nigeria, we had a situation whereby, whereas the APC had majority of senators, it went on to elect a PDP person as deputy senate president.

This action alone portrays Senator Saraki for whom he is and that his personal interest come before any other interest, including national interest and that of his political party.

Having gone into this unholy alliance with the opposition and mortgaging the rights of the ruling party, he appointed opposition senators to head sensitive and strategic committees whose activities can affect either for good or for bad, the working of government and the relationship between the government and the legislature. Senator Saraki did that in other to continue to protect himself against the wishes of his party as Senate President. That showed that the only thing that was constant in his mind was to cling on to the position of Senate President even if it is at the expense of his own party and the country.

Even the media has consistently drawn attention to how Senator Saraki is managing the Senate to the extent that questions have been raised as to whose interest the Senate was serving.

You do not have to be a partisan politician to appreciate that in an election year, every democratic government around the world would do everything possible to ensure that it is seen to be working for the people of the country. Like any other political party in government, Nigerians expected the APC government under President Muhammadu Buhari to do everything possible this year to make up for lost time in terms of budget implementation and addressing critical infrastructures without which sustainable development is impossible.

The Senate under Senator Saraki chose to delay the budget up to the end of the first half of the year and to coincide with the period of the rainy season such that those aspects of infrastructure such as roads cannot be constructed during the rainy season.

These were not errors under his leadership, but clearly designed to frustrate the capacity of the government to address critical infrastructural deficit without which the ordinary man cannot feel the impact of government.

Again on receipt of the budget, the President cried out that it was a clear distortion from the well thought proposal that he submitted to the National Assembly. He appreciated that while they can make alteration to the budget, he did not expect that it would be completely rewritten as to make far more provisions for recurrent expenditure with very little for capital projects. He said this budget will be difficult to implement.

So, when I said he has never put the interest of Nigeria first, I support this statement with reference to the deliberate delay of the budget and deliberate manipulation of the provisions in the budget in a way that will compromise the capacity of the government to address critical infrastructures.

It is no longer a secret that as Senate President, he tried to conspire with others to create a semblance of division within the ruling party having failed to truncate the national convention when they assembled a handful of people who were neither delegates nor contestants for any office at the National Convention. There is nothing for me to add to the illegality of this action and the false foundation that Senator Saraki tried to leave than to adopt the well thought-out presentation of Femi Falana SAN.

Those things did not portray him as someone who is concerned about sustaining democracy because sustaining democracy also implies absolute commitment to the rule of law. If the rule of law is compromised and Nigeria is reduced to a banana republic where it will be survival of the fittest, he is probably not the strongest man in town to cling on to that office. So, each time he takes an action that constitutes a breach of the constitution, he is, by his own action undermining the foundation and weakening the fabrics of our democracy.

However, upon his illegal defection, which he had to do hurriedly because of the number of Senators he was playing on their fears that they would not be able to return to the Senate.

At a point, he had on his list about 36 Senators who were about to defect. But consequent upon our election, we took pre-emptive steps to reassure some of those senators. The first meeting we held after our election was with Senator Saraki to try and listen to what I called negotiable and verifiable grievances and this I did in company of the Vice President and he acknowledged that those steps were taken when he was leaving.

But however, his real grievances are not negotiable which is about ambition, value and his fundamental values and the values of the APC.

When he defected, he went to Ilorin to tell the people part of the truth that he was leaving for two reasons. He alleged that President Buhari gave out over 200 juicy appointments without allocating some to him and he choose to speak for the Speaker of the House of Representatives that he was also not given.

My question is: giving Saraki, the Senate President juicy position, does that coincide with the Nigerian project? Or the interest of the people of Kwara State of his Senatorial zone? At no time did he refer to the interest of the people of his constituency or the people of Nigeria.

The second reason he gave was that he was being persecuted. That is alleged persecution of his person and not his people. He never pretended that any of these actions had anything to do with the people of Nigeria, but his person. I think the governor of Kwara State was more explicit in corroborating his claim when he said that he as governor and Saraki as Senate President were being linked to armed robbery cases. Again, that has nothing to do with the Nigerian project or the Kwara people.

What is the truth? Who linked Senator Saraki to armed robbery? Was it the federal government or arrested armed robbers? It is the armed robbers that alleged that the weapons with which they carried out the operation were procured for them by the Senate President. This is contained in the police report which is no longer a secret. He has not denied knowledge of these people.

So If armed robbers linked the name of the Senate President, is the APC or the government to blame? A crime that led to the killing of about 35 persons cannot be dismissed with a wave of hand and in any jurisdiction, when your name is linked to such heinous crime, people dont clap for you. It is the duty of the security agents to investigate and establish whether they are valid or invalid. So, if he was linked to armed robbery, that cannot be an offense of the government or the APC. The best defence I have heard is that the robbers said that he did not ask them to use the weapon for armed robbery.

In support of my thesis that Saraki has never acted in the national interest, my final submission is on the way he adjourned the Senate.

The senate calendar is not secret to the presiding officer and the calendar that was known was that the senate was going to adjourn on a Thursday.

But by Monday night, Saraki used his guest house, wrote out names of Senators with provision for them to sign for senators to decamp from the APC to the PDP, but some of the senators refused to sign. That is what frustrated his calculations to turn the APC to a minority party in the senate. Is it a coincidence that as he was reading the names of defectors in the senate, his counterpart in the House was also doing same? So there was coordination for defection day. But happily, the pre-emptive measures we have taken to address genuine grievances frustrated their number such that from 36, he could not get more than 14 senators to decamp including one that subsequently overcame the manipulation.

Between Tuesday and Thursday, the Senate was expected to discuss the supplementary budget for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). INEC requirements are not things that you buy from the shelf. You have to order them from the manufacturers and so, time is of the essence. But the senate under Saraki adjourned without considering the matters before it including the budget for INEC. So, if Saraki adjourned the Senate ahead of schedule to resume towards the end of nominations, can that act be said to coincide with national interest?

If you decide to frustrate INEC by denying it the funds that it requires, can you be said to be a defender of democracy? If INEC dont get their funds and therefore are unable to conduct t credible election, will that not lead to further consequences for our democracy?

So, I submit that Sarakis actions were calculated to undermine democracy. Those who fought for democracy did not do it so that it can be at the mercies of a Senate President whose interest is clearly at variance with national interest. There was a request for virement which was also not considered.

A substantial part of the 2018 budget meant for capital project was supposed to be sourced through loans and under the constitution, you cannot borrow from foreign countries without the express endorsement of the National Assembly. Without those loans, the budget cannot be implemented.

While this was pending, Senator Saraki put his personal interest above his office and choose to adjourn the Senate , leaving this huge national issues unattended to. So, for an officer that behaves like that, how can he argue that anything he did was not about himself? Everything he did has never been informed by national interest. There are also allegations of lack of transparency and we have seen Nigerians trying to demystify what they earn. We have an arm that is completely unaccountable because of the way he has presided.

Therefore, his attempt to use the incident at the National Assembly on Tuesday to portray himself as the conscience of the nation is to insult our collective intelligence as a people.

There is the futile attempt he has made to suggest that Tuesdays incidence was an attempt to carry out an illegal impeachment. How can a presiding office arrive at such a conclusion that there was a plan to carry out an illegal impeachment? Until an action takes place, you cannot determine the outcome.

If impeachment itself is unlawful, then you can understand where he is coming from. It is lawful to impeach anyone, including the President the Senate and his deputy if the number required to do so is present. So, he cannot pre-empt that.

From their own statement, they claim to be aware that the Senate President was going to be illegally impeached and so mobilized thugs to the Senate.

They told the world that they adjourned till 25th September. But meanwhile, about 15 PDP Senators were in the Senate and imported thugs that molested two of our members they saw in the senate. If APC Senators were not in the Senate and it was PDP Senators that were there, what is the basis of the false claim that there was an attempt to carry out an illegal impeachment?

In any case, Saraki is not going to be the first Senate President to be impeached and I doubt if he is going to be the last. But definitely, he will be impeached according to law and democratic norms. The only way he can avoid impeachment is for him to do what is honourable.

We saw Senator Godswill Akpabio who was the PDP leader in the Senate. Once he made up his mind to leave the PDP, he wrote to inform the PDP even before his defection that he was resigning. So, Senator Saraki has demonstrated neither character nor being a man of honour.

I told him when we held a meeting that he came to join the APC as a Senator and it is on our platform that you became Senate President. Once you made up your mind to leave, the honourable thing to do is to resign as Senate President. If he does not resign, he will be impeached according to law and not by thuggery or by mob or anything that is undemocratic. He cannot sustain a minority rule in the Senate and that is what is haunting him in the Senate.

When I say that the Senate President will be impeached, let me emphasise that he will be impeached properly according to law. The constitution is clear on how a presiding officer can be impeached and because several impeachments have taken place, we are not about to witness what has not taken place before. We have enough precedent to fall back on.

I have looked at the constitution which does not say that an impeachment is illegal. Untill it is done, you cannot arrive at the conclusion that it is unlawful. How can we be accused of planning an illegal impeachment when it has not commenced? If he thinks that by saying that he will pre-empt the APC from having him impeached, he is deceiving himself.

I think that the time of Saraki is over. The way he has manipulated the politics of Kwara state, he fails to understand that the Nigerian project is far more complicated than being at the mercy of his own dynasty. He will not only be impeached, we will work hard to have him defeated as a Senator in his own Senatorial zone come 2019 by the people of Kwara state who are fed up with Saraki.

Go and check the results of the election that made him a Senator and you will find out that the President got more votes from Kwara Central than Saraki got for himself. So, he cant claim that the vote the APC got from his Senatorial zone was because of him. That is why his leaving is of no political consequences as far as electoral issues are concerned. We tried to talk to him, not out of fear, but out of conviction that as a presiding officer, there are rules of engagement.Only 24% infants exclusively breastfed in Nigeria  Health Ministry

The Federal Ministry of Health says in spite of the health and economic benefits of exclusive breastfeeding to mother and child, only 24 per cent of infants are exclusively breastfed in Nigeria.

Chimay Thompson, the Assistant Director, Nutrition Division, Family Health Department in the ministry, said exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life without water, infant formula, liquid or food has proven to save lives, improve women and childrens health and boosts lifelong productivity.

However, Mrs Thompson said millions of mothers and infants were now losing the benefits as only about 23.7 per cent of infants less than six months were exclusively being breastfed.

The nationally accepted document which is the multiple indicator cluster survey states that we are presently at 23.7 per cent on exclusive breastfeeding in the country.

WHO confirms strain of latest Ebola outbreak

The Ebola outbreak in Congo is the Zaire strain of the virus and vaccinations of health workers has started, a senior official of the World Health Organisation (WHO) has said.

Peter Salama, WHO deputy director for emergency preparedness and response, gave the results of genetic sequencing in a tweet saying that analysis showed it was a new outbreak in North Kivu province.

The experimental vaccine, rVSV-ZEBOV, which is manufactured by Merck, proved successful during its first wide-scale usage against an outbreak of Zaire virus on the other side of Congo in the northwest that was declared over less than two weeks ago after killing 33.

Antibiotic resistance genes in air pose threat to human health  Research

The earths atmosphere is being contaminated by Antibiotic Resistance Genes (ARGs), which poses a threat to human health, according to recent Chinese research.

Led by Peking University, the research collected samples of air from 19 cities in 13 countries and analysed the Particulate Matter (PM) using molecular technology.

The analysis revealed 30 different types of ARGs that make bacteria resistant to seven types of antibiotics. ARGs resistant to vancomycin, one of the most effective antibiotics, were found in the air of six cities.

Antibiotic resistance is caused by the incorrect use of antibiotics, and it has allowed many bacteria to be resistant to commonly used antibiotics, which means many antibiotics are no long effective to treat common infections.

Cholera kills 11 in Kano

Eleven deaths resulting from cholera outbreak in three villages have been recorded in Bebeji Local Government Area of Kano State.

According to a witness, 47 persons affected by the ailments are also receiving treatment at a private facility located close to the affected villages.

According to Ubale Dauda, who supervised the community members mobilised to assess the outbreak, the villages most hit are Kuki and Hayi; and this was because they lack primary health facilities.

However, the spokesperson of Kano State Ministry of Health, Ismail Gwammaja, said the ministry had not received any information on cholera outbreak in any part of the state.

Lassa fever: Enugu confirms one death

The Enugu State Government has confirmed the death of one person from Lassa fever.

The permanent secretary of the state Ministry of Health, Ifeanyi Agujiobi, said healthcare providers at the health facility located at the Enugu metropolis tried to manage the patient but lost him.

The permanent secretary said the ministrys epidemiology officials had commenced massive contact tracing of those people that had contact with the patient.

Indian to be first woman to give birth with mothers transplanted uterus

An Indian woman will soon become the first in Asia to give birth to a baby after undergoing a successful uterus transplant recently, said doctors at a private hospital in Pune, a city in southwestern state of Maharashtra.

The uterus transplanted into the pregnant woman is her mothers.

The 27-year-old woman is now in her 20th week of pregnancy.

The uterus transplanted into her has not delivered for the past 20 years, said the doctors.

Transplanting the uterus was a difficult task. It was a nine-hour surgery. It is not a very easy surgery; chances of infection were very high. The embryo was completely embedded in the lady so that she can conceive, Dr Puntambekar.

Polio Eradication: FG approves $150 million loan from World Bank

The federal government has approved the World Bank credit of $150 million to support polio eradication in Nigeria.

Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, disclosed this after the Federal Executive Council meeting presided by Acting President Yemi Osinbajo that the proposed $150 million loan is to support polio eradication.

According to her, this will assist the federal government as part of the global polio eradication effort achieve and sustain at least 80 per cent coverage of Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) immunisation in every state and also improve routine immunisation

NCDC introduces Lassa fever international conference

Fifty years after the first outbreak of Lassa fever in Nigeria, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control will be having an international conference on the disease in January 2019.

This year, Nigeria reported the largest outbreak of the disease and Lassa fever has become endemic in other West African countries such as Benin Republic, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Mali and Sierra Leone.

Against this background, NCDC and partners will host the first international conference on Lassa fever in Abuja. This will provide an opportunity for the scientific community to reflect on what is known, describe gaps that exist and prioritise the research agenda for the future.On Saturday, residents of Bauchi South Senatorial District filed out in their thousands to vote for their preferred candidates in a bye-election organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The election was held to fill the vacancy created by the death of the last occupant, Ali Wakili.

Candidates of nine political parties participated in the election. The parties in the contest are All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), Action Peoples Party (APP), Kowa Party, New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) Green Party of Nigeria (GPN), People for Democratic Change (PDC), African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The candidates in the election are Lawal Yahaya Gumau (APC); Isah Yuguda (GPN); Haruna Ayuba (ADC); Aminu Tukur (APP) and Usman Hassan (Kowa Party).

Others are Maryam Bargel (SDP); Husseini Umar (NNPP); Usman Chaledi (PDC); and Ladan Salihu (PDP).

Mr Yuguda of GPN is the immediate former governor of the state.

The local government areas where election took place are Bauchi, Toro, Dass, Tafawa-Balewa, Bogoro, Alkaleri and Kirfi.

The bye-election was largely considered peaceful even though there was low turnout in some polling unit.

The heavy downpour that occurred on Saturday evening is believed to have slowed down the process of collating the results at the local offices.

Some of the polling centres in places like Dass, Bauchi and Tafawa-Balewa also started the voting exercise late due to faulty Card Readers.

Though restrictions on movement have been relaxed since 8 p.m. on Saturday, the major routes leading to the INEC headquarters in Bauchi are still heavily guarded by a joint team of armed soldiers and police officers.

The police public relations officer, Kamal Datt, had informed PREMIUM TIMES that five persons were arrested for various electoral offences during the elections.

He did not give details or the nature of their offense.

PREMIUM TIMES is live at the INEC headquarters in Bauchi to bring you the results as they are announced.

Read our live updates of the election proper here.

As at 8:10a.m., only results from Dass Local Government Area have arrived the INEC collation centre in Bauchi. But officials have not commenced the collation process.

Bauchi South senatorial bye election: INEC collation centre getting set for tallying of results. 3 LGAs set to present their results, any moment soon.

Bauchi South senatorial bye election: INEC collation centre getting set for tallying of results. 3 LGAs set to present their results, any moment soon.

@10:15am

Local Government Collation officers from Das, Bogoro and Tafawa-Balewa have so far arrived the INEC collation centre ready to present their results any time soon.

Journalists and domestic election observers have been screened into the collation centre, waiting for the officials to arrive the hall

Collation officials arrive the centre, ready to commence collation.

The Bauchi REC, Professor Abdullahi, in an opening remark, called on participants to be magnanimous in victory and gallant in defeat.

He said the collation of the result will eventually lead to the announcement of a winner which he said is unavoidable in any contest.

The Zonal Election Commissioner, Shettima Baba Arfo, commended participants in the election process for a job well done so far.

He said INEC is getting better by the day. He urged Nigerians to continue supporting the electoral body.

@11:02

The returning officer for Bauchi South Senatorial District Bye-election is announced to be Ahmed Fadam, a professor. He is from the Department of Agriculture, Abubakar Tafawa-Balewa University, Bauchi. The returning officer for Bauchi South Senatorial District Bye-election is announced to be Ahmed Fadam, a professor. He is from the Department of Agriculture, Abubakar Tafawa-Balewa University, Bauchi.

The returning officer for Bauchi South Senatorial District Bye-election is announced to be Ahmed Fadam, a professor. He is from the Department of Agriculture, Abubakar Tafawa-Balewa University, Bauchi.

APC wins in Dass local government

Das local government result as presented by the Collation officer.

ADC 132

APC 7,432

APP 857

DA 52

GPN 2117

KP 28

MMN 25

NPP 106

SDP 1009

PDP 4028

Toro Local Government Result Announced by Professor Aliyu Muhammed.

ADC 471

APC 30,658

APP 472

DA 77

GPN 5,624

KP 53

MMN 100

MPN 69

NNPP 8075

PDC 277

PDP 8420

SDP 353

Total Valid votes 54,649

Rejected Votes 2731

Total votes cast 57,380

There were cases of ballot box snatching which led to cancellation of votes in 13 units.

PDP wins in Speaker Dogaras local government

Number of Reg voters : 45599

Accredited: voters 16970

ADC  60

APC -3992

APP  1557

DA  24

GPN  817

KP  21

MMN -32

MPN  39

NNPP  1924

PDC  152

PDP  6,646

SDP  612

Total Valid Votes 15872

Rejected Votes- 718

Total votes 16592

Results were cancelled in 17 units due to over voting (10, 727 votes cancelled)

APC wins in Kirfi Local Government

Kirfi Local Government Result as presented by Prof Elijah Onezegah

Total Reg.voters: 64,653

ADD  80

APC -11,051

APP 1039

DA 18

GPN 339

KP 12

MMN 29

MPN 15

NNPP 814

PDC 47

PDP 3336

SDP 263

Total Valid votes : 17043

Rejected Votes: 774

Total Valid votes: 17,817

Total votes cancelled due to violence and poor voter education is 2,507

Results of four local governments have now been announced (Dass  APC; Toro  APC; Bogoro  PDP; Kirfi  APC).

The results of the remaining three local governments are now being awaited.

Collation of results resumes at the collation centre

APC wins Bauchi Local Government Area

Results of Bauchi local government presented by Professor Sani Husseini

Total Registered voters -306,939

Total Accredited 91,782

ADC  725

APC  38, 958

APP-1342

DA- 159

GPN  18, 736

KP- 70

MMN  135

MPN  109

MNPP 6,322

PDC  360

PDP  13,053

SDP  653

Total Valid votes :-80,623

Rejected Votes: 2920

Total votes cast: 83, 543

Cancellation was made in 28 units of which 15,017 votes were invalidated due over voting.

APC wins in Alkaleri Local Government, amidst mass vote cancellation

Results from Alkaleri as presented by Professor Simon Madugu from ATBU.

Total Registered voters: 107, 072

Total Accredited voters: 27, 575

ADC- 110

APC  13,-089

APP  413

DA  36

GPN  2, 225

KP  27

MMN  34

MPN 32

NNPP 1899

PDC  88

PDP -6, 245

SDP  265

Total Valid votes  24, 463

Rejected Votes  1,220

Total votes cast 25, 683

Cancellation was recorded in 8 wards amounting to 40 polling units; and 16,298 votes affected. Reasons for cancellation were fracas, over voting, and non-usage of card readers.

Party agents blame massive cancellation on failure of card readers few hours after voting commenced. The agent of PDP at the collation centre, Samaila Burga, insisted that failure to provide alternative to failed card readers may push people to insist they must vote even without card readers.

He also alluded that in some areas in Alkaleri, election did not commence till 3pm due to late arrival of election materials.

We are saying this, not for immediate measures to be taken, but for avoidance of future occurrence, because if it happens people may be forced to react.

APC wins Tafawa-Balewa local government

Results for Tafawa-Balewa local government

Total Registered voters  118,952

Total Accredited voters  39,796

ADC  176

APC  14,309

APP  6019

DA  101

GPN  3, 221

KP  29

MMN 46

MPN 33

NNPP 2,266

PDC  173

PDP 8, 528

SDP  647

Total Valid votes: 35, 548

Rejected Votes: 1815

Total votes cast: 37,363

Reasons for cancellation include over voting and violence by youth insisting unused ballot papers be shared amongst party agents.There was confusion in Jankasa village of Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Saturday when suspected armed bandits ambushed a team of police officers killing four of them.

The incident occurred on Saturday morning when a team of policemen went into a bush in the area to carry out a special operation.

There had been reports that some kidnappers reside in the area.

The police officers were said to be from the Intelligence Response Team of the Nigerian Police Force headquarters in Abuja.

A farmer at Rigasa community, whose farm was located along the route where the incident occurred, told PREMIUM TIMES that gunshots were heard during the battle.

I was about to visit my farm when we heard gunshots. We also saw smoke coming from a Fulani community that was close to the farm, the farmer who identified himself as Aliyu told PREMIUM TIMES.

I heard that four policemen were killed during the shootout. In fact, I decided not to proceed to the farm for fear of the unknown.

PREMIUM TIMES also learnt that residents of Rigasa trooped out in large numbers to have a glimpse of Fulani women who were seen leaving the bush after the attack.

All their huts were set ablaze by the security agents during the operation. Smoke covered everywhere as we watched the women coming out of the bush, another resident who identified himself as Anas said.

The Kaduna Police Command Public Relations Officer, Yakubu Sabo, confirmed the casualty.



The information reaching us is that we lost the four personnel during an ambush at a village called Jankasa. But we are still gathering facts about the incident which will indicate what actually happened there, he said.

He also said the police officers were from Abuja and were at the bush to carry out a special operation. 

Mr Sabo said additional security was deployed to the area on Saturday to ensure the attackers were apprehended.

According to him, the operation is still ongoing in the bush where the incident occurred.

PREMIUM TIMES recently reported how a a popular Islamic cleric, Ahmad Algarkawy, was abducted in the area where Saturdays ambush occurred.

He has since been released by his captors amidst reports that ransom was paid. The police, however, said they were not aware that ransom was paid before the cleric was freed.The anti-graft agency, EFCC, has responded to an allegation by an aide to President Muhammadu Buhari that it and other security agencies may have worked for the benefit of the embattled Senate President, Bukola Saraki.

Babafemi Ojodu, Mr Buharis adviser on political matters, reportedly made the allegation in an article.

The allegation that some security agencies were working with Mr Saraki became rife last week after the siege by the State Security Service (SSS) on the National Assembly.

While many Nigerians believed the siege was to forcibly remove Mr Saraki from office as senate president, others including presidency officials believe the SSS was playing a script by the senate president.

Mr Saraki has rejected the allegation and condemned the siege on the National Assembly. He also commended the sack of the then SSS Director-General, Lawal Daura.

The EFCC in a statement by its spokesperson, Wilson Uwujaren, on Sunday said it was not working with Mr Saraki.

Read the full EFCC statement below.

The attention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has been drawn to a widely syndicated article by Senator Babafemi Ojudu, special adviser to the President on Political Matters entitled, fifth Columnists in Our Recent History, wherein he portrayed the Commission as a conscript in the devious plots by Senator Bukola Saraki to undermine the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari. According to Ojudu, From the shenanigans at the Benue House of Assembly, to the siege on National Assembly, the attack on judges home in the night, the so called barricade of the Senate Presidents house, the laughable kidnap of Boy Dino and his eleven hours on a tree, the freezing of Benue and Akwa Ibom accounts all are scripted, produced and acted by Oloye Productions.

The Commission takes exception at the attempt to impute false motive to its investigative activities. The recent placement of a Post No Debit Order on some accounts in Benue and Akwa Ibom States were the culmination of many months of painstaking investigation activities. To reduce such activities to the level of a stunt in a real or imaginary script by any politician is outrageous.

It is important to state that the EFCC is NOT a party to the so called script by Saraki. Members of the public should disregard the innuendo in Ojudus article as it is unfounded.

The Commission calls for circumspection on the part of political leaders, while urging them to seek clarification before making comments on matters they do not know about.The Nigeria Police Force on Sunday narrated how four of its officers were killed in an ambush in Kaduna State.

The police also said six of kidnappers that ambushed the policemen at Jankasa village inside Rigasa forest were also killed.

According to police, the kidnappers were shot dead during a gun battle on Saturday.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported the killing of the four officers who arrived from Abuja as part of the Intelligence and Response Team (IRT).

The Kaduna Police Command Public Relations officer, Sabo Yakubu, confirmed the deaths.

The information reaching us is that we lost the four personnel during an ambush at a village called Jankasa. But we are still gathering facts about the incident which will indicate what actually happened there, he said.

The leader of the IRT at the police headquarters in Abuja, Abba Kyari, later released the names of the deceased officers.

He also provided details of how they were ambushed on his Facebook page on Sunday evening.

According to him, the team was ambushed after arresting two kidnappers in the forest.

Mr Kyari, an assistant inspector general of police, explained that the IRT unit from Abuja was at the forest sequel to the kidnapping of a cleric, Ahmad Algarkawy, in Rigasa area of Kaduna State on August 2.

He said the team decided to go after the kidnappers after the cleric was released.

In follow up to the case on 11 /8/2018 IRT operative arrested 2 of the kidnappers in a remote settlement in Rigasa forest Kaduna State.

As the team were coming out of the bust with the arrested kidnappers, other gang members hiding inside the bust ambushed the IRT team and opened fire which resulted to the death of four IRT operative namely.

AP/NO. 148333 inspector Benard Odibo

AP/ No. 181539 Inspr Mamman Abubakar

AP/No 192938 Inspr Haruna. Ibrahim and

F/No 267815 Sgt. Emmanuel Istifanus.

Six of the deadly kidnappers also died during the gun battle. One officer was treated for gun wound and discharged while the remaining officers who survived the ambush are in good health condition.

Very serious efforts in progress to get the remaining killers to justice. May their souls rest in perfect peace, Ameen, he wrote.

Kaduna has witnessed several killings and kidnappings by armed bandits in 2018. The kidnappings occur despite the efforts of the police and the army deployed to the state.Photo: The Canadian Press

A benefit concert is being held at the Danforth Music Hall to support victims of last month's mass shooting in Toronto's Greektown.

Canadian rock band Billy Talent is headlining the concert along with musicians City and Colour, Pup and Finger Eleven.

Some fans sporting T-shirts from the various bands waited outside the venue more than two hours this evening in advance to see artists perform.

Toronto Mayor John Tory is also expected to attend the concert.

Finger Eleven started off the show following a rendition of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah," a song also performed a day earlier at the opening of the area's Taste of the Danforth Festival.

The fundraiser is being held in the same neighbourhood where 18-year-old Reese Fallon and 10-year-old Julianna Kozis were killed and 13 others were injured on July 22, when a gunman fired into crowded restaurants and patios.

Tickets were around $50 and the venue that seats 1,500 is sold out. Proceeds from the show will be donated to the #TorontoStrong fund.

Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to be in the area this weekend for the Taste of the Danforth Festival, an annual event celebrating the neighbourhood's many restaurants and diverse food and drink offerings.

Justin Trudeau was in Toronto last night to help open the festival. The prime minister began his address by honouring the victims of Friday's shooting in Fredericton. He then offered thanks to the first responders and others who aided the victims of the Toronto shooting.

Jeewan Gill said he bought tickets for the Toronto concert as soon as they became available.

"I'm a big fan of (Billy Talent), they always put together benefit concerts," said Gill, 26. "It's good to support people that need help because of the shooting."

Gill moved to Toronto from Vancouver a year ago, and said he's been spending a lot of time on Danforth Avenue checking out its restaurants and music venues.

He noted that tonight's show will be his fifth Billy Talent concert, but he said that given the venue and the cause, this one will be a singular event.

"There will be a moment ... where they talk about the shooting and what the cause is, there will be a moment of sombreness, but they've always been really positive when it comes to that sort of thing," said Gill, adding that it will be a "stick together" vibe at the venue.

Voula Papadopoulos will also be at the show. She said she and her family and friends are regulars on the Danforth and that the shooting has shaken the community.

"What happened is just unimaginable to happen anywhere. ... Everybody in the community is so friendly, so it hit so hard. It could have happened to any of us."

Papadopoulos said she's also a huge Billy Talent fan, so attending the concert was an easy decision.

"The fact that the guys are putting this on is just amazing on it's own. It's exactly what we need to show, we're not scared, and we will support this, we're not going to back down," she said.

Billy Talent said in a statement when the fundraiser was announced that the shooting "hit home" as it happened just a few blocks from their studio.

"We want to throw a concert to show the world and more importantly our community that Toronto is a place of love, of community, of kindness and compassion. The violence that has happened here this summer does not represent the majority."A lucky second Nigerian pilgrim on Sunday in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, recovered her lost Basic Traveling Allowance (BTA) from her hotel camp.

The pilgrim, Hassana Aliyu, from Gezawa Local Government Area of Kano State, was accommodated at Al-Andalus Al-Masi Hotel in the heart of Madinah.

She had reported losing 700 dollars BTA which was found by a hotel worker who promptly handed it over to the management.

No sooner had the cash been found than the management alerted NAHCON officials.

Head of Civic Enlightenment of NAHCON, Umar Bala, while handing over the cash to Mrs Aliyu, cautioned pilgrims against careless handling of their money and valuables.

Responding, Mrs Aliyu commended the hotel management, staff and NAHCON officials for their honesty in dealing with visitors.

NAN reports that a pilgrim from Nasarawa State, Nuhu Musa, had similarly recovered his lost 600 dollars from the same hotel.

Meanwhile, NAHCON says it has transported 26,697 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, with the arrival of additional 177 pilgrims from Oyo and Ogun states on Sunday.

The pilgrims came in 65 flights operated by accredited airliners comprising Max Air, Flynass and Medview.

The Oyo state pilgrims comprised 99 males and 72 females.

(NAN)

IA/OFN/IAThe All Progressives Congress (APC) has said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lacks the credential to talk about corruption, because the stench of corruption from the opposition party is suffocating.

The party said this in a statement on Sunday by its acting National Publicity Secretary, Yekini Nabena, while reacting to a statement by the PDP that some startling recoveries were made from the residence of the recently sacked Director-General of the State Security Service, Lawal Daura.

Mr Daura was sacked on Tuesday by acting President Yemi Osinbajo over the blockade of the National Assembly.

Following the sack, PDP on Saturday challenged the presidency and APC to speak out on an allegation that N21 billion, guns and thousands of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) were found in the residence of Mr Daura.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, PDP said the allegation was a sign of corruption in the ruling party.

Responding, however, APC said the statement was empty, baseless and diversionary.

It said whereas the opposition in a democracy is supposed to offer constructive criticisms and proffer alternative solutions to government policies and programmes, the PDP only tries to distract the President Muhammadu Buharis administration.

It is truly amazing that that the party of a failed government which held the country prostrate for 16 years; stole, wasted and misappropriated our abundant resources will have the audacity to make comments on the current administration that within three years is clearing the rot left after the PDPs misrule.

Is it not ironic that the PDP preaches about corruption in the oil sector when it in fact oversaw record pillage, maladministration and disrepair of the oil sector when it held sway.

Despite spirited efforts to discredit on-going anti-corruption efforts, the war against graft is being won. An often overlooked major achievement of the anti-corruption war is that President Buhari has brought the issue of corruption to the heart of national consciousness.

The fact that Nigerians are talking about it means we have not accepted it as a way of life and as long as ordinary people continue to show that disdain for corruption, we would win the war sooner or later.

The ruling party said all PDP was doing is trying to undermine the corruption fight of the president, adding, however, that it believes Nigerians who were taken for granted too long and have vowed enough is now enough.

No degree of blackmail and wicked scheming will make us return to the years the locusts had eaten. We have crossed the Red Sea and have no intention to return to our ugly past.

While the PDP and their agents attempt to discredit the ongoing fight against corruption, the question the PDP should answer is: are anti-corruption efforts being carried out within the ambit of the law? We urge the President, law enforcement agencies, anti-graft bodies and indeed Nigerians not to be sidetracked by the desperate and roguish attempt by the PDP and their agents to discredit the ongoing fight against corruption. It is natural, corruption will fight back!

The party assured Nigerians it will not fail the country like PDP did in its wasted 16years.The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says it has uncovered a fresh plot to arrest Senate President Bukola Saraki and his deputy, Ike Ekweremadu.

The party also alleged that the budget of the electoral commission, INEC, sent to the National Assembly by the presidency last month, had been sent to the presidency by the electoral commission since February.

The opposition party made these allegations in a statement by its spokesperson, Kola Ologbondiyan, on Sunday.

Read the full statement below.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has again uncovered a plot by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the cabal in the Buhari Presidency to use compromised security agencies and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to invite, arrest and detain Senate President Bukola Saraki and Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu.

This is just as the PDP has unraveled fresh facts confirming that the pressure by the Presidency for the reconvening of the Senate is out of a sinister motive and not for any emergency in the approval of the budget of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the 2019 election.

The fresh plot to detain the two presiding officers is part of renewed design to keep them out of circulation, ahead of Senate resumption, so as to enable the heavily induced APC senators, who are now in the minority, to throw up two of their members as Senate President and Deputy Senate President respectively on the excuse that Saraki and Ekweremadu failed to show up for proceedings in the Senate.

The PDP notes that the new plot to cage Saraki and Ekweremadu, in devilish rehash of the Tuesday July 24, 2018 hostage-taking and invasion of their official residences by security agencies is coming after the August 7, 2018 failed attempt to use security forces to take control of the leadership of the Senate.

Apart from plots to arrest and detain Saraki and Ekweremadu, the PDP has also been made aware of plans to use the EFCC and security forces to clamp down on their family members, including their wives and siblings as well as close associate, all in the effort to weaken their resolve.

Moreover, investigations by the PDP further confirm that the insistence of the APC-led Federal Government on the emergency reconvening of the National Assembly, ostensibly to consider INECs budget for the 2019 election, is part of APCs thicker plot to execute their premeditated coup on the leadership of the Senate.

PDP was further informed that contrary to claims by the APC and the Presidency, INEC actually submitted the budget to the presidency since February 2018, only for the Presidency to submit it to the National Assembly in July when the legislature was already going on recess; with a view to enmesh it in a needless controversy.

Furthermore, the PDP counsels Acting President Yemi Osinbajo to stop acting saint, as Nigerians are aware that he is part and parcel of the actors behind the sordid developments playing out in the National Assembly.

The PDP invites Nigerians and the international community to note the activities of the APC and the Buhari Presidency, which have continued to put the unity and stability of our nation as well as our hard-earned democracy under serious stress.

In all, the PDP cautions the APC and power mongers at the Presidency to know that Nigerians have seen through their evil intentions and will continue to firmly resist them by standing for democracy and the unity of our nation at all times.In a determined and significant bid to further enlarge its financial inclusion agenda for all Nigerians regardless of social class and economic status, the Buhari administration has launched a new initiative under the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP), called the Trader Moni, which will empower two million petty traders between now and the end of the year.

The scheme which was launched last week in Lagos would grant a minimum of 30,000 loans in each state of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

All together, the two million mark is expected to be attained on or before the end of this year, with petty traders in Lagos, Kano and Abia States set to be the first round of beneficiaries to draw the collateral free loans.

In addition to the 30,000 loans per state, states with larger populations like Lagos and Kano are expected to get more than 30,000 loans. Across the country, especially in the pilot states about 500,000 potential beneficiaries have so far been enumerated.

In order to identify the beneficiaries, no less than 4000 enumeration agents have been engaged by the Bank of Industry which is deploying the new scheme.

Trader Moni is designed to help petty traders expand their trade through the provision of collateral free loans of N10,000. The loans are repayable within a period of six months.

Under the scheme, beneficiaries can get access to a higher facility ranging from N15,000 to N50,000 when they repay N10,000 within the stipulated time period.

The goal of the Buhari Administration is to use the Trader Moni to take financial inclusion down to the grassroots, the bottom of the ladder, considering the contribution of petty traders to economic development. The Federal Government is also aware of the fact that many of the petty traders dont have what the commercial banks require to grant loans.

This administration is keen to ensure that such traders at that level are able to build their businesses and grow.

Trader Moni was launched last Tuesday in five markets in Lagos State with tens of thousands beneficiaries already.

The Lagos markets already reached are Mushin, Ikotun, Agege, Ketu, and Abule Egba markets.

The scheme will soon be taken to other states in the country, with Abia and Kano states next in line.

Beneficiaries are already heaping praise on the Buhari administration for this initiative that will improve their businesses.

A trader in one of the Lagos markets, Anna Enwerem, thanked President Buhari for the initiatives. I sell clothes. This N10,000 would do a lot for me and my children. I like this programme so much. I will pay the loan before six months time. Before I didnt believe it, but now that I have received my money I believe.

Similarly, Mufiat Adewumi, a market women leader in Lagos said it will help ordinary Nigerians who cannot have access to commercial banks credit facilities because they dont have collateral, We are happy about the Trader Moni because this is what we have been expecting for long, that the Government should assist the masses, especially the traders. We thank the federal government so much.The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won in Bogoro Local Government Area of Bauchi State in Saturdays senatorial bye-election.

Bogoro is the local government of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara.

Bogoro is one of the seven local governments where the Bauchi South senatorial bye-election was held.

In the local government, Nigerias ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) scored 3992 votes, while the PDP scored 6,646 votes. Results were cancelled in 17 units of the local government due to over-voting. A total of 10,727 votes were thus cancelled.

Although Mr Dogara is officially a member of the APC, he is expected to defect to the PDP soon due to disagreements with his state governor.

As at the time of this report, results of three other local governments (Toro, Dass, and Kirfi) in Bauchi South had also been announced with the APC winning in those three.What struck one first at the 66th Annual Convention of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) on Friday was the massive attendance  a sea of heads everywhere at the Redemption Camp.

Everywhere one turned there were lots of people, with yet more people flooding in.

The three-million seat Old Auditorium at the Camp was overflowing; and the completed sessions of the new three-kilometre-by-three-kilometre Auditorium called the Arena was full.

Confirming that, Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the church, announced that there been plans for the churchs pastors to lay hands on members of the congregation towards the end of the programme but with the number of people in attendance, the exercise was not possible. It was postponed to 11am on Saturday.

With both auditoriums full, estimated attendance appeared to be in millions.

Yet there was no incident throughout the programme and the Camp was kept neat  no thrash around and no dump sites.

The massive flow of people was also noticeable during the call on mothers who had been blessed with the fruit of the womb through prayers at the church to take their babies to the altar for blessings.

For about 10 minutes, mothers carrying their babies proudly and dancing, poured in from various angles of the auditoriums to the altars. Soon, pools of heads formed at the altars.

When you consider that in all these homes there used to be crying every

month but now there is joy, join me to rejoice with them, Pastor Adeboye said.

You know how much I love children, but my wife loves them more.

Then he let out a secret. My wife wanted 12 children but we had to stop somewhere. Now we have many spiritual children (the name he calls church members, who in turn call him Daddy).

Stream of happy mothers

It was also interesting that people choose to be at the Old Auditorium to participate in the service via large screens, when the event was live at the New Auditorium, some few about 2 kilometres away. That may have saved the new Auditorium from being overwhelmed.

Also, many more people participated from viewing centres in parishes or branches of the church in 197 countries.

There is the general in the belief in the church that you dont have to be touched or seen physically by Pastor Adeboye to receive Gods blessing through him.

Miracle handkerchiefs

For example, he doesnt touch mantles. He mostly blesses handkerchiefs, which many people claimed they in turn used to perform miracles. He only prays from the pulpit as people at the auditoriums, viewing centres, and even homes, wave their handkerchiefs.

On Friday, after people gave testimonies of using the handkerchiefs to cure stroke and raised a woman from the dead, Pastor Adeboye blessed more handkerchiefs.

PHOTO STORY

A cross-section of attendees

Towards the end of his sermon , he asked for handkerchiefs to be waved as he prayed in the spirit.

A lady from Rivers State, Amaechi Florence, had earlier testified how in 2016 her elder sister suddenly dropped dead but after praying for her with one of the handkerchiefs blessed by Pastor Adeboye, she came back from the dead.

When she did, she started behaving abnormally and I knew the devil had not finished its work, but with more prayers my sister regained her sanity.

Other testimonies included those of many couples who were barren for between 10 and 20 years but proudly showed their children at the service.

The sermons

The night started with an opening prayer by Pastor JA Obayemi, national overseer of RCCG.

Praise and worship songs, lively sessions of the churchs programmes, followed.

The first sermon of the night was preached by Pastor Joe Olaiya, known by most people as the only pastor, who makes an altar call when Pastor Adeboye is at a Service. When he did on Friday, there was another massive flow of people, who rushed to give their lives to a Christ.

Preaching a simple but profound sermon the harm of sinful life earlier, he showed how sin ruined Gods covenant with man for him to have dominion, and how righteousness could restore it.

PHOTO STORY

RCCG Choristers

Sin dominates people and puts them down but righteousness bring up a man.

Love God, obey His instruction, serve Him that is your own duty. God own duty is to lift you up, he said.

Whatever makes you to disobey God will make you to disbelieve God. When you are in obedience to God without questioning, God will set you up for the top. Incomplete obedience will make you lose your crown. Your responsibility is to know God instructions, study it very well and obey it. It is God responsibility to bless you and enlarge you and set you on high.

Pastor Adeboye

Why dont you lift your hands to the most high God and begin to bless His holy name, worship the most high God, He is worthy to be praised, He reigns forever, He is the Almighty God, He never gets old or get tired, He never sleeps nor slumber, when He speaks it is done, Lets praise His name together, there is no one like Him, Pastor Adeboye begun his sermon, which was one of the many high points of the night.

While on his knees at the pulpit praying, he shared some prophecies, indicating that it was also a night of prophecy.

Reading Genesis 1:26-28, he stated that God created us to have dominion, so if we desire dominion, we are desiring the will of the Lord.

You either have dominion or you are under yoke, it is either of the two and you have to choose one tonight, he continued.In life you either have dominion or you are under the yoke.

He took time to explain some examples of dominion  physical, financial, spiritual.

Physical Dominion: It is good to be healed, (Mark 1:40-45) but it is only those who have been sick that will know the value of healing. It is better to be healthy and not to be sick at all, and it is better still for you to be the one healing the sick, (Mark 16:17-18). But when your shadow begins to heal the sick then you have dominion physically.

Financial Dominion: It is good to be rich. Abraham our father was rich (Genesis 24:34-35). Abraham is the father of faith, God blessed Abraham greatly. But it is better to be wealthy, (Genesis 26:12-14). But it is better than been wealthy to prosper, you begin to have dominion financially when you flourish, (2 Chronicles 7:5).

When do we say you have dominion financially? When you can do what you want to do without looking for help. That level where you reach that anything you want to do, you dont need anybodys help, thats financial dominion.

Spiritual Dominion: it is better never to be in bondage, but one it is better to be able to deliver the oppressed and cast out demons. You have spiritual Dominion when you get to a level that your handkerchief will begin to heal the sick (Acts 19:11-12).

Comprehensive Dominion

Mr. Adeboye also explained that, like Naaman, a powerful Syrian commander, who suffered from leprosy, one could have dominion in one area and be under yoke in another area.

He gave a testimony of when as a new general verseer at the Redemption Camp years ago he didnt have two Naira to pay at the toll gate to go to Lagos. He didnt have financial dominion.

PHOTO STORY

Pastor Enoch Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian Church of God A cross-section of attendees Pastor Enoch Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian Church of God

He however said God has made provision for comprehensive dominion, a situation in which one has great dominion over everything, including Satan and his hosts.

He gave the example of Elisha, who had all round dominion.

He advised that all it takes to have Comprehensive Dominion is for one to surrender completely to the one who is in charge of dominion  God.

Saturday

The convention continued with a Communion Service on Saturday, when pastors in the 197 countries, where the church has branches, were honoured. They came out as their names were called to be decorated and congratulated by Mr. Adeboye. Additionally a wall of honour is to be erected at the Redemption Camp for them.

Among the countries from where pastors came were Libya, Sudan, Afghanistan, Cambodia, UAE, India, Samoa, Nicaragua, UK, and USA.

As at Saturday evening, 99 babies  50 girls and 49 girls- had been born in the churchs medical facility at the Camp.

The Convention ends today  Sunday.A senior lawyer, Femi Falana, has written a letter to Matthew Seiyefa, reminding the new acting-director-general of the State Security Service that many Nigerians are still in custody of the secret police without trial and despite court orders for their unconditional release.

Acting-President Yemi Osinbajo asked Mr Seiyefa to lead the SSS in acting capacity after firing Lawal Daura.

Mr Osinbajo has been hailed for choosing Mr Seiyefa, an intelligence chief seen as a near-opposite of his predecessor in terms of how each understands the role of law enforcement under a democratic dispensation.

He gave strong indications that he would not toe the inglorious path of his predecessor at a maiden press briefing on Thursday. Amongst the promises he made was an immediate review of all pending cases of illegal detention of persons, as well as the need to appoint a spokesperson for the department after several years of blackout imposed by Mr Daura.

He also vowed to significantly improve the agencys image from its current infamy to an institution packed with professionals in law enforcement and protection of citizens against internal aggression.

Mr Falana, in an August 10 letter, reminded Mr Seiyefa of his promises and urged him to start living up to them by ordering immediate release of some detained persons, some of whom are his clients.

The senior lawyers letter is reproduced in full as follows:

August 10, 2018

Mathew Seiyefa Esq.,

Acting Director-General,

State Security Service,

Maitama District,

Abuja.

Request for the urgent release of hundreds of persons detained illegally by the State Security Service

We congratulate you on your appointment as the Acting Director-General of the State Security Service (SSS). While wishing you a successful tenure we urge you to restore the lost glory of the SSS by restricting the management and staff of the organisation to the prevention and detection of any crime against the internal security of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in accordance with the National Security Agencies Act.

We are however compelled to draw your attention to the fact that our law firm has had a running battle for the last three years with Mr. Musa Daura, the immediate past Director-General of the SSS as a result of the incessant arrest and detention of Nigerian citizens and foreigners without trial. Some of the infringements of the human rights of criminal suspects and other persons perpetrated by Mr. Daura include the following:

1. Apart from not obtaining orders from Magistrate Courts for the remand of suspects in line with section 293 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, Mr. Musa Daura treated the orders of several courts for the release of detainees with contempt. He became so power drunk that he harrassed judges and lawyers who challenged his penchant for subverting the rule of law. At a stage we had to remind him that the brutal military dictators who trained minions like him did not succeed in cowing us into submission when we were fighting for the restoration of democratic rule in the country.

2. Unfortunately, the public officers who have a bounden duty under the Mohammadu Buhari administration to call Mr. Daura to order have turned themselves into the defenders of his pompous impunity by making nebulous references to national security or public interest. Hence, Mr. Daura has wilfully ignored the order of the federal high court made on December 2016 for their release of Sheik Ibraheem and Hajia Zeinab Elzakzaky from the illegal custody of the SSS.

3. Even though Sheik Elzakzaky lost his right eye as a result of the injury sustained when he was shot by soldiers in Zaria on December 15, 2015, Mr. Daura rejected the recommendation of eye specialists that the detainee be flown abroad for medical treatment to prevent the loss of his left eye in the custody of the SSS. Mrs Elzakzaky who was also shot during the violent military attack has been denied access to medical experts who have offered to extract some bullets from her body. Thus, the SSS has subjected the couple to excruciating physical pain and mental agony in violation of their fundamental right to freedom from degrading treatment guaranteed by section 34 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic, 1999 as amended.

4. As you are no doubt aware, Colonel Sambo Dasuki (rtd), a former National Security Adviser is standing trial for treasonable felony and corruption before the Federal High Court and the Federal Capital Territory High Court respectively. Although the defendant has been admitted to bail by both trial courts the SSS has continued to detain him without any legal justification. As if that is not enough the order of the Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States directing the Federal Government to release Col. Dasuki on bail pending trial has also been treated with disdain by the SSS. Even though the defendant has not been charged with culpable homicide the defenders of Mr. Dauras disobedience of court orders have belatedy turned round to accuse the defendant of being responsible for the death of over 100,000 people!

5. However, we have just confirmed that hundreds of other criminal suspects are being detained in dehumaniding conditions in the several detention facilities of the SSS in Abuja and in all the states of the federation. From the information at our disposal the detention of majority of the suspects is not connected to national security in any material particular. For instance, our law firm has recently secured the release of two Indian nationals (Messrs Nittin Verma and Umesh Asudani) who were held in the detention centre of the SSS in Abuja for over 7 months on grounds that they had allegedly defrauded a Kano-based businessman. Before the suspects were illegally arrested by the SSS the same complaint was being investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission which had admitted the suspects to administrative bail. As Mr. Daura could not defend the detention of the suspects he caused an official of the SSS to swear to a false affidavit in the Federal High Court to the effect that they were involved in terrorism!

6. On account of corruption and abuse of office which characterised the tenure of Mr. Daura the SSS took over many criminal cases that were being investigated by other security and anti graft agencies. Thus, by compromising such criminal cases he exposed the anti corruption policy of the Buhari administration to ridicule. Indeed, a number of the suspects in the custody of the SSS have been held incommunicado for about 3 years in contravention of section 6 (2) (c) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act which has imposed a duty on all detaining authorities in Nigeria to notify the next of kin or relative of every suspect of the arrest at no cost to the suspect. Two of the victims of such prolonged incarceration are Mr. Jones Abiri, a journalist and Mr. Peter Collins Opume, an undergraduate of the Niger Delta Delta University, Yenogoa, Bayelsa State. Both citizens have been detained in the SSS dungeon at Abuja for over two years without trial.

7. Based on the instruction of the Committee to Protect Journalists, a Non-Governmental Organisation based in New York, United States, our law firm filed an application at the Federal High Court last month to secure the enforcement of Mr. Abiris fundamental right to personal liberty. As the SSS could not justify the prolonged detention of the journalist, Mr. Daura decided to rush him to a Magistrate Court in Wuse, Abuja where he and Mr. Opume were arraigned on a trump up charge of sending a text message to an official of an oil company on or about June 26, 2016. Although the trial Magistrate admitted both defendants to bail they have not been able to meet the conditions attached to the bail. Hence, they have been remanded in Keffi Prison pending trial. However, Mr. Abiris wife and children were opportuned to set their eyes on him in the prison custody today after two years of illegal separation caused by the SSS.

In the light of the foregoing and in view of your commitment to review the cases of all detainees in the custody of the SSS we are compelled to request you to use your good offices to implement the following recommendations:

i. Discontinue the frivolous charge pending against Messrs Jones Abiri and Peter Collins Opume at the Wuse Magistrate Court;

ii. Release the hundreds of detainees that are languishing without trial in the various detention centres of the SSS;

iii. Release Col. Dasuki and other criminal suspects who have been admitted to bail by municipal and regional courts;

iv. Release Sheik Ibraheem Elzakzaky and Hajia Zeinab Elzakzaky from illegal custody in line with the orders of the Federal High Court.

v. Respect the rights of suspects to consult legal practitioners of their choice before making, endorsing or writing any statement or answering any question put to them after arrest;

vi. Draw the attention of all SSS investigators to the Anti-Torture Act of 2017 which has criminalized the use of torture in all security agencies;

vii. Ensure that all detention facilities of the SSS are inspected monthly by the Visiting Judge of the Federal High Court in accordance with the provision of section 34 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act;

viii. Stop the SSS from further usurping the powers of the Nigeria Police Force, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Offences Commission and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission with respect to the investigation of allegations of murder, stealing, fraud, money laundering, corruption and other economic and financial crimes which are not connected to national security;

ix. Ban the operatives of the SSS from wearing masks as no military or paramilitary official is authorised by law to hide his/her identity in the course of performing official duties;

x. Ensure that the SSS operates within the ambit of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended and the National Security Agencies Act.

Finally, having assured the Nigerian people of your commitment to ensure that the SSS respects the rights of all persons and operates under the rule of law we hope that you will take urgent steps to improve the image of the security outfit from its current infamy and lawlessness to an institution that is completely dedicated to the enforcement of security laws and the protection of citizens against all acts of internal aggression. However, we assure you of our unalloyed support if you are prepared to defend the security of the nation and protect the fundamental rights of the people of Nigeria in strict compliance with the provisions of chapter four of the Constitution.

Yours Sincerely,

Femi Falana SANThe Secretary to the Katsina State Government, Mustapha Inuwa, has commended the people of Katsina North Senatorial District for coming out massively to vote in the bye-election on Saturday.

He said the victory of the All Progressives Congress was a sign of success in the 2019 election.

The APC candidate, Ahmed Babba-Kaita, was declared by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), early on Sunday as the winner, scoring 224,607 votes, while his elder brother and a retired customs officer, Kabir Babba-Kaita of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) scored 59,724 votes.

Of the 855,092 registered voters, 308,500 were accredited at the 1825 voting points and 1577 polling units and 128 wards in the district, a seemingly high turnout considering the apathy that had greeted past bye-elections in the country.

Mr Inuwa said the voter turnout was encouraging especially considering the number of the accredited voters and the 294,050 people who cast their votes.

He described the keenly contested election as peaceful.

Mr Inuwa added that the result was a clear evidence that the All Progressives Congress (APC) was in full control of the state. He added that the government appreciated the resilience and understanding exhibited by the electorate especially the party members.

The APC,Mr Inuwa said, would emerge victorious in future elections, using the victories recorded in Bauchi and Kogi states as proof of the partys popularity among Nigerians.

He said the APC led government under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari is committed to salvaging the nation from the socio-economic and political predicament which the moribund peoples Democratic Party (PDP) left as legacy in its sixteen years of misrule.

NAN reports that the conduct of the bye election was sequel to the death in April this year of a senator, Mustafa Bukar, who represented the district.(NAN)The Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has stated that Rivers people will resist any attempt by the APC Federal Government to rig the 2019 elections.

He also said he has no preferred presidential aspirant among those jostling for his partys ticket.

Governor Wike also said that the APC Federal Government has no single project on ground in the state to sell the partys candidates during the forthcoming general elections.

Speaking during an interview with TVC at the Government House Port Harcourt, Governor Wike noted that rigging is the only option left for the APC Federal Government. He, however, stated that the option will fail.

The people will resist. The people will stand their ground and insist that their votes must count. You saw the way the people resisted at the National Assembly when the DSS invaded, that is how it will be in 2019. The people will stand firm.

You saw a Rivers girl lead the resistance. That is a Rivers girl. The hallmark of our courage as a people. This is not resistance by arms. We dont need to go and carry arms. How many people can the federal might kill?

The governor added: People should understand that Nigeria has gone beyond that point when anything you do, you get away with it. You see what happened at the National Assembly, could we have imagined in this world that the DG DSS would have been sacked?

The governor noted that the rerun elections in Rivers State where the APC Federal Government deployed 40, 000 security personnel for rigging purposes, without success proved that Rivers people cannot be cowed.

Governor Wike debunked the claim that Federal might helped him in 2015. He said the 2016 rerun showed the popular party in the state.

He said: They did the rerun, who won in the rerun? We won massively. The people stood their ground. If we had lost, you would have justifiably said that Federal !ight helped me in 2015.

On the forthcoming presidential primaries of the PDP, Governor Wike said that he has no preferred aspirant for now. He added that no single governor can determine the presidential Ccandidate for the PDP.

The governor noted that the emergence of Uche Secondus as National Chairman of PDP was the best thing to happen to the stability of the party.

He said if a weaker politician had emerged, the APC federal government would have penetrated the PDP. He said the return of Sheriff to APC indicated the damage the APC Federal Government wanted to use him to do in PDP.More than 100 people were killed and 133 injured as hundreds of Taliban militants launched an attack in Afghanistan's city of Ghazni since August 10. The clashes are still going on.

Of the deceased, at least 90 were either military or law enforcement personnel, while civilians accounted for 13 of the deaths, reported Sputnik.

The first reports of the attacks surfaced on Friday, with local media reporting heavy losses for the Taliban, having lost over 100 militants.

Tolo News reports that Afghanistan's Army Chief of Staff Mohammad Sharif Yaftali is slated to arrive in the province later today to take charge of the situation.

203 Tander Military Corps personnel have confirmed that the clashes were still ongoing, with the Taliban setting the Independent Election Commission offices ablaze, while also blocking the Kabul-Kandahar Highway.

Foreign troops have extended assistance along with air support in the fight against the militants.

(ANI)The police in Enugu State have arrested a man who allegedly drugs and steals tricycles, popularly known as Keke Napep, from operators in Enugu.

The commands spokesman, Ebere Amaraizu, said this in a statement in Enugu on Sunday.

Mr Amaraizu said that the suspect, Sunday Nnachi, was arrested in Abia by police operatives of the Central Police Station through intelligence information.

The command recently nabbed one Sunday Nnachi at Osisioma in Abia with a Keke Napep allegedly stolen from the owner in Enugu State whom he offered a juice drink as a passenger.

It was gathered that the driver of the Keke Napep had picked Nnachi as a passenger on July 25 from Gariki to Coal Camp within Enugu metropolis from where he offered him drugged juice drink.

And after drinking the drugged juice, he became unconscious and later slept off, thereby paving way for the suspect to escape with the said Keke Napep.

But through intelligence information, he was nabbed at Osisioma in Abia by police operatives, he said.

The spokesman also said that the suspect had been helping police operatives in their investigation.

(NAN)Adeseye Ogunlewe, a former Minister of Works and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Sunday called on party members in Lagos State to pray for peace and unity in their fold.

Mr Ogunlewe, a former senator, said without peace and unity the party could not rise above its present challenges toward realising its goal of winning the state in 2019.

What is needed in Lagos State PDP is prayers, prayers and prayers.

Members in the chapter should pray together for peace and unity so that the goals of the party can be actualised.

Members must particularly unite at this challenging period in order to get victory in 2019, the PDP chieftain told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Mr Ogunlewe, who described the recent killing at the partys rally in Eti-Osa area of the state as unfortunate, said divine intervention was needed to avert a recurrence.

NAN reports that some hoodlums had on July 21 invaded the partys rally at Eti-Osa, killing the Chairman of the Apapa Chapter of the party, Mr Adeniyi Aborishade.

The invasion by the hoodlums and subsequent violence followed disagreements among members at the rally.

The police arrested the State PDP chairman, Moshood Salvador, and 10 other chieftains and on July 25, charged them with murder at a Yaba Magistrates Court.

They all pleaded not guilty to the two-count charge of unlawful killing and criminal conspiracy.

Chief Magistrate Oyetade Komolafe had remanded Salvador and others in prison and adjourned the case until Aug. 27 for advice from the State Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

(NAN)Rehan Baloch, a young Baloch fighter and elder son of Balochistan Liberation Army's (BLA) senior commander Aslam Baloch has asked China to vacate Balochistan and stop plundering their resources.

The video statement was recorded by Rehan just before he carried out a suicide attack on a bus carrying Chinese engineers and other employees of Saindak project in Dalbandin city of Chaghi district on Saturday.

There are reports of multiple deaths and injuries in the attack. Three Chinese engineers have been reported dead while several of them injured in the attack.

"We have told China multiple times to shun plundering Baloch resources and refrain from becoming part of any Pakistani designs. We have asked China time and again to take their engineers and workers out of Balochistan. However, China never paid heed to our justified demands", said Rehan Baloch in a video message issued from an undisclosed location in Balochistan.

In his message, Rehan accused that 'with China's help, Pakistan has intensified its offensive against Baloch nation and thousands have been killed and their villages destroyed in Pakistani military operations.

"China has also been providing arms, ammunition, funds and communication devices to Pakistan to use against Baloch national struggle. This is a serious crime both legally and morally with China's help. Pakistan has intensified its offensive against Baloch nation and thousands have been killed and hundreds of villages have been destroyed. During Pakistani military operation thousands of Baloch have been forced to leave their ancestral land to become refugees in Iran, Afghanistan and Middle East", said the young Baloch fighter, who appeared holding an automatic weapon.

"Through this act, I want to make China and its people realize that whosoever will try to meddle in Baloch issue without Baloch nation's consent, it will face the wrath of the Baloch nation," he added.

"It cannot be possible at all for a foreign country to plunder the precious natural resources and wealth of Baloch nation without any resistance when our people are deprived of basic necessities, China should immediately withdraw its investment and forces from Balochistan or else they will continue to face Baloch youth", said Rehan Baloch.

Balochistan is Pakistan's resource-rich province where a large number of Chinese engineers and workers are engaged in development projects including multi-billion dollar China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The Saindak project pertains to mining of gold and copper that Pakistan is doing in partnership with China. The indigenous Baloch, who have been fighting for their independence, are opposed to any foreign presence in the region.

(ANI)For the New World Order, a world government is just the beginning. Once in place they can engage their plan to exterminate 80% of the world's population, while enabling the "elites" to live forever with the aid of advanced technology. For the first time, crusading filmmaker ALEX JONES reveals their secret plan for humanity's extermination: Operation ENDGAME.

Jones chronicles the history of the global elite's bloody rise to power and reveals how they have funded dictators and financed the bloodiest warscreating order out of chaos to pave the way for the first true world empire.

Watch as Jones and his team track the elusive Bilderberg Group to Ottawa and Istanbul to document their secret summits, allowing you to witness global kingpins setting the world's agenda and instigating World War III.





to Ottawa and Istanbul to document their secret summits, allowing you to witness global kingpins setting the world's agenda and instigating World War III. Learn about the formation of the North America transportation control grid, which will end U.S. sovereignty forever.





Discover how the practitioners of the pseudo-science eugenics have taken control of governments worldwide as a means to carry out depopulation.





View the progress of the coming collapse of the United States and the formation of the North American Union.

Never before has a documentary assembled all the pieces of the globalists' dark agenda. Endgame's compelling look at past atrocities committed by those attempting to steer the future delivers information that the controlling media has meticulously censored for over 60 years. It fully reveals the elite's program to dominate the earth and carry out the wicked plan in all of human history.

Endgame is not conspiracy theory, it is documented fact in the elite's own words.



Washington, Aug 12 : US President Donald Trump denounced on Saturday "all types of racism" ahead of the anniversary of the white supremacist rally that took place in Charlottesville, Virginia, which resulted in the death of a woman and two police officers.

"The riots in Charlottesville a year ago resulted in senseless death and division. We must come together as a nation. I condemn all types of racism and acts of violence. Peace to ALL Americans!," Trump wrote on Twitter.

Trump's message is in stark contrast with the controversial remarks he made nearly a year ago, when he blamed the violence in Charlottesville on both the neo-Nazi groups and the counter-protesters, adding that there were "fine people" among the white supremacists, Efe reported.

The Charlottesville protests, which became a symbol of racial tensions in the US, took place on August 12, when white supremacists marched in the city to denounce the removal of a statue of Robert E. Lee, a Confederate general who fought in the American Civil War.

During the rally, a young neo-Nazi rammed his car into a crowd of counter-protesters, killing 32-year-old Heather Heyer and injuring 19 people.

In addition, two police officers died in a helicopter crash while they were monitoring the protests.

A student rally has been planned this weekend in Charlottesville to reclaim the campus square where the white supremacists marched last year wielding tiki torches.

However, most sights will be set on Washington, DC, where white nationalists are once again planning a "Unite the Right" rally, which last year ended in tragedy in Charlottesville.

The neo-Nazis are planning to protest in front of the White House, while a coalition of progressive groups has organized an "anti-racist" counter-protest nearby.London, Aug 12 : The British writer and Nobel Prize winner for Literature, Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul, died at his home in London at the age of 85, family sources said on Saturday.

His wife, Lady Naipaul, who described the author as a giant in everything he achieved, said in a statement that "he died surrounded by all the people he loved, having lived a life full of wonderful creativity and effort".

In addition to the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001, V.S. Naipaul also won the Booker Prize in 1971, and was considered one of the most important writers in the English language of the 20th and 21st centuries, Efe reported.

He was born in Chaguanas, on the island of Trinidad and Tobago, in a family descended from Indian immigrants. From there he traveled to the UK and entered the University of Oxford in 1950 after winning a government scholarship.

He began his literary career in 1961 and since then has written about 30 books, although it was the novel "A House for Mr Biswas" that launched him to fame.Srinagar, Aug 12 : A policeman was killed on Sunday in a gunfight between militants and the security forces here.

Upon receiving a tip-off about the holed-up militants, the security forces cordoned off the Deyarwani locality in Batmaloo area.

"As the cordon was tightened, the militants fired at the security forces triggering the ongoing gunfight," police sources said.

"One policeman and two CRPF troopers were also injured."

As a precautionary measure, authorities have suspended mobile internet services in Srinagar.London, Aug 12 : Nobel Prize-winning novelist V.S. Naipaul, who explored questions of place and identity for more than half a century, has died aged 85, his family announced on Sunday.

Lady Naipaul confirmed that her husband had died peacefully in London on Saturday, reports the Guardian.

"He was a giant in all that he achieved and he died surrounded by those he loved having lived a life which was full of wonderful creativity and endeavour," she said in a statement.

Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul was born in 1932 in Chaguanas on the island of Trinidad and Tobago, to a family that had arrived from India in the 1880s, part of what he once called "an immigrant Asian community in a small plantation island in the New World".

Naipaul once said that he never felt at home in the community. In 2008, he recalled his childhood as "pretty awful" and his family as "terrible... very large, with too many people. There was no beauty. It was full of malice".

A government scholarship offered him a chance to escape, an immigrant once more as he travelled to Oxford in 1950 to study English.

Turning from the comedy that began his career, Naipaul cast a steely eye on the shards of empire in a series of novels and travelogues.

Unflattering portraits of the West Indies, India, Africa and the Islamic faith brought both hostility and acclaim.

Critics accused him of holding people of the developing world in contempt even as his diamantine prose won him a series of awards including the Booker prize in 1971, a knighthood in 1989 and the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001.

His first book, "The Mystic Masseur", was published in 1951 and a decade later he published his most celebrated novel, "A House for Mr Biswas", with a protagonist based on Naipaul's father took him over three years to write, reports the BBC.

His other noted works include "The Enigma of Arrival", "Miguel Street", "The Loss of El Dorado" and "Beyond Belief: Islamic Excursions among the Converted Peoples".

Naipaul's death was mourned by many including Geordie Greig, editor of the Mail on Sunday and a close friend, said his loss leaves a "gaping hole in Britain's literary heritage" but there is "no doubt" that his "books live on".

English novelist and journalist Hari Kunzru recalled interviewing him and said: "When we sat down, the first thing he said was 'tell me what you've read and don't lie'. Only then would he consent to be questioned."

Writer Jeet Heer called him a "powerful novelist" who "at his best approached Conrad and even the shadow of Dickens".Srinagar, Aug 12 : A batch of 233 pilgrims left Jammu for the cave shrine in the Kashmir Valley on Sunday, police said.

"The pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas here in an escorted convoy of 11 vehicles for the Valley today," the police said.

"Of these, 140 Yatris are going to Baltal base camp while 93 are goi ng to Pahalgam base camp".

Since it started on June 28, over 2.77 lakh pilgrims have performed the ongoing Amarnath Yatra.

Coinciding with Shravan Purnima festival, the Yatra will end on August 26.Canberra, Aug 12 : A surfboard was returned to its Australian surfer after it was stolen from him 40 years ago, local media reported on Sunday.

Peter Gilson said his mother saved some A$1,800 Australian dollars ($1,315) and bought him the surfboard in Newcastle, New South Wales state in the late 1970s but it was soon stolen from the garage, reports Xinhua news agency.

"To be honest, at the time, being a young kid, I didn't really give it too much thought but as the years went by it occurred to me how much of a sacrifice my mum had made to get me that board," Gilson said.

Four decades later, Gilson began repairing vintage surfboards and spotted his stolen one with its unique horse image online -- someone had taken a photo of it at a surfing memorabilia gallery in Western Australia on the other side of the country.

Gilson contacted the gallery owners and told them about his connection to the surfboard, which had "probably passed through many sets of hands over the years", by providing an old photo of it.

The surfboard's latest owner decided to send the surfboard to Gilson and "hand it back free of charge".

The widely lauded gesture is "always a bonus" as vintage surfboards can fetch premium prices.Las Vegas, Aug 12 : Amid the growing debate over whether electronic voting machines (EVMs) are hackable or not, elections officials in the US are worried over the increasing "information warfare" as mid-term polls loom.

According to a CNN report, at the annual "Def Con hacker convention" here over the weekend, state and local election officials who attended the conference saw what hackers can do to voting machines.

"One hacker was essentially able to turn a voting machine into a jukebox, making it play music and display animations," said the report.

"While such hacks are a cause of concern for election officials, they are increasingly looking beyond the threats against traditional election infrastructure like voting machines and voting databases and more to the threat of disinformation," it added.

At the event, nearly 40 child hackers were able to tamper with vote tallies on the mock versions of election board websites, some even changing candidates names to things like "Bob Da Builder" and "Richard Nixon's Head".

"There's always been a concern about the integrity of our elections and there's always been a concern about misinformation, disinformation being disseminated around campaigns," Alex Padilla, California's Secretary of State, was quoted as saying.

This time, the "voting machine hacking village" at the conference featured a new set of voting machines which will be used in the 2018 mid-term elections.

An intense debate is going on in India over the security of EVMs.

As many as 17 parties, including the Congress and the Trinamool Congress, have approached the Election Commission for restoring the paper ballot system in view of their apprehensions over the integrity of the EVMs and the possibility of their manipulation.Mumbai, Aug 12 : National Award-winning actor Manoj Bajpayee says as a performer, he does not follow any formula to play any character but approaches things differently every time.

The actor, who is balancing between content-driven and commercial cinema, told IANS here: "I have no formula to play any character. I approach each of them differently. I could play a middle-class man, a police officer 50 times, but every time it has to be different.

"Otherwise what is the fun of performing? Also, the approach needs to be changed depending on the kind of film it is."

He calls his forthcoming film "Satyameva Jayate" a commercial one. "So my performance should be very different here (in this film) from a film like 'Aligarh'."

Giving an insight into his character DCP Shivansh, the actor of "Satya" fame said: "It is an action-thriller where a cat-mouse fight is happening between the two characters - a police and a criminal.

"What's interesting is how both of them are interrelated, how their conflict finds a common ground at the end of the journey."

Manoj has travelled to the various international film festivals with films like "Pinjar", "Aligarh" and "Gangs of Wasseypur". Earlier this year, he attended Cannes Film Festival to unveil the poster of one of his upcoming films - "Bhosle".

"We wanted to submit the film this year for the Cannes Film Festival, but little work on the post-production is left. That is why we could not submit the film. So we thought of going there and unveiling its poster.

"We all have been working on the film for the last four years. It is one of the projects which is close to my heart," said the actor, a regular at international film festivals.

Asked about how he sees the position of Indian cinema on the global map, Manoj shared: "The journey of Indian cinema... in the mind of global audiences started from the era of iconic (talents) like Satyajit Ray, Mani Kaul, Basu Bhattacharya, Shyam Benegal and Govind Nihalani...where our films are watched, celebrated at international film festivals and people saw India through our film."

"These days though we are making several content-driven and independent films, and travelling to festivals also, I think somewhere we are falling short to earn the amount of respect that our elders did. Those days Shyam babu won awards in festivals when our films were hardly selected.

"Somewhere we have to find the rooted story that touches million hearts beyond cultural and geographical boundaries," he said.

Citing some examples, he said: "Films like 'S Durga' and 'Village Rockstars' are winning hearts of people abroad at festivals. When it comes to our Hindi films, we have to find such rooted stories because budget and technology are not a big deal anymore, efficient storytelling is all that matters."Srinagar, Aug 12 : Four people were killed and two others injured on Sunday during the construction of a sewage trench in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district, police said.

The incident took place in Shangus area's Uttersoo village.

"Six people fell into the trench. Four persons were declared brought dead on arrival at a hospital while the other two were being treated," the police added.Kabul, Aug 12 : A key Taliban commander was killed on Sunday in a drone strike that targeted a militant hideout in Afghanistan's Laghman province.

The strike was followed a tip-off, killing the commander and injuring three of his guards, reports Xinhua news agency. The commander's identity was not disclosed.Patna, Aug 12 : Police in Bihar said on Sunday that two women from a shelter home died at a hospital here.

A 40-year-old woman and an 18-year-old girl from the Asra shelter home here died on Friday night in the Patna Medical College and Hospital.

Neither the police nor the Social Welfare Department were informed of the incident.

A police team along with department officials visited the shelter home located in the city's Rajiv Hagar area and have interrogated the staff.

The cause of the women's death was not immediately known.

At least 34 minor girls were raped at a shelter home in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district. The case came to light in July when the state's Social Welfare Department filed an FIR on the basis of a social audit by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai.

Twenty-four girls were rescued from the shelter home in Uttar Pradesh's Deoria last week after one of them told the police that they were being sexually abused.Shimla, Aug 12 : Himachal Pradesh is promoting off-season vegetable production in a big way for which emphasis has been laid on providing adequate irrigation facilities, an official said on Sunday.

The farmers are switching over to cash crops in place of traditional crops as a result of promotional programmes and schemes launched by the state government, an official spokesperson told IANS.

Vegetable production is generating revenue of Rs 3,500-4,000 crore annually and has emerged as an alternate economic activity in the horticulture sector.

The returns of off-season vegetable cultivation are very high compared to traditional food crops.

As per government estimates, off-season vegetables give a net return from Rs 60,000 to Rs 2 lakh per hectare whereas the traditional crops fetch from Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000 per hectare.

The off-season vegetable production in the state in 2016-17 reached to 16,53,506 tonnes in 76,947 hectares.

Due to congenial ago-climatic conditions, the state has already earned name in the production of off-season vegetables like tomato, capsicum, green peas, beans, cabbage, cauliflower, potato and cucumber.

Mid-June to September are the months when there is no supply of vegetables other than Himachal Pradesh to the markets in neighbouring Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and New Delhi. The vegetables supplied from the state fetch good prices during off-season.

To give impetus to the agriculture sector, the state has prepared a project of Rs 4,751 crore for water conservation and rainwater harvesting and has been sent to the central government for funding.

Initially, Rs 708.87 crore has been sanctioned to the state in the first phase under which at least five developmental blocks of three districts will be covered.

Keeping in view the success of Japan International Cooperation Agency Stage I project, which was implemented in five districts for diversification of crops, the Indian government has given approval in principle for second phase of this project to be implemented in the entire state.Bengaluru, Aug 12 : India will soon launch a dedicated space and science television channel to make their benefits reach people across the country, a top official said on Sunday.

"Within the next three to four months, there will be a television channel launched to reach even the rural parts of India on how space programme can benefit the common man," Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman K. Sivan told reporters here.

The ISRO Chairman was speaking to media at the space agency's headquarters here on the sidelines of an event where the statue (bust) of the father of India's space programme, Vikram Sarabhai, was unveiled on his 99th birth anniversary.

To be named "ISRO TV", the channel will telecast science programmes and highlight the benefits of the space agency's missions in regional languages as well as English, so that it reaches people across the country.

"The information on India's space missions and their applications are not reaching the people fully. Our effort through the channel is to make people aware of the benefits of the space programme," Sivan added.

The space agency also aims to develop scientific rigor among India's children and youth through this channel.

ISRO will also be setting up a module for students from classes 8-10 to be trained at the space agency for a month, Sivan added.

In order to inculcate scientific temper among students, ISRO officials will mentor them for 25-30 days and allow them to visit ISRO's labs and launch facilities.

"The students will be allowed to make their own small satellites at the end of the programme. This project, which will be launched soon, has received appreciation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi (who oversees the Department of Space)," Sivan said.

As part of its plan to reach out to the people of the country in a large way, ISRO will also be opening up its spaceport at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh to public.

Indian public will soon be able to pay visits to the launch facility at Sriharikota on the lines of American space agency NASA, the space agency Chief said.

However, the Chairman did not mention a date when the spaceport will be thrown open to the public.

"We are also in the process of setting up space galleries and museums across the country," Sivan said.Tehran, Aug 12 : Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Sunday that Tehran has no plan to talk with the US on the sidelines of the upcoming UN General Assembly meeting.

"No meeting is expected to take place," Xinhua news agency quoted Zarif as saying.

"The Americans are not honest," he added.

On Friday, Majid Takht Ravanchi, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for European and American Affairs, also said he did not see "any reason" for talks with the US at the 73rd UN General Assembly meeting next month.

"What expectations could you have from a person who pulls out from international engagement and now says let's hold talks," Ravanchi said.

US President Donald Trump withdrew Washington from the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, on May 8 and demanded renegotiation of the pact.

Since then, the Trump administration has slapped a number of sanctions on Iran while vowing to apply more.Los Angeles, Aug 12 : "Star Wars" actor Mark Hamill once advised Austrian-American actor Arnold Schwarzenegger to lose his accent and last name.

"Arnold Schwarzenegger asked me for advice when he was just starting out," Hamill tweeted on Saturday, reports eonline.com.

"I told him to lose his accent for a wider range of roles and to change his last name since no one could pronounce it. He did the opposite and became one of the biggest stars ever."

Still, Schwarzenegger didn't seem to have any hard feelings towards Hamill for his recommendation.

"Your advice was absolutely correct under any normal circumstances, and those were the rules back then. I just happen to be a rule-breaker," said Schwarzenegger.London/New Delhi, Aug 12 : Nobel Prize-winning writer V.S. Naipaul, known for his celebrated works like "An Area of Darkness" and "A House for Mr Biswas", has died at age 85. The literary fraternity mourned his passing and said his rich legacy will live on for generations to come.

No sooner did Lady Nadira Naipaul confirm on Sunday morning that her husband had died peacefully in London, condolence messages from readers and admirers flooded the social media.

"He was a giant in all that he achieved and he died surrounded by those he loved, having lived a life which was full of wonderful creativity and endeavour," Lady Naipaul said.

Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in saluting the writer who shared deep ancestral ties with - and love for - India. Also paying homage were prominent faces from the literary arena including Salman Rushdie and Paul Theroux who were often critical of Naipaul's works.

Notwithstanding their differences with Naipaul, both were confident that his works would be read by generations to come.

Rushdie, who himself has Indian roots, said he had disagreed with Naipaul on politics and literature but felt sad "as if I just lost a beloved older brother".

Added writer-historian William Dalrymple: "Even if you disagreed with much that he wrote, particularly about India, you couldn't help be stimulated, influenced and catalysed by the brilliance of his laser sharp vision."

Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul was born in 1932 in Chaguanas on the island of Trinidad and Tobago to a family that had arrived from India in the 1880s. His life was one of many discoveries and Naipaul captured what he saw around him in his writings.

But even as his highly acclaimed books like "India: A Wounded Civilization" and "A Bend in the River" will live to tell his stories to future readers, his death brings an end to a rather fascinating literary journey with few parallels.

In a career spanning over five decades, Naipaul penned some 30 books, across literary genres, and established himself as a prominent voice among the writers of his time.

The early inspiration, as he had expressed on several occasions, came from his father, who was a journalist and, as Naipaul said, "a man of letters". His readings from literature was an important part of Naipaul's education.

However, the then would be writer-extraordinaire did not have "great things" to write about during his early days. He left Oxford University, where he had bagged a scholarship, and went to live in a cousin's flat, hoping to train himself as a writer. But he had no knowledge of what it was to be a writer.

His first book was so bad that a London-based publisher told him: "You should give this up, forget this work, do something else." And so he did, starting work as a presenter for the BBC on their programme Caribbean Voices.

But he had one powerful ace up his sleeve.

"I believed in my own talent. I thought whatever I did would be alright in the end. If I wasn't true to my talent, that would be the end of me as a person. So I kept on writing despite drawbacks and lack of encouragement," Naipaul revealed at the Jaipur Literature Festival in January 2015, his last public appearance in India.

Sure enough, he had a breakthrough at the BBC. In a room on the second floor of the Langham Hotel, then part of the BBC, there were two or three typewriters.

"Out of sheer idleness, I began to write the first short story of 'Miguel Street'. I said to myself, you will only leave this sheet of paper when you have finished what you are writing. That was the great breakthrough, finishing in that way," Naipaul recalled.

In the months to come, he published a number of novellas. 1961 saw "A House for Mr Biswas", thrusting him into the limelight. Naipaul took smaller steps - by publishing novellas - before setting on to write what he called "a bigger book".

As decades rolled by, there was no stopping the writer in Naipaul. He went on to bag some of the most coveted honours bestowed on writers. He was awarded the Booker Prize in 1971 for "In A Free State".

Three decades later, in awarding Naipaul the 2001 Nobel Prize in Literature, the Swedish Academy praised his work "for having united perceptive narrative and incorruptible scrutiny in works that compel us to see the presence of suppressed histories".Kolkata, Aug 12 : A civic volunteer was arrested on Sunday for allegedly beating his mother to death in West Bengal's Hoogly district, police said.

"Rabin Kundu, a resident of Hoogly district's Arambag was arrested for allegedly beating his septuagenarian mother to death today morning. He will be produced before the court tomorrow (Monday)," an officer from Arambag Police Station said.

Kundu allegedly attacked his mother with a wooden stick after the woman had an altercation with one of their relatives, police said.

According to eye witnesses, Kundu's mother had a verbal spat with his aunt over some family issues, which irritated the youth.

After his aunt left, he attacked his mother with a stick, beating her repeatedly and the old woman became senseless, a neighbour said.

The injured woman was then taken to Arambag sub-divisional hospital where she was declared brought dead.

"It was a shocking incident. We handed him over to the police," the neighbour said.New York, Aug 12 : Researchers have, for the first time, produced fibres with embedded electronics that are so flexible they can be woven into soft washable fabrics and made into wearable clothing.

Embedding high speed optoelectronic semiconductor devices, including light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and diode photodetectors, into washable fabrics also makes it possible to produce clothing that communicates optically with other devices.

This discovery, described in the journal Nature, could unleash a new 'Moore's Law' for fibres, in other words, a rapid progression in which the capabilities of fibres would grow rapidly and exponentially over time, said researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Boston.

The key breakthrough for producing these new fibres was to add to the preform light-emitting semiconductor diodes the size of a grain of sand, and a pair of copper wires a fraction of a hair's width.

When heated in a furnace during the fibre-drawing process, the polymer preform partially liquifies, forming a long fibre with the diodes lined up along its centre and connected by the copper wires.

"We are anticipating the emergence of a 'Moore's law' analogue in fibres in the years ahead," said Yoel Fink from the varsity.

"It is already allowing us to expand the fundamental capabilities of fabrics to encompass communications, lighting, physiological monitoring, and more. In the years ahead, fabrics will deliver value-added services and will no longer just be selected for aesthetics and comfort," Fink added.

In this case, the solid components were two types of electrical diodes made using standard microchip technology: LEDs and photosensing diodes.

The resulting fibres were then woven into fabrics, which were laundered 10 times to demonstrate their practicality as possible material for clothing.

One of the advantages of incorporating function into the fibre material itself is that the resulting fibre is inherently waterproof.

To demonstrate this, the team placed some of the photodetecting fibres inside a fish tank.

A lamp outside the aquarium transmitted music through the water to the fibres in the form of rapid optical signals.

The fibres in the tank converted the light pulses -- so rapid that the light appears steady to the naked eye -- to electrical signals, which were then converted into music. The fibres survived in the water for weeks.New Delhi, Aug 12 : Debunking opposition plans for a grand alliance as "political adventurism" and a "failed idea", Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed confidence that the BJP-led NDA will get more seats than ever and break all records in the 2019 Lok Sabha battle.

He ruled out cracks in the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), saying the coalition was in tact as evidenced by the government's victory in the no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman's election.

In a wide ranging interview with The Times of India, Modi condemned incidents of mob lynching as a crime whatever the motives.

"We will definitely get more seats than we got the last time and I am confident that we will break all records of the seats won by the NDA in the past."

He said India's status had improved globally since the BJP took power, giving the country "a performing, strong and stable government" after 30 years.

"People have bitter experience of coalition governments burdened by politics of compulsions. A mahagathbandhan or whatever you may call it cannot create a gathbandhan of the electorate.

"Indian electorate has always kept national interest paramount. I have faith it will not compromise its vote for a disparate group that has nothing more to offer that a single ideology - that is to remove Modi."

He said a non-ideological alliance of "desperate and disparate groups" was not a 'mahagathbandhan' "but political adventurism... a failed idea that has never succeeded" be it in 1979, 1990 and in 1996.

Asked about unease among NDA partners, Modi said the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman's election, "I am sure, will put the apprehensions of sceptics to rest".

Asked what the government can do to reassure minorities and backward classes amid repeated incidents of lynching in the name of cow protection, the Prime Minister said even a single incident made him "very sad" and needed to be condemned in the "strongest voice".

"I want to make it clear that mob lynching is a crime, no matter the motive. No person can, under any circumstances, take the law into his or her own hands and commit violence."

He, however, put the onus of stopping such incidents on state governments who need to "take stringent action as per law against the perpetrators of such violence".

The Prime Minister said fake news and incidents arising due to rumour-mongering were also condemnable and the government was actively engaging with digital media platforms and other stakeholders.

Modi said the allegations of a scam in Rafale jet deal was an attempt by the Congress to exorcise its Bofors ghost. "It is an honest and transparent deal."

On Pakistan and the relations with the new government-led by Imran Khan that is set to take charge in Islamabad, Modi said: "We hope Pakistan would work for a safe, secure, stable and prosperous region, free from terror and violence."

On the government's initiatives to promote the ease of doing business, he said emphasis was on simplifying processes, be it incorporation of a company, induction of a director, or payment of income tax or GST.

On the initiatives to curb black-money and bring to book unscrupulous elements, Modi said the government had already struck off the names of around 2.6 lakh shell companies and 3.09 lakh directors.

"Names of 55,000 companies more will be struck off this month."

He dismissed criticism that there hasn't been much movement on strategic sale of PSUs and labour law amendments, saying "nothing can be farther from truth".

Asked about the burgeoning NPAs in public sector banks, Modi said one needed to understand why the percentage of non-performing assets had gone up.

"There was an increase in disbursement of loans during UPA-II. The credit goes to an important innovation known as 'telephone banking' where telephonic instructions used to go directly to banks and loans would get sanctioned."

On allegations that his government had failed to create jobs, Modi said he believed the shortcoming lied in the absence or lack of a streamlined database of jobs. "Naturally, in the absence of information, our opponents will exploit this situation and blame us."

About Assam's National Register of Citizens, he said preventing illegal migrants was a commitment in the Indira-Mujib Accord of 1972 and the Rajiv Gandhi-AASU Accord of 1985.

"Though the Congress accepted it, vote bank politics - that the party is adept at - prevented it from actually implementing the process. The Congress lacked political will and courage. It is guilty of criminal negligence."

On the chances of bringing absconding industrialists like Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi and Lalit Modi back to India, Modi again blamed policies of the previous government that made it easy for people to borrow and scoot.

"I would like to reaffirm (our) stand... Anyone who fraudulently takes public money and absconds will not be spared."New Delhi, Aug 12 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for a resumption of the political process in the Maldives.

"As a close and friendly neighbour, India wishes to see a stable, peaceful and prosperous Maldives that meets the aspiration of its citizens," Modi said in an interview with the Times of India published on Sunday.

"Recent political developments there, however, have been a matter of considerable international concern," he said.

"We hope the Maldives government will ensure early resumption of the political process and allow democratic institutions, including the judiciary, to function independently in a fair and transparent manner. This will create a conducive environment for the presidential elections."

Ties between India and the Maldives have been strained since President Abdulla Yameen imposed Emergency in February after the Supreme Court ordered the release and retrial of former President Mohamed Nasheed and other prisoners. The Emergency was later lifted.

Regarding Nepal, Modi said New Delhi and Kathmandu "shared historical, close, friendly and even family ties for thousands of years".

"We have reinforced these bonds with strong ties in all spheres, including defence, security, trade, investment and development partnership. As a result, this relationship today is extremely broad and incredibly deep."

In the face of Nepal Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli's affinity for China, Modi said: "It is quite natural for China or any other country to have its own relationships with others, including our neighbours."

As for Sri Lanka, Modi hoped Colombo would keep in mind India's security concerns.

"Our ties with Sri Lanka are deep-rooted, multidimensional and enduring. They stand on their own and are not dependent on our or Sri Lanka's relations with any third country.

"We have no doubt that our Sri Lankan friends will keep in mind our security concerns and sensitivities."Chennai, Aug 12 : There is more political support for TVS Motor Co Chairman Venu Srinivasan against whom a FIR has been lodged in a case of idol theft, with Union Minister Pon Radhakrishnan and CPI leader R. Mutharasan backing him.

Union Minister of State Radhakrishnan said the general public perception was that Srinivasan had spent his own money for the betterment of temples and for the livelihood of the poor.

Radhakrishan said many devotees were wondering whether charging a person like Srinivasan was meant to divert the investigation or help the real culprits.

Mutharasan said it was astonishing that Srinivasan, the head of TVS Motor, was being charged in an temple idol theft case.

He sought a probe to know on whose instance Srinivasan's name had been included in the FIR.

Earlier, MDMK founder Vaiko had demanded dropping of Srinivasan's name from the FIR.

Meanwhile, a police team investigating the theft of idol on August 10 told the Madras High Court that Srinivasan won't be arrested for six weeks till the court hears the industrialist's anticipatory bail application.

In his bail application, Srinivasan referred to a writ petition filed by one Elephant G. Rajendran. Srinivasan said that in paragraph 12 of an affidavit submitted in support of his petition, Rajendran mentioned that an FIR had been filed against him.

Srinivasan said he was appointed Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the famed Srirangam Temple and that he had spent Rs 25 crore from his own pocket for the renovation of the entire holy complex.

He said Rs 70 lakh was also spent by him on painting works at Sri Kabaleeswarar temple in the heart of Chennai.

The industrialist also said that a private trust funded by him and his company had undertaken renovation of over 100 temples in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh along with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Union Culture and Tourism Minister Alphons Kannanthanam visit a flood relief camp in Ernakulam, ... Image Source: IANS

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh along with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Union Culture and Tourism Minister Alphons Kannanthanam, conducting the aerial survey of flood affected ... Image Source: IANS

Kochi/New Delhi, Aug 12 : Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday described the situation in the flood-affected areas of Kerala as "very serious" and assured the state of all possible help from the Centre.

Rajnath Singh, who arrived here on Sunday afternoon, made the statement after an aerial survey of Idukki and Ernakulam districts. He was accompanied by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Union Tourism Minister K.J. Alphons and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Director General Sanjay Kumar.

"The situation is very serious in Kerala. The Centre will extend all necessary support to the state in all respects," Rajnath Singh told the inmates of a relief camp near Kochi.

The Union Home Minister also announced release of Rs 100 crore in advance from the National Disaster Response Fund.

Based on the aerial survey, field visit and interaction with the affected people, Singh expressed satisfaction on the arrangements made by the state administration in managing the unprecedented floods/landslides in the state and in providing basic amenities, including food, water and medical service in relief camps.

Chief Minister Vijayan said the affected persons need not worry as the state government will do everything to ensure them relief.

"Every loss that has been suffered will be addressed, including loss of houses, other properties and crops. Once you return to your homes, you will face a lot of problems. Necessary steps will be taken to clean up your homes," Vijayan said.

On the other hand, officials in Ernakulam and Thrissur said on Sunday that the flood situation was under control even as parts of both districts still remained submerged. The Periyar river water level had come down to enable some of the affected persons to return home, they said.

Idukki district, which recorded 90mm rainfall over 24 hours till Saturday morning, witnessed lesser rainfall at 40mm on Sunday morning, weather officials said.

Water level in Idukki dam had decreased by three feet in the past 48 hours to stand at 2,398.66 feet on Sunday even though rain was recorded at a few places in and around the dam area during the day.

The situation in the hilly district of Wayanad -- which saw destruction to crops and properties -- looked grim on Sunday as intermittent heavy rains pounded the area, forcing authorities to ask those lodged in relief camps to stay back due to possibilities of landslides.

Idukki district authorities said that the decision to close down all five dam floodgates, opened after a downpour, will be taken on the basis of rainfall witnessed in the coming days.

Power Minister M.M. Mani said the closing of dam sluices will be taken after detailed discussions with officials concerned.

The Army's 'Operation Sahyog' continued in Kerala, with two Army columns undertaking relief and rescue operations in rain-battered areas of Aluva in Ernakulam district, and one column in Adimali in Idukki district.

A team of approximately 80 personnel of Madras Regiment from Pangode Military Station in the state capital completed a makeshift bridge in the Virinjapara-Mankulam area in Idukki district, since a concrete bridge there had been washed away in the floods.

The temporary bridge restored road connectivity to around 800 families living in the area.

As many as 14 teams of NDRF consisting of 404 rescuers and 31 boats are already deployed in the worst affected districts of Thrissur, Ernakkulam, Kozhikode, Idukki, Wayanad and Alapuzha to assist the state in the rescue and relief operations as well as distribution of relief material and to provide medical support to the affected.

In addition to Army, Navy and Coast Guard columns, helicopters of Indian Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard have also been deployed to drop essential commodities and other assistance to the marooned survivors.Patna, Aug 12 : Two officials of a Patna shelter home were detained on Sunday for questioning after two women inmates died in a hospital, police said.

Patna Senior Superintendent of Police Manu Maharaj said that a Special Investigation Team has been constituted to probe the death of the two 'Aasra' inmates, aged 40 and 18, on Friday night at the Patna Medical College and Hospital.

The cause of the death was not immediately known.

Though shelter home officials said the two died at the hospital, the latter's officials on Sunday denied it and said that the inmates were "brought dead".

Neither police nor the Bihar Social Welfare Department officials were told about the incident on Friday by the shelter home authorities.

A police team along with departmental officials visited the shelter home in the city's Rajiv Hagar area and questioned the staff.

The two deaths at the Bihar shelter home have come after the revelations about the rape of at least 34 minor girls at a similar home in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district. The case came to light in July when the Social Welfare Department filed an FIR on the basis of a social audit by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai.

Twenty-four girls were rescued from a shelter home in Uttar Pradesh's Deoria last week after one of them told the police that they were being sexually abused.Srinagar, Aug 12 : A soldier was killed on Sunday in an explosion near the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri Sector in Jammu and Kashmir, police said.

Sepoy Kuldeep Singh Rawat was killed in the blast near the Rustom Post in Haji Peer area.

"The incident is being investigated," police said.Damascus, Aug 12 : At least 18 people were killed on Sunday when an explosion rocked the rebel-held town of Sarmada in northern Syria near the Turkish border, a monitoring group reported.

The explosion took place in an ammunition depot belonging to the Al Qaeda-linked Nusra Front, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

The depot was located on the bottom floor of a residential building, which was completely destroyed during the explosion, the London-based watchdog said.

Many people were buried under the rubble, most of whom were displaced people from the central province of Homs, it added.

The death toll could further rise as many are critically wounded and still trapped under the rubble.

In a separate incident on Sunday, a roadside bomb went off as a bus was passing by in the rebel-held town of Twaineh in the countryside of Hama Province in central Syria, leading to 14 injuries.Ferozepur (Punjab), Aug 12 : A strategically important bridge in Punjab's Ferozepur district was on Sunday dedicated to the nation by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman -- 47 years after the old one was blown off in the 1971 India-Pakistan war.

The 280-feet-long bridge connects connects Ferozepur with Hussainiwala barrage on the Sutlej river on the old Ferozpur-Lahore highway.

It is the only lifeline for the residents of nearly 10 villages and connects Hussainiwala enclave with the outside world.

After the 1971 war, a Bailey bridge was set up by the Indian Army to restore road communication in the area.

"To replace the old bridge, Project Chetak was launched and the Border Roads Organisation entrusted with the task of constructing a permanent bridge, which has since been completed," a defence spokesman said here.

Sitharaman said that the bridge -- with RCC decking over steel beam girders -- will be useful not only to the Indian armed forces but also the local population.

She pointed out that Hussainiwala is a historic place connected to martyrs Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru and many other war heroes. The Minister later visited the Hussainiwala Shaheed Smarak to pay homage to the martyrs.

Western Command General Officer Commander-in-Chief, Lt Gen Surinder Singh, and Lt Gen Harpal Singh, Director General of the BRO, were present on the occasion.New Delhi, Aug 12 : A youth leader was arrested from Haryana on charge of burning a copy of the Constitution of India and shouting slogan against Dr B.R. Ambedkar at a protest here, police said on Sunday.

Police said accused Deepak Gaur, said to be a member of Arakshan Virodhi Party, was arrested from his hideout in Faridabad on Saturday night for committing the crime during the protest on Parliament Street in Central Delhi on Thursday.

On a complaint of Anil Tanwar of Akhil Bharatiya Bheem Sena, the Delhi Police on Friday registered a case against the Youth for Equality organisation at the Parliament Street police station regarding the crime.

"Leaders of Youth for Equality (Azad Sena) and Arakshan Virodhi Party held a joint protest on the Parliament Street. The protesters led by Deepak Gaur and Abhishekh Shukla were involved in the burning the copy of the Constitution and shouting slogans against Dr Ambedkar," Deputy Commissioner of Police Madhur Verma said.

The teams raided their hideouts in Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh and arrested Gaur from Faridabad. A manhunt for Shukla and others is on.

"During interrogation, Gaur said that he and Shukla conspired to burn the pages of the Constitution to create a sensation to attract government attention to opposition to amendments in the law pertaining to scheduled castes and tribes," the officer added.

Gaur told police that they along with their supporters burnt a bare act of the Constitution of India and later put on social media a press note on the issue.Tel Aviv, Aug 12 : Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday said Israel will continue to fight Hamas in Gaza before a "complete cease-fire" is achieved.

"We are in the midst of a campaign against terror in Gaza. It entails an exchange of blows," Netanyahu told his weekly cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, adding that the recent flare-up of violence "will not end in one strike," Xinhua reported.

He said that during last week's massive airstrikes in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli air force has "destroyed hundreds of Hamas military targets." He added that "in each round, the Israel Defense Forces exacts an additional heavy price."

He stressed that Israel is ready to continue the strikes. "I will not reveal here our operational plans, they are ready," he said.

"Our demand is clear -- a complete cease-fire. We will not suffice with less than this," he said. "Our objective is to restore the quiet to residents of the south and the area adjacent to the Gaza Strip; this goal will be achieved in full."

Last week, Israel and Hamas exchanged blows, with Israel striking hundreds of sites in Gaza, killing three people including a woman and her baby, while Gaza militants launched dozens of rockets towards southern Israel.

The fire was largely ceased on Thursday, as an unofficial truce was achieved following efforts by the United Nations and Egypt.Vijayawada, Aug 12 : A girl student of Sri Venkateswara Medical College in Tirupati committed suicide on Sunday, the second such incident in a week, police said.

Gitika, 19, was an MBBS second-year student. She ended her life by hanging at her house here in the evening. police said. The reason for her suicide is not known.

The incident came a week after the suicide of B. Shilpa, a postgraduate student in paediatrics, who hanged herself at her house in Pileru town of Chittoor district.

The 30-year-old student had in April written to Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan, accusing three Professors of Pediatric Department of sexual harassment.

The student was upset after she failed in exams. She told her friends that she was deliberately failed for complaining against the Professors.

Following an uproar, authorities transferred the college Principal and formed in May a three-member inquiry committed headed by the Director of Medical Education K. Babji. The panel is yet to submit its report.London, Aug 13 : Ten people, including two children, were injured in a shooting at a street party early on Sunday in Manchester, British Police said.

The police rushed to the scene on a residential street in the Moss Side area on Sunday, where a party was being held following a Caribbean Carnival at a nearby park.

Following what was described as a "dangerous attack", one man was in a serious condition while nine others suffered "pellet-type" wounds, Xinhua reported.

Police said they were working on the premise that the weapon used was a shotgun.

Footage reportedly showing the aftermath of the incident was posted on social media. The video appears to show a panicked group of people being helped by police.

Police said it was lucky no one was killed by the "completely reckless" shooting while hundreds were celebrating a Caribbean carnival.

Armed police found several people with leg injuries when they were called to reports of two loud bangs in Claremont Road at 2.25 a.m. on Sunday.

On Sunday morning, litter including empty bottles of brandy and other drink containers, food wrappers and nitrous oxide canisters could be seen strewn across Claremont Road.

Residents said a street party was held there annually following the carnival in nearby Alexandra Park.Amman, Aug 13 : Jordan on Sunday announced to have completed a raid by security forces against a cell of terrorists in the city of Al Salt.

Jordan's Minister of State for Media Affairs Jumana Ghunaimat said the concerned security bodies completed the operation that resulted in the arrest of five terrorists and killing of three others. Four officers were also killed during the operation which started on Saturday.

"Security forces continued to comb the area after the demolition of the remaining part of a building that the terrorists blew up on Saturday," Xinhua quoted her as saying in a statement.

The Minister said the terrorists blew up a building they were hiding in when the security forces stormed it.

She added that the security forces were on alert to protect the safety of citizens and residents of the country, offering condolences to the families of the fallen officers.

In a meeting Sunday, King Abdullah II of Jordan said the country will continue its war against terrorism until uprooting all radical groups, adding that such "cowardly attacks" will only increase the resolve and strength of Jordanians.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet, but some experts said it bears the hallmarks of the Islamic State group.Re. Ray Balogh is written in an interactive format to facilitate actually doing the devotions and living them out in one's daily walk.

The title of Raymond Baloghs new book is pretty self-explanatory: Cultivating a Devotional Life With the Trinity: A Plain and Simple Guidebook to a Life-Changing Relationship with God ($11.99, paperback, ISBN: 9781545637043; $5.99, e-book, ISBN: 9781545637050). Readers can learn how to get the most out of their daily quiet time with an east-to-read handbook.

If old-fashioned thees and thous are not your style, you dont have to give up on a transformative relationship with your Creator. Balogh has provided a resource that will walk readers through the details of a daily walk with the Lord using a clear, conversational style.

Reverend Balogh said his book is written in an interactive format to facilitate actually doing the devotions and living them out in one's daily walk.

Raymond Balogh has been pastoring for over 40 years. His M.A. in Pastoral Psychology is supplemented by real world experience as a youth pastor, Christian education director, assistant pastor and his current position as pastor of Abundant Life Ministries in Ohio.

Xulon Press, a division of Salem Media Group, is the worlds largest Christian self-publisher, with more than 12,000 titles published to date. Cultivating a Devotional Life With the Trinity is available online through xulonpress.com/bookstore, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com.The new 190,000-square-foot community hospital is an addition to the current freestanding emergency department. As expected, Robins & Morton is on schedule and within budget as we top out the Halifax Health Medical Center of Deltona project. Their expertise and knowledge of the healthcare building industry has shown through their excellent project leadership.

Halifax Health, Adams, Robins & Morton, HKS Architects and honored guests joined together celebrate the structural topping out of the Halifax Health Medical Center of Deltona hospital located in Deltona, Florida.

The new 190,000-square-foot community hospital is an addition to the current freestanding emergency department. The hospital will initially include 42 inpatient beds, with the infrastructure installed to easily fit out another 48 beds as the communitys needs may require. The hospital will also include a surgery center, operating suites, and a comprehensive imaging center including MRI, CT, X-ray, mammogram and ultrasound. The hospitals design will reflect a Lean approach to provide improved operational efficiencies.

As expected, Robins & Morton is on schedule and within budget as we top out the Halifax Health Medical Center of Deltona project. Their expertise and knowledge of the healthcare building industry has shown through their excellent project leadership, said Jacob Nagib, Director of Engineering, Design and Construction, Halifax Health.

The community hospital addition is scheduled to be completed in December 2019.

About Robins & Morton

Founded in 1946, Robins & Morton is a privately held construction firm that consistently ranks among the 100 largest U.S. contractors in Engineering News-Record Magazine. The company has also been named one of the best mid-sized companies to work for in America because of its worker-friendly and family-friendly practices. Robins & Morton is based in Birmingham, Alabama, with offices in Dallas, Texas; Huntsville, Alabama; Orlando and Miami Florida; Nashville, Tennessee; Charlotte, North Carolina. For more information, visit http://www.robinsmorton.com.He made the comments in the Ashanti Region where he is on a five-day working visit.

"Very soon, we will pass legislation that stipulates that every child in Ghana should go to school up to Senior High School level, at least," he said.In a series of tweet Saturday, Shatta Wale has praised his boss, Nana Appiah Mensah , owner of Menzgold and Zylofon music, for showing "love" despite his tussle with the BoG. (Shatta Wale is one of many Ghanaian artistes signed by Zylofon music.)

He said through Appiah Mensah, Zylofon has touched many lives which fits into President Nana Akufo-Addo's campaign promise of change.

In another tweet, he suggested that the action of the BoG if left unchecked, could ruin the fortune of his boss which could affect the future dream of "our arts and culture."

In essence, the musician is calling on the president to intervene or glossy over the banking rules, the very reason seven banks have collapsed.

He said: "Since the History of Ghana music no man can boldly say he has had love like nana Appiah mensah..Mr president thru your government this man came up !! Please dont let Ghana down with this change Zylofon has brought in your own campaign agenda which was 'CHANGE.'"

Nana Appiah has paid his dues in this country ,He didnt just pop up.Laws yes ,But Mr president I know the youth of Ghana is your main target just for us to remember you one day ..Please if your governance will end the future dream of our arts and culture then ago shock waa!!

Dont tell me about Laws because these laws have been there but never worked for Gh musicians until Nana Appiah Mensah stepped in showed some of us the way..Please Mr President do something about it for us who still have hope in your governance !!! I salute !!

Shatta Wale is not the only musician who has backed Menzgold and Nana Appiah Mensah.

Kasoa-based artiste Akoo Nana, in vidoe on Instagram warned the president he may lose the 2020 election if he does not stop the BoG from tarnishing the image of Menzgold.

"Anything Ghanaian, we dont want to support it. Bank of Ghana, what is your problem? You said Menzgold has no license, meanwhile they do. Why are we like that? he queried.In a video posted on social media platform Instagram, the Kasoa-based artiste said: "Anything Ghanaian, we dont want to support it. Bank of Ghana, what is your problem? You said Menzgold has no license, meanwhile they do. Why are we like that? he queried.

And further asked the president to step into this thing because you gave us your word that youll make Ghana attractive to investors but look at what is happening. Please stop these people If they dont stop this, we wont vote for NPP in 2020. You know the work we did for NPP to come to power.

The musician's comments follow ongoing disagreements between Menzgold and the Bank of Ghana over its operations.

The BoG in a notice warned Ghanaians not to do business with the gold dealing company because it has no license.

READ MORE: Here are the trending entertainment stories of the weekThis was contained in a statement issued by the Consolidated Bank of Ghana, the bank that was set up to take over Beige Bank and four others.

"Effective immediately there will be no redemptions or withdrawals on all fixed deposit accounts held by the erstwhile Beige Bank," Consolidated Bank said in a statement signed by its Chief Executive Officer, Daniel Addo.

"It has come to our notice that there are certain accounting anomalies in the fixed deposit accounts between Beige Bank and Beige Capital Asset Management (BCAM)."Capital Bank was taken over by the Bank of Ghana in August 2017 following liquidity changes and bad banking practices.

An audit report on the collapse of the bank has indicted the erstwhile board of the company chaired by Pastor Mensah Otabil.

Mr Danquah's new job is featured in a yet to be released documentary by Joy News' Justice Baidoo.

Justice Baidoo posted on Facebook that: "Just wrapped up filming with Raymond Danquah, a one time Manager at Capital Bank now grilling pork for sale at events for a living as their benefits remain unpaid one year after the Banks collapse...Story up on JoyNews this week. Going back to stand"

Another former manager of the bank, Edem Adimako, is reportedly an Uber driver.

It has also emerged that two former employees of the bank have died.

READ MORE: Beige Bank account holders blocked from withdrawing savings

And over 800 of them are also in dire financial situation."Throughout this period, you have demonstrated integrity at its highest level before us," the leadership of the church said in a statement.

The statement continued: "Many of us have built our Christian character around the values you continue to exhibit. The transparency with which you have led this church continues to motivate us to do same when it comes to matters of integrity.

"At a time like this, we affirm our loyalty to you and celebrate you as the embodiment of Christian character."

The statement by the church comes on the heels of a Bank of Ghana (BoG) report indicting the board of now-defunct Capital Bank of collapsing the bank.

Mensah Otabil was the board chairman of the bank.

The central bank collapsed the bank in August 2017 over liquidity challenges.

Pastor Otabil stands accused of supervising the mismanagement of GHC610 relief package to Capital Bank from the Bank of Ghana.

According to the BoG report, the bank's board, chaired by Pastor Otabil, doled out 27.5m to a board member for "business promotion.

The board also approved an expenditure of 2.6M and $50,000 on re-branding.

The board, the report said, also ratified a proposal to increase the fees and benefits of directors, including two first and business class air tickets for all members of the board.But amid scorching temperatures on the Continent  which have spawned wildfires in England and Wales, melted glaciers in Austria and Sweden, and broken records in Portugal  a surprising thing happened at the reserve.

Six of the flock laid nine eggs, which Mark Roberts, the aviculture manager at the reserve, called a wonderful and welcome surprise.

Weve been encouraging the flock by helping them to build nests, he said in the statement, but theres no doubt that the recent heat has had the desired effect.

Unfortunately, the organization said, none of the eggs were viable, so no new Andean flamingos will emerge from this batch.

In a bit of human meddling, caretakers decided to get the Andean birds into parenting mode: They took a few eggs from Chilean flamingos, near relatives, and planted them among the Andean birds, who became foster parents to new chicks, the reserve said.

A spokesman for the organization, based in Gloucestershire, said by phone on Saturday that the Andean flamingos were some of the oldest at Slimbridge, which describes itself as the only such reserve where all six flamingo species roam.

A few flamingos arrived in the 1960s, according to the reserve, and some of them have been there longer than staff members. The Andean flock last bred successfully in 1999, the reserve said.

Both the Andean and Chilean flamingos are considered at risk of extinction by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The Chilean birds are described as near threatened because of egg-harvesting, hunting, disturbance and the loss of habitat, while the Andean ones are called vulnerable because of past exploitation that shrank their population.

This article originally appeared in The New York Times.The students under the umbrella of the National Association of Social Science Students (NASS) launched a campaign against fake news in their university.

The campaign was launched with a public lecture, which was chaired by the ex-governor of Kaduna State, Ramalan Yero.

Speaking on the theme of the campaign, Social Media, Fake News and National Unity, the president of the students association, Maitala Ilyas Khalifa said the purpose of the campaign was to fight fake news among Nigerian youths.

He said, This campaign is against the creation and the spread of fake news among Nigerians, especially Youths and students who are more prone to the hazards on the social media

Fake news gives rooms for unethical journalism and sensationalism that could lead to the destruction of life and properties as we are living witness to its havoc elsewhere across the globe.

Students urged to use social media positively

There have been calls on students to make use of the social media positively.

In April 2018, the Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano, Prof Yahuza Bello, has advised Nigerian students to promote folklores on social media.

Bello gave the advice at the 4th Annual Congress and 13th Nigerian Folklore Society Conference on Monday in Kano.

ALSO READ:

According to him, the social media folklores should be aimed at inculcating moral discipline and uplifting the cultural heritage of Nigerian people all over the world.Let's just say it was a week of achievements for some celebs who got degree certificates, while for others, it was more of "Watch your back" because their lives got threatened. At the end of the day, it just goes to say that, there is never a dull moment in the lives of these celebrities.

So guys, let's give you a round up of what happened in the lives of your favourite celebrity.

1. Juliet Ibrahim wants you all to stop pressuring people to get married

During the week, Juliet Ibrahim probably irritated by the pressure mounted on young folks to get married, came out to call out those spearheading it. The beautiful actress made this known via her Instagram page on Sunday, August 6, 2018. According to her, the pressure to get married should be stopped by people.

"Stop this habit of asking people to get married because their age-mates are married. Even you, some of your age mates have died but nobody has asked you to die. , " she wrote.

2. Non-fan threatens to pour acid on Cee-C's face

Another big story of the week was the threat of CeeC's life by an unknown person. The angry and unknown person sent a mail to Cee-C where it was stated that she allegedly pays people to troll former housemates, Tobi and Alex. Then the non-fan went to write about how Cee-c should expect an acid bath when next she is spotted.

3. D'banj dedicates song to wife

Since the demise of his son, D'banj has kept a low profile which hasn't come as a surprise to many. However, this week, the music star woke fans up with a new song which he dedicated to his wife. The music star shared a snippet of the song on his Instagram page on Wednesday, August 8, 2018. D'banj went on to caption the short version of the song with a word of encouragement to his wife.

"Together We Will Pass Every Test That We Pass Through. This Is For You My #WhatYouWant #LetterToMyWife #Everything #MamaDaniel 8/8/18," he wrote.

4. Ghanaian actress, Princess Shyngle says sex on 1st date doesn't make you cheap

Another Ghanaian actress who was in the news during the week was Princess Shyngle for her view over sex on a first date. She said that she doesnt see any big deal about having sex on the first date. To the actress, it is just relationship interview and if youre called back then you got the job.

Princess Shyngle made this assertion on Instagram as a caption to a photo she shared. The actress looked entirely voluptuous wearing a body-hugging dress with a bump bag across her slender waist.

5. Ella Mensah robbed at gunpoint in Festac

While one Ghanaian actress was talking about sex in a relationship, another one was thanking her lucky stars after getting robbed at a gunpoint in Festac. Ella made this known on her Instagram page on Thursday, August 9, 2018. Photos posted on her Instagram page shows how her car was vandalised during the process of the robbery.

6. Linda Ikeji honoured with doctorate degree

During the week, Linda Ikeji was honoured with a doctorate degree from the Trinity International University of Georgia in the United States of America. The media mogul had announced via her Instagram page about the degree award ceremony. According to her, she would be honoured for her contribution to media in Africa and as Africa's Most Successful Blogger.

The award ceremony, however, took place later in the week with her mother and a number of notable Nigerian personalities in attendance.

7. Richard Mofe Damijo goes all inspirational on throwback Thursday

We always love it when celebrities share with us their throwback photos on social media. And that was the case when Nollywood icon, Richard Mofe Damijo shared a throwback photo to the time he had his traditional wedding.

In his message, RMD reminisces about the years that have followed since his wedding where he actually used a plastic bottle to serve his wife and how things have changed since then. He went to write about the advice he gives his kids about integrity over anything and the need for humble beginnings.

8. Toke Makinwa says marring for financial gains is lame

Toke Makinwa during the week dished advice to women who get married for financial gains as a lame move. The multi-talented media personality made this known via her Twitter page on Thursday, August 9, 2018. According to Toke, it i s lame for any woman to stay in a marriage for financial gains.King Tonto - as she now loves to be called - took to her Instagram account to vent her anger on the airline for changing a 10:30AM flight to 6PM after a one hour delay.

The actress shrugged off the idea of seeking a legal redress saying 'Dear Arik, suing you is a waste of my time...but be sure that now advocate for #saynotoarikline.'

ALSO READ: Tonto Dikeh has got a message for those slamming Linda Ikeji

Read Tonto Dikeh's angry message to Arik Airline

"THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR MAKING HARD WORKING NIGERIANS LOSE THEIR HARD EARN MONEY AND INCOME ALL BECAUSE WE CHOOSE TO FLY/TRUST WITH YOU??I BOUGHT AN EARLY FLIGHT BECAUSE I HAD AN EARLY APPOINTMENT I CLDNT AFFORD TO MISS BUT THANKS TO YOUR SHITTY SERVICES I AM FORCED TO LOOSE MILLIONS OF NARIA AND DISAPPOINT A MULTITUDE OF PEOPLE..YOU DONT DESERVE TO BE IN OPERATION...YOU ARE VERY LAZY, YOUR SERVICES ARE WEAK,HORRIBLE AND UNPROFESSIONAL AND ABOVE ALL YOU ARE A DESTINY KILLER AND TIME WASTER...In a report by New York Post, the 34-year-old woman has been identified as Katie Christian.

Christian was arrested by police authorities after she violated her no-contact order by a district court barely four months ago.

Aside texting the man - his identity was not disclosed - 696 times, Christian also went ahead to call his phone 10 times, and visited his home 3 times just to have contact with him or his daughter.

It was further reported that a criminal complaint against Christian revealed that she went to the mans Lake Mills house three times in an attempt to make contact with him.

ALSO READ: How to tackle Facebook bullies and trolls

Christian was arrested with a scheduled arraignment for August 24, 2018 in Forest City after she violated the no-contact order given by the Winnebago County District Court in April 2018.

Charged with talking and other crimes, Christian will be facing the music for her actions at the the Winnebago County District Court again.

Annie Idibia gets nasty on stalker

The wife and mother of two of 2Face Idibias kids, Annie Macaulay Idibia has shown that she can get nasty when some funny stalker decides to get on her nerves.

In series of tweets, Annie tells the man off for saying he would love to kiss her.To have women of different backgrounds grace these covers is a win for inclusivity and to have every single major cover have a woman of colour is a feat.

Issa Rae features on the cover of Ebony magazine, a magazine created specifically for the black community in a time when it was rare to see a black face in a big magazine. It's also a big deal for Rae to front this particular issue of Ebony,which serves the black community. It means her status as a fashion icon is cemented and reminds us that her star is shining as bright as ever.

In their Instagram caption, as they revealed the cover, Ebony said that they chose Rae for her "wit and self-reflection to tell stories of the black experience, sisterhood, and racial issues, and she makes it her business to empower a new generation of creatives."

In their introduction to Issa's interview, Ebony writes:

Awkward. Insecure. Impulsive. These are some of the adjectives TV producer Issa Rae uses to self-describe, even though the 33-year-olds impact on the television industry is clear: Shes the reigning impresario and vanguard of authentic Black voices.

Its standing room only in the brightly lit church sanctuary. Sunlight streams through the stained glass windows, shining down on parishioners lucky enough to fill the pews. Yet in this context, "lucky" seems inappropriate. On the left is a poster of a young man. In the center, his open casket, white with a splash of color from the bouquet of flowers on top.

Bowed heads seem to send up prayers for yet another young Black life snuffed out before reaching the age of consent.

Painted above the chancel is the phrase "A Fellowship of Love." Positioned underneath is the gospel choir poised to offer comfort through song. A woman dressed in a black business blazer and T-shirt with white letters that spell out Just-Us for Justice is at the lectern. Mourners turn in the direction of the speaker.After the usual pleasantries and my repeating how grateful we were for Cooks diligence, he explained that the money couldnt be wired to our bank in the United States because it was, in fact, all in cash  literally, $25 million, all in bills, like on a Costco pallet.Represented by Head of Service of the Federation, Mrs Winifred Eyo-Ita, Buhari said the church, as the conscience of the nation, should promote ideals of unity and pray for the nation as we move towards election year.

He said that the gathering was historic in view of the significant role the church played in the existence of the country.

The Presbyterian Church of Nigeria remains a pivotal agent of change in our nation and beyond.

Your role in education, health and other social spheres of our society remains commendable and as a Government, we are committed to promoting the ideals and societal norms that unite us as a people.

I commend the church for her investment in the hospitality industry and education through the proposed establishment of Presby Guest House and her efforts to complete Hope Waddell University aimed at producing new generation of leaders.

We also commend the church for her contribution in the agricultural subsector, particularly the Presby Farm Ltd as well as the Yakurr Farms.

The church is encouraged to take advantage of the various opportunities provided by the government to empower Nigerians to venture into agriculture to guarantee food security, he said.

The president used the occasion to call on all Nigerians to support government programmes and project and join in the fight against corruption for a better Nigeria.

Similarly, Most Rev. Nzie Eke, Prelate/Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, said the agenda of the 23 General Assembly included a review of the churchs mission work in Nigeria and beyond.

Eke said that the church would also solicit for funds for the completion of the final phase of the N1 billion Hope Waddell University project and the construction of Presbyterian Guest House at an estimated cost of N950 million.

He reminded Christians to participate in politics and be the change they wanted to see by ensuring that they got their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

We shall pray for our leaders, especially our President Muhammadu Buhari, for God to guide him to conduct peaceful elections in 2019.

Let me quickly remind all those who do not have PVC to do so immediately after the assembly; the PVC is your power.

If you do not have it, you are denying yourself a fundamental right to choose your leaders and, I encourage Presbyterians to get actively involved in politics so that we can influence the society.

The Prelate warned Christians of the dangers of being too narrow-minded and intolerant, saying such split the body of Christ.

On his part, the Senior Special Adviser to the President on National Assembly Matters, Sen. Ita Enang, said that security challenges were not peculiar to Nigeria, but a continental problem spreading to the country.

Enang said that the church should not be made to think that it was a religious problem because similar crisis was happening in Zamfara that had a population predominantly Muslims.Oshiomhole said that the President needs to do the needful so that Nigerians will know that no fraudulent act will go unpunished.

The APC chairman said this while receiving hand-over notes from his predecessor, John Oyegun in Abuja.

According to Punch, Oshiomhole said As I was reflecting, I watched our President recently asking questions rhetorically, you have spent $16bn on power under the PDP, to lay emphasis, he repeated, where is the power?.

Nigerians in their various homes, those who had power that day or generator, said, Mr. President, we dont have. So, $16bn spent, the more dollars they spent, the more darkness the people suffered.

Now the questions I had in my mind were: maybe because the President has not yet proceeded to now ask the follow-up questions that since we dont find the power, then, you must bring the $16bn that you spent. If he doesnt do that, then the accusations of limited anti-corruption may begin to gain some currency.

Our President needs to do the needful. After all, it is already on record what other presidents didnt do, with regards to the issue of MKO Abiola, and the criminal manner by which the election was nullified, and people pretended that that was never an issue, the President showed courage.

That same courage should not fail him, so that he can proceed to recover the $16bn and return it to the treasury from the man who superintended over the spending of that money.

When he does that, people will say, yes, there is a difference because there are Nigerians who are saying so.

That propelled Prof. Wole Soyinka to say that, if people had immunity as sitting presidents, when the immunity expires, should they transit from immunity to impunity? I think impunity is deadlier than immunity.

ALSO READ:Obasanjo describes Buhari as an ignorant President

What we need to do as a party is to provide the support that our President needs and for the Nigerian people to provide those supports and then they want to distract our attention when they are in trouble and say, Eh! they want to kill me.

The APC chairman also faulted claims by former President Olusegun Obasanjo that there are plans to hang a crime on him saying The man said they wanted to kill him. No! To kill is to prevent the investigation. He must be alive to account. That is a typical distraction.

I think all of us should be ready to do anything we can to help Nigerians not to forget in a hurry. Those who thought they can loot for 16 years, destroy the fabric of our growth system, and tender apology later, so, that they can be allowed to come back.According to a statement by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) on Sunday, the vice president made the remark during his visit to LADOL Offshore facility within the Lagos Ports Complex (LPC).

The statement was issued by NPAs Assistant General Manager, Corporate Communications, Malam Isa Suwaid.

The vice president urged stakeholders within the industry to compete favourably and appreciated the facility.

Excellent work has been done here and they would be sacrosanct industry to the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (EGRP) of government in the long run as would be evident in the nations GDP in no distant time.

I congratulate the Local Content Board for contributing effectively at bringing the facility and project to fruition, Oshinbajo said.

The vice president called for the support of stakeholders in the Federal Governments fight against corruption in order to join other nations freed from corruption.

The Managing Director of NPA, Ms Hadiza Usman, said that the successful berthing of Egina would facilitate trade.

Usman said that Egina berthed in Lagos as a result of operational efficiency and robust synergy between NPA and LADOL, including other stakeholders.

She noted that it was a testimony of enhanced capacity of NPA to handle greater responsibilities in the sector.

The NPA boss urged other operators to emulate the investments made by Total, LADOL, Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI), adding that government ventured into the provision of a level playing field through anti-monopoly policies which had yielded great dividends.

NPA, hereby encourage prospective investors to explore this and other opportunities that the reforms of our operations has engendered as we assure of NPAs willingness to facilitate these ventures.

We must, however, advise business organisations to ensure strict compliance with the countrys statutory rules and regulations.

The multiplier effects of local content policy is evident in visible technological transfer; accrued revenue to the nation; employment creation; reduction in capital flight; attraction of hub status for the oil and gas sector in Nigeria amid the cost-saving attributes.

We appreciated vast unflinching supports accorded the NPA management, LADOL and other stakeholders in this respect.

The Egina project is a statement by government that the quest for hub status is real.

Industrialisation is real and that private indigenous companies are able to thrive and support international projects and investors, Usman said.Alhaji Ayo Alanamu, Chairman, Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Ejigbo Depot Chapter, made the appeal in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.

This appeal has become necessary because for the last three weeks, precisely since July 20, there was no loading of petroleum products at Ejigbo depot.

 We have been out of supply since July 20 which is causing serious concern to us marketers. It is also sending wrong signals of looming fuel scarcity as a result of the non-availability of the product at the depot.

I dont want to sound like an alarmist, but if urgent action is not taken by the NNPC to restore pumping to the depot, it could lead to serious scarcity during the forthcoming Eid-el-Kabir Festival, he said.

According to the IPMAN chairman, the situation is posing serious challenge to marketers from south west and northern parts of the country.

Alanamu said the scarcity of petrol at NNPC depots in states had forced marketers to buy the product from private depots which sold above ex-depot price of N133.28.

He said that marketers who sold above pump price did so because of the high price the product was obtained at the private depots.

It is purely an issue of economic reality and the interplay of demand and supply; that is why the price is never steady; sales price changes in line with cost price, he said.

The IPMAN chairman said that pipeline vandalism, which made Ejigbo Depot to go under some years ago, had resurfaced at the system 2B pipeline.

Pipeline vandalism seems not to have been well taken care of as its resurgence becomes more daring, thereby threatening another total closure of the depot.A statement issued by Ajimobis Special Adviser on Media, Mrs Yemisi Owonikoko, said she spoke at an event organised to redeem her pledge of internet-enabled facility equipped with personal computers to St. Annes School, Molete, Ibadan on the occasion of its 149th Founders Day anniversary.

The computers, it added, are also gateway to lots of e-textbooks to prepare students for all external examinations.

The computer room, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports, started off as a project by the 1970-1974 Old Girls Association of the school.

It, however, received support from the wife of the governor to enable the room serve more students.El-Rufai, who was represented by Sheik Jamilu Albani, Special Assistant to the governor on Islamic Organisations, said good attitude in life is necessary for individual and societal development.

The governor lauded the efforts of UMRABS for inculcating producing students that have excellent attitudinal values, but lamented that some private schools were shirking in their responsibility of inculcating good values and qualitative education of their students.

The governor urged parents to stop sending their children to higher institutions in places with nobody to be serve as their guardian.

Doing so is negatively affecting the behaviour and education of some of the children, he noted.

Presenting a paper entitled: Good Education and Moral upbringing, the Guest Speaker, Malam Kabir Musa stressed the need for proper upbringing of children to ensure good future for them and the nation.

Musa, who is the Director, Muaz Bn Jabal Foundation Zaria, identified mosque as the first place of administration in Islam.

He explained that during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) the mosque also served as place for teaching, learning, judgement and administration among others.

In his speech, the Director of the school, Dr Isa Saidu said the main objectives of citing the school was to give students Islamic and western education.

Saidu said the school had brought in new innovation in the way students write their final examinations.

As the tradition demands in Nigeria, some parents prefer to send their children to where they call miracle centres to enable them get the requirement into universities.

Here, we dont do that, a student has to work hard and earn the requirement himself without any assistance from anybody, this is our principle and it works.

Any of our students that gets good grades, it is as a result of his/her hard work. We are now graduating the third set of secondary school leavers.

As I am talking to you now we have no fewer than 15 students in Ahmadu Bello University and Bayero University, Kano and they are maintaining higher CGPA of first class or second class upper, he assured.

The director appealed to government to consider the possibility of providing assistance to private schools to enable them cut down the school fees charged parents.

If government can come in and assist us, like in the area of salary, if it can pay half of our salaries, we can reduce our school fees.The anti-graft agency had earlier blocked the bank accounts of the Benue state government.

Governor Ortom said the ruling party has been using the EFCC to cripple the activities of the state government.

According to Daily Post, he said After succumbing to nationwide condemnation of its illegal freezing of Benue State Government accounts, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has resorted to yet another shameful act in its desperation to cripple governance in the state.

The anti-graft agencys latest move is the bandying of figures in national dailies claiming that such figures are those of transactions in the accounts owned by the Benue State Government.

It released figures allegedly withdrawn from the Benue State Government accounts without disclosing the dates of the withdrawals and the period during which they were made.

The commission has also not been able to state accounts into which such monies withdrawn were paid to prove that the funds had been diverted.

EFCC is contented with publishing the figures without stating how impropriety has been established.

Are government monies supposed to be kept in the accounts indefinitely without expenditure? Their objective is apparently to give Governor Samuel Ortom and his administration a bad name.

On this score, it is clear that the EFCC has now become both a strike squad of the APC for torment, and their law court for the trial and conviction of political opponents.

The commission may torment and persecute Governor Ortom and his subordinates on the directives of the powers that be as much as it serves their purposes, but he will neither be distracted nor reconsider his defection from APC.In an interview with ThisDay on his presidential ambition, Atiku noted that his decision to establish the University was not to make money but to help students who can't afford going to a tertiary institution.

"I did not found the American University of Nigeria, Yola, to make money. It is my biggest community development project," Atiku said while speaking on Nigeria's education system in the country.

Continuing, Atiku said, "Chibok girls are there on scholarship. I was an indigent student. I was an orphan as a child. So I know what it is to struggle. As a result, the American University of Nigeria, Yola, has opened up its doors to those who would not ordinarily have been able to attend. If we want to fix education in Nigeria, we must do the same thing. We must commit to investing in education because no other investment yields a greater interest."

Atiku further said that if elected president, he would sit with the heads of the legislature and the judiciary and appeal to reduce recurrent expenditure so that national investments can be collectively increased in the education sector.

ALSO READ: Atiku commends Osinbajo over sack of DG, Lawal Daura

I'll increase teachers and lecturers' salary if elected - Atiku

Still speaking on the educational system of Nigeria, Atiku said if elected president of the country, there will be a salary increase for lecturers and teachers.

"If I am elected as the president, I will ensure that the education sector attracts the best brains by working with the states to achieve targeted salary increase for teachers and lecturers. You cannot have a local government councillor earning more money than a lecturer and expect our best brains to be attracted to the academia. I would change that.According to Punch, this is to enable the legislators in the upper and lower chambers to finalise talks on the 2019 election budget.

Some of the lawmakers also confirmed to the daily that they have received notifications informing them of the resumption.

A House of Reps member from Kogi State, Sunday Karim said Yes, I am aware. We have been notified officially.

Punch reports that some Senators have however not received any notification.

Senator Shehu Sani, for instance, said he has not gotten any notification on the date of resumption.

Also, Senate President Bukola Sarakis media aide, Yusuph Olaniyonu said he does not have any information regarding the resumption of lawmakers.

Meanwhile, a source who spoke to Punch said Such notices (to resume) are usually sent out to senators and members of the House of Representatives as the case may be, by the Clerk of the Senate or the House.

They have the contacts of the lawmakers; they can only send out notices when directed by the Senate President and the Speaker in the case of the House. It is something that can be done in 48 or 24 hours depending on the emergency at hand.

Emergency meeting cancelled

Saraki had earlier called for a meeting with leaders of the National Assembly (Senate, Reps) on Tuesday, August 7, 2018.

The emergency meeting was however postponed following the Department of State Services (DSS) siege on the National Assembly.According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN),Osinbajo criticised preachersfor not supporting the Federal Governments anti-corruption war through their sermons.

Osinbajo said that the preachers teach more on prosperity than righteousness.

The Acting President made this known while speaking at the 30th National Biennial Conference of the Students Christian Movement (SCM) of Nigeria holding in Enugu recently.

Who is the hypocrite?

In his reaction, Omokri condemned Osinbajo for not speaking up for Leah Sahribu.

Sharibu was held back by Boko Haram for refusing to denounce Christianity.

She was kidnapped alongside other students from the Dapchi Secondary School in Yobe state.

Omokri, who is also a pastor posted his reaction on Twitter.

He said Pastors condemned Babachir. Buhari let him go FREE. Pastors condemned Maina. Buhari gave him DOUBLE PROMOTION.

Pastors spoke about Kemi. Buhari RETAINED her. Pastors condemned NNPC $25 billion scam. Buhari did NOTHING Who is the hypocrite between @ProfOsinbajo and pastors?

Remove the log in your eyes

Omokri also said Yesterday, @ProfOsinbajo complained that Nigerian pastors dont support @MBuhari administrations anti corruption war and berated them for not preaching against corruption. This is coming from a pastor VP who himself DOES NOT talk about Leah Sharibu #BringBackOurLeah #RenosDarts

VP @ProfOsinbajo sees the speck in the eyes of pastors, but he refuses to see the log in his own eyes. Where does he even have the audacity to talk when under his government, the US Congress declared Nigeria as the most dangerous place in the world to be a Christian? #RenosDartsThe lawsuit accuses American Airlines of acting badly, too. In addition to its responsibility for its employee's bad behavior, American Airlines refused to respond to legal subpoenas in the criminal case, thereby delaying Richard Cardarelli's trial, the lawsuit says. It also says the airline barred him at the last minute from a flight from Rochester to Philadelphia to attend his criminal trial that day - even after the Cardarellis had called the airline in advance to ensure that there would be no problems."Rocks, rocks!" one of the climbers suddenly yells, prompting them all to scurry for shelter in the Gouter corridor, on the most popular route to the summit of Europe's highest peak.

"Sometimes we're able to convince people to take a different route or postpone their climb," officer Fabrice Bernard-Jacquet said. "But it doesn't always work."

Overcrowding on the mountain has again been severe this summer, with more than 300 people pitting their wits against the mountain each day despite the growing risk of rockfall as high temperatures thaw more ground at higher altitudes.

The heatwave that struck much of Europe in the past few weeks only heightened the risk -- on Friday the bodies of three Italian climbers were found.

That brought the death toll since this year's climbing season began to 15, up from 14 dead and two missing last year.

Last month, authorities began turning away climbers who did not have reservations at the 120-bed Gouter refuge, which has been overrun by ill-prepared climbers who have found the challenge too exhausting.

"They get back to the refuge but don't want to keep going down and so they were sleeping in the hallway, sometimes there would be 30 people too many," said lieutenant colonel Stephane Bozon, who heads the gendarmerie's mountain rescue service in Chamonix.

'Our own fault'

The highly popular "Royal Route" up Mont Blanc is not considered a very technical climb, but officers say people can still quickly find themselves in over their heads while attempting the 4,810-metre peak.

Increased rock slides have even prompted local guides to stop leading clients up in recent weeks.

For those unwilling to put off their ascent, they are advised to start early to ensure they won't have to tackle the Gouter corridor in the afternoon, when the risk of rockslides is greatest.

"Tomorrow you have to go down early, crossing the couloir before twelve, OK?" Bernard-Jacquet told a group outside his hut.

Yet the advice sometimes falls on deaf ears for tourists who have often travelled a long way for the challenge.

Guillaume, a 29-year-old from the Ardeche region of France, said he and his partner were blocked for hours at the Gouter corridor -- which he called the "corridor of death" -- while trying to get down on a recent afternoon.

"It was our own fault we got into trouble," he said.

"There were more moments with rocks falling than without. And the crossing was very long and exposed."

Bernard-Jacquet said that as with most mountaineering risks, "climbers aren't very good at gauging them unless they've experienced them firsthand".

And judging from the steady streams of people going up despite the dangers, he and his fellow officers will be kept busy through the rest of the mission, which ends late September.

"It's a costly operation, in terms of hours and officers, but it's the price we have to pay to keep the problem under control," Bozon said.

Not everyone is happy with their presence nor the access restrictions, however, with many saying they should be left to manage on their own.

"Anybody who's doing this route has to be well aware of the risks," said David Bailey, a British climber who acknowledged that crossing the Gouter corridor was "scary".

Michael Gruber, who had travelled from Austria, was also determined to climb despite the warnings.

"If you want to go to Mont-Blanc I think this is a risk you have to take," he said.This year's campaign saw fierce attacks on his failure to dampen a wave of jihadist bloodshed and ethnic violence.

But public enthusiasm has been low and the opposition is fractured.

Keita, 73, was credited with 41.7 percent of the July 29 first-round vote while Cisse, 68, picked up 17.78 percent.

Cisse insisted on Friday he could turn things around on polling day -- warning the status quo would only bring "chaos" in a "torn nation."

But he failed to unite the opposition behind him, and first-round challengers have either backed the president or refused to give voting instructions.

Few Malians attended a string of planned marches and protests called for by opposition leaders in the capital Bamako ahead of the run-off.

As a result, Keita, commonly named "IBK" after his initials, is the clear favourite.

A few hundred Keita supporters gathered late on Friday in the capital of Bamako for the last meeting of the campaign.

"He needs to finish what he started," Silandou Soumare, a civil servant, told AFP. "With all Malians on board, we can have peace in Mali!"

In 2013, Keita won more than three-quarters of the vote.

Peace deal

Voting will be open from 0800 to 1800 GMT. Turnout was low in the first round of voting at around 40 percent.

The first round was peppered by violent attacks and threats from armed groups that led to several hundred polling stations being closed, mainly in the lawless central region.

Security services said Saturday they had disrupted a plot to carry out "targeted attacks" in the capital Bamako on the eve of the runoff.

Three members of a "commando" cell who were planning attacks had been arrested, the security services said in a statement, adding that the trio were also suspected of involvement in a robbery which left three people dead in 2016.

Security will be tightened for the second round, an aide in the prime minister's office said, with 20 percent more soldiers on duty.

This means 36,000 Malian military will be deployed, 6,000 more than two weeks earlier, with a particular focus on the Mopti region in the centre of the country where voting stations had been closed, Cheick Oumar told AFP.

The three main opposition candidates mounted a last-ditch legal challenge to the first-round result, alleging ballot-box stuffing and other irregularities. But their petition was rejected by the Constitutional Court.

Cisse's party told AFP in the early hours of Sunday that ballot papers were already circulating, several hours before polls opened.

Outside Mali, the hope is that the winner will strengthen a 2015 accord that the fragile Sahel state sees as its foundation for peace.

The deal brought together the government, government-allied groups and former Tuareg rebels.

But a state of emergency heads into its fourth year in November.

Jihadist violence has spread from the north to the centre and south of the vast country and spilled into neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger, often inflaming communal conflicts.They have been destroyed by homemade bombs and armed raiders -- a reminder of the jihadist threat that hangs over northern Mali like a leaden pall.

The scorched, dusty north has been in the grip of an Islamist uprising since 2012. The following year, intervention by French troops drove the jihadists out of key northern towns, but the insurgency was displaced rather than crushed.

Conflict spread to the centre of the vast Sahel state and spilled into Burkina Faso. But jihadism is just one factor in a mosaic of violence that includes ethnic clashes and gangster activity.

The RN15 -- the highway that leads from Gao, the main town in the north, and reaches down into Mopti, in the centre -- has seen dozens of attacks over the past three years.

A map used by the German paratroopers in the UN operation MINUSMA is studded with markers of attacks since 2016 between Gao and Doro: "IED", or improvised explosive devices, "holdups," "armed attacks" and "complex attacks", or combined operations.

"This part is called the 'Highway of Death'," a UN official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"Recently, there have been lots of bus holdups," the official added. "The bandits rob all the passengers -- they even order people to transfer them money with their mobile phones."

Such incidents led road transporters to use the highway only in convoys on a dangerous stretch of 150 kilometres (about 95 miles), but that is still not sufficiently safe and UN forces decided to patrol, looking for IEDs.

"Today we want to collect data for the roadbook, because we have to know what are the vulnerable points of the road," German Lieutenant-Colonel Mickael Weckbach told AFP.

The convoy rolled cautiously into Doro, where the main street doubles as the local market and sidestreets are a de-facto parking lot for camels. The village of mud huts also has a detachment of the Malian army.

Peasant farmers, stock breeders, traders and children mill around in a crush of buses and lorries, while the heavily-armed UN vehicles weave their way through.

'Soldier or militiaman?'

As the convoy pulls out, highway watchfulness returns.

"We're approaching a place where there have already been four attacks," a slightly nervous observer warns on the radio.

"A motorbike's coming with an AK," adds a soldier riding atop one of the armoured personnel carriers, referring to an AK47 assault rifle. But the two men on the bike, one wearing battledress, rode past the UN troops with a thumb's-up.

"Was that a Malian soldier or a militiamen?" asks a sergeant manning a 12.7 mm machine gun.

The German UN convoy reaches the scene of the four past ambushes, but troops on the site order all the vehicles to back off while ordnance experts inspect a small bridge next to the crater left by a bomb blast.

Half an hour later, the specialists declare the route clear and the convoy moves on.

With the spread of unrest from the north of the country to central regions, an average of three explosive devices goes off each day in Mali, according to MINUSMA.

Finally, after 14 hours on the road, the German soldiers have found nothing abnormal, but they have gathered a quantity of data for analysis. The main threat during the mission came from the heat, which killed the engine of one of the vehicles. It had to be towed back to base.The official estimated that between 1,600 and 1,800 people had been "moved to cities where living conditions are better".

But a representative of a Moroccan human rights organisation told AFP authorities detained and forcefully relocated the migrants, calling the move "illegal".

"The authorities continued Saturday to drive migrants by bus from Nador and Tangier to the town of Tiznit, near Agadir" in the country's south, Omar Naji of the Moroccan Human Rights Association said.

"The operations began on Tuesday and the authorities arrested hundreds of migrants in camps near Nador or in homes in the city," he said.

He was unable to specify how many migrants had been expelled from Tangier.

"There arrests are illegal because they are without judicial warrants" and Morocco, Spain and the European Union are "responsible", said Naji.

The US State Department in a recent report said that while Rabat "drastically decreased forced deportations over the last couple of years, it continued to regularly conduct forced internal relocations of irregular migrants, particularly in Nador".

Spain surpassed Italy this year as the first point of entry for Europe-bound migrants.

Since January, Spain has taken in more than 23,000 migrants -- more than the total number of migrants last year -- after they crossed the Mediterranean, according to the International Organization for Migration.

The European Commission and Spain want to develop an "enhanced partnership" with Morocco on migration issues, including aid for border management.According to a report in Vanguard, President Yayi will be supporting the Nigerian government with a total of 800 troops to join a new multinational force tasked with fighting Boko Haram militants.

This is coming after the President's meeting with Nigerian President, undefinedon Saturday, August 1, 2015 during his one day visit.

After a visit to Cameroon earlier this week to discuss the fight against the Islamist group, Buhari was in Cotonou to attend celebrations marking Benins 55 years of independence.

Boni Yayi told reporters after a meeting with Buhari that Benin will show solidarity with its brothers in arms in the region by sending a contingent of 800 men to permanently combat these outlaws.

Troops for the new multinational force, which includes soldiers from Nigeria, Cameroon, Niger and Chad as well as Benin, were set to be deployed at any time, according to its commander Major General Iliya Abbah on Saturday, August 1, 2015.ROMAN CHALLENGES DOLPH FOR INTERCONTINENTAL TITLE: 8/11 WWE IN NORFOLK, VIRGINIA LIVE REPORT

By Ryan Gunter on 2018-08-12 02:13:00

An estimated crowd of four thousand in Norfolk, VA for the WWE Summerslam Heatwave tour stop, a Raw brand live event.

Finn Balor defeated Baron Corbin in a match that was better, in my opinion, than the one they had at the Extreme Rules PPV.

Titus ONeil, Apollo Crews, Zack Ryder and Bobby Roode won an 8-man tag team match, defeating The Authors of Pain, Jinder Mahal and Mojo Rawley when Bobby hit Jinder with the Glorious DDT.

Bray Wyatt and Matt Hardy defeated The Revival. Dash Wilder and Scott Dawson know what to do to generate heat from a crowd, but the crowd is just not into it much here at first. The crowd really got behind Bray and Matt Hardy and they end up going over in a fun match.

Braun Strowman defeated Kevin Owens in a Street Fight. Owens grabbed the mic mid-match and got a lot of heat. Strowman slams Owens through a table leaned against the turnbuckles and gets the pin. Strowman did a Hulk Hogan-like celebration trying to pop the crowd from all sides and tossing his shirt to the loudest side.

After intermission, Elias is introduced. Mediocre heat. Much different than Raw. Then the crowd popped after he played a song and did his schtick. Elias announces he will be performing on the Saturday before Summerslam, but out came Bobby Lashley. They have an extended segment where Elias wanted to sing and Lashley encouraged it at first. Elias turns and attacks Lashley. Lashley responds and did his extended vertical suplex to a decent pop that ended the segment.

Ember Moon defeated WWE Raw Womens Champion Alexa Bliss via DQ. Moon emerged to a pretty good pop. Alexa Bliss used underhanded tactics most of the match. Ember is set up for The Eclipse and the potential win, but Alicia Fox attacked her.

Chaos ensued with a bunch of run-ins and it ends up becoming an 8-woman tag. Bayley, Sasha Banks, Natalya and Ember Moon defeated Sarah Logan, Liv Morgan, Alicia Fox and Alexa Bliss. The crowd seemed to get hotter as the night went on.

Main event time: WWE Intercontinental Champion Dolph Ziggler defended against Roman Reigns. Drew McIntyre accompanied Dolph and cant keep from being involved. Crowd is 50/50 for Reigns. Roman got a pop for his babyface comeback, but then the crowd was still split. McIntyre gets tossed from ringside by the referee and after that the crowd seemed to get behind Roman. Dolph was absolutely phenomenal in the match. There were near fall moments after near fall moments and the crowd erupted for those. Ziggler attempted a superkick, but Reigns countered with a Superman punch and the crowd legitimately thought it was over. Reigns hits the spear but at the two count, McIntyre runs back down for the DQ. The crowd was waiting for Rollins, but no.

If you enjoy PWInsider.com you can check out the AD-FREE PWInsider Elite section, which features exclusive audio updates, news, our critically acclaimed podcasts, interviews and more by clicking here!QUIZ: Guess the Road Songs

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Search Real EstateWell, that was fast. Fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger and his wife, Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger, sold a beachfront home in Palm Beach, FL, for $35 million, after owning it for less than a year, according to the Palm Beach Daily News.

The Hilfigers purchased the 11,000-square-foot, Mediterranean-style home for $34 million in May, according to property records. Built in 1998, the single-story home comes with 200 feet of beach frontage. It has five beds and eight baths. The layout features oversize rooms, vaulted ceilings, and a large, modern kitchen.

Love for Golden Beach?

Despite professing their love for the Palm Beach area, the couple perhaps prefer their digs in Golden Beach.

After purchasing this beachfront compound outside of Miami in 2013 for $17.25 million, the couple redid the interiors to match their pop art collection. The fully customized house featuring brightly hued walls, plush furnishings, and loud design was later featured in Architectural Digest.

Hilfigers' home in Golden Beach, FL realtor.com

The 10,275-square-foot compound has five bedrooms and seven baths. It also comes with an elevator, chef's kitchen, and infinity pool. Last year, the home went on the market for $27.5 million, had a $4 million price reduction, and then was taken off the market.

Playing the waiting game at the Plaza

The Hilfigers have one active listing on the market: their penthouse in Manhattan's Plaza Hotel. The duplex apartment comes with Central Park and Fifth Avenue views. It underwent a breathtaking $20 million makeover, which restored it to the original grandeur of the early 20th century and features murals in the dome tearoom by artist Hilary Knight., who illustrated the children's book "Eloise."

Tearoom with mural painted by artist Hilary Knight realtor.com

Measuring over 6,000 square feet, the double-unit apartment has four bedrooms and 4.5 baths. The master bedroom includes a sitting area and luxe bath.

As you may have guessed, the price on this design apartment is steep, at $50 million. However, thats drastically lower than its original list price of $80 million three years ago.

The penthouse in the sky has bounced on and off the market. Even with some price cuts, it's still searching for a buyer, who, like the fictional Eloise, absolutely loves the Plaza!"

The post Tommy Hilfiger Gets a Win With Quick Sale of Palm Beach Home for $35M appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com.Confusion has surfaced over French energy giant Total's massive South Pars gas project in Iran after the official IRNA news agency reported that China's state-owned petroleum corporation had been given a majority stake in the field.

Contradicting that report, the Oil Ministry news agency SHANA later on August 11 quoted the same senior Iranian oil official as saying the gas-field developmental contract remained unchanged.

"The role of the members of the consortium developing this project is in accordance with the provisions of the contract, and there is still no formal change in these provisions," Mohammad Mostafavi, director of investment at Iran's state oil firm NIOC, was quoted as saying by SHANA.

The earlier IRNA report said that China's state-owned CNPC had taken a majority share in the project after Total announced it would pull out because renewed U.S. economic sanctions against Tehran.

The IRNA report also quoted Mostafavi as saying CNPC now owned 80.1 percent of the shares in the $5 billion project, having bought them from Total.

CNPC originally owned about 30 percent of the project.

A spokeswoman for Total declined to comment.

South Pars has the world's biggest natural-gas reserves ever found at one site.

Total in 2017 signed a contract to develop Phase 11 of the South Pars field, initially investing $1 billion.

It was the first major Western energy investment in the country after sanctions were lifted in 2016, an outcome of the 2015 nuclear deal Tehran signed with six world powers. The deal gave Tehran relief from some financial sanctions in return for curbs on its nuclear program.

However, U.S. President Donald Trump in mid-May pulled out of the nuclear deal, saying the terms were not strict enough and accusing Tehran of violating the spirit of the accord. U.S. sanctions were renewed on August 7.

On May 31, Iran's oil minister gave Total 60 days to get a sanctions waiver from Washington or said its stake in the project would be given to the Chinese firm.

Total and other major corporations, including carmakers PSA and Renault, subsequently announced they were pulling out of Iran.

Total did not say what it would do with its 50.1 percent stake should it pull out, and it has until November 4 to wind down its Iran operations.

With reporting by Reuters and APAfghanistan's top electoral body has recommended barring 35 candidates from running in the upcoming parliamentary polls after it alleged they had links to armed groups.

The Independent Electoral Complaints Commission (IECC) on August 11 listed the names of the candidates, which included 12 currently serving members of parliament. It also warned 45 other candidates.

The IECC announced plans for the move on August 5, but said the list was not complete at that time and that candidates could appeal.

The names of the candidates have been sent to the Independent Election Commission (IEC), which will announce the final electoral rolls. Most of the candidates on the IECC disqualification list have already filed appeals.

The IECC is led by members from the Interior and Defense ministries, the National Directorate of Security, and the Independent Directorate of Local Governance.

The IECC said the disqualification list was finalized after a monthlong investigation after hundreds of complaints were received from voters about candidates in 34 provinces.

Some candidates were allegedly involved in cases of murder, rape, and extortion, the committee said.

"We disqualified the candidates because we want to clean the process and finally hold free and fair elections," IECC spokesman Alirez Rohani said.

Some of those named are influential lawmakers and strongmen, and the decision could raise political tensions in the country.

"The IECC did not even provide the opportunity to the disqualified candidates to defend themselves," said Fawzia Kofi, a lawmaker from Badakhshan Province who was on the list.

Kofi has been accused of funding an armed group to retain control over her constituency. She has rejected the allegations.

"These are politically motivated accusations. My supporters will start a protest march to prove my innocence," Kofi said.

Tolo News reported that officials and residents of Kunduz criticized the decision to disqualify a candidate from the region, closing down the local IECC office and sending a letter to the committee to express their anger.

"We want the commission to respond to our demand and explain that why this young candidate has been dropped from the list? Land grabbers werent disqualified, but this youth who is a defender of human rights and democracy has been removed from the list," said Turyalai Kakar, a member of the Kunduz Provincial Council.

Some 2,300 candidates across Afghanistan have filed to run in the parliamentary elections, scheduled for October 20.

The vote is seen as a crucial test for democracy in the war-ravaged country and is seen as a key test of the credibility and popularity of President Ashraf Ghani's government.

The presidential election is scheduled for April 20, 2019.

With reporting by Reuters, Tolo News, and Pajhwok Afghan NewsSHEBERGHAN, Afghanistan -- Clad in a dusty blue burqa and clutching a piece of stale bread, Khaleda cowers in front of her three wailing young children in a makeshift refugee camp in northern Afghanistan.

The 35-year-old, who only goes by one name, is among thousands of people who recently escaped the brutal rule of the Islamic State (IS) extremist group in the Darzab district of Jawzjan Province, a stronghold of the militants for the past year.

Now living among hundreds of other families in a bulging camp on the outskirts of the provincial capital, Sheberghan, Khaleda recalls the horrors of life under the militants.

"They took young girls away and forcibly married them," says Khaleda, holding her 3-year-old daughter who is clutching a water bottle. "I saw them kill people from my village. They forced young boys to fight for them. We couldn't do anything."

The IS group's local affiliate in Afghanistan has gained an unrivaled reputation for brutality, regularly beheading their rivals or forcing them to stand on land mines.

But while forced marriages and rape have been committed by the extremist group in Iraq and Syria, they have been less reported in Afghanistan, where sexual violence is a social taboo.

But stories like those told by Khaleda have emerged in recent weeks as thousands have fled Darzab.

IS militants were ousted from Darzab by a rival militant group, the Taliban, and Afghan security forces on July 31 after weeks of fierce clashes. Dozens of IS fighters were killed and over 200 surrendered to government forces.

Many residents fled during the fighting to Sheberghan, where thousands like Khaleda live off of food and water handouts from the local government and foreign aid groups.

"It was in the middle of the night," says Khaleda, a native of the village of Sardara whose husband works as a laborer in neighboring Iran. "We got on a motorcycle. We only had the clothes we were wearing. We left everything else behind."

Khaleda says she, like many others, remains wary of returning to their homes over fears IS may return.

'They Raped Her'

Maryam, who fled Darzab last week, lives with her husband and two children in the makeshift camp in Sheberghan. The 28-year-old recalls how her 15-year-old sister was kidnapped by IS fighters.

"Daesh fighters came to my mother's house," says Maryam, using the Arabic name for the IS group. "They killed my brother-in-law. They took away my youngest sister to another village. They raped her and forced her to marry a Daesh leader."

Maryam says she does not know her sister's whereabouts or if she is even alive.

Besides brutalizing women, IS fighters have also killed local elders and those who they considered government sympathizers. Locals say the militants also used children as soldiers, a claim supported by the high number of children or young men among the IS fighters who surrendered to government forces.

Fatima, another resident of Darzab, lost her husband to the extremists. "My husband was a villager elder," says the elderly woman, who lives in a crowded tent in Sheberghan with her relatives. "The Daesh fighters came to our house and killed him in front of me. They committed many cruel acts."

The stories from Afghanistan mirror those in Syria and Iraq, where IS militants systemically enslaved and raped women, publicly executed prisoners, and used children as soldiers and suicide bombers.

Small But Potent

IS militants have a small but potent presence in Afghanistan, where they first emerged in 2015.

In 2017, the militants captured Darzab and the district of Qush Tepa in Jawzjan, a remote province that borders Turkmenistan and is on a key drug-smuggling route. The militants were ousted from the province after months of U.S.-Afghan air strikes and ground operations that killed local IS leaders. The IS fighters had to also deal with a massive Taliban offensive in the area.

Despite its setback in Jawzjan, the IS group has a foothold in the eastern province of Nangarhar, along the Pakistani border, from where it has attacked Afghan and international security forces, religious minorities, and foreign workers in cities like Jalalabad and the capital, Kabul.

The IS affiliate in Afghanistan is not a monolithic group nor a direct extension of the extremist group in Iraq and Syria -- representing more of an alliance of splinter groups from the Afghan and Pakistani Taliban with elements of regional militant groups such as the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan and the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e Jhangvi.

There are some 2,000 IS fighters in Afghanistan, where U.S. and Afghan forces have waged a relentless campaign to destroy the group. Washington and Kabul have claimed their campaign has killed hundreds of militants and commanders, including its leaders, although residents in eastern Afghanistan say the extremists retain control over significant territory.Human Rights Watch (HRW) has warned that Iranian officials are trying to head off a looming economic crisis with threats of "new rights-abusing policies," including applying the death penalty for economic crimes.

"Executions, an inhumane and inherently irreversible punishment, are never the answer, and in this case can only distract from other causes of this economic turmoil," the New York-based rights watchdog said in an August 10 statement.

Iran has faced growing economic difficulties since the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear agreement between Tehran and world powers in May, fueling a crash in the value of the national currency, the rial.

The United States on August 7 reimposed sanctions on the Iranian economy that were lifted under the nuclear deal in exchange for curbs on Tehran's nuclear program. A second round of penalties is due to come into effect in early November.

Meanwhile, Tehran prosecutor Abbas Jafari Dolatabadi, as well as a number of hard-liner lawmakers and newspapers have called for executing people found responsible for contributing to the country's economic woes, which have triggered street protests in Tehran and other cities.

"Today, officials increasingly talk about the need to combat corruption at every level," HRW said. "Yet to do so requires an independent judiciary that ensures due process rights for all those accused."

The group added that the Iranian judiciary's "long record of violating detainees' rights and wanton application of the death penalty raises grave concerns."

Iran has sentenced to death and executed several people on "vague fraud charges with little transparency or due process," according to HRW.

It cited the case of Babak Zanjani, a wealthy businessman who is currently on death row on charges of withholding more than $2 billion in oil revenue channeled through his companies.

Iran is one of the world's leading executioners. Amnesty International said in April that 507 people were executed in the country last year, including at least five juvenile offenders.A blast at a weapons depot has killed at least 36 civilians, including 12 children, in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib, a war monitor and opposition activists say.

The opposition-run Syrian Civil Defense, also known as the White Helmets, said the explosion occurred on August 12 in the town of Sarmada near the Turkish border.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights initially put the death toll at 18.

However, the observatory later said that the toll rose after more bodies were retrieved from the rubble caused by the blast of unknown origin at the depot. It's unclear if the casualties are all civilians.

The observatory says the depot in the basement of a building was run by an arms dealer close to the al-Qaida-linked Levant Liberation Committee.

A civil defence volunteer in Idlib told the dpa news agency that at least 70 others were wounded in the blast.

"Rescue and firefighting teams are still working to pull out other victims from under the rubble," the volunteer added.

Meanwhile, Syrian government forces are fighting rebels in Idlib, which is largely controlled by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, an Islamist alliance led by an Al-Qaeda-linked group.

Over the last three years, thousands of rebels and their families have been evacuated from different parts of war-torn Syria to Idlib under agreements between the rebels and the government.

Based on reporting by AFP, AP, and dpaIran's judiciary says the authorities have arrested 67 people in a drive against financial crime as the country faces renewed U.S. sanctions and public outcry against widespread corruption.

"Sixty seven suspects have been arrested, some of whom were released on bail, and more than 100 people including government employees and officials, as well as private employees and others have been given travel bans," judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei said in remarks carried by state television on August 12.

The remarks come as a day after the country's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, approved a request by the judiciary to set up special courts to deal with financial crimes.

Iranian media quoted Khamenei as saying in a brief statement issued on August 11 that punishments for those accused of economic corruption should be "carried out swiftly and justly."

New Islamic revolutionary courts will be directed to impose maximum sentences on those "disrupting and corrupting the economy," judiciary head Sadeq Amoli Larijani had proposed in a letter to Khamenei.

The request by the judiciary said the courts should be eligible to try all suspects, including "official and military" people. The sentences can include the death penalty.

The decision comes amid a plunging national currency that has lost about half of its value in past weeks following a decision in May by U.S. President Donald Trump to leave the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran and reimpose tough sanctions.

The Central Bank of Iran and the judiciary have blamed "enemies" for the fall of the currency.

The judiciary said last month that 29 people have been detained for "disturbing" the nation's economy and its "money and currency systems."

Based on reporting by Reuters, AP, and IRNAWong was a silent film star in the 1920s, but she often found herself limited to stereotypical Asian roles. When Pearl Buck's novel "The Good Earth" was released in 1931, Wong made public her desire to be cast in the film adaptation, because it was a rare opportunity to play a Chinese character in Hollywood. She later learned she was never considered because the producers wanted a white male actor for the Chinese lead, and anti-miscegenation laws prevented a nonwhite woman to be cast opposite a white man. Wong was instead offered the role of the concubine, but refused. Luise Rainer would win an Oscar for her portrayal of the Chinese woman. This was also the decade that brought us the yellow-face characters Fu Manchu and Charlie Chan, which were stereotypical Asian roles played by white actors and were products of Western imagination.Iraqi Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadis visit to Iran has been canceled after he said he had no choice but to abide by U.S. sanctions against Tehran, even though he disagreed with their imposition.

The dispute over sanctions was not officially cited on August 12 in the cancelation of the visit, part of a planned two-country official trip by the Iraqi leader.

Abadis office said he would still go ahead with a visit to Turkey on August 14 but that the Iran leg of the trip had been called off "because of his busy schedule."

An Iranian government official, who asked not to be identified, told the Associated Press that Tehran had canceled Abadis planned visit. Iranian government spokesman Saad al-Hadithi declined to comment.

Iran and Iraq -- enemies in a brutal eight-year war that ended in 1988 -- have developed close ties since Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein was toppled in 2003 by a U.S.-led invasion.

Shi'ite-led Iran has become heavily involved in Iraq's political affairs and sponsors powerful Shi'ite militia groups that played a role in defeating Islamic State (IS) extremists last year.

Iraq has also established close relations with the United States in the subsequent years, especially in the fight against Al-Qaeda and IS.

Meanwhile, Tehran and Washington have long been bitter adversaries, forcing Baghdad to delicately balance relations with both countries.

Irans economy has come under intense strain since U.S. President Donald Trump pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal that Tehran signed with six world powers and reimposed sanctions that had been eased under the terms of the accord.

'Strategic Mistake'

Abadi on August 7 said he did not agree with the renewed U.S. sanctions but added that he would abide by them to protect his country's interests and risk retaliatory actions by Washington.

"Can I, the prime minister of Iraq, endanger the interests of Iraqis just to take a stand?" he said. "We don't sympathize with the sanctions, we don't think they are appropriate, and we don't interact with them, but we are committed to protect our people."

"We consider them a strategic mistake and incorrect, but we will abide by them to protect the interests of our people," he said.

Iraq is the second-largest purchaser of Iranian non-oil exports, buying some $6 billion worth of goods from its eastern neighbor in 2017.

It also buys Iranian-generated electricity to deal with chronic power cuts that have been a key factor sparking mass protests in recent weeks.

Iranian private companies recently cut off power supplies to Iraq's oil-rich coastal province of Basra over outstanding payments.

With reporting by AP, AFP, and ReutersThe leaders of Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan met in Aqtau, Kazakhstan, on August 12 for what was supposed to be the long-awaited signing of a convention on the legal status of the Caspian Sea.

The leaders met, and signed the convention, but after more than 20 years it was clear that some of the same issues that have prevented an agreement that suited all five countries remained.

While the five presidents agreed on most of the issues, Iranian President Hassan Rohani mentioned that the delimitation of the sea remains an issue for Iran. Rohani said further talks would be needed to resolve the division of the Caspian, though it was unclear if he was speaking about the 22-kilometer stretch from each country's shore that is considered the territorial waters of each state, or the lines drawn to the maritime midway point where states meet.

Rohani also indicated further talks would be needed to clarify obligations to the responsibilities of the littoral states for guaranteeing the environmental safety of the Caspian.

In his opening remarks, Rohani praised the part of the agreement that excludes any foreign military presence in the Caspian, but in his closing statement he mentioned that should include shipment of foreign militaries' cargo across the Caspian. Rohani did not name any countries but he almost surely was referring to the agreement the United States has to ship cargo from Azerbaijan to Kazakhstans Aqtau and Quryq ports.

In what was perhaps a telling remark, Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov concluded his opening remarks by saying another summit should be held in Turkmenistan.

The leaders used their opening statements to highlight aspects of the Caspian agreement that were most important for their individual countries.

Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbaev and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev both stressed the trade links that would surely expand with greater shipping across the Caspian. Both Nazarbaev and Aliev spoke of a new trade bridge between Asia and Europe.

President Rohani echoed this message pointing out trade among Caspian states was still only a small fraction of what it could be.

He touted the potential of railway connections from the eastern and western side of the Caspian to Iran and on to the Persian Gulf, rather than referring to an Asian-European trade route. Aliyev and Berdymukhammedov also mentioned the railways passing through their countries to Iran.

Toward the end of his opening statement, Aliyev also drew attention to the ongoing conflict with Armenia over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, saying the unresolved issue was an obstacle to fully developing trade potential through the Caucasus.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said in his opening remarks and closing statement that the parts of the agreement that dealt with fighting terrorism were especially important given the Caspians proximity to Afghanistan and the Middle East.

Although the five presidents signed documents at the end of the summit, it would be difficult to qualify the event as a clear success. It was evident there are still unresolved matters, particularly from Iran's perspective.

The fact that there was even mention of another summit in the future could indicate that indeed, while the convention on the legal status of the Caspian was signed, key issues still need to be discussed.

The views expressed in this blog post do not necessarily reflect those of RFE/RLMeeting in the Kazakh port city of Aqtau, the leaders of Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan have signed a new convention on the legal status of the resource-rich Caspian Sea -- a matter disputed between the five neighbors for more than 20 years.

The leaders provided no details of the agreement in their speeches before the signing of the document.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said the settlement of the Caspian Sea's legal status "creates conditions for bringing cooperation between the countries to a qualitatively new level of partnership, for the development of close cooperation on different trajectories."

His Iranian counterpart, Hassan Rohani, said that the delimitation of oil- and gas-rich Caspian seabed will require additional agreements between littoral states.

Rohani also hailed a clause in the convention that prevents non-Caspian countries from deploying military forces on the Caspian Sea, saying, "The Caspian Sea only belongs to the Caspian states."

And Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbaev said the agreement allows for the construction of underwater oil and gas pipelines, as well as setting national quotas for fishing.

The parties agreed to set up a "special mechanism of regular five-party consultations under the auspices of the Foreign Ministries" to implement the provisions of the convention, Nazarbaev also said.

The summit was also attended by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov of Turkmenistan.

The five countries also signed agreements on trade and economic relations, transportation, and the fight against terrorism.

Debates on whether the Caspian is a sea or a lake have been ongoing since the Soviet Union fell apart in 1991, leaving five countries with shorelines on the inland sea instead of two -- the Soviet Union and Iran.

If deemed a sea, the five countries would draw lines extending from their shores to the midway point with littoral neighbors, while classifying it as a lake would mean the resources would be divided equally among those five countries.

The countries have been working on an agreement to resolve the issue since 1996, the Kremlin said.

At stake are resources including trillions of dollars' worth of hydrocarbons in the seabed, which holds about 50 billion barrels of oil and nearly 9 trillion cubic meters of natural gas in proven or probable reserves.

A draft of the agreement, posted briefly on Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedevs website in June and obtained by RFE/RL, suggested that the countries would agree in Aqtau that the Caspian is a sea.

With reporting by Reuters, TASS, and InterfaxThe battle for the eastern Afghan city of Ghazni has continued into the evening for a third day as government forces and Taliban fighters engage in intense clashes, reports say.

The Afghan government forces received reinforcement from other provinces, including Khost, Logar, and Paktiya, Defense Ministry spokesman Ghafoor Ahmad Javed told RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan.

Ghazni, the capital of the province of the same name, is located on the key highway between Afghanistan's two largest cities, Kabul and Kandahar.

Javed reiterated earlier comments by Afghan military officials that security forces remained in control of key government offices and that a clearance operation against the Taliban was ongoing.

Provincial council member Nasir Ahmad Faqiri said fresh fighting erupted in the morning of August 12 near the police and spy agency headquarters, as well as the governor's palace.

At least 80 members of Afghanistan's security forces have been killed in three days of fighting, according to Faqiri.

"Only the police headquarters, governor's office, and a few departments are under Afghan forces' control," said Amanullah Kamrani, deputy head of the provincial council. "The rest are under the Taliban fighters' control."

An AFP reporter on the ground said Taliban fighters continued to roam the city, torching government offices and in control of a number of police checkpoints.

RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan reported that the Kabul-Kandahar highway has been blocked, leaving hundreds of people stranded.

At the Kandahar main bus station, a woman who gave only her first name, Amina, told RFE/RL that she was unable to return home to Kabul.

"We've been stuck here for three days," Amina said. "We can't afford a hotel room, we dont have money to buy food. We are spending nights outside."

"It's our third night here," said Said Mohammad, who was among a large group of people stranded at the bus station.



"We ask the government to reopen the highway as soon as possible because a lot of women and sick people are stuck here in this heat."

Telecommunication services were reportedly shut down in Ghazni due to the clashes, making information difficult to verify.

Amanullah Kamrani, the deputy head of the Ghazni Provincial Council, told RFE/RL that the residents were facing a severe shortage of food and drinking water.

The sick and those wounded in the clashes were not able to get medical assistance, Kamrani said.

The Afghan National Army's chief of staff, General Mohammad Sharif Yaftali, said that he hoped the security forces would "completely change the situation in Ghazni in the next two days and restore peace and stability there."

A spokesman for U.S. forces in Afghanistan, Lieutenant Colonel Martin O'Donnell, said U.S. aircraft conducted strikes on August 11-12, adding that Afghan government forces "continue to hold their ground and maintain control of all government centers."

According to the Defense Ministry spokesman, Afghan forces are moving "slowly" and carefully, and restrain from using intensive air strikes to prevent civilian casualties.

Javed told RFE/RL that militants were hiding in peoples homes and shops, essentially using the civilians as human shields.

The Taliban launched their assault on Ghazni early on August 10 in the latest in a series of attempts by the militants to capture urban centers.

On August 11, Defense Ministry spokesman Mohammad Radmanesh told RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan that the city was under control of the security forces, but said clearance operations were continuing.

A spokesman for U.S. forces in Afghanistan also described the fight for the city as a clearance operation, with sporadic clashes between security forces and militants.

Meanwhile, Interior Ministry spokesman Najib Danish said more than 150 Taliban fighters, 25 security forces, and a local reporter had been killed in the fighting.

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.

In May, the Taliban attacked the western city of Farah. After a day of intense fighting, Afghan commandos and U.S. air strikes drove the group to the outskirts of the city.

With reporting by AFP, dpa, Tolo News, and RFE/RL's Radio Free AfghanistanNHS students Jason Sweet, Michael Ward, Julia Highcove and Gabby Adamo recently traveled with NHS health and physical education teacher Jennalee Lopes to Brattleboro, VT to attend the Edge of Leadership Conference, an event which serves as an opportunity for students to develop powerful leadership skills. Below: Julia Highcove and Gabby Adamo ascend a rope course while fellow students and educators cheer them on.Ron Stallworth in the 1970s and a recent photo of him. (Ron Stallworth)Homeowners request help after seeing crocodile try to enter house

Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua  A homeowner in the state of Chihuahua called authorities after noticing an adult crocodile trying to get inside their house.

Members of the H. Fire Department of Ciudad Juarez attended to a call over the weekend of a large crocodile seen in the back of a private yard. The homeowner called authorities after the reptile made attempts to enter the home.

The nighttime rescue was made by nearby firemen who were able to capture the 1.4 meter long croc and place it inside a crate. The reptile was then held until officers from the Federal Office for Environmental Protection arrived.

Although the male Caiman Babilla was deemed in good physical health, wildlife officials were left baffled as to where the crocodile came from since they are not naturally found in the state of Chihuahua.

Unable to release it into the wild, wildlife officials have temporarily transferred it to the San Jorge Zoo in the Juarez Valley, where, they say, are adequate facilities for its care and attention. They also say that they are investigating where it could have come from and will find it a final destination.

In Mexico, the babilla caiman is in a special protection category according to the Official Mexican Standard.The two were last seen in the Little Village neighborhood, in the vicinity of the 3700 block of West 26th Street. Both entered a white Pontiac Aztek SUV, though the vehicles plates were not known.People have a tendency to stick with their perception of reality, even when conditions have changed. This is because familiarity provides them with a sense of stability, which may not be justified. Resistance to accepting change can be risky: Eli Avidar, President, Carats.io.





Eli Avidar is a man on the moveliterally. In April, the former Israeli diplomat stepped away from the CEOs office at the Israel Diamond Exchange, a position he had held for more than two years, and from the Israel Diamond Institute, where he had been CEO for more than a decade. Two months later he was named President of Carats.io, a Fintech startup that has created the worlds first digital currency wholly backed by gem-quality diamonds.

As Israel Diamond Exchange CEO, Avidar was closely involved in the establishment of Carats.io, which until June had formally been associated with the bourse.

Here Eli Avidar speaks with Rough & Polished about the recent developments.

Some excerpts:

Eli, congratulations on your new appointment. Tell us how the idea for Carats.io came to be? And, what was that crucial information that really convinced you?

Many thanks.

About a year and a half ago, a young man asked for a meeting with me in my capacity as CEO of the Israel Diamond Exchange. He told me that he had developed a concept for creating a financial market for diamonds, in the same way that financial markets exist for gold, silver and other precious commodities. My initial take was that it was another good idea that was not really connected to reality. But then he added a detail that really caught my attention. He said that his group had developed a sophisticated algorithm that can accurately price diamonds in real time.

This convinced me enough to invite two bourse members to join the meeting. They heard what the young guy had to say and were persuaded that he knew what he was talking about. They werent sure that such an algorithm could work with 100% accuracy because they said there is no such thing as absolute precision in diamond pricing. He told me that he would send through a business plan, and I said there was no need because we could write one together. I also suggested that he set up a company and find initial investors so that the bourse could create a contractual relationship with him.

Why is such an algorithm so important? What about the Rapaport price list?

There is no replacement for the Rapaport price list. What Martin Rapaport managed to do was and remains an act of genius. He turned his price list into a primary sales and marketing tool for diamond wholesalers.

However, the algorithm becomes essential the moment you wish to establish a financial market, which requires the creation of a single index, in a manner that is transparent and void of any suggestion of human intervention.

This is not a simple task, and certainly not with diamonds. Remember, no two natural stones are the same, and that makes the diamond different from other commodities that have become financial markets. Crude oil, for instance, has only six different varieties and there is a single standard unit of gold, silver and other traded precious metals.

The difficulty that exists in unitizing diamonds is the reason that, historically, people have struggled to establish them as a tradeable commodity. The algorithm cracked that problem, and thus could be considered a real breakthrough.

What role does the index play in the Carats.io concept?

Carats.io issues a digital currency called the CARAT coin, which is fully backed by real diamonds and its value set by trading activity in the international diamond market. The number of CARAT coins that can be issued is theoretically infinite, although Carats.io must be holding an equivalent value in diamonds in its vaults.

Therefore, unlike other cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, the value per CARAT coin is not governed directly by the forces of supply and demand for the token itself, but rather by the market forces that govern diamond prices. Consequently, it is extremely unlikely to see the types of fluctuation, sometimes of tens and hundreds of per cent, both up and down, which is common in those markets.

In short, the CARAT coin is a non-volatile financial asset, whose value is linked to our DFX index. The index is generated on a continual basis by our algorithm, fed by massive volumes of real data from the diamond markets.

Why do you believe the CARAT coin will be perceived differently from other cryptocurrencies, which often are considered as types of financial pyramids?

Precisely because it is stable. In fact, of all digital currencies there are today  and there are at least 1,600 being traded in the market  only a handful are backed by anything of tangible value. For most, their values at any point in time are set purely by a relationship of supply and demand for a specific coin in the marketplace. Most have a finite number of coins that have been issued, meaning they can skyrocket in value if demand suddenly spikes, but then fall just as quickly if investors are rushing to get rid of them.

We are upfront about what we are offering. For speculative investors looking to make a quick buck and ready to assume often a considerable risk, we say that we are not the right address. We are geared to those investors who are looking for stability. There is a number of backed cryptocurrencies, some linked to the U.S. dollar and others to gold, silver or some other tradeable commodity. These are redeemable assets that investors can use to park capital for short periods of time, while they wait for an opportunity to deploy them, or for longer periods when the primary objective is wealth preservation. They are also assets that can be used to obtain lines of credit, which is the direction where we took the CARAT coin in our recent agreement with Celsius.

We saw the announcement about you signing a MoU with Celsius. Can you elaborate on what it will involve?

Celsius has created an online crypto-wallet that, in essence, is a fully functional banking platform for digital currencies, of which today there is more than $1 trillion worth in the global market. A holder of digital currency can already deposit funds in his her Celsius crypto-wallet and earn interest on them.

More importantly, a person with a Celsius crypto-wallet can use the digital currency as collateral for a loan in U.S. dollars or euro. If a volatile digital currency is used, Celsius will require collateral worth two or three times the amount that it would require to secure the same loan with diamond-backed CARAT coins, which are inherently non-volatile.

Do you see the potential for such financing alternatives in the diamond sector? Also, do you believe the diamond sector is ready for the change?

We see massive potential, which we intend leveraging. Indeed, a great portion of our work in this area has been carried out with the intention of providing solutions to the diamond sector, which in recent years has seen a very significant erosion of its access to traditional bank credit. We believe that we can bring about real change.

About whether the diamond sector is ready the truth is that only time will tell. But as the trend of fewer lines of bank credit being made available to an ever-contracting number of diamond companies now enters its tenth year, what is becoming clearer is that the option of sticking to an old business model is no longer really viable.

People have a tendency to stick with their perception of reality, even when conditions have changed. This is because familiarity provides them with a sense of stability, which may not be justified. Resistance to accepting change can be risky.

We need to consider that what we have always believed to be true is no longer the case, especially when our industry continues to decline. We have to be open to new ideas.

Your agreement with the Israel Diamond was terminated several months ago. There was something that I did not understand in the bourses announcement at the time. It said it had set up its arrangement with Carats.io despite the fact that there was no legislation in Israel governing the trade in digital currencies. But, according to the announcement, it was the lack of such legislation which was one of the reasons for it withdrawing. Can you explain?



Well, the Israel Diamond Exchange announced that it was terminating its agreement with Carats.io because the Israeli Controller of Diamonds had denied our application for a diamond traders license. The Controller had said that we did not meet the criterion of three years experience of working in the industry, and added that the legal framework for the field in which we are involved has still not been clarified in Israel.

There are several points I would like to make. Its no secret that we did not have three years worth of experience since the company had only been set up one year earlier. Despite this, we had felt it was worth a shot applying for the license since it would allow us to buy the diamonds we needed to back up our CARAT coin by ourselves, rather than having to rely on the services of other Israeli diamond traders or foreign companies. But already when we first made the application, the Controller had said he was unlikely to overlook the three-year requirement, and as things turned out he did not change his mind. His decision never caught us by surprise.

But Carats.io never actually needed an Israeli diamond traders license because it is a UK-registered company. The idea behind the agreement with the Israel Diamond Exchange was that we would exclusively buy the diamonds we required at the bourse to support the market in Ramat Gan. Now, we are no longer bound by that restriction.

I bear no grudge. The Israeli Diamond Exchange is made up of good people, many of whom are personal friends. I care about them and wish them the very best of luck for the future.

This means that the company has now left the Israel Diamond Exchange? So, you can now operate as free agents? And, what makes you optimistic about the future of Carats.io?

Yes, it has, and this actually eases a good number of restrictions that we had to deal with, in addition to the exclusivity arrangement I just mentioned. Our agreement had also dictated that we first would only look for investors from among the Israel Diamond Exchange members, before turning to the much larger pool of investors in the international cryptocurrency sector. That constraint no longer exists.

Yes, absolutely there is a big world out there, with other diamond centres and investors keen to get in on this growing financial sector. And, as I am sure you realize, its also possible today to buy diamonds online, without even having to enter a diamond exchange. Not only that, you can buy from places where the going price is often lower than it is in the secondary markets.

Its our companys primary asset that makes me most optimistic, and thats our human capital. I am talking about a group of people including the founders and workers where the common denominator can be summed up in one word and that is brilliance. They traverse a variety of disciplines, including data analysis, big data, artificial intelligence, financial modelling and also the diamond business. They radiate enthusiasm, and it is infectious.

Not a single day goes by without at least one of our team coming up with a new and exciting idea, and each time its like injecting adrenalin directly into our veins. This is what provides me with the confidence that we have the ability to change preconceptions in both the diamond and financial markets, providing opportunities in both worlds. Most importantly, there is a principle that I have always cited to all those who have worked with me and that is that something will succeed if you make it succeed.

Aruna Gaitonde, Editor in Chief of the Asian Bureau, Rough & PolishedPolice said theyre attempting to contact two people who were in the area when first responders arrived and who authorities hope might have additional information about what they observed that could be useful to the investigation. The man and woman were walking a medium-size dog near the playground.On the sidelines of IIJS 2018 in Mumbai, the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) signed an MoU with the Shenzhen Rough Diamond Exchange and will also open an office in China to promote trade between the world's largest bullion markets.

We want to broad-base our market and China is expected to provide us opportunity as an alternative market," said GJEPC chairman Pramod Kumar Agarwal.

The bilateral trade in the gems and jewellery sector has been on the rise in the recent years. In 2017, the trade had reached $21.41 bn, registering a growth of 29 per cent year-on-year, with exports from here clocking $13.96 bn.

The GJEPC is also looking at setting up bases in smaller markets like Bangladesh, Nepal and Vietnam, which will help the sector to incrementally grow, Agarwal said, adding that the council is also talking to Kuwait to create some avenues there.

In a separate event to launch the new campaign, GJEPC Vice Chairman, Colin Shah elaborated on the key thought behind this initiative, The public at large is not aware of the contribution that the industry makes to nation building. The campaign aims at getting across the value we bring to the countrys economy and the positive impact we are having on the lives of so many millions.

Five different aspects are portrayed to get this message across  the industrys pre-eminent position in the global industry; its contribution to the nations GDP; the massive number of employment opportunities it creates; the measures implemented for enhancing worker welfare, and the positive impact this indirectly has on the quality of life for their families as well.

We believe that this will impact perceptions about our industry and help the people of this country get a better understanding of the role we play in nation building, Shah concluded.



Aruna Gaitonde, Editor in Chief of the Asian Bureau, Rough & Polished



The woman was identified Sunday evening as Lesly Coronel, who lived in the 5900 block of South Kolin Avenue on Chicagos Southwest Side, according to the Cook County medical examiners office. She was pronounced dead at 12:28 a.m. Sunday.A federal appeals court has upheld $4.2 million in damages against the Golden Gate Bridge District for a collision between a district ferry and a speedboat that killed the speedboats pilot and injured a passenger.

The ferry, carrying about 500 passengers, was making its regular 3:50 p.m. run from Sausalito to San Francisco in February 2013 when the 22-foot motorboat struck it in Richardson Bay. The court said the motorboats pilot, Harry Holzhauer, was looking the other way, at the San Francisco skyline, when the boat hit the ferry. The court also said there was evidence that the ferry captain was on his cell phone moments before the collision.

Holzhauer, 68, of Tigard, Ore., was killed. His passenger and lifelong friend, David Rhoades, 64, of Tiburon, suffered fractures and was hospitalized for seven weeks.

A federal court jury found that Holzhauer was 70 percent responsible for the crash and the bridge district was 30 percent responsible. Jurors awarded damages against the bridge district totaling $3.73 million to Rhoades and $1.55 million to Mary Holzhauser, the pilots widow, but her damages were reduced to $464,000 because of her husbands partial responsibility.

On appeal, lawyers for the bridge district and Holzhauers widow both argued that Rhoades should be held partially responsible. Because Rhoades owned the boat and had allowed Holzhauer to pilot it, the lawyers contended, he should have acted as a lookout and was negligent for not warning Holzhauer about the nearby ferry.

But the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco said no passenger, even the owner of a craft, is legally required to keep watch on its path.

An owner like Rhoades has no duty to keep a lookout unless the owner-passenger was jointly operating the boat or the owner-passenger knows from past experience or from conduct that day that the person operating the boat is likely to be inattentive or careless, Judge Ronald Gould said in the 3-0 ruling filed Friday.

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He said Holzhauer was an experienced boater, and Rhoades made a reasonable decision when he turned over piloting of the craft to his friend. The court also rejected the bridge districts argument that Rhoades was negligent for failing to equip his boat with radar reflectors that would have made it easier to detect. Gould said the reflectors may be a good practice but are not in standard use among small-boat owners and are not legally required.

Lawyers for the bridge district and Mary Holzhauer were not available for comment.

Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @BobEgelkoNow Playing: A small plane made an emergency landing on I-580 in Hayward on Saturday evening. Video: Alameda County Fire Department

A private Cessna passenger airplane, with two people on board, made an emergency landing Saturday evening on Interstate 580 in San Leandro, stunning drivers but resulting in no injuries, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The single-engine plane apparently had a mechanical problem and was forced to land about 6:45 p.m. just east of the 164th Avenue exit, Officer Herman Baza said.Call him ambitious, but with just five years under his congressional belt, 37-year-old East Bay Rep. Eric Swalwell is laying the tracks for a possible 2020 presidential run.

Yes, I am considering running, Swalwell said in a matter-of-fact way when we caught up with him at a recent National Night Out block party in San Lorenzo, where he was mixing with constituents.

From the looks of his travel schedule, Swalwell  who has drawn national attention as one of the lead voices in Congress investigation of Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential campaign  is already on his way, stumping hard for midterm candidates across the nation.

In the past three months, Swalwell has made three trips to early primary state Iowa in support of Democratic candidates for Congress. Hes back there again this weekend for an appearance at the Iowa State Fair, a long-valued stop on the presidential campaign trail.

Swalwell has also made trips to Kansas, Nevada and Texas, as well as up and down his home state raising money for California congressional candidates.

Thats the most important goal right now, Swalwell said of the midterm push. The best way to cut our time in hell in half is to take back the House.

His travels this year have also taken him to Indiana, Oklahoma and Michigan to meet with local Democrats. And he will be the keynote speaker at the Democrats annual Countdown to Victory dinner in Manchester, N.H.

Then there are the media appearances.

As a member of both the House Intelligence and Judiciary committees, Swalwell, a former prosecutor, has clocked 233 appearances this year on national TV  right up there with fellow California Democrat Adam Schiff, who is also seen as a possible presidential contender.

Since his arrival in Washington following his 2012 upset win over longtime East Bay Rep. Pete Stark, Swalwell has worked his way up the leadership ladder to become co-chair of the Democratic Congressional Steering and Policy Committee, a post once held by former California Rep. George Miller.

The position doesnt come cheap. As a member of the House leadership team (hes eighth in the pecking order), Swalwell is expected to raise at least $425,000 for the national congressional midterm effort.

Believe me, its not easy, he said.

Its not easy on his supporters, either.

I like Eric, but it seems like every time he calls these days its about fundraising, said one early Swalwell backer, who asked not to be identified because he needs to work with the congressman.

Privately, Democratic colleagues in Congress tell us Swalwell is one of the most ambitious of the newer members, noting that before Sen. Dianne Feinstein announced she will seek re-election, Swalwell was considering a run for her seat. And were told that hes also had eye on replacing Rep. Nancy Pelosi as majority leader when she retires.

Those colleagues note that he has hired a former pollster, Alex Evans, as his Washington chief of staff.

And while most everyone we spoke with said a Swalwell run would be a long shot at best, they also note there arent a lot of Democrats burning up the field right now.

Swalwell, seems to think that being a long shot is a plus.

I hear it everywhere I go, he said. The party needs new blood, new ideas and new energy.

And he certainly has that.

Common complaint: BART Board President Robert Raburn got a stunning dressing-down from an Oakland station agent Thursday after he and other directors took a mixed vote on the general managers call for more security on the crime-troubled transit system.

Raburn and other BART directors voted yes on installing emergency call boxes and upgrading security cameras, but not yet on banning panhandling or increasing the number of ticket checkers to curb gate jumping.

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I live in fear every day I come in here! Raburn said the agent at 19th Street Station told him when he stopped and asked how she was doing, something he had often done in the past.

Then, with her voice rising, the agent went off: You have no idea how stressful it is for us. I cant sleep at night. We need more police. We need protection!

The stress really showed, Raburn told us. Its not just agents. Were getting plenty of comments from riders as well.

Paul Chinn/The Chronicle

The BART boards also hearing from customers. One rider wrote to the directors: My husband and I and many, many of our friends will not ride BART anymore. The homeless sleep or roam, derelicts bother passengers, people eat and discard trash, there are needles and filth in the stations and cars, groups of gang-looking people go from car to car. Its disgusting. Plus the stabbings put fear in us. Why do I want to subject myself to all this? I dont. What is being done to clean up the whole BART system?

But directors are also getting messages like this: While I agree that safety needs to be improved on BART, I do not believe that further efforts to curtail gate jumping and or panhandling will improve safety on BART trains. I believe that these measures confuse poverty issues with safety issues, and are discriminatory.

And therein lies the ongoing debate: how to have a safe system while letting poor people slide. And it shows no sign of changing anytime soon.

Crime or no crime.

San Francisco Chronicle columnists Phillip Matier and Andrew Ross appear Sundays, Mondays and Wednesdays. Matier can be seen on the KPIX-TV morning and evening news. He can also be heard on KCBS radio Monday through Friday at 7:50 a.m. and 5:50 p.m. Got a tip? Call 415-777-8815, or email matierandross@ sfchronicle.com. Twitter: @matierandrossThe states tax collection agency, the Board of Equalization, is expected to consider a proposal that county assessors say would make it harder for them to obtain information they consider critical to determining property value.

The proposal is designed to change state regulations that govern tax assessment appeals. It was drafted by the California Alliance of Taxpayer Advocates, a group that represents tax agents for manufacturers, retailers and other commercial property owners. It was added to the agenda for the boards July 24 meeting by board member Fiona Ma. The board voted to have its staff begin analyzing the proposed changes, and further discussion is expected at its next meeting, Aug. 21.

If commercial or residential taxpayers dispute an assessors appraisal of their property  typically to argue that their property was over-assessed  they file an appeal with their countys assessment appeals board. During the proceeding, assessors often request information from the taxpayer to prove that their property is in fact worth what they say it is, such as rental income or expenses. If a taxpayer does not provide the information to the assessor  either because they do not have records, or because the details the assessor is seeking does not apply to their property  the appeal can be delayed.

Under the proposed changes, an appeal could move forward even if the taxpayer does not provide all the information the assessor is seeking.

The Alliance of Taxpayer Advocates says the changes would provide uniformity in the way appeals are handled. Currently, some counties assessors request more detailed information at appeals hearings, while others do so less frequently. Assessors requests for information can be aggressive or overreaching, which is unfair to taxpayers, the group said in an Aug. 8 letter to the executive director of the Board of Equalization.

Many assessors, and the head of the California Assessors Association, oppose the change, saying it would prevent them from reviewing important data about properties that help them determine value. At the July board meeting, assessors for Santa Clara, Marin, San Francisco and other counties testified or submitted letters urging the board not to adopt the changes.

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Marin County Assessor Richard Benson said in his letter that the proposal could lead to assessors having to subpoena the information they need, resulting in unnecessary costs and inefficiencies both to assessors, courts, applicants and taxpayers.

The prospect looms that there will be lost legitimate tax revenue due to cost avoidance outcomes, Benson wrote.

Catherine Ho is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: cho@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @Cat_HoFirefighters reported progress Sunday in their battles against blazes across the state, increasing containment on the largest wildfire in state history.

The Mendocino Complex fires, made up of the River and Ranch fires, consumed about 8,000 more acres Sunday. That was less growth than the additional 12,000 acres that were scorched Saturday. Officials at the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection dont expect to completely contain the blaze until Sept. 1.

The Mendocino fires have burned 336,399 acres and are 70 percent contained. The larger of the two, the Ranch Fire, was responsible for all of the growth, burning 8,096 acres for a total of 287,479 acres. That made the Ranch Fire the largest blaze in state history, surpassing last years Thomas Fire in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. The Ranch blaze was 62 percent contained Sunday.

The biggest concerns are on the Ranch Fire, which we still have active fire burning in the northern portion of the fire, said Cary Wright, a public information officer for the Mendocino Complex. Its very rugged terrain, mountainous, very thick, dense forest area, but theyve been working on those areas for the last few days.

Firefighters worked Sunday to prevent the fire from entering the Potter Valley and Stonyford communities, he added.

A northern wind created a thick smoke layer that could be seen in Ukiah, Wright said, though thats not necessarily a bad thing for the firefight.

That wind coming from the north is actually helping firefighters because its blowing back into the fire, he said. It should help ground resources.

Over the next few days, the objective will be to keep the blaze within the Mendocino National Forest, where homes and lives arent at stake, Wright said.

Depending on the forecast for the week, bulldozer operators are expected to be sent to the ridges surrounding the fire perimeter to establish contingency lines and build a box around the fire.

We dont want the fire to get beyond this box so then our tactical efforts are going to be going in there, Wright said, adding that they will then use aircraft and firefighters on the ground equipped with engines.

Meanwhile, firefighters were able to keep the River Fire from growing overnight, holding it at 48,920 acres and 93 percent containment.

In all, the Mendocino Complex  which has burned for 17 days  has destroyed 264 structures, 146 of them residences, and still threatens 1,025 structures, according to Cal Fire. The Agency lifted a mandatory evacuation order for all areas south of Mendocino National Forest in Lake County on Friday evening. Some evacuation orders also were lifted in Colusa County this weekend.

A mandatory evacuation was ordered for areas near Lake Pillsbury, north of Highway 20, east of the Lake-Mendocino county line, south of the Lake-Mendocino County line and west of the Lake-Glenn County line.

Fire Tracker Follow wildfires across the state Latest updates on wildfires burning across Northern and Southern California

A total of 3,172 personnel were working to battle the Mendocino Complex. There were 281 fire engines, 87 water tenders, 20 helicopters, 61 hand crews and 76 bulldozers.

In Shasta County, the Carr Fire grew to 201,680 acres by Sunday evening and was 61 percent contained. The gain is a modest increase compared with other days, as firefighters continued to improve containment lines by setting their own fires to deplete vegetation that the blaze could consume. Firefighters reported tough challenges from densely forested and steep terrain.

About 1,077 homes, 22 commercial buildings and 500 other structures have been destroyed in the fire. Cal Fire officials do not know when they expect to fully contain the blaze, which has claimed eight lives since it began last month.

Crews also advanced toward fully containing the Ferguson Fire near Yosemite. The blaze has burned 95,947 acres and was 83 percent contained by Sunday, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

Meanwhile in Southern California, the Holy Fire in Riverside and Orange counties grew slightly by 583 acres to 22,714 acres and was 51 percent contained, according to Cleveland National Forest officials.

Trisha Thadani and Sarah Ravani are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: tthadani@sfchronicle.com, sravani@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @TrishaThadani, @SarRavaniA 62-year-old man was arrested early Sunday on suspicion of murder and driving under the influence after fatally ramming into a man on Interstate 880 in Oakland, authorities said.

Maury Butler was booked without bail at the Santa Rita Jail for allegedly driving without a license and DUI with a felony enhancement, according to jail records.

The incident is Butlers fourth DUI within 10 years, said Officer Herman Baza, a spokesman for the California Highway Patrol.

Officers received reports of a collision about 2:25 a.m. involving a green Lexus ES300 and a Nissan Sentra on I-880 near Hegenberger Road, Baza said.

The driver of the Lexus got out of his car after the crash and was standing in one of the northbound lanes of the highway. Within minutes, Butler, who was not involved in the original collision and was driving a white Lexus, crashed into him, Baza said.

The victim, who was not identified, was pronounced dead.

Maury Butler was driving under the influence, and he failed to drive his vehicle safely, Baza said, adding that Butler did not immediately recognize the traffic collision or the driver of the green Lexus standing outside of his vehicle.

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Investigators determined that Butlers license was suspended because of past DUIs. He was driving from Berkeley.

All northbound lanes were shut down while investigators processed the scene. One northbound lane was reopened by about 4:15 a.m., and all lanes were reopened by about 5 a.m.

Butler was arrested at the scene. He will be arraigned at 9 a.m. Monday in Alameda County.

Sarah Ravani is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: sravani@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @SarRavaniOLYMPIA, Wash.  Investigators are piecing together how an airline ground agent stole an empty Horizon Air turboprop plane, took off from Sea-Tac International Airport, and fatally crashed into a small island in the Puget Sound after being chased by military jets that scrambled to intercept the aircraft.

Officials said Saturday that the man  identified as as Richard Russell  was a 3-year Horizon employee and had clearance to be among aircraft, but that to their knowledge, he wasnt a licensed pilot. The 29-year-old used a machine called a pushback tractor to maneuver the aircraft so he could board and then take off Friday evening.

Its unclear how he attained the skills to do loops in the aircraft before crashing about an hour after taking off. It did not appear that the fighter jets were involved in the crash of the aircraft, officials said. In a news release issued Saturday, the North American Aerospace Defense Command said two F-15C alert aircraft were scrambled from Portland but did not fire upon the plane.

At a news conference at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, officials from Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air said they are still working closely with authorities as they investigate what happened.

Safety is our No. 1 goal, said Brad Tilden, CEO of Alaska Airlines. Last nights event is going to push us to learn what we can from this tragedy so that we can ensure this does not happen again at Alaska Air Group or at any other airline.

The bizarre incident involving a worker who authorities said was suicidal points to one of the biggest potential perils for commercial air travel: airline or airport employees causing mayhem.

The greatest threat we have to aviation is the insider threat, said Erroll Southers, a former FBI agent and transportation security expert. Here we have an employee who was vetted to the level to have access to the aircraft and had a skill set proficient enough to take off with that plane.

Seattle FBI agent in charge Jay Tabb Jr. cautioned that the investigation would take a lot of time, and details would not be released right away. Dozens of personnel were out at the crash site, and co-workers and family members were being interviewed, he said.

There was no connection to terrorism, said Ed Troyer, a spokesman for the Sheriffs Department.

Video showed the Horizon Air Q400 doing large loops as the sun set. There were no passengers aboard.

Rachel La Corte and Keith Ridler are Associated Press writers.He doesnt do (anything) for the South and the West Side. ... We dont have any resources. Aint nothing going on for these kids on the South Side, so what do they resort to? said Heard, 45, who lives in Bronzeville. I voted for him the first time, learned my lesson the second time, wont do it a third time. He slid in on the help from Barack Obama, but we got hip the second time. It wont happen again.Big Tech knows your name, who your friends are, where you live, your political beliefs, and the types of events you attend in your community.

Does it also deserve to know how much is in your checking account?

Facing slower user growth and increasing investor restlessness, Facebook is trying new strategies to entice current users to spend more time on the social networking platform.

So over the past year, its asked large U.S. banks, including Citigroup, JP Morgan Chase and U.S. Bancorp, to discuss potential offerings for bank customers on Facebook Messenger, its email feature. The company has pitched features including showing users their checking account balances and fraud alerts from their banks.

To show users this information, Facebook would need lots of detailed financial information about them  including their credit card transactions in real time and their checking account balances.

The company says it wouldnt use the bank data for ad targeting, and it wouldnt share it with third parties.

Like many online companies with commerce businesses, we partner with banks and credit card companies to offer services like customer chat or account management, a Facebook representative said in a written statement provided to The Chronicle. We're not using this information beyond enabling these types of experiences, not for advertising or anything else.

But Facebook is asking its users for a tremendous amount of trust so soon after the company proved unworthy of it.

Financial privacy: history of an epic battle The tortuous path - and ultimate passage - of California's landmark financial privacy law in 2003 illustrated that the citizenry cares about the issue. It also shows the determination of the financial industry to do what it wants with your personal information. The threat to privacy has grown exponentially since then. Proposal: To require banks, insurance companies and other financial institutions to obtain customer permission before sharing or selling customer data with third parties. Author: Democrat Jackie Speier, then a state senator and now a member of Congress. Roadblocks: For three years, the industry fended off the legislation, spending more than $20 million in lobbying fees and campaign contributions. (The Chronicle wrote more than 60 editorials on the issue, naming names of the industry's water-carrier politicians and detailing the stall tactics in the s tate Capitol.) Turning point: A citizen initiative (bankrolled by E-Loan CEO Chris Larsen, who was convinced that privacy was essential to customer confidence) qualified for the ballot. It was considerably stricter than proposals in the Legislature. The industry, sensing the inevitable, lifted its opposition to Speier's SB1. End game: Without industry resistance, SB1 breezed through the Senate and Assembly by wide margins. Gov. Gray Davis, who had waffled on the issue for years, signed it into law in a San Francisco ceremony on Aug. 27, 2003. See More Collapse

Facebooks pitch to U.S. financial companies continues despite increased questions about the firms privacy policies and data security practices.

Last spring, the news broke that Facebook had exposed the data of as many as 87 million users to Cambridge Analytica, a political consulting firm that did work for the Trump campaign. Though Facebook has responded to the scandal and worked to change its data protection policies, the scandal laid bare the unresolved tensions in the company between protecting users and creating profits.

Facebook may be the company currently in the news for seeking to increase its partnerships with financial companies, but others already have or will be actively seeking these data.

This puts the burden on thoughtful users to scrutinize privacy policies and to consider whether a small amount of added online convenience justifies opting in to new services that may have unknown and unintended consequences.

In an ideal world, regulatory leaders at both the state and the federal levels would be vigilant about demanding user privacy and strict data policies.

But in our current world of data breaches and online hacking, users will need to protect themselves.Outside Lands is known for its world-famous music headliners, food and drink vendors and foggy, chilly weather. But this year, the San Francisco festival added another new element: politics.

California gubernatorial candidate Gavin Newsom appeared Saturday, Aug. 11, on the Barbary stage as part of a new talk series called D.A.V.E., for Discussions About Virtually Everything. Newsom, currently California lieutenant governor and a former San Francisco mayor, talked with Wired magazine co-founder John Battelle about state issues such as the homelessness and housing crises, sanctuary cities, the water shortage and education.

The talk felt like a restrained campaign rally at times, with the crowd of supporters cheering as Newsom touted Californias robust economy and counterweight against President Trump.

Im not just running to be the head of the resistance. I want to be a positive alternative to Trump, said Newsom, who is the front-runner going into Novembers governor election against Republican candidate John Cox.

But Newsom was quick to point out that theres not a chance that he would run for president in 2020. He added that there has been too much focus on the presidential races and not enough turnout in local races, which has led to the Democratic Partys decline on the local level.

Newsom also said he supported more housing production, rather than more shelters, as a solution to mitigate homelessness.

On a lighter note, he said his music idol is Peter Gabriel, the English former frontman of Genesis. He also has been listening to Kanye West and said he was looking forward to Saturday headliner Florence + the Machine, as well as DJ Snake.

Dont think Im that guy in the suit, said Newsom, who was wearing a sport coat, jeans and blue Golden Goose sneakers. Ive still got a little left in me.

Roland Li is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: roland.li@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @rolandlisfJim Glab

An Alaska Airlines flight from San Francisco International Airport to New Orleans was diverted to Los Angeles International Airport on Sunday afternoon due to a "strong odor" in the cabin.

Alaska Airlines told SFGATE that a "strong odor was detected onboard during the flight in the aft cabin," and that "the plane is being inspected by technicians to pinpoint the cause."Baker made his living from music his entire life, his brother said. For a time, he had his own group, the Eddie Baker Trio, which toured Europe in the mid-1950s. The trio also played in the late 1960s for a local evening television show featuring Chicago stories. Baker played on Hugh Hefners Playboy After Dark, at the since-closed Mill Run Playhouse in Niles and was onstage three times for the Chicago Jazz Festival.A private Cessna passenger airplane, with two people on board, made an emergency landing Saturday evening on Interstate 580 in San Leandro, stunning drivers but resulting in no injuries, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The single-engine plane apparently had a mechanical problem and was forced to land about 6:45 p.m. just east of the 164th Avenue exit, Officer Herman Baza said.Believe it or not, adorable dogs aren't for everyone. That's one of the reasons why the San Francisco International Airport has added a new member to its four-legged "Wag Brigade" - a pig named LiLou.

SFO's Wag Brigade allows SPCA animals certified by the Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) Program to greet and comfort hurried travelers as they arrive, depart, or languish through a layover. LiLou is the program's first pig.

According to the SFSPCA, "At a minimum, AAT pets must be solicitous and fully comfortable with handling. In other words, pets must be interested in and eager to approach people and accept handling, regardless of the persons age, gender, race, size, mobility equipment usage, and apparel." LiLou nailed her training and is now dispatched to the airport once a month.

I can see that she is happy showing off her tricks and getting her praise, LiLous owner, Tatyana Danilova told USA Today. It also brings positive emotions to me seeing that we can do something good for the community and bring more smiles in some unconventional way.

LiLou's SFO schedule is still UP IN THE AIR, so her trick-filled appearances may end up as a surprise to lucky travelers. According to USA Today, LiLou can play music on her toy piano and takes a formal bow after her performances. The prized pig's ensembles alternate between a "Pet Me" vest and a variety of tutus.

I absolutely love my LiLou and I know she loves me," Danilova told the SFSPCA.

The Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport offers miniature therapy horses. Last year, a mid-flight photo of a passenger's "therapy turkey" went viral.

Fans can follow LiLou on her Instagram account here.Since their dog Theo went missing two weeks ago, Trendee King and James Galley have put everything on hold, including their upcoming wedding, in order to find him.

The South Bay couple had left the Brussels Griffon dog with a dog-sitter for the first time when he went missing on Feb. 13. "He was with a dog-sitter for the day because I was in L.A. looking for my wedding dress and my fiance was going to be at work all day," King, a makeup artist, told SFGATE.

When her fiance, director of business development at Netflix, called the dog-sitter, he found out that Theo had gone missing.

"I was buying my wedding dress with my mom and sister. It was a joyous time. I got that call from my fiance that the dog was missing and I went straight home that night," King said.

They later found out that Theo had escaped out the front door of the dog-sitter's house, near Blossom Hill Rd. and Almaden Rd. in San Jose, making his way west on Blossom Hill. A Good Samaritan spotted Theo running down the street and followed him several blocks, until she lost sight of him near the Westfield Oakridge Mall.

That's where Theo was last seen. The couple has put up over 800 posters advertising a $3,500 reward, no questions asked, for the safe return of their pet. They've also passed out thousands of flyers and hired a pet detective to help guide their search.

Many people have called King with tips, sending her on a wild goose chase around the Bay Area, but so far they have all been false alarms.

"I've been driving everywhere: Palo Alto, to Menlo Park to Santa Cruz."

The couple received a call Saturday night from someone who had hit a dog on the freeway and then buried it nearby. King and her fiance went to investigate, digging up the remains of the dog and taking it to a veterinarian, who confirmed it was not Theo.

They also received a tip that Theo may have been spotted with a woman at a San Jose Target store. After reviewing security footage and having a private investigator run the woman's license plates, they found it was another false lead.

On top of spending thousands of dollars on the search effort, King and Gaffey have postponed their wedding until they have answers.

"There's no way I can plan a wedding right now. I have to find my dog," King said in an interview. "Part of my family is missing and there's no way I can plan a wedding right now."

RELATED VIDEO: Dog reunited with family after three years

King remains optimistic that Theo will be found. She has been posting nonstop on her social media accounts, including Instagram where she has more than 27,000 followers. Her plea for help was also reposted by another animal Instagram page that has upwards of 6 million followers.

"We miss our dog. We miss our baby. He's our child. He's our family. We're not going to be able to ever stop until we find him."

King asks that anyone with information about Theo's whereabouts calls (310) 663-2652. The couple is offering a $3,500 reward, no questions asked.Firefighters reported progress Sunday in their battles against blazes across the state, increasing containment on the largest wildfire in state history.

The Mendocino Complex fires, made up of the River and Ranch fires, consumed about 8,000 more acres Sunday. That was less growth than the additional 12,000 acres that were scorched Saturday. Officials at the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection dont expect to completely contain the blaze until Sept. 1.

The Mendocino fires have burned 336,399 acres and are 70 percent contained. The larger of the two, the Ranch Fire, was responsible for all of the growth, burning 8,096 acres for a total of 287,479 acres. That made the Ranch Fire the largest blaze in state history, surpassing last years Thomas Fire in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. The Ranch blaze was 62 percent contained Sunday.

The biggest concerns are on the Ranch Fire, which we still have active fire burning in the northern portion of the fire, said Cary Wright, a public information officer for the Mendocino Complex. Its very rugged terrain, mountainous, very thick, dense forest area, but theyve been working on those areas for the last few days.

Firefighters worked Sunday to prevent the fire from entering the Potter Valley and Stonyford communities, he added.

A northern wind created a thick smoke layer that could be seen in Ukiah, Wright said, though thats not necessarily a bad thing for the firefight.

That wind coming from the north is actually helping firefighters because its blowing back into the fire, he said. It should help ground resources.

Over the next few days, the objective will be to keep the blaze within the Mendocino National Forest, where homes and lives arent at stake, Wright said.

Depending on the forecast for the week, bulldozer operators are expected to be sent to the ridges surrounding the fire perimeter to establish contingency lines and build a box around the fire.

We dont want the fire to get beyond this box so then our tactical efforts are going to be going in there, Wright said, adding that they will then use aircraft and firefighters on the ground equipped with engines.

Meanwhile, firefighters were able to keep the River Fire from growing overnight, holding it at 48,920 acres and 93 percent containment.

In all, the Mendocino Complex  which has burned for 17 days  has destroyed 264 structures, 146 of them residences, and still threatens 1,025 structures, according to Cal Fire. The Agency lifted a mandatory evacuation order for all areas south of Mendocino National Forest in Lake County on Friday evening. Some evacuation orders also were lifted in Colusa County this weekend.

A mandatory evacuation was ordered for areas near Lake Pillsbury, north of Highway 20, east of the Lake-Mendocino county line, south of the Lake-Mendocino County line and west of the Lake-Glenn County line.

A total of 3,172 personnel were working to battle the Mendocino Complex. There were 281 fire engines, 87 water tenders, 20 helicopters, 61 hand crews and 76 bulldozers.

In Shasta County, the Carr Fire grew to 201,680 acres by Sunday evening and was 61 percent contained. The gain is a modest increase compared with other days, as firefighters continued to improve containment lines by setting their own fires to deplete vegetation that the blaze could consume. Firefighters reported tough challenges from densely forested and steep terrain.

About 1,077 homes, 22 commercial buildings and 500 other structures have been destroyed in the fire. Cal Fire officials do not know when they expect to fully contain the blaze, which has claimed eight lives since it began last month.

Crews also advanced toward fully containing the Ferguson Fire near Yosemite. The blaze has burned 95,947 acres and was 83 percent contained by Sunday, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

Meanwhile in Southern California, the Holy Fire in Riverside and Orange counties grew slightly by 583 acres to 22,714 acres and was 51 percent contained, according to Cleveland National Forest officials.

Trisha Thadani and Sarah Ravani are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: tthadani@sfchronicle.com, sravani@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @TrishaThadani, @SarRavaniDuring the height of his fame in the 1960s, Walter Keane drew a large following of impassioned art collectors and fans that were fascinated by the over-the-top big eye motif in the artwork he sold.

Hollywood elites were also admirers of the exaggerated peepers, including actress Natalie Wood whose untimely death in 1981 has recently resurfaced into mainstream media nearly four decades later.

Wood was a collector of original Keane's, and in 1961 the actress had her own portrait done by both San Francisco painters Walter and Margaret Keane. They were invited over to Woods Bel Air home to each do her portrait in a photo shoot done by Life magazine. Images from that event can be seen in the gallery above.

The photo shoot, as it would later turn out, actually captured the intersection of two California scandals. The paintings prefaced a notorious Hawaii courtroom showdown in 1986 where the Keanes were ordered to paint for the jury. After years of discrediting her work, Margaret claimed she was the true genius behind the big eyes, and sued Walter for slander. The case was supposed to set the record straight to determine the true artist behind the big eyes.

Margaret proved she was the rightful artist when she painted an artwork in 53 minutes while Walter declined to paint due to sore shoulder. Director Tim Burtons 2014 film Big Eyes was based on the troubled marriage and the ensuing courtroom showdown.

But on that day in 1961, the Keanes appeared civil and painted two very distinct portraits of the Hollywood icon.

Margaret fashioned a more sophisticated work that presented Wood in a little black dress with a flirty expression, while Walters rendition featured Wood as a wide-eyed waif holding onto a poodle.

One photograph from the shoot showed the couple painting the actress on canvas as Wood gazes, poolside in her bathing suit. Once the portraits were completed, Wood was photographed between the images where she seems to mirror Margarets impression of her.

Though two very distinct portraits, Wood was forever immortalized in both images with signature big eyes.

The couple also painted other luminaries of the time, including Zsa Zsa Gabor, Kim Novak, Adlai Stevenson, Jerry Lewis, Liberace, and Woods husband, actor Robert Wagner, who in February was labeled a person of interest in Woods death by investigators.

"As we've investigated the case over the last six years, I think he's more of a person of interest now," Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Lieutenant John Corina told the TV news program 48 Hours. "I mean, we know now that he was the last person to be with Natalie before she disappeared."

The Wood case was officially reopened in 2011.

Walter Keane died in 2000, Margaret Keane has long operated a studio for her work near San Francisco's Ghirardelli Square.

Follow Susana Guerrero on Twitter and email her at sguerrero@sfchronicle.comDont expect to find rows of IPAs at Beer Lands at this years Outside Lands festival.

Dave McLean, formerly of Magnolia Brewing and current co-founder at Admiral Maltings in Alameda, isnt really a fan of the haze craze dominating so many bar menus around town. The point of Beer Lands, he says, is variety and balance.

The whole point of having somebody curate is having someone to manage the bar, he said. This is just a big bar. You want a menu that reflects something for everybody, so theres light beers, dark beers, hoppy beers, German-style beers, certainly plenty of IPAs.

Those light and malty German lagers, as well as Goses, a German, tart kettle-soured ale, are both indeed having a moment industry-wide, but the notable trend McLeans observed this year are pale ales.

Some of the patterns start to emerge on their own every year, he said, based on what brewers tell him they want to bring.

Like last year, pilsners are a growing category, but the brewers also want to pour lighter, hoppy pales. Its the cyclical nature of things, he said. Pilsners and pales are a response to the wild experimentation of todays beer.

Brewers are attempting to drive the conversation to the lighter, more traditional beers to some extent, but as Superfly Beer Guy Evan Sutherland, whos managing Beer Lands for Outside Lands, observed, the crowd is young this year and theyre going for whats both high in alcohol and relatively inexpensive.

Well see a pattern these first two hours for what will sell well through the weekend, Sutherland said Friday as the three-day outdoor event kicked off at Golden Gate Park. If you go to the back right now, the (kicked) kegs will be our best sellers of the weekend.

At that point, Beer Lands had already finished two of Anchor Brewings San Franpsycho IPA kegs as well as Racer 5 IPA kegs from Bear Republic, Sutherland noted.

New guests this year include Seven Stills and their affiliated Hard Frescos  pouring a delicious gluten-free guava beverage  as well as Sufferfest, Holy Craft, Sonoma Springs, and Oakland United and Old Kan, which are both offshoots of the former Linden Street brewery.

McLean is no longer running things at Magnolia but denies that much has changed as far as his curating of Beer Lands over the last seven years.

I never did this as part of Magnolia, McLean said. I was always trying to see if Magnolia could be here, but I tried to fly up to a 30,000-foot view, like, What would be cool for the Bay Area beer scene? Im pretty sure Ive been true to that goal over the years.

With Admiral Maltings, McLeans creations get to be present in a new, very Outside Lands-local way: in the terroir.

Outside Lands has done such a good job of crafting a vibe of being in Golden Gate Park, being in San Francisco, he said. The beer has always been all California, and its now all Northern California. But this is the first time that any of the beers could have been made with barley made in California  truly local.

Alyssa Pereira is an SFGate staff writer. Email: apereira@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @alyspereiraTaking the first step in changing your life sometimes involves radical change, and something major to kick you in the butt to get you moving. That's how this family of six, plus a dog the size of a small man, ended up selling their home and fleeing suburbia for a quieter life in a travel trailer.

Its important to get a few things straight right from the get-go. I was sure I hated motorhomes. And trailers. And campers, tents, fifth wheels, yada-yada. I was sure of this for reasons that are somewhat unclear. At the very least these mobile hovels were not worthy of my interest. After all, for 25 years I have been a pretty famous, albeit marginally, talented automotive journalist who has driven virtually every car built since Richard Nixon told me he wasnt a crook. Ive traveled the world. Ive often complained about Four Seasons Hotels being a bit shabby while once criticizing a rickshaw driver that his low end torque seemed a bit below par. And I was sure I hated RVs.

Now that I think of it, there was a time when I, as a curious 8 year old, stuck my head inside a neighbor's Coleman Pop Up trailer that was parked in their driveway. It had a tiny kitchen. And canvas tent covers over the beds. And it smelled like people. Like hair. Or the inside of a persons elbow. Not good.

RELATED: Is the grass really greener when you leave the Bay Area?

The deal was likely then sealed.

I hated RVs.

Pivot now to 2016. An unremarkable Tuesday night at 11 p.m. as I slept beside my amazing wife and down the hall from our four sleeping children. For it was at that moment that I awoke to what I was sure was our 115-pound Weimeraner sitting on my chest. But the dog was nowhere in sight. The pain instead was what every middle-aged somewhat overweight, middle class white-guy-douche-bag who spent the 1980s eating too many Porterhouses and doing too many things he later forgets having done fears the most. I was having a heart attack. A bad one. Like the kind when your priest walks into your hospital room and apologizes.

After weeks and weeks in the hospital mending and unclogging what I once believed was nothing more than "success" surging through my cardiac arteries, I came home. Sick and tired.

Kim, the partner I have never deserved, immediately said we needed to change our life. I managed to whisper to her that I hadnt had a steak in a month. She maintained her own whisper and said again, We need to change everything. Crap.

Two days later Kim was annoyingly peppy as she came through the door and asked if I would join her outside.

Get off the couch! She laughed.

Evil, I thought.

I managed to walk outside in my NY Giants pajamas that I swore were part of my recovery regimen. And there it was. A travel trailer, although my inaccurate assessment of said vehicle at that moment was to call it a camper.

I immediately condemned the notion that we were ever going to use it.

We need to change everything, Kim whispered again.

Three days and 200 collective pages of print and online training manuals later, we hit the road with our Sonic Lite Travel Trailer. (More disclosure: I dont care for anything lite. Not my beer, nor the rear end of a girl, nor anything else for that matter but I kept most of that to myself at the time.)

The Sonic Lite promised in its literature that all of its controls were intuitive and easy to use and that that it could be towed with a standard truck or SUV. I was still terrified. I had never towed a thing in my life. Not a trailer, nor a boat, nor the line but I digress.

Our first trip was straight back to the RV dealer so they could double check my hitch and safety connections.

Like just about every RV dealer Ive met since, and there have been over 50, they were kind and generous with their time and patient with my arrogance and excuses for being an RV moron.

Within 30 minutes I was assured I was set to go and I would be safe towing this crate.

I pulled out of their driveway in my 2007 GMC Denali with a gasoline V8 engine (previously unused 7,000 pound towing package still on board from the day I bought it) and I drove to the on-ramp of Interstate 80 in Sacramento and turned to Kim and said, Where should I go?

Anywhere she said. "Anywhere you want."

Tempting I thought. But we were a bit lite. Very lite.

An immediate U-turn (no small feat) had us heading back into our little stereotypical Northern California neighborhood where the disdain for all things with a hitch is palpable. Sharon, the cranky neighbor who has assuredly won an award after central casting determined she be the character we grow old living next to was the first to comment.

Did you actually BUY that?, she screeched as she breached the completely invisible albeit much needed property line in our front yard.

I stole it, Sharon. I swiped it. Boosted it right off the lot. Im a MOTORHOME klepto Sharon! So  Now you know. And jimmy cracked corn and I dont .

Enough said Kim.

Why does she always whisper when Im out of control? Criminy. It was enough, by the way. For my work had yet to fully begin because inside was the family. The WHOLE fam-damily.

A quick introduction to the twins--15 years old and quite fraternal--Natalie and Matthew. A loving and remarkably good looking pair of offspring who rank above average when factoring in most human virtues. In fact, their lack of remarkable teenager angst and overall lack of any deficiency scares the snot out of me. More on that later.

The next kid is named Gretchen. A blond-haired, blue-eyed, strong-willed kid who claims Jan Brady is completely misunderstood and also may be her soul-sister. Oy.

The baby is now 10 years old and is named Charlotte. A brilliant child with a smile that can warp steel. And Charlotte is also bald. Completely. No hair. And thats because Charlotte has Alopecia. And that means she has no hair. Butsometimes it grows in. And then falls out again. Its hard to tell if its coming in or falling out.

If this all seems weird, I guess it is. But hair is not a big issue in our house. Ever. And Charlotte will confirm we are always under budget on shampoo, which is good.

The final member of the clan is Owen. The overweight, over-entitled 11-year-old Weimeraner who demands more cuddle time than my college roommate who majored in Theater Arts and minored in Liza Minelli.

So, lets go everyone! Please?

RELATED: A family takes an even longer RV trip.

And thats where the story of our new life on a hitch really begins.

How to get all 6 of us ready in an instant to go somewhere weve never been before while towing a 21-foot box that weve never even spent a night in. Even the dog seemed dubious.

Kim, of course, just whispered, "Lets go."

And so I tapped into my incredibly limited knowledge of some old black and white film I saw on The Late, Late Show 40 years ago that called to "To Go West Young Man" (a qualified senior citizen with two heart stents and double daily doses of a statin, I was fully aware of the inherent irony.)

Out of the unremarkable Central Valley we drove. West to Vallejo, where, for the first time, I felt it. The wind.

And not just any wind. Wind that was pushing this thing behind me and pushing it side to side. I swear on all that's holy I was convinced the trailer was weaving so hard it was about to pass me in the number two lane.

It was at that point Kim found her voice.

"Ummm, is THAT normal?" She wasn't whispering anymore.

"I have no clue." It seems I was now whispering. Something I often do just prior to spontaneous urination, related to unmitigated fear.

After slowing the family truckster down to what seemed a very reasonable 50 miles per hour, the trailer lost its ability to mimic Elvis on Ed Sullivan and all seemed well.

So well that the Vallejo exit seemed perfect to hang a right on.

I had been to Bodega Bay in the early 90's. Pre-kids and pre-Kim. As we pulled into the busy but certainly quaint town, the question hit.

"How do you know this place?", she asked.

Ummmm.... Travel magazine? Anthony Bordain? Elderly aunt's summer residence? The possible lies were endless. I leaned over and coughed up "I came here once with a girl and we did it in a cheap motel that was still more expensive than I could afford and they declined my credit card so she had to use her Visa card and I think that's the reason she still hates me and......"

"Enough." She was whispering again.

I now had guilt, a trailer, and a family that was increasingly anxious to experience camping. A lot of pressure.

Doing what dads do, I pulled into the lone gas station in Bodega Bay and asked for 50 bucks in gas, a Scratcher lottery ticket--I do that sometimes to see if my streak of never wining can continue endlessly... it did--and then asked him if I could camp somewhere.

"Camp anywhere you want... but you better have a reservation."

This didn't sound good. Reservations? I was beginning to have reservations about this new life.

"Unless you go to Wrights. You can always drop in at Wrights Beach. Almost always," he added.

His name was Gus. Or Bob. Or another monosyllabic blue-collar name that is always unremarkable. Like Doug. Either way, I immediately adored him. Because he was right about Wrights.

Eight minutes north of the gas station I turned into Wrights Beach. It was already dark. But I could hear the waves. And with that sound, that moment, I felt it. The physical release of stress that I had never felt before. A literal explosion of decades of mental physical dysfunction that was in retrospect nothing short of religious.

And I had not even unhooked the trailer yet.

Partly because of how captivating the moment was. And partly because I was now convinced that although I had gotten us to our initial destination safely, I had no clue how to unhitch.

Kim came up from behind and put her arms around me and whispered that she loved me.

And so it begins I thought...

Doug Brauner is a television and radio host, mechanic, and now an RV enthusiast from Sacramento, who edited this column from his trailer on the beach in Capitola.

SFGATE is always interested in stories about radical changes in how people live their life, pondering if the grass is greener. Share your story in the comments, and we may reach out to you, too.WASHINGTON  After weeks of hype, white supremacists managed to muster just a couple of dozen supporters Sunday in the nations capital for the anniversary of their deadly rally in Charlottesville, Va., finding themselves greatly outnumbered by counterprotesters, police officers and representatives of the news media.

But even with the low turnout, almost no one walked away with the sense that the nations divisions were any closer to healing.

Indeed, the streets of downtown Washington were charged Sunday with tension, emotion and noise, particularly in the afternoon, as right-wing agitator Jason Kessler and perhaps 20 fellow members of the far right  some wearing bright red Make America Great Again hats, some draped in American flags  marched under heavy police escort to their barricaded and heavily protected rally area near the White House.

They were surrounded by a vast, rolling mass of counterprotesters, who hurled insults, waved middle fingers and chanted Shame!

You killed a girl in Charlottesville! one voice in the crowd yelled, referring to Heather Heyer, a woman who was fatally injured when a white supremacist rammed his car into a crowd of counterprotesters a year ago.

A similar dynamic to the one in Washington played out in Charlottesville on Sunday, where few if any far-right demonstrators could be found, and where the most palpable tensions developed between left-wing protesters and police, whose presence in the city was heavy and, some argued, heavy-handed.

Only a handful of arrests were reported in Charlottesville on Sunday, including a man and a woman who got into a fistfight after the man saluted the towns statue of Robert E. Lee.

In Washington, the mere threat of another large turnout from the far right, coupled with a large turnout from the far left  among them, hundreds of black-clad, masked and helmeted anti-fascist protesters known as antifa  seemed to indicate that the United States was not over its turn toward European-style politics by street protest.

It was also a return to the way extreme-right demonstrations in America tended to play out before Charlottesville.

The template starts when a group like the Ku Klux Klan announces a rally. Next comes news coverage, fevered and intense. That prompts a huge number of activists, police officers and everyday people to turn out, dwarfing what is often a small band of extremists in hoods or armbands.

That does not mean that hate is on the wane. According to the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism, there were a total of 1,038 hate crimes recorded in the 10 largest U.S. cities last year, an increase of 12 percent from 2016 and the highest figure in more than a decade.

In Washington on Sunday, the far-right rally was officially scheduled to start at 5:30 p.m., but the small band of extremists arrived early, finished their demonstration and left before that time.

Richard Fausset is a New York Times writer.NPR decided that Kessler's views were either legitimate enough or harmless enough to air to millions of listeners without adequate framing or aggressive countering. Either prospect is downright frightening to those of us who are the targets of racist ideologies. And all of this for what? Did NPR really help us to understand anything new or different about Kessler and ideology? No. Did we learn anything about the black, Jewish or other minority communities in Washington and how they are feeling or preparing for this rally? No, their voices weren't featured. Is there a slim chance Kessler could gain more support, or at least sympathy, for his views? Probably. Uncritical mainstreaming is exactly what the alt-right and white nationalists are looking for. In an Atlantic essay aptly titled "The White Nationalists are Winning," Adam Serwer notes that a year after Charlottesville, "the white nationalists' ideological goals remain a core part of the Trump agenda. As long as that agenda finds a home in one of the two major American political parties, a significant portion of the country will fervently support it. And as an ideological vanguard, the alt-right fulfilled its own purpose in pulling the Republican Party in its direction." Indeed, we have seen this administration successfully push through a ban on travel from several majority-Muslim countries and the labeling of black activists as "black identity extremists," with a president who blasts people from "shithole countries" while longing for Norwegian immigrants.SEATTLE  He cracked jokes, complimented the professional demeanor of an air traffic controller and apologized for making a fuss.

But the friendly tone of a 29-year-old airport worker who stole a commercial plane Friday night, performing acrobatic stunts before the fatal plunge into a thick island forest, belied his desperate actions.

I think Im going to try to do a barrel roll, and if that goes good Ill go nose down and call it a night, Richard Russell said from the cockpit, according to a recording of his conversation with the controller.

The Pierce County Medical Examiners Office confirmed Sunday that Russell died in the fiery wreckage, but whether the crash was deliberate or accidental is one of several topics remaining for investigators.

Others include how, nearly 17 years after the Sept. 11 attack, someone can simply take a passenger plane from a major U.S. airport without authorization.

As risky as Russells move was, he could have inflicted vastly more damage had he been so inclined.

The plane was a Bombardier Q400, a turboprop that seats 76 people, owned by Horizon Air, part of Alaska Airlines. It had been parked at a cargo and maintenance area for the night after arriving from Victoria, British Columbia, earlier in the day.

Russell, a 3-year Horizon employee, worked as a ground service agent. His responsibilities included towing and pushing aircraft for takeoff and gate approach, deicing them, and handling baggage.

Authorities said its not clear whether he had ever taken flight lessons or used flight simulators, or where he gained the skills to take off. The plane didnt require a key, but it did require buttons and switches to be activated in a particular order.

His 75-minute flight during the golden twilight took him south and west, toward the Olympic Mountains. As a flight controller tried to persuade him to land, he talked of the beautiful view, and said he had a lot of people who cared about him, apologizing for what he was doing.

He said flying was a blast and that he didnt need much help: Ive played some video games before.

He also told the controller he wasnt really planning on landing the aircraft, saying he was just a broken guy.

Gene Johnson is an Associated Press writer.When I was young, my parents and teachers taught me to respect authority, men and women in uniform and the office of the president of the United States. I can truthfully say I have lived up to their teachings. But how does one respect a president who lies incessantly to the people he has taken an oath to serve and protect? It has been reported that the president has lied or twisted the facts thousands of times since hes been in office. So as you Trumpers continue your fake news or CNN sucks chants, just remember, the media didnt make this buffoon of a president lie; his lack of character did.BART trains headed west (and south) on the Antioch-San Francisco line, specifically trains headed to San Francisco airport, Millbrae and Daly City, are experiencing a 10-minute delay due to police activity. The situation is expected to ease shortly, according to BART.





Copyright  2018 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited.SANTA CLARA (BCN)



The public agency that owns Levi's Stadium has won a legal victory in its dispute with the San Francisco 49ers over the team's rent, the city said in a news release.



An arbiter last week denied the 49ers' request to reduce their annual rent by $4.25 million. Instead, the team's rent will increase by $238,000 to $24.7 million, according to the Santa Clara Stadium Authority.



In March 2016, the 49ers requested the rent reduction to $20.25 million per year. The City Council unanimously refused the reduction, and the 49ers filed for arbitration.



The city said the decision will allow it to maintain its accelerated pace of paying down the stadium's debt. The Stadium Authority also will receive back pay for rental payments owed and attorneys' fees and costs.



"With the success of the City Council (acting as the Stadium Authority) and the new city administration, there is a new balance of power that puts the taxpayers and their representatives in charge," Santa Clara Mayor Lisa M. Gillmor said in the release.



"Unfortunately, the 49ers have a record of withholding documents and payments from the Stadium Authority. ... On behalf of the Stadium Authority board, we will work to ensure timely payments of these public funds owed to the Stadium Authority and continue to hold the 49ers accountable to the public and Stadium Authority for issues important to Santa Clara."



Representatives for the 49ers could not be immediately reached for comment.





Copyright  2018 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited.One person suffered minor injuries Saturday night when a small plane landed in the westbound lanes on Interstate 580 near the 164th Street in the Ashland neighborhood of unincorporated Alameda County just west of Castro Valley, authorities reported.



The single-engine Cessna 172, headed for the Hayward Executive Airport, was about five miles from the airport when it made an emergency landing on the freeway about 6:45 p.m. Saturday after the pilot reported a rough-running engine, said Ian Gregor, a Federal Aviation Administration Pacific Division spokesman, said in an email. The plane's registered owner is Fly Fe LLC, based in Reno.



The plane was not damaged, nor did it hit any vehicles on the freeway. The plane was eventually moved to the freeway shoulder.



There were two people in the plane, said CHP Officer James Evans, and one of them reported a "complaint of pain."



Gregor said the FAA would investigate why the plane was forced to land.







The San Francisco Municipal Transportation has received clearance from both Cal OSHA and the San Francisco Police Department to resume work on the Twin Peaks Tunnel Project, after the death Friday afternoon of a signal technician struck by a falling steel beam inside the tunnel.



"We have taken extra precaution to ensure the tunnel is safe before returning workers to the project," said Ed Reiskin, SFMTA's director of transportation, said in a statement Saturday. "We feel confident that the contractor, under the SFMTA's oversight, has done everything possible to ensure construction can proceed safely."



The construction worker, 51-year-old Patrick Ricketts of Williams, in Colusa County, was hit by the beam about 4:30 p.m. Friday near the West Portal end of the tunnel, according to the SFMTA. He died at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital. Ricketts was an employee of Oakland-based Shimmick Construction.







One person died in a shooting early Saturday morning in Oakland's Fruitvale District, police said.



The victim, who was not identified, was shot shortly after 2 a.m. in the 4400 block of International Boulevard. Another person at the scene had also been hit by gunfire and was listed in stable condition, according to police.



No arrests have been made, authorities said.







Authorities seized a large amount of marijuana and dismantled a potentially hazardous drug lab located in a woodsy residential area of Aptos, according to the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office.



Deputies discovered the operation about 11:30 p.m. Thursday, after getting reports of a suspicious vehicle being loaded with bags of marijuana near the 1000 block of Cathedral Drive.



After obtaining a search warrant on Friday, detectives located an extensive butane honey oil operation in a pop-up garage, along with 3,000 pounds of loose marijuana, eight firearms, gun parts and cash. In addition, 25 pounds of processed butane honey oil was found, officials said.



"This was a dangerous drug lab that was set up in a residential neighborhood in a heavily wooded area," Santa Cruz Sheriff Jim Hart said in a news release.



Because of the potential fire hazard of dismantling the lab, a highly trained private company was found to safely dismantle the operation, limiting the risk of fire or explosion, Hart said.



Two Aptos men, ages 24 and 25, have been identified as suspects but had not been arrested by Saturday night.







Three people were wounded Friday night in Richmond, in what police believe could be a gang shooting, authorities said.



When officers responded about 10 p.m. Friday to a Shot Spotter alert in the 1000 block of 13th Street, they found a man inside a car with critical injuries, Richmond police Lt. Felix Tan said.



Another shooting victim, a woman, was found standing next to the car with serious injuries. A third victim from the shooting walked into a hospital, also with serious injuries, Tan said.



All three victims were taken to a trauma center.



"At this early stage of the investigation, the shooting appears to be a targeted incident with possible gang affiliation," Tan said in a news release.



No suspects have been named or arrested. Anyone with information is asked to call Richmond police Detective Decious at (510) 621-1747.







About 2,000 people turned out for a Rosie the Riveter rally in Richmond Saturday, many of them sporting the distinctive red-and-white bandannas and coveralls of the iconic but fictional World War II factory worker.



The "Rosies" challenged stereotypical ideas of so-called "men's work" as they welded, riveted, hammered and sawed in jobs at shipyards and factories while men fought overseas. Richmond's shipyard turned out more ships than any other in the country.



In 2015 and 2016, the Guinness world record for the largest gathering of people dressed as Rosie the Riveter went to Richmond's Rosie the Riveter Historical Park, where Saturday's gathering was held.



However, this year the park didn't try to compete. Instead, the event featured a homefront history hike led by Karen Buchanan, a Richmond History Museum board member; a speech by Mayor Tom Butt; hundreds of men, women and children in the trademark Rosie outfit; and a moving tribute to 31 women at the event who were original Rosies.



"We read the names of the original Rosies, and everyone gave them a hand," said Tom Leatherman of the National Park Service. "There were women here ranging in age from 89 to 103."







A "neighborhood block party" for the opening of the Salesforce Transit Center in downtown San Francisco drew a near-capacity crowd Saturday afternoon, one day ahead of the start of AC Transit bus service from the new facility today.



That comes ahead of Monday's planned transfer of all 27 of AC Transit's transbay bus routes connecting San Francisco with various Alameda County points. Those lines will quit using the "Transbay Temporary Terminal" nearby in favor of the new center's Bus Deck.



In addition to AC Transit buses, the new terminal will serve WestCAT (west Contra Costa County), Greyhound and Amtrak Thruway buses and MUNI buses serving San Francisco. Eventually, Caltrain's terminal will move north to the new center from its current Fourth and King Street station, and California High-Speed Rail trains would also terminate there.



The new million-square-foot center takes up four city blocks and has four stories above ground and two below. It features a 5.4-acre rooftop public park with year-round activities and 100,000 square feet of retail space (leases have been signed for half of the center's retail spaces, according to a statement from the Transbay Joint Powers Authority, which operates the center)





Copyright  2018 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited.The crowd control barriers are part of new security measures the city is taking at all city parades. Gina Moga, special events manager, wrote in a memo to the mayor and aldermen that the city used the rented fencing during the citys first two parades of the year on a trial basis.Men crash Maxima into Gold Coast store, take purses and other items before fleeing in Audi, police say.

Gold Coast store robbed after car crashes into itChoosing from the variety of lunch and dessert options could be difficult. Be warned though, the portions are plentiful. The delis regular sandwich is the Overstuffed, and it lives up to its name. For less meat, order the Half Stuffed. The extra hungry can test their will powers with the Big Macher quadruple decker. The $30 sandwich features corned beef, pastrami, grilled salami steak, Schmacon, creamy slaw, Swiss cheese and Russian dressing on five slices of Jewish rye bread. Those who finish the sandwich on their own are rewarded with a Schmaltz t-shirt.Q: My wife and I booked air travel through Expedia from Boston to Madrid via Dublin on Aer Lingus. The airline canceled our outbound flight because of weather in Dublin. Neither Expedia nor Aer Lingus notified us of the cancellation (each claims this was the responsibility of the other party).

When we arrived at the Logan Airport in Boston and learned that the flight was canceled, Aer Lingus put us on a direct flight from Boston to Madrid scheduled to depart the next day. However, the airline also canceled that flight because of weather in Boston.

We decided not to go on the trip because we could not get to Madrid in time for some important events. We asked Expedia for a refund.

It has been nearly eight weeks since the original flight was due to depart. We have had 10 phone calls with Expedia and have spent more than 20 hours on the phone. Expedia representatives have told us multiple times that we would get a refund, but this has not happened.

Aer Lingus told us that it gave Expedia waiver codes for the refund the day of our flight, but every time we call Expedia, the company tells us it must call the airline, and then it tells us to wait seven business days. Expedia has done nothing but repeatedly lie to us. Aer Lingus claims no responsibility whatsoever because we booked through a third party.

It has become apparent that Expedia will ignore us until we give up. We will not give up. We want a refund for the air travel. We also believe that if Aer Lingus or Expedia had notified us about the canceled outbound flight, we would have canceled our hotel reservations in time to avoid paying a penalty.

Jeffrey Saffitz, Waban, Mass.

A: You should have your refund by now. Instead, you have excuses about waiver codes and empty promises about refunds.

Heres how it should work: When an airline cancels your flight, you can either accept a rescheduled flight or a full, no-questions-asked refund. The Department of Transportation regulates these refunds; they must be made within seven business days.

As your online travel agent, Expedia is responsible for retrieving that money. The part about waiver codes is nonsense. Expedia shouldnt draw you into the internal workings of a refund  it should just retrieve the money for you.

Contacting the right customer-service executive by email might have helped. I list the names, numbers and emails of the Expedia customer-service managers on my site: www.elliott.org/company-contacts/expedia/.

I notice that you spent a lot of time on the phone with Expedia. Phone calls are great for real-time problems, like being stuck at the airport with a canceled flight and needing a fast rebooking. But on a refund case like yours, youll want to keep everything in writing. Itll save you time and hassle. And remember, you can always forward your paper trail to an executive  or to a consumer advocate.

I contacted Expedia on your behalf. It confirmed that the refund would come from Aer Lingus, and was en route. Aer Lingus issues refunds within eight weeks, according to my Expedia contact. Thats way too long. It can take your money in less than eight seconds when youre paying by credit card.

Weve apologized for the delay they experienced while we attempted to process this refund with the airline, and regret any inconvenience it caused them, an Expedia representative told me. A full refund for the flight and hotel is coming Mr. Saffitzs way.

Christopher Elliott is the ombudsman for National Geographic Traveler magazine. Find travel tips at www.elliott.org. Email: chris@elliott.org Twitter: @elliottdotorgBEIRUT  An explosion in northern Syria killed at least 36 people Sunday and wounded many others, but the cause of the blast wasnt immediately known, opposition activists said.

The opposition-run Syrian Civil Defense, first responders also known as the White Helmets, said the blast occurred in the village of Sarmada near the Turkish border, killing 36 people and wounding many others. The explosion collapsed two five-story buildings, burying many of the victims, it said.

An opposition media collective known as the Smart news agency, said the dead included civilians as well as members of the al Qaeda-linked Levant Liberation Committee.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitoring group said an arms depot in the basement of a building had detonated. It said the depot was run by an arms dealer close to the Levant Liberation Committee.

Meanwhile, Syrian government forces fighting rebels in Idlib province have sent more reinforcements ahead of a potential offensive on the last major rebel stronghold in Syria.

The pro-government Al-Watan daily said Sunday that huge military reinforcements have reached the outskirts of Idlib province as a preliminary step to launch a wide-scale offensive.

Quoting military sources, the paper said troops have reached the northern countryside of the neighboring Hama province as part of preparations to recapture Idlib province.

The expected offensive on Idlib comes after government forces captured major rebel strongholds earlier this year near the capital Damascus and in the southern provinces of Daraa and Quneitra.

The paper said the battle would be comprehensive starting from Hamas northern countryside to the southern countryside of Aleppo, adding that the target of the battle is to seize the city of Idlib.

Government air strikes on the province on Friday killed dozens.

Pro-government activists said on social media that the elite Tiger Force, led by Brig. Gen. Suheil al-Hassan, arrived in northern Syria to spearhead what they called the Dawn of Idlib operation.

Fears have been building for days of the government offensive against the last major bastion for the opposition. U.N. agencies have warned a campaign to capture Idlib would aggravate an already dire humanitarian situation.

Food, water and medicine are already in short supply in the largely rural province, which is now home to over 1 million Syrians displaced from their homes by government offensives in other parts of the country, said UNICEF, the U.N. childrens agency.

Some 350,000 children, many already living in refugee camps, are at risk of displacement in the event of war, said the agency.

The UNICEF statement said that across Idlib there are more than 1 million children: exhausted of war, fearful of uncertainty, violence and further displacement.

Syrias government dropped leaflets across the province Thursday, urging residents to reconcile with its rule.KABUL  Afghan government forces lost more than 200 officers and soldiers in fighting over the past three days as Taliban insurgents launched sustained attacks on four different fronts.

The hardest-hit area was the southeastern city of Ghazni, where more than 100 police officers and soldiers had been killed by Sunday, a hospital official said, and the insurgents appeared to be in control of most of the strategic city aside from a few important government facilities.

Ninety miles west, in Ghazni province, the Taliban seized control of the Ajristan district, and the elite army commando unit that had been defending the district disappeared for two days and their superiors were uncertain of their fate. When they found out Sunday, estimates of the dead ranged from 40 to 100. Twenty-two survivors were carried to safety on donkeys by rescuers who found them lost in the mountains.

In Faryab province, 250 miles to the northwest, an isolated Afghan National Army base of 100 soldiers lost more than half of its men in a Taliban assault that ended early Sunday. The defenders said they did not expect to last another night.

And 275 miles east of the Faryab base, in northern Baghlan province, insurgents killed seven policemen and nine soldiers and captured three other soldiers Saturday.

The fighting demonstrated that the insurgents had a capacity for carrying out ambitious operations on multiple fronts, while the government struggled to respond on a single front in Ghazni.

Baz Mohammad Hemat, director of the Ghazni Hospital, said by telephone that 113 bodies had been taken to the hospital, along with 142 people who had been wounded, most of them in uniform.

Were running out of hospital rooms; we are using corridors and available space everywhere, Hemat said. Fighting is quite close to the hospital. The situation is really bad here.

The death toll appeared sure to rise, with numerous reports of bodies left around the city. The fall of Ghazni, if it happens, would be the Talibans most important victory yet, as the city is on the main north-south highway, and its capture would effectively cut off the capital, Kabul, and the north from the insurgents Pashtun homeland in the south.

Col. Farid Ahmad Mashal, Ghaznis police chief, said reinforcements, including U.S. troops, were beginning to clear the Taliban from the city. And the government in Kabul continued to insist that they were in full control of Ghazni. Video posted on social media sites, however, showed insurgents strolling casually around the city.

Rod Nordland, Fahim Abed and Mujib Mashal are New York Times writers.STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- It's another weekend on the Staten Island social circuit, and this time during these "dog days of summer" we found ourselves in Blue, the popular, upscale, American and Mediterranean dining spot in Livingston, where the bird's eye harbor view of the Kill van Kull is truly breathtaking.

And whoever said Staten Island is a ghost town on weekends during summer months, probably never dined at Blue -- where every table was filled.

"Blue welcomes you with warm and friendly staff and serves up some amazing food selections," says Jeff Caravella, the general manager of Blue, Bayou in Rosebank and Beso in St. George -- the restaurants with the three Bs -- where the masterful, Julian Gaxholli sits at the helm.

*For a glimpse of the good times click on the #SINightlife gallery above.*

Caravella invites all to "Come and experience our unique outdoor dining offerings and enjoy a relaxing evening by the water," a panoramic view and a main draw for couples indulging in a quiet romantic dinner or for youngsters who enjoy watching the many crafts traveling its waters.

Blue's two scenic outdoor seating areas continue to remain a popular feature, including one alongside an ornamental train rail.

Interestingly, the property was developed back in April of 1986 when Peter Roskowinski and Ray Heffernan, owners of the former R.H. Tugs purchased an abandoned building that had existed as an American Legion Post.

After an extensive renovation intended to recapture its original appearance, the eatery was refurbished with tones of rich cherry mahogany and characterized with etched glass, overhead lighting, and a tin ceiling, all of which appear to be original.

A little about Gaxholli and Blue

A native of Tirana, Albania, Gaxholli was former executive chef at Adobe Blues, back when it was owned by Jim Stayoch and Ken Tirado. FYI: Tirado's now proprietor of Killmeyer's Old Bavaria Inn.

Mediterranean cuisine reigns: The region spans a wide variety of cultures with distinct cuisines -- cultures adjacent to the Mediterranean Sea, where there are a number of common elements shared in their food.

From Portuguese Octopus and Burrata to Baby Back Ribs and Thai Calamari to Rib Eye Steak and Alaskan Halibut and Duck, -- clam bakes and brunches and then some -- Gaxholli never disappoints.

Desserts include the unusual: Nutella Wontons, Oreo Crusted Cheesecake and Yogurt with Agave honey, almonds and fresh fruits.

Gaxholli's warm and welcoming bar area and dining room accented with Gothic-style windows and arches -- make for a unique interior decor, where old world charm meets contemporary creativity.

Exotic summer drinks

Fun and fresh summer cocktails like Strawberry Lemonade Martini, Mexican Samarais and Watermelon Mojitos, are just a few of the hand crafted, high end martinis created by bar servers Benny Youssef and Karina Pineda.

Peter Dexatimer, a diner who agreed to a photo op along with his wife, Karen, told us:

"Blue is a very unique restaurant that was successful from the first day. The staffers are wonderful and the genius of Julian is amazing. He has to be to maintain three different restaurants. And the bartenders here are the best."STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- People come from as far as England to as close as St. Mark's Place to visit Hypno-Tronic Comics in St. George to browse its unique stock of collectable items.

Even though the shop, which is located directly across from the Staten Island Ferry Terminal, often attracts tourists, its owners, Joy Ghigliotti and Ed Varuolo, are among seven businesses in St. George that have banded together to launch a marketing campaign.

Their hope is to attract the millions of tourists who are expected to soon be venturing to the borough when Empire Outlets opens in the fall.

They've developed "Shop Local" rack cards to be distributed at the Ferry Terminal and other local venues.

"The brave tourists venture out of the terminal now, but we want more to come," said Varuolo. "We are putting the rack cards out anywhere where there are people who are not familiar with this area."

The NY Wheel and Empire Outlets have been estimated to bring millions more tourists to the borough. However, delays of both projects have left local merchants anxiously waiting for the tourist boom to happen.

"They are two years late," said Varuolo. "We just wish it [Empire Outlets and the NY Wheel] were open by now. We expect the traffic to increase as far as people getting off the ferry when they are open. Right now, 99 of every 100 tourists just get right back on the boat. ...We want to give them a reason to get off the boat."

The brainchild of the rack card is Lorie Honor, who owns Honor Wines in St. George with her husband, Robert.

"The card isn't just to show people where to find us, it is to let people know that we, in the small business community in St. George, are connected and care about supporting each other," she said.

"Everyone wants small businesses to thrive and in order to do that you have to shop with them. ... The area makes it really inconvenient for customers to shop with us. It's congested. There's construction. There are closures. It's almost like the system wants us to fail. But we don't. We do well because our customers care about the area. They care about having shops with character and characters," Honor added.

Other businesses advertising on the rack card are: The Gavel Grill, Steiny's Pub, Chang Noi, St. George Pharmacy, and Fork & Grooves.

PROJECT UPDATES

Initially set to open in 2016, the Empire Outlets project had been pushed back to Black Friday 2017 to coincide with the New York Wheel opening. But that project became riddled with contractor disputes and lawsuits, and has been stalled for more than the last year.

BFC Partners later pushed the opening date to fall 2018, and blamed the delay, in part, to too much interest in the project from retailers.

In May of this year, the Wheel was given 120 days to get the project to build a 630-foot-high observation wheel on the St. George waterfront back on track after it was derailed in May 2017. That's when its former contractor walked off the job and was subsequently fired.

The agreement was hashed out in May, and spokespeople for the NY Wheel said they can't comment as to whether they are close to hiring a new contractor to finish the project.

FOLLOW TRACEY PORPORA ON FACEBOOK and TWITTERSTATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A single ticket sold in New York state won Saturday's Powerball jackpot worth $245.6 million, lottery officials announced early Sunday.

But, Larry Diantonio, the manager of the Stop & Shop that sold the winning ticket, located at 2754 Hylan Boulevard in New Dorp, did not hear about the news until he came in for work this morning.

Diantonio said that he saw "two news trucks in the lot," and initially "got a little nervous."

"I didn't know what to expect," he said.

When he introduced himself, the individuals waiting in his lot said, "You didn't hear it in the news?"

"And then I got even more nervous," Diantonio said.

However, once Diantonio learned that the attention was due to the winning lottery ticket being sold at his store, he said that he immediately "got excited."

"My heart started fluttering," he said.

"Unfortunately," Diantonio joked, "I didn't buy a ticket."

Despite not netting the big payday, Diantonio said, "It was exciting just being a part of it."

When asked about the potential winner, Diantonio said that he hopes it was one of his regular customers, a Staten Islander or even one of his associates.

"Because, working in the store, we have a lot of regulars in here," Diantonio said. "I look at it as they're an extension of my family."

While no one has claimed the winnings as of Sunday afternoon, Diantonio said that he feels that selling the winning ticket "will be good for business."

"People might think it's a lucky place to buy a ticket," he said, though he also acknowledged that "some people may say, 'how many times does lightning strike in the same place?'"

Diantonio, who has been working at the Stop & Shop for over a year, said that the store occasionally sells tickets that earn "one-hundred or two-hundred dollars," but noted that the potential lump sum payment before taxes of approximately $147 million was truly substantial.

"It was a good feeling" to sell the winning ticket, he added. "Hopefully," Diantonio said with a smile, "whoever wins... they will spend some of their winnings in my store."

Because there was a jackpot winner, the amount resets to $40 million for next Wednesday's drawing.

The last big payout occurred when a single winning ticket worth $150.4 million sold in Oregon won on June 21.

Powerball is held in 44 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

A $2 ticket gives you a one in 292.2 million chance at joining the hall of Powerball champions.

The drawings are held at 10:59 p.m. Eastern Wednesdays and Saturdays. Deadline to purchase tickets is 9:45 p.m.

Here are Saturday's winning numbers:

05-43-56-62-68, Powerball: 24, PowerPlay: 2xSTATEN ISLAND, N.Y. - Borough police officers received specialized training to detect when a motorist is driving under the influence of opioids, but what about marijuana?

So far, nine states and the District of Columbia have legalized weed for recreational use, and experts are predicting that New Jersey, which is connected to Staten Island by three bridges, will be the 10th state.

Additionally, Gov. Andrew Cuomo is considering what legalizing recreational marijuana would mean for New York State; he proposed funding an advisory panel in his 2018 budget plan and the state Health Department released a 75-page report listing the pros and cons of legalization.

As a result of the influx of legal marijuana -- and the existing marijuana black market -- law enforcement is looking for way to detect driver impairment.

"People who are high on opioids, our officers can recognize that... marijuana is a little more challenging," NYPD Borough Commander Kenneth Corey told the Advance.

"There is no standard, or effective way to measure how high you are... the law hasn't in that area caught up," he added.

States like California have begun field-testing a marijuana breathalyzer, which, unlike fluid tests that detect marijuana weeks after it has been smoked, detects whether a person has smoked within the last two hours, which is considered to be the peak impairment timeframe.

COULD STATEN ISLAND GET A BREATHALYZER?

An NYPD spokesperson said the NYPD is not currently using breathalyzers to detect marijuana impairment in motorists.

The spokesperson did not respond when asked if the department is considering using a breathalyzer to detect marijuana impairment in the future.

Louisa Ashford, marketing manager at Hound Labs, the company that created the device being field tested in California and other states, said the company is unable to disclose what police departments it is working with.

The state Department of Health's (DOH) report states that there is currently no roadside breathalyzer for roadside testing.

"While a breathalyzer for THC may be in development, there is currently no technology for determining impairment. Law enforcement expressed concern about launching a legal program hoping that technology will catch up," the report stated.

The district attorney's office declined to comment on how a weed breathalyzer would assist in prosecution for driving under the influence.

DETECTING MARIJUANA

It doesn't matter if you're an everyday smoker or an occasional smoker, levels of THC - or tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive property of cannabis - in breath are the same, though frequent smokers will have a baseline of THC in their breath, testing shows.

For this reason, some devices have a baseline so measurements will not trigger a positive result.

THC is still detectable in breath even if a user has consumed an edible, however, it takes approximately one hour because the THC must first pass through the gut and liver. Some reports state that THC in breath after consuming edibles lasts longer than smoking.

MORE ACCIDENTS?

"A study comparing motor vehicle-related fatalities in Washington and Colorado to eight similar states found that three years after marijuana legalization, changes in motor vehicle fatality rates were not statistically different from those in similar states without regulated marijuana," the report said.

However, there has been an increased number of crashes reported, according to a pair of national studies released earlier this year.

Research presented to Congress in July by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration showed participants who used marijuana drove slower, followed farther behind cars in front of them and took fewer risks than when they were sober, according to the study.STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A 44-year-old man stands accused of selling drugs from a car in Willowbrook last Saturday.

Bail has been set at $75,000 for Robert Daniels, 44, of Lisk Avenue in Mariners Harbor, according to public records.

Daniels allegedly was spotted by police removing heroin from the center console of his car and handing it off to another man in exchange for cash on Aug. 4 at about 4 p.m. at the corner of Victory Boulevard and Willowbrook Road, according to the criminal complaint.

In the center console, police allegedly found 20 teal and nine white glassine envelopes of heroin plus 10 plastic bags of cocaine, according to the criminal complaint.

The suspect has been charged with criminal sale of a controlled substance and criminal possession of a controlled substance, the criminal complaint said.

He is due to appear in Supreme Court on Thursday, based on public records.PROVISIONAL GOVERNMENT OF KABYLIA

MOVEMENT FOR THE SELF-DETERMINATION OF KABYLIA

MAK-ANAVAD UK COORDINATION



Yuva n Tala Hemmu is one of the rare Kabylian successful businessmen in South Africa. He has lived near Pretoria for more than 14 years and travels a lot around the world to meet the demand of his company and training business strategy.

On the 21 may 2018, Yuva felt it was time to renew his passport because it looked a little worn and some pages were damaged. He sent his passport form for renewal to the Algerian Embassy and paid (R4135) $ 380 for administrative services.

After 2 months, Yuva still has not received his new passport and he decided to take a trip to the embassy to see what was happening.

He was introduced to the passport office and the Attache at the Algerian Consulate received him politely but firmly informed him that he was sorry and unable to renew his passport and without any reason.

Any refusal to issue a passport must be notified in writing to the person concerned.

Yuva N Tala Hemmu is a Kabylian peaceful activist since a young age.

Yuva is not a terrorist.

Yuva is not a drug dealer.

Yuva is an honest man who works hard.

It is outrageous that Yuva was deprived by the Algerian constitution to travel freely to his country, whereas in the last 14 years he has traveled to his country and to the world without any problem.

It is clear that these practices are linked to his political activities and the defense of human rights, which he continues to assume as a free citizen by duty.

This apartheid algerian regime of terminally ill government must understand once and for all that the reign of fear and repression has disappeared forever. There are still free men and women who rise up against tyranny and who know how to say no to injustice, as they did in the past.

Yuva will extort his rights independently of the repressive means used against him and he continues his fight for the Kabylia independence of all and without exclusion.

We strongly and vigorously condemn Yuvas treatment and call for national and international public opinion and all independent NGOs to denounce these laudable acts  worthy of the banana republics  against the individual freedoms of the Kabylians oppressed by this illegitimate regime.

London, August 12th, 2018

Peter Tan

MAK-Anavad United Kingdom

SIWEL 122000 AOU 18Ryan acknowledged county officials last month approved a zoning change for a parcel of land for government use at the request of the property owner. But he said there are no current applications with the county for any type of development there.To continue, please log in, or sign up for a new account.

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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!Would you like to put your savings in a super scheme presently reserved for public servants? Would you like your bank account or mortgage to be with the Reserve Bank?

Impossible to imagine such a crazy idea? Well, thats what the Productivity Commission thinks, but its neither as impossible nor as crazy as it may sound.

Would you like to do your personal banking through the RBA? Credit:Louie Douvis

Everyone says they believe in innovation, but when were used to thinking and doing things one way and some bright spark argues we should be doing it the opposite way, theyre more likely to be dismissed than grappled with.

And our econocrats are no more receptive to innovative ideas than the rest of us, it seems.GPT Group has signed a heads of agreement with the insurer QBE to be the anchor tenant for its new $300 million office tower at Parramatta, the country's fastest growing CBD.

The suburb has close to $10 billion of new development, including a $6 billion civic square. GPT joins Lang Walker, Charter Hall and Dexus who are all developing a swath of new towers for tenants like KPMG, Western Sydney University and various government departments.

Renders for the GPT office development at 32 Smith Street, Parramatta

GPT declined to comment on the tenant, but leasing agents said QBE has been looking west for a new corporate office.

Located at 32 Smith Street, the 26,000 square metre tower will feature a ground-level 'urban room' event space, an elevated podium terrace facing the Parramatta river, and a car park that can be converted into office space in the future.Santos chief executives Kevin Gallagher and Keith Spence may soon be hailed as heroes by shareholders as their decision to reject a takeover pays off.

The oil and gas companys gamble earlier this year to reject a $14.5 billion acquisition in favour of internal growth is working.

Santos CEO Kevin Gallagher decision to reject Harbour Energy's takeover offer had the market questioning whether it had made the choice. Credit:Ben Searcy

The market expects Santos' value to soon exceed the takeover bid - its share price has shot up more than 200 per cent in the space of 12 months, driven by a rising oil price and the recent, failed, takeover offer by a US private equity firm.The Turnbull government's much-debated National Energy Guarantee will fail to lift energy investors' confidence even if gets approval and goes ahead, leading industrial analyst IBISWorld says.

The global analysis firm said the final NEG decision, due Tuesday and Wednesday this week, will lock in energy and climate policy mechanisms that will ultimately dissuade investment.

The Coalition claims the NEG will remove uncertainty, but IBISWorld said ongoing debates in the energy industry and action by activists will stop it achieving these aims.

IBISWorld believes that the NEG will fail to provide investor certainty. Credit:Andrew Taylor

Its ratification by parliament would do little to improve investor confidence because it failed to deal with years of conflict around climate policy."For a very long time the last place that I've wanted to be is in parliament," he said. "I saw that running a case for someone who has been unfairly sacked... or who isn't getting their fair share of income, is a social good to be fighting for." But the chance to play a role in regulating the new gig economy and reforming workplace laws motivated the change. He also has full confidence in his successor, TWU Assistant Secretary and lawyer, Michael Kaine, to fill his shoes. "The ideals of transport workers can be well served," Mr Sheldon said. "I think the person coming after me will actually do a better job than I did. "It is sad to leave something I hold so dearly to my heart, but I've also got a sense of excitement about taking values that people have taught me in doing this work to parliament." A strong backer of Labor leader Bill Shorten and a former senior vice-president of the ALP, Mr Sheldon is touted as a likely candidate for a future ministry spot if the ALP wins government next year.

Former Senator Sam Dastyari, also of the NSW Right, said Mr Sheldon had potential for a rapid rise in Canberra and that "the only limiting factor will be Tony himself". "If he wants to be the freewheeling backbencher or ... the team player front bencher, Tony can do both," Dastyari said. Asked whether he wanted a seat in Cabinet, Mr Sheldon said his desire was for change and "a ministry narrows that desire to only one portfolio". Mr Sheldon wants to hold the government, including his own side of politics, accountable for expenditure and giving local industry a greater share of jobs through government procurement. "Taxpayer dollars should be working for taxpayers," he said. "We should be using that money for more Australian jobs, better training and fair competition between companies."

Mr Sheldon has also been pushing for the restoration of the Road Safety Remuneration Tribunal which the Coalition scrapped. As a union leader he has built a strong connection with owner drivers, a small business constituency. He has been leading a national push to regulate online job platforms to ensure food delivery riders get the same legal entitlements to minimum rates of pay and conditions as employees. The riders do not have access to protections under the Fair Work Act because they are classified as independent contractors and not as employees. The Transport Workers Union has launched a landmark unfair dismissal case in the Fair Work Commission on behalf of former Foodora food delivery rider, Josh Klooger. Josh Klooger is claiming he was unfairly dismissed as a food delivery rider in the Fair Work Commission. Credit:Eddie Jim

Mr Sheldon says he was sorry to hear Foodora announce it would exit the Australian market at the end of this month. "I'm disappointed Foodora has left town because they owe millions of dollars, in my view, for wage exploitation," he said. "They should be run out of town if they are not prepared to stand by Australian values. "I will crusade for the voiceless in those jobs making sure they have rights." Mr Sheldon is also the first to admit he is not perfect.

The Federal Court of Australia fined the TWU more than $270,000 earlier this year for failing to update its register by removing more than 20,000 non-financial members who had not paid membership fees for a continuous two-year period. The court decision followed a Fairfax Media investigation in 2013 which found the union inflated its membership numbers. The union's NSW branch at the time claimed it had nearly 41,000 members to government authorities, but Fairfax Media's analysis of the union records indicated the union had about 25,000 financial members. This gave the union up to 15 extra conferfence delegates in NSW Labor, and more clout in policy and preselections of MPs. During the Royal Commission into Union Governance and Corruption, Mr Sheldon defended the use of a slush fund and a lack of disclosure about its use, saying it helped rid the Health Services Union of corruption. He said money from the slush fund known as the McLean Foundation helped fund a successful campaign against allies of former HSU leader Michael Williamson. Mr Sheldon was also forced to defend a $7036 payment from the slush fund to his personal campaign to become national president of the ALP. He claimed he did not benefit from the failed bid to become Labor president as he had become a "target of the conservative national government". Wayne Swan said it was important for the party to be represented by people like Mr Sheldon who have dealt with the challenges faced by workers it was formed to defend.A Maori Niuean man working for a Rainbow Beach tour company was given a canister labelled Black Guy Repllent [sic] by his colleagues when he asked for sunscreen, he claims.

Mr Tupetagi says he was given this canister when he asked his employer for sunscreen.

The incident was just one alleged example of ongoing workplace racial vilification that the man, McDuff Tupetagi, is claiming forced him to take sick leave for mental distress and anxiety, and made him feel like an unwanted creature or pest.

In a statement of facts lodged in the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission this week, Mr Tupetagi said at his work he was frequently made the butt of jokes and referred to as the black fella.

Mr Tupetagi is now suing the Fraser Island tour company and two of its employees for discrimination.The theft of an empty plane by an airline worker who performed dangerous loops before crashing into a remote island in Puget Sound illustrated what aviation experts have long known: One of the biggest potential perils for commercial air travel is airline or airport employees causing mayhem.

The pilot has been identified as 29-year-old Richard Russell. Credit:AP

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"The greatest threat we have to aviation is the insider threat," said Erroll Southers, a former FBI agent and transportation security expert. "Here we have an employee who was vetted to the level to have access to the aircraft and had a skill set proficient enough to take off with that plane."

Video showed the Horizon Air Q400, a turboprop plane that seats 76 people, doing large loops and other dangerous manoeuvres as the sun set on Puget Sound. The flight lasted about 75 minutes, and ended Friday night when he crashed into the small island after being chased by military jets. The two F-15C aircraft scrambled from Portland didn't fire the plane, authorities said.Some NSW selective schools are charging non-refundable application fees of up to $100 for students seeking entry after year 7, in a practice similar to the state's most expensive private schools.

Most of the state's top selective schools, including James Ruse High School, North Sydney Girls, North Sydney Boys, St George Girls High School, Hornsby Girls High School, Girraween High School, Gosford High School, Northern Beaches Secondary College Manly Campus all charge application fees of between $30 to $100 depending on students' year groups.

NSW selective schools, including some that have no entrance test, are charging application fees of up to $100 for students applying after year 7. Credit:Steve Christo

While most selective schools require students seeking entry into year 11 to sit a test for which they charge $100, a number, including James Ruse High School, Fort Street High School and Sydney Boys High School are also charging administration fees of up to $89 for students applying for entry into years 8, 9 and 10, despite having no entrance exam.

Seven of these schools, including North Sydney Girls, Caringbah, Girraween, Hornsby Girls, St George Girls, Northern Beaches Secondary College Manly Campus, share test results and only require students to sit once and pay the fee to their first-choice school.London: V.S. Naipaul, the winner of the 2001 Nobel Prize for Literature, has died at 85, Britain's Press Association reported late on Saturday, citing a family statement.

Naipaul, whose many works revolved around the themes of colonialism and exile, died peacefully at his home in London, his wife, Nadira Naipaul, confirmed.

"He was a giant in all that he achieved and he died surrounded by those he loved having lived a life which was full of wonderful creativity and endeavour," she said in a statement.

Trinidad-born Nobel laureate V.S. Naipaul, whose celebrated writing and brittle, provocative personality drew admiration and revulsion in equal measures, died on Saturday, Credit:AP

Born to Brahmin Hindu immigrants in Trinidad in 1932, Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul also won the Booker Prize in 1971 for his novel In a Free State and was knighted by the Queen in 1990.Drapht 

Oxford Art Factory, August 10

Rap is the new rocknroll, we [are] the rock stars, declared Kanye West in 2013. The response of the young crowd at Perth rapper Draphts packed show on Friday suggests these claims could be true in Australia, too.

Australian hip-hop has been slowly developing its own unique voice over the past few decades. Still a relatively young genre, it has matured significantly and distanced itself from the trends dictated by hip-hops most popular American artists. In doing so, a distinctly Australian sound is now celebrated for its difference.

Drapht has been a stalwart member of the Aussie hip-hop scene since the release of his debut album, Pale Rider, in 2003. Critical and commercial success has followed with his four subsequent albums, including his winning the Best Urban Album ARIA award twice along the way. This tour is in support of current release Arabella Street, which is being released in two stages, its first five tracks having landed in May.Homeland, the Emmy-winning series that stars Claire Danes as a deeply conflicted CIA spy, will call it quits after the show's eighth season, due next June.

Executive producer Alex Gansa and star Claire Danes "both started talking about (ending the series) toward the end of last season," CEO David Nevins told the Television Critics Association press tour Monday. "They were resolved; it seemed like it was the right time."

Claire Danes as a deeply conflicted CIA spy. Credit:Richard Shotwell

The series has lost some steam, and next season marks the last in a three-year renewal, but it "wasn't contemplated to necessarily be the end," said Gary Levine, the premium cable network's programming chief. "At the same time, it's not fair to say that show was limping into the sunset. Last season was one of its best ever."

Homeland, which airs locally on SBS, joins The Affair, which will end after its coming fifth season, making room for newcomers like Black Monday, a comedy about the 1987 stock-market crash that stars Don Cheadle.Yass sheep farmer Rachel Allen has been handfeeding sheep for more than two months to keep them alive through the drought but now faces another problem - newborn lambs being rejected by their mothers because of the low feed.

Ms Allen said mothers rejected lambs more often in the drought so they could look after their own survival.

After losing three lambs to the cold, Ms Allen ordered 10 hand-knitted jumpers for new newborns, kitting them out last week.

Yass farmer Rachel Allen rugs up her day old lambs in hand-knitted jumpers to help them survive the winter during the drought. Credit:Karleen Minney

Ms Allen said she had just 10 bales of hay left and would then have to buy in hay, and was also buying grain. She had sold three horses to get through.The Berejiklian government plans to sell land along rail lines in Sydney's inner south to pay for a $207 million upgrade of Redfern train station, leaked documents show.

The long overdue upgrade of Sydney's sixth-busiest station is part of a much larger plan for a redevelopment of the Redfern-North Eveleigh precinct.

Sensitive government documents, obtained by the Herald, reveal the state intends to fund the station upgrade by the transfer and development of government land at North Eveleigh and Redfern.

The government owns about 12 hectares of land in the Redfern area, including the Carriageworks site at the old Eveleigh rail yards.A 31-year-old man has died after he was allegedly assaulted in Lurnea, in Sydney's south-west, on Sunday night.

Emergency services were called to a park on Morison Drive and Hill Road about 4.45pm following reports that two men were fighting.

Police found the man seriously injured and began CPR.

NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the man and took him to Liverpool Hospital, where he died.Daphne Regina Diomedes, of Rose Bay, was a woman in a hurry: between 2014 and 2015 she racked up a string of fines for speeding and illegal parking around Sydney's inner west.

But an ICAC inquiry has heard Ms Diomedes was a fictitious person "created out of thin air".

Her driver's licence and European passport both bore the photograph of lawyer Despina Bakis, the long time partner of disgraced former assistant tax commissioner Nick Petroulias.

A Tasmanian drivers licence featuring Despina Bakis's face under the name 'Diomedes Daphne Regina' tendered at ICAC. Credit:ICAC

The Herald can publish the alias after a failed bid to suppress the evidence, on the grounds it could interfere with a separate court case in which Mr Petroulias is alleged to have been in possession of identification information with the intention of committing fraud.Towers of concrete and glass are among buildings that will be saved from the wrecking ball under a City of Sydney council plan to preserve some of its most prominent modernist architecture.

The council is proposing to heritage list office blocks, a church and playground sculpture as examples of Modern Movement design that should be protected from the city's development rush.

The MLC Centre in Martin Place is one of Sydney's most prominent examples of Modern Movement design.

Among them is the MLC Centre in Martin Place and the former Sydney County Council building on George Street, as well as the brutalist buildings of Town Hall House and the Sydney Masonic Centre.

The proposal also takes in lesser known examples including St Peter Julians Catholic Church and Monastery in Haymarket and Anita Aaron's Earth Mother play sculpture in Cook and Phillip Park.A motorcyclist has been taken to hospital in a serious condition after he came off his bike in a multi-vehicle pile-up heading southbound on the Bruce Highway near the Pine River Bridge at Bald Hills.

The Australian Traffic Network is reporting at least one car may have crossed the motorway into oncoming traffic, leaving one person trapped in a car.

Motorcyclist in serious condition after multi-vehicle pile-up on the southbound lanes of the Bruce Highway. Credit:Facebook/Lauren Paige Bedding

It is understood up to four cars were caught up in the accident.

Two southbound lanes were closed off leaving just one open, and tailbacks were stretching 12 kilometres from the accident site back to Burpengarry as vehicles move slowly past the crash scene.Residents south-west of Brisbane have been told to prepare to leave their homes as firefighters and water-bombing aircraft battle to contain a grassfire on Sunday.

The Queensland Fire and Emergency Service issued an initial warning about 12.45pm for the fire in Mutdapilly, about 20 kilometres south-west of Ipswich, and released an update at 2.40pm.

A helicopter and Rural Fire Service trucks were battling the fire, but QFES warned "conditions could get worse".

"A large and fast-moving grass fire is burning near Mutdapilly Dip Road, Gimples Road, Mutdapilly Churchbank Weir Road and G Hines Road," a QFES statement said.Six Queensland prison officers have been attacked by inmates in four days during the past week and a correctional centre where one of the assaults occurred told staff the day after the violence that the population would increase by more than 50 prisoners.

The union has blamed the attacks on overcrowding as well as a lack of investment from the state government. LNP leader Deb Frecklington said she agreed with the union's comments that the Palaszczuk government was struggling to cope with inmate numbers.

Corrective Services Minister Mark Ryan said an ongoing review aimed to ensure prison officers had adequate training and equipment, all frontline staff should be equipped with load-bearing vests by the end of the year, and significant investment was being made to address overcrowding.

The officers were assaulted at Woodford Correctional Centre and Borallon Correctional Centre during the past week. Credit:Greg Henderson Photography

Queensland Corrective Services confirmed the attacks started on Tuesday, when two officers were assaulted at Woodford Correctional Centre, north of Brisbane.Perfectly healthy, prize-winning horse Chautauqua is refusing to race and pundits are perplexed. A dapple grey horse, the proverb goes, will sooner die than retire. Not so this eight-year-old gelding.

Sometimes a simple act of defiance brings home the absurdity of relatively unquestioned conventions, like  for instance  forcing animals to perform for sport.

Going nowhere: Chautauqua is clearly one of the worlds most ideologically astute and politically active horses. Credit:Amanda Wood

At best, Chautauqua, clearly one of the worlds most ideologically astute and politically active horses, will be put to pasture. At best. And he is described as troublesome?

On a range of issues, recent acts of lone defiance  horse and human alike  are pricking public consciousness of previously accepted, even undetected, political and societal practices.Resources companies including Adani are targeting school students in a campaign to spruik the benefits of mining and recruit future workers, in a strategy some say risks pushing a biased agenda onto young minds.

The programs in primary and high schools include teacher training and free curriculum material, such as a fact sheet on mining and the environment that fails to mention climate change.

Students in NSW's upper Hunter region tour the Mount Thorley Warkworth mine. Credit:NSW Mining

The resources sector says it is informing students and teachers about mining careers, encouraging the uptake of maths and science subjects and presenting a "balanced perspective" on mining.

The industry is grappling with a looming skills shortage as young people turn away from the resources sector following the end of the mining boom.NSW Labor is refusing to say if it will launch an investigation into the leaking of a detailed dossier of allegations against Labor MP Emma Husar, who was the subject of 44 claims of inappropriate behaviour by her staff.

Ms Husar was cleared on Friday of the most salacious of those allegations, which claimed that she had sexually harassed a staff member and adopted a sexually provocative pose in the office of fellow MP Jason Clare.

Emma Husar announced she would not recontest her marginal seat of Lindsay at the next election. Credit:Louie Douvis

However the Labor inquiry, led by barrister John Whelan for the NSW branch of the party, found that other allegations of staff being ordered to carry out non-work-related duties for the MP and that she had subjected them to unreasonable management, including unreasonable communication, demands, practices and disciplinary methods did have merit.

The full list of 44 allegations, including the one about conduct in Mr Clares office, was leaked to Buzzfeed on August 2 well before Mr Whelan had reported, and speculation is rife in Labor circles about who authorised the leak, and what it was designed to achieve.The Australian Defence Forces elite SAS troops are bound by the same rules of armed conflict as other soldiers despite their unique role in the battlefield, a former head of the Defence Department says.

Paul Barratt, who headed Defence in the late 1990s, told the Herald that the SAS is a very important part of our military capability and its very important that everyone has confidence in the way they operate. Its also very important to us as an international citizen that we abide by the laws of armed conflict.

No one is perfect, no country is perfect, but when something goes wrong, we need to be seen to be dealing with it with due dispatch and due care, he said.

Mr Barratts comments come in the wake of an investigation by Fairfax Media into the behaviour of a small minority of Special Forces members in Afghanistan between 2001 and 2013, with allegations ranging from skylarking, excessive drinking, bullying and intimidation through to alleged war crimes.In the 60 years since its inception, SASR has been subject to numerous reviews and culture studies, none more testing than the current defence force Inspector-Generals inquiry into rumours of excessive behaviour in Afghanistan.

The culture of independence that imbues the SASR can be a virtue as well as a command nightmare. The who dares wins ethos to operate with agility and freedom is a defining characteristic. Big Boys Rules they call it when stretching the budget to rent a Porsche or treat visiting elite soilders from other parts of the world.

A degree of autonomy from the restraint of regimentation helps explain the propensity for scandal to hit SASR. That it sometimes goes unpublished and unpunished is down to much the same reason.

The Special Air Service Regiment are known as the cats by the rival commando unit in the army. To the rest of the defence force the descriptor is their location: Perth.

Only a fool would imagine the bad eggs are all in one basket but reported wrongdoing so far points exclusively at SASR. Given the difficult nature of their job  going after Taliban commanders and bomb makers  this might not surprise. But it would be wrong to immediately write off allegations of excessive force as acceptable behaviour in combat. SASR selects and trains soldiers who know how to kill, but also sets great store in getting the thinking right. They often proclaim the shot not fired is more important than the one that is. Understated excellence, courageous restraint and professional integrity are also core values.

In shaping the inquiry, former special operations commander Major-General Jeff Sengelman looked to specific wrongdoing, but also deficiencies of command. No surprise it made him unpopular among some peers. But further down the line there is appreciation. According to one officer, Love him or hate him, he is the only SOCAUST to do anything about it.

So, who knew this was going on? And even if the command chain was not linked in, how far should responsibility reach?

Australian SAS soldiers on patrol near Bagram, Afghanistan. Credit:Simon O'Dwyer

As former troop captain (and Liberal MP) Andrew Hastie noted after he arrived for the 19th of 20 Special Operations Task Group rotations, the men were grasping for operational clarity in a fog of strategic ambiguity. Abstract measures of success, like improved trust in central government, were never as easy to comprehend as a long-discredited, Vietnam-era kill count. As the Afghanistan conflict bled on, desensitisation set in, something Hastie and many of his peers worked hard to counter.Loading

Confronted in October 2016 by revelations that Juvenile Justice had been locking boys alone in their cells for weeks at a time, Corrective Services Minister David Elliott called for an independent review.

Mr Elliott said he would not go on a "witch hunt" for the staff responsible until he received the results, which would also clarify whether he had mistakenly given false information to NSW Parliament.

But while the minister had hoped to receive a report within two months, the first draft is still yet to land on his desk, 18 months later.

"There is no practice or provision of isolation of young people in custody," Mr Elliot had assured NSW parliament in the wake of the Northern Territorys Don Dale scandal in 2016.Islamabad: In a rare diplomatic foray and the strongest sign yet of the Taliban's increasing political presence in the region, the head of the militant group's political office led a delegation to Uzbekistan to meet senior Foreign Ministry officials, Uzbek and Taliban officials said.

Taliban fighters gather with residents to celebrate a three-day cease fire marking the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Fitr, in Nangarhar province, east of Kabul, Afghanistan, in June. Credit:AP

Taliban political chief Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai represented the insurgents in the four-day talks that ended Friday and included meetings with Uzbekistan's Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov as well as its special representative to Afghanistan Ismatilla Irgashev.

The meetings follow an offer made by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in March to broker peace in Afghanistan.

Suhail Shaheen, spokesman for the Taliban's political office in Qatar, said in a statement to The Associated Press on Saturday that discussions covered everything from international troop withdrawal to peace prospects to possible Uzbek-funded development projects that could include railway lines and electricity.Ankara: President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has warned that NATO member Turkey will "seek new friends" after the United States "upset and annoyed" his government with sanctions that triggered a currency crisis.

Erdogan has told Donald Trump to respect its sovereignty "before it is too late", plunging relations between the Nato allies to their lowest in decades.

"Washington must give up the misguided notion that our relationship can be asymmetrical and come to terms with the fact that Turkey has alternatives," Erdogan told the New York Times.

"Failure to reverse this trend of unilateralism and disrespect will require us to start looking for new friends and allies.""It is time to move on from the flawed 2015 deal. We are asking global Britain to use its considerable diplomatic power and influence and join us as we lead a concerted global effort towards a genuinely comprehensive agreement. "Together, we can help bring about the peace and prosperity in Iran that the whole world wants to see." Johnson urged British businesses to cut ties with Iran. The UK's trade with Iran was 365 million ($640 million) in 2016. "The President has been explicit: any businesses which put their own commercial interests in Iran ahead of the global good will risk serious consequences for their trade with the United States," Johnson said. US President Donald Trump, left, and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on right. Credit:AP

"Only by presenting a united front can we exert the maximum possible pressure on the Iranian regime and get them to finally change course and put an end to their malign and reckless activities both at home and abroad." Loading The call amounts to a plea for Britain to break with its European Union partners over Iran and adopt Trump's strategy. The UK is set to be formally out of the EU in April 2019, assuming a Brexit deal can be arrived at. But on Sunday senior UK government figures rejected the demands, further deepening the policy rift between the two traditional allies. One minister said Trump was simply throwing "red meat" to his support base, and his strategy would be counter-productive, while a Foreign Office source reiterated the UK's support for the agreement.

The minister added: "The trouble is with this approach is that it plays into the hands of the hardliners [in Tehran]. They court this. The whole purpose of the deal was to allow big companies to go into Iran - which is crying out for infrastructure improvement. Loading "It is all ratcheting slightly out of control - I can't see Britain wanting to join in with that because where it takes you into a more hardline position. "We pride ourselves on having a better understanding of the world than most - we would urge absolute caution on this. This is not the direction of travel you want go in." A Foreign Office source said: "We remain committed to the deal and are open to talking with the US administration and Congress about ways we can work together to address our shared concerns about Iran's regional activity."

In recent months Britain has thrown its support behind a so-called "blocking statute", implemented in the EU headquarters of Brussels, which will protect European business from America's Iran sanctions. The move is an attempt to keep European companies trading with Iran - seen as a critical factor in keeping the agreement alive. Iran has said it will stick with the deal only if it continues to enjoy the economic benefits it was promised. In the statement signed on Monday by Foreign Secretary Hunt, his French and German counterparts Jean-Yves Le Drian and Heiko Maas, and Federica Mogherini, the EU foreign policy chief, they say they "deeply regret" the US sanctions and "are determined to protect European economic operators engaged in legitimate business with Iran." Asked the following day if Britain would "go along with the US" on Iran, Alistair Burt, a Foreign Office minister, said: "We made it clear that we regard the nuclear deal as an important part of the region's security.San Antonio: The wife of the man who opened fire at a Texas church last November, killing more than two dozen people before killing himself, says he tied her to their bed before leaving for the shooting.

In a series of interviews with the San Antonio Express-News, Danielle Kelley said her husband, Devin Kelley, behaved strangely detached that morning until he forced her into the bedroom, where he bound her to the bed using rope, handcuffs and tape as their two-year-old son cried.

Crosses showing victims' names near the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas in November. Credit:AP

She said Devin told her he loved her, kissed their five-month-old daughter in her crib and told their son, "I'll be right back."

He grabbed his rifle and two handguns, donned military-style tactical gear and body armour and then left.Theres another reason not to interview people like Jason Kessler, one that guided my decision not to include white nationalist voices in a podcast series I did on the violence in Charlottesville last year: media attention spurs them on, encouraging them to stage more events in an attempt to draw even more attention. And given that their events have rarely been nonviolent, that seems like an unnecessary risk, especially given how many other ways there are to investigate the views of white nationalists beside interviewing them.

The de-platforming philosophy of anti-racist activists in Charlottesville has also guided tech companies. In the aftermath of last years violence, website hosts like Squarespace booted white nationalists off their platforms. Online payment systems like PayPal did the same, making it far more difficult for racist organisations and individuals to raise money for their cause. At one point, the neo-Nazi website Daily Stormer could only operate on the dark web, because no company would host them.

Social media platforms like Twitter have been more inconsistent. Twitter has at times suspended white nationalist accounts  which led alt-right advocates to start their own social media platform, Gab  but has almost always allowed them back on the site. In the months after the violence in Charlottesville, Twitter verified Jason Kesslers account, giving it a blue checkmark that is seen as a badge of legitimacy and prestige. The backlash was so intense that Twitter suspended its verification process. (Nearly a year later, it still hasnt reopened its process.)

Twitters unwillingness to de-platform white nationalists leaders reflects some of the companys core beliefs, especially its belief that the company is a force of good in the world, that by giving everyone a platform, they are making the world a more democratic, more open, and better place. It also heavily favours controversy-avoidance, positioning itself as a defender of free speech from the forces of intolerance, rather than an amplifier of those forces.

News and tech companies face the same problem: crucial parts of an open society, they can also be manipulated by the forces of illiberalism to attack that open society. This is what Karl Popper, in his 1945 book The Open Society and Its Enemies, called the paradox of tolerance. In the United States and elsewhere, that paradox has become increasingly important to understand as anti-democratic and authoritarian forces gain power. And until they take it more seriously, our media organisations will not be bulwarks against illiberalism, but key players in its advance.Washington: Former White House staffer Omarosa Manigault Newman secretly taped Chief of Staff John Kelly as he fired her in December in the Situation Room, a breach of security protocols, but one that revealed him suggesting that she could face damage to her reputation if she did not leave quietly.

Omarosa Manigault Newman attends a meeting with President Donald Trump on African American History Month in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in February. Credit:AP

The recording was played Sunday on NBC's Meet the Press, where Newman, a former adviser to President Donald Trump, promoted her new book, Unhinged. In the memoir, which focuses on her relationship with Trump going back to her time on The Apprentice, she describes the world around the President as a cult in which he creates his own reality.

On the recording, Kelly says Newman could be facing "pretty significant legal issues" over what he alleged was misuse of a government car. She denied misusing it.

"I'd like to see this be a friendly departure," Kelly says on the tape. "There are pretty significant legal issues that we hope don't develop into something that, that'll make it ugly for you."PHILIPSBURG:--- The House of Parliament will sit in Central Committee meeting on Monday, August 13, 2018.

The Central Committee meeting is scheduled for 9:00 hrs. in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelminastraat #1 in Philipsburg. The Minister of General Affairs, the Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor, the Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure and the Minister of Justice will be present.

The agenda points are:

1. Disaster Preparedness  status update and measures being taken to prepare for and reduce the effects of disasters with hurricane season 2018 approaching (IS/483/2017-2018 dated April 23, 2018)

(This agenda point was requested by MP S.E. Jacobs, MP A.M.R. Irion and MP E.J. Doran)

2. Approval invitation for one Member of Parliament of Sint Maarten to participate in a delegation to attend the 73rd General Assembly of the United Nations on September 18, 2018 in New York (IS/759/2017-2018 dated July 3, 2018)

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House in Philipsburg.

The parliamentary session will be carried live on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 120, via SXM GOV radio FM 107.9, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the internet www.sxmparliament.org, www.pearlfmradio.com and Parliaments Facebook page: Parliament of Sint Maarten.PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation has again taken its rice distribution across the border to assist residents of French St. Martin, who are also in need.

The foundation donated 500 bags of Love Rice to 500 families in French Quarter on Sunday, August 5. Each bag of rice contains 10kg (22 pounds) of rice. It is estimated that the rice will benefit 1,546 family members. The distribution was held in front of the Cultural Center building in French Quarter.

A total of 45 volunteers got another opportunity to practice leadership skills, gratitude, respect and love when serving others during the distribution. Twenty three of those participating are Tzu Chi volunteers, 14 are Chinese construction workers and engineers from the Maho rebuilding project and eight are French Quarter residents who joined the foundation as new volunteers.

The rice distribution gave Tzu Chi volunteers an opportunity to interact with residents living in the French Quarter district. Volunteers also got a chance to share information about the foundation and offered recipients a chance to give back, by putting a donation of any amount from their hearts in Tzu Chis bamboo bank (collection box). Giving back in this manner follows the teachings of Tzu Chi Founder Master Cheng Yen, who says that giving is not the privilege of the rich, but is the privilege of a sincere heart.

Tzu Chi said in a press release that recipients were very happy to be given an opportunity to give. Some said they wished they knew beforehand that they could have donated and some returned home to be able to assist. At the end of the event US $160.50 was donated into the bamboo bank.

Many of the residents are still out of job since hurricane Irma devastated the island and rendered many jobless in September, 2017. Recipients were really grateful to receive the Love Rice and for a chance to give to help others. The feelings of giving are very good, Tzu Chi said in the press release.

Tzu Chi St. Maarten Commissioner Sandra Cheung thanked volunteers for taking the time out to participate in the distribution. She also thanked the recipients for gratefully accepting the Love Rice and for helping Tzu Chi to continue its benevolent work by donating in the bamboo bank. She also thanked Rose Rumnit, who assisted in identifying the 500 families in need in French Quarter and Leopold Illidge for allowing Tzu Chi to use his property for the distribution.

Tzu Chi will continue to spread seeds of love by distributing more rice to families in need on the island.

The 500 bags of rice donated on August 5, was part of a container of rice sent to St. Maarten by Tzu Chis head office in Taiwan to help alleviate the burden still being experienced by many residents in the aftermath of hurricanes Irma and Maria, which affected the country in September last year.Solar Novus Today Has Been Integrated

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Mostly clear. Low 49F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph.LOGAN, Utah  NASA is responding to the growing interest in, and capabilities of, small satellites for science applications with an initiative that will spend $100 million a year on a series of projects.

In a speech at the AIAA/Utah State University Conference on Small Satellites here Aug. 6, Thomas Zurbuchen, NASA associate administrator for science, outlined that initiative, which includes efforts ranging from a call for proposals for technology demonstration missions to new launch opportunities for smallsats.

"We're in business for small satellites and cubesats," he said, citing as "proof points" both ongoing smallsat missions and new programs he announced in his address. "We're going to realize the importance of small satellites not just as a platform but as an enabler to do science that is otherwise not achievable."

Those efforts are part of an overarching initiative within NASA's Science Mission Directorate that will spend $100 million on smallsat projects, starting in the current fiscal year. That figure was finalized only about 10 days ago, he said, with the final approval of the overall operating plan for the agency for this year.

"This was the first initiative I put in place when I joined two years ago," he said, citing his experience chairing a National Academies study on the scientific utility of cubesats released in 2016 just a few months before he joined the agency as head of the Science Mission Directorate. "I felt, because of that Academies study, that it was absolutely critical that we do this."

Part of that initiative is an effort to purchase Earth science data from constellations of satellites. Zurbuchen announced that the agency was making first awards from that program to DigitalGlobe, Planet and Spire, companies that operate fleets of satellites that provide imagery or weather data. He did not disclose the size of the individual awards or their total value, although original plans estimated spending $25 million on such data.

Zurbuchen said NASA was interested in buying data from companies that have already made use of it from primary customers. "If you have data that is of value to the science community, if you've expended the value that comes from latency and so forth, and you want a secondary market, we're in business," he said.

NASA first announced plans to make such data purchases in 2016, then restarted the effort late last year with a goal of making awards in early 2018. "Thanks for your patience. Thanks for sticking with it," he said.

NASA currently has a growing fleet of cubesat and other smallsat missions, primarily in Earth science and heliophysics. One such satellite is a cubesat called RainCube recently deployed from the International Space Station to test the use of Ka-band radar for measuring precipitation. The spacecraft just performed the first successful test of its radar, Zurbuchen announced at the conference.

Another element of the smallsat initiative is a new announcement of opportunity for technology demonstration missions in heliophysics. Zurbuchen said NASA is planning to invest up to $65 million in smallsat missions that would fly along with the Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe, which will launch in 2024 to the Earth-sun L-1 Lagrange point.

"This is really a novel type of application because of the fact that it deliberately focuses on enhancing the technological capabilities in that area," he said. "If successful, this will not only teach us new science but will protect technological infrastructure that is sensitive to space weather."

Zurbuchen added that NASA will provide more rideshare opportunities. Going forward, when NASA purchases a launch for a science mission, it will also acquire an EELV Secondary Payload Adapter (ESPA) ring that can accommodate secondary payloads, including both NASA smallsats as well as those from outside the agency.

That approach is different from current approaches, where an ESPA ring may be added later in the mission development process. "We're not going to ask whether we need it," he said. "You have to convince us that we don't need it."

NASA is emphasizing small satellites, he argued, not because they are simple and cheap to do. "Just because a spacecraft is small, it doesn't make it easy," he said. "A highly constrained spacecraft can push the engineering, push the ingenuity of the team in a way that, in every way, is comparable to some of these big missions that we're doing."

This story was provided by SpaceNews, dedicated to covering all aspects of the space industry.A new Lowell Observatory meteor-tracking camera system, made up of 16 video cameras, is ready to watch the 2018 Perseid meteor shower's peak from Meteor Crater in Arizona.

Scientists are hoping to see one of the year's best meteor showers from one of the most scenic places on Earth: Arizona's Meteor Crater.

Astronomers with the Lowell Observatory in Arizona have activated a new meteor video surveillance system at Meteor Crater (formally known as Barringer Crater) just in time for the 2018 Perseid meteor shower this weekend.

The Perseid meteor shower will peak overnight tonight (Aug. 12-13), with between 60-70 meteors visible per hour for observers with clear, dark skies away from city lights. The meteor shower occurs each year when Earth passes through dust from the Comet Swift-Tuttle. [Perseid Meteor Shower 2018: When, Where & How to See It]

The new tracking system at Meteor Crater will observe Perseid meteors using 16 video cameras that will watch the entire night sky. Meteor Crater is about 35 miles east of Flagstaff, Arizona. It was caused by the impact of an asteroid 164 feet (50 meters) wide hit the Earth 50,000 years ago.

"The cameras pinpoint recovery locations for large meteors that impact Earth," Nick Moskovitz of Lowell Observatory said in a statement. "Our goal is to discover new meteor showers and better understand meteors and their link to asteroids and comets in the solar system."

Moskovitz leads the Lowell Observatory CAMS project, or LO-CAMS, which is part of the larger Cameras for All-sky Meteor Surveillance (CAMS) project led by meteor astronomer Peter Jenniskens of the SETI Institute and NASA's Ames Research Center in Moffett Field, California.

CAMS meteor-tracking systems use a network of 16 video cameras per location instead of a single all-sky camera with a fish-eye lens to track meteors.

The 2018 Perseid meteor shower peaks overnight on Aug. 12-13, 2018. This sky map shows where to look at 11 p.m. local time this weekend. (Image credit: Sky & Telescope Magazine)

"Because this approach uses much more sensitive cameras, trajectories for hundreds of meteors per night are calculated and posted almost immediately on the web," Moskovitz said. "And by measuring these trajectories at high precision, we are able to determine where they came from in the solar system."

The new LO-CAMS system is the second built by the Lowell Observatory. The first is at the observatory itself in Flagstaff, Arizona. Meteor Crater Enterprises, which oversees tours and other facilities at Meteor Crater, funded the new meteor-tracking station.

If bad weather spoils your Perseid meteor shower this weekend, you can watch the a live webcast here, courtesy of the astronomy broadcast service Slooh. The 6-hour webcast begins at 5 p.m. EDT (2100 GMT) and you can watch it directly on Slooh.com.

Editor's note: If you snap an awesome photo of the Perseid meteor shower that you'd like to share with Space.com and our news partners for a potential story or gallery, send images and comments to spacephotos@space.com.

Email Tariq Malik at tmalik@space.com or follow him @tariqjmalik. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook and Google+. Original article on Space.com.LOGAN, Utah  Stellar Exploration, a space technology company based in San Luis Obispo, California, is in the midst of qualification testing of a miniature propulsion system for planetary microsatellite missions.

What's unusual about the technology Stellar Exploration developed with Malin Space Science Systems of San Diego is its power, said Mike Loucks, president of Space Exploration Engineering, a Seattle company that specializes in cis-lunar, lunar and deep space missions. The new thruster fueled with hydrazine and nitrogen tetroxide is designed to move a 12-unit cubesat, which weighs about 28 kilograms, at a speed of two kilometers per second.

"The miniaturized bi-prop system Stellar has developed suddenly allows cubesats to take on the missions normally associated with much larger and more expensive spacecraft," Loucks said by email. "None of the currently marketed propulsion systems for cubesats are even in the same ballpark. This is a serious, grown-up propulsion system based on well-known technology that allows microsatellites to bust out of the kiddy pool." [Wild Ideas for Superfast Space Propulsion]

Stellar Exploration developed the new thruster with funding from NASA's Small Innovative Missions for Planetary Exploration program, which supports the formulation and development of small spacecraft science missions. The company is proposing to fly it for the first time on a cubesat that would ride to Mars along with NASA's Psyche asteroid exploration mission in 2022. Psyche is slated to perform a Mars fly-by, which means a cubesat riding along will need its own powerful propulsion to enter Martian orbit.

"We are looking for other potential applications," said Tomas Svitek, Stellar Exploration president. The new thruster could be used, for example, on a small robotic lunar lander, a microsatellite moving from geostationary transfer orbit to geostationary orbit or a satellite traveling in a highly elliptical polar orbit, known as a Molniya orbit, Svitek told SpaceNews at the Small Satellite Conference here.

Stellar Exploration designed the new bi-propellant thruster with a low-pressure tank to ease range safety concerns. Compliance with launch safety regulations is inherent in the design, Svitek said.

This story was provided by SpaceNews, dedicated to covering all aspects of the space industry.CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.  A historic and audacious mission to probe some of the sun's deepest secrets is underway.

NASA's Parker Solar Probe lifted off this morning (Aug. 12) at 3:31 a.m. EDT (0731 GMT) from a pad here at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, its powerful United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket carving an arc of orange flame into the predawn sky.

If all goes according to plan, the Parker Solar Probe will end up traveling faster than any craft ever has, and getting unprecedentedly close to the sun; indeed, it will fly through our star's outer atmosphere, known as the corona. And the measurements the probe makes there will reveal key insights about our star's inner workings that have eluded scientists for decades. [NASA's Parker Solar Probe Mission to the Sun in Pictures]

NASAs Parker Solar Probe lifts off from from Cape Canaveral, Florida on a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket on Aug. 12, 2018, at 3:31 a.m. EDT (0731 GMT). (Image credit: Bill Ingalls/NASA)

"It's going to be absolutely phenomenal," NASA Chief Scientist Jim Green told Space.com. "We've been wanting to do this for 60 years, ever since Eugene Parker got up and said, 'I believe the sun is outgassing.'"

That prediction was met with much skepticism back in the 1950s, but time proved Parker, a pioneering University of Chicago astrophysicist, right. We now know that outgassing as the solar wind, the stream of charged particles that flows constantly from the sun. And Parker, who turned 91 in June, became the first living person ever to have a NASA mission named after him.

Photos of Parker and a digital copy of his seminal 1958 solar-wind paper are flying on the newly launched spacecraft, aboard a memory card that also bears the names of more than 1.1 million people. These folks  who include "Star Trek" icon William Shatner  responded to a March 2018 NASA invitation to kiss the sun along with the Parker Solar Probe.

This morning's launch was initially supposed to occur on July 31, but several technical issues pushed the attempt back to yesterday (Aug. 11). And that try was scuttled after a Delta IV Heavy gaseous-helium pressure alarm went off less than 2 minutes before the scheduled liftoff.

See more

Our mysterious star

The solar wind is very fast, zooming along at between 900,000 mph and 1.8 million mph (1.45 million and 2.9 million km/h) by the time it reaches Earth's orbit. But the particles start out pretty much motionless at the solar surface, said Parker Solar Probe mission scientist Adam Szabo, who's based at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland.

"Something happens in the corona where it steps on the accelerator and shoots out at supersonic speeds," Szabo told Space.com.

But scientists aren't sure what that "something" is. The same is broadly true for solar energetic particles (SEPs), even faster-moving flecks that are associated with solar flares and gigantic eruptions of plasma called coronal mass ejections. It's unclear exactly how SEPs  which can pose a threat to astronauts and wreak havoc with spacecraft software  attain such tremendously high energies, Szabo said.

And the corona itself is deeply mysterious. Temperatures there range between 1.8 million and 5.4 million degrees Fahrenheit (1 million to 3 million degrees Celsius) on average  far hotter than the solar surface, which is a pedestrian (by comparison) 10,000 degrees F (5,500 degrees C).

This doesn't make sense, at least not intuitively.

"You would expect that things should cool off" as distance from the nuclear-fusion action increases, Szabo said. "This is one of these big unknowns: What's going on there?"

The sun's incredibly powerful magnetic field and convective motion apparently work together to generate the energy driving these phenomena, said Lika Guhathakurta, the lead program scientist for new initiatives at NASA's Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley and former lead for the space agency's Living With a Star program.

"But how you bring that energy to the surface and propagate it is the challenge," Guhathakurta told Space.com. "And that's why we have to go there and measure it." [The Sun's Wrath: Worst Solar Storms in History]

Kissing the sun

That's just what the Parker Solar Probe will do. Over the next seven years, the $1.5 billion mission will perform 24 close flybys of the sun, getting within just 3.83 million miles (6.16 million km) of the solar surface at its closest approach  far nearer than the previous record-holder, the German-American Helios 2 spacecraft, which got within 27 million miles (43 million km) in 1976.

During such tight passes  the first of which will occur in early November  the sun's powerful gravity will accelerate the Parker Solar Probe to top speeds of around 430,000 mph (690,000 km/h), NASA officials have said. That will obliterate the mark of 165,000 mph (265,000 km/h), which was set by NASA's Juno probe during its arrival at Jupiter in July 2016.

(The encounters will get closer and closer as time goes on; the Parker Solar Probe will gradually shrink its elliptical orbit from about 150 Earth days to 88 Earth days, using seven "gravity-assist" flybys of Venus. The record-breaking numbers cited above are for the final flybys.)

Conditions at and around closest approach will be extreme; the Parker Solar Probe will have to withstand about 500 times the solar radiation load we experience on Earth. And the spacecraft's sun-facing side will be heated to about 2,500 degrees F (1,370 degrees C), according to NASA officials. (Most of this heat will come from sunlight; the toasty plasma in the corona is spread so thinly that it won't play much of a role.)

"It's going to get hammered," Green said.

To deal with heat, the solar-powered probe is equipped with a 7.5-foot-wide (2.3 meters), 4.5-inch-thick (11.4 centimeters) shield made of advanced carbon-composite material, which will keep most of the spacecraft's scientific instruments at a comfortable 85 degrees F (29 degrees C).

These instruments will, among other things, measure the sun's electric and magnetic fields and waves; observe superenergetic particles in the solar atmosphere and beyond; count and characterize solar-wind particles; and photograph the corona and inner regions of the heliosphere (the giant bubble of solar plasma and magnetic fields that extends far beyond Pluto's orbit).

The observations made by this gear could help solve the coronal-heating and particle-acceleration puzzles, mission scientists have said. And it will give us a better idea of how stars tick in general.

"How can we possibly understand stellar systems if we don't understand the star next door?" Szabo said.

There should be considerable practical applications as well, he and others stressed. For example, mission data should yield significant insights into space weather, potentially allowing researchers to better predict and plan for the intense solar storms that can cause big disruptions here on Earth.

Such information could also help humanity push out into the solar system, by giving us the knowledge we need to leave our planet's protective magnetic field behind, Guhathakurta said.

"There's going to be no looking back after this mission," she said.

Follow Mike Wall on Twitter @michaeldwall and Google+. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook or Google+. Originally published on Space.com.Destination: Sun

NASA/Bill Ingalls

NASA's Parker Solar Probe launched on a mission to touch the sun on Aug. 12, 2018, riding atop a ULA Delta IV Heavy rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. See photos from the dazzling nighttime launch here!

Streaking to the Sun

United Launch Alliance

The Delta IV Heavy rocket carrying NASA's Parker Solar Probe streaks into space in this long-exposure view of the launch from the United Launch Allianace.

Liftoff!

Bill Ingalls/NASA

On Sunday (Aug. 12) at 3:31 a.m. EDT (0731 GMT), the Parker Solar Probe launched on its mission to the sun.

Eugene Parker Watches Parker Solar Probe Launch

NASA/Glenn Benson

Solar scientist Eugene Parker watches as NASA's Parker Solar Probe, named for him, launches into space from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida on Aug. 12, 2018. The spacecraft will fly through the sun's outer atmosphere, the super-hot corona.

A Dazzling Launch

NASA/Bill Ingalls

The engine plumes from the Delta IV Rocket launching the Parker Solar Probe created a dazzling sight to spectators, as seen in this NASA photo.

Streaking Through

NASA/Bill Ingalls

This long-exposure view of NASA's Parker Solar Probe launch shows the spacecraft and its Delta IV Heavy rocket streaking through a think cloud layer during the ascent into space.

Reflections

NASA/Bill Ingalls

The spectacular launch of the Parker Solar Probe is reflected in water around its Cape Canaveral Air Force Station launch site in this stunning view by NASA photographer Bill Ingalls.

A Tower View

NASA/Bill Ingalls

This view from NASA photographer Bill Ingalls shows the Parker Solar Probe's launch as viewed from a camera on the Mobile Service Tower that housed the mission's Delta IV Heavy rocket before flight.

Launching to the Sun

United Launch Alliance

NASA's Parker Solar Probe rode a Delta IV Heavy rocket, one of the most powerful rockets in use today, to begin its mission to the sun.

Ascent

United Launch Alliance

The Parker Solar Probe will eventually be the fastest spacecraft in history. In 2024, after a series of flybys around Venus and 24 orbits of the sun, it will be moving at a whopping 430,000 mph (692,000 km/h).

Powering Up for the Sun

United Launch Alliance

A view of the three first-stage boosters of the ULA Delta IV Heavy rocket that launched NASA's Parker Solar Probe.Astrophotographer Xavier Jubier took this photo of the partial solar eclipse of Aug. 11, 2018 over Yakutsk, Russia. There, the moon covered 57 percent of the sun's disk when the ecipse reached its maximum at 7:14 p.m. local time (1014 GMT). (Image credit: Xavier Jubier

Nearly a year after the Great American Total Solar Eclipse put on a show for millions of skywatchers across the U.S., the moon again made its way in front of the sun for viewers in a different part of the world.

The partial solar eclipse on Saturday (Aug. 11) was the third and final solar eclipse of 2018, and it was visible from most of Asia, northern Europe, Greenland and parts of Canada. Unlike the total solar eclipse of Aug. 21, 2017, when the moon completely blocked the sun, the moon only covered up a portion of the sun's disk today. [Amazing Solar Eclipse Pictures from Around the World]

In northeastern Siberia, astrophotographer Xavier Jubier watched the eclipse from a hotel rooftop in the city of Yakutsk, Russia. Jubier traveled solo more than 4,200 miles (6,800 kilometers) from Paris, France to see the eclipse, he told Space.com in an email. In Yakutsk, the maximum eclipse occurred at 7:14 p.m. local time (1014 GMT), when the moon was covering about 57 percent of the sun. The eclipse ended at 8 p.m. local time, about half an hour before sunset.

Jubier said he plans to return to Siberia for the next partial solar eclipse on Jan. 6, 2019. "My father should join me, plus maybe a few more people, provided they're ready for a true and unique adventure," he said. You can see more of Jubier's photos of Saturday's eclipse on his Facebook page.

In this photo by astrophotographer Giuseppe Petricca, the moon blocks approximately 3 percent of the sun's disk during a partial solar eclipse over Stornoway, Scotland on Aug. 11, 2018. (Image credit: Giuseppe Petricca

From Stornoway, Ireland, astrophotographer Giuseppe Petricca experienced a far less dramatic eclipse. There, the moon took a much smaller bite out of the sun's disk, covering only about 3-4 percent of it during its maximum at 9:40 a.m. local time (0840 GMT). The moon created "a small but suggestive dent on the visible surface of our star," Petricca told Space.com in an email. "Even if this small, it's always fantastic to be able to observe such astronomical events."

A little farther north in Sweden, photographer Christofer Doss of Spaceflash News tweeted one of his photos of the eclipse at Petricca. "The moon took a little bit bigger bite out of the sun up here in Sweden," Spaceflash News tweeted. In northern Sweden, where he captured the photo, the moon was covering about 15 percent of the sun's disk.

See more

China's CGTN news service hosted a live webcast of the Aug. 11 solar eclipse. You can see just what it looked like in the video below.

The partial eclipse set the scene for some incredible sunset views in part of China, where several news outlets tweeted round-ups of some of the coolest photos taken by skywatchers.

See more

See more

See more

Solar eclipses occur when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, as seen from the Earth's surface. When the moon perfectly lines up with the sun, it appears to cover the entire solar disk in a total solar eclipse. When it is only partially aligned, a partial or annular ("ring of fire") solar eclipse can result. Because the moon's orbit is tilted, it does not line up with the sun every month in its new moon phase.

After three consecutive partial solar eclipses in 2018 (the first two were on Feb. 15 and on July 13), the world will finally see another total solar eclipse on July 2, 2019. That total solar eclipse will be visible from Chile and Argentina, and much of South America will be able to see at least a partial solar eclipse.

In the path of totality, the moon will cover the sun's disk entirely, casting a dark shadow onto the Earth. Outside the path of totality, skywatchers in South America and part of the Pacific Ocean will see the moon take a "bite" out of the sun like it did this weekend. (Remember: When viewing a partial solar eclipse, protective eyewear is needed to avoid risking permanent damage to your eyes.)

Editor's note: If captured an awesome photo of the partial eclipse that you'd like to share with Space.com and our news partners, send images and comments in to spacephotos@space.com.CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.  Speechless is not a word typically used to describe Nicky Fox, mission scientist for the Parker Solar Probe at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab. But that was her reaction in the wee hours today (Aug. 12) as she watched NASA's Parker Solar Probe launch on an unprecedented mission to the sun.

"It was very emotional," Fox told Space.com. "I was speechless and Im not normally speechless."

The predawn skies lit up like daylight as a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy lifted off at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station here, carrying the Parker Solar Probe on humanity's first mission to touch the sun. As gorgeous as the launch spectacle was, the real celebration happened just over an hour later. [Launch Photos: Parker Solar Probe Soars to the Sun!]

The United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket carrying NASA's Parker Solar Probe launches from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida on Aug. 12, 2018. It is the first mission ever to attempt to touch the sun. (Image credit: NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Cheers erupted in the press site and a collective sigh of relief was breathed as word came through that the spacecraft had separated from the rockets third stage  which was built by Northrop Grumman  and beamed backed its first communications.

The Parker Solar Probe had successfully reached space and phoned home.

"The spacecraft is power positive and thats where we want to be," said Thomas Zurbuchen, associate administrator for NASA's science mission directorate. "Whenever youre there, you take a breather and then you start working."

A mission to touch the sun

The mission, which has been sought after for 60 years, was first scheduled to launch on July 31, but was pushed back several times due to a variety of technical issues. Less than 2 minutes before its planned liftoff on Saturday (Aug. 11), a helium pressure alarm went off on the Delta IV Heavy, thwarting the day's launch attempt.

But that wasn't the case on Sunday as flames erupted and the rocket roared to life at the opening of the 65-minute window. Which calmed any pre-launch jitters that Fox may have had.

An artist's depiction of the Parker Solar Probe at work around the sun. (Image credit: APL/NASA GSFC)

"There was no emotional roller coaster like there was yesterday," Fox said after the launch. "The sky was waiting for us, Venus was waiting for us, and it was just an amazing sight to see." [NASA's Parker Solar Probe Mission in Pictures]

The Delta IV Heavy is slow to rise off the pad and Fox explained that she knew this fact going into the launch, so it wasnt any cause for concern to see the payload shes worked on the past eight years slowly and majestically rise off the launch pad. "It took a while for the Delta IV Heavy to clear the pad," Fox said, but I was prepared for that, so I didn't panic."

The name behind NASA's Parker Solar Probe

The Parker Solar Probe's launch marked a special milestone for one solar scientist: Eugene Parker. After all, the spacecraft is named in his honor. Sixty years ago, it was Parker who first proposed that the sun sent out a stream of solar wind. The Parker Solar Probe is NASA's first ever named after a living person.

"There's nothing like a rocket launch live," said Parker, now 91, who watched the launch from NASA's Kennedy Space Center.

Solar scientist Eugene Parker watches as NASA's Parker Solar Probe, named for him, launches into space from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida on Aug. 12, 2018. The spacecraft will fly through the sun's outer atmosphere, the super-hot corona. (Image credit: NASA/Glenn Benson)

Sitting on the observation deck of NASA's Operations Support Building 2 (OSB-2 for short), Parker watched with his family, Fox, Zurbuchen, and other VIPs as the rocket carrying his namesake ascended towards the sky.

"Now I have to turn from really biting my nails to thinking about the interesting things [to come] that I dont know yet, which will be made clear, I assume, over the next five, six, or seven years," he said. [The Greatest Missions to the Sun]

Following the launch, Zurbuchen explained how incredible it was to be able to watch the launch with Parker.

"What's so cool about all of this is hanging out with Parker and seeing his emotion," Zurbuchen said, adding that Parker went from being excited about the launch to being excited about the science to come. Zurbuchen assured Parker he would send the famed solar scientist data from the mission as soon as it comes in. (The first bits of sun data are expected in November, mission scientists have said.)

Sunday's flight marked the 129th successful flight for ULA, and the 10th for the Delta IV Heavy rocket.

"We are thrilled with the launch and humbled to have been entrusted with this mission," Tory Bruno, ULA's President and CEO told Space.com following the launch. "Parker Solar Probe will enable groundbreaking research, making space a safer to be."

Over the next few weeks, Parker Solar Probe will run through a series of tests to ensure that its four instrument suites are working properly. The spacecraft will also be prepared for the first of seven planned Venus flybys scheduled for Oct. 2. The next step after that will be to complete its very first solar swoop in November.

Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook and Google+. Original article on Space.com.Bir lehlou, August 11, 2018 (SPS) - President of the Republic, Secretary-General of the Frente POLISARIO, Brahim Ghali, sent a congratulatory message to his Chadian counterpart Idriss Deby on the occasion of the 58th anniversary of the National Day of the Republic of Chad.



The President of the Republic expressed appreciation the Sahrawi Government for the steadfast position of the Republic of Chad in supporting and defending the Saharawi people's right to freedom and independence.



The President of the Republic stressed the readiness of the Sahrawi Republic to work together to consolidate bonds of friendship and solidarity in the interests of the two countries and the two peoples, as well as the common aspirations to strengthen the role of the African Union on the international scene. (SPS)



062/SPS/TRAAs U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal pressed Connecticut regulators last week to be wary of short-term insurance plans authorized by the Trump administration  junk plans in his words  a new study shows people continue to sign up for plans that require them to pay higher deductibles before triggering claims payments in exchange for lower monthly premiums.

Enrollment in high-deductible health plans climbed again last year, now accounting for 43 percent of all policies in the United States from 15 percent of insurance policies a decade ago, according to a Thursday study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Nearly 44 percent of high-deductible plans last year included health savings accounts through which policyholders socked away extra money to help pay for deductibles or other fees and costs, CDC determined.

The U.S. House of Representatives is currently considering several bills introduced last month that would buttress the rollout of health savings accounts, including increasing limits on contributions.

Webster Financial is among the banks that has been aggressively offering employers nationally health savings accounts through its HSA Bank subsidiary, with the Waterbury-based bank among the seven largest depositors in Fairfield County. In a July conference call, CEO John Ciulla said employers using HSA Bank are picking up the tab on about $4 of every $10 deposited in health savings accounts, with the remaining 60 percent footed by workers.

If theres a battle, its probably on that 40 percent that the company is paying, Ciulla said.

No better than a security blanket

Heading into the fall elections, ample uncertainty is seen over the future of the Affordable Care Act, with the President Donald Trump jettisoning penalties going forward for individuals who choose not to purchase insurance. Obamacare backers warn that will lead some young, healthy people to skip coverage, raising costs for others as a result of the loss of those premiums.

Two weeks ago, the Kaiser Family Foundation released a study of the individual health insurance market that showed enrollment dropped 11 percent nationally to 15.2 million people. The foundation tracked declines both through state exchanges like Access Health CT that steer people to limited sets of plans, as well as in the private-sector market.

The same study found that enrollment in state exchanges increased in the first quarter of 2018 compared to a year earlier, however, with the Kaiser Family Foundation describing exchange enrollments nationally as largely stable.

Trump is now exploiting an ACA loophole to encourage insurers to create one-year health plans with limited coverage and an allowance for up to two renewals, with the Federal Register publishing its final rule on the plans entering August after U.S. agencies received about 12,000 comments.

Designed initially as gap insurance coverage for individuals between jobs, short-term plans are allowed to dispense with some of the main tenets of Obamacare such as guaranteed availability, coverage of essential health benefits and prohibiting exclusions for preexisting conditions.

The measure prompted Blumenthal, D-Conn., this past week to urge the Connecticut Insurance Department to follow the lead of New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts in restricting or banning outright such health plans, with he and Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., having introduced legislation in March to force carriers to include people with preexisting conditions under short-term coverage.

They are no better than a security blanket  providing a false sense of safety while offering little real protection, Blumenthal wrote in a letter to the insurance department. One (Kaiser Family Foundation) study found in Connecticut that no short-term plan covered maternity care and nearly half did not cover prescription drugs.

Premium hikes trend down

As of this week, the Connecticut Insurance Department had received rate filings for 2019 covering nearly 300,000 people enrolled in individual and small-group plans. On average, carriers requested a 12.3 percent increase for next years individual plans, slightly less than half the average increase they had sought for 2018. Small group plans would increase 10.2 percent on average, a substantial decline from the 18.1 percent average increase a year ago.

Anthem and ConnectiCare are returning to offer coverage through Access Health CT, which added more than 13,400 new members this year to give it above 114,000 in total. ConnectiCare is seeking a 13 percent increase on average for some 63,000 residents who it covers through Access Health CT; Anthem wants a 9.1 percent hike for about 45,500 people enrolled in its Access Health CT plan.

The Insurance Department is collecting public comment on the rate filings through the third week of August, with a public hearing scheduled Sept. 5. Open enrollment begins in Nov. 1, with ConnectiCare and Anthem having yet to indicate whether they will stick with Access Health CT in 2020 and beyond. In a July conference call, Anthem CEO Gail Boudreaux told investment analysts the company is pleased with the participation and results it is seeing to date in state exchanges nationally.

Our team has done an excellent job of identifying the markets where it makes sense, where we think that weve got a stable presence and offering, Boudreaux said. It is all about stability and more certainty around that marketplace  but again, this year was solid.

Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulmanI f you're planning to be in the UK this bank holiday, why not head to one of the country's abundant sandy beaches for a spot of surfing?

Keep reading for some of the best beaches in the UK for catching waves.

1. Fistral Beach, Newquay, Cornwall

Shutterstock/ Elle1

We can't really talk about surfing in the UK without first mentioning Newquay. The iconic Fistral Beach is considered one of the most best and most consistent surfing spots in the UK. The wide sandy beach is just a few minutes' walk to Newquay's thriving town centre.

2. Perranporth Beach, Cornwall

Shutterstock/Paul J Martin

The miles of golden sand, clear water and fantastic surf are just a few of the draws to Perranporth, a beach set on the northern Cornish coast. There's also a pub on this beach, The Watering Hole, perfect for a spot of lunch or post-surf sundowner.

3. Croyde Beach, Devon

Shutterstock/ian woolcock

Croyde Bay is Devon's most popular surfing beach. The vast sandy beach is surrounded by sand dunes and luscious rolling green hills. It's popular with sunbathers and swimmers too and has a number of rock pools, ideal for families.

4. Summerleaze Beach, Bude, Cornwall

Shutterstock/travellight

Another pretty, sandy beach, Summersleaze is just a few minutes' walk from the centre of Bude, a seaside town in northern Cornwall. There's a sea pool for swimming when the sea is rough and a row of colourful wooden beach huts available for rent.

5. Pease Bay, Scotland

Shutterstock/ Haley Redshaw photos

Cornwall and Devon are both well-known for their spectacular surf spots, but those looking for something a little different may want to head to Pease Bay, the Scottish Borders. Under an hour's drive from Edinburgh, the sandy beach is surrounded by cliffs. Set slightly back from the beach is a large holiday park. According to surfing sit Magicseaweed, the surf here is consistent so it often gets crowded.

6. Whitesands, Pembrokeshire, Wales

Shutterstock/WalesT en people, including two children, were taken to hospital after a shooting at a street party in the Moss Side area of Manchester.

Armed police officers rushed to the scene on a residential street at 2.30am on Sunday, where a party was being held following a Caribbean Carnival at a nearby park.

Following what has been described as a "dangerous attack", one man is in a serious condition while nine others suffered "pellet-type" wounds. Police said they were working on the premise that the weapon used was a shotgun.

Footage reportedly showing the aftermath of the incident was posted on social media.

The video appears to show a panicked group of people being helped by police.

As a voice cries out, shouts of "move" can be heard, while another voice asks "can you hear me".

On Sunday morning, litter including empty bottles of brandy and other drink containers, food wrappers and nitrous oxide canisters could be seen strewn across Claremont Road.

Police officers at the scene in Claremont Road, Moss Side, Manchester / PA

Residents said a street party was held there annually following the carnival in nearby Alexandra Park.

Youth worker Kemoy Walker said he had been on the main stage at the carnival on Saturday before attending another street party on the same road until about 11.30pm.

He said: "The party I was at was beautiful. When I left there was lovely dancing. That's Moss Side, that's the culture. I'm in shock this morning."

Police from the Tactical Aid Unit carry out a fingertip search in Claremont Road / PA

Chief Superintendent Wasim Chaudhry, of Greater Manchester Police, said those injured were aged between 12 and in their 50s, and mainly suffered injuries to their legs. He added that detectives were treating the incident as attempted murder.

Mr Chaudhry said on Sunday afternoon: "In the early hours of today, at around 2.25 this morning, my officers got a report of the sound of two loud bangs in the Claremont Road area of South Manchester and officers were quickly in attendance.

"What they were faced with was a large crowd of a number of hundred people, several hundred people, in the area who were continuing to celebrate the Caribbean Carnival and a number of those people had been injured and there was a state of panic which our officers had to contend and deal with.

Forensics officers carry out an investigation at the scene / PA

"Following on from that it has been established that 10 people have received injuries which we believe are related to gunshots.

"At the moment those are pellet injuries, as they have been described, so our working hypothesis is it's probably a shotgun discharge.

"How many times it has been discharged isn't clear at this stage and forms part of our investigation."

A police van is parked across the area of Claremont Road where 10 people were shot / PA

Mr Chaudhry added: "We can't minimise the risk that the public were put into and the fact that this could have been far worse.

"We could have been dealing with life-threatening injuries and we could indeed be investigating multiple murders."

Detective Superintendent Debbie Dooley earlier said: "Officers are trying to establish exactly where this incident took place and who is responsible for such a dangerous attack."A n off-duty police officer was stabbed while fighting off armed moped thieves in south east London.

The City of London officer was knifed in the leg with a "large kitchen knife" as he intervened in a street robbery at around 5.45pm on Saturday.

The 37-year-old sprang into action when he saw a group of four men on mopeds attempting to steal another moped from a 21-year-old man at Maylons Road.

The suspects were armed with a large knife, but the unarmed officer confronted the group until they fled the scene, Scotland Yard said.

The officer remained in a stable condition in hospital on Sunday evening.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said the victim continued to try and stop the robbery, despite being stabbed.

The suspects later made off without the moped.

The spokesman said: "During the confrontation the officer was stabbed in the leg, but despite this, he continued to confront the four suspects thwarting the theft of the moped until the suspects fled the scene.

"The officer was taken to a south London hospital where his injuries were described as not life-threatening or life-changing."

The 21-year-old victim of the attempted theft was also assaulted by suspects and suffered bruising. His injuries are not life threatening.

City Police officers praised their colleague for his "bravery".

Commander Jane Gyford tweeted: "Informed whilst on call, one of my officers was stabbed while bravely intervening in a street robbery yesterday.

"The officer is currently currently in hospital and recovering."M ore than 25,000 has been raised for a cyclist whose leg had to be amputated after she was hit by a lorry in east London.

Doctors were able to save her right leg but were forced to amputate the left.

Ms Doone, who worked as a freelance technical operator for the Al Jazeera English news network, has been left needing months of rehabilitation and physiotherapy  but will have no income during this time.

Emergency response: the aftermath of the crash in July / @alokbarsode / Twitter

Friends and colleagues have rallied round to donate thousands of pounds in order to help her during the recovery period.

Charlotte Dewsnap-Edwards, who has worked with Ms Doone for eight years, told the Standard: Its fantastic. We are delighted that everyone is thinking of Sarah and we would like to raise as much money as we can.

Its heartwarming that so many people, particularly all the strangers, have been moved by her story and want to help out.

She added that Ms Doone is doing pretty well. She is hoping to return to work in three months time.

A series of fundraising events are also being lined up including a comedy night, concert and pub quiz.

The Gofundme page states that Ms Doone is "facing this new reality with incredible bravery and she's determined to get better soon."M ore than 100 constituencies which backed Leave in the 2016 referendum would now vote to remain in the European Union, according to new analysis of polling.

The findings suggested that most seats in England, Scotland and Wales now contain a majority of voters who want to stay in the EU.

Among those found to have made the switch were arch-Brexiteer Boris Johnson's Uxbridge and South Ruislip, Michael Gove's Surrey Heath and the seats of pro-Brexit Labour MPs Frank Field in Birkenhead and Graham Stringer in Blackley and Broughton.

The analysis, obtained by The Observer, suggested the development was driven by growing doubts about the case for Brexit particularly among Labour voters in the north of England and Wales.

Labour MPs call for party conference vote on second Brexit referendum

The findings will heap pressure on Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn to reconsider the party's refusal to give its backing to a second referendum on EU membership.

Even though polls regularly report a strong lead for Remain among Labour voters, a majority of the party's constituencies backed Brexit in 2016, leaving party strategists wary of any suggestion that it might not deliver withdrawal.

The figures were produced by consumer analytics company Focaldata, drawing on two YouGov polls of a total of more than 15,000 people.

They found that 112 out of the 632 seats in England, Scotland and Wales had switched from Leave to Remain since the referendum. These included 97 English seats, 14 in Wales and one in Scotland.

Brexit: Article 50 Triggered - In pictures 1 /20 Brexit: Article 50 Triggered - In pictures Britain's ambassador to the EU Tim Barrow delivers British Prime Minister Theresa May's formal notice of the UK's intention to leave the bloc under Article 50 of the EU's Lisbon Treaty to European Council President Donald Tusk in Brussels AFP/Getty Images Prime Minister Theresa May speaks during Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Common PA Britain's ambassador to the EU Tim Barrow delivers British Prime Minister Theresa May's formal notice of the UK's intention to leave the bloc under Article 50 of the EU's Lisbon Treaty to European Council President Donald Tusk in Brussels AFP/Getty Images European Council President Donald Tusk holds a news conference after receiving British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit letter in notice of the UK's intention to leave the bloc under Article 50 of the EU's Lisbon Treaty to EU Council President Donald Tusk in Brussels, Belgium Yves Herman/Reuters Prime Minister Theresa May takes her seat after announcing in the House of Commons PA The time 12:20pm shows on Big Ben on March 29, 2017 in London, England. The British Prime Minister Theresa May addresses the Houses of Parliament as Article 50 is triggered and the process that will take the United Kingdom out of the European Union begins Carl Court/Getty Images D-day: pro-EU protesters outside of the Houses of Parliament today as Theresa May prepares to trigger Article 50 AFP/Getty Images EU Council President Donald Tusk holds British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit letter which was delivered by Britain's permanent representative to the European Union Tim Barrow (not pictured) that gives notice of the UK's intention to leave the bloc under Article 50 of the EU's Lisbon Treaty in Brussels, Belgium Yves Herman/Reuters PMQ's in The House of Commons PA Jeremy Corbyn speaking at PMQ's in The House of Commons Sky News Theresa May leaving for the House of Commons Jeremy Selwyn Mayor of London Sadiq Khan at the headquarters of Vivendi in Paris where he took part in TV interviews to discuss the imminent triggering of Article 50 by the UK to leave the EU Stefan Rousseau/PA Britain's permanent representative to the European Union Tim Barrow arrives at the EU Council headquarters for as meeting before hand delivering British Prime Minister Theresa May's notice of the UK's intention to leave the bloc under Article 50 of the EU's Lisbon Treaty to EU Council President Donald Tusk in Brussels, Belgium Yves Herman/Reuters Britain's ambassador to the EU Tim Barrow arrives at the British representation of the European Union in Brussels Aurore Belot/AFP/Getty Images A giant headed Theresa May in Parliament Square, London during a protest by Avaaz after PM signed a letter to trigger Article 50 that starts the formal exit process by the UK from the European Union David Mirzoeff/PA British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson walks down Whitehall Jack Taylor/Getty Images Britain's PM Theresa May signs the official letter to European Council President Donald Tusk, invoking Article 50. AFP/Getty Images

Under the Focaldata model, 341 constituencies now have a Remain majority, up from 229 in 2016.

The analysis, conducted for the Best for Britain campaign for a second referendum and the Hope Not Hate campaign against racism, puts Remain on 53 per cent support, against 47 per cent backing Leave.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Vince Cable, who spoke at a rally of People's Vote supporters in Bristol on Saturday, said: "Whether someone voted to leave or stay in the EU in 2016, nearly everyone is disillusioned by the mess the Conservatives have made of Brexit.

"This research is yet more compelling evidence that the British people must be given the final say on any  or no  Brexit deal. The shallow argument against giving the people their say diminishes towards nothingness with every passing day."

Sir Vince told the Bristol rally that opponents of Brexit must work together "as a team" across party divides in the drive for a second EU referendum.

The Lib Dem leader said it was clear the "centre of gravity" on Brexit is shifting in favour of a national poll on the final deal.

He said since Leave's victory in 2016, "the situation has changed, the facts have changed".

"We were all told the British Government was going to save vast amounts of money," he said. "We now know that's not the case: there's the 40 billion divorce settlement, the economy's slowing down, there's less money for the NHS.

"We were told it was simple  it's actually proving unbelievably complicated.

Pro-Brexit Tory MP Jacob Rees-Mogg played down the significance of polls showing a shift of opinion to Remain.

"Most of the polls said people would vote to remain in the EU in 2016, but when people got to the ballot booth they voted to leave," he told Sky News.

"The votes that matter are the votes cast in genuine elections."B oris Johnson today shirked questions on whether he would apologise for comparing Muslim women wearing the burka to letterboxes and bank robbers - by offering reporters camped outside his home a cup of tea.

Mr Johnson, 54, emerged from his Oxfordshire house on Sunday armed with a tray of mugs for exhausted journalists waiting to confront him over his divisive burka comments.

He declined to comment as reporters quizzed him on the controversial remarks, instead offering them a cup of tea.

Mr Johnson said: "I have nothing to say about this matter except to offer you some tea."

Mr Johnson declined to comment on the burka row / PA

He sparked a furore earlier this week by writing in an article for the Daily Telegraph, in which he opposed a ban on the burka or niqab, but branded the face-covering veils "ridiculous" and "oppressive" and said Muslim women wearing them looked like letter-boxes or bank robbers.

Dressed in a purple zip-up fleece, Mr Johnson twice asked reporters if they would like a brew.

When one reporter pressed him on whether he "regretted his comments", he evaded by saying: "I would like you to have a cup of tea."

He said: "I am here solely on a humanitarian mission because you have been here all day.

The former foreign secretary emerged in a purple zip-up fleece / REUTERS

"You have all been incredibly patient and I feel very sorry for you because I have nothing to say about this matter."

It comes as more than half of voters believe Mr Johnson should not face disciplinary action for his comments about the burka, according to a new poll.

The ComRes survey for the Sunday Express found 53 per cent were opposed to punishment for the former foreign secretary, against 40 per cent who said he deserved to be disciplined.

The poll was released as Mr Johnson returned to the UK from a holiday in Italy amid an escalating civil war within the Conservative Party over his description of Muslim women in face-covering veils as looking like letter-boxes or bank robbers.

Mr Johnson's comments sparked furore / Getty Images

Brexit-backing MP Jacob Rees-Mogg denounced the investigation launched into Mr Johnson's remarks as a "show trial" motivated by Mrs May's personal rivalry with a man many see as her likely successor.

The Sunday Times reported that four Cabinet ministers had privately expressed dismay at the handling of the case.

And Tory MP Andrew Bridgen, a supporter of Mr Johnson, warned of "open warfare" in the Conservative Party if he was suspended in such a way that he could not take part in a future leadership contest.

The former foreign secretary is expected to break his silence in his regular Monday column next week.

Far-right US activist Steve Bannon, who was in contact with Mr Johnson during his recent visit to the UK, urged him not to "bow at the altar of political correctness" by apologising.

The former aide to Donald Trump told the Sunday Times that Mr Johnson had "nothing to apologise for".A 12-year-old boy was shot in front of his parents as nine others were injured after a shooting at a street party in Manchester, reports say.

Witnesses said the youngest victim, aged 12, was shot as his parents looked on, according to The Sun Online.

Officers were scrambled to the scene following to reports of two loud bangs at the party, which followed Manchester's Caribbean Carnival, on Claremont Road in Moss Side.

Greater Manchester Police have now launched an attempted murder probe.

Forensics officers carry out an investigation at the scene / PA

The force said nine people, including two children who were at the street party with parents, were taken to hospital after suffering pellet injuries, predominantly to their legs, while one man sustained a broken leg, the cause of which is not known.

None of the injuries are thought to be life-threatening and one person has discharged themselves from hospital.

A further two people presented themselves at hospital to be checked over on Sunday but their injuries were not thought to be serious.

A force spokesman said out of the 12 people who had been to hospital, seven had been discharged, including a teenager.

Footage reportedly showing the aftermath of the incident, posted on social media, appeared to show a panicked group crying out and a voice asking "can you hear me?"

Chief Superintendent Wasim Chaudhry said the motive for the attack remains unclear.

He said: "In the early hours of today, at around 2.25am this morning, my officers got a report of the sound of two loud bangs in the Claremont Road area of south Manchester and officers were quickly in attendance, within a minute in fact.

"They were both armed officers that attended and also unarmed staff.

"What they were faced with was a large crowd of a number of hundred people, several hundred people, in the area who were continuing to celebrate the Caribbean Carnival and a number of those people had been injured and there was a state of panic which our officers had to contend and deal with."

Mr Chaudhry said police were working on the "hypothesis" that there was a shotgun discharge, but it was not clear how many times the weapon had been fired.

A police van is parked across the area where 10 people were shot / PA

One neighbour told The Sun Online: "I heard it was just one man showing off in front of his friends.

"He pulled a gun out and then it's gone off and ten people have been shot.

"I've been told they were mostly shot below the knee."

Youth worker Kemoy Walker said he had been on the main stage at the carnival on Saturday and had been at another street party on Claremont Road until about 11.30pm.

Armed officers were called at 2.30am on Sunday following the celebrations of the Caribbean Carnival / PA

He told Press Association: "The party I was at was beautiful. When I left there was lovely dancing. That's Moss Side, that's the culture. I'm in shock this morning."

The carnival, in nearby Alexandra Park, went ahead for a second day on Sunday.

Police said there had been no arrests at the carnival on Saturday and it had finished at 8pm, six-and-a-half hours before the shooting.

Councillor Pat Karney said: "It's an individual, an idiot, who was messing around with a firearm and you can't tar a whole community because of some idiotic behaviour.

"That could happen in any city in this country.

"I think the fact that over 16,000 people came out to the carnival yesterday indicates the strength of the community here and their desire to celebrate their area."M eghan Markle's mother Doria Ragland is reportedly "preparing to move to the UK" to be closer to her daughter.

The 61-year-old could be making the move as soon as next month to be closer to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, the Express reported.

Ms Ragland was the only member of the bride's family to attend the royal wedding in May.

A close friend in Los Angeles told the news outlet: "She is getting ready to move to London. I think she will be going as soon as possible.

"I know that she was eager to live closer to her daughter."

Doria Ragland arrives for the wedding ceremony of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at St. George's Chapel in Windsor Castle / AP

Meghan, grew up in Windsor Hills, California, where her mother still lives in her childhood home.

In an interview he has claimed will be his last, Thomas Markle said his phone conversation with Duke of Sussex left him feeling upset since it happened while he was recovering in hospital from a heart attack.

Mr Markle sparked a media storm when he staged paparazzi pictures in the run-up to Meghan and Harry's wedding, including shots of him reading about the couple online in an internet cafe.L eading literary figures have paid tribute to British author and Nobel Prize winner Sir V.S. Naipaul following his death at the age of 85.

The writer, who penned more than 30 books over his lifetime, died peacefully at his London home, his family said.

Announcing his death on Saturday night, his wife Lady Nadira Naipaul said he had lived a life "full of wonderful creativity and endeavour".

Naipaul was famously outspoken throughout his career, and notoriously fell out with author Paul Theroux, whom he had mentored.

Writer, V.S Naipaul who penned more than 30 books over his lifetime, died peacefully at his London home, his family said / AP

But the pair later reunited, and Theroux spoke fondly of Naipaul as he paid tribute to "one of the greatest writers of our time".

He told the Associated Press: "He never wrote falsely. He was a scourge of anyone who used a cliche or an un-thought out sentence. He was very scrupulous about his writing, very severe, too."

Naipaul, whose books often dealt with colonialism and attacked religion, politicians and pillars of the literary establishment, also had a tense relationship with author Salman Rushdie, once describing the Ayatollah Khomeini's 1989 fatwa on Rushdie as "an extreme form of literary criticism".

In a Twitter post, Rushdie conceded that the pair had "disagreed all our lives, about politics, about literature", but added: "I feel as sad as if I just lost a beloved older brother. RIP Vidia."

In a statement on Saturday night, Lady Naipaul said her husband was "a giant in all that he achieved", adding: "He died peacefully surrounded by those he loved having lived a life which was full of wonderful creativity and endeavour."

The author was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001 for "having united perceptive narrative and incorruptible scrutiny in works that compel us to see the presence of suppressed histories".

The Academy singled out his 1987 work The Enigma of Arrival, saying he created an "unrelenting image of the placid collapse of the old colonial ruling culture and the demise of European neighbourhoods".

Naipaul was knighted in 1990, and won numerous other major writing prizes throughout his life, including the Booker in 1971 and the David Cohen British literature prize in 1993.

Literature Nobel prize winner V.S. Naipaul (R) with Swedish Princesse Christina (L) at the banquet for the Nobel laureates at Stockholm's City Hall / AFP/Getty Images

His 1961 novel, A House for Mr Biswas, is regarded by many critics as one of his most influential works.

The book was based on the life of his father Seepersad, who was a reporter for the Trinidad Guardian.

Naipaul's books on Islamic fundamentalism - the 1981 work Among the Believers and the 1998 book Beyond Belief - were written after he travelled through non-Arab "converted" Islamic countries.

His attacks on the religion prompted leading English professor Edward Said to say: "It is hard to believe any rational person would attack an entire culture on that scale."

In the 1990s, Naipaul concentrated on non-fiction, and it was in 1994 that his long awaited novel appeared, A Way in the World, an autobiography and a fictional history of colonialism, presenting stories from the times of Sir Walter Raleigh to the 19th century revolutionary Francisco Miranda.

There developed a decades-long friendship between Naipaul and Theroux, but in an angry and unforgiving book, Sir Vidia's Shadow, Naipaul rejected Theroux.

The feud lasted until the pair finally buried the hatchet in 2011, when writer Ian McEwan persuaded them to shake hands at the Hay literature festival.

Theroux told the Associated Press that there had been a "great satisfaction in reconnecting", adding: "It took him a long time to make his mark, but when he did, it happened in a big way."

Naipaul - whose full name was Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul - was born in Chaguanas, Trinidad, and his family moved to the country's capital, Port of Spain, when he was six.

It would later become the setting for his first novel, written in 1959 and titled Miguel Street.

In 1948 he won a government scholarship to read English at Oxford's University College, where he suffered a nervous breakdown.

He married Patricia Hale, whom he met at Oxford in 1955.

She died in 1996 and he went on to marry Lady Nadira, who was some 20 years his junior, shortly afterwards.S t Pancras station turns 150 this year. Its certainly held in higher regard than when it last celebrated a major anniversary.

Today, it is one of the worlds most famous stations. Widely regarded as a masterpiece of Victorian engineering, the London station is a vital hub domestically and internationally: linking London with the Midlands and Yorkshire but also major cities in France, Belgium and Holland.

When it turned 100 in 1968, however, St Pancras had only just survived an attempt by British Rail to shut it down alongside neighbouring Kings Cross.

Think about the impact that would have had on London today, Bob Gwynne, associate curator at the National Railway Museum, laughs.

St Pancras is now one of the UK's key rail terminals, having faced closure only 50 years ago / Anthony Devlin/PA

The railways are busier today than they were in 1947 [the year the railways were nationalised], and with less tracks.

But in 1966, the railways were suffering major competition from the motorways, and the plan was to create a single terminus in Euston Road.

The plans were dropped in 1967 after strong public opposition, including from architectural historian Niklaus Pevsner and poet John Betjeman. The station was given Grade I-listed status.

A train draws into St Pancras Station in 1948 / PA

St Pancras had opened in 1868. It was built by the Midland Railway Company, alongside the Midland Grand Hotel: now the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel.

Access to London from the north was either at Euston or Kings Cross station, explains Mr Gwynne. Midland Railway had problems accessing those stations and said: Stuff this, well build our own terminus.

That became St Pancras. It was built over the slums of Agar Town and Somers Town, but ploughing through those areas created housing problems elsewhere.

Thats a pattern you see with major infrastructure projects.

St Pancras, left, was built over slums / Nick Ansell/PA

The St Pancras Church burial ground was partially cleared, and this church is supposedly the oldest in the UK, so its mildly shocking they ploughed through it.

St Pancras was revolutionary when it opened. It provided services to Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds and Bradford and, from 1876, all the way up to Edinburgh.

Midland Railway was the first company to get rid of second class travel, and the first to offer food on carriages. The trains were very much about comfort for passengers, Mr Gwynne said.

It also boosted the capitals pub trade, with three trains a day arriving from Burton-on-Trent carrying Bass beer.

The space underneath the station, now known as the Arcade with high-end shops, was effectively a beer warehouse, storing thousands of barrels.

The St Pancras Eurostar terminal was opened in 2007 / Lewis Whyld/PA

In the 20th century, decline set in. Though St Pancras survived five Second World War bombs and British Rails attempts to shut it down, there was limited investment until the 1990s.

Plans were announced for St Pancras to become a modern international station with services to Europe via the Channel Tunnel.

The refurbishment required six additional platforms, and Eurostar services started after the restored station was opened by the Queen in 2007.F ormer Trump aide Steve Bannon has said Boris Johnson has nothing to apologise for following the former foreign secretary's comments about Muslim women wearing burkas.

The US right-winger, who masterminded Donald Trump's 2016 presidential election bid and joined him briefly in the White House as a senior adviser, said Mr Johnson should not bow at the altar of political correctness.

His comments came as the Prime Minister Theresa May demanded that the former foreign secretary apologise for claiming women in burkas looked like letter boxes or bank robbers.

Brexit-backing MP Jacob Rees-Mogg was among those to denounce the investigation launched into Mr Johnson's remarks, describing it as a "show trial" motivated by Mrs May's personal rivalry with a man many see as her likely successor.

Former White House strategist Steve Bannon said Boris would make a "great Prime Minister" / AP

The Sunday Times reported that four Cabinet ministers had privately expressed dismay at the handling of the case.

Mr Johnson flew home from his holiday in Italy last night amid claims that more backbenchers were preparing to submit letters to the commons 1922 committee, demanding a vote of no confidence in the Prime Minister.

Mr Bannon heaped praise on Mr Johnson during an interview with The Sunday Times and said he would make a great Prime Minister.

Noting that the notorious article in which he compared Muslim women in face veils to letter-boxes also made the case against a burka ban, Mr Bannon said that populist voters were able to "separate the signal from the noise" and understand Mr Johnson's true message.

Boris Johnson made comments against the wearing of burkas by Muslim women in the UK

"I consider Boris Johnson someone who understands the physics in the ebb and flow of events. Those individuals are rare," said Mr Bannon.

He brushed aside suggestions that Mr Johnson was taking cues from President Trump's approach to politics.

"I'm not sure Boris is using the Trump playbook so much as giving the people what they want - authenticity," said Mr Bannon.

"Boris just needs to be Boris - true to his nature and his calling - and I think he has potential to be a great Prime Minister, not a good one."

Local people protest outside the Hillingdon Conservative Association office in Uxbridge / Getty Images

Mr Bannon has spoken of his plans for an EU-wide movement to rally populist and nationalist voters for the European Parliament elections in 2019, and said he would be spending 70 per cent of his time in Europe following the US mid-term elections in November.

He said that there was "obviously a need for a more populist party in the UK" and predicted that Ukip could revive as an electoral force thanks to grassroots Conservative anger at Theresa May's Chequers plan for Brexit.

Independent panel to investigate Boris Johnson over burka comments

Mr Bannons comments came as a poll found that more than half of UK voters believe Boris Johnson should not face disciplinary action for his comments about the burka, according to a new poll.

The ComRes survey for the Sunday Express found 53 per cent opposed to punishment for the former foreign secretary, against 40 per cent who said he deserved to be disciplined.

Prime Minister piles on pressure for Boris Johnson to apologise for burka comments

Amid complaints from supporters of an attempt to gag Mr Johnson, the ComRes poll found that 60 per cent of respondents believe that rights to free speech are being weakened, against just 5 per cent who said they were strengthening.A mother held in Dubai after drinking a glass of wine on a flight from London has landed back in the UK to the delight of her family.

Dr Ellie Holman was met by her partner Gary at Gatwick Airport on Sunday and driven to her home in Sevenoaks, Kent, for a family reunion, according to the Mail Online.

She told the news site: "I'm just so relieved to be home and can't wait to be with my family, recover and rest.

"It feels amazing to be free and back in a safe country. I'm just looking forward to being with my family. I want to hold all of them together and never let them go."

Dr Holman had earlier said she was "left exhausted" after being locked up for three days with her four-year-old daughter.

The Swedish national reportedly faced up to a year in the Arab state while awaiting a court hearing.

It comes as Dubai officials have denied Dr Holman was detained over drinking alcohol, The Sun reports.

Dubais Attorney General said Dr Holman arrived in Dubai with Swedish passport that expired in June this year.

She was advised by the immigration officer that she could not enter the country with an expired passport, said Issa Al Humaidan.

She then produced an Iranian passport, and was informed by the officer that she could enter the country by issuing a new temporary visa, which allowed a 96-hour stay, and had to change her departure flight according to the new visa.

Dr Holman had drunk one glass of wine on an eight hour Emirates flight from London / AFP/Getty Images

Al Humaidan claimed Dr Holman "verbally insulted" and took pictures of the immigration officer, adding that charges of profanity and photographing a government official at the border crossing, a restricted area were issued against Dr Holman.

As she prepared to fly home to be reunited with her family, the 44-year-old told the Mail Online she could not wait to be back in the UK.

She said: "I haven't even begun to comprehend what's happened to me.

"I've been running on adrenaline alone for the past month and I'm exhausted."

Dr Holman was taken into custody following an eight-hour Emirates Airline flight to Dubai on July 13.

An immigration official questioned her about her visa and asked if she had consumed alcohol.

Dr Holman and her daughter Bibi were reportedly denied food, water and access to a toilet at the beginning of their ordeal when they were held in a cell together for three days.

She faced an uncertain future while she awaited a court hearing, but human rights group Detained in Dubai confirmed that the charges have been dropped.

Dr Holman said on Saturday that she is pleased the "nightmare is coming to an end".

She said: "I am shocked and excited to be returning home to England and that this nightmare is coming to an end."

Dr Holman and Bibi were travelling to Dubai for a five-day break to visit friends, having visited a number of times before.A tourist who has died after he was attacked by a hippo while taking photos on the shores of a lake in Kenya.

Chang Ming Chuang, 66, was pronounced dead on arrival at Navisha Distrcit Hospital, the Kenyan Wildlife Service said.

Another man, 62-year-old Wu Peng Te, was injured in the incident in Lake Naivasha on Saturday night.

The service tweeted on Sunday that it was "sad to announce the death of a Chinese tourist who was attacked by a hippo while taking pictures on the shores of Lake Naivasha yesterday evening."

It said that "his colleague survived with minor bruises" and added that the hippo was being tracked.

Wildlife service spokesman Paul Udoto insisted that attacks on tourists are rare because they are usually protected by guides.

However he said hippos and lone buffalo pose a great danger to humans and there have been many attacks in which civilians and even rangers have lost their lives.

Naivasha is a city 56 miles northwest of the capital, Nairobi.T ributes have poured in for the airline employee who stole an empty passenger plane from Seattle airport and crashed on a nearby island.

Friends of Richard Russell have described the 29-year-old operations agent as always smiling and a hard worker.

Mr Russell, who authorities called "suicidal", hijacked the 76-seater turboprop Bombardier Q400, belonging to Alaska Airlines' sister carrier Horizon Air at around 8pm local time on Friday.

Video showed the plane doing large loops and other dangerous manoeuvres as the Sun set on Puget Sound. There were no passengers aboard.

Authorities have yet to officially name the hijacker, but tributes have been pouring in on Richard Russells Facebook page.

The plane took flight before crashing in a ball flames / Reuters/AP

A co-worker of Mr Russell, Bronson Daniel Faletoi said he was devastated.

He wrote: Had a difficult time sleeping. Eventually woke up extremely sad hoping it was a dream. Heavy heart. Tears falling down my cheek. Still shaken. Still shaking. Devastated.

I dont know how to express fully what I am feeling. Always smiling. Our many conversations about sometimes random things.

I enjoyed working together on our flights. Very hard working. Always helping our team when needed. I remember your smile. I can still hear your laugh.

I can still see you reading. Because you were an avid reader, you were knowledgeable of such random things. I miss you. Even though I never knew you outside of work, what I experienced with you is forever embedded in my mind and heart. Love you man.

On an audio recording from inside the plane during the hijacking, an air traffic controller called the hijacker Rich, and tried to convince him to land the plane.

But the man said: Oh man. Those guys will rough me up if I try and land there," later adding: "This is probably jail time for life, huh?"

Later he said: "I've got a lot of people that care about me. It's going to disappoint them to hear that I did this. Just a broken guy, got a few screws loose, I guess."

Friends posted their memories with Mr Russell on his Facebook page describing him as a sweet soul and a good guy.

One person wrote: You're a good guy. We saw videos of your flight. I cried so much today because you are gone now. You will not be forgotten.

It's so sad that you were unhappy and didn't have help through it all. You did have an awesome joy ride though! I like your YouTube videos. God bless you Rich, and prayers to your family.

The empty passenger airplane making an unlikely upside-down aerial loop / AFP/Getty Images

While another person said: RIP Bro... [Kudos] to you for going out the way that you wanted too... Youve definitely earned your wings..

Strangers from around the world posted messages of condolence on his page.

A Horizon Air Bombardier Q400 takes off from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport in SeaTac, Washington / EPA

Lisa Michell wrote: Didn't know you, but ohh you touched my heart. As a mom, I cried so hard for the pain that drove you to end your life.

'Suicidal' mechanic steals plane from Seattle airport

I cried like I knew you. You were so young, such a beautiful young man. We send love to those who are left to grieve and prayers that you found your serenity, dear one.

The Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123. In the US, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1800 273 8255. Other international suicide helplines can be found at befrienders.org.S cuffles broke out between protesters and police in Washington DC after white nationalists marched on the White House to mark the first anniversary of the Charlottesville riots.

The "Unite the Right 2" event was planned for 5.30pm local time (9.30pm GMT) on Sunday in Lafayette Square, near to the White House.

Some 20 white nationalists arrived at around 3pm to march and hear alt-right leader Jason Kessler speak after last year's violent demonstration.

But they were outnumbered by thousands of counterprotesters, including the anti-facist group Antifa, who denounced racism and white supremacy.

Footage from the scene showed police and demonstrators clash as officers tried to escort the white nationalists away following the rally.

White supremacist Jason Kessler (C) and members of the alt-right march to the White House on the anniversary of last year's 'Unite the Right' rally / EPA

Reporters at the scene said it appeared protesters might block the white nationalists' exit.

Unite the Right supporters allegedly threw water bottles and liquids at their opponents.

There was an enormous police presence to keep both sides apart and avoid the street brawls that broke out last year in downtown Charlottesville.

But tensions rose as the two counter protests combined following the white nationalist rally.

Anarchists and antifa counter-protesters at the march / REUTERS

Antifa anti-protesters arrived, donning black shirts and bandanas covering their face, and could be heard chanting Anytime, any place, punch a Nazi in the face".

Members of the group were pictured burning a Confederate battle flag on Lafeyette Square.

At the head of the white nationalist group was organiser Kessler, who also organised last year's event in Charlottesville.

His event permit application said that between 100 and 400 people were expected to attend the "white civil rights rally".

White supremacists and members of the alt-right march to the White House / EPA

Mr Kessler emerged at around 3pm local time with a handful of fellow demonstrators from a subway station holding an American flag and walked toward the White House.

Counterprotesters who held signs declaring "No Hate" had awaited their arrival, chanting "Nazis go home" and "Shut it down".

A local woman, Heather Heyer, was killed when an Ohio man, James Fields, drove his car into a crowd of counterprotesters.

At the time, US President Donald Trump said there were "very fine people" on both sides, spurring criticism from across the political divide that he was equating the counterprotesters with the rally attendees, who included neo-Nazis and other white supremacists.

On Saturday, Mr Trump condemned "all types of racism" in a Twitter post marking the anniversary.

Uniformed police officers and a line of police barricades divided Lafeyette Square park in half, restricting the counterprotesters to the northern half, furthest away from the White House.

Counterprotesters by far outnumbered the white nationalist rally / AFP/Getty Images

Anti-racist protesters began gathering on Sunday as part of a series of counterprotests planned in the US capital.

More than 1,000 protesters descended on Freedom Plaza early afternoon to oppose the demonstration.

Makia Green, who represents the Washington branch of Black Lives Matter, told Sunday's crowd at Freedom Plaza: "We know from experience that ignoring white nationalism doesn't work."

Hundreds gathered to protest the rally in Washington DC / EPA

The counterprotesters planned to march to Lafayette Square in front of the White House, just before the arrival of the white nationalists.

Police erected a maze of barricades to keep the two sides apart.

Meanwhile more than 100 people gathered at a Charlottesville city park on Sunday to mark the one year anniversary.

The demonstrators gathered in Washington Park before marching downtown to the site of Ms Heyer's death, some arm in arm.

Chants including "cops and Klan go hand in hand" were heard from the group.This year we thought we finalise 100 km of motorway, since it is the Centennial, so to contribute to the jubilee somehow, the managing director of the National Road Infrastructure Administration Company (CNAIR) Narcis Neaga told an interview with AGERPRES.

Neaga talked about the pace the motorways are built these days in Romania, as compared to the countries around us, stressing that unfortunately one cannot turn a blind eye to the fact that from 1990 to 2003, Romania has built nothing, which is not the case with Bulgaria, Poland or Hungary.

The CNAIR head emphasised that all of Romania's historical provinces could be connected through motorways at the horizon of 2025 - 2030. According to Neaga, in 2020 we shall be able to travel from western Nadlac to central Sibiu and from Pitesti to southeastern Constanta.Narcis Neaga reminded that we lack the workforce in constructions and talked about the alterations "to be suffered" by the regulation of the works' reception alongside the period of assessment of the offers, making a synthesis of the infrastructure objectives under execution and a projection for the future.You are here: Business

Regular freight trains linking Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province, and Milan, Italy, are now in operation.

A train carrying refrigerators worth 520,000 U.S. dollars departed Friday at the international railway port in Chengdu. The train will travel 10,694 km in 14 days and pass through countries such as Kazakhstan, Russia, and Poland.

The service will run regularly after September, at which point four such freight trains are planned per month on the new route.

Late last year, a freight train departed from Milan and arrived in Chengdu, carrying Italian products such as machinery, high-end furniture, and ceramic tiles.

A manager with the Chengdu railway port said the freight train service would bring Italian products like furniture and tiles to China and ship Chinese IT products, machinery and clothing to Italy.In April 1971 John Kerry, who served gallantly in Vietnam and was later Secretary of State, stood in front of a US Senate Committee and asked How do you ask a man to be the last man to die in Vietnam? How do you ask a man to be the last man to die for a mistake?

Today, we could do with a John Kerry to ask the same question about the war in Afghanistan.

On August 5 it was reported that a suicide bomber has killed three Czech NATO soldiers in an attack in eastern Afghanistan. The victims were targeted while on a routine foot patrol alongside Afghan forces, NATO officials said in a statement. A US soldier and two Afghan soldiers were wounded in the attack in Charikar, the capital of Parwan province.

Just what is being achieved by Czech soldiers on fighting patrols 5,000 kilometres from home is not explained by any of the authorities responsible for their deployment  and thus for placing them in jeopardy of their lives  but the usual nauseating platitudes were promptly mouthed by some of them.

The Czech prime minister, Andrej Babis, declared that the dead soldiers were heroes who fought against terrorism so far from home. Well, he should know about operating far from home. Forbes lists him as being worth four billion dollars and owning a Michelin-starred restaurant, La Paloma, in the French Riviera which is no doubt some consolation to the relatives and friends of the men who were killed. Babis, of course, sent his deepest condolences to their families, as did the ever-ready General John Nicholson, the sixteenth commander in Washingtons seventeen years of war, who, never at a loss for futile banality, babbled that Their sacrifice will endure in both our hearts and history and further strengthen our resolve. What utter garbage.

The sacrifice of these Czech soldiers wont be felt by any hearts other than those of their grieving families, and it is insulting to claim that it will. And their deaths wont get even the tiniest footnote in history. As to strengthening our resolve  resolve to do what?  to carry on mouthing phoney inanities about the utter chaos in Afghanistan?

This tawdry exhibition of fake emotion sticks in the gullet  but its not as sickening as the observation in The Economist that the wars current cost  roughly $45 billion and around a dozen lives a year  is modest enough to invite little interest from Congress or the media. That suggests Mr Trumps strategy is sustainable.

The talented intellectuals of The Economist think that the deaths of a dozen American soldiers every year in the unwinnable Afghan War indicate that the policies of Trump and the Pentagon can be maintained indefinitely. Whats a dozen lives, after all?

Well, listen to me, you clever little intellectuals and you swaggering military strategists, because Im going to tell you a few home truths.

The soldiers who have died  and those who are going to die have relatives who love them. They have parents, brothers, sisters, wives, partners, children, all of whom suffer when the lives of their nearest and dearest are sacrificed by a bunch of no-hopers as part of a modest cost in a supposedly sustainable strategy in a country that is ungovernable.

The Costs of War Project at Brown University estimates that more than 100,000 people have died in the war in Afghanistan. They werent all soldiers, of course, because in conflicts like this, the civilian population always suffers from action by both militants and the armed forces involved. In July, the UN reported that 1,692 Afghan civilians were killed, and 3,430 injured in the first six months of 2018, which is the record for that period in the seventeen years of this catastrophe.

But lets get back to the soldiers who are dying.

On August 9 it was finally acknowledged by the Kabul government that over twenty Afghan soldiers had been killed in an insurgent attack on August 3 in Uruzgan province. There were no US-NATO troops involved, so there has been little reporting of the disaster by the western media, and no mention of it whatever by NATO headquarters, but it is the most serious setback suffered by the Afghan Army for several months.

Consider what happens to the dependant families of dead Afghan soldiers: the widows are entitled to pensions, of course  but Afghanistan is the third most corrupt country in the world. Do you imagine for a moment that these anguished women receive a fraction of the tiny amount to which they are entitled? Of course they dont. Usually, they dont get a bean, because the money is stolen by crooked and heartless government officials. What have you to say to that, General Nicholson? Does it strengthen your resolve to do anything?

As reported by the Japan Times, Help for Afghan Heroes, an Afghan non-profit organization supporting 5,000 families of wounded or dead security forces, said corruption is a key reason many women do not receive assistance. Nasreen Sharar, special projects officer for the group, said that they are asked to pay a bribe to get the application processed and they often dont have the money.

Of course they dont have the money. They are just tiny inconsequential and stricken blobs in a sustainable strategy that costs $45 billion and around a dozen lives a year.

Hashratullah Ahmadzai, spokesman for Kabuls Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs, Martyrs and Disabled, told Arab News We are in a state of war. The number of women who become widows is increasing. Those who fight on the government side and those on the side of the Taliban and the militants have wives and mothers too. People on both sides suffer and women on all sides are affected more than anyone in this war.

But what about the Czech army soldiers who were killed in Afghanistan? The western media carried the 130 word Reuter's report about their deaths, and then forgot all about them, which makes a sick joke of Nicholsons pompous pronouncement that Their sacrifice will endure in both our hearts and history.

They were Staff Sergeant Martin Marcin, 36, and Corporals Kamil Benes, 28, and Patrik Stepanek, 25, about whose deaths the Czech Defence Minister Lubomir Metnar declared that We have witnessed a tragedy that can hardly be prevented when you serve in the army. I would really like to be able to put that grubby politician on a patrol in Afghanistan, along with the intellectuals of The Economist and all the other smart-assed commentators to whom soldiers lives and grieving widows mean nothing.

Not that the Czech government told us much about the widows or other relatives of the soldiers Mr Metnar sent to die in Afghanistan. All that was reported by Czech Radio was One leaves behind a widow and a three-month-old baby.

At least, shell probably be paid her pension, unlike so many widows of Afghan Army soldiers who also died for What?

In all the years of useless conflict in Afghanistan the western media has never listed the names of Afghan Army soldiers killed in action, because these soldiers dont matter in the greater scheme of things  the sustainable strategy  in which they are but inconsequential pawns, as are all the civilians who are killed by bombing, whether on the ground by the Taliban, or from the sky by Afghan-US-NATO airstrikes.

The BBC reports that Since President Trump announced his Afghanistan strategy . . . the number of bombs dropped by the US Air Force has surged dramatically. New rules of engagement have made it easier for US forces to carry out strikes against the Taliban and this surge in aerial blitzing has certainly had an effect.

In the first six months of 2018 the UN documented 353 civilian casualties (149 deaths and 204 injured) from aerial attacks, a 52 per cent increase from the same period in 2017. The mission attributed 52 per cent of all civilian casualties from aerial attacks to the Afghan Air Force, 45 per cent to international military forces, and the remaining three per cent to unidentified Pro-Government Forces.

While Afghan and foreign air forces blitz the country, and the Taliban and other militants wreak havoc with their constant attacks, all that happens politically is that corruption thrives and the murderously criminal vice-president, Abdurrashid Dostum, returns from self-imposed exile to create further chaos. The place is ungovernable, and the foreigners should get out, now.

As John Kerry said, almost fifty years ago: How do you ask a man to be the last man to die for a mistake?On Aug. 9, Vice President Mike Pence called for the establishment of a Space Force by 2020. US Defense Secretary James Mattis also came out in support of the idea to create a new unified command of the armed forces to focus on space operations. He said the Defense Department will address space as a new war-fighting domain. A report to Congress on creating a new combatant command is expected soon. The idea meets the provisions of the Joint Vision 2020, which states that the US should dominate and control the military use of space.

The 1967 Outer Space Treaty imposes no restrictions on conventional weapons. In 2015, the UN General Assembly adopted a Russia-submitted resolution, calling for no weapons placed in space, but Washington opposed it. The proposed Prevention of an Arms Race in Space (PAROS Treaty) put forward by Russia and China to ban conventional arms in the domain has been rejected by the United States. According to Politico, Vladimir Putin presented President Donald Trump with a proposal to mutually prohibit weapons in space during the Helsinki summit. In less than a month after the meeting, the US announced the need to create a new command, obviously preparing for a competition it plans to win.

On Aug.8, Missile Defense Agency director, Gen. Samuel Greaves, described in general lines what the new combatant command will look like in a speech at the Space and Missile Defense Symposium. He emphasized the need for creating a sensor layer with a regional detection and tracking capability, allowing to catch hypersonic missiles in the boost or burnout phases of flight.

Ground-based radars are limited by horizon. The only real way to reliably track hypersonic weapons is from space. Space-based sensors would guide ground-based ballistic missile defense (BMD) systems at the midcourse portion of the incoming missiles trajectory. The damage control information would be used by last ditch systems. Probably, the Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (NG-OPIR) program will offer advanced capabilities.

The sensor layer will serve the BMD components of all branches to make the creation of combatant command a better option in comparison with the Air Force-headed architecture, which has existed since 1982. On the other hand, reforming the structure is more of a cosmetic change, it does not alter the substance  the US is adamant in its desire to weaponize the space and make it not only a part of global BMD but also a part of defense against hypersonic missiles Russia and China are close to arm their military with.

The US is lagging behind in hypersonic arms race. It pins hopes on space-based layer to enhance its capability to counter the threat. And its not only sensors. US officials know well that putting mini satellite-based jammers into space is also the most effective way to prevent hypersonic weapons from being guided with the desired accuracy.

According to Gen. Greaves, the US Missile Defense Agency (MDA) is not averse to developing and fielding space-based missile defense interceptors, which are a relatively easy technological challenge. We are developing options to pursue that capability if the nation decides that is what we should be doing, Greaves said. Congress has already written some language that would push us, direct us, guide us in that area, he added, meaning the fiscal 2018 and 2019 National Defense Authorization Acts. In a nutshell, neither the US executive nor legislative power is averse to putting weapons in space to trigger an arms race in the new domain. The idea has strong backing. Therell be no problem with congressional approval of the new branch of the military.

The Skripal poisoning was presented as a formal cause for introducing a package of anti-Russia punitive measures announced on Aug.8. Its hard to believe the US really is much worried about the Skripal case. It has seen no proof because the UK is the source of potential evidence and if it had one, it would gladly produce it for the whole world to see. London has failed to do so.

Then what prompted the US to announce the recent crushing sanctions against Russia, which encompass aerospace-related technology? The first tranche, which targets US exports of sensitive national-security related goods, is to take effect on Aug.22. Everything related to satellites is a priority target for the package.

Its logical to surmise that while lagging behind in hypersonic technology, the US wants to ensure its leadership in space-based elements of hypersonic missile defense. Other programs could boost the profits of airspace industry.

The reasons given as justification for introduction of new sanctions against Russia are always false. This time Washington is trying to reverse the trend and use the sanctions for becoming the leader in new weapons and technologies. It has tried it before. History teaches that that arms races are unwinnable. But the effort to put weapons into space will most certainly undermine the prospects for any progress in arms control.

Nobodys security will be enhanced but the damage may be irreparable. Sanctions may delay the development of new technologies in Russia or China but they cant prevent their emergence. Its either talks on restricting space weaponization or putting weapons in space to trigger an arms race in an attempt to achieve global domination. The US appears to have made its choice. But any choice implies responsibility. There is still time to reverse the dangerous trend.A Tauranga woman's decision to get a tattoo of Tinker Bell on her back six years ago has grounded her hopes of working for Air New Zealand.

Lynley Baker, 46, says she applied for a Tauranga City Airport part-time customer service role with Air New Zealand late last month, but the national carrier rejected her job application because of the tattoo.

She was told by the airline that the tattoo, which sits between her shoulder blades, would have been visible while wearing the airline's distinctive "koru dress" uniform  a big no-no according to the airline's uniform policy.

Lynley, who works as a travel broker, says she was "disgusted" by the stance and accused the airline of discrimination.

But an employment lawyer said Air New Zealand's actions were not illegal, and employers were well within their rights to discriminate against tattoos  unless they were of culture or religious significance.

Lynley says her application was progressing well, with the airline asking her to provide video responses to written questions and to fill out a form declaring things like criminal convictions and visible body art.

Lynley noted she had a tattoo on her back and provided photos as requested by the airline.

She soon received a call from an Air New Zealand representative who said her application would not proceed any further because her tattoo would have been visible while wearing the Air New Zealand dress.

Lynley says she was puzzled by this because she was aware that Air New Zealand's female uniform consisted of a range of garments including shirts, scarves and jackets  all of which would have covered her tattoo.

But the woman on the phone says the airline's dress was the one garment in its uniform that was used as the test for whether a tattoo was visible or not, says Lynley.

"I am disgusted that they are allowed to get away with this type of discrimination when there is clearly an option in the uniform range that would hide my tattoo," says Lynley.

In a statement, an Air New Zealand spokeswoman says its uniform standard was well known.

"Uniformed customer-facing staff are not permitted to have tattoos visible when wearing the uniform," says the Air New Zealand spokeswoman.

"The policy applied equally to men and women," she says.

On its website, Air New Zealand says its uniform policy does not permit visible tattoo's in its "koru uniforms".

The spokeswoman would not comment on the reasons why an individual's employment application was unsuccessful.

Air New Zealand has been in the spotlight for its firm stance on tattoos in the past after it rejected a job applicant with a moko in 2013.

Lynley says she got the tattoo six years ago during a "midlife crisis".

She says only about 1 centimetre of her tattoo would have been visible wearing the dress, which could have been covered up using concealer.

"I'm just so angry because it's not like it's on my face, it's between my shoulder blades.

"For a national company that's pretty crap that they can just rule people out for something like that."

Lynley got the tattoo about six years ago during a "midlife crisis".

Dundas Street Employment Lawyers partner Susan Hornsby-Geluk says there was nothing illegal about discriminating against people with tattoos.

"Employers are entitled to state their own dress code, including jewellery and any body decorations," says Susan.

However, if the tattoo was of religious or ethnic significance then a complaint of indirect discrimination could be made.

There are 13 specific prohibited grounds of discrimination set out in the Human Rights Act, which a recruiter must adhere to, including but not limited to age, marital status, race, religious belief and sex.

Susan says anything that fell outside of those grounds, including tattoos, was effectively fair game for employers to discriminate against.

-StuffPeak Pegasus, a cargo ship that has been circling off the Chinese coast for over a month will finally dock at Dalian's Beiliang port on August 11, Liaoning Maritime Safety Administration told CGTN's reporter on Friday.







The cargo ship, owned by JPMorgan Asset Management, left Seattle on June 8 on a month-long voyage to the northeastern Chinese city of Dalian. The trade conflict between the US and China was sparked just as it left, with the US imposing tariffs on billions of dollars' worth of Chinese imports.





The Peak Pegasus was due to deliver its 70,000-ton cargo of soybeans on July 6, but missed the tariff deadline. Offloading those US soybeans in China would incur a 25 percent tariff, adding around six million US dollars to the cost of bringing them into the country, according to the Guardian.





The American Soybean Association (ASA) has expressed "extreme disappointment" in the US move of imposing further tariffs on Chinese goods, which they believe will "needlessly hurt soybean growers and rural communities" in America. The ASA once again called on the administration to find a non-tariff solution to address its trade issue with China, such as utilizing soybeans as the largest agricultural export to help reduce the US trade deficit with China.





In early July, the US administration imposed an additional 25 percent tariff on 34 billion US dollars' worth of imports from China, forcing a retaliation from China on US imports.





China imported about 33 million tons of soybeans from the US last year and takes about 62 percent of all US soybean exports annually.





China's Sinograin, the group that handles the state grain stockpiles, is also the purchaser of these US soybeans brought by Peak Pegasus. The company will settle the relevant import duties and tax according to the customs regulations of China.



Click the image above to watch the video

Jo Torrs exhibition Vahine-Wahine opened at The Peoples Gallery Toi ka rere at Taurangas Historic Village on Friday evening.

Hosted by The Incubator, this is the first of Taurangas Suffrage 125 events, and highlights and commemorates New Zealand women who won the right to vote 125 years ago in 1893.

On September 19 1893 the Electoral Act 1893 was passed, giving all women in New Zealand the right to vote. As a result of this landmark legislation, New Zealand became the first self-governing country in the world in which all women had the right to vote in parliamentary elections.

Jo Torrs exhibition Vahine-Wahine reflects on the position of women through history with her unique conceptual sculpture. Each sculpture takes the form of a garment that incorporates an aspect of Polynesian/Maori or European cloth and an aesthetic sensibility associated with either culture.

Jo Torr.

Torrs Transit of Venus works are beautiful and elaborate gowns that explore the exchanges between European and Polynesian peoples at the time of James Cooks voyages in the South Pacific.

The gowns are based on European dress styles of the 1770s when Cooks voyages took place, and point to the similarity in silhouette with Tahitian tapa gift-giving ceremonies.

Kaitaka presents a spectacular couple in 1880s dress constructed from cream-coloured woollen blankets that stand in for muka, the dressed flax fibre of traditional Maori cloaks.

A close-up of one of the garments.

These works examine the historical interrelation of Maori cloaks and European woollen blankets drawing attention to the way Maori adopted and adapted new materials into everyday life.

Jo Torr is an award-winning artist whose art is exhibited and collected by public museums, art galleries and private collections.

Through her sculpture, she explores the mutual cultural exchange between Polynesian and European peoples. She has tertiary qualifications in fine art, graphic design, Maori visual arts, fashion design, museum studies and librarianship. She currently works as the Registrar at the Tauranga Art Gallery.

A close-up of one of the garments.

Further events in the Tauranga Suffrage 125 calendar include a school debate asking why men should have the vote; An evening with Helen Clark at Holy Trinity;

The performance of Kororareka: The Ballad of Maggie Flynn at Baycourt;

A Suffrage march in Katikati;

A celebration of patchwork and quilting by Papamoa Patchers;

A luncheon panel hosted by the Business Womens Network;

An Evening with Jan Tinetti in Tauranga City Council chambers;

A Suffrage-themed school holiday programme for children by Tauranga City Libraries;

A Talk on Three Female Voters from Te Puke by Marie Lewis hosted by Tauranga Historical Society; the publication Western Bay Women;

and the launch of childrens book Eliza and the White Camellia: A Story of Suffrage in New Zealand by Debbie McCauley.

The exhibition Vahine-Wahine will run until August 28 at The Peoples Gallery Toi ka rere at Tauranga Historic Village in 17th Ave.

There are several more events to be confirmed so keep an eye on the Suffrage 125 Tauranga Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/womenssuffrage

Simone Anderson from The Incubator, which is hosting the exhibition.

The Peoples Gallery Toi ka rere at night, at Tauranga Historic Village.Bay of Plenty

If you love working out doors and in a small team then we have the role for you. We are needing someone who has either maintenance...



View or Apply on GoodWork.co.nz311 and The Offspring

The platinum-selling quintet "311" rose to fame in the 1990s as a rock band that seamlessly fuses reggae and hip-hop into their sound. They came together in Omaha, Nebraska - using the Omaha Police Department's code for indecent exposure (311) as their band name. 311 has developed a massive fanbase and have ridden the wave of success time and time again throughout their decades of performing. Their latest album, "Mosaic," was released in 2017.

The Offspring blends punk with metal and indie for an infectious sound and vibe. Releasing their first album, "The Offspring," in 1989, the band has been together for nearly three decades. Some of their signature hits include "Come Out and Play," "Self-Esteem" and "Pretty Fly (For a White Guy)." Also on the ticket is Gym Class Heroes.

Where: St. Joseph's Health Amphitheater at Lakeview, 490 Restoration Way, Syracuse

When: 8 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 12.

How much: Tickets start at $18. Details here.

Agent Orange

Pioneers of the surf punk sound, Agent Orange has been rocking the soundwaves since 1979. Their first album, "Living In Darkness," released in 1981, is considered a standard work in the world of underground, West Coast punk. Although there have been several lineup changes since their formation, the band, led by Mike Palm (guitarist, vocalist and founding member), has continued touring and recording for millions of punk-loving fans and new listeners alike. The bands Fea and Mill Bastards will also be playing. Individuals under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Where: The Haunt, 702 Willow Avenue, Ithaca

When: 8 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 12.

How much: Tickets start at $15. Details here.



Jah9

Born Janine Cunningham, Jah9 is a reggae artist with a richly developed and roots inspired sound. Jah9, a nickname from childhood, developed a relationship with dub and roots reggae while attending college. Her most recent record, created with Mad Professor, "In the Midst of the Storm," was released in 2017. This concert benefits Ithaca's Multicultural Resource Center and WaterNow, a nonprofit dedicated to providing clean drinking water now and in the future. On Thursday, August 16, Jah9 and her band will be playing at the Southside Community Center for "Yoga On Dub," providing the soundtrack for a meditational experience.

Where: The Haunt, 702 Willow Avenue, Ithaca

When: 10:30 p.m., Friday, Aug. 17.

How much: Tickets start at $20. Details here.

Blues Traveler

Formed in New York in 1988, Blues Traveler is a blues based rock quartet with a jam style similar to bands like The Grateful Dead. They are perhaps best known for their 1990s hit single, "Run-Around," which spent nearly a year on the charts and sent their album, "Four," into quadruple platinum status. In March of 2012, Blues Traveler celebrated 25 years by releasing the aptly named album, "25."

Where: Saranac Brewery, 830 Varick Street, Utica

When: 7 p.m., Friday, Aug. 17.

How much: Tickets start at $25. Details here.

Luke Bryan

Country runs in Luke Bryan's blood - as a kid growing up Leesburg, Georgia, he helped his father sell fertilizer and grow peanuts. By his teens, Bryan decided to more seriously pursue his passion for country music, playing on his first guitar by the age of 14 and writing songs by the age of 16. In 2001 Bryan moved to Nashville to pursue a career in country music, and by 2009 he struck it big on the country and pop scene with the release of the album, "Doin' My Thing." Since 2009, Bryan has steadily stayed at the top of country and pop charts with tunes like "Someone Else Calling You Baby," "Play It Again," and "Huntin', Lovin' and Fishin' Every Day." Artists Jon Pardi and Morgan Wallen will be joining Luke Bryan.

Where: St. Joseph's Amphitheater at Lakeview, 490 Restoration Way, Syracuse

When: 7 p.m., Friday, Aug. 17.

How much: Tickets start at $39. Details here.



Broken Arrow: A Tribute Band to Neil Young

Broken Arrow is a tribute band that covers all sides of the legendary Neil Young, from his rock heavy material to his softer, acoustic sound. The band, consisting of Joe Mass, Danny Gold, Larry Freedman, and Marty Cohl, sticks true to Young's style and sound, while adding in touches of their own musical ingenuity throughout.

Where: Kallet Theater and Conference Center, 4842 N. Jefferson Street, Pulaski

When: 8 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 18.

How much: Tickets start at $30. Details here.WASHINGTON - Protected by a large phalanx of police officers, about two dozen participants in a white supremacist rally walked from the Foggy Bottom Metro station to Lafayette Park across the street from the White House on Sunday afternoon ahead of their rally for "white civil rights."

It was an angry and tense scene as anti-hate protesters lined the route, shouting at the marchers and chanting anti-racist messages. The turnout for Unite the Right 2 was far fewer than 400 people that its organizer, Jason Kessler, said would take part. Kessler was also one of the lead organizers of last year's deadly white supremacist rally in Charlottesville.

The white supremacist gathering falls on the anniversary of the Charlottesville, Virginia, violence, which killed an anti-racist protester, Heather Heyer, and took the lives of two Virginia State troopers whose helicopter crashed as they returned from monitoring the day's events.

Tons of protesters in north portion of Lafayette Park. Fairly dismal group of white supremacists on other side pic.twitter.com/NAGG0bGcKi  Tess Owen (@misstessowen) August 12, 2018

Along the route and at the park, the rally goers were met by thousands of anti-racist protesters and activists who turned out to counter the message of Kessler and his group.

Both Kessler and opposition groups have permits from the National Park Service to demonstrate at the park, a leafy seven-acre enclave just across Pennsylvania Avenue from the president's residence. The groups were put on opposite sides of the park and separated by a barrier.

Escorted by police in riot gear, Kessler and his 20 to 30 supporters arrived in the city after boarding a train at the Vienna Metro station in Northern Virginia.

Before boarding the train, Kessler spoke to several reporters. He said he and his group were there to promote free speech and to protest "white civil rights abuses."

When asked if he had anything to say to the mother of Heather Heyer, Kessler offered his "condolences" but said that police in Charlottesville should have blocked off the street where she was killed.

The train carrying Kessler (and with several police officers standing on each car) made stops along the way from Vienna toward Foggy Bottom. At Clarendon station, officers on the platform warned waiting passengers that the coming train was carrying Unite the Right participants, and directed people to board at the front of the train, away from Kessler's car at the back.

Protesters awaited the train when it arrived at Foggy Bottom station, but they were separated from Kessler by about 60 feet, with police officers instructing the protesters that they weren't allowed to get any closer. None of the protesters physically tried to get past the police.

When Kessler emerged from the car, surrounded by a swarm of photographers and TV cameras, the protesters started booing, yelling "F - you," and chanting "Black Lives Matter." Once the white supremacist group went up the escalator and past the fare gates, the people standing on the platform could hear a slow rumble of screams and yells erupt from the people waiting at the surface.

Members of Kessler's group said they weren't sure how many people would show up to demonstrate with them but that it "doesn't matter."

As the group was escorted into the station, a crowd of counterprotesters shouted "go home Nazis" and told the members of the group whose faces were covered to "take off your masks."

The train departed soon after and headed into the city.

Meanwhile, in Washington, the number of protesters continued to grow.

By 2:30 p.m., close to a thousand protesters were at Freedom Plaza, a few blocks away from Lafayette Park, for an afternoon rally of speeches and music.

The Rev. Graylan Hagler was the rally's first speaker. "This place, this city, this country is a country of inclusivity and not white supremacy," he told the crowd in a booming voice. "We are people that stand up for racial justice and racial inclusivity," he added. "We will not be silenced."

Elsewhere, about 200 people from various groups marched down Vermont Avenue and are just outside Lafayette Park shouting "we are not afraid" and "our streets."

Police reported no arrests or skirmishes in the District of Columbia.

Around the same time Kessler and his supporters boarded a train in Vienna, a large contingent of Black Lives Matter D.C. arrived at Lafayette Square to await him there.

Several hundred people marched down H Street toward the plaza shouting chants, many of them dressed in black and holding signs. The front phalanx walked in a row behind a hand-painted banner reading, "Rise Up" and "Power to the People."

Protesters and tourists left the grassy plaza to watch and applaud the group chanting and clapping in the street.

Earlier at Lafayette Park the atmosphere was quieter.

Protesters milled about, talking and photographing each other's signs. Childish Gambino's "This Is America" pumped through speakers set up on the stage on the northeast side of the park. Some enterprising vendors hawked cold water and Gatorade.

Stacks of signs line patches of grass on the northeast side of Lafayette Park. Organizers said theyll be here as long as #UniteTheRight2 remains in #DC. Their permit goes through midnight. #ShutItDownDC pic.twitter.com/Wbd2keWMbd  Marissa J. Lang (@Marissa_Jae) August 12, 2018

For some of the protesters, the focus was less on the white supremacist rally than on President Donald Trump.

Holding a "Dump Trump" sign, Mike Holey, 67, of Baltimore, said he's been particularly frustrated by what he called the president's hesitation to denounce white supremacy and neo-Nazism. He pointed to Trump's statement that there was "blame on both sides" after violence broke out at the Unite the Right rally last year.

Benjamin Garrett, a Vietnam War veteran who lives in Maryland, raised a sign saying "Trump is a traitor" in block capital letters.

"He gives these people permission," Garrett said. "Trump is a blatant racist."

Trump, who was heavily criticized last year for not unequivocally condemning the white nationalists who had organized the rally and a torch light march through the University of Virginia campus the night before, addressed the Charlottesville anniversary on Saturday, tweeting, "The riots in Charlottesville a year ago resulted in senseless death and division. We must come together as a nation. I condemn all types of racism and acts of violence. Peace to ALL Americans!"

At the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, about 20 protesters marched to the Lincoln Memorial while singing "We Shall Overcome."

The group's leader, Hawk Newsome, said that Kessler had invited him and his group, Black Lives Matter of Greater NY, to attend Unite the Right 2.

"He thought that I was a friend, but I am not his Negro," Newsome said. "I am not some token Black you can use to validate yourself."

BLM-GNY - which has been disavowed by the broader Black Lives Matter network - went viral when Newsome and a few others went onstage at a Trump rally last September while staging a counterprotest.

Instead of joining Kessler, he and a handful of other activists marched over the past 10 days from the Bronx to D.C. to protest a range of issues, from food insecurity to police brutality.

"I represent a contingent of marginalized people and they (white nationalists) stand in direct opposition to everything we fight for," Newsome said.

D.C. leaders and federal and local law enforcement officials say their focus Sunday is to keep the two groups apart and prevent any violence or property damage. Police in Charlottesville last year stood back as white supremacists and neo-Nazis engaged in brutal clashes and street brawls with protesters, including members of anti-fascist groups.

D.C. Police Chief Peter Newsham said Thursday that the goal "will be to keep the two groups separate ... When they are in the same area at the same time, it leads to violent confrontations. Our goal is to prevent that from happening."

Police closed streets to vehicle traffic in a large swath of blocks near the White House beginning at 8 a.m. Sunday, and they were expected to remain closed through 8 p.m. Questions remain, however, about how law enforcement will ensure that Kessler and his supporters will make their way to the park.

Unite the Right has arrived in Lafayette Park. Check out their minuscule numbers compared to the anti-racist protestors. pic.twitter.com/emhNnsgzv3  Sara Sidner (@sarasidnerCNN) August 12, 2018

Earlier in the week, there were discussions about having Kessler's group take Metro from the Vienna station in Northern Virginia to Foggy Bottom. And one plan would have Metro arrange for separate subway cars for those attending the rally. But that plan was abandoned when the union representing Metro's workers, predominantly people of color, made clear that they did not want to provide special arrangements for racists.

Metro General Manager Paul J. Wiedefeld said Sunday his transit agency doesn't want a repeat of last year's violence in Charlottesville.

Standing in front of Vienna Metro station, Wiedefeld said the agency stepped up security for the weekend.

"We have history here," he said. "It's all hands on deck for us."

He said that Metro is a public service and as long as no one is violent they will be allowed to ride the trains.

At 9:30 Sunday morning, the Vienna Metro station was quiet. The white supremacist groups expected to congregate there ahead of the rally had not yet arrived. But Metro Transit Police and Fairfax County (Virginia) Police were there, setting up a staging area and preparing for any clashes that could ensue when rally attendees and those opposing them begin to arrive.

Around 8 a.m. Fairfax County police tweeted a warning to Metro riders: "High ridership expected at Vienna Metro today. In an effort to promote safety, Chief Roessler is asking commuters to avoid the area all day today based on our knowledge the ridership will consist of opposing groups known to cause civil unrest."

In the two hours after police sent that tweet, there were few demonstrators present, but fliers were plastered around the station in anticipation: "Hate Free Zone" and "Hate Has No Home Here," they read.

D.C. police could be seen early Sunday walking the streets near the park as officials began shutting down several downtown streets where protesters are expected to gather.

A new group of protesters just arrived from north of Lafayette Park. Theyre marching, dancing in the street. #ShutItDownDC #UnitetheRight2 #DC pic.twitter.com/GtLnKDNN0s  Marissa J. Lang (@Marissa_Jae) August 12, 2018

Even as police continued to erect an intricate maze of barricades around Lafayette Park, it seemed like a typical Sunday morning outside the White House - with Segway tours and selfie sticks in abundance.

Tourists making their way through Lafayette Square paused to take in the growing group of protesters gathering on the northeast side of the park.

Brightly colored signs declaring, "From Charlottesville to the White House: Shut down white supremacy" and "No Nazis, no KKK, no fascist USA" lined patches of grass.

Rossana Castillo, 50, a tourist from Grenoble, France, paused as she passed to take photos.

"It's astonishing to me," she said of the planned Unite the Right rally that was expected to bring white supremacists and a former grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan within shouting distance of the White House. "And it is just so sad. I know I am a foreigner, but I love your country. I really do. And I am so grateful these people can be here and have the right to stand up to people like this."

Just after 10 a.m. officers cleared the park for a security sweep. Police dogs patrolled the area, sniffing at the signs.

Brian Becker, the executive director of the A.N.S.W.E.R. Coalition, urged activists to "be strong, be steadfast, be calm, be dignified" as the sweep continued.

He and his organization decided to host a counterprotest Sunday, he said, because "the president said there were some 'very fine people' on both sides after Charlottesville - we think the American people disagree."

"We represent the majority sentiment in this country," he said. "Nazis and the KKK do not represent America."

At the Vienna Metro station, VJ Hyde, a 38-year-old music teacher from Fairfax County, pulled a new stack of posters and a roll of tape from his Whole Foods shopping bag and doled them out to his wife and two daughters.

The family of four and three of their friends came to the Metro station to post the fliers.

"We're here because this is a very messed up time in our country and our community is front and center," Hyde said.

He and his family are Jewish and their friends are Asian-American. Hyde said he overheard one of his daughters talking to a friend about the white supremacists. She told the friend the rally attendees "hate us."

"That's pretty f----- up," Hyde said.

Big counterprotest contingent marching along Lafayette Park: Whose streets? Our streets! pic.twitter.com/WmafSaWFBJ  Blake Montgomery  (@blakersdozen) August 12, 2018

Issues like racism and xenophobia have been "front and center" in his house since the election of Donald Trump and the first "Unite the Right" rally in Charlottesville last year.

"It's almost impossible to hide it from them," he said, referring to his young children. "They realize there's a greater thing at stake right now."

It was their duty to show up this morning, Hyde said.

"It's a matter of being a true American and standing up for what's right in this country," he said.

Those planning to attend Kessler's rally, according to documents obtained by Washington City Paper from the National Park Service, include David Duke, a former Ku Klux Klan grand wizard who also attended the event in Charlottesville last year, as well as neo-Nazis and Holocaust deniers.

Kessler has denied responsibility for the violence in Charlottesville last year and has said that he had not invited the KKK and other white supremacist groups to the rally there. But several days after the deadly violence in the city, he tweeted, ""Heather Heyer was a fat, disgusting Communist. Looks like it was payback time."

D.C. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser said Thursday that the city would ensure that the rallygoers can exercise their right to free speech.

"While we are opposed adamantly to what we are going to hear, we know what our responsibility is - to protect First Amendment events, to protect Washingtonians and to protect our city," she said.

Bowser planned to return to the city from a trip to El Salvador to supervise the city's response. She is scheduled to reach Washington around 2:30 p.m. and return to El Salvador on Monday morning to finish the sister city trip.

A spokeswoman said Bowser is canceling part of her trip to "monitor planned First Amendment events" and her decision wasn't based on any intelligence, nor was there reason to believe violence would be worse than expected.

The tubas are here at Lafayette Park. pic.twitter.com/8uUIUCfm2f  DJ Judd (@DJJudd) August 12, 2018

Makia Green of Black Lives Matter D.C. told The Washington Post that she wants white nationalists to know that the movement against them is only getting stronger.

"Our resistance is ever-growing," she said. "This progress that they are so afraid of - the rise of black leaders and Black Lives Matter getting bigger and people feeling safe to speak their mind - that is still happening."

Michael Shallal, a member of the D.C. chapter of the International Socialists Organization, one of the groups organizing the Freedom Plaza rally, said it was crucial for protesters to outnumber Kessler and his supporters.

"Our main message is that we want people to see Kessler and his allies for what they really are," Shallal said. "They are not free-speech advocates for white rights but racist Nazis who want to have a nation for white people only."

(c) 2018, The Washington Post. Story by Joe Heim, Reis Thebault, and Marissa Lang. The Washington Post's Hannah Natanson, Teo Armus, Martine Powers, Michael Brice-Sadler, Peter Jamison, Perry Stein, Fenit Nirappil and Antonio Olivo contributed to this report.JAMESVILLE, N.Y. -- Jamesville Beach has been closed for swimming because of of an algae bloom, the Onondaga County Health Department said in a news release Saturday.

The algae bloom is visible, but waters still have to be sampled to confirm there are no toxins in the water before the beach is reopened, the health department said.

Though the beach is closed for swimming, the park will remain open.

Algae can release toxins that can cause skin or eye irritation or diarrhea and vomiting if ingested, the health department said.

The health department recommends people and animals do not swim, wade, boat or fish near blooms or scums. They also recommend not eating fish caught near blooms, not drinking the water, keeping children and animals away from blooms and rinsing with clean water if exposed to blooms.Apple might be in trouble again. Just weeks after the Cupertino company acknowledged and fixed a throttling issue present in its newest MacBook Pro models, users are now reporting about yet another hardware problem.

This time, it's the speakers. Apparently, a number of users have taken to Reddit, YouTube, and other online forums to report that both the 13- and 15-inch MacBook Pro models released this year are running into some sort of issue that causes the speakers to crack and distort, even at low volumes.

Apple MacBook Pro 2018 Runs Into Some Speaker Problems

Considering Apple markets the speakers by saying they take "listening to new levels with wide dynamic range and more bass for maximum boom," the gaffe is sort of an embarrassing turn. Apple also noted that the speakers on the latest models were its best yet, featuring "peak amplification" thanks to its direct connection to the power supply.

It remains unclear what exactly is causing the issue, although a source familiar with the matter says Apple is already aware of it and is investigating, as The Next Web reports.

Why Are MacBook Pro 2018 Speakers Crackling And Distorting?

Finding a single cause for the crackling and distortion proves difficult, since they appear to occur randomly. Some report that the issue primarily happens in certain apps, such as Apple Music, iTunes, or GarageBand. Others say it happens when watching videos on YouTube. The problem doesn't seem to be rooted in software, however  others running Windows via BootCamp say that they've also encountered the issue.

If the speaker problem turns out to be a hardware blunder, then Apple might be in deep trouble. Unlike the throttling issues, which Apple said was a mere software bug, an issue rooted in hardware simply cannot be fixed over-the-air  affected units would have to be sent to Apple for repair.

Some forum users have speculated about a number of possible causes, from radio interference to bad audio drivers to problems with Apple's new T2 chip. Some users allege the issue is going to be fixed once the latest macOS Mojave update arrives, but there's no confirmation for this yet.

The good news is that the issue doesn't appear to be widespread. However, the problem marks another embarrassing turn for a company known for products that "just work," products that are a lot more expensive than rivals because of their top-notch design and premium quality.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.Amazon just announced the launch of a toolkit that will enable developers to integrate Alexa into car infotainment systems. Dubbed Alexa Auto, the software development kit is now available on GitHub.

The kit contains all the core functions of Alexa in the context of car ecosystems. These include being able to cast media, control smart home devices, ask for weather reports, and support tens of thousands of third-party capabilities, which Amazon calls Skills. The company also plans to add brand-new features just for auto users, such as GPS navigation and search.

Alexa Auto Software Development Kit Now Available On GitHub

This marks the first time developers will be able to get a first look at how Amazon wants to integrate Alexa into infotainment systems. Much like Android Auto, Alexa will allow car owners to make hands-free calls, perform local searches for restaurants, cinemas, and other establishments, and stream music from a number of streaming services, such as Amazon Music, Audible, and iHeartRadio.

Alexa auto will also support turn-by-turn navigation, which will be triggered when users specify an address or point of interest.

"The Alexa Auto SDK is designed to allow flexibility in the integration of Alexa as a part of the Auto in-cabin experience. The Alexa Auto SDK Engine provides runtime support for Alexa and other services and allows the application to integrate with platform specific functionality," according to the GitHub page.

Alexa Auto Coming To More Cars

This, however, is not the first time for Alexa to come to cars. Amazon has been closely working with carmakers such as Ford, BMW, Toyota, SEAT, and Lexus to integrate Alexa into select vehicles. Alexa is also available in older cars via aftermarket add-on devices, such as those from Anker, Garmin, Logitech, and many others.

By releasing its own SDK, Amazon is essentially opening up Alexa Auto to a wide range of developers, allowing them to freely experiment with potential Alexa car integrations even if they don't necessarily have an official relationship with Amazon. As a result, Alexa Auto will probably arrive on more vehicles going forward. This might take some time, however, as developers still probably need to get acquainted with the Alexa Auto platform.

Are you a developer? Have you checked out Amazon's Alexa Auto SDK? What are some interesting integrations you've seen? As always, if you have anything to share, feel free to sound them off in the comments section below!

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.Two Capnocytophaga infections have been reported of late, one causing a quadruple amputation, and the other causing the death of a woman. Is there a need to worry about these supposedly very rare infections?

Death And Amputation From Dog Lick And Dog Bite

Last June, a Wisconsin man had to have his four limbs amputated as a result of a severe infection that stemmed from being licked by a dog. Now, it is revealed that in the same month that he had the ordeal, a Wisconsin woman lost her life just days after being nicked by her dog.

On June 19, 58-year-old Sharon Larson was nipped in the finger by her dog Bo, which resulted in a very small wound described as a mere pin prick. By the next evening, she was already feeling ill, and by the afternoon after that, she was already too weak to even hold a glass of water.

She was sent to the urgent care center where she complained of stomach and leg pains, and where doctors learned that her kidneys were already failing. At that point, doctors believed that her condition was not related to the dog bite until June 22 when capnocytophaga was identified in her blood. Unfortunately, her body had begun to shut down and on June 23, Larson passed away.

Larsons passing happened just days before Greg Manteufel also caught the infection, this time from a dog lick, and caused the amputation of four limbs. Despite these unfortunate cases, Manteufel is said to remain positive, while the Larson familys love for Bo remains the same.

Is It Time To Worry About The Rare Infection?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Capnocytophaga is a common bacteria that can normally be found in the mouths of dogs and cats. While passing the bacteria onto humans is possible and may cause illness, such cases are said to be rare and often occurs in those who have had their spleens removed or those with compromised immune systems such as those who drink alcohol excessively, or those with HIV or cancer.

However, in both Larson and Manteufels cases, neither individual had compromised immune systems as both were considered healthy individuals. This begs the question of whether the infection may not be as rare as believed.

As strange as it seems to have two cases of capnocytophaga infections just days apart and several miles apart, according to Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious disease at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, the cases are extremely rare and it is still not clear why some get sick from the bacteria while others dont. Further, he explains that its just a matter of chance as to whether the dog or cat had an ample amount of bacteria in their saliva, and if it was introduced deeply enough to the body to cause a problem.

Its a little bit like being struck by lightning, says Shaffner.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.Humans may need to do more space exploration to search for extraterrestrial life because researchers have discovered that Omega Centauri has none.

Omega Centauri is a densely packed global star cluster that is estimated to have around 10 million stars. The chunk of stars is located 16,000 light-years from Earth in the constellation Centaurus.

Because of the cluster's colossal size, it has been a subject of observation for decades. The stars span a staggering 150 light-years away and weigh around 4 million Suns.

Because of how big it is, this has led many people to believe that the stellar body contains exoplanets in its "Goldilocks Zone," a region where another world is far enough from its star to have liquid water and life, just like Earth.

What Drove The Study

According to Stephen Kane, an associate professor of planetary astrophysics at the University of California, Riverside and lead author of the study, as the type of star cluster that exists across the universe, it is an intriguing area to look for habitability. Despite many stars that are concentrated on its core, the presence of exoplanets still remains unknown.

Because of this, Kane and his colleagues explored the cluster, hoping to find a place that would foster habitability. The team first looked at the age and temperature of around 500,000 stars sitting in the chunk's core.

The Findings

The study revealed that the majority of the bodies has suitable conditions to contain planets in the habitable zone. Kane stated that the core of Omega Centauri could possibly have a plethora of planetary systems sitting close to a host star that harbors habitable planets.

One example of such a system is a miniature version of the Milky Way called the TRAPPIST-1. The said system sits 40 light-years away from Earth and is one of the most promising locations to find alien life.

The densely packed stars in Omega Centauri's core presumably means that the bodies would interact with its neighbors. The forces that are made from the encounter would be too much to endure any form of microbial life on the planets situated in its habitable zones.

Sarah Deveny, the co-author of the study, said that the frequency at which the stars gravitationally interact with each other would be too high to maintain stable planets that are fit for inhabitants.

The average distance at the star's cluster core is just 0.16 light-years, which makes it have a close pass once in a million years. This rate is a lot faster than the sun, which is located 4.22 light-years away from its nearest neighbor.

The study titled "Habitability in the Omega Centauri Cluster" will be published in The Astrophysical Journal and arXiv paper.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.Spotify is currently testing the Active Media feature in Australia, where it lets non-paying users skip as many video and audio ads as they want.

The company stated that its consumers will only skip ads they do not care about. This will give Spotify an inkling on what ads they listen to how to better target them. Currently, the non-paying users cannot skip the ads.

Active Media Feature

Danielle Lee, Spotify global head of partner solutions, said that the move is similar to Spotify's "Discover Weekly" feature, which tailors a personalized playlist that is fit for the user's listening habits.

Lee added that the company can use it to significantly improve its streaming intelligence and deliver a more effective and engaging experience to its advertisers. It also hopes to raise the outcomes it delivers to brands.

Furthermore, the scheme is also designed to deliver a blow to Pandora, Spotify's biggest rival, to dominate the astounding $1.6 billion digital audio advertising market.

Just last month, Spotify pulled its ad inventory from the AdsWizz, a digital audio ad tech platform bought by Pandora last May for $145 million. According to Lee, the company ended its partnership to uphold its competitive differentiation.

Additionally, the famous music app is betting its ad revenue on the move. With the new active media feature, advertisers would not have to pay for the ads that will be skipped by the users.

Although it only began testing the feature out in Australia last month, Lee confirmed that the company hopes to roll it out globally.

What Users Think Of The Move

Sam Kang, vice president of media and acquisitions at Dollar Shave Club, stated that the company has been increasing its ad spending in Spotify and considers it as one of its most important marketing pillars.

Furthermore, he said that he was unaware of Spotify's latest efforts to change their ad scheme but as an advertiser and a user, he loves the idea.

Spotify has reported in July that during the second quarter, it had 180 million active users, including more than 101 million ad-supported users in 65 markets across the globe. Its ad revenue totaled to a staggering $158 million.

Despite this, Spotify's path to ads still has a long way to go. The Share of Ear analyzed how long users listen to different platforms and reported that the time spent by listeners on Pandora's ad-supported offer is about double the size of Spotify's.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.You are here: China

Under the scorching sun, a crane loads containers of car parts, small commodities, and clothing onto a train.



The train, stopping at the freight train logistics center in Urumqi, capital of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, will carry the cargo to Moscow in a week.

It is the 1,448th freight train heading to Europe from the center.

2018 marks the fifth anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative launched by China.

This year alone, the center has handled 603 trains to Europe, accounting for 85 percent of last year's total. The number is expected to reach 1,400 by the end of 2018.

Xinjiang, China's northwest doorway to Central and West Asia, sits along the ancient Silk Road.

While more and more freight trains have connected Chinese and European cities, Xinjiang has turned from a remote border region into a forefront for international logistics services.

When the operation of the train logistics center started in May 2016, only four international lines were available, with trains operating once per week.

Now trains departing from the city run on 19 lines, covering 24 cities of 17 Asian and European countries, said Nan Jun, deputy general manager of the Xinjiang Xintie international logistics company, operator of the logistics center.

Up to 3,600 tonnes of cargo are handled every day, making Urumqi one of the largest logistics centers among the countries along the Belt and Road.

"Everyone in the center works hard to help the center run smoothly," Nan said.

The center has cooperated with customs and inspection authorities to optimize the handling procedures, including customs clearance.

Benefiting from the optimization and improved schedule arrangement, the transportation time of China-Europe freight trains departing from the center has been cut from 22 days to 15 days, and that of the routes between China and Central Asia from 66 hours to 44 hours, said Nan.

The center holds monthly meetings with the railway transportation of Kazakhstan for coordination, he added.

Cooperating with more than 200 companies, the center has built a platform of logistics where over 200 commodities ranging from garments to electronic components are transported among the countries along the Belt and Road.

"The Belt and Road Initiative has transformed Xinjiang into a gate that opens to the west," said Nan.He was not welcome in Italy either. Priests in the Italian city where Bolsonaro's great-grandfather was born expressed their shame and rejected the visit of the Brazilian far-right... | Read MoreThe best members of the legislative and executive branches of our federal government have always managed to keep an eye on the Constitution whDespite heavy publicity, more than 20,000 households with significant damage from the 2016 flood in south Louisiana never took the first step to tap the $1.3 billion set aside for home reconstruction under the Restore Louisiana program, a new state report says.

The failure to fill out the initial, five-minute damage survey is expected to contribute to 44 percent fewer households than initially anticipated being able to access the recovery money, officials with the state program say.

Higher-than-expected rates of withdrawals from the recovery program  after homeowners proceed further along in the process  and higher-than-expected numbers of homeowners who had their potential award canceled out by U.S. Small Business Administration loans, flood insurance and other grants are also contributing to the 44 percent figure.

Of the more than 20,000 households that did not fill out surveys, more than half of them were in the worst-hit parishes during the August 2016 flood: East Baton Rouge, Ascension and Livingston, according to Restore data.

As many as 12,000 of those 20,000 households didn't also receive SBA loans or flood insurance payments and so they likely would have needed help, program officials said.

Households with "major" or "severe" damage as deemed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency were eligible for the homeowner program. That means at least roughly 1 foot of water or $8,000 in damage.

+5 What's changed in Louisiana's housing codes since 2016's epic flooding? Not much Two years after a flood ravaged the capital region, construction of new homes proceeds in much the same way.

In all, the state now expects to spend $649 million on the homeowner program, about half of the $1.3 billion state officials set aside.

The state initially estimated about 36,000 households from the 2016 flood lacked federal aid or insurance money and had bad enough flood damage that they could tap the Restore homeowner program dollars. But program officials now say in a new plan amendment that fewer than 20,000 households in all could ultimately receive some of the federal funding without other changes to the program and federal law.

Homeowners have until July 20 to fill out Restore Louisiana Task Force flood survey Assistance is still available through the Restore Louisiana Task Force for those whose homes flooded in 2016.

Gov. John Bel Edwards and the state congressional delegation are pushing to fix an SBA loan policy that restricts the distribution of some awards.

Possible changes in SBA loan guidelines could make money available for 5,000 more households and a planned home buyout program could add 400 to 500 more, boosting overall numbers closer to 26,000 households, said Pat Forbes, director of the state Office of Community Development, which is overseeing Restore.

In all, more than 53,720 households filled out damage surveys before a July 20 deadline. So far, 13,324 households that did take that critical early step and went through the rest of the process have been awarded nearly $438 million in grant money.

Forbes said he hopes to have all applications processed by the end of the year, if not sometime this fall.

But Restore officials were at a loss to explain why so many people would not try to benefit. Forbes said although the program was promoted heavily through the media, billboards and electronic messaging, many Louisiana residents prefer their self-reliance and weren't interested in government help.

"There is definitely a group of people in Louisiana who because they went and got their house rebuilt, they're resilient, whatever, their son-in-law came and helped, they never asked us for money," Forbes said in a recent interview with The Advocate editorial board. "There's just a population in Louisiana that's like that. They don't want help. They did it, and they decided somebody else should get the money."

Restore used FEMA tallies to establish estimates of damaged households. Even using different formulas, Restore and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development reached essentially the same cost figure for the homeowner program: $1.3 billion.

Restore Louisiana to meet with homeowners needing help with next step, filling out application The Restore Louisiana program has set up meetings across south Louisiana this month to help people who could be eligible for funds to rebuild 

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State ramps up flood recovery efforts, urges homeowners to seek aid People who live in areas affected by last year's catastrophic floods are being urged on television and radio, by billboards and at community e

U.S. Rep. Garret Graves, a Republican from Baton Rouge whose district encompasses much of the worst-hit areas, said his office, like the state, heavily encouraged residents to fill out the initial survey even if they had doubts that they could get the assistance. But he said people may have considered the paperwork so much red tape.

"The people that we are dealing with, we're hearing a lot of people say, You know what? Look. It's just a pain in the butt,'  Graves said. " 'I filled out paperwork for SBA. I filled out paperwork for FEMA. I may have filled out paperwork for flood insurance. I filled the same damn stuff for Restore, and Im sick of the bureaucracy.' 

Forbes said the state attempted to limit the bureaucracy by tapping existing databases to avoid additional paperwork submissions and speeding up reviews.

Data from Restore Louisiana showed that Livingston Parish had the largest number of households statewide that did not fill out a survey at 4,913.

Mark Harrell, the homeland security director in Livingston, said residents in his parish were just "punch drunk" from the rounds of paperwork and already in an emotional state that left them distrustful of government assistance. Restore likely undercounted the number of Livingston flood victims, he said, because some didn't even seek help from FEMA.

"There's people that didn't do any of it. They just dealt with their loss and moved on," he said.

Al and Darlene Taillon, of the Brittany area between Gonzales and Sorrento in Ascension Parish, received a small amount of money from FEMA and had flood insurance, a quasi-public program the government subsidizes for ratepayers. But they still had to pay several thousand dollars out of pocket to return to their home in spring 2017. They said they had no plans to seek a Restore grant.

"We do not depend on the government to get us out of anything," Darlene Taillon said. "We don't."

After dealing with their bank, she said she wouldn't have expected much more money from Restore and wasn't willing to share yet more personal information to get it.

"We take care of us," Darlene said. "And we take care of our neighbors and our community, and they help take care of us when we need it, as it should be."

While nearly a third didn't fill out surveys in Livingston and Ascension, there was a much stronger response in East Baton Rouge Parish. Eighty-five percent of people with FEMA-verified losses filled out surveys, the data show. While Baton Rouge's being a major media market might have made a difference, there were several rural parishes where a greater percentage of people didn't fill out Restore surveys, the data show. In St. Landry Parish, for instance, nearly 75 percent of households with damage didn't fill out a Restore survey.

Gail Robinson, 64, of Lafayette, said she had never heard of the Restore program until she saw a segment about it on the TV news July 30  10 days after the deadline to submit a survey. In Lafayette Parish, 42 percent of households with FEMA-verfied losses did not fill out a survey.

Robinson said in an interview that she had no flood insurance, had received just $10,500 from FEMA and did not take out an SBA loan  factors that could have helped her qualify for Restore money. Her family helped her rebuild the three-bedroom home that flooded with 2 feet of water. But its imperfectly done, and theres a lot still unfinished, like the warped door frames that pull away from the walls.

I really wish I would have known, Robinson said.

After learning about the program, Robinson went to a Restore office in Lafayette and she said the worker at the office was condescending.

Any time I tried to ask a question, he just kept saying, I dont know what youre trying to get me to say.  Its not my fault. You had two years, and you didnt hear about the program,  Robinson said in a tearful voicemail left on a reporters cellphone.

Restore officials have said they identified people with losses and sent them, on average, 50 emails and five to seven text messages. Shauna Sanford, a spokeswoman for Restore, said the program tried to contact Robinson "on several different occasions via text, phone call and voicemail messages to the cellphone number she provided, as well as by postcard to her address with details about the deadline."

"We certainly regret that Ms. Robinson did not complete the survey before the program deadline and that the program is now unable to assist her," Sanford said.Two years after a flood ravaged the capital region, construction of new homes proceeds in much the same way.

Growth continues virtually unabated in the parishes hardest hit by a storm that dropped more than 2 feet of water in parts of the Amite and Comite watersheds. Despite the record flood that followed in East Baton Rouge, Ascension and Livingston parishes, fresh looks at building codes and flood plain ordinances have brought about little change.

I dont think that theres going to be any silver bullet thats going to save us, said Dwight Hudson, an East Baton Rouge Parish Metro Council member. Although he spoke solely about his parish, the sentiment could apply just as well among its neighbors.

Since the August 2016 flood, permit offices in the three parishes have approved the construction of nearly 5,000 new homes  hundreds of them in the flood plain. If anything has changed, its that neighbors are now more likely to oppose new developments.

They recognize that every new home built and every square yard paved alters drainage patterns.

"Those who didn't flood this time are going down next time if this building continues. It's y'all's job to make sure this doesn't happen," Jackie Laurendine, an Ascension Parish resident, told her Parish Council last year.

+3 Oft-criticized, Restore Louisiana program discovers thousands eligible for flood relief didn't apply Despite heavy publicity, more than 20,000 households with significant damage from the 2016 flood in south Louisiana never took the first step 

The Ascension Parish Planning Commission had once been reluctant to deny projects that otherwise met parish development rules, but since the flood, the panel has rejected subdivision plans five times on divided votes. The majorities cited a health, safety and welfare clause in state law that, some commissioners assert, lets them address worries about drainage, traffic or both.

With the exception of the 32-home Hudson Cove neighborhood, which was proposed almost entirely in the 100-year flood plain in Galvez, the other four rejected subdivisions were later restored on appeal. The Parish Council last year affirmed the commissions rejection of Hudson Cove.

Talk but little action

Since the flood, builders have pulled 1,844 new residential permits in unincorporated portions of Ascension. Looking forward, the parish also has granted key preliminary approval to another 872 subdivision lots for additional new homes in the future. Around 12 percent of those new lots will be built in areas below the 100-year flood plain and require fill of some kind. Theres talk of tightening the regulations but no action.

I simply cannot fathom why its taking so long to do this. Continued procrastination is allowing more and more inappropriate constructed homes in inappropriate places," Councilman Daniel Doc Satterlee said. Ascension lawmakers even shot down a moratorium on large amounts of dirt for new construction in areas with the highest flood risk.

In East Baton Rouge Parish, resistance to the proposed Lakes at Jones Creek subdivision was so fierce that Councilman Buddy Amoroso suggested a moratorium on construction in the flood plain until the parish could develop new guidelines. The Metro Council, too, rejected the idea. The development passed the Planning Commission.

The city-parish did manage some changes to its code. New developments must be able to store water and prevent runoff from a 25-year storm, or one that has a 4 percent chance of occurring each year. It previously required storage only for the more common 10-year storm. It also fixed grammar in its flood plain ordinance but is awaiting more data before making deeper changes.

East Baton Rouge officials emphasize that theyre taking steps to study the flood plain with an eye on reform, but detractors say a business-as-usual approach in the meantime could have catastrophic consequences. The city-parish has approved 38 new subdivisions since the 2016 flood, and the local public works office has granted 1,747 permits for new single-family homes.

The approach to regulations in Livingston Parish runs in the other direction, with the government wanting to protect property owners rights. Some officials have characterized the August 2016 flood as a fluke that could not have been avoided. It has approved 1,349 permits for new homes.

Livingston Parish Planning Director Sam Digirolamo said local officials, engineers and developers have discussed whether new regulations are needed, but nothing has made it to the Parish Council. A municipal building official says people still putting their lives back together shouldnt face additional hardships.

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We want to leave it up to the citizens. If they want to spend and elevate their houses higher than the base flood, then they should. We encourage them to do that. But the city didnt want to increase the burden for homeowners and builders, Denham Springs Building Official Rick Foster said.

Looking forward

East Baton Rouge and Ascension are both creating stormwater master plans to guide infrastructure priorities and code amendments, but the science behind the hydrological review takes time, proponents said.

Karen Zito, president of the Capital Region Builders Association, cautioned that the community cannot react emotionally while awaiting data from scientific and engineering studies.

We want to be on the facts side.  We want the solutions to be feasible and workable for everyone, she said.

East Baton Rouge Parish Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome said all options would be on the table as the city-parish goes forward  perhaps even prohibiting development in some of the most flood-prone areas. She emphasized that the government is pursuing infrastructure upgrades even if the codes haven't changed. The federal government has already fully funded the Comite River Diversion Canal and the dredging of four major streams, and her office also intends to use federal hazard mitigation money to dredge and widen Wards Creek.

Still, infrastructure improvements have lagged behind private development for decades. After the Comite canal funding was announced, the chief of staff for Rep. Garret Graves, R-Baton Rouge, remarked to a legislative task force that the watershed finally would have the flood protection it needed in 1983, when another major flood occurred.

In Ascension Parish, officials want to know what would happen to insurance rates if the planned extension of the Laurel Ridge flood protection levee survives a Livingston Parish court challenge.

On a more philosophical level, projects like a new canal or levee can lull residents into a false sense of security, said Urban Institute senior fellow Carlos Martin. Even with new infrastructure, development in some parts of a flood plain can be risky and officials must still strive to enforce building standards and restrictions, he said. Residents assume that their local government will ensure that new buildings are constructed in a safe way.

Were increasingly finding that thats not the case. ... We see this story again and again, Martin said. At a certain point, citizens have to hold their politicians accountable.

Focusing on fill

Residents of new buildings arent the only ones affected by construction requirements. Existing property owners also can be affected if new developments displace water onto their homes. While they havent pursued any flood plain reforms thus far, Livingston officials are eyeing one change in the interest of protecting current property owners. Parish Councilman Tracy Girlinghouse plans to introduce a proposal this year to limit the amount of fill builders may use to elevate houses.

I dont think its good to put your house 10 feet above your neighbors when you live right on top of him, Girlinghouse said.

Girlinghouse said he is not sure yet what the maximum fill height would be, but the new rule could force more people to use the traditional pier-and-beam construction.

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At some point, how do you fix the houses that are already there? You cant, Girlinghouse said. But we can adjust the way things are built in the future. And we dont want to get to the point where the infrastructure is failing us due to the lack of adjusting building codes and doing things that made sense.

Almost since the day the waters fully receded in Ascension, the public and parish officials have been looking at building new drainage structures and making changes to the amount of dirt fill allowed for new developments.

Residents and officials have worried that the use of so much dirt was causing older homes built to lower standards to flood, despite the claims of developers and engineers to the contrary.

To hinder some of the most egregious fill practices, which had led to homes on high mounds of dirt known as ant hills, the Ascension Parish Council limited homeowners on lots smaller than a half-acre to dirt no more than 3 feet deep in 2013.

That change didnt limit the amount of dirt allowed in subdivisions or other large developments. Instead, developers are required mitigate the use of that fill through detention ponds. The practice has led to odd contrasts in which acres of new homes stand on mounds of dirt several feet higher than older homes next door.

A proposed ordinance would limit fill to 3 feet in all instances. In some areas, property owners would need to find additional means to raise homes enough to meet the parish elevation standards. It also could pose a problem for a planned courthouse in Gonzales, which is expected to need more than 3 feet of fill.

The science of policymaking

Allowing the same type of construction in the flood plain is akin to an auto manufacturer who discovers a defect with one of their models but keeps rolling new cars off the assembly line without fixing the problem, said Willie Fontenot of the local Sierra Club chapter.

Things had been built without consideration of floodwaters, Fontenot said, advocating for a building moratorium in the flood plain until there are new ordinances.

Proposed changes have run the gamut from raising building elevation requirements; restricting slab-on-grade construction; requiring or encouraging the use of semi-permeable building material; increasing wetlands mitigation; and changing rules for fill, for water retention or for green spaces.

Incentives might work, too, said Haley Blakeman, vice president of the Center for Planning Excellence.

Many places are using stormwater management impact fees to pay for infrastructure improvements that are needed as a municipality develops and grows. As an incentive, these fees can be waived if developers make specific stormwater management improvements on-site. Since the costs and incentives are directly linked to the cost of the infrastructure improvements needed for the development, it can be more palatable and especially effective, she wrote in an email to The Advocate.

CPEX said it could provide technical assistance but leave the policy decisions to politicians. The Water Institute of the Gulf said the same.

These things take time, and you cant be absolutely reactive, Water Institute Vice President Jeff Hebert said. You do have to understand the science behind the (policy) changes  and tailor policy to what the science tells you.

With few resources, it's difficult to form a complete understanding of the flood plain, Hebert said. Maps from the Federal Emergency Management Agency dont really represent the current situation.

For instance, FEMA has repeatedly indicated it does not intend to update its maps to account for the 2016 flood, reasoning that it was such a rare event as to be irrelevant to help set policy under the National Flood Insurance Program. LSU professor John Johnston, of the Louisiana Geological Survey, said the flood crushed all the statistical models of the Amite River Basin.

Rather than pretend the flood didnt happen, scientists need to perform further study, he said. The 2016 flood could be an indication that factors such as climate change are making more extreme weather events more likely.

Though the differences are not great, some parishes already enforce slightly different building requirements in FEMAs high- and low-risk flood zones. With the proliferation of more sophisticated computer programs, local governments, the state and the private insurance sector will soon be able to discern more nuanced risk levels, predicted Bob Jacobsen, an engineering consultant for the Amite River Basin Commission.

That means instead of the black-and-white distinction FEMA draws between people who live in the 100-year flood plain and those who live outside of it, people will be able to see if they live in the 50-year flood plain, or the 200-year flood plain, or some other more specific distinction, Jacobsen said.

People are still kind of stuck in this NFIP mentality.  As we know, there are gradations of risk, he said.

Its unclear what effect a new framework will have on local ordinances, but Jacobsen said he hoped it would be a tool to guide nonintrusive construction.

Lax standards, lax oversight

Some believe local officials have slid backward. After the flood, East Baton Rouge loosened its standards on when flooded property owners must elevate their houses if they arent in compliance with current requirements. The decision raised some eyebrows but was understood as a strategy to give succor to neighborhoods in crisis.

Broderick Bagert, lead organizer of the faith-based nonprofit Together Baton Rouge, called the decision a Trojan horse. East Baton Rouge requires that buildings in the flood plain be built above the elevation of the record flood. When they changed the elevation requirements, the Metro Council also made an exception for the 2016 flood, which Bagert said he believes is a mistake. He said he wants new construction to be built to the level of the 2016 flood, reasoning that if a flood of that level happened before, it could happen again.

Asked if that wouldnt effectively put an end to development across large swathes of the parish, Bagert responded that there would be costs associated with the higher-elevation requirement, but it is also costly to rebuild after a flood.

Although building to the record inundation was a local decision, many elevation rules are overseen by FEMA. However, the agency is not scrutinizing local governments flood response through an official audit as many had expected. Some officials are grateful that theyre not being constantly overseen and micromanaged.

What should be done about flood risk in your neighborhood? Stormwater report offers few answers East Baton Rouge's new stormwater master plan report is unlikely to satisfy residents clambering for floodplain reform, though it does indicat

With no new restrictions, new construction is charging ahead in fast-growing Livingston Parish, with 13 new subdivisions and all but one of them at least partially in the high-risk flood plain. Developers have not been quick to start building more resiliently.

The more they have to do, the less property they have to develop, Livingston Parish Review Engineer Chad Bacas said.

People have resettled in homes that are, by and large, the same as the ones that flooded. Hundreds, and probably more than a thousand, have renovated their homes in Denham Springs, but few have built back in a more-resilient way. Foster estimates that fewer 20 people have elevated their homes, as he did.

Land for controversial Jones Creek subdivision sold A land bank for national homebuilder D.R. Horton has purchased a 178-acre site off Jones Creek and started building the infrastructure for the

That was made possible because about half of the 1,200 homeowners marked as substantially damaged by FEMA, a designation that requires elevation or demolition successfully appealed their determination to the city so they could build without the restrictions, Foster said.

I would have liked to see more people going up, Foster said.Even as the East Baton Rouge Parish school system has moved to quickly spend a $2.2 million school improvement grant, including rolling out new curricula in math and English, it is moving more slowly on parts of the grant of keen interest to charter school supporters in Baton Rouge.

Several groups that support expanding school choice in Baton Rouge, including charter schools, have pressed the school system to use the Every Student Succeeds Act grant to expand high quality options as alternatives to the districts 32 schools that have D and F letter grades from the state of Louisiana.

No one got fully funded, but East Baton Rouge schools will get about $2 million in federal aid The East Baton Rouge Parish school system is likely to receive almost $2 million in federal funding to help improve classroom instruction at 3

In this vein, the grant application calls for hiring an executive director of portfolio and planning as a point person overseeing and engaging with current and future charter schools coming to Baton Rouge.

Currently, 29 charter schools  public schools run privately via charters, or contracts  operate in East Baton Rouge Parish, up from 26 last year. Ten have Type 1 charters issued by parish school system. Those numbers are likely to grow.

Drawing on a metaphor from the financial world, some school districts with a growing number of charter schools have created portfolio offices. In Louisiana, both the Orleans Parish school system and the Louisiana Department of Education have them. Rather than buying or selling securities, such portfolio offices manage a suite of schools and make recommendations about whether to expand, revamp or close them depending on their academic performance and other factors.

The East Baton Rouge grant application also calls for adopting a new charter authorization policy that is in line with best practices and with clear accountability for unsatisfactory academic performance. The new policy would be based on explicit and transparent assessments of school academic performance and organizational health and financial health.

And parish school leaders set a date, pledging to submit a new charter authorization policy to the board for a vote no later than June 1. The Orleans Parish School Board adopted a very similar Charter School Accountability Framework in mid-May for the dozens of charter schools it oversees.

Two months later, though, the East Baton Rouge School Board has yet to take up either the authorization policy issue or the new portfolio position. And since the grant award is $1.2 million less than what East Baton Rouge Parish asked for and only for one year  theres a chance to get two more years of funding in the spring  its not clear what parts of the original application will be funded and which ones wont.

East Baton Rouge considers how best to spend over $2 million on its lowest performing schools As it readies to start spending millions on improving its lowest-performing schools, the East Baton Rouge Parish School Board received a lot o

The School Board held a special meeting on July 18 and heard a presentation on the grant, but it touched only briefly on the aspects of the grant that dealt with charter schools, though a few members of the audience publicly encouraged the board to proceed with the charter school aspects.

Board President David Tatman said the school system has had a very busy summer getting ready for the 2018-19 school year, which began on Thursday, but that this is coming.

Ive had conversations in leadership meetings with staff, and its clearly something theyve been talking about, Tatman said.

Tatman said school staff are researching the best way to handle these changes, saying theres a lot to work out. He said he doesnt know where the June 1 date came from, but he said he thinks the board will ultimately approve the changes.

Its not easy to put it together," Tatman said, "but I dont think anyone would object to us working with our district charter schools more effectively.

Carrie Griffin Monica, executive director of Stand For Children Louisiana, a parent group that supports charter schools, said her organization is urging school board members to move quickly, but is doubtful.

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Realistically, with the politics at play, Im not sure that will happen, Monica said.

The politics shes referring to are the Nov. 6 elections when six incumbent School Board members are seeking re-election.

Tatman, who is one of three board members who won re-election without opposition, dismissed that concern, saying he expects the board to vote on the changes before Nov. 6.

Several groups have expressed support for the charter school pieces of the school systems ESSA grant.

For instance, the Baton Rouge Area Chamber is pressing candidates for School Board to promise votes on 10 policies, including those that would increase school choice opportunities.

Monica said shed like to see a new charter school authorization policy that is less subjective. For instance, local school boards often deny charter schools on the basis that they are not innovative.

Say what is innovative, say what does that mean, and develop criteria for whether the school fits in within the school system or not, she said.

Monica also likes something Orleans Parish recently adopted: mandating charter schools to hold meetings at the start of each school year to share with parents their current charter status with the district so parents arent caught off guard later if the district seeks to close the schools.

They have to talk about what they are going to do to try to change, she said.

Ciara Hart, an eighth-grade teacher in Baton Rouge, favors the idea of a portfolio office, but shed like it to go further than currently envisioned.

Hart, who is co-chair of the group South Louisiana Coalition for Education, said the office should be a joint state-local entity that also has authority over state-sponsored charter schools. And it needs to be both an information clearinghouse and have some authority to hold charter schools accountable, she said.

For instance, she said shes talked to several parents of charter school students who are frustrated with the lack of communication they receive from the schools about their board meetings. Shed like a portfolio office to police that problem.

If the parents and the community arent allowed to be there and participate, then those meetings are null and void, she said.

Monica, however, said those are not concerns she hears much from Stand For Children parents and is not a role her organization is envisioning for the portfolio office.

We havent thought it as a place to go if they have a bad actor, Monica said.One of the many amazing things about the groundswell in favor of eliminating Louisianas nearly unique law allowing criminal convictions by noWith hundreds of positions at the Sewerage & Water Board vacant, New Orleans City Councilman Joe Giarrusso is proposing to allow the agency to hire people who live outside the city.

S&WB workers are now required to live in New Orleans under a rule that also covers most City Hall departments. But the agency has long faced difficulties in filling vacant positions, and the utility has partially blamed staffing shortages for its ongoing billing system woes and other problems.

"Everything youre hearing now about people waiting two hours on hold, or their meters not being read" is exacerbated by staff shortages at the S&WB, Giarrusso said.

Giarrusso, who introduced the measure at Thursday's City Council meeting, said allowing potential employees to live outside New Orleans wouldn't solve all of the S&WB's hiring problems. However, he said it is important to ensure that the agency has all options available to it as it tries to staff up.

"To the extent we can, we want to give (the S&WB) every tool practical to help its operations," said Giarrusso, who heads the council committee that oversees the utility. "If that means being able to hire people more quickly, we want to make sure that they have all the available options to do so."

Giarrusso's ordinance would apply only to new hires, not current employees.

The S&WB supports the change, though spokesman Rich Rainey said the utility would still look to city residents first as it considers potential employees.

"We definitely want to target New Orleanians first and foremost, but the extra flexibility will help us fill that (staffing) gap," Rainey said.

Both Giarrusso and Rainey said the policy change could help with hiring both skilled employees who may not want to move and lower-wage workers who might not be able to find affordable housing in New Orleans.

The S&WB could not say how many applicants have turned down jobs upon learning they would have to move to the city, and it's impossible to determine how many potential candidates didn't apply because of the restrictions.

Rainey said at least a handful of chemists expressed interest in working for the S&WB's water purification department but did not want to move from their homes in surrounding parishes.

The residency rule is a long-standing policy at the city and the S&WB that traditionally applied to all employees. It was often a focus of racial conflict, with most black leaders and elected officials backing the rule and some white officials and city employees opposing it.

After Hurricane Katrina, the city suspended the rule for seven years to accommodate a workforce that was scattered across the region as employees tried to rebuild their homes.

After the policy went back into effect, the City Council approved a permanent exemption for police officers, firefighters and Emergency Medical Services employees as the New Orleans Police Department struggled to bolster its depleted ranks  an effort that continues.

Employees at Louis Armstrong International Airport, which is in Kenner but owned by the city of New Orleans, are also excused from having to live within the city limits.Sophie Delezio, who was injured when a car crashed into her child care centre, is about to complete her HSC in Sydney. Credit:Janie Barrett

When she stands on stage and can see nothing but lights, the real world fades away. "Instantly, I am no longer Sophie. I am whatever character I am playing."

Sophie Delezio's life has been shaped by the horrific car accident at her childcare centre in Fairlight almost 15 years ago. It scarred her skin, and robbed her of her feet. She has had to show more strength and resilience in her 17 years than is required of most people in a lifetime.

But Ms Delezio's love of drama pre-dates all that; she was born an actress. "I have been doing it since I can remember," she says. "I think I was four [when I started]. I just love the freedom and the difference - each day you never do the same thing."

Ms Delezio is 17 now, and on the verge of adulthood. But she has one more hurdle to jump - her Higher School Certificate. In a few weeks she will do her practical examination for one of her favourite subjects, two unit drama.Emma Viskic fought against the feedback - positive and negative - from her first crime novel, Resurrection Bay.

It wasn't easy. The book that introduced Caleb Zelic, her deaf, former detective hero, had swept up the awards two years ago: three Davitt Awards from Sisters in Crime Australia and a Ned Kelly from the Australian Crime Writers Association.

But that was behind her; now she had to produce a second book and the pressure was on. "I had to hear the story of the one I was writing, or else all you can hear is white noise. Otherwise, I run the risk of creating a camel instead of a book."

She needn't have worried; it was no dromedary. And Fire Came Down last night won the best adult crime novel award in this year's Davitts, named after Ellen Davitt, the pioneering 19th-century Australian crime writer.Melbourne Express, Monday, August 13, 2018

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DismissDr Nicola Powell, data scientist, Domain Group, says of data on median advertised rents for the year to June 2018: Were already seeing certain regions of Sydney present opportunities for tenants and were certainly seeing rent prices decline. In the lower north shore rents for houses and for units have tracked backwards compared to last year and its the only area in Sydney that has seen annual rental prices decline year-on-year for houses (minus 4.5 per cent) and for units (minus 3.2 per cent). Rents are also falling year-on-year for houses in the city and east (minus 5.5 per cent), the north-west (minus 2.3 per cent), northern beaches (minus 1 per cent) and the upper north shore (minus 0.6 per cent) and on units in suburbs such as Gordon (minus 9.2 per cent), Turramurra (minus 7.2 per cent), Kellyville (minus 5.4 per cent), Cremorne Point (minus 5.1 per cent) and Earlwood (minus 4.5 per cent). The Melbourne market is proving more resilient. In all areas of Melbourne rents for houses and units are increasing compared to last year. Drill down to the suburb level and theres signs of softening. Rents for houses fell year-on-year in Cremorne (minus 5.1 per cent), Hampton East (minus 5 per cent), Sandringham (minus 4.5 per cent) and Surrey Hills (minus 3.9 per cent) and for units in Caulfield East (minus 19.4 per cent), Middle Park (minus 3.1 per cent) and Lilydale (minus 3 per cent).

In Sydneys north-west, suburbs such as Marsden Park, where streets of new properties are up for rent, some agents are offering two weeks rent-free or rent by negotiation. Its a sign of the times, says Powell. Were now moving into a time where landlords and property managers will have to differentiate their properties from others on the market in order to secure and attract tenants. Tenants' unions say its still far from a renters market. Leo Patterson Ross, senior policy officer, Tenants Union of NSW, says data showing falling rents doesnt necessarily translate into lower rents for tenants on the move. People looking to rent are often moving from a place that they moved into a year or more ago so they will still experience a rent rise from their current place to their new place.

Median data can also be influenced by rent falls at the higher end of the market, he adds. Its rent tracker tool is a good way to see how the market is shifting. It collates data of rental bonds lodged with NSW Fair Trading in the past three months to show the median weekly rent for a particular postcode. The tool also shows the range of bonds lodged for that postcode. If you have that information you are much better informed and you can make a better comparison. Bargaining power

Could a softening market bring in more flexibility on lease terms; making improvements; or accommodating a beloved fur-child? Patterson Ross says experience in the Perth market suggests it wont necessarily be easier for tenants with pets. Longer leases, however, could be a possibility. Currently, only a fraction of leases are longer than 12 months. Where he sees most likelihood of a shift is in minor alterations to a rental property. In NSW the Residential Tenancies Act now allows tenants to ask for minor alterations and landlords cant unreasonably refuse. Travers asked for a few things to be dealt with before she moved into her new home. Eighteen months ago, she says: I wouldnt have said anything. In Victoria Devon LaSalle, communications officer, Tenants Victoria, says rents may be softening in the more gentrified, higher income areas where there is less competition. But in the mid and outer suburbs of Melbourne where there are more affordable rental properties, conditions are still ripe for rental bidding.

There are a lot of tenants who feel they have no other choice but to offer a higher amount than the advertised price and even, at times, a higher amount than they can actually afford, just in order to get 'affordable housing', she says. Tenants Victoria would like to see its state government follow-through on the promises made in October last year to reform the Residential Tenancies Act by introducing legislation to ban no-reason evictions and rental bidding as well as investigating the legislation of minimum property standards. Theres a disproportionate number of renters who live in housing that is of a poor standard and that is unsafe, says LaSalle, highlighting inadequate heating and cooling of properties and issues such as mould and other biotoxins. On the hunt for a new rental? There are a few tools that could be handy.Lawyers for decorated war veteran Ben Roberts-Smith have asked federal Attorney-General Christian Porter to refer leaks of details of an inquiry into the former soldier to the federal police for criminal investigation.

In a statement released by Seven West Media on Sunday, Mr Roberts-Smith, an executive at Kerry Stokes's Seven Network operations in Queensland, acknowledged an unsuccessful attempt on Friday to stop Fairfax Media publishing allegations about his service in Afghanistan and a domestic violence allegation.

Ben Roberts-Smith in front of his portrait at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra. Credit:Jay Cronan

Mr Roberts-Smith denies all the allegations and claims leaking details of the inquiry broke federal law.

I commenced the proceedings because I am concerned that Commonwealth laws have

been breached by the disclosure to Fairfax Media of confidential information of the

Commonwealth," he wrote, adding that evidence given to the inquiry was also confidential.But she hadnt told him about "Hendrik Cornelius". "She met a man on the internet and started an intimate relationship with him," Woodrums NSW Legal Aid lawyer Rebecca Neil told District Court Judge Penelope Wass last week. Woodrum texted Cornelius on May 28, 2017, saying that her father had agreed to help financially after telling him she needed $US50,000. Denise Woodrum was found with cocaine in her shoes after arriving at Sydney Airport. Credit:Facebook "This of course would be a loan on my part," she texted.

"No I didnt tell him about you  just for me to get out of debt  Im still going through bankruptcy and he doesnt know that either." Despite exchanging hundreds of texts with Cornelius from April 2017 to her arrival in Sydney on August 4, 2017, she had never seen him face to face. Once in the custody of Australian Customs officials, she had even tried to call him, the court heard. "She was groomed to provide a financial gain for this person, Hendrik Cornelius, whatever person or persons it was behind this identity," Ms Neil said. "There are fraudsters out there who are relying on women who are vulnerable."

On January 31 this year Woodrum pleaded guilty before Central Local Court magistrate Les Mabbutt to importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug. It was accepted by the NSW District Court that she was reckless as to what exactly she was carrying into Australia. But her agency in the international operation, which spanned North and South America, as well as across the Pacific, remains in dispute. "She went on this trip thinking she was bringing artefacts for him," Ms Neil said. But Judge Wass questioned the truthfulness of Woodrums account, finding it "inconsistent and at times unbelievable".

"I am less than convinced by her explanation," she said. Prosecutor Ben Dunstan urged Judge Wass to find Woodrum knew she was smuggling cocaine. According to an agreed set of facts tendered to the court, Woodrum flew from Missouri to Texas, then to Trinidad and Tobago on July 18. The cocaine was found in Woodrum's luggage after her bags were screened. Credit:Australian Border Force The next day she travelled to Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname, in South America.

On July 25, she texted someone named "Stacie": "This whole trip is paid for and will get additional payment for work." On July 30, Woodrum texted Cornelius: "Riding in his car to get stuff no signature needed." That same day she returned to the US via Trinidad and Tobago. On August 2, she texted Cornelius a list of expenses, including for hotels and flights, and departed Miami for Sydney, via Los Angeles. "Its been a pleasure serving together  " she texted him after landing.

When Woodrum arrived at Sydney Airport at 7am, her bags were selected for screening. She told the Australian Border Force officers she had come to Sydney to see the Harbour Bridge and the aquarium and that the shoes in her suitcase were a gift for her mother. After swabbing the suitcase, a substance was detected inside the heel of a shoe, a wallet and buttons on clothing. The drugs weighed just over one kilogram. Credit:Australian Border Force When the shoes were X-rayed, Woodrum asked, "How much did they find in the shoes? Sorry, just talking to myself."

After being told she had tested positive for cocaine she said, "Why, how much did you find?" This was her "penny drop moment", the court would later hear. The weight of the powder was just over a kilogram, containing 756 grams of pure cocaine. During a recorded interview she told officials that in Paramaribo she was given gifts and clothes, which she was supposed to give to people in Sydney whom she was instructed to meet. She was told to go to a hotel on arrival and let "them" know she had made it, she said.

Meanwhile, Cornelius was texting her: "Are you ok?" "What are you doing honey?" "Shuttle?" "In taxi?" Woodrum, who has been in custody since the day she was arrested, is due to be sentenced early next month. Even while behind bars, she told a prison psychologist she "sort of had a relationship" with Cornelius. Reading from Ms Neils submissions, Judge Wass asked, "to what extent did she do it for love?" Ms Neil said her client was a socially isolated but "very religious woman who belonged to a lay order of sisters in the US."

The packages of drugs as seen on the X-ray at the airport. Credit:Australian Border Force Cheryl Wittenauer, a spokesperson for the Adorers of the Blood of Christ in the US, said Woodrum wasn't a vowed sister or member of the order, but a lay associate. "Lay associates live in the secular world like you and me but are inspired by a sister's or a priest's spirituality and ministry. They try to live out that spirituality in their own private life," Ms Wittenauer told the Herald. She said Woodrum previously considered becoming an Adorer, but ultimately didn't join or wasn't accepted. "The Adorers learned of the alleged criminal activity last August. Nothing in her behavior prior to this episode would have tipped them off that this could happen," Ms Wittenauer said.

Mr Rozanski told Fairfax Media his daughter was a former teacher who had a masters degree in marketing. He said she had lost her job at the YMCA in Osage Beach, Missouri, then began working at two jobs to try to make ends meet. She had suffered depression and undergone a hysterectomy. "All of a sudden she met someone she talked to. She said she was going to be doing some travelling," Mr Rozanski said. "Life took a turn. She has never done anything like this before, and this experience has been difficult for me to understand. Mostly because none of our family has had anything happen to them that even remotely resembles what Denise has done.A Melbourne psychologist is accused of stealing more than $250,000 from her terminally ill partner and fraudulently making herself the sole beneficiary of a $2.4 million estate.

Forensic psychologist Kris Schroder.

Detectives from the Boroondara crime investigation unit have charged Kris Schroder, 57, with more than 140 offences, including 127 counts of theft, six counts of perjury and six counts of attempting the pervert the course of justice.

Ms Schroder allegedly concealed the original will of her long-term partner Maree Hart, who died of brain cancer in 2016.

Ms Hart's will from 1998 named her niece and nephew along with Ms Schroder as beneficiaries, but was replaced by a new document allegedly drafted by Ms Schroder in 2014, which police claim is a fake.Rescuers have won a four-day battle to free a 15-metre southern right whale that was entangled in rope near Portland, in far south-west Victoria.

'Tangles' the whale near Portland on August 11. Credit:Allen McCauley

Environment officers cut away the rope late Sunday afternoon after attaching four large buoys to the whale, a male, to slow its frantic route around the coast.

A spotter plane spent Sunday shadowing the southern right whale, which was first seen struggling at Cape Bridgewater on Thursday afternoon.

Officers from the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) managed to manoeuvre their boats close enough to the whale to cut away the rope that had wrapped around its tail.A terminally ill Perth dad stranded in Bali after suffering a fall while on a bucket list holiday has been given the all-clear to fly home.

Duncan Turner has been battling liver disease, as well as complications stemming from a blood clot on his brain, and had travelled to Singapore last month in a bid to swim with dolphins with his daughter  an experience high on the familys bucket list.

Duncan Turner with daughter, Amelie, and wife Michelle Edgar.

However the trip took a turn for the worse when Mr Turner suffered a fall while in Singapore.

With the family unable to buy travel insurance due to Mr Turners condition, they faced a costly process to bring the father back to Perth.Barnaby Joyce says he will support the Turnbull government's National Energy Guarantee on the condition that it creates a "plan B" to cut electricity prices in case the NEG doesn't work as promised.

The former deputy prime minister, who has reserved the option of crossing the floor to oppose the plan, made the demand of Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg by phone on Saturday evening.

Mr Joyce proposed the government create a divestment power option as a threat to break up the energy firms in the event that they fail to cut power prices.

Barnaby Joyce has threatened to cross the floor if his demands aren't met. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

"It would give us the capacity to say to these companies: 'Don't put 'em up or we will break you up,' " he said.Environment Minister Josh Frydenberg has defended the government's decision to give almost half a billion dollars to a private sector charity, saying the lump sum grant, delivered without a tender process, was "not unusual".

"When the Labor Party provided billions of dollars to the coal generators, they put it out in one hit and didn't run a tender process either," Mr Frydenberg said on ABC Insiders on Sunday.

"The [Great Barrier Reef] Foundation was chosen because it is the best organisation to leverage off the private sector."

Environment Minister Josh Frydenberg. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

"My department has made it very clear that the guidelines were complied with, that it represented value for money and it was the best way to deal with the urgent need of putting money into the foundation," he said.A bipartisan group of MPs will form a new group aimed at reviving cross-party support to make the adoption process for parents faster and simpler.

The group, co-chaired by Liberal Senator Zed Seselja and the Labor senator Kimberley Kitching, will be launched at Parliament House on Monday by adoption advocate and actress, Adopt Change founder Deborrra-lee Furness.

Other members of the 21-strong group include the outgoing Labor MP Emma Husar, conservative senator Cory Bernardi, and Liberals Jonathan Duniam, David Bushby and Kevin Andrews.

Finalist Deborra-lee Furness in Canberra on Sunday. Credit:Rohan Thomson

Senator Seselja said he was pleased so many MPs were willing to work across party lines to further reform on the issue.The Greens are set to move a motion in the Senate on Monday seeking to pull back the curtain on the calculations behind the federal government's energy promises.

Senator Richard Di Natale will call on the government to release the full modelling for the proposed final design of the National Energy Guarantee to enable scrutiny of the government's claim that it will result in lower emissions and power bills.

The numbers don't add up, Greens leader Senator Richard Di Natale says. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Greens energy spokesman Adam Bandt MP said the government was yet to provide sufficient detail on the plan, which aims to guarantee the reliability of the power network and curb rising prices while cutting emissions.

"We need to see the full modelling behind these outlandish claims before decisions get made about the NEG," Mr Bandt told Fairfax Media on Sunday.Reporting on Australian servicemen and women in a critical way is never easy. However, there is nothing to be ashamed of in fair and careful public discussion of the actions of the Australian Special Air Service Regiment in Afghanistan.

The Herald has been criticised for airing allegations raised about Ben Roberts-Smith, one of Australia's most distinguished servicemen, who has been awarded the Victoria Cross.

Yet these allegations are already under consideration by NSW judge Paul Brereton in an inquiry under the auspices of the Inspector General of the Australian Defence Force. That inquiry was commissioned in 2016 by then chief of special forces Major-General Jeff Sengelman and Chief of Army Angus Campbell.

Allegations raised against decorated war veteran Ben Roberts-Smith have been called into question. Credit:Cole Bennets

The inquiry has been called because there are strong public interest reasons for Australia to take seriously - and be seen to take seriously - any suspicion that Australians have failed to adhere to the highest standards of soldiery.Ford New Midsize SUV Moves Into Heart of China

New Ford Territory midsize SUV, developed with JMC, offers attractive price, great looks and a host of intuitive technologies

A new SUV aimed at Chinas fastest-growing segment  SUV buyers in emerging, fast-growing cities

Territory is available with fuel-efficient gasoline engine, 48V mild hybrid, or plug-in hybrid, and infotainment system with intuitive Mandarin voice-command function, Co-Pilot360TM suite of driver assistance technologies and FordPass Connect with embedded modem

Territory will go on sale in early 2019. Ford is also launching new versions of the popular Focus and Escort cars in the coming months as it delivers on its plan to bring 50 new vehicles to market by 2025

SHANGHAI, Aug. 8, 2018  Ford today shared the first images of the new Territory, a mid-size SUV with the affordable price-tag, rich technology and looks to carve inroads into Chinas richest vein of future growth  new buyers in emerging cities.

Ford developed the Territory together with its joint venture partner, Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC), a collaboration that melded JMCs deep insights into new Chinese customers tastes with Fords global expertise in vehicle design, engineering, testing and manufacturing.

The Territory is a breakthrough for Ford in China in terms of our ability to successfully compete with Chinese automakers for millions of customers that we do not currently serve, said Peter Fleet, president, Asia Pacific and chairman & CEO, Ford China. Territory is a key proof point for how we will grow in China. We brought Territory to market with speed, high quality and cost efficiency. It will be affordable for young families and new buyers across China, not just the coastal mega-cities. And the technology will delight customers.

JMC provided insights into Chinese customers lifestyles and product preferences, while the Ford team leveraged its global expertise to design, engineer, and test Territory at Fords testing centers in Nanjing, China and Melbourne, Australia. The all-new SUV will be manufactured at JMCs Xiao Lan plant, which meets Fords meticulous global manufacturing standards.

Territory customers can choose between a fuel-efficient gasoline engine option, 48V mild hybrid with Miller-Cycle technology, and a plug-in hybrid powertrain when it goes on sale in early 2019.

It also will offer Fords infotainment system with intuitive Mandarin voice-command function, Co-Pilot360TM suite of driver assistance technologies, incorporating features such as Adaptive Cruise Control and FordPass Connect with embedded modem.

AIMING AT THE HEART OF CHINAS AUTO GROWTH

While China remains the worlds largest automotive market, the greatest growth in demand for automobiles will come not from traditional Tier 1 cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, which have implemented license plate restrictions to manage traffic congestion, but rather from smaller but fast-growing cities in the interior of the country.

The number of registered passenger vehicles in Chinese cities with no license plate restrictions is expected to soar to about 23.7 million in 2020, up from 10.8 million in 2010, according to IHS Markits latest China Provincial Forecast1. In contrast, vehicle registrations in restricted cities is expected to fall to 1.6 million in 2019, from a peak of 2.2 million in 2010.

For these buyers, the midsize SUVs such as Ford Territory is a highly popular choice. According to McKinseys China auto consumer survey 20172, the midsize SUV segment saw an annual growth rate of 38 percent in China between 2012 to 2016. Indigenous Chinese automakers in particular have capitalized on this trend.

For the first time, Chinese customers will be able to purchase a very competitive Ford in the entry-level, mid-size SUV segment at an affordable price.

The new Ford Territory shows what can be achieved when two global companies collaborate closely, bringing their respective strengths to meet the needs of a broad spectrum of Chinese consumers, said Qiu Tiangao, chairman of JMC.

The Territory further expands the Ford SUV family lineup, which is composed of Ford EcoSport, Ford Kuga, Ford Edge, Ford Explorer and Ford Everest, to further meet the diversified needs of Chinese consumers.

NEW DESIGN TAILORED TO CHINESE TASTES

In the Territory, Fords design team delivers a fresh exterior appearance, instilling Ford design DNA that appeals to Chinese consumers. The front of the vehicle features the signature Ford mesh grille, flanked by LED lights. Outboard graphic features house the uniquely shaped LED daytime running lamp and turn indicators, emphasizing the vehicles solid stance.

The rear of the vehicle is highlighted by strong horizontal lines, emphasizing the width and stance. A lower skid plate integrates outboard bright graphic elements and serves as a reminder of the Territorys SUV capability. The accent finishes on the grille and contemporary Ford color palette offer contrast, depth and a richness to the vehicle.

Fords engineering DNA is evident in a Ford-tuned suspension, which is set for exceptional ride comfort and refinement.

The Territory has also been rigorously tested in its ride, handling and NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) levels at Fords testing centers in Nanjing, China and Melbourne, Australia, to ensure it meets Fords stringent engineering and quality standards.

The new Ford Territory is part of Fords China 2025 plan to launch more than 50 new vehicles in the country by 2025.

Key Product Highlights

Powertrain variants: gasoline, 48V mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid electric

Ford-led design with signature Ford grille and LED lamps

Ford engineering DNA with Ford-tuned suspension

Co-Pilot360 TM suite of Driver Assistance Technologies (DATs), incorporating features such as Adaptive Cruise Control and Pre-Collision Assist

suite of Driver Assistance Technologies (DATs), incorporating features such as Adaptive Cruise Control and Pre-Collision Assist Infotainment system with intuitive voice-command function

FordPass Connect embedded modem

1: https://ihsmarkit.com/industry/automotive/china/ap4.html

2: China auto consumer survey 2017, McKinsey Center for Future Mobility, September, 20176.1 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Northern Alaska

A 6.1 magnitude earthquake struck northern Alaska on Aug. 12, hitting a remote area in the states North Slope region.

The quake hit the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge about 52 miles southwest of Kaktovik, 85 miles southeast of Deadhorse, 85 miles southeast of Prudhoe Bay, and 104 miles north of Arctic Village, said the Alaska Earthquake Center.

There are no known or expected human impacts, said the earthquake center on Twitter. Well share info as we put it together.

The U.S. Geological Survey said the quake hit at a depth of about 6 miles at 6:58 a.m. local time.

Kaktovik, located on the northern Beaufort Sea coast, is the nearest community, and there were no reports of any damage, according to the Anchorage Daily News.

The quake was initially recorded as 6.5 on the Richter scale, but it was revised down to 6.1.

In January, a powerful 7.9 magnitude earthquake off the Pacific Coast triggered a tsunami warning along the states southern coast. People in British Columbia, Canada, also got the warning.

Ring of Fire

In 1964, a 9.2 magnitude earthquake thats now known as the Great Alaskan earthquake or Good Friday earthquake triggered tsunamis, ground fissures, and destroyed structures in Anchorage, the states largest city. Dozens of people died in the quake.

The 1964 Alaskan tsunami is the largest and most destructive recorded tsunami to ever strike the United States Pacific Coast. Along the Washington coast, tsunami waves destroyed houses, cars, boats, and fishing gear, causing an estimated $80,000 in damage to roads and bridges alone. At Ocean City, 5- to 6-foot tsunami waves collapsed the bridge over Copalis River. Wave heights at Moclips, Sea View, La Push, and Wreck Creek reached an estimated 11, 12, 5, 7, and 15 feet, respectively, according to the University of Southern Californias website.

The massive quake caused many large landslides and submarine slumps, which in turn produced destructive local tsunamis at many locations along the Alaskan coast, the university wrote. Due to the orientation of the fault that generated the tsunami, the largest waves outside of Alaska, occurred along the northwest Pacific coasts of Canada and the United States.

In January 2016, a 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit Alaska near Cook Inlet about 162 miles southwest of Anchorage. When it hit, it was just soft at first, and it just kept getting bigger, a photographer told CNN at the time. It was one of those moments where you didnt know if it was going to get worse or if it was going to calm down.

Alaska, along with the U.S. West Coast, is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a seismically active region that encircles the Pacific Ocean. About 90 percent of the worlds earthquakes are registered in the region, the USGS said.

An earthquake swarm struck off the coast of Northern California and Oregon last month, but no tsunami warnings were issued. A number of the quakes were located around 120 miles from the Gold Beach, Oregon, according to the USGS.

Don Blakeman, a geophysicist at the National Earthquake Information Center, told OregonLive that the strength of the undersea earthquakes hasnt yet been serious. He added these can occur fairly often.

Tsunamis are not likely until at least a 7-magnitude earthquake is recorded, he told the website.British Ex-Spy Lobbied for Russian Oligarch While Writing Anti-Trump Dossier

Former British spy Christopher Steele lobbied a senior Justice Department (DOJ) official on behalf of a Russian oligarch before and during his work on the controversial opposition research dossier that accused the Trump campaign of colluding with Russia.

Steele repeatedly advocated on behalf of Russian billionaire Oleg Deripaska in his communications with Associate Deputy Attorney General Bruce Ohr. Steele asked Ohr to monitor the status of Deripaskas newly issued U.S. visa, informed Ohr that he was circulating a sensitive intelligence briefing that cast Deripaska as independent of the Kremlin, and sent information on behalf of the oligarchs lawyer about a dispute between the billionaires company and Ukraine.

The communications raise further questions about Steeles objectivity as an intelligence source, and about Ohrs motives for maintaining contact with a foreign ex-spy about a Russian billionaire, despite being assigned to a wholly unrelated line of work at the DOJ. Congressional investigators expect Ohr to appear for a closed-door interview on Aug. 28.

The Washington Examiner was the first to publish excerpts of the emails relating to Deripaska.

Steele brought up Deripaska in an email on Jan. 12, 2016, when the billionaire was applying for a visa to the United States. Deripaska was referred to as OD and OVD in different messages.

I heard from Adam WALDMAN yesterday that OD is applying for another official US visa ice [sic] APEC business at the end of February, Steele wrote.

Deripaska was being encouraged by the Agency guys who told Adam that the USG [United States Government] stance on [Deripaska] is softening, Steele wrote. A positive development it seems.

Less than a month later, on Feb. 8, 2016, Steele wrote that our old friend [Deripaska] apparently has been granted another official visa to come to the US later this month.

Steele then asked Ohr to monitor the status of the oligarchs visa case.

As far as Im concerned, this is good news all round although as before, it would be helpful if you could monitor it and let me know if any complications arise, Steele wrote.

To the extent I can I will keep an eye on the situation, Ohr replied.

Two weeks later, on Feb. 21, 2016, Steele gave Ohr a heads-up about an inter-agency meeting on Deripaska that he expected Ohr to be a part of.

Ahead of the meeting, Steele said he would be circulating some recent sensitive Orbis reporting on Deripaska, which showed that the billionaire was not a tool of the Kremlin.

We reckon therefore that the forthcoming [Deripaska] contact represents a good opportunity for the USG, Steele concluded.

Steele dated the first installment of the anti-Trump dossier of unverified dirt on the Trump campaign on June 20. Less than two weeks later, on July 1, the ex-spy brought up then-candidate Donald Trump in an email. Days later, Steele would meet with the FBI for the first time about the dossier.

There is something separate I wanted to discuss with you informally and separately. It concerns our favourite business tycoon! Steele wrote.

While it is possible that our favourite business tycoon was a reference to someone other than Trump, the chances are slim considering the confluence of events.

Ohr and Steele went on to exchange emails over the next three months. The pair also met in person for breakfast in Washington on July 30. Ohrs wife, Nellie Ohr, was present. Nellie Ohr worked for the same firm, Fusion GPS, that hired Steele to compile the dossier. A group of FBI and DOJ officials would go on to use the dossier to apply for and secure a warrant to spy on former Trump-campaign volunteer Carter Page.

The Clinton campaign and the Democratic National Committee paid Fusion GPS for Steeles work on the dossier. The document consists of a series of installments spanning 35 pages. Some allegations have been debunked, the rest remain unverified.

By October, Ohr and Steele were back to discussing the Russian oligarch. Steele reached out to Ohr with an urgent matter, and a call was set up. The content of the discussion is unknown, but hours later, Steele emailed Ohr on behalf of Deripaskas lawyer with information concerning a dispute between the Ukrainian government and the oligarchs aluminum company.

Naturally, he [Deripaskas lawyer] wants to protect the clients [Deripaskas] interests and reputation, Steele wrote. I pass it on for what its worth.

As noted by The Washington Examiners Byron York, the communications between Ohr and Steele line up closely with the dates on which Steele finished successive installments of the dossier.

The exchanges about and apparent lobbying for Deripaska are only part of the questionable conduct revealed in the communications between Ohr and Steele.

As The Epoch Times previously reported, Ohr tried to get reinstated Steele with the FBI after the bureau terminated the ex-spy for leaking to the media. Shortly after the FBI terminated Steele, Ohr, the No. 4 official at DOJ at the time, became Steeles back channel to the bureau. The pair stayed in touch late into 2017, more than a year after the FBI prohibited Steele from collecting intelligence on its behalf.

Steeles known bias against Trump casts further suspicion on what took place beyond the emails. Ohr told the FBI that Steele was desperate that Donald Trump not get elected and was passionate about him not being president. While Steele compiled the dossier, Fusion GPS received money from Russia for a different project.

The big story that the Fake News Media refuses to report is lowlife Christopher Steeles many meetings with Deputy A.G. Bruce Ohr and his beautiful wife, Nelly, Trump wrote on Twitter on Aug. 11. It was Fusion GPS that hired Steele to write the phony & discredited Dossier, paid for by Crooked Hillary & the DNC.

The big story that the Fake News Media refuses to report is lowlife Christopher Steeles many meetings with Deputy A.G. Bruce Ohr and his beautiful wife, Nelly. It was Fusion GPS that hired Steele to write the phony & discredited Dossier, paid for by Crooked Hillary & the DNC.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 11, 2018

Do you believe Nelly worked for Fusion and her husband STILL WORKS FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE. I have never seen anything so Rigged in my life. Our A.G. is scared stiff and Missing in Action. It is all starting to be revealed  not pretty. IG Report soon? Witch Hunt!

.Do you believe Nelly worked for Fusion and her husband STILL WORKS FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE. I have never seen anything so Rigged in my life. Our A.G. is scared stiff and Missing in Action. It is all starting to be revealed  not pretty. IG Report soon? Witch Hunt!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 11, 2018

Ohr was demoted twice after meetings between him and the figures connected to the anti-Trump dossier became public early this year. The DOJ declined to comment earlier this week.

In April, the United States imposed sanctions against billionaire Deripaska and eight companies in which he is a large shareholder, including aluminum exporter Rusal, in response to what it termed malign activities by Russia.

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) told Fox News Sunday that it was at least unethical for Ohr to communicate with Steele, since Ohrs wife worked for the same firm that hired Steele to compile the anti-Trump dossier.

Mr. Ohr should not have had any role in investigating the Trump campaign, Graham said.

Watch Next:

President Donald Trumps Message to Family Members of the Fallen

President Donald Trump paid a Memorial Day tribute at Arlington National Cemetery on May 28.Canadian Police Charge Suspect in Shooting That Left 4 Dead

TORONTOCanadian police charged a man Saturday for the deaths of two police officers and two civilians in a shooting that struck a nerve in a country that has been roiled in recent months by several instances of mass violence.

Police in the eastern city of Fredericton, New Brunswick said that Matthew Vincent Raymond, 48, was arrested and charged with four counts of first-degree murder.

Horizon Health, which delivers care for New Brunswicks Department of Health, said that Raymond was the only person being treated for injuries related to the shooting. He is due to appear in court August 27.

The victims have been identified as police Const. Robb Costello, 45, police Const. Sara Burns, 43, Donnie Robichaud, 42, and Bobbie-Lee Wright, 32.

Robichaud and Wright were in a relationship, according to Facebook and Robichauds cousin, Sean Callahan, who said they had just gotten together at the beginning of August.

No motive has been disclosed, and police said they were working to determine a link between the gunman and the couple.

Police said Costello and Burns were responding to calls of shots fired at an apartment complex and saw two deceased civilians before being shot and killed themselves.

Fredericton police Chief Leanne Fitch said Raymond used a long gun and was in an elevated position when he fired. Fitch said he was shot by police and was in serious but stable condition.

Judith Aguilar, an office manager for Sunfield Apartment Rentals, said Raymond lived in the complex for about four months and was an avid cyclist who often came to pay his rent in cash while wearing a bike helmet.

He seemed like a very normal and pleasant person, really, she said. Hes tall and was in fairly good shape because he biked everywhere.

At one point, she said maintenance workers needed to do some work in his apartment and he didnt want the workers there while he wasnt present.

He seemed concerned, he said he had an expensive computer and an expensive bike, she said. They didnt even have to go all the way into the apartment, they were just fixing his doorframe at the time.

Residents were stunned by the episode, which took place in a city of 60,000 that last saw a homicide in 2014.

Residents attend a candlelight vigil at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church in Fredericton on Aug. 10, 2018. (Andrew Vaughan/The Canadian Press via AP)

But the shooting comes as Canada wrestles with a string of violence, including an instance in Toronto last month where a man with a handgun opened fire in a crowded part of the city, killing two people and wounding 13 before he died in the confrontation.

In April, a man who linked himself to a misogynistic online community used a van to run down pedestrians in a busy part of Toronto, killing 10 people and injuring 14.

Authorities are also still pursuing leads in an ongoing investigation of a serial killer who has been charged with killing eight men in the city in recent years.

In 2014, a shooting in Moncton, New Brunswick left three Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers dead and two wounded.

By Rob GilliesChina Actively Targeting Critical Infrastructure in US; Railcar Manufacturers on List

Commentary

Labeled as critical infrastructure by the Department of Homeland Security, the manufacturing of freight railcars in the United States is an often overlooked but essential part of our nations transportation security apparatus. Businesses and government alike rely on Americas freight trains to transport upwards of 5 million tons of goods and materials across the country every dayfrom agricultural products and military equipment, to nuclear waste and hazardous chemicals.

This industry has been targeted in recent years by the Chinese regime, a focus that has major national-security implications for the United States. The China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC), a Chinese state-owned rail conglomerate, actively is using Chinese regime-backed financing and investments to underbid global competitors by as much as 50 percent.

CRRC is by far the largest railcar manufacturer in the world, controlling upwards of 83 percent of the global rail market. It is more than four times larger than the entire U.S. rail-manufacturing sector and is using unfair financial advantages to pare its costs and import its own finished steel and rail products into the United States.

China has made it crystal-clear that it plans to dominate numerous U.S. industries, aggressively targeting not just railcar manufacturing but also advanced manufacturing, robotics, and artificial intelligence through its Made in China 2025 initiative. Within the next three years, CRRC aims to secure $15 billion in overseas orders and establish 11 regional branches around the world. These ambitions put not only the national security of the United States at serious risk, but threaten the economic security of the nation, as well. More than $6.5 billion in GDP and 65,000 American jobs created by the U.S. freight rail-manufacturing industry are in jeopardy.

While economic security is vital to the success of the United States, of greater concern is the threat that the Chinese conglomerate poses to our national security, which rests on a healthy industrial base and domestic production of freight railcars and parts, in support of our critical infrastructure. Americas increasing reliance on partial and finished railcars from potentially hostile or uncooperative foreign governments imperils this security.

If U.S. railcar-manufacturing capabilities are compromised, we will be forced to rely on countries such as China to supply our military and critical rail-infrastructure needs. In times of increased global uncertainty, this is a risk the United States cant afford.

Railcar technology operates across a vast array of monitoring networks with independent systems monitoring freight and passengers. Within the next 15 years, the Internet of Things (IoT) technology will become increasingly central to our nations industrial and transportation needs. By implementing IoT technology into freight and passenger railcars, companies can monitor hundreds of sensors that are relied upon to measure car temperature and load weight, along with remotely opening doors and tracking other metrics in freight railcars.

Allowing a Chinese-owned entity total access to technology present on American railcars poses a serious national-security threat, since these vehicles travel through every major city and military base in the United States. The question we need to ask ourselves is if we can trust vital technology and data collection in the hands of a potential adversary?

Weve already seen the U.S. government ban certain Chinese technology companies, with the Department of Defense, for example, banning Chinese-made cameras from military bases and curtailing access by Chinese computer-maker Lenovo. Why have we not yet secured our nations railcars and rail infrastructure?

The rapidly evolving railcar technology could potentially allow foreign entities access to our devices and data, but their physical presence poses a different type of threat, which is even more serious. Sensitive materials, such as hazardous wastes and military machinery, are transported across our nation daily. These materials are moved solely by freight railcars. Ensuring that this sector is not compromised by new and evolving foreign threats is essential to maintaining our countrys security, now and in the future. Without our domestic capability to produce freight railcars, we would be vulnerable and dependent on China for a critical piece of our nations security infrastructure.

Congress has recognized the severity of the threats posed by China, especially as related to the critical nature of the railcar-manufacturing industry in the United States. Recently, as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the House and Senate passed legislation that modernizes the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), which will increase oversight of foreign entities attempting to acquire critical infrastructure.

While this is a major victory, Congress and the Trump administration must continue to step up their efforts in protecting critical infrastructure in the United States. This can be achieved by conducting robust reviews of investments by state-owned companies, creating universal standards for cyber and data integrity when contracting with foreign state-backed entities, and further strengthening Buy America oversight laws. By addressing these measures, the United States can remain one step ahead of China.

A strong, vibrant domestic freight-railcar industry has been essential to our nations growth, development, and security. With that legacy now under threat, its time for our leaders and policymakers to come together around smart, common-sense solutions to protect the freight-railcar market. Our countrys future depends on it.

Erik Olson is vice president of the Rail Security Alliance, an alliance of freight rail-manufacturing companies, unions, and U.S. interest groups from across the U.S. rail industry looking to ensure the security of Americas railroad system.Traders operate in the Ring, the open trading floor of the new London Metal Exchange (LME) in central London on Feb. 18, 2016. (Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images)

Copper Vulnerable to Supply Shock as Giant Mine Faces Strike

Copper bears could get caught wrong-footed as a strike looms at the worlds biggest mine.

In the U.S., hedge funds bearish bets outnumber bullish wagers by the most since 2016, latest government data show. The top brokers on the Shanghai Futures Exchange boosted their net-short position by more than half. Sentiment has turned increasingly negative even as BHP Billiton Ltd. and workers at its Escondida mine in Chile approach the end of a government-led mediation after wage talks failed. A strike could start as early as Aug. 14.

Copper has slumped almost 17 percent this year on Comex as an escalating trade war between the U.S. and China threatens global growth, fueling demand concerns for the metal that goes into building power grids, homes, cars and electronic gadgets. Societe Generale SA analyst Robin Bhar said the market is fixated on concerns about the global economy, ignoring the bullish factors that could send prices higher, including potential strikes in Chile.

The market maybe isnt priced correctly, Andrew Cosgrove, a Bloomberg Intelligence senior analyst, said by telephone, citing the risk of supply disruption. Last year, the market was net-long going into what was the beginning of a strike.

Copper, often seen as a barometer of economic growth, posted the eighth weekly loss in the past nine. Futures for September delivery slipped 0.8 percent to settle at $2.7425 a pound Aug.10 on the Comex in New York.

Money managers net-short position, or the difference between bets on price declines and wagers on price gains, reached 29,986 futures and options as of Aug. 7, according to Commodity Futures Trading Commission data released Aug. 10. Bearish wagers are near the highest on records going back to 2006, data showed.

Things could turn quickly, should mediation fail and work stops at Escondida, squeezing bearish money managers and brokers in China and the U.S.

Labor tensions in Chile arent restricted to the BHP-owned behemoth. Pan Pacific Copper Co.s Caserones mine is following a similar path, with workers voting to strike if mediation fails. The giant Chuquicamata open pit has been hit by protests as workers fret about a transition to underground operations that require a smaller workforce.

Theres less cushion to protect users of the metal against supply shocks, with stockpiles tracked by the London Metal Exchange down more than a third since the end of March, while those in warehouses monitored by Comex are at the lowest in 10 months. Inventories tallied by the Shanghai Futures Exchange are at the lowest since January.

Investors who have focused on the U.S.-China trade war have one other thing to consider: Beijings decision to slap a 25 percent tariff on American scrap would make refined copper more attractive than the recycled material, boosting the Asian nations imports of new metal, according to SMM Information & Technology Co. The U.S. supplied about 535,000 metric tons of copper scrap to China last year, about 15 percent of the nations overseas purchases.

That could further bolster demand at a time when the Chilean mining industry is seeing a record number of collective bargaining negotiations, that have the potential to disrupt operations. Last year, when BHP and the union failed to reach an agreement, a 44-day strike at the worlds largest copper mine and a slower ramp-up at Escondidas third mill cut output by 300,000 tons, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. analysts estimate.

Mediation at Escondida ends Aug. 13, and without an extension or an agreement, the strike could start Aug. 14. The two parties positions seem far apart after more than two months of discussions, with 84 percent of workers rejecting the companys last offer. The union is already geared up for a work stoppage, having stashed away about $864,000 to cover costs during a possible monthlong strike. Talks were continuing over the weekend, the union said.

Positive fundamentals take a back seat, Societe Generales Bhar said in a note Aug. 9. Macro woes, which could be indicating sluggish demand and a potential economic slowdown are overshadowing short-term bullish factors,  including the potential strikes in Chile and declining inventories, he said.

From BloombergHoly Fire Suspect Makes Unusual Courtroom Appearance

The man accused of intentionally setting the devastating Holy Fire in Southern California made an unusual courtroom appearance on Aug. 10.

According to SFGate, Forrest Gordon Clark, 51, made several outbursts, flipped his hair while refusing to look at the judge, and he said he felt his life was being threatened. The charges against him, he said while looking directly at the camera, are lies, the report stated.

Clarks bail was set for $1 million. May I pay for that immediately? I can handle a million right now easily, Clark said after hearing the bail announcement.

Several days ago, police alleged that Clark sent a threatening email to a firefighter, including one that read, This place will burn.

Just a short clip of one of Forrest Gordon Clarks outbursts during his first appearance before a judge today. Hes accused of starting the #HolyFire. @ABC7 pic.twitter.com/wBxKnUVQpr  Greg Lee (@abc7greg) August 10, 2018

WATCH: Forrest Clark, the man suspected of starting the Holy Fire, initially refused to show his face in court because of what attorneys said was 'danger to his family' https://t.co/119B0joAYy pic.twitter.com/typRpv3xLg  CBS Los Angeles (@CBSLA) August 10, 2018

When he was arrested on Aug. 7, Clark stripped naked as investigators tried to ask him questions about the fire, the Orange County Register reported. On the same day, he said that he thought his life was being threatened by gangs. They told me they were going to send eight Mexicans, big Mexicans, and they were going to kill me, he said, SFGate reported.

The Cleveland National Forests Twitter said on the morning Aug. 12 that the Holy Fire has grown to 22,714 acres and is at 41 percent containment. Firefighters are continuing to improve fire lines [and] suppress where possible, it said.

Good morning, The #HolyFire is currently @ 22,714 acres with 41% containment. ? fighters are continuing to improve fire lines & suppress where possible. If youre back in the lifted evacuation areas, please drive safely. We still have crews driving/working in the areas.  Cleveland NF (@ClevelandNF) August 12, 2018

Later that day, the Cleveland National Forest said that the Trilogy community is under voluntary evacuation, adding that there are mandatory evacuations for Glen Eden, the Lake Elsinore Riverside community, Blue Jay, Rancho Capistrano, and El Cariso.A woman walks with a child past riot police standing guard outside a polling station during a run-off presidential election in Bamako, Mali Aug. 12, 2018. (Reuters/Luc Gnago)

Mali Votes in Runoff Amid Heavy Security to Counter Terrorist Threat

BAMAKOMalians voted in a run-off presidential election on Aug. 12 but observers reported that turnout appeared to be low, with several polling stations coming under attack from armed men and one election official killed.

Thousands of soldiers had been mobilized to provide security following an inconclusive first round last month that was marred by terrorist attacks and opposition allegations of fraud.

But the Mali Citizen Observation Pool (POCIM) said there had been a persistent climate of tension in some polling centers in Segou, Bamako and several other localities in the run-off.

Armed men had killed the chairman of the electoral office in Arkodia village in Niafunke, it said. There was no immediate confirmation from the government.

Incumbent President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, 73, is expected to win a second term even though he has been unable to stem a surge in ethnic and terrorist violence.

Opposition challenger Soumalia Cisse, 68, a former finance minister, said, however, he was confident of victory but he also accused the government camp of trying to stuff ballot boxes.

Mali is high on the list of Western powers security concerns and a respectable election is important in the effort to restore stability to the vast West African nation.

Fighters, some linked to al Qaeda and the ISIS terrorist group, have regrouped since French troops pushed them back in 2013 from areas they had seized in the north.

They are now expanding their influence again across the desert north and into the fertile center of the country. Former colonial ruler France and the United States have deployed troops across the region to combat the threat.

Mali is also a major transit route for illegal migrants trying to reach Europe, a concern in EU capitals.

Elections observers giving initial assessments said most polling stations were functioning well. Soldiers ran body checks on voters in the capital Bamako as they waited in line under rainy skies to cast their ballots.

I voted without problem. I came to fulfill my duty as a citizen, said Dramane Camara, 31, at a polling station in a school in Bamako. I expect the new president to solve the problem of the north, which is peace. Because the return of peace means the return of NGOs, investors, so creating jobs.

However, POCIM said that in polling centers its observers covered, the participation rate was about 8 percent at midday. In Bamako, it was as low as 4.8 percent. Polls closed at 6 p.m. local time. Turnout in the first round was about 42 percent.

Two polling stations were set on fire in Douentza district and electoral agents were threatened, it said.

Voting was halted in Sendegue and Takoutala, two villages in Mopti region after armed men chased away electoral agents.

In general, there have been problems with a lack of ballot papers, poor quality ink, and a failure to display voters lists in front of the polling stations, POCIM said in a statement.

The first round on July 29 was marred by armed attacks and other security incidents at about a fifth of polling places.

The government stepped up security for the run-off, putting 6,000 troops on the streets on top of 30,000 already on duty.

The head of the European Union observer mission, Italian politician Cecile Kyenge, told reporters at midday that for the most part, the election appeared to be going ahead peacefully. But it had no observers in Timbuktu, Mopti, and Kidalareas where violence has been rife.

Fraud Claims

Keita urged people not to respond to any provocation as he voted in Bamako. I pledge that all the difficulties we faced are now behind us, he told cheering supporters.

Keitaknown as IBKtook 41 percent of the vote in the first round against nearly 18 percent for Cisse.

Results from the first round took five days to emerge and authorities have not said when they expect the run-off result to be announced.

Cisse, who lost against Keita in 2013, said he was confident of victory when he voted in his hometown Niafunke. We traveled across the whole country and we found an extremely strong desire for change everywhere, he said.

Cisse also accused the other side of cheating, saying in Bamako they had found people before the vote who already had ballot papers.

Cisse, who blames Keita for the worsening violence and accuses his government of rampant corruption, also alleged fraud in the first round but the constitutional court upheld the result.

By Tiemoko DialloShelley and John Pultz line up for a Make America Great Again rally in Lewis Center, Ohio, on Aug. 4, 2018. (Charlotte Cuthbertson/The Epoch Times)

Trump Supporters Decry Medias Racist, Redneck Labels

LEWIS CENTER, OhioMany conservatives believe that a recent tweet by Politico reporter Marc Caputo that refers to Trump supporters as garbage people is indicative of the lefts portrayal of who Trump supporters are.

Caputowho has since apologizedwas tweeting about a crowd of people at a July 31 Trump rally in Tampa that he saw on a video, and about whom he also wrote, If you put everyones mouths together in this video, youd get a full set of teeth.

The Epoch Times talked to Trump supporters at recent Make America Great Again rallies to find out what they think the mainstream media most gets wrong about them.

Catrina Albo, 47, a homemaker from New Jersey, wore a t-shirt to the Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, rally on Aug. 2 that said I Hate Fake News.

I think the [media] believe that Trump supporters are racist  that were closed-minded, Albo said. And most of us are not.

She said Trump supporters tend to be strong in their beliefs and that threatens the media.

Were not hateful people you know, and I think thats what the media thinks a lot of timesthat were trying to eliminate people being part of our society, and were racist, and looking in one direction, and we dont see the other side. And thats not true, she said. Were Americans, and this country is meant for diversity, its meant for different opinions, its meant for different religions and different backgrounds and different beliefs.

Albo said her sister, who is a Hillary Clinton supporter, gets angry with her for supporting Trump.

And I just say, You know, thats what this country is about. You voted for who you wanted to vote for and thats the democratic process happening, and its beautiful, in my opinion.

Many media outlets have painted Trumpand by association, his supportersas racist.

On his June 22 morning show, MSNBC host Joe Scarborough called Trump and his supporters openly racist.

The Washington Post ran a column in September 2016 by Dana Milbank titled Clinton Wasnt Wrong About the Deplorables Among Trump Supporters.

The first paragraph states: Hillary Clinton may have been unwise to say half of Donald Trumps supporters are racists and other deplorables. But she wasnt wrong. If anything, when it comes to Trumps racist support, she might have low-balled the number.

CNN regularly hosts panelists to discuss whether Trump is racist. In a recent segment, on Aug. 7, a panelist said Trump was racist because he questioned the IQ of Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.). The presidents staunchest defender on the panel was an African-American man, Damani Bryant Felder, who said: Based on my perception of him, he is not a racist. He has done so much for the black community.

The Greater Good

Mike Harris, a Desert Storm veteran and IT manager, attended the Aug. 4 Trump rally in Lewis Center, Ohio, with his son.

I think the [media] is convinced that were all racist bigots, and were not, he said. Were primarily for the greater good of America. I think the other side is more racist and more bigoted than we are. So I dont think theyre giving us a fair shake.

Julie Tripodi, 48, echoed Harriss sentiment.

Tripodi, a repo woman and the founder of a no-kill dog shelter, said the media thinks were uneducated, dumb rednecks.

She said she has wanted Trump to run for president since 1992, when she lived in New York and began following the trajectory of the country.

Obama destroyed itI mean, he tried to, it was intentional. And now, Trump is reversing everything Obamas done. Thats why we love him so much, Tripodi said.

Go to the Source

Cassandra Affolter, 44, attended her first Trump rally to help form her own viewpoint about the then-presidential candidate.

He never did say anything racist or misogynistic. If anything, he talked about improvement for minorities and women, said Affolter, an Army veteran and Lyft driver. And the next thing I knew, I was watching CNN and they were taking a piece of what he said, instead of the whole sentence, and making it sound like some kind of bad comment. And it started from there.

People are believing it, which is sad. I would say, go to the source if youre not sure. Go directly to the rallies and see what he has to say, because I wasnt sure, eitherthats why I went to my first rally in Cleveland.

Almost all media coverage of Trump from the major organizations is negative. A study published by Media Research Center on May 8 showed that prime-time coverage on major networks ABC, CBS, and NBC was 90 percent negative during the first four months of 2018.

However, during a similar time period, Trumps overall job approval rating improved. According to a RealClearPolitics analysis of polls, Trumps rating rose from 37 percent in mid-December to roughly 43 percent at the end of April.

Fake News

The president has railed against the media for inaccurate and biased reporting, and has popularized the fake news label. He has mentioned fake news 258 times in tweets, often in all caps, since December 2016 (through Aug. 9).

On June 25, he wrote on Twitter: Such a difference in the media coverage of the same immigration policies between the Obama Administration and ours. Actually, we have done a far better job in that our facilities are cleaner and better run than were the facilities under Obama. Fake News is working overtime!

Trumps accusations arent without merit.

Former FBI Director James Comey said at a Senate hearing on June 8, 2017, that a front page New York Times article was almost entirely wrong. The article claimed that members of Trumps 2016 presidential campaign had repeated contacts with senior Russian intelligence officials in the year before the election.

Comey went on to discredit other media reports, which have frequently cited unidentified intelligence and government sources to push a narrative that the Trump campaign colluded with Russia to influence the election.

All of you know this. Maybe the American people dont, Comey said, addressing the Senate committee. He said when it comes to reporters writing stories about classified information, people talking about it often dont really know whats going on.

He said there have been many stories about the Russia investigations that are just dead wrong.

Were Normal People

Sabrina Corns, a homemaker who attended the Lewis Center rally, said the media gets everything wrong about Trump.

I just think hes a good man, hes trying to do the best for this country, and hes getting bashed every which way, she said. I mean, hes doing all he can for our veterans, the economy is just booming, everybody has the lowest unemployment rate. Hes doing everything right and yet they will still find a way to get it wrong, and its just very irritating.

Corns said it is frustrating that the media doesnt cover Trumps accomplishments and they twist everything he says to make it fit their view.

We have a view also, but we get bashed for ours and its not fair, Corns said. We get looked at like, oh, were racist, were bigots. No, were not. Were normal people. We have an opinion for somebody who we think is really great and doing good for the country, and thats basically it.

Totally Dishonest

Mark Hoffman displays his support for Trump all over his massive Ford truck, which he takes to rallies and events. The 48-year-old from Newark, New Jersey, calls himself Mark the Patriot on his business card.

He said the media is wrong to say that were stupid, were redneck, were racist, were uneducated.

I get more black people thanking me for my truck than black people giving me negative comments about my truck, Hoffman said. And its funny because Trump was a Democrat and surrounded by black people all the time. Did [they] ever call him racist until he ran against Hillary? So its all crap, its all crap.

John Pultz, 62, said the only four-letter word he heard while waiting in line to enter the Trump rally came from the small group of protesters out on the street.

Were ladies and gentlemen, basically, he said. Were the hardworking people of this country.

He said it is totally dishonest of media to portray Trump supporters as racist and bigoted.

Kim Bood, clerk of courts for Morrow County, Ohio, said the media makes Trump supporters look negative.

And were not. I mean, just because we dont change our opinionwe should all be able to have different opinions and still get along, you know, she said. You may not like what I like, but we respect that of each other, and we get along.WASHINGTON - White supremacists held a rally in Washington on Sunday, and almost no one but their opponents and the police showed up.

Jason Kessler, one of the organizers of last year's violent and deadly Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, wanted to hold an anniversary demonstration there, but the city wouldn't let him. So he brought his show to Washington, where he hoped 400 supporters would join him for a rally at Lafayette Square, across from the White House. Fewer than 40 turned out.

The group was met by thousands of protesters who filled their half of the leafy, seven-acre park chanting "Go home, Nazis!" "No Trump! No KKK! No fascist USA!" and "Black lives matter!" They drowned out whatever message Kessler and his small band of followers had hoped to deliver - and that was their goal.

For opponents, the day felt like a victory, albeit an often tense and angry one.

Samaj Calhoun, a Southwest Washington resident, came to protest the rally with friends to show they wouldn't be intimidated by the white supremacists. Calhoun said she hopes the rest of the country watching the District sees "that we're not afraid. And we can defend our city."

City leaders and law enforcement officials were determined that the event not be a repeat of the mayhem in Charlottesville last year, when city police and Virginia state troopers allowed white supremacists and neo-Nazis to clash in the streets with anti-hate protesters. Counterprotester Heather Heyer was killed when a man police say identified himself as a Nazi drove a car into a crowd. Two state troopers died when their helicopter crashed following a day of monitoring the civil disturbance.

A massive police presence Sunday kept the two sides separated, and outside of a confrontation between some antifa, or anti-fascist, protesters and police long after the rally had ended, there were no reports of violence. Police reported that one man was arrested after he punched a man wearing a "Make America Great Again" hat.

D.C. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser (D) said last week the city would ensure that the rallygoers could exercise their right to free speech - even if what they were saying was distasteful.

"While we are opposed adamantly to what we are going to hear, we know what our responsibility is - to protect First Amendment events, to protect Washingtonians and to protect our city," she said.

Bowser returned to the District Sunday afternoon from a trip to El Salvador to supervise the city's response. She planned to return to El Salvador on Monday morning to finish the sister-city trip.

For law enforcement, getting Kessler and his followers to and from the event without incident proved the biggest - and most controversial - challenge.

Kessler and his supporters arrived a little before 1 p.m. at the Vienna Metro station where they were accompanied by a law enforcement officers onto the rear car of a waiting train. After disembarking at the Foggy Bottom Metro station, a larger police contingent, including officers on bicycles and motorcycles escorted the group on a walk of several blocks past protesters who shouted and chanted at them. Once inside Lafayette Square, protesters were kept far away from Kessler's group.

Critics, including two D.C. Council members and the union representing Metro employees, lambasted the transit agency for providing the group extra protection after having said last week that its members would not be given special treatment.

"Giving white supremacists & hate groups a private Metro rail car is so unbelievably wrong & disgraceful. Beyond the horrible precedent it sets, what does it tell the riding public & operators? Plus, it's the exact opposite of what @WMATA said they'd do," council member Charles Allen (D-Ward 6) tweeted.

At Lafayette Square, protesters continued to yell and chant, and some, including a small contingent of antifa members dressed in black, hoped for a showdown with the white supremacists when the rally ended a little before 5 p.m. Police acted quickly to spirit Kessler and his followers out of the area in white vans to the Rosslyn Metro station, where they boarded a train to return to Vienna. Fairfax County Executive Bryan Hill said police were stationed along Interstate 66 to make sure no one tried to throw debris onto the train tracks or cause any other trouble.

Antifa members vented their frustration at not being able to confront the rallygoers by lighting smoke bombs and firecrackers and throwing eggs at federal buildings downtown. By then, a steady rain was falling, however, and the protest was fizzling. Most began heading home, but police kept a watchful eye as the black-clad group carrying umbrellas wandered about knocking over trash cans, chanting "Bust a window!" and yelling at police to get out of their cars and "meet us in the streets." A confrontation between the protesters and police erupted briefly near 13th and G Streets NW.

While police were successful at keeping the opposing groups apart, the effort came at what is expected to be a significant expense to the city for overtime and deployment of law enforcement resources. District officials said late Sunday they were still tallying the cost of the rally to the city. At least some of it would be reimbursed by the federal government, they said, because Kessler's event took place on National Park Service land.

At the rally, Kessler spent much of his 15-minute speech defending last year's Unite the Right rally and insisting, despite evidence to the contrary, that most of those who attended had been nonviolent.

Earlier in the day, Kessler spoke to several reporters at the Vienna Metro station. He said he and his group were there to promote free speech and to protest "white civil rights abuses."

When asked whether he had anything to say to the Heyer's mother, Kessler offered his "condolences" but said police in Charlottesville should have blocked off the street where she was killed.

Several days after her death last year, Kessler tweeted, "Heather Heyer was a fat, disgusting Communist. Looks like it was payback time."

Mikisa Thompson, who was on the front lines of the protesters in Lafayette Square, said she traveled to Washington from North Carolina. She said she specifically came out for people who were traumatized and beaten last year in Charlottesville, notably Heyer.

"That's why I'm here, for Heather," she said.

Other protesters voiced different reasons for showing up Sunday.

At the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, about 20 protesters marched to the Lincoln Memorial while singing "We Shall Overcome."

The group's leader, Hawk Newsome, said Kessler had invited him and his group, Black Lives Matter of Greater New York, to attend this year's Unite the Right rally.

"He thought that I was a friend, but I am not his negro," Newsome said. "I am not some token black you can use to validate yourself."

BLM-GNY - which has been disavowed by the broader Black Lives Matter network - went viral when Newsome and a few others came onstage at a Trump rally in September while staging a counterprotest.

Instead of joining Kessler, he and a handful of other activists marched from the Bronx to Washington over the past 10 days to protest a range of issues, including food insecurity and police brutality.

"I represent a contingent of marginalized people, and [white supremacists] stand in direct opposition to everything we fight for," Newsome said.

At the Vienna Metro station, V.J. Hyde, a 38-year-old music teacher from Fairfax County, pulled a new stack of posters and a roll of tape from his Whole Foods shopping bag and doled them out to his wife and two daughters.

The family of four and three of their friends came to the Metro station to post "Hate Free Zone" and "Hate Has No Home Here" fliers.

"We're here because this is a very messed-up time in our country, and our community is front and center," Hyde said.

He and his family are Jewish, and they have friends who are Asian American. Hyde said he overheard one of his daughters talking to a friend about the white supremacists. She told the friend the rally attendees "hate us."

"That's pretty f----- up," Hyde said.

For some of the protesters, the focus was less on the white-supremacist rally than on President Donald Trump.

Holding a "Dump Trump" sign, Mike Holey, 67, of Baltimore said he's been particularly frustrated by what he called the president's hesitation to denounce white supremacy and neo-Nazism. He pointed to Trump's statement that there was "blame on both sides" after violence broke out at the Unite the Right rally last year.

Benjamin Garrett, a Vietnam War veteran who lives in Maryland, raised a sign saying "Trump is a traitor" in block capital letters.

"He gives these people permission," Garrett said. "Trump is a blatant racist."

Trump, who was heavily criticized last year for not unequivocally condemning the white nationalists who had organized the rally and a torch-light march through the University of Virginia campus the night before, addressed the Charlottesville anniversary on Saturday, tweeting, "The riots in Charlottesville a year ago resulted in senseless death and division. We must come together as a nation. I condemn all types of racism and acts of violence. Peace to ALL Americans!"

On Sunday morning, tourists making their way through Lafayette Square paused to take in the growing group of protesters gathering on the northeast side of the park.

Brightly colored signs declaring, "From Charlottesville to the White House: Shut down white supremacy" and "No Nazis, no KKK, no fascist USA" lined patches of grass.

Rossana Castillo, 50, a tourist from Grenoble, France, paused as she passed to take photos.

"It's astonishing to me," she said of the rally that was expected to bring white supremacists within shouting distance of the White House. "And it is just so sad. I know I am a foreigner, but I love your country. I really do. And I am so grateful these people can be here and have the right to stand up to people like this."

Later that afternoon, when Kessler and his followers had left the park, Khury Petersen-Smith of the International Socialist Organization - which he said brought hundreds of anti-racist protesters to Lafayette Square - called the day a success.

"If they [white nationalists] hope to spread their message of hate, they've been stopped in their tracks," Petersen-Smith said. "People defied their fear and defied the idea that we should just ignore the far right and instead mobilized to shut them down."

- - -

The Washington Post's Hannah Natanson, Teo Armus, Reis Thebault, Peter Jamison, Martine Powers, Michael Brice-Saddler, Fenit Nirappil and Antonio Olivo contributed to this report.

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The Washington Post's Hannah Natanson, Teo Armus, Martine Powers, Michael Brice-Sadler, Peter Hermann, Perry Stein, Fenit Nirappil, and Antonio Olivo contributed to this report.

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Video: About 30 people attended the "Unite the Right 2" rally in D.C. on Aug 12. Hundreds of counterprotesters marched and some fought with police.(Jorge Ribas,Patrick Martin/The Washington Post)

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Video: Police presence could not go unnoticed surrounding the University of Virginia on the anniversary of a white nationalist rally which left one woman dead in 2017. Anti-racist protesters marched in the streets surrounding the university calling for an end to white supremacy.(Ashleigh Joplin/The Washington Post)

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Video: One year after violent protests in Charlottesville, Va., witnesses and victims reflect on the day a Nazi sympathizer allegedly plowed his car into a group of counterprotesters, killing Heather Heyer.(Joyce Koh/The Washington Post)

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The Saudi Arabia-led coalition fighting Yemen's Houthi rebels announced that it has rescued 86 child soldiers, blasting the Shiite group for violating the international laws by recruiting children in the war-torn Arab country.

The anti-Houthi coalition released a statement earlier on Saturday saying that it "rescued 86 child soldiers recruited by the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels and returned them to their families."

The coalition's statement strongly condemned the Houthi rebels for continuing to exploit Yemen's children and putting them in harm.

The safety of Yemen's children is a priority for the coalition's forces, as well as ensuring that they were not recruited or affected by the war, according to the statement.

The coalition vowed also to continue its humanitarian efforts including financing the rehabilitation programs of Yemeni child soldiers recruited by Houthis.

Two days ago, warplanes of the Saudi-led coalition targeted passenger buses in the Dhahyan popular market in northern Yemen, killing at least 43 people, mostly pupils under 10, and injuring 64 others.

The aerial bombardment triggered popular anger across Yemen and drew mass condemnation from international humanitarian agencies.

The Arab coalition defended the attack and described it as a "legitimate military action," but acknowledged later on Friday and said that it would launch an investigation into the incident.

Allegations by media and relief organizations in Yemen were immediately forwarded to the Joint Incident Assessment Team for investigation, the coalition said on Friday.

An official of Yemen's government based in Aden said on condition of anonymity that "killing the children during Thursday's attack was a terrible carnage and Houthis were the only beneficiaries."

"The Houthis might be the ones who masterminded the attack by putting the children in danger just to gain international sympathy with extremist group," the government source said.

In June, Yemen's Human Rights Minister Mohamed Askar accused the Houthis of recruiting more than 15,000 child soldiers and sending them to the battlefronts without military experience or training since 2014.

The Saudi-backed Yemeni government frequently urges the United Nations to pressure the Houthis into stopping the recruitment of children particularly in the northern provinces.

The impoverished Arab country has been locked in a civil war since the Houthi rebels overran much of Yemen and seized all northern provinces in late 2014, including the capital Sanaa.

Saudi Arabia is leading the Arab military coalition that intervened in the Yemeni war to support the internationally-recognized government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi.

More than 10,000 Yemenis, mostly civilians, have been killed in the war, with about 3 million others displaced. Flash

A Southern California wildfire continues to rage and is threatening more populated areas despite frantic efforts to contain it.

The so-called Holy Fire in Cleveland National Forest is now raging over 19,107 acres (77 square kilometers) in Lake Elsinore in Riverside County and was only 10 percent contained by Friday evening, according to the Cleveland National Forest's Twitter account.

Flames filled the sky with smoke as more than 1,200 firefighters were battling the blaze to keep it from reaching foothill communities.

The fire has forced over 21,000 people to evacuate their homes since it broke out on Monday. Several school districts canceled classes due to fire warnings and unhealthy air quality.

California Governor Jerry Brown declared a state of emergency Thursday in Orange and Riverside counties as the aggressive wildfire swept through ridges and mountains.

Forrest Gordon Clark, 51, was arrested earlier this week after he allegedly sent a text to a volunteer fire chief about two weeks ago saying this place "is going to burn."

He was charged by Orange County authorities with felony arson and making criminal threats -- among other counts -- in connection with the Holy Fire.

Clark appeared in court Friday, saying "it's all a lie" as the judge read the charges.

Dozens of wildfires are raging in California, with the one dubbed the Mendocino Complex burning more than 100 miles (about 161 km) north of Sacramento declared the most destructive fire in the state's history.Ad Investing Trends

Investor Alert: "Cooling Gas Shortage' Threatens SpaceX

SpaceX (and many other tech giants) are buying up helium like crazy. And that's because the world is running out of this incredibly valuable gas! In fact, prices have already skyrocketed by 160% in the past few years Flash

U.S. President Donald Trump said Saturday that he condemned "all types of racism and acts of violence," a day before the one-year mark of a deadly rally in Charlottesville, state of Virginia.

"The riots in Charlottesville a year ago resulted in senseless death and division," Trump said in a tweet. "We must come together as a nation."

Last summer's "Unite the Right" rally in historic Charlottesville, held on Aug. 12 to protest U.S. cities taking down Confederate statues, attracted national attention when white supremacists, fascists and neo-Nazis violently clashed with counter-protesters.

A 32-year-old woman was killed and 19 others were injured when an Ohio man associated with white nationalist groups allegedly drove a car into the crowd of counter-protesters.

Trump drew a firestorm of criticism last year following the deadly incident in Charlottesville when he said "both sides" were to blame for the violence.

Another white supremacist rally is to take place outside the White House in Washington D.C. on Sunday, which is expected to bring about 400 demonstrators. Counter-protests will also be held in the capital city.

A permit to host another "Unite the Right" rally in Charlottesville this year was denied due to public safety concerns. Virginia Governor Ralph Northam and the city of Charlottesville have declared a state of emergency.

Local reports said a group of anti-fascist activists rallied peacefully in downtown Charlottesville on Saturday amid heightening security with heavy police presence. Flash

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Sunday urged all members of the European Union (EU) to unite and confront the migrant crisis as a "common challenge".

Reducing the inequality of the migrants among EU member states should be one of the objectives for the European Union at present and in future, Sanchez told a joint press conference with visiting German Chancellor Angela Merkel.





"This is something that we can only achieve as a whole, not with isolated sight among the member states of the European Union. I think Spain and Germany share that vision," he said.





Sanchez held talks with Merkel in the city of San Lucar de Barrameda in southern Spain.





Merkel told the press conference that the migrants should be distributed equally among EU members. "They have to be spread across the European Union, as this is a challenge for all members, not just for a few countries," Merkel said.





Speaking after her arrival on Saturday, Merkel said her country is backing Spain's bid to stem the flow of migrants from Morocco to Europe via the Mediterranean, days after the two European countries signed a bilateral refugee deal, German news agency DPA reported.





Honest cooperation with African nations was important to secure the return of rejected asylum seekers, she added.





Sanchez said that Spain "is under enormous migration pressure coming from countries south of the Sahara", according to DPA.





"We should reject the opportunism of those who only promise to repeat the solutions that have failed of the past," he added.





"We can't only talk about controlling the borders and the coasts of Europe, but also have to reinforce secondary movements and cooperation with African countries. Both Spain and Germany plan to do so," Sanchez said.





On Monday, Berlin and Madrid reached an agreement to send migrants arriving in Germany back to Spain within 48 hours if they already have a pending asylum request there. Spain is the first EU country to sign such an agreement with Germany.





When asked whether the deal was only symbolic, given that so few asylum-seekers actually arrive in Germany after registering in Spain, Merkel said that it showed "that Germany and Spain support a European solution" to the migration question.





Merkel is hoping to strike similar deals with Greece and Italy, after a major showdown on asylum policy with German Interior Minister Horst Seehofer that threatened to topple her coalition in early July.





Spain has rescued 22,858 migrants from the sea during the first seven months of 2018, according to a government report, which is more than any other country in the EU.





Both Sanchez and Merkel confirmed that the EU will increase the funds for Morocco, the key country to control migratory pressure on the coasts of southern Spain, although neither of them specified the amount.Joy to The World! Buddhism spreads around the globe.

For any of you tourists out there who just got to this sunny little mountainous rock astride the Andaman Sea that is otherwise known as Phuket, you will find that we have great reason to celebrate.

All-About-BuddhismCulture

By Jason Jellison

Sunday 12 August 2018, 09:15AM

Its not just that we get to live in a tropical paradise and dine on surf-and-turf any day that we want. No, theres much more to the story.

You see, The Phuket News took a gamble several years ago on a tiny Buddhist series that had never been tried before. Entitled All About Buddhism, it was an original newspaper series written by a western convert that would break down the mysterious religion known as Thai Buddhism piece-by-piece.

Running this series was something of a risk. After all, what you had was a totally unknown writer attempting something that had never been done before, the possibility of misunderstandings, culture crashes, losses in translation, and absolutely no template to follow yet we made it anyway.

Thanks to the generosity of readers like you, who fund our happy little shire with loyal newsstand purchases every week or two, weve not only enlightened expats in Thailand, but tens of thousands far beyond the borders of our happy Buddhist Kingdom.

So, today as both something of a retrospective and as a little treat, I thought wed ring in AABs third season by taking a little tour of all of the most unlikely places where our series has popped up around the world. And some of the locations might really surprise you.

Without further ado: Welcome to Moscow. Yes, Moscow!

Thailand has seen a flood of tens of thousands of Russian tourists in recent years and no less than 50% of them wind up on our sandy beaches whilst they are in the Kingdom of Thailand. The Phuket News has even had to start a sister newspaper that is published exclusively in Russian and, from time to time, youll see our articles on laptops and tablets in Russias coffeehouses.

In fact, did you know that there are over 1.5 million Buddhists now living in Russia? Buddhism actually got to Russia on foot, Siberian Husky, or other winter-hardy mammals in the 1600s, but it got revived in Kalmykia, Russia after the 1991 fall of the USSR.

Today, there are a number of Buddhist Universities in Russia. Most of them are located in Siberia. (Hardly surprising because, after all, us Buddhists are known for enjoying our solitude and quiet.)

Meanwhile, not too far away, AAB has popped up in Belgrade, Serbia. Once part of the Roman Empire, also once part of the Byzantine Empire, and also once part of the Ottoman Empire, Serbias Tomorrow People Organization of Belgrade were kind enough to host yours truly at an educational conference in Bangkok in the Autumn of 2017.

Did you know that the very first Buddhist Monastery in Serbia is also celebrating its anniversary this August? The very first Buddhist Monastery opened its doors in Cortanovci, Serbia last August and has a staff of full-time monks. Well be mailing a copy of this article to them as the first of a series of monthly gifts.

Meanwhile, as joy erupts in Serbia, we travel on to Cambridge, Mass., in America. Cambridge is home to both the deeply-religious Bhumibol Square, dedicated to HM King Rama IX, as well as the highly esteemed Harvard University. AAB came to Harvards attention after I had the honor of meeting with their Admissions Department this past June.

And, for something totally unexpected, we come to Miami, Florida & Havana, Cuba! The Association for the Study of Cuban Economics, based at the University of Miami, was kind enough to host me for a lecture on Sufficiency Economics, a Buddhist Economic Theory created by HM King Rama IX in the 1970s.

Young academics from all over the world get to meet and hobnob at The ASCE. Often friendships are made that last a lifetime. Dr Enrique Pumar organises a gathering of academics from all around the world at ASCEs annual conference, with many being raised in or have connections directly to Cuba.

So, from the sandy beaches of Phuket, to the snarled traffic of Bangkok, to the permafrost of Siberia, to the coffeehouses of Moscow, to the kafanas of the Skadarlija-Bohemian old-quarter of Belgrade, to the hallowed halls of Longfellow Hall at Harvard, from the Versailles Restaurant in Miami, to Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana in Havana, Cuba, or simply in the history pages of The Daily Caller in America, AAB is slowly exceeding the borders of Thailand and raising awareness of Buddhism all over the world.

I wonder what Season #3 will bring? Hmm. Stay tuned!

All About Buddhism is a monthly column in The Phuket News where I take readers on my exotic journey into Thai Buddhism and debunk a number of myths about Buddhism. If you have any specific queries, or ideas for articles, please let us know. Email editor1@classactmedia.co.th, and I will do my best to accommodate your interests.Mothers Day, Queen Sirikits Birthday honoured in Phuket

PHUKET: The islands top-ranking officials joined a merit-making ceremony at Queen Sirikit Park in Phuket Town this morning to honour the 86th birthday of the Queen Mother Sirikit Kitiyakara, mother to His Majesty The King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun.

culture

By The Phuket News

Sunday 12 August 2018, 02:00PM

Phuket Governor Norraphat Plodthongs wife, Mrs Sudawan, who is also the head of the Phuket chapter of the Red Cross, joined the occasion. Photo: PR Dept

Joining the occasion were Phukets three Vice Governors, the islands highest-ranking police commanders, senior officials as well as members of the public and school children. Photo: PR Dept

Joining the occasion were Phukets three Vice Governors, the islands highest-ranking police commanders, senior officials as well as members of the public and school children. Photo: PR Dept

Joining the occasion were Phukets three Vice Governors, the islands highest-ranking police commanders, senior officials as well as members of the public and school children. Photo: PR Dept

Joining the occasion were Phukets three Vice Governors, the islands highest-ranking police commanders, senior officials as well as members of the public and school children. Photo: PR Dept

Joining the occasion were Phukets three Vice Governors, the islands highest-ranking police commanders, senior officials as well as members of the public and school children. Photo: PR Dept

Joining the occasion were Phukets three Vice Governors, the islands highest-ranking police commanders, senior officials as well as members of the public and school children. Photo: PR Dept

Joining the occasion were Phukets three Vice Governors, the islands highest-ranking police commanders, senior officials as well as members of the public and school children. Photo: PR Dept

The ceremony this morning included the giving of alms to monks. Photo: PR Dept

The ceremony this morning included the giving of alms to monks. Photo: PR Dept

Phuket Governor Norraphat Plodthongs wife, Mrs Sudawan, who is also the head of the Phuket chapter of the Red Cross, joined the occasion. Photo: PR Dept

Leading the ceremony, which included the giving of alms to monks was Phuket Governor Norraphat Plodthong and his wife Mrs Sudawan, who is also the head of the Phuket chapter of the Red Cross.

Joining the occasion were Phukets three Vice Governors, the islands highest-ranking police commanders, senior officials as well as members of the public and school children.

Later this morning, Governor Norraphat and Mrs Sudawan led an event at Phuket Rajabhat University, north of Phuket Town, where 86 scholarships were presented to students with good academic grades but their families lacking the funds to continue the childrens education.

The event at the university also included the signing of books of commemorations for Queen Sirikit. The books will remain open for the public to sign until late this afternoon. Other books of commemorations are available for the public to sign today at District Offices and at Puhket Provincial Hall.

With today also celebrated throughout the nation as Mothers Day, a variety of merit-making activities are being held across the island, including a special blood-donation campaign, candle-lighting ceremonies and a host of corporate organised Mothers Day events.

Today also coincides with an astronomical event, the Perseid meteor shower, as shooting stars become visible in the night sky after midnight tonight as the Earth passes through the long trail left by Comet Swift-Tuttle.Peddling for cultural change

IRAQ: On a strip of pavement in the southern Iraqi city of Kut, a gaggle of amateur comedians pulls in the crowds every Friday  drawing chuckles, smiles and knowing nods.

corruptionculturepolitics

By AFP

Sunday 12 August 2018, 11:30AM

An Iraqi man performs a theatrical skit on the Corniche St in the southern Iraqi city of Kut. Photo: Ahmad Al-Rubaya / AFP

With a rich repertoire of skits, Khaled al-Atbi and his peers poke fun at politicians more interested in lining their pockets than rebuilding a country devastated by decades of war.

Theatre is a message, said the 42-year-old al-Atbi, director and actor in the seven-strong troupe.

With our satire, we condemn... corruption, lack of public services and tribal activities, he said, citing those factors as central to discontent in Iraq.

Since the US-led ouster of dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003, Iraq has been plagued by graft and sectarian fighting, culminating in the Islamic State group seizing around a third of its territory in 2014.

As Iraq seeks to move beyond the brutal war that last year finally defeated the jihadists, al-Atbi is determined to embarrass officials who pocket bribes and hand out plum civil service jobs to relatives.

The father-of-two hopes his little troupe can help trigger a culture change, even as he juggles his satirical ventures with a full-time job as a policeman.

In one sketch, al-Atbi plays a diligent official obliged to work with incompetent but politically connected colleagues.

The scene did not require much in terms of props  just a table and a few chairs, which were quickly encircled by rapt onlookers.

Our audience is very receptive because they know what we are enacting exists in reality, said al-Atbi.

Less than two years after they began working the streets, the groups efforts have already brought about change, according to Kut residents.

We can challenge leaders and solve social problems, said 48-year-old teacher Abu Ali, who never misses a Friday skit.

Where rubbish was once piled high, roads are now clean and refuse is collected regularly, Abu Ali added  thanks at least in part to pressure created by street plays.

But not everyone is a fan.

The group has attracted online trolls, and while street audiences are generally very supportive, hecklers make their presence felt.

You exaggerate! Stop insulting the parties and leaders! are common refrains, al-Atbi shrugged.

But the performers are not discouraged.

Once a week, they set up on Tigris Culture Street, among stalls of second-hand books lining the banks of the river running through the agricultural region.

The plays are the only breath of air... for people of culture in the area, said hairdresser Karim al-Bahadli.

They express the feelings that are inside, said al-Bahadli  a must, he believes, for a turbulent country that is ranked by Transparency International as the worlds 12th most corrupt.

Southern Iraq was the epicentre of protests in July against corruption and poor public services.

Iraq's state human rights commission said recently that at least 14 people were killed in the demonstrations, which spread from Basra to Baghdad, before waning under pressure from the security services.

For fans of al-Atbi and his troupe, laughter is something of a social safety valve.

They scored their greatest success with a series of skits in the lead-up to May 12 elections, said troupe member Jalal al-Chati, who works as a reporter.

No shade of political sentiment escapes the groups ridicule.

In one scene, the actors play two politicians  one a devout man offering voters access to the afterlife, the other promising to fend off government efforts to shut down shops selling alcohol.

To avoid sailing too close to the political wind, they use no names. But appreciative murmurs and giggles among the audience indicate they know exactly who is being mimicked. Flash

A U.S. jury in the Californian city of San Francisco has awarded a man terminally ill with cancer 289 million U.S. dollars in damages in a case against agricultural giant Monsanto on Friday.

Dewayne Johnson, who is 46 and near death according to his doctors, sued the company, arguing that its product Roundup has led to non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in him.

A father of two, Johnson applied the herbicide 20 to 30 times per year while working as a school groundskeeper in the San Francisco Bay Area, his attorneys said. There were also occasions when he was soaked with the product, according to CNN.

The jury, after three days of deliberation, ruled that Monsanto shall pay Johnson 250 million dollars in punitive damages and 39 million dollars in compensatory damages. It said Monsanto should have warned users about the dangers of its Roundup and Ranger Pro weedkillers.

In 2015, a report by the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) said the key ingredient in Roundup, namely glyphosate, is "probably carcinogenic to humans." Glyphosate is a herbicide brought to market use in 1974 by Monsanto and is now sold by various manufacturers as its patent has expired.

The IARC report has since led to a mounting number of lawsuits against Monsanto. Johnson's case is the first to have been tried as dying plaintiffs can be granted expedited trials in California. Hundreds more are pending, according to National Public Radio.

"I'm glad to be here to be able to help in a cause that's way bigger than me," Johnson said at a news conference after the verdict was announced.

However, in a written statement issued after the verdict, Monsanto maintained that Roundup is not carcinogenic, saying more than 800 scientific studies, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the National Institutes of Health and regulators worldwide have all concluded that glyphosate is safe for use and does not cause cancer.

"We all have sympathy for Mr. Johnson," Scott Partridge, vice president of Monsanto said, adding that glyphosate is not the answer Johnson has been looking for to his disease, according to CNN.

"We will appeal this decision and continue to vigorously defend this product, which has a 40-year history of safe use and continues to be a vital, effective and safe tool for farmers and others," Monsanto's statement said.Phuket Opinion: Never look back, never learn

PHUKET: The news that actual safety inspections of Phuket tour boats is finally underway is much welcome. Even better is that action has been taken in banning 10 boats from operating because they were deemed unsafe.

opiniontourismmarineSafetydeathdisasters

By The Phuket News

Sunday 12 August 2018, 09:00AM

Tourist Police Deputy Commander Surachate Hakparn (centre) making sure tour boats are actually inspected, and suspended if found lacking in safety, is only the first step in what is needed to restore tourists confidence in their safety while on holiday in Phuket. Photo: Tourist Police

Not so welcome, but sadly not surprising, is that more than 200 boats  about half the fleet  failed the inspections and were ordered to rectify their issues or face the same fate.

Yet despite all the press conferences and assurances, it already looks like we will be soon heading toward the same old devil-may-care attitude about safety. And lets focus on not just the abstract concept of safety for the sake of restoring tourist confidence, as officials at all levels have been spouting, rather than preventing the next mass slaughter of families on holidays. This is what the rest of the world sees the Phoenix sinking as: Disaster? Yes. Preventable? Yes.

The boat inspections, if they continue, are in the end nothing more than making sure passengers are in safe vehicles. This alone poses a serious challenge for Phuket officials as historically Phuket is well practiced in failing to continue any safety campaigns.

But the tell-tale sign that down the road nothing will change is that, as Phuket Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Teeraphol Thipjaroen made plain just on Tuesday, still not a single official has been found worthy of naming as even under investigation for failing to identify the safety shortcomings that led to the disaster.

The short of it is that someone signed the boat off as safe to put to sea and there has been no effort to understand why.

What officials seem to have failed to recognise is that the problem is the gaps in the information made publicly available  as if controlling the information will command people to believe them.

The problem with this is that the people they are trying to convince are not Thai. They have no reason to believe anything Thai officials tell them. As TAT Governor Yuthasak Supasorn has already admitted, the problem with restoring tourists confidence has been that people were already saying what they thought on Chinese social media, over which Thai officials have no control.

All this posturing by officials leaves any potential tourist wanting to keep their family safe simply choosing another destination for a holiday. Good luck with that.In spite of some predictions to the contrary, Ontarios sharp minimum wage increase hasnt killed its labour market.

Business owners and economists fretted the 21 per cent wage hike, which took effect Jan. 1, would cause a slowdown.

But the latest employment report shows the provinces jobless rate fell to 5.4 per cent in July, the lowest since 2000, and lower than every other province except British Columbia.

Ontarios payrolls jumped 0.8 per cent last month for the biggest gain since 1989, and employment has been climbing since February.

The minimum wage increase stoked controversy: Advocates said lower-income families would benefit from having more disposable income. Critics predicted they would suffer as businesses cut staff and reduced hours.

Read more:

Minimum wage increases bite into funding boost for Canada Summer Jobs program

I may end up homeless again: Six Ontarians talk about their life before, after and, once again, without basic income

Opinion: A government for the people  but will Doug Ford govern for all Ontarians?

A government for the people  but will Doug Ford govern for all Ontarians?

Owners of grocery stores and restaurants said while the government moved too fast, they would make changes to cushion the blow, such as buying more equipment or raising prices.

Doug Ford, now premier, said tax cuts were a better way to help families, and that argument helped propel his Progressive Conservatives to a June election victory against Kathleen Wynnes Liberals, who brought in the pay increase.

The labour gains suggest companies are coping with higher wage costs because of the strong economy, said Krishen Rangasamy, senior economist at National Bank Financial in Montreal.

While Ontarios minimum wage increase had the expected effect of lifting Canadas average wage growth this year, the advertised negative impact on employment is less apparent, Rangasamy wrote in a research note.

Employers seem reluctant to part with their now more expensive workers perhaps due to reported labour shortages, although the persistence of strong sales and profits could also explain the resilience of employment.Ontarios Progressive Conservative government says the chairperson of the Liquor Control Board of Ontario will step down at the end of the month after less than a year in the job.

In a news release issued Friday evening, Finance Minister Vic Fedeli says Ed Clark will resign his post at the Crown corporation on Aug. 30.

Clark took on the job in January under the previous Liberal government, earning a symbolic salary of $1 per year.

The corporation, in charge of the sale of alcoholic beverages across the province, had also been tasked under the previous government with the sale and distribution of recreational marijuana once it becomes legalized in October.

But those plans were plunged into uncertainty amid published reports that the province would allow private sector sales of the recreational drug.

Premier Doug Ford has not confirmed or denied the reports, saying only that an announcement would come later.

Clark, a former TD Bank CEO, had served as former premier Kathleen Wynnes business adviser starting in 2015 and also worked on the provinces bid to land the new Amazon headquarters.

Mr. Clark has demonstrated true leadership and a dedication to public service. Our government has appreciated the advice and support he has provided over the last few weeks on a number of files, Fedeli said in the written statement.

Read more about:CALGARYIt doesnt matter how steep the hill is, or how deep the mud pit is, nothing can stop Jeffrey Beausoleil as he runs a 5-kilometre obstacle race to raise $10,000 for Shriners Hospital for Children.

Beausoleil, 19, was born with no right foot or arm and has been a patient of the hospital in Montreal since he was five months old.

This weekend hes in Calgary to complete his 12th Spartan Race, including a 21-kilometre Spartan beast Race, for a cause that means the world to him.

I always felt like I could do anything, my parents raised me that way, Beausoleil said.

They raised me by saying try it and if it doesnt work, try something else  Ive always been able to do whatever I want.

The first race Beausoleil did was in his hometown in 2015. Although he had the support of his family and close friends, he was nervous to take on something as challenging as the Spartan Race.

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I felt so amazing, it was such a big achievement doing this kind of race, said Beausoleil. I was speechless, its an incredible thing to say oh I can do it too, just like anyone else. I cried the first time I did the race.

Although the race, known as a sprint, is only 5 kilometres, its no easy task.

Beausoleil will have to overcome more than over 20 obstacles on the course and he will do all this while wearing a prosthetic leg.

But he has company supporting him, on and off the track.

Mark Sirois, 19, joined him in Calgary to partake in the race.

The two have known each other for 8 years.

Sirois said when Beausoleil first started training, he wanted to join to support his friends cause.

The two have run in 11 races together while raising money for Shriners.

Im impressed by what he can achieve with the Spartan race and everything he does. But I never doubt he could have done that, Sirois said.

Emmanuelle Rondeau, with Shriners Hospital Montreal, said the link between Spartan Race and the hospital is easy to make.

We push our patients to find their own ways to do things. Even if they have a disability theres always a way to get things done, Rondeau said.

In a Spartan race its kind of like that, you have to face the obstacles and find your own way in getting through them.

Rondeau said Beausoleil has inspired other patients and hospital staff to push themselves physically.

Hes a little bit of a hero. When he has the Spartan shirt on hes recognized, Rondeau said. Its the belief you can do it no matter what. Even if its scary.

Beausoleil said hopes his story inspires others to pursue their dreams, despite the obstacles.

Dont prevent yourself from doing something just because you have one arm or one leg, said Beausoleil. Dont let your disability or differences prevent you from doing what you want.

Read more about:The Alberta government has placed another area in the south of the province under a fire ban due to recent hot, dry weather.

The ban is now in effect for the southern portion of the Calgary Forest Area, a narrow strip of north-south land that runs parallel to Calgary and extends south all the way to the Waterton Lakes National Park, near the U.S. border.

The continued hot and dry weather across much of southern Alberta has created an extreme fire hazard. Thats why we are taking these steps to help reduce the risk of human-caused fires, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Oneil Carlier said in a news release.

The ban covers the southern portion of the forest area, which starts at Highway 532 and extends south to Waterton Lakes park. It prohibits all open fires, including campfires in campgrounds, fireworks and exploding targets.

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Fire permits are also no longer issued under the ban, the release says. Gas and propane stoves and barbecues, as well as portable propane fire pits, are allowed.

Anyone who violates a ban in the province could face a $287 fine and be responsible for the costs of fighting the fire, the release says.

Calgary-based wildfire information officer Matthew Anderson said that fireworks and exploding targets are the main cause of concern for potential wildfire starters in southern Alberta.

Exploding targets are glass jars filled with explosive material that, when struck with a bullet fired by a gun, burst with a loud boom, sending hot embers in all directions, he explained.

The northern portion of the Calgary Forest Area, which is more adjacent to the city and extends north to the Red Deer River, remains under a fire advisory.

The advisory allows for wood campfires in campgrounds (within fire rings), backyards or random camping areas, charcoal briquettes, portable propane fire pits, gas or propane stoves and barbecues, and catalytic or infrared-style heaters.

According to the website AlbertaFireBans.ca, all counties, most municipal regions and some cities and towns have enacted fire bans, restrictions or advisories.

Calgary and Medicine Hat have not yet enacted any of the three measures.

As of Sunday afternoon, Aug. 12, Calgary had received 26.1 millimetres of rain for the month, according to Environment Canada data; last year, 9.6 millimetres of rain had fallen on the city during the same period.

But in 2016, 70.3 millimetres had fallen in the first 12 days of the month, while a year earlier, 61.3 millimetres of rain fell during the same time period.

When it comes to managing wildfires and wildlife areas, the province oversees 10 forest areas, Anderson said.

Evan Radford is a reporter/photographer for StarMetro Calgary. Follow him on Twitter: @EvanRadford

Read more about:There was merriment as well as melancholy at Taste of the Danforth, Canadas biggest street festival, this weekend.

Its odd that having a shish kebab in the heart of Toronto has become a political statement, but that was the point as festivalgoers paid tribute to the victims of last months mass shooting on the Danforth, while emphasizing the fact that life goes on.

I really felt just personally that I had to pay tribute, especially to the two young girls who died, said Tina Cyr, 42. Cyr and Alex Stratakos were sitting in front of a makeshift memorial on Saturday while a band played Greek music behind them. A cardboard sign read: Reese Fallon died in this space 3 weeks ago. And four others were shot. Lest we forget.

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Taste of the Danforth has united Toronto for 25 years

Earlier, Cyr had stopped by St. Barnabas Anglican Church to light a candle for the victims and make a donation. Outside the church, organizers had created a memorial for the victims where flowers, candles and stuffed animals overflowed on the sidewalk.

A sold-out benefit concert on Saturday night, headlined by Canadian rock band Billy Talent, raised thousands of dollars for the #TorontoStrong fund in support of shooting victims.

Cyr said this year has been especially tough in the city where she was raised. The April van attack on Yonge St. in North York that killed 10 people and injured 16 happened on her birthday. Two people were killed and 13 injured in the Danforth shooting on July 23.

I dont know whats happening. But I do know nothings going to stop us, said Cyr, showing off the colourful henna tattoo on her foot that she had painted on minutes earlier.

It wasnt lost on some festivalgoers that the Friday opening of the festival coincided with a shooting in Fredericton that left four people dead, including two police officers. Mass shootings, once thought to be a mostly American phenomenon, are hitting closer to home. But the crowds on the Danforth Saturday suggested that there was less fear and more stoicism. Organizers didnt know what to expect, but based on preliminary numbers, they now say it looks to be a record year.

The help we got from everybody was incredible, said Constantine Voidonicolas, chair of the Greek Town on the Danforth Business Improvement Area. The prime minister was here twice. The mayor was here every day. People are saying they are not going to lock themselves up. It makes us feel that people are thinking of us.

Voidonicolas was sitting in an elevated hospitality tent parked outside a Greek Orthodox Church in the middle of the Danforth. He said he was in a restaurant having coffee with friends the night of the shooting. He thought the shots were firecrackers. It was so shocking, he said. I didnt know what was happening.

From a humble festival with a turnout of about 5,000 a quarter-century ago, the Taste of the Danforth has become a major street festival with an estimated attendance of 1.6 million and economic impact of $106 million over three days, according to organizers.

Key to that success has been moving from a strictly Greek-oriented festival to a much more multicultural celebration. Sharing the stage with Greek performers are Bollywood dancers and an Asian beauty contest. Samosas and ramen are offered alongside traditional Greek fare.

If you ask me why were successful after 25 years, its because weve changed as the city has changed, said festival organizer and spokesperson Howard Lichtman. Were a multicultural festival with a dollop of tzatziki.

The mainstreaming of the festival can also be seen in the corporate booths, from Ford to Costco. The festival attracts many visitors beyond Greektown, with 38 per cent coming from at least 40 kilometres away.

Those would include Orillia natives Cheryl McIntyre and her granddaughter Hallie Hibbs.

Being a young person myself, it is kind of scary. Especially when you hear about the mass shootings in schools in the United States, said Hibbs, 17. So many young people are dying that it really astonishes me that humans can do this to each other. I grew up in the country, so I dont believe in guns unless youre using it to feed your family. There should be no other purpose.

Outside St. Barnabas Church, a couple of blocks from where Hibbs and McIntyre had been sitting, three young women were selling T-shirts that read #DanforthStrong #TorontoStrong with the word Together underneath. The shirts were selling for a minimum $20 donation and buttons were $5, with proceeds going to the victims. Volunteer Malak, who wanted only her first name to be published, said on Friday one festivalgoer handed her $500.

I was just so shaken. It was really generous, she said. And he didnt even take a T-shirt. People really continue to astonish. They have been so supportive and kind.SAN FRANCISCOA jurys $289-million (U.S.) award to a former school groundskeeper who said Monsantos Roundup left him dying of cancer will bolster thousands of pending cases and open the door for countless people who blame their suffering on the weed killer, the mans lawyers said.

Im glad to be here to be able to help in a cause thats way bigger than me, Dewayne Johnson said at a news conference Friday after the verdict was announced.

Johnson, 46, alleges that heavy contact with the herbicide caused his non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The state Superior Court jury agreed that Roundup contributed to Johnsons cancer and Monsanto should have provided a label warning of the potential health hazard.

Johnson thanked jurors from the bottom of my heart for their work, along with his lawyers and his family.

His was the first case filed by a cancer patient against the agribusiness giant to reach trial. It was expedited because court filings indicated that Johnson was dying. His victory may set the precedent for many others.

A unanimous jury in San Francisco has told Monsanto: Enough. You did something wrong and now you have to pay,  said Brent Wisner, Johnsons lead trial lawyer. Theres 4,000 other cases filed around the United States and there are countless thousand other people out there who are suffering from cancer because Monsanto didnt give them a choice We now have a way forward.

Monsanto has denied a link between the active ingredient in Roundup  glyphosate  and cancer, saying hundreds of studies have established that glyphosate is safe.

Monsanto spokesperson Scott Partridge said the company will appeal. Partridge said scientific studies and two government agencies have concluded that Roundup does not cause cancer.

We are sympathetic to Mr. Johnson and his family, Partridge said. We will appeal this decision and continue to vigorously defend this product, which has a 40-year history of safe use and continues to be a vital, effective, and safe tool for farmers and others.

Johnson used Roundup and a similar product, Ranger Pro, as a pest control manager at a San Francisco Bay Area school district, his lawyers said. He sprayed large quantities from a 50-gallon tank attached to a truck, and during gusty winds, the product would cover his face, Wisner said.

Once, when a hose broke, the weed killer soaked his entire body.

Johnson read the label and even contacted the company after developing a rash but was never warned it could cause cancer, Wisner said. He was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2014.

The simple fact is he is going to die. Its just a matter of time, Wisner told the jury in his opening statement last month.

But George Lombardi, an attorney for Monsanto, said non-Hodgkin lymphoma takes years to develop, so Johnsons cancer must have started well before he began working at the school district.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says Roundups active ingredient is safe for people when used in accordance with label directions.

However, the France-based International Agency for Research on Cancer, which is part of the World Health Organization, classified it as a probable human carcinogen in 2015. California added glyphosate to its list of chemicals known to cause cancer.

Johnsons attorneys sought and won $39 million in compensatory damages and $250 million of the $373 million they wanted in punitive damages.When political parties, who have spent years wandering aimlessly in the wilderness of opposition, eventually come to power, they are often counselled by their new advisers to pause and take a moment to catch their breath.

This advice is offered not just with the best of intentions, but for good reason as well: campaigns are stressful affairs that drain resources and exhaust staff. And then the transition of power  a cumbersome and inelegant process  starts. Choosing a cabinet. Hiring staff. Reconciling the promises of a platform with the realities of government  all while trying to find the bathroom  takes time, effort and attention to detail.

The reality is that getting a government fully up and running takes months. Thats why it isnt difficult to understand when newly elected parties opt for the easier and safer route of taking their time to establish their footing before surging onwards.

As they have already done with so many conventional approaches, Doug Fords Progressive Conservatives have opted not to follow that familiar path.

Shortly after their election, the government announced it would bring the legislature back this summer to tackle its immediate priorities. The move was greeted with mixed reviews, to say the least.

Proponents argued that a short session would act as a proof point of directional and philosophical change from the previous government.

Critics, on the other hand, argued the platform on which the PCs were elected was light on detail and provided little guidance in the form of a legislative road map. They cautioned that the opposition knew their way around the house better than a neophyte government would, that traps would abound  that it would be a government that was ungrounded and would be error-filled.

A general consensus seemed to emerge: after the whirlwind leadership change and a frantic election, a Ford government would be far too rickety to provide many meaningful changes during a summer session.

But there turned out to be a problem with that analysis: its foundation.

Ford has carried his campaign for premier, which was driven, focused and on-message, into his government  a government with action as its hallmark.

To the astonishment of many seasoned observers, the new government, which had been told over and over in the lead-up to election day that many of its policies were unrealistic or downright unachievable, proved conventional wisdom wrong.

Firing the Hydro One CEO and board without a massive severance. Reducing the price of beer to a buck. Closing green energy plans without a lawsuit.

All not only accomplished but accomplished with uncommon speed  after all, just weeks have passed since the election.

Instead of the clumsy, disorganized government that common wisdom said it would be, it has demonstrated itself to be a deft and capable one that is far more at home with the machinery of government that might have first been obvious.

Much of this is due to the abilities of the people the new premier has recruited to join his administration. Without a government at Queens Park for 15 years, and with a federal government held by the Trudeau Liberals, many experienced conservatives were available to move to a new home.

That is particularly reflected in the premiers own office.

Dean French, his chief of staff and closest confidant, is familiar with the wheels of power and understands well how to adjust them to ensure a Fordian view of government is delivered.

Jenni Byrne, his principal secretary familiar to many, is a flawless executor of policy initiatives, with an intuitive sense of the values of Ford coalition voters.

But, in the end much of it comes down to the boss himself, a leader who is demonstrating himself to be a disciplined and capable premier.

It has been three months, and this is a government proving itself to be one to be reckoned with  one that is smart, with its finger not just on the pulse of the electorate but also on the levers of power.

Stakeholders beware  this government is one that will go down in the books, and not for its inadequacies.

Jaime Watt is the executive chairman of Navigator Ltd. and a Conservative strategist. He is a freelance contributor for the Star. Follow him on Twitter: @jaimewatt

Read more about:The first Indigenous person I met was in university. She lived in my residence and was quite open to sharing stories about her life on the East Coast reserve where her family lived. I still think about those conversations because it was my first introduction into Indigenous culture.

Sure, I learned about Indians in high school. The treaties between the Canadian military, Tecumseh and the high-level facts from the Ontario curriculum. But I learned about residential schools from the media. And from an elder who grew up in Etobicoke, I found out that Indigenous families told their children to hide their cultural identities for fear of being tormented by school officials.

As a newcomer to Canada, my culture was not reflected in the curriculum. As immigrants, we werent regarded as equals in the circles of the Canadian kids  you know, the ones whose ancestors founded and built the country.

We were Indians too, but from the Caribbean. Then there were Indians from India, and Africa. And Indians from Canada. It was pretty confusing. Even my teachers couldnt explain the difference.

The first time I heard about the Komagata Maru was about 10 years ago from a colleague. Fascinated, I did some research and learned that South Asians  formerly Indians (after someone decided the word wasnt an accurate reflection) had been living in British Columbia since 1903. They built the farming industry because the government posed limitations on the jobs they could do. Running for office and many white-collar jobs were deemed not appropriate for brown people.

I wrote about it and sent the story to my South Asian friend who lived in Vancouver. Her response was priceless  Im going to show it to the kids! Because it wasnt being taught to them in school.

TOP STORIES. IN YOUR INBOX: For the days top news from the Stars award-winning journalists, sign up for our daily headlines newsletter.

In 2009, a group of determined parents in Toronto knew that the outdated curriculum was not helping their kids. The achievement gap and high dropout rate among Black youth was discouraging, prompting the call for an Africentric Alternative School in the Toronto District School Board. The exposure was damaging. Self-imposed segregation! people cried.

But the concept made sense. It was a school that simply incorporated African culture into the same Ontario curriculum. Children could learn about Black Canadian figures who contributed to society, such as Viola Desmond and Dr. Alexander T. Augusta, who earned his medical degree in Toronto in the 1800s and was appointed head of an industrial school.

The courses were taught by teachers who understood the challenges students faced, first hand. It was a place to belong and thrive without being marginalized.

Not convinced, I remember naively questioning the executive in charge of the school. Why do we need a separate school? Why dont we incorporate these facts into the everyday curriculum and why isnt it just called history?

The answer was thrown back at me with a knowing smirk. Good question, hed said.

I finally realized it wasnt that simple. While the Ontario curriculum had been updated in 2013 to reflect some historical facts, the older textbooks dont coincide. Many teachers are left to teach the facts at their discretion. And some have told me that some of the information still hasnt made its way into the curriculum at all.

After more than a century it was time for change. The headlines about the residential schools was the catalyst that made the government admit that the history weve been taught has been whitewashed. All Canadian children need to know that their culture has made contributions to Canadian society.

Then finally, change seemed possible thanks to actions brought forward by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Writing workshops were scheduled this summer to update the curriculum. Facts about Indigenous culture and contributions to Canada would be mandatory in schools. It was a step forward.

But one month after the Ontario election, just before the legislature resumed, these workshops, years in the making, were suddenly cancelled. The reason? The travelling costs to bring teachers from across Ontario to collaborate on the writing of the new curriculum was too much. It was considered wasteful spending.

We were so close.If governments and safety organizations across Canada needed a fire lit under their feet to boost public education around the dangers of driving while stoned on cannabis, Statistics Canada delivered it on Thursday.

A survey conducted by the government agency indicates an alarming number of cannabis users with a drivers license are toking or ingesting it before getting behind the wheel.

Indeed, one in seven said they had driven at least once in the past three months within two hours of using the drug. By doing so they are endangering not just themselves but their passengers and other road users.

And these findings only add to the concerns raised by a Public Safety Canada study released last fall. It found 28 per cent of respondents had driven high. And, alarmingly, it found one in 10 thought cannabis made them a better driver. Research, of course, shows that cannabis negatively affects reaction time, decision making, motor skills, co-ordination, attention and judgment.

In fact, the percentage of Canadian drivers killed in vehicle crashes who test positive for drugs (40 per cent) exceeds the numbers who test positive for alcohol (33 per cent).

If so many people think they can get away with driving stoned now, what will happen when the recreational use of cannabis becomes legal on Oct. 17?

Legalization is the right move, but the results of these surveys are cause for concern on the issue of road safety.

October is a mere blink of an eye away compared to the time it takes for public education campaigns to influence behaviour. It has taken decades to make inroads on the problem of drinking and driving, and get the message to sink in that its dangerous and socially unacceptable. And even now it still happens.

Thats why governments and safety organizations urgently need to step up public safety campaigns on the dangers of driving high.

There are a smattering of ads out there. Public Safety Canada has already launched its #DontDriveHigh campaign aimed at young drivers.

The British Columbia Automobile Association launched a series of ads  High Driving is Impaired Driving  that smartly turns the tables by having sober young people drive their stoned parents home. And then there is a Nova Scotia campaign that asks: Drive better on weed? The accompanying photograph of a totalled car provides the answer.

But others like the CAA South Central Ontario are waiting until the fall to do their outreach, and there has been no announcement yet from the Ontario government on when its public education plans will come into effect.

Theres no good reason to wait. It takes time to change behaviour and habits.

The issue is further complicated by the fact that there are no clear guidelines for how much weed is too much. The level of impairment a user experiences  and how long it lasts  can depend on everything from the strength of the cannabis consumed to whether it is smoked, baked in a brownie or mixed in a drink.

The best guideline, then, is Public Safety Canadas: If you are using cannabis, do not drive.

The safety agency found that one in six Canadians felt three hours was long enough to wait. But the saliva-testing machines, that are expected to be approved for use by police forces by the end of this month, can detect cannabis levels for six to eight hours.

So much misinformation about what may constitute drug-impaired driving could prove costly, if not deadly, for drivers. Penalties range from fines of $1,000 to 10 years in prison. And penalties are more serious for drivers found over the limit for both pot and alcohol.

The dangers of driving high are substantial and hard to quantify. Troubling, these recent surveys indicate that comes as surprising news to far too many people.

Clarification  Aug. 13, 2018: This article was edited from a previous version that said the Ontario Automobile Association is waiting for the fall to do their outreach on the dangers of driving high. In fact, the name of the organization is the CAA South Central Ontario. Flash

NASA's Parker Solar Probe, the fastest spacecraft in history, blasted off atop a Delta IV Heavy rocket in the U.S. state of Florida on Sunday, on a mission to study the Sun at closer range than any other spacecraft.

The probe has started its journey to the Sun's fiery corona amidst brutal heat and radiation conditions.

The rocket was launched from Space Launch Complex 37 at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 3:31 a.m. EDT (0731 GMT), carrying the small car-sized probe toward the Sun with a whopping 55 times more energy than is required to reach Mars.

It is humanity's first close visit to a star and will revolutionize our understanding of the Sun.

Zooming through space in a highly elliptical orbit, the Parker Solar Probe will reach speeds of up to 430,000 miles (690,000 km) per hour, fast enough to get from Washington to Beijing in less than one minute.

During its mission lifetime of under seven years, the probe will complete 24 orbits of the Sun and fly within 3.7 million miles (6 million km) of the Sun's surface at closest approach.Meredosia-Chambersburg school board members have been weighing a different sort of funding dilemma  what to do with class funds left behind when a class graduates.

Several classes have left money in their accounts when they graduated, and the money has remained untouched with no plans for future use.

Board President Jason Morton discussed the issue with Meredosia-Chambersburg Junior-Senior High School Principal Dan Carie and they came up with two possible solutions, Morton told board members.

One option is for classes to donate the money to the Erica Dowson Memorial Scholarship fund.

The other option is for alumni members of a class to form a committee and board and develop their own scholarship fund.

It would be up to each class to decide which option they prefer, Morton said.

In other business, a sink hole has been discovered in the back of the school. Superintendent Thad Walker told board members that he is working with village employees and Halverson Engineering to find the cause of the problem and a solution.

School faculty and staff also are finalizing details in preparation for the upcoming school year, including installing new carpet, installing air conditioning in almost every classroom, and getting the playground ready for students.

Class scheduling now is complete, Carie told the board. All faculty and staff positions at the junior-senior high school have been filled and an open house for parents and the community will be from 6 to 7 p.m. Friday.

The board also discussed the upcoming elections, when five school board seats will be open.SPRINGFIELD  The legs of the carnival ride called Downdraft rise and spread before they start to spin, the empty cars on the ends leaning outward, as amusement ride safety inspectors Bill Szerletich and Brian Brown watch.

A bystander at the midway of the Illinois State Fair suggests that a true inspector would take the ride himself. They do, sometimes, Szerletich said last week. In fact, his boss, Labor Department Director Joe Beyer, had just been there a day earlier, testing a ride.

Hes our crash-test dummy, Brown joked.

The annual fair opens in about eight hours, but Szerletich, Brown and four other Labor Department inspectors continue their checking and rechecking of about 65 carnival rides at three different locations on the fairgrounds.

Theyre underneath this equipment, on top of it, theyre looking at every piece of it, every connection, every pin, everything, said assistant Labor director Chris Wieneke. Each ride, theres a set time period for how long it takes  it takes exactly how long it takes to go over every inch of that ride and then wait for any fixes that have to be done to make sure it can operate safely.

The inspectors crawl up, over and around about 4,000 rides a year at various amusement parks, street fairs, and carnivals, Wieneke said, looking for anything amiss that could lead to injury.

Incidents such as one in July 2017 at the Ohio State Fair, in which a car came loose from a whirling ride, killing one and injuring seven, are cataclysmic and make tragic headlines. But injuries on amusement-park rides are a rare event, said Ken Kolosh, statistics manager for the National Safety Council .

The National Safety Council has analyzed carnival injuries at fixed-site parks  Six Flags, for example  since 2003. Its latest report, of 2015 data , found about 1,500 injuries, or less than one per 1 million rides.

In other words, the council estimates there is a one-in-1.25 million chance youd be injured if you step up and strap in.

Kolosh cautions, however, that the analysis is only of fixed-site attractions, not mobile ones like at county or state fairs that only operate for brief periods. No one has analyzed that data, Kolosh said. The reason, primarily, is that fixed-site operators have turnstiles that count attendance and even ridership. Festivals such as the state fair might count gate entrances, but theres no way to count carnival riders.

Thats where experience plays a part. The Illinois inspectors arent reinventing the wheel each time they see a new octopus-shaped twirler.

That was evident when Brown stepped up on Chopper Charlie, another whirling ride with four-seat helicopter-shaped compartments. He spots a loose nut almost by intuition and carefully marks it in his notebook.

We see these rides several times a year, Szerletich said. You get used to seeing things, know what to look for.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that nationally in 2017, there were 29,400 emergency-room visits because of amusement-park attraction injuries. But amusements are broadly defined. Spokesman Thaddeus Harrington said they include fixed-site midways and mobile carnivals, water parks, inflatable slides and bounce houses, and coin-operated or free attractions at restaurants and shopping centers.

The fair is underway, but the inspectors arent gone. Wieneke said theyll make unannounced inspections through Sundays close, not only of the equipment, but to ensure operators  and the riders  are following the rules.

Parents play a part, too. The Labor Department publishes guidelines for safe riding and the National Safety Council encourages fair-goers to aggressively report things that dont look right and remember that age, height and weight restrictions are for safety. In short, council president and CEO Deborah A.P. Hersman said, If you ever feel uncomfortable, do not go on a ride or down a slide.

After all that, Wieneke acknowledged he still holds his breath until its over.

A little, Wieneke said. Were always afraid of the unexpected happening. Thats why we go through the trouble of doing full inspections on rides that maybe weve seen before during the year. Thats why we do the unannounced inspections as we go through the fair.

___

AP Researcher Jennifer Farrar in New York contributed.The father-daughter dance at a wedding is often one of the stand-out moments of the day.

And if you're lucky enough to have your daddy there for yours, you should absolutely take advantage of it - it'll be a moment you treasure for life.

Choosing a song to dance to together is a great way to involve your dad in your wedding plans - so a week or two before the big day, sit down for a pint or a cup of tea with him under the guise of choosing a tune, and you might even find he has plenty more good suggestions for the day too!

Father-daughter dance lessons

Another thing you could do to maximise the time spent with your pa ahead of the big day is to take some dance lessons together. It's a nice idea that will help him to feel involved, and a great way to spend some quality time together, just the two of you.

There are quite a few of dance companies in Ireland who offer wedding programs for the all-important 'first dance', as well as lessons for fathers and daughters. Rates can start from around 50 per hour on average. Check out DanceSport Federation of Ireland or Justdance.ie for lessons nationwide or indeed have a look at the notice boards in your local parish or supermarkets. For an added 'wow factor' try to keep your lessons secret so that the impact when you hit the dancefloor is even bigger!

So without further adieu, we present the most popular song requests for the father-dance in Ireland, courtesy of two of the Ireland's top wedding bands...

Top Father / Daughter Dance songs

My Girl, The Temptations Daughter, Lowden Wainwright III Butterfly Kisses, Bob Carlyle Isn't She Lovely, Stevie Wonder Just the Way you are, Billy Joel The way you look tonight, Frank Sinatra I loved her first, Heartland What A Wonderful World, Louis Armstrong Thats Amore, Dean Martin

Songs 2 - 5 suggested by Shane McGrath of Harlequin. For more on Harlequin Band, visit harlequinband.ie. Songs 6 - 9 as suggested by Glen of A Few Good Men. For more on A Few Good Men, visit afewgoodmenband.com.

Both bands included 'My Girl' by The Temptations in their top 5 list.

Some other suggestions for an alternative father - daughter dance:

Father and Daughter, Paul Simon Daddy, Beyonce Daddy's Little Girl, Michael Buble How Sweet it Is, James Taylor Sweet Child o' Mine, Guns n Roses Bless You, Brendan Bowyer & The Royal Showband Brown Eyed Girl, Van Morrison My Lagan Love, The Chieftans The Wedding Gift, Rawlins Cross Black Velvet Band, Luke KellyVaisakh E Hari

Vaisakh is a sub editor, an unlikely career choice for someone who was voted 'least likely to defend free speech' in high school. An avid conspiracy theorist, he waits for the second coming of Kurt Cobain and the destruction of all music that does not involve calloused fingers.The Nobel Prize-winning British author of Indian descent, V.S. Naipaul (85), passed away on Sunday. A controversial figure in his country of origin, and in the Carribean, where he was brought up, Naipaul was nothing short of a force of nature. His dark, sardonic prose captured the whole spectrum of the immigrant experiencethe doubts, the self-loathing, and the rootlessnessin a way that transcended, in all its ugliness, the sanitised uptown Bostonian angst of the Jhumpa Lahiri variety. His prose was luminous, and the bluntness of his observations, piercing. But his later works, especially the travelogues from India (The Wounded Civilisation), and explorations of the Islamic society (Among the Believers), often nursed and pruned the cruel condescension of a white colonial master, narrated in the garb of a brown man.

Naipaul was born in Trinidad, the grandson of indentured Indian labourers. "When I was born in 1932, it had a population of about 400,000. Of this, about 150,000 were Indians, Hindus and Muslims, nearly all of peasant origin, and nearly all from the Gangetic plain," he said in his Nobel lecture. It was within that cesspool of inter-community tensions, rising liberation movements in the backdrop of receding colonial powers, that Naipaul first embarked on his career as a writer. His experiences growing up would be crystallised in the dry humour of his very first works, like The Mystic Masseur, which he had written in 1957, after an English course in the Oxford University, and a subsequent stint in the BBC World Service. His earlier works merit an independent study in themselves. But, the crowning achievement that catapulted him to fame was A House for Mr Biswas, a deliciously intricate tale of a man modelled after Naipaul's father, a wanna-be writer struggling to find a place in a strange part of the world that he wittingly finds himself marooned in. His later personal life was marred with controversieshis public dissing of Indian counterparts Salman Rushdie, Arundhati Roy and countless others, his admissions to physical indiscretions while his first wife Patricia Naipaul was battling cancer, allegations of domestic harassment, reported support for BJP and Babri Masjid demolition, among many others.

In a 1989 interview with The Washington Post, Naipaul narrates an incident where his father Seepersad, a journalist with the Trinidad Guardian, received threats after a report on Hindu farmers refusing to vaccinate their cattle. A warning note made its appearance: Naipaul had to perform the same ceremony he criticisedsacrificing a goator he would face death. He had to acquiesce."My father was entering the world of civilisation, writing bravely. When the crunch came, he couldn't be protected," Naipaul said in the interview. "He had to recant and he never recovered." His was a lifelong tussle with his roots, his identity and very existence; the cold disappointment of finally encountering his motherland is clearly visible in his many travelogues. His writings betray a sense of bitternessof wide-eyed dreams of a glorious heritage falling woefully shortdisillusionment at a culture, that he believed to be his own, struggling to overcome the dual whammies of sustained colonisation and partition. In his Nobel acceptance speech, he would thank Britain, his adopted homeland, but not the Carribean.

"The narrow, broken lanes with green slime in the gutters, the choked back-to-back mud houses, the jumble of filth and food and animals and people, the baby in the dust, swollen-bellied, black with flies, but wearing its good-luck amulet. I had seen the physique of the people of Andhra, which had suggested the possibility of an evolution downwards, wasted body to wasted body," he wrote in one. "It is well that Indians are unable to look at their country directly, for the distress they would see would drive them mad," he sneers in his seminal An Area of Darkness. The pain of his un-belonging is sometimes illustrated with blinding clarity: India, for me, is a difficult country. It isn't my home, and cannot be my home; and yet, I cannot reject it or be indifferent to it; I cannot travel only for the sights. I am at once too close and too far". Similar diatribes he would have reserved for his host country in the Carribean, and the continent of Africa (A Bend in The River), sometimes prompting accusations of racism, or being a brown man's Uncle Tom, kowtowing and catering to the exotic, imperious white man's gaze into the third world. His works gained critical acclaim in the West, and nods of appreciation in the form of a Booker Prize for In a Free State, which best characterises his penchant for inexplicable cruelty, mixed in with razor sharp observations.

Nobel Prize winning Carribean poet Derek Walcott, strangely Naipaul's foremost nemesis and most strident critic, speaks about the mythical wonderment of the Carribean's Ramleela enactments in his Nobel lecture: "Felicity is a village in Trinidad on the edge of the Caroni plain, the wide central plain that still grows sugar and to which indentured cane cutters were brought after emancipation, so the small population of Felicity is East Indian, and on the afternoon that I visited it with friends from America, all the faces along its road were Indian, which, as I hope to show, was a moving, beautiful thing, because this Saturday afternoon Ramleela, the epic dramatization of the Hindu epic the Ramayana, was going to be performed, and the costumed actors from the village were assembling on a field strung with different-coloured flags, like a new gas station, and beautiful Indian boys in red and black were aiming arrows haphazardly into the afternoon light. Low blue mountains on the horizon, bright grass, clouds that would gather colour before the light went. Felicity! What a gentle Anglo-Saxon name for an epical memory.

Under an open shed on the edge of the field, there were two huge armatures of bamboo that looked like immense cages. They were parts of the body of a god, his calves or thighs, which, fitted and reared, would make a gigantic effigy. This effigy would be burnt as a conclusion to the epic. The cane structures flashed a predictable parallel: Shelley's sonnet on the fallen statue of Ozymandias and his empire, that colossal wreck in its empty desert."

Would Naipaul have been one of the wide-eyed boys, listening to the poetic struggles and victories of a deity who once lived half a world away, yet inextricably linked to his life and his identity? If there is one literary comparison that can be made with Naipaul's journey, it is Joseph Conrad and his epic Heart of Darknesstwo post colonial writers, both accused of racism. Charles Marlowe's [a white man and the protagonist in Heart of Darkness] searing, colonialistic, patronising gaze into the "savage tribes of Africa" discomfited critics the same way Naipaul's frighteningly tactless inferences elicited massive outrage in his country of origin. One of the most searing critiques of Naipaul's work comes from post-colonial academic Edward Said: "Naipaul's account of the Islamic, Latin American, African, Indian and Caribbean worlds totally ignores a massive infusion of critical scholarship about those regions in favor of the tritest, cheapest and the easiest of colonial mythologies about wogs and darkies, myths that even Lord Cromer and Forster's Turtons and Burtons would have been embarrassed to trade in outside their private clubs. He is a third worlder denouncing his own people, not because they are victims of imperialism, but because they seem to have an innate flaw, which is that they are not whites."

His former protege-turned-critic Paul Theroux described Naipaul the best when he wrote that he was a "mushy soul afflicted with a cruel streak". Derek Walcott, in verse, echoed the then popular sentiment: "The mongoose [a derogatory term for the writer of Indian descent] takes its orders from the [British] Raj". Academics have called him one of the most influential and consequential post-colonial writers, whose prose had no contemporay equals. Sadly, however, the real Sir Vidia never stood up.Water level in the Idukki dam dropped to 2398.82 feet on Sunday from around 2401 feet despite intermittent rain in the catchment areas Saturday night.

The catchment area of the dam received 25 mm rain on Saturday night.

One more shutter of the Idamalayar dam was opened even though the water level dipped. Here too, the incessant rain in the catchment had stopped.

The five shutters of the Cheruthoni dam will remain open until the water inflow dropped to 120 cumecs from the current 498 cumecs. The water level went down by two feet on Friday (in 36 hours) when all the shutters were opened, inundating the Cheruthoni town.

However, the government and the district administration were maintaining high alert with the Met department warning of more rain in the next two days.

Death toll

The death toll in the Kerala monsoon fury has touched 37. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh will visit flood-hit areas and hold discussions with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in Kochi on Sunday.

With the let up in rain, life is limping back to normal in affected areas, including Palakkad and Wayanad, where floodwaters have started receding. A total of 60,622 people have been put up in 513 relief camps across Kerala, officials at the state disaster management control room said.

A total of 1,501 houses had been damaged and 101 completely destroyed, they said. Crops on 1,301 hectares has been lost.

According to the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), flooding was possible in the coastal areas of Kerala due to 'Perigean spring tides' in the August 11-15 period. (A Perigean tide is caused due to the proximity of the moon to the Earth).

The government machinery, the Army, Navy and the India Coast Guard (ICG) were on the ground, evacuating people and reaching relief materials including food and water to flood-hit places.

Contingents of the armed forces and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were maintaining a high alert as parts of Ernakulam and Idukki districts and the places along the banks of the Periyar were under water.

Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) sources said water release from the dam was being closely monitored. Now, 7.50 lakh litres of water was being released from the Idukki dam per second. The rate of discharge would be maintained till the water level came down substantially, they said.

A decision on closing the shutters would be taken only after analysing the circumstances, including possibility of more rain. Two shutters of the Idamalayar dam remain open on Sunday. The water has been flowing out of the dam at a rate of 200 cubic metre per second, bring the level down to 168.90 metres.

Meanwhile, heavy downpour has been reported from various parts of Wayanad.The adage that failures can teach many lessons seems quite...Amid reports of the defence ministry planning to shift the venue of Aero India, the country's biennial air show and aviation exhibition, from Bengaluru to Lucknow, Karnataka asked the Centre to clarify its stand on the matter.

A miffed Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara said under the NDA regime, the state was losing key defence projects to other states.

His remarks came after Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath urged Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to shift the venue of Aero India as it would benefit the defence production in the state.

There are reports that the biennial event, which was last held in Bengaluru in February 2017, would now be held in October-November this year in Lucknow. However, the defence ministry has not yet made any formal announcement in this regard.

If this happens, it will be the first time that the event will be hosted outside Bengaluru since its inception in 1996. The neighbouring states of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, along with Chhattisgarh, will go to polls during the same time.

It will also be one of the big events in the politically crucial state before the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Adityanath was speaking at an event in Aligarh where an announcement of a defence corridor encompassing the Aligarh, Agra, Kanpur, Lucknow, Jhansi and Chitrakoot corridor was made.

Sitharaman, her deputy in the ministry, Subhash Bhamre, Uttar Pradesh Industries Minister Satish Mahana and senior officials of the defence ministry and the Uttar Pradesh government were present at the event.

I request the defence minister to hold the Aero India show in Uttar Pradesh. We will provide every type of facility. In this context, I request her to announce this at the earliest so that we can proceed with the preparations, Adityanath said.

Reacting strongly to this, Parameshwara tweeted, Reports of #AeroIndia being moved out of Bengaluru are very unfortunate. We have been India's Defence Hub since Independence, but under the NDA we are constantly losing key defense projects and flagship programs. I request @nsitharaman to clarify her stand on the issue.Hundreds of students and activists gathered on the streets on the one-year anniversary of the deadly Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virgina on Saturday. Last year, the far-right rally had turned violent when racially charged white nationalists marched through the University of Virginia campus.

The standoff on Saturday ended without any problems as police maintained tight security and students were asked to march off campus.

Officers in riot gear assembled where the rally was taking place and several activists expressed their anger over the police presence. Many protesters questioned why the police were there in riot gear. They also said that the police response was larger this year compared to the previous year.

Protesters held up signs like Last year they came with torches. This year they come with badges and chanted Cops and Klan go hand in hand.

US President Donald Trump, who didn't criticise the neo-Nazi rally last year, condemned racism on the one-year anniversary.

Residents and business owners in Charlottesville said that the massive deployment of police personnel was unnecessary. Many came to show their support to mark the anniversary.

Another Unite the Right rally and counter protests will be held in front of the White House on Sunday.

Antifa, a group of anti-fascist protesters, also marched with signs like No to White Supremacy and Good Night White Pride. They also paid tribute to Heather Heyer, who was killed when a man drove his car into the crowd of counter-protesters after last year's rally.Ahmed Patel

I met M. Karunanidhi for the first time as an emissary of Congress president Sonia Gandhi to discuss the possibility of forming an alliance in the Lok Sabha elections in 2004. He assured that his party would ally with the Congress, and asked me to convey to my leader that he fully agreed with her views on the need for parties to come together to fight the BJP.

I met him on several occasions after that, and, at times, the meetings were necessitated by problems in the coalition. But he was always very affectionate, and had a positive approach to issues. Whenever there was a problem in the alliance, he made a sincere effort towards finding a solution. And, more often than not, he did come up with a solution.

Over the years, Karunanidhi played an important role in shaping coalition politics. He was a firm believer in federalism. His party has had a sustained association with the Congress, first as an ally in the United Progressive Alliance, and later as a partner in the opposition space. He was a friend of the Congress.

Karunanidhi was one of the tallest political leaders in the country. He towered over the polity in Tamil Nadu, wielding considerable influence on national politics. The reason behind his immense popularity and the impact that he had as a political leader was the depth of his politics, which was essentially rooted in Dravidian philosophy and was centred on the welfare of the poor and the underprivileged. He fought against casteism and for social reform. He was also a fine administrator.

He had a vision for the people of Tamil Nadu, and he remained committed to the interests of the state throughout his political career. However, like a true statesman, he did not keep his vision limited to the state, and always showed a remarkable ability to rise above party politics and regionalism. His contribution to the sustainability of coalition politics is evidence of this.

It is the end of an era in Tamil Nadu politics. The people of Tamil Nadu will miss him terribly, and so will we.

 As told to Soni MishraNew Delhi, Aug 12 (PTI) Leaders from across the political spectrum condoled the demise of Nobel Laureate author V S Naipaul, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying, it was a major loss for the world of literature.

Naipaul, known for his critical commentary on colonialism, idealism, religion and politics, died at the age of 85, his family said early today.

He is the recipient of numerous honours, including the Man Booker Prize in 1971 and a knighthood for services to literature in 1990. Naipaul was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001.

The prime minister wrote on Twitter, "Sir VS Naipaul will be remembered for his extensive works, which covered diverse subjects ranging from history, culture, colonialism, politics and more."

"His passing away is a major loss to the world of literature. Condolences to his family and well wishers in this sad hour."

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also condoled the author's death and said the world lost a genius.

"Deeply saddened to learn about the death of literary giant and Nobel Laureate Shri #VSNaipaul. He has inspired a whole generation of writers," he said.

"In his death the world loses a genius today. Offering my prayers to the departed soul," Chouhan said.

Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala also took to Twitter to condole the death of the "literary giant".

"My condolences on the passing away of Nobel Laureate #VSNaipaul - a literary giant and a modern philosopher who enthralled and influenced the world with his keen observations, creativity and often critical descriptions. May his soul rest in peace," he tweeted.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik tweeted, "Saddened to learn about the passing away of celebrated author & Nobel laureate #VSNaipaul."

"His works exploring colonisation, migration & unraveling of the British empire were exemplary & thought-provoking," he said.

Sir Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul was born on August 17, 1932 in Trinidad into an Indian Hindu family and moved to England at 18 after receiving a scholarship to University College, Oxford. He subsequently settled in England, although he travelled extensively thereafter.

Naipaul married Patricia Ann Hale in 1955. After her death in 1996, he married divorced Pakistani journalist Nadira Khannum Alvi. PTI DIP ANB

ANB



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.New Delhi, Aug 12 (PTI) President Ram Nath Kovind will watch a special screening of National Geographic's 'The President's Bodyguard' documentary at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday.

It will premiere on the Independence Day, i.e. August 15, at 9 pm, on National Geographic channel, a statement issued by the channel said today.

"Ceremonial occasions like the Republic Day parade, the President's address to Parliament, oath-taking ceremony of a new President, or receiving a visiting head of state, are watched keenly in India and abroad. The President's Bodyguard displays the best traditions of discipline and skills of our armed forces," Kovind was quoted as having said in the statement.

Their flawless turn-out and impressive bearing speak for the heritage of our country, and our armed forces, he said.

"But behind their skills, while standing erect or on horse-back, is years of hard work and the relentless pursuit of perfection. These are untiring, dedicated and brave soldiers  as good as the best in the world. I am very proud of them," the president said.

A special screening of National Geographic's The President's Bodyguard will take place at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on August 14, 2018, it said.

The event will be graced by the president and will be attended by representatives from several ministries and forces, the statement said.

The President's Bodyguard is narrated by veteran Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan, it said.

"I feel National Geographic's film is a complete package which brings forth the stories of some selfless men who have put national duties above any other interests. The film will surely take the viewers a step closer to the history and heritage of one of the oldest cavalry units of our homeland," Bachchan said.

Uday Shankar, President of 21st Century Fox, Asia; and Chairman & CEO of Star India, said, "The President's Bodyguard is the story of India's historic and heritage cavalry unit, and one of the senior most regiments of the Indian army."

The President's Bodyguard is the oldest surviving mounted unit and is one of the senior most regiments of the Indian Army.

The regiment, which has 245-year-old legacy, and is made up of almost 200 soldiers, represents supreme and selfless service, the channel said. PTI AKV DIP

DIPDhaka, Aug 12 (PTI) Bangladesh's Supreme Court today upheld the High Court decision granting a six-month interim bail to imprisoned former prime minister Khaleda Zia in an arson case relating to the attack on a passenger bus in 2015, media reports said.

The 72-year-old three-time former premier, however, will have to stay in jail as other cases are pending against her.

Eight people were killed after the bus was petrol bombed in Chittagong on February 3, 2015 during protests by the Bangladesh Nationslist Party (BNP)-Jamaat alliance.

Two separate cases  one for murder, the other under the Explosives Act  were filed in Comilla against Zia, who is also the chairperson of the opposition BNP. The case was later changed to the Special Powers Act.

The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court upheld the High Court order granting the six-month bail to Zia, Dhaka Tribune reported.

The four-member Appellate Division bench, led by Chief Justice Syed Mahmud Hossain, passed the "no order" on a government petition seeking stay on the High Court order, the report said.

The High Court granted the bail to Zia on August 6 in the arson case. Next day, the state filed a petition seeking a stay on the bail order.

She has been in jail since February 8, after a special court found her guilty of corruption in the Zia Orphanage Trust case. She is lodged in a 200-year-old prison in Dhaka.

Zia was jailed for five years in February in connection with the embezzlement of 21 million taka (about USD 250,000) in foreign donations meant for the Zia Orphanage Trust, named after her late husband Ziaur Rahman, a military ruler-turned-politician.

The charges against her has already led to her boycotting polls in 2014, which triggered widespread protests at the time. The BNP had termed the elections as "farcical".

The BNP has claimed that the cases against Zia are politically-motivated to keep its party chief out of the national elections scheduled for December. PTI CPS

CPSFollowing are the top foreign stories at 1700 hours

New Delhi, Aug 12 (PTI) Following are the top foreign stories at 1700 hours:



FGN8 4THLD NAIPAUL

Nobel prize-winning author V S Naipaul dies

London: Trinidad-born Indian-origin author V S Naipaul, known for his critical commentary on colonialism, religion and politics, has died at the age of 85, his family says. By Aditi Khanna



FGN11 LANKA-INDIA-HOUSES

India hands over to people 1st lot of houses built in Sri Lanka

Colombo: India hands over the first lot of houses built for Indian-origin people in Sri Lanka's tea plantation areas.



FGN10 BANGLA-ZIA

Bangladesh apex court upholds ex-PM Zia's bail in arson case

Dhaka: Bangladesh's Supreme Court upholds the High Court decision granting a six-month interim bail to imprisoned former prime minister Khaleda Zia in an arson case relating to the attack on a passenger bus in 2015, media reports say.



FGN12 PAK-PARLIAMENT

Newly-elected Pak parliament to meet for first time tomorrow

Islamabad: Pakistan's newly-elected parliament is meeting tomorrow for the first time to start the process of transition and handing over powers to the new government. By Sajjad Hussain



FGN6 PAK-PARTIES-TALLY

Khan's party bags 33 reserved seats; PTI NA tally stands at 158

Islamabad: The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has been allotted 28 reserved seats for women and five for non-Muslims by the election commission, taking the party's tally to 158 in the National Assembly -- just 14 short of the number required for simple majority.

PTI CPS

CPSKarachi, Aug 12 (PTI) Pakistan today released 26 Indian fishermen from Karachi's Malir jail as a goodwill gesture, media reports said.

They had been arrested by the authorities here for allegedly trespassing into Pakistan's territorial waters.

The fishermen were shifted to Cantt Railway Station and will be taken to Lahore from there they would be sent to India through Wagah border, The Nation news reported.

The released fishermen were presented with gifts and cash prizes by the jail authorities, the report said.

The Indian prisoners said that upon reaching India, they will request the Indian authorities to release Pakistani prisoners in reciprocation.

Pakistan and India frequently arrest fishermen as there is no clear demarcation of the maritime border in the Arabian Sea and these fishermen do not have boats equipped with the technology to know their precise location.

Owing to lengthy and slow bureaucratic and legal procedures, the fishermen usually remain in jail for several months.

A number of non-governmental organisations in both India and Pakistan have raised the issue, pressing their governments to release the arrested fishermen without delay. PTI CPS

CPSTrinamool holds protest rallies in Kolkata against NRC

Kolkata, Aug 12 (PTI) The Trinamool Congress today

took out rallies in the city against the complete draft of the

National Register of Citizens (NRC).

Protest marches were organised at Esplanade in the

heart of the metropolis and in other places, including one at

Kamarhati in the northern part.

State minister Sovandeb Chattopadhyay led the protest

against the NRC at Esplanade, while TMC leaders Tapas Roy and

Madan Mitra led the rally at Kamarhati-Baranagar area.

The ruling party had organised similar rallies in

different parts of West Bengal yesterday, barring the state

capital.

The TMC has alleged that in the name of the NRC, the

BJP government in Assam had deliberately omitted names of

Bengalis from the list, a claim which has been denied by the

saffron party.

The complete draft of the NRC was published on July 30

in Assam with 2.89 lakh names out of 3.29 applicants. PTI AMR

RBT RBT

RBTSrinagar, Aug 12 (PTI) A policeman has been killed and three security forces personnel injured during an early morning encounter with militants in Batmaloo area here today, police said.

"On a specific information about presence of terrorists in a hideout, an operation was launched in Batmaloo Srinagar leading to exchange of fire, one SOG boy martyred, one JKP & 2 CRPF Jawans sustained injuries, operation continues," Director General of Police (DGP) S P Vaid wrote on Twitter.

The state's police chief shared no further details.

A police official said security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Diyarwani in Batamaloo area of the city early this morning following a tip-off about the presence of militants in the area.

The search operation soon turned into an encounter as the militants fired upon the forces, who retaliated, he said.

The gunfight was still going on, the official said, adding further details were awaited. Mobile internet service has been snapped in the city as a precautionary measure, the official said. PTI SSB TIR

TIRNew Delhi, Aug 12 (PTI) India should encourage Bhutan to ensure increase in the deployment of soldiers around Northern Doklam in the Sikkim sector to check activities of Chinese military in the sensitive region, a parliamentary panel has suggested in its draft report.

The Parliamentary Panel on External Affairs, headed by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, felt that increasing the number of soldiers in North Doklam was important for safeguarding India's strategic interests in the region.

The draft report, circulated among the panel's members on August 6, did not clarify whether the committee was favouring increasing the deployment of Indian troops in the region.

Troops of India and China were locked in a 73-day standoff in Doklam in the Sikkim sector from June 16 last year after the Indian side stopped construction of a road in the disputed tri-junction by the Chinese army.

Bhutan and China have a dispute over Doklam and both the countries have been holding talks to resolve the issue.

The parliamentary panel also suggested that India should remain alert and watchful in the Doklam area even though last year's face-off between Indian and Chinese armies was resolved peacefully.

It is clear that China's Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) took advantage of absence of Bhutanese soldiers in Batangla-Merugla-Sinchela ridgeline, which is in Bhutan, the panel noted.

Therefore, the committee recommends deployment of higher number of soldiers in Northern Doklam. India should encourage Bhutan for it so that the Chinese army could be stopped from pushing the limit of the tri-junction point, it said.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi is a member of the 31-member panel, where a majority of the members are from the BJP.

Some members of the committee travelled to Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh to take stock of ground situations and meet senior officials there.

The panel has been briefed several times on the situation in Doklam by S Jaishankar, former foreign secretary, and his successor Vijay Gokhale.

The foreign ministry officials had informed the panel that Bhutan was firmly with India on the issue, sources in the panel said.

They said during discussions, Gandhi had questioned foreign ministry officials on China's objective and why Beijing chose Doklam to trigger a confrontation. PTI JTR MPB SMN

SMNNew Delhi, Aug 11 (PTI) Natural causes such as cyclones and waves, as well as human activities like construction have led to nearly one-third of a large part of India's coastline to be eroded in the last 26 years, but almost an equal area has been added because of new sediment deposits, according to a government report.

The National Centre for Coastal Research surveyed 6,031 kilometres of India's 7,517-kilometre coastline from 1990 to 2016, and found that 33 per cent of it has witnessed erosion, most of it along the eastern coast facing the Bay of Bengal, with West Bengal recording the highest erosion. At the same time, 29 per cent of the surveyed coastline saw an accretion, or gain in deposits.

"Erosion and accretion are complementary to each other. If the sand and sediments have drifted from one side, it must accumulate somewhere," said M V Ramana Murthy, director of NCCR and one of the authors of the report.

The report says that 2,156.43 kilometres of the country's surveyed coastline faced erosion, while 1,941.24 kilometres saw accretion on shore.

It has long been known that the coastline is eroding, but officials needed to map and document it so that various agencies could take corrective measures, said M Rajeevan, Secretary in the Ministry of Earth Sciences and another co-author of the report.

Erosion leads to loss of human habitation as sea water enters the land. This also effects farming done along the coasts. For traditional fishermen with small boats, beaches are gateway to the sea since they don't use fishing harbours. Loss of beaches mean they have to use harbours to venture into the sea.

Accretion results in increase in the land area as beaches get extended, which is positive. However, if accretion happens in the deltas and creeks, then it has a negative impact on the ecosystem because silting of sediments stops the inflow of sea water into these areas. The estuaries and creeks are a breeding ground for several species of aquatic flora and fauna. Any disturbance hurts the eco-system, Murthy said.

The report found that 63 per cent of West Bengal's coastline has eroded, losing 99 sq km of land in the last 26 years. The second-highest loss was in Puducherry (57 per cent), followed by Odisha (28 per cent) and Andhra Pradesh (27 per cent).

Kerala is the only state on the western coast that saw erosion of over 40 per cent of its coastline, while Gujarat, Diu and Daman saw an erosion of 26 per cent, Maharashtra 24 per cent, Goa 12 per cent and Karnataka 22 per cent.

On the other hand, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh saw a high-level of accretion  51 and 42 per cent of their coastline respectively, according to the report by the NCCR, an institute under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.

West Bengal saw a 24 per cent accretion, Gujarat, Diu and Daman 31 per cent, Maharashtra 12 per cent, Goa 20 per cent, Karnataka 30 per cent, Kerala 21 per cent, and Tamil Nadu 23 per cent.

The survey measured 6,031 km of coastline, excluding creeks, and analysed 526 maps along 66 districts in 10 states and Union territories using data from five satellites - Landsat 5 and 7 (operated by NASA), ISRO's Resourcesat 1 and 2 and Cartosat-1.

The causes behind erosion differ from state to state, and the NCCR has started the second phase of the study to state-wise analyse the reasons behind it, Murthy said.

He said major reasons for erosion are: changes in the wave pattern, wave intensity, cyclones and depressions that bring heavy rains and make the waters along the coastline choppy, reduction in sediments that rivers and other water bodies bring to the sea, rising sea-level and human activities like construction and dredging of ports.

Rajeevan, the ministry secretary, said the eastern coast showed more erosion because the Bay of Bengal witnesses rougher seas in comparison to the Arabian Sea.

Asked why Kerala, along the Arabian Sea, showed higher erosion compared to other western states, Rajeevan said the southern Arabian Sea is usually rough and tide movement is intense, which affects the coast.

The eastern coast is also prone to cyclones, depressions, Murthy said.

He said that besides the Southwest Monsoon (June to September), the eastern coast also witnesses the Northeast Monsoon from October to December and brings rain to coastal Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, which keeps the sea rough for most of the year.

"It has been recorded that the intensity and height of waves in the Bay of Bengal has increased over the years. This also affects the coastline," Murthy said.

Human activities is one of the reasons behind erosion of the coastline.

Murthy said there is a lot of dredging in port areas and sediments are usually dumped in deep seas.

"We usually recommend that the sediments should be dumped along the coast nearby," Murthy, who is often a part of the panels that give recommendations compiled in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report before giving clearance to ports, said. PTI PR VJ DIP

DIPJammu, Aug 12 (PTI) A 19-year-old woman was allegedly abducted and raped by two men, following which it is suspected that she committed suicide by jumping into the Chenab river in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district, a police official said today.

The woman's father had lodged a missing complaint for his daughter on July 24, he said.

After analysing the woman's call details, Paramjeet Singh was arrested, the officer said, adding that Singh revealed during interrogation that his friend, Pankaj Khajuria, was using a phone number on his name to entice her.

An FIR was registered after the woman's relatives complained that she was abducted by Khajuria, his friend Naresh Kumar and Singh.

Subsequently, Khajuria was arrested from his shop in Zero Morh locality of Talwara, and Kumar, who had fled to Punjab's Amritsar, was held by a special police team there.

"During their interrogation, it came to the fore that Khajuria was in a relationship with the women and used to call her using Singh's SIM card and also promised to marry her," he said.

Khajuria called her at Baradari Bridge from where he and his friend Kumar abducted her, took her to a secluded under-construction house in Talwara and raped her, the officer said.

He said the investigation revealed that the woman soon after went to the Chenab bridge and called up Khajuria several times and threatened to commit suicide by jumping into the river.

A mobile phone confiscated from Khajuria had "a vital clue in the shape of an audio recording, which brought to light the gory details of the case," the officer said.

The audio recording was purportedly the conversation the woman had with Khajuria over phone from the bridge.

"The last location of the woman was traced to the said bridge after which she went missing," he said, adding massive efforts are on to trace her.

The officer said RPC sections related to gang-rape and abetment to suicide was added to the FIR.

Although the abetment to suicide section has been added to the FIR, since the woman's body has not been recovered yet, she is still being being considered missing, the officer said.

The relatives of the woman staged a protest at Talwara demanding severe punishments to the culprits today. PTI TAS DIP

DIPNew Delhi, Aug 12 (PTI) A parliamentary panel has asked the health ministry to urgently address the issue of manpower shortage at AIIMS-New Delhi, without which, it said, the expansion of the institute to other states would be futile as patients will not get proper medical facilities.

The committee on subordinate legislation on rules/regulations framed under AIIMS Act, 1956 expressed disappointment over the submission of the government that there are 245 vacancies in the faculty and 2,025 vacancies in the non-faculty staff strength of All India Institute Of Medical Sciences, New Delhi.

There are 1,303 vacancies in the faculty of six new AIIMS established in various states of the country.

The committee is of the view that the premier medical institute has to have sufficient and most-efficient manpower.

Stating that the huge shortage of non-faculty staff reflects the "flawed recruitment policy" of the institute, the committee in its report asked the health ministry to formulate a personnel policy covering optimum staff ratio, more so, with the coming up of new AIIMS.

"The issue of manpower shortage in AIIMS be addressed urgently, otherwise the expansion of AIIMS would be futile because in the absence of good doctors and staff, the patients will not get proper and timely medical facilities," the report said.

The committee recommended that a comprehensive study be done to address the cause of non-availability of doctors of high standards, may it be brain drain, comparatively lesser remunerations, facilities or shortage of undergraduate/post-graduate seats and colleges to address the issue for all times to come.

The committee, however, noted that off late AIIMS has given focus on filling up vacancies in the past one year.

As a result 300 additional faculty members and 1,000 nurses have been recruited in AIIMS, New Delhi, and 301 faculty positions filled up in six new AIIMS.

The committee, also, noted that in order to address the shortage of doctors, measures such as increasing the upper age limit for the post of professor and additional professor in six new AIIMS and contractual appointment of faculty to overcome the shortage of faculty have been taken.

The panel recommended that all pervasive efforts be made to plug-in the shortage of staff both at the faculty and non-faculty levels and the vacant posts should be filled up on permanent basis.

The committee said it was appalled at the "tardy" progress for comprehensive review of AIIMS regulations which forms the backbone of overall functioning of the institute.

As a result, the review process which was initiated in 2006 has remained incomplete even after a lapse of 11 years.

In the opinion of the committee, bringing out necessary amendments in the rules and regulations is an ongoing feature of good governance.

"Moreover with the increase in number of AIIMS to six and the plan to make the number 12, the review of the rules and regulations is urgently required," it said.

The ministry has replied that the suggestions of Balram Airan Committee were reviewed in December 2017, by the Governing Body, which proposed amendments to the report.

"These have been incorporated in the revised rules and regulations which are ending approval of the Governing Body minutes," the ministry said in its reply as per the report. PTI PLB SLB ABH

ABHChandigarh, Aug 12 (PTI) Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan today described women as "good managers" despite having no management degree and stressed that they have the strength to perform both within and outside their homes.

The Speaker further emphasised that for the development of nation, it was important that women should be empowered and they should realise their strength.

"Kirron ji (the Chandigarh MP) has rightly said when a woman comes out of her home for work, she has to work double. Men though say they are also doing the same way, I do not feel a man will say with pride that he also works at home," Mahajan said while addressing a women workers' summit organised by Bharat Vikas Parishad here today.

"I say you (women) are a very good manager without giving any examination of management. You do not realize you are a good manager, because we ourselves say we do nothing. Being housewife means, I am nothing. You first get this thought out of your mind, because you do a

lot," said Mahajan.

She praised women for handling their whole families after marriage. "You join a new family after leaving your own and do not only you blend with them but also consider every family member your own. You also adopt their culture.. the way you adopt the new family it looks like you have been

doing it for several years.

"The way you adopt the (new) family... take care of each member of the family and try to do according to the likes of each family member, is full management and you do it and you do not make anybody realise that you are doing it," she said.

She also cited an example of a Member of Parliament who had once told her that he managed to complete his studies because of the support of his wife.

"It does not mean that men do not recognise women contribution, but the sensitivity is also essential," she said.

Recalling Swami Vivekananda's observation that a bird needs to have both its wings strong to fly, she said "If one wing of a bird is strong and other is not, it cannot fly.."

Lok Sabha Speaker said, "Women is also part of the society and could also give her opinion (on various matters). Unless the mother of a house is intelligent, the family could not become wise."

Addressing the gathering, Mahajan underscored the need of women equipping themselves with knowledge to guide their children in selecting right career.

"A mother knows what her child eats and whenever he or she is hungry, the child goes to her mother. I will consider a woman a successful mother if her son or daughter seeks her advice for making the right career choice also," she said.

"You have the strength to perform because you have the power to recognise what is to be done. You recognise it and perform it. You should also have the self confidence that yes 'I can'," said the Lok Sabha Speaker.

Talking about the pilgrimages, Mahajan said a pilgrim could not derive the real contentment if one reaches the temple or shrine through modern means of transport like helicopter.

"I do not consider it 'darshan' of god when we use helicopter to reach a shrine. When we assume big posts in our lives, I feel we do not get real 'darshan' of god. In 'VIP Darshan', we feel we saw the idol, but it's not 'real darshan'.

"Because, it is necessary to go through some hardship to reach the doors of god... I feel I do not get blessings of pilgrims who are standing in a queue for hours for their turns whenever I am provided VIP facility to undertake the pilgrimage," she said. PTI CHS SUN VSD RAX

RAXJaipur, Aug 12 (PTI) Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore today took a jibe at Congress president Rahul Gandhi over his temple visit, saying one tends to get worried in difficult times.

Jab mushkil aati hai to nani bhi yaad aati hai, Rathore said talking to reporters here at Jawahar Kala Kendra where he inaugurated an exhibition on achievements of government.

The Congress president had yesterday visited Govinddevji temple here after addressing party workers during his one-day event for launching party's election campaign in Rajasthan where polls are due later this year.

Referring to Rajasthan tourism campaign tagline 'Jane kya dikh jaye', Rathore said that the Congress president is welcome here as the state is beautiful and famous on tourism map.

Replying to question, he said the people of the state have been supporting the BJP for a long time.

"BJP has formed government in 20 states and everyone has seen the working style of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and wants to move forward under his leadership, he said.

Rathore also took out a 'Tri-colour Rally' in his parliamentary constituency Jaipur Rural to motivate youths to participate in the country's progress. PTI AG TVS

TVSNew Delhi, Aug 12 (PTI) Celebrated for his extensive commentary on both, colonisers and colonised, in fiction and non-fiction, V S Naipaul walked the controversy tightrope, admired for his prose but scorned by those who perceived him as an apologist for imperial powers.

Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul, or Sir Vidia, as he was sometimes known died at his London home at the age of 85 today, leaving behind a legacy of lucid prose and unapologetic narratives strewn across dozens of works that earned him both applause and brickbats, say experts.

Looking back at the Nobel Laureate's elaborate literary career of over five decades, Patrick French, the author of his biography "The World is What It Is", remembered him as a "very funny and witty" person who was "always conscious of his Indian family background".

Born to an Indian family in Trinidad, Naipaul's portraits of Africa, India, West Indies and the Islamic faith brought him hostility for his views.

"In his books, he tried to describe the best and the worst of India as it changed between the 1960s and the 1990s. His conclusions were insightful, even when they were harsh," French told PTI.

After his first three comedic novels, he explored the questions of identity and belonging to a family, a place in "A House of Mr Biswas", which was inspired by his father's life.

While the book won him accolades in the literary world, the novel "destroyed some memories", according to the biography.

Naipaul's prose were strung around the themes of loss, identity, oppression and exile, said author Chanchal Sanyal, describing him as an "unapologetic author" who was not writing to please an audience.

"Naipaul, not only in his writings but also in whatever he said, was completely unapologetic. For example, his views on Islam, on colonisation, immigration, or even his writings about his visits to prostitutes, he was his own man. We all are pleasing an audience, he was courageous and unapologetic," he said.

Sanyal's "The Glass House" can be compared to "A House for Mr Biswas", both following the theme of a man aspiring to own a home.

"Honestly, I have read a lot of Naipaul, but I don't think anything moved me as much as House for Mr Biswas. But I did read with great interest his writings on America's deep south. In some of his short stories in his early writings, there was a certain style they were not completely finished and you could make out the writer was a bit raw, but you certainly felt he showed promise," he added.

Naipaul's views against the commonplace perception towards colonised countries and their people were not the only thing controversial about the famed author.

In an interview in 2011, Naipaul raised eyebrows when he said he did not consider any female author to be his equal. And then there were also reports of him physically abusing his mistress Margaret Gooding.

Looking at him as a "flawed genius", international publishing consultant Jaya Bhattacharji Rose said Naipaul will nonetheless be "remembered as a giant among writers".

"V S Naipaul was a titan of 20th century English literature, who made visible a landscape beyond the canon that held sway when he began writing. His life experiences frequently appeared as thinly disguised vignettes in his writing, and his references to Trinidad added diversity and depth to his oeuvre," Rose said.

His 1971 book, "In a Free State", won him the Man Booker prize. In "An Area of Darkness", "India: A Wounded Civilization", and "India: A Million Mutinies Now", Naipaul commented extensively on subjects varying from politics to religion, from business to films in the country.

According to Saugata Bhaduri, professor at School of Language Literature and Culture Studies, JNU, his critics loved him too despite the general perception of his writing as a "problematic rightist kind of politics".

"He has been somewhat of a trigger in making Indian writing in English become so global, and all Indian writers in English, in spite of him not being an Indian technically, looked up to him.

"His writing style, general mode of characterisation was so good and it often has been perceived as problematic rightist kind of politics. So he transcended it, and his greatness is mocked by that. His art is so good, his craft is so good that even his harshest critique would read him with lot of love and passion," Bhaduri said. PTI MAH MG MIN MAH

MAHHyderabad, Aug 12 (PTI) The over a century-old Jama Masjid Aiwan-E-Begumpet here will be thrown open to people from all religions this Independence Day for a guided tour, a move aimed at promoting inter-faith harmony.

Popularly known as the 'Spanish Mosque' for its Moorish architecture, the heritage masjid, for the first time, has invited people from all religions to visit it on August 15, between 10 am and 7 pm, as part of the 'Visit My Mosque' programme, an official said.

The 112-year old historic mosque in Begumpet area, maintained by the Paigahs, an aristocratic family, was built in 1906 and known for its intrinsic beauty and unique architectural style blending Moorish and Turkish features.

"We invite people from all religions to attend the 'Visit My Mosque' programme. This initiative promotes national integrity and communal harmony and it is an opportunity to meet, share and experience the values and culture of the Indian Muslim community," M A Faiz Khan, a member of the Paigah family and 'mutavalli' (caretaker) of the mosque, said.

Commissioned by Paigah noble Sir Viqar-ul Umera after his European tour of 1887 during which he was inspired by the Moorish architecture of Spain, it was completed by his successor.

The mosque received the Intach Heritage Award in 2010.

"In today's world there are lot of misconceptions... Unfortunately barriers are being created and so we would like to undo that and bring people together... This is to promote brotherhood and all are welcome," Khan told PTI.

He described it as a landmark monument and one of the unique mosques in the country.

Apart from feeling the structural beauty of the monument, they wanted the people to know what actually happens in the mosque, he said.

Khan said it would be an interactive guided tour and people can seek clarifications.

"People can share good time, discuss out the things and feel good about it especially on our Independence Day. Presently this programme is for one day," he added.

Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), Telangana, co-convenor P Anuradha Reddy said the mosque was distinctive in more than one way.

The mosque's design incorporated Turkish elements, including Turkish calligraphy which decorated its interiors, she said.

Describing it as a fascinating architectural gem of the city, she said the mosque has a fairy-tale appearance with unique minarets and a matching dome.

Reddy said she had visited the Masjid-e-Quba in Mehdipatnam here in June this year as part of the 'Open mosque programme'.

On 'Spanish Mosque' opening to all faiths on Independence Day, she said "It is a good idea... People of all communities can learn about each other. It is happy thing for other people to go and recognise it's beauty". PTI VVK VS ANB

ANBDefence men's selfless 'sahyog' help Kerala fight rain fury

Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 12 (PTI) Evacuating those

stranded from gushing flood waters to removing huge granite

blocks on roads--the defence personnel are showcasing

war-front like services in the hamlets of rain-hit Kerala.

As torrential rains had thrown normal life out of gear in

many parts of Kerala last week, the personnel of the Army,

Navy, Airforce and Coast Guard have sprung into action,

extending all support to local people and authorities to face

the deluge.

Since then, the defence personnel are tirelessly working

24x7 in evacuating hapless people from isolated places,

constructing temporary bridges, repairing and clearing roads

in villages of Kerala, braving incessant rains and landslip

threats.

They are also unhesitatingly joining hands with local

authorities in distributing food articles and organising

medical camps in many places.

Army personnel have helped bring tribals living in remote

settlements to the rehabilitation camps in mainlands in high

range Idukki and Wayanad districts, authorities said.

The Army has titled the relief work in Kerala as

'Operation Sahyog' (cooperation).

The photographs of army men lifting huge uprooted trees

in a flood-hit zone and the personnel of Indian Naval Academy

(INA) evacuating persons in Wayanad have become instant hits

on social media.

The Army today helped accommodate a total of 187 people,

hailing from hamlets of Korangatti, Pettimudi, Talamali,

Chettupara, Plamala and so on in the six relief camps of

Adimali in Idukki.

"The tribals were brought to the various camps after

constructing and opening the road leading to various villages

by the Madras Regiment personnel," a defence spokesperson said

here.

In association with the civic administration, medicines,

food, blankets and other relief materials were given to the

camp inmates, the spokesperson said.

When the army team had reached Virinjapara- Mankulam area

in Idukki district two days ago, the situation was very bad

due to inclement weather and lack of connectivity.

A concrete bridge was washed away in the region inheavy

rains leading to the isolation of 800 families there.

They have now been evacuated and shifted to the relief

camps after the men repaired the bridge, restoring the

connectivity.

Army units are equipped with rescue boats, medicines and

all emergency supplies for the immediate response.

Indian Army's Karnataka and Kerala sub-area,

headquartered in Bangalore, is controlling the entire disaster

response and rescue operation in Kerala.

A total of 8 columns of army personnel have been deployed

at various parts of the state in which two are posted

exclusively for worst-hit Idukki district.

In addition to this, two columns of Military Engineering

Group (MEG) of Indian Army from Bangalore and one from

Hyderabad were deployed in various affected districts of

northern Kerala.

Besides the defence personnel, teams of National Defence

Response Force (NDRF) are also extending assistance to the

administration. PTI LGK UD

ROH ROH

ROHNew Delhi, Aug 12 (PTI) Speakers at a conference hosted by a Muslim students' organisation in Delhi today called for greater inclusion of the community in matters related to the national security.

The Muslim Students Organisation of India (MSOI) hosted the day-long conference to appeal for strengthening of the national security policy.

Syed Muhammad Qadri, the chief speaker at the conference and former MSO president, lamented what he said was a wrong perception being created of Muslims.

"A perception is being created in the country most of the time that Indian Muslims are not responsible citizens, whereas our claim is that the inclusion of Muslims in the national security policy will be an accurate assessment of the role of Muslim youth towards national unity.

"Why do we need to join the ISIS or other organisations? Our ideal is not Osama Bin Laden but Khwaja Garib Nawaz and will continue to be be till eternity," he said.

Qadri urged youngsters present at the programme to fight the forces involved in weakening the nation and be inspired by the sacrifices made by people during the freedom struggle.

Shahnawaz Ahmad Malik Warsi of Aligarh Muslim University, Kerala centre, said the challenges facing human rights and social justice in the country are being taken seriously in society.

"Making Muslims and Dalit community an unnecessary target of hatred and communalism is a matter of concern. Efforts should be made to maintain social harmony and to discuss Sufi spiritual experiments designed for this purpose," he added.

Shujaat Ali Qadri, MSOI president, said the Indian Muslim youth, majority of which belong to the Sufi community, have undying love and respect for the country.

The organisation presented a report in which they demanded greater participation of the Muslim youth in nation building and greater involvement of Sufi Muslim organisations to defeat radial elements. PTI SLB SLB ABH

ABHBahraich (UP), Aug 12 (PTI) Three drug smugglers were arrested here and contraband worth Rs 1 crore in the international market was seized from them, police said today.

"The three smugglers were arrested last evening following a tip-off. They were arrested from a location near the Nepal border falling under the Rupaidiah police station. The arrested smugglers are from different parts of Bahraich and have been identified as Babu Manihar, Vasu Pathan and Sufi. Five kilograms of charas, three countrymade revolvers, cartridges and a motorcycle have been recovered from them," Superintendent of Police (SP) Sabharaj said.

He added that a case was registered against the accused under various sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, the Arms Act and the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

"The seized charas is worth Rs 1 crore in the international market," the SP said. PTI CORR NAV RC

RCNew Delhi, Aug 12 (PTI) The Delhi Police has arrested two suspected members of a robbers' gang which had allegedly assaulted a property dealer and his family during a heist of Rs 84 lakh in cash and jewellery on August 8.

The police said they have recovered Rs 9.15 lakh and a loaded pistol from the accused.

"Southwest Delhi-residents Vaibhav Srivastav (26) and Lalit Mishra (20) were arrested when they were riding a stolen motorcycle on NajafgarhUttam Nagar road last night," the police said in a statement.

The accused were part of the six-member gang which had barged into the house of a southwest Delhi real estate dealer and robbed them.

The robbers escaped with a booty of Rs 84 lakh in cash and a large quantity of jewellery, and an FIR was lodged in this regard, Anto Alphonse, Deputy Commissioner of Police of Dwaraka district, said in the statement.

The police claimed that during interrogation, Srivastav revealed that he is taxi driver who owns a cab attached to Uber.

"His cousin offered him to join in a robbery plan which has been hatched by him in collusion with other associates and promised him good money in return," the police said.

The police also said that accused Mishra is a helper at a dentist clinic at Tilak Nagar and got into the gang to purchase a new motorcycle. PTI AMP RRT SMN

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Read MoreCentrica plc operates as an integrated energy company in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Norway, North America, and internationally. The company operates through British Gas, Energy Marketing & Trading, Centrica Business Solutions, Bord GAis Energy, and Upstream segments. It supplies gas and electricity to residential customers, as well as offers energy-related services; and generates power from combined cycle gas turbines and nuclear assets. The company also provides installation, repair, and maintenance services for domestic central heating, plumbing and drains, home electrical, and gas and kitchen appliances; and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment, as well as offers breakdown services. In addition, it is involved in the procurement, trading, and optimization of energy; procurement and sale of LNG; and supplies energy efficiency solutions and technologies to residential customers. Further, the company produces and processes gas and oil; develops new fields to maintain reserves; constructs, owns, and exploits infrastructure; and engages in the social enterprise investment fund activities. Additionally, it provides vehicle leasing, commercial, and insurance services, as well as energy management products and services; and operates a gas storage and franchise network. The company was formerly known as Yieldtop plc and changed its name to Centrica plc in December 1996. Centrica plc was incorporated in 1995 and is based in Windsor, the United Kingdom.

Read MoreMedtronic Plc is a medical technology company, which engages in the development, manufacture, distribution, and sale of device-based medical therapies and services. It operates through the following segments: Cardiac and Vascular Group; Minimally Invasive Technologies Group; Restorative Therapies Group; and Diabetes Group. The Cardiac and Vascular Group segment consists of products for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cardiac rhythm disorders and cardiovascular disease. The Minimally Invasive Technologies Group segment focuses on respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, renal system, lungs, pelvic region, kidneys, and obesity diseases. The Restorative Therapies Group segment comprises of neurostimulation therapies and drug delivery systems for the treatment of chronic pain, as well as areas of the spine and brain, along with pelvic health and conditions of the ear, nose, and throat. The Diabetes Group segment offers insulin pumps, coninuous glucose monitoring systems, and insulin pump consumables. The company was founded in 1949 and is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland.

Read MoreLloyds Banking Group plc, together with its subsidiaries, provides a range of banking and financial services in the United Kingdom and internationally. It operates through three segments: Retail; Commercial Banking; and Insurance and Wealth. The Retail segment offers a range of financial service products, including current accounts, savings accounts, mortgages, motor finance, unsecured loans, leasing solutions, credit cards, and other financial services to personal and small business customers. The Commercial Banking segment provides lending, transactional banking, working capital management, risk management, and debt capital market services to small and medium-sized entities, corporates, and financial institutions. The Insurance and Wealth segment offers life, home, and car insurance products; and pension, investment, and wealth management products and services. It also provides digital and mobile banking, and telephone services, as well as advisory services for savings, investments, and planning for retirement. The company offers its products and services under the Lloyds Bank, Halifax, Bank of Scotland, Scottish Widows, MBNA, Schroders Personal Wealth, Black Horse, Lex Autolease, Birmingham Midshires, LDC, IWeb, and Agricultural Mortgage Corporation brands. Lloyds Banking Group plc was founded in 1695 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom.

Read MoreTraffic isn't good for goose or gander

Clifton Park Center is a wonderful retail playland but for the local goose population, it can be a bit harrowing.

The Buzz has learned that an unfortunate incident happened recently where a goose mom and dad were tragically yet innocently run over crossing the road, leaving their gooslings (or is it goslings) to fend for themselves.

We hear that to highlight the situation, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to raise money for the orphaned Clifton Park Center goslings, although we think that may have been done more tongue-in-cheek than anything else.

Regardless, we feel bad for the driver. No one should have to endure the prospect of killing innocent wildlife while going to the mall or the YMCA.

The real story is about whether something needs to be done to protect the Clifton Park geese. They may not be cute little owls, but they have feelings, too.

We all scream

Capital Region residents all have their favorite ice cream. The Buzz is partial to the chocolate milk shakes at Stewart's and Twist, the epic ice cream stand at the Jericho Drive-In in Glenmont.

But did you know that back in the Colonial era, they liked to make ice cream as well, and they did it without electricity and refrigeration.

Well if you want to know how they did it  and how you can make your own Colonial ice cream  the historic Fort Crailo in Rensselaer is holding an ice cream making demonstration on Aug. 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. that is part of the state historic site's Dutch heritage programming series. The cost is $3 for a adults, and kids 12 and under are free.

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River runs through it

Talking about Dutch heritage and the Manor of Van Rensselaer, the Albany County Rail Trail provides the public with an exceptional way to see the history of the region up-close. The trail is the former Albany line of the Albany and Susquehanna Railroad, and it goes from Voorheesville down to South Pearl Street in Albany.

At the lower end of the trail where Route 9W and I-87 cross, the Normans Kill is a section of Albany called Kenwood that has majestic falls.

That was also the site of one of the first Dutch settlements in the region and used to be home to a large felt mill.

With commuter rail service gone from the region, people nowadays never get to get that close to the Normans Kill, named after Albert Bradt, a Norwegian trader who moved to the Netherlands and then helped the Dutch settle Albany and grow trade. Bradt was known as "Albert the Noorman," because he was from Norway, thus the Normans Kill  kill is the Dutch name for creek. A trip along the rail trail and this area helps that history come back alive.Financial

Community Bank N.A.

Bob Bazargan joined the Capital Region commercial banking team as vice president, commercial banking officer. Bazargan, who has more than 18 years of experience in the financial industry, previously served as commercial banking senior relationship manager at Key Bank.

Health Care

Adirondack Orthodontics

Tamara Kroboth joined as an orthodontist. Kroboth is a member of the American Dental Association, the American Association of Orthodontists, the Ninth District Dental Society and currently serves as vice president of the Dutchess County Dental Society.

Whitney Young Health

Laurie Apa joined as a behavioral health clinician. Apa will be providing a recovery-oriented system of care to people with substance use, mental health disorders and chronic co-morbid health issues.

Michael Dygert joined as a licensed mental health counselor for the FACTS program. Dygert will provide screenings, evaluations, assessments and individualized treatment plans with patients and will facilitate psycho-educational groups.

Nonprofits

Saratoga WarHorse Foundation

Allison Cherkosly joined as executive director. Cherkosly, who teaches nonprofit fund development and grant-writing as part of the master of public administration program at the University at Albany, is an Army veteran and previously served in Afghanistan from 2009 to 2010, where she led civil-military operations in eastern Afghan provinces. While continuing her duties in the United States Army Reserve, Cherkosly simultaneously worked in the nonprofit sector, focusing on fundraising and organizational management.

Schenectady ARC

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Rhonda M. Esposito joined as a family nurse practitioner on the medical team at Ridge Health Services. Esposito, a board-certified family nurse practitioner and registered nurse, has worked in both family and internal medicine.

Catholic Charities Disabilities Services

Jacob Barkman joined as a benefits specialist.

Jaime Wagner joined as an in-home behavior specialist occupational therapist.

Lavontae Armwood, Casey Halloran, Corey Mohrien and Kiley Pendergast joined as community supports professionals.

Amanda Lathan joined as associate director of residential living.

Rashawn Champ and Beverly McRae joined as direct support professionals.

 Jennifer PattersonWATERFORD  The ultimate fate of several dozen historic vessels that have crisscrossed the state's canals might be told in part through a tale of two tugboats.

Now tied off near Lock 3 in Waterford, the twin-funnel tug Chancellor worked for decades hauling cargo along the Erie Canal. It faces an uncertain future after the state spent nearly a quarter-million dollars on salvage and pollution cleanup after it sank beneath its mooring last fall.

Considered legally abandoned as state environmental officials look for someone to pay that bill, the 80-year-old vessel is years away from being named tugboat of the year at the 2004 Waterford Tugboat Roundup. At that time, it was the showpiece of the all-volunteer, not-for-profit Waterford Maritime Historical Society.

Ownership of the Chancellor is now unclear, according to statements from the state Department of Environmental Conservation and the New York Power Authority, which oversees the state Canal Corp.

Ominously, an image of the Chancellor  digitally tweaked so it appeared to be lying at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean  was used during Gov. Andrew Cuomo's April 17 press conference that was the first public announcement of plans to scuttle several dozen state-owned, unused canal vessels to create artificial reefs off the coast of Long Island.

Cuomo said up to 29 of the 57 vessels currently owned by the Canal Corp. could be sunk. The Chancellor was never owned by the state, but instead by commercial operators until it went into private hands.

After the governor's speech, the state canal tug Reliable and a 90-year-old tender tug known as Number 6 were scuttled at the end of May. Another three canal vessels  two tenders and a scow were sunk in June and July. Two more vessels were scuttled Friday as part of press conference by the governor, who touted the work as an environmental benefit

Some historical advocates, however, are charging that NYPA is moving full speed ahead on sending canal vessels to the bottom without giving anyone else time to consider and review their place in the state's nautical heritage.

It is a debate over what is historic and worth saving versus what is just old and worn out, and how to decide between the two before disposing of the vessels.

In an example of planning coming after action, the first two scuttlings happened a week after NYPA hired the North Greenbush consulting firm of Hartgen Archaeological Associates to study the historical value of the Reliable, Tender 6, and 14 other obsolete vessels scheduled to be scuttled.

"We reject the notion that we do not know what is really special in our fleet," said John Callaghan, the deputy executive director of the Canal Corp. "We take our role as stewards very seriously. These vessels (to be scuttled) are not among the most historically significant in our fleet."

In a May letter to the state historic preservation office seeking support for sinking the first batch of seven "obsolete" canal vessels, NYPA officials held up the Chancellor as an example of the perils of letting well-intentioned but underfunded volunteer groups like Waterford's take possession of aging canal boats.

NYPA spokeswoman Susan Craig said the image of the Chancellor at the governor's press conference "was used only for illustrative purposes. The Chancellor is not a Canal Corp. boat and it was never part of the reefing program."

Craig could not provide details about the contract with Hartgen, such as how much it cost or when it is due to be filed. A source familiar with the contract said it included the Chancellor, but Craig could not confirm or deny that.

Chris Callaghan, the secretary and treasurer of the Waterford volunteer group, said last week that its members "bit off more than we could chew" when it took possession of the Chancellor from a now-defunct museum in Kingston.

"We put a lot into the boat," he said. "It was a constant struggle, and we were tired."

After struggling with bills for insurance, repairs and parts for at least five years and possibly longer, Callaghan said, the volunteer group decided to transfer ownership of the "3,000-pound gorilla on our back ... to a good home" at the H. Lee White Maritime Museum in the Port of Oswego.

However, the tug was never taken to Oswego, said Callaghan, and ended up sinking in September 2017 at Lock 3 in Waterford. Now, the DEC is seeking to be reimbursed for $241,000 spent to raise the tug and clean up petroleum that spilled into the canal.

Craig, the NYPA spokeswoman, said the Chancellor was declared legally abandoned as of May 31 under rules of the Canal Corp. The authority, the Canal Corp. and DEC are still trying to figure out who last owned the tug in order to seek reimbursement for state costs, she said.

Museum Director Mercedes Niess remembers the transfer of the Chancellor slightly differently, saying her museum negotiated with the Waterford group but dropped the effort several years ago after the state Attorney General's office said the transfer had not been authorized "and that was the end of it."

About 50 miles farther east on the canal in Fonda, Montgomery County, one of the oldest working vessels in the country, the 117-year-old canal tug Urger, is still afloat  although for how much longer remains uncertain.

Stationed in Waterford, the Urger started working the canal in the 1920s, and since retiring from active state service in the 1980s, has been used as a highly visible floating classroom and ambassador for the Canal Corp. It has visited ports in an area spanning New York City, the Canadian border and Buffalo.

Just two weeks after Cuomo's press conference, canal officials revealed plans to make the Urger a landlocked display at the nearby Exit 28 Thruway rest stop in the Montgomery County.

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However, state historic preservation officials in mid-June raised concerns over the Urger proposal, asking NYPA for details on any structural problems the tug may have, how much has been spent to keep it running, how much it would cost to keep running, and whether alternative plans for its use had been considered.

Craig said "concerns about the Urger's structural condition prompted the Canal Corp. to take the vessel out of service in 2017. ... Its current condition precludes safe use of the vessel for public boarding and educational purposes."

She provided two interior photographs of purported deterioration in the Urger that involved the "hull, steel, deck and all systems," but did not provide a description of structural issues or an estimated cost of repairs. She said NYPA is still preparing its response on the Urger to the state preservation office.

This month, the Preservation League of New York launched a campaign to keep the Urger afloat on the canals, a measure that has already drawn more than 700 signatures to an online petition. The Urger has been on the state and national registers of historic places since 2001.

The league is also urging the state to throw open its planning process on the fates of the other canal vessels that it is planning to sink in the ocean, said spokeswoman Colleen Ryan.

However, a meeting set for Friday by NYPA to discuss concerns with preservation advocates was canceled without being rescheduled.

Officials at the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor also have raised alarms over what the state is doing, echoing concerns that planning was done behind closed doors and that the sinkings and potential landlocking of the Urger are being done too quickly for anyone to object.

"We do not have an issue with the reef, or with the idea that some canal vessels can be used to form it," said Jean Mackay, communications director for the Heritage Corridor, which is funded by the National Park Service to support historic preservation and tourism on the canal.

"Our concerns are about the state's historic canal fleet and having some input," Mackay said. "Some of these vessels may be fine for scuttling, but there may be others that people really care about."

Mackay said her group and other preservation advocates were taken by complete surprise by Cuomo's April announcement that the state intended to sink canal vessels to create the ocean reefs. She said her group did not want to "be used as cover for decisions in which we had no involvement."

After Cuomo's announcement, the Canalway countered in June that some canal vessels "iconic, extremely unique and irreplaceable. They are a symbol of New York State pride."

State assertions that the Urger is unsafe and not worth the effort to restore need to be tested, said Duncan Hay, the historian with Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.

"A marine survey for the Urger by an accredited surveyor was completed before the transfer of Canal Corporation from Thruway Authority to NYPA," he said.

"I have not seen a copy but have been told that a 10-year life extension was estimated to cost about $250,000 to $350,000, and a long-term overhaul would cost something less than $1 million," Hay said. "It would be good to get a copy of that survey in order to find out what repairs are needed immediately, what are needed in the long-term, and what that work might cost."

Craig said a 2014 engineering report outlined recommended repairs needed for the Urger, which operated for another three years before being removed from service. She could not provide an estimate of the cost of such repairs.Albany

Charter Communications is a big, bad cable company that we love to hate because it charges too much for the crummy programming we voluntarily consume.

Charter's unpopularity makes it a safe target for Andrew Cuomo amid his ongoing campaign for re-election, and so a commission controlled by the governor has voted to kick the company out of New York. The move is stunning, really, but don't expect an army of outraged citizens to come to the blood-sucking corporation's defense.

Charter isn't just a cable provider. It is also operates Spectrum News, a network that covers politics statewide better than any other, which raises a question: Is the governor's war on Charter motivated by its tough coverage?

The accusation is gaining traction. The Daily Beast, a left-leaning website, on Wednesday headlined a story: "Donald Trump talks about a war with the press. Andrew Cuomo is waging one."

Marc Molinaro, the Republican gubernatorial candidate, left no doubt about his view: "Andrew Cuomo got furious with (Spectrum's) NY1 News and effectively pulled the plug on an entire cable system as punishment."

That so many people, on both sides of the political aisle, are convinced Cuomo is capable of such things says a lot about the reputation of the thin-skinned governor. They see him as Nixon  Richard, not Cynthia  acting on obsessive paranoia even when polls suggest he'll cruise to re-election.

Cuomo spokesman Rich Azzopardi said the allegation is absurd and "the facts clearly debunk any conspiracy theory." The Public Service Commission move, he added, is only about Charter reneging on promises to expand cable and broadband service to rural areas.

The PSC abruptly ordered Charter to find a buyer for its operation within 60 days, a punishment many called unprecedented. Charter contends it has fulfilled its obligations and will challenge the death sentence in court.

In the search for ulterior Cuomo motives, there's also this: Charter has been battling with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, a Cuomo ally and campaign contributor. In fact, at an IBEW rally a year ago, the governor declared that Charter was "going to be out of the state of New York."

To these eyes, a desire to cultivate union votes explains Cuomo's stance more than his anger at Spectrum's coverage.

Of course, it would be easier to believe in the purity of Cuomo's motives if we hadn't seen so many examples of him bullying opponents and others who anger him, journalists included. Too often, his instinct is to silence rather than debate.

Look at his tussle with the National Rifle Association.

As I wrote last week, Cuomo has weaponized regulatory agencies by using state government to pressure banks and insurance companies to quit doing business with the gun-rights group. He's using the power of the state to target a political enemy.

Bullies, of course, go after easy marks. Cuomo will lose no votes to Cynthia Nixon in the upcoming Democratic primary by picking a fight with the NRA. He is taking no risk by punching a cable company loathed by Democrats and Republicans alike.

Azzopardi made a fair point: Nobody who has accused Cuomo of taking on Charter for its news coverage has pointed to a story that might have angered the governor.

True, no Spectrum blockbuster has singed Cuomo. We have, however, seen the governor's odious reactions to tough questions from Spectrum reporter Zack Fink.

"I'm not going to argue with you," Cuomo said weeks before the PSC's Charter decision. "I already have a lawsuit with your station, as you know."

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(Note his use of the first person, as if the governor alone represents state government.)

"You are defrauding the people of this state," Cuomo told Fink after the PSC vote.

(Note the use of the second person, as if Fink alone represents Charter.)

Still, Spectrum's connection to this election doesn't rest with Zink's questions or any particular story. Its coverage is important because it makes it clear to New Yorkers, especially those watching downstate, that an election is even happening.

Spectrum, with nightly programs devoted to politics, has covered Nixon's challenge more thoroughly than any news outlet. If she appears in, say, Rochester, it's likely Spectrum will be there and air the footage statewide. Other television stations don't do that.

Spectrum wants to host a Democratic debate this month. Nixon is eager for the chance. The governor aims to duck it.

More Information Contact columnist Chris Churchill at 518-454-5442 or email cchurchill@timesunion.com Contact Chris Churchill at 518-454-5700 or email cchurchill@timesunion.com See More Collapse

In one scenario, Spectrum could pull punches in its coverage and bag the debate to satisfy Cuomo.

Either way, this much is clear: IBEW is happy.

cchurchill@timesunion.com  518-454-5442  @chris_churchillCOLONIE - Hannah Fahy was thrilled last year when she received a letter that she would qualify for the new Excelsior Scholarship to the State University at Geneseo.

I was absolutely ecstatic, said Fahy, who acted as soon as the application period opened because she feared the states computer network would crash due to the widespread interest. "The day it was out I set the alarm and woke up and applied."

A few weeks later, though, she learned she didnt qualify for the scholarship. It said, Here is your reward,' and it literally said zero, she recalled of the email notice.

Thats because Fahy, who is starting her junior year, was also getting a private scholarship which covered her tuition. The Excelsior Scholarship, is limited to tuition  not expenses like room and board that can easily match or surpass tuition prices.

Anatoly Kadakov isnt sure how much hes getting from the Excelsior Scholarship. As of last week, he was still waiting to hear back from SUNY Polytechnic at Utica.

I have not heard anything, said Kadakov, an Albany High graduate who will be a freshman.

There was some reassuring news, though. Because the campus had been so swamped with calls, late fees won't be charged if people made their first payment after last Tuesdays deadline.

Given the high volume of calls and emails at this time, SUNY Poly will NOT be assessing a late fee if your bill is not settled by the due date. In addition, your class schedule is still intact as we work to respond to your email, said SUNY Polys message.

A college spokesman later added that the delays weren't due to Excelsior inquiries but stemmed from heavy call volume due to their high enrollment.

Proposed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo in 2017 and approved by the Legislature that spring, the Excelsior Scholarship aims to provide free tuition to middle class families whose children apply to SUNY or City University of New York campuses. It covers the last dollar, that is, the amount of tuition due after other scholarships and grants, such as Pell or Tuition Assistance Program monies.

More than 20,000 students have used it during the last year.

The scholarship is open to students from families with annual income up to $110,000. Next year that will rise to $125,000,

For incoming freshmen like Kadakov, Excelsior helped sway their decisions on where to attend. He had considered other schools with the kind of computer programming courses he wants to take. He looked at Becker College in Massachusetts and DigiPen Institute of Technology in Washington state. But SUNYs low cost, made even lower with the Excelsior Scholarship made it far more affordable.

The new scholarship has had growing pains. That came into focus earlier in August when a member of a statewide group of financial aid officers complained that they were having trouble getting answers on details about the program from the state's Higher Education Services Corp., which administers the Excelsior Scholarship.

That doesnt surprise financial aid experts who caution that any large program like Excelsior is going to take time to fully develop. Additionally, there will be people who think they qualify but dont.

Fahys predicament isnt unusual. Observers have since the start noted that Excelsior doesnt pay for room, board and other costs.

Less known, though, is that private scholarships  of which there are many  can go toward tuition first if thats what the school wants. She gets $5,000 per semester from the Ida C. Koran Foundation, which is affiliated with her fathers employer, the Ecolab company.

More for you New York to college aid officers: Don't talk about scholarships to press

As long as its not restricted in any way its going to be treated as tuition, said Mark Kantrowitz, publisher and vice president of Research at Savingforcollege.com.

Programs like Excelsior that call themselves 'free college' often confuse students who think that free tuition means that other expenses are covered, added Robert Kelchen, an assistant professor at Seton Hall University . Fees also trip up students, since Excelsior is tuition-only and fees in New York are sizable.

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While Seton Hall is in East Orange, N.J., Kelchen studies student aid issues nationwide.

Some scholarships are starting to adjust to Excelsior. The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, for example, has developed language that can allow some of their scholarships to go to non-tuition costs, which aims at preserving Excelsior eligibility for students.

Its very specific on what it says, Jenna Cuilla, said philanthropic services officer for the foundation, which administers numerous regional college scholarships.

Another factor to consider centers on taxes.

If a grant exceeds tuition, fees, room and board, the student can be hit with a tax bill, said Linda Parker director of financial aid at Union College in Schenectady.

Like the bulk of independent schools in New York, Union is not participating in the private school version of Excelsior, known as the Enhanced Tuition Awards. Twenty nine schools that belong to the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities are participating. But thats out of more than 100 private schools in New York.

There are too many stipulations, Parker said.

For one thing, students getting Excelsior or ETA awards must, after graduation, remain in New York for as long as they received the scholarships. If not, the award is treated as a loan,

We want our students to go anywhere they want, said Parker.

Still, the universe of non-SUNY and CUNY schools in the ETA program is expanding. This coming year, for-profit colleges will be able to participate in the ETA program as well. So far, more than a dozen of these schools will take students with ETA awards.

As for Fahy, shes made adjustments. While she was a camp counselor last year, this summer shes been working as a nanny this summer in order to earn more money.

rkarlin@timesunion.com 518 454 5758Lake Elsinore, Calif.

Firefighters made significant progress trying to tamp down a wildfire that threatened homes and has been raging for days south of Los Angeles, officials said Saturday.

Aircraft have been making flight after flight, dumping water and bright pink retardant to protect Lake Elsinore and other foothill communities as the fire sweeps through the dense, bone-dry brush of the Cleveland National Forest.

The Holy Fire  named for Holy Jim Canyon, where it began Monday  grew to nearly 33 square miles by Saturday morning. But firefighters also made progress, with containment rising from 10 to 29 percent.

High temperatures and dry grass and brush have made it difficult for firefighters to get a handle on the blaze. Some hillsides were being allowed to burn under the watchful eyes of firefighters as a way to reduce fuel and make it harder for flames to jump roadways into communities if winds pick up again.

Although the fire burned a dozen forest cabins early on, only one home was lost Thursday as fire crews managed to fend off flames that stalked downhill and came right up to yards.

On Saturday, officials allowed some residents to return to their homes in Lake Elsinore, but others still remained under evacuation orders.

The man accused of deliberately starting the fire appeared in court on Friday, but his arraignment was postponed.

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Forrest Clark, 51, made several outbursts, claiming his life was being threatened and saying the arson charge against him was a lie. A court commissioner ordered his bail to remain at $1 million.

The Holy Fire was one of nearly 20 blazes across California, which is seeing earlier, longer and more destructive wildfire seasons because of drought, warmer weather attributed to climate change and home construction deeper into forests.

A fire that broke out near the communities of Fairfield and Vacaville had destroyed a home and two other structures, according to the Vacaville Fire Department. A firefighter suffered a minor injury battling the blaze, which grew to about 2.6 square miles and was 70 percent contained by Saturday afternoon, officials said.

The largest fire ever recorded in California  the Mendocino Complex  is burning north of Sacramento and has destroyed 119 homes but none in recent days.A Castleton-on-Hudson man who severely injured two state troopers and a tow truck driver when he drove into them on Interstate-90 will be sentenced Monday.

Christopher Neumann, 27, faces two to six years in state prison before Judge Debra J. Young, according to Rensselaer County District Attorney Joel E. Abelove's office.

Neumann pleaded guilty to vehicular assault in June, admitting that he drove under the influence at a high rate of speed in the early hours of March 4 and crashed into the three men in East Greenbush. Neumann also pleaded guilty to driving while ability impaired by drugs and alcohol.

Troopers Brent Karow and Shane Swartz were injured while responding to another vehicle crash on Interstate 90.

Police said that, although the troopers had closed the left lane with flares, Neumann's 2010 Mercury sedan veered off the roadway around 5:15 a.m. that morning and hit the back driver's side of the troopers' vehicle. Neumann's vehicle then swung around and hit the two troopers, as well as tow truck company owner Jeffrey Waite Sr.

Waite and Swartz were pinned under the tow truck. Neumann's car was propelled up the tow truck loader, which was in an incline position.

Major Robert Patnaude, who commands Troop G, said that if the tow truck wasn't there, some of the men might have been hit again by the out-of-control vehicle.

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A second tow truck employee was hit with debris from the accident.

Both troopers suffered multiple fractures and internal bleeding.

Karow, 34, has been a trooper for six years and works out of the Guilderland barracks. Swartz, 34, has been a trooper for the past four years and works out of the Brunswick State Police barracks.This week, Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Note 9, a high-end device that matches Apple's iPhone X on the most notable item on any spec sheet: price. With the Note 9, Samsung has laid its cards on the table; in a few weeks, Apple will counter with new iPhones, including  if the rumors hold  an iPhone X Plus that properly matches up with the Galaxy Note 9.

Here's a look at some of the key Galaxy Note 9 features and how they might compare to whatever Apple has up its sleeve for next month.

Big screens are in

For all the mockery that phablets like the Galaxy Note got in the early days, the moment Apple introduced a large-screen iPhone  the iPhone 6 Plus, back in 2014  Apple saw huge sales jumps that exposed the pent-up demand from people who just wanted a bigger-screen model.

MORE: Best Smartphones - Here Are the 10 Best Phones Available

Rumors aside, it's logical that Apple would bring out a larger model of iPhone X now that the original version has a year of sales under its belt. While I expect that the iPhone X itself will get a nice feature boost this fall, it's the iPhone X Plus that would directly compete with the Galaxy Note 9.

According to a Bloomberg report, Apple plans a new 6.5-inch OLED phone with a screen in the vicinity of 2436 x 1125 pixels. That's a larger diagonal than the Note 9 has, albeit at a slightly lower screen resolution than the Samsung device's 2960 x 1440. That plus-sized iPhone would be at the same resolution as the iPhone X, so it pencils out.

The processor battle's already over

Samsung has focused on maximizing processor power under load with the "water carbon" cooling system in the Note 9, but the phone's Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 just can't compete with the A11 Bionic processor in the iPhone X, as Tom's Guide's initial tests show.

This fall's iPhones will presumably ship with the even-faster A12 processor. Designing its own processors gives Apple a big advantage, one that doesn't look to abate anytime soon.

The search for storage

The Galaxy Note 9 offers a maximum of 512GB of storage, twice what's offered in the highest-end iPhone X. (Apple does offer 512GB of storage in the iPad Pro.) It's hard to imagine a scenario in which Apple doesn't boost the top storage figure in the iPhone X Plus to 512GB, though it will undoubtedly cost a pretty penny for users to make that upgrade.

Samsung gets colorful

One of the most notable features of the Note 9 design is that it avoids traditional monochrome color styling; this new phone comes in hues of purple and blue. Back in the iMac and iPod days, Apple excelled at creating whimsical products with bright colors, but these days, the company puts out products that are almost entirely monochrome. The iPhone X's glass back is gorgeous, but you can get the phone in only black or white. The iPhone 8 has a little more variety  there's gold, silver, space gray and red  but that's it.

Will Apple finally crack and allow a little more color into the iPhone X after introducing that Product Red iPhone 8 this spring? I wouldn't put money on this happening, but I'd sure like to see it. Buying a colorful iPhone case is fun, but having a colorful phone is better.

Behold the S Pen

Samsung has included pen support with the Galaxy Note for years; it's basically a fundamental part of the product design. This year's Note 9 is no different, with an upgraded S Pen featuring Bluetooth connectivity.

After years in which the conventional wisdom  and statements from Steve Jobs  suggested that Apple would never build a stylus for a touch-screen device, the company released the Apple Pencil for the iPad Pro, seeing some success with the product. Earlier this year, Apple also introduced support for a lower-cost stylus, the Crayon, made by Logitech for the education market.

Will this be the year Apple finally accepts that some people want to write on their iPhones, too? If there was ever a time and a product for it, it's now, with the introduction of the iPhone X Plus. The existing Apple Pencil simply won't do  it's way too big for an iPhone  but Apple could introduce a smaller variant, perhaps using the simpler wireless technology included in the Logitech Crayon.

Wouldn't it be nice to sketch, or take notes, on a 6.5-inch iPhone with an OLED screen? I think so. The iOS apps are there to support this activity. It's up to Apple to build that technology in and embrace the pen just as it did the phablet.

Sticker shock

Beyond the processor speed, the place Apple's most likely to beat Samsung is in the race to see who can charge the most. The iPhone X starts at $999, just like the Galaxy Note 9. It's hard to imagine that an iPhone X Plus wouldn't start at $1,099, and with an upgrade to 512GB of storage, you might be looking at a price at or above $1,300.

The average selling price of an iPhone is currently at the highest it's ever been, thanks to the iPhone X and the slightly boosted prices of the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus. Can Apple push the cost higher still? Some would argue that raising prices is what Apple does best.

Outlook

For all of the media hype about the battle between the Galaxy Note and the iPhone, Samsung and Apple have the two largest and most loyal customer bases in the smartphone world. A slightly upgraded spec on an iPhone is unlikely to convince a Galaxy Note lover to switch brands, and vice versa.

Still, there's no denying that Samsung and Apple are fierce competitors, and Apple has made huge sales gains by pushing into terrain first explored by Samsung. If there is indeed an iPhone X Plus on the horizon, it will easily be the best competitor to the Galaxy Note yet.

Credit: Tom's Guide

A Jackson County jail inmate was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. His family found him in the I.C.U. on a ventilator. The jail said he fell off the toilet. Meanwhile, the family said it's clear to them there's a whole lot more to this story.OVERLAND PARK, Kan. - An Olathe East teacher reportedly took his own life shortly after police served a search warrant at his home in connection with possible child porn. John Derby, 46, was found dead in a field in De Soto Thursday, hours after Overland Park police seized his computer in connection with the investigation.Although it will never come to the U.S. in this guise (or any other I am afraid), I feel that we should know all there is to know about the new Ford Territory. This very car may showcase the future of Ford crossovers. Revealed for the Chinese market only, the Ford Territory is actually a reimagination of the famous Territory sold in Australia. However, unlike the Australian car which was a full-fledged Ford product, the newest Ford Territory is actually a rebadged JMC Yusheng S330. Ford developed it with Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC) to give Chinese customers another option in the sea of similar compact SUVs available there.

Overview

Regardless of its roots, the Territory takes a step in the right direction compared with other SUVs based on the platform

While it features striking looks and a good-looking cabin, I feel that the Ford Territory is actually a rushed project. Ford had to bring in a new vehicle and fast. The result is a rebadged Chinese SUV, partially designed in Melbourne Ford R&D center, but built in Xiao Lan, China.

Territory is a key proof point for how we will grow in China. We brought Territory to market with speed, high quality, and cost efficiency. It will be affordable for young families and new buyers across China, not just the coastal mega-cities. And the technology will delight customers, says Fords Asia Pacific president, Peter Fleet.

Regardless of its roots, the Territory takes a step in the right direction compared with other SUVs based on the platform. It turns out that the Yusheng S330 is a sub-$10k SUV that gives Ford a unique opportunity to sell that cheap tech, packed in another package for a lot more money. I bet Ford will price the Territory much higher than Yusheng priced its S330. This way they will give Chinese customers a sense of luxury and western sophistication for much less money than what would be needed if Ford developed its own compact SUV from the ground up.

Powertrain and Performance

Sizewise the Territory comes somewhere in between the EcoSport and the Escape

Ford did not disclose any information about what powers the Territory, but they did hint the Territory will get a 48-volt hybrid system, a plug-in hybrid system, and, I guess, a classic ICE. If that is the case, the only engine that could land in it is the 1.5-liter twin-turbocharged unit that develops 163 horsepower in the S330.

Sizewise the Territory comes somewhere in between the EcoSport and the Escape (called the Kuga on other markets), thus making it quite interesting, even for buyers here. Dont worry though, the Territory, regardless of its macho name, wont be coming in the U.S. While the car itself wont be coming here, some of its tech may inspire new crossovers. The 48-volt hybrid setup is my favorite as it could land in the new Ford SUVs. Considering the fact that Ford plans to slash its car offering to only two cars, having highly efficient propulsion systems for big, ungainly SUVs is a must.

Conclusion

Ford will introduce 40 electrified models by 2022, almost all of them will be SUVs, and the Territory falls in a segment that is largely left unexplored in the U.S.

The Territory is a scary good window into Ford future. Get this - Ford will introduce 40 electrified models by 2022, almost all of them will be SUVs, and the Territory falls in a segment that is largely left unexplored in the U.S. While I am not sure if the Territory would work here in the shape it is made for China, its interior filled with standard leather, standard Ford infotainment system, Co-Pilot360 driver safety, and FordPass Connect would definitely find some admirers. Cmon Ford, give us interior as clean as this.

Further reading

Top Selling Model: Ford F-Series Trucks

Read more Ford news.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, August 11

Sleuths from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), in a joint operation with custom authorities, confiscated gold worth Rs 1.50 crore from Sri Guru Ram Das Ji International Airport here on Friday.

They also nabbed the agent of a company who had come take the delivery of the gold. The consignment that reportedly came from Thailand arrived through cargo of a private airline. Further investigation is under way.

Meanwhile, the custom authorities also nabbed a passenger from Afghanistan, Saddam Ufzali. He was carrying over 400 gm of gold in an illegal manner. He had kept it in his shoes.editorial@tribune.com

BATHINDA: The local police have confiscated a truck illegally carrying 13 cows to a slaughter house on the Bathinda-Malout road near an Ambuja cement factory. The police also arrested three persons in this regard.

The accused have been identified as Arshad, Furgan and Kalwa, all residents of UP. A case under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, has been registered at the Thermal police station. Police officers said they got information that a truck was carrying cow illegally.  TNSsanjiv@tribunemail.com

New Delhi: The government on Friday said there is no proposal to withdraw Rs 2,000 note. Replying to query whether the government is considering withdrawal of Rs 2,000 notes, MoS for Finance Pon Radhakrishnan said in the Lok Sabha, There is no such proposal. Specified Bank Notes were received by the RBI either directly or from bank branches or post offices through the currency chest mechanism and were subjected to verification for authentication and numeral accuracy, he said. PTIROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, August 12

The entire garbage of the city has once again returned to the Dadu Majra dumping ground as one of the major machines of the JP garbage plant has broken down.

While officials of the garbage plant said the machine would be repaired by Monday, the fault has increased the pain of residents of Dadu Majra due to stench. Sources said the trommel machine broke down two days ago due to wet garbage. The machine takes all garbage from the dumpers and sends it to the plant, but for the past two days, no garbage is being taken inside the plant due to the fault. An officer of the plant said engineers were working on the machine and it was likely to start functioning from Monday.

The plant faced the wrath of residents for not processing the entire garbage. Recently, the Governor and the Mayor visited the plant and directed to improve its functioning.ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

our Correspondent

Zirakpur, August 12

The Dhakoli police on Saturday night arrested two persons and booked five unidentified people for allegedly manhandling local lensmen outside a discotheque at Zirakpur.

Nirmal Singh, investigating officer (IO), said the accused, Brij Bhushan, manager of Hypnotic Lounge bar, and Dilpreet Singh had been arrested for manhandling the lensmen.

The IO said the police reached the discotheque following a complaint that a party was on there even after 12 midnight. The main door of the discotheque was closed, but inside the party was going on in full swing when the police reached, much to the shock of revellers. In the meantime, photo journalists also reached there and tried to record the incident.

The police said the employees, along with a few bouncers deputed at the discotheque, entered into a scuffle with the photojournalists while they were clicking pictures, which led to the attack. It has been learnt that the bouncers also snatched their cameras during the attack.

Acting on a complaint of the lensmen, the police have registered a case against Brij Bhushan and Dilpreet Singh, who have been arrested, and five others, who are yet to be identified, at the Dhakoli police station.

Discotheque owners are reportedly flouting the norms by not closing these at the prescribed time. According to the orders of the District Magistrate, these are supposed to be closed at midnight.editorial@tribune.com

Nabha, August 12

Jasmel Singh, a local resident who was based in Abbotsford, Canada, was killed after a blast at his house on Friday. The incident took place a week ahead of the marriage of the deceaseds daughter, for which preparations were going on in the house.

Victims son-in-law Bablu Khera said there was a massive blast in the garage of the house. He said Jasmel Singh died on the spot, while eight others escaped unhurt. He said by the time the fire tender arrived at the site, the entire house was engulfed in fire.

Khera said the reason behind the blast was not known yet. The family had been living in Canada for 30 years, he said.  TNSuttara@tribuneindia.com

New York, August 12

The teenager son of a police chief in California, who brutally assaulted a 71-year-old Sikh man, grinned and made obscene gestures during his first court appearance, according to a media report.

Sahib Singh Natt was attacked last week and spit at by 18-year-old Tyrone McAllister and his 16-year-old juvenile friend in Manteca, California. McAllister, the son of Union City Police Chief Darryl McAllister, and the juvenile have been charged with attempted robbery, elder abuse and assault with a deadly weapon.

On Friday, younger McAllister entered the courtroom and flipped his middle fingers to a cameraman. He then dropped his hands before throwing up his middle finger a second time, Sacramento's FOX 40 reported.

He appeared to be grinning, and made suspected gang signs while his hands were cuffed, the report added.

Younger McAllister appeared in the court for his arraignment. No bail was set for the teen.

The attack on Natt during his morning walk was captured by surveillance cameras and showed the two teenagers beating the old man while dressed in hoodies. One, who was wearing a black hoodie, was brandishing a gun.

Investigators were still looking into whether the attack meets the legal criteria for charging a hate crime, the report said.

"As to whether it was just a crime or a hate crime, I'm of the opinion that at this point, looking at the videos, that it's just a crime committed by some young people," Bobby Bivens, president of the Stockton branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People, was quoted as saying. PTImonicakchauhan@gmail.com

New York, August 12

US Attorney General Jeff Sessions has erroneously referred to Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla, who was shot dead in a hate crime at a suburban Kansas City bar last year, as a Sikh.

A US Navy veteran was last week awarded three consecutive life sentences on federal hate crime charges for killing Kuchibhotla and wounding two others at a suburban Kansas City bar last year.

Adam Purinton of Olathe shot and killed 32-year-old Kuchibhotla, and wounded two others Indian national Alok Madasani and Kansas resident Ian Grillot at Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas, in February 2017.

Sessions, America's top law enforcement official said this while addressing the Alliance Defending Freedom's Summit on Religious Liberty on August 8, a day after Purinton was awarded three consecutive life sentences.

"Yesterday, we obtained a life sentence for a man who murdered an Indian-American man, a Sikh as it turned out, because he thought he was a Muslim," Sessions said in his remarks at the summit.

"This is the kind of horrible things we do not need to allow in this country," Sessions added in his speech, the video of which is available online.

While Sessions did not name Kuchibhotla, the reference was to the August 7 sentencing of Purinton when he was handed down three consecutive life terms for killing the Hyderabad native.

The mistake of wrongly identifying Kuchibhotla as a Sikh was pointed out by PTI here to the Department of Justice's Office of Public Affairs.

Later, an official from the public affairs office, responding to PTI's email seeking comment on the error, said that an updated speech has been uploaded on the Department of Justice's website. In the updated version of Sessions' remarks, the error has been rectified.

The updated version of Sessions' remarks removed the Sikh reference and now states that "yesterday, we obtained a life sentence for a man who murdered an Indian-American man because he thought he was Muslim."

It mentions at the end of the remarks that "The original version of this speech mistakenly identified the victim of a hate crime as Sikh."

Kuchibhotla hailed from Hyderabad and had worked at Garmin as a senior aviation systems engineer in Kansas. He and Madasani were sitting in the Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe when Purinton approached them and demanded to know where they were from and how they entered the country. Purinton poked Kuchibhotla in the chest, called him a "terrorist" and an epithet disparaging persons of Middle Eastern descent, and shouted, "Get out of my country!" Aiming at Kuchibhotla and Madasani, Purinton had fired eight rounds from his semi-automatic pistol, at least four of which struck Kuchibhotla, who died from his injuries, and one of which struck Madasani, who was injured. Hours after the shooting, Purinton stated over the phone to a friend, and later in person to a bartender, that he had just killed some "Iranians." In his remarks, Sessions also said the Department is aggressively enforcing the country's civil rights laws, hate crimes laws, and laws protecting churches and faith groups.

Since January 2017, the Department obtained 11 indictments and eight convictions in cases involving arson or other attacks or threats against houses of worship. The Civil Rights Division has also obtained 13 indictments in other attacks or threats against people because of their religion.

"And we are not slowing down. Three weeks ago, we obtained a jury verdict against a man who set fire to a mosque in Texas and a man from Missouri for threatening to kill members of a mosque," he said. PTIvermaajay1968@gmail.com

The sharp fall in prices of sugar over the past few months could spell doom for the 16 private and cooperative sugar mills of Punjab. Sugar prices have dropped from Rs 3,600 per quintal in September-October 2017 (ahead of the 2017-18 cane crushing season) to Rs 2,600 per quintal in April this year. After the cane crushing season got over in May this year, sugar prices stabilised at around Rs 3,200 per quintal.

This sharp fluctuation in sugar prices has made most of the nine cooperative sugar mills across Punjab unviable and the seven private sugar mills are protesting against any bid by the Punjab Government to hike state advised price (SAP) of sugarcane for the next crushing season, which is scheduled to begin from mid November.

In fact, the private mills have already told the state government that they won't pay SAP to the farmers, but only pay the fair and remunerative price (FRP) decided by the government (Rs 261.25 per quintal in case the sugar recovery rate is less than 9.5 per cent or Rs 275 per quintal in case the sugar recovery rate is more than 9.5 per cent). SAP, which is decided by the state government, is generally higher than the FRP. It was fixed at Rs 310 per quintal last year.

"The cost of production of sugar is Rs 3,700 per quintal. With the price dropping, because of the over- production of sugar in India since the 2016-17 crushing season, the mills are able to realise just Rs 3,000 per quintal as sugar price. Thus, it's not feasible for the mills to give SAP to farmers. If the state government insists, we can pay the FRP (Rs 261 of Rs 275 per quintal) and the balance amount of SAP (Rs 35-Rs 50 per quintal) can be paid by the state government to farmers," says Inderbir Singh Rana, managing director of Rana Sugars, the largest private sugar mill in Punjab.

Jarnail Singh Wahid, president of the Punjab Private Sugar Mills Association, says that the low trending sugar prices are not even covering the cost of procuring sugarcane from farmers. "We can bear some loss by paying the FRP announced by the Centre, but paying SAP would bleed us."

The state government, which had tried to fix SAP last year, but later buckled under the pressure of sugarcane farmers, realises that it can't push the private mills, which crush 70 per cent of the total cane, into paying a higher SAP. "We won't increase SAP, but SAP of Rs 295 to Rs 310 per quintal fixed last year will have to be paid by all mills," says a senior officer in the government.

Both the private as well as cooperative sugar mills in the state have not yet cleared the dues of sugarcane farmers for the 2017-18 cane crushing season. "While the private sugar mills are yet to clear dues of Rs 448 crore, the cooperative sugar mills are yet to clear dues of Rs 290 crore. The dues are pending because of fall in sugar prices, and our effort is to force the mills to clear the dues before the next crushing season begins," adds the officer.

Meanwhile, realising that cooperative sugar mills are unviable because of old machinery and their inability to innovate into sugar complexes, an expert group formed by the government has recommended that at least two sugar mills at Nakodar and Ajnala be handed over to a private entity for operations, and the setting up of a sugar complex by utilising the infrastructure of Budhewal and Morinda Cooperative Sugar mills. The issue is being "actively" considered by the government.

Please email your feedback at infocus@tribunemail.comeditorial@tribune.com

Amir Karim Tantray

Tribune News Service

Jammu, August 12

Even though the intensity of firing on the Line of Control (LoC) has come down and the International Border (IB) is witnessing peace, the ceasefire violation by Pakistan on the borders this year has been the highest in the past eight years.

The ceasefire violations have also led to major casualties to civilians and security forces.

According to official data, Pakistan has violated the truce agreement this year on both LoC and IB over 1,432 times, killing 59 security personnel and civilians.

Of the 1,432 ceasefire violations, the Pakistan Rangers have violated the agreement 490 times on the IB alone, said the data released by the government a few days ago.

When the data was released, the casualty count stood at 55. The death count has, however, increased with the killing of the four soldiers, including a Major, in the Gurez sector on Tuesday, taking the number to 59.

India shares the 198-km-long IB with Pakistan in the Jammu region, while the LoC, the dividing line between Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistani-occupied Kashmir, is 740 kilometres long.

The LoC is the most volatile border in the state which sees ceasefire violations, infiltration and narcoterrorism. The IB is manned by the BSF while the LoC is under the operational control of the Army with the BSF battalions posted at a few places.

As many as 133 infiltration attempts have been made this year. Of them, 69 have been successful.

According to the data, Pakistan had in 2017 violated the truce agreement 771 times on both LoC and IB and 449 times in 2016. The figure was 405 in 2015, 583 in 2014, 405 in 2013, 347 in 2013, 114 in 2012, 62 in 2011 and 70 in 2010.

Around 30 people, including security personnel, were killed in 2017.

Since May-end, the IB has seen relative calm and the intensity of firing on the LoC has decreased.

Peace pact violated 1,432 times

* Pakistan has violated the truce agreement this year on both LoC and IB over 1,432 times, killing 59 security personnel and civilians

* In 2017, Pakistan violated the truce agreement 771 times on both LoC and IB and 449 times in 2016. The number of ceasefire violations were 405 in 2015, 583 in 2014, 405 in 2013, 347 in 2013, 114 in 2012, 62 in 2011 and 70 in 2010editorial@tribune.com

Samaan Lateef

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, August 12

In a major setback to Kashmirs age-old silk industry, the previous PDP-BJP government had approved the construction of nearly 200 VIP apartments on 92-kanal sericulture land in Srinagar.

The decision, which was taken by former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, is likely to push for the closure of the silk industry even as the state administration led by Governor NN Vohra has shown keen interest in the revival of industrial units with historic importance for Kashmir.

Sanction is hereby accorded to the transfer of the state land measuring 92 kanals under the possession of the sericulture department situated in Srinagar district to the estates department for the construction of residential flats for VIPs, MLAs and government employees, reads a Cabinet order of April 2018 kept under wraps by the officials to date.

Officials said the estates department was considering building more than 200 houses for former ministers, MLAs and officers on the sericulture land in the Solina-Barzulla, Batamaloo and Lachmanpora localities of Srinagar. Lakhs of mulberry plants are grown in these nurseries before being sent to rural areas for further growth and production of silk.

Kashmir has been historically famous for producing best quality silk. Official data reveals that nearly 3.5 lakh people were associated with the silk industry while the sericulture farming has spread from 2,450 to 2,838 villages in this decade.

The decision to transfer the land for construction purposes has not gone down well with the people associated with the sericulture business. It is an announcement of the closure of silk trade in Kashmir, said Mushtaq Ali, a trader.

Kashmir filature, which used to produce raw silk, reeled its last silk yarns in 1988. After three decades, the Vohra-led administration on July 24 reopened the Kashmir filature at Solina, Rambagh, installed by Sir Thomas Wardle, president of the Silk Association of Great Britain in 1897.pardeepdhull@gmail.com

Majid Jahangir

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, August 12

A policeman of the Special Operation Group (SOG) was killed and five security men were injured in a gunfight that raged in a Srinagars congested Batamaloo locality on Sunday morning.

The gunfight started around 4 am when joint teams of the J&K Police and CRPF launched a cordon and search operation after inputs about presence of two to three militants in the area.

The CASO turned into a gunfight when hiding militants fired indiscriminately upon the security forces. In the initial gunfight, three policemen and an equal number of the CRPF men were injured. One of the injured policemen later succumbed to injuries, a senior security officer said.

There has been no fresh exchange of fire between the two sides as militants in the area may have escaped from the gunbattle site taking advantage of darkness. However, the search operation is going on in the area.

The slain cop was identified as Selection Grade Constable Parvaiz Ahmed, a resident of village Dandote in Rajouri district.

A police spokesman in Srinagar said militants were hiding in a house which had a proper hideout.

While the searches in the area were going on, terrorist hiding in a house fired indiscriminately on the security forces. However, security forces exercised maximum restraint in retaliation considering the residential population and other civil establishments around the area, the spokesman said.

The police also detained two accomplices of the militants.

Incriminating material was recovered from the site of encounter. Besides two accomplices of the terrorists have been detained, he said.

A group of youth later pelted the security forces with stones near the encounter site.

Mobile Internet services were suspended in Srinagar district as a precautionary security measure.

The gunfight in the Srinagar locality comes just three days ahead of the Independence Day. Batamaloo, the area where the gunfight took place, is barely 4-5 km from the main venue of the Independence-Day function in Srinagar.

This month there has been a series of gunfight that left at least 16 militants and six security men dead.

Meanwhile, a wreath-laying ceremony for Parvaiz was held at District Police Lines Srinagar.

Senior Civil and Police officers paid rich tributes to the martyr and laid floral wreaths on the mortal remains for his supreme sacrifice made in the line of duty, today at Batamaloo Srinagar, the spokesman said.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, August 11

Luo Zhaohui, Chinese envoy, during this visit to Dr Kotnis Acupuncture Hospital at Salem Tabri on Friday was all praise for Sikh culture. He has written a book on Sikh culture in Chinese in which he has traced the history of Sikh Gurus.

I feel honoured to wear a turban, he said as he donned the turban throughout his visit to the hospital.

He donned a turban and drank lassi like a Punjabi. After India, China is the second country to follow yoga and open a yoga medical college.

He said he had also met Chief Minister Amarinder Singh who had assured him of starting an acupuncture hospital in the state. He expressed his happiness over the fact that India was also adopting the Chinese form of medicine.

The envoy said many Chinese investors were willing to invest in India.Sumit Paul

Sumit Paul

IN these highly polarised times when the binary of they and us is becoming increasingly blatant and boorish, a heart-warming memory of religious munificence still gladdens my heart and mind. This happened more than a decade ago when I just got my doctorate degree and to acknowledge my gratitude towards an erudite Indian Muslim professor who helped me a lot, I phoned him that I would come to India during Eid-al-Adha (Bakr Eid) en route to Karachi. I met the late Dr Rehan Qadir and his spouse in Calcutta. Both insisted that I must stay with them.

But I had this extremely uncomfortable feeling that they would sacrifice a goat. But no qurbani happened at the professors place. Instead, we went to an orphanage and spent time with the inmates distributing clothes and food among them. We fed the poor at Kalighat. I wondered why they did not sacrifice a goat on the occasion of Eid. Aapne qurbani nahin di? I enquired, to which they just smiled, and said nothing. I went to Karachi from there and sent a handwritten letter to them, wondering why they refrained from offering a sacrifice on a sacred day.

What Dr Qadir wrote is still etched in my memory. He wrote in Urdu which I am translating into English, No religion can be greater than fellow-feeling and empathy. You were our esteemed guest and we knew that you never touched meat in your life. It would have been terribly uncomfortable for you, had we sacrificed a goat during your stay at our place. Allah understands the intentions and makes concessions. Moreover, we sacrificed our ardent wish to sacrifice on Eid-al-Adah because Allah says in the Quran, Sacrifice what is closest to your heart and dearest to you.

This is the spirit of fellow-feeling and the essence of all religions. My Muslim host sacrificed his (religious) wish to sacrifice for my sake. Ostensibly, he went against the diktats of his faith. But that did not deter him. In fact, he served his religion in a manner Allah would have approved of.

The core of any religion or religious practice is humanity. To sacrifice an animal is literal. The sacrifice of ego, which is dearest to us, is of paramount importance. The Sufis and mystics urged the followers to sacrifice all vices and get rid of ana (egoism). Until the ego disappears, self-realisation will continue to elude us.

Hafiz Shirazi says in a Persian couplet: Ya rakhtam bizaat-e-me izq/ shaist un ana nizq (Until your I is completely dissolved, no sacrifice will be adequate).

Let us go beyond sacrificial totemism and understand the crux of a religion and its practices. Creating goodwill is the universal message of all religions.monicakchauhan@gmail.com

Jaipur, August 12

Two couples allegedly committed suicide by jumping in front of trains in Rajasthan's Sikar and Jalore districts apparently over their failed love affair, the policed said on Sunday.

In Sikar district, Pawan Kumar Meena (27) and Seema Meena (20) jumped in front of a freight train. The bodies were handed over to their family members after post-mortem, a police official said.

In Jalore district, Satish Mali (18) and Aarti Sain (18) jumped in front of Gandhidham-Jodhpur Express train, police said.

The duo had left their homes on Saturday and was found dead on rail tracks. The matter has been registered under section 174 of CrPc, acting SHO of Jalore's Kotwali Police Station Bhagirath Ram said. PTIgspannu7@gmail.com

Ahmedabad/Vadodara, August 12

Seven members of a family, all minors, were killed when their car fell into a ditch in Gujarats Panchmahal district, police said on Sunday.

The incident happened around midnight yesterday when one of the rear wheels of the car, carrying 10 people, came off at a sharp turn on the Halol-Bodeli road, near Bhat village in Jambughoda tehsil, located around 180 km from here.

As a result, the driver lost control over the vehicle, which plunged into a roadside ditch filled with water, an official at the Jambughoda police station said.

While the locals managed to rescue three people, seven others could not be saved, he added.

All the deceased belonged to the same family in Bodeli town. They were returning after meeting a relative in Halol, the police official said.

The three people rescued by the locals were taken to a hospital in Jambughoda. The bodies were also sent to the same hospital for post-mortem, he added.

The deceased were identified as Mohammad Bilal (17), Mohammad Rouf (14), Mohammad Sajid (13), Gul Afroz (13), Asina Banu (11), Mohammad Tahir (11) and Mohammad Yusuf (7), the official said.

Two children, identified as Tasleem and Pareen, have been admitted to a nearby hospital, officials said.

The seven children were buried in Bodeli town of Chhota Udepur district, about 60 km from Vadodara, in the evening today with the town observing a shutdown to mourn the tragedy.

A case was registered in connection with the incident, he added.  PTIamansharma@tribunemail.com

New Delhi, August 12

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) plans to contest the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in a focused manner, restricting itself to fielding candidates in around 100 seats, primarily in Punjab, Haryana and Delhi among the states in north India.

This is in contrast with the 2014 general elections, where the party had fielded over 400 candidates across the country, but managed to win just four seats in Punjab.

"The party feels that there is no point fighting in all seats. So, plans are to contest around 80 to 100 seats where we are in a better position to influence the results," said AAP's Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh, who is also the in-charge of party's Uttar Pradesh and Bihar units.

Punjab, Haryana and AAP's home turf Delhi will be where the party would focus to win maximum seats in 2019, he said.

The party will also field candidates for some Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. In Bihar and Uttar Pradesh too, AAP plans to field candidates in some seats.

In Uttar Pradesh, the party is looking to contest in 10 to 15 seats, Singh said.

In Delhi, the AAP has announced in-charges for five of the seven Lok Sabha constituencies. They have already actively engaged with local cadre in organising meetings and campaigns there.

The fate of two parliamentary constituencies-New Delhi and West Delhi-for which no one was named as in-charge amid rumours of a tie-up with the Congress, is yet to be decided as AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal, during his visit to Haryana recently, ruled out the party's participation in any alliance.

In Punjab, where the AAP managed to win four Lok Sabha seats in the last Lok Sabha elections and is the main opposition in the state Assembly, efforts will be made to enhance the influence of the party, Singh said.

"We would like to increase our footprint in Punjab by winning more than four seats, this time," the AAP leader said, adding the party may also contest in some seats in Gujarat where the organisation is strong.

Haryana is another state where the AAP aspires to open its account in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Party leaders believe that voters of Haryana, which is home state of Kejriwal and where local leader Navin Jaihind has been involved in grassroots organisational work, are ready to respond favourably to AAP in the coming general elections. - PTI

FOCUS ON NORTHeditorial@tribune.com

New Delhi, August 12

India should encourage Bhutan to ensure increase in the deployment of soldiers around Northern Doklam in the Sikkim sector to check activities of the Chinese military in the sensitive region, a parliamentary panel has suggested in its draft report.

The Parliamentary Panel on External Affairs, headed by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, felt that increasing the number of soldiers in North Doklam was important for safeguarding India's strategic interests in the region.

The draft report, circulated among the panel's members on August 6, did not clarify whether the committee was favouring increasing the deployment of Indian troops in the region.

Troops of India and China were locked in a 73-day standoff in Doklam in the Sikkim sector from June 16 last year after the Indian side stopped construction of a road in the disputed tri-junction by the Chinese army.

Bhutan and China have a dispute over Doklam and both the countries have been holding talks to resolve the issue. The parliamentary panel also suggested that India should remain alert and watchful in the Doklam area even though last year's face-off between Indian and Chinese armies was resolved peacefully.  PTImonicakchauhan@gmail.com

Bhopal, August 12

The opposition Congress has claimed that a director of a hostel, who has been arrested for allegedly raping a deaf and mute tribal girl and molesting two others, is an "activist of the RSS" and "enjoys the blessings" of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Ashwini Sharma, the director of a hostel for deaf and mute persons located in the Awadhpuri area of Bhopal, was arrested on Wednesday on the basis of a police complaint filed by an inmate, who accused him of repeatedly raping her during her stay in the hostel over the last three years.

Two more girls, who had previously stayed in the hostel, also filed a case of molestation against the accused on Thursday, following which the police slapped charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act as well since one of them was a minor when the alleged incident took place in 2017.

"Ashwini Sharma is an activist of the RSS and he enjoys Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's blessings," Madhya Pradesh Congress's chief spokesperson Shobha Oza said.

She also released a video, in which Sharma is seen standing close to Chouhan and touching the latter's feet.

Oza alleged that Sharma's Facebook account was deleted to hide his connection with BJP leaders.

She accused Chouhan of "hypocrisy", saying while the chief minister described himself as the "mama" (maternal uncle) of the girls of the state, he was blessing those accused of rape.

While the police had yesterday announced the setting up of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the case, Oza said the Congress did not have "faith" in it.

Inspector General (IG) of Police (Bhopal) Jaydeep Prasad had told PTI yesterday that the SIT would comprise Rahul Lodha, Superintendent of Police (SP), Bhopal City South, additional superintendents of police Rashmi Mishra and Dinesh Kaushal, city SP Virendra Mishra and Awadhpuri Inspector ML Bhati.

"The state government has hurriedly formed an SIT. We do not have faith in it. The accused has political patronage, so a CBI inquiry has become all the more important," Oza said.

State Congress chief Kamal Nath had yesterday shot off a letter to Chouhan, seeking a probe into the incident by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Oza also lashed out at the state government's announcement yesterday that the collectors and SPs of all the districts would inspect the hostels for women on a monthly basis to ensure that such incidents do not happen again.

She said a similar incident had happened in a hostel in Sehore, the chief minister's home district, "two-three years ago" and despite announcements of monthly inspections at the time, nothing of the sort happened.

Meanwhile, SP Lodha said the members of the SIT met today and they were probing the case from all angles.

IG Prasad said the police were close to filing a chargesheet in the case. PTIeditorial@tribune.com

Aditi Tandon

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 12

The Congress on Sunday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his remarks that the Opposition unity was about rank opportunism and would crumble in a matter of time.

Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said PMs remarks were best described as Mungeri Lal ke haseen sapney. The truth is the country has united against an anarchist and autocratic PM. The house of cards is waiting to come down in 2019, Surjewala said after the PMs comments.

Close on the heels of the no-confidence motion against the government which fell in the Lok Sabha and the election to the post of Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha, which the BJP won, the PM told a news agency in an interview that the NDA was expanding while the Opposition coalition was shaking.

The Mahagathbandhan is a front for personal survival, not ideological support; for personal ambitions, not for peoples aspirations. Its purely about power politics, not about peoples mandate; is about dynasties, not development; is not about any union of minds or ideas, but about rank opportunism. The only question is whether they will break up before the election or after! a combative PM said citing the results of no-confidence motion and RS deputy chiefs poll as a victory for the NDA unity and loss for the anti-BJP front.

Although leaders like CPIs D Raja dismissed PMs remarks as an expression of his fear insisting that the anti-BJP forces were together, the just concluded monsoon session of Parliament did not bode well either for Opposition unity or floor coordination.

The government took the Opposition by surprise thrice. One, by accepting the no-confidence motion former BJP ally TDP brought with the support of Congress-led Opposition. Two, by suddenly announcing a little expected election to the post of RS deputy chiefs post. Three, by accepting major amendments the Opposition had suggested to the anti-instant triple talaq Bill and trying to bring it in the RS again.

Though the BJP victory in the no-confidence vote was never in doubt, its ability to ensure 325 votes against Oppositions 126 revealed fine floor management.

In the RS Deputy Chairmans election too, the Opposition was caught unawares with a sudden announcement by House Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu. The UPA was struggling for a nominee till the very end with the Congress ultimately fielding its MP BK Hariprasad, while SP, NCP and TMC backed out. Despite attempts, the Congress could not get the Shiv Sena and BJD on board. On the contrary, the BJP, by fielding JDUs Harivansh, secured the support of Naveen Patnaik-led BJD.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Mumbai, August 12

Members of the Dhangar or shepherd community will hit the streets across Maharashtra on Monday to demand reservation in educational institutions and government jobs.

Banded together under the banner of the Dhangar Sangharsh Samiti, members of the community will hold protests from 10 am to 6 pm on Monday. The shepherd community, which exists in large numbers in western and northern Maharashtra, Marathwada and Vidarbha regions, will hold protests at local district headquarters.

We are demanding to be classified as Scheduled Tribes that would allow us to avail more quota in educational institutions and government jobs, says BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Dr Vikas Mahatme.

According to him, there are around one crore members of the Dhangar community in Maharashtra. They are classified as nomadic tribes, which are eligible for small quotas in educational institutions and government jobs.

Dr Mahatme said organisations representing the community had asked its members not to resort to violence during Monday's protests.

According to him, leaders of the community chose August 13 for the protests because it marked the death anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar, who ruled the Malwa kingdom for around 30 years.

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Government has claimed that efforts were being made to fulfil demands of the Dhangar community.editorial@tribune.com

Ajay Banerjee

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 12

In an important signal on optimum use of available funds, the armed forces have been asked to avoid fresh accretions  adding any more numbers to the existing strength  while continuing with right-sizing of the Army, Navy and the Air Force.

The matter of force numbers, the resultant man-power costs and redundancy caused due to technological upgrades was raised by a top government official at the two-day Unified Commanders Conference held in New Delhi on July 30 and July 31, sources confirmed to The Tribune. The matter of not increasing numbers was referred to and the rising costs were discussed, a functionary confirmed about the meeting.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) is clear: Addition of new equipment (modernisation) does not mean a corresponding rise in the strength of men, said sources. The foundation of this was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi very early into his tenure. In his address at one such conference in December 2015, Modi said: Modernisation and expansion of forces at the same time is a difficult and unnecessary goal. Over the last decade, the armed forces have absorbed a fair amount of technological developments, including communications and digitisation, which means some of the troops can be redeployed.

The high-powered Defence Planning Council (DPC), at its first meeting in May this year, asked for leaner, meaner and restructured armed forces ready for future wars enabled by proper use of budgetary allocations. Army Chief General Bipin Rawat had ordered restructuring of the Army on June 12 this year.

The Army, the biggest of the three armed forces, about 1.3-million strong, has been asked to improve its teeth-to-tail ratio. In simple words, it means have more fighting units and reduce non-fighting numbers. Last year, the MoD announced a major change as 57,000 officers and soldiers were to be redeployed to have more combat-oriented roles by 2019.

It was an outcome of a committee headed by Lt Gen DB Shekatkar (retd), which suggested 99 points for structural changes in the Army, among them being cutting down flab and reducing revenue (maintenance) expenditure. Of these, the MoD has accepted 65 suggestions.

Focus on right-sizingeditorial@tribune.com

Deepkamal Kaur

Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, August 12

The Kerala police team, in city to probe the rape charges against Jalandhar Bishop Franco Mulakkal, was reportedly told by a few nuns it interrogated on Sunday about a programme titled A day with the shepherd that the Bishop ran during 2014-16.

After prayers, the Bishop would summon nuns, at times in private, till 10 pm in the night. The programme was reportedly scrapped after some of them raised objections. It was in this connection that the Kerala police on Sunday questioned Father Antony, director of a pastoral centre near Trinity College, for more than three hours.

It was in a hall at this pastoral centre that the programme was held.

The Kerala police team, led by Vaikom DSP K Subhash, reportedly looked for entries in computers or otherwise for those attending the programme held during the tenure of Sister Regina, Superior General of Missionaries of Jesus. The complainant nun, who worked on the post before her, left Jalandhar for Kerala in 2013.

Father Peter, PRO, Jalandhar Diocese, said the programme was started in June 2014.

It was run for a year and a half. Started at the insistence of the nuns, there would be prayers and motivational sessions during the day after which the nuns would go to the Bishop for personal questions or confession. Even if held in private till late, the door was always kept ajar. The programme was stopped as the Bishops responsibilities increased and he had no time for it.

Some elements within our community are attempting to malign the Bishop, put pressure on the investigating team and mislead the public, he maintained. The Kottayam police chief said they were trying to ascertain the motive and had quizzed Father Antony. The team also visited Majitha in Amritsar to quiz a cousin of the complainant nun, Father Sebastian Pallasery.editorial@tribune.com

Shubhadeep Choudhury

Tribune News Service

Kolkata, August 12

Controversial retired High Court judge CS Karnan has kicked up a fresh controversy. He has refused to vacate the official residence allotted to him in Kolkata, saying the flat had served as a court and the order passed by him from the court against eight SC judges still awaits execution.

Karnan, who underwent six months imprisonment for contempt of court following a Supreme Court order, has said he cannot leave the house till his order against eight SC judges, including then CJI JS Kehar and the incumbent CJI Dipak Misra, is executed.

In a letter addressed to Registrar General of Calcutta HC, Karnan said he passed a judicial order against the eight SC judges under the atrocities Act on May 8, 2017. Since he was barred by the SC from attending the HC, so the order against the SC judges was pronounced from his residence by treating it as a makeshift court, Karnan said.

Karnan, who was asked by the SC to undergo psychiatric evaluation, said as a lawful tenant, he was prepared to pay rent for the flat to its owners and if necessary, he was even ready to purchase the property. Karnan retired on June 12 last year, a week before he was taken into custody by the police from Coimbatore on the instructions of the SC after he evaded arrest for more than a month.monicakchauhan@gmail.com

Lucknow, August 12

Claiming threat to his life from underworld don Dawood Ibrahim, a BSP MLA from Ballia has lodged a complaint with the police, which are probing the case.

"On August 6, I got a text message asking me to check my email. I did not take it seriously then and thought I would check it later, as at that time I was in Delhi. Generally I get emails from youngsters who send their biodata to me, so I thought I would check it sometime later," MLA Uma Shankar Singh told reporters here today.

Singh is an MLA from Rasra in Ballia district.

He said two days later he got another message from the same number.

"On August 8, I got a message from the same number which read 'last warning, jeena yaa marna Rs 1 crore'," he said.

"On checking the email, I saw the photograph of Dawood Ibrahim. The email also said 'Uma Shankar, you are serving the people of Ballia. If you want to continue this, then give Rs 1 crore, else one bullet is enough for you. And we can kill you at any point of time'," the legislator said.

The BSP MLA said, "When I checked the number on the truecaller (a mobile application to detect the person handling a particular mobile number), it was Dawood Ibrahim text group."

"Singh has lodged a police complaint in this regard and an FIR has been registered against unknown persons under various sections of the IPC and the IT Act for threatening him via text messages and email," said SO Gomtinagar DP Tiwari. PTIeditorial@tribune.com

Anirudh Gupta

Ferozepur, August 12

Fourty-seven years after four spans of the bridge over the Sutlej along the Hussainiwala barrage were blown off by Indian troops during the 1971 India-Pakistan war to prevent Pakistani armoured forces from advancing towards Ferozepur, Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday dedicated a new bridge at the site.

Completed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), this strategically important 280-foot-long bridge will benefit residents of 12 border

villages in Hussainiwala enclave, besides supporting offensive operations towards Kasur, located south of Lahore in Pakistan.

Sitharaman said it was an honour for her to inaugurate the bridge  blown off on the night of December 3-4, 1971  at this historic and sacred place where martyrs Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru were unceremoniously cremated by the British.

After the 1971 war, the Army built a Bailey bridge to restore communication from the Hussainiwala barrage to Ferozepur. As the temporary bridge developed cracks, the Army decided to replace it. Subsequently, the BRO was entrusted with Project Chetak. Engineers of 49 Border Road Task Force completed the new bridge on existing piers and abutment.

This bridge will promote business, agriculture and better movement of Army vehicles and ammunition, Sitharaman said, lauding the BRO for completing the project ahead of schedule.

We will never allow the enemy to occupy an inch of space of this land ever, she told the jawans who raised slogans of Western Command Zindabad. At the National Martyrs Memorial, a teary-eyed Sitharaman paid tributes to the martyrs.

Meanwhile, Punjab minister Rana Gurmit Singh Sodhi and MP Sher Singh Ghubaya handed over memorandums to her. Sodhi demanded that farmers with land-holdings between the barbed wire fence and Zero Line be paid relief at Rs 20,000 per acre and they be granted proprietary rights.uttara@tribuneindia.com

Vibha Sharma

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 12



On the World Elephant Daythe celebration of mystical and mythological gaja, India's national heritageanimal conservationists and rights activists have expressed concerns about loss of their habitats and corridors, leading to a rise in number of human-elephant conflicts.

Actually, there are two main concerns: one, though the number of elephants are increasing, their natural habitats are shrinking and getting fragmented. And two, development activities inside protected areasbuilding of rail lines, dams, infrastructure projects et alare adding to the pressures, driving them out of the habitat to engage in more conflicts with humans.

Prerna Singh Bindra a conservationist and former member of the National Board for Wildlife says India must afford protection to elephant habitats and corridors if it wants to save the "benign social" animal.

On an average about 80 elephants are killed each year in India. Between 2009-10 and 2016-17 approximately 655 elephant deaths were reported due to human-wildlife conflict and of these more than 120 deaths were due to train accidents, she says.

Jose Louies, head of the crime control division at the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), adds the government, the Centre that is, must build a conservation policy and infrastructure that is elephant-friendly. It is doable. Rather a long-sighted development vision would only help India gain given the scope of wildlife tourism. But elephant killings have increased due to man-animal conflict and poaching. It is important to protect their natural habitat if you want to see elephants in future, he warns.

According to Louies, the WTI has identified 101 elephant corridors across 11 states in India, of which only half are currently secure.

"While elephant populations are largely concentrated in protected forests in the north-eastern states, east-central India, the Himalayan foothills in the north, and the Western and Eastern Ghats in the south, the animals require free movement between these areas to maintain genetic flow and offset seasonal variations in the availability of forage and water, WTI says.

India is home to more than half of the worlds Asian elephant population, protected under the Schedule-I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. In India elephants make up 60 % of the worlds Asian elephant population. Where once Indias forests were teeming with elephants, now only approximately 86,000 sq. km of disconnected pockets mark their geographical range in the country and the health of the remaining forests and migratory corridors is failing. Apart from their natural migratory behaviour, elephants are now forced to wander further in search of food due to a lack of wild habitats and scarcity of resources, Bindra says.

Devastation of forests, coal mining as well as industrial development and new rail and road networks fragmented the region. This, inevitably, sees herds of elephants crossing railway lines that run through sensitive wildlife areas, including protected areas and designated wildlife corridors, she adds.

Elephant corridors are important because as forest lands continue to be lost, these relatively narrow, linear patches of vegetation form vital natural habitat linkages between larger forest patches. "They allow elephants to move between secure habitats freely, without being disturbed by humans. In many cases, elephant corridors are also critical for other wildlife including Indias endangered tigers," Louies explains.

Spread over 14 states, Indias 29 elephant reserves include areas of human use and habitation. In fact unless they lie within existing reserve forests or the Protected Area network, elephant reserves are not legally protected habitats in themselves, hesays, adding that a large chunk of elephant habitat is unprotected, susceptible to encroachment or already in use by humans.

gspannu7@gmail.com

Karachi, August 12

Pakistan on Sunday released 26 Indian fishermen from jail as a goodwill gesture, a day before newly-elected Parliaments maiden meeting to start the process of handing over powers to the new government, media reports said.

The fishermen had been arrested by the authorities for allegedly trespassing into Pakistans territorial waters.

They were shifted to Cantt Railway Station from Karachis Malir jail and will be taken to Lahore, The News International reported.

The fishermen will be handed over to Indian border officials at Wagah border tomorrow, the report said.

According to Saad Edhi, an official of the Edhi foundation, the charity has paid the travel expenses for the released Indian fishermen.

Speaking to reporters at the railway station, Edhi called on the governments of Pakistan and India to relax the rules for the poor fishermen.

They represent the poorest section of two countries. They should be freed as early as possible and there should be less restrictions on fishing, he said.

Pakistans newly-elected Parliament is meeting tomorrow for the first time to start the process of transition and handing over powers to the new government.

President Mamnoon Hussain has already summoned the maiden session of National Assembly, the lower house, at 10 am in parliament house here.

Pakistan and India frequently arrest fishermen as there is no clear demarcation of the maritime border in the Arabian Sea and these fishermen do not have boats equipped with the technology to know their precise location.

Owing to lengthy and slow bureaucratic and legal procedures, the fishermen usually remain in jail for several months.

A number of non-governmental organisations in both India and Pakistan have raised the issue, pressing their governments to release the arrested fishermen without delay.  PTIamansharma@tribunemail.com

Satya Prakash

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 12

In a relief to lakhs of investors of Golden Forests (India) Ltd, the Supreme Court has ordered refund of 70% of the principal amount they invested in the ill-fated company which went bust in the 1990s.

Ordering the refund process to be completed in three months, a bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra noted that an amount of Rs 700 crore was available for disbursement to the investors. Plus, Rs 100 crore had also been attached by the Income Tax Department, it added.

In its order dated July 30, the bench said claims for refund of Rs 900 crore had been received for refund of principal amount invested in the company.

first, we take care of the principal amount to be distributed amongst the investors. Amount of payment of interest/maturity value as assured shall be considered later after property is sold, said the bench.

In the circumstances, we direct that 70% of the principal amount be distributed out of the amount of Rupees seven hundred crores to each of the investors; whose claims have been received by the Committee, it said.

It appointed M/s Karvey Investors Services Limited; whose services may be availed by the court-appointed committee for disbursement of the 70% of the principal amount which was invested by each of the investors.

The disbursement order came after investors counsel Narender Hooda submitted that huge amount of money was lying in deposit with the court-appointed committee and it was needed to be distributed to the investors.

What the top court said

 Refund to be completed in 3 months with help of M/s Karvey Investors Services Ltd

 Refund of assured maturity amount to be considered later

 Rs 700 crore available for refund against Rs 900 crore principal amount invested

 SC also sets up a three-member panel of senior IT Department officials

 Panel will do valuation of property to be sold for further refund to investors

The bench also appointed a three-member team comprising Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax (Delhi) SS Rathore, Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax-4 (Delhi) Sanjay Mishra and Commissioner of Income Tax (OSD, Delhi) Anup Kumar Dubey to do valuation in two months of the property sought to be disposed of for refund of money to the duped investors.

The order came after it was pointed out to the top court that its May 9 order inviting further fresh bids for auction of land was done without proper valuation being done.

The valuation made in the year 1998 or by Hawk Group cannot be relied upon for making auction of the property as the value of the property has gone very high since then, the bench noted.

...we are of the considered opinion that it is absolutely necessary to obtain the current valuation of the property which may be sold and only thereafter to proceed further with the sale of property, it said.

For identifying the particular property, the bench ordered that Collector shall nominate the Revenue Officer of the rank of Sub-Divisional Officer or Tehsildar, of the district concerned and the valuation report shall be submitted to this court.

It also directed that the rate prescribed by the Collector for the property be furnished along with the report in two months.

Taking into account the objections raised by governments of Punjab and Uttarakhand against surplus land being included in the auction notice, the bench said, That the land that has been declared surplus and has vested in the state cannot be sold and consequently put to auctionWe will take a final call upon this aspect at a later stage.

The bench decided not to proceed further with the auction notice published following its May 9 order and made it clear that, The property can be auctioned only after fixing minimum price.

It will further take up the matter on August 16.

The Chandigarh-based company  which was in creating social forestry and developing agricultural land had attracted lakhs of innocent investors but it went bust in late 1990s leaving them in lurch. The company has huge land assets which is now being sold to refund its investors.editorial@tribune.com

Shyam Bhatia

THERE were so many elements to the character of VS Naipaul that it is almost impossible to know where to begin in depicting this giant of literature.

Even his critics concede he wrote beautifully and many of us are justifiably proud of only the second ethnic Indian after Rabindranath Tagore in 1913 to win the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001.

To those of us who got to know him personally, he remained a bit of an enigma till the end, intensely shy and unwilling to project himself or broadcast his views, quite different from the villain his detractors have variously profiled as an arrogant Brahmin misogynist who was also anti-black and anti-Islamic.

His anti-black image probably stems back to the time in the mid-1960s when he was writer-in-residence at Makerere University in Uganda. At the time, he was intensely critical of Ugandas President, Milton Obote, who was grabbing more and more power into his own hands. The infamous Idi Amin had not yet toppled Obote and the expulsion of the Gujarati community from Uganda was still a few years away.

What had got underway was the mass expulsion of Indians from neighbouring Kenya where my father, Prem Bhatia, was Indias High Commissioner from 1965 to 1969. Indians who had lived in Kenya for generations, many with either Kenyan or British colonial passports, were being forced out by black Kenyans desperate to grab their homes, their jobs and their businesses.

The Patels and the Shahs, and many others as well, headed the queues of Indians lining up at Nairobi international airport, desperately seeking refuge where they could be safe.

Although so many had British passports, the authorities in London were reluctant to let them into the country.

At the time I was only a teenager visiting Nairobi, but still remember listening spellbound over the dinner table as Naipaul expounded his views on how to solve the crisis of the Kenya Asians once and for all. At the time, Naipaul and his English wife Patricia were spending a long weekend in Nairobi as house guests of my parents.

My father in particular was keen to meet the author of An Area of Darkness, the sharply critical travelogue that lamented the squalor and poverty of India, prompting the book to be banned by New Delhi soon after its publication in 1964.

Conversation that evening started off with discussing the merits of An Area of Darkness before veering off to the humanitarian and political crisis facing the Indians in Kenya. Tell me High Commissioner, Naipaul said, his face impassive as ever, why dont you order the Indian Air Force to bomb Kenyatta?

To this day l dont know if he was being ironic, but his response that evening was typical of the man that l as an adult later got to independently know: sharp, succinct, to the point, no beating about the bush.

We next met nearly 25 years later when l was a reporter for The Observer and Naipaul was visiting the London home of his then literary agent, Gillon Aitken. He remembered me immediately and asked warmly after my parents before disappearing into a secluded corner to discuss the finer points of a new contract being negotiated for him by Aitken.

More than a decade would pass before we met again, successively in London, Delhi and many times at his country home in Wiltshire. By then Patricia had passed away from cancer and Naipaul was remarried to the Pakistan-born journalist Nadira, immensely popular and respected by his ever widening circle of admirers.

When he won the Nobel, l drove down to Wiltshire to offer my personal congratulations and l was the first journalist he agreed to see and talk about his award.

By then both husband and wife were in huge demand all over the world, including India. He was more mellow in his views about India, describing it to me as a country of hope and optimism.

To his eternal credit, Naipaul never let the extra fame get to his head. Access was never denied and we always had a lot to talk about. He was especially interested in my impressions of the Arab world.

Pakistan was another country of mutual and abiding interest that Naipaul visited while he was researching Among the Believers. He caused an outcry when he commented, The story of Pakistan is a terror story actually. It started with a poet who thought that Muslims were so highly evolved that they should have a special place in India for themselves. This wish to sift countries of unnecessary and irrelevant populations is terrible and this is exactly what happened in Pakistan.

My interactions with Pakistani nuclear scientist AQ Khan, who described me as a Hindu bastard, were a source of never-ending amusement for Naipaul, who said it was a mark of distinction to be singled out this way.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Faridkot, August 12

Though the police booked four police officials, including a former SSP, an SP and an inspector of Punjab Police, in a 3-year-old murder case at Behbal Kalan village of Faridkot, it failed to pacify a section of Sikh protesters who had been sitting on a protest dharna at Bargari since June 1 and the family members of those killed in the police firing.

Baljit Singh Daduwal, the parallel jathedar of Takht Damdama Sahib, sitting on the protest dharna at Bargari since June 1, said besides these police officials, political leaders of SAD(B) who were instrumental in these atrocities should also be prosecuted. Besides booking these Akali leaders as accused in the criminal case registered at Kotkapura and Bajakhana regarding the October 14, 2015, incidents, the police should arrest all the accused immediately, said Daduwal.

As the complainant in the FIR, registered at Kotkapura on August 7, had named the then Badal-government for the police firing incident at Kotkapura and Behbal Kalan, so the police should book Akali leaders and arrest them. We will continue our dharna till justice is delivered to all those aggrieved and the accused were arrested and prosecuted, said Daduwal.

Sukhraj Singh, a son of deceased Krishan Bhagwan Singh, said booking the accused three years after the incident was just a formality. They should be arrested immediately, he demanded.

As per the recommendations of the Justice Ranjit Singh (retd) Commission, the Faridkot police on Saturday nominated Charanjit Sharma, former SSP, Moga (now retired), Bikramjit Singh, the then SP (investigation), Fazilka, inspector Pardeep Singh and Amarjit Singh Kular, a sub inspector as accused in the FIR which was registered under Sections 302, 307 and 34 of the IPC and Sections 25, 27, 54 and 59 of the Arms Act at Bajakhana police station on October 21, 2015.

At the time of the police firing, the protesters were blocking the Bathinda-Kotkapura road near Behbal Kalan village to register their protest against the sacrilege incidents in Bargari and Burj Jawahar Singh Wala

An FIR (No. 130) was registered against unknown persons about one week after the killing of two Sikh protesters. The complainant in the FIR was Iqbal Singh Sahota, director, bureau of investigation- cum-chairman, Special Investigation Team (SIT). The SIT was constituted on the directions of the Director-General of Police (DGP), Punjab.

As no accused was nominated in this FIR at that time, so this document was kept as a secret, out of public domain for about one month. The family members of the deceased and the protesting Sikh groups could get access to this FIR on November 15, 2015, after they staged a protest dharna in front of houses of Akali members of the legislative assembly (MLAs) in this area, demanding a copy of this FIR.amansharma@tribunemail.com

Ravi S.Singh

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 12

Taking upon the responsibility of the dominant partner in the SAD-BJP alliance in Punjab, the Akali Dal will work unequivocally to dispel "communal" tag of its ally to blunt Opposition's campaign against it, keeping in view the 2019 general elections.

A top SAD leader said here that it will be party's well-thought out strategy to blunt campaign of the opposition parties, especially the Congress, against the BJP in the state. The party has brainstormed the matter. It has also been discussed by the leadership of both the allies.

Besides, the SAD has identified other core issues related to achievement of the Narendra Modi government which it will highlight among masses. The bouquet of issues will be expanded during the run-up to the elections.

"The opposition parties' campaign against the BJP is driven on the charge that it adheres to sectarian Hindutva ideology, and hence is exclusive in its policies and approach. In Punjab, they are issueless to take on the NDA government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi," the leader said, adding that it was their compulsion in to hurl accusation of communalism to shore up their own "false sense" of secularism.

He added, "SAD, being the founding member of NDA and one of the oldest allies of the BJP, is in a credible situation to blunt the charges of the Congress and its allies, and other opponents of the BJP."

NDA government's pro-farmer and agriculture sector initiatives for their holistic development will be among other core issues that will be brought into focus by SAD during its public programmes.

In this context, the increase of MSP of agriculture produce, Pradhan Mantri Krishi Seenchai Yojana (PMKSY), among other policy interventions will be showcased.

Farmers of Punjab have been substantial beneficiaries. All these will be contextualised with the failed promises on farm loan waiver by the present Congress government in Punjab, and "apathy" towards farming community and agriculture sector during 10 years of UPA rule, the leader said.

Government's initiatives on the economic front streamlining the financial sector, especially the institution to inject transparency in administration which has scaled up ease of doing business will be other issues highlighted by it among public. The policies have resulted in high level of FDI inflow, the leader said.

The SAD is also appreciative, among others, of government's policies catering to the NRIs, including easing procedural and documentation requirement with regard their travels and interest back home.editorial@tribune.com

Our Correspondent

Abohar, August 12

Ankit Bhadoo, a native of Sherewala village in Abohar, escaped after an encounter with the Haryana Police outside Gadarkhera village of Sadulshehar located on the Abohar-Hanumangarh (state highway) road on Sunday.

As many as 47 rounds were fired from both sides when at least six cops cordoned off a farmhouse reportedly owned by Balwant Singh.

Bhadoo reportedly tried to escape on a tractor, but it didnt start, following which he reportedly ran away through the fields. He carries a cash reward of Rs 5 lakh on his head for his alleged involvement in cases related to murder and loot.

Bhadoo claimed to be the Rajasthan chief of Students Organisation of Panjab University (SOPU) that was once headed by Lawrence Bishnoi, an Abohar native and a notorious gangster. He is currently lodged in Bharatpur Jail. Lawrence had reportedly threatened to eliminate Bollywood actor Salman Khan too. The Sriganganagar police have been conducting raids to nab Bhadoo in connection with loot and murder of jeweller Pankaj Soni, nephew of police inspector Bhupinder Soni.

Bhadoo is also wanted in the murder case of history-sheeter Vinod Sheoran, alias Jordon, at a gym in Sriganganagar on May 23.

The police in civvies had cordoned off Sherewala village on July 7 when he was expected to participate in marriage function of his sister, but Bhadoo did not turn up.

During a recent high-level meeting, senior police officials of Rajasthan, Punjab and Haryana had decided to coordinate efforts to nab Bhadoo and other gangsters. However, on Sunday the Haryana Police did not inform its counterparts in Rajasthan before taking action against him.

His location was reportedly tracked to the Sadulshehar segment, which suggested that he would perform some rituals at a famous temple on the Abohar-Hanumangarh road. Sources say he may have left the temple before the arrival of Haryana cops.

Sadulshehar police station incharge Balraj Singh Mann said his team put up a naka at Karadwala village terminal after learning that Bhadoo had escaped, snatching a motorcycle around 12.15 pm. A witness said he abandoned the motorcycle later and joined his two accomplices to flee using a car. Later, the Haryana, Rajasthan and Punjab cops reportedly launched search operation for four hours, but Ankit could not be nabbed.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, August 12

A single-handed fight against the sand mafia by Devinder Singh, a block forest officer in the Punjab Forest Department, has ultimately been recognised by the state government.

The forest officer, who is recuperating from fatal injuries inflicted upon by the sand mafia two months ago, is among those to be honoured at a state-level function on Independence Day in Ludhiana. Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh is scheduled to preside over the function.

A senior government functionary said the name of the officer, who had suffered life-threatening head and neck injuries, had been recommended by the Forest Department. The department also proposed to promote him as a deputy ranger.

Devinder Singhs colleagues recount that for the past 10 years, he had been consistently taking on the sand and wood mafia. In 2007, he had sustained injuries but he continued his tirade against the mafia.

After reports of him not being attended to properly by his department were highlighted in these columns, Forest Minister Sadhu Singh Dharamsot and senior department officials intervened and a conservator of forests was deputed to attend to the requirements of the family.gspannu7@gmail.com

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 12

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sunday said the Central Government is going to take the year-long celebration commemorating Guru Nanak Devs 550th birthday to the entire world and invited World Punjabi Organisation (WPO) to be a partner for the same.

Shri Guru Nanak Dev Jis 550th birthday will be celebrated in all the major Indian missions abroad, said Swaraj while addressing a gathering in the national capital on occasion of Gurbani Kirtan jointly organised by World Punjabi Organisation and Indian Council of Cultural Relations, under the Ministry of External Affairs to commemorate the 550th birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism.

Swaraj reflected upon the teachings of the first Sikh guru and underscored the importance of secularism in the country and the need to spread the message of universal brotherhood in this present time of challenges and tribulations when the society is caught in a battle of I, me and myself.

The message of We are one and we need to remain one is very important for peaceful coexistence, added the minister as per a statement issued by WPO.

Guru Nanak Dev Ji remained an icon of truth, compassion, and righteousness throughout his noble life. Divine teachings of Nanak Dev Ji would forever inspire humanity to follow the path of righteousness and respect for all irrespective of caste, creed or religion the minister was quoted as saying.

Padma Shri awardee Vikramjit Singh Sahney, international president, WPO, emphasised the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev by promoting universal brotherhood, importance of hard work, sharing with underprivileged and gender equality.

The kirtan (religious hymns) was performed by Bhai Nirmal Singh Khalsa from Golden Temple and the programme was well attended by ambassadors of various countries in India, among others dignitaries.editorial@tribune.com

GS Paul

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, August 12

A new gate is set to be installed at the Attari-Wagah border joint check post (JCP) on the zero line between India and Pakistan. It is likely to be inaugurated by BSF Director General KK Sharma on August 15, said RS Kataria, BSF DIG and spokesperson.

Sources said on the Pakistani side, an identical gate was expected to be installed on August 14. The new gates will have a similar design on both sides.

Nand Lal Chauhan, former Superintending Engineer, Central Public Works Department (CPWD), said the gate was designed by a renowned architect. We had handed over the design to the BSF. After having discussion with the Pakistan Rangers, some modifications were introduced before obtaining final approval from both sides, he said.

The earlier gates were unnecessarily big with thick pillars, which hindered the view of spectators from either side to look beyond the zero line.

Baldev Singh of Hemkunt Builders, who was given the contract, said: The weight of the gate is 5.5 quintals. It is 51-ft wide and 11-ft high with a replica of the BSF emblem on its top. Besides, the Ashoka emblem will be affixed on the pillars. The Rs 22-lakh gate has been transported to the designate spot. It is likely to be painted silver grey.

JS Oberoi, DIG, BSF, Amritsar sector, said: It was mutually decided to let the people on both sides to have a clearer view of the Retreat Ceremony.

The new gate is part of the Rs 33-crore revamp project of the visitor gallery, which has been expanded to have a sitting capacity of around 18,000-20,000.

A well-equipped control room, a conference hall for meetings of BSF and Rangers, advanced sound system and a museum depicting the BSF's achievements are also coming up as part of the project, which is expected to be completed by the month-end.editorial@tribune.com

Arun Sharma

Tribune News Service

Ropar, August 12

Even as blood banks in the state are facing acute shortage of blood for patients admitted in local government hospitals, the Punjab State Blood Transfusion Council (PSBTC) has allowed Rotary Blood Bank Society Resource Centre, a Chandigarh-based NGO, to collect blood at voluntary blood donation camps organised in different parts of the state.

This, however, has landed officials of government blood banks in a tight spot, who have been finding it hard to meet the requirement of local hospitals.

At one such voluntary blood donation camp, organised by a local religious body at Ropar on Sunday, employees of the Ropar blood bank were seen helpless when they reached the venue to collect blood.

The Shiv Shakti Prabhat Pheri Sewa Samiti had invited Rotary Blood Bank Society Resource Centre of Chandigarh to hold a blood donation camp at a private school here on Sunday.

The PSBTC in its letter dated May 8, 2018, while granting permission to Rotary Blood Bank Society of Chandigarh to hold voluntary blood donation camps in the state, had instructed the NGO to provide 20 per cent of the total blood units collected at any camp to government blood bank of the area concerned.

The samiti president, Harminder Pal Singh Walia, said he invited the Rotary Blood Bank Society. So, he did not allow the staff of the Ropar blood bank to collect blood at the camp.

Meanwhile, Dr Gurvinder from the Government Blood Bank said under such circumstances when blood was being collected by outsiders, it was difficult for them to provide blood for patients in Ropar. There was already shortage of blood in their bank, she added. We have only 65 units of blood in stock, which will last for few days only, she said.

The Ropar Civil Surgeon, Dr Harinder Kaur, refused to intervene in the matter stating that she did not know whether she was authorised to take any action in the matter or not.

Interestingly, the Additional Project Director-cum-member of the PSBTC, Manpreet Chhatwal, who granted permission to the Rotary Blood Bank Society to hold voluntary blood donation camps said, The permission has been given under political pressure. Blood banks in Mohali, Kharar and Ropar are facing difficulties in meeting target of blood collection. Under such circumstances, I had rejected application of the Rotary Blood Bank Society for holding camps in Punjab.

They are well-connected people and under their influence permission has been ultimately granted to them to collect blood at camps in Punjab, she added.

Shortage of blooduttara@tribuneindia.com

Tribune News Service

Ferozepur, August 12

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday inaugurated a strategically important 280-foot long bridge at Hussainiwala that was originally blown up during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.

The bridge connects Ferozepur to Hussaniwala enclave on the old Ferozpur-Lahore highwaythe only land link for 10 villages in the Hussainiwala enclave with the rest of the country.

Sitharama said the permanent bridge would help not only the armed forces but also the local populace for its daily commuting needs.

"It will help develop Ferozepur in particular, and will help promote regional prosperity, business, agriculture and better movement of army vehicles, ammunition and logistics," she said.

The bridge was originally blown up during the 1971 war to prevent Pakistan armys advances into the country. The army began work on building a Bailey bridgea portable truss bridgeto restore road network the war. The Border Roads Organisation later undertook rebuilding the bridge under their Project Chetak.

"This bridge is one of the great examples that speak volumes about BROs contribution in the nation building. The BRO has constructed approximately 52,000 km of roads, 650 major permanent bridges of 47,000-mtr length and 19 airfields in difficult and remote areas of the country. At present the BRO is working on 530 roads (22,803-km), which include new construction as well as improvement from signal lane to double lane in Eastern and Western sector," the Defence Minister said.

Sitharaman arrived in Ferozpur on Sunday morning, accompanied by Lt Gen Surinder Singh, Army Commander Western Command and Lt Gen Harpal Singh Director General Border Roads.uttara@tribuneindia.com

Bengaluru, August 12

India will soon launch a dedicated space and science television channel to make their benefits reach people across the country, a top official said on Sunday.

"Within the next three to four months, there will be a television channel launched to reach even the rural parts of India on how space programme can benefit the common man," Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman K. Sivan told reporters here.

The ISRO Chairman was speaking to media at the space agency's headquarters here on the sidelines of an event where the statue (bust) of the father of India's space programme, Vikram Sarabhai, was unveiled on his 99th birth anniversary.

To be named "ISRO TV", the channel will telecast science programmes and highlight the benefits of the space agency's missions in regional languages as well as English, so that it reaches people across the country.

"The information on India's space missions and their applications are not reaching the people fully. Our effort through the channel is to make people aware of the benefits of the space programme," Sivan added.

The space agency also aims to develop scientific rigour among India's children and youth through this channel.

ISRO will also be setting up a module for students from classes 8-10 to be trained at the space agency for a month, Sivan added.

In order to inculcate scientific temper among students, ISRO officials will mentor them for 25-30 days and allow them to visit ISRO's labs and launch facilities.

"The students will be allowed to make their own small satellites at the end of the programme. This project, which will be launched soon, has received appreciation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi (who oversees the Department of Space)," Sivan said.

As part of its plan to reach out to the people of the country in a large way, ISRO will also be opening up its spaceport at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh to public.

Indian public will soon be able to pay visits to the launch facility at Sriharikota on the lines of American space agency NASA, the space agency Chief said.

However, the Chairman did not mention a date when the spaceport will be thrown open to the public.

"We are also in the process of setting up space galleries and museums across the country," Sivan said. IANSsinghking99@yahoo.com

Aktau, Kazakhstan, August 12

Iran and four ex-Soviet nations, including Russia, agreed in principle on Sunday how to divide up the potentially huge oil and gas resources of the Caspian Sea, paving way for more energy exploration and pipeline projects.

However, the delimitation of the seabed, which has caused most disputes, will require additional agreements between littoral nations, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said. For almost three decades, the five littoral states  Russia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan  have argued over how to divide the worlds biggest enclosed body of water.

And while some countries have pressed ahead with large offshore projects such as the Kashagan oil field off Kazakhstans coast, disagreement over the seas legal status has prevented some other ideas from being implemented. One of those is a pipeline across the Caspian which could ship natural gas from Turkmenistan to Azerbaijan and then further to Europe, allowing it to compete with Russia in the Western markets. Some littoral states have also disputed the ownership of several oil and gas fields, which delayed their development.

The dispute began with the fall of the Soviet Union which had had a clearly defined Caspian border with Iran. In negotiations with post-Soviet nations, Tehran has insisted on either splitting the sea into five equal parts or jointly developing all of its resources. None of its neighbours have agreed to those proposals and three of them - Russia, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan - effectively split the northern Caspian between each other using median lines.  Reuterssinghking99@yahoo.com

US space agency NASAs Parker Solar Probe, mankinds first mission to touch the Sun, was successfully launched on Sunday on an unprecedented, seven-year long journey to unlock the mysteries of the stars fiery outer atmosphere and its effects on space weather.

Liftoff of the $1.5 billion mission took place from Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in the US. The launch of the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket carrying the spacecraft was put on hold on Saturday due to a violation of a launch limit, resulting in a hold.

The missions findings will help researchers improve their forecasts of space weather events, which have the potential to damage satellites and harm astronauts on orbit, NASA said.

This mission truly marks humanitys first visit to a star that will have implications not just here on Earth, but how we better understand our universe, said Thomas Zurbuchen, associate administrator of NASAs Science Mission Directorate. Weve accomplished something that decades ago, lived solely in the realm of science fiction, Zurbuchen said.

The probe, which will fly closer to the Sun that any other spacecraft has attempted before, is set to explore the corona, a region of the Sun only seen from Earth when the Moon blocks out the Suns bright face during total solar eclipses. It will have to survive difficult heat and radiation conditions. It has been outfitted with a 4.5-inch-thick

carbon-composite shield designed to keep its instruments at a tolerable 29C even as the spacecraft faces temperatures reaching nearly 1,370C at its closest pass.  PTI

How chandra played key role

New Delhi: Mankinds first mission to touch the Sun may have panned out differently had it not been for Indian-American astrophysicist Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar. When 31-year-old Dr Eugene Newman Parker back in 1958 suggested the existence of solar wind and that charged particles streamed continuously from the Sun and fill up the space, the scientific community refused to believe him. The prevailing opinion at the time was that the space was total vacuum. When he submitted his paper detailing his theory to the Astrophysical Journal, the most prominent research journal of the field, it was rejected twice by two different reviewers who were asked to provide opinions, Dibyendu Nandi, an associate professor in Kolkata, said. Senior Editor of the Astrophysical Journal, Indian-American astrophysicist Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar, intervened and overruled the reviewers and allowed the idea to be published, said Nandi. PTI

Dr Eugene ParkerMan behind mission

One of those watching the historic moment was Dr Eugene Parker, the now 91-year-old scientist who first suggested the possibility of solar winds in 1958 and whom the craft is named after. The mission is the first to be named after a living scientist. The heliophysics pioneer watched the liftoff from NASAs Kennedy Space Center. A plaque dedicating the mission to Parker was attached to the spacecraft in May. It includes a quote from the physicist, Lets see what lies ahead.gspannu7@gmail.com

Dubai, August 12

Ten Pakistani nationals in the UAE on Sunday went on trial for allegedly stealing USD 1.6 million from a bank using electronic codes, media reports said.

The accused carried out fraudulent transactions through electronic transfer codes with the help of an employee who worked in the bank in Abu Dhabi, Khaleej Times reported.

The Abu Dhabi Criminal Court during the trial heard that the men  all Pakistanis  defrauded the bank to the tune of 6 million dirhams (USD 1.6 million) by deciphering codes and programming, using two devices called e-trader, the report said.

The accused landed in the police net after the bank reported about the financial fraud orchestrated by one of its employees.

The accused used electronic codes with the help of the main defendant  the bank employee  who also had knowledge of the codes of the payment devices of the e-trader, according to the official court documents, the report said.

The men then programmed the electronic payment device and carried out fraudulent transactions, it said.

They used the e-trade devices to make it appear like the bank has paid off the shops with the money deducted from the customers accounts after making purchases, but instead they transferred the cash to a bank account in an Asian country.

Prosecutors charged them with fraud and unlawful transfer of the banks funds by using IT methods.

All the men denied the charges in court.

Their lawyer said he would present his clients defence in the next hearing. The trial was adjourned until September.

The Abu Dhabi Financial Prosecution said there has been a significant increase in the number of financial and commercial fraud cases being reported in Abu Dhabi.

Officials said they handled 16,663 cases involving finances during 2017, an increase of 2,803 cases as compared to 2016.  PTISponsored: Ministry of Planning

Climate Change and Land Degradation are two significant environmental issues facing the world today. We see many countries in the news talking about their strategies towards dealing with these, but what is our country doing?

More here-:- Message from Tripadvisor staff -:-

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. We hope you'll join the conversation by posting to an open topic or starting a new one.

To review the Tripadvisor Forums Posting Guidelines, please follow this link: http://www.tripadvisor.com/pages/forums_posting_guidelines.html

We remove posts that do not follow our posting guidelines, and we reserve the right to remove any post for any reason.Hi there,

My mom and I are going to travel down to Perth by early November and we are looking at travelling down south from Perth to Margret River and then east to Pink Lake then back to Perth within 7 days.

It would be a great help if there are any suggestions of where we could visit or a "must go" between the destinations of our South-West Australia trip. We would be renting a car to drive ourselves around.

I have searched the forum for other trips like these and found that it would be great to drop by Bunbury and Busselton for lunch as well as Pemberton and Albany on the way to the Pink Lake but we are still interested in other attractions along the way such as dropping by a town area for buying groceries to cook at home.

How much would food cost normally if we are to cook at home as compared to eating out? Thank you guys in advance!Hi,

I'm planning a trip to Costa Rica soon and plan to take the public bus from SJO to Puerto Viejo Talamanca (Limon) and there is a lot of conflicting information out there about the bus. Ultimately I would like to know:

1) Where is Transportes Mepe located (Is it inside the airport or do you need to take a taxi to get from the airport to the bus station, if so how far would the ride be?)

2) There is a lot of conflicting information about where the bus is situated for boarding, some websites say the bus will leave from Terminal de Autobus Atlantico Norte on Calle 12 between Avenida 7 and 9 in Barrio Mexico in San Jose and others mention different streets does anyone that's been there recently know what is correct information now.

3) There was another option to travel by private shuttle or minivan at a higher price. Has anyone taken this mode of transportation? Are there any specific companies you can recommend that are trustworthy.

Thank you in advance for any information you can assist with!We will be travelling in Vietnam from during December 2018 and would not like to carry large amounts of cash around.

I saw on another forum that in Vietnam 6-digit PIN are required for ATM withdrawals.

Presently, I use a 4-digit PIN with my VISA cards.

1) Can I use my 4-digit PIN? If it is possible, do I just enter my 4-digit PIN as I do now?

2) Should I rather get a new VISA Card with a 6-digit PIN for my trip to Vietnam?

The last think that we need is a card that gets locked-out ,or, swallowed by the ATMWe are due to travel from Takayama to the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route in late September 2018.

We're planning on doing the baggage forwarding option (from Dentetsu-Toyama) to our hotel in Murodo and need to be at Dentetsu by 9:30am.

I've recently read on a Japan travel website that there is a disruption on the rail track from Takayama to Toyama and that the train is not running on this section - is this true? Hyperdia does not make any mention of this. What are the options for getting from Takayama to Dentetsu?

Thanks in advance!Welcome to the forum Mike, and congratulations on your upcoming wedding.

Splitting your stay between the main island, and outer island will give you two different experiences. The Intercontinental about an hours drive from Nadi Airport, on Natadola beach has the best beach on the main island.

Outer island resorts tend to be smaller with a more relaxed, Fijian vibe. Many resorts are the only thing on the island. No roads, towns, other resorts, so no choice of dining options other than at the resort. Resorts typically have a mix of complimentary tours/activities and those listed at an additional cost to keep guests occupied or not.

Being your honeymoon, if you want to avoid having lots of kids around, suggest an adults only resort on the outer islands.

Matangi, our favorite resort in Fiji ticks your wants. Beachfront, treehouse, and ocean view bures. The island is stunning with it's lush, green vegetation, jungle, and rugged mountainous terrain. You can hike around the island. Lovely beach. It is tidal like other islands. Depending on how extreme the tides are you might not be able to snorkel from the beach at low tide, or walk on the beach at high tide. Use of kayaks, SUP's are included in the price. Tours include snorkeling to outer reefs in the area, Bouma Waterfall Hike, Lavena Coastal walks, and other tours on nearby Taveuni. For a culture experience: kava with the staff, village/school visits for insight into the daily life of the Fijian people. Even, if not a regular church goer, Sunday Church is a very moving, special experience. A highlight, and of the most memorable experience for us was the private luncheon at Horseshoe Bay. So very romantic having a great meal and drinks on the beach just the two of us with use of kayaks, and snorkeling.

The resort is in the northern region, not the Yasawa or Mamanuca Islands, and requires an additional 1 1/2 hour flight from Nadi to Taveuni. It is a trek, but well worth it in my opinion.

Other adults only resorts you might consider are: LikuLiku with over the water bures, Tokoriki, not to be confused with Sheraton Tokoriki on the same island, and Matamanoa. All are very different.This tour?

With luggage forwarding, you can specify delivery date up to seven days ahead. Can you bring the big one and a smaller one? From the airport, send the big suitcase to a suitable halfway point (I did not study the itinerary). Then get your fresh clothes out and send it to your departure airport.

You could store the big suitcase at the airport if flying in and out of the same one. Here's the info for one provider at Narita Airport. I think that they all have the same rate:

Edited: 3 years ago- Former Embakasi South MP Irshad Sumra said the demolitions were a threat to country's economy

- Sumra wrote to President Uhuru Kenyatta urging him to halt demolitions

- He urged Uhuru to open room for dialogue on how buildings in riparian areas could be spared and tasked with conserving water bodies

- The legislator argued there were numerous buildings world over erected in riparian areas and had done excellently to conserve water bodies

- He said he would lead a protest and urge Asian community to close business until room for dialogue is offered

Former Embakasi South MP Irshad Sumra has written to President Uhuru Kenyatta requesting him to stop the massive demolition exercise in Nairobi which has seen prestigious buildings flattened.

Sumra who successfully filed petition against election of Julius Mawathe the current MP, said the demolitions were an economic sabotage and threatened to mobilise the Asian community to close their business if the exercise is not halted.

Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens

READ ALSO: Governor Sonko declares Taj Mall, Visa Oshwal centre will be demolished to reclaim public land

READ ALSO: Visa Oshwal owners choose to demolish centre before government moves in

In an exclusive interview with TUKO.co.ke on Saturday, August 11, the MP said he had attached photos of malls, temples and residential buildings erected in riparian areas across the world yet had conserved water bodies around in his petition.

"I hope this note finds you well. After posting you the first petition I have been receiving many calls and I am appealing for you to kindly save the situation. Most of by laws used by the county are outdated. They are using them to frustrate developers," read part of the petition seen by TUKO.co.ke.

Speaking in reference to the Saturday, August 11, demolition of Visa Oshwal centre, a religious establishment of Hindus, Sumra argued the demolitions were conducted haphazardly and needed to be stopped forthwith.

The ODM politician said demolition of buildings in riparian areas was not the best solution when the buildings could be spared and owners tasked to conserve water bodies. Photo: Irshad Sumra/Facebook.

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Give us a break from politics, we have important business to do- DP William Ruto

"In the photos river banks have been canalised in order to maintain their flow. This is what we need to do in areas where buildings seem to have tampered with the flow. The owners need to be allowed time to offer alternative mutually beneficial plans rather than demolishing their buildings," he explained in the petition to Uhuru.

The politician pleaded with the president to allow affected members of Asian community and building owners to meet him and chat towards an amicable solution which would safeguard environment and investments equally.

READ ALSO: Police gun down three notorious criminals in Kimilili

The outspoken politician said the exercise had set up government for serious lawsuits in future since many building owners followed due procedure and had been approved by public agencies.

"Mr President your government has to take responsibility instead of turning a blind eye. I am sure you will use your executive powers to stop this exercise and call for the stake holders meeting immediately," he added.

Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news.

Source: Tuko.co.ke- The DP assured all institutions involved in the graft war of full support from the Jubilee government

- Days earlier, CJ Maraga protested budget cut that he believed could hamper the war on corruption

- A number of investigations into incidents of graft both at the national and county government levels are underway

Deputy President William Ruto has assured Kenyans the Jubilee government would not relent in the fight against corruption and that all institutions involved in the sweeping anti-graft war would be equipped with all the necessary resources they need.

The DP confirmed the government was fully behind the ongoing pursuit of 'graft lords' and crackdown on illegally acquired properties including the costly demolition of structures erected on riparian lands.

Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens

READ ALSO: Ngina Kenyatta na mabinti weingine 9 wa marais wa Afrika wanaopendeza ajabu

Deputy President William Ruto threw his weight behind the ongoing crackdown on illegally acquired properties.Photo: William Ruto.

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Former MP threatens to mobilise Asians to close businesses over demolitions

Addressing the residents of Uasin Gishu County on Saturday, August 11, Ruto encouraged the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and other institutions spearheading the anti-graft war to continue with the good work they were doing.

Ours is to ensure the Judiciary and all institutions and agencies charged with the oversight role are well financed so that they can effectively undertake their mandate, the DP said.

Chief Justice David Maraga had days earlier protested huge budget cut to the Judiciary arguing the decision was likly to negatively affect operations at the crucial arm of government.

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Orengo leads Nyanza MPs to support Uhuru war on graft, accuse Ruto of undermining Raila handshake

Chief Justice David Maraga had angrily protested a decision by members of Parliament and the National Treasury to slash budget allocation to the Judiciary arguing the move was likely to cripple operations at the Judiciary including war on corruption

"The budget which was allocated to us was grossly inadequate. We are talking about an arm of government and you are allocating to us KSh 50 million? We do not know what to do with that money," the CJ lamented.

But if the Jubilee government's promise of providing more funds for the Judiciary and other institutions charged with fighting corruption is to be taken seriously, then Maraga probably has nothing more to worry about.

READ ALSO: Former MP threatens to mobilise Asians to close businesses over demolitions

A number of high voltage investigations into incidents of graft, including mismanagement and plundering of public funds at county government levels, and pursuit of suspects are underway.

At the same time, both the national and county governments have launched crackdown on illegally acquired properties that has so far left behind a trail of demolitions, multi-billion losses and pain for those whose properties were not spared by the bulldozers.

Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news.

Massive Demolitions in Kileleshwa as JAVA House and Shell Station down - On Tuko TV

Source: Tuko Breaking News- A newly sworn in Arumeru District Commissioner Jeru Muro announced the blanket ban

- The move is envisioned to cushion Tanzanian carrot farmers from competition from Kenya

- He has also threatened to mount road inspections to effect the ban

- The East African Community had earlier authorised countries to open up for free trade

Trade wars between Kenya and Tanzania have scaled to a whole new and feared notch following a recent ban on Kenyan carrots by Tanzanian authority.

A newly sworn in Arumeru District Commissioner Jeru Muro announced the blanket ban stating that it will go along way in protecting local farmers from competition.

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READ ALSO: Ngina Kenyatta na mabinti weingine 9 wa marais wa Afrika wanaopendeza ajabu

The move is envisioned to cushion Tanzanian carrot farmers from competition from Kenya. Photo:Cyrus Ndiragu

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Kenya has the highest rate of unemployment in East Africa - UNDP report

In a report filed by The East African on Saturday, August 11, the authority disclosed that strict road checks will be mounted to ensure no Kenyan carrots seeped into his area of administration.

During the harvesting period, carrots are imported from the neighbouring country, but by the power I have been given by the president, not a single carrot will be imported into the district, Muro stated as he addressed Arumeru residents.

READ ALSO: Top, trending and inspiring videos on TUKO TV

Carrot farmers, Muro said would stand along Arush - Moshi highway and ensure not even a single stick of Kenyan carrot was imported by middlemen.

This development plays not long before Tanzania seized and auctioned at least 10,000 cows that had wondered in the country for pastures as TUKO.co.ke had earlier reported.

READ ALSO: Forget about Kenya, Tanzania now seizes 1,300 cows from Rwanda and Uganda as Magufuli gets tough.

The move nonetheless, violates a 2011 East African Community pact that is branded as the Common Market Protocol that directed the countries to open up their borders for free movement of goods across the region.

It, therefore, throws into question the level of commitment Tanzania has in facilitating economic development in the trade bloc.

READ ALSO: Mau Mau veterans turn heat on government after compensation case flops in UK court

This is a form of non-tariff barrier, Adrian Njau, who is the East African Business Council Trade and Policy advisor.

Today they will ban carrots from Kenya, next time Kenya will ban carrots from Tanzania, he added, expressing fears that the ordinary East Africans were bound to suffer the heftiest blow.

Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news.

Kenya News Latest: Massive Demolitions in Kileleshwa as JAVA House and Shell Station down | Tuko TV

Source: Tuko Kenya- The lady claims to have been in a relationship with the departed athlete since 2016

- Together they had a daughter and were planning to get married

- However, in a surprising twist of events, Nicholas Bett's family have now barred the lady from burial arrangements

- Sources claim the family was fully aware of Nicholas' relationship with the lady prior to his death

A woman claiming to be the wife of deceased 400 metres champion Nicholas Bett has been blocked from the family, TUKO.co.ke has learnt.

The lady, identified as Brenda Bett, claims the late Nicholas family have completely cut her off from burial arrangements despite being on the verge of a wedding prior to the tragic death of the athlete.

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READ ALSO: Ngina Kenyatta na mabinti weingine 9 wa marais wa Afrika wanaopendeza ajabu

Brenda Bett and Nicholas in one photo from Brenda's Facebook

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Kenya's 400 meters champion Nicholas Bett dies in road crash

According to Brenda, the two have been living together since 2016 and have since been blessed with a daughter who is a little over a year.

Sources intimated to TUKO.co.ke that the two have been living together after Nicholas, who was a police officer, moved back to Eldoret in late 2017 to pursue his athlete dreams.

A quick look at Brendas Facebook will reveal a lady who had some form of relationship with the late athlete as immediately news of his death hit the interwebs, she took to Facebook with a disheartening tribute to him.

READ ALSO: Kanze Dena dismisses speculations of looming Cabinet reshuffle

Besides that, there are numerous photos of Nicholas with Brenda which suggest that indeed the two were not only an item , but had started a family as well.

READ ALSO: Papa Shirandula's Naliaka flaunts bulging baby bump and it's just a sight for sore eyes

Despite glaring evidence that Nicholas and Brenda were a family, sources claim the girl has been barred from attending the funeral by the late athletes folks who seem to be siding with his first lady whom he is said to have impregnated while she was still in secondary school.

Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news.

Phenny Awiti Story: Meet HIV Positive Mom Raising HIV Negative Kids | Tuko TV:

Source: Tuko- The NASA leader says claims of bribery in Parliament a big shame

- He wants investigations done on MPs who dished out money to trash report on sugar

- There have been claims that MPs have been receiving bribes to as less as KSh 10,000

- Parliament has to work with other government institutions to end corruption, he argues

National Super Alliance (NASA) leader Raila Odinga has castigated Members of Parliament branding them as the weakest link in the ongoing purge against graft lords.

Raila said in a statement seen by TUKO.co.ke on Sunday, August 12, that the National Assembly was derailing the spirited fight on corruption and called investigative authorities to move in and roundup culpable individuals.

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READ ALSO: Ngina Kenyatta na mabinti weingine 9 wa marais wa Afrika wanaopendeza ajabu

National Super Alliance (NASA) leader Raila Odinga has castigated Members of Parliament (MPs) branding them as the Weakest link in the ongoing purge against graft lords. Photo: Raila Odinga

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Speaker Justin Muturi puts MPs on the spot over bitter sugar bribery claims

This accusation by the Opposition chief comes after the National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi put on spot MPs who are believed to have received bribes to cover up the truth surrounding probe on contaminated sugar.

The public currently feels cheated by Parliament, which has become the weakest link in this war, with reports of money changing hands for adoption or rejection of reports. This is a major shame to the nation and deserves urgent and thorough investigation by a multi-agency team from the EACC, DPP and DCI, said Odinga.

READ ALSO: Uhuru is fighting Ruto not corruption - David Ndii

For the war against corruption to be successful, Raila said the legislature, judiciary and the executive must speak one language.

He nonetheless observed that the current momentum witnessed in battling fraud deserved to be recognised stating that it was a result of the Building Bridges initiative.

This crackdown and the support by the public were unthinkable at the start of this year with Kenya torn down the middle by ethnic politics, elections and impunity until the MoU in the Building Bridges to a New Kenyan Nation happened with a very clear agenda on how to address our age-old problems, he said.

Raila said the end goal of the drive was to ensure that corruption in the country was made a very painful crime which none of its perpetrators will ever find a way to evade. Photo: Raila Odinga

Source: Twitter

READ ALSO: Corrupt government officials offered me KSh 700 million bribe to go slow - DCI boss Kinoti

Major corruption scams have since been unmasked since the Bridge Building initiatives started gaining shape among them the National Youth Service and National Cereal and Produce Board sagas.

Others include Kenya Power (KPLC) and Ruaraka land saga which have since seen hundreds of billions of taxpayers money pilfered by corrupt government individuals.

The political atmosphere has enabled us to look at our problems minus the usual ethnic lenses. Attempts by suspects to appeal to their ethnic bases have therefore generated near zero support, Raila continued to state.

READ ALSO: Cabinet secretaries Henry Rotich, Adan Mohamed safe as MPs reject dirty sugar report

Important to note, the former Prime Minister said was to see these culpable fairly tried and the stolen assets recovered in a bid to restore public trust in government institutions.

The Asset Recovery Agency must move out of boardrooms and be seen to be acting publicly in unison with the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations. The suspects, both those out on bail and the ones facing arrest, must be prevented from hiding and their attempts to frustrate the war on corruption paralysed, he said.

Above all, he said the end goal of the drive was to ensure that corruption in the country was made a very painful crime which none of its perpetrators will ever find a way to evade.

Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news.

Nazlin Umar: Ruto Is Behind The Sugar Scandal - On Tuko TV.

Source: Tuko.co.ke- The former gubernatorial aspirant believes the demolitions will in the long run cost the country

- According to Buzeki, demolishing well establish malls is a sure way of scaring away investors

- Despite his sentiments, the president has insisted that buildings sitting in government-owned land had their days numbered

Former Uasin Gishu County gubernatorial aspirant Bundotich Zedekiah Kiprop alias Buzeki has criticised the the ongoing demolitions of buildings erected on waterways, road reserves and riparian land in Nairobi.

The businessman who is the proprietor of a company specialising in transport and dairy products said that the ongoing demolitions were bad for the country's image.

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READ ALSO: Ngina Kenyatta na mabinti weingine 9 wa marais wa Afrika wanaopendeza ajabu

Buzeki does not believe demolition of buildings sitting on riparian land is the answer

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Lawyer wants Eldoret monster husband who thumped wife badly left to the public for same treatment

Speaking in Eldoret during a public function attended by Deputy President William Ruto and a host of leaders cautioned that potential investors keen to invest in the country were likely to shun away as a result of the demolitions.

READ ALSO: Lawyer wants Eldoret monster husband who thumped wife badly left to the public for same treatment

"The bringing down of multi - million commercial buildings in Nairobi is not what we want to see as a country because this is bad for our image in regard to those who wish to invest here," said Buzeki.

His remarks came at a time that President Uhuru Kenyatta has backed the efforts to demolish buildings and ordered for arrest and prosecution of people who approved the construction of buildings on riparian land.

Ukay Mall was the latest to go down in a series of demolitions of buildings believed to be sitting on riparian land

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Village Market, Tribe Hotel not earmarked for demolition - Management

But Buzeki says that there is need to have dialogue on the matter since the demolitions are likely to lead to job losses.

"I believe we can have a conversions over this issue and see what can be done instead of seeing property worth millions and billions of shillings being brought down resulting to job losses at a time we are talking about creating a 24-hour economy," he added.

The Head of State has singled out those who endorsed construction of the buildings as law offenders, who will be pursued and prosecuted.

READ ALSO: Governor Nyong'o follows Sonko's footsteps, announces plan to demolish buildings on riparian land

In a recent tweet, the Head of State said, We will continue to demolish properties constructed on riparian lands, equally punish officials who made approvals for those properties.

The Nairobi Regeneration team has earmarked about 4000 buildings for demolition in an operation to clear illegal structures built on riparian land.

The operation by the team appointed by President Kenyatta last December is expected to take two months.

Nairobi Central Business District chief Julius Wanjau, who is in charge of the operation, said the owners of the buildings had been issued with three months and extra seven days notices to vacate.

We are going to continue with demolitions until we reach the National Museum. Then we will move to Gikomba, Ruai and Nairobi West, Wanjau said.

The official acknowledged that bribery was the major challenge he and his officers face in executing the demolition order.

I am being called by strange numbers telling me to stop this exercise so that we can talk. I am receiving money on Mpesa from new numbers and Im forced to send back, he said as quoted by a local newspaper.

South End mall along Lang'ata road also went down on allegations it was sitting on riparian road

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: I have lost many friends because of ongoing demolitions, but impunity must stop - Uhuru

Wanjau added that a budget has been provided for the operation and a team of 80 armed police officers and 100 city county inspectorate officers have been attached to the demolition team to provide security.

TUKO.co.ke understands that owners of some of the contested buildings that have been mapped and marked for demolition have since obtained court orders stopping the authorities from proceeding with demolitions.

READ ALSO: NEMA to demolish multimillion house in Riara estate where former MP lives

The parliamentary committee on environment and natural resources has also identified Limuru Road, Langata Road, Arboretum Road, Spring Valley, Globe Cinema Round-About, Riverside Drive, Westlands, Parklands, Fuata Nyayo estate in South B, Village market, Gem Suites in Riverside and Alina Villas in Spring Valley as among the areas with developments sitting on river banks.

Story by Thaddeus Asesa - Tuko.co.ke correspondent

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Kenya News: Former Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero Arraigned in Court Over Corruption Charge| Tuko TV:

Source: Tuko- The teenager is said to have been afraid of being circumcised

- His father says he had refused to follow instructions

- He was taken to Marimanti Level 5 hospital where he underwent the cut

A 19-year-old man who was afraid of undergoing the traditional cut was forcefully circumcised after he was caught drinking beer with older men.

The teenager's father said the son had on many occasions refused to be circumcised as he was afraid.

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READ ALSO: Ngina Kenyatta na mabinti weingine 9 wa marais wa Afrika wanaopendeza ajabu

The teenager's father said the son had on many occasions refused to be circumcised as he was afraid. Photo: Totallycoolpics

Source: UGC

READ ALSO: Lawyer wants Eldoret monster husband who thumped wife badly left to the public for same treatment

According to Standard Digital, the boy had made his father a laughing stock of the community in Marimanti, Tharaka-Nithi County.

When word got out he was busy downing a few bottles of beer, the teenager's father together with a group of other men got hold of him and took the boy to Marimanti Level 5 hospital where he was circumcised.

READ ALSO: Ongoing demolitions are bad for the country's image - Buzeki declares in front of DP Ruto

The boy's father stated that for long, people poked fun at him over his inability to get his son to undergo the cut.

"I have not been having peace while taking my brews in presence of other elders following their criticism and mockery in relation to my son. They had branded me as a man who never gets his sons circumcised and I have not been liking this, he said.

According to the downcast man, it was difficult for him to join his peers in a bar and peacefully get drunk without being constantly being reminded how his son was uncircumcised.

When news broke the teenager had finally transitioned to manhood, his peers and villagers broke into celebration.

Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news.

Kenya News: Former Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero Arraigned in Court Over Corruption Charge| Tuko TV

Source: Tuko Breaking NewsThe Ukrainian Navy's Command unveiled its strategy for development of the Ukrainian Navy until 2035, which foresees measures to counter Russian aggression.

Ukrainian Deputy Minister for temporarily occupied territories and internally displaced persons George Tuka says the use of force to unlock the situation around Ukrainian navigation in the Sea of Azov is among the possible scenarios.

"The situation is very complicated, but I cannot say that we've lost it [the Sea of Azov]. I'm not ready to give details about certain scenarios that we are currently looking into, including the use of force, to unblock it. The issue is really very complicated, and I simply would not like now, without having a certain decision, to talk about upcoming actions," he said in an interview to the Ukrainian news outlet Apostrophe.

According to him, Russia openly abuses its right [to detain vessels in the Sea of Azov].

"There are certain scenarios about how to improve the situation. Of course, [we won't handle it] on our own, but with the help of our allies and partners. Such opportunities exist," he said, adding that he sees no realistic way how Ukraine can deal with this situation on its own.

Read alsoAzov Sea could become Russian, and NATO won't help  British expert

"I do not see a purely military way [to make Russia stop abusing its right when retaining vessels going to and from Ukraine]. Diplomatic? According to the existing rules, indeed, both Ukrainian and Russian law enforcement agencies have the right to stop and inspect ships. There are no restrictions. This is abuse of law rather than violation of law. These are completely different things. An instant solution does not exist, but it is necessary to work in this direction. And we will work," Tuka summed up.

As UNIAN reported earlier, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Oleksandr Turchynov says Russia's military-political leadership considers the Azov-Black Sea region as an important springboard for further expansion. Russia's buildup of the military presence is combined with "brutal violation of international maritime law in the Sea of Azov, which manifests itself, in particular, in the illegal construction of the Kerch Strait Bridge and the growing number of incidents involving the detention by Russian military of Ukrainian and foreign vessels," Turchynov said earlier in August.

The Ukrainian Navy's Command in turn said Russian aggression in the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov is a real threat and unveiled its strategy for development of the Ukrainian Navy until 2035, which foresees measures to counter the aggression.The causes of the accident are still unknown.

Thirteen Ukrainians were injured in a mini-bus crash at the 59th km of the highways in Hungary's Nograd County on the afternoon of Saturday, August 11.

The vehicle ran off the road and turned over, Ukraine's Embassy in Hungary has said.

"Thirteen Ukrainian citizens and the driver, who is a Hungarian citizen, have been injured. All have received first aid; all have been hospitalized with various injuries. Eight Ukrainians are reported to have received severe injuries, five have minor injuries. There are no dead people," the embassy said.

Read alsoTen dead, ten injured in large road accident in Zhytomyr region (Photo, video)

The embassy reported with reference to the local police that 13 injured citizens of Ukraine had been admitted by the hospitals of Budapest, Vac and Balassagyarmat. "Seven victims with minor injuries were allowed to leave the hospital. The remaining are in hospital. One of them is in a coma, his father is beside him. The embassy has been monitoring the situation. It is looking for the victims' relatives. We are in contact with the relevant medical institutions," the embassy added.

The causes of the accident are still unknown.

According to the news outlet Novyny Zakarpattia, the victims are residents of Zakarpattia region. They were going back home from Hungary.The Russian occupation forces mounted 34 attacks on Ukrainian positions over the period under review.

The situation in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, remains tense, as the Russian-led forces continue shelling Ukrainian troops with the use of heavy weapons, namely mortars and artillery systems.

On August 11, the Russian occupation forces mounted 34 attacks on the positions of Ukraine's Joint Forces, heavy weapons were used in four instances, as a result of which one Ukrainian soldier was wounded in action.

Read alsoJFO: Ukraine reports 1 WIA amid 15 enemy attacks in Donbas on Aug 11

The enemy opened fire, using grenade launchers, large-caliber machine guns, small arms, and anti-tank guided missiles, the press service of the Joint Forces Operation (JFO) headquarters said on Facebook in its morning update on Sunday, August 12. In some areas, Ukrainian positions were attacked by infantry fighting vehicles (IFV).

Hot spots in the past day were areas near the villages of Krymske, Novotoshkivske, Novozvanivka, Novo-Oleksandrivka, Novhorodske, Novotroyitske, Novomykhailivka, Bohdanivka, Hranytne, Chermalyk, Hnutove, Lebedynske, Pavlopil, Vodiane, and Shyrokyne. The town of Svitlodarsk and Krasnohorivka were also under fire.

The enemy resorted to 82 mortars to attack Ukrainian positions near the village of Lebedynske and also used proscribed 122mm artillery systems to shell the Ukrainian defenders of Hnutove and Krymske.

Since Sunday midnight, the Russian occupation forces have twice opened fire on Ukrainian positions near Vodiane and Hnutove. They used 120mm and 82mm mortars in both instances. No Ukrainian casualties have been reported.

According to Ukrainian intelligence reports, one enemy soldier was eliminated, another two were injured.

As UNIAN reported earlier, the Russian Federation has recently sent more than 2,000 new troops to Donbas.(@FahadShabbir)

RIYADH, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 12th Aug, 2018) The Royal Saudi Air Defense has intercepted a ballistic missile fired by the Iran-backed Houthi militias from Emran governorate, Yemen, towards Saudi territories.

The official spokesman for the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen, Col. Turki Al Malki, explained that the missile was heading Jazan and was deliberately launched to target civilian and populated areas.

The missile was intercepted by the Saudi Air Force, with no damage reported, he added.

"Such hostile acts by the Iran-backed Houthi militias prove the continuing involvement of the Iranian regime in supporting the Houthi militias with qualitative capabilities in a flagrant and explicit violation of the two UN resolutions No. 2216 and 2231 with the objective of threatening the security of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as well as the regional and international stability."

Launching ballistic missiles towards densely populated cities and villages breaches the International Humanitarian Law, he noted.(@FahadShabbir)

DUBAI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 12th Aug, 2018) A total of 32,877 Emiratis travelled to Switzerland from January through April 2018, an increase of 22.6 percent over the corresponding period in 2017.

Up to 77,423 hotel nights were recorded during the same monitored period, 20.

3 percent up from 64,360 nights in the same period last year, according to statistics released by the Swiss Tourism board in the Gulf Cooperation Council, GCC.

During 2017, up to 137,934 Emirati tourists travelled to the European country, a growth of 9.1 percent over 2016, according to the Dubai-based agency.(@FahadShabbir)

DUBAI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 12th Aug, 2018) The Dubais Roads and Transport Authority, RTA, has emphasised the role of Emirati youth in driving its corporate performance through capitalising on their innovative ideas and technical skills.

Speaking on the occasion of the International Youth Day celebrations, which is marked on 12th August, Laila Faridoon, Executive Director of the Office of the Director-General and Chairman of the board of Executive Directors cum Chairperson of the Higher Committee for Envisioning the Future at RTA, said, "RTA employs more than 400 male and female Emiratis aged below 30 who have excellent occupational abilities. To enrich their role, RTA had launched the Youth Council in 2016 comprising of Emirati employees from various agencies and sectors of RTA."

She added that the authority has endorsed the Youth Council Plan 2018-2019 focused on four pillars; career progression, envisioning the future, engaging youth in RTA projects, and external participation.

"The first pillar relates to career development and occupational training. The second is concerned with the engagement of youth in RTA future projects and prompting them to figure out creative solutions for challenges encountered and introduce cutting-edge technologies for mobility solutions in coordination with the private sector," Faridoon said.

She added that the third pillar covers the attraction of influential youths to showcase their experiences and achievements in knowledge transfer, organising exhibitions for SMEs of RTA youths, and establishing youth communication channels such as meetings, workshops and lectures.

The fourth pillar is concerned with external initiatives such as communication with UAE Youth Council, youth councils of government entities and Meals on Wheels initiative in Ramadan to name a few," she explained.

RTA Youth Council had participated in several activities and programmes such as Leadership Forum at RTA, Engineers x Youth initiative at the Dubai Municipality and Building the Future held by Dubai Future academy, among others.

The 2018-2019 Plan includes an array of initiatives for upgrading the skills of Emirati youth and encouraging them to be innovative to serve RTAs strategic objectives.(@rukhshanmir)

DUBAI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 12th Aug, 2018) The UAE Federal Youth Authority has participated in Singapores National Day with discussion panels bringing together young Emiratis and their counterparts from the city-state to explore prospects of cooperation between the two countries, exchange knowledge and culture, and look into potential joint initiatives.

The event was attended by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al-Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment; Samuel Tan Chi Tse, Singapores Ambassador to the UAE; Low Pit Chen, Singapore's Consul-General in Dubai and northern emirates; and Saeed Mohammed Al Nazari, Executive Director of the Emirates Youth Council, along with Youth Council members and others.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Al-Zeyoudi, said, "These youth gatherings reflect the importance of communication and forging strong connections with young people from all around the world, who are the driving force behind all positive change. They also underline the youths prominent role at the heart of future-building projects in any society, and in finding innovative and practical solutions to current and future challenges."

Partiipants engaged in interactive dialogue about the challenges that young people face, as well as how best to develop their skills and enhance communication between young people and leaders, and the commonalities between young citizens in the two countries.

The attendees voiced their future aspirations, exploring opportunities for cooperation between various youth organisations in both countries.

Commenting on the occasion, Shamma bint Suhail Faris Al Mazrui, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, and board Chairwoman of the Federal Youth Authority, said that it is a priority for the UAE Government to support its youth and inspire them to be active members of society, by ensuring that they are present at local and international events to engage with their peers around the world.

She congratulated Singapore on its national day, wishing the country further progress, prosperity and development. Al Mazrui also expressed her wishes for further cooperation between young Emirati and Singaporeans, citing the Emirates Youth Council delegations visit to Singapore last April. "These visits allow young people from both countries to learn about international best practices in youth services, empowerment, and the construction of youth-focused facilities such as youth centres."

Ambassador Tse expressed his pleasure to join the young participants celebrating Singapores National Day, praising the cooperation between the UAE and Singapore to support young citizens and empower them to reach the highest levels.

"We are delighted to be celebrating Singapores 53rd National Day with a group of creative young people from Singapore and the UAE," he said.ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Aug, 2018 ) :Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman has issued orders to host 1,000 male and female pilgrims from the families of martyrs of Egyptian armed forces and police.

According to Saudi Gazette, they will be hosted as part of the Program of Guests of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques for Haj this year being supervised by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance.

Minister of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance and General Supervisor of the Program Sheikh Dr Abdullatif Al-Asheikh thanked the King for hosting these pilgrims.

He said this year's guests are coming from the continents of Asia, Africa and Europe.

Last month, King Salman issued orders to host 1,500 pilgrims from martyrs' families of the Yemeni National Army and Sudanese forces participating in Decisive Storm and Renewal of Hope Operations.

Thousands of female and male pilgrims have benefited from this program since its inception 22 years ago, the minister said.

The program is unique, because it helps fulfill the dreams of Muslims.

Al-Asheikh said the ministry is implementing an annual plan to make sure that the program benefits an overwhelming number of Muslims from all parts of the world.RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Aug, 2018 ) :The Police have finalized a comprehensive plan on the occasion of Independence Day and 2000 policemen will perform duties, a police spokesman said here on Sunday.

The policemen, Special Branch, Elite Force commandoes would be deployed in the city to maintain law and order.

The police divided city into seven sectors while special police pickets were established at the entry and exit points besides ensuring patrolling in the city to maintain law and order.

The police will also deal with one wheelers iron hand on the occasion.

According to plan no one would be allowed to violate rule oflaw.

The use of fireworks and aerial firing would be strictly banned on the occasion.Sindh Police have arrested 52 accused including absconders and proclaimed offenders from different parts of the province during last 24 hours.

KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th Aug, 2018 ) :Sindh Police have arrested 52 accused including absconders and proclaimed offenders from different parts of the province during last 24 hours.

Giving details Sindh police spokesman said on Saturday that Karachi Police arrested three accused and recovered a pistol from their possession.

Hyderabad Police arrested 11 absconders and two proclaimed offenders while Mirpurkhas police arrested four absconders and a proclaimed offender. Shaheed Benazirabad police arrested an alleged criminal and recovered a pistol from him. Sukkur police arrested 20 absconders,four proclaimed offenders and a street criminal. Larkana police arrested four absconders and a proclaimed offender duringthe period.ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Aug, 2018 ) :More than 4,500 scouts will survey the Mina and Arafat holy sites on Sunday to collect field information about tawafa establishments and camps and acquaint themselves with landmarks so as to guide pilgrims during Hajj.

Head of the scout camps Dr Saleh Bin Rajaa Al-Harbi said the survey will be conducted in three stages, Saudi Gazette reported.

In the first stage the scouts will survey the plots of land allotted to various tawafa establishments and update the maps of the holy sites as per field information.

In the second stage the scouts will document the gathered information and evaluate the data to compare these with the government and tawafa establishment data.

In the third stage they will finalize guidebooks and maps.

Meanwhile, the Secretariat General of the Council of Senior Scholars will begin their work on Sunday in Makkah for this year's Hajj season.

Their work will include the meetings of the Standing Committee for Fatwas, receiving Hajj delegations, answering pilgrims' questions, distributing flyers to help pilgrims perform their rituals as per the established Sunnah.

Deputy Emir of Makkah Prince Abdullah Bin Bandar, who is also Deputy Chairman of the Central Hajj Committee, carried out a field inspection tour to check the services to be provided to pilgrims.

He also inspected the projects carried out by the Makkah Regional Development Authority in the holy sites.

The deputy emir was briefed on the transport plan for this Hajj season.

The General Syndicate for cars has a plan to transport 1.8 million pilgrims aboard 18,400 buses equipped with all facilities.

The operation plan focuses on an integrated fleet of modern buses provided by 34 transport companies, officials said.

Prince Abdullah Bin Bandar also visited the Arafat holy site and inspected the Namira mosque which can accommodate more than 100,000 worshipers.

He also checked the camps spread on an area of 6 million square meters.

So far 1,221,463 pilgrims had arrived till Friday, representing a 7% increase in the number of pilgrims who arrived during the same period last year. This year 70,348 more pilgrims have arrived so far as compared to last year.ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Aug, 2018 ) :An Automatic Security and Surveillance System for Video Streams is being developed to help provide great support to Law Enforcement Agencies in combating terrorism and capturing culprits.

The system will use surveillance cameras installed in security sensitive areas which will capture and store videos of daily life activities happening around in that area.

Ignite, formerly known as National ICT Research and Development Fund, Ministry of Information technology and Telecommunications is developing the System in collaboration with Al-Khwarizmi Institute of Computer Science, University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore at a cost of Rs. 26.62 million.

When contacted official sources have said Principal Investigator (PI) of the project is Dr. Muhammad Usman Ghani Khan. The project is expected to be completed this year.

As per details, automatic understanding of the videos will be performed using image processing methods which would result in the development of several useful applications.

In addition, textual description of the video sequence will be generated using natural language processing which will save huge storage requirement. A web based utility for videos searching and summarization will also be provided to search most relevant videos in accordance with the security needs.

The sources said technically, this project mainly encompasses automatic understanding of visual scenes based on individual contents/High Level Features (HLFs) present in videos and added by extracting high-level features, such as human's face, age, gender, emotions, actions and objects, human-human interaction, human-object interaction, scene settings etc., the interpretation of a video stream can be easily obtained.

The peaceful purposes of this project are monitoring crowd, restricted access points and counting occurrence of specific persons.

The project will also provide substitutes for human monitoring of surveillance cameras. Such human monitoring can be compromised with drowsiness or over work scenarios; therefore, an automated solution is highly desirable since it would run all days and nights and on virtually any number of cameras without human intervention.

Currently, image processing community is focused on identification of individual objects, their properties and events in a video stream. This project extends this work to next level, the sources said and added it is a step ahead of keyword based tagging as it captures relations between key-words associated with videos, thus clarifying the context between them.

Initially, HLFs are identified from a video sequence and secondly, these HLFs are combined together using natural language processing techniques to generate smooth descriptions of a videos sequence.

Finally, this automatically generated language description is summarized to present most important contents in the provided video sequence.

Successful implementation of this project can lead to useful applications related to video searching, retrieval, mining and warehousing.

Given a textual description or a keyword, user of the system can search a video.

In this way, user can save his time while retrieving only desired events instead of watching whole video.

In addition, proposed research work open new horizons for statistical explanation of the video sequences, e.g. number of persons in video sequence, unusual events occurring in a complete day, counting humans with different age, gender, emotions and actions, list of common objects occurring in most of the videos etc.

These statistics will be helpful in taking precautionary measures for eradicating terrorism activities.

Finally, a web based searching and summarization tool will be generated for end users of this research work.

It merits mentioned here that from technological perspective, one tested technology that can provide some protection against terrorism is video surveillance. They are quite common these days, resulting in sharp rise in surveillance data during last few years.

This rate of increase has been gathering speed in underdeveloped and developed countries alike. Only in United Kingdom, there are 4.2 million closed circuit tv cameras installed, one per every 14 people.

This procedure is becoming common in Pakistan as well. For example CPO office Lahore has more than 100 surveillance cameras while Punjab institute of Cardiology has 80 cameras to monitor activities of patients and their relatives. A huge amount of data is collected by these cameras every day, but question remains how to make meaningful use of this data. It seems futile to store the whole day data especially if it was a serene day, or even if some suspicious activity was observed in some part of the day.

The storage mechanism should be intelligent enough to log only the most relevant coverage of the video stream. Even thenthe problem remains of storing huge amount of data which isexpensive with respect to storage media required.Caretaker Chief Minister (CM) Punjab Dr Hasan Askari strongly condemned terrorists attacks in Dalbandin and on a police check post in Kargah Nala area of Gilgit Baltistan.

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th Aug, 2018 ) :Caretaker Chief Minister (CM) Punjab Dr Hasan Askari strongly condemned terrorists attacks in Dalbandin and on a police check post in Kargah Nala area of Gilgit Baltistan.

He expressed grief and sorrow over the martyrdom of the police officials and paid glowing tributes of the brave police officials.

He said the police officials had achieved martyrdom while discharging their duties. Those who foiled evil designs of terrorists were the real heroes of the nation and their sacrifices would not waste, he added.

The chief minister prayed for early recovery of the injured.Minorities in Pakistan have full liberty to follow their faith and perform their religious obligations.

Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Secretary Muhammad Tariq Wazeer said this while addressing a function held in connection with the Minority Day here on Saturday.

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th Aug, 2018 ) :Minorities in Pakistan have full liberty to follow their faith and perform their religious obligations.

Evacuee Trust Property board (ETPB) Secretary Muhammad Tariq Wazeer said this while addressing a function held in connection with the Minority Day here on Saturday.

He said that role of minorities for the development of the country was beyond any doubt.

Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (PSGPC) president Sardar Tara Singh said, "we are Pakistani and we feel proud of it". He said the respect which minorities get in Pakistan was not avialble in any other country.

ETPB Chairman Tahir Ehsan, Amir Hussain Hashmi, Imran Gondal, Yasir Asghar and others were also present on the occasion.The Central Ruet-e-Hillal Committee to meet on Sunday for sighting of the Zil-Hajj crescent.

KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th Aug, 2018 ) :The Central Ruet-e-Hillal Committee to meet on Sunday for sighting of the Zil-Hajj crescent.

The meeting will be held here at Pakistan Meteorological building, Main University Road.

The Committee Chairman Mufti Muneeb-Ur-Rehman will preside the meeting, said a statement issued on Saturday.

Information and evidence regarding sighting of the moon could be conveyed to the committee through these numbers 021-99261404, 0321-2484604, 0300-9285203.A new avenue for the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has been opened by declaring M-3 Industrial Estate as a special economic zone.

FAISALABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th Aug, 2018 ) :A new avenue for the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has been opened by declaring M-3 Industrial Estate as a special economic zone.

It will help Pakistani investors to set up joint ventures during the proposed phase of relocation of Chinese industries.

This was stated by Sohail Qadri, the Director Projects and Policy Research, Punjab board of Investment and Trade (PBIT), who also works as the head of the Punjab-China business Forum.

During a meeting with Acting President Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FCCI) Farooq Yusuf here on Saturday, he said the PBIT had been encouraging Pakistani as well as Chinese investors to set up joint ventures.

However, in this connection local investors should also explore and identify the potential investors with whom they could comfortably start joint ventures.

He said that Punjab would encourage new and innovative industries with the latest technologies which could be ultimately adopted by other industrialists in order to produce high quality products with the minimum production cost.

Regarding proposed Airport in private sector, he said that Sialkot had materialised its dream of airport in the private sector and Faisalabad could also replicate this project on the same pattern.

He assured that the PBIT would provide them necessary information about Sialkot model.

Acting President FCCI Sheikh Farooq Yusuf briefly introduced the FCCI and said the FCCI had already good cordial relations with government institutions, including the PBIT, and these relations could be further strengthened for industrial expansion in the city.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

MUZAFFARGARH, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Aug, 2018 ) ::Pakistan Movement worker Rana Muhammad Jaafar Khan expressed his wishes for transformation of country into real Islamic welfare state as per vision of Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Muhammad Iqbal.

Talking to APP, he expressed concern over unsatisfactory performance of past rulers in the country and wished for the improvement so that it should be developed in lines with the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

He recalled some incidents of migration to Pakistan from India in 1947 and stated that he belonged to village Ray-Dharana, situated at Tehsil Dhodhian of Patiala State.

When the announcement of Pakistan's independence was made, the environment of the whole village was echoing with slogans of "Allah-o-Akbar" and everyone was very much excited. He maintained that the whole muslims of the village were happy to find an islamic state of Pakistan. He added that a group of Hindus and Sikh came to meet them and they urged them to stay there.

They tried to convince that they had enough properties in the village and should not move to Pakistan.

But, the Muslims were ready to leave for new state of Pakistan because they had many dreams in their minds.

Rana Jaafar further informed when they left for Pakistan then they were attacked by armed mobs. Some of their family members embraced martyrdom. Sikh and Hindus, also snatched precious articles. They had to hide themselves in sugarcane crops in daylight and had to travel at night time. He further recalled that they had to eat leaves of trees to live as they had no other option to eat.

The Pakistan Movement worker maintained that they took the sigh of relief when they crossed Lahore border. Then they were shifted to Refugees camps, he added.

To a query about settlement in Khangrah, Rana Jaafar informed that initially they settled in Kot Mithhan (Rajanpur) and later they shifted to Khangarh (Muzaffargarh) area in line with claims of their property which they had in India.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Aug, 2018 ) :The Pakistani hajj aspirants gone to perform the sacred religious ceremony of Hajj in Saudi Arabia Sunday lauded the excellent Hajj arrangements and prompt redressal of their complaints.

Mrs Shahina Masood, a hajj aspirant present in Saudia in connection with Hajj, has conveyed her jubilation over excellent arrangements and lauded the effective complaint redressal system of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, said spokesman of the ministry in a statement issued here.

According to spokesman, Dr Hamza, another hajj aspirant lauded health facilities being provided in Saudi Arabia by the ministry. Ahsan Shahid, another aspirant also lauded Mauvineen's vital help being offered to the pilgrims. They demanded enhancing Pakistani hajj quota to accommodate maximum pilgrims.

Meanwhile, a Pakistani Haj aspirant Tariq Majeed through a whatsapp message published in a leading English daily, lamented the provision of substandard quality meal and ineffectiveness of Hajj helpline established to register complaints of Pakistan hajj aspirants.

On reading the complaint in the newspaper, Director Hajj Imtiaz Shah immediately located the aggrieved person, contacted him and promptly resolved his complaint.

Talking to APP he said Ministry of Religious Aftfairs and Interfaith Harmony has resolved more than 90 complaints of meal out of a total of over 106 registered by help line working round the clock to facilitate the over over 140,110 hajj aspirants reached Saudi Arabia in connection with Hajj 2018.

Ministry was not making any compromise in quality of meal. The helpline is working round the clock. More than 900 calls were received by helpline for guidance. 312 complaints from out of a total of more than 453 calls were redressed.

551 doctors and paramedical staff is deployed for providing medical facilities to intending pilgrims.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Rome, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th Aug, 2018 ) :Two French groups operating the rescue ship Aquarius said Saturday it was back in Libyan coastal waters for the first time since triggering a diplomatic row over migration in June.

The Aquarius picked up 141 people on Friday in two separate operations, SOS Mediterranee and Doctors Without Borders said on Twitter.

The Aquarius "remains in the search and rescue zone, and on the lookout for any other craft in distress".

The group's announcement marks a return to the sea after a diplomatic spat that began in June when the Aquarius, having picked up 630 stranded migrants, including children and pregnant women, was refused access to dock in Malta and Italy.

Italy's far-right Interior Minister Matteo Salvini later threatened to turn away any migrant rescue boats, sparking a fresh row among the EU's 28 members over how to handle the influx of people fleeing war and poverty.

After the ship was stranded at sea for days, the new Socialist Spanish government offered to let it land at Valencia, where its passengers disembarked later in June.

Salvini said in a radio interview Saturday that the Aquarius "would never see an Italian port".

Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, meanwhile, in a Facebook video, highlighted the sharp decrease in the number of migrants arriving in Italy in his government's first two months in power.

This "without ever losing sight of the protection of the rights of refugees and asylum-seekers and the guarantee of a dignified welcome", he said.

In one of Friday's operations the Aquarius took on board 116 people, including 67 unaccompanied minors, mostly from Somalia and Eritrea.

Their wooden boat was overloaded and carried neither water nor food when it was spotted about 24 nautical miles off the Libyan coast, north of Abu Kammash.

Earlier Friday, the vessel had already rescued 25 migrants who were travelling in a small wooden craft, also off the Libyan coast, north of Zouara.

The Italian coastguard, meanwhile, announced that it had intercepted a boat from Turkey carrying 61 Pakistani men on Thursday night.

On their arrival in Sicily, the men said they had each paid 5,000 Euros to make the journey. Two Georgian nationals are believed to have organised their passage.A man looks at an Egyptian Coptic cross placed on a rock (AFP or licensors)

Prosecutors in Egypt have charged a former monk with the murder of Coptic Orthodox Bishop Epiphanius, who was found dead in a pool of blood on July 29th at his desert monastery.

By Nathan Morley

The murder of Bishop Epiphanius shocked members of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Egypt.



The 64-year-old scholar, who served as the Abbot of the Monastery of San Macario, was found dead at his desert monastery on July 29th.



The monastery is around 100-kilometres outside the capital Cairo.



Police investigations concluded that the bishop had been struck with a sharp instrument; which had left him with fractures in the back of his skull.

Former monk charged



Now prosecutors say Wael Saad, a former monk at the monastery - who was defrocked last week - confessed to using an iron bar to bludgeon the bishop; however, there is no known motive for the crime, but it is reported he was being investigated by the victim for violating some rules of monasticism.



Saad has now been charged and remains in custody, as investigations continue. The Coptic Orthodox Church has frozen the recruitment of new monks for the next 12-months, banned the use of social media, and instructed monks that leaving monastery grounds requires official permission.

Listen to our report

Researcher and scholar



Epiphanius - a disciple of Matta el Meskin - was a key figure in the modern history of the Coptic Orthodox Church. He lived intense spiritual relationships with his friends and members of the monastic communities of the Catholic Church.



A native of Tanta, he had a degree in medicine. He became a priest in 2002 after entering the Great Monastery of Saint Macarius in 1984. Abbot Epiphanius worked on translations, from Greek to Arabic, of several books of the Bible.

A researcher and scholar, he took part in the 10th international Conference on Coptic studies in Rome in 2012. One year later, he was elected Abbot by the 100 monks of the Monastery of Saint Macarius.

Coptic Christians make up an estimated 10 percent of the population in Egypt.Pope Francis responds to the heartfelt questions of 4 young Italians at a gathering of 70,000 pilgrims in Romes Circus Maximus on Saturday evening.

By Sr Bernadette Mary Reis, fsp

Part of a pilgrimage of more than 70,000 young Italians included an evening prayer vigil in Rome on Saturday. The week-long pilgrimage was organized by the National Service for Youth Ministry of the Italian Bishops Conference in view of the Synod for Young People in October and World Youth Day in January.

During the prayer vigil at the Circus Maximus, Pope Francis responded to 4 questions presented by a few of the young people present.

Dreams are shining stars



Letizia and Lucamatteo both asked the Pope a question involving the realization of the dreams they carry within them.

Pope Francis responded saying that their dreams are the most important because they are the most brilliant. He encouraged them to make their dreams their future as well and he invited them to ask themselves where their dreams come from. The scope of their dreams needs to be like the great dreams narrated in the Bible, he said. What made them great is that they included everyone.

Great dreams include, involve, are extroverted, share, and generate new life. In the face of adults who are afraid of young peoples dreams, Pope Francis encouraged them now to allow themselves to be robbed of your dreams but to seek mentors to help you understand them and gradually concretize them.

Listen to our report

Take the risk and love

Martina posed a question regarding the difficulty of planning her personal future involving permanent commitments and the pressures she feels to plan her professional future first. Being able to make decisions for oneself is the highest expression of freedom, the Pope responded. [Martina] pointed out the wound, he continued. Every excuse to postpone a definitive decision stops us, does not let us move forward, does not allow us to dream, takes away our freedom. The Pope then reflected at length on the biblical portrayal of man and woman who together image God. A couple realizes this noble ideal when the man makes his wife more of a woman and vice versa, he said. Dont be afraid to think about love: but a love that takes risks, faithful love, love that fosters growth in another and in oneself, the Pope concluded.



Witness, don't talk

Dario presented the third question regarding faith and the search for meaning in a Church that he says no longer responds adequately and is no longer credible because of frequent scandals. Dario too pointed out the wound, Pope Francis said. His question, the Pope continued, asks all of us, pastors and faithful, to accompany, listen, and give witness. The Pope illustrated this with a personal experience he had with a young person during World Youth Day in Krakow who asked him what he could say to a fellow university student who was agnostic to make him understand that ours is the true religion. I said, the Pope continued, the last thing you need to do is say something. Begin to live as a Christian and he will ask you why you live like that. The Pope ended asking each one there to ask how they themselves are witnessing their faith. And this is the last thing, he concluded, Jesus message, the Church without witness, is only smoke.

Circa Survive released their adventurous sixth full length, The Amulet, last year via Hopeless Records, continuing to stretch their brand of intricately appealing post-hardcore into intense new territory. The tireless prog-punk pioneers are now announcing another huge run of tour dates, including a stop at House of Blues Las Vegas on Nov. 17, 2018, with special guests La Dispute and Queen of Jeans.

The Amulet finds Circa Survive continuing to push their unconventional sound, proving exactly why theyre still one of alternatives most exhilarating bands. The album is unapologetically ambitious with its complex guitars, growling bass, and explosive drumming, all permeated by Anthony Greens singularly dynamic voice. Lyrically, The Amulet is fueled by an inextricable combination of the personal and political. Green explores the idea of seeking comfort in unhealthy places and the desperate need to seek the truth even when its challenging, applying this sentiment to his personal life just as pointedly as to the current uneasy zeitgeist, capturing the sense of fear and discontent that permeates our current social and political climates.

On Saturday, August 11, actor and star of Were the Millers, Horrible Bosses, and more, Jason Sudeikis, visited The Dorsey at The Venetian Las Vegas alongside Veep actor Sam Richardson, and drummer Billy Brimblecom (Photo courtesy: The Venetian Las Vegas)

The power group had a round of cocktails at The Dorsey before heading off to a show on the Las Vegas Strip. The group sipped on cocktails including The Dorsey signature, the Penicillin.

Stunning design and true cocktail culture have found a memorable home in The Dorsey. Here, old school service standards and superb cocktail craft live within a thoughtfully designed enclave of warmth, ease, and comfort.

Las Vegas magician Jeff McBride was recently awarded one of the magic worlds most prestigious awards, the International Federation Internationale des Societes Magiques (FISM) Theory & Philosophy Award.

The award was announced at the organizations tri-annual convention, held this year in Busan, South Korea.

Reached for comment, McBrides response was, For thousands of years, the secret arts of magic have been passed down from master to student. It is a joy and an honor to be able to be part of this legacy.

FISM is an international body coordinating dozens of national and international clubs and federations around the world. Together these clubs represent approximately 50,000 magicians from 50 countries as of 2015.

The FISM Special Awards began in 2006. There are three categories. Each is intended to address more than a single accomplishment; to consider a persons work covering a wide span of time. Over a hundred people from around the world are asked to propose names. A slate of five nominees in each category is determined, and the same group of over a hundred votes.

Jeff McBride was in the category of Theory & Philosophy. This award gives tribute to a person who has approached magic from a viewpoint that is analytical, academic, perhaps even spiritual.

Prior recipients: 2006, Tommy Wonder (Netherlands); 2009, Juan Tamariz (Spain); 2012, Eugene Burger (USA); 2015, Roberto Giobbi (Switzerland)

This years nominees were (alphabetically): Dan DaOrtiz (Spain), Pit Hartling (Germany), Jeff McBride (USA), Darwin Ortiz (USA), and Gabi Pareras (Spain)

And, as announced before an audience of 2500 in Busan, the winner this year was Jeff McBride.When I say that people can be fired or arrested or abused or whipped or banished for trifles, I am not describing the exceptional case for the sake of being inflammatory. What I say is true  and most white South Africans would acknowledge it freely. They do not pretend these things are not happening. The essential cruelty of the situation is not that all blacks are virtuous and all whites villainous, but that the whites are conditioned not to see anything wrong in the injustices they impose on their black neighbors.  Ernest Cole, House of Bondage, 1967.

City benches were for whites only and were so inscribed. There were no blacks only benches in Johannesburg; blacks sat on the curbstones.

Contract-expired miners are on the right, carrying their discharge papers and wearing European clothes while new recruits, many in tribal blankets, are on the left.

Handcuffed blacks were arrested for being in a white area illegally.

Earnest boy squats on haunches and strains to follow lesson in heat of packed classroom.

Penny baas, please, baas, I hungry This plaint is part of nightly scene in the Golden City, as black boys beg from whites. They may be thrown a coin, or they may get slapped in the face.

During group medical examination the nude men are herded through a string of doctors offices.

A white pocket being picked. Whites are angered if touched by anyone black, but a black hand under the chin is enraging. This man, distracted by his fury, does not realize his back pocket is being rifled. He is allowed to go his way  till next time.

A guest with mother and child.

This was in the bank in the building where he and Cole had their studio. There were separate counters for blacks and whites.

Doornfontein Railway station in rush hour. This picture shows the reality of apartheid without the need for any words.

Servants are not forbidden to love. Woman holding child said, I love this child, though shell grow up to treat me just like her mother does. Now she is innocent.

Newspapers are her carpet; fruit crates are her chairs and table.

These were recruits. Johannesburg station, South Africa.

Students kneel on floor to write. Government is casual about furnishing schools for blacks.

South Africa. 1960.

After processing, they wait at railroad station for transportation to mine. Identity tag on wrist shows shipment of labor to which man is assigned.

The washing conditions at the mines were primitive. Shower rooms were crowded with men trying to bathe while others did their meagre laundry.

This was probably in Berea, Yeoville or Bellevue; one of the older eastern suburbs of Johannesburg.

The train accelerates with its load of clinging passengers. They ride like this through rain and cold, some for the entire journey.

The relocation of people from Eersterust to Mamelodi.

Which black train to take is matter of guesswork. They have no destination signs and no announcement of arrivals is made. Head car may be numbered to show its route, but number is often wrong. In confusion, passengers sometimes jump across track, and some are killed by express trains.

South Africa. 1960.

People returning after a long days work and a train ride from Pretoria. Mamelodi, South Africa.

We sleep anywhere, a boy said, in drainpipes, parks, junk yards, anywhere. At dawn children lying in a park, shivering.

Living in her kaya out back, servant must be on call six days out of seven and seven nights out of seven. She lives a lonely life apart from her family.

This was on the edge of Von Brandis Square, next to the Supreme Court. The municipality had recently installed new underground parking, with toilets.

In the mid-1960s, photojournalist Ernest Cole undertook a dangerous missionto produce a volume of photographs that would reveal to the world the excruciating realities of life under apartheid. The result was the groundbreaking book, published in 1967.Ernest Cole was born in South Africas Transvaal in 1940. His early work chronicled the horrors of apartheid and in 1966 he fled the Republic of South Africa becoming a banned person. He was briefly associated with Magnum Photographers and received funding from the Ford Foundation and Time-Life. In North America, he concentrated on street photography in primarily urban settings.Between 1969 and 1971, Cole spent an extensive amount of time on regular visits to Sweden where he became involved with the Tiofoto collective and exhibited his work. From 1972, Coles life fell into disarray and he ceased to work as a photographer, losing control of his archive and negatives in the process. Having experienced periods of homelessness, Cole died aged forty-nine of pancreatic cancer in New York City in 1990.In 2017, more than 60,000 of Coles negatives missing for more than forty years were discovered in a Stockholm bank vault. This work is now being examined and catalogued.( Ernest Cole / Magnum Photos)A new movie about racism, timed to open on the anniversary weekend of last years deadly white nationalist march in Charlottesville, Virginia, has been prefaced with a disclaimer in the college town where the march took place.

A sign posted at the Alamo Drafthouse in Charlottesville on Friday, the day of the movies opening, said The final minutes of BlacKkKlansman feature a powerful epilogue that could be disturbing or difficult to watch for many viewers in Charlottesville.

The film includes footage from last years attack in Charlottesville when a vehicle drove into a group of counter-protesters on foot, throwing people into the air. One woman died in the attack and several more were seriously injured.

Filmmaker Spike Lee, whose career include a number of films that make pointed statements about race relations, has said he specifically planned to release his latest film on the Charlottesville anniversary.

An actor in the film, Topher Grace, said the first time he saw the film, at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year, the Charlottesville footage came as a surprise. He told industry publication The Hollywood Reporter Friday, I think the audience didnt know at first that it was real-life footage and there was this kind of gasp.

Actor John David Washington, 34, who plays an African-American man whose character infiltrates the white supremacist group the Ku Klux Klan, told The Hollywood Reporter that he questioned his mother about the current racial climate, compared to the height of the U.S. civil rights movement in the 1960s and early 1970s.

I asked, Do you think the times are worse then or now? he said. And she said, Now.

BlacKkKlansman, which won the Grand Prix at Cannes, earned $3.6 million on its opening day Friday.More than 150 alumni of China's Shandong University have written an open letter, urging the school to ensure the personal safety and freedom of professor Sun Wenguang, who was apparently taken away by police during a live VOA interview nearly two weeks ago.

Wang Shujun, a co-signer of the open letter, told VOA that he was shocked about the incident, which he thought was outrageous, uncivilized and unconstitutional. He noted that the local authorities in Jinan, the capital of Shandong province, severely hurt China's international image by treating the 84-year-old outspoken critic so rudely and recklessly.

"Even President Xi Jinping wouldn't be happy if he learned what happened to the professor," said Wang in a telephone interview with VOA Sunday.

Chinese authorities, including leaders of Shandong University, have kept silent about the incident involving professor Sun despite continuing inquiries from VOA and other international media.

The Trump administration has said it is concerned about the whereabouts of the retired Chinese university professor.

"We condemn China's ongoing abuse of human rights, in particular, the suppression of the fundamental freedoms of expression, association and peaceful assembly, and the unlawful detention of activists, lawyers, journalists and civil-society leaders seeking to defend those freedoms," a State Department spokesperson told VOA.

The official also said the State Department was grateful for the work of VOA reporters and other journalists in China who "have dedicated their lives and taken great risk to pursue this important work."

Sun was being interviewed August 1 from his home in Jinan on the VOA Mandarin language television show Issues & Opinions.

He was answering questions about an open letter he'd written to Chinese President Xi Jinping, criticizing Chinese aid to Africa when there are so many living in poverty in China.

Sun told the host in Washington that police had entered his apartment and demanded he end the interview. Sun blamed Xi for sending the officers to break down his door.

"I am entitled to express my opinion. This is my freedom of speech," were Sun's last words before the line went dead.

Sun is an outspoken, longtime critic of Chinese authorities. He was arrested during the infamous Cultural Revolution of the 1960s and was sentenced to seven years in prison in 1978 for criticizing Mao Zedong, two years after Mao had died.

VOA Mandarin Service contributed to this report.

Italians are divided between those who think parents should have the right to decide whether to vaccinate their children and those who feel immunization programs must be decided by the government, which they believe has better access to information. Vaccine regulations differ widely across Europe, and the current situation in Italy is in limbo.

Italians enrolling their children in state-run nursery schools currently are uncertain if they need to provide evidence their children have had 10 vaccinations required by a law that came into effect in March. A week ago, the upper house of parliament voted through an amendment to remove that obligation. But to become law, it must also be approved by the lower house.

Parents have been told that for the time being they can simply provide a self-signed declaration that their children have been vaccinated. Many remain unclear whether their children will be allowed to go to school if they fail to provide a declaration or other evidence of the vaccinations.

A surge of more than 5,000 measles cases last year  the second largest outbreak in Europe  led the government run then by the Democratic Party to pass a bill requiring mandatory vaccinations. However, in the run-up to general elections this year, the 5-Star Movement led by Luigi Di Maio and the League led by Matteo Salvini said they would do away with the law. Now in power, they appear to be keeping their promise

Speaking at a recent political rally near Florence, Salvini admitted he had vaccinated his own children and said that parents who have the best interests of their children at heart should be able to make that choice. He added that 10 vaccines are simply too many for some children and it is unthinkable that Italian children may not be able to enroll in school because they have not been vaccinated.

Salvini said a state that requires 10 vaccines must also give parents the certainty that nothing will happen to their children through pre-vaccine tests, which today do not exist. There are 15 European countries, he added, that do not even have a single mandatory vaccine. Noting that Italy now has the most compulsory vaccinations of any country in Europe, Salvini expressed the concern that some multinational or pharmaceutical company may have chosen Italian children as a testing ground.

Italys health minister, Giulia Grillo, a doctor and a member of the 5-Star Movement, has made clear the government believes the right balance must be struck between the right to education and the right to health.

Grillo said the 5-Star Movement is not opposed to vaccines and recognizes their importance and usefulness. She added that citizens need to be informed properly about vaccinations and that the National Health Service must provide support to parents and children before and after they are inoculated.

According to a 2010 survey of 27 EU states, plus Norway and Iceland, 15 countries do not have any mandatory vaccinations; the other 14 have at least one. The most common mandatory vaccine is against polio, followed by diphtheria and tetanus.Prosecutors on Saturday ordered a recently defrocked monk to be detained for four days pending an investigation into his alleged involvement in the death of the abbot of a prominent monastery in the desert northwest of Cairo, Egypts state news agency said.

The defrocked monk, identified by his monastic name of Isaiah, confessed to collaborating with others to kill Bishop Epiphanius, abbot of St. Macarius Monastery, prosecutors said.

Isaiahs lawyer withdrew from the case and ceased defending him, the state-run MENA reported. It remains unclear whether another lawyer will be assigned to the case.

The decision to strip Isaiah of his monkhood came Aug. 5, a week after the abbots death. The Coptic Orthodox Church dismissed any connection to the Epiphanius death, however, saying the decision was made based on strictly monastic reasons.

Abbots death

The abbots mystery killing took place July 29. His funeral was attended by Pope Tawadros II, the spiritual leader of Egypts Coptic Orthodox Christians, one the worlds oldest Christian communities.

In a statement, the church said Isaiah has a record of failing to abide by the monasterys rules and that an investigation committee had previously decided to keep him out of the monastery for three years, but other monks had signed a petition calling for him to be pardoned and pledged to help him change his wrong course.

Isaiah failed to change his conduct, which resulted in his defrocking, the church added.

Monastic life

Following Epiphanius death, the church took a series of measures aimed at instilling discipline into monastic life. Among them was to halt accepting new novices in monasteries nationwide for a year and giving monks across Egypt one month to close their social media accounts arguing that keeping them is incompatible with monastic life.

Egypt, the birthplace of Christian monasticism, is home to some of the worlds most ancient monasteries, nestled in the countrys barren desert and which have drawn monks for centuries to lead solitary ascetic lives. Monks have largely remained in retreat even amid the monumental changes that shook Egypts political and social landscape in recent years.A strange looking motorized raft, loaded with all kinds of cameras, sensors and high-tech widgets, looks like an invader from outer space. But it serves the down-to-earth purpose of making extraordinary maps of waterways of the Chesapeake Bay watershed in the Eastern United States.

The pontoon raft has a 4-meter-tall silver metal column in the center, with a white box on top that points toward the sky above the scenic Patuxent River in Maryland.

The unique craft was designed and built by Ryan Abrahamsen, founder of Terrain 360, a hiking trail and waterways virtual mapping company. Inspired by Google Street View, Abrahamsen has loaded the raft with photo cameras to create 360-degree virtual tours of some rivers in the United States from the perspective of sitting in a canoe.

Abrahamsen said creating a virtual map is challenging and requires many cameras working together.

How its done

On the heavy column, there are six cameras at the top, a light sensor and GPS unit. Near the bottom of the raft there is a waterproof PC, with an ultra-bright touch screen. The cameras are triggered by the computer, which at the same time records the GPS coordinates, barometric pressure, humidity and temperature.

As the raft motors along the Patuxent, the extreme wide-angle lens cameras shoot photos simultaneously every 12 meters. It takes hundreds of thousands of the high-resolution images to create the virtual online panoramic tour. A separate computer program uploads the photos in order, according to the GPS coordinates.

Abrahamsen is adding 20,000 new photos taken from just one of the Patuxent Rivers coves. He said all kinds of things are captured along the way, including trees, birds, homes and people fishing.

Following in Smiths footsteps

The Patuxent is among the 11 rivers that Abrahamsen has recorded, following the journey of English explorer Capt. John Smith, who some 400 years ago traveled around the Chesapeake Bay, the countrys largest estuary. Smith mapped about 4,800 kilometers of the bay and nearby rivers.

Now, Abrahamsen is providing an entirely new way to experience the waterways through his spectacular online tour. Viewers can zoom in and adjust the viewing angle to get a close-up look at boats, rocks beneath the surface, and even fish jumping out of the water.

The Chesapeake Bay project is funded by an Annapolis, Maryland, environmental group, the Chesapeake Conservancy.

We wanted to give people the information and inspiration to get on our rivers, and explore the Chesapeake Bay area, so that they can enjoy the beauty and think about protecting it, said Joel Dunn, Chesapeake Conservancy president.

Although a recent report card indicated that the health of the Chesapeake Bay estuary is better than it has been in 33 years, the watershed was still given a C grade because rivers like the Patuxent are still in the recovery process.

Environmental issues

Abrahamsen said the virtual tours reveal some of the environmental issues.

Theres shoreline erosion, pollution, and lot of tires in the waterways, he said. It shows the public that some things need to be cleaned up.

The Patuxent and others rivers that flow into the Chesapeake Bay are near major cities, such as Washington and Baltimore, giving many people the opportunity to enjoy them, Dunn said.

People can use the virtual tour to plan their trips from their desk at home or at work. But they can also use them out on the water on their smartphones from wherever they are, he said.

The online tours can be viewed on the websites of the Chesapeake Conservancy and Terrain 360.Sporadic clashes raged for a third day Sunday for the control of Afghanistans southeastern city of Ghanzi amid conflicting claims about whether the government or the Taliban insurgency controlled key installations.

Afghan army chief General Mohammad Sharif Yaftali told a news conference Sunday in Kabul his forces were conducting counter-offensives to evict Taliban fighters from the city.

The general noted that insurgents were entrenched in civilian populations and market places, forcing Afghan forces to move carefully and slowly to prevent civilian casualties.

Afghan security forces remained in control of all strategic positions in Ghazni, including the office of the provincial governor, police headquarters, the main prison and the office of the Afghan spy agency, Yaftali said.

Afghan security forces in the next two days will be able to restore peace and stability to Ghanzi and reopen the highway to enable our countrymen to travel from south and west to Kabul, vowed the army chief.

Hospital officials and residents fleeing the city have told local reporters the provincial hospital received more than 100 bodes of Afghan soldiers and police personnel, and said the hospital was running out of space.

Taliban insurgents also assaulted and overran the Ajristan district west of Ghazni, killing dozens of Afghan security forces. The Taliban is said to be controlling most of the 18 districts in Ghazni province.

Emergency meeting

President Ashraf Ghani late on Sunday chaired an emergency meeting of top security and intelligence officials to take stock of the situation in the troubled province.

Later he said in a series of tweets that top security officials briefed him on the developing military and humanitarian situation in the city and the province.

Insurgents ambushed a large Afghan military convoy heading for Ghazni late Sunday, sparking heavy clashes about 80 kilometers from the embattled city, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Muajid told VOA.

Afghan television station TOLOnews quoted its sources as confirming the insurgent attack on the convoy while it was traveling through Maidan Wardak province. The television said there were no immediate reports of casualties, while Mujahid claimed the Taliban attack killed dozens of Afghan soldiers.

The Taliban on Friday staged a large-scale attack from multiple directions to try to capture Ghazni, which is located on the main highway linking northern and southern Afghan provinces, including the national capital of Kabul.

The fighting has brought the traffic to a halt, stranding hundreds of passengers for the past three days.

Hostilities in Ghazni have disrupted telecommunication services, making it nearly impossible to verify conflicting claims about whether the Taliban or the Afghan government controlled key buildings in the city.

Afghan reporters tweeted Sunday that insurgents killed dozens of government troops before overrunning and setting on fire the provincial police headquarters in Ghanzi. Hospitals in the city reportedly were running out of space due large number of casualties.

Kabul again accuses Pakistan's ISI

Yaftali directly accused neighboring Pakistans spy agency, ISI, of supporting the Taliban, though he did not immediately offer any evidence. All terrorists stop and receive training in Pakistan before entering Afghanistan, he asserted.

Yaftali repeated the allegations, after a gap of several months because recent wide-ranging talks between the two countries have eased mutual tensions and decreased terror allegations against each other.

Pakistani officials were not available to respond immediately to the Afghan armys charges. Islamabad denies it is helping the Taliban.

Taliban delegation travels to Uzbekistan

Meanwhile, Afghan officials insisted Sunday that neighboring Uzbekistan consulted Kabul before hosting a Taliban political delegation last week for talks.

A Taliban spokesman confirmed its officials from the Qatar-based political office concluded a four-day visit to Uzbekistan on Friday, where it held talks with the foreign minister and the Uzbek presidential envoy for Afghanistan.

The insurgent spokesman added that the two sides among other things exchanged views about the withdrawal of foreign forces and how to achieve peace in Afghanistan.

The Taliban wants U.S. and NATO forces to leave Afghanistan before participating in any intra-Afghan peace talks. The insurgent group last month held a preliminary round of talks with a high-level American delegation in Qatar. But the Taliban simultaneously has not eased battlefield activities, making territorial advances and inflicting heavy casualties on government forces.Greek authorities have ordered the evacuation of two villages and a monastery on the island of Evia near Athens after a large fire broke out in a dry pine forest on Sunday.



Agriculture minister Vangelis Apostolou, who is on the scene, told reporters that fire crews are bracing for an all-night struggle.



"Forces from the entire region have been transferred here," Apostolou said.



Traffic on the main road that runs the length of the 180-kilometer island has been stopped and travellers are being asked to take ferries rather than drive near the blaze.



Greece is still mourning the 94 people killed in a wildfire near the coastal resort of Mati near Athens on July 23. More than 30 people are still hospitalized, several in critical condition.



The country's worst fire calamity prompted the ouster of the heads of police and fire brigades, in addition to the minister responsible for state security.

A NASA spacecraft rocketed toward the sun Sunday on an unprecedented quest to get closer to our star than anything ever sent before.

The Parker Solar Probe will fly straight through the wispy edges of the corona, or outer solar atmosphere, that was visible during last Augusts total solar eclipse. It eventually will get within 3.8 million (6 million kilometers) of the suns surface, staying comfortably cool despite the extreme heat and radiation, and allowing scientists to vicariously explore the sun in a way never before possible.

No wonder scientists consider it the coolest, hottest mission under the sun, and what better day to launch to the sun than Sunday as NASA noted.

Fly baby girl, fly!! project scientist Nicola Fox of Johns Hopkins University tweeted just before liftoff. She urged it to go touch the sun!

Protected by a revolutionary new carbon heat shield and other high-tech wonders, the spacecraft will zip past Venus in October. That will set up the first solar encounter in November. Altogether, the Parker probe will make 24 close approaches to the sun on the seven-year, $1.5 billion undertaking.

Parker watches namesake go

For the second straight day, thousands of spectators jammed the launch site in the middle of the night as well as surrounding towns, including 91-year-old astrophysicist Eugene Parker for whom the spacecraft is named. He proposed the existence of solar wind, a steady, supersonic stream of particles blasting off the sun, 60 years ago.

All I can say is, Wow, here we go. Were in for some learning over the next several years, Parker said.

It was the first time NASA named a spacecraft after someone still alive, and Parker wasnt about to let it take off without him. Saturday mornings launch attempt was foiled by last-minute technical trouble.

Im just so glad to be here with him, said NASAs science mission chief, Thomas Zurbuchen. Frankly, theres no other name that belongs on this mission.

The Delta IV Heavy rocket thundered into the pre-dawn darkness, thrilling onlookers for miles around. NASA needed the mighty 23-story rocket, plus a third stage, to get the diminutive Parker probe, the size of a small car and well under a ton, racing toward the sun.

From Earth, it is 93 million miles to the sun (150 million kilometers), and the Parker probe will be within 4 percent of that distance. That will be seven times closer than previous spacecraft.

Speed record on agenda

Parker will start shattering records this fall.On its very first brush with the sun, it will come within 15.5 million miles (25 million kilometers), easily beating the current record set by NASAs Helios 2 spacecraft in 1976. By the time Parker gets to its 22nd orbit of the sun, it will be even deeper into the corona and traveling at a record-breaking 430,000 mph (690,000 kilometers per hour).

Nothing from Planet Earth has ever hit that kind of speed.

Even Fox has difficulty comprehending the missions derring-do.

To me, its still mind-blowing, she said. Even I still go, Really? Were doing that?

Zurbuchen considers the sun the most important star in our universe  its ours, after all  and so this is one of NASAs big-time strategic missions. By better understanding the suns life-giving and sometimes violent nature, Earthlings can better protect satellites and astronauts in orbit, and power grids on the ground, he noted. In todays tech-dependent society, everyone stands to benefit.

With this mission, scientists hope to unlock the many mysteries of the sun, a commonplace yellow dwarf star around 4.5 billion years old. Among the puzzlers: Why is the corona hundreds of times hotter than the surface of the sun and why is the suns atmosphere continually expanding and accelerating, as the University of Chicagos Parker accurately predicted in 1958?

The only way we can do that is to finally go up and touch the sun, Fox said. Weve looked at it. Weve studied it from missions that are close in, even as close as the planet Mercury. But we have to go there.

The spacecrafts heat shield will serve as an umbrella, shading the science instruments during the close, critical solar junctures. Sensors on the spacecraft will make certain the heat shield faces the sun at the right times. If theres any tilting, the spacecraft will correct itself so nothing gets fried. With a communication lag time of 16 minutes each way, the spacecraft must fend for itself at the sun. The Johns Hopkins flight controllers in Laurel, Maryland, will be too far away to help.

Technology catches up to the dream

A mission to get close up and personal with our star has been on NASAs books since 1958. The trick was making the spacecraft small, compact and light enough to travel at incredible speeds, while surviving the suns punishing environment and the extreme change in temperature when the spacecraft is out near Venus.

Weve had to wait so long for our technology to catch up with our dreams, Fox said. Its incredible to be standing here today.

More than 1 million names are aboard the spacecraft, submitted last spring by space enthusiasts, as well as photos of Parker, the man, and a copy of his 1958 landmark paper on solar wind.

Ill bet you 10 bucks it works, Parker said.U.N. agencies together with Bangladeshi authorities are making a big push to quickly move thousands of Rohingya refugees at risk of landslides and floods to safer areas of Cox's Bazar.

The Cox's Bazar area has been coping with one of the heaviest monsoon seasons in years in Bangladesh, with the heaviest downpours coming at the end of July.



U.N. refugee spokesman, William Spindler said the torrential rains have tested the abilities of the many preparations and emergency measures which had been made to withstand the ravages of the expected storms. He said there was great concern that many of the fragile structures sheltering the large Rohingya refugee population would be swept away.



"The refugee settlements have largely weathered the storms, proving the value of months of mitigation efforts. These activities go hand in hand with continuing intense efforts to ensure the massive refugee settlements can cope with the adverse weather. The scale is immense as for example Kutupalong refugee settlement, shelters more than 600,000 refugees on 13 square kilometers and it is today the largest such settlement in the world," he said.



Most of the more than 700,000 Rohingya who have fled violence and persecution from Myanmar to Bangladesh since August are living in makeshift shelters in this squalid, overcrowded camp.



Spindler said aid agencies have relocated nearly 24,000 refugees at high risk of landslides and floods. He said this is more than half of an estimated 41,000 Rohingya in greatest need of being moved to safer areas.Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Saturday that Ethiopia would remain a unified country, despite what he characterized as a lot of people talking about secession with divisive rhetoric and false accusations.

Abiy said on state television that the suggestions of dissolving the federal state were connected to ongoing conversations with government officials in the Somali region to restore calm after the abrupt ouster of the regional president, Abdi Mohamoud Omar.

The people have social connections and live among each other, Abiy said. And to think that the people will separate just like that is a wrong way of thinking, he added, speaking in Amharic about violence in the region.

Rumors spread

On August 4, Ethiopian federal troops confronted regional forces in Jijiga, capital of the Somali region. That led to dozens of deaths, hundreds of displacements and Abdis resignation.

Residents in the region, more than 95 percent of whom are ethnic Somalis, are now sorting through the aftermath of the violent incident.

In the wake of the fighting, rumors and hearsay have spread quickly on social media.

In his remarks, Abiy acknowledged widespread rumors and misinformation online and within local communities and urged people to think carefully when presented with information that could be ideologically driven.

It is important that Ethiopians deal with this with a calm spirit, and when some information comes, take their time to analyze it, and think about it and verify it, after asking questions about where the information comes from, Abiy said.

Media access remains curtailed in Ethiopia, particularly in the Somali region, making it difficult to verify local reports and purported government statements.

Earlier this week, Addis Standard, an online, independent news organization focused on developments in Ethiopia, published a report about the federal army disarming the Liyu police, a special force based in the Somali region involved in the recent fighting, but then retracted the post after state TV said the information was based on an unsubstantiated rumor.

In a tweet, the news organization said its story came from a senior military source.

Internet blackouts

The Reuters news agency reported that to contain the spread of misinformation  and potentially thwart efforts to organize protests  internet access was blocked for days following the clash in Jijiga.

That step hasnt been taken since the federal government lifted a state of emergency earlier this year.

Rights groups criticize internet blackouts, but some defend what they consider to be efforts to contain dangerous misinformation that could incite reprisal attacks.

The internet (social media) has brought out the beast within our soul, Taye Atske-selassie, Ethiopias ambassador to Egypt, tweeted. The burning question is shall we keep on glamorising the internet or check it so that it isnt used to incite the killing a fellow human; i.e human rights violations.

Beyond controlling the flow of information, internet shutdowns also affect local economies. Advocacy groups and think tanks estimate that the blackout in eastern Ethiopia has cost more than $125,000.

Heated rhetoric

Other government officials have used social media in an attempt to sway public opinion.

The interim Somali regional president, Ahmed Abdi Mohamed, recently published a Facebook Live video containing incendiary remarks connected to the federal incursion in the Somali region.

He called on the locals to resist, to fight back. And he used language that could be considered tribal in nature, Zecharias Zelalem, an Ethiopian journalist who focuses on events in East Africa for the news site OPride.com, told VOA.

That included making thinly veiled references to taking up arms against the Oromos, one of Ethiopias ethnic groups.

He is not someone whom I could see playing a part to reconcile the different feuding entities in Jijiga and in the Somali region, Zecharias added.

Buildup to clash

Weeks of failed talks and progressively heightening tension preceded this months showdown.

Meetings between Abiy and the ousted regional president, known also as Abdi Illey, failed to produce a breakthrough.

There was no way that an Ethiopia with both Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and (the) Somali regional government(s) Abdi Mohamoud Omar would be compatible, Zecharias said.

The conflict spilled over earlier this month, when forces under Abdis command stormed Dire Dawa, a city under federal jurisdiction.

That prompted the federal government to send troops to Jijiga, and experts have questioned the legality of both actions.

By all accounts, it doesnt seem to have been the best-executed plan on the part of the federal government, Safia Aidid, a researcher and expert on the region, told VOA.

On paper, it may or may not be [constitutional], Zecharias said. But, he added, the regional government has violated the constitution on multiple occasions, with a president who has gone rogue in many senses.

Brotherly people

For those living in areas affected by violence, whether deliberations in the coming weeks are inclusive and lead to lasting peace is all that matters.

These are neighborly people. These are brotherly people, Aidid said.

But a cycle of violence has persisted. Armed Oromos massacred Somali villagers in mid-July, Zecharias said, and days later Liyu police forces massacred Oromos in retaliation.

Abiy made his remarks Saturday after visiting the home of Abune Merkorios, a high-ranking leader of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church who, earlier this month, returned to Ethiopia after nearly three decades in exile in the U.S.

Merkorios return follows the resolution of long-standing divisions within the church after deliberations mediated by Abiy.

Its those kinds of discussions, based on facts and reconciliation, that Abiy hopes will create a path for peace in the Somali region.A European rescue group says migrants stranded in the Mediterranean told it five ships passed them by and refused to help until one of the group's ships finally picked them up Friday.



"It seems the very principle of rendering assistance to persons in distress at sea is now at stake," Aloys Vimard of the group SOS Mediterranee said Sunday. "Policies designed to prevent people from reaching Europe at all costs are resulting in more suffering and even riskier journeys to safety for people who are already highly vulnerable."



Vimard said ships may be leaving migrants at sea because they are afraid of being denied permission to dock in places of safety.



SOS Mediterranee, working with Doctors Without Borders, picked up 141 migrants Friday stuck in rickety wooden boats off the Libyan coast.



It says most came from Somalia and Eritrea and had been held in inhumane conditions in Libya before taking off. Many were suffering from malnutrition.



Libya said it was refusing to let the group's ship, the Aquarius, dock. As of late Sunday, the Aquarius was still at sea, trying to find a place for the migrants.



SOS Mediterranee is urging European governments to heed international maritime law and allow ships to head to closest point of safety so migrants picked up at sea can get help.



It says all governments must recognize "the gravity of the humanitarian crisis in the Mediterranean."



Thousands of people from sub-Saharan Africa and countries such as Syria and Afghanistan try crossing the Mediterranean every year to escape war, terrorism, and poverty for a better life in the European Union.Samled Inthavong had almost finished hoisting his family members into a boat when a building uprooted by the collapse of a dam upstream slammed into his house.

Bobbing atop the surging floodwaters in the inky midnight darkness, he could only watch as his house caved in on his grandparents trapped inside.

My grandparents couldnt move. They died in the house, he said in a rescue center where he sat with his few remaining possessions, including a photo of his grandmother Chanthai shot on a mobile phone.

As his house collapsed, Inthavongs boat shot away and collided with his sisters adjacent house. There he, his wife, Bang Helmani, and his children Alik, Had and Koid, took refuge on the roof until the rising floodwaters, which reached more than 10 meters, swallowed her home as well.

At 2 oclock [a.m.] I was looking around the neighborhood. People were crying and the water was over the whole village. All the houses were gone. Some people were holding on to trees, some people were holding on to power poles, he said.

Inthavong and his family made for the latter, clutching desperately to the steel structure as flying debris and violent tides crashed beneath them. It wasnt until morning that a rescue boat arrived in Ban Mai village.

WATCH: Survivors Recount Horror of Lao Dam Collapse



Thousands rescued

Lt. Col. Khamsouk Khamleuangthep, vice commander of the Lao Air Forces Air Regiment 703, commanded the rescue team that saved Inthavongs family and more than 1,000 others after a poorly constructed auxiliary dam collapsed at the Xe Pian Xe Namnoy (PNPC) hydropower complex in southern Laos on July 23.

Thirteen villages were inundated in Attapeu province with a surge so powerful it forced the evacuation of a town more than 100 kilometers downstream in Cambodia.

In that time we found people in the trees. After that we took a boat from Sanamxai [rescue base] to collect the people in the trees, Khamleuangthep said.

Heavily restricted by rough weather, the regiments three helicopters had flown 157 missions supported by boats as of Tuesday, rescuing 1,569 survivors, he said. There are more than 6,500 survivors in temporary shelters spread across five rescue bases with almost 3,500 at Sanamxai alone, the district government says. In total, officials say 7,095 people have been displaced in Laos, with 13,067 affected in some way. State media report 35 dead and 99 missing.

I am really upset about this and Ive been working from the beginning until now without stopping and Im very happy to be helping the people, Khamleuangthep said.

Trauma, exhaustion, fury

The survivors he has rescued feel a mixture of trauma, exhaustion and fury.

Sommay Keosuvanh, a 60-year-old villager from Ban Mai, said the company operating the dam, the South Korean firm SK E&C, had told his community a large volume of water was being released but failed to warn of a possible collapse.

When the water came, it came quick like a tsunami and people were scared, he said, adding that the initial surge through his village was at least a meter high. Keosuvanh said the floodwaters destroyed 95 percent of the homes in the village.

Others interviewed by VOA in Ban Mai said the local chief broadcast a warning over loudspeakers that also failed to say anything about a collapse.

SK E&C, which is building the dam through a joint venture with PNPC, declined multiple requests for comment including some made during visits directly to their field office.

But after staying tight-lipped in the immediate aftermath of the disaster, the Laos government this week said SK E&Cs shoddy construction was likely to blame for the collapse.

It also announced a wide-ranging review of some 50 hydropower projects before any more are approved. This follows years of criticism from conservation groups over the governments ambitious plan to use its hydroelectric potential to turn the country into the battery of Asia.

Little consolation

Thats little consolation for the residents of Ban Mai and Kokkong, whose villages have been leveled, leaving a tangled mess of smashed concrete, uprooted trees and fallen power poles.

On either side of the submerged road connecting them, fields as far as the eye can see are caked in thick mud, ruined for this years harvest.

Some of those who are lucky enough to still have a house, like 38-year-old shopkeeper Sovampheng, have begun returning to see what they can salvage from the mud.

After spending the second night on the roof I moved to Ban Bok village and somebody came to steal from my shop in the evening by entering from the roof, she said, rummaging through her damaged stock with her 14-year-old daughter Phutdavenh.

Sovampheng said she and her husband were forced to come back and sleep on the roof of their house in Kokkong village to make sure thieves didnt loot what little they have left.

Im feeling very sad as I just bought new supplies for my shop and I lost everything, she said.

Her daughter Phutdavenh was playing with her phone in bed when the water surged in.

I felt very scared. I had never seen something like this before. It was so dangerous, she told VOA.

Back at the Sanamxai camp, six bodies are doused in kerosene and burned at a mass cremation while survivors like Inthavong wait to find out what the government will do for them.

Inthavong will have to wait for another cremation; the body of his grandfather Phan still hasnt been found.Russian and Turkish foreign ministers are set to hold talks Monday in Ankara focusing on the looming crisis over the rebel-controlled Syrian Idlib enclave, which threatens to become a military flashpoint between Turkish and Syrian forces. The crisis threatens to derail deepening Russian-Turkish ties.

Damascus is steadily massing its forces around Idlib in preparation for a widely expected assault. But Ankara has vowed to protect the rebels, declaring it a red line.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is attending the two-day Turkey's Ambassador Conference. On the sidelines, he is scheduled to hold talks with his Turkish counterpart, Mevlut Cavusolgu, who is expected to press Lavrov to rein in Damascus.

What will happen in Idlib will the Russians be willing or able to stop the regime, which is itching to attack Idlib and then finally do away with all the Jihadis, international relation expert Soli Ozel of Istanbuls Kadir Has University said.

If the regime attacks Idlib then are we going to have a war with the Syrian regime, he continued, How can we have a war with the Syrian regime, which is being supported by Russia to the bitter end, and the Russians control the Syrian airspace.



Despite backing opposite sides in the Syrian civil war, Ankara and Moscow have been increasingly cooperating over Syria, a cooperation that has been a springboard for closer bilateral ties. An Idlib confrontation threatens Moscows delicate diplomacy of balancing the conflicting interests of Damascus and Ankara.

Thats why Moscow is working very hard to resolve this diplomatically, that is why Russia is very active, said former senior Turkish ambassador Aydin Selcen.

The threat of military confrontation between Ankara and Damascus over Idlib is real. The Turkish army has 12 observation posts across the enclave, as part of an agreement with Moscow and Tehran under the auspices of the Astana Process.

Social pressures

Idlib is a national security threat for Turkey, analyst Ozel said, Idlib has two and a half million people around 130,000 jihadis living there, and if the regime attacks them and the regime has no compunction to use chemical weapons. You have potentially at least a million people who are going to be bursting at your [Turkish] border. The [Turkish] cities of Hatay Gaziantep and Kilis will be vulnerable, despite the fact you have a wall, Ozel added.

Turkey is hosting three and a half million Syrian refugees. There are growing reports of mounting tensions in Turkey over the refugee's presence. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has vowed to start returning the Syrians. Analysts warn social pressures are likely to grow with Turkey in the midst of a currency crisis, which is expected to result in a deep recession.

Selcen claims the survival of Idlib as a rebel stronghold is vital to Ankara as a symbol of continued resistance to the Assad regime. That along with the threat of a surge of new refugees means Ankara is ready to face down any threat to Idlib by Damascus, Turkey can deal with Assad, with the strength of Turkish armed forces in Idlib and it can get stronger, along with the support of the local population in Idlib, Selcen said.

This means we are in a collision course between Damascus and Ankara, Selcen continued, and weve been there before in the late 50s even in the 90s. In my mind, this is a ticking bomb that needs to be defused, right now.

Choosing sides

Other experts claim Ankara will need support to challenge Damascus, given the regime is backed by Moscow and Tehran. NATO member Turkey traditionally would look to Washington, which also opposes Assad. That option appears closed given a recent collapse in relations, over Turkeys ongoing detention of American pastor Andrew Brunson.

Until now Ankara has balanced its relations with Moscow and Washington to extract concessions from both. The policy of leveraging one against the other could be over, strengthening Lavrovs hand in his talks with Cavusoglu.

Adding to Ankaras unease is the growing speculation that U.S. President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin reached a tentative agreement over Syria at last months Helsinki summit. "Was a deal made in Helsinki by Trump and Putin over Syria? Ankara is talking a lot about what happened in Helsinki, Ozel said.

Turkey can resist the Assad regime plausibly, but Turkey cannot resist the United States and Russias will if they agree Idlib should change hands, former Turkish diplomat Selcen said.The city of Charlottesville marked the anniversary of last summers white supremacist violence that sent ripples through the country with largely peaceful vigils and other events, but police had a brief, tense confrontation with students angry over the heavy security presence there this weekend.

Why are you in riot gear? We dont see no riot here, activists chanted Saturday evening.

Shortly before a planned evening rally to mark the anniversary of a campus confrontation between torch-carrying white nationalists and counterprotesters, activists unfurled a banner that said, Last year they came w/ torches. This year they come w/ badges.

A group of more than 200 protesters then marched to another part of the University of Virginias campus, where many in the crowd shouted at officers in riot gear who had formed a line.

Kibiriti Majuto, a coordinator for UVA Students United, said the students moved to the other part of campus because they didnt want to be caged in the area where the rally had been planned.

How does that create a sense of community? How are we going to be safe in that situation? he asked.

Majuto said police were not on our side last year when white supremacists surrounded counterprotesters on the rotunda.

Cops and Klan go hand in hand, he said.

Charlottesville city councilman Wes Bellamy said he tried to diffuse the situation and told the police commander that the students were upset by the officers tactics, calling the officers riot gear over the top.

After a few minutes, most of the demonstrators began to walk away. There were no immediate reports of arrests on campus.

Quiet rest of the day

In the popular downtown shopping district Saturday morning, law enforcement officers outnumbered visitors. Concrete barriers and metal fences had been erected, and police were searching bags at two checkpoints where people could enter or leave.

Its nice that theyre here to protect us, said Lara Mitchell, 66, a sales associate at a shop that sells artwork, jewelry, and other items. It feels good that theyre here in front of our store. Last year was a whole different story. It looked like a war zone last year compared to what it is today.

Unite the Right anniversary

Saturday marked the anniversary of a nighttime march by torch-toting white supremacists through the University of Virginias campus a day ahead of a larger rally in Charlottesvilles downtown.

On Aug. 12, hundreds of white nationalists, including neo-Nazis, skinheads and Ku Klux Klan members, descended on Charlottesville in part to protest the citys decision to remove a monument to Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee from a park.

Violent fighting broke out between attendees and counterprotesters that day. Authorities eventually forced the crowd to disperse, but a car later barreled into a crowd of peaceful counterprotesters, killing 32-year-old Heather Heyer.

The days death toll rose to three when a state police helicopter that had been monitoring the event and assisting with the governors motorcade crashed, killing two troopers.

Remembrance events

Among the remembrance events that occurred Saturday was a morning of reflection and renewal at UVA that featured musical performances, a poetry reading and an address from University President James Ryan.

Ryan recalled how a group of students and community members faced off against the white supremacist marchers near a statue of Thomas Jefferson on campus, calling it a remarkable moment of courage and bravery.

Clara Carlson was one of those counterprotesters. Carlson, 22, said she feared for her life when she and a group of her friends were surrounded by the phalanx of young white men at the statue.

Carlsons group locked arms and chanted slogans of their own, including Black Lives Matter! and No Nazis, No KKK, No Fascist USA!

We dont want to be painted as victims, Carlson said Saturday, several hours before students and activists gathered for a rally near the statue on the anniversary of the campus confrontation.

Carlson said police didnt intervene to help her or her friends that night last year.

I remember the police just standing around. They werent there to protect us, she recalled. I was grateful that I was able to come out of that alive.

Heavy security

On Saturday, however, campus security personnel used metal detectors to screen rally participants and journalists before they entered the universitys famed Rotunda. A helicopter buzzed overhead. Large trucks blocked off the nearby roads.

By midafternoon, the city said hundreds of people had passed through the downtown checkpoints. Police arrested three men in or near the secured perimeter for trespassing, possessing prohibited items and being drunk in public, the city said in a news release.

Some community activists were concerned that this years heavy police presence could be a counterproductive overreaction.

Rally investigation

An independent investigation of the rally violence, led by a former federal prosecutor, found the chaos last year stemmed from a passive response by law enforcement and poor preparation and coordination between state and city police.

Lisa Woolfork, a University of Virginia professor and Black Lives Matter Charlottesville organizer, said police are mounting a huge, overwhelming show of force to compensate for last years inaction.

Last year, I was afraid of the Nazis. This year, Im afraid of the police, Woolfork said. This is not making anyone that I know feel safe.

But others said Saturday they were comforted by the security measures.

Kyle Rodland, who took his young sons to get ice cream downtown, said he felt much safer than last year, when he left town with his family and stayed with his parents after seeing people armed with long rifles walking around outside his home.

Events marking the anniversary were also expected Sunday in both Charlottesville and Washington, where Jason Kessler, the primary organizer of last summers rally, has obtained a permit for a white civil rights rally.U.S. President Donald Trump has continued his social media assault on Special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into possible links between the Russian government and those associated with Trump's 2016 campaign. Trump and his advisers want the inquiry to end. Marcus Harton has more.Turkeys president Saturday blamed the countrys economic problems on the United States and other nations, whom he says are waging an economic war against his country.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan was responding to a drop in the value of the Turkish currency, the lira, against the U.S. dollar following the imposition of sanctions and tariffs by the United States in the past two weeks.

In an opinion piece in the New York Times Friday, Erdogan wrote failure to reverse this trend of unilateralism and disrespect will require us to start looking for new friends and allies.

Turkey and the United States squabbled last week over Turkeys failure to free a U.S. pastor named Andrew Brunson from house arrest while he awaits his trial on terrorism charges. Brunson has been detained for the past 20 months on accusations that he supported groups the Turkish government deems terrorists.

In response to Turkeys refusal to free Brunson, the United States placed sanctions on two Turkish officials. Additionally, on Friday President Donald Trump tweeted that he is increasing tariffs on U.S. imports of Turkish of steel and aluminum. He tweeted, Our relations with Turkey are not good at this time!

Tariffs on Turkish aluminum are to be increased to 20 percent and steel tariffs are to be moved up to 50 percent, according to Trump.

Turkish currency has lost about 40 percent of its value in the past year.The U.S. ambassador to London has publicly warned British Prime Minister Theresa May to side with President Donald Trump in the burgeoning transatlantic dispute over the controversial nuclear deal with Iran, which the U.S. leader withdrew from in May.



Ambassador Woody Johnson cautioned there would be trade consequences for Britain, which he described as the closest U.S. ally, unless it breaks with the European Union and follows Trump in re-imposing sanctions on Tehran. The envoy also delivered a clear ultimatum to British businesses, instructing them to stop trading with Iran or face "serious consequences" when it comes to trade with the United States.



The unprecedented warning, which was delivered in an article published by Britain's Sunday Telegraph newspaper, is being seen in London as the opening shot in what could be the biggest test of the so-called "special relationship" between the United States and Britain since Trump took office.



Trump's decision in May to withdraw from the 2015 nuclear deal, signed by his predecessor Barack Obama, in which Tehran agreed to nuclear curbs in return for sanctions relief, paved the way for the restoration of unilateral American economic penalties on Iran.

While ratcheting up pressure on Tehran, the sanctions are worsening rifts between the United States and European allies, and other world powers, which say they remain committed to the nuclear deal, and will not comply with the U.S. sanctions.



In the article, Johnson said the Trump administration is "determined to make sure they [the sanctions] are fully enforced." He added, "The President has been explicit: any businesses that put their commercial interests in Iran ahead of the global good will risk serious consequences for their trade with the U.S."



He added, "America is turning up the pressure and we want the UK by our side. We are asking global Britain to use its considerable diplomatic power and influence and join us."



A British Foreign Office official said Sunday, "We remain committed to the nuclear deal. But we have had discussions with Washington about how we can work together in other ways to curb activity by Iran in the Middle East which concern us."



A week ago Britain signed on to a joint statement with other EU countries that pledged to press on with a strategy to lessen the impact of the U.S. sanctions on European businesses. It includes prohibiting them from complying with the unilateral U.S. sanctions.



Asked if British companies could expect Britain to stand its ground over deal, a British minister, Alistair Burt, told reporters last week, "They can expect us to do that, yes. Sometimes you need to take a stand against friends."



The U.S. sanctions that began last week prohibit any transactions with Iran involving dollars, gold, precious metals, aluminum, steel, commercial passenger aircraft, shipping and Iranian seaports.



The U.S. administration blames Iran for fomenting instability in the Middle East and encouraging terrorism. Trump has described the 2015 nuclear deal, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), as a "horrible, one sided" agreement.

In his article Sunday, Johnson said, "Only by presenting a united front can we exert the maximum possible pressure on the Iranian regime and get them to finally change course and put an end to their malign and reckless activities both at home and abroad."



Johnson said Tehran had used money going into the country after the 2015 deal and the easing of sanctions not to improve the lives of ordinary Iranians but to increase spending on the military and proxy forces in the Middle East, including sponsoring Hezbollah in Lebanon, arming militants in Yemen, and launching cyber-attacks against Western democracies.



Britain's May might face a party leadership challenge later in the year, possibly from Boris Johnson, the former foreign minister who says she should be more like Trump. She is struggling to quell rebellions within the ranks of her Conservative party over Brexit negotiations and she can't afford to alienate Brussels further by siding with Washington on the Iran nuclear deal, say analysts.



On several tempestuous issues dividing Trump and Europe in a deepening rift, May has been caught trying to please both sides. In June during the acrimonious G-7 meeting, held in Charlevoix, Quebec, which broke up amid highly personal recriminations between Trump and fellow summiteers over trade tariffs, May appeared especially eager to keep a low profile. Of all the G-7 leaders at the bruising summit, she largely side-stepped the public skirmishing.



She recorded her disappointment, but avoided leveling personal criticism.



May's position is likely to become even more awkward in the coming days as she's forced to choose between European leaders, whose support she needs for a favorable Brexit deal or a U.S. leader determined to secure EU compliance with reimposed sanctions on Iran, fear British officials.California college student Anjali Banerjee was watching fireworks during a 2016 celebration on a seafront promenade in the French city of Nice when a man plowed a huge truck through the crowd, killing 86 people and wounding 200.

The University of California, Berkeley incoming senior ran through mobs of people to escape the chaos and later joined classmates to search hospitals and plaster the city with flyers of fellow students reported missing in the July 2016 terrorist attack. She later learned three students were injured, and UC Berkeley junior Nicolas Leslie, 20, was among the dead.

Banerjee and several classmates have since turned their grief into a startup called Archer that builds digital tools to help journalists, investigators and human rights workers tackle terrorism, sanctions evasion, corruption and other global violence.

In that moment, it was hard finding the correct information. It was hard even going to different police stations. It was chaos, said Banerjee, who is from London.

The lack of official information following the terrorist attack by a Tunisian man led the students to self-organize and rely on locals to navigate the city as they looked for their missing friends. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the Bastille Day attack.

Collaborating with each other and with the people of Nice made the students realize they could create a space in the digital world to help others do the same in the fight against terrorism, Banerjee said.

Free, online platform

The students built a free online platform that makes big data analysis and visualization easy to access and that helps track people and companies that have been sanctioned by the United States for crimes that include money laundering, corruption and terrorism.

Theyre still working to turn their data analysis tool into a for-profit company, but the startup has achieved some success. Amnesty International is using one of its tools, Archer Meta, to verify photographs of the crackdown by security forces against minority Rohingya Muslims in Myanmars Rakhine state.

The tool identifies when and where the photographs were taken and can process 50 at once, unlike other readily available internet tools that upload one photo at a time and can pose a security risk, said Sam Dubberley, a researcher with Amnesty International.

We get photographs in bulk from activists groups in Myanmar, and we have to verify they are true. But uploading one at a time can be mind-numbing, tedious work, he said.

Archer Meta also offers an added layer of security by allowing users to analyze a photos metadata without relying on an internet connection, Dubberley said.

These tools are needed in human rights work, but they are prohibitively expensive to develop, and there is no money in it for tech companies to build them, he said.

Terror financing

The groups data analysis tool helps those investigating terrorist financing cases, but there is a broader community of people who can rely on our tools, including those looking into war crimes, sanction violations or environmental crimes, said Alice Ma, a former UC Berkeley student who founded the startup with Banerjee and classmate Tyler Heintz.

Heintz was also in Nice at the time of the attack. They have since been joined by nearly two dozen other students, including several others who were with them in France as part of a monthlong class and competition hosted by the European Innovation Academy, which focuses on tech entrepreneurship education.

Banerjee, a history major, had considered a career in foreign affairs but after what happened in France, she wanted to take immediate action. Weeks before the attack, her friend Tarishi Jain, a UC Berkeley sophomore, was among 20 hostages killed at a restaurant by militants in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

A lot of people all over the world exist in this kind of situation on the daily, and we thought it was time somebody suggested another way we could combat it, Banerjee said.

Experiencing the France attack also pushed Heintz, a 20-year-old computer science major, to change his professional goals.

Before Nice, I was very much on the traditional path of wanting to build the next app that a bunch of people would use for some reason but that doesnt actually change anyones lives. But building an app that can help you transport your cat or dog just seemed so trivial, he said.

What motivates Heintz and a lot of us, is the idea that we can build products to help magnify the work of people trying to bring terrorists to justice, he added.Hugo Kohl has been interested in art and design since he was a child. In college, he studied finance, but also took several jewelry-making classes to satisfy his curiosity about this form of art and the history behind it. Upon his graduation, he started a career in financing, but after six weeks he quit to pursue his passion. Over the last 25 years, Kohl has developed his own style of vintage jewelry using the same techniques as industrial revolution artisans at the end of the 18th century.



Restoring an Old Art



Hugo Kohls Museum of American Jewelry Design and Manufacturing in Harrisonburg, Virginia, is part museum, part workshop and part showroom. Visitors can buy handmade antique-style jewelry, and also watch the artist create them, using vintage machines. These machines were made before electricity and are literally man-powered as artisans have to use physical power to press the design on the metal.

In reproducing these old designs, Kohl has revived a centuries-old technique for jewelry-making, called die strike or die roll.

The things Im talking about are being die struck and die rolled, which means a lot of pressure among two pieces of steel, he explains. When you die strike something or die roll something, typically its going to go last a couple of generations. A lot of times people will be in love with vintage jewelry for a number of reasons, one is the design. The process of die striking allows for tremendous detail. Its very crisp, very clean.

Finding a Treasure



Kohl creates these details using thousands of 3-D molds he collected over more than two decades. He acquired one collection in Providence, Rhode Island, which was the jewelry making capital of the world at the start of the Industrial Revolution.



He says there is an interesting story behind this collection.

In 1993, while on tour of a vintage jewelry machinery warehouse, Kohl noticed workers cleaning up the debris of a nearby collapsed building.



They were picking up the debris and throwing it in the back of a dump truck, he recalls. One of the things that they picked is that tiny little cabinet. It was going to the side of this dump truck, it breaks open and the contents literally fall at my feet. I picked them up and what they are is what this place is built around.

Those items that were about to be sold as scrap metal were part of a collection of antique, hand-engraved jewelry molds that dated to the late 1800s and early 1900s.



James Madison University Art Professor Cole Welter says rescuing these pieces was Kohl's first step towards reviving the art of vintage jewelry making.



You ask somebody who is your great grandfather, your great, great grandmother, you go back to just a short period of time. Here, somebody was your ancestor. These pieces are the ancestors of the American metal-smithing and silver-smithing. And they bring to a very tangible way the processes, the technical skills that are involved and the meaning of what these pieces meant to people.



Beyond Aesthetic



Artist Kohl says his fascination with Industrial Revolution age jewelry goes beyond its artistic beauty. This industry, he says, started a social shift in America.



Before the Industrial Age, only wealthy, elite people had the means to commission a goldsmith to hand-craft a ring or brooch or other piece of jewelry. This was extremely expensive, not something that ordinary people could afford.



Now that we stepped into the Industrial age, beside the technology, we have the middle class," Kohl says. So this is the first time that symbols can be mass-produced and people could have them. The wealthy people still had jewelry that was made in gold. This new class had things that were made in silver and clad metal and poor people had the same art work in brass and copper.

Thats also when the American cultural symbols were exported to the world.

What these symbols are speaking to are very new ideas about American liberty and romantic love, he says. So we look at these things, we start seeing this uniquely American identity take shape. This was happening in Providence (Rhode Island). But Providence is not big enough as a marketplace to cover the cost of manufacturing, but Providence is a seaport and ships were going all over the world carrying these symbols.



Secrets and Stories



Art Professor Welter says hes happy that Kohl is passing his passion and the secrets of his craft to people who visit his museum and workshop.



I really enjoy the entire scope of what happens here, he adds. Its not just the preservation of the work, but its the recreation of the works and its the selling the works to the public. So they all become part of the culture again.



And to customers like Sarah Brown, its nice to own part of the American heritage.



When I come in, I love to be able to look and see the jewelry is made right here," she notes. Hugo is often here. It feels very personal and the pieces, like I say, are unique and beautiful. They have a timelessness about them that just feels really good. It feels like they kind of tell a story.



And Hugo Kohl enjoys bringing those stories to life.White supremacists are planning to demonstrate in front of the White House on Sunday (Aug. 12), the anniversary of last years Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, which resulted in the death of a counter protester and shocked the nation.

The group's goal, according to their website, is to demonstrate for what they call white civil rights.

In a counter protest to the Unite the Right rally, a coalition of leftist groups will also be in Washington on Sunday. Their goal, according to their website, is to unite against fascism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, white supremacy and state violence. That demonstration's organizers are also calling for protests across the United States and at U.S. embassies around the world.

A year ago, the violence erupted in a national debate about whether Confederate symbols of the U.S. Civil War memorialize past leaders and dead soldiers or invoke white supremacy and the Confederacys acceptance of the slavery of blacks.

A white nationalist protest over the planned removal of a statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee turned deadly when counterprotester Heather Heyer, 32, was killed by a car driven into a crowd.

Information on the two rallies planned for Sunday:

Protest: Unite the Right 2 rally

Organized by: John Kessler, founder of the white nationalist group Unity and Security for America. He also was the organizer of the original Unite the Right rally.

Protest site: Lafayette Park, located directly north of the White House

Duration: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Expected attendance: 400

Focus of protest: Pro-white activism and "white civil rights."



The Counterprotest: Still Here, Still Strong rally

Organized by: The Shut It Down DC coalition of leftist groups

Protest site: Freedom Plaza, roughly a half-mile southeast of Lafayette Park

Duration: 12-3 p.m.

Expected attendance: 500-600

Focus of protest: A united front opposing hate, borders, prison, and the vision of Unite the Right.Zimbabwe's government says the recent renewal of sanctions imposed on the country by the U.S. government is going to further strain the southern African's nation's ailing economy.

President Donald Trump last week signed the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Amendment Act of 2018, also known as Zidera.



Zimbabwe's Foreign Minister Sibusiso Moyo lamented the move.



"Commerce between the two states remain hampered by non-existent bank to bank relations," Moyo said. "Even the amended Zidera Act now acknowledges the economic reforms being achieved by this government and as well the bill's noting that the country has paid its arrears to the IMF and calls for further re-engagement in this areas in order to conclude in other areas.

Both companies from Zimbabwe and U.S., as well individuals are subject to penalties. It cannot therefore naively be claimed that Zidera is targeted at a few individuals and does not affect trade between the U.S. and Zimbabwe, as sometimes the international media has sometimes painted it."



The United States and most Western countries introduced sanctions on Zimbabwe's leadership following reports of election rigging and human rights abuses in 2002 when Robert Mugabe was in power.



Zidera set forth steps Zimbabwe needed to take to have sanctions removed, including insuring last month's election was free and fair.

When Mugabe's successor came into power last November, President Emmerson Mnangagwa promised to normalize relations with the West by addressing the issues the West had raised.



Moyo on Sunday said Mnangagwa's government had been shocked by the renewal of the sanctions.



"We do not require any form of restrictive measures around our necks at all as people of Zimbabwe," Moyo said. "We appreciate that there was Zidera and the process of unshackling it is a process and cannot be an event. We have been engaging the U.S. government, the U.S. Senate, in this aspect and we believe that a lot of the issues, which are contained the amended act, have already been implemented."



The former army general gave examples of the restoration of the rule of law, credible elections, military neutrality in civilian matters and inviting international observers to the July 2018 general election.



The opposition, however, has challenged the election results and Zimbabwe's constitutional court is expected to hear the application in two weeks.

The ruling Zanu PF was declared winner, which many said was peaceful compared to previous elections. But the army reportedly used live ammunition and killed at least six people during opposition protests of the vote. Moyo said Sunday the government regretted the incident.Zimbabwes Foreign Affairs Minister Retired Major General Sibusiso Moyo says post-election violence in the country should not be allowed to blemish the peaceful, free and credible elections held recently.

Addressing journalists in Harare about the United States Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Amendment Bill passed into law a few days ago by President Donald Trump, Moyo said Zimbabwe has achieved some of the issues raised by ZIDERA, including the holding of what he says are credible elections.

 Travel bans of many Zimbabweans in leadership and some uniformed service senior officials remain, as they are banned from entering US territory, in addition, the assets of many Zimbabweans can be confiscated by the Office of Foreign Assets Control at any time, furthermore impairing the conduct of bilateral commercial relations.

He noted that as per some new provisions of the ZIDERA passed by the U.S Congress and signed into law by Trump, several non-governmental organizations drawn from the United States and other nations observed the just-ended harmonized polls unlike what used to happen under former President Robert Mugabe, who was removed from office in a defacto military coup last November.

The holding of free, fair and violence free elections answers even more of ZIDERAs queries of governance in Zimbabwe. Post-election violence on 1 August 2018 should not be allowed to blemish the peaceful, free, fair and credible elections. Neither should any other events blemish our recent harmonized elections.

Therefore, the recently signed ZIDERA Amendment Act (2018) is unfortunate in that we would rather there were no restrictive measures and sanctions in our bilateral relations with the United States. That said, I wish to point out that there are some progressive aspects to the Amendment Act as well as some unfortunate and unhelpful ones.

Moyo claimed that the rule of law, freedom of expression, free and fair elections have already been accomplished in the new dispensation. Reforms of political and economic laws are ongoing endeavors in the new dispensation.

The unprogressive aspect of the amended act refer to some issues which are being addressed by the National Peace and Reconciliation Commission.

He said despite the latest version of the ZIDERA, Zimbabwe would continue to re-engage the United States as we together seek to restore our bilateral relations to normalcy.

America imposed restrictive measures on some Zanu PF officials and companies linked to the ruling party following allegations of electoral fraud and human rights abuses.Stratovolcano 1536 m / 5,039 ftKamchatka, 54.05N / 159.43E(4 out of 5)1771, 1830, 1852, 1854, 1908, 1911, 1912, 1915, 1921, 1923, 1925, 1929, 1932, 1933, 1934, 1938, 1940, 1943, 1945, 1946, 1947, 1952, 1953, 1955, 1956, 1960, 1965, 1967, 1970, 1982, 1983, 1985, 1990, 1993, 1996 - ongoingDoninantly explosive, construction of lava domes, near constant activity.(volcano expedition to Kamchatka)

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Karymsky, the most active volcano of Kamchatka's eastern volcanic zone, is a symmetrical stratovolcano constructed within a 5-km-wide caldera that formed during the early Holocene. The caldera cuts the south side of the Pleistocene Dvor volcano and is located outside the north margin of the large mid-Pleistocene Polovinka caldera, which contains the smaller Akademia Nauk and Odnoboky calderas. Most seismicity preceding Karymsky eruptions originated beneath Akademia Nauk caldera, which is located immediately south of Karymsky volcano. The caldera enclosing Karymsky volcano formed about 7600-7700 radiocarbon years ago; construction of the Karymsky stratovolcano began about 2000 years later. The latest eruptive period began about 500 years ago, following a 2300-year quiescence. Much of the cone is mantled by lava flows less than 200 years old. Historical eruptions have been vulcanian or vulcanian-strombolian with moderate explosive activity and occasional lava flows from the summit crater.

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We truly love working to bring you the latest volcano and earthquake data from around the world.We need financing to increase hard- and software capacity as well as support our editor team.If you find the information useful and would like to support our team in integrating further features, write great content, and in upgrading our soft- and hardware, please PayPal or Online credit card payment )., these features have been added recently:I was here last year and was almost hit by the car, resident Zoe Spellman, 31, said. Its sad that our relationship with the police is manifesting itself this way. I saw last year how they would not help us. We begged for help on [August] the 11th. We begged for help on the 12th. . . . And for we white people, this was the first time we felt what black people must feel all the time.Editor Franklin Dennis tracked down the stories, which had not been included in a 1978 collection that won the Pulitzer Prize, and offered them to the Millers. The 500-page collection would have been the most important literary work in Academy Chicagos history, with an initial press run of 100,000 copies. Paperback rights were sold for more than $225,000.Mr. Barnum was born in New York City and worked from 1957 to 1971 at the New York law firm of Cravath, Swaine & Moore, where he became partner. He moved to Washington in 1971 and served as general counsel and later as deputy secretary of the Transportation Department, where his work included deregulation of the airline and railroad industries and oversight of the construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. He was instrumental in converting several bankrupt railroads into the freight carrier known as Conrail.In the gloom, a boy was leaning against the hut, his hands behind him, staring at the road, Mr. Naipaul wrote in one passage, describing the title characters lingering memory of a late-afternoon bus ride. He wore a vest and nothing more. The vest glowed white. In an instant the bus went by, noisy in the dark, through bush and level sugar-cane fields. Mr. Biswas could not remember where the hut stood, but the picture remained: a boy leaning against an earth house that had no reason for being there, under the dark falling sky, a boy who didnt know where the road, and that bus, went.Todays Headlines

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By signing up you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy PolicyThe Transdev deal also could forecast what is to come as Metro considers privatizing some operations of phase II of the Silver Line extension when it opens in 2020. Metro, for example, could give a private company responsibility for operating the six new stations and performing track maintenance on the new stretch of the line, which will pick up at Wiehle-Reston East and continue past Dulles International Airport and into eastern Loudoun County, for a total of 23 miles of new track.Antifa members vented their frustration at not being able to confront the rallygoers by lighting smoke bombs and firecrackers and throwing eggs in the direction of police. By then, a steady rain was falling, however, and the protest was fizzling. Most began heading home, but police kept a watchful eye as the black-clad group carrying umbrellas wandered about knocking over trash cans, chanting Bust a window! and yelling at police to get out of their cars and meet us in the streets. A confrontation between the protesters and police erupted briefly near 13th and G streets NW.How to help your anxious child? Parents can do a lot to support their kids. Most important might be helping them face their fear, helping them adapt to a situation. The key, Alvord says, is to do this gradually. She recommends asking the child about their anxiety and learning what their self-talk is: When this happens, what do you think?Its not an effective program, said Byrne, of FEMA, noting that other programs, such as partnerships with Habitat for Humanity, which is rebuilding homes, have more permanence and success. If Im going to invest time and effort in a program, Im going to do it in a program that is more effective. There are lots of other ways to get them help.The white nationalists were outnumbered at the rally outside the White House, one year after Charlottesville.

Aug. 12, 2018 Signs against the Unite the Right rally are placed at Lafayette Square near the White House. Astrid Riecken for The Washington PostU.S. to give back church bells taken from the Philippines: The United States is returning to the Philippines church bells seized by U.S. troops as trophies during a war between the two countries more than a century ago. U.S. Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis has notified Congress of plans to return the bells of Balangiga to the Philippines at a date yet to be identified, the U.S. Embassy in Manila said. In 1901, U.S. soldiers killed thousands of Filipinos, including women and children, in the town of Balangiga in response to the deaths of 48 U.S. soldiers at the hands of rebels during the war between the two countries. U.S. troops took the town's church bells. Two of the bells are at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming; the third is part of a traveling museum.Don has proven to be a very good public speaker and was a very likable presence on the campaign trail, Trump said in the statement to The Post. People like when he represents me in front of groups of people. I always get a favorable response. . . . Don likes and enjoys politics, but he likes seeing great results for the American people even better, and that is why he is involved. He truly believes that I am making America great again and loves being a part of it.In one series of emails, Kavanaugh is beginning to grapple with the issue of presidential war powers, seeking the best con law treatises on the subject. Another exchange with then-White House spokeswoman Anne Womack discusses a question that arose about the prospect of Bush creating a tribunal for the Sept. 11 suspects rather than putting them through the U.S. court system. On Sept. 13, 2001, Kavanaugh advises Womack to say that the administration was not discussing legal options, adding that even talking about this kind of issue can pose problems down the road.The Situation Room is the inner sanctum within an already-secure facility where the most sensitive of the most sensitive information is discussed, Price said. Its where negotiations with Iran were hashed out. Its where contingency plans for nuclear launches have been developed. The fact that she was recording a conversation in there really raises alarm bells in the minds of people who have worked in that room.Case, who served two terms in the House, defeated six primary challengers in the Honolulu-based district represented by Hanabusa. Among them was Kaniela Ing, a state representative and member of the Democratic Socialists of America who finished well behind the winner. New York congressional candidate Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez campaigned for Ing.The Ghazni attack appears to be a well-orchestrated and high-profile challenge to the government and its U.S. supporters. It has come despite recent Afghan and U.S. efforts to promote peace talks and build on a successful three-day cease-fire in mid-June. Officials had hoped for a second truce later this month during the Eid al-Adha holiday, but that seems unlikely.Francis sought to recover from that episode by sending two investigators to Chile, apologizing for his serious errors in handling the crisis and making a reference  unprecedented for a pope  to a culture of abuse and coverup. He invited Chilean abuse victims to the Vatican. He also called Chiles 34 bishops to Rome, where, according to a letter that was leaked to the Chilean media, he accused them of failing to investigate possible crimes and destroying evidence. The bishops offered to step down en masse. So far, Francis has accepted five of those resignations.Though aircraft mechanics have broad access and routinely taxi planes along the tarmac, Schiavo said, ground crew members are not supposed to be allowed inside cockpits, which have locking doors. But she said those security procedures are not always observed, especially for smaller commuter aircraft such as the Bombardier Q400. It can be a little more casual and a little loosey-goosey, especially if they are doing overnight maintenance, she said.The latest corruption scandal broke last month with a leaked recording of a Supreme Court justice who appeared to be negotiating a bribe from a convicted child abuser. At first, the justice, Cesar Hinostroza, is heard asking whether the victim, thought to be 11 years old, had been deflowered. Then he inquires whether the perpetrator wanted to be acquitted or simply have his sentence reduced. Hinostroza subsequently said that his remarks were taken out of context and that he was not negotiating a bribe. He has been suspended from his job.Flanked by Peetz and professor of economics Jeff Borland a workplace relations expert, Isaac methodically outlined his case for a return to pattern bargaining, a power boost for the Fair Work Commission and a relaxation of right of entry rules for unions to enter worksites. The international legal right to strike had also become too hard, Professor Isaac says. The OECD's latest Australian survey reported that incomes for the top earners had grown by more than 40 per cent between 2004 and 2014 while those for the lowest grew by 25 per cent. The OECD also supports pattern bargaining to address stagnating wages growth. The OECD has supported bargaining systems "coordinated" across sectors Credit:AFP A forum on the Future of Work hosted by Maurice Blackburn Lawyers in partnership with Fairfax Media and the University of Melbourne's Centre for Workplace Leadership held the following day addressed growing inequality in the context of emerging disruption.

Promises of huge jobs growth within the burgeoning National Disability Insurance Scheme and the health and aged care sectors need to be balanced with complaints of underpayment and no payment for those workers who are among the poorest. Depending on which consulting outfit is providing the information, forecasts on future job losses can swing between 400 million to 800 million. Up to 300,000 drivers could lose their jobs each year when autonomous vehicle saturation peaks in the US, according to Goldman Sachs Economics Research. Former Boston Consulting Group partner, Mike Priddis who heads a company called Faethm has built a multimillion-dollar artificial intelligence platform that tells companies and governments what impact technology is expected to have on jobs. Michael Priddis, chief executive and founder of Faethm. Boasting an invitation to join the World Economic Forum's Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Faethm claims it has more clearer predictions on the numbers, but will not share them publicly. The data comes at a price.

Priddis says the bleak forecasts and media around this issue "is very fear based" and the narrative about massive job losses misses the scope for people to get new skills to apply emerging technologies. "Our analytics tell us that there is actually a lot of hope. There will be automation, but there will be a lot of augmentation and new jobs created," he says. Beth Noveck, a Professor in Technology, Culture and Society at New York University who has worked for the Obama administration in the US and the David Cameron UK government, told a forum on the Future of Work that disruption was potentially creating the best and worst of times. Data and artificial intelligence could create safer, more productive and efficient work. Jobs would not all disappear, and some could get better.

But in the US as in India, growing inequality was now being associated with a decline in the life expectancy of poorer people. Louise Davidson, chief executive of the Australian Council of Superannuation Investors, is calling for tougher laws to combat the emergence of modern slavery in Australian supply chains which resulted in workers being underpaid and exploited. Beth Noveck Noveck warned that automation had the potential to cause political upheaval as it puts some people out of work, leading to mass migrations "that give rise to more populist and autocratic leaders who appeal to people's fears". American historian Thomas Frank is among academics who have analysed why the Democratic Party in America is no longer regarded as a party that represents traditional working class people and why many of them voted for Donald Trump. While Franklin Roosevelt deplored the rise of "economic royalists" the Clinton and Obama administration were known as close friends of Wall Street and the elite class of ivy league university-educated technocrats who shaped their policies. The professional managerial class displaced blue and pink collar workers as the Democratic Party's favorite constituency. US president Donald Trump Credit:Bloomberg

Frank and Joan Williams, a professor of law at the University of California are among academics arguing that social class has become all-important in politics. With interesting results. Earlier this week, voters in Missouri voted against a proposed anti-union law. Republican state representative T. J. Berry, whose district includes some outer suburbs of Kansas City, told the New York Times that many of his constituents were proud union members who opposed anti-union laws but voted Republican because they were conservative on social issues. Berry told the Times he had four Ford workers in his Sunday school class who were "Pro-life, pro-gun and pro-worker. All of them voted for Trump. Asked about the importance of class differences, Professor Peetz said "class is probably the biggest single factor at work if you look at what drives policy makers, what drives the decisions of large corporations which really set the tone for the rest".

Labor Party MPs in Western Sydney are now grappling with balancing the socially conservative views of working class constituents who voted against same-sex marriage, with the progressive social agenda of inner-city MPs. Growing inequality - stagnating wages for low skilled workers and tax cuts for rich bankers have emerged as major election issues. As outlined in his paper published in the Australian Economic Review, Isaac says workplace rights need to be restored to address wage rises falling well short of labour productivity increases. He says a major reason is the decline in the power of unions and the reduced authority of the Fair Work Commission. Union density in Australia is among the lowest in the OECD. Globalisation and technology have also displaced less skilled jobs, contributing to the imbalance, as have changes in industrial relations laws. Isaac argues that collective action across industries - pattern bargaining - which is still used in many European countries, should be restored in Australia to help unions bargain for higher wages in smaller workplaces. He says there is no clear evidence to support the belief that individual enterprise bargaining would reward workers in line with increased productivity. "There is nothing inherenty objectionable economically about pattern bargaining provided it is controlled and limited to certain situations; for example, to correct undesirable economic distortions and unfairness that would otherwise take place in the labour market," Isaac says. "It is in such situations that the FWC should have the discretion to decide whether applying a pattern is warranted."

Isaac says the decline in union power has created a new balance of industrial power in the labour market, "with employers able to determine no wage increase or an increase less than their profits would warrant, with less resistance from workers and unions". Union rally outside the Fair Work Commissison. Credit:Justin McManus In response, the Fair Work Commission should be given more power and discretion to restore balance in the labour market to deal with the lag in wages and its adverse economic consequences. Restrictions on union right of entry to work sites should also be relaxed to allow unions to recruit members and to check payments by union and free-riding non-union employees. Australian Council of Trade Unions secretary Sally McManus said working people need the tools and power to win fair pay rises. "The enterprise-only bargaining system is failing with a large majority of working people reporting either no increase or inadequate increases in the past year," she said.I have a house that is currently rented out and we plan to move there in two years. Neither of my parents have superannuation and we have invited them to live with us. They will be selling their home, which would give them about $350,000 profit. They hope to give us $200,000 to be used to renovate or rebuild so they can be accommodated. They are aware of the rules of gifting and their aim is to contribute without affecting their pensions. They are aged 66 and 75. T.M.

Credit:Michael Mucci

You might find Centrelinks granny flat rules helpful as they allow pensioners to contribute more than the usual gifting limits of $10,000 a year and up to $30,000 over a five-year period.

In a nutshell, those gifting rules do not apply if a person, or a couple, transfer the title of their home to someone else, or buy a property in another persons name, or pay to build a flat or addition onto another persons property and, in return, receive a life interest or a life tenancy in that property, which will be the donors principal residence. The rules are not concerned with age or family relationship.

However, when extra amounts over the cost of transfer or construction are transferred, Centrelink applies a reasonableness test, which permits the maximum amount that can be transferred, covering both the transfer cost plus the additional amount.An Australian medical ethicist who spent decades observing euthanasia in Canada has called on the Senate to reject a bill that would clear the way for voluntary assisted dying to be legalised across Australia.

Bioethics Professor Margaret Somerville, from the University of Notre Dame's school of medicine, said the international experience demonstrated that euthanasia was being used as a cheaper alternative to psychiatric and palliative care.

"It's a societal tragedy if we allow this," she said.

Senator Leyonhjelm's bill will be debated this week. Credit:AAP

The federal Senate will this week debate a private members bill brought by Liberal Democratic Party senator David Leyonhjelm, which would enable the ACT and Northern Territory to make their own laws on voluntary assisted dying.At the time of Ms Bishop's Huawei trip, former foreign minister Alexander Downer was a director of Huawei. A spokesman for Ms Bishop said many politicians accept sponsored international travel to "inform their policy and parliamentary interests", especially when in opposition. "In her capacity as Shadow Foreign Minister, the travel was declared and in compliance with the Register of Interests, he said. Her office did not answer specific questions about her contact with Mr Downer about Huawei or the trip.

Mr Irons said he was conscious of the security concerns about Huawei. "I followed the advice and procedures of the parliaments International and Parliamentary Relations office for international travel," he said. "I have always believed that if you hear things it's better to see for yourself." Huawei's corporate affairs director Jeremy Mitchell said the company had invited politicians to China to tour its facilities because it had been previously accused of secrecy. He said the trips were about openness and transparency and gave politicians an opportunity to better understand the company.

"Also, it gives them an opportunity to  and we normally partner with the ACBC or with the Asia Society  to get an understanding of modern China because it gives a context on how a private company like Huawei gets to the position that we have globally," he said. "I think a lot of people don't understand China and they sort of say well, how does Huawei really be a private company? "Part of why we tend to partner with people to do this is so they'll visit Huawei for a day, maybe a day and a half, but they'll also go and see and talk to other Chinese companies." Kerry Stokes advises Huawei on business strategy Seven West Media chairman Kerry Stokes has been revealed as an influential part of Huawei's business.

Since 2010 he has been a member of the company's International Advisory Council. According to a Huawei press release, its members "draw on their expertise to provide Huawei with insights and analysis on trends and issues impacting the global ICT and economic environment, and make recommendations on the companys business strategy". But Mr Stokes said he hadn't attended one of the council's annual meetings for several years. Huawei director John Brumby with then Communications Minister Malcolm Turnbull at an event to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Huawei's operations in Australia in 2014. He said the role did not involve advocating for Huawei in Australia and he had not discussed Huawei with any Western Australian or federal ministers or politicians.

In 2014, Mr Stokes hosted an event on behalf of Huawei to celebrate the company's 10th anniversary of Australian operations, which was attended by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, who was then the communications minister, Mr Brumby and Huawei's Australian CEO Zhao Xichu. Mr Mitchell said Mr Stokes had been a long-time friend of Huawei founder and global chief executive Ren Zhengfei and was the only Australian member of the International Advisory Council. "They meet roughly once a year, a one-day meeting, where essentially they have a round table with our senior executives and essentially they act as mentors I think to our global company," Mr Mitchell said. "He [Mr Stokes] takes his own time to come to these meetings and we appreciate, very much, that he does that. "But he doesn't do any lobbying on our behalf in Australia.

"The only thing that he did do for us is our 10-year anniversary. He hosted a dinner for about 20 people to celebrate our 10 years in Australia, that was about four years ago." Treasurer Ben Wyatt linked to Huawei-funded business group Treasurer Ben Wyatt was a member of the Australia China Business Council (ACBC), which is chaired by Huawei director and former Victorian Premier John Brumby, between 2008 and 2017. Huawei is also a financial sponsor of the ACBC. The ACBC was involved in inviting WA politicians, including Transport Minister Rita Saffioti and Education Minister Sue Ellery, to China in 2015 on trips paid for by Huawei.

A spokesman said Mr Wyatt first joined the ACBC in the 2008/09 financial year and his membership concluded at the end of the 2016/17. He said he had not discussed Huawei with Mr Brumby, but he "met with John Brumby as part of the review in the GST distribution which he authored with Nick Greiner" in 2012. Mr Wyatt's department is responsible for managing tenders in the state, but there is no suggestion he had any involvement in the decision to award the $136 million PTA contract to Huawei. Mr Mitchell said it was important for Huawei, as one of the biggest private Chinese companies operating in Australia, to be part of the ACBC. "ACBC have a role about the greater Australia-China business relationship and they don't do any individual lobbying on our behalf or other members' behalf," he said.

A spokeswoman for the ACBC said the organisation was formed a year after diplomatic relations were established between Australia and China to promote bilateral trade and investment. Former Labor Treasurer Eric Ripper is Huawei's WA lobbyist GRA Partners, a government relations firm partly owned by former WA treasurer Eric Ripper, is lobbying on behalf of Huawei in WA. Mr Ripper, who is chairman of the firm and a registered lobbyist, is listed as working on behalf of the Chinese telco in the Department of Premier and Cabinet's Register of Lobbyists. It is understood GRA Partners' Amanda Reid, who was an adviser to former Attorney General Jim McGinty, has been arranging briefings for WA politicians following the awarding of the PTA contract.London: Police in Manchester, England, are investigating a shooting in a crowd that injured at least 10 people early Sunday as "an attempted murder," an official said.

The shooting unfolded in the pre-dawn hours, shortly after revellers attended the first day of an annual Caribbean carnival in the area.

Forensic officers at the scene in the Moss Side area of Manchester, England, where several people have been injured after a shooting, early Sunday. Credit:PA/AP

"It is unclear at this stage what the motive, what the reason behind this attack, was," the chief superintendent of the Greater Manchester Police, Wasim Chaudhry, said at a news conference on Sunday afternoon, local time.

"However, we've got to be clear, it would be obvious to any particular person that discharging a firearm in a large crowd like this is completely reckless."The minister's attention In March this year, Dutton, known for his tough stance on refugees, vowed to look at offering to help these farmers under the limited humanitarian, or refugee, visa program. Alt-right figures Lauren Southern and Brittany Pettibone interview Russian Eurasianist ideologue Alexander Dugin. Credit:Youtube I do think, on the information Ive seen, people do need our help and they need help from a civilised country like ours," Dutton told News Corp columnist Miranda Devine on March 14, after she had published an opinion piece on the subject. While never specifically referring to them as "white" farmers, he described them as people who would easily integrate into our society.

About a week earlier, News Corp had run an explosive story about the murder of white farmers, citing graphic and horrifying details. Then on March 13 commentators Devine and Caroline Marcus published opinion pieces on the subject. The next day, Dutton told her he had asked his department to look into helping. Loading But News Corp in Australia was far from the first group adopting the cause of the white South Africans. They had become a favourite of people pushing the idea of "white genocide". Coined originally by white supremacists, "white genocide" acts as shorthand for one of their most deeply held convictions: that the white race is "dying" due to growing non-white populations who "breed" more quickly than white populations and aggressively attack them, and that governments are enacting "forced assimilation".

One of the boosters of this theory, Canadian alt-right activist Lauren Southern, who made headlines on her recent visit to Australia, produced a documentary about violence and white South African farmers. Alt-right organ Breitbart has given a platform to conservative commentator Ann Coulter, who has said "a genocide" is taking place in South Africa, and conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, on his popular program, InfoWars, claimed that white farmers should "evacuate" the country because "angry blacks" were going to kill them. The conspiracy theory percolates on the internet, with upticks of interest when the idea is publicised or promoted - such as in Janurary 2016, when Trump retweeted the account @whitegenocideTM. Another surge occurred in December 2016 when a US academic resigned after tweeting about the term. His tweet was heavily amplified by the alt-right, including Southern, and Russian bots.

In August 2017 came the deadly Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville. Another peak of searches occurs in early March, amid stories about South African farmers in Australias media and Dutton's comment. Canadian far-right activist Lauren Southern speaks during a 'Rally for South Africa' demonstration in Sydney. Credit:AAP In June, after Duttons statement, Southern herself told News Corp "it was such a pleasure to actually see someone step up and that was the Australian government and Australian politicians and really put this on the world stage". Fairfax Media is not suggesting that Dutton subscribes to white supremacist notions. The government has since shown little sign of offering special visas to South African farmers.

In response to questions, his office said the ministers views on helping people in South Africa are well known and already on the public record", and declined to comment further. Nevertheless, his comments, following the News Corp coverage, meant that a divisive conspiracy theory had been legitimised by a real government. Driving a wedge into democracies "White genocide" also reflects the idea of the conflict of civilisations inherent in the Russian ideology of Eurasianism, a school of thought in which the destiny of races figures heavily. As it seeks to give historical coherence to Russia, Eurasianism explicitly rejects liberalism, the core political philosophy that undergirds modern open democracies such as Australia.

For that reason, Edele says Russia supports groups that will undermine liberal views. That's the logic of sponsorship of alt-right groups by Russia. There are other linkages, too. There is a longstanding anxiety among Russia's nationalists that Russians are dying out because of falling birth rates compared to non-Slavic peoples," said Edele. "It reverberates with white genocide fears. And Russia is watching the South African white farmers, too, for more evidence of a Western liberal values failure.

A recent news segment on Russian state-controlled TV channel Vesti showed a family of South African Boer farmers - described at one point as "brothers in faith" - considering moving to Russia, to flee European values. At around the same time as Dutton made his comments, Lauren Southern and her fellow alt-right figure, Brittany Pettibone, actually interviewed Russian Eurasianist ideologue Alexander Dugin in Russia, one of the brains behind his country's aggressive new push against the West. In it, Dugin claimed that "liberalism denies the existence of any collective identities" and that "liberalism is based on the absence of any form of collective identity". Liberalism, the political system of the West, destroys collective identity which then welcomes others who will destroy our society, Dugin argued.

Embracing the claim about white South African farmers amplifies a divisive talking point into Australias political sphere. Technology's role The ability for an idea like white genocide to move from the fringes to the mainstream is made easier by our changed information environment, too. As Duttons decision to help South African farmers was welcomed online, the white genocide conspiracy theory was amplified by networks of partisans, activists and automated social media accounts, and bots, all of which drive up the popularity of the topic in search rankings online. Mentionmapp Analytics, a Vancouver-based social network analysis group, examined the traffic around the "white genocide" Twitter hashtag for Fairfax Media, drawing from accounts in US, South Africa, Denmark, Britain and Australia.

Mentionmapp analysed 112 indicative profiles from a larger data set of 996 samples of unique profiles that have tweeted the hashtag at various moments from early to mid-April. Within the data set, 43 accounts were likely amplifiers or automated profiles that alternated with human control. "These are all political hyper-partisan accounts, and they suggest the intent to 'normalise' [the topic], manipulate, or influence public perception/opinion," wrote John Gray of Mentionmapp. Seven accounts were suspended over the period measured. The automation of accounts in social media can seed a discussion with an audience, setting it loose or turning up the volume on it. The abundance of accounts tweeting on a topic gives the false impression that it is genuinely popular. Alt-right trolls did the same thing during the 2016 US election to elevate suspicion around former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

The anonymity of the accounts is another factor: 86 of those analysed by Gray are anonymous, which he said indicated a "lack of credibility, an inability to verify sources, and desire to operate without accountability". "Combine the high percentage of high-volume clearly hyper-partisan profiles, with the high ratio of anonymous participants [suggests] ... #whitegenocide is more coordinated/concerted than organic. "Its important to look at this not strictly through the lens of individual profiles ... but to think about the cumulative intent and effects." An analysis of hashtags provided by Hashtagify provides another view. "White genocide" is linked to Donald Trump, MAGA (Make America Great Again) but also altright, antiwhite and waronwhites.

Nationalism v 'globalism' The academic director of the ANU's National Security College, Matthew Sussex, said Russia-backed influence campaigns were currently finding fertile ground in far-right groups in the West by appealing to anti-"globalist", anti-immigration sentiment. "It is ... about currying favour with those who see themselves  rightly or wrongly  as being marginalised in some way," Sussex said. In Cold War times, left-wing organisations in Australia and the West "were a logical ally for the USSR given that they tended to be against free trade and statist", he said. Melbourne University's Edele said Russia backs the alt-right and white nationalists today in order to gain the upper hand against democracies, which it sees as meddling in Russia's affairs.The town of Greenwich and its school system are not immune from a wrongful death lawsuit involving a 15-year-old boy who killed himself after what his parents say were years of being bullied, according to a ruling Friday from the second-highest court in Connecticut.

Three judges on the state Appellate Court said the trial court judge was correct in rejecting the towns request to dismiss the lawsuit based on claims of immunity.

Bartlomiej Bart Palosz shot himself in the head after the first day of his sophomore year at Greenwich High School in August 2013. His parents say officials did not investigate or discipline students who had bullied their son.

The town has not yet decided whether to appeal the decision to the state Supreme Court.

David Golub, who has represented the Palosz family in the case, said Friday, Connecticuts Appellate Court today conclusively rejected the towns attempt to avoid liability for Barts death. The town has now delayed dealing responsibly with this matter for nearly five years.

Its time for the Greenwich community to acknowledge its failure to protect Bart and to meet its obligations to the Palosz family, Golub said.

On Friday, Town Attorney Wayne Fox said the town has not yet determined its next steps in the case, but said a decision is likely to come within the next couple of days.

In the issue of sovereign immunity as it applies to the Board of Education, a fact pattern such as this is very significant and consequently we will have to review the case very carefully and make a decision, which we have not, about whether to file (an appeal) to the Connecticut Supreme Court, Fox said.

A lot of work still has to be done, including depositions, before the case would be ready for trial, Fox said. He said the town would be working on that.

At issue in the case is the legal doctrine known as sovereign immunity, which asserts that government employees or bodies cannot be sued for their official acts.

The lawsuit, first filed in August 2015, contends that extensive bullying contributed to Bart Paloszs decision to commit suicide. It claims school staff did not follow mandatory anti-bullying policies to protect him.GREENWICH  The preschoolers at Gateway School play music, pet animals and pop bubble wrap. Behind the fun, dedicated teachers ensure these simple acts develop important literacy and motor skills.

Gateway is one of two all-day, yearlong programs in Greenwich accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, a designation earned by only 8 percent of the nations preschools. Its accreditation, loyal teaching staff and willingness to work with children with developmental disorders distinguishes the preschool from others in the area.

I truly feel we build a foundation for learning in children, said Yenny Toone, the early care and education director for Family Centers, the private nonprofit that runs Gateway and other area preschools.

These early years are fundamental to the success of children later on in life, she said.

Last year, 32 youngsters graduated from Gateway, which teaches social-emotional and physical development, along with language, literacy, cognitive and math skills.

The program is open to children of all abilities, and spots are still available for 3-year-olds, Toone said. Consultants assess kids with special needs and connect families with services.

Were the first step, Toone said.

Teachers also focus on social-emotional development because the preschoolers are becoming aware they have emotions and are learning how to regulate them. This part of the curriculum also prepares the kids for kindergarten.

Once this time is past, youre sort of playing catch up instead of having a proactive approach, Toone said.

Gateway also has a high number of children enrolled with sensory needs, school site manager Alex Belluzzi said. As more children with sensory processing disorders enroll in the program, teachers are adapting.

If children cannot sit still during circle time, for example, teachers will apply massage techniques or spin them around, two methods to regulate children and recenter their brains.

Its so important that they dont just have sensory experiences at the sensory table, Belluzzi said.

Kids who need sense stimulation benefit from touching snow, slime and shaving cream  whatever matches the theme  or by playing with fabric-covered blocks and stomping on bubble wrap.

We focus on the whole child, Belluzzi said.

Greenwich has few high quality and affordable infant and toddler programs, Belluzzi said, but Gateway stands out.

Tuition is $1,400 per month, but 76 percent of families receive partial scholarships funded by Family Centers.

Once kids reach preschool age, Gateway competes with local public schools, but Belluzzi emphasized the daylong schedule that caters to working families, the educated staff and scholarships calculated based on total family income.

We embrace diversity, and families and teachers of all cultural backgrounds and socioeconomic backgrounds, Belluzzi said.

Full-day, yearlong preschools often struggle to retain staff because they compete with public schools, which give teachers the summer off, but not Gateway, the site manager said.

At least one teacher stays with a child through his or her time at Gateway, Belluzzi said, securing a relationship among the child, the family and the teacher.

We have families who come back requesting a teacher their older child had, she said.

Teacher loyalty stems in part from the support and guidance educators give to parents. For example, they help parents develop strategies to try at home, like keeping routines so kids can get from point A to point B without throwing a tantrum.

Theyre astonished how we do it in program and its so hard to do at home, Toone said.

Editors note: For a tour, email pguza@familycenters.org or call 203-629-2822 ext. 3135.

jo.kroeker@hearstmediact.comSHELTON  Firefighters first saw smoke when they responded to a recent call. But the firefighters soon found a fire  three stories below ground level.

Fire units from Sheltons Echo Hose Hook & Ladder Co. 1 were dispatched tot he Hydro Power Plant at 305 Canal Street on Thursday.WESTPORT  Waterwoman. Thats how resident Nancy Breakstone describes herself.

Ive spent my whole life on the water, in one way or another, Breakstone said. I think its just amazing being on the water. You feel so free. Salt water is good for you. Its good for the soul.

Raised in Greenwich, Breakstone spent her childhood on the beach sailing and painting water fowl and, as an adult, excelled in water sports. In the 1980s Breakstone raced sailboards while in her 30s. When she was 60, Breakstone discovered stand-up paddle-boarding and went on to compete professionally in the sport, including at the World Paddle Association Nationals, beating paddlers more than half her age.

About five years ago, Breakstone started a stand-up paddle board junior race team in Westport and a paddle-board lesson and tour company in Norwalk, both of which she has ended to make way for the waters most recent gift to her: a photography career.

Breakstone has shot photos for personal use all her life. Six years ago, while on vacation to the Costa Rican beach Playa Negra with her husband, Bill Kutik, Breakstone fell in love with a specific photographic subject.

Id be walking the beach and see these images come up and thought, oh my God, whered they come from? Breakstone said.

Playa Negra is a

volcanic beac h full of lava rock, and when the waves hit the shore, the water sinks into the sand and forms images that resemble natural objects, such as seaweed and trees, and other purely abstract forms, Breakstone said.

Since that first trip, Breakstone has returned to Playa Negra for about 10 days twice a year  without Bill, who is not a fan of the 100-degree weather  to capture images of the beach.

Over the years, friends and family encouraged Breakstone to share her beach photos professionally, but she thought, I love these photos, but who else is going to understand what they are?

The encouragement of friends helped Breakstone overcome her original hesitation, and last year she joined the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County and submitted her photos to art shows across the country.

In a standout first year, Breakstones work has been featured in 20 group shows, 10 of which were juried, and two solo shows  one at the Gallery at Grain Surfboards in Amagansett, N.Y., and the other, titled Impressions in the Sand, is on view at Pour Me Coffee & Wine Cafe in Danbury until Sept. 14.

Breakstone credits her photography success in the midst of her 70th year to her competitive spirit and powers of reinvention. Breakstone has raised horses and bred Jack Russell terrier dogs. In perhaps her greatest reinvention, she left a 25-year marriage and life in Bedford, N.Y., and 12 years ago moved to Westport to join her then-boyfriend and now-husband Bill in Westport.

More important to her photographic achievements, Breakstone said, is her attentiveness and reverence for the ocean.

I respect the ocean for the power it has, but also for the beauty it produces, she said. I can see a lot more than the average person would see in a pallet of sand. I just do. Things that are obvious to me arent obvious to others.

While Breakstone uses a blue filter on her photos to enhance the natural hue, she doesnt Photoshop her images because she wants people to see exactly what she does while traipsing the beach.

Photography is more emotional than her past professions have been, and also more fulfilling, Breakstone said. This is what I plan on doing the rest of my life, because this truly is my love.Winnipegs thermostat hit its highest temperature of the year Saturday, with the heat ratcheting up to 36.6 C.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 11/8/2018 (1174 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Winnipegs thermostat hit its highest temperature of the year Saturday, with the heat ratcheting up to 36.6 C.

The mercury hit 36.6 at 4 p.m.

That made it the hottest Aug. 11 on record and the warmest day since Aug. 23, 2011, when the temperature rose to 37.2 C.

Environment Canada senior climatologist Dave Phillips told the Free Press the Sunday temperature could surpass that, with the high forecast to be 38 C.

"Were talking about the same temperature (Sunday). So two records in a row is what its looking like for Winnipeg."

By comparison, Winnipegs Sunday forecast calls for a temperature hotter than that of Khartoum, Sudan (37 C) and equal to Dubai, United Arab Emirates (38 C).

In addition to the high temperature Saturday, Phillips said the humidex was also rising, meaning it felt hotter than it was.

"Were talking about a 42 humidex this afternoon. Thats really, really sultry. Thats jungle humidity. We could be above 40 from three oclock to seven oclock tonight. So no wonder we got a heat warning out," Phillips said.

Environment Canada put out a heat warning for all of southern Manitoba Saturday.

ANDREW RYAN / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS A man fills his water bottle in front of the Salvation Army's downtown location on Saturday.

On top of the record-setting temperatures, Winnipeg has also been battling smoke during the past few days thanks to wind sending smoke from B.C. wildfires east. Thats expected to let up soon, said Phillips, who added the city shouldnt expect the same when it comes to the heat.

"What we see with the heat is it continuing all this weekend. Monday theres a high of 29, so not quite as excruciatingly hot. Then theres a cooling off for one day, but then were right back up into the relentless warming again," Phillips said.

"So theres not really a reprieve. Theres just that one day, Tuesday. So book it off sick, play hooky, because itll be a perfect day: sunny, high of 22 C. Then its right back into the next round of heat."

Meanwhile, a number of Manitoba Hydro power outages hit the city Saturday, leaving thousands of Winnipeggers without access to air conditioning.

In the early afternoon, as temperatures were rising, Manitoba Hydro said it was responding to an outage in south Winnipeg that affected at least 3,400 customers.

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A few hours later, Manitoba Hydro reported another outage, this one affecting more than 1,000 customers in Waverly Heights.

Phillips said even though temperatures have been rising in recent years, it was still surprising to see things get so hot this late in the summer.

"Were way more than a month beyond the longest day of the year. Were almost two-and-a-half weeks from the peak of summer temperatures. Youre losing two-and-a-half minutes of daylight each day. The sun is lower in the sky," Phillips said.

"So its remarkable that you could create these kinds of temperatures. This would certainly make it the warmest day of the summer and tomorrow could even be warmer."

ryan.thorpe@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @rk_thorpeWorld Lion Day is a global celebration of one of the most majestic of big cats, the African lion.

Travelers flock from all over the world to Africa to realize their dream of seeing the king of the jungle in the wild and South Africa is a prime wildlife viewing destination.

More than 370,000 Americans traveled there last year, making the United States the second-largest source of tourists to South Africa among non-African countries.

However, South Africa has a dark secret which it keeps from these visitors. Thousands of lions  between 6,000 and 8,000  are languishing in captivity at some 260 operations across the country marketed to tourists as lion interaction experiences. Incredibly, there are more captive lions than there are in the wild (less than 3,000).

South African actress and wildlife advocate Pearl Thusi, who appeared in The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency and Quantico, is collaborating with Humane Society International to warn travelers to South Africa not to visit tourist attractions that offer lion cub petting and lion walks.

Promoters of the industry flood social media with images of tourists cuddling lion cubs or walking with lions. Operators lead visitors to believe that they are interacting with orphaned cubs and rescued lions, but thats a lie. These cubs are born to mothers kept on lion breeding farms, and ripped away at just a few hours old to be used as living photo props. Some of the visitors and volunteers who come to these facilities even pay substantial amounts to hand-raise these fake orphans.

Tourists are often told these cubs will one day be released back into the wild, but the grim truth is that they are destined for an early death, each and every one of them. Its all part of a Snuggle Scam conservation con that tricks well-meaning and animal-loving tourists every year.

Once the cubs are no longer cute and cuddly, they are used for lion walking, which furthers the deception of visitors, who are led to believe that theyre helping young lions to become comfortable and aware of their bush habitats.

Eventually, they become too dangerous for that activity (there have been deaths related to lion walking), and this is the stage of their exploitation where things take the darkest turn. Some are sold for canned hunts, where they are shot by trophy hunters in fenced areas from which they cannot escape. Others are killed for the bone trade for use in bogus medicinal tonics in Asia.

The bone trade underscores just how corrupt the lion experience industry can be. Lions are a threatened species, listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Additionally, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which regulates trade in listed flora and fauna, prohibits the trade of bones from wild lions. However, that body allows South Africa to export skeletons from captive lions, and the country has just announced that it will soon nearly double its annual lion skeleton export quota from 800 to 1,500 lions.

What this means is that captive lion breeding facilities and the lion experience industry are literally killing lions  hundreds at a time  and exporting them as bags of bones for profit, with the full sanction of the South African government.

The allure of big cats, including the African lion, has reached the United States, where there are thousands currently held in private ownership. Like their African counterparts, breeders profit from selling these animals, and they are exploited in traveling exhibits, roadside zoos or inappropriately kept as pets.

This #WorldLionDay, you can make a difference. HSI urges travelers and tour operators to fight lion exploitation by refusing to participate in or promote human-lion interactions, such as bottle-feeding or cub-petting, walking with lions, or canned trophy hunting in South Africa.

Here in the US, please do not visit traveling exhibits and roadside zoos that feature lions and other big cats. You can also support the Big Cat Public Safety Act by contacting your elected officials in Washington, DC. But above all, please spread the word about the plight of lions worldwide and support our campaigns to protect them from harm. Theres still time to make this world a better one for big cats, and we need your help to bring that about.

The post Lion Snuggle Scam in South Africa Cons Tourists, Harms Wildlife appeared first on A Humane Nation.WiGBits Headline News Would you like to receive our WiGBits? Signup today!

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Digital Issue Would you like to receive our Digital Issue? Signup today!The Interpublic Group of Companies pays an annual dividend of $1.08 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 3.00%. The Interpublic Group of Companies has been increasing its dividend for 9 consecutive years, indicating the company has a new, but growing committment to grow its dividend. The dividend payout ratio of The Interpublic Group of Companies is 62.43%. This payout ratio is at a healthy, sustainable level, below 75%. Based on earnings estimates, The Interpublic Group of Companies will have a dividend payout ratio of 42.19% next year. This indicates that The Interpublic Group of Companies will be able to sustain or increase its dividend.

View The Interpublic Group of Companies' dividend history.Domtar Corporation designs, manufactures, markets, and distributes communication papers, specialty and packaging papers, and absorbent hygiene products in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and internationally. It operates through two segments, Pulp and Paper, and Personal Care. The company provides business papers, including copy and electronic imaging papers used in inkjet and laser printers, photocopiers, and plain-paper fax machines, as well as computer papers, preprinted forms, and digital papers for office and home use. It also offers commercial printing and publishing papers, such as offset papers and opaques used in sheet and roll fed offset presses; publishing papers, which include tradebook and lightweight uncoated papers for publishing textbooks, dictionaries, catalogs, magazines, hard cover novels, and financial documents; and converting papers for envelopes, tablets, business forms, and data processing/computer forms. In addition, the company provides papers for thermal printing, flexible packaging, food packaging, medical packaging, medical gowns and drapes, sandpaper backing, carbonless printing, labels and other coating, and laminating applications; and papers for industrial and specialty applications, such as carrier papers, treated papers, security papers, and specialized printing and converting applications. Further, it offers absorbent hygiene products, including absorbent briefs, protective underwear, underpads, pads, washcloths, and body patches under the Attends, Indasec, IndasSlip, and Reassure brands; and baby diapers, training and youth pants, and bed mats under the Comfees, Chelino, Nene, and Bambino brand names. The company serves merchants, retail outlets, stationers, printers, publishers, converters, and end-users. Domtar Corporation was founded in 1848 and is based in Fort Mill, South Carolina.

Read MoreThe following companies are subsidiares of Crown: Adularia Inversiones 2010 S.L., Angleboard Sweden AB, Bates Cargo-Pak ApS, Butimove, CMB Machinery and Technology (Shanghai) Co Ltd, CROWN AP (Thailand) Company Limited, CROWN Aerosols & Promotional Nederland, CROWN Aerosols Italia Srl, CROWN Aerosols Nederland BV, CROWN Aerosols UK Limited, CROWN Americas LLC, CROWN Arabia Can Company Ltd, CROWN Asia Pacific Holdings Pte. Ltd., CROWN Asia Pacific Investments (T) Limited, CROWN Bevcan Espana S.L., CROWN Bevcan France SAS, CROWN Bevcan Slovakia s.r.o., CROWN Bevcan Turkiye Ambalaj Sanayi Ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi, CROWN Bevcan and Closures (Thailand) Company Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans (Cambodia) Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans (Dong Nai) Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Beijing Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Changchun Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Danang Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Hangzhou Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Hanoi Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Heshan Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Hong Kong Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Huizhou Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Malaysia Sdn Bhd, CROWN Beverage Cans Nanning Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Putian Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Saigon Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Shanghai Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Sihanoukville Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Singapore Pte. Ltd., CROWN Beverage Cans Ziyang Limited, CROWN Beverage Packaging LLC, CROWN Beverage Packaging Puerto Rico Inc., CROWN Cans Ghana Limited, CROWN China Holdings (Hong Kong) Limited, CROWN Commercial Belgium BVBA, CROWN Commercial France SAS, CROWN Commercial Germany GmbH & Co. KG, CROWN Commercial Hungary Kft, CROWN Commercial Netherlands B.V., CROWN Commercial Vermogensverwaltung GmbH, CROWN Cork & Seal USA Inc., CROWN Embalagens Metalicas da Amazonia S.A., CROWN Emballage France SAS, CROWN Emirates Company Limited, CROWN Envases Mexico S.A. de C.V., CROWN Famosa S.A. de C.V., CROWN Food Packaging (Thailand) Public Company Limited, CROWN Foodcan (Hat Yai) Company Limited, CROWN Foodcan (Nakhon Pathom) Company Limited, CROWN Foodcan Germany GmbH, CROWN Foodcan GmbH, CROWN Imballaggi Italia Srl, CROWN Imgallaggi Italia Srl, CROWN Italy Finance srl, CROWN Khmer Beverage Cans Limited, CROWN Maghreb Can, CROWN Magyarorszag Csomagoloipari KFT, CROWN Metal Packaging Canada Inc., CROWN Metal Packaging Canada LP, CROWN Middle East Can Co. Ltd., CROWN Packaging (Barbados) Limited, CROWN Packaging Holdings LLC, CROWN Packaging Investment (H.K.) Limited, CROWN Packaging Ireland Ltd, CROWN Packaging Jamaica Limited, CROWN Packaging Polska Sp.z.o.o., CROWN Packaging Technology Inc., CROWN Packaging Trinidad Limited, CROWN Packaging UK Limited, CROWN Promotional Packaging UK Ltd, CROWN SIEM, CROWN Senegal, CROWN Societe Malgache d'Emballages Metalliques, CROWN Speciality Packaging BV, CROWN Speciality Packaging Investment Pte. Ltd., CROWN Specialty Packaging UK Ltd, CROWN TCP Beverage Cans Company Limited, CROWN Verpakking Belgie NV, CROWN Verpakking Nederland B.V., Caretex Asia Ltd., CarnaudMetalbox Engineering Ltd, CarnaudMetalbox Food South Africa (Pty) Limited, CarnaudMetalbox Group UK Limited, CarnaudMetalbox Overeseas Limited, CarnaudMetalbox Overseas Limited, Cierres Hermeticos S.A. DE C.V., Constar International, Crown Americas Capital Corp., Crown Americas Capital Corp. II, Crown Americas Capital Corp. III, Crown Americas Capital Corp. IV, Crown Americas Capital Corp. V, Crown Americas Capital Corp. VI, Crown Brasil Holdings Ltda., Crown Canadian Holdings ULC, Crown Closures Spain S.L., Crown Colombiana S.A., Crown Comercial de Envases S.L., Crown Commercial Italy Srl, Crown Commercial Polska Sp. z.o.o., Crown Consultants Inc., Crown Cork & Seal Company (DE) LLC, Crown Cork & Seal Company Inc., Crown Cork & Seal Deutschland Holdings GmbH, Crown Cork & Seal Receivables (DE) Corporation, Crown Cork & Seal de Portugal Embalagens S.A., Crown Cork Kuban, Crown Cork and Seal Receivables II LLC, Crown Developpement SAS, Crown European Holdings, Crown Food Espana S.A.U., Crown Foodcan Turkey Ambalaj Sanayi Ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Crown Hellas Can Packaging SA, Crown Heshan Trading Company Limited, Crown Holdings Italia Srl, Crown Holdings Spain S.L., Crown International Holdings B.V., Crown International Holdings Inc., Crown Luxembourg Holdings, Crown Mexican Holdings S. de R.L. de C.V., Crown Overseas Investments B.V., Crown Packaging Commercial UK Limited, Crown Packaging Distribution UK Limited, Crown Packaging European Division GmbH, Crown Packaging European Division Services SAS, Crown Packaging European Holdings GmbH, Crown Packaging Lux I S.a.r.l., Crown Packaging Lux II S.a.r.l., Crown Packaging Lux III S.a.r.l., Crown Packaging Manufacturing UK Limited, Crown Packaging Maroc, Crown Receivables III, Crown Services Iberia, Crown UK Holdings Limited, Crownway Insurance Company, Dacro B.V., EMPAQUE, Fabricas Monterrey S.A. de C.V., Form Koruyucu Ambalaj Sanayi Ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Foshan Continental Can Co. Limited, Foshan Crown Easy-Opening End Co. Limited, Glass & Silice S.A. DE C.V., Globoplastt s.r.o., Gunther S.A.S., Haloila Bulgaria EOOD, Interstrap B.V., Josef Kihlberg AB, Kiwiplan GmbH, Kiwiplan Inc, Lachenmeier ApS, Liljendals Bruk AB, Litec France S.A.S., Mezger Heftsysteme GmbH, Mima Films S.a.r.l., Mima Films Sprl, Mima Packaging Systems S.A.S., Mivisa, Nordic S.A.S., Norsk Signode AS, Oy M. Haloila AB, PT CROWN Beverage Cans Indonesia, Package Design and Manufacturing, Prolatamex S.A. DE C.V., Quandel Verpackungs- und Foerdertechnik GmbH, SMB Schwede Maschinenbau GmbH, SMP Schwede Maschinenbau Weischlitz GmbH, SPG Denmark, SPG France Holdings SAS, SPG Germany Service Management GmbH, SPG Industrial Packaging S.a.r.l, SPG Netherlands B.V., SPG Packaging Ireland Limited, SPG Packaging Systems GmbH, SPG Packaging UK Ltd, Scybele S.A.S., Shippers Europe S.p.r.l., Signode BVBA, Signode Brasileira Ltda, Signode Hong Kong Limited, Signode Industrial Group, Signode Industrial Group AB, Signode Industrial Group Colombia S.A.S., Signode Industrial Group GmbH, Signode Industrial Group Holdings Lux S.a.r.l., Signode Industrial Group Holdings US Inc, Signode Industrial Group Lux S.A., Signode Industrial Group Mexico, Signode Industrial Group Sweden AB, Signode International Holdings LLC, Signode International IP Holdings LLC, Signode International Investment LLC, Signode Kabushiki Kaisha, Signode Korea Inc, Signode NZ Limited, Signode Netherlands B.V., Signode Packaging (Qingdao) Co., Signode Packaging (Shanghai) Co., Signode Packaging Espana S.L., Signode Packaging Group (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Signode Packaging Group Australia Pty Ltd, Signode Packaging Group Canada ULC, Signode Packaging Group NZ, Signode Packaging Systems Limited, Signode Pickling Holding LLC, Signode Polska sp. Z.o.o., Signode Singapore Pte. Ltd., Signode Sweden Holdings AB, Signode System GmbH, Signode System Packaging GmbH & Co. KG, Signode Systems (Thailand) Ltd., Signode US IP Holdings LLC, Silice De Veracruz S.A. DE C. V., Silice Del Istmo S.A. DE C.V., Silices De Veracruz, Societe Civile Immobiliere Rousseau-Ivry, Societe Civile Immobiliere des Baquets, Societe de Participations CarnaudMetalbox, Stopak India Pvt. Ltd, Strapex Austria GmbH, Strapex Embalagem L.d.a., Strapex Holdings Limited, Strapex S.A.S., Strapex Srl, Superior Investments Holdings Pte. Ltd., Superior Multi-Packaging Limited, TopFrame LLC, V.A.C. B.V., Vichisa S.A. de C.V., and Warehouse Automation Iberia S.L..Duck Creek Technologies, Inc. provides software-as-a-service core systems to the property and casualty insurance industry in North America. It offers Duck Creek Policy, a full lifecycle solution for the development of products and quoting, binding, and servicing of policies across various channels from agents and brokers to end-users; Duck Creek Billing that provides payment and invoicing capabilities, such as billing and collections, commission processing, disbursement management, and general ledger capabilities for insurance lines and bill types; and Duck Creek Claims that supports the entire claims lifecycle from first notice of loss through investigation, payments, negotiations, reporting, and closure. The company also provides Duck Creek Rating that allows carriers to develop new rates and models and deliver accurate quotes in real-time based on the complex rating algorithms; Duck Creek Insights, an insurance analytics solution that allows carriers to gather and analyze data from internal and external sources and facilitate rapid analysis and reporting on a single system; Duck Creek Digital Engagement that offer digital interactions between property and casualty insurers and their agents, brokers, and policyholders; and Duck Creek Distribution Management that automates sales channel activities for agents and brokers, including producer onboarding, compliance, and compensation management. In addition, it offers Duck Creek Reinsurance Management that automates critical financial and administrative functions; and Duck Creek Industry Content that provides pre-built content, including base business rules, product designs, rating algorithms, data capture screens, and workflows for insurance lines of business. The company serves insurance carriers and leaders. Duck Creek Technologies, Inc. was founded in 2016 and is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts.

Read MoreXcel Energy, Inc. operates as a holding company, which engages in the generation, purchase, transmission, distribution and sale of electricity. It operates through the following three segments: Regulated Electric Utility, Regulated Natural Gas Utility and All Others. The Regulated Electric Utility segment generates, transmits and distributes electricity primarily in portions of generates, transmits and distributes electricity in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, Colorado, Texas and New Mexico. In addition, this segment includes sales for resale and provides wholesale transmission service to various entities in the United States. It also includes commodity trading operations. The Regulated Natural Gas Utility segment transports, stores, and distributes natural gas primarily in portions of Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, Michigan and Colorado. The All Others segment engages in steam, appliance repair services, nonutility real estate activities, processing solid waste into refuse-derived fuel and investments in rental housing projects that qualify for low-income housing tax credits. The company was founded in 1909 and is headquartered in Minneapolis, MN.

Read MoreConvaTec Group Plc develops, manufactures, and markets medical products and technologies worldwide. It offers advanced wound dressings and skin care products for the management of acute and chronic wounds resulting from various conditions, such as diabetes, immobility, and venous disease, as well as from traumatic injury, burns, invasive surgery, and other causes. The company also provides devices, accessories, and services for people with a stoma resulting from colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, bladder cancer, obesity, and other causes. In addition, it offers continence and critical care products, including intermittent urological catheters; and products for people with urinary continence issues related to spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, and other urological disorders, as well as devices and products use in intensive care units and hospital settings. Further, the company provides advanced systems for managing acute fecal incontinence, as well as for monitoring urine production output and intra-abdominal pressure; and various disposable medical devices, such as wound drainage systems, urine collection bags and catheters, airway management and oxygen/aerosol therapy devices, suction handles and tubes, gastroenterology tubes, and securement devices. Additionally, it offers disposable infusion sets to the manufacturers of insulin pumps for diabetes, as well as similar pumps that are used in continuous infusion treatments for other conditions; and various products to hospitals and the home healthcare sector. The company sells its products to pharmacies, hospitals, and other acute and post-acute healthcare service providers directly or through distributors and wholesalers. It serves a range of customers, including healthcare providers, patients, and manufacturers. The company was founded in 1978 and is headquartered in Reading, the United Kingdom.

Read MoreWall Street analysts have given iShares Edge MSCI USA Quality Factor 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 Edge MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF wasn't one of them. MarketBeat thinks these five companies may be even better buys.

View MarketBeat's top stock picks here.First American Financial Corp. operates as an insurance company. It provides title insurance and settlement services to the real estate and mortgage industries. The company operates its business through the following segments: Title Insurance & Services and Specialty Insurance. The Title Insurance & Services segment provides title insurance, escrow, closing services and similar or related financial services domestically and internationally in connection with residential and commercial real estate transactions. It also maintains, manages and provides access to title plant records and images and provides banking, trust and investment advisory services. The Specialty Insurance segment issues property & casualty insurance policies and sells home warranty products. It also provides title plant management services, which include title and other real property records and images, valuation products and services, home warranty products, property and casualty insurance and banking, trust and investment advisory services. First American Financial was founded in January, 2008 and is headquartered in Santa Ana, CA.

Read MoreFirst Data Corporation provides commerce enabled technology and solutions for merchants, financial institutions, and card issuers in the United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, and the Asia Pacific. The company operates through three segments: Global Business Solutions, Global Financial Solutions, and Network & Security Solutions. The Global Business Solutions segment provides solutions to merchants, such as retail point of sale merchant acquiring, e-commerce, and mobile payment services, as well as cloud based point of sale operating system that include a marketplace for proprietary and third party applications. The Global Finance Solutions segment provides technology solutions for bank and non-bank issuers, such as credit, retail private label, commercial card, and loan processing, as well as licensed financial software systems; suite of account services that include card personalization and embossing, customer communications, and professional services; and call center solutions and back office processing. The Network & Security Solutions segment offers EFT network, stored value network, and security and fraud solutions, as well as other value added solutions to its clients in GBS and GFS segments, smaller financial institutions, and other enterprise clients. First Data Corporation was founded in 1971 and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.

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GTT Communications, Inc. provides cloud networking services to multinational enterprises, carriers, and government customers in the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company offers wide area networking, such as software-defined wide area networking, multiprotocol label switching, and virtual private LAN service; high bandwidth-Internet connectivity and IP transit, as well as broadband and wireless Internet access services; managed equipment and security services; and unified communication services consisting of session initiation protocol trunking, cloud unified communication service, and traditional analog voice. It also provides transport services, such as Ethernet services that enable to design network equipment; and video transport services to support broadcast quality transmission of live events, sports entertainment, and news to media and entertainment industry. In addition, the company offers infrastructure services enabling transport of high volume data between data centers, enterprise office locations, and media hubs; wavelength services to deliver scalable high-performance optical connectivity; colocation, turnkey, duct, and dark fiber services; advanced solutions, including security, hybrid cloud, database, and application management Its IP network consists of approximately 600 points of presence. GTT Communications, Inc. markets its products and services through a network of direct sales force and indirect sales channels. The company was formerly known as Global Telecom & Technology, Inc. and changed its name to GTT Communications, Inc. in January 2014. GTT Communications, Inc. was founded in 2005 and is headquartered in McLean, Virginia.

Read MoreWall Street analysts have given BlackRock Long-Term Municipal Advantage Trust 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 BlackRock Long-Term Municipal Advantage Trust wasn't one of them. MarketBeat thinks these five companies may be even better buys.

View MarketBeat's top stock picks here.Helix Energy Solutions Group, Inc. is an international offshore energy company. It focuses on subsea construction, maintenance and salvage services to the offshore natural gas and oil industry. The firm also provides specialty services to the offshore energy industry, with a focus on well intervention and robotics operations. The company operates through three segments: Well Intervention, Robotics and Production Facilities. The Well Intervention segment offers vessels and related equipment that are used to perform well intervention services primarily in the Gulf of Mexico and North Sea regions. The Robotics segment involves four chartered vessels and also includes ROVs, trenchers and ROVDrills designed to complement offshore construction and well intervention services. The Production Facilities segment includes its investment in the Helix Producer I and Kommandor LLC. Helix Energy Solutions Group was founded in 1979 and is headquartered in Houston, TX.

Read MoreThe following companies are subsidiares of HCA Healthcare: 2490 Church LLC, 360 Community Alliance LLC, 4600 Waters Avenue Professional Building Condominium Association Inc., 52 Alderley Road LLP, AC Med LLC, ACH Inc., ADC Surgicenter LLC, AOGN LLC, AOSC Sports Medicine Inc., AR Holding 1 LLC, AR Holding 10 LLC, AR Holding 11 LLC, AR Holding 12 LLC, AR Holding 13 LLC, AR Holding 14 LLC, AR Holding 15 LLC, AR Holding 16 LLC, AR Holding 17 LLC, AR Holding 18 LLC, AR Holding 19 LLC, AR Holding 2 LLC, AR Holding 20 LLC, AR Holding 21 LLC, AR Holding 22 LLC, AR Holding 23 LLC, AR Holding 24 LLC, AR Holding 25 LLC, AR Holding 26 LLC, AR Holding 27 LLC, AR Holding 28 LLC, AR Holding 29 LLC, AR Holding 30 LLC, AR Holding 31 LLC, AR Holding 4 LLC, AR Holding 5 LLC, AR Holding 6 LLC, AR Holding 7 LLC, AR Holding 8 LLC, AR Holding 9 LLC, ASD Shared Services LLC, Acadiana Care Center Inc., Acadiana Practice Management Inc., Acadiana Regional Pharmacy Inc., Access 2 Health Care Physicians LLC, Access Health Care Physicians LLC, Access Management Co. LLC, Ace Leasing II LLC, Acute Kids Urgent Care of Medical City Childrens Hospital PLLC, Acworth Immediate Care LLC, Administrative Physicians of North Texas PLLC, Advanced Bundle Convener LLC, Advanced Plastic Surgery Center of Terre Haute LLC, Advanced Practice Providers of Gulf Coast PLLC, Alaska Regional Medical Group LLC, Albany Family Practice LLC, Aligned Business Consortium Group L.P., All About Staffing (India) Ltd., All About Staffing Inc., All About Staffing Philippines Inc., Alleghany General and Bariatric Services LLC, Alleghany Hospitalists LLC, Alleghany Primary Care Inc., Alleghany Specialists LLC, Alliance Surgicare LLC, Alpine Surgicenter LLC, Alta Internal Medicine LLC, Alternaco LLC, Altitude Mid Level Providers LLC, Ambulatory Endoscopy Clinic of Dallas Ltd., Ambulatory Endoscopy Holdco LLC, Ambulatory Laser Associates GP, Ambulatory Services Management Corporation of Chesterfield County Inc., Ambulatory Surgery Center Group Ltd., American Medicorp Development Co., Anchorage Surgicenter LLC, AppleCare/Memorial Immediate Care Joint Venture LLC, Appledore Medical Group II Inc., Appledore Medical Group Inc., Appomattox Imaging LLC, Arapahoe Surgicenter LLC, Arlington Diagnostic South Inc., Arlington Neurosurgeons PLLC, Arlington Primary Care PLLC, Arlington Primary Medicine PLLC, Arlington Surgery Center L.P., Arlington Surgicare LLC, Arthritis Specialists of Nashville Inc., Ashburn ASC LLC, Ashburn Imaging LLC, Athens Community Hospital Inc., Atlanta Healthcare Management L.P., Atlanta Home Care L.P., Atlanta Market GP Inc., Atlanta Outpatient Surgery Center Inc., Atlanta Surgery Center Ltd., Atlantis Surgicare LLC, Atrium Surgery Center L.P., Atrium Surgicare LLC, Augusta CyberKnife LLC, Augusta Inpatient Services LLC, Augusta Management Services LLC, Augusta Multispecialty Services LLC, Augusta Primary Care Services LLC, Augusta Specialty Hospitalists LLC, Augusta Urgent Care Services LLC, Aurora Endoscopy Surgicenter LLC, Austin GI Surgicenter LLC, Austin Heart Cardiology MSO LLC, Austin Medical Center Inc., Austin Physicians Management LLC, Austin Urogynecology PLLC, Aventura Cancer Center Manager LLC, Aventura Comprehensive Cancer Research Group of Florida Inc., Aventura Healthcare Specialists LLC, Aventura Neurosurgery LLC, BAMI Property LLC, Backlogs Limited, Bailey Square Ambulatory Surgical Center Ltd., Bailey Square Outpatient Surgical Center Inc., Bannerman Family Care LLC, Barrow Medical Center CT Services Ltd., Basic American Medical Inc., Basil Street Practice Limited, Bay Area Healthcare Group Ltd., Bay Area Surgical Center Investors Ltd., Bay Area Surgicare Center Inc., Bay Area Surgicenter LLC, Bay Hospital Inc., Bayonet Point Surgery Center Ltd., Bayshore Family Practitioners PLLC, Bayshore Multi-Specialty Group PLLC, Bayshore Occupational and Family Medicine PLLC, Bayshore Partner LLC, Bayshore Radiation Oncology Services PLLC, Bayshore Surgery Center Ltd., Bayside Ambulatory Center LLC, Bedford-Northeast Community Hospital Inc., Behavioral Health Sciences of West Florida LLC, Behavioral Health Wellness Center LLC, Bellaire Imaging Inc., Belleair Surgery Center Ltd., Belton Family Practice Clinic LLC, Big Cypress Medical Center Inc., Blacksburg Family Care LLC, Blossoms Healthcare LLP, Blue Ridge-TKC LLC, Bone & Joint Specialists Physician Group LLC, Bonita Bay Surgery Center Inc., Bonita Bay Surgery Center Ltd., Bountiful Surgery Center LLC, Boynton Beach EFL Imaging Center LLC, Bradenton Cardiology Physician Network LLC, Bradenton Outpatient Services LLC, Brandon Imaging Manager LLC, Brandon Regional Cancer Center LLC, Brentwood ASC LLC, Brigham City Community Hospital Inc., Brigham City Community Hospital Physician Services LLC, Brigham City Health Plan Inc., Brighton Surgicenter LLC, Brookwood Medical Center of Gulfport Inc., Broward Cardiovascular Surgeons LLC, Broward Healthcare System Inc., Broward Neurosurgeons LLC, Brownsville Specialists of Texas PLLC, Brownsville Surgery PLLC, Brownsville Surgical Specialists PLLC, Brownsville Surgicenter LLC, Brownsville-Valley Regional Medical Center Inc., Buford Road Imaging L.L.C., Byron Family Practice LLC, C. Medrano M.D. PLLC, C/HCA Capital Inc., C/HCA Development Inc., C/HCA Inc., CAREOS Surgicenter LLC, CC Clinic PLLC, CCBH Psychiatric Hospitalists LLC, CCH-GP Inc., CFC Investments Inc., CH Systems, CHC Finance Co., CHC Holdings Inc., CHC Management Ltd., CHC Payroll Agent Inc., CHC Payroll Company, CHC Realty Company, CHC Venture Co., CHC-El Paso Corp., CHC-Miami Corp., CHCA Bayshore L.P., CHCA Clear Lake L.P., CHCA Conroe L.P., CHCA Mainland L.P., CHCA Pearland L.P., CHCA West Houston L.P., CHCA Womans Hospital L.P., CHCK Inc., CJW Infectious Disease LLC, CJW Wound Healing Center LLC, CLASC Manager LLC, COL-NAMC Holdings Inc., COSCORP LLC, CP Surgery Center LLC, CPS TN Processor 1 Inc., CRMC-M LLC, CUC PLLC, CVMC Property LLC, Calder Immediate Care PLLC, California Imaging Center Manager LLC, California Urgent Care LLC, Calloway Creek Surgery Center L.P., Calloway Creek Surgicare LLC, Cancer Centers of North Florida LLC, Cancer Services of Aventura LLC, Capital Anesthesia Services LLC, Capital Area Cardiology, Capital Area CareNow Physician Associates, Capital Area Multispecialty Providers, Capital Area Neurosurgeons, Capital Area Occupational Medicine PLLC, Capital Area Primary Care PLLC, Capital Area Primary Care Providers, Capital Area Providers, Capital Area Specialists PLLC, Capital Area Specialty Providers, Capital Area Surgeons PLLC, Capital Division - CCA Inc., Capital Division Inc., Capital Network Services Inc., Capital Professional Billing LLC, Capital Regional Healthcare LLC, Capital Regional Heart Associates LLC, Capital Regional Psychiatry Associates LLC, Cardiac Surgical Associates LLC, Cardio Vascular Surgeons of North Texas PLLC, Cardiology Associates Medical Group LLC, Cardiology Clinic of San Antonio PLLC, Cardiology Specialists of North Texas PLLC, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons of Texas PLLC, Care for Women LLC, CareNow, CareOne Home Health Services Inc., CarePartners HHA Holdings LLLP, CarePartners HHA LLLP, CarePartners Rehabilitation Hospital LLLP, CareSpot Professional Services of Middle Tennessee LLC, CareSpot of Brentwood (210 Franklin Road) LLC, CareSpot of Cool Springs (100 International Drive) LLC, CareSpot of Donelson (2372 Lebanon Road) LLC, CareSpot of Hendersonville (280 Indian Lake Boulevard) LLC, CareSpot of Hermitage (5225 Old Hickory Boulevard) LLC, CareSpot of Lebanon (1705 West Main Street) LLC, CareSpot of Mt. Juliet (S. Mt. Juliet Road) LLC, CareSpot of Murfreesboro (1340 Broad Street) LLC, CareSpot of Nashville (2001 Glen Echo Road) LLC, CareSpot of Nashville (West End Avenue) LLC, Career Staffing USA Inc., Carlin Springs Urgent Care LLC, Carolina Forest Imaging Manager LLC, Carolina Regional Surgery Center Inc., Carolina Regional Surgery Center Ltd., Cartersville Medical Center LLC, Cartersville Occupational Medicine Center LLC, Cartersville Physician Practice I LLC, Catalog360 Limited, Cedar Creek Medical Group LLC, Cedars International Cardiology Consultants LLC, Cedars Medical Center Hospitalists LLC, Centennial Cardiovascular Consultants LLC, Centennial CyberKnife Center LLC, Centennial CyberKnife Manager LLC, Centennial Heart LLC, Centennial Hospitalists LLC, Centennial Neuroscience LLC, Centennial Psychiatric Associates LLC, Centennial Surgery Center L.P., Centennial Surgical Associates LLC, Centennial Surgical Clinic LLC, Centennial Womens Group LLC, Center for Advanced Diagnostics LLC, Center for Advanced Imaging LLC, Center for Digestive Diseases LLC, Center for Occupational Medicine LLC, Centerpoint Cardiology Services LLC, Centerpoint Clinic of Blue Springs LLC, Centerpoint Hospital Based Physicians LLC, Centerpoint Medical Center of Independence LLC, Centerpoint Medical Specialists LLC, Centerpoint Orthopedics LLC, Centerpoint Physicians Group LLC, Centerpoint Womens Services LLC, Central Florida Cardiology Interpretations LLC, Central Florida Division Practice Inc., Central Florida Health Services LLC, Central Florida Imaging Services LLC, Central Florida Management Services LLC, Central Florida Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates LLC, Central Florida Physician Network LLC, Central Florida Regional Hospital Inc., Central Health Holding Company Inc., Central Pasco LLC, Central San Antonio Surgical Center Investors Ltd., Central Shared Services LLC, Central Tennessee Hospital Corporation, Central Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Physicians PLLC, Centrum Surgery Center Ltd., Charleston CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Chatsworth Hospital Corp., Chattanooga ASC Acquisition Inc., Chattanooga Diagnostic Associates LLC, Chattanooga Healthcare Network L.P., Chattanooga Healthcare Network Partner Inc., Chelsea Outpatient Centre LLP, Chesterfield Imaging LLC, Chicago Grant Hospital Inc., Childrens Multi-Specialty Group LLC, Chino Community Hospital Corporation Inc., Chippenham & Johnston-Willis Hospitals Inc., Chippenham & Johnston-Willis Sports Medicine LLC, Chippenham Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Chippenham Pediatric Specialists LLC, Chiswick Outpatient Centre LLP, Christiansburg Family Medicine LLC, Christiansburg Internal Medicine LLC, Christina Cano-Gonzalez M.D. PLLC, Chugach PT Inc., Church Street Partners, Citrus Memorial Hospital Inc., Citrus Memorial Property Management Inc., Citrus Primary Care Inc., Citrus Specialty Group Inc., Citrus Surgicenter LLC, City of San Antonio H2U Employee Health and Wellness Center PLLC, Clarksville Surgicenter LLC, Clear Creek Surgery Center LLC, Clear Lake Cardiac Catheterization Center L.P., Clear Lake Cardiac GP LLC, Clear Lake Family Physicians PLLC, Clear Lake Medical Tower Owners Association Inc., Clear Lake Merger LLC, Clear Lake Multi-Specialty Group PLLC, Clear Lake Regional Medical Center Inc., Clear Lake Regional Partner LLC, Clear Lake Surgicare Ltd., ClinicServ LLC, Clinical Education Shared Services LLC, Clinishare Inc., Coastal Bend Hospital CT Services Ltd., Coastal Bend Hospital Inc., Coastal Carolina Home Care Inc., Coastal Carolina Multispecialty Associates LLC, Coastal Carolina Primary Care LLC, Coastal Healthcare Services Inc., Coastal Imaging Center L.P., Coastal Imaging Center of Gulfport Inc., Coastal Inpatient Physicians LLC, Coliseum Health Group Inc., Coliseum Health Group LLC, Coliseum Medical Center LLC, Coliseum Park Hospital Inc., Coliseum Primary Care Services LLC, Coliseum Primary Healthcare - Macon LLC, Coliseum Primary Healthcare - Riverside LLC, Coliseum Professional Associates LLC, Coliseum Same Day Surgery Center L.P., Coliseum Surgery Center L.L.C., College Park Ancillary LLC, College Park Endoscopy Center LLC, College Park Radiology LLC, Colleton Ambulatory Care LLC, Colleton Diagnostic Center LLC, Colleton Medical Anesthesia LLC, Colleton Medical Hospitalists LLC, Colleton Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery LLC, Collier County Home Health Agency Inc., Collin County Diagnostic Associates PLLC, Colorado Health Systems Inc., Columbia ASC Management L.P., Columbia Ambulatory Surgery Division Inc., Columbia Arlington Healthcare System L.L.C., Columbia Bay Area Realty Ltd., Columbia Behavioral Health Ltd., Columbia Behavioral Healthcare Inc., Columbia Behavioral Healthcare of South Florida Inc., Columbia Call Center Inc., Columbia Central Florida Division Inc., Columbia Central Group Inc., Columbia Champions Treatment Center Inc., Columbia Chicago Division Inc., Columbia Coliseum Same Day Surgery Center Inc., Columbia Development of Florida Inc., Columbia Doctors Hospital of Tulsa Inc., Columbia Eye and Specialty Surgery Center Ltd., Columbia Florida Group Inc., Columbia GP of Mesquite Inc., Columbia Good Samaritan Health System Limited Partnership, Columbia Greater Houston Division Healthcare Network Inc., Columbia Health System of Arkansas Inc., Columbia Healthcare System of Louisiana Inc., Columbia Healthcare of Central Virginia Inc., Columbia Hospital Corporation at the Medical Center, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Arlington, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Bay Area, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Central Miami, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Corpus Christi, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Fort Worth, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Houston, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Kendall, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Massachusetts Inc., Columbia Hospital Corporation of Miami, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Miami Beach, Columbia Hospital Corporation of North Miami Beach, Columbia Hospital Corporation of South Broward, Columbia Hospital Corporation of South Dade, Columbia Hospital Corporation of South Florida, Columbia Hospital Corporation of South Miami, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Tamarac, Columbia Hospital Corporation of West Houston, Columbia Hospital Corporation-Delaware, Columbia Hospital Corporation-SMM, Columbia Hospital at Medical City Dallas Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Hospital-El Paso Ltd., Columbia Integrated Health Systems Inc., Columbia Jacksonville Healthcare System Inc., Columbia LaGrange Hospital LLC, Columbia Lake Worth Surgical Center Limited Partnership, Columbia Medical Arts Hospital Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center Dallas Southwest Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center at Lancaster Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center of Arlington Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center of Denton Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center of Las Colinas Inc., Columbia Medical Center of Lewisville Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center of McKinney Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center of Plano Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Group - Centennial Inc., Columbia Medical Group - Daystar Inc., Columbia Medical Group - Parkridge Inc., Columbia Medical Group - Southern Hills Inc., Columbia Medical Group - Southwest Virginia Inc., Columbia Medical Group - The Frist Clinic Inc., Columbia Midtown Joint Venture, Columbia North Alaska Healthcare Inc., Columbia North Central Florida Health System Limited Partnership, Columbia North Florida Regional Medical Center Limited Partnership, Columbia North Hills Hospital Subsidiary L.P., Columbia North Texas Healthcare System L.P., Columbia North Texas Subsidiary GP LLC, Columbia North Texas Surgery Center Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Northwest Medical Center Inc., Columbia Northwest Medical Center Partners Ltd., Columbia Ocala Regional Medical Center Physician Group Inc., Columbia Ogden Medical Center Inc., Columbia Oklahoma Division Inc., Columbia Palm Beach GP LLC, Columbia Palm Beach Healthcare System Limited Partnership, Columbia Park Healthcare System Inc., Columbia Park Medical Center Inc., Columbia Parkersburg Healthcare System LLC, Columbia Pentagon City Hospital L.L.C., Columbia Physician Services - Florida Group Inc., Columbia Plaza Medical Center of Fort Worth Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Primary Care LLC, Columbia Psychiatric Management Co., Columbia Resource Network Inc., Columbia Rio Grande Healthcare L.P., Columbia Riverside Inc., Columbia South Texas Division Inc., Columbia Specialty Hospital of Dallas Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Specialty Hospitals Inc., Columbia Surgery Group Inc., Columbia Surgicare of Augusta Ltd., Columbia Tampa Bay Division Inc., Columbia Valley Healthcare System L.P., Columbia West Bank Hospital Inc., Columbia Westbank Healthcare L.P., Columbia-CSA/HS Greater Canton Area Healthcare System L.P., Columbia-CSA/HS Greater Cleveland Area Healthcare System L.P., Columbia-Georgia PT Inc., Columbia-Osceola Imaging Center Inc., Columbia-Quantum Inc., Columbia-SDH Holdings Inc., Columbia/Alleghany Regional Hospital Incorporated, Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corporation of Central Texas, Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corporation of Northern Ohio, Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corporation of South Carolina, Columbia/HCA Heartcare of Corpus Christi Inc., Columbia/HCA International Group Inc., Columbia/HCA John Randolph Inc., Columbia/HCA Middle East Management Company, Columbia/HCA Physician Hospital Organization Medical Center Hospital, Columbia/HCA San Clemente Inc., Columbia/HCA of Baton Rouge Inc., Columbia/HCA of Houston Inc., Columbia/HCA of New Orleans Inc., Columbia/HCA of North Texas Inc., Columbine Psychiatric Center Inc., Columbus Cardiology Inc., Columbus Cath Lab Inc., Columbus Cath Lab LLC, Columbus Doctors Hospital Inc., Commonwealth Perinatal Services LLC, Commonwealth Specialists of Kentucky LLC, Community Hospital Family Practice LLC, Comprehensive Radiation Oncology LLC, Comprehensive Radiology Management Services Ltd., Concept EFL Imaging Center LLC, Concept West EFL Imaging Center LLC, Congenital Heart Surgery Center PLLC, Conroe Hospital Corporation, Conroe Montgomery Physicians Group PLLC, Conroe Orthopedic Specialists PLLC, Conroe Partner LLC, Conroe Specialists of Texas PLLC, Continental Division I Inc., Coral Springs Surgi-Center Ltd., CoralStone Management Inc., Corpus Christi Healthcare Group Ltd., Corpus Christi Heart Clinic PLLC, Corpus Christi Primary Care Associates PLLC, Corpus Christi Psychiatric Specialists PLLC, Corpus Christi Radiation Oncology PLLC, Corpus Christi Surgery Center L.P., Corpus Christi Surgery Ltd., Corpus Christi Surgicenter LLC, Corpus Surgicare Inc., Countryside Surgery Center Ltd., Crewe Outpatient Imaging LLC, Cumberland Medical Center Inc., Cy-Fair Medical Center Hospital LLC, DFW Physicians Group PLLC, DOMC Property LLC, DS Real Estate Holdings LLC, Daleville Imaging L.P., Daleville Imaging Manager LLC, Dallas CardioThoracic Surgery Consultants PLLC, Dallas Cardiology Specialists PLLC, Dallas Hand Surgery Center PLLC, Dallas Medical Specialists PLLC, Dallas Neuro-Stroke Affiliates PLLC, Dallas Pediatric Neurosurgery Specialists PLLC, Dallas/Ft. Worth Physician LLC, Davie Medical Center LLC, Daytona Medical Center Inc., Dean 4641 LLC, Deep Purple Investments LLC, Del Sol Bariatric Clinic PLLC, Delray EFL Imaging Center LLC, Denton Cancer Center PLLC, Denton County Hospitalist Program PLLC, Denton Pediatric Physicians PLLC, Denton Regional Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Denver Clinic Surgicenter LLC, Denver Mid-Town Surgery Center Ltd., Denver Surgicenter LLC, Derry ASC Inc., Diagnostic Breast Center Inc., Diagnostic Mammography Services G.P., Diagnostic Services G.P., Dickson Surgery Center L.P., Doctors Bay Area Physician Hospital Organization, Doctors Hospital (Conroe) Inc., Doctors Hospital Columbus GA-Joint Venture, Doctors Hospital Surgery Center L.P., Doctors Hospital of Augusta LLC, Doctors Hospital of Augusta Neurology LLC, Doctors Osteopathic Medical Center Inc., Doctors Same Day Surgery Center Inc., Doctors Same Day Surgery Center Ltd., Doctors-I Inc., Doctors-II Inc., Doctors-III Inc., Doctors-IV Inc., Doctors-IX Inc., Doctors-V Inc., Doctors-VI Inc., Doctors-VII Inc., Doctors-VIII Inc., Doctors-X Inc., Doctors Memorial Hospital of Spartanburg Limited Partnership, Dominion Hospital Physicians Group LLC, Dublin Community Hospital LLC, Dublin Heart Specialists LLC, Dublin Multispecialty LLC, Dura Medical Inc., E.P. Physical Therapy Centers Inc., EASTSIDE URGENT CARE LLC, EHCA Diagnostics LLC, EHCA Eastside Occupational Medicine Center LLC, EHCA LLC, EHCA Metropolitan LLC, EHCA Parkway LLC, EHCA Peachtree LLC, EHCA West Paces LLC, EIRMC Hospitalist Services LLC, EMMC LLC, EP Health LLC, EP Holdco LLC, EPIC Development Inc., EPIC Diagnostic Centers Inc., EPIC Healthcare Management Company, EPIC Properties Inc., EPIC Surgery Centers Inc., EPSC L.P., East Falls Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery LLC, East Falls Family Medicine LLC, East Falls Plastic Surgery LLC, East Florida - DMC Inc., East Florida Behavioral Health Network LLC, East Florida Cardiology Network LLC, East Florida CareNow Urgent Care LLC, East Florida Division Inc., East Florida Emergency Physician Group LLC, East Florida Healthcare LLC, East Florida Hospitalists LLC, East Florida Imaging Holdings LLC, East Florida Primary Care LLC, East Houston Primary Care PLLC, East Houston Specialists PLLC, East Layton Internal Medicine LLC, East Orthopedics PLLC, East Pointe Hospital Inc., Eastern Idaho Brachytherapy Equipment LLC, Eastern Idaho Brachytherapy Equipment Manager LLC, Eastern Idaho Care Partners ACO LLC, Eastern Idaho Care Partners Holdings LLC, Eastern Idaho Care Partners LLC, Eastern Idaho Health Services Inc., Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center Inpatient Services LLC, Eastside Behavioral Health Associates LLC, Eastside General Surgery LLC, Eastside Heart and Vascular LLC, Eastside Medical Center LLC, Eastside Surgery Center LLC, Edmond General Surgery LLC, Edmond Hospitalists LLC, Edmond Physician Hospital Organization Inc., Edward White Hospital Inc., El Paso CareNow Urgent Care PLLC, El Paso Healthcare Provider Network, El Paso Healthcare System Ltd., El Paso Healthcare System Physician Services LLC, El Paso Nurses Unlimited Inc., El Paso Primary Care PLLC, El Paso Surgery Centers L.P., El Paso Surgicenter Inc., Eldridge Family Practitioners PLLC, Elite Family Health of Plano PLLC, Elite OB-GYN Services of El Paso PLLC, Elite Orthopaedics of El Paso PLLC, Elite Orthopaedics of Irving PLLC, Elite Orthopaedics of Plano PLLC, Elstree Outpatient Centre LLP, Emergency Physicians at Wesley Medical Center LLC, Emergency Providers Group LLC, Emergency Psychiatric Medicine PLLC, Encino Hospital Corporation Inc., Endocrinology Associates of Lees Summit LLC, Endoscopy Surgicare of Plano LLC, Endoscopy of Plano L.P., Englewood Community Hospital Auxiliary Inc., Englewood Community Hospital Inc., Envision Stakes LLC, Eye Care Surgicare Ltd. a Missouri limited partnership, FHAL LLC, FMH Health Services LLC, Fairfax Surgical Center L.P., Fairview Medical Services LLC, Fairview Park GP LLC, Fairview Park Limited Partnership, Fairview Partner LLC, Family Care Partners LLC, Family Care of E. Jackson County LLC, Family First Medicine in Brownsville PLLC, Family Health Medical Group of Overland Park LLC, Family Health Specialists of Lees Summit LLC, Family Medicine of Blacksburg LLC, Family Practice at Forest Hill LLC, Family Practice at Retreat LLC, Family Practitioners of Montgomery PLLC, Family Practitioners of Pearland PLLC, Fannin MOB LLC, Fannin MOB Property Management LLC, Far West Division Inc., Fawcett Memorial Hospital Inc., Florida Care Partners LLC, Florida Care Partners Orlando LLC, Florida Home Health Services-Private Care Inc., Florida Outpatient Surgery Center Ltd., Flower Mound Surgery Center Ltd., Focus Hand Surgicenter LLC, Foot & Ankle Specialty Services LLC, Forest Park Surgery Pavilion Inc., Forest Park Surgery Pavilion L.P., Fort Bend Hospital Inc., Fort Chiswell Family Practice LLC, Fort Myers Market Inc., Fort Pierce Immediate Care Center Inc., Fort Pierce Orthopaedics LLC, Fort Pierce Surgery Center Ltd., Fort Walton Beach Medical Center Inc., Fort Worth Investments Inc., Forward Pathology Solutions LLC, Four Rivers Medical Center PHO Inc., Frankfort Hospital Inc., Frankfort Wound Care LLC, Freeport Family Medicine LLC, Fremont Womens Health LLC, Frisco Surgicare LLC, Frisco Warren Parkway 91 Inc., Frist Clinic Express LLC, Ft. Pierce Surgicare LLC, Ft. Walton Beach Anesthesia Services LLC, G. Rowe M.D. PLLC, G. Schnider M.D. PLLC, G. Voorhees M.D. PLLC, G.P. Martin Fletcher & Associates LLC, GA PHYSICIAN SERVICES LLC, GA Urgentcare Holding LLC, GHC-Galen Health Care LLC, GI Associates of Denton PLLC, GI Associates of Lewisville PLLC, GME Services of Osceola LLC, GPCH-GP Inc., GYN-Oncology of Southwest Virginia LLC, Gainesville GYN Oncology of North Florida Regional Medical Center LLC, Gainesville Physicians LLC, GalTex LLC, Galen (Kansas) Merger LLC, Galen BH Inc., Galen Center for Professional Development Inc., Galen College of Nursing, Galen Diagnostic Multicenter Ltd., Galen GOK LLC, Galen Global Finance Inc., Galen Health Institutes Inc., Galen Health Partners Limited, Galen Holdco LLC, Galen Hospital Alaska Inc., Galen Hospital of Baytown Inc., Galen Hospital-Pembroke Pines Inc., Galen International Holdings Inc., Galen KY LLC, Galen MCS LLC, Galen MRMC LLC, Galen Medical Corporation, Galen NMC LLC, Galen NSH LLC, Galen Property LLC, Galen SOM LLC, Galen SSH LLC, Galen Virginia Hospital Corporation, Galen of Aurora Inc., Galen of Florida Inc., Galen of Illinois Inc., Galen of Kentucky Inc., Galen of Mississippi Inc., Galen of Virginia Inc., Galen of West Virginia Inc., Galen-Soch Inc., Galencare Inc., Galendeco Inc., Galichia Anesthesia Services LLC, Galichia Emergency Physicians LLC, Garden Park Community Hospital Limited Partnership, Garden Park Hospitalist Program LLC, Garden Park Investments L.P., Garden Park Physician Group - Specialty Care LLC, Garden Park Physician Group Inc., Gardens EFL Imaging Center LLC, Gastroenterology Specialists of Middle Tennessee LLC, General Hospitals of Galen Inc., General Medical Clinics Limited, General Surgeons of Houston PLLC, General Surgeons of North Richland Hills PLLC, General Surgeons of Pasadena PLLC, General and Cardiovascular Surgeons of Conroe PLLC, Generations Family Practice Inc., GenoSpace LLC, Georgia Health Holdings Inc., Georgia L.P., Georgia Psychiatric Company Inc., Glemm SA, Good Samaritan Hospital L.P., Good Samaritan Hospital LLC, Good Samaritan Surgery Center L.P., Goppert-Trinity Family Care LLC, Grace Family Practice LLC, Gramercy Eye Surgicenter LLC, Gramercy Surgery Center Ltd., Grand Strand Regional Medical Center LLC, Grand Strand Senior Health Center LLC, Grand Strand Specialty Associates LLC, Grand Strand Surgical Specialists LLC, Grandview Health Care Clinic LLC, Grant Center Hospital of Ocala Inc., Grayson Primary Care LLC, Greater Gwinnett Internal Medicine Associates LLC, Greater Gwinnett Physician Corporation, Greater Houston Preferred Provider Option Inc., Greater Tampa Bay Physician Network LLC, Greater Tampa Bay Physician Specialists LLC, Greater Tampa Bay Physicians - Pinellas LLC, Green Oaks Hospital Subsidiary L.P., Greenview Hospital Inc., Greenview PrimeCare LLC, Greenview Specialty Associates LLC, Gulf Coast Division Inc., Gulf Coast Electrophysiology Associates PLLC, Gulf Coast Inpatient Specialists LLC, Gulf Coast Medical Center Primary Care LLC, Gulf Coast Medical Ventures Inc., Gulf Coast Multispecialty Services LLC, Gulf Coast Physician Administrators Inc., Gulf Coast Provider Network Inc., Gwinnett Community Hospital Inc., Gynecology Specialists of Utah LLC, H2U Wellness Centers - Del Sol Medical Center PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers - Las Palmas Medical Center PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers - Medical City Dallas PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers - St. Davids Medical Center PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers LLC, H2U Wellness Centers  Clear Lake Regional Medical Center PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  Conroe ISD PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  Conroe Regional Medical Center PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  Corpus Christi PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  El Paso PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  PISD PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  San Benito CISD PLLC, HBP Lone Star Inc., HCA - IT&S Field Operations Inc., HCA - IT&S Inventory Management Inc., HCA - IT&S PBS Field Operations Inc., HCA - IT&S TN Field Operations Inc., HCA - Information Technology & Services Inc., HCA - Raleigh Community Hospital Inc., HCA - Viera ALF LLC, HCA - WHS Progressive LLC, HCA - WHS Services LLC, HCA ASD Financial Operations LLC, HCA ASD Sales Services LLC, HCA American Finance LLC, HCA Carenow Limited, HCA Central Group Inc., HCA Central/West Texas Physicians Management LLC, HCA Chattanooga Market Inc., HCA Development Company Inc., HCA Eastern Group Inc., HCA Global Capital LLP, HCA Gulf Coast GME PLLC, HCA Health Services of California Inc., HCA Health Services of Florida Inc., HCA Health Services of Georgia Inc., HCA Health Services of Louisiana Inc., HCA Health Services of Miami Inc., HCA Health Services of Midwest Inc., HCA Health Services of New Hampshire Inc., HCA Health Services of Tennessee Inc., HCA Health Services of Texas Inc., HCA Health Services of Virginia Inc., HCA Health Services of West Virginia Inc., HCA Healthcare Mission Fund LLC, HCA Healthcare UK Limited, HCA Holdco LLC, HCA Human Resources LLC, HCA Imaging Services of North Florida Inc., HCA Inc., HCA International Holdings Limited, HCA International Limited, HCA LewisGale Regional Cancer Centers Clinical Co-Management Company LLC, HCA Long Term Health Services of Miami Inc., HCA Luxembourg 1 Sarl, HCA Luxembourg 2 Sarl, HCA Luxembourg Equities Sarl, HCA Luxembourg Finance Limited, HCA Luxembourg Investments Sarl, HCA Management Services L.P., HCA Medical City Limited, HCA Medical Services Inc., HCA Midwest Comprehensive Care Inc., HCA Outpatient Clinic Services of Miami Inc., HCA Outpatient Imaging Services Group Inc., HCA Patient Safety Organization LLC, HCA Pearland GP Inc., HCA Physician Services Inc., HCA Plano Imaging Inc., HCA Property GP LLC, HCA Psychiatric Company, HCA Purchasing Limited, HCA Realty Inc., HCA Richmond Cardiac Clinical Co-Management Company LLC, HCA SF LLC, HCA SFB 1 LLC, HCA Sarasota Orthopedic and Spine Clinical Co-Management Company LLC, HCA Squared LLC, HCA Staffing Limited, HCA Swiss Capital 1 LLP, HCA Swiss Capital 2 LLP, HCA Switzerland Finance GmbH, HCA Switzerland Holding GmbH, HCA Switzerland Limited, HCA UK Capital Limited, HCA UK Holdings Limited, HCA UK Investments Limited, HCA UK Limited, HCA UK Services Limited, HCA Wesley Rehabilitation Hospital Inc., HCA Western Group Inc., HCA-Access Healthcare Holdings LLC, HCA-Access Healthcare Partner Inc., HCA-California Urgent Care Holdings LLC, HCA-EMS Holdings LLC, HCA-EmCare Holdings LLC, HCA-Georgia Urgent Care Holdings LLC, HCA-HBPS Holdings LLC, HCA-HealthONE LLC, HCA-Solis Holdings Inc., HCA-Solis Mammography Service Holdings of Continental LLC, HCA-Solis Mammography Service Holdings of Gulf Coast LLC, HCA-Solis Mammography Service Holdings of North Texas LLC, HCA-Solis Mammography Service Holdings of TriStar LLC, HCA-Solis Mammography Services LLC, HCA-Solis Master LLC, HCA-Urgent Care Holdings LLC, HCAPS Anesthesia Manager LLC, HCAPS Conroe Affiliation Inc., HCOL Inc., HD&S Corp. Successor Inc., HDH Thoracic Surgeons LLC, HHBY Holdings LLC, HHNC LLC, HICCH-SCL LLC, HM Acquisition LLC, HM OMCOS LLC, HMMG 1226 LLC, HPG Energy L.P., HPG Enterprises LLC, HPG GP LLC, HPG Solutions LLC, HSS Holdco LLC, HSS Systems LLC, HSS Virginia L.P., HTI Gulf Coast Inc., HTI Health Services of North Carolina Inc., HTI Hospital Holdings Inc., HTI MOB LLC, HTI MSO LLC, HTI Memorial Hospital Corporation, HTI Physician Services of Utah Inc., HWCA PLLC, Hamilton Memorial Hospital Inc., Hamsard 3160 Limited, Harley Street Clinic @ The Groves LLP, Hathor Chelsea Ltd., Healdsburg General Hospital Inc., Health Care Indemnity Inc., Health Insight Capital LLC, Health International Billing Partners Limited, Health Midwest Medical Group Inc., Health Midwest Office Facilities Corporation, Health Midwest Ventures Group Inc., Health Partners of Kansas Inc., Health Service Partners Inc., Health Services (Delaware) Inc., Health Services Merger Inc., Health to You LLC, HealthCoast Physician Group LLC, HealthONE Aurora Investment LLC, HealthONE Care Partners LLC, HealthONE CareNow Urgent Care LLC, HealthONE Clear Creek LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Bariatric Medicine LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Behavioral Health LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Cancer Care LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Cancer Specialties LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Cardiovascular LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Medical Specialties LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Neurosciences LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Obstetrics and Gynecology LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Occupational Medicine LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Oncology Hematology LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Orthopedic Specialists LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Otolaryngology Specialists LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Pediatric Cardiovascular Surgery LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Pediatric Specialties LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Primary Care LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Spine Specialists LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Spine Surgeons LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Surgery Neurological LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Surgical Specialties LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Transplant Services LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Womens Services LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Youth Rehabilitation LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services LLC, HealthONE High Street Primary Care Center LLC, HealthONE IRL Pathology Services LLC, HealthONE Institutes for Clinical Research LLC, HealthONE Lowry LLC, HealthONE Radiation Therapy at Red Rocks LLC, HealthONE Radiation Therapy at Thornton LLC, HealthONE Ridge View Endoscopy Center LLC, HealthONE Surgicare of Ridge View LLC, HealthONE Urologic LLC, HealthONE at Breckenridge LLC, HealthONE of Denver Inc., HealthOne Heart Care LLC, HealthOne Lincoln Investment LLC, HealthOne Westside Investment LLC, HealthTrust Europe Company Limited, HealthTrust Europe LLP, HealthTrust Locums Inc., HealthTrust Workforce Solutions LLC, Healthcare Oklahoma Inc., Healthcare Purchasing Alliance LLC, Healthcare Sales National Management Services Group LLC, Healthcare Technology Assessment Corporation, Healthco LLC, Healthnet of Kentucky LLC, Healthserv Acquisition LLC, Healthtrust Inc. - The Hospital Company, Healthtrust MOB Tennessee LLC, Healthtrust Purchasing Group L.P., Healthtrust Utah Management Services Inc., Healthy State Inc., Heart Specialist of North Texas PLLC, Heart of America ASC LLC, Heart of America Surgicenter LLC, Heartcare of Texas Ltd., Hearthstone Home Health Inc., Heartland Womens Group at Wesley LLC, Heathrow Imaging LLC, Heathrow Internal Medicine LLC, Hendersonville Hospital Corporation, Hendersonville Hospitalist Services Inc., Hendersonville OB/GYN LLC, Hendersonville ODC LLC, Hendersonville Primary Care LLC, Henrico Doctors Hospital - Forest Campus Property LLC, Henrico Doctors Neurology Associates LLC, Henrico Doctors OB GYN Specialists LLC, Henrico Surgical Specialists LLC, Heritage Family Care LLC, Heritage Hospital Inc., Heritage Medical Care LLC, Hermitage Primary Care LLC, Hidalgo County Family Practitioners PLLC, Hidden Lakes Health Center PLLC, Highlands Regional Medical Center, Hip & Joint Specialists of North Texas PLLC, Homecare North Inc., Hometrust Management Services Inc., Horizon Orthopedics LLC, Horizon Surgical LLC, Hospital Corp. LLC, Hospital Corporation of America, Hospital Corporation of Lake Worth, Hospital Corporation of Tennessee, Hospital Corporation of Utah, Hospital Development Properties Inc., Hospital Partners Merger LLC, Hospital Realty Corporation, Hospital-Based CRNA Services Inc., Hospitalists at Centennial Medical Center LLC, Hospitalists at Fairview Park LLC, Hospitalists at Greenview Regional Hospital LLC, Hospitalists at Horizon Medical Center LLC, Hospitalists at Parkridge LLC, Hospitalists at StoneCrest LLC, Hospitalists at Wesley Medical Center LLC, Hospitalists of the Wabash Valley LLC, Houston - PPH LLC, Houston CareNow Urgent Care PLLC, Houston Healthcare Holdings Inc., Houston NW Manager LLC, Houston Northwest Concessions L.L.C., Houston Northwest Operating Company L.L.C., Houston Northwest Surgical Partners Inc., Houston Obstetrics and Gynecology for Women PLLC, Houston Pediatric Specialty Group PLLC, Houston Urologic Surgicenter LLC, Houston Womans Hospital Partner LLC, ICU Associates of West Houston PLLC, IMX Holdings LLC, IRL Pathology Services MidAmerica LLC, Idaho Behavioral Health Services LLC, Idaho Physician Services Inc., Illinois Psychiatric Hospital Company Inc., Imaging Realty LLC, Imaging Services of Appomattox LLC, Imaging Services of Jacksonville LLC, Imaging Services of Louisiana LLC, Imaging Services of Louisiana Manager LLC, Imaging Services of Orlando LLC, Imaging Services of Richmond LLC, Imaging Services of Roanoke LLC, Imaging Services of West Boynton LLC, InVivoLink Inc., Independence Neurosurgery Services LLC, Independence Regional Medical Group LLC, Independence Surgicare Inc., Indian Path Hospital Inc., Indianapolis Hospital Partner LLC, Institute for Womens Health and Body LLC, Institute of Advanced ENT Surgery LLC, Integrated Regional Lab LLC, Integrated Regional Laboratories LLP, Integrated Regional Laboratories Pathology Services LLC, Intensive Care Consortium Inc., Internal Medicine Associates of Huntsville PLLC, Internal Medicine Associates of Southern Hills LLC, Internal Medicine of Blacksburg LLC, Internal Medicine of Pasadena PLLC, Internist Associates of Houston PLLC, Isleworth Partners Inc., J. M. Garcia M.D. PLLC, JCSH LLC, JDGC Management LLC, JFK Internal Medicine Faculty Practice LLC, JFK Medical Center Limited Partnership, JPM AA Housing LLC, Jackson County Medical Group LLC, Jackson County Pulmonary Medical Group LLC, Jacksonville CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Jacksonville Multispecialty Services LLC, Jacksonville Surgery Center Ltd., James River Internists LLC, John Randolph Family Practice LLC, John Randolph OB/GYN LLC, John Randolph Surgeons LLC, Johnson County Neurology LLC, Johnson County Surgery Center L.P., Johnson County Surgicenter L.L.C., Jordan Family Health L.L.C., Jupiter EFL Imaging Center LLC, KC Pain ASC LLC, KC Surgicare LLC, KPH-Consolidation Inc., Kansas CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Kansas City Cardiac Arrhythmia Research LLC, Kansas City Gastroenterology & Hepatology Physicians Group LLC, Kansas City Neurology Associates LLC, Kansas City Pulmonology Practice LLC, Kansas City Surgery Center Properties LLC, Kansas City Vascular & General Surgery Group LLC, Kansas City Womens Clinic Group LLC, Kansas Healthserv LLC, Kansas Pulmonary and Sleep Specialists LLC, Kansas Trauma and Critical Care Specialists LLC, Kathy L. Summers M.D. PLLC, Kendall Healthcare Group Ltd., Kendall Regional Medical Center LLC, Kendall Regional Urgent Care LLC, Kennedale Primary Care PLLC, Kingwood Multi-Specialty Group PLLC, Kingwood Surgery Center LLC, Kingwood Surgicenter LLC, Kissimmee Surgicare Ltd., Kyle Primary Care PLLC, L E Corporation, LAD Imaging LLC, LGMC Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, LOC @ The Christie LLP, LOC @ The London Bridge Hospital LLP, LOC Partnership LLP, LPN TeleBehavioral Health PLLC, Lafayette OB Hospitalists LLC, Lafayette Urogynecology & Urology Center LLC, Lake City Imaging LLC, Lake City Regional Medical Group LLC, Lake Forest Family Health PLLC, Lakeside Radiology LLC, Lakeside Womens Services LLC, Lakeview Cardiology Specialists LLC, Lakeview Hospital Physician Services LLC, Lakeview Internal Medicine LLC, Lakeview Medical Center LLC, Lakeview Regional Medical Center Inpatient Services LLC, Lakeview Regional Physician Group LLC, Lakeview Urology & General Surgery LLC, Lakewood Surgicare Inc., Laredo Medco LLC, Largo Medical Center Inc., Largo Physician Group LLC, Las Colinas Primary Care PLLC, Las Colinas Surgery Center Ltd., Las Encinas Hospital, Las Palmas Del Sol Cardiology PLLC, Las Palmas Del Sol Internal Medicine PLLC, Las Palmas Del Sol Urgent Care PLLC, Las Vegas ASC LLC, Las Vegas Surgicare Inc., Las Vegas Surgicare Ltd. a Nevada Limited Partnership, Lawnwood Cardiovascular Surgery LLC, Lawnwood Healthcare Specialists LLC, Lawnwood Medical Center Inc., Layton Family Practice LLC, Leaders in Oncology Care Limited, Leadership Healthcare Holdings II L.P. L.L.P., Leadership Healthcare Holdings L.P. L.L.P., Lees Summit Family Care LLC, Leslie Cohan M.D. PLLC, Lewis-Gale Hospital Incorporated, Lewis-Gale Medical Center LLC, Lewis-Gale Physicians LLC, Lewisville Primary Care PLLC, Lewisville Surgicare LLC, Lincoln Surgery Center LLC, Live Oak Immediate Care Center LLC, London Oncology Clinic LLP, London Pathology Limited, London Radiography & Radiotherapy Services Limited, Lone Peak Hospital Inc., Lone Star Intensivists at Gulf Coast PLLC, Lonestar Provider Network, Longview Regional Physician Hospital Organization Inc., Lorain County Surgery Center Ltd., Los Gatos Surgical Center a California Limited Partnership, Los Robles Regional Medical Center, Los Robles Regional Medical Center MOB LLC, Los Robles SurgiCenter LLC, Loudoun Surgery Center LLC, Louisiana Psychiatric Company Inc., Loveland Surgicenter LLC, Low Country Health Services Inc. of the Southeast, Lowry Surgicenter LLC, M. Jamshidi D.O. PLLC, MCA Investment Company, MCA-CTMC Holdings LLC, MEC Endoscopy LLC, MFA G.P. LLC, MFM Fact PLLC, MGH Medical Inc., MH Anesthesiology Physicians LLC, MH Angel Medical Center LLLP, MH Asheville Specialty Hospital LLC, MH Blue Ridge Medical Center LLLP, MH Eckerd Living Center LLLP, MH Highlands-Cashiers Medical Center LLLP, MH Hospital Holdings Inc., MH Hospital Manager LLC, MH Master Holdings LLLP, MH Master LLC, MH McDowell Imaging LLLP, MH Mission Hospital LLLP, MH Mission Hospital McDowell LLLP, MH Mission Imaging LLLP, MH Physician Services LLC, MH Transylvania Imaging LLLP, MH Transylvania Regional Hospital LLLP, MHS Partnership Holdings JSC Inc., MHS Partnership Holdings SDS Inc., MHS SC Partner L.L.C., MHS Surgery Centers L.P., MMC Sleep Lab Management LLC, MOSC Sports Medicine Inc., MOVCO Inc., MP Management LLC, MRT&C Inc., MSL Acquisition LLC, MVH Professional Services LLC, Macon Healthcare LLC, Macon Northside Health Group LLC, Macon Northside Hospital LLC, Macon Psychiatric Hospitalists LLC, Madison Behavioral Health LLC, Mainland Family Medicine PLLC, Mainland Multi-Specialty Group PLLC, Mainland Primary Care Physicians PLLC, Management Services Holdings Inc., Manatee Surgicare Ltd., Marietta Outpatient Medical Building Inc., Marietta Outpatient Surgery Ltd., Marietta Surgical Center Inc., Marion Community Hospital Inc., Mark Gottesman M.D. PLLC, Martin Fletcher & Associates L.P., Martin Fletcher Associates Holdings Inc., Mary Alice Cowan M.D. PLLC, Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialists of Corpus Christi PLLC, Maternal Fetal Services of Utah LLC, Maury County Behavioral Health LLC, Mayhill Cancer Center LLC, McAllen Comprehensive Upper Extremity Center PLLC, McKinney Surgeons PLLC, Mechanicsville Imaging LLC, Mecklenburg Surgical Land Development Ltd., Med City Dallas Outpatient Surgery Center L.P., Med Corp. Inc., Med Group - Southern Hills Hospitalists LLC, Med-Center Hosp./Houston Inc., Med-Point of New Hampshire Inc., Medi Flight of Oklahoma LLC, MediCredit Inc., MediPurchase Inc., MediStone Healthcare Ventures Inc., MediVision Inc., MediVision of Mecklenburg County Inc., MediVision of Tampa Inc., Medical Arts Hospital of Texarkana Inc., Medical Associates of Ocala LLC, Medical Care America Colorado LLC, Medical Care America LLC, Medical Care Financial Services Corp., Medical Care Real Estate Finance Inc., Medical Care Surgery Center Inc., Medical Center - West Inc., Medical Center Imaging Inc., Medical Center Surgery Associates L.P., Medical Center of Baton Rouge Inc., Medical Center of Plano Partner LLC, Medical Center of Port St. Lucie Inc., Medical Center of Santa Rosa Inc., Medical Center of Southwest Florida LLC, Medical Centers of Oklahoma LLC, Medical City Dallas Hospital Inc., Medical City Dallas Partner LLC, Medical City Dallas Primary Care PLLC, Medical City Frisco, Medical City OB-GYN PLLC, Medical City Pediatrics PLLC, Medical City Specialty Surgicenter of Dallas LLC, Medical City Surgery Center of Alliance LLC, Medical City Surgery Center of Frisco LLC, Medical City Surgery Center of Lewisville LLC, Medical City Transplant PLLC, Medical Corporation of America, Medical Group - Dickson Inc., Medical Group - Southern Hills of Brentwood LLC, Medical Group - Southern Hills of Nolensville LLC, Medical Group - StoneCrest FP Inc., Medical Group - StoneCrest Inc., Medical Group - Stonecrest Pulmonology LLC, Medical Group - Summit Inc., Medical Imaging Inc., Medical Imaging of Colorado LLC, Medical Office Buildings of Kansas LLC, Medical Oncology Associates LLC, Medical Partners of North Florida LLC, Medical Plaza Ambulatory Surgery Center Associates L.P., Medical Specialties Inc., Memorial Family Practice Associates LLC, Memorial Health Primary Care at St. Johns Bluff LLC, Memorial Healthcare Group Inc., Memorial Neurosurgery Group LLC, Memorial Satilla Specialists LLC, Memorial University Medical Center, Menorah Medical Group LLC, Menorah Urgent Care LLC, Mercy ASC LLC, Metairie Primary Care Associates LLC, Methodist Ambulatory Surgery Center of Boerne LLC, Methodist Ambulatory Surgery Center of Landmark LLC, Methodist Cardiology Physicians, Methodist CareNow Physician Associates, Methodist CareNow Urgent Care PLLC, Methodist Healthcare System of San Antonio Ltd. L.L.P., Methodist Inpatient Management Group, Methodist Medical Center ASC L.P., Methodist Physician Alliance, Methodist Physician Practice Services LLC, Methodist Physician Practices PLLC, Metroplex Surgicenters Inc., Metropolitan Multispecialty Physicians Group Inc., Miami Beach EFL Imaging Center LLC, Miami Beach Healthcare Group Ltd., Miami Dade Surgical Specialists LLC, Miami Lakes Surgery Center Ltd., Miami-Dade Cardiology Consultants LLC, Michael Mann M.D. PLLC, Mid-America Surgery Center LLC, Mid-America Surgery Institute LLC, Mid-Cities Surgi-Center Inc., Mid-Continent Health Services Inc., MidAmerica Division Inc., MidAmerica Oncology LLC, Middle Georgia Hospital LLC, Middle Georgia Urgent Care Services LLC, Middle Tennessee Neurology LLC, Midtown Diagnostics LLC, Midwest Cardiology Specialists LLC, Midwest Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery LLC, Midwest Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons of Kansas LLC, Midwest Division - ACH LLC, Midwest Division - CMC LLC, Midwest Division - LRHC LLC, Midwest Division - LSH LLC, Midwest Division - MCI LLC, Midwest Division - MMC LLC, Midwest Division - OPRMC LLC, Midwest Division - RBH LLC, Midwest Division - RMC LLC, Midwest Division Spine Care LLC, Midwest Doctors Group LLC, Midwest Heart & Vascular Specialists LLC, Midwest Holdings Inc., Midwest Infectious Disease Specialists LLC, Midwest Medicine Associates LLC, Midwest Metropolitan Physicians Group LLC, Midwest Oncology Associates LLC, Midwest Trauma Services LLC, Midwest Womens Healthcare Specialists LLC, Mikrod Services Inc., Mill Creek Outpatient Services LLC, Millenium Health Care of Oklahoma Inc., Mission Bay Memorial Hospital Inc., Mission Community Anesthesiology Specialists LLC, Mission Employer Solutions LLC, Mission Health, Mission Health Partners Inc., Missouri Healthcare System L.P., Mobile Corps. Inc., Mobile Heartbeat, Mobile Heartbeat LLC, Montgomery Cancer Center LLC, Montgomery Hospitalists LLC, Montgomery Regional Hospital Inc., Montgomery Surgery Associates LLC, Mountain Division - CVH LLC, Mountain Division Inc., Mountain View Hospital Inc., Mountain View MRI Associates Ltd., Mountain West Surgery Center LLC, MountainStar Behavioral Health LLC, MountainStar Brigham General Surgery LLC, MountainStar Canyon Surgical Clinic LLC, MountainStar Cardiology Ogden Regional LLC, MountainStar Cardiology St. Marks LLC, MountainStar Intensivist Services LLC, MountainStar Medical Group - Cache Valley LLC, MountainStar Medical Group - Ogden Regional Medical Center LLC, MountainStar Medical Group - St. Marks Hospital LLC, MountainStar Medical Group Neurosurgery-St. Marks LLC, MountainStar Medical Group Timpanogos Primary Care LLC, MountainStar Medical Group Timpanogos Specialty Care LLC, MountainStar Specialty Services LLC, MountainStar Urgent Care LLC, MountainView GME Primary Care LLC, Mountainstar Brigham OBGYN LLC, Mountainstar Cardiovascular Services LLC, Mountainstar Ogden Pediatrics LLC, Movement Disorders of North Texas PLLC, Mt. Ogden Utah Surgical Center LLC, NPAS Inc., NPAS Solutions LLC, NT Urgent Care PLLC, NTGP LLC, NTMC Management Company, NTMC Venture Inc., NTX Pathology Program PLLC, Nashville Psychiatric Company Inc., Nashville Shared Services General Partnership, Nashville Surgicenter LLC, Natchez Medical Associates LLC, Natchez Surgery Center LLC, National Association of Senior Friends, National Contact Center Management Group LLC, National Patient Account Services Inc., National Transfer Center Management Services LLC, Navarro Memorial Hospital Inc., NeighborMD Management LLC, Network MS of Florida Inc., Network Management Services Inc., Neuro Affiliates Company, Neuro-Hospitalist of Clear Lake PLLC, NeuroHospitalist of McAllen PLLC, Neurological Eye Specialists of North Texas PLLC, Neurological Specialists PLLC, Neurological Specialists of McKinney PLLC, Neurology Associates of Hendersonville LLC, Neurology Associates of Kansas LLC, Neurosurgery Atlanta LLC, Neurosurgery of Kingwood PLLC, Neurosurgical Associates of North Texas PLLC, Neurosurgical Specialists of El Paso PLLC, Neurosurgical Specialists of North Texas PLLC, Nevada Surgery Center of Southern Hills L.P., Nevada Surgicare of Southern Hills LLC, Nevada Urgent Care Holdings Inc., New Iberia Healthcare LLC, New Iberia Holdings Inc., New Port Richey Hospital Inc., New Port Richey Surgery Center Ltd., New Rose Holding Company Inc., Niceville Family Practice LLC, North Augusta Imaging Management LLC, North Augusta Imaging Services LLC, North Augusta Rehab Health Center LLC, North Austin Plastic Surgery Associates PLLC, North Austin Surgery Center L.P., North Brandon Imaging LLC, North Central Florida Health System Inc., North Central Methodist ASC L.P., North Charleston Diagnostic Imaging Center LLC, North Florida Cancer Center Lake City LLC, North Florida Cancer Center Live Oak LLC, North Florida Cancer Center Tallahassee LLC, North Florida Division I Inc., North Florida Division Practice Inc., North Florida GI Center GP Inc., North Florida GI Center Ltd., North Florida Immediate Care Center Inc., North Florida Neurosurgery LLC, North Florida Outpatient Imaging Center Ltd., North Florida Physician Services Inc., North Florida Physicians LLC, North Florida Radiation Oncology LLC, North Florida Regional Company Care LLC, North Florida Regional Freestanding Surgery Center L.P., North Florida Regional Investments Inc., North Florida Regional Medical Center Inc., North Florida Regional Psychiatry LLC, North Florida Regional Trauma LLC, North Florida Rehab Investments LLC, North Florida Surgical Associates LLC, North Georgia Primary Care Group LLC, North Hills Cardiac Catheterization Center L.P., North Hills Catheterization Lab LLC, North Hills Orthopaedic Surgeons PLLC, North Hills Surgicare L.P., North Houston - TRMC LLC, North Miami Beach Surgery Center Limited Partnership, North Miami Beach Surgical Center LLC, North Palm Beach County Surgery Center LLC, North River Physician Network LLC, North Shore Specialists of Texas PLLC, North Suburban Spine Center L.P., North Tampa Imaging LLC, North Texas - MCA LLC, North Texas Cardiology PLLC, North Texas Craniofacial Fellowship Program PLLC, North Texas Division Inc., North Texas General L.P., North Texas Geriatrics PLLC, North Texas Heart Surgery Center PLLC, North Texas Internal Medicine Specialists PLLC, North Texas Medical Center Inc., North Texas Neuro Stroke OP PLLC, North Texas Pulmonary Critical Care PLLC, North Texas Sports and Orthopedics Center PLLC, North Texas Stroke Center PLLC, North Texas of Hope PLLC, North Transfer Center LLC, Northeast Florida Cancer Services LLC, Northeast Methodist Surgicare Ltd., Northeast PHO Inc., Northern Utah Healthcare Corporation, Northern Utah Healthcare Imaging Holdco LLC, Northern Utah Imaging LLC, Northern Virginia CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Northern Virginia Community Hospital LLC, Northern Virginia Hospital Corporation, Northern Virginia Surgicenter LLC, Northlake Medical Center LLC, Northlake Physician Practice Network Inc., Northlake Surgical Center L.P., Northlake Surgicare Inc., Northside MRI Inc., Northwest Fla. Home Health Agency Inc., Northwest Florida Healthcare Systems Inc., Northwest Florida Multispecialty Physicians LLC, Northwest Florida Primary Care LLC, Northwest Medical Center Inc., Notami (Opelousas) Inc., Notami Hospitals LLC, Notami Hospitals of Florida Inc., Notami Hospitals of Louisiana Inc., Notami Hospitals of Missouri Inc., Notami LLC, Notco LLC, Nuclear Diagnosis Inc., OB Hospitalists of Womans Hospital PLLC, OB/GYN of Brownsville PLLC, OB/Gyn Associates of Denton PLLC, OBS Diagnostic and Treatment Centre LLP, ODP Holdings LLC, ODP Manager LLC, ODP Properties LLC, OHH Imaging Services LLC, OPRMC-HBP LLC, Oak Hill Acquisition Inc., Oak Hill Family Care LLC, Oak Hill Hospitalists LLC, Oakwood Surgery Center Ltd. LLP, Ocala Health Company Care LLC, Ocala Health Imaging Services LLC, Ocala Health Primary Care LLC, Ocala Health Surgical Group LLC, Ocala Health Trauma LLC, Ocala Regional Outpatient Services Inc., Ocala Stereotactic Radiosurgery LLC, Ocala Stereotactic Radiosurgery Partner LLC, Occupational Health Services of PRH LLC, Occupational and Family Medicine of South Texas, Ogden Imaging LLC, Ogden Internal Medicine & Urology LLC, Ogden Regional Health Plan Inc., Ogden Regional Medical Center Professional Billing LLC, Ogden Senior Center LLC, Ogden Tomotherapy LLC, Ogden Tomotherapy Manager LLC, Okaloosa Hospital Inc., Okeechobee Hospital Inc., Oklahoma Holding Company LLC, Oklahoma Outpatient Surgery Limited Partnership, Oklahoma Physicians - Medical Specialties LLC, Oklahoma Physicians - Obstetrics and Gynecology LLC, Oklahoma Physicians - Primary Care LLC, Oklahoma Physicians - Surgical Specialties LLC, Oklahoma Surgicare Inc., Old Fort Village LLC, On-Site Primary Care PLLC, Oncology Services of Corpus Christi LLC, Oncology Services of Corpus Christi Manager LLC, OneSourceMed Inc., Online Pathology Services Limited, Orange County Healthcare LLC, Orange Park Hospitalists LLC, Orange Park Medical Center Inc., Orlando CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Orlando Outpatient Surgical Center Inc., Orlando Outpatient Surgical Center Ltd., Orlando Surgicare Ltd., Orthopaedic Specialty Associates L.P., Orthopaedic Sports Specialty Associates Inc., Orthopedic Hospital Ltd., Orthopedics Specialists LLC, Osceola Neurological Associates LLC, Osceola Physician Network LLC, Osceola Regional Hospital Inc., Osceola Regional Hospitalists LLC, Osceola Surgical Associates LLC, Outpatient Cardiovascular Center of Central Florida LLC, Outpatient GP LLC, Outpatient Services - LAD LLC, Outpatient Services Holdings Inc., Outpatient Surgical Services Ltd., Outpatient Womens and Childrens Surgery Center Ltd., Overland Park Cardiovascular Inc., Overland Park Medical Specialists LLC, Overland Park Orthopedics LLC, Overland Park Surgical Specialties LLC, Oviedo Medical Center LLC, Ozarks Medical Services Inc., P&L Associates, P/SL Hyperbaric Partnership, PET CT LLP, PMM Inc., POH Holdings LLC, PSG Delegated Services LLC, PTS Solutions LLC, Pacific Partners Management Services Inc., Palm Beach EFL Imaging Center LLC, Palm Beach General Surgery LLC, Palm Beach Healthcare System Inc., Palm Beach Hospitalists Program LLC, Palmer Medical Center LLC, Palms West Gastroenterology LLC, Palms West Hospital Limited Partnership, Palms West Surgery Center Ltd., Paragon Physicians Hospital Organization of South Texas Inc., Paragon SDS Inc., Paragon Surgery Centers of Texas Inc., Paragon WSC Inc., Paragon of Texas Health Properties Inc., Parallon Business Solutions LLC, Parallon Enterprises LLC, Parallon Health Information Solutions LLC, Parallon Holdings LLC, Parallon Payroll Solutions LLC, Parallon Physician Services LLC, Parallon Revenue Cycle Services Inc., Park Central Surgical Center Ltd., Park Ridge Surgery Center LLC, Park South Imaging Center Ltd., Park View Insurance Company, Parkersburg SJ Holdings Inc., Parkland Hospitalists Program LLC, Parkland Oncology LLC, Parkland Physician Services Inc., Parkridge East Specialty Associates LLC, Parkridge Hospitalists Inc., Parkridge Medical Associates LLC, Parkridge Medical Center Inc., Parkridge Professionals Inc., Parkside Surgery Center Inc., Parkway Cardiac Center Ltd., Parkway Hospital Inc., Parkway Surgery Services Ltd., Parthenon Insurance Company Limited, Pasadena Bayshore Hospital Inc., PatientKeeper, PatientKeeper Inc., Patients First Neurology LLC, Pavilion 2 Condominium Property LLC, Pavilion 2 Medical Office Building Condominium Association Inc., Pavilion Surgicenter LLC, Peach State Anesthesia Partners LLC, Pearland Institute for Womens Health PLLC, Pearland Partner LLC, Pediatric Anesthesia Consultants of San Antonio PLLC, Pediatric Cardiac Intensivists of North Texas PLLC, Pediatric Critical Care of Clear Lake PLLC, Pediatric Hospitalists of Conroe PLLC, Pediatric Intensivist Group LLC, Pediatric Intensivists of El Paso PLLC, Pediatric Intensivists of North Texas PLLC, Pediatric Specialists of Clear Lake PLLC, Pediatric Specialty Clinic LLC, Pediatric Surgicare Inc., Pediatrics of Greater Houston PLLC, Pensacola Primary Care Inc., Physician Associates of Corporate Woods LLC, Physicians Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Physicians West Surgicenter LLC, Pinellas Medical LLC, Pinnacle Physician Network LLC, Pioneer Medical LLC, Plains Healthcare System Inc., Plano Ambulatory Surgery Associates L.P., Plano Heart Institute L.P., Plano Heart Management LLC, Plano Surgery Center - GP LLC, Plano Surgery Center Real Estate LLC, Plano Surgicenter Real Estate Manager LLC, Plano Urology PLLC, Plantation General Hospital L.P., Plaza Medical Specialists PLLC, Plaza Primary Care PLLC, Plaza Transplant Center PLLC, Podiatry of Clear Lake PLLC, Poinciana Medical Center Inc., Port St. Lucie Surgery Center Ltd., Portland Primary Care LLC, Portsmouth Regional Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Portsmouth Surgicenter LLC, Preferred Hospitals Inc., Preferred Works WC LLC, Premier ASC LLC, Premier Medical Management Ltd., Primary Care Medical Associates Inc., Primary Care Plano PLLC, Primary Care Services of Orlando LLC, Primary Care South PLLC, Primary Care West PLLC, Primary Care of West End LLC, Primary Health Asset Holdings Ltd., Primary Health Group Inc., Primary Health Inc., Primary Health Network of South Texas, Primary Health Physicians PLLC, Primary Medical Management Inc., Proaxis Therapy HealthOne LLC, Provident Professional Building Condominium Association Inc., Psychiatry Services of Osceola LLC, Pulaski Community Hospital Inc., Pulaski Urology LLC, Pulmonary Renal Intensivist Group LLC, Putnam Community Medical Center of North Florida LLC, Putnam Hospital Inc., Putnam Radiation Oncology LLC, Putnam Radiation Oncology Manager LLC, Putnam Surgical Group LLC, Quantum/Bellaire Imaging Ltd., Quick Care Centers LLC, Quivira Internal Medicine Inc., RCH LLC, RMC - Pulmonary LLC, RMC Transplant Physicians LLC, RMCA Professionals Mgmt LLC, ROi CPS LLC, Radford Family Medicine LLC, Radiation Oncology Center of Thornton LLC, Radiation Oncology Manager LLC, Raleigh Community Medical Office Building Ltd., Rapides After Hours Clinic L.L.C., Rapides Healthcare System L.L.C., Rapides Regional Physician Group LLC, Rapides Regional Physician Group Primary Care LLC, Rapides Regional Physician Group Specialty Care LLC, Rapides Surgery Center LLC, Raulerson GYN LLC, Raulerson Gastroenterology LLC, Raulerson Primary Care LLC, Raymore Medical Group LLC, Red Rock Holdco LLC, Red Rock at Smoke Ranch LLC, Red Rocks Surgery Center LLC, Redmond Anesthesia Services LLC, Redmond Hospital Services LLC, Redmond Neurosurgery LLC, Redmond Park Health Services Inc., Redmond Park Hospital LLC, Redmond Physician Practice Company, Redmond Specialty Services LLC, Regional Hospital Healthcare Partners LLC, Research Cardiology Associates LLC, Research Family Physicians LLC, Research Internal Medicine LLC, Research Neurology Associates LLC, Research Neuroscience Institute LLC, Resource Optimization & Innovation L.L.C., Reston Hospital Center LLC, Reston Hospitalists LLC, Reston Surgery Center L.P., Retreat Cardiology LLC, Retreat Hospital LLC, Retreat Internal Medicine LLC, Retreat Surgical Associates LLC, Rhodes Limited-Liability Company, Richmond Imaging Employer Corp., Richmond Multi-Specialty LLC, Richmond Pediatric Surgeons LLC, Ridgeline Surgicenter LLC, Rim Building Partners L.P., Rio Grande Healthcare MSO Inc., Rio Grande NP Inc., Rio Grande Regional Hospital Inc., Rio Grande Valley Cardiology PLLC, Rio Grande Valley CareNow Urgent Care PLLC, Rio Grande Valley Urology PLLC, Riverside CyberKnife Manager LLC, Riverside Healthcare System L.P., Riverside Holdings Inc., Riverside Hospital Inc., Riverside Imaging LLC, Riverwalk ASC LLC, Roanoke Imaging LLC, Roanoke Neurosurgery LLC, Roanoke Surgery Center L.P., Roanoke Valley Gynecology LLC, Robotic Radiosurgery LLP, Rocky Mountain Pediatric Hematology Oncology LLC, Rocky Mountain Surgery Center LLC, Rome Imaging Center Limited Partnership, Roodlane Medical Limited, Rose Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Rose Health Partners LLC, Rose Medical Plaza Ltd., Rose POB Inc., Rosewood Medical Center Inc., Rosewood Professional Building Ltd., Round Rock Hospital Inc., Round Rock Trauma Surgeons PLLC, Royal Oaks Surgery Center L.P., S.A. Medical Center Inc., SAPN LLC, SCRI Global Services Limited, SCRI Holdings LLC, SCRI Scientifics LLC, SJMC LLC, SSHR Holdco LLC, SSJ St. Petersburg Holdings Inc., STPN Manager LLC, SWMC Inc., Sahara Outpatient Surgery Center Ltd., Salem Hospitalists LLC, Salem Surgery Center Limited Partnership, Salt Lake City Surgicare Inc., Samaritan LLC, San Antonio Division Inc., San Antonio Regional Hospital Inc., San Antonio Surgicenter LLC, San Bernardino Imaging LLC, San Joaquin Surgical Center Inc., San Jose Healthcare System LP, San Jose Hospital L.P., San Jose LLC, San Jose Medical Center LLC, San Jose Pathology Outreach LLC, San Marcos ASC LLC, San Marcos Surgicenter LLC, Sante Fe Family Practitioners PLLC, Sarah Cannon Development Innovations LLC, Sarah Cannon Research Institute LLC, Sarah Cannon Research Institute UK Limited, Sarasota Doctors Hospital Inc., Savannah Behavioral Health Associates LLC, Savannah Health Network LLC, Savannah Health Services LLC, Savannah Inpatient Services LLC, Savannah Multispecialty Associates LLC, Savannah Pediatric Care LLC, Savannah Primary Care Associates LLC, Sebring Health Services LLC, Selma Medical Center Hospital Inc., Senior Health Associates LLC, Short Pump Imaging LLC, Silicon Valley Health Holdings LLC, Silicon Valley Surgery Center L.P., Silicon Valley Surgicenter LLC, Sky Ridge Spine Manager LLC, Sky Ridge Surgery Center L.P., Skyline Medical Group LLC, Skyline Neuroscience Associates LLC, Skyline Rehab Associates LLC, Skyline Specialty Associates LLC, Smith Laboratories Inc., Solis Mammography at Bayshore Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at Clear Lake Regional Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at Conroe Regional Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at Denton Regional Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at HCA Houston Tomball LLC, Solis Mammography at Kingwood Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at Las Colinas Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at Medical Center Alliance LLC, Solis Mammography at Medical Center Arlington LLC, Solis Mammography at Medical Center of Lewisville LLC, Solis Mammography at Medical Center of McKinney LLC, Solis Mammography at Medical Center of Plano LLC, Solis Mammography at Medical City Dallas LLC, Solis Mammography at Pearland Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at Rose Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at Skyline Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at StoneCrest Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at West Houston Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at Womans Hospital of Texas LLC, Solis Mammography of Cedar Hill LLC, Solis Mammography of CyFair LLC, Solis Mammography of Dallas LLC, Solis Mammography of Flower Mound LLC, Solis Mammography of Frisco LLC, Solis Mammography of Garland LLC, Solis Mammography of Grand Prairie LLC, Solis Mammography of Houston NW LLC, Solis Mammography of Katy LLC, Solis Mammography of Louetta/249 LLC, Solis Mammography of Mainland LLC, Solis Mammography of Mansfield LLC, Solis Mammography of Mesquite LLC, Solis Mammography of Montgomery LLC, Solis Mammography of North Cypress LLC, Solis Mammography of North Loop LLC, Solis Mammography of Sugar Land LLC, Solis Mammography of West Plano LLC, Solis Mammography of Womans Place LLC, South Atlantic Division Inc., South Austin Surgery Center Ltd., South Austin Surgical Management LLC, South Austin Surgicenter LLC, South Brandon Imaging LLC, South Florida Division Practice Inc., South Texas Surgicare Inc., South Transfer Center LLC, South Valley Hospital L.P., Southeast Georgia Health Services LLC, Southern Hills Medical Center LLC, Southern Hills Neurology Consultants LLC, Southern Kentucky Medicine Associates LLC, Southern Kentucky Surgicenter LLC, Southern Texas Physicians Network, Southpoint LLC, Southtown Womens Clinic LLC, Southwest Florida Health System Inc., Southwest Florida Regional Medical Center Inc., Southwest Medical Center Family Practice LLC, Southwest Medical Center Multi-Specialty Group LLC, Southwest Medical Center Surgical Group LLC, Southwest Medpro Ltd., Southwest Surgical Clinic Inc., Southwest Virginia Orthopedics and Spine LLC, Spalding Rehabilitation L.L.C., Specialists in Obstetrics and Gynecology PLLC, Specialty Associates of West Houston PLLC, Specialty Physicians of Northern Virginia LLC, Specialty Surgicare of Las Vegas LP, Spotsylvania Condominium Property LLC, Spotsylvania Medical Center Inc., Spotsylvania Multi-Specialty Group LLC, Spotsylvania Regional Surgery Center LLC, Spring Branch Family Practitioners PLLC, Spring Branch Medical Center Inc., Spring Hill Hospital Inc., Spring Hill Imaging LLC, Spring Hill Physicians LLC, Springview KY LLC, Spruce Pine Healthcare LLC, St. Davids Austin Area ASC LLC, St. Davids Cardiology PLLC, St. Davids CareNow Urgent Care PLLC, St. Davids Healthcare Partnership L.P. LLP, St. Davids Heart & Vascular PLLC, St. Davids Neurology PLLC, St. Davids OB Hospitalist PLLC, St. Davids Ortho Neuro and Rehab PLLC, St. Davids Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation PLLC, St. Davids Quality Alliance LLC, St. Davids Specialized Womens Services PLLC, St. Davids Trauma Surgeons PLLC, St. Lucie Hospitalists LLC, St. Lucie Medical Center Hyperbarics LLC, St. Lucie Medical Center Walk-In Clinic LLC, St. Lucie Medical Specialists LLC, St. Lucie West Primary Care LLC, St. Marks Ambulatory Surgery Associates L.P., St. Marks Gynecology Oncology Care LLC, St. Marks Investments Inc., St. Marks Physician Billing LLC, St. Marks Professional Services LLC, St. Marks South Jordan Family Practice LLC, St. Martins Healthcare Limited, St. Martins Ltd., St. Martins Medical Services Limited, St. Petersburg General Surgery LLC, Stafford Imaging LLC, Statland Medical Group LLC, Steamboat Springs Surgicenter LLC, Sterling Primary Care Associates LLC, Stiles Road Imaging LLC, StoneCrest Surgery Center LLC, StoneSprings Medical Office Building Property LLC, StoneSprings Surgicenter LLC, Stonecrest Medical Group - Family Practice of Murfreesboro LLC, Stonecrest Medical Group - SC Murfreesboro Family Practice LLC, Stones River Hospital LLC, Suburban Medical Center at Hoffman Estates Inc., Sugar Land Surgery Center Anesthesia LLC, Sugar Land Surgery Center Ltd., Sullins Surgical Center Inc., Summit Convenient Care at Lebanon LLC, Summit General Partner Inc., Summit Heart LLC, Summit Outpatient Diagnostic Center LLC, Summit Research Solutions LLC, Summit Surgery Center L.P., Summit Surgical Associates LLC, Summit Walk-in Clinic LLC, Sun Bay Medical Office Building Inc., Sun City Hospital Inc., Sun City Imaging LLC, Sun Towers/Vista Hills Holding Co., Sun-Med LLC, Sunrise Flamingo Holdings LLC, Sunrise Flamingo Surgery Center Limited Partnership, Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center LLC, Sunrise Mountainview Hospital Inc., Sunrise Mountainview Multi-Specialty Clinics LLC, Sunrise Outpatient Services Inc., Sunrise Physician Services LLC, Sunrise Trauma Services LLC, Surgery Associates of NTX PLLC, Surgery Center of Atlantis LLC, Surgery Center of Aventura Ltd., Surgery Center of Bay Area Houston LLC, Surgery Center of Greenview L.P., Surgery Center of Independence L.P., Surgery Center of Overland Park L.P., Surgery Center of Port Charlotte Ltd., Surgery Center of Rome L.P., Surgery Center of the Rockies LLC, Surgical Associates of Southwest Virginia LLC, Surgical Care Medical Group LLC, Surgical Center of Irving Inc., Surgical Facility of West Houston L.P., Surgical Park Center Ltd., Surgical Specialists of Clear Lake PLLC, Surgical Specialists of Conroe PLLC, Surgical Specialists of Corpus Christi PLLC, Surgicare America - Winter Park Inc., Surgicare Merger Company of Louisiana, Surgicare Outpatient Center of Baton Rouge Inc., Surgicare Outpatient Center of Jackson Inc., Surgicare of ADC LLC, Surgicare of AGI LLC, Surgicare of Alpine LLC, Surgicare of Altamonte Springs Inc., Surgicare of Anchorage LLC, Surgicare of Arapahoe LLC, Surgicare of Arlington LLC, Surgicare of Ashburn LLC, Surgicare of Augusta Inc., Surgicare of Aurora Endoscopy LLC, Surgicare of Aventura LLC, Surgicare of Bay Area Endoscopy LLC, Surgicare of Bay Area LLC, Surgicare of Bayonet Point Inc., Surgicare of Bayside LLC, Surgicare of Bountiful LLC, Surgicare of Brandon Inc., Surgicare of Brentwood LLC, Surgicare of Brighton LLC, Surgicare of Brooksville LLC, Surgicare of Brownsville LLC, Surgicare of Buckhead LLC, Surgicare of CAREOS LLC, Surgicare of Central Florida Inc., Surgicare of Central Park Surgery Center LLC, Surgicare of Central San Antonio Inc., Surgicare of Chattanooga LLC, Surgicare of Chippenham LLC, Surgicare of Citrus LLC, Surgicare of Clarksville LLC, Surgicare of Corpus Christi LLC, Surgicare of Countryside Inc., Surgicare of Dallas Specialty LLC, Surgicare of Denton Inc., Surgicare of Denver Clinic LLC, Surgicare of Denver LLC, Surgicare of Denver Mid-Town Inc., Surgicare of Dickson LLC, Surgicare of Eastside LLC, Surgicare of Evans Inc., Surgicare of Fairfax Inc., Surgicare of Florida Inc., Surgicare of Flower Mound Inc., Surgicare of Focus Hand LLC, Surgicare of Fort Worth Co-GP LLC, Surgicare of Fort Worth Inc., Surgicare of Ft. Pierce Inc., Surgicare of Good Samaritan LLC, Surgicare of Gramercy Inc., Surgicare of Greenview Inc., Surgicare of Hanover Inc., Surgicare of Houston Kingwood LLC, Surgicare of Houston LLC, Surgicare of Houston Womens Inc., Surgicare of Indianapolis Inc., Surgicare of Kansas City LLC, Surgicare of Kingwood LLC, Surgicare of Kissimmee Inc., Surgicare of Lakeview Inc., Surgicare of Las Vegas Inc., Surgicare of Laurel Grove LLC, Surgicare of Lorain County Inc., Surgicare of Los Gatos Inc., Surgicare of Los Robles LLC, Surgicare of Loveland LLC, Surgicare of Madison Inc., Surgicare of Manatee Inc., Surgicare of McKinney Inc., Surgicare of Medical City Dallas LLC, Surgicare of Memorial Endoscopy LLC, Surgicare of Merritt Island Inc., Surgicare of Miami Lakes LLC, Surgicare of Mountain West LLC, Surgicare of Mt. 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Lakeview LLC, Teays Valley Health Services LLC, Telehealth Physician Services LLC, Tennessee Healthcare Management Inc., Tennessee Valley Outpatient Diagnostic Center LLC, Terre Haute Hospital GP Inc., Terre Haute Hospital Holdings Inc., Terre Haute MOB L.P., Terre Haute Obstetrics and Gynecology LLC, Terre Haute Regional Hospital L.P., Texas CareNow Physician Associates, Texas HSS LLC, Texas Institute of Medicine and Surgery, Texas Psychiatric Company Inc., The Austin Diagnostic Clinic PLLC, The Cancer Care Center of North Florida LLC, The Cardiovascular Partnership for Quality LLC, The Charter Cypress Behavioral Health System L.L.C., The Christie Clinic LLP, The Glynne Medical Practice Limited, The Harley Street Cancer Clinic Limited, The London Breast Institute UK Ltd, The Medical Group of Kansas City LLC, The Neurohealth Sciences Center LLC, The Physicians Clinic Limited, The Prostate Centre Limited, The Rankin Foundation, The Regional Health System of Acadiana LLC, The Wasatch Endoscopy Center Ltd., The West Texas Division of Columbia Inc., Timpanogos Pain Specialists LLC, Timpanogos Regional Medical Services Inc., Total Imaging - Hudson LLC, Total Imaging - North St. Petersburg LLC, Total Imaging - Parsons LLC, Town Plaza Family Practice LLC, Travel Medicine and Infections LLC, Travis Surgery Center L.P., Tri Cities Health Services Corp., Tri-City Multi-Specialty LLC, Tri-County Community Hospital Inc., Tri-County Surgical Specialists LLC, TriStar Bone Marrow Transplant LLC, TriStar Cardiovascular Surgery LLC, TriStar Family Care LLC, TriStar Gynecology Oncology LLC, TriStar Health System Inc., TriStar Joint Replacement Institute LLC, TriStar Maury Behavioral Healthcare LLC, TriStar Medical Group - Centennial Primary Care LLC, TriStar Medical Group - Legacy Health LLC, TriStar Medical Network LLC, TriStar OB/GYN LLC, TriStar Orthopedics LLC, TriStar Physicians LLC, TriStar Radiation Oncology LLC, Trident Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Trident Behavioral Health Services LLC, Trident Eye Surgery Center L.P., Trident Medical Center LLC, Trident Medical Services Inc., Trident Neonatology Services LLC, Tulane Clinic LLC, Tulane Professionals Management L.L.C., Tuscan Imaging Center at Las Colinas LLC, U.S. Collections Inc., Ultra Imaging Management Services LLC, Ultra Imaging of Tampa LLC, University Healthcare Specialists LLC, University Healthcare System L.C., University Hospital Ltd., Uptown Primary Care Associates LLC, Urgent Care Enterprise LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Ann & Simmons LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Cactus & Southern Highlands LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Charleston & Decatur LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Charleston/Sloan LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Craig & Clayton LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Craig & Decatur LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Durango & Cheyenne LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Durango & Flamingo LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Eastern & Horizon Ridge LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Rainbow/Mardon LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Warm Springs & Green Valley LLC, Urgent Care Extra Silverado & Maryland LLC, Urgent Care Extra-Tropicana & Jones LLC, Urgent Care Nevada LLC, Urological Specialists of Arlington PLLC, Urology Associates (London) Limited, Urology Center of North Georgia LLC, Urology Services of El Paso PLLC, Urology Specialists Devonshire LLP, Urology Specialists London LLP, Urology Specialists of Kingwood PLLC, Urology Specialists of Richmond LLC, Urology Surgery Center of Colorado LLC, Utah CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Utah Imaging GP LLC, Utah Medco LLC, Utah Surgery Center L.P., VH Holdco Inc., VH Holdings Inc., VHSC Plantation LLC, VIP Inc., Valify, Valify Inc., Value Health Holdings Inc., Value Health Management Inc., Vascular and Endovascular Specialists LLC, Venture Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Venture Medical Management LLC, Village Oaks Medical Center Inc., Virginia Care Partners ACO LLC, Virginia Gynecologic Oncology LLC, Virginia Hematology & Oncology Associates Inc., Virginia Hospitalists Inc., Virginia Psychiatric Company Inc., Virginia Quality Care Partners LLC, Vision Consulting Group LLC, Vision Holdings LLC, W & C Hospital Inc., WCP Properties LLC, WHG Medical LLC, WHMC Inc., WJHC LLC, Walterboro Community Hospital Inc., Warren County Ambulance Service LLC, Wasatch Front Surgery Center LLC, Washington Holdco LLC, Waterway Primary Care LLC, Weatherford Health Services LLC, Weatherford Mammography JV LLC, Weatherford Regional Medical Center, Welbeck Street Diagnostic Centre LLP, Wellington Diagnostic Services LLP, Wesley Cath Lab LLC, Wesley Manager LLC, Wesley Medical Center LLC, Wesley Physician Services LLC, Wesley Physicians - Anesthesiologist LLC, Wesley Physicians - Cardiovascular LLC, Wesley Physicians - Medical Specialties LLC, Wesley Physicians - Obstetrics and Gynecology LLC, Wesley Physicians - Primary Care LLC, Wesley Select Network LLC, Wesley Urgent Care LLC, West Boynton Beach Open Imaging Center LLC, West Creek Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, West Creek Medical Center Inc., West Florida - MHT LLC, West Florida - PPH LLC, West Florida Behavioral Health Inc., West Florida Cardiology Network LLC, West Florida Cardiology Physicians LLC, West Florida CareNow Urgent Care LLC, West Florida Division Inc., West Florida Gulf Coast Primary Care LLC, West Florida HealthWorks LLC, West Florida Imaging Services LLC, West Florida Internal Medicine LLC, West Florida PET Services LLC, West Florida Physician Network LLC, West Florida Professional Billing LLC, West Florida Regional Medical Center Inc., West Florida Specialty Physicians LLC, West Florida Trauma Network LLC, West Florida Urgent Care Network LLC, West Hills Hospital, West Hills Surgical Center Ltd., West Houston ASC Inc., West Houston Healthcare Group Ltd., West Houston Internal Specialists PLLC, West Houston LLC, West Houston Medical PLLC, West Houston Outpatient Medical Facility Inc., West Houston Surgicare Inc., West Jacksonville Medical Center Inc., West Jordan Hospital Corporation, West LPN Fort Worth Oncology PLLC, West LPN Inc., West Los Angeles Physicians Hospital Inc., West McKinney Imaging Services LLC, West Paces Services Inc., West Park Surgery Center L.P., West Valley Imaging LLC, West Valley Medical Center Inc., West Valley Medical Group LLC, West Valley Medical Group Specialty Services LLC, West Valley Therapy Services LLC, Westbury Hospital Inc., Western Plains Capital Inc., Westlake Surgicare L.P., Westminster Community Hospital, Westside Surgery Center Ltd., Wichita CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Wildwood Medical Center Inc., Willis Surgicenter LLC, Wilson County Outpatient Surgery Center L.P., Womans Health Group PLLC, Womans Hospital Merger LLC, Womans Hospital of Texas Incorporated, Women Practitioners of Houston PLLC, Women Specialists of Bayshore PLLC, Women Specialists of Clear Lake PLLC, Women Specialists of Mainland PLLC, Womens & Childrens Center LLC, Womens & Childrens Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Center LLC, Womens & Childrens Pulmonology Clinic LLC, Womens Center at Brookside LLC, Womens Health Center of Central Florida LLC, Womens Health Center of SWVA LLC, Womens Hospital Indianapolis GP Inc., Womens Hospital Indianapolis L.P., Womens Link Specialty Obstetrical Referral Clinic PLLC, Womens Multi-Specialty Group LLC, Womens Surgical Specialists of Texas PLLC, Womens and Childrens Professional Management L.L.C., Womens and Childrens Specialists LLC, hInsight-Airstrip Holdings LLC, hInsight-BMA Holdings LLC, hInsight-Customer Care Holdings LLC, hInsight-Digital Reasoning Holdings LLC, hInsight-Healthbox Holdings LLC, hInsight-I2 Holdings LLC, hInsight-InVivoLink Holdings LLC, hInsight-LS Holdings LLC, hInsight-Loyale Healthcare Holdings LLC, hInsight-Mobile Heartbeat Holdings LLC, hInsight-NX LLC, hInsight-PWS I Holdings LLC, hInsight-Procured Holdings LLC, and hInsight-VAI Holdings LLC.The following companies are subsidiares of Abbott Laboratories: 3A Nutrition (Vietnam) Company Limited, ABON Biopharm (Hangzhou) Co. 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Ltd, Abbott Vascular Limitada, Abbott Vascular Netherlands B.V., Abbott Vascular Solutions Inc., Abbott Ventures Inc., Abbott West Indies Limited, Abbott drustvo sa ogranicenom odgovornoscu za trgovinu i usluge, Advanced Neuromodulation Systems Inc., Alere, Alere (Shanghai) Diagnostics Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Healthcare Management Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Medical Sales Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Technology Co. Ltd., Alere A/S, Alere AB, Alere AS, Alere AS Holdings Limited, Alere BBI Holdings Limited, Alere Bangladesh Limited, Alere China Co. Ltd., Alere Colombia S.A., Alere Connect LLC, Alere Connected Health Limited, Alere Connected Health Ltd., Alere Diagnostics GmbH, Alere DoA Holding GmbH, Alere GmbH, Alere GmbH (Austria), Alere GmbH (Germany), Alere HK Holdings Ltd., Alere Health B.V., Alere Health BVBA, Alere Health Corp., Alere Health Sdn Bhd, Alere Health Services B.V., Alere Healthcare (Pty) Limited, Alere Healthcare Connections Limited, Alere Healthcare Inc., Alere Healthcare Nigeria Limited, Alere Healthcare S.L., Alere Holdco Inc., Alere Holding GmbH, Alere Holdings Bermuda Limited, Alere Holdings Pty Limited, Alere Home Monitoring Inc., Alere Inc., Alere Informatics Inc., Alere International Holding Corp., Alere International Limited, Alere Lda, Alere Limited, Alere Limited (New Zealand), Alere Medical BVBA, Alere Medical Co. Ltd., Alere Medical Pakistan (Private) Limited, Alere Medical Private Limited, Alere North America LLC, Alere Oy Ab, Alere Philippines Inc., Alere Phoenix ACQ Inc., Alere Pte Ltd, Alere S.A., Alere S.r.l., Alere S/A, Alere SAS, Alere San Diego Inc., Alere Scarborough Inc., Alere Spain S.L., Alere Switzerland GmbH, Alere Technologies GmbH, Alere Technologies Holdings Limited, Alere Technologies Limited, Alere Toxicology AB, Alere Toxicology Inc., Alere Toxicology S.r.l., Alere Toxicology Services Inc., Alere Toxicology plc, Alere UK Holdings Limited, Alere UK Subco Limited, Alere ULC, Alere US Holdings LLC, Alere s.r.o., Alisoc Investment & Co, Amedica Biotech Inc., Ameditech Inc., American Generics S.A.S., American Medical Supplies Inc., American Pharmacist Inc., Antares S.A., Apica Cardiovascular Limited, Aquagestion Capacitacion S.A., Aquagestion S.A., Arriva Medical LLC, Arriva Medical Philippines Inc., Arvis Investments Limited, Atlas Farmaceutica S.A., Avee Laboratories Inc., Axis-Shield AD III AS, Axis-Shield AD IV AS, Axis-Shield AS, Axis-Shield Diagnostics Limited, Axis-Shield Ltd., BBI Animal Health Limited, BBI Diagnostics Group 2 Public Limited Company, Banco de Vida S.A., Bioabsorbable Vascular Solutions Inc., Bioalgae S.A., Biohealth LLC, Biosite Incorporated, Bosque Bonito S.A., Branan Medical Corporation, Brandex Europe C.V., British Colloids Limited, CFR Chile S.A., CFR Interamericas EL Salvador Sociedad Anonima de Capital Variable, CFR Interamericas Nicaragua Sociedad Anonima, CFR Interamericas Panama S.A., CFR Pharmaceuticals, California Property Holdings III LLC, CardioMEMS LLC, Caripharm Inc., Cephea Valve Technologies, Cephea Valve Technologies Inc., Colibri Medical Aktiebolag, Comercializadora y Distribuidora CFR Interamericas Honduras S.A., Concateno South Limited, Concateno UK Limited, Consorcio Tecnologico en Biomedicina Clinico-Molecular S.A., Continuum Services LLC, Cozart Limited, Dextech S.A., Diagnostik Nord GmbH, Distribuciones Uquifa S.A.S., Domesco Medical Import-Export Joint-Stock Corporation, Duphar International Research B.V., Endocardial Solutions, Epocal (US) Inc, Esprit de Vie S.A., European Chemicals & Co, European Drug Testing Service EDTS AB, European Services S.A., Evalve Inc., Evalve International Inc., FARMINDUSTRIA S.A., Fada Pharma Paraguay Sociedad Anonima, Fadapharma del Ecuador S.A., Farmaceutica Mont Blanc S.L., Farmacologia Em Aquicultura Veterinaria Ltda., Farmacologia en Aquacultura Veterinaria FAV Ecuador S.A., Farmacologia en Aquacultura Veterinaria FAV S.A., Fernwood Investment S.A., First Check Diagnostics LLC, Focus Pharmaceutical S.A.S., Forensics Limited, Forestcreek Overseas S.A., Fournier Pharma Corp., Fournier Pharma GmbH, Fournier Pharmaceuticals Limited, Framed B.V., Gabmed GmbH, Garden Hills LLC, Global Analytical Development LLC, Globapharm & CO LP, Glomed Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Golnorth Investments S.A., Gynocare Limited, Gynopharm Sociedad Anonima, Gynopharm de Centroamerica S.A., Gynopharm de Venezuela C.A., Hi-Tronics Designs Inc., IDEV Technologies Inc., IG Innovations Limited, IMTC Finance B.V., IMTC Holdings B.V., IMTC Technologies Inc., Ibis Biosciences LLC, Igloo Zone Chile S.A., Igloo Zone S.L., Inmobiliaria Naknek S.A.C., Innovacon Inc., Instant Tech Subsidiary Acquisition Inc., Instant Technologies Inc., Instituto de Criopreservacion de Chile S.A., Integrated Vascular Systems Inc., Inverness Canadian Acquisition Corporation, Inverness Medical (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Inverness Medical Innovations Australia Pty Ltd., Inverness Medical Innovations Hong Kong Limited, Inverness Medical Innovations SK LLC, Inverness Medical Investments LLC, Inverness Medical LLC, Inverness Medical Shimla Private Limited, Inversiones K2 SpA, Inversiones Komodo S.R.L., Ionian Technologies LLC, Irvine Biomedical Inc., Kalila Medical, Kangshenyunga S.A., Knoll UK Investments Unlimited, LLC VeroInPharm, Laboratoires Fournier S.A.S., Laboratorio Franco Colombiano Lafrancol S.A.S., Laboratorio Franco Colombiano del Ecuador S.A., Laboratorio Internacional Argentino S.A., Laboratorio Synthesis S.A.S., Laboratorios Lafi Limitada, Laboratorios Naturmedik S.A.S., Laboratorios Pauly Pharmaceutical S.A.S., Laboratorios Recalcine S.A., Laboratorios Transpharm S.A., Laboratory Specialists of America Inc., Lafrancol Dominicana S.A.S., Lafrancol Guatemala S.A. Sociedad Anonima, Lafrancol Internacional S.A.S, Lafrancol Peru S.R.L, Lake Forest Investments LLC, Lightlab Imaging Inc., Limited Liability Company Abbott Laboratories, Limited Liability Company Abbott Ukraine, Limited Liability Company VEROPHARM, Lung Fung Hong (China) Limited, Mansbridge Pharmaceuticals Limited, MediGuide LLC, MediGuide Ltd., Medscreen Holdings Limited, Metropolitana Farmaceutica S.A., Midwest Properties LLC, Murex Argentina S.A., Murex Biotech Limited, Murex Biotech South Africa, Murex Diagnostics Inc., Murex Diagnostics International Inc., Natural Supplement Association LLC, Negocios Denia Sociedad Anonima, Neosalud S.A.C., Nether Pharma N.P. C.V., NeuroTherm LLC, Normann Pharma-Handels GmbH, North Shore Properties Inc., Novamedi S.A., Novasalud.com S.A., Nutravida S.A., OJSC Voronezhkhimpharm, Omnilab Iberia Sociedad Limitada, OptiMedica, Orgenics France SAS, Orgenics International Holdings B.V., Orgenics Ltd., PBM-Selfcare LLC, PDD II LLC, PDD LLC, PT Alere Health, PT. Abbott Indonesia, PT. Abbott Products Indonesia, Pacesetter Inc., Pantech (RF) (PTY) LTD, Pembrooke Occupational Health Inc., Penagos S.A., Pharma International Sociedad Anonima, Pharmaceutical Technologies (Pharmatech) S.A., Pharmatech Boliviana S.A., Polygon Labs S.A., Quality Assured Services Inc., RF Medical Holdings LLC, RTL Holdings Inc., Ramses Business Corp., Recben Xenerics Farmaceutica Limitada, Redwood Toxicology Laboratory Inc., Rich Horizons International Limited, SC VEROPHARM, SJ Medical Mexico S de R.L. de C.V., SJM International Inc., SJM Thunder Holding Company, SPDH Inc., Saboya Enterprises Corporation, Salviac Limited, Scanax AS, Sealing Solutions Inc., Selfcare Technology Inc., Shandong Abbott Dairy Product Co. Ltd., Shanghai Abbott Medical Devices Science and Technology Co. Ltd., Shanghai Abbott Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Shanghai Si Fa Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Sinensix & Co., Spinal Modulation LLC, St. Jude Medical, St. Jude Medical AB, St. Jude Medical ATG Inc., St. Jude Medical Argentina S.A., St. Jude Medical Asia Pacific Holdings GK, St. Jude Medical Atrial Fibrillation Division Inc., St. Jude Medical Brasil Ltda., St. Jude Medical Business Services Inc., St. Jude Medical Cardiology Division Inc., St. Jude Medical Colombia Ltda., St. Jude Medical Coordination Center, St. Jude Medical Costa Rica Limitada, St. Jude Medical Europe Inc., St. Jude Medical Export Ges.m.b.H., St. Jude Medical GVA Sarl, St. Jude Medical Holdings B.V., St. Jude Medical India Private Limited, St. Jude Medical International Holding, St. Jude Medical LLC, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings II, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings NT, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings SMI S.a r.l., St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings TC S.a r.l., St. Jude Medical Mexico Business Services S. de R.L. de C.V., St. Jude Medical Middle East DMCC, St. Jude Medical Operations (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., St. Jude Medical Puerto Rico LLC, St. Jude Medical S.C. Inc., St. Jude Medical Systems AB, St. Jude Medical Turkey Medikal Urunler Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Standard Diagnostics Inc., Standing Stone LLC, Swan-Myers Incorporated, TC1 LLC, Tendyne Holdings Inc., Tendyne Medical Inc., Thoratec Delaware LLC, Thoratec Europe Limited, Thoratec LLC, Thoratec Switzerland GmbH, Tobal Products Incorporated, Topera GmbH in Liquidation, Topera Inc., Tremora S.A., Tuenir S.A., TwistDx, UAB Abbott Laboratories, UAB Abbott Medical Lithuania, Union-Madison Realty Company Inc., Unipath Limited (dba Alere International/aka Cranfield), Unipath Management Limited, Unipath Pension Trustee Limited, Veropharm, Veropharm Limited Liability Partnership, Vida Cell Inversiones S.A., Vida Cell S.A., Vivalsol, W&R Pharma Handels GmbH, Western Pharmaceuticals S.A., X Technologies Inc., Yissum Holding Limited, ZonePerfect Nutrition Company, eScreen Canada ULC, eScreen Inc.,      ( ), and Abbott Laboratories Baltics.Wall Street analysts have given Caledonia Mining Co. Plc (CAL.TO) 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 Caledonia Mining Co. Plc (CAL.TO) wasn't one of them. MarketBeat thinks these five companies may be even better buys.

View MarketBeat's top stock picks here.Deutsche Telekom AG, together with its subsidiaries, provides integrated telecommunication services. The company operates through five segments: Germany, United States, Europe, Systems Solutions, and Group Development. It offers fixed-network services, including voice and data communication services based on fixed-network and broadband technology; and sells terminal equipment and other hardware products, as well as services to resellers. The company also provides mobile voice and data services to consumers and business customers; sells mobile devices and other hardware products; and sells mobile services to resellers and to companies that purchases and markets network services to third parties, such as mobile virtual network operators. In addition, it offers internet services; internet-based TV products and services; and information and communication technology systems for multinational corporations and public sector institutions with an infrastructure of data centers and networks under the T-Systems brand, as well as call center services. The company has 242 million mobile customers and 22 million broadband customers, as well as 27 million fixed-network lines. Deutsche Telekom AG has a collaboration with VMware, Inc. on cloud-based open and intelligent virtual RAN platform to bring agility to radio access networks for existing LTE and future 5G networks; and partnership with Microsoft to deliver high-performance cloud computing experiences. The company was founded in 1995 and is headquartered in Bonn, Germany.

Read MoreThe following companies are subsidiares of American International Group: AGC Life Insurance Company, AIG APAC HOLDINGS PTE. LTD., AIG Advisors S.r.l., AIG Aerospace Insurance Services Inc., AIG Asia Pacific Insurance Pte. Ltd., AIG Asset Management (Europe) Limited, AIG Asset Management (U.S.) LLC, AIG Assurance Company, AIG Australia Limited, AIG Brazil Holding I LLC, AIG CIS Investments LLC, AIG Canada Holdings Inc., AIG Capital Corporation, AIG Capital Services Inc., AIG Claims Inc., AIG Egypt Insurance Company S.A.E., AIG Employee Services Inc., AIG Europe (Services) Limited, AIG Europe Holdings S.a.rl., AIG Europe S.A., AIG Federal Savings Bank, AIG Financial Products Corp., AIG General Insurance Co. Ltd., AIG Global Asset Management Holdings Corp., AIG Global Real Estate Investment Corp., AIG Global Reinsurance Operations, AIG Holdings Europe Limited, AIG Insurance (Thailand) Public Company Limited, AIG Insurance Company China Limited, AIG Insurance Company JSC, AIG Insurance Company of Canada, AIG Insurance Company-Puerto Rico, AIG Insurance Hong Kong Limited, AIG Insurance Limited, AIG Insurance Management Services Inc., AIG Insurance New Zealand Limited, AIG International Holdings GmbH, AIG Investments UK Limited, AIG Israel Insurance Company Ltd, AIG Japan Holdings Kabushiki Kaisha, AIG Kenya Insurance Company Limited, AIG Korea Inc., AIG Latin America I.I., AIG Latin America Investments S.L., AIG Lebanon SAL, AIG Life Holdings Inc., AIG Life Insurance Company (Switzerland) Ltd, AIG Life Limited, AIG Life South Africa Limited, AIG Life of Bermuda Ltd., AIG MEA Holdings Limited, AIG MEA Limited, AIG Malaysia Insurance Berhad, AIG Markets Inc., AIG Matched Funding Corp., AIG PC Global Services Inc., AIG Philippines Insurance Inc., AIG Property Casualty Company, AIG Property Casualty Inc., AIG Property Casualty International LLC, AIG Property Casualty U.S. Inc., AIG Re-Takaful (L) Berhad, AIG Resseguros Brasil S.A., AIG Seguros Brasil S.A., AIG Seguros Mexico S.A. de C.V., AIG Shared Services Corporation, AIG South Africa Limited, AIG Specialty Insurance Company, AIG Technologies Inc., AIG Travel Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., AIG Travel Assist Inc., AIG Travel Assist Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., AIG Travel EMEA Limited, AIG Travel Inc., AIG Uganda Limited, AIG Vietnam Insurance Company Limited, AIG WarrantyGuard Inc., AIG-FP Pinestead Holdings Corp., AIG-Metropolitana Cia. de Seguros y Reaseguros S.A., AIGGRE EOLA LLC, AIGGRE Europe Real Estate Fund I GP S.a r.l., AIGGRE U.S. Real Estate Fund I GP LLC, AIGGRE U.S. Real Estate Fund I LP, AIGGRE U.S. Real Estate Fund II GP LLC, AIU Insurance Company, AM Holdings LLC, Ageas Protect, AlphaCat Managers Ltd., American General Corporation, American General Life Insurance Company, American Home Assurance Co. Ltd., American Home Assurance Company, American Home Assurance Company Escritorio de Representacao no Brasil Ltda., American International Group Inc., American International Group UK Limited, American International Overseas Association, American International Overseas Limited, American International Realty Corp., American International Reinsurance Company Ltd., American International Underwriters del Ecuador-Holding S.A., American Security Life Insurance Company Limited, Arthur J. Glatfelter Agency Inc., Avondhu Limited, Blackboard Customer Care Insurance Services LLC, Blackboard Insurance Company, Blackboard Services LLC, Blackboard Specialty Insurance Company, Blackboard U.S. Holdings Inc., Chartis Takaful Enaya B.S.C. (c), Commerce and Industry Insurance Company, Crop Risk Services Inc., Eaglestone Reinsurance Company, Ellipse, Fortitude Group Holdings LLC, Fortitude Life & Annuity Solutions Inc., Fortitude Reinsurance Company Ltd., Franklin Life Insurance Company, Fuji Fire and Marine, Glatfelter Insurance Group, Globe and Rutgers Insurance Group, Grand Isle SAC Limited, Granite State Insurance Company, Group Risk Services Limited, Group Risk Technologies Limited, Illinois National Insurance Co., Jefferson Eola Venture LLC, Johannesburg Insurance Holdings (Proprietary) Limited, Laya Healthcare Limited, Lexington Insurance Company, MG Reinsurance Limited, Mt. Mansfield Company Inc., National Union Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh Pa., National Union Fire Insurance Company of Vermont, New Hampshire Insurance Company, PT AIG Insurance Indonesia, Pine Street Real Estate Holdings Corp., Private Joint-Stock Company AIG Ukraine Insurance Company, Risk Specialists Companies Insurance Agency Inc., SA Affordable Housing LLC, SAFG Retirement Services Inc., Service Net Warranty LLC, Stratford Insurance Company, SunAmerica Affordable Housing Partners Inc., SunAmerica Asset Management LLC, Talbot Holdings Ltd., Talbot Underwriting Holdings Ltd., Talbot Underwriting Ltd., Thai CIT Holding Company Limited, The Insurance Company of the State of Pennsylvania, The United States Life Insurance Company in the City of New York, The Variable Annuity Life Insurance Company, Travel Guard, Travel Guard Group Canada Inc./Groupe Garde Voyage du Canada Inc., Travel Guard Group Inc., Tudor Insurance Company, VALIC Financial Advisors Inc., Valic Retirement Services Company, Validus Holdings, Validus Holdings (UK) Ltd., Validus Holdings Ltd., Validus Reinsurance (Switzerland) Ltd, Validus Reinsurance Ltd., Validus Ventures Ltd., Volunteer Firemen's Insurance Services Inc., Western World Insurance Company, and Western World Insurance Group Inc..Innovation, cooperation see healthy outlook

( chinadaily.com.cn )

Updated: 2018-08-10

Zhongguancun Inno Way, an innovation center assembling entrepreneur service agencies in Beijing [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

Zhongguancun Science park, or China's Silicon Valley, is picking up speed in regional coordination and global cooperation, local media reported on Aug 7.

Cross-region innovation network taking shape

Zhongguancun Haidian Science Park has expanded fives sub-parks respectively in Qinhuangdao, Liyang, Qihe, Chifeng and Danjiangkou. In the Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang Uygur autonomous regions, a good many eco-friendly projects supported by Haidian park are boosting local industry innovation and poverty reduction.

Opening-up brings in international resources

In order to seek more cooperation in the global market, Haidian park, for one thing, organized a series of roadshows under the theme of "Global Business Opportunities".

For another, at the 2018 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), enterprises headquartered in Zhongguancun Haidian Science Park showcased their new products and won favor from many potential investors.

Overseas branches speed up tech incubation

Haidian park and Zhongguancun enterprises are working with foreign institutions to set up joint incubators around the world. In Israel, Germany, Canada, France and the US, these incubators are not only open platforms for startup acceleration, but also important centers for technology innovation.

For example, Comet Labs, Lenovo Legend Star's AI incubator in California, has already invested in more than 40 projects concerning four major domains: health care, enterprise service, industry applications and robot technologies.

Legend Star, founded by Legend Holdings in 2008, has accumulated rich resources and experience, with which it provides entrepreneurs with a full range of services featuring "angel investment and in-depth incubation."

Renowned platforms inject new momentum

Famous co-working and community service provider WeWork has joined forces with Zhongguancun Inno Way while Plug and Play, the ultimate innovation platform, has opened its headquarters in Haidian district, bringing together the most promising startups and the world's largest corporations.13 Wall Street equities research analysts have issued "buy," "hold," and "sell" ratings for Munchener Ruckvers in the last twelve months. There are currently 1 sell rating, 5 hold ratings and 7 buy ratings for the stock. The consensus among Wall Street equities research analysts is that investors should "hold" Munchener Ruckvers stock. A hold rating indicates that analysts believe investors should maintain any existing positions they have in MEURV, but not buy additional shares or sell existing shares.

View analyst ratings for Munchener Ruckvers or view top-rated stocks.Oasis Petroleum Inc., an independent exploration and production company, focuses on the acquisition and development of onshore unconventional oil and natural gas resources in the United States. It operates through Exploration and Production(E&P), and Midstream segments. The E&P segment engages in the acquisition and development of oil and gas properties. The Midstream segment offers midstream services, such as natural gas gathering, compression, processing and, gas lift supply; crude oil gathering, terminaling, and transportation; produced and flowback water gathering, and disposal; and water distribution. As of December 31, 2020, the company had 401,766 net leasehold acres in the Williston Basin; and 24,396 net leasehold acres in the Permian Basin, as well as approximately 152.2 million barrels of oil equivalent of estimated net proved reserves. The company sells its crude oil and natural gas to refiners, marketers, and other purchasers that have access to pipeline and rail facilities. Oasis Petroleum Inc. was founded in 2007 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.

Read MoreThe Southern pays an annual dividend of $2.64 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 4.21%. SO has a dividend yield higher than 75% of all dividend-paying stocks, making it a leading dividend payer. The Southern has been increasing its dividend for 20 consecutive years, indicating the company has a strong committment to maintain and grow its dividend. The dividend payout ratio of The Southern is 81.23%. Payout ratios above 75% are not desirable because they may not be sustainable. Based on earnings estimates, The Southern will have a dividend payout ratio of 74.37% next year. This indicates that The Southern will be able to sustain or increase its dividend.

View The Southern's dividend history.TransAtlantic Petroleum Ltd., an oil and natural gas company, engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of oil and natural gas properties in Turkey and Bulgaria. As of December 31, 2019, it had interests in 4 onshore exploration licenses and 20 onshore production leases covering an area of 436,388 net acres with a total net proved reserves of 10,259 thousand barrels of oil and 2,466 million cubic feet of natural gas located in Turkey, as well as a production concession covering an area of approximately 162,800 net undeveloped acres located in Bulgaria. The company was incorporated in 1985 and is based in Addison, Texas.

Read MoreVermilion Energy Inc., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of petroleum and natural gas in North America, Europe, and Australia. It owns 81% working interest in 642,300 net acres of developed land and 87% working interest in 376,700 net acres of undeveloped land, and 613 net producing natural gas wells and 3,034 net producing oil wells in Canada; and 96% working interest in 248,900 net acres of developed land and 91% working interest in 222,100 net acres of undeveloped land in the Aquitaine and Paris Basins, and 325 net producing oil wells and 3.0 net producing gas wells in France. The company also owns 49% working interest in 930,000 net acres of land and 51 net producing natural gas wells in the Netherlands; and 36,900 net developed acres and 965,900 net undeveloped acres of land, and 61 net producing oil wells and 8 net producing natural gas wells in Germany. In addition, it owns offshore Corrib natural gas field located to the northwest coast of Ireland; and 100% working interest in the Wandoo offshore oil field and related production assets that covers 59,600 acres located on Western Australia's northwest shelf. Further, the company holds 138,000 net acres of land in the Powder River basin, and 136.6 net producing oil wells in the United States; and 951,200 net acres of land in Hungary, 244,900 net acres of land in Slovakia, and 2.4 million net acres of land in Croatia. Vermilion Energy Inc. was founded in 1994 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.

Read More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.The Williams Cos., Inc. operates as an energy infrastructure company, which explores, produces, transports, sells and processes natural gas and petroleum products. It operates through the following segments: Transmission and Gulf of Mexico; Northeast G&P; and West. The Transmission and Gulf of Mexico segment comprises of interstate natural gas pipelines, Transco and Northwest Pipeline, as well as natural gas gathering and processing and crude oil production handling and transportation assets in the Gulf Coast region. The Northeast G&P segment includes midstream gathering, processing, and fractionation businesses in the Marcellus Shale region primarily in Pennsylvania and New York, and the Utica Shale region of eastern Ohio. The West segment consists of gas gathering, processing, and treating operations in the Rocky Mountain region of Colorado and Wyoming, the Barnett Shale region of north-central Texas, the Eagle Ford Shale region of south Texas, the Haynesville Shale region of northwest Louisiana, and the Mid-Continent region which includes the Anadarko, Arkoma, and Permian basins. The company was founded by David Williams and Miller Williams in 1908 and is headquartered in Tulsa,

Read MoreSouth Korea announced recently that it would reorganize its military intelligence body, the Defense Security Command (DSC), after it was revealed in early July to have plotted imposing martial law during mass protests last year against former President Park Geun-hye.

Last Monday, the Defense Ministry following President Moon Jae-ins orders launched a new preparatory committee for a body to replace the DSC. The previous Friday Moon announced the replacement of the agencys chief, Lieutenant General Lee Seok-gu, with the supposedly reform-minded Lieutenant General Nam Yeong-sin.

Moon disbanded the DSC, with the government later saying that all current DSC personnel would be sent back to their units in the army, navy, air force, and marine corps, though some will return to their positions following the reforms.

However, the fundamentally anti-democratic character of the DSC will not be addressed. Instead, the government is painting the situation as one that can be rectified by the removal of rogue officers or through shuffling staff and positions while leaving the DSCs basic functions untouched.

We will expeditiously carry out the creation work to ensure that we can complete the DSC reform as soon as possible through re-establishing its mission, function and organizational composition and through personnel reform, the Defense Ministry claimed on Monday.

Other changes being discussed include slashing the number of positions in the agency by approximately 30 percent from the current total of 4,200 and renaming the DSC for the moment as the military security support command.

The Defense Ministry is also looking to provide a fig leaf of civilian oversight, claiming that the new agency could be kept in check by assigning a high-level bureaucrat to serve as the head of an audit office. A 70 percent cap will also be placed on the number of military officers occupying top roles, with the remainder going to civilians. The new commander and chief of staff, however, will still be generals.

The new 21-person committee in charge of carrying out these changes is also comprised entirely of military officials, a further indication that the militarys functions in the new agency will not change. A civilian lawyer, Choe Gang-uk, will serve as an advisor to this task force, but he was previously a military lawyer.

None of the roles that reportedly will be assigned to the new unitinternal security, counterintelligence, and collecting and processing military informationare at all are different from the previous roles under the DSC.

Furthermore, given the power of the DSC, reforming or disbanding the agency is impossible under the capitalist system. The Defense Security Command has long been considered the most powerful military organization for decades I dont think it would be easy for the DSC to accept the new reality, an anonymous military official told the South Korean media.

Public anger towards the DSC, the military, and the government broke out in early July when a ruling Democratic Party of Korea member Rhee Cheol-hee made the martial law documents public. The DSC intended to seize power to put down demonstrations and mass protests against then President Park, had they not subsided when she was removed from office, impeached and arrested in March 2017.

These plans included occupying key parts of the capital, Seoul, arresting then-opposition lawmakers in the Democratic Party, censoring the media to prevent the public from learning what was taking place, and petitioning foreign diplomats to recognize the legitimacy of the coup detat.

In addition, the DSC has also been accused of spying on civilians, namely the families of victims who were killed when the Sewol ferry sank in April 2014. The issue continues to remain politically sensitive, a symbol for many of government incompetence, corruption, and disregard for public welfare as well as an anti-government rallying point.

All of this is par for the course when it comes to the DSC. It has gone by a number of names and re-brandings, tracing its origins back to 1950 during the Korean War when it was a special operations unit under the army, known as the Army Counterintelligence Corps. It was used to preserve loyalty to the regime of Syngman Rhee, who trampled on democratic rights and murdered political opponents.

In 1977, the army unit and its counterparts in the navy and air force were reorganized into a single unit and renamed the Defense Security Command under Park Chung-hee. Future dictator Chun Doo-hwan became head of the DSC shortly before Parks assassination in 1979. He used his position to seize power after Parks death.

In 1990, a whistleblower at the DSC named Private Yun Seok-yang exposed the agencys spying on 1,300 civilians, including students, professors, and politicians. It also included plans for their arrest in the event that martial law was declared. The DSC underwent a name change in Korean (though its English name remained the same), a common tactic the South Korean ruling class uses to cover up its crimes while pretending to enact reforms.

The DSC continued to spy on civilians, according to a civic group that was involved in publicizing the martial law documents in July. The intelligence agency reportedly tapped phone calls between President Noh Moo-hyun when he was in office and his defense minister. The civic group also accused the DSC of collecting information on and surveilling millions of civilians.

Ultimately, regardless of whatever measures Moons government carries out, he will not touch the framework of the police state that continues to exist in South Korea. His administration, no less than the conservatives whose legacies he claimed he would sweep away, defends the capitalist system and will preserve the repressive state apparatus needed to maintain it.Senator John Barrasso (standing center) speaks with former Representative Gerald Geiss during a Meet the Candidates forum in Worland. County Commissioners Terry Wolf and Fred Frandson (in jackets) were also on hand to speak with voters.

WORLAND - The Worland Business & Professional Women's organization hosted a non-partisan candidate forum Thursday evening at the Worland Community Center, where candidates for local and state offices gathered to introduce themselves, and hand out information.

Around 65 people attended the event, including the candidates and staff.

Given five minutes for opening statements before meeting wit...A California mom set herself ablaze on Sunday in her home in Vallejo, starting a fire that killed her and her 14-year-old twin daughters, according to police.

Vallejo authorities on Thursday announced that their investigation drew on physical and electronic evidence as well as victim and witness statements in determining what killed mom Mau Dao, 47, and her girls, Tram and Trinh Tran, both in ninth grade and reportedly about to enter the 10th.

A third daughter, 11, was injured in the early morning fire but managed to escape and flag down officers, police said.

The girl is now with her father and is expected to make a full recovery, Capt. Lee Horton said in a news release.

This was a tragic event for all involved, he said. Incidents of this nature are exceedingly difficult for the family, but also for the community and its first responders.

Horton said Vallejo Police Department detectives and arson investigators had been working the case nonstop since Sunday.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help raise money to pay for the funerals of Dao and her two daughters as well as support her surviving daughter and her father, who will need to rebuild.

We encourage any and all donations big or small  any bit you can offer will help the Tran family, the page states.

 Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Click here to get breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases in the True Crime Newsletter.

The familys dog Milo, who had been missing since the blaze, was found alive with only minor burns. The 11-year-old was so excited [that he survived] that she screamed, according to the GoFundMe.

So far, more than $11,000 has been raised.

A video tribute to the twins was also posted by their wrestling team. The girls lived our program mission to the core and because of what they did for others they will live on for eternity in our hearts!!! according to the video.

A police officer patrolling the area was first alerted to the blaze around 2:45 a.m. on Sunday after smelling smoke. As the officer drove toward the home, the 11-year-old flagged the officer down and said there were three people still inside the house.

Story continues

Police attempted to rescue Dao and her two daughters but the house was already engulfed in flames.

Vallejo firefighters were called in and were able to contain the fire. They made entry inside the residence and removed Dao and her daughters.

One of the twins perished at the scene. Her sister and mother died at a nearby hospital.

From the outset, police believed the fire was suspicious in nature.Former reality star/White House aide Omarosa Manigault Newman made some explosive claims in Unhinged, her new tell-all book about her brief tenure in the Trump administration. According to an advance copies of the book obtained by the Guardian, the Washington Post and the New York Times, Omarosa claims that several sources confirmed to her that the rumored audio

By Maggie Serota

Former reality star/White House aide Omarosa Manigault Newman made some explosive claims in Unhinged, her new tell-all book about her brief tenure in the Trump administration. According to an advance copies of the book obtained by the Guardian, the Washington Post and the New York Times, Omarosa claims that several sources confirmed to her that the rumored audio of Trump saying the n-word on the set of Celebrity Apprentice does indeed exist, although she admits that she hasnt heard it firsthand. The former reality show villain also claims that she witnessed President Trumps racism up close, when she heard him call Kellyanne Conways husband George Conway slurs based on his Filipino heritage. According to an excerpt obtained by the Washington Post, Omarosa writes in the book that after her dismissal from the White House, she received a $15,000 a month job offer from Lara Trump to join the election campaign in exchange for signing an ironclad NDA. She says she declined the offer.

Omarosa is, of course, an unreliable narrator with questionable credibility on practically every subject. However, shes arguably no worse than any of the other grifters and opportunists working in the Trump administration. After Omarosas reportedly dramatic firing in December, Politico reported that chief of staff John Kelly let her go because she was allegedly abusing White House car service privileges, among other infractions. While thats certainly a fireable offense, its small potatoes compared to the misappropriation of public funds perpetrated by former HHS secretary Tom Price and recently ousted EPA chief Scott Pruitt. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross still has a job after an explosive report in Forbes alleged that hed siphoned $120 million from his old Wall Street cronies. Being out for no one and nothing but yourself is a requirement for working in the Trump White House.

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With that out of the way, is Omarosas attempt to redeem herself and condemn an administration she ardently supported self-serving? Sure. However, when it comes to dishonest White House castoffs, Id personally prefer her scorched-Earth approach over the Steve Bannon, Sean Spicer, and Reince Priebus style of continually carrying Trumps water long after the boss continually humiliated them or tossed them aside.

Omarosas self-interest and credibility issues are an asterisk lingering over her account of her role as a Trump aide, and as Washington Post points out, the book is littered unverified accusations. Based on previews of the book, it sounds like she mainly enforces things the public already knew about Trump, like his racism. She claims that she was fired for actively trying to find the n-word tape. This, of course, is questionable considering her tenure was plagued with reports that no one was sure exactly what she did at her post in the Office of Public Liaison, other than reportedly plan her wedding and rile up Trump with leaking accusations about other aides.

Elaborating on her claims over the offensive recording, Omarosa echoes things said by former Celebrity Apprentice contestant Tom Arnold. They all told me that President Trump hadnt just dropped a single N-word bomb, Omarosa writes of the three sources she says told her about the tape, according to the New York Times. Hed said it multiple times throughout the shows taping during off-camera outtakes, particularly during the first season of The Apprentice.

Omarosa also writes in the book that she witnessed Trump making other racist remarks firsthand. From the Guardian:

She also claims that she personally witnessed Trump use racial epithets about the White House counselor Kellyanne Conways husband George Conway, who is half Filipino. Would you look at this George Conway article? she quotes the president as saying. F**ing FLIP! Disloyal! Fucking Goo-goo. Both flip and goo-goo are terms of racial abuse for Filipinos.

Conway has since denied Omarosas allegations and called her credibility into question on Twitter. Others, including White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders, have also denied her claims.

Im in @Omarosas book on page 149. She claims to have heard from someone who heard from me that I heard Trump use the N-word. Not only is this flat-out false (Ive never heard such a thing), but Omarosa didnt even make an effort to call or email me to verify. Very shoddy work.  Frank Luntz (@FrankLuntz) August 10, 2018

Other unverified details from Omarosas book include Trump installing a tanning bed in the White House and her walking in on a meeting between the president and his since estranged consigliere Michael Cohen that ended with Trump chewing and swallowing a piece of paper. From Washington Post:

Another White House official confirmed that Manigault Newman brought Cohen into the White House and was later rebuked for it. The two remain in contact, according to people familiar with the relationship. I saw him put a note in his mouth. Since Trump was ever the germaphobe, I was shocked he appeared to be chewing and swallowing the paper. It must have been something very, very sensitive, she writes in her book. There is no proof that he chewed on paper, and several White House aides laughed at the assertion and said it was not true.

The New York Times pointed out that Omarosa makes factual errors throughout the book, such as asserting that an aide who worked on the transition into the White House was brought in months later. However, the most unbelievable aspect of Unhinged are the rationalizations Omarosa makes about joining the administration in the first place, claiming that she only realized later that was indeed a racist, a bigot and a misogynist. Like every other mercenary in Trumpland, Omarosa was likely fully aware of those things, but was willing to overlook them in order to serve her own craven ambitions.

This post Omarosa Says the N-Word Apprentice Tape Is Real in New Book first appeared on SPIN.In space, no one can hear you thank them for their service. In that sense, and probably no other, enlistees in the United States Space Force  an actual thing we Americans are doing now  will be making a big sacrifice.

On Thursday, Vice President Pence confirmed in an extremely live-tweeted speech that President Trumps long-rumored Space Force will form by 2020 as the sixth independent branch of the U.S. armed forces. Veterans of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard will no doubt be excited to make another service the butt of their jokes.

Like most things America produces in 2018, the Space Force is merely a marketing concept for a futuristic product that, contrary to what Pence says, may or may not ever exist. Think Theranos, the now-disgraced Silicon Valley firm whose Edison machines were poor at blood-testing, but terrific at pumping billions out of investors  largely on the endorsements of their celebrated board members, including retired general James Mattis, who resigned from Theranos board only once he was tapped to be Trumps secretary of defense. Mattis will now oversee the Space Forces creation. Having already proven he can sell grunts and civilians alike on multiple indeterminate wars across the Asian landmass, hes just the Don Draper for this job.

What, exactly, does one need to create an entire military branch?

The United States hasnt added a service since the Air Force in 1947, and that wasnt out of nowhere: It was built wholesale out of the Army Air Corps and by drawing officers from the other services  and by taking a hard look at the war America had just waged. By then, aircraft had been used by militaries in war for more than three decades.

But spacecraft? Not so much. We have managed for half a century to marshal missiles that travel through space on the way to earthly impacts, as well as satellites that gather intelligence, wage electronic warfare and coordinate military action in myriad ways. These assets are spread throughout the Air Force, Navy, U.S. combatant commands, the National Security Agency, the National Reconnaissance Office and several other agencies. The least bad argument for creating a Space Force is that it would somehow unify all these efforts.

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This is precisely what Pence laid out in his Thursday speech, and it doesnt sound like an independent military branch, much less anything novel or revolutionary. Space Force service members will come mostly from existing DoD and intel ranks; theyll be housed in a a unified combatant command for space operations led by a four-star general or admiral, like the Tampa-based Central Command that runs U.S. assets across all the services in Middle East and Asian conflicts. (If U.S. Space Command sounds familiar, thats because there was one, doing essentially what the Space Force is proposed to do, until 2002.) This space command would be led not by a civilian space secretary in line with most of the other services, but by a new assistant secretary of defense for space, Pence said.

Adding bureaucracy to reduce bureaucracy is another boiler-room pitch without a plan, even if it has plenty of precedents in the DoD. If thats the problem that the Space Force purports to solve, it seems an easier fix would be rearranging some office chairs in Fort Meade, Cape Canaveral and the E-ring of the Pentagon, not creating a service with a distinctive uniform. What will those uniforms look like? In all the months since Trump raised the Space Force as a possibility, that question  along with virtually every other question Pentagon reporters have asked about the service  has gone unanswered, or deflected with boilerplate responses.

Underlying all these questions is a reality no one wants to say out loud: There wont be many Space Force troops going to space. The Space Force will not be like the Navy, where the vast majority of its 328,267 active sailors go to sea at some point, even if only briefly. It may be more like the Air Force, where only 4 percent of all airmen are rated as pilots  though thats still 12,363 pilots. Only about 550 human beings have ever been in space.

But Trump is and always has been onto something. If youre in it for pure kitsch  not to support and defend the Constitution, not to protect human rights, not even to serve conventional national interests  you only need two things to make a military force: a capacity for organized violence, and the right people to see it.

On that front, two details stuck out on Thursday. First, Pence assured listeners that the backbone of the new Space Force will be an elite group of joint warfighters specializing in the domain of space  lethal and highly specialized, like Green Berets or Navy SEALs. (On the plus side, once there are special operators whove been to space, no mere Navy frogman is ever getting another book or film deal.)

Second, the Trump Make America Great Again Committee  a joint super-PAC for the president and the RNC thats hosted on the Certified Website Of President Donald J. Trump  offered donors a chance to vote on six emailed Space Force logo designs for a new line of gear. One is a straight lift of a NASA design; another says Mars Awaits, though no one has actually mentioned the possibility of the Space Force going to Mars. Mars Awaits feels hilariously narrow in scope, when considering the sheer vastness of space, but it sounds tailor-made for the phone-screen smallness of American imaginations these days.

Trump campaign asks supporters to vote for the new Space Force logo pic.twitter.com/rIvd8AcHEh  Kasie Hunt (@kasie) August 9, 2018

Spotlighting space SEALs and hocking swag patches on the Internet: These are not signs of a healthy society. But they sure do drum up attention for the product, which will be built and delivered in the next two years, we swear. The administrations tax cut took a trillion-dollar bite out of the American common weal, and theres no money for universal health care or a higher minimum wage or mandatory paid leave, but seizing control of the infinite expanse of outer space for American interests? This we can do.

Space Force probably wont happen. The creation of a new service branch requires congressional approval. Space Force didnt make the cut last session; its not likely to be high on the agenda for the Congress thats seated next January, either. All of this is largely academic. Some new hiring lines will open in the DoD; perhaps some of the bureaucratic consolidation will work out. The uniforms and boot camps are a longshot. Legions of actual American-bred warriors traipsing asteroid belts? Forget it.

Still, it is possible to imagine a world in which a second-term President Trump is happily speechifying at a Space Force Academy graduation, where hundreds of cadets await their opportunity to become officers, get assigned a desk job, sit there for years and think about space.

But, of course, theyll be considered Real American Heroes by virtue of the uniform they wear. Just think: In a few short years, America could not just turn Donald Trump into a president, but convert space cadet into an honorific. Who says we cant do big things anymore?Airline worker who stole plane told air traffic controllers: 'I don't want to hurt no one' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com

An airline employee stole an otherwise empty passenger plane from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on Friday night and performed dangerous maneuvers in the sky before crashing on a nearby island about an hour later, officials said.

The employee, who was a ground services worker for Horizon Air, died. He was identified by a senior federal aviation source as Richard Russell, whom authorities described as a 29-year-old resident of Pierce County in Washington state.

The Horizon Air turboprop plane took off from the runway at 7:32 p.m. local time Friday, with the man identified as Russell behind the controls and no one else on board, officials said. The 76-seat airliner was captured on video doing giant loops in the air and other risky stunts during its hour-long flight.

North American Aerospace Defense Command quickly launched two F-15 fighter jets to pursue the rogue aircraft, a federal senior aviation source told ABC News. Meanwhile, the Federal Aviation Administration said it implemented a "groundstop" for Seattle-Tacoma International Airport as air traffic controllers "communicated with the individual who was flying the aircraft to try to help him land safely."

An hour after the unauthorized takeoff, the plane crashed on Ketron Island, a small, sparsely populated island about 40 miles away from the airport. The fighters jets were not involved in the crash, officials said.

Aerial footage of Ketron Island showed a large fiery blaze where the plane crashed. No one on the ground was harmed and no buildings were damaged, officials said.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport flights were delayed or diverted Friday night due to the incident, with normal operations resuming by around 1 a.m., officials said.

"This might have been a joyride gone terribly wrong," said Pierce County Sheriff Paul Pastor.

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PHOTO: An empty passenger airplane, stolen from the Seattle-Tacoma airport, makes an unlikely upside-down aerial loop, then flying low over Puget Sound before crashing into the sparsely populated Ketron Island in Washington, Aug. 10, 2018. (John Wauldron/AFP/Getty Images)

'We don't know how he learned to do that'

Airline officials are unsure how Russell learned to operate a plane, much less perform flying stunts. There are many switches and levers to even start a plane, Horizon Air CEO Gary Beck told reporters at a news conference Saturday.

"We dont know how he learned to do that." Beck said, adding that the man did perform some "incredible" maneuvers. "To our knowledge he did not have a pilot's license."

The man was authorized to be in the area of the airfield where the plane was parked for maintenance, officials said.

Beck said he and Brad Tilden, the CEO of Alaska Airlines, the parent company of Horizon Air, are working closely with the FBI, the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration to better understand the circumstances of the unauthorized flight.

The FBI said it is leading an investigation into the incident, including interviewing the Russell's family and coworkers.

Debra Eckrote, the Western Pacific regional chief for the National Transportation Safety Board, said investigators are searching through the plane wreckage to retrieve the flight data recorder, which could help determine a motive.

(MORE: Private plane nosedives into parking lot)

Flames could be seen on Ketron Island, Washington, where the stolen plane crashed late Friday, Aug. 10, 2018. (KOMO)

'I don't want to hurt no one'

Audio recordings of the Russell's exchange with air traffic controllers were posted on Broadcastify and confirmed by federal aviation sources as authentic. In the recordings, air traffic controllers can be heard trying to persuade him to land the plane and help him do so safely. They also had experienced pilots radio in to guide him on flying.

"I just kind of want to do a couple maneuvers to see what it can do before I put it down," Russell tells air traffic control.

"This is probably like jail time for life, huh? I would hope it is for a guy like me," he says a few minutes later.

"We're not going to worry or think about that, but could you start a left-hand turn please?" an air traffic controller responds.

"I don't want to hurt no one," Russell says a few minutes later.

Authorities said a 29-year-old Horizon Airlines employee stole an empty passenger plane and crashed it on an island in south Puget Sound on Friday, Aug. 10, 2018. (John Waldron)

Air traffic control tries to convince Russell to land at the Air Force's nearby McChord Field.

"If you wanted to land, probably the best bet is that runway just ahead to your left, again that's the McChord Field. If you wanted to try, that might be the best way to set up and see if you can land there. Or just like the pilot suggests, another option would be over Puget Sound into the water," an air traffic controller says.

"Dang, did you talk to McChord yet, because I don't think I'd be happy with you telling me I could land like that, because I could mess some stuff up," Russell replies.

"I already talked to them and, just like me, what we want to see is you not get hurt or anybody else get hurt. So like I said, if you want to try to land, that's probably the best place to go," the air traffic controller says.

Minutes later, Russell sounds remorseful and says he's a "broken guy" with "a few screws loose."

"I got a lot of people that care about me and it's going to disappoint them that -- to hear that I did this. I would like to apologize to each and every one of them. Just a broken guy, got a few screws loose I guess. Never really knew it until now," he says.

A pilot who was asked to help guide Russell radios to him, "Let's try to land that plane safely and not hurt anyone."

Russell responds, "All right. Damn it. I don't know, man, I don't know, I don't want to. I was kind of hoping that was going to be it, you know?"

(MORE: 4 people found dead after tour plane crash in Alaska)

PHOTO: An empty passenger airplane, stolen from the Seattle-Tacoma airport, makes an unlikely upside-down aerial loop, then flying low over Puget Sound before crashing into the sparsely populated Ketron Island in Washington, Aug. 10, 2018. (John Wauldron/AFP/Getty Images)

Russell was 'suicidal' and 'acted alone'

The Pierce County Sheriff's Department described Russell as a "suicidal male" who "acted alone," but that his actions were "not a terrorist incident."

The FBI's field office in Seattle posted a statement on Twitter Friday night, also saying that the incident did not appear to be terrorism.

"Although response efforts to tonight's aircraft incident and the investigation are still ongoing, information gathered thus far does NOT suggest a terrorist threat or additional, pending criminal activity," FBI Seattle tweeted. "The FBI continues to work with our state, local, and federal partners to gather a complete picture of what transpired with tonight's unauthorized Horizon aircraft takeoff and crash."

Although response efforts to tonight's aircraft incident and the investigation are still ongoing, information gathered thus far does NOT suggest a terrorist threat or additional, pending criminal activity.  FBI Seattle (@FBISeattle) August 11, 2018

The FBI continues to work with our state, local, and federal partners to gather a complete picture of what transpired with tonight's unauthorized Horizon aircraft takeoff and crash. We don't anticipate that further details will be available tonight.  FBI Seattle (@FBISeattle) August 11, 2018

White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders praised the response of public agencies in a statement Saturday morning.

"The president has been briefed on the incident involving a stolen plane from Sea-Tac Airport in Seattle and is monitoring the situation as information becomes available," Sanders said. "Federal authorities are assisting with the ongoing investigation which is being led by local authorities. We commend the interagency response effort for their swift action and protection of public safety."

ABC News' Alex Stone contributed to this report.Stormy Daniels' lawyer Michael Avenatti: 'I should be taken seriously' as possible presidential hopeful originally appeared on abcnews.go.com

Stormy Daniels' lawyer Michael Avenatti is flirting with the possibility of a presidential run and says there are a number of reasons he should be taken seriously as a potential Democratic candidate in 2020.

In an exclusive interview on "This Week" Sunday, Avenatti told ABC News Chief White House Correspondent Jonathan Karl that throughout his career he has consistently stood up for working people against powerful opponents.

"There are a number of reasons I should be taken seriously, Avenatti said. For over 18 years, Ive been fighting on behalf of Davids versus Goliaths, some of the largest corporations in the world, con men, fraudsters. Ive had great success.

PHOTO: Adult film actress Stephanie Clifford, also known as Stormy Daniels, speaks to media along with lawyer Michael Avenatti (R) outside federal court in New York, April 16, 2018. (Brendan Mcdermid/Reuters)

"I'm a student of the law," Avenatti said. "Im very well-versed in a lot of issues that are at the forefront of our society right now. Environmental, issues, issues relating to the Supreme Court, issues relating to working people. And so I think that that also qualifies me."

Avenatti has drawn national media attention through his outspoken representation of adult film star Stormy Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, in her lawsuit against President Donald Trump and his former lawyer, Michael Cohen.

He is now testing the waters for a potential run in 2020, including visiting Iowa on Friday to address local Democratic officials.

(MORE: Avenatti pitch in Iowa: 'When they go low ... we hit harder')

Karl asked the California native, Whats the Avenatti policy issue?

Avenatti responded, The truth  I deal and have dealt in 18 years with facts and evidence. Thats how youre successful as an attorney.

When Karl pressed for policy specifics, Avenatti said he supports calls to establish 'Medicare for all' but does not go along with proposals to abolish the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency (ICE). Avenatti said the immigration enforcement agency should instead have its power curtailed.

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Avenatti sided with President Trump on at least one issue, trade. I agree with the president that there have been a number of trade deals put in place over the years that have been on one side, he said.

(MORE: Little-known Democratic 2020 hopefuls make early Iowa visits)

The attorney has previously said he would enter the 2020 race only if he believed that none of the Democratic candidates could beat Trump. When Karl asked him his view of specific candidates, he demurred and offered instead a broad criticism of Democratic hopefuls in the past.

Im not going to opine as to whether I think a particular candidate can beat Donald Trump or not, Avenatti said. Over the years, Democrats have had a lot of very talented individuals, but they have lacked fighters."Photo credit: Getty Images

From Delish

Update, August 8: The Perseids are coming this weekend, but we're waiting too see whether the weather will play ball. According to Accuweather, the forecast for clear viewing of the meteor shower is a bit murky.

As of Wednesday, the weekend forecast calls for clearer skies in the upper Midwest. However, some clouds will dampen visibility in the South and the West, while the California wildfires will cause viewing problems out there.

Here's hoping you find a dark spot with clear skies. If you're interested in upping your stargazing game, check out our guide to binoculars and telescopes, as well as how to take professional-level photographs of the stars.

The Perseid meteor shower is one of the most popular showers among stargazers, and for good reason. The Perseids tends to be one of the brightest and most active meteor showers of the entire year.



Space.com reports the meteor shower will peak on the nights of August 11 and August 12. However, NASA meteor expert Bill Cooke recommends August 12 for a slightly better show.

"This year the moon will be near new moon, it will be a crescent, which means it will set before the Perseid show gets underway after midnight," Cooke also told Space.com. "The moon is very favorable for the Perseids this year, and that'll make the Perseids probably the best shower of 2018 for people who want to go out and view it."



During the showers, you can expect to see about 60 to 70 meteors per hour, which breaks down to about one meteor per minute. Planets like Mars and Saturn will also be visible during this time, until about 4 a.m. local time for the Red Planet and 2 a.m. local time for Saturn.

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The Perseids get their name from the fact that they appear to come from the constellation Perseus. The shower is caused by the Earth running into the debris left behind by the comet Swift-Tuttle, which happens every August.

The last time Swift-Tuttle passed near Earth was in 1992. It's swing by again in 2126. Swift-Tuttle is so large that the Earth spends weeks inside the debris zone it left behind.

NASA recommends viewing a meteor shower from dark areas like suburbs or the countryside. It will take about 30 minutes for your eyes to adjust, and the longer you wait outside, the more meteors you'll see. Happy skywatching!

PRE-ORDER NOW Delish Cookbook, barnesandnoble.com



('You Might Also Like',)This New Mom Shares a Photo of Herself in Her Underwear Two Days After Giving Birth: 'I Never Thought I Would Be Normal Again'

Everyone talks about the joys of new motherhoodplaying, laughing, and bonding with baby. But what about the not-so-pleasant parts?

One new mom took to Facebook to talk about the realities of welcoming a little one into the world, and the physical and emotional fallout many women don't expect.

No one told me your belly doesnt go down immediately. No one told me Id be bleeding out. No one told me that I would spend hours crying and full of emotion, Autumn Benjamin wrote on Facebook on August 7.

She posted a photo that her husband had taken of her several months earlier. The image shows Benjamin in the hospital while breastfeeding her newborn daughter, Lyla, and sporting mesh pregnancy panties.

Benjamin touched on the fear and anxiety she felt at the time. She explained that while she was excited her daughter was finally here, it also scared her. But wait.. that means she isnt protected inside of me anymore. And thats a scary feeling.

RELATED: 11 Fitness Influencers Get Real About How Their Bodies Changed After Giving Birth

Like Benjamin, many new mothers experience a rush of confusing emotions. As many as 70% of women report feeling mild, short-lived sadness after giving birth, often dubbed the baby blues.

But Benjamins postpartum realities dont stop there. No one tells you that typically with a quick delivery comes a bad rip. I ripped all the way up and down, and also side to side. The weeks following I couldnt walk. I couldnt use the bathroom, she wrote.

Some tearing during a vaginal delivery is normal. Christine Greves, MD, ob-gyn at Orlando Health Hospital in Florida, previously told Health that there are four types of lacerations a woman can experience while giving birth. First-degree involves injury to the skin and subcutaneous tissue of the perineum (the area between the anus and the vulva) and vagina, and this level of tear usually heals on its own.

Second-degree tears, which affect deeper vaginal tissue, are the most common. Third- and fourth-degree lacerations are more serious, but they are also rare. Dr. Greves said that up to 6% of women endure this injury during childbirth. Lacerations are more common for first-time mothers because the vagina hasnt been stretched before, she added.

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RELATED: 17 Things No One Tells You About Recovering From Childbirth

Being a mom is the ultimate sacrifice, Benjamin wrote. You give up your body for 9 months to grow this little baby. You go through labor and delivery. You go through the emotions that come with childbirth. You let go of all shame as you walk around your house in diapers and ask your SO to spray warm water on your rip while you pee to avoid that burn.

Her message is a reminder that we all need to stop and say a huge thank you to the women who raised us. And women who are pregnant or planning to be in the near future should talk to their ob-gyn about all the things to expect during birth.Manuela

Where Is Pablo Escobar's Daughter now? Manuela Escobar is the only daughter of the legendary drug kingpin Pablo Escobar. She was the apple of his eye. In fact, once, when the Escobar family was on the run from Colombian and American Drug Enforcement Agency authorities, they were living in a hideout in the Medellin mountainside. Manuela had hypothermia from the cold. Escobar did what any doting dad would do, he set $2 million in cash on fire to warm her up. Manuela was born on May 24, 1984 in Panama. She is the youngest child of Pablo and Maria Escobar. Where is she today?

RELATED: Where Is Hope Hicks Now? New Details About Her Life After The White House  And If She's Still Dating Alleged Wife Abuser Rob Porter



1. No asylum

Manuela's life when her father was alive was dramatic. After his death it continued to be dramatic. When Pablo was killed, Manuela, her brother Juan Pablo, and her mother Maria fled Colombia. The Mafia and other drug dealers wanted Pablo's family killed. The Cali Cartel was demanding millions from the Escobars for reparations for Pablo's crimes against them. No country would give the Esobar's asylum after all of Pablo's crimes. Maria even petitioned the Vatican for help. It wasn't until 1995, two years after Pablo's death that Manuela, Juan Pablo and Maria made it to Mozambique, then Brazil, Ecuador, South Africa, Peru and finally Argentina, where they lived under an assumed name. Argentina only accepted them because their new identities hid the fact that they were the family of Pablo Escobar.

A post shared by All That's Interesting (@all_thats_interesting) on Apr 26, 2018 at 5:01am PDT

2. Homeschooled

While living in Argentina, Manuela and her family were succeeding with their new identities. Manuela was in school. Her mother became a successful real estate agent. Then, in 1999, their identities were revealed and a money laundering lawsuit was brought against them. The family was acquitted; there just wasn't any evidence against them. However, Manuela was frightened by the event and refused to go to school. Her mother homeschooled her from that point on.

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A post shared by Narcos Art Site (@narcos_art) on Apr 19, 2017 at 10:20pm PDT

RELATED: Where Is Melania Trump? New Details About The Wild Conspiracy Theories Explaining Why She Hasn't Been Seen In Three Weeks

3. No record

Manuela is the only member of Pablo Escobar's family to never be accused of a crime. She was just nine years old when he died. She has maintained a very private life and low profile since then.

A post shared by Narco Cultura (@culturanarco) on Feb 27, 2017 at 5:48pm PST

4. Cut all ties

Manuela's brother has spoken to the media a number of times over the years but Manuela has remained silent. She reportedly changed her name to Juana Manuela Marroquin Santos. She avoids the media. She is not active on social media. She cut all ties to her native country.

A post shared by Narco Cultura (@culturanarco) on Feb 27, 2017 at 5:21pm PST

5. Where is she now?

Since 1999, Manuela has reportedly suffered from severe depression. Her brother has said that she has attempted to commit suicide. She studied public relations. She reportedly lives with her brother and his wife, who take care of her when her depression surfaces.

A post shared by Narcos Art Site (@narcos_art) on Jun 7, 2017 at 1:41pm PDT

RELATED: Where Is Collin Gosselin? New Details About Kate And Jon's 'Troubled' Son

Amy Lamare is a Los Angeles based freelance writer covering entertainment, pop culture, beauty, fashion, fitness, technology, and the intersection of technology, business, and philanthropy. She is deeply devoted to her chocolate Labrador and an avid long distance runner. You can find her on Instagram and Facebook.

read moreClare Bronfman has been a tireless champion and financial benefactor to the headline-making alleged cult NXIVM for decades. That is a choice that has lead her from her perch as a multimillion-dollar heiress and award-winning equestrian to squandering her fortune and being charged with conspiracy and criminal racketeering.

Clare and her sister Sara, who are the daughters of billionaire businessman Edgar M. Bronfman, first joined NXIVM in the early 2000s when it was still known as a small group in Albany, NY that offered self-help workshops, according to The New York Times. For more than a decade, the sisters lavished their inheritance upon NXIVM leader Keith Raniere in an effort to build his reputation. Nothing was too much for Raniere. Private jets, meetings with the Dalai Lama, and even a private island in Fiji for retreats were all things the Bronfman sisters funded without hesitation. While Sara Bronfman became less involved in subsequent years after starting a family, Clare remained hopelessly devoted to Raniere.

Bronfmans unwavering dedication to Raniere and everything he stood for soon estranged her from her family. Even as his health was failing, Bronfman  camera crew in tow  pressed her father to admit that he had wrongly criticized Raniere by describing NXIVM as a cult to Forbes.

Last fall, a story by The New York Times revealed NXIVM for what it really is: an exploitative cult that uses sex and blackmail to control its followers. It was followed by an even darker discovery, a secret sorority of women within the group was branded with Ranieres initials. Still, Bronfmans loyalty was unshaken by the news. Ive seen so much good come from both our programs and from Keith himself, Bronfman wrote on her personal website in December 2017. It would be a tragedy to lose the innovative and transformational ideas and tools that continue to improve the lives of so many.

During her nearly 20 years in NXIVM, Bronfman went from intrigued follower to the powerful financier who aggressively fought multiple lawsuits against the group. That was, until July 24, when she, along with Raniere, Smallville actress Allison Mack, and several others were arrested for an array of crimes including identity theft, extortion, forced labor, sex trafficking, money laundering, wire fraud, and obstruction of justice.

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Now, the heiress who has spent countless millions on NXIVM is awaiting trial after pleading not guilty and being released on a $100 million bond.

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Mystery Blonde Who Left Kylie Jenner's 21st On A Stretcher Addresses Situation In New VideoOne woman's seemingly innocuous in-flight beverage choice landed her in hot water in Dubai.

On July 13, Ellie Holman, a dentist from Kent, England, was flying Emirates with her four-year-old daughter, Bibi, from London to Dubai. On the flight, Holman had a glass of wine, as serving alcohol is permitted on Emirates, despite United Arab Emirates laws being extremely conservative when it comes to drinking.

People over the age of 21 are allowed to drink alcohol at licensed venues (hotels, bars, etc.), and on flights to the UAE, but drinking or being intoxicated in public is strictly prohibited. "British nationals have been arrested and charged under this law, often in cases where they have come to the attention of the police for a related offence or matter, such as disorderly or offensive behaviour," the U.K. government warns on its official website.

Related: Why You Should Think Twice Before Ordering Coffee or Tea on a Plane

Holman told The Sun that when she landed, an official informed her that her visa had expired. Dubai attorney general Essam Al Humaidan said in a statement it was her passport that had expired, but that because she also had an Iranian passport she was told that she was eligible for a visa for a 96-hour stay. Al Humaidan claims Holman "refused angrily to the additional payment fees that the process would require and proceeded to verbally insult the immigration officer and take photos of the officer via her phone."

But Holman says the choice she was given was to return to the U.K. immediately, and as she did not want to get on another eight-hour flight with her daughter, she argued with the officer. She said the officer then began to question her about whether she had been drinking.

Holman admitted she had one complimentary glass of wine on her flight, she said. Her blood test was consistent with that claim, as her blood alcohol was only a 0.04 percent, well below the legal driving limit in the U.K.

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However, Holman said the official told her that in the UAE, possession of alcohol is prohibited, even inside a persons body. Al Humaidan disputes this claim, saying she was charged for "profanity and photographing a government official in a restricted area."

Holman says both she and her daughter were detained in a cell for three days. Holmans partner, Gary, flew to Dubai to take Bibi home, but Holman was told she has to stay in the country until her case is processed, which could reportedly take up to a year. She was released and allowed to return home on Aug. 11, according to The Guardian.

Holman says she has spent 30,000 (just over $38,000 USD) in legal fees and other expenses, and has had to close her practice as a result of her detainment.

Radha Stirling, chief executive of Detained In Dubai, told The Sun that airlines should be held accountable for misleading and endangering passengers by serving free drinks on flights.

If consumption of alcohol is illegal in the UAE, airlines are complicit in serving alcohol to their passengers and need to be accountable and liable for their actions, Stirling said. I expect that we will soon see airlines being sued for damages and losses incurred by their passengers when they are arrested.A US Marine Corp cadet attends the United States Naval Academy graduation ceremony in Annapolis, Maryland, on May 25, 2018. (Photo: JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images)

Women have been a part of the Marine Corps for 100 years, but that doesnt mean the Marines are free of sexism. As a womans recent tweet has illustrated, females in the military still face plenty of backlash, no matter how good they are at what they do.

If you want to know why Im not re-enlisting, go to the Marine Corps Instagram page and read the comments on ANY picture of a female, Jessica Casey wrote on Twitter. Props to the females who want to stay in and prove these comments wrong, but personally it demotivates me, she added in a second tweet.

If you want to know why Im not re-enlisting go to the Marine Corps Instagram page and read the comments on ANY picture of a female  Jess (@jessicacasey75) August 11, 2018

Props to the females who want to stay in and prove these comments wrong, but personally it demotivates me.  Jess (@jessicacasey75) August 11, 2018

A quick visit to the official Instagram page of the Marine Corps demonstrates Caseys point. On Thursday, the U.S. Marines shared a video on Instagram to mark the 100th anniversary of women being a part of the organization. A number of comments on the post suggest that females are not as capable of fulfilling Marine duties as males are.

God didnt create men and women equal. Thats why literally forever men have been fighting the wars. Our bodies are better suited for it, reads one Instagram comment, in part. The standards are lower than they have ever been in the history of the Marine Corps, another comment says.

Another recent post from the Marine Corps Instagram account shows 1st Lt. Marina Hierl, the first woman to become an infantry officer in the Marines. Her words and image should serve as a proud example for Americans of all genders, but there are a number of sexist comments on that post too.

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Women should not be in the infantry, period. Mixing men and women in combat only detracts from the mission and in the event of a dual casualty who would be saved first regardless of combat effectiveness, reads a comment on that post, in part. And as with the other post, there are plenty of arguments in the comments section about standards in the Marine Corps.

Based on Caseys tweet and her Instagram, it appears she is a corporal in the Marine Corps, but she has chosen not to reenlist. Casey also tweeted recently that she was accepted to the University of Alabama, so it seems she is choosing to focus on her education. Casey didnt immediately respond to Yahoos request for comment via Twitter.

She also posted previously about how she was just trying to be a Marine, and her male counterparts always told her she didnt belong.

Me:

Male Marines: OK BUT FEMALE PFT AND CFT ARE SO UNFAIR. WOMEN HAVE EVERYTHING HANDED TO THEM IN LIFE. FEMALES DONT BELONG IN THE MILITARY  Jess (@jessicacasey75) August 10, 2018

One person who responded to Caseys tweet encouraged her to speak up to her superior officers and thanked her for her service.

I would ask that you vocalize that with your CoC including company & BN CDRs. They should know that the culture in the USMC still needs to change. Also, thank you for your service. Best of luck!  Timothy Wyant (@timothyjwyant) August 11, 2018

Amid other the responses to Caseys tweet, one Twitter user linked to a Department of Defense report about sexual assault in the military. The report, published in April, found that the 2017 fiscal year saw an increase in the number of military sexual assaults that were reported. The report notes that there were 6,769 military sexual assaults reported in that year, an increase from the 6,172 reports in the 2016 fiscal year. Thats not necessarily bad news, though  it likely signifies that the rate of reporting has increased, not that there have been more assaults.

Of course, sexual assault is a different issue from sexist comments on social media posts. But the responses to Caseys tweet are a reminder that there are many ways women in the military can be mistreated. Theres a reason the tweet seems to have struck a chord with so many people with military experience. Women in the Marine Corps are making tremendous sacrifices for their country  and they deserve the same respect as their male counterparts.

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As a volunteer at Sand Lake Elementary where her two children attend school, Victoria Triece has spent hours helping organize class parties and assist in lab assignments in her older sons classroom, something she said she wanted to do ever since she became a mom. I always wanted to be involved in that aspect of life, Triece said. My mother did it for me and having her there was the best ...A grieving orca whale who carried the corpse of her dead calf for an unprecedented 17 days has finally let it go.

The killer whale, known as J35 to scientists monitoring the population in the Pacific Northwest, was spotted swimming without the infant balanced on her head for the first time since July.

J35 frolicked past my window today with other J pod whales, and she looks vigorous and healthy, Ken Balcomb, of the Centre for Whale Research, told The Seattle Times. The ordeal of her carrying a dead calf for at least 17 days and 1,000 miles is now over, thank goodness.

The 20-year-old whale, also known as Tahlequah, is an important member of the critically endangered southern resident orca population. Her relative youth age means she could have years of reproductive ability ahead of her.

But the death of her daughter triggered a grieving process that took longer than any other documented case among killer whales, with Tahlequah carrying her infant night and day, and diving deep underwater to bring the body back to the surface when it slipped off her head.

She is alive and well and at least over that part of her grief, Mr Balcomb added. Today was the first day that I for sure saw her. It is no longer there.

It is not known if Tahlequah finally let the corpse go, or if the body simply began to fall apart  it was beginning to decompose when spotted earlier this week.

The mothers grief has captured the attention of the world and helped to illustrate the existential threat facing Tahlequahs pod.

The calf was the first in three years to be born into the dwindling population of southern resident killer whales, which number just 75.

Animal rescue teams have launched an unprecedented attempt to save another orca in the pod, called J50, who is dangerously thin due to a lack of the whales most common food source  Chinook salmon.

On Friday, wildlife biologists loaded up two boats with live salmon and rushed to waters off Washington states San Juan Island, preparing if needed to test-feed the four-year-old whale.

The whales continue to face a number of threats to their existence, including lack of prey and noise from boats interrupting their foraging behaviour.LONDON (Reuters) - A transparent investigation must be held into an air strike in Yemen which killed dozens of children, a British Foreign Office minister said on Friday.

A Saudi-led coalition said on Friday it would investigate the strike on a bus in northern Yemen, the latest in a series of mass casualty air strikes in Yemen's war.

"Deeply concerned by reports of yesterday's attack in Saada, Yemen resulting in tragic deaths of so many children. Transparent investigation required," Alistair Burt, Minister of State for the Middle East, said on Twitter.

"UK calls on all parties to prevent civilian casualties and to cooperate with UN to reach a lasting political solution in Yemen."

(Reporting by Kylie MacLellan; editing by Michael Holden)By Anna Mehler Paperny TORONTO (Reuters) - Police charged a man in the deaths of four people, including two police officers, and identified the civilians killed in a shooting on Friday in the eastern Canadian city of Fredericton. Police charged Matthew Vincent Raymond, 48, with four counts of first degree murder, according to a statement on Saturday. They identified the civilian victims as Bobbie-Lee Wright, 32, and Donald Adam Robichaud, 42. Police did not release information about a possible motive or the weapon. The four people killed, including police officers Sara Mae Burns, 43, and Lawrence Robb Costello, 45, were shot at an apartment complex in Fredericton, capital of the province of New Brunswick. [L1N1V11UR] Police said the officers responded to a report of shots fired early on Friday morning and found two civilian victims on the ground. Sean Callahan said he grew up with one of the victims, his cousin Donald Robichaud, in rural New Brunswick. Robichaud, a musician and father of three, had recently begun a new relationship with Wright, Callahan said. "Donnies probably the best person you could ever meet in your whole life. The kindest person, Callahan said by telephone from Fredericton. Who in the hell would want to shoot Donnie Robichaud?" According to their Facebook pages, a Fredericton man named Donnie Robichaud was in a relationship with Bobbie-Lee Wright. The dead police officers were Burns, who had served two years on the force and another two as an auxiliary officer, and who had three children; and Costello, a 20-year veteran who left behind four children. Friday's shooting was the latest eruption of gun violence across the country. Gun laws in Canada are stricter than in the United States, but a proliferation of weapons has led to an increase in gun-related crimes in recent years. The shooting occurred three weeks after a gunman walked down a busy Toronto street, killing two people and wounding 13 before killing himself. (Reporting by Anna Mehler Paperny; Editing by Steve Orlofsky and Frances Kerry)By David Ljunggren, Aziz El Yaakoubi and Katie Paul OTTAWA/RIYADH/DUBAI (Reuters) - For years, Canadian pressure on human rights in Saudi Arabia had elicited no more than a standard rejection. But all that changed last week, when a Canadian complaint was translated into Arabic and set off a diplomatic row. When Riyadh responded to a call from Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland to release civil society activists with an abrupt severing of diplomatic and trade ties, Canadian officials were left scrambling to understand what had happened. What Ottawa did not anticipate was that in the eyes of the Saudis they had crossed a red line. On Aug. 2, Freeland tweeted https://twitter.com/cafreeland/status/1025030172624515072 in English and French, calling for the release of two jailed Saudi human rights activists. The following day, Canada's foreign affairs department sent another tweet https://twitter.com/CanadaFP/status/1025383326960549889, urging Saudi Arabia to "immediately release" those and other activists. That was translated https://twitter.com/CanEmbSA/status/1026049114088333313 into Arabic by its embassy in Riyadh and sent out on Aug. 5 to its approximately 12,000 followers. The reaction from Saudi Arabia was swift. Hours after the Arabic tweet, the Saudi government recalled its ambassador, barred Canada's envoy from returning and placed a ban on new trade. Two Gulf sources said it was the tweet from the embassy that upset Saudi officials the most. "Matters were being handled through usual channels but the tweet was a break with diplomatic norms and protocol," said one of the sources, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the issue. The sources did not clarify exactly how the tweet broke with diplomacy, but regional experts said it was the step of sending it to a domestic audience that would have angered Saudi officials. "The Saudi retaliation took some time to allow for political talks in closed doors," Salman al-Ansari, founder of the Washington-based Saudi American Public Relation Affairs Committee, said. "They thought the Canadians would take steps to back off, but all of a sudden they tweeted it in Arabic. This was a very provocative action by the Canadians to try to embarrass the Saudis in front of their people. The Saudis did not take this lightly at all." Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Jubeir raised the issue of the Arabic tweet in a call with Freeland on Tuesday, and complained about interference, a person familiar with the matter who declined to be named said. Canadian officials say there was nothing remarkable about the Arabic tweet, which merely repeated Ottawa's stated position in a common practice for delegations abroad. Canada has raised the issue of civil society activist detentions before. As recently as May, Canada's Riyadh embassy tweeted in English its concern about activist arrests and said it was "crucial that the rule of law" be respected, with no public Saudi response. 'COLLATERAL DAMAGE' The outsized reaction to the tweet underscores how the kingdom is taking a much harsher stance against what it perceives as Western interference in its internal affairs on issues like human rights, perhaps emboldened by Washington's willingness under Donald Trump to de-emphasize rights issues when it comes to its allies. Riyadh and Washington have been enjoying an exceptionally close relationship  tense during the administration of former U.S. President Barack Obama  as both Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Trump share similar concerns about Iran. By contrast, Trump and Trudeau locked horns during the G7 summit in June in an unusually public manner. The U.S. State Department this week urged the two sides to use diplomacy to resolve the dispute. "Canada is collateral damage," said Thomas Juneau, an assistant professor and Middle East expert at the University of Ottawa. "This fundamentally is not about Canada. This is about Saudi Arabia wanting to send a broader message to its neighbors, to other democracies." Canadian foreign affairs officials including Freeland, who were gathered at a Vancouver hotel for a conference on Sunday, were taken aback by the Saudi reaction and left scrambling. Canada, government insiders said, was still unclear on what steps it can take to "fix its big mistake", as a Saudi official called it. "I don't think we have a conclusive understanding as of right now," said a Canadian government source. "There may be the need for another call (between Freeland and Jubeir). We're also obviously talking to our partners about it. We do not wish to have bad relations with them (the Saudis)." Inside Saudi Arabia, the measures were supported by a media campaign criticizing Canada's human rights record and praising the Saudi ruler's firmness in "protecting the kingdom's sovereignty." Saudi state television channels aired reports on the struggle of indigenous people in Canada and said they had been historically subject to discrimination. Other reports listed "the worst Canadian prisons" and described harsh prison conditions. Thousands of Twitter accounts bearing Saudi flags tweeted on the dispute, elevating the phrase "Saudi Arabia expels the Canadian ambassador" to one of the world's most popular hashtags. Many of the tweets used suspiciously similar language, often a sign of a coordinated campaign by bots, or automated accounts. Saud al-Qahtani, a senior royal court adviser, tweeted a link announcing the decision to ban new trade on Monday along with the hashtag "Saudi first" - echoing a phrase popularized by Trump. (Reporting by David Ljunggren in Ottawa, Aziz El Yaakoubi in Riyadh and Katie Paul in Dubai; Additional reporting by Ghaida Ghantous in Dubai, Yara Bayoumy in Washington and Allison Martell in Toronto; Writing by Amran Abocar; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien)After a day at the TIME office in Hong Kong, a colleague and I recently saw the Pixar short Bao, an eight-minute long film that aired before Incredibles 2. Directed by Domee Shi, the film follows an animated dumpling, who is nurtured by a Chinese mother into adolescence and eventually adulthood. We were both moved by the loving references Shi made to her own Chinese-Canadian upbringing. Even in cute cartoon format, we were seeing a part of ourselves authentically represented on screen for Western-oriented audiencesan experience still all too rare in 2018.

It was the seemingly small things in Bao that had an impactfrom the colored visor worn by the mother practicing tai chi in the park to the woven baskets of steamed dumplings gobbled up by the father. That similar attention to detail is what many of us with Asian heritage are hoping to see on screen in this summers romantic comedy Crazy Rich Asians, released in the U.S. on Aug. 15.

Based on the phenomenally popular book franchise by Singaporean-American author Kevin Kwan, the film will be the first major motion picture movie featuring an all-Asian cast and Asian-American leads since 1993s The Joy Luck Club. Constance Wu, who rose to fame in the ABC series Fresh Off the Boat, plays Rachel Chu, a New York professor who accepts her boyfriend Nick Youngs invitation to attend a wedding in Singapore. There, she discovers that Nicks family is one of the wealthiest in Asia and that his formidable mother, played by Michelle Yeoh, is not easy to impress.

The world Kwan creates in the films namesake novel, as well as its sequels, China Rich Girlfriend and Rich People Problems, is filled with dazzling caricatures and garish sparkle. No expense is spared. Film stars dressed head to toe in Gucci dine at Michelin-star restaurants. On long weekends, boarding school-educated lotharios whiz over to island havens on private jets. Duplex penthouses, Lamborghinis and $195 million artworks are simply casual purchases.

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Although the glamour can be overwhelming, the world Kwan creates is not just an escapist one. Its part satire, a critique of the consumerism and desire for social status that drives the competition between old money vs nouveau riche. It also subverts our expectations of the traditional West-East power dynamic, as the fantastical wealth of Asias elite families makes searching for an American Dream seem almost provincial in comparison.

But as well as being a classic romance, Crazy Rich Asians is also something of a love letter from Kwan to his native Singapore, and to the region as a whole. As a Malaysian-British Londoner now living in Hong Kong, I share the same affection that Kwan does for this part of the world. The more frugal elements of Crazy Rich Asians call to mind my experiences here, like the tapping of chopsticks demanding a taste of char kuay teow in the chaos of a hawker food center, or a crowd of wedding guests toasting Yum Seng!(the Cantonese version of cheers). Nick whisks Rachel away to the misty tea plantations in Malaysias Cameron Highlands, and to the busy streets of Hong Kongs Mong Kok district, just a hop across the harbour for me now on the citys famous Star Ferry.

The picture Kwan paints of these places doesnt just bring up fond memories for me. My Malaysian mother, who read the books beside me this summer vacation, also enjoyed reminiscing about her life and childhood in southeast Asia. From describing the sizzle of goreng pisang (banana fritters in Malaya popular street food snack across southeast Asia) to the delicate pearl inlays of Peranakan Chinese antique furniture, Kwans world brings to life the shared histories of so many of us in the region and in the diaspora.

The first people who really embraced [Crazy Rich Asians] were the chick-lit audience, Kwan has said of his novel. But thats a genre so dominated by white, Western settings and charactersand for us, it felt almost groundbreaking to recognize scenes of our lives so rarely seen in popular culture. It was also the first time I had read a novel incorporating Hokkien slang, a dialect traditionally spoken among the Chinese community in my mothers birthplace of Penang Island, Malaysia. I hope hearing it in the movie, along with Cantonese, Malay, Mandarin and the distinctive blend of Singaporean-English, will be yet another first for me.

For all its fabulous froth and name-dropping galore, the franchise raises important questions about race and representation. The novels have been criticized for failing to incorporate Singapores minority populations, such as Indians and Malays, and placing an ethnically Chinese elite in its own crazy rich strata when the reality is slightly more diverse.

The screen adaptation too has sparked debate, particularly following scrutiny on recent examples of Hollywood whitewashing. Crazy Rich Asians casting of male lead Henry Golding, a fellow Malaysian-Brit, was described by critics as not being Asian enough. I know how he feels, and am often reminded that despite having an Asian name, I dont look typically Asian. It can be complex to negotiate your sense of Asian identity while grappling with your white privilege. Where are the boundaries? Golding, who is half-white too, responded to the criticism. Where are the lines drawn for saying that you cannot play this character because youre not fully Asian? And Goldings inclusion in the cast is an important part of making a growing mixed-race generation particularly in the diasporamore visible.

The fact that the films creators pushed for a wider theatrical release is meaningful in itselfenabling people like me worldwide to see ourselves represented on screen. But also being able to acknowledge the shortcomings of Crazy Rich Asians matters too. We should be able to celebrate its existence as a milestone, but we should also be able to critique it.

We still have a long way to go to elevate the diverse stories coming from southeast Asia, across cultures, countries and races. But to see familiar faces, places, phrases and even recipes depicted with a warm tenderness underneath Crazy Rich Asians glittering exterior is a start. For me, that attention to detail is where the real wealth of the story lies.Cairo (AFP) - Egyptian authorities have arrested six suspected members of a "terrorist cell" behind a failed suicide attack on a church in the outskirts of Cairo, the interior ministry said Sunday.

A suicide bomber attempted to attack the Virgin Lady Church in the Shobra el-Kheima district on Saturday but blew himself up before reaching his target, officials said.

Authorities said an explosive device hidden beneath his clothing detonated as he retreated due to the heavy police presence around the church.

The police identified the bomber as Omar Mohamed Ahmed.

They said he was part of a "terrorist cell", but did not specify which group it belonged to.

After searching the assailant's residence, police said they found evidence on co-conspirators and plans to carry out further attacks.

The interior ministry listed by name six members of the "terrorist cell" who had been arrested.

Christian sites of worship across Egypt have been repeatedly targeted in attacks claimed by the Islamic State group.

A string of bombings on Coptic churches in Cairo, Alexandria and the Nile Delta city of Tanta in 2016 and 2017 killed at least 80 people.

Coptic Christians make up about 10 percent of Egypt's predominantly Sunni Muslim population of some 96 million.

The Egyptian army is currently waging a major operation focused on the Sinai Peninsula to wipe out IS.Elon Musks small act of kindness had a considerable impact on one womans life. Johnna Sabri thanked the tech entrepreneur on Thursday for sharing her open letter with his 22.3 million Twitter followers on Memorial Day. The move sent her jewelry sales skyrocketing, and a subsequent tweet accepting a gift convinced her not to take her life.

Sabri published her open letter to Musk on April 9, where she explained how the CEOs persistence persuaded her to continue. She started a nonprofit in 2009 to raise awareness for homelessness in the United States, but the organizations vision of uniting artists to draw attention ultimately failed. After this, Sabri managed a gallery in Dallas before moving to Houston last year, only to lose almost everything in Hurricane Harvey. Sabri moved back to Atlanta, and it was here where she wanted a Musk interview about how he takes inspiration from SpaceXs repeated rocket launch failures. It inspired her to set up a jewelry line, Diamonds For Her, to also help nonprofits for women in need.

Thank you for the lovely letter https://t.co/xGNMj5FOhg  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 28, 2018

During these years, Sabri claims she was used by a man to get a green card. Her friends convinced her to try online dating in Texas in 2013, where she met Mo from Jordan. Mo encouraged her to share the letter with Musk, which led to a boost in jewelry sales. Mo abruptly left soon after, and after some digging, she discovered a series of online dating profiles. With no job and living in Baton Rouge, Sabri considered suicide, but changed her mind after Musk agreed to receive from her a space rock wrapped in copper, a gesture that made her reconsider.

I hope that Elon reads this, Sabri wrote in the open letter. If you are, yes I wrote you that open letter, but I owe my life. You literally saved my life. You may have some idea of the impact you have on millions of lives, but you know only the tip of the iceberg. After I saw that tweet, I cried for hours. I couldnt reply. I couldnt move. I was immobile with a mix of sorrow, gratitude and grief that was blanketed with shock. Shock at what Id lost and what Id almost done. And shock that you, of all people, tweeted me at the right time.

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Musk wrote on his Twitter page on Friday in response to the story: Love this from P&P: One has got all the goodness, and the other all the appearance of it. Reminds me so of my Nana, who was very stern & strict & yet kindest of all. Believe in good.

Photos via Flickr

More From InverseISTANBUL (Reuters) - The United States has turned its back on its NATO ally Turkey over a Christian American pastor and such treatment has annoyed and upset Ankara, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday. "If the U.S. is turning its back on us...choosing a pastor instead, sorry...we continue our path with decisive steps," Erdogan told a crowd of supporters in Black Sea coastal city of Rize. "This treatment by America of its strategic partner has annoyed us, it has upset us." The two governments have been at odds over a wide range of topics - from diverging interests in Syria, to Turkey's ambition to buy Russian defense systems and the case of evangelical pastor Andrew Brunson, who is on trial in Turkey on terrorism charges. (Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk; editing by David Stamp)By Brendan O'Brien and Alex Dobuzinskis

(Reuters) - Federal authorities on Saturday were seeking to learn what drove an airline worker to steal an empty airplane from Seattle's airport in a security scare that caused the scrambling of U.S. fighter jets and ended when the plane crashed.

A Horizon Air ground service agent got into a Bombardier Q400 turboprop aircraft on Friday night in a maintenance area at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and took off, Horizon sister carrier Alaska Airlines said.

He flew for about one hour, often erratically with attempts at aerial stunts, before crashing onto sparsely populated Ketron Island in Puget Sound, some 25 miles (40 km) to the southwest.

The 29-year-old man, who has not been officially identified, was suicidal and appeared to have acted alone, according to authorities. He was believed to have been killed in the crash.

Relatives and co-workers identified the man as Richard Russell of Sumner, Washington, who also went by the name Beebo.

"He was a faithful husband, a loving son, and a good friend," the Russell family said in a statement.

"This is a complete shock to us. We are devastated by these events and Jesus is truly the only one holding this family together right now," the family said.

Russell was not known to have had a pilot's license, Horizon Air Chief Executive Gary Beck said at a news conference, and it was not clear how he was able to take off and fly as he did.

"There were some maneuvers that were done that were incredible maneuvers with the aircraft," Beck said. "Commercial aircraft are complex machines. They're not as easy to fly as, say, a Cessna 150, so I don't know how he achieved the experience that he did," Beck said.

The local sheriff's department said on Twitter that either doing stunts "or lack of flying skills" caused the crash.

In partial recordings of Russell's conversations with air traffic controllers that were published online by Broadcastify.com, he said he was sorry to disappoint people who cared about him and described himself as a "broken guy."

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"Got a few screws loose, I guess," Russell is heard saying in the recording. "Never really knew it until now."

He also admired the sunset, complained of lightheadedness, and asked whether he would go to prison if he landed safely.

He had worked for Horizon Air for 3-1/2 years and had clearance to tow planes, Alaska Airlines Chief Executive Brad Tilden said at the news conference.

Tilden said airplanes of that type do not have doors that lock or ignition keys like cars.

"The setup in aviation in America is we secure the airfield and then we have the mindset that we have employees that are credentialed and authorized to be there," Tilden said, adding that the airline was working with authorities to investigate.

The FBI is leading the probe, which also includes the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board.

"We are going to be thorough, which means taking the time needed to scour the area, delve into the background of the individual believed responsible, and review every aspect of this incident with all appropriate public & private partners," the FBI said in a statement.

Two F-15 fighter jets took to the air from a base in Portland, Oregon, and were on the scene within minutes. The jets were armed but did not open fire, North American Aerospace Defense Command spokesman Cameron Hillier said by phone.

Instead, the F-15 pilots and air traffic controllers tried to guide the plane west, away from populated areas, said Hillier. No one was hurt on the ground, authorities said.

It was unclear how the employee was able to taxi the plane on a runway and take off without authorization.

The Bombardier Q400 turboprop is designed for short-distance flights and can seat 76 passengers, Alaska Air said.

(This story has been refiled to fix typo in headline)

(Reporting by Brendan O'Brien in Milwaukee and Alex Dobuzinskis in Los Angeles; Additional reporting by Jon Herskovitz in Austin, Texas; Editing by Steve Orlofsky and Kim Coghill)Former White House staffer Omarosa Manigault Newman has raised West Wing security concerns after claiming she was able to secretly record her Situation Room firing with chief of staff John Kelly.

The recording  which aired on Sunday during an interview on NBCs Meet the Press  is the latest in a whirlwind of accusations, stories and recordings that have come from the estranged staffer, who is also running a media tour to drum up attention for her new White House tell-all, Unhinged.

In the clip, Mr Kelly can be heard citing some pretty serious integrity violations for Ms Manigault Newmans ouster.

I think its important to understand that if we make this a friendly departure, we can all be, you know, we can look at your time here in the White House as a year of service to the nation, Mr Kelly appears to say in the recording.

And then you can go on without any type of difficulty in the future relative to your reputation.

The disclosure of that recording was met with swift concern for the security standards in the White House, as the Situation Room is intended to be a secure room where highly classified matters are discussed.

The presence of an insecure phone that was recording could indicate broader security concerns, critics have said.

As someone who spent a fair amount of time in the Situation Room, I cant even begin to wrap my head around how insane this is, tweeted Ilan Goldenberg, an expert in Middle Eastern affairs who previously held a high ranking position in the State Department during the Obama administration.

If Omarosa carried for example a cellphone into the Situation Room then not only did she record conversations there, but then so potentially has any country or criminal organisation that thought to hack her phone, David Frum, senior editor at The Atlantic, wrote.

Ms Manigault Newman, a former Apprentice contestant, has been steering a media tour that has already lobbed a variety of accusations towards President Donald Trump and his White House.

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She has said that members of the Trump 2020 campaign attempted to get her to sign a non-disclosure agreement to keep her from speaking out about her time in the West Wing.

She has also suggested a tape showing the president repeatedly using the N-word during his time on The Apprentice exists.

Mr Trump and the White House have pushed back on the suggestions in her book, claiming to various degrees that Ms Manigault Newman is peddling falsehoods.

The president, on Saturday, told the press at his Bedminster, New Jersey estate that his former staffer was a lowlife, and other White House staffers have similarly pushed back against her.

White House counsellor Kellyanne Conway, for instance, noted that Ms Manigault Newman previously praised Mr Trump, and argued that she had undercut her own credibility in the book by offering up divergent accounts on whether she had actually heard tapes in which Mr Trump allegedly used the N-word repeatedly.

This is somebody who gave a glowing appraisal of Donald Trump the businessman, the star of The Apprentice, the candidate and indeed the president of the United States, Ms Conway said on ABC News.

I have worked alongside that man for over two straight years now without interruption. I have never a single time heard him use a racial slur about anyone.

Ms Manigault Newman was dismissed from her White House position in December, and it was later revealed that her firing may have been related to her having used the West Wings car service as a personal drop-off and delivery service.

She also reportedly brought her 39-person wedding party back to the White House for an extravagant photoshoot in 2017, upsetting West Wing staffers at the time.Police and RCMP officers survey the area of a shooting in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada on 10 August 2018: Keith Minchin/The Canadian Press via AP

Police are investigating a shooting in eastern Canada, after four people were killed - two of them police officers - and a suspect was taken into custody.

Gunfire broke out at around around 7am in an apartment complex on Brookside Drive in Fredericton, a city of almost 60,000 people which is the capital of New Brunswick province.

Details about the suspect and victims have not yet been released, but police confirmed the suspect was being treated for serious injuries. It is unclear if the wounds were self-inflicted or a result of a shoot-out with responding officers.

Police Chief Leanne Fitch identified one of the slain officers as Robb Costello, 45. His common-law partner Jackie McLean, said a police inspector informed her Mr Costello was among the victims. The couple had been together for four years and he leaves behind four children.

Ms Fitch said Sarah May Burns, 43, was also killed. Ms Burns, a mother of three, had been on the force for two years.

For a short time following the incident, police had put the entire area on lockdown, including a nearby daycare centre.

The Sunny Days Children's Centre in Fredericton experienced a chilling moment during the shooting.

"[It was] like a crack, crack, crack, crack  like a handgun," Rachel LeBlanc, director of the facility, told CBC Radio.

"We had to lock all the main doors, and we did put them in a room that had no windows and we shut off the lights," she said. More than 20 children had already been dropped off for the day when the shooting began around 7am.

Keeping children together with older siblings, they all happily sat watching a movie. "They have no idea what's going on," Ms LeBlanc said.

"I still dont know what to think. You cant unsee what I saw," Tim Morehouse, who lives in the apartment complex where the shooting took place, told Global News.

I looked outside first and there was a cop that was shooting at the shooter and looked at my back window and saw three people that were dead."

Story continues

Describing the bodies he saw, he added: There was one male cop, a female cop and one civilian.

Other witnesses in the apartment complex and surrounding area also expressed shock at the event, with several saying this was atypical for the quiet residential area and for the city as a whole.

Bill Henwood, a funeral director at York Funeral Home, whose business is located inside the cordoned off area on Brookside Drive in Fredericton, said the lockdown occurred before anybody got to his workplace.

Mr Henwood told the Associated Press people had been sitting in their cars or just standing near police and fire brigade vehicles, "hanging tight and waiting for word" on what comes next.

"All the businesses even on the outside of the lockdown area have their lobbies and their business areas closed. They aren't letting customers in at the moment," he said.

Mr Henwood said: "It's not something that we expect in Fredericton to wake up and hear about. To see that there's actually fatalities is pretty extraordinary for this area. It doesn't normally happen."

For reference, the entire province only had 11 homicides in all of 2016.

Police deaths are even more rare.

Resident Marlene Weaver was in bed morning when she heard the shots ring out.

"It was scary," she told Reuters, adding that it reminded her of the 2014 shooting when three Royal Canadian Mounted Police constables were shot and killed in Moncton, New Brunswick, approximately 121 miles (195 km) from Fredricton, by shooter Justin Bourque.

It was the first homicide in Moncton in four years at that point, but not the deadliest incident for the RCMP.

In 2005, James Roszko of Mayerthorpe in the Alberta province, shot and killed four RCMP constables as they were carrying out a property seizure on his farm. It stands as the deadliest incident for the RCMP in Canadian history.

The suspects motive or relationship to the civilian victims has not been public at this time, but a local hospital indicated it was treating multiple people for injuries related to the incident.

Canadian Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale told journalists on the scene he could not discuss the details of the investigation at the moment.

"Well see where this investigation leads in terms of what exactly happened, who did it, what was the motivation for doing it and the instruments of destruction that were used," he said.

He added: "But broadly speaking, the government of Canada is obviously taking the issue of gun violence very seriously."

By 10am local police had lifted the lockdown on the Brookside Drive area, but indicated the investigation was continuing as the suspect was taken into custody.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded to the second multiple-fatality shooting in the last three weeks via Twitter.

"Awful news coming out of Fredericton. My heart goes out to everyone affected by this morning's shooting. We're following the situation closely, he wrote.

On 22 July, two people were killed and 13 injured in the Greektown section of Toronto.

The 29-year-old gunman, identified by police as Faisal Hussain, died. It remains unclear if his death was self-inflicted or from a shoot-out with two police officers responding to the violence.

Toronto Mayor John Tory also responded to the Fredericton shooting.

He said in a statement: Unfortunately, weve had more than our own share of experience with these terrible kinds of tragedies and I understand completely how much they are very wounding to the community itself, leave alone the families of the victims, to whom I also express our condolences on behalf of all Torontonians. I also know that our Canadian communities, including Toronto and Fredericton, are resilient.

Though gun-related violence is far more common in their neighbour to the south, Canada has experienced an increase in crimes in recent years.GAZA (Reuters) - A group of Palestinian fishing boats that sailed off the shore of Gaza to challenge an Israeli naval blockade of the coastal enclave drew warning shots from the Israeli navy on Saturday, the boats' organizers said. About 20 fishing boats set sail from Gaza City port toward the maritime border with Israel. The Gaza Health Ministry said there were no casualties reported. An Israeli military spokeswoman said the navy gave the boats verbal warnings before firing in to the air. Palestinian witnesses said some of those on board set tyres alight and set them afloat toward the maritime border before they were confronted by four Israeli naval vessels. Israel says its naval blockade of Gaza is intended to prevent weapons from reaching militant groups, including Hamas, the Islamist movement that controls the Palestinian enclave. Israel and the West designate Hamas as a terrorist organization. More than 2 million Palestinians are packed into the Gaza Strip, which is experiencing deep economic hardship. Israel and Egypt, citing security concerns, keep tight restrictions on their land crossings with Gaza which have reduced its economy to a state of collapse. U.N. and Egyptian-led efforts are under way to mediate a long-term ceasefire between Israel and Hamas who have fought three wars since 2008. The bid is also meant to tackle humanitarian issues in Gaza and improve its economy. Adham Abu Selmeya, one of the flotilla organizers, said the event was meant to send a message to all parties involved in the ceasefire efforts. "We want the world to see the reality of the blockade and the suffering of the people of Gaza, and we will not accept anything less than lifting the blockade once and for all," he said. Cross-border violence has spiked in the past few months. Since the weekly protests began on March 30, the Israeli army has killed 161 Palestinians and a Gaza sniper has killed an Israeli soldier. On Thursday, Egyptian mediation ended a two-day wave of rocket barrages and air strikes between Israel and Gaza militant groups. (Reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi; Writing by Maayan Lubell; Editing by Hugh Lawson)Trump will deny having ever discussed Flynn with James Comey if he is questioned by special counsel Robert Mueller, says Giuliani

There was no conversation about Michael Flynn, Rudy Giuliani said on CNNs State of the Union show on Sunday, contradicting his previous position. Photograph: Charles Krupa/AP

Donald Trump will deny having ever discussed former White House national security adviser Michael Flynn with former FBI director James Comey, if he is questioned about it in a sit-down interview with special counsel Robert Mueller, according to the presidents personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani.

Comey testified to senators last year that Trump told him during an Oval Office meeting that he wished Comey would drop an investigation into Flynns contact with Russian diplomats before Trump was sworn in as president. The conversation underpins any potential obstruction of justice claim that Mueller may bring as part of the investigation into possible collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia.

There was no conversation about Michael Flynn, Giuliani told Jake Tapper on CNNs State of the Union show on Sunday. That is what he will testify to if hes asked that question.

According to Comey, Trump told him I hope you can see your way clear to letting this go, to letting Flynn go after he was informed of an FBI investigation into contacts between Trumps transition team and Russia.

Giulianis comments on Sunday appear to contradict a previous appearanceon ABC last month, in which he said Trump did not directly ask Comey to drop the investigation but offered a more nuanced, Can you give him a break? that in his experience as a prosecutor doesnt determine not going forward.

The revised account of the exchange comes as Trumps legal team seeks to finalise the terms of a possible interview between the special counsel and the president and form an apparent pattern of publicly floating negotiating positions.

In addition to claiming there had been no conversation about Flynn, who was fired weeks after the inauguration when he was found to have misled Vice-President Mike Pence about his contacts with Russian envoys, Giuliani offered a timeline that suggests Comey revised his interpretation of the exchange.

Story continues

There was no conversation about Michael Flynn. The president didnt find out that Comey believed there was until about, I think, it was February when it supposedly took place. Memo came out in May. And in between, Comey testified under oath, in no way had he been obstructed at any time, Giuliani said.

Then all of the sudden in May he says he felt obstructed. He felt pressured by that comment, you should go easy on Flynn. So we maintain the president didnt say that.

The new position, if it holds, cuts through semantic complexities and differences in interpretation to what Trump may have meant, and could avoid what the presidents counsel described as a perjury trap for his client contained in differences of recollection.

The president says he never told Comey he should go easy on Flynn. Comey says the president did; he put it in his memo, Giuliani added. So if he goes in and testifies to that under oath, instead of this being a dispute, they can say its perjury.

Giuliani gave further insight into the Trump teams thinking, softening claims that a sitting president can never be subjected to obstruction of justice complaints.

That, he said, was far-fetched. But he dismissed as very questionable the idea that a claim of obstruction of justice could be made in the context of the president firing someone who reports to him.Lambs on the run!

More than 75 sheep and goats destined for the butcher's block busted out of a New Jersey livestock auction pen, and up to 20 of them are still at large.

The market, just a few hundred feet from the Hackettstown Police Department, summoned officers after noticing the animals had bolted through an unlocked gate.

#RNJNEWS VIDEO: HACKETTSTOWN,NJ (Warren County) - More than 75 goats, sheep escape Hackettstown Livestock Auction. Full story at https://t.co/lELVb2F6Hk. pic.twitter.com/rS3qGVVp7r  Jay Edwards (@JayEdwardsWrnj) August 9, 2018

Cops and citizens rounded up the four-legged fugitives in about an hour, but between 10 and 20 remain on the lam.

Police said they don't plan to keep searching. "None of them are causing a problem at this point, so we're not actively looking for them, but if a call comes in we'll take it from there," said Police Sgt. Darren Tynan, the New Jersey Herald reported.

Most of the animals didn't get very far, and some didn't even make it across the street.

It's not the first time an animal has busted out of the pen.

Last year a goat broke out and has never been caught. People in town took to calling him Fred. He shows up every once in a while.

He showed up shortly before this week's big escape and was seen head-butting the gate, some residents said.

Which led Tynan to joke that Fred may opened gate that gave his friends a brief taste of freedom.

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Related Articles:The cats live on a sanctuary in Syros, a Greek island in the Cyclades - Facebook

The job advert on Facebook sounded almost too good to be true. A living wage, a car, a lovely house to live in - bills paid - with a terrace overlooking the Aegean, just a short walk from a pristine beach on the Greek island of Syros.

The job? Caring for up to 70 cats amounting to four hours of work per day.

Nearly 1,000 Britons applied for the role after the announcement posted by Greek cat sanctuary owner Joan Bowell on Facebook last week went viral.

Her inbox is brimming with applications from hopeful cat caretakers convinced they are the responsible, reliable, honest, practically inclined person with a heart of gold she is looking for.

Veterinarians, doctors, even refugees applied.

We were doing a quiet thing on a Greek island - but no more, Mrs Bowells husband, Richard, 65, told The Telegraph.

The job involves just four hours work per day Credit: Facebook

Mrs Boswell, a Briton, and Mr Boswell, from Denmark, moved to the island of Syros seven years ago.

They found kittens thrown away in garbage cans, bony cats relying on scraps, feral and injured cats that needed care.

The couple began taking in strays and working with local veterinarians to improve the health of village cat colony and the overall island population.

They backed a sterilisation project, funded dental operations, had sick eyes removed, and nursed motherless kittens through the night. If cat dies, Mrs Bowell buries them and places a stone.

Now you hardly see distressed cats on Syros, Mr Bowell says. It all started here.

Sanctuary owners Joan and Richard Bowell have been overwhelmed by the interest in the advert Credit: Facebook

Today the sanctuary is home to anywhere from 55-70 cats, all led around by the resident caretaker cat, Snowy.

Mrs Bowell founded Gods Little People Cat Rescue charity to support the sanctuary with donations and started a Facebook page. At first her posts got a handful of likes as she tried to find homes for cats on Syros.

Then she posted this, it went viral and people have been phoning from all over the world.

Story continues

This fall, the couple plans to return New York, where Mr Bowell has work commitments with the United Nations.

They have drafted five volunteers across Europe to narrow down the 3,000 applications from people offering to take their place  mostly Americans and British nationals  to a pool of 50-100.

The job also comes with a car, bills paid, and a stunning view of the Aegean Credit: Facebook

There are those that start out with: Ive always wanted to live on a Greek island, those who boldly proclaim: I am your person and those who say: What is behind this? and want to know more about the sanctuarys philosophy.

Those are the ones that catch our attention, Mr Bowell said of the latter. Sometimes whispers are best heard.

The position comes with a salary up to 600 (536) a month, with bills, housing and veterinary expenses paid, starting November 1, after a voluntary two-week transition period in October.

There are bonus points for veterinarian skills, cat psychology skills for handling feral or non-sociable felines.

Related Video: Taylor Swift's Cats Have Their Own Merchandise

For more celebrity news visit Yahoo View.More than half of voters think Boris Johnson shouldnt face disciplinary action over his controversial burka comments, according to a new poll.

A ComRes survey for the Sunday Express found that 53% of people were against the former Foreign Secretary being punished for his comments, while 40% said he deserved to be disciplined.

Mr Johnsons comments, in which he described Muslim women in face-covering veils as looking like letterboxes or bank robbers, have sparked infighting in the Conservative Party.

The Uxbridge MP is facing an investigation by an independent panel following complaints that his comments on women who wear burkas breached the Conservative Partys code of conduct.

Controversy  Boris Johnsons comments about burkas have sparked infighting in the Conservative Party (Picture: Reuters)

The ComRes poll was released as Mr Johnson returned to the UK from a holiday in Italy.

Mr Johnson made no comment to waiting reporters as he arrived back at his Oxfordshire home on Saturday evening, but is expected to break his silence in his regular Monday column in the Daily Telegraph, where his controversial comments were first printed six days ago.

MORE: Pictures of the week: Pride, pools and ponies

MORE: Muslim convert facing life after admitting plot to kill 100 outside Oxford St Disney Store

Amid complaints from supporters of an attempt to gag Mr Johnson, the ComRes poll found that 60% of respondents believe that rights to free speech are being weakened, against just 5% who said they were strengthening.

Support for Mr Johnson was markedly higher among older generations, with 77% of over-65s and 63% of 55-64 year-olds saying he should not face discipline, while 62% of 18-24 year-olds and 55% of those in the 25-34 age-group saying he should.

The poll found that Theresa May remains voters preferred leader of the Conservatives, by a margin of 26% to 24% over Boris Johnson, with 42% opting for neither.

Warfare  MPs have warned of warfare within the Conservative Party if Boris Johnson is suspended so he cant take part in a future leadership contest (Picture: Reuters)

The row has sparked infighting in the Conservative party, with Tory MP Andrew Bridgen, a supporter of Mr Johnson, warning of open warfare in the Conservative Party if he is suspended in such a way that he cannot take part in a future leadership contest.

Story continues

He told the Sunday Express: If Boris is suspended it will be open warfare in the Conservative Party. If Theresa May dares engineer a leadership contest while Boris is suspended it will be World War Three.

Brexit-backing MP Jacob Rees-Mogg has branded the investigation launched into Mr Johnsons remarks as a show trial motivated by Mrs Mays personal rivalry with her former Cabinet minister.

The Sunday Times reported that four Cabinet ministers had privately expressed dismay at the handling of the case.

Support  far-right activist Steve Bannon has supported Mr Johnson (Picture: Reuters)

Far-right US activist Steve Bannon, who was in contact with Mr Johnson during his recent visit to the UK, has urged him not to bow at the altar of political correctness by apologising, telling the Sunday Times that Mr Johnson had nothing to apologise for.

Former first secretary of state Damian Green said he feared Mr Johnson was being turned into a martyr by the alt-Right, which would be a disaster for him and the Conservative Party.

Writing for the Mail on Sunday, he said: I am particularly concerned by reports that President Trumps sacked adviser Steve Bannon is forming a Europe-wide far-Right campaign group  and has been in touch with Boris.

I hope that no Conservative politician, including Boris, is taking advice from him about how the Conservative Party should behave.Politicians and activists shared tributes to Heather Heyer on Sunday, honoring the 32-year-old woman killed one year ago while protesting a white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Former Vice President Joe Biden tweeted that Heyers spirit can be seen in every person who stands up to reject hatred and bigotry.

Today we honor the memory of Heather Heyer, whose spirit we see in every person who stands up to reject hatred and bigotry. Make no mistake: this fight goes on. The battle for the soul of this nation rests with each of us, everyday.  Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) August 12, 2018

Heyer was killed on Aug. 12, 2017, when a neo-Nazi who had attended the Unite the Right rally earlier in the day rammed his car into a group of protesters she was walking with. The driver has been charged with first-degree murder and federal hate crimes, and remains in jail until his trial begins in November.

Two Virginia state troopers, Lt. H. Jay Cullen and trooper-pilot Berke M.M. Bates, also died during the white nationalist rally. The police officers were killed when their helicopter crashed shortly after surveilling downtown Charlottesville.

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and CNNs Ana Navarro joined Biden in the chorus of high-profile tweeters memorializing Heyer and calling on Americans to continue protesting the bigotry promoted during last years deadly rally.

A year ago, countless people were injured protesting white supremacy and Neo-Naziism in Charlottesville and and one person, Heather Heyer, was killed. Today, we honor Heather, and all who stood up to hate, by recommitting ourselves to fighting all forms of racism and bigotry.  Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) August 12, 2018

Exactly one year ago, Heather Heyer was murdered for daring to stand up to a group of white supremacists that came together in Charlottesville to protest Americas greatest asset: our diversity. I am thinking of her and her loved ones today.  Cynthia Nixon (@CynthiaNixon) August 12, 2018

This weekend our nation reflects on the events that took place in Charlottesville one year ago. In doing so, we must remember Heather Heyer, Trooper-Pilot Berke M.M. Bates, Lt. H. Jay Cullen, their families and all those impacted by the violent acts of white nationalists.  Senator Bob Casey (@SenBobCasey) August 12, 2018

We live in the age of martyrs.



Like the 1960s, we live in a time where men and women standing up for racial justice are being murdered by white supremacists.



Heather Heyer was a white ally against racism & was murdered on this day one year ago. pic.twitter.com/yRl6tJBP3z  Shaun King (@shaunking) August 12, 2018

Today Im thinking about Heather Heyer, a patriot from Virginia murdered one year ago as she protested against white supremacy and hate.



Her voice, lost when she was much too young, continues to inspire action for justice.



If youre not outraged, youre not paying attention. pic.twitter.com/483QTY5IRq  Rep. Don Beyer (@RepDonBeyer) August 12, 2018

Today we honor Heather Heyer, Trooper-Pilot Berke Bates, Lt. Jay Cullen, and those who were injured when white supremacists brought hate, bigotry, and violence to Charlottesville one year ago. Inclusion and love make this nation great, not bigotry and hatred.  Senator Dick Durbin (@SenatorDurbin) August 12, 2018

#HeatherHeyer. Remember her name. She was killed a year ago while raising her voice against white supremacists. She lost her life defendibg American values. Live like Heather. pic.twitter.com/jfNy4NRkaY  Ana Navarro (@ananavarro) August 12, 2018

We will never forget Heather Heyer and the values she stood for when she lost her life last year in Charlottesville.



Bigotry, racism, violence, and hatred are not welcome in this country.  Sherrod Brown (@SherrodBrown) August 12, 2018

Remembering Heather Heyer today. Let us honor her memory by continuing her brave work. Stand up to hate. March in solidarity. Fight for peace and justice.https://t.co/i4udpYyr4g  Rep. Barbara Lee (@RepBarbaraLee) August 12, 2018

Today marks 1 yr since the violent and deadly #Charlottesville rally that took the life of Heather Heyer. It's a day that reminds us all that our country is still dealing with stark racism and vicious white supremacy. We must redouble our efforts in the fight against hate. https://t.co/o6AIVWdf2G  Kristen Clarke (@KristenClarkeJD) August 12, 2018

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.Thousands of people in California have been evacuated and face uncertainty as wildfires rage through the state.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or CAL FIRE, reports that over 620,000 acres of land have been scorched by fast-moving wildfires this calendar year as emergency crews work to contain and extinguish the blazes. As of this writing, CAL FIRE s fire map shows there are 15 active fires in California.

According to the Mercury News in San Jose, a few that continue are now pushing historic numbers. The Holy Fire in Cleveland National Forest was sparked on August 6 and is now at 21,473 acres and 29% contained, prompting California Governor Jerry Brown to most recently declare a state of emergency in Orange and Riverside counties earlier last week. The Carr Fire in Northern California, which has killed eight people and destroyed over 1,000 homes, is 55% contained since starting late last month and spans 186,416 acres. The Mendocino Complex Fire, which has been ongoing for 2 weeks and is now considered the largest wildfire in California state history, is 58% contained at 276,306 acres.

Due to the destruction and displacement caused by the fires, donations are widely welcome and necessary for everything from evacuation, housing, food, transportation, and medical costs. For those looking to help affected Californians, there are a number of ways to get involved with various organizations and campaigns across the state.

Donate To Regional Organizations & Fundraisers

GoFundMe has hundreds of fundraisers posted by people impacted by the fire; the site has curated lists of verified campaigns to help those affected in the Carr Fire, the Mendocino Complex Fire, and the Holy Fire, as well as campaigns posted from throughout Southern California.

The Salvation Armys Northern and Southern California branches are accepting monetary donations, all of which they say will go directly to relief efforts. The organization has deployed disaster response crews to assist displaced individuals and emergency responders with food and shelter.

Story continues

The Wildland Firefighter Association and Firefighters Charitable Foundation are fundraising to support medical costs for firefighters working to put out the wildfires, along with gathering donations for families of first responders killed on the front lines.

Hundreds of American Red Cross workers have set up temporary shelters and food sites across the state, especially in Northern California, and have so far sheltered thousands of displaced individuals. Red Cross donors can specifically request their donation goes towards California wildfire relief efforts.

CNN's Impact Your World connects people to donate to different local aid organizations, including Community Foundation Sonoma County (which funds Sonoma County charities), Convoy of Hope (which supports the local homeless population), and Operation BBQ Relief (which brings food to displaced communities).

The United Way of Northern California and The Shasta Regional Community Foundation have established fire relief funds in Shasta County. United Way accepts donations via web and by texting CARRFIRE to 91999, which will reply with options for giving. The SRCF reminds donors that donations to them and other nonprofit organizations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.

Volunteer With Local Relief Efforts

The state of Californias California Volunteers initiative has compiled a list of on-the-ground volunteering and donation opportunities for the Carr, Mendocino Complex, Ferguson, and Cranston fires.

The California Community Foundation has curated a list of information and resources, including volunteering opportunities and fundraisers, to help the homeless in Southern California who have been affected by the wildfires. The organization is also working to rebuild homes and offer medical and mental health support in the aftermath of the fires.

Facebook has set up crisis response pages for the Carr, Mendocino Complex, and Holy fires, which curate local news, fundraisers, and calls for supplies and item donations. Users in the area are also able to check in as safe for friends to see.

The Haven Humane Society has evacuated hundreds of pets and strays in the Northern California area, requiring volunteers, donations, and foster homes to help transport, house, and care for local cats and dogs. In Southern California, Los Angeles Animal Service has put out an urgent call for foster homes.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

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I Pay My Landlord $1700/Month  & I'm Running For Office To Lower Rent For AllIndicted Republican Rep. Chris Collins changes course, suspends re-election campaign originally appeared on abcnews.go.com

Republican Rep. Chris Collins, indicted this week for alleged insider trading, has suspended his re-election campaign, and Republicans are expected to try to nominate him for a county clerkship in hopes of removing him from the ballot.

Collins, from the Buffalo area in New York state, earlier said he would stay in the race following his indictment, but announced Saturday that he is suspending his bid for re-election. He plans to serve the remainder of his term.

After extensive discussions with my family and my friends over the last few days, I have decided that it is in the best interests of the constituents of NY-27, the Republican Party and President Trumps agenda for me to suspend my campaign for re-election to Congress, he said in a statement.

Collins was indicted for alleged insider trading Wednesday along with his son and his sons future father-in-law with charges related to an Australian biotechnology company, Innate Immunotherapeutics.

PHOTO: Rep. Chris Collins walks out of a New York court house after being charged with insider trading on Aug. 8, 2018 in New York City. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

Collins, who sat on the board of the company, allegedly shared nonpublic information about a failed drug trial with his son, who passed it along to his future father-in-law and others.

(MORE: Rep. Chris Collins arrested on insider trading charges)

The test results were made public four days later and Innate stock dropped 92 percent. By then, however, Collins, his son and his sons future father-in-law had avoided $768,000 in losses.

Collins has maintained his innocence and said he will fight the charges.

PHOTO: President Donald Trump and Rep. Chris Collins participate in a congressional listening session with GOP members in the Roosevelt Room of the White House on Feb. 16, 2017 in Washington. (Pool via Getty Images, FILE)

The House Ethics Committee is investigating the allegations against him.

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi said House Speaker Paul Ryan should call on Collins to resign.

"No person is above the law, not the president or his first supporter in Congress," Pelosi said in a statement Saturday.

While Collins was favored to win re-election, Democrats have been using the scandal to attack him and other Republicans as they seek to retake control of the House.

A Republican official told ABC News on Saturday that local GOP officials in New York will try to remove Collins from the ballot by nominating him for a county clerkship and will then select a replacement candidate for the House race.DUBAI (Reuters) - Irans Revolutionary Guards said on Saturday they had killed ten militants overnight in a security operation conducted in the northwest of the country near the border with Iraq, the official news agency IRNA reported. "A well-equipped terrorist group ... intending to infiltrate the country from the border area of Oshnavieh to foment insecurity and carry out acts of sabotage was ambushed and at least 10 terrorists were killed in a heavy clash," the Revolutionary Guards said in a statement carried by IRNA. There has been sporadic fighting with Iranian Kurdish militant groups based in Iraq as well as Islamic State fighters near Irans porous border with Iraq. In July, there were at least two clashes in the mountainous border area, in which at least 10 Guards and three militants were killed. In 2017, Islamic State militants carried out coordinated attacks at the parliament building in Tehran and the mausoleum of Iranian revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini south of the capital, killing 18 people. (Reporting by Dubai newsroom; Editing by Mark Potter)David Axe

Security, Middle East

And why Iran should worry.

Israel Now Has a Supersonic Air-Launched Ballistic Missile. Here's What It Can Do.

But for a country such as Israel with fewer launching platforms, a very fast and hard-to-intercept ballistic weapon  however modest its explosive power  might be just what it needs to hold at risk certain kinds of distant targets.

Two Israeli companies together have tested a new, supersonic air-launched ballistic missile with a conventional warhead that could allow fighters to strike heavily-defended targets at long range.

But the new Rampage ALBM isnt without its drawbacks. The weapon is bulky. Its warhead is probably small compared to other missile types.

Israel Aerospace Industries and Israel Military Industry Systems announced in June 2018 they had tested, from an F-16, the 15-feet-long, 1,200-pound, GPS-guided Rampage  and had already inked a sale contract with one customer, presumably the Israeli air force.

(This first appeared last month.)

With Rampage, the Israeli air force could join a slowly growing number of air arms developing ALBMs for non-nuclear attacks. Russia has introduced its own, much larger ALBM. China reportedly is working on one, too.

But the United States apparently doesnt see the value in an air-launched ballistic missile. Existing cruise missiles  which already are available to U.S. forces in very large numbers  are perfectly capable of striking, in large salvos, a wide range of distant targets.

IAI said speed, range and cost are the ALBMs main advantages. Eli Reiter, manager of IMIs firepower division, praised Rampages extraordinary cost-effectiveness ratio but did not disclose the missiles cost.

It can be detected, but it is very hard to intercept, Amit Haimovich, director of marketing for IAIs Malam engineering unit, told The Jerusalem Post.

The Israeli air force operates a wide range of conventional guided air-to-surface munitions. But none are supersonic. And its likely none can match Rampages range. The whole point of this missile is that it can hit targets within standoff ranges, Haimovich said.

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While IAI didnt specify the new weapons reach, a similar but larger Russian weapon reportedly can strike targets as far as 1,200 miles away. Its reasonable to assume Rampage can travel hundreds of miles.

By the same token, its also reasonable to assume Rampage comes with a relatively small warhead. Israels Popeye cruise missile, which is roughly the same length as Rampage is, weighs 3,000 pounds  twice as much as Rampage does  and boasts a 750-pound warhead and a 50-mile range.

At half the weight of Popeye and likely devoting a greater proportion of its internal capacity to fuel,

Rampage probably boasts a much smaller warhead than Popeye does. To be fair, Rampages high speed could lend it kinetic energy that partially compensates for the comparatively small warhead size.

But Rampages size means that an F-15 or F-16 probably wouldnt carry more than two at a time. That limits the size of the missile salvos the Israeli air force could launch at some distant hard target  say, an airfield or chemical-weapons site.

This is a familiar problem for the first operator of ALBMs. In March 2018, Russian president Vladimir Putin introduced Kinzhal, an apparent air-launched version of the Iskander surface-launched rocket. China began testing its own ALBM in December 2016, according to press reports.

The Russian air force has modified six MiG-31 long-range fighters to carry the 25-feet-long Kinzhal, according to air-power expert Babak Taghvaee. The Kremlin will modify, before the end of 2018, as many as six more MiG-31s to carry the ALBM, Taghvaee claimed.

Recommended: How an Old F-15 Might Kill Russias New Stealth Fighter

Recommended: How China Plans to Win a War Against the U.S. Navy

Recommended: How the Air Force Would Destroy North Korea

The squadron-size force of ALBM-armed MiGs gives Russia the ability to strike heavily-defended targets at long range. But not very many targets. Were talking about isolated launches  two or three or six missiles at a time, said Pavel Podvig, an expert on the Russian military. The same limitations could apply to Israeli warplanes lobbing Rampages.

When it comes to long-range strikes, it clearly isnt worth it to the U.S. military to trade warhead- and salvo-size for the protective benefit of speed, when it can simply launch lots of relatively slow weapons to compensate for their comparative vulnerability.

But for a country such as Israel with fewer launching platforms, a very fast and hard-to-intercept ballistic weapon  however modest its explosive power  might be just what it needs to hold at risk certain kinds of distant targets.

This first appeared in WarIsBoring here.

Read full articleHeather Heyer memorial (Photo: Getty Images)

Politicians and celebrities took to their Twitter accounts on Sunday to honor the memory of Heather Heyer, sharing thanks for her fight against racism and bigotry, as well as pledges to continue the fight in her honor.

Former Vice President Joe Biden wrote, Today we honor the memory of Heather Heyer, whose spirit we see in every person who stands up to reject hatred and bigotry.

Today we honor the memory of Heather Heyer, whose spirit we see in every person who stands up to reject hatred and bigotry. Make no mistake: this fight goes on. The battle for the soul of this nation rests with each of us, everyday.  Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) August 12, 2018

Other elected officials across the country echoed Bidens sentiments.

Remembering Heather Heyer today. Let us honor her memory by continuing her brave work. Stand up to hate. March in solidarity. Fight for peace and justice.https://t.co/i4udpYyr4g  Rep. Barbara Lee (@RepBarbaraLee) August 12, 2018

A year ago, countless people were injured protesting white supremacy and Neo-Naziism in Charlottesville and and one person, Heather Heyer, was killed. Today, we honor Heather, and all who stood up to hate, by recommitting ourselves to fighting all forms of racism and bigotry.  Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) August 12, 2018

Today marks 1 yr since the tragic white supremacist rally in #Charlottesville, when Heather Heyer was killed. As her mother has shared, her legacy is a call to action. Last yr remains a profound reminder: we must remain vigilant & united in our efforts to defeat bigotry & hatred.  Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) August 12, 2018

Today Im thinking about Heather Heyer, a patriot from Virginia murdered one year ago as she protested against white supremacy and hate. Her voice, lost when she was much too young, continues to inspire action for justice. If youre not outraged, youre not paying attention. pic.twitter.com/483QTY5IRq  Rep. Don Beyer (@RepDonBeyer) August 12, 2018

On this somber anniversary, we remember Heather Heyer, Jay Cullen, and Berke Bates. And we recommit ourselves to speaking out against hate and embracing true equality.#Charlottesville pic.twitter.com/fssF0jYh7B  Tim Kaine (@timkaine) August 12, 2018

Cynthia Nixon, who is running for governor in New York and who famously starred as Miranda in the Sex and the City series, wrote, Heather Heyer was murdered for daring to stand up to a group of white supremacists that came together in Charlottesville to protest Americas greatest asset: our diversity.

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Exactly one year ago, Heather Heyer was murdered for daring to stand up to a group of white supremacists that came together in Charlottesville to protest Americas greatest asset: our diversity. I am thinking of her and her loved ones today.  Cynthia Nixon (@CynthiaNixon) August 12, 2018

Bernice King, the daughter of Martin Luther King Jr., quoted Heyers mother.

But it was a white woman, and people said, Oh my god, it was a white woman, we must have a problem. We always had a problem. Theres a great divide. ~Susan Bro, mother of #HeatherHeyer https://t.co/NcScTuK59r  Be A King (@BerniceKing) August 12, 2018

Actor and activist Alyssa Milano also posted a tribute, as did activist Shaun King.

Rest In Peace, Heather. Today, my heart goes out to all who loved her. With respect and gratitude.  Alyssa Milano (@Alyssa_Milano) August 11, 2018

We live in the age of martyrs. Like the 1960s, we live in a time where men and women standing up for racial justice are being murdered by white supremacists. Heather Heyer was a white ally against racism & was murdered on this day one year ago. pic.twitter.com/yRl6tJBP3z  Shaun King (@shaunking) August 12, 2018

Heyer will not soon be forgotten, if her mother, Susan Bro, has anything to say about it. She has spent the past year traveling around the country to promote the Heather Heyer Foundation, launched within days of her death, to carry on her daughters legacy of opposition to racism  and to help her cope with her horrifying loss.

Susan Bro poses with a photo and portrait of her daughter, Heather Heyer, on Dec. 13, 2017. (Photo: Norm Shafer for the Washington Post via Getty Images)

Shes also attempting to carry on Heyers legacy by encouraging people to become active in the face of injustice. Speaking to Yahoo News, Bro quoted her daughter: If youre not outraged, youre not paying attention.

We have to have a lot of difficult conversations with people that we would not normally want to have conversations with, she says. And be willing to listen to what theyre saying, think about it and then respond. You dont need to respond immediately. You dont need to respond with hate. You dont need to respond defensively. You need to respond rationally, and I think thats whats gonna move the country forward.

On Aug. 12, Bro is planning to lay flowers on the spot on Fourth Street where her daughter died. Shes also scheduled to speak at an NAACP event that evening.

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.By Suleiman Al-Khalidi AMMAN (Reuters) - Security forces pulled the bodies of three suspected militants from the wreckage of a building in a central Jordanian city on Sunday following a shoot-out in which four security personnel were also killed, the government said. In a huge security operation, Jordanian forces laid siege to the building in a residential part of Salt on Saturday night in search of those responsible for a bomb attack on a police van on Friday. The police vehicle had been maintaining security near a music festival in the majority Christian town of Fuhais, near the capital Amman and 15 kilometres (about 10 miles) from Salt. Four security personnel were killed during the operation after the suspected militants sought sanctuary in the multi-storey building in Salt, a hillside city, the government said. The side of the building partially collapsed, possibly because of a blast from a suicide bomber inside, a security source said. The shoot-out also left at least 20 people injured, including women and children living in the area. They had been taken overnight to a hospital in the capital, a medical source said. Security forces had seized automatic weapons during a search of what was left of the building, government spokeswoman Jumana Ghunaimat told Reuters. They later demolished the building and the security operation had now ended, Ghunaimat said on Sunday. No group has claimed responsibility for Friday's attack on the van in Fuhais in which one policeman was killed and six others were injured. Militants from Islamic State and other radical jihadist groups have long targeted the U.S.-allied Jordan and dozens of militants are currently serving long prison terms. King Abdullah, a Middle East ally of Western powers against Islamist militancy who has also safeguarded Jordans peace treaty with Israel, has been among the most vocal leaders in the region in warning of threats posed by radical groups. Chairing a meeting of the country's national security council on Sunday, the monarch warned the perpetrators would pay dearly. "We will fight the Khawarij and strike at them without mercy and with all strength and determination," the monarch, a career soldier, was quoted as saying in a palace statement. The monarch used the term used for radical groups such as Islamic State who declare Muslims they disagree with as apostates. The government announced three days of mourning as thousands of people attended funerals of the security personnel who were laid to rest with full military honors. Officials have not formally disclosed the identity of the militants but security officials say some evidence points to Islamic State-affiliated sleeper cells inside the kingdom. Several incidents over the past few years have jolted Jordan, which has been comparatively unscathed by the uprisings, civil wars and Islamist militancy that have swept the Middle East since 2011. It was not clear how many militants fled into the building which is in a busy residential quarter of Salt. But five had now been rounded up in addition to three earlier, security sources said. Part of the building was blown up by the militants, according to Ghunaimat and a security source said it was believed a suicide bomber had blown himself up causing its partial collapse. Jordan's Prime Minister Omar Razzaz had set up a "crisis cell" bringing in top security and government officials to coordinate the large security operation deploying hundreds of forces. The security forces were investigating if the militants were part of a wider sleeper cell network of Islamist radicals that had planned a series of attacks, an official source said. Jordan said in January that it had foiled an Islamic State plot that included plans for a series of attacks last November on security installations, shopping malls and moderate religious figures. It arrested the suspects. Security forces have been extra vigilant with warnings that sympathizers of Islamic State could launch revenge attacks after the militants were driven out of most of the territory they once controlled in Syria and Iraq. Intelligence officials and some experts believe widening social disparities and a perception of widespread official corruption is fuelling a rise in radicalization among disaffected youths in a country with high unemployment and growing poverty. (Reporting by Suleiman Al-Khalidi; Editing by Richard Balmforth and Susan Fenton)By Suleiman Al-Khalidi AMMAN (Reuters) - Jordan said on Saturday four people were killed during a police raid on a house sheltering militants suspected of being behind a bomb attack on a police van a day earlier. Security forces stormed a building in the city of Salt where suspects behind the planting of the home-made bomb that killed one policeman on Friday were believed to be hiding. Government spokeswoman Jumana Ghunaimat told the state news agency Petra that three suspects had been arrested so far in an operation that was still underway against a cell hiding in a building in the center of hillside Salt city, about 30 km (18 miles) west of Amman. The suspects had refused to hand themselves over to the security forces and blown up part of the hilltop building, Ghunaimat added. Later Ghunaimat said security forces were moving to seize the site and see if there were any civilians held hostage. Witnesses heard several strong explosions near the site which a security source said were explosives being detonated by the police as they closed in on the militants. Police had earlier blamed a gas canister for Friday's blast near the site of a music festival in the town of Fuheis. Ambulances were seen rushing to the main city hospital from near the building in a residential area of Salt that was sealed off by police. Several incidents over the past few years have jolted the Arab kingdom, which has been comparatively unscathed by the uprisings, civil wars and Islamist militancy that have swept the Middle East since 2011. Militants from al Qaeda and other radical jihadist groups have long targeted the U.S.-allied kingdom and dozens of militants are currently serving long prison terms. Jordan earlier this year said it had foiled an Islamic State plot that included plans for a series of attacks last November on security installations, shopping malls and moderate religious figures, state media reported. Security forces have been extra vigilant since the start of this year with warnings that sympathisers of Islamic State could launch revenge attacks after the militants were driven out of most of the territory they once controlled in Syria and Iraq. King Abdullah, a Middle East ally of Western powers against Islamist militancy who has also safeguarded Jordans peace treaty with Israel, has been among the most vocal leaders in the region in warning of threats posed by radical groups. Jordan plays a prominent role in the U.S.-led coalition against Islamic State, providing military, logistical and intelligence support, according to Western diplomats and regional intelligence sources. (Reporting by Suleiman Al-Khalidi; editing by David Stamp and Jonathan Oatis)Carey Dean Moore was convicted of killing two cab drivers in 1979 and is scheduled to die on Tuesday - Nebraska Department of Correctional Services

A judge on Friday refused to block Nebraska from carrying out the state's first-ever lethal injection despite a pharmaceutical company's claims that the state illicitly obtained its drugs, clearing the way for the country's first execution with fentanyl.

US District Judge Richard Kopf denied the company's request to temporarily block state prison officials from executing Carey Dean Moore, one of the nation's longest-serving death row inmates. Moore is scheduled to die on Tuesday in Nebraska's first execution since 1997 with a never-before-tried combination of drugs.

Moore, who was convicted of killing two cab drivers five days apart in 1979, has stopped fighting the state's efforts to execute him.

Mr Kopf said granting the drug company's request would "frustrate the will of the people," referring to the 61 percent of Nebraska voters who chose to reinstate capital punishment in 2016 after lawmakers abolished it.

"I will not allow the plaintiff to frustrate the wishes of Mr Moore and the laws of the state of Nebraska," he said during the hearing.

At a glance | Fentanyl

Attorneys for the drug company, Fresenius Kabi, filed a lawsuit earlier this week arguing that state officials improperly obtained at least one of the company's drugs. Attorney Mark Christensen said the company planned to file an immediate appeal of Friday's ruling.

In Nevada, a judge indefinitely postponed an execution last month after drugmaker Alvogen filed a similar lawsuit over one of its products.

Moore is scheduled to be executed with a combination of four drugs: the sedative diazepam, commonly known as Valium, to render him unconscious; fentanyl citrate, a powerful synthetic opioid, which would help render him unconscious; cisatracurium besylate to induce paralysis and halt his breathing; and potassium chloride to stop his heart.

US death penalty by state

Fentanyl is among the drugs that have fuelled America's opioid epidemic. Prince died after accidentally overdosing on the painkiller.

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Pharmaceutical companies have become increasingly intent on preventing their life-saving or pain relieving products being tainted with use in executions. Campaigners against capital punishment believe it has left American states with a finite supply of lethal chemicals.

Fresenius Kabi argues that it manufactured the state's supply of potassium chloride and possibly the cisatracurium.

Nebraska state officials have refused to identify the source of their execution drugs, but Fresenius Kabi alleges the state's supply of potassium chloride is stored in 30 millilitre bottles. Fresenius Kabi said it's the only company that packages the drug in vials of that size.

Fresenius Kabi said Nebraska's use of its drugs would damage its reputation and business relationships. The company said it takes no position on capital punishment, but strongly opposes the use of its products for use in executions.

No other public evidence has surfaced to confirm the supplier's identity. A state judge in Nebraska ordered prison officials in June to release documents that might reveal the source of the drugs, but the state has appealed that ruling.

State attorneys deny Fresenius Kabi's allegation that prison officials obtained the drugs illicitly.CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP)  The Latest on events marking the anniversary of violent white nationalist rallies in Charlottesville, Virginia (all times local):

4:55 p.m.

A group of about 30 white nationalists has marched to a park near the White House for what they call a rally in favor of white civil rights.

Thousands of counterprotesters are in the area, too, and jeered and heckled the white nationalists as they made their way down the street surrounded by police.

The demonstration and counterdemonstration come on the anniversary of last year's deadly gathering of neo-Nazis, skinheads, Ku Klux Klan members, and others in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Sunday's gathering is being led by the principal organizer of last year's "Unite the Right" event, Jason Kessler.

___

3:45 p.m.

A contingent of about 30 white nationalists is marching down a Washington street toward the White House surrounded by a protective bubble of police officers and vehicles.

Hundreds of counterprotesters are walking alongside the group but keeping on the sidewalks, many of them shouting and taunting the nationalists as they make their way to a park in front of the White House.

The demonstration and counterdemonstration come on the anniversary of last year's deadly gathering of neo-Nazis, skinheads, Ku Klux Klan members, and others in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Sunday's gathering is being led by the principal organizer of last year's "Unite the Right" event, Jason Kessler, who calls the demonstration a rally for white civil rights.

___

2:30 p.m.

More than 1,000 protesters are gathered in Freedom Plaza near the White House to rally against a white nationalist demonstration scheduled for later in the day.

The demonstration is being held on the first anniversary of a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, that turned violent and led to the death of a counterprotester.

Makia Green, who represents the Washington branch of Black Lives Matter, told Sunday's crowd that: "We know from experience that ignoring white nationalism doesn't work."

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The counterprotesters plan to march to Lafayette Square in front of the White House, just before the arrival of the white nationalists. Police have erected a maze of barricades to keep the two sides apart.

The counterprotesters are expected to far outnumber the white nationalists.

___

2 p.m.

The mother of a woman killed when a car plowed into a crowd of counterprotesters at a white nationalist rally last summer has visited the site of the attack to mark the anniversary of her daughter's death.

Heather Heyer's mother, Susan Bro, embraced supporters Sunday in downtown Charlottesville. At one point, she asked the crowd to raise their fists in solidarity, and she laid flowers at a makeshift memorial.

Bro said there's still "so much healing to do." She said the city and the country have a "huge racial problem" and that if it's not fixed, "we'll be right back here in no time."

Bro also said the day was about more than just her daughter. She recognized the other victims of the attack, which injured dozens of people, and thanked the two Virginia state troopers killed in a helicopter crash for their sacrifice.

Lt. Jay Cullen and Trooper-Pilot Berke Bates died when their helicopter crashed while deployed as part of the response to last year's violence.

___

1:45 p.m.

A park across the street from the White House is already filling up with people who oppose a white nationalist demonstration that is scheduled to take place later Sunday.

The white nationalists are gathering in Washington on the first anniversary of their rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, that turned violent and led to the death of a counterprotester.

A stage has been set up in Lafayette Park and rap music is playing for a crowd of about 300, many of whom are carrying signs saying "Shut down white supremacy."

Uniformed police officers and a line of police barricades have cut the park in half, restricting the counterprotesters to the northern half, farthest from the White House.

A counterprotest organizer, speaking from the stage, said: "We will be here until these fascist forces are gone, however long that takes."

The white supremacist rally is scheduled to end at 7:30 p.m.

___

11:45 a.m.

More than 100 people are demonstrating against racism in downtown Charlottesville, marking the one-year anniversary of a violent white nationalist rally and protesting this year's ramped-up police presence.

The group began marching Sunday morning after a rally held at a city park and made its way toward downtown. Some marchers linked arms as they walked.

The group directed chants against police officers who were accompanying the march, including "cops and Klan go hand in hand."

Law enforcement officials faced blistering criticism in the wake of last year's rally for what was perceived as a passive response to the violence that unfolded.

A review by a former U.S. attorney found a lack of coordination between state and city police and an operational plan that elevated officer safety over public safety.

Demonstrators on Sunday chanted, "Will you protect us?"

___

9:20 a.m.

Dozens of activists and residents have gathered at a Charlottesville city park to protest racism and to observe the one-year anniversary of a rally by white supremacist that turned deadly.

The Rev. Seth Wispelwey is a founder of a group of clergy and lay people called "Congregate C-ville" last year. The group came together in direct response to white nationalists who gathered in Charlottesville for a "Unite the Right" rally on Aug. 12, 2017.

On that day, white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the city streets before a car driven into a crowd struck and killed 32-year-old Heather Heyer.

Wispelwey says the city's residents are still reeling from the violence that day, but he expressed hope that the anniversary can be a turning point.

___

This item has been updated to correct the spelling of Wispelwey in one instance.

___

A day after tensions between police and community activists nearly boiled over on the University of Virginia's campus, the city of Charlottesville plans to mark Sunday's anniversary of a deadly gathering of white supremacists with a rally against racial hatred. But 115 miles (185 kilometers) away in Washington, the principal organizer of last year's "Unite the Right" event will hold a "white civil rights rally," and police are preparing for counterprotesters.

Jason Kessler abandoned plans for a similar anniversary event in Charlottesville. His Washington permit application says he expects 100 to 400 people Sunday afternoon in Lafayette Park, near the White House.

But some leading figures in the white nationalist movement have said they won't attend or encouraged supporters to stay away. And the events likely will be dwarfed by counterprotests, for which permits also have been issued.Moscow (AFP) - Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Friday in a phone conversation with US counterpart Mike Pompeo that Moscow categorically rejected the latest US sanctions, the foreign ministry said.

"The Russian side expressed categorical rejection of the new sanctions recently announced by Washington," the ministry said in a statement.

Lavrov reiterated to the US Secretary of State Russia's position that Moscow played no role in the nerve agent poisoning in Salisbury of former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal, which prompted the latest US sanctions.

"Lavrov stressed that neither the US nor Britain nor any other country since the incident in Salisbury has presented a single fact to back up such claims," the ministry said.

The British government has blamed Russia for the attack using the Novichok nerve agent developed in the Soviet Union and has won support from EU members, the US and other countries, which in March expelled Russian diplomats in a coordinated action.

The US State Department provided a short readout of the call, noting that Pompeo and Lavrov had discussed the new sanctions and "ongoing challenges in Syria."

"Secretary Pompeo reiterated that the United States seeks an improved relationship with Russia and agreed to future dialogue," State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said in a statement.Progressives are singling out technology companies for new regulations. For instance, in New York, the City Council has just voted to cap the number of ridesharing vehicles for services like Uber and Lyft, and may require that drivers earn a minimum amount. Last month, California imposed costly and complex regulations on the voluntary exchange of data with such services as Facebook and Google. But progressives also argue that inequality is the defining issue of our time, and these regulations hamper these companies contributions to reduce such inequality.

Goods and services available at no cost boost equality, because most people can enjoy them. Facebook and Google provide search, maps, and connections that benefit billions of people. Once a consumer pays for an internet connection, they get such services at what an economist would call a marginal cost of zero. And these free services are valuable, as shown by the ever increasing amount of time people spend using them.

To be sure, in return for these benefits, we give up personal data that provide profits to companies like Facebook and Google because they can then sell targeted advertisements. But taking account of the datas value underscores the equalizing force of the services provided by the tech giants. The wealthier a user is, the more valuable his or her data. Thus, many people of modest means are getting a substantially greater net benefit than the wealthy.

Ridesharing services are not free, but they nevertheless democratize the amenities of transportation, providing a better life to those who are not part of the one percent. The very rich have traditionally enjoyed chauffeurs who are available to give them a quality ride anywhere at moments notice. Ridesharing services provide a good approximation of a chauffeur at the touch of an app, even in the rain or in an unfamiliar town. More generally, a defining characteristic of being very wealthy has been having servants at beck and call. The sharing and gig economies create information infrastructures to make providers seamlessly available when the middle class needs them most.

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Those providing these innovations gain benefits as well. For instance, ridesharing drivers get advantages that medallion taxis drivers dont. Since some have few fixed costs, using the app they can make stop and start decisions as they please, which allows them to more easily take care of family or pursue other activities. Economists have estimated that this amenity is worth as much as 40 percent in addition to their dollar earnings.

Airbnb similarly promotes equality because it allows people of modest means to monetize their single greatest asset: their home. In contrast, rich peoples wealth is already monetized, as it is often predominantly in securities. But before Airbnb, it was hard for most people to find a market to rent a spare room or their entire home when they were on vacation.

But new progressive regulation will reduce these benefits. For instance, proposals to treat ridesharing participants as employees would reduce the flexibility that permits the supply of rideshares to expand at a moments notice to meet demand. Requiring Uber and Lyft drivers to earn a minimum amount is likely to raise prices, shrinking the services benefits to both passengers and drivers. Similarly, restrictions on Airbnb make it much more difficult for people to earn income from their most valuable asset.

Meanwhile, If other jurisdictions follow Californias recent legislation and impose complex and costly regulations on the voluntary exchange of data for services, it will reduce the incentives of companies like Google and Facebook to provide further free goods to the world. Thirty years ago, accessing all the worlds information for free with the click of a mouse was the stuff of science fiction. We cannot predict the innovative free services of tomorrow  but they too are likely dependent on the stream of income that tech companies get from aggregating our data.

Similarly, as the gig and sharing economies expand from ridesharing and room sharing to rent a chef or handyman, they more broadly distribute the personal services that once were the sole province of the rich. But targeting this economy with new regulations reduces further gains for equality.

To be sure, the information technology component of services should not immunize companies from general laws. If Airbnb hosts are discriminating against guests on the basis of race, they should be fined. If Uber is misleading its drivers into renting cars at bad prices, that practice should be prohibited. Facebook and Google, like other companies, should be forced to disclose to consumers exactly the terms to which they are agreeing. But targeting these companies with special regulation helps their competitors and harms not only efficiency, but equality.

But the progressive yen to regulate the information economy ignores an essential truth: information technology helps equalize consumption. We cannot eat the same apple or live in the same house, but we can all benefit from the same information, be it the information on the internet or the network of drivers and short term rental properties that the sharing economy provides. Innovation in information delivery will continue to have important leveling effects if regulation gets out of the way.PARIS/MOSCOW (Reuters) - French President Emmanuel Macron spoke by phone to Russia's Vladimir Putin about the case of a Ukrainian filmmaker who is on hunger strike in Russian jail, Macron's office said on Friday. Sentsov, 42, was arrested in Crimea after the Ukrainian territory was seized by Russian forces and annexed in 2014. He was jailed for 20 years on terrorism charges which he says are politically motivated, and has been on hunger strike since May to highlight Russia's human rights record. "The President of the Republic conveyed to President Putin his concerns, given that the health of Mr Sentsov seems to have worsened dangerously, and the importance that Russia urgently finds a humanitarian solution to the situation," a statement from Macron's Elysee Palace said. "President Putin committed to respond and to quickly publish information on Mr Sentsov's health," it said. A statement published by the Kremlin after the conversation did not mention Sentsov, but Interfax later quoted Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as confirming that the subject was discussed, without providing any more details. The Kremlin had said on Thursday it had received a letter from the mother of Sentsov asking Putin to pardon her son. Sentsov's health is rapidly declining, his lawyer and a relative said. (Reporting by Sudip Kar-Gupta in Paris and Polina Ivanova in Moscow; Writing by Ingrid Melander)Bamako (AFP) - Malians were called to the ballot box on Sunday for a presidential runoff likely to see Ibrahim Boubacar Keita return to office despite criticism of his handling of the country's security crisis.

The second round is a rerun of a 2013 faceoff that Keita won by a landslide over former finance minister Soumaila Cisse.

This year's campaign saw fierce attacks on his failure to dampen a wave of jihadist bloodshed and ethnic violence.

But public enthusiasm has been low and the opposition is fractured.

Keita, 73, was credited with 41.7 percent of the July 29 first-round vote while Cisse, 68, picked up 17.78 percent.

Cisse insisted on Friday he could turn things around on polling day -- warning the status quo would only bring "chaos" in a "torn nation."

But he failed to unite the opposition behind him, and first-round challengers have either backed the president or refused to give voting instructions.

Few Malians attended a string of planned marches and protests called for by opposition leaders in the capital Bamako ahead of the run-off.

As a result, Keita, commonly named "IBK" after his initials, is the clear favourite.

A few hundred Keita supporters gathered late on Friday in the capital of Bamako for the last meeting of the campaign.

"He needs to finish what he started," Silandou Soumare, a civil servant, told AFP. "With all Malians on board, we can have peace in Mali!"

In 2013, Keita won more than three-quarters of the vote.

- Peace deal -

Voting will be open from 0800 to 1800 GMT. Turnout was low in the first round of voting at around 40 percent.

The first round was peppered by violent attacks and threats from armed groups that led to several hundred polling stations being closed, mainly in the lawless central region.

Security services said Saturday they had disrupted a plot to carry out "targeted attacks" in the capital Bamako on the eve of the runoff.

Three members of a "commando" cell who were planning attacks had been arrested, the security services said in a statement, adding that the trio were also suspected of involvement in a robbery which left three people dead in 2016.

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Security will be tightened for the second round, an aide in the prime minister's office said, with 20 percent more soldiers on duty.

This means 36,000 Malian military will be deployed, 6,000 more than two weeks earlier, with a particular focus on the Mopti region in the centre of the country where voting stations had been closed, Cheick Oumar told AFP.

The three main opposition candidates mounted a last-ditch legal challenge to the first-round result, alleging ballot-box stuffing and other irregularities. But their petition was rejected by the Constitutional Court.

Cisse's party told AFP in the early hours of Sunday that ballot papers were already circulating, several hours before polls opened.

Outside Mali, the hope is that the winner will strengthen a 2015 accord that the fragile Sahel state sees as its foundation for peace.

The deal brought together the government, government-allied groups and former Tuareg rebels.

But a state of emergency heads into its fourth year in November.

Jihadist violence has spread from the north to the centre and south of the vast country and spilled into neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger, often inflaming communal conflicts.

France still has 4,500 troops deployed alongside the UN's 15,000 peacekeepers and a regional G5 Sahel force, aimed at rooting out jihadists and restoring the authority of the state.BAMAKO, Mali (AP)  Malians voted Sunday in a runoff presidential election to determine if incumbent Ibrahim Boubacar Keita will remain in office in this sprawling West African nation threatened by rising extremist violence. He faced off against opposition leader Soumaila Cisse.

Sunday's polls had low turnout by closing amid attacks and threats of violence by Islamic extremists.

The chairman of Arkodia village in the north Niafunke commune in Timbuktu region was killed, four election workers were physically harassed and the polling station there was burned, according to the Citizen Observation Pool of Mali which had more than 2,000 observers. The organization reported several incidents Sunday.

Two polling stations were burned in Keltamba and election officials were harmed by gunmen in Ngouma commune in central Mali, observers said.

In north and central Mali more than 50 polling stations had closed before noon because of the threats by extremists in those regions, the organization said.

In the polling centers covered by its observers, the organization said the participation rate was about 8.1 percent. It said 14.4 percent participated in Timbuktu, and only 4.8 percent in Bamako.

However, their observers did not cover all voting areas, and the election commission hasn't yet given its estimate of voter turnout.

In the July 29 first-round presidential vote, extremists killed three election workers and destroyed some voting materials.

Nearly 43 percent of voters made it to the polls last month and at least 671 polling stations were closed. Despite the relatively low turnout officials called the vote well-conducted.

Mali has grown more insecure since Keita beat Cisse in a second round election in 2013.

Malian authorities arrested three jihadists on Friday who said they were preparing to carry out an attack during the vote in Bamako, said Mali army spokesman Col. Idrissa Traore on Sunday.

Extremists are staging more bold attacks that have spread to central Mali, where both Islamic State and al-Qaida-linked militants are present. Deadly communal clashes between ethnic groups and accusations of heavy-handed counterterror operations have caused even deeper tensions and mistrust of the state.

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Still, a second term for Keita, 73, seems likely. He received 41.7 percent of the vote in the first round from a field of 24 candidates and has gained endorsements from some other candidates.

Dressed in his traditional white boubou, Keita voted near his home in Bamako on Sunday.

"I hope that everyone will be very vigilant," he said, saying that any suspected attempts at fraud should be reported to police. "Ultimately this election must end as it should, with the celebration of democracy ... This is what we hope for in our hearts.

Cisse, 68, who placed second in the first round with nearly 18 percent of the vote, has blamed Keita for insecurity, violence and corruption. His opposition party also alleges there was voting fraud in July. Cisse has not received major endorsements from failed candidates but does have the backing of a popular spiritual leader Mohamed Ould Bouye Haidara.

"This time, I have a good feeling," Cisse has said.

His campaign director Tiebile Drame charged there were cases of stuffing of ballot boxes in several northern locations. However the constitutional court on Wednesday said it has registered more than 10 requests from the opposition over various anomalies in the first round, but most were declared inadmissible.

On Saturday, the opposition organized a march "to warn against the fraud."

Issa Namory Keita, a 57-year-old retiree, said he would vote for the incumbent, Keita.

"Unlike his challenger, my candidate knows the country well and it is he who has the solution to the problems," he said.

Another voter who was unrelated but with the same family name, Fanta Keita, said she will also vote for the current president.

"He is a man who loves his country, he is a worker who has opened several development sites and I hope he continues his work," she said.

Voter turnout trickled throughout the day and it expected to remain low. Some people have fled areas of violence until the vote is over.

In central Mali, attacks have become more frequent amid communal clashes as neighbors suspect one another of being recruited by extremist groups. Meanwhile, Malian soldiers in recent months have been accused of abuses, including extrajudicial killings, during counterterror operations.

On Wednesday, armed men attacked the Boni prefecture, according to a Malian security official who spoke on condition of anonymity because the official was not permitted to speak to the press. The armed men killed the prefect's secretary.

Malian authorities have tried to reassure the public and encourage them to go to the polls for the second round.

Residents in central Mali, however, have said they don't see the increased security. Many in the municipalities of Pignariba, Lowel-Gueou and Bara-Sara have said they likely won't be able to vote.

___

Follow Africa news at https://twitter.com/AP_AfricaTOPEKA, Kan. (AP)  The top assistant who Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach tapped Friday to take over his duties until the hotly contested Republican gubernatorial primary race with Gov. Jeff Colyer is resolved has been reprimanded in the past for his handling of abortion investigations.

Kobach announced his decision to name Assistant Secretary of State Eric Rucker in a letter to Colyer after the governor demanded a day earlier that Kobach stop advising election officials on the handling of uncounted ballots. Rucker also will serve in Kobach's place on the state board that certifies the final election results.

A spokeswoman for the secretary of state's office said Friday that Rucker declined to comment for this story.

Rucker was a top aide to former Attorney General Phill Kline when both men faced criticism over investigations of abortion providers. Rucker received an informal admonition from a disciplinary panel for allowing misleading information to be given to the Kansas Supreme Court.

When Kobach picked Rucker as his assistant secretary of state in 2010, Kobach said he didn't see the past controversy as an issue and couldn't think of anyone with better experience than Rucker for the job.

Rucker oversaw the secretary of state's elections division in the 1980s and later was both a Shawnee County commissioner and Dickinson County attorney. But he was probably best known as senior deputy attorney general under Kline from 2003 to 2007 and as Kline's top deputy when Kline was Johnson County district attorney.

In 2009, Rucker was accused in an ethics complaint of making false statements to the Kansas Supreme Court about two abortion clinics. The complaint alleged Rucker falsely denied knowledge of efforts to identify women who had received abortions at a Planned Parenthood clinic in Overland Park and at a Wichita clinic operated by the late Dr. George Tiller, who was killed by an anti-abortion zealot in 2009.

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The professional misconduct case against him was narrowed when the state's attorney's disciplinary administrator agreed to seek at most a public censure of him. Rucker received an informal admonition from the disciplinary panel for lawyers in 2010.

Colyer's campaign urged Kobach on Friday to reconsider its request to allow the state's attorney general to provide legal advice to county election officials to reassure Kansas residents that the election results are free from conflicts of interest.

"While Eric Rucker is a good and decent man, we do not believe assigning Kris Kobach's duties to an at-will employee, whom Sec. Kobach can fire at any time, actually addresses the clear conflict of interest that exists," Colyer's campaign said in a statement.Sebastien Roblin

Security,

Especially in Africa and Latin America.

You Might Soon See This Chinese Fighter All Over Africa and Latin America

Flying a high-performance jet fighter is a physically and mentally demanding skill that requires a lot of practicebut each hour flying a warplane can cost tens of thousands of dollars in fuel and maintenance expenses. That's why air forces employ lighter, easier-handling Lead-In Fighter Trainers (LIFTs) to give pilots a chance to accumulate real-life experience with supersonic flight, air combat maneuvers, and weapons launch before they take the stick of a possibly finicky high-performance jet fighter.

The thing is advanced jet trainers like South Korea T-50 Golden Eagle are quite capable of basic combat duties short of high-intensity conflict while costing half or a third as much as a brand new warplane. For example, Filipino FA-50s and Nigerian Alpha Jet trainers have played a major role in combating brutal insurgencies in 2017, though both were involved in tragic friendly fire incidents.

The U.S. Air Force is looking to purchase 350 new LIFT jets following its T-X competition and is evaluating several designs costing between $30 and $40 million per airframe. However, China has already been phasing into service its own very slick and speedy LIFT, costing the equivalent of only $10 to $15 million, which has attracted interest in Africa and Latin America.

Built by Hongdu in Nanchang, China, the L-15 Falcon resembles an adorably abbreviated Super Hornet or F-16. The Falcons two Ukrainian-built AL-222 turbofans afford the trainee and instructor a backup should one engine fail, while multi-function displays in the glass cockpit and the hands-on-throttle-and-stick controls give trainees a chance to work with the kinds of instruments typical to fourth-generation fighters.

The Falcon' leading edge extensions on the front of its wings and a high G-load tolerance of 8.5 allow it to perform tight maneuvers and achieve high angles of attack up to 30 degrees above the vector of the plane. Quadruple-redundant fly-by-wire controls on three axes allow for precise maneuvers. These traits are used to prepare pilots for the diverse family of famously supermaneuverable twin-engine Flanker multi-role jets operated by Chinas Peoples Liberation Army Air Force and Navy.

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The L-15 prototypes first flew in March 2006 and entered service in limited numbers in 2013 as a subsonic Advanced Jet Trainer designated the JL-10. This basic model boasts six hardpoints to carry bombs, rockets and short-range air-to-air missiles, but lacks a radar to target long-range munitions.

However, Hongdu later exhibited a supersonic L-15B model with afterburning turbofans, allowing the Falcon to attain speeds of up to Mach 1.4. The L-15B also has a lengthened nose to accommodate a Passive Electronically Scanned Array radar with a reported detection range of -seven or seventy miles (sources differ) which can scan both air and surface targets (photo here). A Radar Warning Receiver added in the tail gives it a fighting chance to dodge missile attacks, while an IFF antenna could help avoid friendly fire incidents.

The L-15B also has its payload capacity beefed up to nearly four tons of weapons loaded on nine hardpoints: six underwing, one belly pylon and two wingtip rails. The instructor's seat can instead be used by a Weapon Systems Officer to manage guided weapons. One photo depicts an L-15 lugging 23-millimeter cannon in a belly pod, PL-5E heat-seeking air-to-air missiles (distantly related to the AA-2 and Sidewinder), LT-2 laser-guided bombs, and LS-6 GPS-guided bombs with fold-out wings that allow it to glide to targets up to thirty-seven miles away. Reportedly, more modern PL-10 and PL-12 beyond-visual-range radar-guided missiles (range sixty-two miles) could also be carried as well as other air-to-ground munitions.

The L-15B can even lug jamming pods to serve as a cut-price electronic warfare jet. However, while the jet can theoretically fly up to 52,000 feet high and over distances of up to 1,900 miles, when fully combat-loaded its effective radius is reduced to just 350 miles.

Of course, the diminutive L-15B doesnt boast the speed, defenses, sensors and heavy payload of a full-fledged fourth-generation multi-role fighter like the F-16 or Su-35. But for developing countries that don't expect to fight a major military power, jets like the Falcon could perform basic air defense and precision ground-attack missions, all on a platform that will be cheaper, easier to maintain, and used for training pilots.

Recommended: Imagine a U.S. Air Force That Never Built the B-52 Bomber

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The Zambian Air Force so far has acquired six L-15Zs for its No. 15 squadron for $100 million, plus simulators and various guided weapons. In 2015, Venezuelan Admiral Carmen Mirandez announced plans to acquire one or two dozen L-15s to help pilots transition to Su-30MK2 and F-16 fighters. However, cash-strapped Caracas has put the deal on hold. The Uruguayan Air Force has also expressed interest in acquiring eight L-15s to replace its A-37B Dragonflies, one of which suffered an accident in 2016. Pakistan, a close ally of China, is another potential operator of the L-15B, but the jet would conflict with plans to acquire two-seat JF-17B jets, which are a Pakistani-Chinese collaboration.

The L-15 also has a rival supersonic domestic jet trainer, the Guizhou JL-9. A heavily modified two-seat derivative of the legendary MiG-21 with cranked delta wings, the turbojet-powered JL-9 is less sophisticated and has only five weapons hardpoints, but is cheaper at $8.5 million eachand the basic model comes with afterburners, an Italian pulse-doppler radar and a built-in 23-millimeter cannon. JL-9s and carrier-landing capable JL-9Hs serve with the Peoples Liberation Army and PLA Naval Air Force (PLANAF), and six export models called the FTC-2000 Shanying ("Mountain Eagle") were delivered to Sudan in May 2018. Sudan is infamous for using its warplanes to bombard villages in rebel-held territory, and Russia and China are amongst of the few major arms exporters from which Khartoum can obtain modern weapons.

Meanwhile, China operates between 130 and 150 L-15s in nine squadrons, presumably mostly the subsonic L-15A. In general, Chinese fighter pilots fly a decent number of hours annually but lack adequate training under realistic combat conditions; presumably, weapons-capable and radar-equipped jet trainers could help address that deficiency. Intriguingly, an L-15 was photographed in 2018 with PLANAF markings (it has been dubbed the JL-10H) suggesting a possible JL-10 variant for training carrier-based pilots. However, some in the Chinese media have expressed doubt that the Falcon's rear fuselage is strong enough to mount a tail hook to practice carrier landings.

The market for trainer/light attack planes is relatively crowded with competitors such as the Russian Yak-130, Italian MB.346, Chinas subsonic K-8, T-50 Golden Eagle or possibly Boeings T-X. It is too early to tell whether L-15 and JL-9 will prove a major export successbut sales of cut-price supersonic trainer/fighters could become an interesting signifier of Beijings expanding influence in Africa, Asia and Latin America in years to come.

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: Creative Commons.

Read full article(Bloomberg via Getty Images)

On Tuesday, Missouri voters trounced a right-to-work law pushed by CEOs, corporations and radical right-wingers intent on killing collective bargaining. The law was passed by the states Republican-controlled legislature last year before advocates successfully petitioned for a direct referendum on the measure.

It was the second time in 40 years that Missourians kicked right-to-work to the curb. Ohio voters did the same in 2011.

The problem with trying to peddle right-to-work in the Show-Me State is that it has nothing to do with rights or jobs. Right-to-work is about power. Right-to-work states take power from workers and hand it to corporations, CEOs and wealthy shareholders. Right-to-work makes the rich richer. It makes workers poorer. No wonder Missouri voters crushed it by a 2-to-1 margin. No wonder Ohioans knocked it back.

Right-to-work policies win when decided by Republican politicians and right-wing judges. They lose when decided by voters  even in red states that went for President Donald Trump.

Corporations, CEOs and their radical right-wing handmaidens have been stealing workers power since the late 1940s. When a Democratic-controlled Congress passed the National Labor Relations Act in 1935, workers gained a legally recognized right to band together in labor unions and collectively bargain for better pay, benefits and working conditions.

Collective bargaining is effective. Union workers make more money, are more likely to be covered by company-sponsored health insurance and are less likely to be injured on the job. So, unions bloomed. More than a third of workers belonged by the early 1960s. Non-union workers benefited, too, because their employers had to keep wages and benefits competitive to attract and retain staff.

But in 1947, Republicans reversed course. A GOP-controlled Congress passed the Taft-Hartley Act. It took power away from unions. Among other things, it created an opening for states to adopt legislation that came to be known as right-to-work.

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This legislation prohibits companies and unions from bargaining labor agreements under which all workers who benefit must either pay dues as members or pay a smaller amount called a fair-share fee as non-members. The fee covers the cost of services the labor union is required by federal law to provide to everyone in an organized workplace. Allowing some workers to free ride  receiving the services and benefits of a collective bargaining agreement while not contributing dues  can financially debilitate and bankrupt unions. Corporations and radical right-wing politicians love this because it puts all of the power back in the hands of the wealthy. Wages decline. Benefits disappear. And more workers are killed on the job.

Over the past 45 years, right-to-work and other corporate-sponsored campaigns against unions cut membership to just 10.7 percent of workers nationally. Wages have stagnated as corporations commandeered bargaining power.

Right-to-work policies win when decided by Republican politicians and right-wing judges. They lose when decided by voters.

Over the past six years, five more state legislatures approved right-to-work, bringing the total to 27. This is more states appeasing the rich than at any time since just after Republicans passed Taft-Hartley over Democratic President Harry Trumans veto.

It comes at a terrible cost to workers. The annual median household income in right-to-work states is $8,174 less; workers are 46 percent more likely to be uninsured, and they die on the job 49 percent more often.

Thats what Republicans wanted for public sector workers in Ohio in 2011. They passed what became known as Senate Bill 5, and GOP Gov. John Kasich quickly put his name on it.

Workers werent going to stand for it, though. They gathered signatures to get a referendum to repeal the measure. Fewer than 300,000 were needed. Workers collected more than 1.3 million. Ultimately, 61 percent of Ohioans voted to repeal Republicans restriction of public sector workers bargaining rights.

Republicans in the Missouri legislature did the same thing last year, passing highly unpopular right-to-work legislation. It was signed by now-disgraced Gov. Eric Greitens, who resigned after 17 scandal-ridden months in office to avoid impeachment.

After workers forced the referendum, Greitens, though out of office June 1, worked to secure the law through his dark money group, A New Missouri Inc., which is the subject of a state Ethics Commission complaint and gave $2.3 million to the cause. The corporations and business groups that backed right-to-work raised $5.6 million, but complained when workers contributed more money, went door-to-door and phone banked to defeat the measure.

In the end, the vote against right-to-work was even bigger in Missouri than it was in Ohio, with 67.5 percent of Missourians rejecting it. Only 14 of the states 114 counties approved. Missourians, who backed Trump for president by 18 points, favored collective bargaining, even though only 8.7 percent of them are union members  lower than the national average.

The margin of support was even higher this week than when Missourians voted on essentially the same referendum in 1978. Then, it was 60 percent for labor unions.

Corporations, CEOs and right-wingers arent giving up, though. The Republican-dominated U.S. Supreme Court handed them a huge win in June, when it toppled a 40-year-old precedent and ruled in Janus v. AFSCME that every state is right-to-work for public sector unions.

The effect of that is to reverse what the people of Ohio decided in their referendum on public sector unions in 2011. And there is no doubt that the right-wingers and corporate interests that pushed the Janus case will soon return to court to try to seize the same bargaining power from private sector unions in every state.

If they are successful in doing so, it will be because theyve rigged the system to overrule the interests of American workers. As Missourians showed again this week, when its put to a vote, workers win.



Leo W. Gerard is the international president of the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied Industrial and Service Workers International Union.From "Agent Orange" and DDT to genetically modified crops, Monsanto has long been associated with controversial chemicals, but a US court order for it to pay damages because one of its herbicides may cause cancer could open the door to thousands more claims against the company.

A California jury on Friday ordered the US agrochemicals giant -- which was taken over by Germany's Bayer in June -- to pay nearly $290 million in compensation to a groundskeeper diagnosed with cancer after he repeatedly used Monsanto's weed killer, Roundup.

The lawsuit built on 2015 findings by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, part of the UN World Health Organization, which classified Roundup's main ingredient glyphosate as a probable carcinogen.

- Artificially sweet -

Founded in 1901 in St. Louis, Missouri, Monsanto early on made the artificial sweetener saccharin. The company began producing agrochemicals in the 1940s.

Monsanto was one of the companies which produced a defoliant dubbed "Agent Orange," which has been linked to cancer and other diseases, for use by US forces in Vietnam but denies responsibility for how the military used it. The company also made insecticide DDT.

After it was introduced in the United States as Roundup in the mid-1970s, the use of the glyphosate -- which is sprayed on food crops but also widely used outside of agriculture, such as on public lawns and in forestry -- soared across the globe.

The company began genetically modifying plants, making some resistant to Roundup.

There was a dramatic jump after the introduction in 1996 of genetically engineered "Roundup Ready" crops, such as soybean and maize, that survive glyphosate while it kills weeds.

Glyphosate is the most widely used herbicide in the world, produced by an array of companies since Monsanto's exclusive patent expired in the year 2000.

It is the subject of conflicting scientific studies as to whether it causes cancer.

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The herbicide has been accused of damaging the environment, contributing to the disappearance of bees and being an endocrine disruptor.

The chemical has also been used as a pesticide for decades, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency website.

- 'Ecocide' -

German chemicals and pharmaceuticals giant Bayer acquired Monsanto in June for $63 billion. And it said it would get rid of the Monsanto company name following the merger, while brand names on products would remain.

The San Francisco trial of Roundup and its possible carcinogenic effects was the first litigation of its kind against the company to make it to trial.

In 2012, Monsanto negotiated a $93 million settlement to settle a case with the West Virginia town of Nitro, where a plant making a main Agent Orange ingredient once operated.

The municipality accused the plant of being behind health problems faced by people in the community.

A French court in 2012 found Monsanto to be liable in the case of a farmer who said he suffered neurological problems after inhaling the company's Lasso weed killer.

Monsanto has appealed the finding on points of law.

Meanwhile, Monsanto's genetically modified seeds have triggered concerns and legal challenges in Europe and the United States.

Last year, a citizen court consisting of a panel of professional judges in The Hague (Netherlands) found Monsanto guilty at a mock trial of human rights violations for harm caused by chemicals.

What became referred to as the "Monsanto Tribunal," in a purely advisory opinion, called for stronger laws protecting people and the environment from corporations, and a prosecutable crime of "ecocide."

Monsanto has always denied any link between disease and glyphosate, a substance classified as carcinogenic in the US state of California.

Monsanto now employs 20,000 people around the world and generates $15 billion in annual revenue.

gc/spm/dcr

Monsanto

BayerThe mother whale has carried the body of her child for roughly 1,000 miles: AP

An apparently grieving orca whale has been spotted carrying the body of her child 17 days after initially sighted doing so.

While the sight of the mother carrying the tiny whale body around the Pacific Northwest has prompted sympathy and concern in human communities, scientists say they do not plan on taking the carcass away even though they are worried about the mothers health.

Tahlequah, who scientists refer to as J35, was most recently observed pushing the body of her child Wednesday by Canadian scientists off the coast of the Olympic Peninsula. She was then seen again Thursday with the body. Orca whales are known to carry the bodies of their dead children for up to a week, but researches say the length of this grief is unusual.

"Maybe this is just her own way of just getting past the loss of another baby. She's probably lost two more in the past decade. It's got to be tragic for these animals to lose these babies, and it's happening at a record pace," Ken Balcomb, a senior scientist at the Centre for Whale Research, told the BBC.

The mothers apparent grief has captured the attention of the world, and helped to illustrate the difficulties facing Tahlequahs pod, which is considered endangered. In addition to the dead calf, another whale in the pod is considered to be in danger, and scientists are preparing a plan to save her by potentially dropping salmon doused with antibiotics in front of the whale in the hopes that the whale will eat them and get better.

All together, the pod has just 75 whales, and the calf that is being carried around the Pacific Ocean was the first whale born alive into the pod since 2015.

This is completely unprecedented, and honestly your guess is as good as ours as far as what is going on here, Deborah Giles, a University of Washington research scientist, told the Huffington Post. I think its really easy to put human emotions on it, but personally I think its accurate. I think she is grieving.

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While tragic, the death of the calf and the apparent grief of the mother has triggered sympathy among humans worldwide, raising awareness of the dangers killer whales face.

Officials have already begun efforts to address the issue in the Pacific, and a task force convened by Washington Governor Jay Inslee earlier this year met just this week to discuss possible strategies to help the whale population.

Ms Giles said that the attention on Tahlequah could push Mr Inslee to take action, and exert his influence to help the situation.

The world is watching, and the world is not going to let the status quo continue, she said. Thats whats different, we have legions of people around the world that are paying attention.

While orcas are the most widely distributed mammal in the world aside from humans, the animal is on the US endangered species list, which provides them extra protections under the law.

The chief threat to orcas is food supply, and on the West Coast of the US, that threat has developed as a result of the construction of hydroelectric dams that have disrupted salmon populations the whales would otherwise eat. Pollution and human encroachment have also disturbed and threatened their natural habitats.Pyongyang will suspend Chinese tour group visits to North Korea ahead of a high profile anniversary next month, according to news reports Saturday.

The North's Korea International Youth Travel Agency told a Chinese tourist agency that hotels in Pyongyang would be closed for renovations for 20 days starting Saturday, according to South Korean media reports.

Another North Korean travel agency informed their Chinese partner that an unspecified "state decision" meant they had to stop receiving Chinese tour group package travellers until September 5, the reports said.

North Korea has in the past restricted entry to foreigner tourists as the country prepares for significant events, giving a variety of reasons for the moves, Yonhap reported.

The latest measure comes as the North prepares to mark the 70th anniversary of the foundation of the government.

In his New Year speech in January, leader Kim Jong Un said North Korean people would "greet the 70th founding anniversary of their Republic as a great, auspicious event".

The North has been preparing for the arrival of foreign delegations and thousands of North Korean citizens have reportedly been practicing choreographed movements in Pyongyang for the official celebration of the anniversary.

In part thanks to a recent diplomatic thaw, the number of Chinese tourists visiting the North has rapidly increased.

Between 1,000 and 2,000 tourists are currently visiting popular sites such as the North's side of the demilitarized zone in a single day, NK News, an online news provider, said.

The surge in Chinese tourism may have been seen by North Korean authorities as straining Pyongyang's limited hotel infrastructure ahead of the anniversary, it added.Its been a year since white supremacists violently rallied in Charlottesville, Virginia, killing Heather Heyer and sparking a national reckoning on the state of racism in America.

HuffPost spoke with NAACP President Derrick Johnson ahead of this weekends anniversary of the white supremacist rally, about how the state of racism in the country has  or hasnt  changed since.

If anything, its gotten worse, Johnson said. Unfortunately the tone has been set by [President Donald Trumps] administration, and as a result, the level of racial intolerance increased.

This weekend, another Unite the Right rally is planned to mark the anniversary. This time its in the nations capital and organized by the same group that was behind the Charlottesville event last August. The gathering has been promoted as a white civil rights rally.

After neo-Nazis and white nationalists faced off with counterprotesters in Charlottesville last year, Trump notoriously said there were very fine people on both sides.

Racism has been a part of the fabric of this country for many years, Johnson told HuffPost on Thursday. Trump didnt create racism. He has just legitimized the tolerance of racism in the public square in a way we have not seen legitimized from the White House in many years.

For Johnson, the problem in this current moment is less that racism exists in the country and more that it is being normalized  and some would say perpetuated  by those in power.

The problem is not having racism in the country, but racism in political office, Johnson said.

Heres more from the head of the nations foremost civil rights organization on the state of racism in America one year after the white supremacist rally in Charlottesville:

Neo-Nazis, white supremacists and members of the alt-right encircle counterprotesters at the base of a statue of Thomas Jefferson after marching through the University of Virginia campus with torches in Charlottesville, Virginia, on Aug. 11, 2017. (Photo: NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Its been a year since white supremacists violently rallied in Charlottesville, sparking a national conversation on racism. What, if anything, has changed since?

Charlottesville only exposed how the [Trump] administration would handle the issue of race. And as a result of them creating a false equivalency, I think more people are emboldened to display their racism.

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Given Americans emboldened displays of racism, as you put it, what would you say is the path forward?

I think people are entitled to have their opinions  albeit there are those we disagree with [on] racism and racial bias. The issue for this nation is whether we want that type of intolerance to rest in individuals who hold political office and implement public policy.

What are some of the policies you think could be changed to advance a less racist, more tolerant society?

If we want to be a true democracy, we have to make sure everyone has true access to voting. Thats an opportunity to engage racism.

Policies to suppress voting  those racist policies are the problem, those racist policies subvert democracy.

Do you have any hope in the upcoming midterm elections of 2018 to alter some of those policies that you believe perpetuate racism in the country?

Elections have consequences. I think the midterm election will have an impact on the current trajectory of this landscape.

If, in fact, the level of enthusiasm of those who oppose intolerance cause them to go out and vote in record numbers and change the political landscape, it can be one of the turning points.

Does the NAACP have a plan to engage voters and potential voters ahead of the midterms?

Our theme this year is defeat hate, vote. We understand the direct link between racial hatred and the power of fully engaging in this democracy through voting.

What do you have planned, if anything, in response to the Unite the Right rally this weekend?

Groups have a First Amendment right to express their opinion, even if I disagree.

As the NAACP, our energy is less around counterprotesting and more around getting people to engage in this midterm election.

Related Coverage

Charlottesville Isn't Playing The Media's 'Both Sides' Game Anymore

Charlottesville Was About White Men Controlling History

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.Managua (AFP) - A supporter of Nicaragua's President Daniel Ortega was shot to death in the northern city of Matagalpa as anti-government protesters marched past the city hall, police said.

The incident Saturday came amid a wave of protests and counter-protests in several Nicaraguan cities, including the capital Managua.

Police identified the gunshot victim in Matagalpa as Lenin Mendiola, the son of a longtime leader of the ruling Sandinista Front, according to a police statement reported by local media.

Other media, however, reported that pro-government paramilitaries fired on protesters in Matagalpa.

More than 300 people have been killed and 2,000 wounded since anti-government protests erupted in mid-April, according to human rights groups. The government puts the death toll at nearly 200.

Ortega, a 72-year-old former guerrilla who has held power for 22 of the last 39 years, has responded with a bloody crackdown by security forces and paramilitaries.

Managua was the scene Saturday of rival marches for and against Ortega and his wife Rosario Murillo.

Tens of thousands of people demanding the release of jailed protesters joined the march against Ortega, who is in his third term as president since returning to power in 2007.

Supporters of the Ortegas, meanwhile, marched along a separate route under a sea of red-and-black Sandinista banners, chanting for retribution against their opponents.North Korea has denounced the US for continuing to call for the enforcement of international sanctions, despite its goodwill measures, in the latest sign of growing frustrations between the two countries.

The isolated nations foreign ministry accused Washington of following an outdated acting script and said any moves towards denuclearisation are being jeopardised.

It said Pyongyang had stopped nuclear and missile tests, dismantled a nuclear testing site and returned the remains of some US soldiers killed in the 1950-53 Korean War.

However, it said Washington was still insisting on denuclearisation first and had responded to our expectation by inciting international sanctions and pressure.

As long as the US denies even the basic decorum for its dialogue partner and clings to the outdated acting script which the previous administrations have all tried and failed, one cannot expect any progress in the implementation of the DPRK-U.S. joint statement including the denuclearisation, the ministry said.

The statement accused senior American officials of going against the intention of US president Donald Trump by making baseless allegations against us and making desperate attempts at intensifying the international sanctions and pressure.

It said expecting any result, while insulting the dialogue partner was a foolish act that amounts to waiting to see a boiled egg hatch out.

North Koreas comments appeared to be aimed at a US audience, as they were released in English by North Koreas mission to the United Nations in New York. The statement was also issued by the Norths state news agency, KCNA.

Washington has said sanctions will not be lifted until Pyongyang fully dismantles its nuclear weapons.

Earlier this week Mr Trumps national security adviser, John Bolton, said Pyongyang had not taken the necessary steps to denuclearise while the US ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, said Washington was not willing to wait for too long.

It comes as the North Korean foreign minister, Ri Yong-ho, travelled to Iran, where the countrys president, Hassan Rouhani, told him the US cannot be trusted after the Trump administration reneged on a deal to lift sanctions in return for curbs on Irans own nuclear programme in 2015.By Jessica Resnick-Ault

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Crude oil prices rose more than 1.0 percent on Friday as U.S. sanctions against Iran looked set to tighten supply, but futures contracts posted a weekly decline as investors worried that global trade disputes could slow economic growth and hurt demand for energy.

Benchmark Brent crude oil <LCOc1> settled 74 cents higher at $72.96 a barrel on Friday. U.S. light crude <CLc1> was 82 cents higher at $67.63 a barrel.

A sell-off on Wednesday left both benchmarks down for the week overall, with Brent off 0.5 percent and U.S. crude 1.2 percent lower.

Hedge funds and other money managers cut their bullish positions on U.S. crude in the week ending Aug. 7 to the lowest level since June, data showed on Friday.

Prices are expected to remain under pressure as U.S. gasoline demand slows going into the autumn and refiners shut for maintenance, pushing more crude into storage, said Tariq Zahir, managing member at Tyche Capital in New York.

"I think it now comes down to the point of what we see in demand numbers."

U.S. crude supplies fell less than expected in the latest week, and data released on Friday showed U.S. energy companies this week added the most oil rigs since May.

Drillers added 10 oil rigs in the week to Aug. 10, bringing the total to 869, the most since March 2015, General Electric Co's <GE.N> Baker Hughes energy services firm said on Friday. <RIG-OL-USA-BHI>

Escalating trade disputes between the U.S, China and other countries have dimmed the outlook for economic growth and boosted the U.S. dollar, making oil more expensive for consumers using other currencies.

Currencies of major emerging economies including China, India and Turkey have slumped.

Despite these worries, prices got a boost from U.S. sanctions against Iran, which from November will affect oil exports from that country.

Although the European Union, China and India oppose the U.S. sanctions against Iran, many are expected to bow to U.S. pressure.

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Analysts expect Iranian crude exports to fall by between 500,000 and 1.3 million barrels per day, with buyers in Japan, South Korea and India already dialing back orders.

The reduction will depend on whether buyers of Iranian oil receive waivers that would allow some imports.

The International Energy Agency said on Friday the oil market could see more turbulence.

"The recent cooling down of the market, with short-term supply tensions easing, currently lower prices, and lower demand growth might not last," the IEA said in a monthly report.

"As oil sanctions against Iran take effect, perhaps in combination with production problems elsewhere, maintaining global supply might be very challenging."

Investors are wary of the trade dispute between Washington and Beijing.

In the latest round of levies, China said it would impose additional tariffs of 25 percent on $16 billion worth of U.S. imports.

Although crude oil was removed from the list, replaced by refined products and liquefied petroleum gas, analysts say Chinese imports of U.S. crude will fall significantly.

(Additional Reporting by Christopher Johnson in London and Henning Gloystein in Singapore; Editing by Dale Hudson and David Gregorio)WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Saturday he condemns "all types of racism and acts of violence," appealing for unity ahead of the anniversary of a deadly white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Trump drew strong criticism in the days after the Charlottesville rally last year for equating white supremacists with counter-protesters and saying "both sides" were to blame.

On Saturday, Trump wrote on Twitter that the "riots" in Charlottesville "resulted in senseless death and division. We must come together as a nation. I condemn all types of racism and acts of violence. Peace to ALL Americans!"

White nationalists held a "Unite the Right" rally in Charlottesville last year, billing it as a protest over the removal of a statue honoring a commander of the Confederate Army, the losing side in the U.S. Civil War.

Counter-protesters turned out to demonstrate against the rally. James Alex Fields, Jr. is charged with driving his car into a group of counter-protesters, killing 32-year-old Heather Heyer and injuring dozens of people. He has pleaded not guilty and his trial is set to begin in November.

The organizer of last year's event, white nationalist Jason Kessler, was denied a permit in Charlottesville this year but has secured permission to hold a demonstration on Sunday in Washington, across the street from the White House.

(Reporting by Yeganeh Torbati; Editing by Frances Kerry)We do not have lift off. Nasa's much-anticipated Parker Solar Probe - a spacecraft which it is claimed will "touch" the sun - failed to launch following a countdown on Saturday morning.

Engineers "scrubbed" takeoff at the last second for as-yet unknown reasons. It has been rescheduled for Sunday morning instead.

The car-sized satellite was due to blast into space from Cape Canaveral, Florida, at 4.28am eastern time (9.28am BST) but millions of viewers watching online were left disappointed as nothing happened.

"This mornings launch of @NASASuns #ParkerSolarProbe was scrubbed," Nasa tweeted. "Launch teams will attempt to launch on Sunday morning."

Over the next seven years, it will dip directly into the Suns roasting hot outer atmosphere in a bid to unlock some of the solar systems greatest secrets.

In particular, scientist hope Parker will provide information about solar winds and solar energy particles.

The craft will endure temperatures of more than 1,300C while looping round the Sun a planned 24 times and sending its data back to Earth. At some points, it will move to just 3.83 million miles from the stars broiling surface.

"I realise that might not sound that close, but imagine the Sun and the Earth were a metre apart. Parker Solar Probe would be just 4cm away from the Sun," Dr Nicky Fox, the British-born project scientist, told the BBC. "We'll also be the fastest human-made object ever, travelling around the Sun at speeds of up to 430,000mph  New York to Tokyo in under a minute."

Scientists have sought the answers that the Parker Solar Probe should give for 60 years, and the origins of the mission began in the Nineties. But it has now been enabled by the breakthroughs in thermal engineering that will allow the small probe to survive despite the blazing heat it will be subject to.Rep. Chris Collins (R-N.Y.) announced Saturday he would not run for re-election as planned, following his indictment by federal prosecutors last week.

Despite some calls for his resignation, he said he will finish out his term to give his party a better chance of holding his district in the upcoming midterms.

After extensive discussions with my family and my friends over the last few days, I have decided that it is in the best interest of the constituents of NY-27, the Republican Party and President [Donald] Trumps agenda for me to suspend my campaign for Re-election to Congress, Collins said in a statement posted to Twitter.

Whether he can remove his name from New York ballots at this stage is unclear.

FBI agents arrested the congressman on Aug. 8. He was charged with securities fraud for allegedly tipping off his son, Cameron Collins, and Stephen Zarsky, the father of Cameron Collins fiancee, to sell stock they held in an Australian biotechnology company before it released information that would cause its share price to plummet.

Thanks to Collins alleged tip, the two avoided $768,000 in losses, according to the indictment; friends and other family members they alerted also avoided losing money. Cameron Collins and Zarsky face charges of insider trading as well.

Chris Collins announcement comes somewhat as a surprise. In an email obtained by The Buffalo News shortly after his indictment, he said that he not only intended to stay in office but also planned to run for re-election.

He maintained his innocence at the time of his arrest, and his attorneys said he would be completely vindicated and exonerated.

In his statement, Collins once again blasted the charges against him, calling them meritless.

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I look forward to having my good name cleared of any wrongdoing, he said.

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) responded to Collins announcement by urging House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) to press the congressman to resign. Saturdays decision does little to drain the toxic cesspool of self-enrichment, special interest deals and corruption that has proliferated in Washington under GOP control, she said in a statement.

This article has been updated with a statement from Nancy Pelosi.

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.The family of a suicidal airline employee who hijacked a passenger plane in Seattle have spoken of their shock and sadness at his death.

Richard Russell, a ground service agent at Sea-Tac International Airport, took off in an empty 76-seater plane at the height of rush hour on Friday evening.

The Horizon Airlines worker flew the plane for around an hour, committing a number of dangerous manoeuvres while being followed by military jets, before crashing into a small island in the Puget Sound at 8.47pm.

Mr Russell was not named by authorities, but relatives and co-workers identified the 29-year-old, who went by the name Beebo, as the man behind the hijacking.

He was a faithful husband, a loving son, and a good friend, the Russell family said in a statement.

A childhood friend remarked that Beebo was loved by everyone because he was kind and gentle to each person he met.

Richard Russell hijacked a plane from an airport in Seattle before crashing an hour later (AFP/Getty Images)

This is a complete shock to us. We are devastated by these events and Jesus is truly the only one holding this family together right now.

As federal authorities started the task of working out what drove him to steal a plane, details began to emerge of Russells life.

According to a personal blog, he was born in Key West, Florida, before moving to Wasilla, Alaska when he was seven. He eventually landed in Coos Bay, Oregon, where in 2010 he met a woman who would become his wife.

They ran a bakery for three years before heading to Sumner, Washington, to be closer to Russells in-laws.

There he worked for Horizon Airlines, a sister carrier of Alaska Airlines, as a ground service agent who helped baggage handlers and was part of the tow team, which moved planes around on the tarmac.

The empty passenger airplane, stolen from the Seattle-Tacoma airport, making an unlikely upside-down aerial loop, then flying low over Puget Sound before crashing into the sparsely populated Ketron Island (Getty)

It was a job that gave him the perk of being able to fly to Alaska at my leisure, he wrote on his blog.

In a video posted on YouTube last December, Russell shows luggage coming off and being loaded onto planes, and describes what the life of a ground service agent entails.

That means I lift a lot of bags, like a lot of bags, so many bags, he says, adding it allows me to do some pretty cool things, too.

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There are then shots of trips he took, including flying over Alaskan fjords, visiting lavender fields in France, touring in Yucatan, Mexico, and attending a hurling match in Dublin, Ireland.

It evens out in the end, he says to end the video.

There was no mention in the social media posts of studying to become a pilot, but in some posts he spoke of his Christian religious faith and the possibility of joining the military.

On SoundCloud, Russell interviews fellow ground service agents, asking them questions that include: What was one of your best travel experiences using your flight benefits?

Authorities say he took off from a maintenance area at Sea-Tac before flying for around an hour, often erratically with attempts at aerial stunts, before crashing on Ketron Island, about 25 miles to the southwest.

He appeared to have acted alone and was suicidal, according to the local sheriffs department.

Russells social media posts often showed him on adventures with his wife.

We were married one year later, and one month after that we opened a bakery which we successfully ran for three years, he wrote on his blog about meeting his future wife. We consider ourselves bakery connoisseurs and have to try a new one every place we go.

His wife could not immediately be reached for comment.

The Seattle Times quoted Rick Christenson, an operational supervisor with the airline who retired in May, as saying Russell was a well liked, quiet person.

In his final moments captured by partial recordings of his conversations with air traffic controllers, Russell spoke calmly and said he was sorry to disappoint people who cared about him, describing himself as a broken guy.

Got a few screws loose, I guess, he is heard saying in the recording. Never really knew it until now.

Additional reporting by agenciesProfile emerges of ground service agent, 29, who had passed background checks to get a job at Horizon Air

Richard Russell at his job as a ground service agent. Photograph: Social media/AFP/Getty Images

Ive got a lot of people that care about me. Its going to disappoint them to hear that I did this.

Those were among Richard Russells last words to a Seattle air traffic controller on Friday night before the 29-year-old airline employee crashed a stolen Alaska Airlines plane into a near-deserted island in Puget Sound. Russell, who was widely identified as the pilot on Saturday morning, was the sole victim in the crash.

Russells death and the dramatic moments that preceded it  a passenger plane trailed by F-15 fighter jets cutting rolls against the setting sun  left those who knew him stunned and saddened.

His family members said in a statement they were heartbroken. It may seem difficult for those watching at home to believe, but Beebo was a warm, compassionate man, the statement said. As the voice recordings show, Beebos intent was not to harm anyone. He was right in saying that there are so many people who have loved him.

Details of the apparent suicide were still emerging on Saturday, and no evidence of Russells motivations had been publicized beyond statements he made to air traffic controllers trying to coax him down. Officials were quick to point out that Russell, an employee of three and a half years with Alaska Airlines regional subsidiary Horizon Air, passed the background checks necessary to handle baggage and clean aircraft.

How Russell, who did not hold a pilots license, learned to fly the twin-turboprop Bombardier Q400 that had been parked up for the night is unclear. During exchanges with air-traffic controllers, captured by aviation journalist Jon Ostrower, Russell repeatedly referred to his experience with computerized flight-simulator programs or what he called video games.

Simulator software that can run on a home computers and realistically replicates the performance of aircraft systems is readily available, according to air-safety experts. The recordings reveal that when a controller asked Russell if he need help controlling the aircraft, he responded, I dont need that much help. Ive played some video games before.

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In a later exchange, reported by the Wall Street Journal, Russell said: I know how to put the landing gear down. He then added: I really wasnt planning on landing it.

Russell took off from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport at 7.32pm on Friday and flew, tailed by F-15 Eagle jets, until the plane crashed at 8.47pm into Ketron Island, located 25 miles south-west of the airport.

Speaking with the Seattle Times, one of Russells former co-workers described him as a quiet, well-liked young man.



I feel really bad for Richard and for his family. I hope they can make it through this, retired Horizon Air operations supervisor Rick Christenson told the Times.

In what appears to be his personal blog, Russell described himself as a native of Key West, Florida, who moved to Alaska at age seven. He eventually ended up in Coos Bay, Oregon, where in 2010 he met a woman he married the following year.

The couple ran a bakery for three years before pulling up stakes and heading to the Seattle suburb of Sumner to be closer to Russells in-laws.

Writing in the blog two years ago, Russell celebrated his job at Horizon Air. As an airline employee, he wrote: Im able to fly  at my leisure. Russell captured some of his travels to France, Mexico and across the United States in a video uploaded to YouTube in December.

In this season of life we enjoy exploring as much as possible, whether it is a day (or so) trip to one of Alaska Airlines destinations, or visiting a new area of Washington, Russell wrote in the blog.

Russell does not appear to have had any pilot training. Criminal and air safety investigations likely to shed light on what preparation if any he took for the fatal flight are ongoing.They were not his last words but they revealed something of Richard Russell's story as he sat at the controls of a stolen passenger aircraft, a few hundred feet above the ground.

Ive got a lot of people that care about me," he told air traffic controllers. "Its going to disappoint them to hear that I did this.

Minutes later he was dead. The empty Bombardier Q400 turboprop aircraft nosedived into island in Puget Sound, not far from Seattle.

Relatives and friends of the 29-year-old said they were struggling to reconcile the rogue pilot - whose actions closed an international airport and sent F-15 fighters scrambling into the air - with the likeable young man they knew.

His family - who knew him as "Beebo" - expressed their heartbreak.

"This is a complete shock to us," they said in a statement read by a friend. "We are devastated by these events, and Jesus is truly the only one holding this family together right now. Without him, we would be hopeless."

They also referenced those conversations with air traffic controllers.

"As the voice recordings show, Beebo's intent was not to harm anyone. He was right in saying that there are so many people who have loved him," they said.

Rick Christenson, a former operational supervisor with Horizon Air, told The Seattle Times: He was a quiet guy. It seemed like he was well liked by the other workers.

I feel really bad for Richard and for his family. I hope they can make it through this.

Richard Russell, who liked to be called Beebo, is seen in an undated photograph from a video he produced for his Youtube channel Credit: YouTube/Reuters

Officials were quick to point out his work for Horizon as a ground service agent - which included working with baggage handlers and towing aircraft - meant he had cleared the background checks necessary to clean and maintain aircraft.

In a video posted on YouTube last December, Russell showed luggage coming on and off aircraft, as he described the life of a ground service agent.

Story continues

"That means I lift a lot of bags, like a lot of bags, so many bags," he said, before adding that also allowed him to travel widely.

There was no mention in the social media posts of studying to become a pilot but in some posts he spoke of his Christian religious faith and the possibility of joining the military.

Authorities say he flew for about hour after taking the plane from a maintenance area of Seattle-Tacome International Airport, at times performing stunts such as a barrel role.

The local sheriff's department said it believed he was suicidal.

The National Transportation Safety Board, one of the investigating agencies, announced yesterday Sunday that the flight data recorder has been recovered from the plane debris and would be sent to Washington DC for analysis in the hope it will provide further information.

The stolen plane smashed into pieces through dense woodland and little of the aircraft is expected to be recovered, it has been reported.

His posts said he met his wife in Oregon in 2010.

"We were married one year later, and one month after that we opened a bakery which we successfully ran for 3 years," he wrote on his web page. "We consider ourselves bakery connoisseurs and have to try a new one every place we go."

The couple later moved to Washington state, where he got a job with Horizon. His wife could not immediately be reached for comment.Dave Majumdar

Security, Europe

Is that possible?

Russia's Armata T-14 Tank: Armed with Deadly Lasers and Railguns?

Of course, the T-14 has not entered operational service yet nor has the design proven itself in combat. Time will tell how successful the Armata proves to be.

Russias Armata series of armored combat vehicles will likely serve for roughly three decades before being replaced by new systems. Those future combat vehicles could be fundamentally different from the Armata series or any other previous armored vehicles. However, the Russians have only the vaguest notions of what such machines might look like.

A lot of new prototypes are currently at the concluding stage of their development the Armata, Kurganets-25, Bumerang platforms and othersthese are traditional means, Col. Gen. Sergei Mayev, former head of the Russian Ministry of Defenses Main Auto and Armor Directorate, told the state-owned TASS news agency.

They will serve for no less than 25-30 years. They are expected to be replaced by the types of armaments based on new physical principles."

Mayev used the Russian phrase new physical principles to describe some of the technologies that the Kremlins future armored combat vehicles might incorporate. However, the vague phrase new physical principles is a meaningless expression that is used mostly for marketing purposes in Russia. Thus, there is little insight to be gained from the Mayevs statement.

Presumably, the Russians might mean a new generation of weapons such as lasers, microwaves or railguns, but it is likely that Mayev is simply saying that there is no way to tell just yet. However, Mayev does seem to believe that advanced unmanned ground systems will play an increasingly important role within the Russian Ground Forces within the next decade or so.

"I mean, of course, ground forces. As for the air, the possibilities of using robotized systems are more uniform than on the ground," Mayev told TASS.

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However, these future Russian innovation might not amount to much.

This is a typical Russian reference to some futuristic weapon which they always imagine will come down the line 25-30 years from now, Center for Naval Analyses senior research scientist Michael Kofman, a specialist in Russian military affairs, told The National Interest.

However, tanks have been fighting by shooting kinetic and shaped explosive munitions at each other since WWI. So we can say that a 100 years of development has not led to weapons based on new physical principles, in part because physical principles don't change all that much.

At the same time, the Russians have been willing to press forward with new innovations such as unmanned turrets such as the one found on the T-14 main battle tank and novel concepts such as the Terminator tank support fighting vehicle more so than other armies. Thus, it is possible that the Russians have some interesting future land warfare concepts that they are working on.

And in the case of the T-14, the Russians might have found success. As some European armor officers assess, the T-14 could be a formidable machine that is more than a match for current U.S. and NATO tanks such as the M1A2 Abrams and the phenomenal German Leopard 2A7+ main battle tank. Of particular note is the Armatas combination of speed, maneuverability and survivability.

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The T-14 has the same power output as the Leopard 2 or the M1 Abrams , however, with a combat weight of 48 tons, it is 20% lighter, resulting in a specific output of 31.3 hp/T (22.9 kW/T). In comparison its western counterparts with 24 hp/T (17.6 kW/T), this new vehicle is extremely agile, Captain Stefan Buhler, graduate engineer at the University of Applied Sciences, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer at the NBC-KAMIR Competence Center for the Swiss Armed Forces and Commander of Tank Squadron 12/1, wrote.

The T-14s tracks are narrower in the current version compared to the Leopard 2 or the M1 Abrams, however, due to the significantly lower combat weight, wide tracks are also not absolutely necessary: the specific ground pressure will be about the same compared to the western counterparts.

Further, given its combination of active protection systems, reactive armor and passive laminated armor, the T-14 could offer better protection for its crew than a comparable Western tank such as the Abrams. Moreover, Buhler argues that the Armatas unmanned turret offers some survivability advantages.

Based on all these considerations, it must be assumed that the T-14 Armata offers the crew a higher overall level of protection than its western counterparts, despite its significantly lower combat weight.

However, there is one potential downside to the Russians pursuit of innovation in the Armata series: the T-14s unmanned turret could prove to be a liability for situational awareness in combat. However, that debate is hardly settled.

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The discussion among experts now revolves mainly around the question of whether the commander lacks the necessary overview when sitting in the tank or whether TV cameras and electro-optical aiming devices can actually provide the same information as the optical aiming devices and observation equipment on the current generation of battle tanks, Buhler wrote.

A look into the sky provides the (technical) answer: the pilot of an F-35 can look through the aircraft with his head-up display  a computer generates a virtual 3D world from the video signals from the cameras mounted all around, which is then faded into his optics depending on the pilots direction of vision. With such technology, as offered by the Israeli company ELBIT Systems under the name Iron Vision for use on armored vehicles, the commander of a T-14 could see even more than the commander of a battle tank with a manned turret.

Of course, the T-14 has not entered operational service yet nor has the design proven itself in combat. Time will tell how successful the Armata proves to be.

Dave Majumdar is the defense editor for the National Interest. You can follow him on Twitter: @davemajumdar.

Image: Creative Commons.

Read full articleBy Olzhas Auyezov AKTAU, Kazakhstan (Reuters) - Iran and four ex-Soviet nations, including Russia, agreed in principle on Sunday how to divide up the potentially huge oil and gas resources of the Caspian Sea, paving way for more energy exploration and pipeline projects. However, the delimitation of the seabed - which has caused most disputes - will require additional agreements between littoral nations, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said. For almost three decades, the five littoral states - Russia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan - have argued over how to divide the world's biggest enclosed body of water. And while some countries have pressed ahead with large offshore projects such as the Kashagan oil field off Kazakhstan's coast, disagreement over the sea's legal status has prevented some other ideas from being implemented. One of those is a pipeline across the Caspian which could ship natural gas from Turkmenistan to Azerbaijan and then further to Europe, allowing it to compete with Russia in the Western markets. Some littoral states have also disputed the ownership of several oil and gas fields, which delayed their development. "We have established 15-mile-wide territorial waters whose borders become state borders," Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev told a briefing after signing the Caspian convention. "Adjacent to the territorial waters are 10 miles of fishing water where each state has exclusive fishing rights," he said. Nazarbayev also said the convention explicitly barred any armed presence on the Caspian Sea other than that of the littoral states. POST-SOVIET ISSUE The dispute began with the fall of the Soviet Union which had had a clearly defined Caspian border with Iran. In negotiations with post-Soviet nations, Tehran has insisted on either splitting the sea into five equal parts or jointly developing all of its resources. None of its neighbors have agreed to those proposals and three of them - Russia, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan - effectively split the northern Caspian between each other using median lines. Azerbaijan, however, has yet to agree on how to divide several oil and gas fields with Iran and Turkmenistan, including the Kapaz/Serdar field with reserves of some 620 million barrels of oil. The three countries have tried to develop the disputed fields while at times using warships to scare off contractors hired by other sides. As a result, none of the disputed projects has made much progress. Speaking after the signing on Sunday, all five leaders praised it as historic event, but provided little detail about provisions on splitting the seabed. However, making it clear that the document is no final solution, Rouhani said border delimitation would require further work and separate agreements, although the convention would serve as a basis for that. TRANS-CASPIAN PIPELINE Moscow has no outstanding territorial disputes but has objected, citing environmental concerns, to the construction of a natural gas pipeline between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan which would allow Turkmen gas to bypass Russia on its way to Europe. It remained unclear whether the convention adopted on Sunday would definitely clear a way for the pipeline. Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev said the document allowed pipelines to be laid as long as certain environmental standards were met. Ashley Sherman, principal Caspian analyst at energy consultancy Wood Mackenzie, said that although the signing itself was "an unprecedented milestone" for the region, the immediate implications for the energy sector would be limited. "We consider a Trans-Caspian Gas Pipeline (TCGP) unlikely, even in the longer term", he said in an email. "Clarity on the legal status will shine more light on the commercial and strategic obstacles to a TCGP, from infrastructure constraints to supply competition, not least from Azerbaijan itself." In the upstream sector, the increasing intent for joint projects in the south Caspian is very promising, Sherman said. "Stranded fields and frozen exploration projects may well come back on the agenda," he said. However, with offshore Caspian oil and gas production already almost at 2 million barrels of oil equivalent per day, the impact from new fields - if and when disputes about their ownership are settled - might be limited. "The scale of the projects in disputed waters is not comparable to the existing super-giant fields, from Azeri Chirag Guneshli and Shah Deniz in Azerbaijan to Kashagan in Kazakhstan," Sherman said. (Reporting by Olzhas Auyezov; Editing by Richard Balmforth and Mark Potter)A 3D-printed Twitter logo displayed in front of Russian flag is seen in this illustration picture, October 27, 2017. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration

George Beebe

Security, Americas

If Moscow views its social-media campaign as a defensive response to American meddling in Russian politics, then it might see little to gain and much to lose by giving up this activity without getting reciprocal U.S. concessions.

Is Russia Really Trying to Sway the Midterm Elections?

Some two years since Russias involvement in the 2016 presidential election roiled American politics, anger has again erupted over Moscows potential role in the midterm elections. At a White House press briefing last week, Intelligence Community leaders averred that Russia continues to engage in malign influence operations and warned that Russian hackers might resume targeting Americas voter rolls and voting machines as they did in 2016. The briefing undoubtedly had a domestic political purpose, but it is safe to assume that these officials would not make such assertions, nor would the White House host their briefing, absent real evidence of Russian activity.

In testifying to the reality of the Russian threat, however, the briefing left a major question largely unaddressed: What could the Russians possibly be thinking? If Moscow is hoping to pursue the ambitious bilateral agenda that President Putin proposed in Helsinki, continued election meddling would seem tailor-made to preclude it. On the other hand, if the Kremlin is looking not to normalize relations, but rather to divide and conquer American democracy by sowing dissension, then it could not have ginned up a more counterproductive tactic. Although Americans seem deeply divided about nearly every issue in our national debate, there is a strong bipartisan consensus on Capitol Hill that the country must do something serious about Russian meddling. As Putin himself knows well, few things are more effective in uniting a fractured polity than battling a common external enemy. How then can we explain Russias actions?

Influence Operations, Not Sabotage

Before addressing Russian intentions, we need to examine what we know and what we might reasonably infer about what Moscow is doing. Although IC officials were clear that they regard Russia as a genuine threat to the midterm elections, they were not specific about what Russias continued malign influence operations entail. In an earlier address that described a range of threats against our nation, however, Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats stated that we are not yet seeing the kind of electoral interference in specific states and voter databases that we experienced in 2016. This suggests that, for the time being, Russian cyber operators have not resumed efforts to penetrate election-related computer networks in advance of the midterms, nor have they gone beyond 2016 activities to engage in sabotage of election infrastructure.

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But Coats also warned that Russian influence operations, such as the social-media trolling activities carried out in 2016, have continued. Despite public statements by the Kremlin to the contrary, he said, we continue to see individuals affiliated with the St. Petersburg-based Internet Research Agency creating new social-media accounts, masquerading as Americans, and then using these accounts to draw attention to divisive issues. Whether the scale of this activity has changed since the 2016 elections is unclear. Facebook announced last week that it had detected and removed thirty-two Facebook pages and fake accounts that have been posting information on divisive social issues, although it stopped short of linking this activity specifically to Russia.

Plausible Motivations

One of the challenges of intelligence analysis is that dispositive evidenceinformation that is consistent with only one explanation, thus ruling out othersis rare. Most intelligence aligns simultaneously with multiple pictures of an evolving situation, and analysts must put together what they believe is the most likely explanation while leaving open the possibility that other narratives might also be accurate. Intelligence failures often flow from anchoring prematurely on a hypothesis that analysts expect to be true while neglecting or downplaying alternative hypotheses they are inclined to doubt. Exploring alternative explanations for what Russia is up to is therefore critical.

If it is true, as Coats has stated, that the Russians are not yet targeting election-related infrastructure, this casts doubt on assertions that Moscow hopes to help or hurt candidates from either party in the elections. Russia could not realistically expect a modest social-media campaign to sway midterms toward either party; anything more ambitious would require more extensiveand eminently detectableactivity. Modern elections are won through micro-targeting of like-minded voters to stimulate turnout. Any serious Russian effort to affect the vote would require either detailed knowledge of electorate demographics or access to voting machinery that would facilitate falsification. It appears from Coats statement that the Russians are not pursuing either avenue at present.

Why then continue a social-media influence effort that is of dubious utility in affecting American voters, but is unquestionably effective in undermining bilateral relations? The Washington consensus holds that Moscow has no genuine interest in rapprochement. Rather, it bears an ideological hatred of democracy and hopes to undermine our system of government by exploiting social divisions. This explanation is not implausible, but it ignores the reality that Russia has friendly relations with many of the worlds prominent democracies, including Israel, India and Japan. And it underplays the origins of Russian social-media trolling operations, which started inside Russia in the mid-2000s as a defensive response to color revolutions in ex-Soviet republics and intensified in the wake of the social-media-fueled Arab Spring in 2011, which the Kremlin worried was a U.S.-backed regime change campaign that might soon spread to Russia. Russians honed their trolling skills inside Russia against perceived American fifth-columnists, and gradually took that battle abroad to Ukraine and then the United States.

If Moscow views its social-media campaign as a defensive response to American meddling in Russian politics, then it might see little to gain and much to lose by giving up this activity without getting reciprocal U.S. concessions. Putin often recalls occasions when he made unilateral concessions to the United States, such as closing Russias intelligence collection site in Cuba and withdrawing from its naval facility in Vietnam in 2001, without gaining anything in return. As a result, many Russian nationalists view him as too eager to court Washington and too reluctant to stand up to American pressure. He may be wary of feeding those perceptions by ordering Russian trolls to stand down absent an American agreement to abstain from meddling in Russias domestic affairs. And, in view of the U.S. medias near obsessive focus on Russias activity, he may well see the continuation of that activity as a bargaining chip too valuable to be tossed aside.

Mutual Misfires

The problem with this approach, of course, is that by failing to stop Russias social-media meddling, Putin has retained a bargaining chip but precluded any possibility that America might bargain. Moscow appears to have badly misjudged how much damage its cyber intrusions and influence operations have inflicted on U.S.-Russian relations and, by extension, Russias own security. The Kremlins studied ambiguity about what it has been up to has narrowed rather than widened the Trump administrations room for maneuver on Russia policy. Dismissing U.S. concerns as a temporary wave of domestic political hysteria, for which Moscow bears no responsibility, has become an excuse for Kremlin inaction in addressing a dangerous state of affairs. At this point, it is difficult to envision a resolution without Russias acknowledgment of its actions.

By the same token, Washington must reckon with the reality that it has miscalibrated its approach to deterrence. For deterrence to be effective, the Russians must believe not only that we will follow through with threatened punishments, but also that we will reward good behavior. So far, Americas response to Russian meddling has been almost exclusively punitive, crafted to make to make it exceedingly difficult to lift sanctions in the event Russia complies with our demands. In encouraging Moscow to believe punishments will remain in effect even if it halts meddling, we have unintentionally incentivized continued Russian defiance.

Prospects that either side might change course appear dim at present. Each believes the other is solely to blame for the impasse. Each is continuing policies that increase the likelihood of confrontation. The politics on both sides rewards those who demonstrate toughness. Escaping our bilateral spiral of hostility, however, will require statesman courageous enough to balance firmness and force with diplomacy and compromise.

George Beebe is director of the Center for the National Interests intelligence program. He formerly served as chief of Russia analysis at the CIA, and as special advisor to Vice President Dick Cheney on Russia and the former Soviet Union.

Image: A 3D-printed Twitter logo displayed in front of Russian flag is seen in this illustration picture, October 27, 2017. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration

Read full articleInvestigators are trying to piece together how a "suicidal" ground worker at Seattle's main airport managed to steal an empty turboprop passenger plane, conduct a series of loops while chased by US Air Force F-15s before crashing it into a small island in the Puget Sound.

Authorities have refused to name the 29-year-old suspect pilot, referred to as "Rich" and "Richard" by air traffic controllers as they tried to coax him towards the ground during the hour-long incident.

However US media have named him as Richard Russell, who is presumed to have died in the crash.

Airline officials said the man was an employee of Horizon Air, part of the Alaska Airlines group, with more than three years experience.

He had clearance to be around aircraft, with ground crew guiding planes, handling bags and de-ice aircraft, but no pilot's licence.

The aircraft taken, a Bombardier Q400 aircraft, usually carries 76 passengers. There was no connection to terrorism of any kind, officials said.

Authorities said the man went through various background checks to get clearance to be in the secured area.

A Horizon Air Bombardier Q400, like the type which was taken, taxis towards the runway at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (EPA)

But the incident will revive the debate about background checks for staff, particularly those being given access to such areas.

The US has about 900,000 aviation workers, according to the most recent federal data and the checks required varying dependent on the job.

The man used a machine called a pushback tractor to first manoeuvre the aircraft 180 degrees so he could taxi to the runway and take off during rush-hour at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport at about 8pm on Friday local time.

Authorities said it was unclear how he gained the skills to do loops in the aircraft before crashing.

The unauthorised flight - which was captured on video - grounded all planes at the airport for a time.

Ed Troyer, Pierce County Sheriffs Department spokesman, described the alleged pilot as a "suicidal" man doing stunts in the air before the crash.

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The aircraft slammed into Ketron Island about an hour later, authorities said, triggering an intense blaze.

The wooded island, about 25 miles southwest from the airport has a population of about 20 people. There were no reports of injuries on the ground.

The man could be heard on audio recordings telling air traffic controllers that he is just a broken guy.

There is a runway just off to your right side in about a mile, the controller says, referring to an airfield at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

Oh man. Those guys will rough me up if I try and land there, the man responded, later adding This is probably jail time for life, huh?

Later the man said: I've got a lot of people that care about me. It's going to disappoint them to hear that I did this ... Just a broken guy, got a few screws loose, I guess.

Pierce County Sheriff Paul Pastor said the man "did something foolish and may well have paid with his life.

Debra Eckrote, the Western Pacific regional chief for the National Transportation Safety Board, said: It is highly fragmented. The wings are off, the fuselage is, I think, kind of positioned upside down.

Investigators are hopeful they will be able to recover both the cockpit voice recorder and the event data recorder from the plane.

At a news conference in Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, officials from Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air said that they are still working closely with authorities as they investigate what happened.

Safety is our number one goal, said Brad Tilden, CEO of Alaska Airlines.

Last night's event is going to push us to learn what we can from this tragedy so that we can ensure this does not happen again at Alaska Air Group or at any other airline.

The FBI is leading the investigation and is looking into the man's background to try to determine his motive.

Seattle FBI agent in charge Jay Tabb Jr cautioned that the investigation would take a lot of time, and details, including the employee's name, would not be released officially right away.

Dozens of personnel were out at the crash site, and co-workers and family members were being interviewed, he said.

Sarah Huckabee Sanders, White House Press Secretary, said on Saturday morning that Donald Trump was monitoring the situation.With Scripps Institution of Oceanography research scientist Bruce Appelgate as their guide, participants in a NASA Social meet-up walk down Seattles Pier 91 with the R/V Sally Ride in the background. (GeekWire Photo / Alan Boyle)

After seven years of preparation, two research vessels are heading out of Seattle to begin a 40-day voyage to track how tiny organisms in the ocean affect the worlds carbon balance  and its a bittersweet moment for one scientist whos staying behind.

People ask me, Are you happy?  Paula Bontempi, EXPORTS program scientist at NASA Headquarters, said today at Seattles Pier 91, hours before departure. I dont know. Are you happy when your kids go off to college?

Its graduation time for the EXPORTS oceanographic campaign, jointly funded by NASA and the National Science Foundation. EXPORTS stands for Export Processes in the Ocean from Remote Sensing, but the mission is really about two subjects that arent in the acronym: carbon and climate.

The principal focus of the sea survey is a class of near-microscopic plantlike creatures known as phytoplankton, and the slightly bigger creatures that eat them.

Phytoplankton play a key role in removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis, and they represent the first link in the oceans food chain.

The scores of scientists participating in the EXPORTS campaign plan to measure the abundance of phytoplankton and find out what happens to the carbon from the creatures once theyre consumed, down to Twilight Zone depths of more than 3,000 feet (1,000 meters).

But thats not all: The measurements made from the ships will be matched up with multispectral satellite observations to improve the models for tracking the signature of organic carbon from space.

EXPORTS science lead David Siegel, a professor of marine scientist at the University of California at Santa Barbara, said such correlations between satellite data and ocean measurements have been done before, but not the way theyll be done in the weeks ahead.

This is special, because were doing everything at the same time, he said during a NASA Social meet-up at the University of Washington.

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Jeremy Werdell, a marine scientist at NASAs Goddard Space Flight Center, is already looking forward to the results. Hes the project scientist for an upcoming NASA Earth-observing satellite mission known as PACE (which stands for Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem).

Werdell said PACE is designed to do a 24/7 survey tracing the ebb and flow of different ocean species, based on changes in ocean color. But in order to do that, PACEs scientists will need the kind of correlations that the EXPORTS campaign is expected to discover.

Satellites are only as good as the field data you use to train them, Werdell said.

Seaglider delivery

Seagliders in lab

Eric D'Asaro in lab

R/V Sally Ride and R/V Roger Revelle

Captain Wes Hill

Chief cook Jay Erickson

Ken Buesseler

Jason Graff with rosette

Jason Graff with cell sorter

Nils Haentjens

Incubators on deck

Norm Nelson

EXPORTS scientists will be pulling out all the stops to get that field data. Two research vessels, the R/V Sally Ride and the R/V Roger Revelle, will journey to a spot known as Ocean Station Papa, more than 1,000 miles west of Seattle in the North Pacific. (Update for Aug. 10: Both ships have headed out from Seattle.)

Sediment traps and sampling arrays will snag water samples from different depths. Some of the samples will be frozen and stored for later analysis, but others will be studied intensely aboard the ships. Jason Graff, a botanist from Oregon State University who specializes in phytoplankton, will be using a high-tech, high-priced cell sorter to separate out the tiny organisms hes most interested in studying.

The joke is that it costs more than a house, Graff said of the cell sorter. Well, maybe not in Seattle anymore.

Meanwhile, underwater vehicles developed at UWs Applied Physics Laboratory, known as Seagliders, will take readings in the region around Station Papa. The Seagliders, along with a fleet of instrument-laden floats that accompany them, are designed to record data for months. Theyll be on the job long after the scientists return to port in September.

If the campaign turns out as EXPORTS scientists hope, the combined ocean observations and satellite observations will provide a baseline by which to judge the future effects of climate change on phytoplankton and the carbon cycle.

As things get warmer, we know that the ocean ecosystem is going to change, Siegel said. Can phytoplankton help keep the ecosystem in balance, or will the carbon cycle spin out of control? EXPORTS and follow-up surveys, conducted on the sea and from space, could provide an advance look at the answer.

Keep track of the EXPORTS expedition via the OceanExports.org website and NASAs Earth Matters blog as well as the @NASAOcean and @NASAEarth Twitter accounts.

More from GeekWire:Bucharest (AFP) - Thousands took part Sunday in a third night of protests in Bucharest against alleged government corruption, two days after a crackdown on a mass demonstration left hundreds injured.

Singing the national anthem and waving Romanian flags, protesters again amassed at Victory Square outside government headquarters in the capital.

The crowd was notably thinner than on the previous two nights, when tens of thousands had gathered, but many again came to express their anger, accusing the leftwing government of corruption and urging it to resign.

"Every day after work I wish to come here... I work as a researcher, and last week I just found out that our funds were cut. I am very determined. They can't ignore us forever," demonstrator Teona Deftu told AFP.

"We should make our presence felt, and they should understand that they are not wanted anymore at the country's helm," said Cuc Valeriu, a factory worker, adding that people should not have to wait for elections to express their discontent.

Police came in for criticism from the centre-right opposition for using water cannon and tear gas on Friday to disperse protesters. More than 450 people, including 30 police, were hurt and around 30 arrested.

Police have denied using excessive force, saying officers had responded to violence allegedly perpetrated by dozens of protesters in a "gradual and proportionate" manner.

Many of those protesting were Romanians who have left the country to live abroad.

In the last 15 years, around four million people have left Romania -- one of the European Union's poorest member states with an average monthly wage of just 520 euros ($590).

Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, whose country currently holds the EU rotating presidency, has condemned the violence, in which a cameraman for Austria's public broadcaster was also hurt.

Romania -- one of the EU's most corruption-plagued countries -- has seen frequent protests in the last year and a half.

Most recently people were angered last month when Romania sacked top anti-graft prosecutor Laura Codruta Kovesi -- considered a symbol of the country's fight against corruption.SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  Senior officials from the rival Koreas met Monday to set a date and venue for a third summit between South Korean President Moon Jae-in and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, part of an effort to breathe new life into resolving the nuclear standoff between Washington and Pyongyang. The two leaders, who first met in April in a highly publicized summit and then again in May for more informal talks, previously agreed to meet again sometime in the fall in Pyongyang but released no concrete details. The meeting Monday at a North Korea-controlled building in the border village of Panmunjom comes amid growing worries about whether North Korea will begin abandoning its nuclear weapons, something officials suggested would happen after Kim's summit with President Donald Trump in June in Singapore.

BEIJING (AP)  As China's leaders gather for their annual Yellow Sea retreat, the country's political waters are looking choppy. Chinese President and ruling Communist Party leader Xi Jinping is beset by economic, foreign policy and domestic political challenges just months after clearing his way to rule for as long as he wants as China's most dominant leader since Mao Zedong. Mounting criticism of the Xi administration's policies has exposed the risks he faces from amassing so much power: He's made himself a natural target for blame. "Having concentrated power, Xi is responsible for all policy setbacks and policy failures," said Joseph Cheng, a retired City University of Hong Kong professor and long-time observer of Chinese politics.

TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP)  A fire at a nursing home in Taiwan has left nine people dead and 16 injured. Authorities were still investigating the cause of the blaze that broke out before 5 a.m. on Monday morning and was extinguished roughly one hour later. No details were immediately available about those who had died, although the fire department said 10 of the injured were in serious condition.

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KABUL, Afghanistan (AP)  The United States has sent military advisers to aid Afghan forces in Ghazni, where they were struggling on Sunday to regain full control three days after the Taliban launched a massive assault on the eastern city. The assault was a major show of force by the Taliban, who had infiltrated deep into the city and attacked from several directions. In recent years the insurgents have seized several districts across the country and staged near-daily attacks on Afghan security forces, but have been unable to capture and hold urban areas. The U.S.-led NATO mission has carried out airstrikes in support of Afghan forces.

ISLAMABAD (AP)  In a rare diplomatic foray and the strongest sign yet of increasing Taliban political clout in the region, the head of the insurgents' political office led a delegation to Uzbekistan to meet senior Foreign Ministry officials there, Uzbek and Taliban officials said. Taliban political chief Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai represented the insurgents in the four-day talks that ended on Friday and included meetings with Uzbekistan's Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov as well as the country's special representative to Afghanistan Ismatilla Irgashev. The meetings follow an offer made by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in March to broker peace in Afghanistan.

JAYAPURA, Indonesia (AP)  A 12-year-old boy is the only survivor from the crash of a light commercial plane in a mountainous region of Indonesia's easternmost province of Papua that left eight other passengers dead, rescuers said Sunday. The Swiss-made Pilatus PC-6 Porter single-engine plane operated by Dimonin Air was reported missing Saturday during a 45-minute flight from Tanah Merah in Boven Digul district to Oksibil, the district capital of Pegunungan Bintang, bordering Papua New Guinea. The local army chief said Sunday the plane crashed near Oksibil airport. Col. Jonathan Binsar Sianipar said the boy, identified only as Jumaidi, was the only passenger found alive and was evacuated to the Oksibil hospital.

BEIJING (AP)  A German man has learned the hard way that practicing journalism in China, even for a class project, could lead to serious trouble. David Missal, 24, was pursuing a master's degree in journalism and communication at prestigious Tsinghua University in Beijing. He landed in Duesseldorf on Sunday after Chinese immigration authorities told him his student visa was canceled and he had a week to leave China. Missal said he thinks that's because he reported on the plight of jailed human rights lawyers in a journalism class. Missal said a Tsinghua representative this year warned him twice against pursuing the politically sensitive subject, but he went ahead anyway because he wanted to "get to learn Chinese society and politics." "In a way, the last two months I did get to learn more Chinese society and politics," Missal said, referring to his own case.

TOKYO (AP)  Tens of thousands of protesters in Okinawa vowed to stop the planned relocation of a U.S military base, saying they want it off the southern Japanese island entirely. Opponents of the relocation say the plan to move U.S. Marine Corps Air Station Futenma from a crowded neighborhood to a less populated coastal site would not only be an environmental debacle but also ignore local wishes to remove the base. About 70,000 people gathered Saturday at a park in the state capital of Naha under pouring rain ahead of an approaching typhoon and observed a moment of silence for Okinawa's governor, Takeshi Onaga, who died Wednesday of cancer.

QUETTA, Pakistan (AP)  Police in Pakistan say a methane gas explosion in a coal mine has killed at least four miners and trapped 13 others. Local police official Wajeet Khan says the blast happened Sunday in the village of Sanjdi, about 50 kilometers (30 miles) east of Quetta. He says rescuers have retrieved four bodies and that 13 other miners are missing and feared dead, with rescue operations hindered by the gas leak. Cave-ins and other mining accidents in Pakistan are often attributed to the poor enforcement of safety regulations.

NAIROBI, Kenya (AP)  A Chinese tourist was attacked and killed by a hippo while taking pictures on the edge of Lake Naivasha in Kenya's Rift Valley, just hours after a local fisherman was mauled to death in the same area, authorities said Sunday. A second Chinese tourist was injured in the incident Saturday night and received treatment in the local hospital in Naivasha, 91 kilometers (56 miles) miles southeast of Nairobi, the Kenya Wildlife Service said in a statement. In the same area, a Kenyan fisherman was attacked by another hippo a few kilometers (miles) from where the incident with the Chinese occurred, a police official said.Current CIA director Gina Haspel talked in detail about torturing a terror suspect by means of waterboarding and other controversial methods while she was running a secret black site in Thailand, according to previously classified cables.

Heavily redacted documents, many of which are believed to have been written by Ms Haspel, reveal a previously undisclosed level of detail about the methods being employed by the CIA following the 9/11 attacks and after George Bush launched his so-called war on terror.

The cables dating from 2002 detail actions taken against suspect Abd al-Rahim al-Nashiri, who in one interrogation, according to the documents, had his clothes ripped from him as he whimpered that he would do anything his interrogators required. He was told if he did not cooperate, he would suffer in ways he never thought possible.

Interrogation escalated rapidly from subject being aggressively debriefed by interrogators while standing at the walling wall, to multiple applications of the walling technique, and ultimately, multiple applications of the watering technique, reads one document, referring to the use of waterboarding.

Another document refers to how Ms al-Nashiri crawled into the small box, in which he was confined, after the torture session was completed. The questioners told the prisoner they did not believe he was telling the truth and threatened more action if he did not cooperated, though it appears they eventually concluded he was not withholding information.

The role of Ms Haspel in overseeing torture methods such as waterboarding, a form of simulated drowning that was outlawed once Barack Obama became president, was the focus of much of the questioning she faced earlier this year before she was eventually confirmed 54-45 by the Senate as CIA Director.

Given that Donald Trump has often talked of his desire to restart the use of such methods, Ms Haspel, a 30-year-veteran of the agency was asked whether she agreed with the president.

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In a letter to Democratic senator Mark Warner, vice chairman of the Senate intelligence committee, she said: With the benefit of hindsight and my experience as a senior agency leader, the enhanced interrogation programme is not one the CIA should have undertaken.

The National Security Archive, a non-governmental research institution located on the campus of George Washington University, said the documents provided details of conditions the public has only seen in the infamous Abu Ghraib photographs from Iraq of detainees hooded and shackled, forced nudity, wall slamming, and box confinement, as well as enhanced techniques never photographed such as the simulated drowning of suspects.

Release of Gina Haspels torture cables shows the power of the Freedom of Information Act to bring accountability even to the highest levels of the CIA, said archive director Tom Blanton, who obtained the documents following a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request.

It said although the CIA had redacted Ms Haspels name and those of the CIA contract psychologists James Mitchell and Bruce Jessen, who administered the waterboard, other declassified documents, including the 2004 CIA Inspector General report, had confirmed their leadership role over Mr al-Nashiri at the black site between November 15 and December 4 2002.

The archive said one outstanding question was whether Ms Haspel wrote Cable 11359, from December 1 2002, which used remarkably vivid language to describe the torture sessions.

[The interrogators] strode, catlike, into the well-lit confines of the cell at 0902 hrs [redacted], deftly removed the subjects black hood with a swipe, paused, and in a deep, measured voice said that subject  having calmed down after his (staged) run-in with his hulking, heavily muscled guards the previous day  should reveal what subject had done to vex his guards to the point of rage, it read.

Mr al-Nashiri, a Saudi citizen, is believed by US intelligence officials to be behind the 2000 bombing attack on the USS Cole that killed 17 US sailors and injured dozens more. He has denied this.

He was seized in 2002 and held for four years on various secret CIA prisons in Afghanistan, Thailand, Poland, Morocco, and Romania.

He was transferred to the US military-run prison at Guantanamo Bay in 2006 where he was eventually brought before the Guantanamo Military Commission and charged with plotting the attack on the USS Cole. He faces the death penalty if convicted.

A spokesman for the CIA said: Thank you for reaching out. We do not have a comment on this matter at this time.

Mr al-Nashiris lawyer, Mr Richard Kammen, said that his client was brutally tortured by the CIA and that he hoped the truth came out before he went on trial. He told The New York Times: Ultimately, the public will be horrified by the level of brutality employed by the CIA.ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkey said on Sunday it had finalised preparations to create more safe areas in Syria, which would allow the return of refugees who have fled the civil war. Speaking at his AK Party's provincial headquarters in the Black Sea city of Trabzon, President Tayyip Erdogan said a quarter of a million people had already returned to liberated areas in Syria. "God willing soon we will have liberated more places and made more areas safe," he said. Turkey is host to 2.7 million refugees from Syria. Turkey is carrying out an offensive in northern Syria's Afrin region against the Syrian Kurdish YPG militia, which Ankara considers a terrorist organization linked to Kurdish militants waging an insurgency on Turkish soil. The Afrin campaign is Turkey's second cross-border operation during Syria's seven-year-old civil war. The first, dubbed "Euphrates Shield", targeted Islamic State and Kurdish fighters further east than Afrin, and was completed in early 2017. Erdogan said diplomatic and military efforts in Syria's Idlib province, where Turkey has set up a dozen military observation posts, had been accelerated to avoid a "catastrophe" like those seen in other parts of Syria. Syria's government and allied forces backed by Russia and Iran have swiftly recaptured other rebel strongholds in the southwest and vowed to push on and recover all of the country. Idlib is the largest remaining Syrian rebel-held enclave and there are fears of further bloodshed in the event of a government-backed offensive. Erdogan also said Turkey was taking steps to save Iraq's Qandil area from being a "nest of terror" and that if needed northern Iraq's Sinjar region could be included in this process. Turkey's army has ramped up operations in northern Iraq, with the aim of destroying Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) bases in the Qandil mountains, where high-ranking members of the militant group are thought to be located. (Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk; Editing by Catherine Evans and Giles Elgood)By Stephanie Nebehay GENEVA (Reuters) - A United Nations human rights panel said on Friday that it had received many credible reports that 1 million ethnic Uighurs in China are held in what resembles a "massive internment camp that is shrouded in secrecy." Gay McDougall, a member of the U.N. Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, cited estimates that 2 million Uighurs and Muslim minorities were forced into "political camps for indoctrination" in the western Xinjiang autonomous region. "We are deeply concerned at the many numerous and credible reports that we have received that in the name of combating religious extremism and maintaining social stability (China) has changed the Uighur autonomous region into something that resembles a massive internship camp that is shrouded in secrecy, a sort of 'no rights zone'," she told the start of a two-day regular review of China's record, including Hong Kong and Macao. China has said that Xinjiang faces a serious threat from Islamist militants and separatists who plot attacks and stir up tensions between the mostly Muslim Uighur minority who call the region home and the ethnic Han Chinese majority. A Chinese delegation of some 50 officials made no comment on her remarks at the Geneva session that is scheduled to continue on Monday. The U.S. mission to the United Nations said on Twitter that it was "deeply troubled by reports of an ongoing crackdown on Uighurs and other Muslims in China." "We call on China to end their counterproductive policies and free all of those who have been arbitrarily detained, the U.S. mission said. The allegations came from multiple sources, including activist group Chinese Human Rights Defenders, which said in a report last month that 21 percent of all arrests recorded in China in 2017 were in Xinjiang. Earlier, Yu Jianhua, China's ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, said it was working toward equality and solidarity among all ethnic groups. But McDougall said that members of the Uighur community and other Muslims were being treated as "enemies of the state" solely on the basis of their ethno-religious identity. More than 100 Uighur students who returned to China from countries including Egypt and Turkey had been detained, with some dying in custody, she said. Fatima-Binta Dah, a panel member, referred to "arbitrary and mass detention of almost 1 million Uighurs" and asked the Chinese delegation, "What is the level of religious freedom available now to Uighurs in China, what legal protection exists for them to practice their religion?" Panelists also raised reports of mistreatment of Tibetans in the autonomous region, including inadequate use of the Tibetan language in the classroom and at court proceedings. "The U.N. body maintained its integrity, the government got a very clear message," Golok Jigme, a Tibetan monk and former prisoner living in exile, told Reuters at the meeting. (Reporting by Stephanie Nebehay; Additional reporting by Michelle Nichols at the United Nations; Editing by Tom Miles and Alison Williams)Arab protesters voiced anger on Saturday evening at what they said was a poor turnout at a mass demonstration against the Nationality Law in Tel Aviv, stating that the rally should have attracted more than the tens of thousands of people who showed up.

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This protest should be the opening shot of a wave of protests, including at the parliamentary, public and media level, said Kamil Agbariyah, a resident of Jaffa who attended the protest.

(Photo: Kobi Richter/TPS)

The law has caused controversy since it passed into law in the Knesset last month. The clause stating that only Jews have the right of self-determination in the country has been the subject of fierce criticism and has caused offense among the Druze minority, many of whom serve the country loyally in the IDF.

According to Agbariyah, the protest on its own will not suffice in overturning the law. Theres no doubt that we will have to take many more steps, Arabs and Jews together. The campaign here is not about Arabs against Jews, but rather about equality and democracy.

While bemoaning the turnout, Agbariyah also said that the protest proved that there is still a sane camp of Arabs and Jews who are campaigning to live in a fair way. This law is discriminatory, it turns Arabs into class B citizens and it makes it legal to discriminate against them.

Tens of thousands of Arabs and Jews gathered at Rabin Square in Tel Aviv to protest the law, while dozens waved Palestinian flags while chanting "With spirit, with blood we shall redeem you, Palestine" despite a predetermined ban on waving any flags, prompting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to write on his Twitter page: "There is no better evidence of the Nationality Law's necessity."

Approximately 20-25 thousands people showed up in solidarity against the law, a number in which Agbariyah expressed disappointment.

I expect that out of a million-and-a-half Arab citizens, at least 200,000 should turn up. It is unacceptable if we dont manage to bring the Arab public to this protest, Agbariyah complained. Arab Knesset MKs have to get the crowds into the street. Committees, mayors of mixed cities, mayors of Arab citieseveryone should be uniting as one.

Only large numbers, he argued, would pressure the government into switching course, causing it to understand that this law will not be passed as it wants.

Another protester, Afif Abu Muh al-Garbiyah, said that he was pleased that the protest took place. Finally we are hearing the Arab voice in the street in Tel Aviv. Were hearing the voice of the Arab Joint List, the follow-up committee against the Nationality Law. No doubt, it is extremely late, but that is preferable to nothing. Its a shame that it has happened three weeks since the law passed, he said.

Echoing the sentiments of Agbariyah, al-Garbiyah said: We must continue this campaign until we bring this law down. The distinction between Druze Arabs and non-Druze Arabs is extremely stupid. The leaderships of both have to sit together and cooperate. But its good that they got out into the streets.

Al-Garbiyah also appealed to Jews to unite behind the efforts to repeal the law. The Nationality Law was not to serve any Jew in the world, but to serve one man onlyhes called Benjamin Netanyahu. This law was made to serve him in his election campaign that began in 1996 and has continued to this day, he said.Around 100 residents of the Gaza border communities demonstrated near the entrance of Tel Aviv HaShalom railway station Saturday night, protesting the continued escalation of hostilities along the southern border.

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The rallys organizers said the motivation behind the protest is "the government's helplessness in handling the security situation in the Gaza border region and the western Negev." Some demonstrators also held signs reading, "Israel is burningwe demand security."

Residents of Gaza border region protest (:    )

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The demonstrators gathered on the highway at a red light, each time leaving it as it turned green.

"We want the government to explain to us what it has decided to do on the issue, we are here because currently the government doesnt have a concrete policy," explained Itay Pesto from Kibbutz Kfar Aza.

"The government has decided not to decide. We are currently at war and we want a decision. If the government wants to restore deterrencethen restore it. The situation is unbearable. We are like ducks at a shooting range, he vented.

Alona Braun, another Kfar Aza resident, reiterated the sentiment, also demanding action from the government.

(Photo: Adir Yanko)

"The government has promised to be tough on Hamas, but for the past 17 years weve been dealing with severe emotional tensions and insecurity. We demand that the defense minister and the prime minister restore security, permanently. Its their responsibility and if they arent capable of solving the crisis then they need to draw their own conclusions," she bemoaned.

The incendiary balloon terror continued throughout the weekend, despite an Egyptian-mediated ceasefire reached between Israel and Hamas that went into effect on Thursday evening at 10:45pm, according Al Jazeera.

(Photo: Adir Yanko)

On Saturday, at least five fires broke out in the Gaza border region as a result of Hamas-led arson terror, with one incendiary balloon landing near a dining room in the Eshkol Regional Council. No injuries were reported.

Since March 30, thousands of acres of forests, agricultural land and fields in Israel have been scorched by the incendiary balloons and kites.

The local residents, who already live under a constant strain of rocket fire from the Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad terror groups, have long comlpained about the government's inability to comprehensively deal with the new primitive phenomenon.Israel Railways said on Sunday it closes the railway line between Tel Aviv and Ben Gurion International Airport for one week due to railway work.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday during a meeting of Likud ministers that following the waving of Palestinian flags during Saturdays protest against the Nationality Law, the need for such a law is as pressing as ever.

"Yesterday we received conclusive evidence for the defiance of Israels existence and for the necessity of the Nationality Law," he said.Around 2,000 people took part in a protest march commemorating the 2009 shooting at the Barnoar gay youth center , which left Nir Katz, 26, and Liz Turbeshi, 16, dead and several others wounded, at Habima Square in Tel Aviv on Saturday evening.

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Since the case was opened, no one has been convicted with the connection to the murders.

Barnoar protest (:  ,     )

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Among those who participated in the event, organized by the gay youth organization Iggy, were the families of those injured in the Barnoar, youth organizations and movements, including HaNoar HaOved VeHaLomed, No'am, Scouts, Krembo Wings and many others. Stefan Lager and a trans model Stav Strashko.

Ayala Katz, mother of the late Nir Katz, made a speech during the protest, praising the efforts to uplift the LGBT community.

(Photo: Shaul Golan)

"It's exciting to see that people still remember what happened. Before that hate crime I was not familiar with the inner workings of the community and after the murder I decided that I had to leave the house, stop being part of the silent majority and work with the LGBT community.

The most exciting thing that has happened in these nine years is that I saw people working towards making Israel equal and free. One cannot lose optimism and hope. Do me a favordo not let this world make you bitter," she exclaimed.

(Photo: Ido Erez)

Nitay Nedivi, 19, who is doing national service at the Iggy organization, called on the government to make it easier for transgender people to undergo medical procedures.

"The State of Israel discriminates against the LGBT community. The law makes it very difficult for people from a transgender community to undergo medical procedures, the connection between religion and state prohibits us from getting married, there is systematic discrimination towards same-sex couples. The education system has almost no content on sex, gender, or anything else that deviates from their norm, he added.

Yonatan Meyer, 18, from Rehovot, who will soon start his national service, said he still plans to enlist in the IDF despite what he describes as discriminatory rhetoric from the government.

(Photo: Ido Erez)

"After a year of national service I will enlist in the military, probably in combat, in the Nahal Brigade. The choice of LGBT youth to join the IDF is a complex one riddled with emotional baggage. We feel that the state does not treat us equally but still requires from us the same contribution as everyone else  The answer to the institutionalized LGBT-phobia is having LGBT members in key positions, both in the military and in politics. You cannot stomp on us once when we are the decision-makers," he elaborated.

The transgender model Stav Strashko also took part in the event, vowing to continue her campaign.

"Our only safe haven has become our nightmare. We need to educate our children that 'transgender' and 'homo' are not shameful words. I am proud of what I am and what I represent  I promise to continue making my voice heard. We are all different and we are all equal," she concluded.

(Photo: Ido Erez)

The organizers of the event emphasized the lack of progress that has been made on the issues of LGBT since the Barnoar murders.

"Nine years ago an armed man entered the Barnoar center and murdered boys and girls only because they were different. Nine years have passed and not much has changed. In recent weeks there has been a public outcry against the inequality and discrimination of the LGBT community in Israel  We are calling to put a stop to the violence towards the LGBT community, concluded their statement.

(Photo: Shaul Golan)

A recent study by the Magnus Hirschfeld Research Institute, initiated by the Iggy organization, found that around 80 percent of gay teens admitted that the word "gay" was often said to them as a curse. The study also found that the rate of exposure to various types of violence among students from the gay community is twice as high as the general population.

Another study revealed that 7.6 percent of gay youth had at some point been physically assaulted because of their sexual orientation and that the rate of exposure to sexual harassment among the LGBT students is three times higher than among the rest of the population.A former Druze MK and serving MK have stated their opposition to the waving of Palestinian flags at a mass demonstration held in Tel Avivs Rabin Square on Saturday night against the recently-passed Nationality Law.

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We are against the waving of the Palestinian flag. I think that its unnecessary, said former MK Shachiv Shnaan , whose son, Border Policeman Kamil Shnaan, was killed last year in a terror attack carried out on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.

The law has caused controversy since it passed into law in the Knesset last month. The clause stating that only Jews have the right of self-determination in the country has been the subject of fierce criticism and has caused offense among the Druze minority, many of whom serve the country loyally in the IDF.

Shachiv Shnaan (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

If you protest because you want equality in your country, why wave flags of another state? he asked. But it isnt anything new that Arab Israelis have a continued identity problem. They are torn between the national Palestinian identity and their real lives in Israel in partnership with the state.

We waved two flags only: the Israeli flag and the Druze flag, which does not diminish our Israeliness, Shnaan emphasized, drawing a distinction between the character of Saturday night's protest and that held by the Druze community last week.

MK Saleh Saed (Zionist Union) also echoed Shachivs disapproval, telling Ynet that waving the Palestinian flag had no place at the protest. That was unnecessary defiance that harms our justified campaign against the Nationality Law, the Druze politician said.

There is also no place for statements condemning Israel, but I will continue to fight for the rights of people and to express difference opinions of mine, he added. That is legitimate, thats democracy and that is also the beautiful Israel that always proves that it is the strongest democracy in the world.

Amnon Beeri Sulitzeanu, co-director-general of the Abraham Fund Initiativeswhich works for a shared future for Israels Jewish and Arab citizensnoted, however, that no major negative impact was caused by the flags.

Despite the important decision by the follow-up committee not to wave national flags, Palestinian flags were nevertheless waved, and a few Israeli flags alongside them, and no disaster occurred, Sulitzeanu said.

Druze at the protest (Photo: Tal Shahar)

Just as the Israeli flag is the flag of Jews and is waved with pride by Jews in marches in different places in the world, it should also be acceptable to wave the Palestinian national flag by Arab Palestinian Israeli citizens, which is their flag, he continued.

Many citizens, Jews and Arabs, who marched today in the streets of Tel Aviv against the Nationality Law proved that there is a willingness in Israel to adopt values and policies of shared lives and of equality for all citizens."

Arab protesters voiced anger on Saturday evening at what they said was a poor turnout at the mass demonstration against the Nationality Law, stating that the rally should have attracted more than the tens of thousands of people who showed up.

This protest should be the opening shot of a wave of protests, including at the parliamentary, public and media level, said Kamil Agbariyah, a resident of Jaffa who attended the protest.

According to Agbariyah, the protest on its own will not suffice in overturning the law. Theres no doubt that we will have to take many more steps, Arabs and Jews together. The campaign here is not about Arabs against Jews, but rather about equality and democracy.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday during a government meeting that "we are in the midst of a campaign against terror in the Gaza Strip. There are exchanges of blows and it will not end in one blow."

"Our demand is clear: a complete ceasefire, we will not settle for less, our goal is to restore quiet to the residents of the south, and well achieve this goal," Netanyahu added.Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan signed on Sunday a convention on the Caspian Sea's legal status, a matter disputed between the five for more than two decades.

The leaders of the five countries who gathered in the Kazakh port city of Aktau to sign the document provided no details of the agreement in their speeches before the signing.The United States urged Britain on Sunday to ditch its support for a 2015 nuclear deal with Iran and instead join forces with Washington to counter the global threat it says Tehran poses.

Despite opposition from European allies, US President Trump in May pulled the United States out of a deal between world powers and Tehran under which international sanctions were lifted in return for curbs on Iran's nuclear programme.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said at a meeting of coalition party leaders on Sunday that "if a solution to the draft law is not found, a date for general elections will be set within two weeks."The Ministerial Committee for Archives revealed on Sunday that the state archives contain material belonging to the police in the case of Yemenite children that have not yet been revealedwhich the committee determined should be disclosed as soon as possible.

In addition, the committee instructed the IDF archives to disclose the existing statistics in its possession relating to the affair.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned on Sunday that if no solution is found to the IDF draft law, a date will be set within the next two weeks for national elections.

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The ultra-Orthodox factions in the government coalition have so far refused to change their position on the issue and support the bill.

"The approval of an amended draft law is one of the central things that served as a base to the current coalition and government. We have no interest in elections, but we will no be able to compromise on the fundamental and essential thing of safeguarding the status of yeshiva students whose Torah is their work," said Deputy Health Minister Yaakov Litzman, who previously threatened to resign from the government should the law in its current version pass.

PM Netanyahu (Photo: Alex Kolomoisky)

Litzman did note that "The different proposals will be brought for discussion to the Council of Torah Sages, which will decide on the matter. We will do as they instruct us."

The existing Israeli Defense Service Law was initially due to expire in September after the HCJ deemed it unconstitutional, meaning that the Knesset is obliged to pass an alternative law before then. Last week, the High Court of Justice (HCJ) gave the government a four-month extension to pass the new IDF draft law, setting the new deadline to December 2, 2018.

The HCJ majority ruling from 2017 canceled an amendment ratified by the Knesset almost two years prior to the Conscription Law which lowered the annual quota on the number of Haredim required to draft into the IDF.

Haredim protest conscription in Jerusalem (Photo: Amit Shabi)

The decision creates an unsolvable crisis which might trigger general elections in the first three months of 2019.MK Ahmad Tibi (Joint List) on Sunday dismissed claims of Palestinian flags and anti-israel chanting during the Nation-State Law protest as "secondary" in importance.

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"It might have happened. I didn't hear it because the demonstration stretched from the Rabin Square to the Tel Aviv Museum of Art. It's a secondary thing," Tibi said in an interview with Ynet.

"There were 30,000 people and only 15-20 were waving Palestinian flags. 30,000 Jews and Arabs demonstrated to repeal this law and not everyone thinks the same thing. There are different political positions and different worldview," he explained.

Ahmad Tibi in anti- Nation State Law rally (Photo: Tal Shahar)

He also rejected claims the protesters, who were demanding equality in the State of Israel, were waving the flag of another country while doing so.

"This is not the flag of another country, and I don't want you or anyone else to preach to the Arab public about morals," he insisted. "The flag is a flag of Palestinian people, not the PLO, not the flag of evil. Its the same flag that a Palestinian who lives in Chile or anywhere else in the world, would wave."

Likud Minister Yuval Steinitz, meanwhile, condemned those who waved the Palestinian flags.

"Anyone who observed yesterdays demonstration understands the underlying message: Yes to Palestine, no to the State of Israel as a Jewish state. I can understand those who demonstrated yesterday. They truly oppose the right of the Jewish people to a state of its own. They want to see an Arab-Palestinian country, and therefore they oppose the Nation-State Law that ensrhines in legislation the Jewish identity of the state," Steinitz accused.

The Palestinian falg being raised in the Tel-Aviv anti Nation State Law rally

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MK Amir Ohana (Likud) asserted that the futile efforts to change or annul the Nation-State Law have been further weakened by the Arab bear hug." "We will choose to acknowledge the State of Israel as the nation state of the Jewish people, as we did 70 years ago without anchoring it in writing. Its good we did so now. Its good that positions are clearer and that the masks are off, he added.

How is this law offensive to anybody? What Arab or Druze person can come to me and say, 'One of my rights was revoked by the Nation State Law?' Does the Druze people have national asspirations? The only ones who can honestly be offended by this law are those who had hopes of Israel becoming a binational state, or a bilingual state, or a state of all its citizens," Ohana opined.

MK Saleh Saed (Zionist Union), a Druze, stated that he didn't think there was justification to raising the Palestinian flag in Tel Aviv. It was unnecessary defiance that hurts our rightful struggle against the Nation State Law. There is also no justification for anti-Israeli statements."

"But I will continue to fight for the rights of people to express opinions different to mine. It is legitimate, it is democracy, it is Israelthe worlds strongest democracy," Saed said.

"Bibi and his friends on the Right proved again that they are petty people and prefer to incite and deal with tasteless issues instead of focusing on Israels security, he went on to say, using Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's nickname.An explosion at a weapons depot in a rebel-held town in northwest Syria killed at least 39 civilians including a dozen children on Sunday, a monitor said.

An AFP correspondent at the site in Sarmada in Idlib province near the Turkish border said the explosion of unknown origin caused two buildings to collapse.

Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor, said a previous toll of 12 civilians killed increased after more bodies were retrieved from the rubble.DUBAI - Iranian authorities have arrested 67 people in a drive against financial crime, the judiciary said on Sunday, as the country faces renewed US sanctions and a public outcry against profiteering and corruption.

Special Islamic revolutionary courts were being set up to try suspects quickly after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called on Saturday for "swift and just" legal action to confront an "economic war" by foreign enemies, state television quoted a judiciary spokesman as saying.

"Sixty seven suspects have been arrested, some of whom were released on bail, and more than 100 people including government employees and officials, as well as private employees and others have been given travel bans," judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei said in remarks carried by state television.A new video of an incendiary balloon found Sunday at the Shaar HaNegev Regional Council shows how the seemingly innocent-looking playthings have caused fires that consumed thousands of dunams of farmland and forests.

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The video shows how the delayed incendiary mechanism works, with the fire starting shortly after the balloon has landed.

The fire caused by this incendiary balloon was put out within minutes, causing no damage.

Incendiary balloon starts fire

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While the rocket fire from the Gaza Strip has stopped since the last round of hostilities last week, the incendiary balloons and kites continue flying into Israel unabated.

A second balloon, in addition to the one seen in the video, landed in front of the Holocaust monument in Sderot on Sunday.

Fire ignites from incendiary balloon

Five fires broke out in the Gaza border area on Saturday as a result of incendiary balloons and kites. Another incendiary balloon was found near a dining room at one of the communities in the Eshkol Regional Council.

In response, the IDF carried out one attack against incendiary balloon launchers in the northern Gaza Strip. The Palestinians said three attacks had been carried out in the northern Gaza Strip and in eastern Gaza City. One Palestinian was lightly wounded in the third strike.

Some 100 Israelis living near the Gaza border protested outside the Tel Aviv HaShalom train station against what they said was "the government's helplessness in dealing with the security situation in the Gaza border area and the western Negev. The protesters held up signs saying, among other things, "Israel is burning, we demand security."Israel's wealthiest woman Shari Arison was questioned by police on Sunday for eight hour as part of an investigation into suspected corruption in the Housing & Construction Holding Company (Shikun & Binui).

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Arison, who was questioned alongside the Chairman and CEO of Arison Investments Efrat Peled, was accompanied by her attorney, Nati Simchony.

During the questioning, Arison and the other senior businesswoman were confronted with evidence that ties them to the alleged corruption.

Arison leaving the police offices (Photo: Shaul Golan)

After being released from questioning, the two were barred from leaving Israel for a week and from contacting any of the other suspects in the case.

Arison and Peled "fully cooperated" with investigators and "are confident there was no fault in their conduct and that this would be law enforcement authorities' conclusion as well," the Arison Investments group said in a statement.

A joint statement by the Israel Police and the Israel Securities Authority said that "as part of the Israel Police's regular fight against public corruption offenses, an investigation is ongoing into suspected bribery of a foreign public employee and reporting offenses under the Securities Law."

The international case focuses on suspicions of bribery by the Housing & Construction Holding Company (Shikun & Binui), which has projects both in Israel and abroad.

Police suspect the bribery of foreign government officials, along with other offenses. The alleged bribe money was paid to secure construction contracts worth hundreds of millions of dollars in Kenya, among other countries.

The Israel Police and Israel Securities Authority are conducting the investigation in cooperation with international law enforcement authorities.

Last month, the police and the Securities Authority questioned under caution Housing & Construction Holding Company chairman Moshe Lahmani on suspicion of giving bribes to promote construction projects.

Moshe Lahmani (Photo: Amit Shaal)

Former chairman Ofer Kotler was also questioned in the case. He was put on house arrest and posted a NIS 500,000 bail. He too was barred from leaving Israel or contacting other suspects.BAGHDAD - An Iraqi official says Iran has cancelled a visit to Tehran by Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi following his declaration that Baghdad will abide by the latest US sanctions against Iran.

Al-Abadi was to visit Iran and Turkey later this week. The official says the Turkey visit will go ahead as planned. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media.

Government spokesman Saad al-Hadithi declined to comment.The Israel Public Broadcasting Corporation (IPBC or "Kan" in Hebrew) warned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday that Israel might have to give up on hosting the Eurovision Song Contest because of a disagreement over who will foot the bill

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The production cost of the Eurovision in Israel is estimated at 35 million euro, and the IPBC was supposed to transfer 12 million euro as a guarantee to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) by August 1.

The EBU has agreed to give the IPBC an extension until August 14, but the issue of where the money will come from has not yet been resolved.

Eurovision winner Netta Barzilai and Prime Minister Netanyahu (Photo: Haim Zach/GPO)

won the 2018 Eurovision Song Contest with Netta Barzilai's "Toy," granting it the right to host next year's competition.

But despite his enthusiasm over the win, the prime minister refuses to allocate a budget for the competition, arguing the money should come from the IPBC's annual budget.

"The prime minister and the finance minister have decided a body budgeted at the enormous amount of NIS 750 million at the expense of the public can find the funds for a guarantee for the Eurovision. The IPBC is being wasteful and trying to sabotage the Eurovision," a source close to Netanyahu said.

The IPBC, meanwhile, claims it would not be able to take the money out of its own budget unless it fires 200 employees or cuts down on original productions.

The IPBC explained that its budget is "completely transparent and covers, by law, diverse activity in three TV channels, nine radio stations and additional online activity."

"The IPBC is required by law to invest in original content and productions throughout the year. Diverting these funds means canceling projections and firing employees for three days of broadcasts for the Eurovision," the IPBC explained.

The IPBC further noted that "Almost every country that had the right to host the Eurovision participated in its financing and earned a lot of money for the state coffers from thousands of visitors and worldwide exposure."

"All of our attempts to find a shared solution were met with disregard, and the government's decision unequivocally means giving up the right to host the competition," the IPBC concluded.

The prime minister has made efforts in the past to shut down the IPBC even before it went live , and put a halt on recent efforts to split the IPBC's news division into a separate body so as to not endanger the Eurovision being hosted in Israel.

IPBC chairman Gil Omer (Photo: Alex Kolomoisky)

IPBC Chairman Gil Omer sent a letter to Netanyahu on Sunday, detailing the obstacle the IPBC faces in securing the guarantee money.

"In two days, the Israel Public Broadcasting Corporation will be required to provide a 12 million euro guarantee to ensure the hosting of the 2019 Eurovision competition in Israel. This is a point of no return, following whichif the guarantee is not provided as required by the EBUit would not be possible to change the situation, and the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest will not take place in Israel," Omer wrote in a letter seen by Ynet.

"For two weeks now, I've been making great efforts to inform the decision-makers on the obstacles we face, so we could make every effort to resolve them. In different letters I've sent during this time, I stated that we place great importance in holding the competition in Israel and are confident it would significantly contribute to the state both economically and to its image," he continued.

"Unfortunately, our repeat requests for intensive work to resolve the fundamental problems that serve as obstacles to holding the competition in Israel have been left unanswered," Omer concluded.

At present, Finance Ministry officials refuse to commit to allocating the necessary guarantee money, not wishing to pay it to the Europeans if the competition does not end up taking place in Israel after all.There wasn't one protest on Saturday night, but two. One was of those who waved the Palestine flag , mostly in defiance. They are not seeking equality or coexistence, but the rejection of Israel's right to exist as the nation-state of the Jewish people. The second protest was of those protesting the discrimination and fighting for equality, and they think the Nation-State Law is going to make their situation worse. The first group wants to deepen the conflict; the second group wants change through legitimate protest.

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The great majority of Israeli Arabs vote for the Joint List, whose leadership supports the former group. This leadership provokes. This leadership rejects Israel's right to exist. This leadership's comments and actions lead to slogans being shouted such as: "In spirit and in blood we'll save you Palestine." And on Saturday nightwhat a shamethese slogans were being shouted at Rabin Square.

On the other hand, all of the polls conducted in recent years indicate that 50-53 percent of Joint List voters support the definition of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state. They don't support every foolish thing the party's leadership does, just like Likud voters don't support every irksome declaration of constructions outside the main settlement blocs and/or outside the separation barrier. Voting for a party is about identity, not about agreeing with every statement.

(Photo: Tal Shahar)

But when one of the speakers at the protest, Amos Schocken, was asked about the flags, he was a lot more empathetic. Instead of joining the organizers in urging protesters not to wave Palestinian flags, he found explanations and justifications. It's safe to assume some Jews will also find a variety of justifications to the calls of "In spirit and in blood we'll save you Palestine."

(Photo: Tal Shahar)

Despite the Joint List leadership, despite the slogans being shoutedwe must listen to the moderate voices, and those exist. We need to come toward those who demand equality and integration, exactly as we need to stop funding to those who praise the martyr and murder culture in the name of "the freedom of art and expression."

In practice, the current government is actually doing more budget-wise than all governments that preceded it. The five-year plan for the Arab sector is already underway. It's not just a massive investment in infrastructure, but also in affirmative action.

And it bears fruit. Many Israeli Arabs are successfully undergoing Israelization and not Palestinization. More Arabs are entering the fields of high-tech, pharmacy and medicine. They are equal and loyal and don't need an oath of loyalty.

The road to full equality is still long, and it goes through not only budgets, but also feelings. They need to feel like Israel is home. And a small change to the Nation-State Lawintroducing an article about equalitywill not hurt the justification of Jewish nationality, but it will improve the current climate.

The way to equality, it's important to note, also includes equality in dutiesprimarily national servicebecause the Haredim and the Arabs will never be equal without becoming part of the shared ethos that includes not just acceptance but also giving.

On Saturday night, Rabin Square saw both abusers and those demanding equality. The first are the enemies within. The latter are partners. We need to listen to the latterboth for their sake and our own.News

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) removed Monday a fugitive citizen of Mexico, who was wanted by authorities in his home country for rape and robbery.

The apprehension of foreign fugitives in the United States continues to be a high priority for ICE, said Simona L. Flores, field office director of ERO Philadelphia. The United States will not be a safe haven to those seeking sanctuary for crimes committed in their home country.

Francisco Javier Diaz-Lua, 28, entered the United States on an unknown date and place without inspection or parole by an immigration officer.

On June 23, 2016, the U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) arrested Mr. Diaz-Lua and issued him a notice and order of expedited removal and removed him to Mexico on the following day.

On an unknown date, he re-entered the United States without being admitted or paroled.

On May 30, 2018, ERO Philadelphias York sub-office arrested Mr. Diaz-Lua without incident and issued him a notice of intent/decision to reinstate prior order of removal.

While in ERO custody, ERO Philadelphia discovered and confirmed a Sept. 26, 2011, arrest warrant issued by the Gobierno del Estado de Michoacan de Ocampo, Mexico, for Mr. Diaz-Lua.

Mr. Diaz-Lua was removed from the United States and turned over to Mexican law enforcement authorities without incident.News

Nashville, Tennessee - Two members of the MS-13 gang were indicted Wednesday for murder in aid of racketeering, in a case investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and partner agencies.

Oscar Degaldo Flores, a.k.a. Flaco, 24, of El Salvador, and Luis Colindres, a.k.a. Listo and Joe, 21, of Honduras, were also charged with conspiracy; witness tampering; using, carrying and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and causing death through the use of a firearm.

The indictment alleges that on Sept. 24, 2017, Flores and Colindres shot and killed an individual identified as H.Z. and also shot and killed another individual identified as Y.H., in order to prevent that individual from communicating with law enforcement about the commission of their crimes, including the murder of H.Z.

If convicted, the defendants face up to life in prison.

This case is being investigated by ICE, HSI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF); the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ahmed Safeeullah and Sunny A.M. Koshy of the Middle District of Tennessee and Trial Attorney Matthew Hoff of the Criminal Divisions Organized Crime and Gang Section are prosecuting the case. The indictment was announced by U.S. Attorney Don Cochran of the Middle District of Tennessee and Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Departments Criminal Division.

An indictment in merely an accusation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.News

Charleston, South Carolina - Zakaryia Abdin, 19, of Ladson, South Carolina, pleaded guilty Wednesday to attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization.

Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers, U.S. Attorney Sherri A. Lydon for the District of South Carolina and Special Agent in Charge Jody Norris of the FBIs Columbia Division made the announcement. Abdin appeared before U.S. District Court Judge Richard M. Gergel.

Abdins attempt to provide material support to ISIS by traveling overseas put American lives at risk, said Assistant Attorney General Demers. That is unacceptable, and I applaud the dedicated agents and prosecutors who stopped him and have achieved this successful outcome.

The most important job of government is protecting the people of the United States from harm, whether it comes from criminals or terrorists, said U.S. Attorney Lydon. This case is an example of law enforcement doing exactly that. The threat to our safety continues to be very real. The JTTF did a great job in preventing this defendant from joining ISIS. He wanted to fight as a soldier committing acts of terror for ISIS and he didnt care where he fought. U.S. Attorney Lydon commended the intense work of Charlestons Joint Terrorism Task Force and noted that this is the first conviction for a person attempting to provide material support to a terrorist organization in the District of South Carolina.

Once again, the Joint Terrorism Task Force has uncovered, investigated and prevented terrorist activity with roots in South Carolina said Special Agent in Charge Norris. These results are made possible by the coordinated efforts of our federal, state and local partners, who are committed to sharing information and resources to protect our communities.

The FBI arrested the defendant at the Charleston International Airport on March 30, 2017 when he attempted to board an airplane in order to travel overseas. The defendants intent was to travel overseas in order to provide material support or resources to ISIS.

Abdin began his efforts on Jan. 3, 2017, when he created a social media account to attempt to join ISIS. On Jan. 20, 2017, Abdin visited the FBI in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina to meet with a special agent from the Joint Terrorism Task Force. During this interview, the special agent advised Abdin about the FBIs role in conducting counterterrorism investigations and outlined for him various statutory definitions. The special agent also provided the definitions for terrorism and specifically told Abdin that ISIS was a designated foreign terrorist organization and that it was illegal to give any foreign terrorist organization any form of material support, including personnel.

After that date, Abdin began to seek a handler to get him overseas to Syria or Egypt to make contact with ISIS. Unbeknownst to him, he ended up making contact with an undercover FBI employee. Abdin believed this person was affiliated with ISIS. These communications continued up until he was arrested.

Abdin had extensive communications with the FBI employee. During the course of these on line conversations, Abdin expressed continued loyalty to ISIS. He said he had given a pledge of loyalty to the Caliphate in 2014 and provided a video of a new pledge to Commander Abu Baker al Baghdadi, the self-proclaimed leader of ISIS or the Caliphate, in which he pledged to wage jihad against the enemy of Allah.

Abdin also indicated that he wished to join the Caliphate and requested to serve in combat. He stated that he was proficient with various weapons, including AKs, SKS rifles, and pistols. He also asserted that he was well prepared, knew how to shoot, and had experience with and was reliable in close combat. He not only talked of joining jihad, he also purchased weapons, including an SKS rifle, modifying it to expand its capacity from a 10 round magazine to a 30 round magazine. Abdin practiced with an AK at a local gun store, and with an SKS and a 9mm at a local outdoor shooting range outside of Charleston.

Abdin took a picture of himself carrying the 9mm in his waistband and took a picture of himself practicing shooting at night at the local outdoor range, and sent these to the undercover FBI employee.

Abdin undertook concrete steps to join the Caliphate and travel overseas to fight jihad. He applied for a passport. On March 22, 2017, the FBI was notified Abdins passport was delivered to his residence in Ladson. Later on the same date, Abdin sent a message to the undercover FBI employee to tell him to let the brothers know I am coming very soon

On March 23, 2017, Abdin made flight reservations aboard a commercial airline departing Charleston with a final destination of Amman, Jordan. The date for travel was set for March 30, 2017 at approximately 7:30 PM. Shortly thereafter on March 23, 2017, Abdin communicated to the undercover FBI employee that he was scheduled to arrive in Amman, Jordan on April 1, 2017, at approximately 2:05 AM.

On March 30, 2017, at approximately 4:17 PM Abdin arrived at the Charleston International Airport with one piece of luggage and a carry-on backpack. Abdin proceeded to a commercial airline ticket counter where he provided the attendant with travel documents and received a boarding pass for international travel to Amman. Abdin then proceeded from the ticketing counter toward the Transportation Security Administrations security screening area where he was arrested.

Abdin, a U.S. citizen, faces a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes. Any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The case was investigated by Special Agents of the FBIs Joint Terrorism Task Force. This case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Jennifer Burke of the National Security Divisions Counterterrorism Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Kittrell of the District of South Carolina.News

Washington, DC - A Colorado business owner pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to impair and impede the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for his role in a $7.2 million renewable fuel tax credit scheme, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Departments Tax Division.

According to court documents, Calvin Glover of Parker, Colorado, owned Colorado-based renewable fuel company, Shintan, Inc. Glover conspired with others to file more than $7 million in false claims for refundable fuel tax credits with the IRS. Glover signed at least 23 false tax returns that claimed over $7.2 million in bogus refundable biodiesel mixture tax credits. Based on these false claims, the IRS issued over $7 million in refunds to Shintan Inc. After receiving the refunds checks, Glover deposited the checks into a bank account that he controlled and then transferred the proceeds to his co-conspirators.

In response to two grand jury subpoenas issued during the investigation, Glover provided false documents and information to investigators and met with co-conspirators to concoct a false story, all intended to obstruct the IRS ongoing criminal investigation.

Glover faces a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison, as well as a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman thanked special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation and Environmental Protection Agency Criminal Investigation Division, who investigated the case, and Tax Division Trial Attorneys Leslie A. Goemaat and Arthur J. Ewenczyk, who are prosecuting the case.Latest News

Grand Island, Nebraska - During a multi-state operation led by special agents from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), a series of criminal arrest warrants were executed Wednesday for 17 individuals connected to an alleged criminal conspiracy to exploit illegal alien laborers for profit, fraud, wire fraud and money laundering in Nebraska and Minnesota.

In addition to these arrest warrants, authorities also served search warrants for worksite hiring violations at agricultural firms in Nebraska and Minnesota, and federal document search warrants at locations throughout Nebraska, in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota; Appleton, Minnesota; and Las Vegas, Nevada. During this investigation, authorities identified employees who were subject to arrest for immigration violations and were unlawfully working at these businesses. These individuals have been illegally residing and working in the United States; they may also have been exploited as part of this alleged criminal conspiracy. During the execution of these search warrants Aug. 8, 133 illegal workers were administratively arrested for immigration violations; some will be issued notices to appear before a federal immigration judge and released from custody; the rest will remain in ICE custody pending immigration court proceedings.

Law enforcement believes the alleged conspirators, 17 individuals located in multiple states, colluded to create an illegal alien workforce in their respective businesses. By doing so, they defrauded the U.S. government and created an unfair advantage over their competition businesses. Additionally, authorities suspect the illegal aliens who were knowingly hired as part of this alleged conspiracy were exploited by the conspirators through force, coercion, or threat of arrest and/or deportation. Specifically, these illegal aliens were allegedly required to cash their paychecks at an illegal remittance business for a fee, have tax money deducted from their pay even though this money was never paid to the government, and were coerced to remain quiet about this criminal activity.

Search warrants were served at the following businesses and locations:

Christensen Farms with numerous locations in Appleton, Minnesota; Sleepy Eye, Minnesota; and Atkinson, Nebraska;

Elkhorn River Farms in ONeill, Nebraska;

ONeill Ventures in ONeill, Nebraska;

La Herradura Restaurant in ONeill, Nebraska;

El Mercadito (grocery store) in ONeill, Nebraska;

A private ranch in ONeill, Nebraska;

La Herradura Restaurant in Stromsburg, Nebraska;

GJW LLC with three locations in Ainsworth, Nebraska;

J.E. Meurets Grain Company in Ainsworth, Nebraska;

Herd Co Cattle Company in Bartlett, Nebraska; and

Long Pine (farm) in Royal, Nebraska.

Note: The above list of locations does not include private residences included in the execution of search and arrest warrants.

This enforcement action is part of a 15-month, ongoing HSI investigation based on evidence that these companies allegedly knowingly hired illegal aliens at their facilities, and that many of these aliens are using fraudulent identification belonging to U.S. citizens.

The job magnet in the United States is primarily what draws illegal aliens across our borders, said Special Agent in Charge Tracy J. Cormier, HSI St. Paul, which oversees Nebraska and Minnesota. This HSI-led criminal investigation has shown that these targeted businesses were knowingly hiring illegal workers to unlawfully line their own pockets by cheating the workers, cheating the taxpayers, and cheating their business competitors.

The following individuals were listed in the indictment. Those marked with an asterisk (*) are not yet in custody follow the Aug. 8 criminal arrests.

Juan Pablo Sanchez Delgado, aka "Pablo,"

Antonio De Jesus Castro, aka "Tony,"

Magdalena Castro Benitez, aka ''Nena,"

Alma Hernandez Moreno, aka "Aunt,"

Anayancy Castro Hernandez, aka "Anay,"

*Fabian Castro, aka "Fabi,"

Suni Sarahi Sanchez Delgado

*Osvaldo Sanchez Delgado, aka "Lalo," aka "Lalito,"

John Christopher Good,

*Aracely Heredia Martinez, aka "Donita,"

Eric Beringer,

Christopher Thurlow,

Mayra P. Jimenez Castellon,

Asiyadeth Jimenez Castellon,

John Glidden,

*Jaime Garcia Cota, aka "David," and

Lillian Ajin.

This HSI-led enforcement action was coordinated with federal, state and local counterparts including the following agencies: U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Nebraska; ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations; U.S. Customs and Border Protections (CBP) Border Patrol, CBP Air and Marine Operations; and the following Nebraska law enforcement agencies: Holt County Sheriffs Office, ONeill Police Department and Nebraska State Patrol.

In the context of any enforcement action, ICE utilizes prosecutorial discretion on cases involving humanitarian concerns, such as health or family considerations. Accordingly, during the enforcement action Wednesday, several individuals were processed and released from custody the same day on humanitarian grounds.

The illegal aliens who remain in ICE custody after being administratively arrested on immigration violations will be transported to a nearby processing facility and placed in removal proceedings. Detained aliens will be held in facilities in Nebraska and Minnesota while awaiting removal proceedings.

A 24-hour toll-free detainee locator hotline is available for family members of those arrested in this operation to field questions about their detention location and status, and the removal process. The hotline operates in English and Spanish; the phone number is 1-888-351-4024.

The allegations contained in federal indictments, complaints and warrants are merely accusations and are not proof of wrongdoing. All defendants are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

HSI is the federal law enforcement agency responsible for upholding the laws established by the 1986 Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA), which requires employers to verify the identity and work eligibility of individuals they hire.

These laws help protect jobs for U.S. citizens and other lawful residents, eliminate unfair competitive advantages for companies that unlawfully hire an illegal workforce, and strengthen public safety and national security.

As in this case, unauthorized workers often use stolen identities of legal U.S. workers, which can profoundly damage for years the identity-theft victims credit, medical records and other aspects of their everyday life.

HSIs worksite enforcement investigators help combat worker exploitation, illegal wages, child labor and other illegal practices. Worksite enforcement investigations often involve additional criminal activity, such as alien smuggling, human trafficking, money laundering, document fraud, worker exploitation and/or substandard wage and working conditions.

In addition to conducting investigations, HSI also uses I-9 audits to create a culture of compliance among employers.Our directory features more than 18 million business listings from across the entire US. However, if we're missing your business, add your business by clicking on Add Your Business.KAZ Minerals PLC, together with its subsidiaries, engages in mining and processing copper and other metals primarily in Kazakhstan, Russia, and Kyrgyzstan. It operates through Bozshakol, Aktogay, East Region and Bozymchak, and Mining Projects segments. The company operates the Aktogay and Bozshakol open pit copper mines in the east region and Pavlodar region of Kazakhstan; three underground mines in the east region of Kazakhstan; and the Bozymchak copper-gold mine in Kyrgyzstan. It also develops greenfield metal deposits; operates Koksay deposit in Kazakhstan, and the Baimskaya licence area in the Chukotka region of Russia; and produces and sells various by-products, such as gold, silver, molybdenum, and zinc. In addition, the company supplies and distributes heat, water, and electricity; and offers construction, project management, financing, management, sales and logistics, and repairs and maintenance services. The company was formerly known as Kazakhmys PLC and changed its name to KAZ Minerals PLC in October 2014. KAZ Minerals PLC was founded in 1930 and is based in London, the United Kingdom.

Read MoreCrisis Phone Numberspecial noticeIf you are a veteran in emotional crisis and need help RIGHT NOW, call this toll-free number 1-800-273-8255, available 24/7, and tell them you are a veteran. All calls are confidential.1-888-899-9377A Crisis Intervention Hotline has been established by the VA Heartland Network to assist veterans who may be dealing with a mental health crisis or difficult issue in their lives. The hotline will also aid family members or friends of veterans who need help in assisting a veteran in crisis.Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria SA engages in the traditional banking businesses of retail banking, asset management, private banking, and wholesale banking. It operates through the following segments: Spain, the United States, Mexico, Turkey, South America, and Rest of Eurasia. The Spain segment includes mainly the banking and insurance business that the group carries out in Spain. The United States segment consists of the financial business activity of BBVA USA in the country and the activity of the branch of BBVA SA in New York. The Mexico segment refers to banking and insurance businesses in this country as well as the activity of its branch in Houston. The Turkey segment reports the activity of Garanti BBVA group that is mainly carried out in this country and, to a lesser extent, in Romania and the Netherlands. The South America segment comprises of operations in n Argentina, Colombia, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela. The Rest of Eurasia segment includes the banking business activity carried out by the group in Europe and Asia, excluding Spain. The company was founded in 1857 and is headquartered in Madrid, Spain.

Read More- John Mahama has paid tribute to Amissah Arthur ahead of his burial

- The police have blocked some major roads in Accra for the funeral celebration

- Amissah Arthur died during a gym session

Former president of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, has shared his fond memories of the late vice president, Amissah Arthur ahead of his burial on July 27th.

In a tweet, the former president expressed how the entire nation will be coming together to grieve the loss of the former president.

Today, all of us- family, party comrades, well-wishers and the nation- are united in grief at his passing," he revealed.

Earlier, John Mahama sent an open tribute to his predecessor - John Evans Atta Mills - stating how much he missed his presence.

Meanwhile, the Accra police command has served notice to block some major roads in the capital of Accra ahead of the two-day final funeral rites for the late vice president, Paa Kwesi Amissah Arthur.

In a public statement, the police state that these major roads will be:

1. Osu Cemetary Traffic Light

2. The Lokko Street

3. The Castle Road

4. AU Circle to Osu Cemetary Traffic Light.

According to the police, these major streets will remain closed from Thursday, 26th July to Friday, July 27. Also, all unmarked vehicles and those without the needed documents will not be allowed to park or drive along these routes.

Alternative routes

Following the roadblocks, the police command has ensured drivers from the Lokko Street towards the Castle road to consider using the Ajumaku and Oxford Streets. Also, vehicular movement from the AU Circle towards the Castle road shall be diverted unto the Abdul Diouf and King Hassan roads.

The funeral service for the late vice president will see him buried on Friday, 27 July at the Military Cemetery, Accra. Before that, his remains will be laid in state at the foyer of the Accra International Conference Centre for filing past by the general public on Thursday, 26 July.

The former vice president of Ghana, Amissah-Arthur, is reported to have been thrown onto the back of a pick-up vehicle due to the non-availability of an ambulance.

The late former vice president was actually at the Air Force Gym with other key figures in Ghana including the Okyenhene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin II.

The chief recounted how he heard a bang around the treadmill on which Amissah Arthur was exercising.

"Three women in the gym were screaming, I left my machine and went and there lay my friend trying to find some air to breathe. We gathered around him and pumped his heart as hard as we could, yelled out his name; his wife was calling out: 'Jesus, save him!' I just said: 'Call the ambulance, let's take him to the hospital'," he narrated.

The quest to save Amissah-Arthur darkened when it was realized there was not an ambulance around to convey him to the hospital.

"...there was no ambulance, there was no car, we threw the former vice-president in the back of a pick-up and drove off to 37," he revealed in a video.

READ ALSO: Stacy Offei-Darko's funeral posters pop up; set to be buried on July 28

Should the revelation by the Okyenhene be anything to go by then there could be questions regarding whether the manner in which the late former vice president was handled could have worsened his predicament.

Watch Yenkasa: How Bad is the Healthcare in Ghana?

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Source: Yen- The newly-established Consolidated Bank Ghana (CGB) has blocked the fixed deposit accounts of customers of the defunct Beige Bank

- The directive from the CGB means clients of the defunct bank can no longer make withdrawals from the fixed deposit accounts

Customers of the defunct Beige Bank with fixed deposits are currently unable to withdraw the monies following a decision to temporarily block withdrawals.

The Beige Bank was collapsed by the Central Bank after it was found that the institution used fictitious and non-existent capital to obtain its licenses.

The Beige Bank was among five other indigenous banks that were merged by the Central Bank a week ago to form the Consolidated Bank of Ghana Ltd.

Mike Nyinaku was the founder of the microfinance company that grew into The BEIGE Bank. Source: Graphiconline.com

READ ALSO: 'Noise pollution killing our husbands' erection at night'  Central Region wives cry

The others are Sovereign Bank, Royal Bank, Construction Bank and uniBank.

The assets and liabilities of the collapsed banks have since been taken over by the Consolidated bank.

The Bank of Ghana explained that the five banks were merged in order to ensure that the banking sector maintains a strong indigenous presence.

Just a week into its operation, the Consolidated Bank has said it has detected some accounting anomalies between Beige Bank and its other related company Beige Capital Assets Management.

According to the CEO of Consolidated Bank, Daniel Addo, it will take 10 days to resolve the problem.

The Consolidated Bank Ghana was established after the Bank of Ghana merged Beige Bank and other four struggling banks in August 2018. Source: CBG

READ ALSO: UT bank wanted to meet President Mahama over brother's 302m loan

The Consolidated Bank has subsequently decided to block withdrawals of fixed deposits.

In a statement, Mr. Addo said in that period, customers with fixed deposits at the bank will not be able to make withdrawals until the problem resolved.

Ghana News Today: Shatta Waly May Become A President Of Ghana | #Yencomgh

READ ALSO: Ghanaian striker Hans Kwofie kidnapped in Tanzania

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Source: Yen- The first birthday of Gifty Antis baby, Her Royal Princess Nyame Animuonyam Afia Asaa Afrakoma Sintim-Misa

- Gifty Anti and her husband welcomed their beautiful daughter on the 11th of August, 2017

The first birthday celebration of the Princess of Adumasa was marked in spectacular fashion by her parents.

Gifty Anti, known by stool name as Oheneyere Nana Awo Dansua, is married to the Chief of Adumasa, Oyekechire Nana Ansah Kwaw IV, with the pair being blessed with a lovely daughter.

The "Royal baby", Nyame Enyimonam Afia Saah Afrakoma Sintim Misa, turned one-year-old over the on Saturday, August 11.

READ ALSO: 'Noise pollution killing our husbands' erection at night'  Central Region wives cry

Royalty, they say, comes with luxury and that is exactly the kind of fortune that is smiling at the Princess of Adumasa.

In photos that have since gone viral on the internet, Gifty Anti and her husband appear to have gone on a family day out to mark the birthday of their daughter.

Wearing dresses with the inscriptions Dad of the Princess and Mom of the Princess respectively, the Royal couple gave their daughter a spectacular birthday celebration.

READ ALSO: UT bank wanted to meet President Mahama over brother's 302m loan

Nyame Enyimonam Afia Saah Afrakoma Sintim Misa is the first daughter of Gifty Anti and Nana Ansah Kwaw IV, who have been married for three years now.

Ghana News Today: Shatta Waly May Become A President Of Ghana | #Yencomgh

READ ALSO: You're a man of "integrity", we stand by you  ICGC to Otabil

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Source: Yen- The supervisory role of the Bank of Ghana has come into questioning following the collapse of seven banks within the last one year

- This has led a former manager of one of the banks' into pork grilling for a living

A one-time manager at the defunct Capital Bank is now into the grilling pork for sale.

Raymond Danquah was a manager at the Capital Bank before its collapsed by the Central Bank a year ago over financial insolvency.

But having failed to land another job in the banking sector, he has decided to take to a totally different occupation all together.

READ ALSO: Gifty Anti's adorable daughter is one-year-old

These days, Mr. Danquah makes a living by grilling pork at events, as his benefits remain unpaid one year after the banks collapse.

This was revealed in a yet to be aired documentary on Joy News.

Meanwhile, another former manager of Capital bank, Edem Adimako, has also become an Uber driver, a year after the collapse of the bank.

Speaking in an interview with Accra-based Joy FM, Mr. Danquah questioned the supervisory system of the Bank of Ghana in light of the recent collapse of local banks.

According to him, it is surprising that the supervisory department of the BoG carries out a quarterly audit of the banks every year yet failed to see the infractions until things got out of hand.

READ ALSO: You're a man of "integrity", we stand by you  ICGC to Otabil

During the various banks crisis period, the BoG gave them bailout money without finding out what they were using the monies for.

If I give you a loan, I should be able to know what you are using it for and not look on as you waste it. Who was supposed to check to see what the banks were using the money for? he wondered.

Ghana News Today: Shatta Waly May Become A President Of Ghana | #Yencomgh

READ ALSO: UT bank wanted to meet President Mahama over brother's 302m loan

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Source: Yen- Abronye DC is still seething with anger about the neglect by NPP

- He has faulted the party for failing to take care of him in terms of the award of contracts

Brong Ahafo first Regional Vice Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwame Baffoe, has accused the hierarchy of the party of dolling juicy contracts to only beautiful ladies.

According to him, government appointees are rather giving out the contracts to their girlfriends, to the detriment of party officials.

Using himself as a reference, Mr. Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, said the NPP has neglected him and failed to take care of him in terms of the award of contracts.

Abronye DC. Source: Supplied

READ ALSO: Defunct Capital Bank manager now grills pork for a living

He explained that the sacrifices he has made to ensure victory for the party in the 2016 elections have so far not been repaid.

He further accused some government appointees of also giving wrong information to President Akufo-Addo about him.

Speaking in an interview with Accra-based Adom FM, Abronye DC said: once, someone called me to come for a contract and when I got there it was a GHC 50,000 contract. What is GHC 50,000 ?

All the work that I did for the party, the resources that I used moving from one media house to the other was from my own pocket. I have never gone to the party office to sign for any money. So if they have not recognized all this, then I will also put my hands in my pocket and sit down.

READ ALSO: Four officers shot at Korle Bu

His comments come after he previously announced that he will no longer act a communicator for the NPP, pointing to a negligence on the part of the party as his reason.

Ghana News Today: Shatta Waly May Become A President Of Ghana | #Yencomgh

READ ALSO: You're a man of "integrity", we stand by you  ICGC to Otabil

Know someone who is extremely talented and needs recognition? Your stories and photos are always welcome. Get interactive via our Facebook page.

Source: Yen.com.ghQuesto comunicato e stato pubblicato piu di 1 anno fa. Le informazioni su questa pagina potrebbero non essere attendibili.

Its battle system and its graphics are OSRS gold completely unique and, although its world is not the biggest nor the one that invites to a larger degree of exploration, it's the sport of its kind with more dynamic and enjoyable conflicts, concentrating good portion of your campaign from the activity. TERA is a MMORPG that adapts both to fans of this genre, and also to those who flee out of it : totally recommendable!

TERA: PS4 EU server offline - no one understands whyThe MMORPG TERA can be officially played on the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 games because April 3rd. The PS4 EU servers today appear to be offline on April 5th - and no one knows why.The TERA EU servers on the PlayStation 4 seem to be offline right now. Why this is so, the players are currently puzzling.

The scheduled maintenance of the EU servers was completed now runescape wiki and TERA was already playable on Xbox One and PlayStation 4. But at roughly 11:00 am our time, the European PlayStation 4 servers were seemingly shut down.In Reddit and in the official TERA forum, players report being kicked out of this game without warning. Some of them are now stuck on the PlayStation 4 from the host choice.

Another care is scheduled for this day, but this should only affect the American servers.The operator of this console version En Masse is actually the US publisher of Tera around the PC and also had little to do with Europe up to now. Maybe that could promote the problems: In the US, it was in the middle of the night at the time of this host failure.We are going to stick to the issue and report when more is understood about the server failure.Continue Reading Below Advertisement

Sure enough, when he was later charged with nine counts of murder, Roof chose an insanity plea ... a defense that didn't sit well with Twitter user Emma Quangel. She immediately set about ruining this human turd's day in the best way possible: by using his own (awful) words against him.

After someone pointed her to Roof's website, Quangel tried to access it, only to find that the web address was hidden behind a paywall of $49. So she paid the fee, later explaining that she considered it her "duty and obligation" to bring this guy down for such a low, low price. What she found behind the paywall was lastrhodesian.com, a website brimming with photos of Roof (wearing a Rhodesia badge, natch), random scribblings, and oh right, a .txt file containing his manifesto. Which we're reproducing here:

Legal said we couldnt Photoshop an image if him getting railed by an angry hippo for this spot, so youll have to imagine it.

Continue Reading Below Advertisement

The manifesto documented not only how Roof came to be radicalized by internet hate groups, but also how he thought every minority group (especially black people) were gross and disgusting and not as great as white people, before declaring himself to be the hero who would save the world. It was your average Funnyjunk comments section rant.

After the site was discovered, Johnny Law soon caught on and it was digitally impounded until they could "verify the authenticity of the postings" -- a job made significantly easier by the fact that Roof plastered his terrible haircut and racist frog-esque eyeballs all over them.Whisper it. Especially if youre in the vicinity of Jacob Rees-Mogg, Nigel Farage or Boris Johnson, (unless, in the latter case, you are safely disguised as part of the postal system or Ronnie Biggs). But Theresa Mays Chequers strategy is starting to work.

As ever, this does not fit the popular Westminster narrative. We are meant to believe Mrs Mays premiership is imploding in an orgy of Tory in-fighting, as an enraged nation reacts in fury to her heinous Brexit betrayal. That her grand-design lies in ruins, rejected out of hand by the callous and conniving EU bureaucrats.

But once again, British politics is refusing to follow the script. The British people are proving stubbornly independent. And there are even signs the member states of the EU are finally realising that if they want to avoid a cliff-edge, no-deal, UK departure, they are going to have to start to respond to the PMs pragmatism with some hard-headed realism of their own.

First, those pesky scamps  the British people. We were confidently told by the Kamikaze Brexiteers they had their finger on the nations pulse. And that even if they didnt, they would soon get that pulse racing with a furious, red-blooded denunciation of Mrs Mays perfidy.

Has Theresa May broken the wicked Brexit witches' spell? asks Dan Hodges

Initially, their strategy seemed to be working. Tory poll ratings dipped. Ukips ticked up. But then the heatwave arrived, Harry Kane grabbed the winner against Tunisia, the country partied and the Brexit backlash dissipated. The most recent poll shows the Tories opening up a four-point lead over Labour, with Mrs May securing a double-digit lead over Jeremy Corbyn in assessments of who would make the better Prime Minister.

The normal caveats on polls obviously apply. Corbyn and his party are still mired in their anti-Semitic swamp. But this is not the way the Kamikaze Brexiteers expected things to play out. A collapse in Tory support and dramatic Ukip surge was by now meant to be providing the impetus for a summer of discontent, followed by an all-out leadership challenge in the autumn.

Yet where a storm was supposed to be raging, we have instead had a period of sultry dead-calm.

A major reason for this is that one of the biggest gambles of Mrs Mays political life is currently paying off. She and her aides calculated that the Chequers deal would stretch internal Tory unity to breaking point, but not beyond it. They knew there would be an angry backlash, probably accompanied by Cabinet resignations. But they also thought the fallout would be containable. It has been. Just.

One Brexiteer Minister who was personally on the edge about whether or not to back the deal  but now believes they made the right decision  pointed me back to what they say was the defining moment of the Chequers weekend.

During the formal Cabinet section of the meeting, Liam Fox made a pointed intervention. Was what the Prime Minister proposed her preferred end state, a red line or an opening gambit in negotiations, he asked? Her response  that while there would obviously be a process of ongoing negotiation, the concessions being offered to jump-start talks represented her final major offer  swung the moment.

Where we [Cabinet Brexiteers] are now, is where the party is, a Cabinet Minister explained to me. No one likes this deal. Its not their perfect vision of Brexit. But so long as theres no more back-sliding, people will just about live with it.

Downing Street officials concur. The party is basically now divided into two camps. There are those who hate Chequers, and will keep fighting it. But theres a much larger group of people who are saying to us, OK, well accept this, but no further. 

Theresa Mays Chequers strategy is starting to work. As ever, this does not fit the popular Westminster narrative - we are meant to believe Mrs Mays premiership is imploding in an orgy of Tory in-fighting

This represents a second major area of miscalculation by Mrs Mays hard-Brexit opponents. By attacking Chequers head-on, they over-extended themselves. Its why the critical mass of 48 pre-recess signatures  the number of Tory MPs needed to trigger a no confidence vote  proved elusive, and the vaunted campaign of rolling daily ministerial resignations failed to materialise. Mrs May was swaying precariously, but the tipping point had not quite been reached.

Its also why Downing Street is bracing itself for a change of tactics. Although there has been some talk of a challenge to the Prime Minister in advance of Octobers crucial EU summit, No 10 officials now believe the plan is to use that summit to prepare an ambush.

Having failed to derail Chequers, the malcontents will await the European Council meeting, seize on any subsequent communique, and proclaim it a second Munich.

But again, Mrs May is quietly confident shell negate this attack. One reason is that there is growing frustration among Cabinet innies  the pro-Brexit Ministers who volunteered for the difficult, dangerous job of riding shotgun for Chequers  at the antics of the outies, those ex-Ministers who are seen to be consistently trash-talking the negotiations.

This is especially true of recent attempts to frame preparations for a No-Deal Brexit as Project Fear 2.0, something that is seen to be undermining sensible and necessary contingency planning across just every about Whitehall department.

As one senior pro-Brexit Minister acknowledges: Was Government too slow to prepare for a No-Deal scenario. Yes. But is this all anti-Brexit propaganda? No. In a No-Deal scenario, people wont be starving to death. But there will be job losses. All this Churchillian rhetoric is great. But what people need to remember is the voters said to Churchill, Thanks for winning the war for us, but now we want Labour to see us through what comes next. 

Mrs May is also bolstered by the first clear signs Brussels is starting to edge towards her negotiating position. Again, the hard-Brexiteers confidently predicted her Chequers offer would be rejected out of hand. As, to be fair, did most Remainers.

But you should whisper it - especially if youre in the vicinity of Jacob Rees-Mogg, pictured, Nigel Farage or Boris Johnson

But on Thursday it emerged the EU is now considering dropping its pre-condition on continued free movement in return for a deal.

This was predictably dismissed as a trap by the Cassandra-like Jacob Rees-Mogg. But it represents a potentially major concession by the member states, as well as providing the first clear chink of light between them and chief-negotiator Michel Barnier. It also underlines that the Prime Ministers recent round of diplomacy  talks with French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte  represents more than a busmans tour of the Continent.

Publicly the Kamikaze Brexiteers continue their Wicked Witch of the West tribute act, darkly warning Mrs May: Well get you, my pretty! But privately, theyre aware their post-Chequers offensive is not quite going to plan. Indeed, some Tory insiders believe Boris Johnsons burka intervention was a tacit acknowledgment that anti-May sentiment was providing insufficient traction to his leadership bid.

Boris and his allies have been making all the noise. But the dog days of 2018 could yet belong to Mrs May.

Margaret Beckett famously apologised in graphically honest terms for her fateful 2015 decision to nominate Jeremy Corbyn for the Labour leadership. I am a moron, she admitted, after it became clear he was heading for victory. But that moment of contrition appears to have been short-lived. Who appears on the list of speakers for Derby Transformed, a festival of ideas organised and promoted by Corbyn cheerleader Chris Williamson, self-confessed Communist Ash Sarkar, and Corbynite propaganda station Novara Media? Yes, one Margaret Beckett. Some people never learn.

Petition centres opened in North Antrim last week as part of the recall campaign targeting DUP MP Ian Paisley Jr following his suspension from the Commons for receiving undeclared hospitality from Sri Lanka. The campaign has attracted little interest in Westminster because, even if it succeeds, there is no chance of the DUPs 20,000 majority being overturned in a subsequent by-election. But Im told Downing Street is nervous. If the petition passes theres no way of getting the by-election held until January, an official explains. That means our majority is reduced by one for the rest of the year. That may not seem significant, but were expecting some very tight Brexit votes. It could become a serious problem. I understand Kamikaze Brexiteers are monitoring the situation with interest.A bride allowed her husband shave her hair off in aid of a cancer charity just a day after they tied the knot.

Gemma Hiatt, 36, from Warwickshire, made the brave move in support of her mother, Jill, who has beat breast cancer twice and her aunt, Mandy, who recently received a terminal cancer diagnosis.

Gemma let husband Ian Watson do the honours, shaving her shoulder-length brunette hair in front of friends and family the morning after their wedding.

'My mum was there on the day to support me and I'm really glad she was because that meant everything to me  I was pretty anxious, excited and nervous all at once,' sh explained. I think I was more nervous about Brave the Shave than I was about getting married!'

Speaking about her new look, Gemma continued: 'I was a bit anxious at the time about what Ian was doing but there wasn't much I could do after he started cutting it off! Now that I've seen it I think it looks good  I'm happy with it!'

During her wedding reception, Gemma took time out to record a video message for Macmillan Cancer Support, explaining why she was taking part in its Brave the Shave fundraising campaign, which is running throughout August.

Gemma Hiatt, 36, from Warwickshire, let husband Ian (both seen) shave her hair in aid of Macmillan Cancer just a day after tying the knot, after watching her family members battle the devastating disease

Sharing the touching story behind her move, Gemma said: 'I was about 17 when my mum was first diagnosed with breast cancer.

'It was quite advanced and she had to have a full mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

'It was really tough, I was quite young  still in college. It was a lot to cope with. When you hear the word cancer you fear the worst.

'She went into remission but about five years after that she went back for a regular check-up and they found cancer in her other breast. Luckily it was caught very early so they managed to do a mastectomy and there was no further treatment needed.'

The video shows Ian shaving Gemma's head in the marquee they celebrated their nuptials in the night before- both in full wedding attire- watched by family and friends

She made the brave move in support of her mother, Jill, (seen) who has been diagnosed with breast cancer twice and her Auntie, Mandy, who recently received a terminal cancer diagnosis

Gemma's mother has since made a full recovery and was one of those watching on as Gemma completed her head shave.

Tragically Gemma's aunt Mandy, who is in her early fifties, was then diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Gemma continued: 'Recently my aunt Mandy has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. She's not very old at all  she's in her early fifties.'

This was a further motivator for Gemma to do what she could to raise money for the charity.

Gemma's husband was equally supportive of her move, with the couple raising almost 1000 for the cause (seen together on their wedding day)

Gemma's aunt Mandy, who is in her early fifties, was then diagnosed with terminal cancer, motivating Gemma- seen with hair before shaving it- to make the move

Speaking about the moment she cut her hair off, Gemma continued: 'Our wedding was an awesome day.

'I'm so happy to have been able to get married to my partner, Ian. The Sunday after our wedding he shaved all my hair off. There was a lot of family and friends there supporting us and giving us donations.

And Gemma's husband was equally supportive of her move, with the couple raising almost 1,000 for the cause.

'Ian has been extremely supportive,' Gemma said. 'He understands why I wanted to do it so much and was 100 per cent behind me.

Gemma let husband Ian Hiatt do the honours, shaving her shoulder-length brunette hair in front of friends and family the morning after their wedding

Since battling cancer twice Gemma's mother has since made a full recovery and was one of those watching on as Gemma completed her head shave

'He is one of the most amazing people I've ever met. When I first spoke with him about doing Brave the Shave he didn't hesitate at all and just told me to go for it.'

'I'm so lucky to have such a supportive partner,' she added.

'I'm glad I've done it because I've raised a lot of money to help people who are living with cancer.'

Gemma has since been to visit her aunt in hospital, so that she could see her new look in person.

'I'm glad I've done it because I've raised a lot of money to help people who are living with cancer,' Gemma said of her brave move

She said: 'I showed her pictures of my hair and we went to see her in hospital so she's seen the results.

'She's happy that I've done it and that I'm trying to raise money for people who are in situations like hers.'

Gemma and her husband are now preparing for a well-deserved break away in September, with the new bride adding: 'For our honeymoon we think we're going to go up to the Lake District for a few days, up to Scotland and then down to York for a few nights before heading home to Warwickshire.'

'I was a bit anxious at the time about what Ian was doing but there wasn't much I could do after he started cutting it off! Now that I've seen it I think it looks good  I'm happy with it!' Gemma said of her new look

Gemma's move was inspired by watching her mother battle- and beat- the disease when Gemma was just 18 years old

Since 2015, more than 59,000 generous fundraisers have shaved their heads for Macmillan, raising over 16.8 million.

This staggering sum could fund the entire Macmillan Cancer Support Line phone service for three years  helping thousands of people living with cancer to access expert information and support when they need it most.

Macmillan Cancer Support's Brave the Shave is set to unite thousands of fundraisers in sponsored head shaves this summer, which will raise money for people living with cancer throughout the UK.

You can join the Brave the Shave movement today by signing up to take part at bravetheshave.org.ukThousands of weary office workers around Australia dream of quitting their corporate jobs to follow their passion and launch their own business.

For most it remains a pipe dream, but for mother-of-two Rhian Allen, it was a reality.

The 41-year-old Sydney-based entrepreneur had been working in a corporate job for 12 years until she decided to quit, sell her house and launch her weight loss business, Healthy Mummy.

Eight years on and the business is the biggest 'mums only' healthy eating and weight loss program in the world and has just gone international after a successful launch in the UK.

It also turning over a staggering $22million a year.

Rhian Allen (pictured) quit her job of 12 years in 2010 to launch Healthy Mummy - a weight loss business that is now turning over $22million a year

Eight years on and the business is the biggest 'mums only' healthy eating and weight loss program in the world and has just gone international after a successful launch in the UK (pictured shortly after launching the business)

'In 2010 I never imagined that I would have helped mums lose over three million kilos and that I would have have my own book,' Ms Allen said.

'When I started my business in 2010, it was always about doing something worthwhile. It was about doing something good. Not making money.'

Ms Allen was inspired to create Healthy Mummy while she was pregnant as she was frustrated to find there was no national or holistic support system to help women get healthy after giving birth.

She researched the possibility of creating a safe and healthy plan of her own before quitting her job, selling her house and investing every dollar she owned into the idea.

'In 2010 I never imagined that I would have helped mums lose over three million kilos and that I would have have my own book,' Ms Allen said

'I made a business plan around the customer - which was the customer is ALWAYS number one, is AWLAYS my number one concern and my job was to help mums,' she said (pictured with a Healthy Mummy customer)

But it wasn't without careful planning.

'I made a plan around what the customer needed and where I felt I could create a unique service, support and product offering  which was helping mums achieve health and weight loss after having children,' she said.

'[I only quit] once I had it really clear in my head about what I need to deliver to the customer and how I could help mums and what I needed to start building.'

That, she said, has been the key to her success.

'I made a business plan around the customer - which was the customer is ALWAYS number one, is AWLAYS my number one concern and my job was to help mums,' she said.

'You need to look at what people want, then create it for them, instead of dreaming something up and hoping people want it,' she said

Speaking to FEMAIL, Ms Allen said it's crucial for aspiring entrepreneurs to decide on their objectives before 'jumping ship' from their corporate roles (pictured shortly after launching the business)

'You need to look at what people want, then create it for them, instead of dreaming something up and hoping people want it.

'Find a solution your market actually wants, then create it.'

Speaking to FEMAIL, Ms Allen said it's crucial for aspiring entrepreneurs to decide on their objectives before 'jumping ship' from their corporate roles.

'It is important to have a solid plan in place, as starting a business is costly and it can be a long time before you make any money,' she said.

'Work out how much you are going to need to launch your idea and business and tally up the rough costs for website set up costs, stock, intellectual property costs, business admin set up costs, any creative design needed and launch marketing costs.'

Although she has a high turnover, Ms Allen invests all of the money back into the business each year instead of taking the money out

'I work my butt off every single day and I never ever stop working. I work so hard and I work hard for the customer and I always have the customer in my mind with every thing I do,' she said

Once the cost has been established, Ms Allen urges people to only quit once that money has been earned.

'That way you can build your business in the background and do all the behind the scenes work (which can take months and months) whilst you still have a salary,' she said.

Although she has a high turnover, Ms Allen invests all of the money back into the business each year instead of taking the money out.

'I work my butt off every single day and I never ever stop working. I work so hard and I work hard for the customer and I always have the customer in my mind with every thing I do,' she said.

Although business makes up an enormous part of Ms Allen's life, her family remains number one and she always prioritises time with them

'My dedication and hard work is without doubt uncommon but I am so passionate about what I do that it is just a way of life and it is who I am.'

Although business makes up an enormous part of Ms Allen's life, her family remains number one and she always prioritises time with them.

'I am there for play dates. I am there for as many school drop offs and pick ups during the week as I can,' she said previously.

'I spend all my spare time with them and I never let them feel that my work takes over. I also talk to them about my work and get them involved where I can so they don't resent it when I have to do early morning work.'

'I spend all my spare time with them and I never let them feel that my work takes over,' Ms Allen said (pictured with her sons)

She does so by getting up at 5am every day without fail.

'I get one and a half hours of work in and half an hour of exercise in before my kids and hubby are up and everyone needs feeding,' she said.

'I usually get to the office after school drop off and work like a speed demon with back to back meetings until I leave in the afternoon.'

Ms Allen also works after her kids are in bed at night and is grateful she has a husband who serves as both a beau and a business partner.

Rhian was able to find the success she has today by not only creating a solid community and great product but also constantly evolving the brand.

Rhian was able to find the success she has today by not only creating a solid community and great product but also constantly evolving the brand

The two biggest products are the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge and the Healthy Mummy Smoothies but she also sells over 40 books, supplements, kids smoothies, exercise DVDs, work out tops, bags, and bottles.

'Everything we do is from a grass roots perspective and building our community and trust with a customer first approach is how we run the business and it feels so good to know that we are positively impacting the health of so many mums every single day,' she said.

'I also love to be able to create a positive work environment for so many people and have so many other mums be part of the business that has now become such a big part of so many mums lives.'A five-year-old girl who can remarkably name the world's 195 capital cities in any order has recited Shakespeare.

Little Esther Lee, from Sydney, made headlines in 2016 after she was able to memorise the capital of every city country in the world at the tender age of two.

And fast forward three years, the child prodigy, who can also speak three languages, showed off a new talent - reciting classic poetry.

Appearing on Sunrise, the clever girl recited her favourite scene from Romeo and Juliet word-for-word live on air.

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Esther Lee, from Sydney, can name the world's 195 capital cities has recited Shakespeare

'Romeo and Juliet, act two, scene two... O Romeo, Romeo. Wherefore art thou Romeo?' Esther said.

'Deny thy father and refuse thy name. Or if thou wilt not be but sworn my love and I'll no longer be a Capulet.

'Tis but thy name that is my enemy. Thou art thyself, though not a Montague. What's Montague? It is nor hand, nor foot, nor arm, nor face, nor any other part belonging to a man.

'O, be some other name. What's in a name? That which we call a rose. By any other word would smell as sweet.'

Her recital was quickly met with warm applause as she opened up about her love for William Shakespeare.

'I love everything about Shakespeare. He did everything, and I like it and he was a great poet,' Esther said.

Little Esther Lee, from Sydney, made headlines in 2016 after she was able to memorise the capital of every city country in the world at the tender age of two

Her father Shu (pictured) has been teaching his daughter her talented skills after he discovered on a family holiday in 2015 she was able to memorise things easily

When she was 18 months old, her parents discovered her incredible ability to learn and memorise details of any country - and recite them in any order.

Her proud father Shu - a high school humanities and Mandarin casual teacher - told Today Show in 2016 his daughter's feat came as an 'accident'.

'It came when we went on a family trip to Thailand [in 2015]... We went to Bangkok and we just happened to ask her what was the capital city of Thailand,' Mr Lee said.

'And we just taught her it was Bangkok... and after a few days, we ask her again and we discovered that she knows.

'From then on, I just throw in some of the other countries like where my family is from - Malaysia - and her mum is from China, where we live Australia and found that she could retain that.

'We started with one then we went to five, then we went to 10 and after I discovered she was interested in the capitals, I just kept on going.'The average chances of winning the lottery are one in 175 million.

But if you're looking for a competition with better chances of being victorious one Australian family has decided to raffle off their lucrative seaside cafe in Phillip Island, Victoria, and it costs just $15 to enter.

Laura and Matt McNamara have owned the plant-based Island Whole Foods since 2015 but have decided to give it away to one lucky resident in order to tour the nation.

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Laura and Matt McNamara have owned the plant-based Island Whole Foods since 2015 but have decided to give it away to one lucky resident in order to tour the nation

'With our love for adventure, the outdoors and the ocean, my husband and I have always planned to travel Australia when our kids were young, to really embrace this fundamental time together as a family,' Laura said.

'On our travels we want to work with organisations like Take 3 for the Sea to help educate communities on the importance of living sustainably and protecting our oceans.

'And also share our minimalistic life, plant-based recipes and knowledge we gain along the way. I am currently working on a website to document this adventure under The Avocado Tribe.'

The cafe, which has a 9,000-strong fan base on social media, is currently turning over $500,000 each year, with that projected to increase

The cafe, which has a 9,000-strong fan base on social media, is currently turning over $500,000 each year, with that projected to increase.

The food offering consists of an all-day breakfast and lunch menu focused on wholesome plant based ingredients. They also provide specialty coffee, house made raw treats, the popular vegan cocowhip soft serve and superfood smoothies.

It's open six days a week from 8am-3pm but the new owners will have the option of negotiating the cafe's future timetable.

'Our mission is giving. The driving force behind the raffle is to not only find an owner, but also to raise awareness and funds for our chosen charities.

It's open six days a week from 8am-3pm but the new owners will have the option of negotiating the cafe's future timetable

The food offering consists of an all-day breakfast and lunch menu focused on wholesome plant based ingredients

'This amazing opportunity will change the winner's life, as it did ours. I would love nothing more than to see Island Whole Foods continue to nourish the supportive community on Phillip Island.

'We are aware of the many outcomes the prize may be taken however the winner of this amazing opportunity doesn't have to accept the prize if they don't feel fit to run a cafe.

'Alternate options for the winner include selling the cafe to one of the many interested individuals (which you can discuss with us), or taking the cash and assets as the rent is paid up until the current lease ends.'

The winner will walk away with the business, $10,000 cash, $4,000 in stock, rent, body corporate fees and council rates paid up until March next year.

The winner will walk away with the business, $100,000 cash, $4,000 in stock, rent, body corporate fees and council rates paid up until March next year

It has also been voted number one on TripAdvisor for restaurants on Phillip Island

It's a value of approximately $187,439 - and you just need to purchase one of their $15 Raw Golden Chocolate Bars to enter.

'I had never run a cafe before and quickly learnt on the go training my husband, who as well had no experience in hospitality,' Laura said.

'Island Whole Foods is the only plant based cafe in the Gippsland and Bass Coast Region making everything in house including our own nut milk, beefless burger patties, cashew cheese and raw treats to name a few.

'As a team we are very focused on sustainability, minimising waste, reducing plastic use and supporting customers to bring reusable cups and containers for takeaway.

To enter visit the Island Whole Foods website and purchase a Raw Golden Chocolate Bar for $15 which entitles you to one automatic entry into the draw to win

'I had never run a cafe before and quickly learnt on the go training my husband, who as well had no experience in hospitality,' Laura said

'The cafe is also close to world class waves, pristine nature reserves, the fastest growing humpback whale migration route in the world and also Australia's number one natural tourist attraction in the penguins.'

It has also been voted number one on TripAdvisor for restaurants on Phillip Island.

To enter visit the Island Whole Foods website and purchase a Raw Golden Chocolate Bar for $15 which entitles you to one automatic entry into the draw to win.

The draw closes October 16 and the winner is randomly drawn on October 17 at 2pm.Mia Wilkinson became a quad amputee after she was struck down with the deadly sepsis

Little Mia Wilkinson was like any other bubbly four-year-old who loved swimming, gymnastics, drawing and painting.

But in October 2017, she went from a perfectly happy, healthy girl with a contagious smile to critically ill after she was struck down with sepsis - a life-threatening blood infection caused by bacteria.

Within 48 hours, Mia's heart stopped beating, the blood stopped flowing to her hands and feet and she was placed on life support for six excruciating days in intensive care.

As her hands and feet began to blacken and shrivel, the Brisbane girl underwent surgery to have her arms and legs amputated.

Her parents Peter, 40, and Amy, 38, were told to expect the worst as their seriously ill daughter was left clinging onto her life in hospital.

But against all odds, the brave girl proved to be a little fighter after she fought against the disease, also known as the 'silent killer'.

Speaking to Daily Mail Australia, the family spoke out about their terrifying ordeal in a bid to warn other parents about the dangers of the little known condition that almost claimed the life of Mia, now aged five.

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Before the terrifying ordeal, Mia was like any other bubbly four-year-old who loved swimming, gymnastics, drawing and painting

Peter and Amy with their three kids - Ellie, 7, (left) Mia, now 5, (centre) and Max, 2 (right)

On the Friday afternoon of October 13, Mia was playing with her family like any normal day when she started complaining about her sore tummy.

'We had a normal morning and by the afternoon, she wasn't feeling well. I just picked her up and gave her a cuddle. At that stage, she didn't seem different. She was normal like any other day,' Peter told Daily Mail Australia.

But within a few hours Mia was vomiting.

Her parents decided to take her to see a GP on Saturday morning where she was diagnosed with a gastro bug after she experienced flu-like symptoms.

'We took her back home, she was resting when we noticed she was incoherent. We asked her questions but she didn't look at us or respond,' Amy said.

'I said to Pete 'this doesn't look right'. We've never seen anything like this in our children before so we thought we'd take her to a hospital.

'By the time we got there Mia was complaining about severe pain stopping her from putting weight on her legs.

'She was diagnosed with Influenza B and Viral Myositis and sent home to rest.'

The then-four-year-old girl, from Brisbane, has been positive during her battle with sepsis

What is sepsis? Sepsis, also known as the 'silent killer', is a serious blood infection caused by bacteria. It can start with any bacterial infection. That infection can be in the bladder, or in the chest, or even on the skin. But when you have sepsis, the infection worsens and spreads through the blood. The symptoms of sepsis vary. They can include: fever

chills

rapid breathing and heart rate

tiredness

headaches If sepsis gets worse, symptoms can include: confusion

nausea and vomiting

difficulty breathing

mottled skin

sudden drop in blood pressure Advertisement

Amy said she stayed in her daughter's bedroom that night where she had her alarm set every hour so she could wake up and check on her condition.

'Mia had the flu so we wanted to keep an eye on her and prodding her a little to verify she was still responsive,' Amy said.

'The next day, she didn't seem any better or any worse either. She was still unwell and very lethargic but it wasn't like anything changed.

'We thought with the flu, Mia just needed rest.'

Amy said she was checking on her daughter all of Sunday - until she noticed a 'very pale purple rash on her leg' later that afternoon.

The family rushed Mia back to the hospital where she was diagnosed with sepsis.

'Things just escalated from there,' Amy recalled.

'We didn't know how serious things really were until we arrived at the hospital. Mia was quickly admitted and surrounded by medical staff. We'll never forget that scene.

'You feel helpless just standing there.'

Peter added: 'I remember she was crying out to us. She was scared while all the medical staff were around her. I wanted to look after her but there was no way for me to get in.'

The brave girl has been adjusting to her new life since making a remarkable recovery

Mia has been learning how to draw again - and she can roll out play dough during playtime

She's now adapting to her new life while undergoing constant skin-graft surgery

The parents were told if they rushed their daughter to the hospital any later, she would likely have died.

As doctors in the emergency department diagnosed sepsis  Mia's body's immune response went into overdrive in response to Influenza A, Influenza B, Respiratory Syncytial Virus and an invasive Streptococcal A bacterial infection.

'We were clinging onto hope that it wasn't serious,' Amy said.

'It was a very odd situation to be in. When she was put on life support, there was a chance she wouldn't survive.

'At about midnight, her heart stopped. That was when we thought we'd lost her. I remember watching the machine pumping back and fourth.

'There was a machine where her lungs would flash up - it showed she was trying to breathe on her own.'

Astonishingly, Mia miraculously survived.

'It's amazing she pulled through,' Amy said.

'With Mia finally improving, the dosage of drugs constricting her blood vessels was reduced. Blood thinners were introduced to dissolve the clots that had formed.

'The colour in Mia's hands and feet immediately improved and we were clinging onto hope that she may just lose the tips of her fingers and toes.'

After being placed on life support for six days, little Mia miraculously survived

As a result of the crippling illness, she became a quad amputee after having her arms below her elbows and legs below her knees amputated

Mia was enjoying a day like any other day last October when she was struck down with sepsis

But as a result of the crippling illness, she became a quad amputee after having her arms below her elbows and legs below her knees amputated.

'We watched as her legs and hands turned black,' Amy recalled.

'As the days went on her fingers and toes began to dry and shrivel up.

'We told her that she would need to have her hands and feet amputated. She asked us why. We told her that her hands and feet were sick and they would make her sick again.'

Peter added: 'She was breathing again and we knew we still have her. It was wonderful but at the same time, seeing her hands and feet go black was hard to watch.

'They were days that we'll never forget. Mia was on life support for six days. She fought her way back but some damage was permanent.'

Mia has since made a remarkable recovery, where she started learning how to walk again on her prosthetic legs.

She's now adapting to her new life while undergoing constant skin-graft surgery and medical check ups.

'Mia's arms have healed well, and she amazes everyone with her resilience and ability to adapt. She's been so brave and she really is an inspirational,' her parents said.

'Her strength and general health have returned and she started school this year. Mia is learning to write with her arms and she can feed herself.

'She is an awesome power wheelchair driver and she is extremely mobile crawling around the house on her elbows and knees.

'Nothing will hold her back. We watch Mia now living her new life - she has learned to draw, to paint, to play with her doll houses and to use an iPad.'

By sharing their extraordinary story, the parents hoped other families could draw hope from their experiences

Mia has since made a remarkable recovery - and she still has a contagious smile that warms hearts everywhere

By sharing their extraordinary story, the parents hoped other families could draw hope from their experiences.

'We've never felt such big emotions like this on a large scale - you go from absolute heartbreak to so much pride in what Mia does now,' Amy said.

'We don't remember the traumatic times. Looking back and reliving the past is torture. We try and live in the moment.

'The last 10 months have been filled with so much heartbreak and challenges but Mia's happy and healthy within herself and she's doing extremely well - and that's all that matters.'

The family also shared their advice for any parent who may be going through a similar journey.

'Don't compare what you have to what you thought you have. Don't look at the past. Look at what's good in isolation,' Peter said.

Amy added: Enjoy the time. Don't worry about the future, live in the moment.'

The couple have set up Movement for Mia to increase awareness about sepsis - and to raise funds for Mia's ongoing medical expenses, treatments and prosthetics.

For more information or to make a donation, please visit Movement for Mia.A repairman revealed how he woke after suffering a stroke to find he had developed a new talent for painting.

Wayne Sheppard, 45, of Plumstead, south east London, had never been able to draw or paint, struggling to even create basic shapes like a circle or a square.

But that changed when he suffered a stroke at work in December 2016.

Experts believe damage to the right-side of the brain, which is linked to creativity, can allow for artistic and musical skills to flourish as new neurological pathways are created.

For Mr Sheppard the injury left him with a 'sudden urge to draw' and now he is so accomplished he sells pieces for up to 400.

Newfound talent: Wayne Sheppard, 45, discovered he possessed the ability to create extraordinary paintings after suffering a stroke affecting the right-hand side of his brain. Pictured, Mr Sheppard in his home studio surrounded by examples of his vibrant work

He also told how it has given him a 'purpose' as he battles stage-4 cancer.

Speaking in an interview with the Sunday Mirror he said: 'I remember waking up in hospital the day after my stroke with this sudden urge to draw.

'At first I thought it was out of boredom. My girlfriend handed me her pad and I just started to squiggle on it.

'I started drawing this 4D pattern. I didnt really know what I was doing but I felt like I needed to do it. I felt possessed.'

Life-changing: Mr Sheppard, pictured, was admitted to hospital a day after collapsing during his shift at Whipps Cross University Hospital, London, shortly before Christmas. Doctors discovered he suffered a stroke and diagnosed him with stage-4 cancer

Creative outlet: Mr Sheppard told how painting gives him a 'purpose' as he battles his cancer. The artist spends up to 10 hours a day creating works of art like this David Bowie portrait

Mr Sheppard was admitted to hospital a day after collapsing during his shift at Whipps Cross University Hospital, London, shortly before Christmas.

An MRI scan revealed he had suffered a stroke that cut off the blood supply to the right-side of his brain, causing tissue death.

How can a stroke lead to newfound talents? Doctors believe patients can experience newfound creativity after a stroke as a result of the brain rewiring itself following the injury. A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of your brain is cut off. Blood carries essential nutrients and oxygen to your brain. Without blood your brain cells can be damaged or die. The brain often rewires itself to avoid the damaged parts. It is this that can lead to new neurological pathways forming, resulting in new skills or ways of thinking. Such injury also causes what is known as Foreign Accent Syndrome, when a brain injury sufferer develops a completely new accent. Advertisement

Newfound creativity can emerge when the brain rewires itself to avoid these damaged parts, resulting in the rapid learning of a skill.

A number cases have emerged suggesting a link between brain injury and creativity and language, with sufferers awaking to find they have developed new skills seemingly overnight.

In Mr Sheppard's case, he also found his native South African accent starting to change in the weeks after the incident.

He said: 'I woke up and started speaking in this weird language, almost like tongues. Throughout the day it slowly turned into this weird mix of Northern Irish, Welsh and Scouse, which I still have now.'

Further tests showed Mr Sheppard also had cancerous growths in his lungs, spleen and liver and he was later diagnosed with stage 4 non-hodgkin lymphoma.

Now Mr Sheppard paints for up to 10 hours a day as a way to keep himself focused and fulfilled as he undergoes chemotherapy and treatment for his condition.

Fresh start: Mr Sheppard sells some of his his paintings at markets, including the one above

Most expensive: The artist's take on the Mona Lisa, pictured, sold for 400 at a market

His work, which he showcases on Facebook, covers a broad spectrum of subjects, from landscapes to portraits, he has also taken commissions from friends and acquaintances.

His highest-selling piece was an interpretation of the Mona Lisa, which was sold at a market for 400.

Mr Sheppard added how he is grateful for his new talent as it has given him a 'purpose'.

'I'm glad I have this talent as I wouldn't be here otherwise. It's given me a reason to live.'TV presenter Melanie Sykes said she is concerned the #MeToo movement might have gone 'too far' in its campaign to call out sexual harassment.

The 48-year-old star said there was a clear difference between 'admiration' and being 'sexually aggressive' but that it is troubling when the line is 'blurred'.

Speaking to the Sun on Sunday's Fabulous magazine, she said: 'If a man can't even say you look nice any more, I think that's bulls***.

'Because that's just human interaction, and where would we be without being able to admire another human being?'

Speaking out: TV presenter Melanie Sykes said she is concerned the #MeToo movement might have gone 'too far' in its campaign to call out sexual harassment. Pictured, the mother-of-two paddles on Formentor Beach during a trip to Mallorca last week to celebrate her 48th birthday

Clear line: Sykes said she thought it was 'bulls***' if men didn't feel they could pay women compliments for fear of being accused of harassment. Pictured, the star in London in March

She added: 'We all know when it feels uncomfortable and we know when it doesn't, and we should be the judge of that.'

Sykes, who has two teenage children with first husband Daniel Caltagirone, 46, also told how she has grown tired of the speculation surrounding her love life since the split from her second husband Jack Cockings in 2016.

'I read a lot, I'm very interested in art, in films, I love to cook, but it all comes down to what I'm wearing and who I'm having sex with,' she said. 'And I'm tired of it.'

The former I'm A Celebrity contestant, who is hosting a BBC Radio 2 show with Alan Carr over summer, last week jetted off to Mallorca to celebrate her 48th birthday.

Independent: Sykes, pictured on holiday in Mallorca last week, also told how she has grown tired of the speculation surrounding her love life since the split from her second husband Jack Cockings in 2016

Birthday break: The former I'm A Celebrity contestant, who is hosting a BBC Radio 2 show with Alan Carr over summer, last week jetted off to Mallorca to celebrate her 48th birthday. Pictured, Sykes in one of the stunning snaps she has shared on Instagram from the trip

She looked glamorous in an array of printed bikinis and cover-ups as she soaked up the sun with close friend, photographer Samantha Hemsley.

Sykes shared snaps from the girls' holiday on Instagram, where she boasts more than 163,000 followers.

The mother-of-two balances life in the spotlight with co-parenting her sons Roman, 16, and 14-year-old Valentino, affectionately known as 'Tino', with Caltagirone, with whom she enjoys an amicable relationship.

Sykes has previously spoken candidly of the difficulties she faced when Tino was diagnosed with autism aged two.

Amicable: Sykes balances life in the spotlight with co-parenting her sons Roman, 16, and 14-year-old Valentino, affectionately known as 'Tino', with first husband Daniel Caltagirone, 46, with whom she enjoys a good relationship. Pictured, the pair on This Morning in 2016

Speaking to the Mirror earlier this year, she admitted she 'couldn't cope' with the diagnosis at the time and still has occasional 'wobbles' when she questions whether she is doing enough.

She said her priority was to make sure her son was given enough room to grow.

'I think I have got it all right, but all of a sudden I do have a wobble about it because I do worry about him,' she said.

'He really needs me. Sometimes I think I am doing really well, and sometimes I am just overwhelmed by it.

'Every now and again it will hit me and I will go, "Wow, he might never be independent of me". Which is fine. But I want him to have independence because thats how we grow.'She moved into Balmoral Castle for her summer break on Monday and it seems that the Queen already has visitors.

The monarch was joined by her granddaughter Princess Beatrice for the Sunday service at Crathie Kirk church this morning.

Beatrice, who turned 30 this week, joined her grandmother in the back of one of the royal cars to travel to the chapel on Sunday.

The Princess of York looked elegant in an oversize black hat as she chatted with Her Majesty who looked typically elegant in powder blue.

The Queen looked typically elegant as she arrived at Crathie Kirk for Sunday service this morning during her summer break in Balmoral

Joining her for the short car journey was her granddaughter Pirncess Beatrice who turned 30 earlier this week

Beatrice's father Prince Andrew also joined them riding upfront alongside the Queen's chauffeur.

It was a family affair this morning with another of the Queen's granddaughters attending the service.

Lady Louise Windsor, daughter of Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex was pictured arriving in a separate car not far behind.

The royals were hit by a spot of rain this morning but that didn't appear to dampen their spirits, although the Queen did wrap up under a blanket for the journey over.

Crathie Church lies next door to Balmoral and the Queen is a regular presence at services during her annual holiday.

As is custom the royal guard could be seen parading outside the church ahead of Her Majesty's arrival - much to the public's delight.

The Queen officially moved into Balmoral castle on Monday in Scotland in what marks the start of her annual summer break.

Prince Andrew was seen riding in the passenger seat next to the Queen's chauffeur

Another of the Queen's grandchildren Lady Louise Windsor was pictured arriving in a separate car today

Her Majesty was greeted by Officer Commanding Johnny Thompson in order to inspect the guards.

Her Majesty typically arrives in Scotland August after Balmoral castle is closed to visitors and full security checks are carried out on the grounds.

The Queen moved into the castle after spending recent weeks at Craigowan Lodge, a smaller cottage on the Aberdeenshire estate, which is also known as the Enchanted Manor.

The castle is open to the public until the end of July and has been prepared for the monarch's arrival over the last week.

Crowds of well-wishers gathered to welcome the Queen on Monday where she is expected to be in residence until early October.

The monarch appeared to be in high spirits as she made the short journey to the chapel

As is custom the Royal Guards were seen parading outside the church ahead of the Queen's arrival today

The last time Her Majesty was spotted out and about was on Sunday when she attended last week's service at the church.

Charles and Camilla also have a home, Birkhall, on the Balmoral Estate and will no doubt be spending time with the monarch over the coming weeks.

Last year the Queen departed for Balmoral in mid July and did not end her annual Highland summer holiday until the first week in October.

Her Majesty's last public engagements were on 13th and 14th July, when she welcomed overseas visitors - most notably President Donald Trump - to Windsor castle.

The monarch greeted the US president and his wife Melania in the quadrangle of the royal residence ahead.

The Queen famously enjoys a more low-key existence while staying at the Scottish retreat - with her former royal protection officer Richard Griffin recently revealing that she had a conversation with unsuspecting American tourists visiting the estate while dressed in tweeds and a scarf.

Balmoral, which was bought by Prince Albert for 32,000 in 1852, is said to be the Queen's favourite home.

During her stay at the castle, she relaxes by going for walks on the Aberdeenshire estate, eating picnics and cooking barbecues.

Princess Eugenie has previously said of Balmoral: 'It's the most beautiful place on earth. I think Granny is the most happy there.

'I think she really, really loves the Highlands.''Happy anniversary, darling, I say as we make our way, with the help of Google Maps, through the streets of Berlin in 34-degree heat.

Our destination? Neither a restaurant for a slap-up lunch nor a cocktail bar at which we will toast the ten years of our relationship, but the consulting room of the renowned marital therapist Andrew G. Marshall.

It may not be everyones idea of the perfect mini-break  and I admit I was tempted to call the whole thing off as we questioned earlier, over breakfast, what on earth wed let ourselves in for.

Lindsey Kelsey and her husband Ronny (pictured) went to Berlin to visit marital therapist Andrew G. Marshall

By signing up for a relationship MOT in lieu of a romantic holiday, was there a danger of raking up problems that didnt actually exist?

Could playing the truth game, laying bare our deepest feelings on the shared couch, result in us saying things better left unsaid?

Might we benefit more from instead going round the museums and picnicking on currywurst in the Tiergarten?

Well, it was too late to back out now  and I reminded myself why we were doing this. The idea of couples therapy had intrigued both of us. After a decade of being together, I had started to notice that Id become a lot snappier with my partner, Ronny. More easily irritated, listening less, resenting our differences.

And it had got me thinking about past relationships  my short-lived marriage when I was 19 and the 23-year relationship with the father of my son.

Might counselling have saved us? Wasnt it better to reflect on things before the rot had set in, rather than waiting for a major crisis when long-held resentments are too embedded to be resolved?

The couple said that they wanted to grow old together and so decided to get counselling so that they could stay on track

Now in my mid-60s, I want this bond to be for life, for us to grow old together  and Ronny wants the same. Weve survived health scares and the challenge of his adult daughter moving back in for a year.

Doubtless, there will be more bumps in the road. If counselling can keep us on track, it has to be worth a try.

So, here we are for the first of five hour-long sessions with Andrew, who welcomes us into his airy consulting room and gestures towards a black leather sofa. We each nestle into a corner and I note a box of tissues. Wont be needing those, I think, were too happy for tears . . .

Andrew  who moved to Berlin 12 months ago after 30 years as a therapist in the UK and having written 16 books on relationships and infidelity  explains the principles behind the programme hes designed as a therapy holiday.

Therapist Andrew G. Marshall, pictured in his office, moved to Berlin last year after spending 30 years as a counsellor in the UK

When people lead busy lives  especially with young children  it can be hard to fit in therapy on a weekly basis, he tells us. It can actually be easier to clear your diary for a whole week.

It also feels safer than to leave the session in the air with a weeks gap between. If things go pear-shaped in the meantime, you can come back the next day to discuss it, rather than having it hang over you.

Most people, Andrew knows from experience, crush marriage against the wall because theyre too involved in daily life. The advantage of this intensive week is that you get to work on your marriage 24/7, away from the distractions of work and picking up the kids and other responsibilities. The focus becomes entirely on the two of you.

Andrew believes that the Berlin Wall is a metaphor for relationships and the walls that couples build between each other

Andrew had been visiting one of the few remaining sections of the Berlin Wall and discovering the poignant stories of divided families at the adjacent commemorative museum when it occurred to him that, as with the divisions between East and West Berlin, in a long relationship you might start with a bit of barbed wire between you, then build up to full search lights and shoot-to-kill.

What might we learn from using the Cold War as a metaphor for relationships and the walls couples build between one another?

DAY ONE

After taking basic details, Andrew asks what brought us here. I say that I think in some ways, were very different people  that were East and West, to use his own metaphor  and that we got heavily involved and moved in together within a year of meeting.

That we came to the relationship as fully-formed adults in our 50s and didnt focus on our differences, which had now come more to the fore. That I was the one who got most easily irritated by these differences and I didnt like this aspect of myself.

Asked to elaborate, I find myself reeling off a list, including the fact that Im organised, while Ronny is disorganised; I like change, Ronny is resistant; Im focused, Ronny is easily distracted; that I want to act when Im anxious, while Ronny procrastinates; that he comes out with stuff in a torrent, whereas I first need to sit on it and think things through.

Lindsey and Ronny underwent five hour-long sessions of therapy with Andrew during their time in Berlin

It sounds like a litany of complaints, so I try to get Andrew to understand that theyre all petty things. He notes my anxiety to emphasise how good our relationship is.

Ronny explains that the house we live in belongs to me (his flat is rented out) and that I have a lot of rules, such as not being able to leave one plate unwashed or surface unwiped after weve eaten. And that if he makes for the TV or phone before the kitchen is spotless, I give him a look of incomprehension. These spoilers, he says, get in the way of our love for one another.

We talk, too, about how Ronny, who wears his heart on his sleeve, encourages me to express my feelings and how sometimes I find it overwhelming. Andrew notes I appear to swallow my feelings with thoughts and Ronny explains how he feels closer to me when I let myself soften.

Andrew reassures us that however petty we believe some of our dissatisfaction to be, we need never feel embarrassed about airing small topics because we might learn from them.

Andrew reassures us that however petty we believe some of our dissatisfaction to be, we need never feel embarrassed about airing small topics

He also notes moments of sadness  in me  and tenderness between us. Our homework is a reflective listening exercise, to talk about our feelings of being in the therapy room. We take it in turns.

As the speaker talks (briefly!), the other has to summarise what theyve said and, when finished summarising, asks: Is that right?

If the answer is yes, the listener asks: Is there more? and allows the speaker to add detail if the listener has missed it out.

But if the answer to Is that right? is no, then the original speaker reports what was said or what was missed out and the receiver has another go.

Three things, Andrew says, get in the way of good communication  interrupting, being busy preparing your defence (which means you stop listening), or what he calls chunking, spewing out so much information that your partner doesnt know what to react to.

The couple shared the numerous little complaints that they have about each other and that get in the way of their relationship

That evening, over pasta, we practise our listening skills. Its harder than it sounds. We keep getting it wrong and it feels stilted, but we get there eventually and giggle while were doing it.

We feel at ease in Berlin. Something about being on holiday, without the pressures of daily life, makes this forensic examination of how we communicate feel less loaded, less self-defensive, than it would at home.

DAY TWO

We begin to talk about some of the things that impact our relationship. One eye-opener, with Andrews help, is that when we examine my list of differences, it becomes clear Im classing myself as good and Ronny as bad. Ironically, Ronny, who is his own harshest critic, feels that I rightly emerge as the goodie and him as the baddie. Andrew gives us a wry smile. A good match, but is it helpful? he asks. He encourages us away from comparative thinking  good vs bad, brilliant vs rubbish, right vs wrong  and asks us to be more contemplative when differences arise between us. For example, we might be loving and judgmental, nice and not nice.

I bring in the fact that Ronny rarely complains about me, puts me on a pedestal and goes around telling people how wonderful I am, which I find burdensome.

The previous night, I finally got him to admit what drives him mad about me. When he said it frustrates him that Im so rational, so cool in my analysis, whereas hes passionate, it was a relief. I was able to acknowledge he is a passionate person and I love that about him  maybe Im envious.

Our next homework is to go to the Berlin Wall Memorial park and museum and think about walls in a contemplative way, but also about boundaries and how they might differ from walls.

Despite the heat, we have a spring in our step. Difficult things are being said, but its bringing us closer, not pushing us away.

DAY THREE

Its now that I find myself grabbing at the tissue box. Ronny says something that sets me off, something that shows he understands my anxieties and the difficulties I have in talking about them.

Its the first time Ive been in a relationship with a man who is better at expressing his feelings than I am and, sometimes, Im overwhelmed by his need to dig deep. Its a good feeling, I stutter, as I dab at my tears. It makes me feel lucky to have him because he has such compassion for me. The things that irritate are so petty compared to this.

On the business of walls and boundaries, we find it easier to see the positives in boundaries.

As they discussed their relationship, Lindsey admitted that it was the first time she'd been with a man who is better at expressing feelings than she is

Walls, we agree, divide and imprison, create animosity and block the view. We build them as a conscious or unconscious protection against misunderstandings and misconceptions and reduced respect and neglect.

But boundaries are necessary. They provide privacy, create clarity, allow individuality, rather than enmeshment, and can be flexible and negotiated. Im soon to learn something about boundaries that will surprise me.

Our homework is to choose a specific issue over which we have real differences and discuss using the reflective listening techniques weve learned.

The topic we pick is Ronnys retirement from being a self-employed osteopath. This is such an important and live issue, its going to be not one negotiation, but a series, says Andrew.

Ronny is conflicted. On the one hand, he says hes overworked and wants to throw it all in. Hes often on his feet for 12 hours a day.

On the other, he thinks hell never be able to afford to retire. Hes worried about work drying up now hes 64, yet hes busier than ever. I jump in with ideas for succession planning so he can work less without stopping a job he loves.

They said that spending five days in Berlin examining the nooks and crannies of their relationship made them realise how much work there is to do

My tendency is to rush in as rescuer  it sounds kind, but causes me to leap over Ronnys boundaries and make him a victim.

He doesnt follow up on anything I suggest, so I become resentful and start to persecute him. After a bit, he objects to being a victim and gets angry with me for trying to sort his problems. So he becomes the persecutor and I am the victim.

DAY FOUR

Discussing the previous nights homework, it becomes apparent that we are in what Andrew calls the drama triangle.

Andrew tries to help us see that I can be a better listener; I can offer advice, but I cant resolve Ronnys problems. Ultimately, he needs to sort it out for himself. Phew! I resist the urge to say: But what if he still doesnt do anything?

DAY FIVE

For our final homework, we are asked each to write a list of what weve learned about each other and what we hope to do differently.

We are amazed by how much has emerged in a few sessions. Ronny resolves to look less to me for solutions, to remind us both of boundaries and to discuss his concerns, while burdening me less.

I resolve to back off on the rescue plans, to not offer criticisms that belittle, to prioritise loving feelings, rather than frustrations and irritations. And to avoid suggestions that sound like orders.

Having therapy on holiday? It worked for us, but if wed gone in a state of should-I-stay-or-should-I-go crisis, Im not sure it would have been as successful. It would have been so much harder to bear the painful conversations in an isolated holiday setting  though it would certainly bring things to a head.

What Ive come home feeling is that every happy relationship could do with a refresher course.

Five days in Berlin examining the nooks and crannies of ours has made us realise how much work there is for me and Ronny to do  and its brought us closer than I could ever have imagined possible.

Andrew G. Marshalls five-day couples course costs 950 (andrewgmarshall.com). Wake Up And Change Your Life: How To Survive A Crisis And Be Stronger, Wiser And Happier (Marshall Method Publishing, 12.99).The heat can do funny things to a womans style. Did I ever imagine I would covet the sort of floor-sweeping white dress associated with bridesmaids or beach shoots in St Barts? For daywear? In the city?

I did not. Yet there I was, on the umpteenth day of the never-ending heatwave, in Sandro, my favourite French High Street brand, trying on a white, gauzy, lace-trimmed frock that wouldnt look amiss on one of the Victorian dolls of my childhood. I like it, I told the assistant. But I think I look like Im wearing my nightie.

So? she shrugged, arranging her features into an expressive (read: exasperated) pout. In this weather, it is cool. And she was right, of course. You see, the Long White Dress  or LWD  is having a moment. (And, yes, I did buy it.)

Helen Mirren, pictured at a film premiere, is one of the celebs to have been seen in a long white dress - which is making a comeback

Long White Dresses, in all their shimmering, ethereal, slightly ghostly glory, were plentiful on the designer runways for summer 2018.

There were beautiful balloon-sleeved, textured midi-lengths at Australian brand Ellery; intricate, super-feminine lacework at Zimmermann; and scalloped oyster satin and some of the most heartstopping dresses you could ever hope for at Simone Rocha.

Irish-born Simone, daughter of designer John Rocha, cited her childhood collection of Victorian dolls as inspiration.

But what has made these shamelessly romantic looks feel so relevant this summer?

Well, the heatwave had a lot to do with it. When the temperature hit 30c, I found myself unearthing a white, broderie anglaise skirt I bought in a French market a few years ago. Everything else in my closet made me feel too hot.

In the world of culture, BBC2s adaptation of Picnic At Hanging Rock also seems to have stirred our sartorial yearning for pintucks, petticoats and buttoned-up white lace frillies (the final episode airs on Wednesday).

Of course, the original Seventies film about schoolgirls who go missing in 1900 is regularly referenced on fashion designers moodboards.

Australia-based newcomer Lee Mathews, who specialises in breezy, floaty, voile, pintucked numbers, is a fan. She nods to the films influence in her work. Her Miller blouse (215, net-a-porter.com) will help you keep the summer mood into autumn.

For other dreamy, cinematic Long White Dress references, watch Sofia Coppolas Southern-gothic Civil War drama The Beguiled, starring Elle Fanning, an actress who has made the look her own.

And, of course, Coppolas breakout hit The Virgin Suicides has several definitive LWD moments.

Happily, there are many options in the High Street, from the lace midi dress at & Other Stories (85, stories.com), which captures the Victoriana spirit while managing to not look twee, to Mangos drawstring-waist dress (49.99, shop.mango.com) and shirt dress (69.99) for LWD elegance without a frill in sight.

John Lewiss Modern Rarity line has the ultimate linen tiered-hem dress (120, johnlewis.com).

To keep your look grown-up and chic, simplicity is key. Avoid looking like a superannuated bridesmaid by keeping hair and make-up minimal; a pulled-back ponytail is best.

The same applies to accessories. Pared-back sliders in black or natural tones look perfect. No heels and no sickly, sugary colourways. Theres a trend to pair floor-length frocks with cowboy boots, which is probably best left to the young. If you are minded to protect your toes, try simple, white trainers.

And, rather like the patio umbrella you never purchase while the sun is shining, buy your LWD soon, while were still basking in the dog days.

SARAH BAILEY is executive brand editor for Porter.The cramped room in the back of a neighbourhood barber shop close to Chingford Station isnt where I expected to find a clinic promising a gleaming Hollywood smile makeover. But according to the Essex Smiles website, this is one of 18 studios across the South East offering teeth whitening  costing from 50  and DIY kits endorsed on social media by a host of actors, actresses and reality TV stars.

Im here for my appointment, I explain to a woman I assumed was a therapist as I arrive.

Im nervous I tell her, blaming my childhood fear of the dentist.

Dont worry, she says, were not dentists.

What I dont mention is that I am a journalist  and I know full well that legally a dental professional has to carry out teeth- whitening treatment.

Moment of truth: A worker at an Essex Smiles clinic gloves up as Eve prepares to insert the mouthguard filled with gel

The company had come under fire after the owner of their Northampton branch (pictured) was prosecuted and fined 4,500 by the General Dental Council (GDC) for offering illegal whitening in March of this year

I came across Essex Smiles while researching the surging popularity of teeth-whitening treatments, products and clinics in recent years, a trend driven largely by advertising on social media.

The company, whose promotional material features EastEnders actor and Im a Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here winner Joe Swash, and The Only Way Is Essex star Joey Essex among others, had come under fire after the owner of their Northampton branch was prosecuted and fined 4,500 by the General Dental Council (GDC) for offering illegal whitening in March of this year.

According to the GDC  the UK regulator of dental services  the legal position on teeth whitening is very clear: the treatment can only be performed by a dentist, dental therapist, dental hygienist or clinical dental technician.

Illegal tooth whitening represents a real risk to the public as those who carry it out are neither qualified to assess a patients suitability for the treatment nor are they able to intervene should an emergency arise.

Photographs available on Essex Smiles Facebook page show people having what seems to be a whitening procedure. A device on a bendable arm shines blue UV light into the mouth. Appointments are also advertised on Facebook.

I had approached the companys head office, telling them I worked for The Mail on Sunday. They denied they offered treatment and claimed they only sold products  which legally they are allowed to do. Their spokesman said: None of our shops have dentist chairs [and it is] wholly false... to suggest that we are in some way undertaking illegal dentistry practice.

Concerned by the contradiction between what I was being told and the impression I got from their social media, I posed as a would-be customer and made an appointment.

Once signed in at the Chingford branch, I was ushered into a room, and seated in a high-backed chair.

Essex Smiles' promotional material features EastEnders actor and Im a Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here winner Joe Swash

Another customer was already in there, UV lamp in place.

I was handed a plastic mouthguard dripping with a clear gel. The staff member assured me I could swallow the 100 per cent natural solution if I needed to and told me where to position my teeth in the mouthguard.

The mixture, I was told, contained only aloe vera, sodium bicarbonate (a natural tooth whitener found in toothpaste) and coconut oil.

According to the companys website, ingredients in several of their whitening products also include sodium carbonate peroxide, a type of bleach used for whitening by dentists. The whitening formula is supposedly activated by the lamp and the whole procedure can take up to an hour, depending on your desired brightness. I make my excuses  claiming an acute attack of nerves  and leave.

At the second branch I visit, I decided to give it a go.

Once I was in place, the woman at Essex Smiles, Ruislip, without so much as a glance inside my mouth explained how the teeth whitening works. I turn the lamp on for 30 minutes, then Ill come back, you rinse and spit, and we turn the lamp on for a further 30 minutes.

She instructed me not to brush my teeth for 12 hours after the treatment, nor drink tea, coffee or red wine, and take other drinks through a straw.

Protective dark goggles were provided to shield my eyes from the harmful UV rays. Once the lamp was in position, I was told to keep my head still and smile.

After she fired-up the lamp, she disappeared down the stairs.

The gel tasted like super-strength toothpaste, trickling down to the back of my throat as I struggled to breathe through my nose. The intense heat of the light blazed through my front teeth and the icy mint tingled my top lip resulting in an uncomfortable feeling across my top and bottom front teeth.

Dental professionals offer a similar procedure  including both a whitening solution and UV lamp. Dentists supply the exact quantity of whitening product in order not to cause adverse reactions of the gums and surrounding tissue.

Crucially, dental professionals may also detect gum disease or oral health problems that may worsen when in contact with teeth-whitening products. Studies from 2012 and 2016 published in the Journal of Open Dentistry show LED and laser-activated teeth-whitening treatments increase sensitivity in the teeth and the gums, with some evidence of demineralisation of teeth, increasing tooth decay risk.

Scott McGlynn, a podcast presenter from Cardiff, suffered crippling mouth pain and tooth sensitivity after illegal whitening at a different High Street chain to Essex Smiles. The 31-year-old had the hour-long treatment last year after seeing it advertised on a reality TV stars Instagram page.

Scott, who paid 60, said: I had shooting pains in my teeth and gums for three days. I couldnt drink water, my teeth were too sensitive. The lamp was so hot I think it damaged my enamel  and it had no effect on the colour of my teeth.

Many cosmetic teeth-whitening companies  including Essex Smiles  also sell DIY at-home whitening kits via their website. Some of these kits contain bleach, hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, which can only be sold legally to the public in strength doses below 0.1 per cent. Dentists or dental practitioners can use the chemical in doses of up to six per cent.

Essex Smiles state on their website that all products are within the legal limit of 0.1 per cent hydrogen peroxide, meaning they can be sold legally for use at home.

Several online companies illegally sell gels and strips containing up to 35 per cent hydrogen peroxide.

Promotional material also features The Only Way Is Essex star Joey Essex among others

In recent years, peroxide-free DIY whitening kits, containing naturally brightening ingredients have proved popular on social media, with celebrities such as Kylie Jenner endorsing companies claiming to make teeth eight shades whiter without chemicals.

Instagram favourite Hi-Smile contains pomegranate, chamomile, sodium chlorite and sodium bicarbonate (found in whitening toothpastes) which are said to work in conjunction with a hand-held LED lamp to whiten and reduce tooth sensitivity.

While the GDC regulates clinics offering teeth-whitening services, it is Trading Standards that oversees products sold for customers own use, usually at home.

In a statement, Trading Standards said: There have been some instances where consumers have been harmed by dangerously strong chemical levels in teeth-whitening kits. Our advice is to be cautious when buying online and seek advice from a dentist.

Professor Damien Walmsley, Dentist and scientific adviser to the British Dental Association, said: Many of these firms are peddling snake oil. It doesnt matter how much they dress it up in pseudo-science, they cant deliver the pearly whites they promise.

After visiting the clinics and speaking to the experts my conclusion is that the surest way to successfully brighten your teeth is to have teeth bleaching via a registered dentist or dental professional. Opting for at-home kits or in-store procedure may, at best, scrub away stains for 24 hours  which can also achieved with a good toothpaste. At worst, chemicals can leave gums blistered and burned and teeth achingly sensitive. The most likely scenario is no change in whiteness whatsoever, despite having parted with a hefty sum of cash.

Back in Ruislip, I lasted five minutes under the light before deciding my tastebuds and mouth could take no more. I was still charged the full price of 60  hows that for a kick in the teeth?

Essex Smiles told the MoS that they merely provided safe teeth-whitening products for customers to self-administer and a place to do it in. Their staff, they said, did not offer customers in-store teeth whitening and instructions were limited to how to use their products.

In a statement the company said: Essex Smiles provides shops around the country that sell tried and tested teeth-whitening products approved by Trading Standards.What started as the trip of a lifetime became the stuff of nightmares for Katie Gee in a single vicious moment.

The 18-year-old, from North London, had been volunteering at a school in Zanzibar when she and her friend Kirstie Trup were doused in acid in an unprovoked and now infamous attack by two men on a moped. The results were horrific.

Kirstie suffered burns to her arm, but it was Katie who bore the brunt. The right side of her face and body were completely burnt while her right ear was left shrivelled, black and useless.

Feeling positive: Katie Gee, now 23, looking forward to a 'normal' life

Yet five years on, almost to the day, her recovery has been nothing short of miraculous, as our photographs attest. And thanks to 70 operations  many of them gruelling 12-hour-long skin grafts  the dedicated care of medical staff and endless perseverance from Katie herself, her skin is almost completely smooth, the scars barely visible at all.

During the first three years after the attack, she had to wear a plastic face mask and full body compression suit for 23 hours a day and, last month, became the proud owner of a new right ear, masterfully sculpted from tissue from one of her ribs.

These details and more all form part of the extraordinary diary she shares today with The Mail on Sunday, charting her recovery from the day she arrived at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.

Today, the worst of her treatment is over, and the sociology student, who graduated from Nottingham University last year, wants to pay tribute to the extraordinary work of the Health Service  and to highlight the sheer destruction caused by a type of attack which is growing increasingly common, particularly in London.

Her assailants, who used acid from a car battery, have never been identified. 'In the first few years I barely went out,' Katie says. 'I had no confidence. People would stare and it makes you feel ugly and different, like a spectacle. I've come such a long way in five years.'

AUG 8, 2013: Katie's horrific injuries are pictured on her arrival at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital

AUG 8, 2013 There are no mirrors in the fifth floor burns unit at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital because patients like me can get distressed. And I can't see anything out of my right eye. But using my left, I've been looking at my face in the selfie mode of my phone and at my reflection in the metal trim of the shower.

My face is swollen, much more than when I left Africa and my body has doubled in size.

Consultant plastic surgeon Andy Williams is brutally honest: I have 35 per cent burns and will need years of treatment. He said he won't give up on me, though. He'll try to get me as close as possible to the person I was before.

My family and grandparents are all here. They don't try to sugar-coat anything either and I'm grateful. We'll get through this together.

I don't want anyone to hide anything from me. I know if I go home without seeing what I look like it will make it 20 times worse.

The first thing is to cut away the burnt, dead skin and then replace it with skin grafts. They ask to take skin from my scalp but my hair is the only thing I have left so I refuse, even though Andy says the colour match would be better for my face.

I'm relieved to be here but filled with trepidation.

LEFT: AUG 18, 2013 - Heavily bandaged in her bed at the hospital, she still manages to muster the humour to take a selfie. RIGHT: AUG 2013 - Finding the ability to laugh with a friend after an operation to remove dead skin

AUG 9, 2013 I'm nauseous and sore after the first 12-hour operation and am on dozens of drugs, including ketamine. In all, I will have 15 operations  nearly three a week  and two to three blood transfusions because the body bleeds a lot with skin removal.

When it first happened I thought, 'I'll be in the best hands so it'll be fine', but now I'm in the best hands and it's still bad. I don't know how I'll cope. The surgeons remove one section of the dead skin at a time and then apply donor skin to keep the wound from becoming infected.

They use skin from white, black and Asian donors all kept at -83C in a skin bank and put me on a cocktail of anti-rejection drugs. I look like a patchwork quilt! You have about two to three weeks before the body realises the skin is not a match but it's only a temporary measure, like having a skin plaster. For the actual graft they take skin from my back, bum and both my legs and cover my arm and stomach first. My arm was a big job because it all needs covering.

They slice the skin off with a dermatome, a tool a bit like a potato peeler, and then make it thinner by putting it through a skin mesher machine which looks like a pasta maker except it cuts the skin like a fishnet stocking.

For areas like my face, the surgeons apply a layer of collagen, oddly, taken from the Achilles tendon of a cow and another protein from a shark. My own top layer of skin is laid over the top.

It was either stapled or stitched on and was horribly painful. Later, as it heals, it's itchy.

LEFT: NOV 4, 2013 - Katie's face is covered in plaster of Paris to create a mould for her plastic mask. RIGHT: NOV 12, 2013 - At home after the arrival of the mask which she goes on to wear 23 hours a day

AUG 10, 2013 I'm surrounded by food: chips and milkshakes from McDonald's, cakes and Mum's home cooking. I've been told to eat 5,000 calories a day  more than an athlete  because my body is working so hard to repair itself and needs to be robust enough for so much surgery. When you lose your skin everything leaks out, including protein.

I also have to drink chocolate flavour protein shakes, which taste quite nice. But I'm woken at midnight, 2am and 5am to drink, so they're losing their appeal.

The nurses have been amazing, and many become friends.

In the beginning, one would sleep in my room overnight to make sure my heart rate was OK after major surgery.

My family are here most of the time and friends are forever popping in. My therapist always asks first if I'm up to seeing them. Some days I just don't feel like it.

LEFT: NOV 14, 2014 - Katie's right eye has to be bandaged after a painful skin graft to her eyelid. RIGHT: MAY 28, 2015 - An inspection of her new ear that was sculpted from the cartilage of one of her ribs

SEPT 23, 2013 I leave hospital with all my own skin but anxious about the next stage.

Mum is given a list of things to do if a wound opens or something starts bleeding. I'm surprised to find my bedroom at home in Hampstead, North London, filled like a florist's shop, and there's a card from Prime Minister David Cameron saying: 'We're going to do everything we can.'

I'm returning to hospital for physiotherapy every day and often wake up not able to move my arm because the skin has tightened. Luckily, it eases with massage.

My therapist asks me if I'm concerned about getting a boyfriend. I wasn't until she brought it up.

It's been hard to leave hospital. There, you're so distracted; there's always something to have done. Now I get home from my appointments and the hours drag on.

My family decide that a dog will cheer me up. Caeser certainly does that. I love going for long walks with him.

NOV 20, 2013 I'm fitted for a full plastic face mask at St George's Hospital in Tooting, South London, something I have to wear for 23 hours a day for the next two-and-a-half years. This will make my scars, which take up to two years to settle, as flat as possible. I've been really excited to get the first mask because it means I'm that much further on in my treatment, but wearing it is as horrible as it sounds: it's unnatural, so restrictive and the pressure of the straps gives me migraines.

I just want to smash it on the floor, but I don't because it took a month to make from the plaster of Paris moulding stage to the finished article. It's such a relief to take it off to eat and to shower but I've barely been out of the house.

People stare and make me feel ugly and different. If I have to go out in it, I wear a thick woolly hat and scarf to hide as much as possible, even in the heat.

Every time I have surgery on my face, I have a new mask made and fitted.

I've also been wearing a full compression suit for 23 hours a day. Made from neoprene-like material, it comprises a tight black top, leggings and a glove, rather like a catsuit overall, so not a complete fashion disaster, but it's so hot to wear, especially at night.

I've been told I must wear it for three years to help flatten the scar tissue as it settles and must get a new suit made every six to eight weeks. Chelsea and Westminster has its own seamstress who makes them all. You can choose from a range of colours but I went for black. I'll save a fortune on clothes.

DAY ZERO Aug 7, 2013: Katie is pictured with a child in Zanzibar on the day of the attack that would change her life forever

DEC 11, 2014 An important operation on my face: the scar from the skin graft between my nose and upper lip has contracted so much that my lip is fused to my nose. It's so uncomfortable and I dribble when I drink.

Both my nostrils have closed over, one completely, and I can't breathe well at all. Now it will be corrected: I've longed to get this surgery done.

The surgeons cut both layers of skin from my groin, so much in fact that it won't grow back and I'll need several corrective operations, but a scar there doesn't really matter.

Andy, the surgeon, put a splint in one nostril to prevent it from closing over completely but it didn't work and I've since had five operations to rebuild it.

First they attach skin before reinforcing it all with cartilage from one of my ribs.

I also have an eyebrow graft with Greg Williams at Farjo Hair Institute in Harley Street, London. He takes a chunk of skin from the back of my head and then painstakingly applies each hair in a ten-hour operation. The hairs still grow, but plucking is a bad idea...

JAN 30, 2015 After the attack, my right ear looked like a lump of charcoal. Andy Williams had tried to scrape the burnt parts away but, because there was no blood supply, the ear snapped off!

I could have had a prosthetic one fitted, but I don't like the idea of taking it off every day to clean it and it won't help my hearing, which has been badly damaged.

Andy recommends David Gault, a private reconstructive plastic surgeon and absolute genius whose hobby is sculpture. There are three 12-hour operations. In the first he breaks a rib and sculpts a new ear from the cartilage. They also shave a section of my head, cut a flap open and pull it down over the new ear. The flap still has a blood vessel attached, which starts pumping blood to the organ to keep it alive.

Having a broken rib is excruciatingly painful and really affects my breathing. You can't move without pain but I can make myself deal with it. It wasn't as painful as the attack itself  nothing ever will be.

In the third operation David attaches skin from my leg to the ear and pins it to my head  I can't put my hair behind it now. It's rock hard, I can't bend it but it works like a normal ear and my hearing is almost better than before. I've currently got a stitch through the lobe to create a hole for an earring. It's the little details that mean so much.

TODAY Thanks to the amazing medical team, I'm feeling incredibly positive and looking forward to getting on with 'normal' life  for me, normal is quite exciting.

Despite all the operations and disruption, I graduated from Nottingham University with a 2:1 in sociology last year. I'm enjoying life at home in Hampstead with my parents and two brothers  and Caesar  and will begin a graduate traineeship in corporate property next month. I still have to look at my scars every day, but they're a part of me now and I'll never be ashamed of them.Thousands of men, women and children deemed threats to national security due to their ancestry or political beliefs were locked up in Australia during both world wars.

During World War I civilians were rounded up and taken to remote places to be held against their will in what authorities then called concentration camps.

By World War II these facilities were known as internment camps and their purpose widened further: Australians with Japanese, German and Italian names were kept behind barbed wire just because of where their ancestors were born.

Most of those interned during World War II were ordinary civilian 'enemy aliens' - nationals of countries with which Australia was at war - but some were local Nazis and members of radical organisations including the Australia First Movement.

In this extraordinary image the German Club in Adelaide is decorated with swastikas and an Australian flag to celebrate Adolf Hitler's 50th birthday on April 20, 1939, just five months before the outbreak of World War II. Nazism had some strong supporters in South Australia

These men are performing Nazi salutes on the steps of the still popular Carrington Hotel at Katoomba in the New South Wales Blue Mountains in the 1930s. Nazism had supporters before and during World War II in many parts of Australia, not just within the German communities

This chart from the 1930s shows how the organisation of the Nazi Party in Australasia (left) mimicked the structure of the party in Germany (right), with power flowing from the top

This 1916 poster produced by the State Recruiting Committee of South Australia capitalised on Australians' anxiety over the threat of Germany so as to persuade men to join the armed forces

At the start of World War II 'aliens' over the age of 16 had to register at their local police station and report regularly to Aliens Registration Officers.

Non-compliance led to swift loss of liberty and as the war progressed restrictions meant aliens could not possess a car, camera or even a carrier pigeon without a special permit.

Nazis in Australia were only a small group but they had a notable presence during the inter-war years. Membership of a Nazi or fascist organisation was a prima facie cause for internment.

The story of these internees and the camps that housed them has been told in a new book called Captured Lives: Australia's Wartime Internment Camps by Peter Monteath, Professor of History at Flinders University in Adelaide.

'It's a story that has largely disappeared from the public consciousness,' Professor Monteath said.

Local policemen and military authorities in the town of Loxton in the Riverland region of South Australia work together to round up 'enemy aliens' from the local German community in 1914

These prisoners are airing their bedding at the Torrens Island concentration camp near Adelaide during World War I. Internee Paul Dubotzki, a photographer by trade, was allowed to keep his camera equipment and even operated a photographic studio inside the camp

Internees lining up for water rations at the Torrens Island internment camp in South Australia in 1915. Behind the camera was German Paul Dubotzki whose photographs provided a record of the conditions of camps in South Australia and New South Wales during World War I

Professor Monteath said said it was 'hard to quantify' how many Nazis there were in Australia in the 1930s and 1940s 'but they certainly existed'.

'In the German community there were certainly a number who were very clearly pro-Nazi,' he said. 'And then in the Italian community there was the same thing, there were fascist sympathisers.

'Even in the Australian community there were people whose politics were well and truly on the right.'

In the German community there were certainly a number who were very clearly pro-Nazi.

While most Australians would associate concentration camps with the Holocaust the phrase once more generally meant places where a government confined citizens it did not like.

'It's a bit jarring but that was very much the common terminology in the First World War,' Professor Monteath said.

Internment camps in both major conflicts were run by the army and their occupants in many ways treated like prisoners of war.

Concentration camps were established during World War I at disused 19th century prisons including Berrima and Trial Bay in NSW. The largest facility was at Holsworthy, in Sydney's south-west.

Internees were also housed in prisons including Sydney's Long Bay during World War II, as well as makeshift camps in various army barracks.

As that war dragged on those early camps became too small and the government opened purpose-built facilities at Rushworth in Victoria, Loveday in South Australia, Harvey in WA, and Cowra and Hay in New South Wales.

The imposing civilian prison at Trial Bay in New South Wales had been unused since 1903 when it became home to some of the more privileged internees during World War I. Photographer Karl Lehmann spent the first period of his internment on Rottnest Island in Western Australia

Interned photographer Karl Lehmann captures a relaxed moment at Trial Bay in New South Wales in 1917. A group of internees is gathered before the camp's makeshift Beach Cafe

This card's title 'Frohliche Weihnachten' (Merry Christmas) may seem inapproriate as the Liverpool camp was not a site of much merriment. Not the use of 'concentration camp'

Enemy combatants captured overseas were also incarcerated in Australian camps alongside internees at places such as Cowra and Hay.

Professor Monteath said the camps in both wars were deliberately located where they would remain largely unseen.

'The idea at the time was that these internees would be hidden away,' he said. 'The circumstances were such that the people at the time didn't know much about them, what was happening to them.

'A lot of the camps too were in the middle nowhere and a lot of these people then left Australia whether they wanted to or not. Because they left Australia their stories aren't known here.'

Captured Lives covers more than 30 camps and the stories of those internees who spent years inside their fences and walls.

It describes the impact - both negative and positive - of internment on those who were incarcerated and the effects on rural communities surrounding the camps.

Prisoners of war from SMS Emden in front of their hut at Berrima internment camp in New South Wales in 1917. Most people interned in Australia in World War I were civilians but the men of the Imperial German Navy vessel Emden, crippled by HMAS Sydney, were rare exceptions

These internees were held behind barbed wire at the Holsworthy camp in Sydney's south-west for the duration of World War I and beyond. Holsworthy was the largest camp during the war

Holsworthy concentration camp pictured in 1917. Most internees were from the Austro-Hungarian empire, staff of German companies temporarily living in Australia, crews of vessels caught in Australian ports and naturalised and native-born Australians of German descent

'People were affected by internment in different ways,' Professor Monteath said.

'Some people might have been inclined to give up hope and others, despite the circumstances, would still find something positive in the experience and maybe make them more resilient people because of what they went through.'

Civilian internees could not be forced to work but many chose to, for small pay.

'They were the enemy, so to speak, or had been, but in many cases went to work on farms and established close relationships,' Professor Monteath said. 'There were these friendships and relationships that grew out of a situation that started off so differently.'

Striking photographs - many taken by internees - document the sometimes harsh conditions as well as the small comforts they were able to create.

Captured Lives also looks at the government policies which led to more than 20,000 people losing their liberty in Australia during the two world wars.

A large group of Indonesian children interned with their parents stands outside their school at No 12 prisoner of war and internment camp at Cowra in New South Wales in September 1943

Japanese internees from Hay in New South Wales being loaded into army trucks for transport to No 14 prisoner of war and internment camp at Loveday in South Australia in March 1943

'Civilians from enemy nations, even if born in Australia, were subjects of suspicion and locked away in internment camps,' the book's publisher states.

'Many had been long-term residents of Australia, naturalised and married, and raising families.

German-born brewer Edmund Resch was 70 when he was interned at the Holsworthy camp in 1917. Resch had been a generous contributor to the Australian war effort but was locked up anyway. Some drinkers gave up Resch's during World War I in a misguided patriotic gesture

'They had contributed economically and had often brought new skills and know-how to the nation.

'To hold fond memories and have cultural ties to their country of origin did not override their loyalty to their adopted country. For them, being interned was bewildering.'

Life for the internees varied from camp to camp and conditions depended on geographical location, climate, the composition of the population and the officer in charge.

Captured Lives includes 40 case studies focusing on particular events and individuals.

Among those stories is that of the German-born brewer Edmund Resch, a naturalised Australian and resident of the country for more than 50 years.

Despite contributing generously to the war effort, Resch was interned in 1917 aged 70 and died six years later.

Anti-German sentiment had led to some drinkers giving up buying Resch's as a misguided show of patriotism during the war but the beer that bears his name is still brewed today.

German internees at the Berrima camp in New South Wales gathered whatever materials they could to build structures along the banks of the Berrima River. While their constructions were necessarily modest this 1917 building was given the grand-sounding name Heideheim Villa

Professor Monteath said some German businessmen were reported as enemy agents by commercial rivals and it was likely Resch was the victim of such ruthlessness.

'Clearly there were fairly spurious grounds for interning him,' he said. 'There were so many remarkable people there.'

Kurt Wiese was a German POW who took up drawing local fauna while held at Holsworthy and Trial Bay camps during World War I.

After the war he became a prolific book illustrator whose work appeared in Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book and Jules Verne's Twenty Thousand Leagues Under The Sea.

German dentist Reinhard Waldsax was interned in Britain and sent to Australia aboard the Dunera to be housed in the Hay and Loveday camps during World War II.

While imprisoned Waldsax performed hundreds of tooth fillings and extractions with equipment he devised himself including a table screw turned into a chisel and a self-made wooden mallet.

Captured Lives features sketches and watercolour paintings made by internees that capture first-hand the conditions and life in the camps. Some photographers were also allowed to keep their cameras and documented camps from an insider's view.

German army prisoners under the guard of Australian soldiers in the Western Desert during the North African Campaign about 1941. Some such prisoners were transported to Australia

Italian soldiers surrender to an Australian wielding his .303 Lee-Enfield rifle with bayonet fixed during the Allied capture of the Italian fortress of Bardia in Libya in January 1941. Many Italian prisoners of war were shipped to Australia where they were interned for the duration in camps

At the outbreak of World War I only those residents born in countries at war with Australia were considered enemy aliens.

That definition was later expanded to include naturalised British subjects from enemy nations, Australian-born descendants of migrants born in enemy nations and some others thought to pose a threat to the nation's security.

Almost 7,000 people were interned in Australia during World War I - about 4,500 of whom were German or of German ancestry. After the war most of them were deported.

During World War II Australia accepted internees from other countries who were held for the duration of the conflict, as well as locking up residents considered likely to assist the nation's enemies.

While early internees had been identified as specific threats, large numbers of law-abiding Japanese and then Germans were incarcerated. More than 20 per cent of all Italian residents in Australia had lost their liberty by the end of the war.

This is a woodcutting party from the Trial Bay camp in New South Wales during World War Armed soldiers are at the far left and right. Civilian internees could generally not be made to work but many welcomed the opportunity to get out and perform some physical activity

This map shows the main internment and prisoner of war camps in all Australian states during World War II. The figures in parentheses, where applicable, are the official camp numbers

At the policy's peak in 1942 there were more than 12,000 people interned in Australia.

About 7,000 residents, including 1,500 British nationals, as well as 8,000 people arrested by overseas allies were detained between 1939 and 1945.

Australia also accepted internees - mostly German and Japanese - from countries and territories including Britain, Palestine, Iran, New Zealand and New Caledonia.

Among the few genuine prisoners of war in Australia during World War I were surviving members of the crew of the German light cruiser SMS Emden, which was crippled by HMAS Sydney off the Cocos Islands in November 1914.

While most POWs served their time quietly awaiting the end of the war there were several notable attempts at escape including one by Theodor Detmers.

The Dhurringile mansion near Tatura in Victoria was for a time used to accommodate civilian internees but later housed German military officers including the survivors of the merchant raider Kormoran, which was sunk by HMAS Sydney off Western Australia in November 1941

These German officers were survivors of the sinking of the Kormoran by HMAS Sydney off Western Australia in November 1941. They were held at the Dhurringile prison in Victoria

Knives recovered in and around the Japanese section of the Cowra prisoner of war camp in New South Wales after hundreds of inmates attempted to escape in August 1944. Four Australian soldiers, one member of the Volunteer Defence Force and 234 prisoners were killed

Detmers, who had captained the German merchant raider Kormoran when she sank the second HMAS Sydney off Western Australian in November 1941, helped dig a tunnel out of the Dhurringile prison in Victoria.

That freedom was short-lived as a week after the January 1945 escape Detmers raised a shopkeeper's suspicions when trying to buy supplies as he 'spoke English too good to be an Australian'.

Hundreds of Japanese prisoners stormed the Cowra fences in August 1944 in what became known as the Cowra Breakout. Four Australian soldiers, a member of the Volunteer Defence Corps and 234 prisoners died.

No prisoners in any Australian camp ever successfully escaped.

Many internees of World War II - particularly Italians - were released before the conflict's conclusion and those of European origin were allowed to remain in Australia after hostilities ceased.

Most internees of Japanese origin were 'repatriated' to their homeland in 1946.

Captured Lives: Australia's Wartime Internment Camps by Peter Monteath is now available through NLA Publishing. RRP $39.99.Michael Yarwood (pictured) is under police investigation for allegedly exploiting 81-year-old Gold Coast businessman Will 'The Wrecker' Smith

A convicted fraudster and former general manager of the Surfers Paradise Meter Maids is fighting allegations he swindled an elderly man out of almost $4 million to fund his life of leisure and luxury.

Details revealed in documents filed to the Supreme Court show Michael Yarwood is under police investigation for allegedly exploiting 81-year-old Gold Coast businessman Will 'The Wrecker' Smith after Mr Smith granted him power of attorney in 2014.

The Meter Maids, who are renowned for their beauty and gold bikinis, have been a tourist attraction since 1965 and top up meters to help people avoid fines.

The documents allege that Mr Yarwood convinced Mr Smith to hand power of attorney over to him so he could help with the sale of Mr Smith's lucrative Gold Coast Auto Wreckers car yard at Reedy Creek, Queensland.

Once the property was successfully sold to the state government for $9.1million in 2015, however, Mr Yarwood went on to sign a 10-year management agreement that gave him the power to open and operate bank accounts on behalf of Mr Smith, according to the documents.

He has since allegedly used those accounts to pay for millions of dollars' worth of overseas holidays, luxury vehicles, loans to the Meter Maids and payments to a 'sugar baby' whom he put up in a high-rise apartment, The Courier Mail reported.

He has since used those accounts to pay for millions of dollars' worth of overseas holidays, luxury vehicles, loans to the Meter Maids and payments to a 'sugar baby' whom he put up in a high-rise apartment (stock image of Meter Maids)

The Meter Maids, who are renowned for their beauty and gold bikinis, have been a tourist attraction since 1965 (stock image)

Mr Smith was only made privy to the expenses when his wife noticed a $25,000 payment from his account to Mr Yarwood's new 'personal assistant'.

That $25,000 was later repaid by Mr Yarwood, who claimed it had simply been transferred out of the wrong account as the result of an error.

Nonetheless, Mr Smith cancelled Mr Yarwood's power of attorney authority and management contract.

Mr Yarwood responded by lodging a claim in the Supreme Court for almost $2 million in alleged lost earnings, in turn prompting Mr Smith to lodge a counterclaim of $3.9 million.

The 81-year-old wrote in his counterclaim that he had understood Mr Yarwood would only access his bank accounts in order to pay rates and manage income from rental properties.

Mr Yarwood allegedly paid himself management fees to the tune of $657,937 in 16 months, bought a $102,000 Land Rover for his wife and bankrolled a number of restaurants.

Meter Maids top up meters regularly to help people avoid parking fines on the Gold Coast (stock image)

Despite the allegations, Mr Yarwood insists that his legal team is 'extremely confident of the ultimate success of our claim'.

'Mr. Smith is well aware his claim has no basis in fact or law..at defending his breach of contract,' he said in a statement on Friday.

'It is disappointing Mr Smith continues down this path.'Officials with North Carolina's ferry system have suspended a boat captain and crew member for a week after they hoisted a flag supporting President Donald Trump's re-election on a state-owned ship.

Catherine Mitchell, a passenger on the MV Frisco ferry, took a picture of the 'Trump 2020' flag flying below the U.S. flag and even with the North Carolina flag and posted it to Facebook on July 26.

The suspensions given were for 'unacceptable personal conduct,' North Carolina Department of Transportation's Ferry Division spokesman Tim Hass said on Friday to The Charlotte Observer.

Catherine Mitchell, a passenger on the MV Frisco ferry, took a picture of the 'Trump 2020' flag flying below the U.S. flag on July 26

NC General Statute futher clarifies that employees working for the state can't use money, supplies or vehicles 'to secure support for or oppose any candidate, party, or issue in an election involving candidates for office or party nominations'

Hass told media outlets that putting campaign material on a state-owned vessel is not appropriate. He did not release the names of the employees suspended for a week.

He plans to check with state officials to determine whether it is legal to release the names.

A captain and crew member were found to have hoisted the flag as the boat traveled from Hatteras to Ocracoke

They were suspended for 'unacceptable personal conduct,' North Carolina Department of Transportation's Ferry Division spokesman Tim Hass said. Hass told media outlets that putting campaign material on a state-owned vessel is not appropriate

Hass says the flag was only up for one run on the Outer Banks ferry. It was flown as the boat traveled from Hatteras to Ocracoke.

NC Ferry Division and NC Department of Transportation's Employee Relations Divisions investigated the matter and came to the suspension conclusion.

It began after Mitchell's photo quickly gained traction.

'I love our ferries. I love our ferry personnel. This does not make me happy,' Mitchell's post said, according to the The News & Observer. 'I'm sorry, but is this legal? How would the person who flew this flag feel about a Hillary Clinton flag instead? I thought that government services were supposed to serve everyone and not be political.'James Cleverly has his own foolproof way of combatting cashpoint crime

A top Tory MP has come up with his own foolproof way of combatting cashpoint crime  dont have cash machines in the first place.

James Cleverly, the partys deputy chairman, suggested the idea last week after thieves criminals ripped a cash machine out of a wall in his Essex constituency.

But his proposal has been met with a mixture of disbelief and ridicule from critics. Labour branded it plain daft.

Mr Cleverly surprised his Facebook followers last week by writing: Ram raid on Halstead Co-op  is it time to scrap cash machines?

He added: In the age of widespread chip & pin and contactless payment terminals in shops, the days of external cash machines must surely be limited.

Playing down the need for more police, he warned cash machines like this will always be relatively easy targets for thieves.

He said: We moved from silver and gold coins to paper money to avoid crime, is the next step to move to digital money?

But Jacqueline Knight, one of the MPs Facebook followers, branded the idea ridiculous.

She asked: Should we stop having jewellery, iPads and other valuables in our homes too so we dont get burgled?

Labour Party chairman Ian Lavery said: Maybe if his Government hadnt cut so many police, he wouldnt have to come up with such daft ideas.The two lead homicide detectives on the William Tyrrell case are set to undertake conflict resolution training after a heated argument got out of hand.

The officer-in-charge of the case, Detective Sergeant Craig Lambert and Detective Chief Inspector Gary Jubelin became involved in an altercation.

Police sources say the men, both keen boxers with martial arts experience, got into a heated disagreement during an operational briefing.

One officer told the Daily Telegraph the men took 'hold of each other', while another said papers were thrown to the ground as fiery words were exchanged.

The argument comes after an extensive three-week search for Tyrell in early July, which ended with a plan to put the case before the coroner's court.

The two lead detectives in the William Tyrrell case have been involved in an altercation (pictured: Detective Chief Inspector Gary Jubelin)

The pair were discussing the revelations from the most recent search for missing toddler William Tyrrell (pictured)

Neither have placed an official complaint regarding the incident, though officials say preventative measures are being put in place anyway.

'NSW Police Force is managing a conflict resolution process following a verbal disagreement between two officers during an operational briefing,' a police spokesman said.

'As passion for the job is an imperative trait for a detective, robust workplace disagreements are not uncommon.'

Both inspectors are well-respected within the police force and are known for being tenacious when handling cases.

They were discussing the Tyrrell case when the alleged altercation happened.

The most recent search of grassland (pictured) near where the boy disappeared aimed to push the case in the direction of a coroner

William was born on June 26, 2011, and has been missing since he went missing from his foster grandmother's front yard in September 2014.

No trace of him has been seen since.

With a $1million reward attached, Detective Chief Inspector Jubelin has repeatedly said he was confident of finding the person responsible for William's disappearance.

The most recent search of Kendall didn't uncover any new information, but did push the case towards a coroner.

A coroner has the ability to compel new witnesses to come forward, which could progress the case.I have been profoundly disturbed by the content of my email inbox in recent weeks. These emails say things like: I used to vote Conservative but I want to support Tommy Robinson, who is a patriotic Englishman unfairly jailed by your Government.

There is a short response to this, which is that he not a patriot, he is a thug with a string of convictions and his recent legal problems stem from his deliberately ignoring a court order stopping him jeopardising a sex-grooming trial.

The appalling Robinson is a symptom of the growth of the so-called alt-Right, which is a hip-sounding way of saying the extreme Right.

This is a worldwide phenomenon. Around the world, including in the UK, a version of Right-wing politics is growing that is based on dividing societies.

The best slogan Conservatives have always used is One Nation. You cannot have One Nation if British people who happen to have a particular religious belief or ethnic background are excluded. So no true Conservative can be a racist or religious bigot.

'My fear now is that Boris is being turned into a martyr by the alt-Right. Some commentators have urged him to "go the full Trump",' says Damian Green

What then to make of the sound and fury about Boris and the burka?

The controversy has centred on his jokes about Muslim women looking like letterboxes and bank robbers.

While I disagree that it amounted to a breach of party rules  it was an MP commenting on a current political issue, and if we cant do that, what are we for?  it was right for Party Chairman Brandon Lewis to ask for an apology.

At least Boris was right to also say in his column that banning the burka would be wrong.

It is unBritish to start telling women what they can and cant wear. It would immediately create a group who want to be martyrs, and this would turn into the most colossal waste of police time.

My fear now is that Boris is being turned into a martyr by the alt-Right. Some commentators have urged him to go the full Trump.

They want him to be the frontman for this type of politics, shooting from the hip and always choosing the populist option.

This would be a disaster, for him and the Conservative Party. The Conservatives must never give the impression we exclude any group of British citizens.

Party Chairman Brandon Lewis asked Boris Johnson to apologise for his comments

Boris used to realise this  when he relied on the votes of Londoners to elect him as Mayor for an eight-year term.

Then he was a liberal-minded, modern Conservative, who did not hanker after turning the clock back.

He embraced the lifestyles of the many religions and races who come to London.

His stance helped to blot out memories of previous Boris howlers, such as his extraordinary reference to piccaninnies in one column, which no one could deny was offensive. He must remain immune to the siren voices of the alt-Right.

They want him to ditch liberal Conservatism to chase after the support of those who want to divide our country, and who specifically want to exclude all British Muslims from the mainstream of British life.

I am particularly concerned by reports that President Trumps sacked adviser Steve Bannon is forming a Europe-wide far-Right campaign group  and has been in touch with Boris.

I hope that no Conservative politician, including Boris, is taking advice from him about how the Conservative Party should behave.

This would be a disastrous path for the party, and, more importantly, for the country.

There are indeed two groups of people who say you cannot be a Muslim and a patriotic Brit.

The first are the Islamist extremists who reject Western democracy and our values. The second are the farRight extremists such as Tommy Robinson who thrive on conflict.

No democratic politician should pick a side in the fight that both these horrible groups want. They are both wrong. We should oppose both.

Boris Johnson (left) remarked that the burka (right) looked 'ridiculous', leading people to call for an apology from the former foreign secretary

If people are tempted to support the far-Right because they hate terrorism we should be explaining to them that it is more important than ever to stick by our British traditions of democratic tolerance and free debate that make us better than the terrorists.

Ridiculing the small minority of Muslim women who cover their faces is absolutely not the way to persuade them that they should stop doing so.

We want them to play a full part in our community life.

To do that we need to demonstrate why the British values that Islamist extremists reject are the best way to defend the interests of Muslim women. This is too important a task to be risked for a joke or two spicing up a newspaper column.

One of those British values is the need for robust but polite debate on sensitive issues.

That is threatened today by both the hard-Left and the hard-Right.

It is also increasingly threatened by the standard of political exchanges on social media, which too often feel like a group of playground bullies piling in.

It is time for mainstream politicians to hold on to our values and not be tempted to placate extremists.

We are at our best, as Boris showed when Mayor of London, when we combine our belief in free markets with a relaxed, socially liberal, attitude to society as it changes.Mark Gard (pictured), 52, used a parcel delivery business as a front for his cocaine empire before he was caught and jailed almost a decade ago

Love Island winner Jack Fincham's estranged father is a convicted drug dealer who was jailed for distributing cocaine around the country.

Mark Gard, 52, used a parcel delivery business as a front for his cocaine empire before he was caught and jailed almost a decade ago.

His reality TV champion son, who won the latest series of Love Island with Dani Dyer, reportedly 'wants nothing to do with his father'.

Pen salesman Jack regards his father's jail term while he was growing up as the 'last straw' in their relationship, The Sun on Sunday reports.

A friend told the newspaper: 'People who know Mark know he's a bit of a wrong 'un, but for Jack the whole thing has been hugely upsetting.

'He told his family he wanted nothing to do with his father. He says that winning Love Island doesn't erase the hurt.'

The friend claimed that Jack's estrangement from his father has given special meaning to his relationship with his new girlfriend's dad Danny Dyer.

It is reported that Gard is aware of his estranged son's reality TV triumph because he has younger children who are fans of Love Island.

According to a News Shopper report at the time of his sentencing Mark Gard was found to have more than 100,000 cash hidden in his home when police searched it.

Mark Gard's reality TV champion son, who won the latest series of Love Island with Dani Dyer (pictured together during the final episode), reportedly 'wants nothing to do with his father'

One of the fleet of vans which he used to deliver the drugs was found to contain 1.8kg of cocaine and 9oz of cannabis.

Gard, who had properties in the UK and Spain, admitted the offences and received a four-year jail sentence.

Jack and Danny Dyer were finally pictured together on Wednesday night as they picked up an Indian takeaway, with Dani in the back of the car.

The family had all got together for her 22nd birthday, but fans had previously been upset when Jack posted pictures of him, Dani and her siblings, but not Danny.

But the new pictures show them getting along nicely as Jack sat beside his new girlfriend's father in the passenger seat.A British sniper gunned down a jihadi from almost 1.5miles away in what is reportedly the best long-range shot ever in the SAS.

The sergeant killed the Islamic State commander with a .50 Calibre machine gun, shooting him in the chest. This feat is believed to be the first time the machine gun has been used for a sniper hit by the SAS.

The Islamist's arm and shoulder were torn off due to the force of the bullet and he died instantly. The jihadi was on a British and US kill list.

A veteran of Iraq and Syria, the sergeant was secretly patrolling a region of northern Afghanistan under Islamic State control, The Daily Star Sunday reports.

An SAS sniper mounted a machine gun that is nearly 40 years old on top of a military vehicle and attached a special sight to kill the commander (file photo)

His gun is being decommissioned and displayed in the elite unit's Hereford headquarters.

The .50 Cal Browning - which is almost 40 years old - was mounted on an Army vehicle.

The Islamic State commander was killed while addressing his men when the sergeant shot him in northern Afghanistan (pictured, an Islamic State fighter in Raqqa, Syria)

A senior officer stationed at the Joint Special Operations Command HQ in Kabul gave the go-ahead for the kill.

One source told the paper a special sight was fitted on the machine gun and a spotter then estimated wind speed.

The sergeant killed the Islamic State commander with a .50 Calibre machine gun, similar to this model, shooting him in the chest

'He also took into account the heat of the day and the light,' they said. 'The image of his target was quite "watery" because of the heat being given off from the ground.

'The Islamic State fighter seemed to be briefing his men as he stood addressing fighters for about 20 minutes.

'It took several seconds for the round to hit the commander who appeared to fly into several pieces. For a few seconds no-one moved. When they realised what had happened they got up and ran away.'

The paper reports that the kill is thought to have saved more than 20 lives. The gun was used as a long-range weapon in the 1950s during the Korean War.One of the world's most avid Disneyland memorabilia collections is ready to let all of his prized relics go.

Richard Kraft, a Hollywood agent and producer, is auctioning off his extensive collection of objects from Disneyland's past.

His collection of 750 posters, concept drawings, toys, art and pieces of old rides, has dubbed his Southern California home Kraftland, and 'The Happiest Place in Encino.

Now the collection is on display as 'That's From Disneyland!' in Sherman Oaks California, before it is auctioned off for the highest bidders to take part of 'The Happiest Place on Earth' home with them.

Richard Kraft is auctioning off his extensive collection of objects from Disneyland's past, including a cart from 'Snow White' Scary Adventure' ride (pictured)

His collection of 750 posters, concept drawings (pictured of the Dumbo ride), toys, art and pieces of old rides, are on display for one month in Sherman Oaks, California

The collection includes hand painted Haunted Mansion stretching portraits from the ride (pictured)

Kraft began his collection in 1993, after the death of his older brother David, who had Chrohn's disease.

Their parents would always take the brothers, who grew up just a few hours' drive north of the Disneyland, to the park when David was healthy.

After his death 25-year-ago, Kraft returned to the theme park of his childhood which brought back only great memories of his late brother.

'These were the same sidewalks I walked as a child with my brother,' Kraft told CNN.

'I'm not satisfied with a souvenir book or a little pennant: I had to actually own pieces of the park,' says Kraft, who admits 'I'm a bit obsessive.'

When he heard about an acution of Disneyland travel posters, he made his first bid on an Autopia poster from Tomorrowland and won.

Ever since then, he's been hooked.

For 25 years his collection grew to include six 'It's A Small World' animated dolls from the famous rise and hand-painted Haunted Mansion stretching portraits.

He has a 40-foot sea serpent from the Submarine Voyage, a 38-foot Davy Crockett Explorer Canoe, and a 16-foot-tall neon script 'D' from the top of the Disneyland Hotel.

Kraft owns a 'PeopleMover' vehicle, a 'Mr Toad' car, a mine car from the 'Snow White's Scary Adventure' ride, and the 'Submarine Voyage' Sea Serpent.

The most expensive piece in the collection is the 'Dumbo' ride car that once soared above his living room.

That was bought by craft for $35,000 at auction.

The Autopia poster from Tomorrowland was Kraft's first purchase in 1993 that began his collection

Kraft began his collection in 1993, after the death of his older brother David, who had Chrohn's disease

Richard Kraft is auctioning off his extensive collection of objects from Disneyland's past

Kraft is now selling his collection in part for his four-year-old daughter Daisy.

She was born with Coffin-Siris Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that causes developmental delays and physical abnormalities.

Kraft says part of the proceeds from the auction will for to the Coffin-Siris Foundation and the CHIME Institute, which works with schools that specialize in putting children with special needs together.

However, he agreed on selling his beloved collection under the condition that it first goes on display for the month-long pop-up for the public to see.

Co-owner of Van Eaton Galleries, Mike Van Eaton, says this is 'one of the most amazing private collections I've ever seen,' and by far the largest Disney memorabilia auction he's hosted.

'You don't see a lot of people with, say, a Space Mountain car in their backyard, or a 40-foot-long sea serpent, for that matter, by their swimming pool. It's the kind of collection you'll see once in a lifetime,' Van Eaton said.

Kraft has also purchased items at past Van Eaton auctions, and especially sought out Mike when he made the decision to sell.Melissa Howard, who is running for the Sarasota-based seat, claimed that she had completed a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from the Miami University in Ohio in 1994

A Republican candidate for Florida State House lied about completing a degree from the Miami University in Ohio, school officials stated.

Melissa Howard, who is running for the Sarasota-based seat, claimed that she had completed a Bachelor of Science in Marketing in 1994. She would later bump the year up to 1996.

After initial reports that she had lied about getting the degree, Howard traveled back to Ohio and posted a picture of her partial college transcript and a copy of her diploma.

But according to Miami University General Counsel Robin Parker, both of those documents were not real, FLA News Online reports.

Howard, 46, was found to have attended the school, but there were no records of her completing a degree.

According to the general counsel at the University, the school does not offer a Bachelor of Science in Marketing but does offer a Bachelor of Science in Business.

After initial reports that she had lied about getting the degree, Howard traveled back to Ohio and posted a picture of her partial college transcript

According to the general counsel at the University, the school does not offer a Bachelor of Science in Marketing but does offer a Bachelor of Science in Business

Howard is said to have studied retailing, meaning her degree would have been a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences

Howard is said to have studied retailing, meaning her degree would have been a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences.

Her diploma also has signatures allegedly from President James C. Garland and Dean Robert C. Johnson. But Johnson was dean of the graduate school in 1996, when Howard allegedly graduated.

National Student Clearinghouse, a nonprofit, sent a certificate to FLA News from the university stating that Howard did not earn a degree.

National Student Clearinghouse, a nonprofit, sent a certificate to FLA News from the university stating that Howard did not earn a degree

Howard (left) called the first series of allegations 'lies' claiming that they were pushed by Tommy Gregory (right), an opponent of hers

Howard called the first series of allegations 'lies' claiming that they were pushed by Tommy Gregory, an opponent of hers.

'Instead of providing evidence refuting the direct questions raised in the story, Ms. Howard chose to pivot and attack the Gregory campaign for lying about her record,' Gregory said, according to FloridaPolitics.com.

'On the contrary, however, the Tommy Gregory campaign has made no statement of any kind related to the article, and while Ms. Howard may have some explaining to do, we will leave that to her, the media, and the voters of District 73.'

DailyMail.com reached out to Howard for a comment.A heated argument has led to the alleged stabbing murder of a man in a quiet suburban street.

Reports of a domestic dispute brought police to St Clair in Sydney's west on Saturday night, where they discovered a 34-year-old man riddled with stab wounds.

The alleged attacker, a 31-year-old man, fled the scene but was tracked by police to a home only streets away from the attack.

The victim was treated by paramedics but died on the scene.

NSW Police have arrested a man over the stabbing murder of a 34-year-old in a quiet suburb (stock image)

The attack took place on a residence on Dutch St, St Clair (pictured) on Saturday evening

Residents on the scene are shocked that such a tragedy took place in their quiet neighbourhood, the Daily Telegraph reports.

The argument allegedly occurred on the front yard of the victim's home, with concerned neighbours calling police.

A woman was dropping her elderly mother off at her home on the same street where the attack occurred, saying: 'I grew up in this street, nothing bad ever happened here.'

Forensic police arrived on the scene soon after the attack, ushering residents back into their homes.

'The police told me to look at the ground and not at the scene,' the woman dropping her mother off said.

'I could see crime scene markers all over the street.'

The alleged attacker was taken to Penrith Police Station and charged with murder on Saturday night.

He is due to appear at Parramatta Bail Court on Sunday.Eyebrows, nipple clamps and dildos were among the strange items found at John Ibrahim's Sydney mansion during police raids at his property.

Two sets of eyebrows were reportedly found at Mr Ibrahim's exclusive Dover Heights home in the raid on August 8, 2017, the Daily Telegraph reported.

The former Kings Cross night club identity told the publication he had 'no comment' when asked what the eyebrows were for on Friday.

Eyebrows (pictured) nipple clamps and dildos were among the strange items reportedly found at John Ibrahim's Sydney mansion during police raids at his exclusive property

Mr Ibrahim, 47, a former Kings Cross night club identity, pictured at Westmead Hospital on November 19, 2017. He told reporters he had 'no comment' about the seized items

Mr Ibrahim's luxury property overlooks the water at Sydney's Dover Heights, near Bondi Beach

The hair follicles were found on the lounge on a shelf between a computer desk and the fireplace, officers told News Corp.

NSW Police could not provide further details to Daily Mail Australia on the items seized during the raid.

This is not the first time bizarre items have been seized from Mr Ibrahim's eastern suburbs cliff-top mansion.

Ibrahim, 47, wrote in memoir 'Last King of the Cross' that investigators found sex toys and nipple clamps in a previous search of the property.

'First it's the dildos, then the ticklers, and next a packet of nipple clamps,' he wrote.

'The cops are getting more curious by the second as they clear out my fun cupboard, looking for the lost city of hidden cash.'

Ibrahim (pictured) wrote in his memoir 'Last King of the Cross' that investigators found sex toys and nipple clamps in a previous search of the property. He is pictured with Margaret Staltaro, and his brother Michael, right

The details of the August 2017 raid comes after Mr Ibrahim was served a firearms prohibition order after another raid in late July 2018.

His business partner Kyle Sandilands joked at the time to waiting media: 'There's no guns here, but maybe an unused sex toy.'

Mr Ibrahim was not charged or arrested after either of the raids on his mansion, and Daily Mail Australia is not suggesting any wrongdoing.

The details of the August 2017 raid comes after Mr Ibrahim was served a firearms prohibition order after another raid in late July 2018A North Carolina mother says someone broke into the family home and stole a puppy belonging to her terminally ill eight-year-old daughter.

Shala Browning had been out celebrating her birthday with her daughter, Zakaia Gray, and other members of the family when they returned home to find Annabella May, an 11-week-old American Bully, was missing.

The dog was being trained as a companion dog for Zakaia, who has brain cancer and was told she has three to six months to live.

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Shala Browning had been out celebrating her birthday with her daughter, Zakaia Gray, (they are both pictured, left) and other members of the family when they returned home to find Annabella May, an 11-week-old American Bully, (right) was missing

Browning said her daughter cannot stop talking about the puppy and has been crying herself to sleep every night.

'They slept together and ever since the dog has been gone, she has literally cried herself to sleep every night and throughout the day, says 'I miss my dog,' Browning told ABC11. 'She's really upset about it.'

Browning says the dog usually goes everywhere with the family, but they left her alone for a few hours Saturday to get her used to staying around the house.

'I am trying to get her kennel trained, so I was like "She will be OK for a couple of hours,"' she told the Burlington Times-News.

Browning said her daughter (pictured) cannot stop talking about the puppy and has been crying herself to sleep every night

Burlington police responded to the break-in and found that nothing besides Annabella May was stolen.

They took fingerprints from the kennel, which have not yet been matched with anyone.

Browning says she does not have other people in the house so whoever took the dog must have seen them.

She thinks the thief went in through a broken window, which was due to be repaired this weekend.

Anyone with information can call Burlington Police Department at 336-229-3500. For anonymous methods, call Alamance County-Wide Crimestoppers at 336-229-7100 or text 8398 to 274637 for the text-a-tip method, both with possible cash rewards.Missing teenager Kathleen Bautista, 19, sent her parents a chilling text message after she disappeared. She was found six days later clinging to life in bushland

Three years after Kathleen Bautista was found clinging to life in bushland, new details have emerged about the moments that led to her terrifying disappearance.

Kathleen was only 19 years old when her car went sailing into dense, remote bushes in Canberra.

A text she sent to her family moments before the accident worried authorities, hastening the need to locate her, Sydney Morning Herald reported.

'I'm sorry forever,' she penned to her parents, on the morning of September 5, 2015.

The teen, who was described by friends as 'bubbly' and a 'social butterfly' had been diagnosed with clinical depression the year prior to the car crash, and was known to have discussed self harm previously.

She had been increasingly turning to alcohol and drugs to cope with feelings of despair, and has no recollection of what decision finally drove her to the destination.

'I just remember being there [in the bush]. I don't remember where I went or why I chose that place. I don't know how I planned it, I don't know how I found it. I haven't been there before.'

Three years after Kathleen Bautista was found clinging to life in bushland, new details have emerged about the moments that led up to the terrifying crash

Kathleen was only 19-years-old when her car went sailing into dense, remote bushes in Canberra

Kathleen's Hyundai was found upturned and crushed on a steep embankment, however, when authorities located it, some seven days after she was first reported missing, they were shocked to discover it empty.

In their search amongst the wreckage of the vehicle, a small hand rose from across the embankment, weakly and feebly signaling for help.

The hand belonged to an injured, dehydrated, but alive, Kathleen Bautista.

Authorities who investigated, as well as Kat herself, believe she likely remained in the vehicle, unconscious, for a number of days.

In their search amongst the wreckage of the vehicle, a small hand rose from across the embankment, weakly and feebly signaling for help

The teen, who was described by friends as 'bubbly' and a 'social butterfly' had been diagnosed with clinical depression the year prior to the car crash, and was known to have discussed self harm previously

After coming to, she somehow made her way out of the wreckage, with a broken ankle and glass plugged in her neck, and was able to make her way partially up the embankment.

Without realising, she'd crawled in the wrong direction, further away from the roadside.

Since the life-changing incident, Kathleen's family, particularly her sister Megan, have learned more intricacies surrounding mental illness.

Her sister, who struggled with empathy and understanding prior to the accident, has learnt to be as understanding as she can.

Since the life-changing incident, Kathleen's family, particularly her sister Megan, have learned more intricacies surrounding mental illness

Ms Bautista was found near her car at a creek in Cotter Reserve, west of Canberra

Kathleen believes her survival story may be the one to help others who are suffering.

'The way that depression works is that it consumes you completely. Even if I've got bits of hope in me, it will still be my depression trying to crush that, but [the will to live is] there obviously because I'm still here, and I got through that.'

In sharing her story, Kathleen hopes to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, and encourage people who are suffering to speak up and recieve the treatment they deserve.

For confidential support call the Lifeline 24-hour crisis support on 13 11 14.

For additional support, call Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.Shawn Michael Foltz, 32, from Moorhead was given 30 months in jail

A Minnesota man who rubbed hot sauce in his two-month-old daughter's eyes has been sentenced to 30 months in prison.

Shawn Michael Foltz, 32, from Moorhead originally pleaded guilty to third degree assault of a victim under four following his arrest in June 2017.

Court documents show that Foltz had repeatedly inflicted abuse on his young daughter, which included rubbing hot sauce and cayenne pepper in his daughter's mouth, nose and eyes, and blocking her airway until she turned blue, according to WDAY.

Foltz also admitted to throwing fireworks at the infant's face.

'I felt like I did not know the man I was married to,' Belinda Bailer, Foltz's ex-wife, said during the hearing.

The convicted child abuser will get credit for already serving 429 days and is required to spend at least 20 months in prison.

The convicted child abuser will get credit for already serving 429 days in Clay County Jail (pictured) and is required to spend at least 20 months in prison

Judge Amber Gustafson ruled that Foltz is eligible to spend the remaining 10 months under supervised release.

At one point during the proceedings, Foltz testified that he targeted his daughter because she was too young to alert anyone to the abuse.

According to The Duluth News Tribune, the abuse occurred between April 10 until May 30, 2017.

When the baby was taken to the Essentia Health emergency room on May 30, doctors found the girl with bruises over both eyes, red marks on her back and a bruise on her shoulder.

At the time, Bailer told doctors the girl and her three-year-old brother had been left in their father's care that evening.

Foltz had told the mother that the girl's injuries were caused when her brother hit her with a toy gun. Foltz said that he placed the blame primarily on his son's shoulder's because he was afraid his wife would leave him if she discovered the truth.

The father admitted to police during questioning that he caused the injuries by snapping the girl in the face with a towel and used a wooden spoon and piece of vinyl flooring to hit her on her bottom.

He also said he was frustrated with her crying. He later admitted that while at work, he would think of new methods of torturing his defenseless daughter.

'There's no sentence that can undo the damage inflicted on your daughter,' Judge Gustafson told Bailer during the hearing on Wednesday.

In addition to the prison time, Foltz is required to pay more than $6,000 in restitution.



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Nearly 80,000 people have flooded the streets of Sydney to undertake the 48th annual City2Surf fun run.

The 14km race from Sydney's Hyde Park to Bondi Beach saw people from all over the globe take place in what has become the world's biggest fun run.

Patches of blue skies and 12C temperatures greeted the runners, who gathered at the starting line on Sunday morning.

Ben St Lawrence was the first to cross the finish line, with Ellie Pashley being the first female to complete the trek.

St Lawrence, a 36-year-old Australian Olympian, had to sprint the last few metres to beat out fellow Australian Liam Adams for his second title.

Thousands of runners completed the race, managing to raise nearly $5million for more than 1000 charities.

Superheroes, minions, pirates and streakers were among the hilarious costumes people adorned for the race.

Nearly 80,000 people ran in Sydney's 2018 City2Surf, running 14km to raise nearly $5million for charity

The record for fastest completion of the course is 40:03, well clear of Sunday's winner who finished in just over 48 minutes

There was more than one man of steel in attendance on Sunday morning

Just under 80,000 people streaked past the starting line at Hyde Park for the 14 kilometre race to Bondi Beach

A small amount of rain didnt dampen the mood as the elite runners were making their way past Rushcutters Bay

Some took the race as an opportunity to show off quirky costumes

Superheroes, pirates, minions and streakers were among those who dressed up for the race

Patches of blue skies and 12C temperatures greeted the runners, who gathered at the starting line on Sunday morningAs his daughter Meghan walked down the aisle on the arm of Prince Charles, amid the pomp and pageantry of St George's Chapel, Windsor, Thomas Markle, recovering from a heart attack, was more than 5,000 miles away.

Instead of proudly giving Meghan away as she married into the Royal Family, Mr Markle was forced to watch on TV in a modest rented flat in San Diego, which he refers to as a 'safe house'.

Shortly before, he was reduced to scrambling across a building site behind the hospital to evade paparazzi photographers and TV news crews.

The indignity of his situation reflected what he saw as the glaring disparity between the way he had been treated and the Palace's attitude towards his ex-wife Doria Ragland.

As his daughter Meghan walked down the aisle on the arm of Prince Charles, amid the pomp and pageantry of St George's Chapel, Windsor, Thomas Markle, recovering from a heart attack, was more than 5,000 miles away

He and Doria, a yoga teacher, divorced amicably when Meghan was six, but they remained on close terms for the sake of their daughter. Yet Doria was the only member of Meghan's immediate family to attend the wedding in May.

Incredibly, when the engagement was announced in March, he claimed that two representatives from the British consulate in Los Angeles arrived at Doria's home to present her with an official scroll bearing the Queen's formal announcement.

The letter, in its archaic style, read: 'My Lords, I declare My Consent to a Contract of Matrimony between My Most Dearly Beloved Grandson Prince Henry Charles Albert David of Wales and Rachel Meghan Markle.'

Yet the bride's father was afforded no such courtesy.

'No one came to my door in Mexico,' said Mr Markle.

'I would have liked the engagement announcement too.'

And in an astonishing oversight, he says he was never even sent one of the 600 ornate formal wedding invitations.

Instead of proudly giving Meghan away as she married into the Royal Family, Mr Markle was forced to watch on TV in a modest rented flat in San Diego, which he refers to as a 'safe house

The specially commissioned invitations used American ink on English card, and were issued under Prince Charles's name, with his heraldic ostrich feathers emerging from a gold coronet at the top.

Mr Markle said: 'I never got a wedding invitation. At first I thought, 'That's OK, because I'm part of the wedding', but I would have loved to have had an invitation to put in a frame.

'I asked Meghan to send invitations to all my family. I told her they wouldn't be able to come because they would never be able to afford the flight but that it would be a nice gesture on her part. Of course that didn't happen.'

More upsetting still, he says that when he told Prince Harry on the phone that he would 'like to make a little speech', the Prince responded: 'You will have to talk to Meghan.'

According to Mr Markle, when he spoke to his daughter, she replied there was 'no room' in the ceremony for a speech by her father

According to Mr Markle, when he spoke to his daughter, she replied there was 'no room' in the ceremony for a speech by her father.

Mr Markle says: 'I was going to recount the funny story about how she broke the news to me about dating Harry: 'Daddy, I've met a man Daddy, he's English Daddy, he's a prince.'

'I thought it was a cute story. Like any father I wanted to say a few words. I was going to thank the Royal Family for welcoming my beautiful daughter into their family. But it was a speech that I was never going to be allowed to give. That hurt.'

There was room on the day, however for Sir Elton John to perform at the couple's lunchtime reception. One attendee said the pop icon serenaded guests with a rendition of his hit Circle of Life.

The guests, who included celebrities such as Oprah, the Clooneys, the Beckhams, Idris Elba and Tom Hardy, heard speeches from Meghan, Harry, Prince Charles, Prince William and a joint effort from Tom Inskip and Charlie Van Straubenzee, two of Harry's closest friends.

In contrast to Mr Markle, Doria was warmly welcomed by the Royal Family on the day. She appeared to fight back tears as she took her seat in St George's Chapel after accompanying her daughter from Cliveden House, where the pair had stayed the previous night.

Despite being snubbed, Mr Markle wishes his daughter and Harry all the best and says he believes Meghan is a 'motherly' wife who will nurture Harry.

'She was the same with Trevor [Engelson, her first husband]. Meghan is very maternal by nature. She loves to cook and she will mother Harry. He's eating properly now, he's dressing the way she wants him to. All men need that.'A school bus carrying 42 people overturned during a crash on Saturday while riding along the New Jersey Turnpike in East Brunswick.

Police report that there weren't any fatalities or serious injuries during the hit-and-run accident that occurred around 5.30pm.

'There was a lot of kids crying and mostly everyone that got off the bus was bleeding,' Josh Keys, a witness, explained to NJ.com.

Police report that there weren't any fatalities or serious injuries during the hit-and-run accident that occurred around 5.30pm on the New Jersey Turnpike

The other vehicle that had been involved in the collision, sped off quickly from the scene

'The scene was a mess. But mostly everyone was able to walk out. Some people had to be carried out. I helped a few people out then I left because it started to get really hectic. When I left there was no police or ambulance on the scene. After driving North on the turnpike for five minutes I saw the police on the way.'

The other vehicle that had been involved in the collision, sped off quickly from the scene.

The group is said to have been returning to Newark after enjoying a picnic at Black Bear Lake Country Club in Millstone, WLNY reports.

The 42 bus passengers were taken to the RWJ University Hospital in New Bruncswick and the JFK Medical Center to get treated for non-life threatening injuries

The group is said to have been returning to Newark after enjoying a picnic at Black Bear Lake Country Club in Millstone

The Mayor's Family Reunion Picnic is hosted every year for residents in Newark.

Bus passengers were taken to the RWJ University Hospital in New Brunswick and the JFK Medical Center to get treated for non-life threatening injuries.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka visited the families at the RWJ University Hospital after the crash.

Officials with Newark claimed that there were actually only 32 people on the bus.

Both the local and express lanes of the turnpike were closed for an hour while New Jersey State Police worked to clear the road.Victoria Police have released a photo of a man they believe can assist with their inquiries after a hit and run

A female cyclist is dead after being mowed down by a Mercedes in a suspected hit and run in Melbourne's inner city.

The stolen white Mercedes sedan clipped another vehicle before rolling onto the cyclist at South Yarra about 10am on Sunday, police said.

The cyclist died at the scene while the male driver ran off. The woman's age and identity have not yet been revealed.

Victoria Police have released a photo of a man they believe can assist with their inquiries.

The driver has been described as aged in his late 20s or early 30s with dark hair and facial hair.

He was wearing dark clothing, including tracksuit pants with a large white Adidas logo on the side.

Inspector Stuart McGregor described the man behind the wheel of the car as 'despicable'.

'Today we've lost the life of a young girl who was just going about a Sunday morning bicycle ride,' Inspector McGregor said.

'Unfortunately for her, the driver of the white Mercedes decided he was going to cut through on the left-hand side of the other vehicles and at the same time he's collided with her and pushed her up against another car.

A female cyclist is dead after being mowed down by a Mercedes in a suspected hit and run in Melbourne 's inner city

The cyclist died at the scene while the male driver ran off. The woman's age and identity have not yet been revealed

'His first thought was to run. It wasn't to help, it wasn't to stop, it wasn't to think about the poor person he's hit.

'This is not going to go away... we will not stop, we do not stop. We will arrest you. You're going to court, you're going to look a lot better if you come to us.'

Bystanders walking down Chapel Street near Grover Street, one of the city's busiest thoroughfares, watched on in horror as the tragedy unfolded.

Police said the driver also hit two parked cars, before exiting the vehicle and running away.

Store worker Tony Christakakis told the Herald Sun the scene had left him 'dumbfounded'.

'I'm gobsmacked, dumbfounded, angry that someone could leave someone.' he said.

A bystander performed CPR on the woman until ambulance workers arrived.

Witnesses took to Twitter to warn others of the incident.

A bystander performed CPR on the woman until ambulance workers arrived. Witnesses took to Twitter to warn others of the incident

'A tragic accident has happened this morning with multiple cars smashed up everywhere and the blue tarps are out,' one person said.

'Trams and buses have been stopped and all car, foot and bike traffic are being diverted to avoid the area. It's pretty grim.'

Traffic has been shut down along Chapel Street between Ellis Street and Malvern Road. Diversions are in place.

Trams and buses have also been affected by the crash, as Yarra Trams asks travellers to consider alternative forms of transport.

Police are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.Kanye West took to Twitter to defend his inability to respond to a question comparing Donald Trump and George W. Bush's treatment of black people, stating that he wasn't 'given a chance to answer the question'.

The 41-year-old controversial rapper shared his thoughts on Saturday following his Thursday appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, adding that the host cutting to commercial prevented him from answering.

'On Jimmy Kimmel we had a great time having a dialogue. Im reading that I was stumped by a question,' he said on Saturday.

'Let me clarify the click bait. I wasnt stumped. I wasnt given a chance to answer the question.'

The 41-year-old controversial rapper shared his thoughts on Saturday following his Thursday appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live

'On Jimmy Kimmel we had a great time having a dialogue. Im reading that I was stumped by a question,' he said on Saturday. 'Let me clarify the click bait. I wasnt stumped. I wasnt given a chance to answer the question'

'The question was so important I took time to think. And then I was hit with the lets go to commercial break. That interview showed strong personalities with different opinions having a civil conversation.'

West utilizes the moment to voice his disdain for 'click bait' but fails to take the opportune chance to give his answer on Twitter.

The controversial rapper has used social media to clarify his questionable points in the past.

After West's debacle on TMZ where he alluded to slavery being a choice, the artist took to Twitter and posted a quote from Harriet Tubman in an effort to better support his point.

He added: 'The question was so important I took time to think. And then I was hit with the lets go to commercial break. That interview showed strong personalities with different opinions having a civil conversation'

President Donald Trump thanked Kanye West for telling 'the truth' during West's Jimmy Kimmel Live interview.

'Thank you to Kanye West and the fact that he is willing to tell the TRUTH. One new and great FACT - African American unemployment is the lowest ever recorded in the history of our Country. So honored by this. Thank you Kanye for your support. It is making a big difference!" Trump tweeted Friday afternoon.

On Thursday, the controversial rapper and fashion designer spoke with Jimmy Kimmel about his support for Trump explaining that other people cannot control his actions.

'Just as a musician, African American, everyone around me tried to pick my candidate for me and then told me that I couldn't say that I like Trump,' he said.

Kimmel went on to ask about Kim Kardashian's recent visit to the White House where she met with the president.

'Were you ever concerned about her being alone in the Oval Office with President Trump?' Kimmel asked.

'Well, he is a player,' Kanye joked.

Kanye West appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live on Thursday night the talk show host asked him about his support for Trump and mental illness

When asked if he thinks that 'Donald Trump would care about black people,' West remained quiet, forcing Kimmel to go to commercial, thus never answering the question.

'There are families being torn apart at the border of this country,' Kimmel said, 'Whether we like his personality or not, his actions are what matter. You so famously and so powerfully said, "George Bush doesnt care about black people." What makes you think that Donald Trump does, or any people at all?'

West tilted his head to think, said nothing and the show then went to break.

The interview also toggled between light-hearted jokes and serious talks about West's mental disorder.

The talk show host discussed his recent album Ye and the song I Thought About Killing You along with the quote on the album cover which reads: 'I hate being biopolar. It's awesome'.

'It's important for us to have open conversations about mental health,' Kanye said. 'We never had therapists in the black community.'

The father-of-three went on to address his now infamous TMZ Live interview from May in which he said slavery 'sounds like a choice'.

He reflected on the controversial moment positively as he said: 'What was awesome is the world got to really experience someone in a ramped-up state. And that's when you get these comments that just shoot out, almost like Tourette's.'

Back in May he appeared on TMZ's show and infamously said: 'You were there for 400 years and it's all of y'all. It's like we're mentally imprisoned.'

They continued to talk about his newest album and the song Violent Crimes.

In the track Kanye addresses his two daughters - five-year-old North and six-month-old Chicago - as he expresses fear over them dating when they get older.

Kimmel, 50, then asked him if having daughters has made the Gold Digger hitmaker change his views on women.

West responded: 'Nah I still look at Pornhub.'

The host jokingly asked about what his favorite genre of porn was to which Kanye sincerely responded: 'Blacked is my favorite category.'

Kimmel then insisted that he actually didn't need to answer that but the Life Of Pablo hitmaker stood firm.

Kanye said: 'What's the point of being Kanye West if you can't let's break down the porn categories.

'A lot of black on white, obviously.'Footage of Mexico's navy seizing more than two tons of cocaine off the country's southern Pacific coast was released on Saturday.

The clip shows a number of alleged drug traffickers traveling by boat being pursued by a military helicopter.

As the one-minute video unfolds, aerial footage shows the traffickers speeding towards the shore after they realize they've been spotted by Mexican authorities.

As the boat slides onto the beach, as many as 10 crew members can be seen jumping off the vessel and scatter towards the mainland as the helicopter makes a dramatic landing.

The contents of the boat are then laid out with dozens of large white bags being placed on the sand as military investigators take pictures.

The military said in a statement that the small boat had two powerful outboard motors and was carrying 75 packages weighing about 4,100 pounds.

The operation also resulted in the arrest of one man from Ecuador who was on the boat.

It remains unclear what happen to the rest of the crew. Mexican authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident and currently searching for suspects.

The incident comes as government forces continue to clash with drug cartels in an effort to clamp down on crime.

The clip shows a number of alleged drug traffickers traveling by boat being pursued by a military helicopter

As the one-minute video unfolds, aerial footage shows the traffickers speeding towards the shore after they realize they've been spotted by Mexican authorities

As the boat slides onto the beach, as many as 10 crew members can be seen jumping off the vessel and scatter towards the mainlandThe father of four children believed to have been shot dead by their grandfather in a mass murder-suicide has spoken out about his heartbreak in order to advocate for a better system for separated families.

Aaron Cockman will join children's advocates For Kids Sake and other groups lobbying for a fresh approach to family separation in Canberra on Tuesday.

'This is all about the kids,' he told the Sunday Times.

Aaron Cockman, the father of four children believed to have been shot dead by their grandfather, has spoken out to advocate for a better system for separated families

Three months ago, Mr Cockman's estranged father-in-law Peter Miles, 61, (pictured) allegedly shot dead his family at their farm near Margaret River in Western Australia

'Go straight to mediation. Get it all sorted in the same room. Force both parties to be there in mediation and get it sorted.'

It comes just three months after the tragedy, which saw Mr Cockman's estranged father-in-law Peter Miles, 61, allegedly shoot dead his family at their farm near Margaret River in Western Australia.

Included in the victims were Mr Cockman's wife Katrina, 35, and their four children - daughter Taye, 13, and sons Rylan, 12, Arye, 10, and Kadyn, eight.

Miles also killed his own wife Cynda, 58, before turning the gun on himself.

Included in the victims were Mr Cockman's wife Katrina, 35, and their four children - daughter Taye, 13, and sons Rylan, 12, Arye, 10, and Kadyn, eight (pictured)

At the time of the mass murder, Mr Cockman had been involved in an ongoing dispute with his in-laws about seeing the children.

'It's like a constant sadness. My heart drops every time I think about the kids,' Mr Cockman said.

He has several meetings lined up, but is aiming to sit down with Attorney-General Christian Porter, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Opposition Leader Bill Shorten.The terminally ill father who was stranded in Bali has been given the all-clear to fly home.

Duncan Turner was battling liver disease and a blood clot in his brain during a 'bucket list' family holiday, when a fall in Singapore in July left him in hospital.

After treatment in Singapore, the family were due to fly home to Perth via Bali.

But complications arose when Mr Turner lost consciousness in the first stopover, leaving him stranded without travel insurance in a Bali hospital.

Rapidly rising hospital bills and concerns about his health left uncertainty in whether he would ever return home.

But the family got the good news that he's been cleared to fly, departing Bali at 9.30pm Sunday and landing in Perth in the early hours of Monday morning.



$25,000 has been raised to get Duncan Turner (pictured with daughter) on a flight back to Perth after he hurt his knee in Singapore due to the ongoing effects of a serious brain injury

His condition meant he couldn't qualify for travel insurance, but the family decided it would be worth the risk to fulfill their daughter's wish to swim with dolphins (pictured at Bali hospital)

More than $25,000 was raised to get Mr Turner on a flight back to Perth.

His pre-existing condition meant he couldn't qualify for travel insurance, but the family decided it would be worth the risk to fulfill their daughter's wish to swim with dolphins.

After three days in hospital at a cost of $2,470 a day and additional emergency costs of $1,300, the family were unable to continue keeping up with the bills.

Against medical advice, Mr Turner discharged himself from hospital and checked into a Bali hotel to wait until he would be well enough to fly home.

Clearance came on Sunday, with the family announcing to WA Today that he would be home by Monday morning.

'[The news] was such a sigh of relief,' Mr Turner's wife, Michelle Edgar said.

'That's what we were waiting for  that clearance to fly.'

The pair will fly home, meeting their daughter in Perth.

Mr Turner (pictured with wife, Michelle) was rendered wheelchair bound after having a fall, but it was when he was about to board his final flight home when he took a frightening turn

Mr Turner's medical bills quickly surpassed what the family could afford to pay (Amelie, 6, Michelle, and Mr Turner pictured with a dolphin in Singapore)

His daughter, Amelie, took a flight home with her grandmother and returned to school while her parents waited out Mr Turner's recovery in Bali.

Medical bills exceeded ten thousand dollars and it was likely Mr Turner would require additional treatment or readmission to hospital.

In a desperate plea to help the family and have Mr Turner brought back to Australia for treatment, a Go Fund Me account was created.

Nearly 400 people rallied together in just three days to raise more than $25,000.

Last Tuesday morning, it was revealed the amount was enough to have Mr Turner return to Perth on a MedEvac flight.

His daughter, Amelie pictured with dolphin), took a flight home with her grandmother and returned to school while her parents waited out Mr Turner's recovery in Bali

He could be on a flight home within the next 24 hours providing he attains necessary medical clearance and is deemed well enough to make the journey.

Ms Edgar, said she couldn't 'be more grateful' for the financial support of the public.

'It's very overwhelming, very emotional, but in the absolutely most positive way possible,' she told Nine News.

'It's just so heart-warming. These are happy tears, not sad tears this time.'

Mr Turner (injured knee pictured) could be on a flight home within the next 24 hours providing he attains necessary medical clearance and is deemed well enough to make the journey

Mr Turner's wife, Michelle Edgar, said she couldn't 'be more grateful' for the financial support of the public (Mr Turner pictured in Bali hospital)

Mr Turner suffered a serious head injury from a fall last year, leaving him paralysed and facing months of repeated strokes and seizures learning to walk and talk again.

His daughter Amelie, who was born premature at just 27 weeks and weighing 606 grams, is still extremely small for her age and was not tall enough to qualify for most Australian dolphin swimming experiences.

Mr Turner's pre-existing health conditions meant he didn't qualify for travel insurance but the couple thought the risk of travelling for five days in Singapore without it would be worth the life-time of memories created.This is the heartwarming moment that a stranger on the New York subway system lent his phone to a little boy so he could play a game as they traveled together.

Footage of the sweet exchange was captured by Kia Tatiyana Davis, who happened to be at the right place and the right time to witness the act of kindness.

The clip shows an adorable young boy enamored by the phone being held by the much larger adult sitting next to him.

As the adult continues to fiddle with his phone, the young boy looks on, periodically chirping in with advice.

Suddenly, the man looks over and hands his device over to the little passenger beside him.

Davis later posted the exchange to her Facebook page, where it has already garnered more than 27,000 views.

Footage of the sweet exchange was captured on Thursday by a passenger on the subway who later uploaded the footage to her Facebook

The clip shows an adorable young boy enamored by the phone being held by the much larger adult sitting next to him

As the adult continues to fiddle with his phone, the young boy looks on, periodically chirping in with adviceFormer Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio says he made a 'bad mistake' by allowing himself to be tricked by Sacha Baron Cohen - who got the Senate nominee to admit he may accept a sex act from Trump if he asked.

In Baron Cohen's latest episode of his new Showtime series 'Who Is America?', the actor and comedian posed as a Finnish journalist and convinced Arpaio to engage in a one-on-one interview which aired last weekend.

'If Donald Trump calls you up after this and says, ''Sheriff Joe, I want to offer you an amazing b***job,'' would you say yes?' Cohen asked in disguise.

'I might have to say yes,' he replied.

In an interview with the Washington Examiner, Arpaio blamed Baron Cohen's thick accent, saying 'I couldn't understand him.'

'The only thing I got was that he would offer me a job.'

In character as Finnish TV presenter 'OMGWhizzBoyOMG,' Sacha Baron Cohen got Sheriff Joe Arpaio to admit he would let President Donald Trump give him oral sex if he asked

The president gave Arpaio a full pardon last year on a contempt of court conviction that stemmed from his refusal to stop targeting suspected illegal immigrants with otherwise reason-free traffic stops.

His fawning attitude may have been driven by a sense of gratitude.

Cohen, in character as 'OMGWhizzBoyOMG,' also asked the former lawman if he thought Trump 'might have had a 'golden shower',' a sex act related to urination.

'Wouldn't surprise me,' he replied.

'He's talking about golden showers. I thought he was talking about  the president has gold,' Arpaio defended.

'And then handjob,' Arpaio said. 'What was that? He was talking about illegals coming over working with their hands on their job.

'I made a bad mistake security-wise,' Arpaio said Thursday. He said Baron Cohen's team told him they were doing a feature for Showtime with the top 20 people in the US.

'It looked pretty nice [that] I made the top people,' he said.

Now the Senate candidate is challenging Baron Cohen to a face-to-face interview without the veil of disguise.

'Get the guts, get out of your undercover role, come and interview me in English, of course, so I can understand him so we can go man-to-man. You can ask me anything you want. I'll be glad to deal with it,' Arpaio said.

'He won't have the guts to do that. Maybe he will, I don't know.'

Arpaio is a longtime Trump backer (pictured at a January 2016 campaign event) and got a presidential pardon in 2017 after being convicted of contempt of court

Cohen asks Arpaio an uncomfortable question regarding a sexual act, but now the former sheriff say Cohen's thick accent confused him

Arpaio's response sounded serious, but he insists he couldn't understand what Cohen was saying

The allegation against Arpaio was contained in a now-infamous 2016 dossier of opposition research funded by the Democratic National Committee and the Hillary Clinton campaign. The FBI used it, in part, to justify surveillance on at least one former Trump campaign aide.

The unverified claim related to a Moscow trip Trump took in 2013, and focused on the fear that the Kremlin had gathered embarrassing 'kompromat' dirt on the future president.

Speaking in a Scandinavian accent, Cohen unboxed a child's Shokpins toy and named it 'Delish Donut,' a character who then asked Arpaio about the red-meat conservative issue of gun control.

Arpaio spoke to the toy.

'Guns don't kill. People kill,' he said, recounting the National Rifle Association's belief that a 'good guy with a gun' can often stop an armed criminal: 'I'm hoping somebody else in there has a gun that will shoot that person before he kills you.'

'Bad guys are going to get their guns!'

Cohen's other spoofs for 'Who Is America?' have included appearing as a retired Mossad agent who convinced a state lawmaker to shout racial slurs and run a supposed self'defense drill against anti-gay Muslim jihadis

As retired Col. Erran Morad, Cohen also embarrassed former U.S. Senate candidate Roy Moore

Arpaio ultimately said that even if 'Delish Donut' was anti-gun, he hoped other Shopkins dolls were on his side.

That was too much for Cohen. 'I have 43 guns,' OMGWhizzBoyOMG said.

'I've been collecting them for the upcoming race war,' he deadpanned, drawing zero reaction from the 86-year-old.

Arpaio told the Breitbart website last month that he had 'signed some kind of contract before filming' but 'did not read all the info.'

'I was kind of shocked,' he said. 'But I figured this is Finland and this is a famous comedian.'The mother of Heather Heyer, who died last year when a white nationalist slammed his car into counter-protesters in Charlottesville, has urged people to stay peaceful as Washington DC readies itself for Unite the Right 2.

Susan Bo told counter-protesters to make sure they stay safe at Sunday's event. 'No place for hate. Don't respond to the violence if you can protect yourself without it and do not let your guard down,' she told CBS News.

'What I've learnt is a lethal form of attack will happen when everyone is relaxed, so be careful.'

Susan Bo (left, in Charlottesville on Friday) told counter-protesters to make sure they stay safe at Sunday's Unite the Right 2 event in Washington. Pictured right: Heather Heyer

Unite the Right 2 will take place Sunday afternoon in Lafayette Park in front of the White House and mark the one year anniversary of Charlottesville.

Estimates vary on how many white nationalist protesters will show up.

Jason Kessler, who also organized last year's event, predicted 400 in his permit application, but turnout could be much lower.

Bro said the event had sparked painful memories of her daughter's death, which has led to murder charges against the alleged driver of the car, James Fields.

'As long as I'm working, I'm not thinking too much or feeling too much,' Bro said. 'But I have to be honest that the weight of it is getting to me today and tomorrow.'

She urged Americans to have 'painful conversations' about race to help heal 'deep-seated wounds'.

'If you rush to heal, if you rush to everybody grab each other and sing kumbaya, we will be back here in a few years,' she said.

White nationalists, neo-Nazis, KKK members, and the alt-right attacked each other as counter protesters intervened outside Emancipation Park in Charlottesville last year on August 12

Bro speaks with reporters on Friday at the spot where her daughter was killed in Charlottesville on August 12

President Trump was criticized for his response to Charlottesville after he appeared to condone the white nationalists by saying there were 'very fine people' on both sides of the rally.

But in the build-up to this year's protest he chose to condemn 'all types of racism' and urged unity.

'The riots in Charlottesville a year ago resulted in senseless death and division. We must come together as a nation,' he wrote on Saturday morning. 'I condemn all types of racism and acts of violence. Peace to ALL Americans!'

Heyer's mother called the message, 'A good tweet'.

The white nationalist movement has partially splintered in the past year, with some blaming Kessler for the bad press generated by Charlottesville.

Several white nationalist leaders have disavowed Sunday's rally and asked their followers not to attend.

Rally participants are likely to be outnumbered by passionate counter-protesters. At least two separate anti-white nationalist rallies will also be taking place in Lafayette Park.

Last year's rally on August 12 saw rally-goers carry flaming torches (pictured) and clash with counter-protesters

The local chapter of Black Lives Matter is also planning a separate march to the site.

With Charlottesville police widely criticized for their handling of last year's rally, D.C. authorities are vowing to prevent violence.

Mayor Muriel Bowser and Police Chief Peter Newsham have promised a massive security mobilization to keep protesters and counter-protesters apart.

'We have a number of techniques to keep them separate,' Newsham said. 'We're accustomed to protests in Washington and the rules are pretty simple: don't hurt anyone and don't break anything.'

While the White House will be the backdrop of the rallies, President Donald Trump will not be in town.

A anti-fascist protest in Charlottesville on Saturday passed off with little trouble.The 19-year-old man who was allegedly behind the wheel of a vehicle that crashed into pedestrians and killed a girl has been granted bail.

Brodie Lee Gibbard was allegedly driving a ute that struck pedestrians at Monjingup, more than 700 kilometres south east of Perth, at 1:30am on Saturday.

He was charged with the manslaughter of 16-year-old Kaitlyn Scott, who died in hospital.

The 19-year-old man who was allegedly behind the wheel of a vehicle that crashed into pedestrians and killed a girl, has been granted bail

A 16-year-old girl was critically injured at 1.30am on August 11 a car travelling along Davis Road plowed into a group of pedestrians (Pictured: general street view of David Road)

The young girl was critically injured when the white Holden ute struck her and two others as they were walking along the road.

Two other pedestrians, an 18-year-old woman and 18-year-old man received minor injuries, the ABC reported..

Ms Scott received critical injuries and was rushed to Esperance Regional Hospital, but sadly didn't make it.

Other than manslaughter, Mr Gibbard is facing two charges in regards to not stopping after the crash, and not reporting it to police.

It is believed that the 19-year-old was driving in the area with his girlfriend accompanying him, on the hunt for a 19th birthday party in the area.

The young girl was critically injured when the white Holden ute struck her and two others as they were walking along the road

Police prosecutors told the court that Mr Gibbard passed the party on several occasions before he accelerated.

The young driver's bail was granted with strict conditions, such as surrendering his passport.

Mr Gibbard is set to appear in court again on August 29.Noel Edmonds has slammed the BBC for its 'deceptive' new rally show which featured celebrities who couldn't drive, five-star hotels and a wrap party in a suspected brothel.

BBC Two's Eight Go Rallying promised to show teams of celebrities racing across 2,500 miles throughThailand, Cambodia and Vietnam.

But television presenter Noel Edmonds, who has a background in rally racing, said the programme was 'fictitious' and 'dishonest'.

Noel Edmonds and wife Liz signed up for the show as they were promised an 'epic adventure'

Noel (pictured with Liz on the show) said the pair had 'more adventure driving down to Tesco'

In its press release in January it said the famous contestants 'would compete against each other and over 30 other vintage car enthusiasts' and 'meet the locals... and stay in some one-of-a-kind accommodation'.

But Edmonds said the contestants were not allowed to race against each other and they were put up in the Sofitel, Hyatt and other five-star hotels.

The Deal or No Deal host, 69, even stormed out of the wrap party because he suspected the bar it was being held in was a brothel.

He revealed most of the celebrities couldn't drive and two of them crossed the finish line as passengers in a taxi.

BBC Two's Eight Go Rallying promised to show teams of celebrities racing across 2,500 miles through Thailand , Cambodia and Vietnam

Martin Kemp and his wife Shirlie rolled their Mini in the first few days of filming and were given a hire car

Edmonds normally rejects offers to go on reality TV, but said he and his wife were assured the BBC show was going to be different and offer an 'epic adventure'.

He told The Sunday Times: 'Ignoring the very high temperatures, we've experienced more adventure driving down to Tesco.'

In a statement, the BBC strongly rejected Edmonds' claims. It said: 'We are surprised that Noel has made such allegations regarding the production company and filming, not least because on the last day of filming he praised the production team and the experience.

Rapper Tinchy Stryder (left) destroyed the clutch in his car and crossed the finish line in a taxi

'Noel has mischaracterised a programme that he hasn't yet seen. Overall his assertions are littered with inaccuracies, which we have discussed with him in detail.

'For example, it was clear when Noel signed his contract that they would be starting at the half way point of the rally, competing against their fellow celebrities rather than those taking part in the official rally.

'This is spelt out in the contract that Noel signed. The programme was produced with input from industry experts and in accordance with relevant health and safety guidance.

'If Noel had waited to see the programme first, we hope he'd agree that far from deceiving viewers the programme faithfully follows the celebrities on their adventure - and yes, it was gruelling.

Food presenter Andi Oliver (left) had to drive the whole way on her own as her daughter hadn't passed her test

Reality check Noel Edmonds claims the BBC banned the stars from competing and that: - Producers created drama and fictitious challenges - They started only at the halfway point of the rally - The celebrities used an air-conditioned minibus, with their cars put on a loader between stages - Two of the stars had not passed their driving tests - They stayed in five-star hotels rather than the basic lodgings promised - One team finished as passengers in a taxi - Some of the celebrities used hire cars instead of vintage vehicles - A karaoke bar hosting the wrap party was a brothel Advertisement

'As viewers will see, when mishaps happened during the course of the filming, this is reflected in the programme.

'With reference to two of the celebrities not having driving licences, it is common practice in ERA rallies for teams to include a non-driving navigator with no requirement for a licence.

'In a demanding drive like this, it's not surprising that not all the original cars made it to the end - as viewers will see.

'Whilst the road trip may not have felt epic or unique to Noel, to the average person it would be a privilege to take part in such a trip for a TV programme.

'There is no truth to the claim that the wrap party was held in a brothel.

It was a karaoke bar in a 4 star hotel.

'The other participants remain positive about their experience, and we think viewers will enjoy the programme.'President Trump's former chief strategist Steve Bannon has warned Boris Johnson not to 'bow at the altar of political correctness' by apologising over his burqa comments.

Johnson's party is warring after the former foreign secretary sparked outcry when he said women who wear burqas look like letter boxes and bank robbers.

Bannon defended Johnson over the controversial remarks, claiming it was simply a 'naked pitch' for the populist vote.

Bannon, who said Johnson would be a 'great prime minister' and didn't need to copy Trump and also said he was 'ecstatic' that Tommy Robinson had been released from prison and compared the ex-EDL leader to outspoken rapper Kanye West.

The ex-White House aide's comments come as cabinet ministers are furiously split over the handling of the situation.

President Trump's former chief strategist Steve Bannon (left) has warned Boris Johnson (right) not to 'bow at the altar of political correctness' by apologising over his burqa comments

Boris Johnson brings tea for members of the press outside his home in Thame, Oxfordshire, on Sunday as the row over his burqa comments continues to divide the Conservative party

Poll finds more than half of voters back Boris in burqa row More than half of voters believe Boris Johnson should not face disciplinary action for his comments about the burka, according to a new poll. A total of 53 per cent of people were opposed to punishment for the former foreign secretary, against 40 per cent who said he deserved to be disciplined, the ComRes survey for the Sunday Express showed. Amid complaints from supporters of an attempt to gag Mr Johnson, the ComRes poll found that 60 per cent of respondents believe that rights to free speech are being weakened, against just 5 per cent who said they were strengthening. Support for Mr Johnson was markedly higher among older generations, with 77 per cent of over-65s and 63 per cent of 55-64 year-olds saying he should not face discipline, while 62 per cent of 18-24 year-olds and 55 per cent of those in the 25-34 age-group saying he should. The poll found that Theresa May remains voters' preferred leader of the Conservatives, by a margin of 26 per cent to 24 per cent over Boris Johnson, with 42 per cent opting for 'neither'. Advertisement

Speaking to the Sunday Times, Bannon said: 'His entire argument revolves around not wanting to ban the burqa but arguing he agrees it's an oppressive garment and that there is no scriptural basis for in it the Koran, which is true.

'I think the substance got lost because of his throwaway line.

'The hysterical mainstream media can never separate the ''signal from the noise'' - fortunately the populists can.'

Bannon added: 'Boris doesn't need to ape Trump; he needs to be himself - in the digital age authenticity is all.

The former executive chairman of Breitbart News, a far-right news website, refused to comment if he gave advice to Johnson when he visited the UK last month.

Speaking to the Sunday Times, ministers have voiced their frustration over the situation, several siding with Johnson.

One said: 'It's been so cack-handed. Boris is a back-bencher. What he said wasn't that outrageous; a lot of people have said worse and a lot of the party happens to agree with him.

'The sooner the party throws this investigation out, the better. Lots of people both on the front and back of benches are really p***ed off.'

Another added: 'It's been a total cockup from start to finish. What started out as something and nothing has been whipped up into a storm.

Mr Johnson (pictured outside his home in Sunday) has sparked fierce divisions in his party

Mr Johnson speaks outside his home on Sunday where he carried mugs of tea for journalists

Johnson's party is warring after the former foreign secretary said women who wear burqas look like letter boxes and bank robbers. Pictured: Johnson on Saturday at Gatwick Airport

Mr Johnson poses for a selfie with apparent admirers at Gatwick as the party continues to be split over his comparison of burkas to letterboxes

Bannon likens ex-EDL chief Tommy Robinson to rapper Kanye West Steve Bannon has likened Tommy Robinson to US rapper Kanye West, saying he is 'ecstatic' the ex-EDL leader was released from prison. Bannon repeatedly called for Robinson, who changed his named from Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, to be released after he was sentenced to 13 months for contempt of court. However, he has now been released on bail after a panel of judges found his case should have been adjourned, rather than sentencing delivered immediately. Bannon likened Robinson to the rapper married to Kim Kardashian, claiming they are both a 'force of nature'. He told The Sunday Times: 'Tommy is not just a guy but a movement in and of himself now. 'He represents the working class and channels a lot of the frustration of everyday, blue collar Britons... He is a force of nature, like Kanye (West) - not built to be managed.' Bannon, a former investment banker, said authorities were wrong to jail Robinson, and that he deserves an apology. He led the calls for his release and called him a 'solid guy' and the 'backbone of this country' while in the UK last month. Advertisement

'It would have soon blown over, but in their willingness to see Boris punished all they done is hurt themselves.'

A third minister told the paper: 'They have managed to engineer a total disaster.

'There is not a serious political brain in or around Downing Street. Trying to silence Boris is stupid, especially when the majority of people agree with him.'

On Saturday, Johnson touched down at Gatwick Airport in Crawley amid calls for him to attend 'diversity training'.

Fresh from his holiday in Italy, he returns to a divided response as yesterday Tory grandees demanded that the Conservative Party halt disciplinary proceedings.

The politician posed for a selfie with apparent admirers after supporters rushed to his defence.

Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg said the fallout is making the Conservative Party look foolish and claimed there is nothing to investigate.

Lord Tebbit, a former Tory chairman, accused party chiefs of inflaming the row and allowing Jeremy Corbyn to escape scrutiny over allegations of anti-Semitism.

His intervention came as allies of the former foreign secretary expressed fresh concerns last night about how the matter has been handled so far by party chairman Brandon Lewis.

They accused Mr Lewis of discussing the case with Tory MPs, which they said breaches a requirement for complaints to be handled confidentially.

The Tory party launched an investigation into Mr Johnson on Thursday after it received a number of complaints about a newspaper article in which he compared Muslim women who wear the burka to letter boxes and bank robbers.

There are suggestions he could be sent for diversity training as punishment.

Jacob Rees-Mogg (right) has come to the defence of Boris Johnson (left) and said the Conservative Party is being made to look foolish by the fallout

Boris Johnson has refused calls to apologise despite Theresa May (pictured) saying that his remarks caused offence

The former foreign secretary compared burkas to letterboxes and has refused to apologise for his remarks

Lord Tebbitt said last night: 'It is completely absurd. If they investigate him, they will find that he said nothing racist.

'He defended the right of women to wear a burka should they wish to do so, but said that they look like a letter box.

'I suggest the party should not be assisting Corbyn to escape the charge of anti-Semitism which hangs over him.'

Leading Tory backbencher Jacob Rees-Mogg said 'there is nothing to investigate' and that the affair was 'making the Conservative Party look foolish'.

Mr Rees-Mogg suggested the attacks on Mr Johnson's comment were a reflection of 'envy' felt towards him because of 'his many successes, popularity with voters and charisma'.

A group of demonstrators outside the Hillingdon Conservative Association office on Thursday

The howls of outrage directed at the former figurehead of the Leave campaign were 'suspect' and the motivations of those attacking him 'dubious', said the North East Somerset MP.

'Could it be that there is a nervousness that a once and probably future leadership contender is becoming too popular and needs to be stopped?' asked Mr Rees-Mogg.

'This may explain the attempt to use the Conservative Party's disciplinary procedures, but it has been handled so ham-fistedly that it brings only sympathy and support for Mr Johnson.'

What is the Tory disciplinary panel and what punishments could it give Boris? The Tory party launched its new stricter code of conduct in 2017 in the wake of the Westminster sex pest scandal. Under the rules, any member who is accused of flouting the code of conduct could face a grilling by a disciplinary panel. Here is the process which faces Boris Johnson: A panel consisting of no fewer than three people, is appointed by the Party Chairman Brandon Lewis. The panel will include a Tory activist, an independent person and someone nominated by the chairman of the 1922 committee - the powerful body of backbench Conservatives. This panel will investigate the complaint and give their findings to Mr Lewis. If they find Mr Johnson has broken party rules then they will refer him to Theresa May and the Board of the Tory party, who decide what punishment to mete out. They can order a range of punishments - including kicking him out of the party. How does the party decide what punishment to give out? It is up to the PM and the board of the Conservative Party to decide what punishment to give out. The code of conduct states they have discretion to 'take such action as they see fit. This includes, but is not necessarily limited to, suspension of membership or expulsion from the Party.' But it suggests that only the most serious cases will be result in the member being kicked out of the party. The code states: 'Any removal of rights of membership will only be made after due considerations of natural justice.' Advertisement

And he added: 'When Margaret Thatcher was leader, she and Michael Heseltine were hardly soulmates, but she would not have allowed personal rivalry to take the heat off the Labour Party, whose own deep internal divisions are buried in other news now, nor would she have countenanced any attempt to have a show trial.

'Attacking Boris merely helps the Opposition. It is time for good sense to assert itself, free speech to be encouraged and, as the summer rain falls, for hot-headed action to be cooled down.'

Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith said the party should end its investigation, noting that Mr Johnson made the remarks while setting out why he was opposed to a ban on the burka.

Mr Duncan Smith told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'I don't agree that there was anything particularly wrong with what he said. You may not agree with the tone or jokes, but we have a thing called freedom of speech in this country.'

He added: 'I don't think an internal party system should be there to shut down MPs when they speak. You don't always have to agree with what people say, but we do defend the right of people saying it.'

Former party vice-chairman and Tory MP Andrew Rosindell said: 'What is happening to Boris Johnson is a direct attack on our freedom of speech. I fear an eruption of anger amongst our party's core voters and grass-roots activists if this obsessive political correctness doesn't stop.'

Former Tory minister James Duddridge added: 'The Conservative Party has lost the plot if it thinks launching an investigation into Boris's comments is helpful.

'Some people just need to take a cold shower, calm down and have a holiday.'

Supporters of Mr Johnson last night condemned Mr Lewis after Tory MPs wrote in a WhatsApp group that he had held discussions with them about the case.

A former Cabinet minister said: 'The party's code is a legal process that must be conducted fairly and confidentially in accordance with natural justice.

'With his briefing, leaking and off-the-record chats with other MPs, Brandon Lewis has made a mockery of the whole system. His reckless behaviour means the process cannot now be independent or fair.

'This attack on Boris must be abandoned before more harm is done to our party by the party chairman, and Lewis needs to consider his own position given his disastrous role in this fiasco.'

Ken Livingstone calls for Boris Johnson to be kicked out of Tories Ken Livingstone has called for Boris Johnson to be expelled from the Conservative Party over the burka row. The former London mayor, who quit the Labour Party in May after being suspended for alleged anti-Semitism, said the former foreign secretary was 'pandering' to bigotry. Two years ago Mr Livingstone sparked outrage when he said Adolf Hitler supported Zionism 'before he went mad'. He was also heavily criticised in 2005 after accusing a Jewish reporter of behaving 'like a concentration camp guard'. Mr Johnson beat Mr Livingstone in both the 2008 and 2012 London mayoral elections. In an interview with radio station LBC, Mr Livingstone said: 'We've had a real increase in Islamophobic incidents  very often a woman wearing a burka gets it ripped off their face. 'Boris is pandering to that fear of Islam and bigotry. 'We all know Boris one day is going to try and become the next leader of the Tory Party and if he's going to be trying to mobilise bigots in the Tory Party behind him, that's totally wrong. Again and again, he will say things that are completely wrong. He isn't really a politician, he just wants to be a famous celebrity. 'Frankly I think the Tory Party should dump him.' Advertisement

Commons leader Andrea Leadsom yesterday praised one of Mr Johnson's former deputy London mayors after she branded his critics as 'disingenuous'.

In a WhatsApp group for Tory MPs, Mrs Leadsom joined in praise for an article in which Munira Mirza wrote: 'Mockery of religious practices is not everyone's choice of tactic, but to act like it is beyond the pale is disingenuous and hypocritical.'

Mrs Leadsom wrote: 'Agree on the Munira article  she's a smart lady.'

However ,Tory MP Nadine Dorries wrote in the WhatsApp group: 'The party has f**ked up big time and one of the worst f**k ups has been the Prime Minister appearing on national TV calling for Boris to apologise. That went down really, really badly.'

Mr Johnson, who is thought to be on holiday in Italy, has not commented since his column was published on Monday.

A source close to Mr Lewis last night rejected the accusation he had breached confidentiality rules, saying: 'He has not discussed the investigation with anybody. He explained the code of conduct process to two MPs.'A 12-year-old boy (pictured) is the only survivor of a private charter plane crash at Menuk mountain in Oksibil

A 12-year-old boy is the sole survivor of a plane crash that killed eight people in mountainous eastern Indonesia, authorities said Sunday.

The Swiss-made Pilatus aircraft lost contact with air traffic control Saturday during what was supposed to be a flight of around 40 minutes in remote Papua province.

The wreckage of the plane was found in a heavily forested area on a mountain side in the Oksibil subdistrict on Sunday morning.

'Eight passengers were found dead and one was found alive,' Papua military spokesman Lieutenant colonel Dax Sianturi said.

'At the moment the cause of the crash has not been confirmed,' he told AFP, adding an investigation would be carried out by the national transportation safety committee.

The plane, which was owned by private charter company Dimonim Air, was carrying seven passengers and two crew.

Before the accident, villagers in nearby Okatem reported hearing a loud roar followed by an explosion.

The plane, which was owned by private charter company Dimonim Air, was carrying seven passengers and two crew

Search and rescue teams had to walk two hours to reach the crash site that was in a heavily forested area on a mountain side in the Oksibil subdistrict Sunday morning

Search and rescue teams walked two hours to reach the crash site and were still recovering the bodies late morning.

Indonesia relies heavily on air transport to connect its thousands of islands but has a poor aviation safety record and has suffered several fatal crashes in recent years.

Papua is a particularly difficult area to reach.

Five people died after a small plane crashed near Wamena in Papua province in July last year.

In August 2015, a commercial passenger aircraft operated by Indonesian carrier Trigana crashed in Papua due to bad weather, killing all 54 people on board.Meghan Markles mother Doria Ragland - the only member of the brides family at the royal wedding - is said to be preparing to move to Britain to be closer to her daughter.

The 61-year-old is apparently beside herself with excitement at soon becoming neighbours of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

One friend has said Doria could be making the move as soon as next month, in time for her 62nd birthday.

Meghan Markles mother Doria Ragland - the only member of the brides family at the royal wedding (right) - is said to be preparing to move to Britain to be closer to her daughter

Doria was reportedly deeply impressed by the Royal Family, especially the Queen, during and after her daughters wedding, revealed the Express.

Unlike her ex-husband Thomas Markle, and the many other relatives who seemingly cashed in on the marriage with exclusive interviews, Doria has never publicly said anything about her daughters royal journey.

Mr Markle confessed that he lied to the Prince when Prince Harry asked him if he had co-operated with a paparazzi photographer to pose for shots  one of which showed him apparently being fitted for a wedding suit.

The 74-year-old made global headlines in May when he pulled out of walking his daughter down the aisle days before her wedding at Windsor, blaming a heart attack.

His shock decision came the day after The Mail on Sunday revealed he had been colluding with a paparazzi photographer to pose for staged photos.

Pictured: Meghan Markle and Doria Ragland attend UN Women's 20th Anniversary of the Fourth World Conference of Women in Beijing at Manhattan Centre at Hammerstein Ballroom on March 10, 2015 in New York City

Still much in her daughter's life, Doria has already started to prepare for her departure to London after she quit her job as a social worker for the Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services clinic in Culver City, Los Angeles, in May.

She has also been spotted with a security guard since around November who goes with her whenever she occasionally returns back to her home, a close friend in LA said last night.

She is getting ready to move to London. I think she will be going as soon as possible. I know that she was eager to live closer to her daughter.

She also fell in love with England and told me when she got back that its somewhere she believes she too could happily live, the source added.

Another neighbour in the LA area of Windsor Hills added: Doria and Meghan have always been inseparable. Doria is beside herself with excitement at the thought of moving to London.

Meghan, who grew up in Windsor Hills, has previously said in interviews that she misses the LA lifestyle of palm trees, the heat of the sun and the ocean breeze.Victoria Police have released a photo of a man they believe can assist with their inquiries after a hit-and-run (pictured)

Witnesses have revealed a male driver accused of fleeing after allegedly hitting and killing a 27-year-old Dutch cyclist appeared calm after the horrific hit-and-run.

The young woman died at about 10am after being struck by an allegedly stolen white Mercedes on Chapel Street in South Yarra, police said.

The male driver is accused of leaving the scene after witnesses said he collected his bag from the backseat of the wrecked SUV.

The car was filmed speeding down a Melbourne street just 100 metres from where they cyclist was killed.

Witnesses attempted to chase the driver, but he has yet to be arrested.

Tony Christakakis, who watched on in horror as the tragedy unfolded, said the driver appeared 'so calm' after allegedly hitting the young woman.

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'He just got his personal possessions, his valuables and ran off.'

'His bag was worth more than the lady's life,' Mr Christakakis told Seven News.

Victoria Police have released a photo of a man they believe can assist with their inquiries.

The driver has been described as aged in his late 20s or early 30s with dark hair and facial hair.

He was wearing dark clothing, including tracksuit pants with a large white Adidas logo on the side, police said.

Inspector Stuart McGregor described the man behind the wheel of the car as 'despicable'.

'Today we've lost the life of a young girl who was just going about a Sunday morning bicycle ride,' Inspector McGregor said.

A female cyclist is dead after being mowed down by a Mercedes in a hit-and-run in Melbourne 's inner city

'Unfortunately for her, the driver of the white Mercedes decided he was going to cut through on the left-hand side of the other vehicles and at the same time he's collided with her and pushed her up against another car.

'His first thought was to run. It wasn't to help, it wasn't to stop, it wasn't to think about the poor person he's hit.

'This is not going to go away... we will not stop, we do not stop. We will arrest you. You're going to court, you're going to look a lot better if you come to us.'

The cyclist died at the scene as the male driver allegedly fled

Police said the driver also hit two parked cars, before exiting the vehicle and running away.

Store worker Tony Christakakis said the scene had left him 'dumbfounded'.

'I'm gobsmacked, dumbfounded, angry that someone could leave someone.' he said.

A bystander performed CPR on the woman until ambulance workers arrived.

A bystander performed CPR on the woman until ambulance workers arrived. Witnesses took to Twitter to warn others of the incident

Witnesses took to Twitter to warn others of the incident.

'A tragic accident has happened this morning with multiple cars smashed up everywhere and the blue tarps are out,' one person said.

'Trams and buses have been stopped and all car, foot and bike traffic are being diverted to avoid the area. It's pretty grim.'

Police are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.The United States will return the historic Bells of Balangiga to a Philippines church, more than a century after they were seized by American troops during a war between the two countries.

In 1901, American forces took three bells from the Catholic church of Balangiga on the eastern island of Samar as war booty in what historians said was a particularly brutal military operation in the new US colony.

The American embassy in Manila said on Sunday that the bells would finally return to the Philippines, following a demand by President Rodrigo Duterte.

The United States will return the historic Bells of Balangiga (pictured are two of three bells) to a Philippines church, more than a century after they were seized by American troops during a war between the two countries

Two of the bells (pictured) are currently installed at a memorial in the state of Wyoming, while the third is with US forces in South Korea

The American embassy in Manila said on Sunday that the bells would finally return to the Philippines, following a demand by President Rodrigo Duterte (pictured)

Duterte and previous Philippine governments had urged Washington to return the bells, with the president often raising the issue in his anti-American tirades as he builds closer ties with China and Russia.

'Give us back those Balangiga bells. They are not yours. They are ours. They belong to the Philippines. They are part of our national heritage,' Duterte, who took office in mid-2016, demanded during his State of the Nation address last year.

The US had initially given a non-committal response to Duterte's demands but on Sunday said it would return the bells.

'The Secretary of Defense has notified Congress that the Department intends to return the Bells of Balangiga to the Philippines,' said Molly Koscina, spokeswoman for the US embassy in Manila.

'We've received assurances that the Bells will be returned to the Catholic Church and treated with the respect and honor they deserve,' she added, saying there was no date scheduled for the move.

Duterte's spokesman welcomed the announcement.

The brutal Samar campaign was launched about a month after Filipino rebels killed 34 US troops in Balangiga on September 28, 1901. American soldiers who survived the battle are seen with one of the bells in 1901

Duterte and previous Philippine governments had urged Washington to return the bells, with the president often raising the issue in his anti-American tirades as he builds closer ties with China and Russia. A little girl participates in a protest for the bells in September 2004

'The Secretary of Defense has notified Congress that the Department intends to return the Bells of Balangiga to the Philippines,' a spokeswoman for the US embassy in Manila, said on Sunday. Pictured is the St Lawrence the Martyr Parish where the bells will be returned

Two of the bells are installed at a memorial in the state of Wyoming, while the third is with US forces in South Korea.

Some US politicians oppose the dismantling of the memorial. The issue had sparked an emotional response from the descendants of American soldiers who served in the Philippines campaign.

The Philippines, a Spanish colony for centuries, was ceded to the United States in 1898 at the end of the Spanish-American War. The country gained independence from the US in 1946.

The brutal Samar campaign was launched about a month after Filipino rebels killed 34 US troops in Balangiga on September 28, 1901.

Seven other American soldiers perished during the escape from Balangiga, and US reinforcements razed the town the day after, it added.

Then-Philippine president Fidel Ramos first sought but failed to recover the bells during a 1998 Washington trip.A group of West Midlands 20-year olds have been hospitalized after drinking alcohol thought to be mixed with methanol on a Greek party island.

The seven friends from Coventry - and two other tourists also visiting the island - were hit by the dangerous concoction that made them violently ill.

One of the sick party-goers said that he'd been warned by reps about a few of the bars in Laganas - Zante's busiest and most notorious resort.

Nine more British tourists have been rushed to hospital in Greece after drinking toxic alcoholic cocktails thought to contain cheap methanol (stock picture)

Business studies student Jack Taylor told the Sun: 'We avoided those, but were violently ill.

'We were taken to hospital and all of us ended up in UK hospitals afterwards.'

The eighth Brit hit by the dangerous cocktail was teaching assistant Lauren Blair from Birmingham.

The 22-year-old was so sick that she ruptured her gullet from vomiting and suffered faded vision.

After being put in two Greek hospitals and one back home in the UK, Lauren said: 'I was so frightened. I thought I was going to die.'

James Rambukpitiya also left the party island having had his holiday tainted by toxic alcohol.

He said: 'I felt faint and my limbs shook.'

Lauren Blair, a 22-year-old teaching assistant, was so sick that she ruptured her gullet from vomiting and suffered faded vision. She said: ' I thought I was going to die.' (stock picture)

He had been celebrating the end of A-Levels with friends from Havering Sixth Form College in Hornchurch, Essex, but came home with liver damage.

Last week it was reported that a group of young men from Northumberland, all aged between 17 and 18, had also been rushed to hospital on their second night out on the part island.

The boys said almost all of them became violently sick, despite some only having three drinks the entire night.

They had flown to the party town of Laganas to celebrate leaving their Northumberland high school in late July.

Cole Brunton, 18, said he had methanol poisoning and told the Sun: 'It's inhuman. I know 100 per cent that we got ill because we were poisoned.

'I can't put into words how angry I feel that someone is prepared to put lives at risk to make a few quid.

'Our vomit was red and black. One of the lads was in bed and started having a fit, shaking uncontrollably.'More than half of voters believe Boris Johnson should not face disciplinary action for his comments about the burka, according to a new poll.

A total of 53 per cent of people were opposed to punishment for the former foreign secretary, against 40 per cent who said he deserved to be disciplined, the ComRes survey for the Sunday Express showed.

The poll was released as Mr Johnson returned to the UK from a holiday in Italy amid an escalating civil war within the Conservative Party over his description of Muslim women in face-covering veils as looking like letter-boxes or bank robbers.

More than half of voters believe Boris Johnson should not face disciplinary action for his comments about the burka, according to a new poll

Brexit-backing MP Jacob Rees-Mogg denounced the investigation launched into Mr Johnson's remarks as a 'show trial' motivated by Mrs May's personal rivalry with a man many see as her likely successor.

The Sunday Times reported that four Cabinet ministers had privately expressed dismay at the handling of the case.

And Tory MP Andrew Bridgen, a supporter of Mr Johnson, warned of 'open warfare' in the Conservative Party if he was suspended in such a way that he could not take part in a future leadership contest.

Mr Johnson made no comment to waiting reporters as he arrived back at his Oxfordshire home on Saturday evening, but is expected to break his silence in his regular Monday column in the Daily Telegraph, where his controversial comments were first printed six days ago.

Far-right US activist Steve Bannon, who was in contact with Mr Johnson during his recent visit to the UK, urged him not to 'bow at the altar of political correctness' by apologising.

The former aide to Donald Trump told the Sunday Times that Mr Johnson had 'nothing to apologise for'.

Brexit-backing MP Jacob Rees-Mogg (right) denounced the investigation launched into Mr Johnson's remarks as a 'show trial' motivated by Mrs May's personal rivalry

Amid complaints from supporters of an attempt to gag Mr Johnson, the ComRes poll found that 60 per cent of respondents believe that rights to free speech are being weakened, against just 5 per cent who said they were strengthening.

Support for Mr Johnson was markedly higher among older generations, with 77 per cent of over-65s and 63 per cent of 55-64 year-olds saying he should not face discipline, while 62 per cent of 18-24 year-olds and 55 per cent of those in the 25-34 age-group saying he should.

The poll found that Theresa May remains voters' preferred leader of the Conservatives, by a margin of 26 per cent to 24 per cent over Boris Johnson, with 42 per cent opting for 'neither'.

Former first secretary of state Damian Green, who was Mrs May's de facto deputy, said he feared Mr Johnson was 'being turned into a martyr by the alt-Right', which would be 'a disaster for him and the Conservative Party'.

Writing for the Mail on Sunday, he said: 'I am particularly concerned by reports that President Trump's sacked adviser Steve Bannon is forming a Europe-wide far-Right campaign group - and has been in touch with Boris.

'I hope that no Conservative politician, including Boris, is taking advice from him about how the Conservative Party should behave.'

The former foreign secretary compared burkas to letterboxes and has refused to apologise for his remarks

Meanwhile, there were signs of concern among Tory donors over Mrs May's handling of the issue.

David Wall, the secretary of the Midlands Industrial Council, whose members give millions to the Tories each year, described the row as 'an argument over relatively nothing'.

Mr Wall told the Sunday Telegraph: 'I don't think his situation needs to be referred to a disciplinary committee of the party.

'I don't think he expressed himself in an offensive way at all. I have talked to several colleagues and they have the same view as I do. What on earth is all the fuss about?'

And City financier Jeremy Hosking, who has given 375,000 since 2015, told the paper: 'The cynical and opportunistic response of some leading Conservatives in condemning him seems so transparent in its motivation as to be laughable.'

Mr Johnson was subjected on Saturday to a brutal attack by a former close aide to David Cameron, Lord (Andrew) Cooper, who accused him of 'casual racism' and 'courting of fascism'.

'He will advocate literally anything to play to the crowd of the moment,' said the Tory peer. 'His career is a saga of moral emptiness and lies; pathetic, weak and needy; the opposite of strong.'

But Mr Bridgen told the Sunday Express: 'If Boris is suspended it will be open warfare in the Conservative Party.

'If Theresa May dares engineer a leadership contest while Boris is suspended it will be World War Three.'A row over vaccines has erupted in Italy as the country's new populist government fights to oveturn a law that bans children without jabs from attending school.

A law adopted by the Democratic Party government last year made it compulsory for pre-school kids to be vaccinated against 10 diseases, including measles, tetanus and poliomyelitis.

Parents who have not vaccinated their children by the time they reach school age - six years old in Italy - face a fine of up to 500 euros.

Italys new government is trying to overturn a law that bans children without jabs from attending school

The law was brought in during an outbreak of measles that saw the number of cases in Italy hit 5,004 in 2017, up from 870 the previous year.

The new administration - formed of the anti-establishment Five Star Movement and the nationalist League - is leading the charge to have the law rolled back.

Last week, Italian lawmakers approved the amendment to compulsory vaccination for pre-schoolers to the 2019-20 school year.

The World Health Organization (WHO) says 93 per cent to 95 per cent of the population must be vaccinated to fight diseases like measles.

Italys measles jab rate has lagged far behind that goal, hovering around 85 per cent for the first dose and 83 per cent for the second dose as of 2015.

New health minister Giulia Grillo has drafted a new bill introducing what she calls a 'flexible obligation', encouraging the use of compulsory vaccination only over short periods and when WHO coverage rate is low.

Grillo, a doctor, claims there will be guarantees that children who haven't been immunised could be enrolled in classes where the World Health Organisation recommended coverage is assured.

However she also caused outrage when, in an interview with major daily Corriere Della Sera on Wednesday, she said that it wasn't realistic to 'make people believe that no one will die' of measles.

Last week Italian lawmakers approved the amendment, meaning children starting school next year won't need to have the jabs

Parents currently have to present pre-school institutions with booklets that list the vaccines, updated by the doctors who administer them.

For the 2019-20 school year plans were in place for educators to get vaccine information on each child directly from local health authorities, a measure designed to bypass the possibility of anti-vax parents falsifying documentation.

That measure was adopted in order to fight back against a drop in the number of people being vaccinated that had taken coverage below the 95 percent limit recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

That coverage ratio is the minimum required to create the communal immunity that staves off diseases and protects people with compromised immune systems who can't be vaccinated.

Coverage rates increased in Italy following the enaction of the previous government's law, but many regions remain well below the WHO threshold for a number of illnesses.

Data from Italy's National Health Institute released in July showed that four people -- including a 10-month-old baby -- had died from measles between January and May, the same number that died in the whole of 2017. In total over 1,700 people had contracted the disease, while last year 5,400 cases were recorded.Anxious residents across Queensland's southeast were on high alert as they prepared to flee their homes under threat from bushfire on Sunday.

Strong winds sparked an early start to the bushfire season as crews battled a dozen separate fires across the state's southwest.

Some blazes spiralled out of control and came within metres of dozens of homes.

By Sunday night, all fires were contained with no properties under direct threat.

Crews battled a dozen separate fires in the state's southeast due to strong winds. Pictured is the grassfire that threatened homes in Mutadapilly

Authorities understand no homes have been lost.

Residents have been advised that smoke may affect air quality and visibility.

Waterbombing devices were deployed to battle a grassfire at Mutadapilly near Ipswich, where residents of at least 30 homes were advised to get ready to leave.

As they prepared to evacuate, neighbouring property owners helped each other move livestock to safety.

The warning was downgraded after the Mutadapilly blaze was contained.

Crews will remain at the scene on Sunday night to monitor the fire.

Firefighters fought a spreading grass fire at Mutadapilly near Ipswich from above with waterbombing devices

A watch and act warning in place for a blaze burning at Balladean near Stanthorpe, southwest of Brisbane, was downgraded on Sunday night.

'Crews are conducting backburning operations to help contain the fire,' a Queensland Fire and Emergency Service post states.

Earlier, residents had been warned to be ready to follow their bushfire survival plan.

Elsewhere, fire crews battled a fast-moving bushfire at Memerambi Gordonbrook Road and Cooleys Road, Memerambi, near Kingaroy in the state's South Burnett region, which has since been downgraded.

Crews were also at the scene at a bushfire burning at Bucca near Bundaberg.

The blaze at Mutadapilly is now contained but crews remain on scene on Sunday night monitoring the fire.

On Sunday night, firefighters said they were aware of another bushfire burning near Deception Bay.

'Moreton Bay Regional Council will remain on scene overnight to monitor the fire,' the QFES website states.

Earlier this weekend, QFES cancelled all permits to backburn in the Ipswich, Scenic Rim, Logan City, Gold Coast and Somerset council areas until further notice.

Rural Fire Service regional manager Alan Gillespie said prolonged dry conditions and high fuel loads on the ground had increased the risk of bushfires in the region.

'We are talking about conditions very different to what we would normally experience at this time of year - conditions we haven't seen for some time, and conditions conducive to the rapid spread of fire,' he told AAP.Advertisement

Britain is set for thunderstorms and 'intense downpours' with nearly two inches of rain expected today as the wet weather continues.

Weather warnings have been issued pointing out there is a chance that homes and businesses could be flooded.

The Met Office alert is in place until 10pm on Sunday night, and a second warning is in place from 11am until 10pm on Monday.

Areas covered by the warnings are the East Midlands, north west England, south west England, Wales, the West Midlands and Yorkshire and Humber.

Torrential rain is possible and as much as 1.5 inches could fall in two to three hours. Lightning, hail and gusty winds may also result in some disruption, forecasters say.

Tourists take cover under umbrellas whilst out punting on the River Cam in Cambridge as the bad weather continues with storms forecast for Monday

The Met Office forecast states that today there will be cloud and outbreaks of rain affecting many parts of the UK (including Cambridge pictured)

Wet weather has set in on the southern coast at Dorset with waves set to batter the shore throughout the day at the seaside resort of West Bay

Two inches of rainfall is predicted across the UK today as the country cools down from higher temperatures earlier this week

A family are splashed by rough seas in Dorset which has already began to feel the effects of thunderstorms and wet weather which is set to hit parts of the UK in the coming days

Duncan Ellis of Church Farm, Littlington, East Sussex, pictured harvesting malting barley under the Long Man of Wilmington on the South Downs

Luke Miall, a forecaster at the Met Office, said: 'We've got some unsettled weather continuing for the next few days.

'Quite a contrast really to what much of this summer has seen across the UK.'

Mr Miall added: 'This is a thunderstorm warning so we are likely to see some pretty intense downpours developing as the skies brighten up really this afternoon.

'With that we'll see some heavy rain which could give the risk of some flash flooding, as well as the risk of spray on the roads, and some tricky driving conditions considering a lot of people may well be out and about given it's the weekend in the height of the school holidays as well.'

Throughout the day the wet weather will continue to make its way from west to east of the UK and by the afternoon, central, south and south-east England will see 1.5 inches of rain.

Areas covered by flood warnings are the East Midlands, north west England, south west England, Wales, the West Midlands and Yorkshire and Humber (pictured left Cambridge and right Church Farm, Littlington, East Sussex)

More than 300 colourful balloons take off over Bristol at dawn yesterday morning as The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta celebrated it's 40th year

People walk on top of the parched grass on Oxford Castle Mound on what was an overcast afternoon in Oxford yesterday

These pair enjoyed the cool temperatures by sitting under a willow tree and having a chat in Christchurch Meadows, Oxford

Brave locals and tourists flocked to Brighton beach yesterday morning despite the warning of wet weather

The west will be given a short break from the torrential downpour before picking back up again in the afternoon with up to another 1.5 inches adding to the morning puddles.

The West Midlands will see thunder in parts to add to the wet weather.

The remarkable turnaround in conditions from 92F (33C) heat last week began on Thursday and ended a 47-day consecutive run of somewhere in the UK getting to at least 75F (24C) as people across the country swap their sun cream and hats for umbrellas and coats.

Met Office forecaster Emma Smith said: 'Storm Debby is coming over from the Atlantic and its remnants are expected to hit the UK this weekend.

Flora Powell, 19, and Jess Blake, 18, both from Newquay jump and dance in the rain at Boardmasters festival despite the bad weather yesterday

Visitors made the most of the wet and windy weather in Weymouth after the heatwave finally came to an end

Visitors look on at a seagull in Weymouth as they refuse to let the wet and windy weather stop them from getting out and about

Wet weather continues across Britain today well into the afternoon for the whole of the country

Music lovers at New Quay's Boardmasters festival put on plastic ponchos to shelter themselves from the rain

People walk on the wind and rain swept sand at Fistral Beach in Newquay as they head to Boardmasters festival

'It is coming from the tropics, so temperatures will remain very humid over the next few days. Wet and windy weather will continue through till Sunday evening.'

The wet conditions have brought some much-needed relief to parts of southern and central England which have spent the equivalent of around two months of 2018 without any recorded rainfall.

Southeast England clocked up 64 days of zero average rainfall between January and July, while central England had 54 days. The last time both regions had a higher number of rain-free days in this period was the mid-1990s.

The UK faces showers and winds sweeping across the nation from the west for the next 15 days after the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby halted the heatwave, which is set to continue until October.

So while the weekend might be a washout, the summer heat we've become used to will return by the middle of the week.

Temperatures will have crept up to 80F (27C) in some places and it will also feel very humid, by Wednesday.

New Metropolitan Police officers march through the pouring rain at a passing out parade in north London on Thursday

Stormy clouds chase away the blue skies of London as the heatwave is well and truly ended with thunder, lightning and showers over the capital on Thursday

People huddle under their umbrellas as they boat down the River Cam in Cambridge below others sheltering from the downpour while walking across the bridge on Thursday

Two women walk across Tower Bridge in the heavy rain in London Thursday afternoon as the capital is hit by bad weather

Boardmasters music festival pledges to turn the tide on plastic Every year the world's best surfers descend on Cornwall for the Boardmasters music, skating and surfing festival. Alongside the music, Boardmasters hosts the World Surf League, which sees more than 200 world-class pro surfers from 25 countries head to Fistral Beach. Set atop the cliffs overlooking the breathtaking Watergate Bay, it is Europe's largest surf and skate festival. Born in 1981, the event now sees around 150,000 revellers flocking to the west coast every year. Acts in recent years have included Ed Sheeran, Chase and Status, Craig David and Jamiroquai. But such high visitor numbers lead to one thing - waste and rubbish. So organisers have worked closely to turn the tide on plastic and help the environment with the event's 'sustainable and environmental strategies'. Boardmasters partners with Surfers Against Sewage encouraging revellers to join beach cleans to the mammoth post-festival clean up operation. It has also banned plastic straws and implemented a cup deposit scheme. More than 60 of the UKs biggest music festivals pledged to ban the use of plastic straws at their events over the summer in a campaign organised by the Association of Independent Festivals (AIF). The group of independent festivals, including the likes of Bestival, Boomtown Fair and Shambala, have also committed to eliminate all single-use plastic by 2021. For more details go to Boardmasters For information about the festival's sustainability pledge, click here Advertisement

Pedestrians run for cover as a sudden rain shower hits Uxbridge in West London amid bad weather in the capital on Thursday

Women run for cover as the rain pelts central London during Thursday afternoon's downpour, leaving the capital's commuters and workers soakedDonald Trump's former chief strategist has likened Tommy Robinson to outspoken US rapper Kanye West, while saying he is 'ecstatic' the ex-EDL leader was released from prison.

Steve Bannon repeatedly called for Robinson, who changed his named from Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, to be released after he was sentenced to 13 months for contempt of court.

However, he has now been released on bail after a panel of judges found his case should have been adjourned, rather than sentencing delivered immediately.

Mr Bannon likened Robinson to the rapper married to Kim Kardashian, claiming they are both a 'force of nature'.

Steve Bannon led calls for Tommy Robinson's release from prison and has now said he is instrumental for politics within the working class

Tommy Robinson (left) has been likened to rapper Kanye West (right) who were both called 'a force of nature' by Steve Bannon who was Donald Trump's chief strategist

Why was Tommy Robinson jailed for 13 months for contempt of court over Facebook Live video? Robinson was live outside Leeds Crown Court while jurors were in the process of considering verdicts in a trial The judge who jailed Tommy Robinson told him his Facebook Live could have collapsed a six-week trial if the jurors saw it. Judge Geoffrey Marson QC said that Robinson had failed in his 'responsibility to exercise freedom of speech within the law'. Within five hours of his arrest Robinson was jailed for 13 months after pleading guilty to contempt in relation to an ongoing trial. He also admitted breaching the terms of a suspended sentence he was handed in Canterbury last May for a similar offence. Judge Marson QC said: 'No one could possibly conclude that it would be anything other than highly prejudicial to the defendants in the trial. I respect everyone's right to free speech. That's one of the most important rights that we have. 'With those rights come responsibilities. The responsibility to exercise that freedom of speech within the law. I am not sure you appreciate the potential consequence of what you have done. 'If the jurors in my present trial get to know of this video I will no doubt be faced with an application to discharge the jury. If I have to do that it will mean a re-trial, costing hundreds and hundreds and thousands of pounds.' Advertisement

Despite Robinson facing a second hearing for contempt at the Old Bailey, for allegedly risking the future of a court case by filming outside on the steps, Bannon said he was 'ecstatic' at his release.

He told The Sunday Times: 'Tommy is not just a guy but a movement in and of himself now.

'He represents the working class and channels a lot of the frustration of everyday, blue collar Britons... He is a force of nature, like Kanye (West) - not built to be managed.'

Bannon, a former investment banker, said authorities were wrong to jail Robinson, and that he deserves an apology.

He led the calls for his release and called him a 'solid guy' and the 'backbone of this country' while in the UK last month.

He said after his release: 'That's why I told LBC that and they all jumped up and down like babies live on air to insist he was guilty.

'We didn't know at the time he was guilty. That's the whole point. Now he's won his appeal and no one in the press is apologising for the way they treated him.'

The ex-EDL leader, 35, has been behind bars for two months after confronting defendants outside Leeds Crown Court on May 25.

Judges freed him after ruling it was 'unfair' to give him 13 months in prison during a 'muddled' and 'rushed' court case held just five hours after his arrest.

He had confronted suspects being prosecuted in trials involving dozens of Asian men accused of grooming children as young as 11, it can be reported for the first time today.

Robinson broadcast these exchanges to 250,000 people watching him on Facebook Live and even captured the moment police arrested him.

However, he was arrested and sent to cells within five hours.

Robinson supporters said he was jailed for speaking out and his freedom of speech was being taken away from him, but court lawyers made clear he was accused of contempt.

A statement from Carson Kaye solicitors, which represented Robinson, said: 'The rule of law and the right to a fair hearing are fundamental to every individual and this ruling is an example of the procedural safeguards of our system, and its potential for protecting every citizen equally.

'What makes the British system so unique is the ability to set aside personal feelings and deal with the law and each case on its merits.'

Former English Defence League (EDL) leader Tommy Robinson leaves Onley Prison, near Rugby, after he was freed on bail

Rapper Kanye West with wife Kim Kardashian in the US. Steve Bannon has likened Tommy Robinson to outspoken West

Making the comparison between the The College Dropout hitmaker and Robinson, Mr Bannon said both are men who create movements.

He also claimed there should be more populism.

'There is obviously a need for a more populist party in the UK,' he said.

'At one time that might have been UKIP under Farage. But please don't try to smear it with far right and 'anti-Islamic' so as to scare people.

'The party can be populist, nationalist and want to thwart radical Islamic doctrine and Islamic supremacism without being anti-Muslim.'President Trump's former chief strategist Steve Bannon is set to launch his right-wing pressure group next month as the ex-aide seeks to influence European elections.

The former chief executive of Breitbart, a far-right news website, has joined forces with Raheem Kassam, a former Nigel Farage advisor, to launch The Movement.

The Brussels-based group is believed to be targeting far-right political groups, such as France's Front National, Germany's AFD and Spain's Vox.

The timing of the pressure group's start comes before the European Parliament elections in the spring.

President Trump's former chief strategist Steve Bannon is set to launch his right-wing pressure group next month as the ex-aide seeks to influence European elections

Mr Kassam said to the Sunday Express: 'The level of interest... is immense. We are not yet in the position to announce who the partners will be.

'We are still in conversations with these people as to whether it is a formal structure or an informal relationship.

'We are in the process of building detailed information from polls and other data, focusing on the biggest countries in the EU.

'What must be stressed is that we are not going into countries telling them what to think, how to campaign or what issues to campaign on.

'All you have to do to be part of The Movement is to believe in nation state sovereignty.

'We'll work with anyone, as long as they believe Brussels has gone too far in taking control away from national parliaments and want to see those powers repaired.'

The former chief executive of Breitbart, a far-right news website, has joined forces with Raheem Kassam (pictured), a former Nigel Farage advisor, to launch The Movement

Bannon sees his new organisation rivalling George Soros' Open Foundation, which has given away $32billion to liberal causes since it was established in 1984.

The non-profit will be a central source of polling, advice on messaging, data targeting, and think-tank research.

Bannon told the Daily Beat he was convinced the coming years will see an end to decades of European integration.

'Right-wing populist nationalism is what will happen. That's what will govern,' he said. 'You're going to have individual nation states with their own identities, their own borders.'

He added he had held talks with right-wing groups across the continent, from Nigel Farage and members of Marine Le Pen's Front National in the West, to Hungary's Viktor Orban and the Polish populists in the East.

The architect of Trump's nationalist-populist campaign and his election victory, Bannon was nicknamed the 'Prince of Darkness' and the 'Shadow President.'

His economic nationalism became the lynchpin of Trump policies, even as many of his other ideas were rebuffed by policy rivals.

After new Chief of Staff John Kelly arrived, Bannon's constant clashes with other advisors became untenable, as did his ties to the extreme right, which drew accusations that Trump fostered racists. Bannon left the White House last August.A man who died while trying to defend a female friend from her former partner has been described as 'kind, thoughtful and caring' by his heartbroken family.

Ben Apikotoa was stabbed multiple times on Saturday night after reportedly being called to a home in Sydney's west by his friend, Cassie Sanders, who was allegedly being assaulted by her ex-boyfriend Nathan Chatimba.

Chatimba, 31, has been charged with murdering the 34-year-old during a brawl between two men in a cul-de-sac in St Clair.

Ben Apikotoa (pictured) was stabbed multiple times on Saturday night after reportedly being called to a home in Sydney's west by his friend

Nathan Chatimba, 31, is charged with murdering the 34-year-old victim Ben Apikotoa at a St Clair property on Saturday night

Police allege Ben responded to the call for help after Ms Sanders was alleged attacked at the home.

A neighbour told Seven News he saw the men throwing punches before Chatimba allegedly pulled out a knife.

Residents claim the 31-year-old then fled the scene before being arrested by police two hours later.

He briefly appeared at Parramatta Bail Court on Sunday where he was denied bail. He will face court in October.

Chatimba appeared distraught as he was arrested by police.

Paramedics arrived at the home at 6.40pm. Despite the efforts from paramedics, Ben died at the scene.

Cassie Sanders, (pictured left) was allegedly being assaulted by her ex-boyfriend Nathan Chatimba (right) before the 34-year-old was stabbed multiple times in the chest

Police allege Ben Apikotoa responded to the call for help after Cassie Sanders' mother was alleged attacked at the homeA British 23-year-old has been killed during a fight in the Ibizan party resort of San Antonio.

The victim has been named locally as Conor Lee.

Mr Lee is said to have died after an altercation involving a group of other Brits on the seafront promenade at 3.30am today.

He had checked into the Hotel Bergantin on Thursday and was due to leave later today.

He is understood to have been staying at a a hotel called Hotel Bergantin in the town

He was staying alone and his belongings were still at the hotel in San Antonio Bay - early this afternoon.

A spokesman for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: 'Our staff are providing assistance to the family of a British man who has died in Ibiza and are in touch with the local authorities who are investigating.

Police sources said witnesses had told them the dead man was alone when he died - and had started insulting the group he got involved in a fight with before violence flared.

One said: 'The incident happened on the main seafront promenade in San Antonio, near a hotel called Ses Savines.

'Witnesses have told officers the man who died started having a go at a group of five men and two women for reasons that are still under investigation.

'The witnesses say the altercation got physical after initial insults were traded.

'The British man was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy will determine whether he was killed by a blow or by his head hitting the ground.

Another added: 'No arrests have yet taken place and the group of men and women haven't been identified yet.

'It means their nationality hasn't yet been determined for certain.'

The three-star Hotel Bergantin, where the dead man was staying, said this morning it was not in a position to comment.

The three-star Hotel Bergantin, where the dead man was staying, said this morning it was not in a position to comment (Pictured: San Antonio)

The hotel is in San Antonio Bay by the beach just over a mile walk from the town's centre.

Sources at the Civil Guard confirmed the victim was British and aged 23.

No arrests have yet taken place. An autopsy will now determine if he died as a direct result of the beating he received or if other factors played a part in his death.

Last month a 22-year-old Brit died after collapsing in the street in San Antonio and being rushed to a health centre.

Last month a 22-year-old Brit Jack McDonnell died after collapsing in the street in San Antonio and being rushed to a health centre

He was later named as Jack McDonnell, from the West Midlands market town of Salford.

Two days before he died on July 20 a British seasonal worker named as Birmingham-born Harry Kingsland, 21, was killed in an altercation at a flat in the party resort.

The man suspected of delivering the punch linked to his death - Mitchell Loveridge, also 21 and from Llwynypia in the Rhondda, Wales, was arrested after trying to flee the scene by jumping out of the second-floor apartment window.

He was remanded in custody after appearing in court.This is the dramatic moment a thief who targeted beachgoers in Majorca is cornered and arrested by undercover police disguised as tourists.

The three plain-clothes officers spotted him pinching valuables from holidaymakers at Playa de Palma beach.

Uniformed colleagues arrived to take him away in handcuffs as the undercover trio returned to the coast with a rucksack containing the stolen phones, speakers and other valuables they had retrieved.

One could be seen explaining to a Spanish tourist in swimming trunks how the thief had been caught and taken into custody as he headed back to the beach with the rucksack.

The police subsequently laid out the stolen items on a seafront wall.

Speaking in English to theft victims, they asked them for their names and other details so they could return their property to them.

The cash and valuables they recovered came to around 3,000.

A spokesman for the local police in Majorca's capital Palma said in a statement released with the video footage: 'Undercover officers observed how an individual took a rucksack from the beach.

'After a chase they arrested him despite him putting up resistance. They recovered objects including phones, credit cards and cards worth more than 3,300 (2950).'

The alleged thief, a 27-year-old Romanian, is thought to have been part of a group of professional criminals who target holidaymakers in resorts including Playa de Palma and Magaluf.

Three plain clothes officers caught the thief red handed in Majorca

He had stolen almost 3000 worth of phones, speakers and other valuables

They usually wait for victims to leave their valuables unattended by going into the sea for a quick dip before striking - although they can turn violent if challenged.

Last month police arrested four Spaniards and a Romanian in one night after spotting them stealing the belongings of two groups of tourists at Playa de Palma.

Local reports at the time said one of the Spaniards and the Romanian were well-known to police and had been arrested nearly 40 times between them for similar offences.

The three uncover officers chased him before he was arrested

Uniformed police took the man away in handcuffs while the plain clothes officers returned the goods to the victims

Officers are often left frustrated because courts release suspects on bail after they are arrested - and they simply go back to their old criminal ways once they are freed from custody.

In Magaluf some repeat offenders have been given restraining orders preventing them from going anywhere near areas like Punta Ballena which is most popular with British holidaymakers.A British mother jailed in Dubai for drinking on the plane out was met by her delighted family as she landed back in the UK.

The 44 year old, who was jailed for drinking a glass of wine on a flight to the popular tourist destination, was met by her partner Gary at Gatwick Airport.

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Dr Holman said: 'I'm just so relieved to be home and can't wait to be with my family, recover and rest.

'It feels amazing to be free and back in a safe country. I'm just looking forward to being with my family. I want to hold all of them together and never let them go.'

Dr Holman, a dentist, was driven back to her home in Sevenoaks, Kent for a private family reunion after the eight hour flight.

Her two eldest children, Suri, nine and Noah, eight, had been staying with her in Dubai when she received a phone call telling her she was free and accompanied her on the long flight.

Dr Ellie Holman receives a kiss from her eight-year-old son Noah after being being released from a Dubai prison

Dr Ellie Holman and four-year-old daughter Bibi (pictured together) were allowed to return home after being locked up in a Dubai prison

Dr Holman said she was looking forward to seeing her youngest daughter Bibi who was with her when she was arrested last month and held for three days.

Earlier she had told Mail Online she had been left 'exhausted' by ordeal.

As she prepared to fly home for an emotional reunion with her family, she told MailOnline she couldn't wait to be back in the UK.

'I haven't even begun to comprehend what's happened to me', she said.

'I've been running on adrenaline alone for the past month and I'm exhausted.'

The Kent-based dentist was told she could leave after a personal intervention by the country's ruler Sheikh Mohammed.

Hours before she left, Dubai Government officials offered a different version of events and denied the alcohol had played any part in the arrest.

They also said she was held for less than 24 hours, but offered no explanation as to why she was given a blood test and shown her alcohol reading.

Dr Holman said she will address the statement issued by the Dubai authorities at a later time.

The Dubai statement is in direct conflict with what Dr Holman claims took place.

She said her ordeal began on July 13 after she flew to Dubai for a five-day break with her daughter Bibi.

She was involved in a dispute with an immigration official who told her to return to the UK as her visa was not valid.

In a tense standoff Dr Holman started to film the official who then demanded to know if she had drunk any alcohol on the flight.

When she told him she had red wine with her in-flight meal he said alcohol was illegal in the Muslim country and had her arrested.

Dentist Dr Holman, pictured with children (from left) Noah, eight, Bibi, and Suri, nine, said her ordeal began when she was surrounded by armed police after trying to film her argument with an immigration official when he claimed her visa had expired

Dr Holman, pictured with son Noah, said conditions in the cell were 'filthy, foul-smelling and baking hot'

She and her daughter spent several hours in a holding cell before being taken to a detention centre at the airport where they spent three days.

After her release Dr Holman went to stay with friends but was unable to leave Dubai as her passport was confiscated.

She had been warned it could be up to a year before her case was heard.

Her release came after the personal intervention of Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed, according to sources in the UAE.

He is said to have ordered her release after MailOnline's coverage of her ordeal and treatment was covered by media worldwide.

Dubai, which attracts over 14million visitors each year, is heavily dependent on tourism.

The publicity about Dr Holman's arrest for drinking a glass of wine could have had a deterrent effect on future travellers.

Dr Holman said her daughter Bibi, pictured, was inconsolable during the ordeal and she tried to comfort her by reading her books in the jail

Ms Holman said the experience had been 'devastating' for her children, pictured

She told Mail Online how the dispute over her visa quickly escalated with a 'rude and aggressive' immigration officer.

As her single-entry visa had expired he demanded she fly back to London immediately.

When Dr Holman refused as she and her daughter were tired from the long flight there followed a tense standoff.

It was then the immigration officer asked if she had been drinking and she admitted to having a glass of wine with her meal during the eight-hour flight.

Despite her protestations, she was marched off to a holding cell where her daughter was forced to urinate on the floor as guards would not let her use a toilet.

After being held for several hours Dr Holman provided a blood sample to Dubai authorities which came back with a reading of 0.04% - well under the UK drink drive limit.

With no legal representation and not allowed to speak with her family she and Bibi were taken to an airport detention centre where they spent three days.

Her partner Gary, pictured with their children. She told MailOnline how the dispute over her visa quickly escalated with a 'rude and aggressive' immigration officer

Dr Holman (pictured with her other daughter, Suri) was detained for drinking a glass of wine in an airport in the Arab state

They were held in a 'baking hot and foul smelling' room and she was forced to clean toilets and mop the floor.

With her traumatised daughter too terrified to leave her side she was forced to sleep in a canteen area where the lights were kept on 24 hours a day.

During their detention the pair did not eat and Dr Holman said she was unable to sleep during her enforced stay.

'The food smelled like rotting garbage and neither Bibi or I could face trying it. I stayed awake for the whole three days,' she said.

She claims they were also denied a pillow or a change of clothing and that Bibi was in a state of shock and refused to be comforted.

After her release Dr Holman was allowed to stay with friends but her passport was confiscated, and she was told it might take up to a year until the matter is resolved.

Her partner Gary flew from their home in Kent to Dubai to collect their youngest daughter.

The couple estimate they have lost over 30,000 in earnings and money spent on legal fees.

Dr Holman's release came after the personal intervention of Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed (pictured)

Emirates Airlines offers wine on flights from the UK to Dubai as standard practice (file picture)

Since her arrest Dr Holman's practice in Sevenoaks has been closed.

She praised the NGO Detained in Dubai for their help in securing her freedom.

'I can't thank Radha Stirling and her team at Detained in Dubai enough. Thanks to her I will be sleeping in my own bed.'

Dubai Government officials released a statement on Saturday night saying all charges against Dr Holman had been dropped and she was being deported.

Dubai's Attorney-General said the incident started when Ms Holman tried to enter the city with a Swedish passport, which had expired on June 10.

She then presented an Iranian passport, but was told she could only enter the United Arab Emirates with a new temporary visa that would allow her to stay for 96 hours which meant she would have to change her flights.

'Ms Holman refused angrily due to the additional payment fees the process would require, and proceeded to verbally insult the immigration and take photos of the officer via her phone,' said Attorney-General Esam Issa Al Humaidan in a statement.

'A legal claim was issued against Ms Holman with charges of profanity and photographing a government official at the border crossing, a restricted area.'

He said a decision was taken to drop the charges and deport the mother-of-three.Supermarket giants have warned a no-deal Brexit would force up the price of a weekly food shop by 12 per cent.

Executives from the big four supermarkets said the biggest tariffs on EU imports would include cheese, up by 44 per cent, beef, 40 per cent, and chicken, 20 per cent.

The predictions were laid bare in briefings to the Treasury on the impact of a no-deal Brexit on shoppers.

The price of cheese, beef and chicken could be pushed up by 44 per cent without trade deal

Exiting the EU without a trade deal for goods would leave the UK relying on World Trade Organisation rules, but this would imply significant tariffs on many foods.

One of the bosses of a leading supermarket chain suggested food imported from the EU would be hit with an average tariff of 22 per cent.

'It's complete nonsense that Brexit supporters say we could, without any damage, go to WTO most favoured nation tariffs,' a supermarket chairman told The Sunday Times.

'It's dreadful. There will be hold-ups at the border and that will make it impossible to take things out of the ground in Spain this morning and get them onto the shelves in two days' time.

The average price of a weekly shop could go up by 12 per cent, supermarket bosses warned

'This is so serious we're talking about civil unrest on the streets. Within two weeks of no deal this will become a very different country.'

There is also fears the Sterling would fall by 10 per cent or more if Britain strikes a no-deal with Brussels, pushing up the prices of food imports further.

Prices could also be raised if supermarkets are forced to import food using different ports and longer routes to avoid congestion at Dover.An investigation is underway after a man died following an assault in Sydney's west on Sunday night.

Emergency services were called to a park on Morison Drive in Lurnea about 4.45pm, after reports of two men fighting.

When police arrived they found a man seriously injured and began CPR.

An investigation is underway after a man died following an assault at Lurnea on Sunday evening

NSW Ambulance paramedics rushed the man to Liverpool Hospital, where he later died.

A crime scene has been established by officers.

Inquiries are continuing and anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

Emergency services were called to a park on Morison Drive and Hill Road at Lurnea about 4.45pm, after reports two men were fighting



Paul Dunster, 59, outside Portsmouth Crown Court

A 'disgusting' landlord who made a staggering 183 videos of naked women by planting cameras in his tenants' rooms so he could watch them showering and having sex, has been spared jail.

Paul Dunster, 59, made the films of unsuspecting women who rented rooms from him in Portsmouth over a 10 year period to 'satisfy his sexual needs'.

The pervert initially denied two charges of voyeurism but later admitted making the secret videos after setting up cameras in the bedroom and bathroom of one of the properties he rented out.

Police raided former security worker Dunster's home in Portsmouth, Hampshire, and found two memory cards containing the voyeuristic videos.

Prosecutor David Reid told Portsmouth Crown Court: 'The first memory card had 18 videos which showed sexual encounters between men and women in the bedroom.

'Those videos lasted a total of 20 minutes but none of the tenants were aware of the camera.

'The second memory card was taken from the bathroom and showed women having baths and showers - women who were also totally unaware they were filmed.

'There was significant planning to this and it was an abuse of trust as the women were tenants.'

The court heard army veteran Dunster was landlord of seven flats and had total outstanding mortgages of 870,000.

Daniel Reilly, mitigating, told the hearing: 'Many residents are extremely grateful he lets them rent rooms the way he does.'

Prosecutor David Reid told Portsmouth Crown Court (pictured): 'The first memory card had 18 videos which showed sexual encounters between men and women in the bedroom'

Sentencing Dunster, Judge David Melville QC said: 'The residents would have been disgusted to know you had a camera set up in the bedroom to film people having sex.

'I'm sure people would also have been disgusted to know you set up a camera in the bathroom to satisfy your sexual needs.

'It is sad story and one which is disgusting.'

Dunster was ordered to pay a 5,000 fine plus 500 in costs, and was given 100 hours of unpaid work with 20 rehabilitation days.A customer claims he was thrown out of Tesco for being overweight after he tried to buy an ice cream without a shirt on.

Matthew Brackley, 27, says he was 'manhandled' out of the Tesco Express store in Cambridge, by a security guard who verbally assaulted him.

He believes the only reason he was ordered to leave was because of his weight - as a slimmer shopper, who was also topless in the store at the time, was not asked to leave.

A customer claims he was thrown out of Tesco for being overweight after he tried to buy an ice cream without a shirt on

Matthew Brackley, 27, says he was 'manhandled' out of the Tesco Express store in Cambridge (pictured), by a security guard who verbally assaulted him

Matthew said: 'It's disgraceful. It was about 33C and I had my t-shirt off. There's nothing wrong with that, it's not a crime.

'I'll admit I'm carrying a few extra pounds but that's no reason to discriminate against me.

'I have problems with my body and weight and I overcame my fear [of walking around without a top on].

'I should be able to walk with my top off, there's no law you can't have your top off. All I wanted to do is get an ice cream on a hot day.'

Matthew told how he was 'minding his own business' when he visited the store last week. He says the security guard walked over to him and began to shout at him.

'The security guard came over to me and was very rude to me, he just started saying "get out the shop",' said Matthew.

He believes the only reason he was ordered to leave was because of his weight - as a slimmer shopper, who was also topless in the store at the time, was not asked to leave

'At this point I didn't know what I had done and I was confused. I asked him what I did wrong and couldn't answer he just said can you leave the shop.

'It's not as if I went in and jumped all over the food. I wanted an ice cream and was going right back out.

'So I went back in because I thought I hadn't done anything wrong and then the security guard got in my face and got spit all over my face - I slowly pushed him to say "get out my face"'.

Matthew also claims that he had to act in self defence because the security guard got uncomfortably close to his face which meant he had to 'gently' push him to the side.

However, there was apparently at least one other topless shopper in the store at the time, who had 'muscles and looked fit'.

Matthew (pictured) said: 'It's disgraceful. It was about 33C and I had my t-shirt off. There's nothing wrong with that, it's not a crime'

Since the incident, Tesco has apologised to Matthew and offered him compensation.

But Matthew wants to see the security guard undergo further training to avoid incidents like this happening in the future.

He said: 'I am speaking out about this because I don't want it to happen to anyone else.

'It's a matter of principle and people shouldn't be treated differently over their weight.

'If this man works with the public, he needs to know how to behave appropriately around them.'

A spokesman for Tesco said: 'We have fully investigated this incident with the guard's employer TSS and have concluded that no further steps need to be taken.'A man from Wales went for a pint after work - only to end up in Spain just hours later, much to the annoyance of his girlfriend.

Alun Griffiths, from Gurnos in Merthyr Tydfil, south Wales, went to a club with friends on his way home from work but didn't end up getting home for another two days.

The 27-year-old documented his spontaneous trip on Facebook and wrote his friend got a 'tattoo of a girl's name on his chest' during their drunken adventure.

After shelling out 800 each for the random holiday, Mr Griffiths ended back up at the same pub in Wales upon returning from the party island.

Alun Griffiths, 27, from Gurnos in Merthyr Tydfil, south Wales, went to a club with friends on his way home from work on August 7 but didn't end up getting home for another two days

After travelling to Cardiff Airport with his friend Nigel Lewis, the pair were told that they could book a flight that evening going to Palma in Majorca. Pictured: Lewis in Magaluf

Mr Griffiths said: 'I was in work on Tuesday [August 7] morning and I'd woken up in a stupid mood when you just get a feeling you're going to do something stupid.

'After work I went to the Gurnos Social Club [in Merthyr Tydfil] and there was about 15 of us all talking about holidays.

'So I said ''anyone want to go on holiday now? Let's go up the airport and see where we can go anywhere in the world'.'

It is believed Mr Griffiths and his friend Nigel Lewis went home to quickly pack a bag and grab their passports.

After travelling to Cardiff Airport, the pair were told that they could book a flight that evening going to Palma in Majorca.

Once they had landed they shared a taxi with some men outside the airport to nearby Magaluf.

Mr Griffiths said: 'My missus rang me saying ''where are you?'' and I said ''I'm in Magaluf'' and she said ''food's ready'' and I said ''I'm not joking, I won't be home for a few days''. She wasn't best pleased.' Pictured: Mr Griffiths and his girlfriend

With no hotel and no return flight home booked, the pair headed straight out until the early hours of the morning

Mr Griffiths said: 'There's a Palma in Italy too so we didn't know if we were going to the one in Spain or Italy.

'We fell asleep on the plane and woke up in Spain - thank God.

'My missus rang me saying ''where are you?'' and I said ''I'm in Magaluf'' and she said ''food's ready'' and I said ''I'm not joking, I won't be home for a few days''.

'She wasn't best pleased.'

With no hotel and no return flight home booked, the pair headed straight out until the early hours of the morning.

Mr Griffiths posted on Facebook: 'Apart from being delayed by 2 hours on the aeroplane, arriving at 2am getting slammed Nigel having a tattoo of girls name on his chest then couldnt find a hotel ended up sleeping on the beach f***ing steaming drunk with no phone battery, woke up to a stinking hangover so started drinking again for breakfast Id say this is a pretty successful trip seems we been here 8 hours (still havent got a hotel, but Ill deal with that when Im drunk later).'

Once the friends had landed they shared a taxi with some men outside the airport to nearby Magaluf where they stayed during their time on the party island

Mr Griffiths added: 'It cost us 90 each to get out there and 307 for the hotel for one night and my missus booked for us to come back. It was about 800 each altogether'

Mr Griffiths added: 'The first night we stopped drinking at 5.30am.

'The next morning we kept drinking right through and booked a hotel for the Wednesday night, had a sleep for an hour and carried on and came back on Thursday.

'When we got back we went back to the Gurnos Club - it was crazy.

'They had all said it's a stupid idea but because we actually went and broke the routine, when we were out there they were all saying 'we're trying to book flights out there'.

'We all ended up booking a holiday to Benidorm.

'My family didn't know I'd gone until I was out there.

'It cost us 90 each to get out there and 307 for the hotel for one night and my missus booked for us to come back. It was about 800 each altogether.'Ruth Rose, 83, became the oldest person in Britain to have gender reassignment surgery in 2014 when she was 81

Elderly people are being given guidance on how to change gender after an 81-year-old ex-RAF navigator became Britain's oldest transsexual.

Charity Age UK issued advice for pensioners looking to have reassignment surgery after the NHS revealed a rise in the number of over-60s swapping sex.

Ruth Rose, now 83, of Newhaven, East Sussex, underwent the final stage of her gender realignment surgery in 2014 after she started living as a woman four years prior.

She is the oldest in Britain to have the surgery, with her treatments and the operation, which she had on the NHS, costing 4,000.

The NHS Gender Services, which provide specialist assessment and treatment of Gender Dysphoria, are offered to people over 18, and there is no upper limit.

To undergo such major irreversible procedures, NHS guidelines state that patients must be sufficiently physically fit. Their treatment is carried out on a case by case basis, according to their individual needs and situation.

Ms Rose, who had been James - a father of three and grandfather of four - said she had always known she was living in the wrong body, and had started dressing up in secret while at school.

At 18, as James, she embarked on an apprenticeship in mechanical engineering and went on to join the RAF at 23.

NEW BEGINNINGS: GENDER REASSIGNMENT ON THE NHS People seeking to receive gender reassignment treatment, which usually involves hormone therapy and surgery, on the NHS must first see their GP. The doctor will then refer them directly to either a gender specialist, gender clinic or local mental health team for assessment. After at least 12 months of living as a woman and undergoing hormone therapy male-to-female patients are considered eligible for genital surgery. During this time, patients should present consistently, on a day-to-day basis and across all settings of life, in their desired gender role, including coming out to partners, family, friends, and community members. There is no requirement for the patient to have commenced a social role transition before a recommendation is made for hormone therapy. Facial feminisation surgery is not usually funded by the NHS. Male-to-Female genital surgery typically requires a hospital stay of about a week and a period of recuperation that can vary from a fortnight to two months. Advertisement

When she married in 1961, Ms Rose felt she could not tell her wife about her feelings, hoping instead that they would go away.

The couple were married for 42 years and had three children, but after they divorced amicably 11 years ago, Ms Rose began to be more open about living as a woman - having previously been living as a man at home, but dressing up to see friends

The new report from Age UK gives advice on how to tell a lifelong partner or spouse that you have been living in the wrong body.

'Watching what is happening to your loved one as they come to terms with their gender issues can be challenging, whether or not they decide to pursue transition.'

'You may feel a sense of loss, confusion, anger or hurt. It can affect your sense of who you are. For example if you were a loving wife to a man, do you become the lesbian partner of a woman?'

The report gives advice on financial implications, employment rights and other types of discrimination, including hate crime - but also reminds people of the risks.

'It can be an opportunity to resolve longstanding conflicts and uncertainties that threaten mental health and wellbeing.

'There may be fewer social and economic impacts when work or social responsibilities change [in retirement].'

Caroline Abrahams, the charity director at Age UK, told The Sunday Times: 'Many will have felt the need to conceal or suppress this crucial part of their identity all their lives... it potentially offers these older people the opportunity to be truly themselves at last.

'The last thing they need now is to be subject to ageism: they are entitled to exactly the same access to advice, information, support and NHS treatment as everyone else.'

Eleven people had gender reassignment surgery in 2015-16, the last year that figures broken down by age are available.The police bomb squad has been called the office of a Victorian based federal Liberal MP after a 'possible suspicious device' was found nearby.

Victoria Police and the Country Fire Association were called to Colac Road at Waurn Ponds in Geelong's south on Sunday night after a suspicious item was found in a bin near the office of federal Corangamite MP Sarah Henderson.

The item was later deemed as not suspicious.

Police confirmed a 'possible suspicious device' was found near federal Corangamite MP Sarah Henderson's office (pictured) on Sunday night

Victoria Police confirmed it investigated an incident.

'Police are currently responding to reports of a possible suspicious device at an address on Colac Road in Waurn Ponds,' a spokeswoman told Daily Mail Australia.

'Emergency services were called to the property just after 6pm and are currently inspecting the object. Some roads in the surrounding area will be temporarily blocked as a precaution.'

Police provided a later update to say that the bomb response unit inspected the device and deemed it non suspicious just after 9pm.

'The area is being cleared and has been deemed safe,' a spokeswoman said.

Ms Henderson has held the federal seat of Corangamite since 2010.

The mother-of-one serves on parliament's social policy and legal affairs standing committee, which is currently inquiring into a better family law system to support and protect those affected by family violence.

Ms Henderson is aware of the incident outside her office.

Emergency serves are inspecting an object found near the office of federal Liberal MP Sarah Henderson (pictured)

'This is obviously a very concerning and quite frightening situation,' Ms Henderson told The Geelong Advertiser.

'I thank police and other emergency services personnel for responding so quickly. As this situation is still unfolding, it's difficult for me to say anything further at this time.'Home Secretary Sajid Javid has suggested that Jeremy Corbyn should quit as Labour leader following controversy over his visit to a cemetery in Tunisia containing memorials to PLO terrorists.

Mr Javid said that the leader of any other mainstream political party would have to go if they did the same.

Questions were raised over the 2014 trip after the Daily Mail published pictures of the Labour leader holding a wreath near the graves of some of those responsible for the massacre of Israeli athletes at the 1972 Munich Olympics.

Labour said that Corbyn had already made clear he was paying his respects to the victims of a 1985 Israeli airstrike on Palestinian Liberation Organisation offices in Tunis.

But the Mail said its own visit to the Martyrs Cemetery had shown the pictures were taken in front of a plaque honouring the founder of Black September, which carried out the Munich atrocity, while the airstrike memorial was 15 yards away.

The comments come as Corbyn is embroiled in a fresh anti-Semitism row after it was revealed that he gave a wedding speech for an alleged Holocaust 'denier'.

Home Secretary Sajid Javid has suggested that Jeremy Corbyn should quit as Labour leader following controversy over his visit to a cemetery in Tunisia containing memorials to terrorists

Questions were raised over the 2014 trip after the Daily Mail published pictures of the Labour leader holding a wreath near the graves of some of those responsible for the massacre of Israeli athletes at the 1972 Munich Olympics

Mr Javid said in a tweet: 'If this was the leader of any other major political party, he or she would be gone by now.'

Labour sources said that Mr Corbyn had already given a full explanation of his presence in the cemetery when the Tunis visit first hit the headlines during last year's general election campaign.

The Labour leader said at that time: 'I was in Tunisia at a Palestinian conference and I spoke at that Palestinian conference and I laid a wreath to all those that had died in the air attack that took place on Tunis, on the headquarters of the Palestinian organisations there.

'And I was accompanied by very many other people who were at a conference searching for peace.'

The pictures emerged amid continuing controversy over Labour's refusal to adopt in full an international definition of anti-Semitism, including a list of examples of anti-Semitic behaviour.

Jeremy Corbyn spoke at alleged Holocaust 'denier' Husam Zomlot's wedding, five years before the MP became Labour leader

Mr Zomlot, 44, told the BBC in 2014: 'They [Israel] are fabricating all these stories about beheading journalists in Iraq as if they are fabricating also the story of the Holocaust, that it happened in Europe'

The situation escalated again after Corbyn was seen giving wedding speech for an alleged Holocaust denier.

The Labour leader paid tribute to Husam Zomlot, who was at the centre of a furious row when he appeared to suggest that Israel had fabricated the Holocaust.

Mr Zomlot, 44, told the BBC in 2014: They [Israel] are fabricating all these stories about beheading journalists in Iraq as if they are fabricating also the story of the Holocaust, that it happened in Europe.

It triggered an outcry among Jewish groups, although Mr Zomlot strongly denied that he meant that details of the Holocaust had been fabricated. He said his words were meant to convey that Israel was using both the Holocaust and the murder of Western journalists by Islamic State to justify its murder of Palestine.

He made the inflammatory remarks shortly after IS posted a video of the beheading of an American photographer James Foley.

Mr Zomlot has also said Israel was founded on the skulls of our nation and accused the country of an ethnic cleansing campaign.

A picture obtained by The Mail on Sunday shows Mr Corbyn speaking at Mr Zomlots marriage to wife Susan, five years before the MP became Labour leader.

Mr Zomlot, pictured here at an anti-Israel demo in 2015 where a swastika is clearly visible, now heads the general delegation of the PLO to the United States

Three senior union leaders - from the GMB, Unison and Usdaw - have added their voices to calls from deputy leader Tom Watson for the full International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance text to be incorporated in its entirety into Labour's new code of conduct on anti-Semitism.

Labour has launched a consultation with Jewish groups over the code, after protests that the version agreed by the party's ruling National Executive Committee omits four examples relating to criticism of the state of Israel.

A Labour Party spokesman said: 'The code of conduct adopts the IHRA definition and expands on and contextualises its examples to produce robust, legally sound guidelines that a political party can apply to disciplinary cases.

'The NEC upheld the adoption of the code of conduct on anti-Semitism, but in recognition of the serious concerns expressed, agreed to re-open the development of the code, in consultation with Jewish community organisations and groups, in order to better reflect their views.'

Writing in the Sunday Mirror, shadow chancellor John McDonnell said: 'Both Jeremy Corbyn and I have made clear that racism and anti-Semitism have no place in the Labour Party.

'Labour will resolve any outstanding issues within our party and get out there to assist the Jewish community in fighting anti-Semitism and racism.'More than 90 civilians, including children, were killed in Syrian airstrikes on the rebel-held province of Idlib over the weekend.

Syrian and Russian forces dropped bombs on the southeastern city where 2.5 million civilians are under jihadist control.

Their lives reamain under threat as President Bashar al-Assad continues to target Idlib, seen as one of the final acts of a war that has lasted seven years.

More than 90 civilians, including children, were killed over the weekend in Syrian airstrikes

An explosion of unknown origin at a weapons depot in Idlib killed at least 12 civilians on Sunday, a war monitor said.

On Sunday morning rescue workers used a bulldozer to remove rubble and extract trapped people.

Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor, said the death toll could rise as dozens were still missing.

'The explosion occurred in a weapons depot in a residential building in Sarmada,' the head of the Britain based monitor said.

But the cause of the blast was 'not yet clear', Abdel Rahman added.

A rescue worker carried the motionless body of a small child from the wreckage to an ambulance, the AFP correspondent said.

Behind mounds of rubble, the facade of a building was scorched black, due to a fire after the blast.

A civil defence source said women and children were among the dead.

On Sunday morning, rescue workers used a bulldozer to remove rubble and free trapped people. Pictured: Rescue workers carry a young girl from the rubble last week

But rescue workers had pulled out 'five people who were still alive', the source said.

Most of Idlib is controlled by rebels and jihadists led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, but the Islamic State group also has sleeper cells in the area.

The regime holds a small slither of southeastern Idlib. In recent months, a series of explosions and assassinations - mainly targeting rebel officials and fighters - have rocked the province.

While some attacks have been claimed by IS, most are the result of infighting since last year between various other groups.

In recent days, regime forces have ramped up their deadly bombardment of southern Idlib and sent reinforcements to nearby areas they control.

President Bashar al-Assad has warned that government forces intend to retake Idlib, after his Russia-backed regime regained control of swathes of rebel held territory elsewhere.

Around 2.5 million people live in the province, half of them displaced by fighting in other parts of the country.

More than 350,000 people have been killed and millions displaced since Syria's civil war started in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

More than 2.5million civilians live in Idlib. The province is under rebel and jihadist control

At least 53 civilians including 28 children were killed in fierce bombardment of Idlib on Friday.

The war monitor said 41 civilians, including 25 children, were killed in the rebel town of Orum al-Kubra in Aleppo province while 12 civilians, three of them children, died in Idlib.

Late Friday the Observatory had given a combined toll of around 30 dead.

'The toll rose after the discovery of new victims under the rubble and the death of some of those who had been wounded,' Observatory director Rami Abdel Rahman.

The Observatory said it was not clear if the Syrian regime or its Russian backers were responsible for the bombardment of Aleppo, but blamed the allies for pounding Idlib.

Abdel Rahman said Friday's bombardment was the most intense since Idlib was declared a 'de-escalation zone' last year.

He said the death toll in rebel-held areas of Aleppo was the highest since the beginning of 2018.

Idlib contains the largest chunk of territory still in rebel hands, and President Bashar al-Assad has warned it will be his next target after seizing opposition bastions near Damascus and in the country's south.

Rebels have lost swathes of the territory they once controlled in Syria to regime forces over the last few months, including three areas designated as 'de-escalation zones'.

The Observatory said regime reinforcements, including troops and equipment, had been amassing around the southwestern part of Idlib for several days.

A full-fledged assault would be devastating for the estimated 2.5 million people living in Idlib, many of them rebels and civilians bussed out of other areas that came back under regime control.

The United Nations appealed on Thursday for talks to avert 'a civilian bloodbath' in the province, which borders Turkey.

Jan Egeland, head of the UN's humanitarian taskforce for Syria, said the war 'cannot be allowed to go to Idlib'.

More than 350,000 people have been killed and millions displaced since Syria's civil war started in 2011 with anti-government demonstrations that were brutally repressed.A heartbroken mother is fighting to keep her young daughter alive after the toddler was diagnosed with a rare tumour.

Leanne Shaw's two-year-old daughter, Ava, was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma, which is a very aggressive form of childhood cancer, in April.

The Melbourne mother, who was 33-weeks pregnant at the time, said she was shattered when doctors told her Ava would need to undergo extensive chemotherapy.

Ava, was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma, which is a rare and very aggressive form of childhood cancer

Leanne Shaw (pictured) said she was shattered when doctors told her Ava would need to undergo extensive chemotherapy

Ava was required to undergo extensive treatment including chemotherapy to attack the tumours

'She had been an absolutely perfect, happy, bubbly little girl until she turned two,' Ms Shaw said

'She had been an absolutely perfect, happy, bubbly little girl until she turned two,' Ms Shaw told Seven News.

Doctors initially told Ms Shaw and her partner, James, that Ava had a viral infection. During a second visit, physicians said the toddler was suffering from a UTI and prescribed antibiotics.

Soon after, Ms Shaw said Ava's temperature soared to 38 degrees and she was admitted to hospital.

On April 5, Ava had a full-body MRI at the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne and and two days later doctors gave her parents the devastating news - an aggressive form of cancer had spread throughout her body.

Ava had a tumour the size of the liver squashing her kidney, along with several other tumours in the bones, which resulted in the cancer infecting her bone marrow, blood and lymphatic system.

The deadly disease had even spread in her skull bones and eye sockets.

On April 5, Ava had a full-body MRI at the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne and and two days later doctors gave her parents the devastating news

She had a tumour the size of the liver squashing her kidney, along with several other tumours in the bones

Neuroblastoma Common solid tumour of childhood occurring between the ages of 0-5 years

A solid tumour arising from particular nerve cells, which run up the abdomen and chest and into the skull

The most common site for the tumour to grow is in the abdomen

About 50% start in the adrenal gland above the kidney

Neuroblastoma is a rare disease with about 40 children diagnosed each year in Australia

There is a chance of 1 in 100,000 of a child suffering neuroblastoma Advertisement

A GoFundMe page has launched to help the family raise $350,000 for treatment in New York.

Ava has undergone multiple surgeries and has had her ovaries removed and harvested.

Ava will not enter remission for another 14-18 months.

Ms Shaw said she is doing everything to make sure her daughter sees her fifth birthday.

'You'll do anything to make sure a child has the best chance at life,' she told Seven News this weekend.

'We couldn't sit back if this is her only chance of surviving.'

Ava has already had multiple surgeries and won't enter remission for another 14-18 monthsPetra Ecclestone relocated her family to Los Angeles as she no longer felt safe at her luxury London home.

The F1 heiress has revealed how talking to other parents about rising levels of crime on the UK's streets helped convince her to move stateside with her children.

She is looking to sell her multi-million pound mansion in Chelsea and live permanently in the US with new boyfriend Sam Palmer.

Petra Ecclestone moved to the US as she could no longer tolerate how dangerous London had become. Pictured: Petra with Sam Palmer at a VIP event in London earlier this year

The F1 heiress is set to move permanently to her sprawling 57,000 sq ft mansion in Hollywood after become concerned by rising knife crime and robberies in the UK

Speaking to the Sunday Times magazine, Petra said she could no longer tolerate how dangerous it feels living in the capital.

'It's crazy how unsafe the UK has become  so much more so than 10 years ago,' she said.

'Talking with mums at school, there have been so many incidents, so many attacks, robberies, knives during the day. You don't feel safe walking around the neighbourhood.'

She now employs four bodyguards as a result, including one to protect herself and one her for her three young children Lavinia, five and twins James and Andrew, three.

There is substance to Petra's comments which come weeks after it was found London homicide rates have soared to their worst level since 2008.

An 18-year-old stabbed and left to die on a street in Camberwell on July 26 was thought to be the city's 90th victim of the year.

In affluent West London where she stayed, a 42-year-old father-of-three was stabbed to death in May after refusing to hand money over to thugs who attacked him on 'millionaire's row' in Kensington.

The growing rates of violence prompted US president Donald Trump to criticise London's knife crime epidemic during an NRA rally in May.

His comments appeared to reference a Mail Online article featuring an NHS surgeon who said treating children for knife wounds in London had turned the hospital into 'an Afghan war zone'.

Father and ex-F1 boss Bernie once fought off burglars at their Chelsea home to protect wife Slavica (centre) when Petra was aged eight

'(Londoners) don't have guns, they have knives and instead there's blood all over the floors of this hospital,' Trump said, defending America's gun ownership laws.

'They say it's as bad as a military war zone hospital.'

In 2016, Petra's Chelsea property was attacked by youths who launched a petrol bomb that exploded on her driveway just metres from a Range Rover.

She increased security at the home located on one of the UK's most expensive streets that she used to share with ex-husband James Stunt following the incident.

A few years beforehand a man posing as a Kazakh oligarch lifted 'irreplaceable' gems worth 450,000 from the house.

The conman, who also took heart-shaped earrings worth 400,000 and a 50,000 diamond-encrusted Rolex, was jailed in 2014.

Petra was left 'traumatised' and put the 10-bedroom house on the market, according to reports.

Petra will take her three children to live in the United States with new boyfriend Sam Palmer, who she coupled with after an acrimonious divorce from James Stunt

Stunt himself claimed earlier this year he was victim of the UK's biggest ever burglary by thieves 'who stole 90M of cash, gold and gems from safe at his Belgravia mansion'.

In Petra's latest interview, she also recalled how former F1 boss and father Bernie fought off burglars in a life-scarring event when she was just eight-years-old.

She woke to policemen in her house and blood on the floor after thieves attempted to harm her mother Slavica.

The memory still affects her to this day, she added.

After an an acrimonious 5.5 billion divorce battle with Stunt this year, Petra says she will now live with their three children at her sprawling 57,000 sq ft mansion in the US.

Stunt was alleged to have been violent and abusive during his six-year marriage to Petra. Pictured: The pair in 2009

The Hollywood home was formerly owned by 90210 producer Aaron Spelling and is the largest house in Los Angeles county.

A divorce hearing last year revealed allegations that gold bullion trader Stunt, 36, was abusive, violent and took overdoses during their six-year marriage.

Petra was granted full custody of their children.

Official statistics indicate the number of killings in England and Wales has increased by 12 per cent over the past year while knife crime has gone up 16 per cent.

Police registered 40,147 crimes involving a knife or sharp instrument in the year to March.Advertisement

The air traffic controller who struck up a rapport with a suicidal baggage handler after he hijacked an empty Alaska Airlines plane in Seattle has been praised for calming the situation and helping to avoid mass casualties.

Richard Russell, a 29-year-old Horizon Air employee, hijacked the 76-seat plane from the maintenance area at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and somehow managed to take off on Friday night.

He remained in contact with an air traffic controller throughout the ordeal, who calmly tried to reason with Russell up until he crashed in a fiery ball near Ketron Island.

Audio of the exchange shows just how collected the controller, who has not been identified, remained during the ordeal as Russell told him he 'didn't want to hurt anyone' and apologized to his family for what he was about to do.

'No, I'm not taking you to any jets. I'm actually keeping you away from aircraft that are trying to land at Sea-Tac,' the controller said at one point during the ordeal. 'We're just trying to find a place for you to land safely.'

The controller later told Russell not to worry about ending up in jail after the hijacker joked about the consequences he would face.

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Richard Russell, a married 29-year-old Horizon Air employee, (seen with his wife, Hannah, left; and in his uniform, right) was remembered in a family statement released at a news conference on Saturday as a 'faithful husband' and a 'good friend'

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association on Saturday praised the controller and the Federal Aviation Administration employees that handled the incident.

'We especially acknowledge the contributions of the controller who worked this aircraft and communicated with the individual at the controls. This controller works at Seattle Terminal Radar Approach Control, an FAA facility located in Burien, Wash., just west of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

'The recordings of the incident display his exceptional professionalism and his calm and poised dedication to the task at hand that is a hallmark of our air traffic controller workforce nationwide.'

A former FAA official told the Seattle Times that the controller used a 'calm, prudent and mature voice to help settle down the individual' and that he crafted a plan quickly to help mitigate the risks.

It comes after Russell's family said on Saturday they feel 'stunned and heartbroken' over the ordeal. Russell was remembered in a family statement read out by friends at a news conference as a 'faithful husband' to his wife, Hannah, and a 'good friend who was loved by everyone'.

'It may seem difficult for those watching at home to believe, but Beebo was a warm, compassionate man,' they wrote, referring to Russell's nickname.

The family described his death as a 'complete shock', adding: 'We are devastated by these events and Jesus is truly the only one holding this family together right now.'

'As the voice recordings show, Beebo's intent was not to harm anyone and he was right in saying that there are so many people who love him,' they wrote.

Although he had security clearance to be near planes, Russell did not have a pilot's license and it is unclear how he learned how to fly. One expert said he could have picked up some skills by using a computer flight simulator.

These images show the hijacked Horizon Air Q400 which took off from Seattle-Tacoma Airport on Friday before crashing 25 miles away in south Puget Sound (left, in the air; right, after the crash)

The family statement was read out by friends of Russell's family on Saturday. None of his family members are thought to have been present

Witnesses described seeing the plane performing barrel rolls and loop-the-loops as the military planes directed it away from highly-populated areas and towards Ketron Island, where it crashed into a ball of flame.

'He did some aerobatics in the airplane that I was shocked to see,' said Rick Christenson, a retired operational supervisor for Horizon Air.

'And for him to do that I would think that he either played in a simulator or what. It looked pretty amazing to me. Maybe it was luck, I don't know.'

'He was a warm, compassionate man': Full statement from the family of hijacker Richard Russell On behalf of the family, we are stunned and heartbroken. It may seem difficult for those watching at home to believe, but Beebo was a warm, compassionate man. It is impossible to encompass who he was in a press release. He was a faithful husband, a loving son, and a good friend. A childhood friend remarked that Beebo was loved by everyone because he was kind and gentle to each person he met. This is a complete shock to us. We are devastated by these events and Jesus is truly the only one holding this family together right now. Without Him we would be hopeless. As the voice recordings show, Beebos intent was not to harm anyone and he was right in saying that there are so many people who love him. We would like to thank the authorities who have been both helpful and respectful, Alaska Air for their resources, the community, his friends and his family for their incredible support and compassion, and Jesus whose steadfast love endures. Wed also like to thank the media for their sensitivity and acknowledging this as the only statement that will be released by the family, and we request that we now be given space to mourn. At this time the family is moving forward with the difficult task of processing our grief. We appreciate your prayers. Thank you Advertisement

During the hijacking, Russell joked with air traffic controllers about how he would be jailed for life for stealing the plane, before telling them he was a 'broken man' with 'a few screws loose'.

He may also have hinted at having used some form of flight simulator in the past in an exchange when he told the officials he did not need help because, 'I've played some video games before'.

Horizon Air CEO Gary Beck said he was baffled about how Russell picked up the flying skills. 'We don't know how he learned to do that,' he said.

'Commercial aircraft are complex machines. No idea how he achieved that experience.'

Russell had worked for Horizon Air at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport for nearly four years, according to his LinkedIn account, as a ground service agent and an operations agent.

Horizon Air COO Constance von Muehlen said in a video statement that 'our hearts are with the family of the individual on board as well as all our Alaska Air and Horizon Air employees'.

Officials said during a press conference on Saturday that Russell used a push back tractor to rotate the plane 180 degrees before take off.

Debra Eckrote, of the National Transportation Safety Board, said it was conceivable that a ground service agent would be able to start an airplane.

'They don't necessarily use a key, so there's switches that they use to start the aircraft,' she said.

'So if the person has basic understanding  from what I understand he was support personnel, ground personnel  they probably do have at least a basic understanding on how to start the aircraft.'

Russell was born in Key West, Florida and moved to Alaska when he was seven years old, according to a 2017 blog post. He met his wife, Hannah, in 2010 while they were both in school and married one year later. It doesn't appear that they had any children.

According to Russell's blog, he and Hannah opened a bakery called Hannah Marie's Bakery in North Bend, Oregon and ran it for three years.

In 2015, the couple relocated to Seattle 'because we were both so far removed from our families', Russell wrote.

'Failing to convince Hannah of Alaska's greatness, we settled on Sumner because of its close proximity to her family,' he posted.

While living in Seattle, Russell started working for Horizon Air writing that he enjoyed being able to travel to Alaska in his spare time. Russell, who was pursuing his bachelor's degree for social sciences from Washington State University, said he wanted to move up in his company to one day work in a management position.

The Horizon Air worker, however, also had other dreams, writing on his blog that he was considering becoming a military officer.

Russell has worked for Horizon Air at Seattle-Tacoma Airport for nearly four years, according to his LinkedIn account, as a ground service agent and an operations agent

Russell, 29, married his wife Hannah in 2011 after meeting in school the year before. They are seen together in an undated photo

Russell posted several videos on his blog showing him and his wife (pictured) traveling around the globe

Russell's blog is filled with pictures of him and his wife traveling across the globe. The 29-year-old also shared pictures from his wedding day and several videos showcasing what he does at work.

In one video, apparently for a class project, Russell introduces himself as 'Beebo Russell' and says he 'lifts a lot of bags' at his job.

'Like a lot of bags,' he says. 'So many bags.'

He went on to say that because of his job he's been able to visit places like France, Idaho, Mexico, Ireland and Alaska. Russell ended the nearly two-minute long video by sharing photos of his family.

Russell said in a blog post that he and his wife met in Oregon and moved to Seattle in 2015

It does not appear that Russell and his wife had children. The couple are pictured together in a Facebook photo

Pictured above is Russell at what appears to be at a wedding. He posted the photo at the end of one of his YouTube videos

Rick Christenson, retired from Horizon Air, told the DailyMail.com that Russell was 'quiet' and 'a nice kid'.

Christenson didn't supervise Russell's team, but said he saw the 29-year-old in passing while at work.

'He always had a nice smile,' he said. 'He seemed quiet, and he always had a smile. The people that knew him said he was a nice guy.'

Christenson said he was sitting on his deck Friday night at his Tacoma home with his wife, his cousin and his cousin's wife when he saw the Horizon Q400 fly over his house.

'All of a sudden one of the Horizon Q400s came over the house at 500 feet, followed by two F-15s; one was high, one was low,' Christenson said, adding that he knew something was wrong because the plane was flying way too low.

He added in a separate interview: 'Everybody's stunned... that something like this would happen. How could it? Everybody's been through background checks.'

The former supervisor said he grabbed a pair of binoculars to watch the aircraft, admitting that he was 'scared' and 'concerned' because he didn't know what was going on.

'He was doing a lot of weird flying, weird turns,' he said, 'but he was coming back towards us, towards our way.'

Christenson said while the plane was over the water it did a 360 degree roll 'and went into a steep dive'.

'He brought the one wing up and the whole airplane rolled and as it rolled it went into a dive. It looked control,' he said, adding that the plane pulled up with less than 50 feet between the nose of the aircraft and the water.

Christenson said two minutes later there was 'big plume of black smoke', indicating the plane had crashed.

Two F-15 fighter jets scrambled from Portland 'minutes later' to intercept it, according to Pierce County Sheriff's Office. Pictured is the hijacked plane, top, and one of the F-15s beneath it

Smoke and an orange glow are seen on Ketron Island in Washington state, where the plane eventually crash landed

The retired Horizon Air worker also said he doesn't understand how Russell was able to back the aircraft onto the taxiway by himself, although he said it is possible.

'It's not the procedure,' he said, explaining that usually a two-person crew moves aircraft.

Christenson said under normal circumstances one worker is in the cockpit communicating with with the tower, and a second person is on the tractor used to push the plane.

Authorities have said that Russell was in the aircraft alone, but don't know how he moved the plane and took off undetected.

Russell's main role as a ground service agent was to load and unload bags, direct aircraft for takeoff, and de-ice planes in the winter.

According to a job posting, ground service agents are paid roughly $13.75 an hour and as a full-time employee they receive benefits, travel privileges for themselves and family members and are eligible for a bonus program.

Nowhere in the job description does it mention that ground service agents are permitted to fly planes.

Police officers standing at a staging ground at the ferry terminal in Steilacoom. Questions will now be asked about security at the airport and how an unqualified worker was given access to the plane

Emergency services vehicles at the ferry terminal in Steilacoom, Washington, on Friday evening, near by the suspected crash site

'I don't need that much help. I've played some video games before': Suicidal airport employee speaks to air traffic control before crash Shortly after the plane took off, traffic controllers were heard on an Internet livestream speaking to a man identified as 'Rich'. 'There is the runway just off your right side in about a mile, do you see that?' the traffic controller said. 'Oh those guys will try to rough me up if I try land there,' Rich replied. 'I think I might mess something up there too. I wouldn't want to do that. Oh they probably have got anti-aircraft.' 'They don't have any of that stuff, we are just trying to find you a place to land safely.' 'Yeah, not quite ready to bring it down just yet, but holy smokes I need to stop looking at the fuel 'cos it's going down quick.' 'OK, Rich, if you could, could you start a left-hand turn and we'll take you down to the south-east.' 'This is probably jail time for life, huh? I would hope it is for a guy like me. ' Rich: I've got a lot of people that care about me. It's going to disappoint them to hear that I did this. I would like to apologize to each and every one of them. Just a broken guy, got a few screws loose I guess. Never really knew it, until now Rich: I'm down to 2,100, I started at like 30-something. Air traffic control: Rich, you said you had 2,100 pounds of fuel left? Rich: Yeah, I don't know what the burnage, burnout? Is like on a takeoff, but yeah, it's burned quite a bit faster than I expected. Air traffic control: Right now he's just flying around, and he just needs some help controlling the aircraft. Rich: Nah I mean, I don't need that much help. I've played some video games before. I would like to figure out how to get this make it pressurized or something so I'm not lightheaded. Rich: Ah minimum wage. We'll chalk it up to that. Maybe that will grease the gears a little bit with the higher-ups Rich: Damnit Andrew, people's lives are at stake here. Air traffic control: Ah Rich, don't say stuff like that. Rich: I don't want to hurt anyone, I just want you to whisper sweet nothings into my ear. Rich: Hey do you think if I land this successfully Alaska will give me a job as a pilot? Air traffic control: You know, I think they would give you a job doing anything if you could pull this off. Rich: Yeah right! Nah, I'm a white guy Air traffic control: If you wanted to land, probably your best bet is that runway just ahead and to your left. Again, that's McCourt (sic) Field. If you wanted to try, that might be the best way to set up and see if you can land there. Or just like the pilot's suggestion, the other option might be over Puget Sound, into the water. Rich: Dang, did you talk to McCourt, cause I don't know if I'd be happy with you telling me I could land like that, cause I could really mess some stuff up. Air traffic control: Well Rich I already talked to 'em. Just like me, what we want to see is you not get hurt, or anyone else get hurt. So if you want to try to land, that's the way to go. Rich: Hey I want the coordinates of that orca, you know, the mama orca with the baby. I want to see that guy. Rich: Hey, is that pilot on? I want to know what this weather is going to be like in the Olympics (mountains). Air traffic control: Well, if you can see the Olympics, the weather's good. I can see the Olympics from my window, and it looks pretty good over there. Rich: Alright, 'cause I felt some, what felt like turbulence around Rainer, but there was no clouds hardly. Air traffic control: Oh, that's just the wind blowing over all over the bumpy surfaces there. Captain Bill: Alright Rich, this is Captain Bill. Congratulations, you did that, now let's try to land that airplane safely and not hurt anyone on the ground. Rich: Alright, damnit, I don't know man, I don't know. I don't want to I was kind of hoping that would be it, you know. Rich: I'm gonna land it, in a safe kind of manner. I think I'm gonna try to do a barrel roll, and if that goes good, I'm just gonna nose down and call it a night. Air traffic control: Well Rich, before you do that, let's think about this. I've got another pilot coming up, pilot Joel, in just a minute here I hope. And we'll be able to give you some advice on what to do next. Rich: I feel like one of my engines is going out or something. Air traffic control: OK Rich, if you could, you just want to keep that plane right over the water. Maybe keep the aircraft nice and low. Rich: Just kind of lightheaded, dizzy. Man, the sights went by so fast. I was thinking, like, I'm going to have this moment of serenity, take in all the sights. There's a lot of pretty stuff, but they're prettier in a different context. Air traffic control: Do you have any idea of how much fuel you have left? Rich: Oh man, not enough. Not enough to get by. Like, uh, 760? 760 pounds? Air traffic control: Just flying around the plane, you seem comfortable with that? Rich: Oh hell yeah, its a blast. Ive played video games before so I know what Im doing a little bit. Air traffic control: OK, and you can see all the terrain around you, youve got no issue with visibility or anything? Rich: Naw, everythings peachy, peachy clean. Just did a little circle around Rainer, its beautiful. I think Ive got some gas to go check out the Olympics (mountains). Rich: I wouldnt know how to land it, I wasnt really planning on landing it. Rich: Sorry, my mic came off, I threw up a little bit. Im sorry about this, I hope this doesnt ruin your day. Rich: Man, have you been to the Olympics? These guys are gorgeous, holy smokes. Air traffic control: Ya, I have been out there, its always a nice drive. Rich: (inaudible) Air traffic control: Hey I bet you do. I havent done much hiking over there. But if you could start a left turn, and back towards the east. I know youre getting a good view there, but if you go too much farther in that direction I wont be able to hear you anymore. Rich: Hey pilot guy, can this thing do a backflip, you think? Rich: I wouldnt mind just shooting the s**t with you guys, but its all business, you know? Advertisement

During a press conference on Saturday morning NTSB investigator Debra Eckrote said they are trying to determine 'what his process was and where the aircraft was going'.

'He's ground support so, you know, they have access to aircraft,' she said, adding that that we're 'very lucky' the plane went down on a 'very underpopulated island'.

She said the plane came to rest in a thick underbrush on Ketron Island, and first responders had to 'blaze a trail' to get to the wreckage.

Eckrote said the plane is 'highly fragmented' and the wings were torn off in the crash. She said responders could not identify a lot Friday night because there was a fire, but they were taking Saturday to 'focus on the areas that we're looking for'.

Eckrote called the incident 'very usual' and said the FBI were doing a background check on Russell to determine a motive.

'Last night's event is going to push us to learn what we can from this tragedy so that we can ensure this does not happen again at Alaska Air Group or at any other airline,' said Brad Tilden, CEO of Alaska Airlines.

Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said on Saturday morning that president Trump was briefed on the incident and was monitoring the situation. She also praised the response effort for its 'swift action' and ensuring public safety.

Ferry workers stand by as fire trucks are driven onto a ferry boat headed to Ketron Island, Friday, Aug. 10

A map showing Ketron Island, a heavily wooded area inhabited by 24 people, according to the 2000 census

At one point in the flight, Russell asked air traffic controllers: 'Hey do you think if I land this successfully Alaska will give me a job as a pilot?'

The air traffic controller, trying to keep him on side, replied 'you know, I think they would give you a job doing anything if you could pull this off', to which Rich replied: 'Yeah right! Nah, I'm a white guy.'

He was also heard telling traffic controllers he was 'just a broken guy' before telling them he was preparing to go jail.

'This is probably jail time for life, huh? I would hope it is for a guy like me,' he said.

Once again, traffic control tried to get Russell to land.

'There is the runway just off your right side in about a mile, do you see that?' the traffic controller said.

'Oh those guys will try to rough me up if I try land there,' Russell replied. 'I think I might mess something up there too. I wouldn't want to do that. Oh they probably have got anti-aircraft.'

'They don't have any of that stuff, we are just trying to find you a place to land safely,' the traffic controller responded.

Russell told the air traffic controller he wasn't 'quite ready' to bring the plane down.

'But holy smokes I need to stop looking at the fuel 'cos it's going down quick,' he added.

'OK, Rich, if you could, could you start a left-hand turn and we'll take you down to the south-east,' the traffic controller said.

Air Alaska passengers wait in the terminal following the hijacking incident, which grounded planes and led to several flights being delayed

A large Alaska Air aircraft maintenance building is viewed on takeoff from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport in this undated file photo

Ketron Island, where the plane went down, is a densely wooded area home to 24 people, according to the 2000 census. None of the island's residents were thought to have been harmed.

Royal King told The Seattle Times he was photographing a wedding when he saw the low-flying turboprop being chased by to F-15s. He said he didn't see the crash but saw smoke.

'It was unfathomable, it was something out of a movie,' he told the newspaper. 'The smoke lingered. You could still hear the F-15s, which were flying low.'

Horizon Air is part of Alaska Air Group and flies shorter routes throughout the U.S. West.

Sea-Tac is the ninth busiest airport in the US, and flew 46.9 million passengers and more than 425,800 metric tons of air cargo in 2017.

For confidential support in the US call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255.

For confidential support in the UK call the Samaritans on 116123 or visit a local Samaritans branch, see www.samaritans.org for details.

For confidential support in Australia call the Lifeline 24-hour crisis support on 13 11 14.Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.Conservative council leader Mike Bird has apologised for his comments about travellers saying he did not intend to offend anyone

A council leader has apologised for his comments about travellers saying he did not did not intend to cause any offence.

Mike Bird, the leader at Walsall Metropolitan Borough Council, had previously said travellers 'not give a damn' and belonged to a 'lawless society.'

He also accused travellers of thefts in the borough and agreed with another caller on radio BBC West Midlands comments' about the travelling community being 'parasitic.'

After the disgruntled caller spoke on Danny Kelly's show on Thursday morning Mr Bird said: 'The gentleman is absolutely 100% right.

'The ones that I've come across, they are a lawless society, they have no respect whatsoever for our community.'

Mr Bird has since apologised for his words.

He told the BBC: 'I respect every community and individual equally and that is something I firmly believe in.

'I deeply regret any offence caused, it was certainly not intended or meant.'

The conservative Councillor also said on the radio show that travellers: 'Do not give a damn. I have now got 24 injunction sites because of the incursions we've had.

'It's the rubbish they leave, the intimidation, the threats, the theft. They are parasites.'

Speaking again on Thursday to a Local Democracy Reporter Mr Bird said travellers drove 'around on motorbikes shouting abuse.'

Mr Bird's comments prompted an angry response from other callers, with one demanding Theresa May sack him for his 'unacceptable language.'

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Mr Bird is the leader at Walsall Metropolitan Borough Council (pictured) and said that travellers do 'not give a damn' and belonged to a 'lawless society.'

Another called him into question about Romany Gypsies which Mr Bird said was 'a completely different topic' that did not apply here.

Asked if he felt any venom towards travellers in general, Mr Bird said: 'Oh absolutely. The residents suffer 24 hours a day when travellers rock up on their doorsteps.

'They have youngsters driving motorbikes on private land and this is invariably on land that belongs to the council. They just have no respect for other people.

'We have had many incursions in Walsall and the mess and the mayhem they cause, the theft they cause, is disgraceful.

'In recent weeks they walked into the local co-op and were literally just emptying the shelves. And the manager, genuinely, was so frightened that he let them get on with it.'

In response to the call for the Prime Minister to sack him, Mr Bird said: 'Theresa May and I get on quite well actually. And whether or not I get the sack is down to the electorate, and so far that hasn't happened in 39 years.'

Following Mr Bird's comments, Labour Councillor Matt Ward said: 'It's not the first time Mike has said this.

'Illegal encampments cause a lot of issues for our residents and what they actually need is proper sites so they have got somewhere to go.

'And the big issue is where those sites should be. It's something that Walsall Council has been looking at in the last few months, about getting one set up.

'If there is a designated site they will have to go there and pay money so that they are not just ending up in the local parks causing trouble for residents.

'Last year they took over one of the parks completely and it looked like a poor man's Butlin's. They stopped the residents from actually being able to use the park.'

Charity Friends, Families and Travellers, said it was 'disgusted' at Mr Bird's generalisations and words filled with 'hate.'

The charity seeks to end racism and discrimination against Gypsies, Travellers and Roma and to protect the right to pursue a nomadic way of life.

Phien O'Reachtagian, chairman of the Gypsy and Traveller Coalition said: 'We will be looking to make a formal complaint and liaise with police.'An Australian teenager accused of stealing two watches from a duty free store in a Bali airport has been arrested.

The 17-year-old from the Gold Coast is being held in a room at an Indonesian police station.

He is accused of stealing two watches valued from $950 to $1,200.

The teen was arrested at 2pm, just minutes before he was set to board a Jetstar flight from Bali to Brisbane, according to the Courier Mail.

An Australian teenager is being held at the Denpasar police station after he allegedly stole two watches from the airport duty-free store

Due to Indonesian child protection laws, the teenager is not being held in a jail cell.

He was reportedly with his step-brother when he was arrested at one of the international airports. The airport is yet to be confirmed.

His parents have stayed behind and rescheduled their trip back to Australia. A lawyer is assisting the teen, who is believed to be with his father.

Lawyer Putu Angga Pratama Sukma said the teenager was 'crying' and 'promised not to do the same thing again'.

'In Indonesia, a case with a child as a perpetrator, the case is attempted to finish without court,' he said.

'We call it diversion. It's kind of like mediation. Police will encourage the victim to revoke the report and forgive the perpetrator.'

The teenager was reportedly with his step-brother when he was arrested at the international airport

The boy is being held at the Denpasar police station, where fellow Queenslander Brendon Johnsson is facing drug dealing charges.

Last week, the 43-year-old was arrested in his Kuta home after police found 12 grams of cocaine worth about $3,000 in a raid.

If found guilty, Mr Johnsson faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison under Indonesian law.Donald Trump has thrown yet another punch at special counsel Robert Mueller on Twitter by sharing a quote from Fox News host Judge Jeanine Pirro.

Pirro, whose book Liars, Leakers and Liberals: The Case Against the Anti-Trump Conspiracy was promoted by the president in the Oval Office last month, called for Mueller to end his investigation into possible collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign on her Fox News show Justice With Judge Jeanine last night.

Trump himself had apparently tuned in to the segment, tweeting on Sunday morning: '.@JudgeJeanine "Bob Mueller, isn't your whole investigation premised on a Fake Dossier, paid for by Hillary, created by a man who hates Donald Trump, & used to con a FISA Court Judge. Bob, I really think it's time for you to give up your phony investigation." No Collusion!'

The president has on multiple occasions slammed the unverified dossier compiled by ex-British spy Christopher Steele, which alleges the Russians possessed information that it used to blackmail Trump into running for office.

Mueller's team has reportedly used the dossier as a source of information about Trump's business dealings in Russia during its collusion investigation.

Donald Trump threw yet another punch at special counsel Robert Mueller on Twitter Sunday by sharing a quote from Judge Jeanine Pirro's program on Fox News the night before

Trump reportedly tunes into Pirro's program Justice With Judge Jeanine every Saturday. He also agreed to be interviewed for her book Liars, Leakers and Liberals: The Case Against the Anti-Trump Conspiracy, which the president promoted in the Oval Office last month (above)

Pirro has repeatedly defended Trump from the perch of her Fox News program, which is said to be one of his favorites.

Earlier this year it was reported that the White House communications staff regularly sends Trump officials to appear on her Saturday night segment because they know the president will be watching.

Pirro dedicated a 10-minute portion of this week's show to criticizing the ongoing Mueller investigation.

She opened by saying: 'Unlike everyone on the right, I don't want the Mueller investigation to end so soon. I want it to keep going on, and on, and on, because every day it gets closer to proving Russia collusion. The collusion, however, with Russia and team Obama, not Trump.'

Pirro claimed that the Mueller investigation is tainted because it is centered around the infamous dossier compiled by ex-British spy Christopher Steele, which alleges Russia possessed information it was using to blackmail Trump into running for president

Pirro then went on to rail against the infamous Steele document dubbed the 'golden showers dossier' because it contains an allegation that Trump had hired 'a number of prostitutes to perform a "golden showers" (urination) show in front of him' when he was in Moscow for the 2013 Miss Universe pageant.

She claimed that the Mueller investigation was not only centered around the dossier but had also been the reason the probe was opened in the first place, citing this week's reports that that senior Justice Department official Bruce Ohr continued to have contact with Steele even after the FBI cut ties with him.

Steele was terminated as an FBI source in early November 2016 for speaking to the media about his relationship with the bureau, a House Republican memo revealed earlier this year.

A string of text messages and emails were released this week showing ongoing communication between Steele and Ohr, whose wife worked at Fusion GPS - the firm that commissioned Steele to write the dossier.

Yesterday Trump had tweeted: 'The big story that the Fake News Media refuses to report is lowlife Christopher Steeles many meetings with Deputy A.G. Bruce Ohr and his beautiful wife, Nelly. It was Fusion GPS that hired Steele to write the phony & discredited Dossier, paid for by Crooked Hillary & the DNC....'Omarosa Manigault Newman admitted Sunday that she was fired from the White House and did not resign as she claimed in a previous interview.

The ex-White House staffer and reality television star shared audio with NBC of the dramatic moment she was let go from her position in the Trump administration by Chief of Staff John Kelly.

Kelly says in the tape that she was being let go for 'serious integrity violations' that he did not detail yet said involved money and improper use of government vehicles. He can be heard denying a request for her to speak with president about her dismissal, which he said was non-negotiable.

Manigualt-Newman, nationally known by her first name, Omarosa, since her days on The Apprentice, claimed on Meet the Press that Kelly  who she taped in the Situation Room of the White House  threatened her reputation. He told her during the conversation it could get 'ugly' for her if she fought him on her exit.

'I think its important to understand that if we make this a friendly departure we can all be, you know, you can look at, look at your time here in, in the White House as a year of service to the nation,' the retired general said. 'And then you can go on without any type of difficulty in the future relative to your reputation.'

She also explained in the interview that audio she says she heard of President Trump using the 'n-word' she tracked down after closing her new book, explaining a discrepancy in her account in the tell-all that she heard about the rumored tape and a subsequent claim on NPR that she personally listened to the audio.

'It was confirmed what I feared the most: that Donald Trump is a con and has been masquerading as someone who is actually open to engaging with diverse communities, but when he talks that way, the way he did on his tape, it confirmed that he is truly a racist,' she said on 'Meet the Press.'

Omarosa Manigault Newman admitted Sunday that she was fired from the White House and did not resign as she claimed in a previous interview

Among the explosive claims in the 'MTP' interview, her first television appearance since she was booted earlier this year from 'Celebrity Big Brother,' was that she was used by the president, who this time last year was under siege for his comments about a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville that ended with the death of counter protester.

Omarosa expressed regret for aiding and abetting Trump, saying, 'I was complicit with this White House in deceiving this nation.'

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Omarosa's new charges. It had already taken her book on as riddled with falsehoods and lies.

Counselor to the President Kellyanne Conway on Sunday offered a rebuttal to claims in the forthcoming book, including that President Trump used racially charged language in the White House.

'He never said that to us in the White House, and I certainly have never heard it. But why didnt she tell us at the time?' Conway asked on ABC News. 'She said no, hes not a racist. She said I would not be there, and I wouldnt be there, none of us would be there if that were true.'

President Trump personally called her a 'lowlife' on Saturday in response to a question from a reporter about the expose. 'Lowlife. She's a lowlife,' the president responded.

The forthcoming tell-all took over the news cycle on Friday as her publicist began to parcel out excerpts and subjects of the book rushed to bat down Manigault Newman's allegations.

As the dramatics flared on Sunday, current and former White House officials flooded the airwaves to defend themselves and the president against Manigault Newman's attacks.

LISTEN - Audio of John Kelly firing Omarosa in the situation room over her 'integrity issues'

NBCUniversal Privacy Policy GEN. JOHN KELLY: Hi. OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: Hi there, how are you? JOHN KELLY: Who are you? FEMALE VOICE: Hi. OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: My assistant. JOHN KELLY: Could you leave us alone? FEMALE VOICE: Sure. OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: Hi. JOHN KELLY: I'm only going to stay for a couple of minutes. These are lawyers. We're going to talk to you about leaving the White House. It's come to my attention, over the last few months, that there's been some pretty, in my opinion, significant integrity issues related to you and use of government vehicles and some other issues. And they'll, they'll, they'll walk you through the legal aspects of this. But there is some, from my view, there's some money issues and other things, but from my view, the integrity issues are very serious. I'm stuck with my past experience and that is, when we hold people accountable in the military, I would, I compare what I see here at the White House and other issues that I've had to deal with and say what would I do to this, in this case if I was in the Pentagon dealing with a Marine or a soldier or something like that? And the issue that you may or may not have a full appreciation for, but I think you do, this would be a pretty high level of accountability, meaning a court-martial. We're not suggesting any legal action here. OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: That I -- that I did? JOHN KELLY: Just stay with me, just stay with me. Yep. That it would be a a pretty serious offense. So with that I'm just going to ask you -- these gentlemen will explain it. We'll bring a personnel person in after after they talk to you. But just to understand that I'd like to see this be a a friendly departure. There are pretty significant legal issues that we hope don't develop into something that, that'll make it ugly for you. But I think it's important to understand that if we make this a friendly departure we can all be, you know, you can look at, look at your time here in, in the White House as a year of service to the nation. And then you can go on without any type of difficulty in the future relative to your reputation. But it's very, very important I think that you understand that there are some serious legal issues that have been violated. And you're, you're open to some legal action that we hope, I think, we can control, right? So with that, if you would stay here with these gentlemen they'll lay this thing out  OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: Can I ask you a couple questions? Does the president -- is the president aware of what's going on? JOHN KELLY: Don't do -- let's not go down the road. This is a non-negotiable discussion. OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: I don't want to negotiate. I just, I've never talked -- had a chance to talk to you General Kelly so if this is my departure I'd like to have at least an opportunity  JOHN KELLY: No. OMAROSA: --to understand. JOHN KELLY: We can, we can talk another time. This has to do with some pretty serious violat -- integrity violations. So I'll let it go at that. So the the staff and everyone on the staff works for me, not the president. And so after your departure I'll inform him if he gets interested on, on where you may be. So with that I'll let you go and if gentlemen you could take it. MALE VOICE: Thanks. Yep. I'm really sorry we're here. SOURCE: NBC NEWS' 'MEET THE PRESS WITH CHUCK TODD' A conference room is shown inside the Situation Room complex at the White House  a signal-hardened place where recording devices and cameras are strictly prohibited Advertisement

Omarosa Manigault Newman admitted Sunday that she was fired from the White House and did not resign as she claimed in previous interviews. She's seen here with her former boss, the president, in late 2015

In some cases the author hasn't helped her cause.

GOP Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel blasted Manigault Newman in a tweet that called the Situation Room recording a 'national security' threat.

The party committee's Twitter account meanwhile said, 'Omarosa will clearly say anything to make a buck. Its obvious that no one should believe a word she says.'

Audio that aired on Sunday on 'Meet the Press' of her White House firing made clear that she did not resign from her position in December as she claimed in an appearance just after on 'Good Morning America' and the White House said in an official announcement.

The portion of the audio that she shared with NBC backs up her claim that she did not assail the White House chief of staff on her way out. That snippet did not encompass the entire conversation, though, and it does not disprove other claims from the time that she rushed the residence and was forcibly removed from the property.

In an appearance on 'Meet the Press' on Sunday to promote 'Unhinged,' available to the public next Tuesday, Omarosa pushed unproven reports that outtake-tapes exist of the then-future president using the n-word 'several times' on the set of 'The Apprentice.'

She writes in 'Unhinged' that three people told her they were aware of the existence of the recording, although she was not able to obtain the audio herself.

On Friday afternoon she told NPR that she herself heard the racial slur on tape and challenged a reporter who confronted her about the discrepancy to read her words more closely.

'I heard the tape,' Omarosa inisted in the radio interview.

The book describes her learning about it on the phone from a person she doesn't name: 'On this phone conversation, I was told exactly what Donald Trump said  yes, the N-word and others in a classic Trump-goes-nuclear rant  and when he'd said them.'

'For over a year I'd been so afraid of hearing the specifics from someone who'd been in the room,' Omarosa writes. 'Hearing the truth freed me from that fear. And only now that it's gone, do I realize just how heavy it's been.'

She told NBC on Sunday that after she put her book to bed she had a chance to listen to that tape after tracking it down from a source who she says she met with in Los Angeles.

'I heard his voice, as clear as you and I are sitting here,' she told 'MTP' host Chuck Todd. 'I have heard the tape.'

She says she cannot release the tape because it is not in her possession. It's in the possession of a source she said is terrified to come forward.

Manigualt-Newman claimed that the topic came up on a conference call with fellow Trump aides in late 2016, and Trump campaign spokeswoman Katrina Pierson said that the GOP candidate definitely said it.

Todd says that Pierson denies the allegation, and Manigualt-Newman suggested she has a tape of the conversation.

Omarosa contradicted herself Friday in an NPR interview, claiming that she had personally heard the rumored recording of Trump using the racial slur; in the book, she writes that other people hed merely told her about the audio

Famed pollster Frank Luntz clobbered Omarosa for printing, without contacting him, an anonymous source's claim that he had once heard Donald Trump use the 'n-word'

Noted pollster Frank Luntz on Friday debunked a passage of the book where Omarosa claims she was told he had personally heard the rumored Trump 'n-word' audio.

'Im in @Omarosas book on page 149. She claims to have heard from someone who heard from me that I heard Trump use the N-word,' Luntz wrote. 'Not only is this flat-out false (Ive never heard such a thing), but Omarosa didnt even make an effort to call or email me to verify. Very shoddy work.'

Luntz continued: 'It seems like certain book publishers these days care more about getting a release out than getting the facts down. This is why people dont trust these exposes, which is especially bad for authors who actually are good and reliable.'

Manigault Newman said Sunday that aside from the N-word tape, she had never heard Trump use a racial slur.

'You know, I was in his presence when he said inappropriate things but he has never said the n-word in my presence. Ever,' she acknowledged.

She told Todd that Trump has 'probably' uttered the slur about her, too, 'because Donald Trump talks about everyone behind their back.'

'I am pretty certain that he's probably said some very derogatory things about me,' she asserted. 'In fact, yesterday, on this moment before Charlottesville, the anniversary of Charlottesville, instead of talking about how to unify the nation, he actually insulted me by calling me a "lowlife."

Omarosa charged: 'That is a man who is inclined to start racially charged engagement, and use race to kind of stir up his base.'

Conway told ABC on Sunday that she has 'never a single time' hear the president use a racial slur.

'I also never heard Omarosa complain that he had done that. And so the only thing thats changed is that shes now selling books,' the ex-campaign manager to the president said.

In a vicious assault on her former White House colleague, Conway compared Manigault Newman to Judas Iscariot, saying, 'I understand whether its 30 pieces of silver or a seven-figure book advance, people do change their loyalties and change their mind. But I would refer you to Omarosas own comments. Very glowing appraisal of this presidents work and this presidents work with respect to the African American community.'

Mangiault-Newman led the president's African-American outreach in 2016.

She claimed in a memorable video that fall that when if the former 'Apprentice' host won the the White House, 'Every critic, every detractor, will have to bow down to President Trump.'

After her dismissal, Manigault Newman had a change of heart, writing in her book that she witnessed him slip into a serious 'mental decline' that was not apparent to people around him who had not known him for as long as she had.

They'd had a working relationship since Omarosa's appearance on the first season of 'The Apprentice,' dating back more than a decade to 2003.

In her 'Meet the Press' interview, Omarosa doubled down on the charge and lobbed grenades at former colleagues like ex-White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer.

She alleged that the president's cronies 'absolutely' bought the ex-White House aide's silence and tried to enter into a similar deal with her.

Spicer told DailyMail.com that he did not receive a paycheck from the Trump-supported America First PAC until June of this year, roughly 10 months after the conclusion of his White House tenure.

The former White House aide who's on a promotion tour now for his own book detailing his time working with Trump, 'The Briefing,' said he signed a contract for the manuscript in December.

America First said later in a tweet: 'Her compulsive lies are sick&sad! It's clear that what she was fired for in the first place(lack of integrity)is still running wild in her world of make-believe!'

Pierson also denied Manigualt-Newman's allegations from her, saying in a statement to DailyMail.com that she has 'never heard President Trump ever use the derogatory language that Omarosa claims' and that she 'never confirmed the existence of an alleged tape from "The Apprentice" to her as she said today.'

'Thats a complete fabrication by Omarosa,' she said in the comment that said Trump in her experience has always been respectful to persons of color. 'I feel pity for Omarosa as she embarrasses herself by creating salacious lies and distortions just to try to be relevant and enrich herself by selling books at the expense of the truth. "Unhinged," indeed.'

President Trump refrained from taking to Twitter on Sunday, when had nothing on his schedule as a vacation at Bedminster, New Jersey, estate came to a close, to lace into Omarosa.

Instead of telling the truth about all the good President Trump and his administration are doing to make America safe and prosperous, this book is riddled with lies and false accusations. Its sad that a disgruntled former White House employee is trying to profit off these false attacks, and even worse that the media would now give her a platform, after not taking her seriously when she had only positive things to say about the President during her time in the administration.  White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders

The White House fired a missile in Manigault Newman's direction on Friday following reporters that the book would accuse the president of uttering 'several' racial slurs.

'Instead of telling the truth about all the good President Trump and his administration are doing to make America safe and prosperous, this book is riddled with lies and false accusations,' White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement to reporters, throwing an unmistakably sharp elbow.

'Its sad that a disgruntled former White House employee is trying to profit off these false attacks, and even worse that the media would now give her a platform, after not taking her seriously when she had only positive things to say about the President during her time in the administration.'

Omarosa, who launched her famous-for-being-famous career on the strength of her pugnacious persona on 'The Apprentice,' became an outspoken Trump critic only after she left her spokeswoman job at the White House's Office of Public Liaison and began to shop for a book deal.

Because she has told contradictory stories about her knowledge of Trump's purported racial slurs, it's unclear whether she has knowledge of them at all.

She also writes that she personally witnessed the president using a pair of racial insults against senior aide Kellyanne Conway's half-Filipino husband George.

'Would you look at this George Conway article?' she quotes Trump as saying, according to The Guardian. 'F***ing FLIP! Disloyal! F***ing Goo-goo.'

George Conway dismissed the story as 'absurd.'

White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders took time away from vacation to say the book is 'riddled with lies' and Omarosa is 'disgruntled'

Omarosa made more pedestrian recordings of Trump on her own while she worked in the West Wing, but insists the white-whale tape is out there somewhere

Omarosa is launching a book tour, saying that she heard Trump denigrate Kellyanne Conway's half-Filipino husband (back row, right) with a racial slur

Mr. Conway immediately dismissed the racial-slur story as 'not credible' and 'absurd' on Thursday, noting that Omarosa was fired in December 2017, long before he became known as a persistent Trump critic

'The allegation is not credible, and indeed is ridiculous, particularly in light of the timing of her departure from the White HouseDecember 12, 2017. Its absurd all around,' he tweeted.

It wasn't until months later that he emerged as a steadfast and reliable Trump critic on Twitter despite his wife's loyalty and devotion to the president.

It's unclear what if anything might have set Trump off, but one of Mr. Conway's earlier rhetorical slaps may provide a suggestion.

Omarosa is the latest former Trump aide to land a book deal, and it promises to be both juicy and controversial

In a June 2017 tweet the Yale Law School grad berated the president for defending his travel ban, and said it would make it harder for the Office of Solicitor General to find 5 Supreme Court justices to green-light it.

'These tweets may make some ppl feel better,' he wrote, 'but they certainly won't help OSG get 5 votes in SCOTUS, which is what actually matters. Sad.'

A year later the high court did side with Trump on the divisive issue, by a 5-4 margin.

Omarosa's spicy memoir includes other less incendiary but equally too-good-to-check anecdotes.

One is the charge that a tanning bed occupies space in the presidential residence at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, and that President Trump caused a stink when he demanded one.

The Washington Post reported Friday that Omarosa wrote about how Trump fought over a tanning appliance with Angella Reid, then the White House's 'chief usher'  a title held by the chief of the household staff.

Reid was dismissed in early May 2017, narrowing the timeframe in which the story could have unfolded.

NOPE: White House officials are disputing Omarosa's claim that the president fought with White House ushers to install a tanning bed in the presidential residence

Omarosa claims Lara Trump, the wife of Eric Trump, offered her a $15,000 per month campaign job after she left the White House, a position that she says came with an onerous nondisclosure agreement

But a former White House official employed in the West Wing during those months told DailyMail.com on Friday that 'it never happened.'

'Are you kidding me?' asked one former aide who worked alongside Omarosa. 'If that were true, he would have tweeted about it by now and challenged Putin to get one.'

The source, who requested anonymity in order to speak freely, called the outspoken former colleague 'Ponderosa,' a derisive combination of her name and the word 'ponderous.'

Separately, a current senior White House official told a 'New York' magazine reporter that 'there is no tanning bed in there,' and there has 'never been any request' for one.

Among the odder claims in 'Unhinged' is Omarosa's insistence that presidential daughter-in-law Lara Trump offered her a $15,000-per-month campaign job when she left the White House, along with an agreement not to talk publicly about Trump.

Omarosa describes that as a bid to silence her, but presidential campaign jobs typically come with such strings attached.

And she says she once saw the president chewing up a piece of paper after a meeting with lawyer Michael Cohen.

George Conway may have set Trump off with tweets like this on in June 2017, in which he berated the president for defending his travel ban and said it would make it harder for the Office of Solicitor General to find 5 Supreme Court justices to green-light it

The Conways are pictured during an October 30, 2017 Halloween event at the White House

'I saw him put a note in his mouth. Since Trump was ever the germaphobe, I was shocked he appeared to be chewing and swallowing the paper. It must have been something very, very sensitive,' she writes in an excert given to The Washington Post.

As with many of her more pointed stories, White House aides flatly dnied it to the Post.

Omarosa's unceremonious December 2017 firing will be a telling asterisk as she launches a media tour this weekend with an interview on the set of 'Meet the Press.'

White House Chief of Staff John Kelly threw her overboard after he learned she was using the White House's car service  meant for the use of outside VIP guests  as a personal pick-up and drop-off chauffeur for her daily commute.

She claims in her book that she was shown the door because senior aides believed she was close to getting her hands on an 'n-word' recording  even though her employment status would be of little consequence if she had found one.

According to Omarosa, she was contacted during the 2016 campaign by a source who claimed to have the recording.

'By that point, three sources in three separate conversations had described the contents of this tape,' she writes. 'They all told me that President Trump hadnt just dropped a single N-word bomb. Hed said it multiple times throughout the shows taping during off-camera outtakes, particularly during the first season of The Apprentice.'

In the book Omarosa describes how she and Ivanka Trump tried to rid the White House of leakers

Trump has been flattering of the former 'Apprentice' star in the past, while acknowledging her tough reputation

She herself appeared in that season but doesn't claim to have heard it.

'I need to hear it for myself,' Trump aide Hope Hicks said when she raised the issue, in Omarosa's telling, asking her over and over for progress updates. The white-whale recording never materialized.

'I was told exactly what Donald Trump said  yes, the N-word and others in a classic Trump-goes-nuclear rant  and when hes said them. During production he was miked, and there is definitely an audio track,' she writes now.

Rumors of a buried Trump 'n-word' recording predate his 2015 entry into presidential politics, and his case won't be helped by the infamous 'Access Hollywood' tape of him bragging that famous men like him can easily take sexual liberties with unwilling women.

Omarosa's personal smartphone recordings of Trump feature ordinary chatter, suggesting that she didn't witness him saying anything at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue that was explosive or damning enough to make news.

But the tell-all book will infuriate the president, who reacted with anger when it was revealed his former personal attorney Michael Cohen recorded some of their conversations.

Omarosa describes an attempt by herself and Ivanka Trump to rid the White House of leakers. Short-lived White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci led the effort.

'Along with his comms directorship, Scaramucci had a secondary job. He was apparently the hired hit man,' Manigault writes, according to the Daily Beast.

'Very low-key, Ivanka [Trump] went around to the original Trumpers, the loyal soldiers, and asked the team to compile a list of suspected leakers. I'd already said my piece about [deputy chief of staff] Katie Walsh directly to Donald, and she'd been let go. But Ivanka wanted a new list and, once she had it, she would give it to Scaramucci, so he could fire them all. The final list that was texted to me on July 22 had ten names on it.'

She lists those staff as: Vanessa Morrone, Lindsay Walters, Janet Montesi, Raj Shah, Kelly Sadler, Lara Barger, Ory Rinat, Kate Karnes, Michael Short, and Jessica Ditto.

A White House official with knowledge of situation alleged in comments to DailyMail.com that since Scaramucci needed to come up with a list of names, he arbitrarily chose staffers  no matter their seniority or access  who had worked at the Republican National Committee.

Not all of them were RNC alumni, however, including Ditto.

Scaramucci was fired after 11 days.

Trump has been flattering of Omarosa in the past, while acknowledging her tough reputation.

'Honest Omarosa: she won't backstab-she'll come at you from the front,' he tweeted on March 10, 2013.

And he wrote a few days earlier on March 3: 'I'll always like @Omarosa because she constantly defends me.'

Finally, on March 3 he wrote: 'Are people really afraid of @Omarosa. Would you be?'

In an exclusive excerpt obtained by DailyMail.com, Omarosa, 44, tells of the dread she felt while watching Trump's May 2017 interview with Lester Holt.

'While watching the interview I realized that something real and serious was going on in Donald's brain. His mental decline could not be denied,' she writes.

'Many didn't notice it as keenly as I did because I knew him way back when. They thought Trump was being Trump, off the cuff. But I knew something wasn't right.'

'For the Lester Holt interview, I watched it on a small TV in the upper press room (the lower press room was built on top of the old swimming pool and turned into the briefing room) by the press secretary's office,' she writes.

'Throughout this erratic and contradictory interview, I kept thinking, 'Oh no! Oh no! This is bad!

'Donald rambled. He spoke gibberish. He contradicted himself from one sentence to the next.'David Cameron had to wait three days to speak to Barack Obama after Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's horrifying chemical attack on his own people, a new book claims.

The former prime minister was on holiday in Cornwall when he learned Assad unleashed the deadly nerve agent sarin near Damascus, killing more than 1,000 people, many of whom were children, on Wednesday, August 21, 2013.

Outraged, Cameron sprang into action and began his attempt to drum up support for a show of force against Assad, calling on Obama as a key ally.

But the two leaders couldn't arrange for a secure line until three days later, delaying any hope for a swift response and eventually resulted with no action being taken, as the Syrian conflict continues to rage on five years later.

The events are outlined in a day-by-day breakdown by author Anthony Seldon for the Sunday Times ahead of his novel Ten Days in August centring on the crisis.

David Cameron had to wait three days to speak to Barack Obama after Assad's horrifying chemical attack on his own people. Pictured: Cameron on August 29, 2013

Outraged, Cameron sprung into action and began rallying support for a show of force against Assad, calling on Obama as a key ally. Pictured: Obama on August 29, 2013

President Bashar al-Assad unleashed the deadly nerve agent sarin near Damascus, killing more than 1,000 people, many of whom were children, on Wednesday, August 21, 2013 (pictured)

Seldon speculates the fallout from those 10 days led to Donald Trump being elected, Putin wielding more power and Assad still in control of a war-torn Syria.

Cameron and Obama finally managed to speak over the phone on Saturday, August 24 - three days after the attack.

Obama, who had once declared a 'red line' for the US would be Assad using chemical weapons, proposed to Cameron a cruise missile attack that would need to be carried out by Monday due to a 'rapidly closing window'.

But before hanging up with Cameron, Obama clarified he had not made a decision yet.

Cameron met with his cabinet and it was determined if Obama didn't strike soon, parliament would have to be recalled and any action would need to be put to a vote.

On Sunday, Cameron had since cut short his holiday in Cornwall and moved to Chequers, where he held meetings with his inner circle.

During this time, major world powers - including Russia, Assad's main ally which had long blocked UN-sponsored intervention against him - urged the Syrian leader to cooperate with UN chemical weapons inspectors already in Damascus to pursue allegations of a chemical weapon attack.

On Sunday, Cameron had since cut short his holiday in Cornwall and moved to Chequers, where he held meetings with his inner circle. Pictured: Cameron on the beach at Polzeath during his family holiday

Prime Minister David Cameron and his wife Samantha sit on a bench outside a cafe overlooking the beach a day before the chemical weapons attack

Timeline of events Wednesday, August 21: Chemical attack on innocent Syria civilians. Saturday, August 24: David Cameron and Barack Obama speak. Sunday, August 25: Cameron ends his holiday in Cornwall and gathers his inner circle in Chequers. Monday, August 26: Cameron calls Putin to gain support. Tuesday, August 27: Cameron is back in London trying to drum up support from MPs. Cameron speaks to Obama again. Wednesday, August 28: Cameron struggles to maintain control of motions being put to parliament. Thursday, August 29: Cameron's call for action against Assad is rejected by parliament. Friday, August 30: Obama calls Cameron to offer support after his motions fail. Saturday, August 31: Obama says the US should strike but he would need to consult Congress, because of what happened in the UK. No action is ever taken against Assad. Advertisement

By Monday, Obama still hadn't made a decision whether he would strike or not, and the Syrian government said it would allow the UN to investigate the attack.

Cameron decided to call President Vladimir Putin to discuss 'consequences' for Assad, but was kept waiting on the line for Putin for an irritating 14 minutes.

Putin rebuffed Cameron, siding with Assad's claim that he wouldn't use chemical weapons on his own people.

Putin suggested Cameron to wait until the UN investigation had concluded.

On Tuesday, August 27, Cameron was back in London on the warpath trying to drum up support from MPs to make a move.

Coming straight from his holiday, Cameron's director of communication Craig Oliver arranged for a suit to be brought when he landed to ensure he looked in control and unfazed by the unfolding crisis.

The topic at hand was if parliament should be recalled to take a vote if Britain should retaliate against Assad.

Although the prime minister doesn't need MPs' go-ahead for military action, Iraq was too fresh in everyone's mind to make the call without their consent.

Cameron decided that parliament would be recalled, shifting focus now on to who would back them in their cry for action against the Syrian leader.

In order to get party leaders on board, there needed to be certainty that Assad had killed his own citizens with the nerve agent.

However with it being only days after the attack and with the UN investigation still unfolding, intelligence leaders couldn't say with a 100 per cent certainty that chemical weapons had been used, only that it was 'very certain'.

Still, Cameron began drawing up military plans between the US and UK, with a potential strike killing 30 people and another target that could leave up to 700 dead.

Hitting top government buildings was ruled out, showing how limited the US wanted to be in responding.

Cameron decided to call President Vladimir Putin to discuss 'consequences' for Assad, but was kept waiting on the line for Putin for an irritating 14 minutes. Putin (pictured on August 22, 2013) suggested Cameron to wait until the UN investigation had concluded

Pictured: Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his wife Asma al-Assad in July of 2008

Cameron called on Labour leader Ed Miliband to gauge what his response would be when asked to back No 10's team in hitting Assad.

Miliband was at first open to the idea but the 'evidence had to be clear' if he were to get on board, but he later changed his tune after conferring with his own party.

He returned to Cameron and stipulated that the UN had to have a resolution and that Russia could not veto the UN resolution.

Obama called later on Tuesday night and suggested the US would act alone or seek help from France if Cameron couldn't pull through.

By Wednesday, a week after the chemical weapons attack, Cameron was struggling to maintain any hope of control.

Few were on board, with Labour clearly saying they would put forth its own motion and would not agree to action, Conservative MPs were unsure and Liberal Democrats didn't seem ready to act either.

Labour party leader Ed Miliband (pictured August 29, 2013) was at first open to the idea but the 'evidence had to be clear' if he were to get on board, but he later changed his tune after conferring with his own party

Eventually, after 10 days of Cameron frantically trying to secure support for striking Assad for killing hundreds of innocents, nothing was done

On Thursday, parliament was set to debate, first voting on a Labour motion and then the government's. By 10.30pm the government had lost on both motions.

The next day, Obama called Cameron and offered support, suggesting he should 'hunker down for a while' and everything would be fine.

He went as far as to say Cameron 'wasn't letting [the US] down in any fashion. You have processes you have to abide by.'

On Saturday, Obama made a public statement, slyly shifting the blame of inaction onto Cameron and the UK.

He said the US 'should take action against Syrian regime targets' but because America's 'closest ally' had decided against it, he would consult Congress on the matter.

However, Congress was out of session, meaning it was now very unlikely for anything to happen at this late stage.

Eventually, after 10 days of Cameron frantically trying to secure support for striking Assad for killing hundreds of innocents, nothing was done.It was another bloody weekend in Chicago as two people were killed and 28 more were wounded.

Dylan Zavala, 18, was found dead with a gunshot wound to the head around 8.10am on Friday.

An autopsy discovered he suffered multiple gunshot wounds. Zavala's death has been ruled a homicide.

Monterae Hardin, 28, was fatally shot in a domestic-related incident around 4.45pm on Friday.

Dylan Zavala, 18, was among the two people who were killed during another bloody weekend in Chicago

She was shot in the back. Her death has also been ruled a homicide.

A 15-year-old boy, whose name has not been released, was also shot during the same incident.

He suffered a wound to the face and his friends took him to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he stabilized, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Six additional juveniles were wounded during attacks in the city over the weekend, including a 15-year-old boy and 17-year-old boy who were walking to a gas station.

The cousins were just looking for a snack to eat on a Friday night when they were shot just a block away from the station.

Authorities said the 15-year-old was grazed in the head and the 17-year-old was shot in the abdomen.

They took themselves to Mount Sinai Hospital, where they were both treated.

A total of 28 people, including 7 juveniles, were injured in shootings this weekend. Pictured are Chicago police officers standing outside a vehicle that transported a gunshot victim

A 15-year-old and a 17-year-old were among the injured after they were shot on the way to going to a gas station for snacks

'Chicago is a scary place to be,' Genice Hines, the mother of the 15-year-old, told the paper.

'Even I'm scared to walk to the corner store.'

A 12-year-old girl was among three people were shot while sitting on a porch in broad daylight on Friday.

The girl was sitting alongside a 24-year-old man and a 25-year-old man. All three suffered gunshot wounds.

She was shot in the foot and taken to a local children's hospital, while one man was shot in the left thigh and the other man was shot in the left foot.

All three of the victims have stabilized.

Also among the juvenile victims were a 16-year-old boy who was shot in the leg around 2.20am on Saturday and a 17-year-old boy who was shot in the abdomen around 5pm on Friday.

The Chicago Police Department has added 600 officers to patrol the streets after 74 people were shot and 12 were killed last weekend

It was a horror weekend for the city, with authorities calling the streets a 'war zone'

The Chicago Police Department has added 600 officers to patrol the streets after 74 people were shot and 12 were killed last weekend.

It was a horror weekend for the city, with authorities calling the streets a 'war zone'.

The bloodiest spate of shootings occurred in just a two-hour stretch in the early hours last Sunday, when 30 people were shot between midnight and 3am.

Police reported at least 16 separate shooting incidents - with multiple victims at almost all of them.

There were so many trauma victims at Stroger Hospital that morning that their family and visitors were barred from entering.

Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson said in a Monday press conference that more needs to be done to hold to hold gunman to account.

'It is the same people who are pulling the triggers in some of these communities. This isn't a widespread issue among citizens of the city,' he said.

'This is a small subset of individuals who think they can play by their own rules because they continue to get a slap on the wrist when we arrest them.'

So far, no arrests have been made.

Jahnae Patterson, 17 (left) and Kenny Ivory, 17, (right) were among the 11 fatalities last weekend

Nicholas Cox, 23, died in hospital at around 8.26pm last Sunday after being shot in the abdomen and buttocks

Jahnae Patterson, 17, Kenny Ivory, 17, Nicholas Cox, 23, and Ron L. Johnson, 50, were among the 11 fatalities last weekend.

Patterson had been standing on the sidewalk with a group of people when two men walked up to them and opened fire at around 2.35am Sunday.

She was shot in the face and died at the scene. Five other people were injured, including an 11-year-old boy and 14-year-old boy who were both shot in the leg.

A 21-year-old woman was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital in critical condition with a gunshot wound to her back and arm, while another 17-year-old girl was shot in her arm. A 17-year-old boy suffered a gunshot wound to his leg and was taken hospital.

Ivory was shot and killed as he rode his bike on the South Side last Sunday afternoon.

Police say the teen had got into an argument with another group of men who were on their bikes at around 4.15pm.

Ivory was shot and killed as he rode his bike on the South Side last Sunday. Pictured is the cordoned off scene of his fatal shooting

Two women cry outside the Stroger Hospital in Chicago where they were so overwhelmed with shooting victims over the weekend, that family and friends were asked to leave

A man wipes his eyes outside the Stroger Hospital in Chicago, after leaving the emergency room due to overwhelming crowds of family and friends of shooting victims on Sunday

Evidence markers sit on the ground at the scene where a boy was killed after being shot in the abdomen while riding his bike in Chicago

Twelve people were killed and 59 injured in a spate of mass shootings spread across the city last weekend. Pictured are 16 separate shooting locations where shootings occurred over the weekend. Multiple people were injured or killed in almost every attack

Cox died in hospital at around 8.26pm last Sunday after being shot in the abdomen and buttocks.

Johnson was shot dead and a 55-year-old woman was wounded in the early hours of Monday morning, when a gunman in a ski mask shot them at Johnson's home.

Johnson, who was shot in the head, was pronounced dead at the scene at 12.50am, the Chicago Tribune reports.

Shooters reportedly targeted outdoor gatherings, a block party, and even a funeral over the bloody weekend.

Witnesses described terrifying scenes outside a 24-hour laundromat as a 19-year-old boy ran to find sanctuary at the store as someone shot at him - only to find an employee had locked the door.

The teen said he'd been walking to a gas station at 11.40pm last Sunday when someone began shooting at him. He fled to the laundromat, in the 3900 block of South Archer Avenue in the Brighton Park neighborhood, where customers and staff screamed and took cover.

When he couldn't get in, he fled and ran to hospital for treatment for a gunshot wound to his arm.

Miguel Patino had been one of around two dozen patrons doing their laundry at the time.

'The kids were freaking out,' he said, adding that he'd often hear gunshots at night while walking his dog. 'They were screaming and crying.'

Patterson's mother Tanika Humphries was devastated to lose her first born

Crystal Robinson revealed that her son was among the 59 injured last weekend, as she urged people to 'put the guns down Chicago!'

'The Worst phone call u can EVER get is that ur son has been Shot!!!' she wrote on Facebook.

'Thank Everyone for All the phone calls and text it has been a long morning for me and my family but my son is ok!!!! We Stay Prayed Up!'

The high number of shootings made it difficult for both police and medical staff to keep track. At one point, police said Stroger Hospital had been placed on trauma lockdown, ABC7 reports.

The hospital, however, denied this but acknowledged the 'unusually high volume of patients' over a 24-hour period.

The spate of deadly shootings took place across multiple Chicago neighborhoods mostly on the West and South sides

Detectives investigate a shooting where multiple people were shot on a sidewalk last Sunday in Chicago

Chicago Police Chief of Patrol Fred Waller said during a press conference last Sunday that most of the shootings were being traced back to gangs.

'We know that some of these incidents were targeted and are related to gang conflicts in those areas,' Waller said.

He went on to express frustration that gang members do not fear the consequences and that they were taking advantage of large summer crowds to seek revenge.

'They take advantage of that opportunity and they shoot into a crowd, no matter who they hit,' Waller said.

'I promise this city, we won't be defeated. We won't be overrun by that small element that's committing these reckless acts.'A couple have hit back at critics who have slammed their decision to have a sixth child to save her older brother's life.

Andrew and Olivia Densley, from Melbourne, were devastated in 2014 when their fifth child Fletcher, now 4, was diagnosed with Wiskott Aldrich Syndrome, a rare genetic disease characterised by abnormal immune system function and reduced ability to form blood clots.

The condition is regarded as a death sentence.

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Fletcher Densley, 4, dotes on baby sister Lilliahna, who will eventually save his life

Just three-weeks-old at the time, Fletcher was their second child to be diagnosed with the deadly condition.

To save his life, his parents made the brave and controversial decision to have a sixth child that would be genetically engineered.

The couple have no regrets, despite the disapproval of friends and widespread public backlash.

'Olivia's a bit more sensitive to what other people think and say but I don't really care, I'll just live my life and you live yours,'' Mr Densley said on Sunday night's episode of 60 Minutes.

'That's the decision we've made.'

Olivia and Andrew Densley (pictured) stand by their decision to have a sixth child to save their son's life

The Densleys (pictured) with five of their children

Their third child Cooper was also born with Wiskott Aldrich Syndrome in 2010 but was cured four years ago following a lifesaving bone marrow transfusion from his younger brother Jackson.

The Densleys didn't think they could be so unlucky as to have a second child with the condition when they fell unexpectedly pregnant with their fifth child, despite a 50-50 chance of the baby inheriting the condition if it was a boy.

'We'd already been dealt a really rough blow and thought that it wouldn't happen again and I just had hope it wouldn't happen again,' Mrs Densley said.

But Fletcher was born with the condition and none of his older siblings were a donor match for the youngster, who was put on international register to find a bone marrow donor.

Fletcher Densley, 4, has Wiskott Aldrich Syndrome, a rare and life threatening genetic blood disease

The Densleys have no plans to add to their family following the recent arrival of Lilliahna (pictured), born on August 2

As Fletcher's condition worsened, his parents spent $140,000 over two years on several rounds of IVF to create a sixth child in a desperate bid to save their son's life.

A Go Fund page was even set up, which raised $25,000 towards costs.

With the help of Dr Gareth Weston, the baby was genetically engineered to ensure the new addition to the family would be an exact match for Fletcher.

Mrs Densley finally became pregnant with the implanted embryo late last year and on August 2, baby Lilliahna was born happy and healthy.

While the couple admitted they wouldn't have had a sixth child if there wasn't a need, the couple don't see it as a bad thing.

The decision by Fletcher's parents to have a sixth child has divided public opinion

'We can positively say to this child, yes, we did have you for some of your bone marrow, but it's a good thing because we knew you were going to be OK,' Mrs Densley said.

But Fletcher isn't out of the woods just yet, despite the family's renewed hope.

While Lilliahna is a 100 per cent match, the transplant has risks.

The family also have to play the waiting game until Lilliahna is 10kg before the bone marrow transplant can take place next year.

'We want you all to know that we truly appreciate the continued support youve given to Fletcher and our family throughout his journey to cure him of Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome,' the Densleys posted on Fletcher's Fight Facebook page on Sunday in lead up to the segment.

Fletcher (pictured) will die unless he gets a bone marrow transplant

'We want you all to know that we truly appreciate the continued support youve given to Fletcher (pictured) and our family throughout his journey to cure him of Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome,' the family posted on Sunday

'We hope much needed awareness is raised for the Australian Bone Marrow Donor Registry from the 60 Minutes episode to hopefully help other people in need of bone marrow.'

Public reaction to the 60 Minutes story was mixed with many people branding the Densleys as selfish.

'Why go risk an unhealthy 5th. Some people cant even have one child. Then to spend over 100 grand to have a healthy 6th just to save the 5th that they shouldnt have had,' one person commented.

Fletcher (pictured) has Wiskott Aldrich Syndrome, a condition that's regarded as a life sentence

Fletcher (pictured) genetic blood disease characterised by abnormal immune system function and reduced ability to form blood clots.

Another added: 'Couldnt even watch the end of this story, made me so angry! These people should be ashamed of themselves.'

However, there was support for the Densleys.

'Put in the same position I would have to think along those lines, to save a child I had given birth to. How can you judge? Walk a mile in their shoes and see if you would want to save your child,' one woman commented.A white New York police officer is under investigation after he allegedly broke into a Nashville home where he used a racial slur against a sleeping family.

Officer Michael Reynolds, of Manhattan North, was reportedly caught on surveillance footage walking down the street around 2.30am on July 9 in a Nashville neighborhood.

Conese Halliburton said the officer, who was an Airbnb guest at a house nearby, broke down her front door.

New York police officer, Michael Reynolds (right, in surveillance video), is under investigation after he allegedly broke into a Nashville home where he used a racial slur against a sleeping family last month

Conese Halliburton said the officer, who was an Airbnb guest at a house nearby, broke down her front door (right, her broken door)

Halliburton said her sons were trying to stop the man and her oldest even threatened him. In the video, a man's voice is then heard shouting: 'Try to shoot me, I'll break every bone in your f**king neck. You f**king n***er.' Pictured is Halliburton's home

'You heard the big boom and that was my door getting kicked in. My sons were trying to stop him and he's like, 'this is my m*****f**king house, this is my house!' He kept repeating it,' Halliburton told News 2.

Halliburton, who has lived at her home for 30 years, said the man refused to leave. That's when her oldest son threatened him.

'My oldest son said, "I will kill you if you don't get out of my house,"' Halliburton told the station.

In the video, a man's voice is then heard shouting: 'Try to shoot me, I'll break every bone in your f**king neck. You f**king n***er.'



The man eventually left and a short time later Nashville police arrived but were unable to find him.

Halliburton said she confronted the Airbnb guests with her neighbor the next day.

Halliburton (pictured) said she confronted the Airbnb guests with her neighbor the next day

The man reportedly apologized for breaking into her home during the confrontation (pictured). Reynolds was later identified as the officer under investigation over the incident

Charges have yet to be filed but a Nashville police spokesperson said the officer could face misdemeanor charges for aggravated trespassing. Pictured is another angle of Halliburton's home

The man reportedly apologized for breaking into her home.

Reynolds was later identified as the officer under investigation over the incident.

He was described as a white male, with buzzed blond hair and blue eyes.

Witnesses reported that Reynolds also appeared to be intoxicated at the time of the alleged break-in.

According to the NYPD, Reynolds' duty status has not changed while the department awaits the results of Nashville's Investigation.

A spokesperson for the department said they are working closely with the Nashville police on the matter.

Charges have yet to be filed but a Nashville police spokesperson said the officer could face misdemeanor charges for aggravated trespassing.Boris Johnson did not go far enough with his article which said burka wearing women look like 'letter boxes' according to his father.

The former foreign secretary has caused outrage by giving his opinion on the burka ban row.

While Mr Johnson wrote in the Daily Telegraph the clothes worn by women of Islamic faith should not be banned, he received international condemnation for saying the women look like bank robbers.

His father Stanley Johnson, a writer, environment expert and former MP has become the latest high profile figure to back him up.

However, Mr Johnson senior said he should have gone further.

Writing in the Sunday Telegraph, Stanley Johnson said: 'Yes, Boris used some colourful language. That's called 'freedom of speech' or it was in my day.

Boris Johnson's father has backed his comments over the burka - but said his son should have called for a ban in 'some circumstances'. Pictured: Boris Johnson and his dad Stanley Johnson

Ban the burka? Women have been outraged by Boris Johnson's comments calling them 'letter boxes' insisting the right to wear the covering clothing should be protected

'But he said what needed to be said. As a matter of fact, I would have liked him to have gone a bit further.

'He was against 'banning the burka'. But surely, there are circumstances where a ban or appropriate restrictions would be in order. Shouldn't female school-teachers, nurses or doctors be seen as well as heard? At least, the House of Commons could have a sensible debate on this issue.'

Mr Johnson Sr said support for his son's views was 'near-universal' among people he spoke to in Somerset.

And he added: 'Why the all furore? Why has this disastrous 'blue-on-blue' warfare broken out? The Chairman of the Conservative Party is setting up a Committee of Enquiry into whether Boris's use of the word 'letter box' breaches party rules.

Burka wearing women said they do not have their rights stripped and do not wear the garments for men. They insist they should never be banned in Britain

Stanley Johnson has been stopped at events in the last week with people congratulating his son on his burka article. However, Muslims in Britain are furious

'If that isn't an own-goal, I don't know what is. Mr Corbyn must be rubbing his hands with glee.'

A pro-Boris backlash is growing after the Tory Party yesterday announced that it has opened an investigation into Mr Johnson after he compared women wearing burqas with letterboxes and bank robbers.

What did Boris Johnson say about the burqa and the niqab? The ex Foreign Secretary sparked a storm of controversy after using his weekly newspaper column to compare women who wear burqas to letterboxes and bank robbers. The burqa is a full face covering that is associated with a conservative interpretation of Islam. It is different to the hijab, which leaves the face uncovered, or the niqab, which leaves the eyes exposed. In his Daily Telegraph article Mr Johnson said that he felt 'fully entitled' to expect women who wear face coverings to take them off when talking to him at his MP surgery. He also said schools and universities are entitled to take the same approach if a pupil comes in 'looking like a bank robber'. Mr Johnson branded the burqa 'oppressive' and said it is 'weird and bullying to expect people to cover their faces'. He added that he could not find scriptural authority for the dress code in the Koran. And he said 'it is absolutely ridiculous that people should choose to go around looking like letter boxes'. Advertisement

Allies of the ex Cabinet minster tore into the probe and accused No10 of being behind a 'witch hunt' to 'destroy' Mr Johnson because they see him as a threat.

Mr Johnson, who is currently on holiday in a rented villa in Italy, has not commented on the furore his remarks sparked.

Boris' father revealed he is not the only one to support Boris as he has been stopped multiple times at home in Exmoor by people wishing to back his son.

Rachel Johnson has also backed her sibling.

She wrote: 'If I'd been phoning it in, as it were, I might have changed the word 'ridiculous' and cut out 'bank robbers', but apart from these two or three words, it seemed fine and fair  in fact, it didn't go far enough to express, in my view, how oppressive the garment is.

'When I see a woman wearing one, I don't try to 'other' her. The reverse. I try to imagine myself in her shoes. On the street. All the rest of my family are in casual shorts and T-shirts and flip-flops, but I'm a faceless, unidentifiable ghost in a suffocating black shroud.

'On the beach, my man in skimpy Speedos (OK, please no) me in hot dark fabric from head to toe, having to eat an ice cream by posting the pudding into my mouth from under a flap beneath my chin.'

Ms Johnson also called for her brother to 'go further' saying she would only apologise for his having not called for an outright ban.

The Tory Party announced last week it had received a flurry of complaints about Mr Johnson - automatically triggering an investigation into him.

Rachel Johnson and Boris Johnson. Rachel has also backed her brother over his burka comments despite the huge backlash

The ex Foreign Secretary faces being punished by party bosses and could even be kicked out of the party over the remarks, although this is very unlikely.

Under Tory Party rules, an investigating officer will now decide if Mr Johnson has flouted their code of conduct and if the probe should be referred on to a panel to grill him on.

Theresa May will decide what punishment to mete out to her former minister.

Conservative chairman Brandon Lewis has called on Boris to apologise for his remarks. However, Mr Johnsons allies believe the ex-London mayor is being targeted because he poses a leadership threat to the Prime Minister.

Tory MP Andrew Bridgen last night said grassroots anger could lead to more MPs submitting letters to reach the 48 needed to force a leadership challenge.

He warned: If Boris is suspended it will be open warfare in the Conservative Party. If Theresa May dares engineer a leadership contest while Boris is suspended it will be World War Three. Yesterday Stanley Johnson told Sky News: The hierarchy of the Tory Party has collectively lost its senses. It is making a mountain out of a molehill.

If ever there was an own goal, the Tory Party is in the process of scoring it with this emphasis on a kangaroo court  its just nonsense. I blame people who are ready to cook up reasons of their own to attack what was actually a well-written article.

He accused Labour and Remain-supporting MPs of whipping it all up and insisted: Were all making a terrific mountain out of a molehill here. The Sunday Times reported that four Cabinet ministers had privately expressed dismay at the handling of the case by Downing Street and Tory HQ.

One minister said: Its been so cack-handed. Boris is a backbencher. What he said wasnt that outrageous  a lot of people have said worse and a lot of the party happens to agree with him.

The sooner the party throws this investigation out, the better. Lots of people both on the front and back benches are really p***** off. A second minister said: Its been a total cock-up from start to finish. What started out as something and nothing has been whipped up into a storm.

It would have soon blown over, but in their willingness to see Boris punished, all theyve done is hurt themselves. Another added: They have managed to engineer a total disaster. There is not a serious political brain in or around Downing Street.

Trying to silence Boris is stupid, especially when the majority of people agree with him.

The Muslim Council of Britain, which says Islamophobic incidents have risen since Mr Johnson made his burka comments, will write to Mrs May today demanding a full disciplinary inquiry.

The letter will say: We are hopeful that the party will not allow any whitewashing of this specific inquiry currently in process. No one should be allowed to victimise minorities with impunity.

Mr Johnson appeared unfazed by the row as he wore colourful shorts to bring a tray of tea to journalists waiting outside his home in Thame, Oxfordshire.

Meanwhile 53 per cent of voters believe he should not face disciplinary action, according to a ComRes poll for the Sunday Express. Forty per cent said he deserved to be disciplined.

Hamilton is axed over KKK tweeet

Former Tory MPs wife Christine Hamilton has been sacked as a charity ambassador after tweeting a Ku Klux Klan photo with the caption: If the burka is acceptable then presumably this is too?

The tweet in the wake of Boris Johnsons burka row sparked fury on social media and Muscular Dystrophy UK severed its links with her. Chief executive Robert Meadowcroft said the decision fully reflects the values of the charity.

One poster wrote to Mrs Hamilton online: You (and Mr Johnson) are both as bad as each other trying to disguise your prejudices as jokes. I hope youre proud of yourself for perpetuating this idea that Muslim women should be vilified and mocked.

Mrs Hamilton, 68, a former reality show contestant, said the post was tongue in cheek, adding: For heavens sake  no, I am not comparing Muslim women to KKK members. I was graphically illustrating how full facial cover can be sinister, which is how many people view the burka.

Her husband Neil is an ex-Tory MP who is currently the leader of Ukip Wales.A chauffeur who kept notes of bribes involving high-ranking officials in Argentina could unravel a decade-long corruption scandal.

It is a mystery why Oscar Centeno, driver to a former planning secretary, 'meticulosly' detailed allegedly illicit payments involving top government officials.

But it could lead to convictions of political leaders from administrations run by president Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner and late husband Nestor Kirchner.

A set of notebooks kept by retired army officer Oscar Centeno could send former Argentina president Cristina Fernandez to jail

Oscar Centeno used to drive planning ministry No 2 Roberto Baratta, and kept records on bags full of cash being delivered to former government officials between 2005 and 2015

La Nacion newspaper published an investigation on Aug 1 revealing evidence from eight notebooks kept by Centeno.

He was former chauffeur to planning secretary Roberto Baratta, and kept records on bags of cash being delivered to political leaders between 2005 and 2015.

His notebooks included the amounts, times and addresses of where the money was sent and even how much the bags weighed.

The total value is said to account for $53 million in bribes.

Since the books came to light, 16 men  including prominent business heads in the country  have been arrested.

The alleged payments took place during the presidencies of Kirchner and Fernandez, who could be the next to face arrest.

Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, seen here in 2007 with late husband Nestor Kirchner, could face arrest and jail time for illicit political payments allegedly made during her presidency

The former president of Argentina claims she is being persecuted by the current administration led by political foe Mauricio Macri

She has been summoned for questioning on Aug 13 before judge Claudio Bonadio who is overseeing the case.

According to Bloomberg, Bonadio has already Fernandez's immunity and allow investigators to raid her properties for potential evidence.

Fernandez, who plans to seek another presidential term in 2019, says she is being persecuted by political enemy Mauricio Macri, who has been president since 2015.

Last week it was reported businessman Juan Carlos de Goycoechea could testify in the case after surrendering to police admitting he paid 'contributions to election campaigns'.

Goycoechea once headed construction and energy group Isolux Corsan and said he was pressured by the planning ministry to pay millions to the former administration.

He denied however that the amounts did not total $12.8 million cited by Bonadio.

Centeno meanwhile was arrested but freed two days later after entering the 'accused collaborator' program, which provides legal protection for him and his family.

The retired army officer admitted being the author of the eight notebooks but claims he burnt the originals on a backyard grill last May.

A friend of Centeno's handed copies of the notes to La Nacion journalist Diego Cabot, who led the paper's investigation in January.Two Japanese tourists got more of a soaking than they bargained for when they fell in the water after being dive-bombed by a flock of geese while punting in the rain in Cambridge today.

The two men fell into the River Cam after the birds knocked them off balance as they flew across the water to land on a nearby college lawn.

The tourists, who were dressed in smart trousers and shirts, had to swim to the riverbank after their impromptu soaking, as their friends looked on.

Two Japanese tourists got more of a soaking than they bargained for after being dive-bombed by a flock of geese on the River Cam today

The rest of the group, who avoided a fall in the water, looked glum as they were left stranded in their punt and their paddle started floating down the river

The birds knocked the men off balance as they flew across the water to land on a nearby college lawn, sending them tumbling into the water

The group looked glum as they were left stranded in their punt as their paddle started floating down the river.

The two men dragged themselves out onto the grass and later saw the funny side as they were spotted laughing and joking together.

An eyewitness, who did not want to be named, said: 'The group were punting down the River Cam when suddenly a flock of geese flew in and landed on the college lawn along the Backs.

'The geese knocked the men off balance and they fell into the water and had to swim out.

'They looked very fed up at first because it was raining so they were already wet, but afterwards it looked as though they were able to laugh about it.

'It will certainly be a lasting memory of punting in Cambridge for them.'

The men, dressed in smart shirts and suits, swam to the riverbank and heaved themselves up to the grass.

A witness said 'they looked very fed up at first because it was raining so they were already wet' but added 'it will certainly be a lasting memory of punting in Cambridge for them'

Once dragged out of the water the two men were laughing and joking about the memorable punting tripA Maori man is suing his tour company employer over allegations he was handed a bottle of 'black guy repellent' when he asked his co-workers for sunscreen.

McDuff Tupetagi launched a case with the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission, claiming Rainbow Beach Adventure Company racially vilified him on several occasions.

He alleges in court documents he was made feel 'like an unwanted creature or pest' and was referred to as 'the black fella' at the Fraser Island company, The Brisbane Times reported.

He claimed the company's alleged ongoing vilification resulted in him taking sick leave for mental distress and anxiety.

A year after being denied a request for a sunshade, allegedly due to the colour of his skin, McDuff Tupetagi was allegedly given an empty sunscreen canister with yellow tape with the words 'Black Guy Repellent' as a 'present', according to court documents

Court documents say he has since received psychiatric support and has been diagnosed with agoraphobia and depression.

In 2016, Mr Tupetagi allegedly asked his boss if he could install a sunshade so that he could be protected while he worked on company cars.

Three months later he submitted his request to again to his boss, who took the request to his manager 'Byron'.

''Byron' approached the complainant and refused the complainant's request, saying to the complainant words to the effect of ''because you're black'',' the statement of facts read.

'By Byron's words, Byron imputed to the complainant that he was less susceptible to sunburn and skin damage from the sun because of his skin colour.'

McDuff Tupetagi, who is a Maori Niuean man, claimed that his employer, Rainbow Beach Adventure Company, racially vilified him more than once (Pictured: one of the company's hire cars)

Almost a year later, on November 8, 2017, Mr Tupetagi claimed his co-workers said there was a 'present' for him in one of the cars he was due to work on.

What he found was an empty sunscreen canister with yellow tape around it.

On the tape the words 'black guy repellent' was written on one side and 'Caution! Only use on blacks' on the other, the court documents claim.

Mr Tupetagi approached his boss and told him with what had allegedly happened.

The boss identified the employee who was likely responsible and sent him to Mr Tupetagi's residence to apologise.

Mr Tupetagi has launched a case with the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission (pictured) against the tour company and two of its employees after ongoing negotiations with the company

A week later Mr Tupetagi got a medical certificate as well as a workers' compensation certificate.

This declared him unfit to work due to the stress of the alleged racial discrimination he had faced.

Rainbow Beach Adventure Company is owned by Website Travel Group, which told Fairfax: 'We value all our employees and are supporting the proceedings.'

The matter will be heard in the coming weeks.Joel Urhie (pictured) was found dead in Deptford, south-east London on Tuesday

Two men arrested on suspicion of starting the fire that killed seven-year-old Joel Urhie have been released under investigation.

The men, aged 21 and 29, were arrested on Saturday morning on suspicion of murder, arson with intent to endanger life and attempted murder.

Joel was found dead in Deptford, south-east London last Tuesday, while his mother Sophie and 19-year-old sister Sarah escaped by jumping out of a first-floor window.

Both needed hospital treatment following the fire which erupted at around 3am.

A Scotland Yard spokesman said: 'Police investigating the death of seven-year-old Joel Urhie following a fire at a residential address in Adolphus Street, Deptford, on Tuesday, 7 August, have made two arrests.

'Two men, aged 21 and 29, were arrested on the morning of Saturday, 11 August at residential addresses in south London.

'They were arrested on suspicion of murder, attempted murder and arson with intent to endanger life. They were taken to a south London police station.

'They have subsequently been released under investigation pending further enquiries.

'Police continue to ask anyone with information to contact the incident room on 020 8345 3715 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.'

Rather than bail, releasing under investigation allows the police to recall them for an indefinite period.

Police said on Wednesday that Joel's sister had been released from hospital, where her mother is still being treated.

A post-mortem found the cause of Joel's death was 'consistent with fire and smoke inhalation', police said.

Mourners including Joel's uncle left floral tributes, cards, soft toys and balloons at the scene, while the doors and windows of the house were secured with metal shutters.

The boy's aunt, Ruth Urhie, said his mother is still in hospital, while his sister, who has been discharged, is staying with old friends.

Police carry out inquiries into the death of Joel Urhie in a suspected arson attack in London

Ruth Urhie, who is Joel's father John's older sister, added: 'I was with him yesterday. He's fine but he's still in shock.'

Family friend Grace Gbenedio, 56, said neighbours hope someone will come forward with information to help catch whoever started the blaze.

She said: 'I just pray they catch the people. That person who did it is not human. 'How can somebody do that?'

A neighbour, who did not want to be identified, said the death was 'definitely gang-related, 100 per cent'.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Wrigley earlier said police were keeping an 'open mind concerning motive' to the murder and that speculation about the incident 'is not helpful'.

He appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

'This horrific incident has left a family shattered and the tragic loss of such a young life in suspicious circumstances resonates throughout the community in Deptford,' he said.A female executive producer and a number of staffers have quit Talking Dead after AMC reinstated Chris Hardwick as host of the talk show.

The producer and a 'handful' of the show's 25-person staff left their jobs in protest after Hardwick was accused of abusing ex-girlfriend Chloe Dykstra.

It was revealed in June that Hardwick, 46, was the ex-boyfriend that Dykstra, 29, claimed had controlled and sexually assaulted her on a regular basis.

AMC temporarily removed Hardwick as host of the talk show, which discusses episodes of The Walking Dead, and launched an investigation.

A female executive producer and a number of staffers have quit Talking Dead after AMC reinstated Chris Hardwick as the talk show's host

The producer and a 'handful' of the show's 25-person staff left their jobs in protest after Hardwick was accused of abusing his ex-girlfriend Chloe Dykstra (pictured together in 2013)

Two weeks ago the network announced Hardwick would be returning to work.

'We take these matters very seriously and given the information available to us after a very careful review, including interviews with numerous individuals, we believe returning Chris to work is the appropriate step,' it said in a statement.

Hardwick and staffers of Talking Dead had a 'very emotional' meeting on Wednesday, according to The Wrap.

Sources said that Hardwick gathered the staff and apologized for the scandal. They described his demeanor as 'apologetic and contrite'.

Hardwick also reportedly told staff members he would have one-on-one meetings with anyone who wanted to address additional concerns.

Dykstra said she lost 15 pounds in a week because of the stress of the relationship and battled anorexia. The picture on the left is a 'progress shot' she shared in her essay detailing the abuse while the picture on the right is from June 14, 2018

This week Dykstra tweeted that she still stands by 'every single word' of her essay

In the essay titled Rose-Colored Glasses: A Confession, Dykstra said she experienced 'long-term abuse' by her ex-boyfriend, who she said was 20 years older than her. The actress wrote that she met him at a convention when she was in her early twenties.

Dykstra, an actor and cosplayer, wrote that the relationship 'started out poorly' and that her boyfriend had given her a set of rules she had to follow within the first two weeks after they started dating.

Hardwick will return to Talking Dead, on which he is pictured in this undated file photo, for its premiere on August 12

Some of them included her reserving her nights for her ex. Dykstra said because he had a busy schedule, she rarely saw her friends.

'I was to not have close male friends unless we worked together. All photos of male friends were to be removed from my apartment. This was heartbreaking for me, as my best friend happened to be male,' she wrote about rule number two.

Dykstra was also not allowed to have alcohol, because her boyfriend was sober. Hardwick has often discussed his struggles with alcohol addiction.

'Before we began dating he said, "I noticed you have a glass of wine with dinner. That's going to stop,'" she wrote.

According to the actress, other rules included not speaking in public places because he thought 'people recognized him and were listening to our conversations.'

'Our dinners out were usually silent, him on his phone,' she added.

Dykstra also said she wasn't allowed to take photos of them together. While her boyfriend eventually loosened up on that rule, she still always had to ask for his permission first.

'These were just a few of them. And I made the choice to accept his controlling behavior, as he'd just left his long-term girlfriend and I assumed that he was going through some serious emotional discomfort. This was a huge mistake,' she wrote.

Dykstra also accused her ex of sexually assaulting her on a regular basis before their breakup in 2014

The essay stated that the man would leave Dykstra in hotel rooms while he attended events and he forced her to take an on-camera job at his company. Dykstra wrote that she was against working for a significant other but she took the position because she was 'scared to upset him'.

'I accepted the job, but I refused payment for my work, feeling uncomfortable about the whole thing (though the lovely folks at his company eventually forced me to take a check). By this time, like I said, I was terrified to piss him off- so I did what he said,' she posted.

Dykstra also accused her ex of sexually assaulting her on a regular basis before their breakup in 2014.

'I was expected to be ready for him when he came home from work...Every night, I laid there for him, occasionally in tears. He thought the whole idea was funny,' she wrote. 'To be fair, I did go along with it out of fear of losing him.'

Dykstra said after three years of 'being snapped/yelled at constantly, very rarely being shown any affection' she ended the relationship. Her ex, according to Dykstra, retaliated by blacklisting her.

In a statement, Hardwick said: 'I was heartbroken to read Chloe's post. Our three-year relationship was not perfect - we were ultimately not a good match and argued - even shouted at each other - but I loved her, and did my best to uplift and support her as a partner and companion in any way and at no time did I sexually assault her.

'When we were living together, I found out that Chloe cheated on me, and I ended the relationship.'

Hardwick is now married to model Lydia Hearst. They are pictured together at a premiere in LA in April, 2018. He denied the allegations

'I'm devastated to read that she is now accusing me of conduct that did not occur. I was blindsided by her post and always wanted the best for her. As a husband, a son, and future father, I do not condone any kind of mistreatment of women.'

This week Dykstra tweeted that she still stands by 'every single word' of her essay.

'I made sure it was unembellished, factual, and that I had evidence to back it up in order to protect my self in case of ACTUAL litigation (not a network investigation, where I'm not protected', she wrote.

After Dykstra's blog post went viral, multiple Talking Dead staffers told The Wrap that Hardwick was known for outbursts and loud confrontations that were similar to those his ex had described.

And a former employee who worked for Hardwick at Nerdist claimed he made it hard for individuals to find work in the future if he felt they had betrayed him, just as Dykstra claimed he derailed her career following their break-up.

Hardwick's name has since been restored on the Nerdist website, which he co-founded.

He has also been reinstated as host of NBC's prime time game show The Wall and appeared as a guest judge on America's Got Talent last week.An Indiana man accused of murdering and eating his ex-girlfriend has been deemed mentally fit to stand trial after spending months at a psychiatric facility.

Joseph Oberhansley, 36, had initially been found mentally incompetent in October last year following the 2014 death of his former girlfriend Tammy Jo Blanton.

He has been undergoing treatment in a mental health facility since January.

Oberhansley recently returned to prison after a psychiatrist determined in July that his mental competency had been restored.

Joseph Oberhansley, 36, had initially been found mentally incompetent in October last year following the 2014 death of his former girlfriend Tammy Jo Blanton

At a pre-trial hearing last week, Oberhansley's lawyers asked the judge to delay his trial for a month so they can form their own opinion about his mental health.

The judge will have the final say on whether the competency ruling will be upheld, the News and Tribune reports.

Oberhansley is accused of breaking into his 46-year-old ex's home four years ago and raping her.

He then allegedly stabbed Blanton to death and then ate parts of her body.

The judge ordered the competency evaluations last year after his defense attorneys said he wasn't able to participate in his own defense or fully understand the court proceedings.

Oberhansley is accused of breaking into his 46-year-old ex's home four years ago and raping her. He then allegedly stabbed Blanton to death and then ate parts of her body

He has been undergoing treatment in a mental health facility since January. Oberhansley recently returned to prison after a psychiatrist determined in July that his mental competency had been restored

'He is suspicious, paranoid, uncommunicative, and agitated,' they wrote, saying there is a 'complete breakdown' in communication between them and Oberhansley.

He was deemed incompetent after three doctors evaluated him.

Previously, he had been classified as having a severe psychological disorder

Oberhansley was ordered to undergo 'competency restoration' treatments in an effort to try him at a later time.

He is charged with murder, rape and abuse of a corpse.An international aviation expert has come up with a new theory as to why Malaysian Airlines flight MH370 vanished without a trace.

Aviation Security International editor Philip Baum claims someone snuck onto the Boeing 777 with plans to sabotage the flight after it took off from Kuala Lumpur in March 2014.

The plane went missing in March 2014 while en route to Beijing with 238 passengers on board, including six Australians.

Aviation Security International editor Philip Baum claims someone snuck onto Malaysian Airlines flight MH370 with plans to sabotage the flight after it took off from Kuala Lumpur in March 2014

Mr Baum (pictured) said he believes they hid underneath the floor or behind the flight deck in a 'hinged, self-closing access panel'

'I think a stowaway is a strong possibility, especially as no officials seem to want to even contemplate the possibility,' Mr Baum told The Independent.

He believes they hid underneath the floor or behind the flight deck in a 'hinged, self-closing access panel'.

Aviation Security International has reported as many as 123 stowaway attempts have been reported worldwide on 107 flights.

Many them hid in the wheel wells, while others tried to disguise themselves as cleaners or officials.

The new theory comes after a 400-page Malaysian report into the disappearance of the doomed jet was rubbished by French investigators, who described it as 'imprecise and ambiguous'.

The new theory comes after a 400-page Malaysian report into the disappearance of the doomed jet was rubbished by French investigators, who described it as 'imprecise and ambiguous'

Four years of investigations have found no firm evidence as to what happened to the Malaysia Airlines plane, despite the largest ever search of its kind across 46,000 square miles of the Indian Ocean.

French police will open an investigation into missing flight after Malaysia's final report failed to explain the mystery amid claims of a cover up.

The Gendarmerie of Air Transport wants to examine data from satellite operator Inmarsat which tracked the plane before it went missing in March 2014.Although animal attacks on tourists are uncommon, and rarely fatal, they are not unheard of.

In May this year, Mike Hodge, a 72-year-old British expat living in South Africa was attacked by a lion living on his sanctuary.

Horrifying footage shows Mr Hodge entering the lion's enclosure at the Marakele Animal Sanctuary before being dragged away into bushes and clawed by Shamba as onlookers scream in terror.

The big cat eventually dropped Mr Hodge and a staff member outside the camp shot and killed Shamba to save his life, according to local media. In a statement, the family - Mr Hodge, his wife Chrissy and daughter Emma, 29 - said they were 'devastated' by the loss of the lion which they said had been raised from a cub.

In February, a British tourist from the Isle of Wight was attacked by a ferocious cow which became angry after she sang it a Black Eyed Peas song.

Mellisa Meville, 25, from the Isle of Wight, has been travelling around India since November last year.

But she was left with injuries to her face, shoulder and knees after the savage attack in the street at 4pm on February 15.

Mellisa was walking back to her hotel in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, northern India, when she noticed a huge stray cow with a sizeable hump.

Amused by how large the creature was, she jokingly began singing the popular song 'My Humps' by the Black Eyed Peas.

But the cow, unamused by her rapping, suddenly charged at her with its horns.

Just last month, a gang of poachers who broke into a South African game reserve to hunt rhinos came off second best when they were attacked and eaten by a pride of hungry lions.

At least three hunters are believed to have been devoured by the predators, judging by the bloody scene on the Sibuya Game Reserve near Kenton-on-Sea in Eastern Province, South Africa.

One head and a number of bloodied body parts and limbs have been recovered from the area, along with three pairs of empty shoes.

And in June, a tourist in South Africa stroked a lion and got the fright of his life when he was met by a terrifying roar.

Shocking footage shows the man petting the big cat's back with the vehicle's window wide open.

The male lion then turns around and lets out an almighty roar prompting the tourists to flinch and slam the window shut before letting out loud sighs of relief.

A month before, an award-winning director was killed by a giraffe in the South African bush.

Carlos Carvalho had worked on most of the series of the hit family drama that featured a British family building up an animal hospital in the South African bush.

But the 47-year-old was sent flying 16 feet through the air while working on a feature film with Gerald the Giraffe after the animal headbutted him, causing devastating head injuries.

He was airlifted from the scene in Broederstroom, South Africa, to the same hospital where British safari park owner Mike Hodge is recovering from a lion attack in Johannesburg but surgeons were unable to save him.

And in April, a German couple in Namibia survived a horrific tug of war with a leopard after the predator attacked and tried to drag one of them out of the open window of their camper van by the head.

Hardy Specker, 61, and partner Petra Windmeisser, 60, had pulled over to sleep in the Kuiseb Canyon in Namibia when they were woken by loud scratching at a window in the early hours.

Mr Specker got up to close the window at 1am but as he pulled it shut a leopard jumped up the side of the camper van and gripped his head with its claws and jaws.

Ms Windmeisser told The Namibian how her screaming husband was being dragged out of the window when she rushed forward and grabbed his legs and fought with the leopard.President Trump has given his backing to a boycott of Harley-Davidson after the iconic bike firm announced it was moving some production overseas.

The President tweeted on Sunday that going abroad was a 'bad move' before adding that the US 'will soon have a level playing field, or better.'

Harley-Davidson announced in June that it would move production of bikes sold in the EU overseas to skirt around trade tariffs placed on the company in retaliation for Trump's levies on European steel.

President Donald Trump (pictured on Saturday) has called out Harley-Davidson once again and warns other boycotting companies that moving overseas is a 'bad move'

Trump used Harley-Davidson as his example Sunday morning when he blasted companies that have threatened to move their businesses out of the US

'Many @harleydavidson owners plan to boycott the company if manufacturing moves overseas. Great!' Trump tweeted

The European Union hit the American motorcycle giant with duties of 31 per cent, up from six per cent, boosting the cost to EU consumers by about $2,200.

The EU targeted the US vehicles as part of its rebuttal to Trump's tariffs on imported aluminum and steel, one aspect of his multi-front trade war.

At the time, Harley-Davidson said that the company 'maintains a strong commitment to US-based manufacturing which is valued by riders globally'.

'Increasing international production to alleviate the EU tariff burden is not the company's preference, but represents the only sustainable option to make its motorcycles accessible to customers in the EU and maintain a viable business in Europe.'

Not wanting to dent sales in key EU markets, the company will 'bear the significant impact resulting from these tariffs,' which will add an estimated $30 to $45million in costs for the remainder of 2018 and $90 to $100million annually.

Moving production to overseas factories is expected to require nine to 18 months, so in the near-term Harley-Davidson will absorb the costs of EU tariffs, the company said in a regulatory notice.

Trump praised Harley-Davidson as an 'American icon, one of the greats' and expressed confidence the company would expand US manufacturing under his administration. Trump is pictured during a Bikers for Trump event on Saturday

But that status made Harley-Davidson (file image) a target for EU retaliation, along with bourbon and blue jeans

Europe is Harley-Davidson's second biggest market after the US. The company reported $521.8million in earnings in 2017 on $5.6billion in revenue.

Executives in Harley-Davidson were among the first to visit the White House in February 2017 shortly after Trump took office.

Trump praised Harley-Davidson as an 'American icon, one of the greats' and expressed confidence the company would expand US manufacturing under his administration.

But that status made the company a target for EU retaliation, along with bourbon and blue jeans.

The products have 'a strong symbolic political impact,' said European Commission Vice President for trade Jyrki Katainen.

'I am confident that the exchanges we have had with my new counterpart, Liu He, have been useful in paving the way towards a successful EU-China Summit in the economic and trade field,' Katainen said in a press release at the time.

'I am particularly pleased with the progress achieved in our investment negotiations and look forward to an exchange of offers at the Summit.'An American woman who smuggled 1kg of cocaine into Australia by hiding the drugs in her high heels was lured to the country by a man she met online, her lawyer claims.

Denise Marie Woodrum, 51, was caught with the drugs after arriving in Australia on August 4 last year.

While making her way through customs, the 51-year-old was stopped by officers who promptly discovered just over 1kg of pure cocaine in her luggage.

Denise Marie Woodrum, 51, was caught with the drugs after arriving in Australia on August 4 last year (pictured)

She tried to hide just over a kilogram of cocaine in her makeup and high heels

The Missouri woman lived alone, had health complications and a marriage breakdown before she struck up an 'intimate relationship' with a man named Hendrik Cornelius, whom she met online.

Despite messaging constantly, the pair were yet to meet, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.

In July of last year she texted the man, 'Can you promise you will never leave me?'

But despite exchanging hundreds of texts with him over five months, she never met him face to face.

Her Legal Aid lawyer, Rebecca Neil, said 'she was groomed' to provide financial gain for Mr Cornelius.

Photographs supplied to Daily Mail Australia show three pairs of shoes sitting on Border Force scales, as well as a number of makeup canisters

She told District Court Judge, Penelope Wass, 'there are fraudsters out there who are relying on woman who are vulnerable'.

Ms Neil added that Woodrum was a 'very religious woman who belonged to a lay order of sisters in the U.S'.

Woodrum was convicted for importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug on January 31.

Woodrum was convicted for importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug on January 31

Her father, Tom Rozanski, said the incident 'came out of the blue' and was 'a big shock to the whole family'.

The 51-year-old spoke to her father weekly but she never told him of her new romantic interest.

Mr Rozanski said his daughter had severe depression and had lost her job at the YMCA. She began working two jobs to make ends meet and underwent a hysterectomy, he said.

Photographs supplied to Daily Mail Australia by Australian Border Force show three pairs of shoes sitting on Border Force scales, as well as a number of makeup canisters.

X-rays also supplied by Border Force show the shoe heels glowing bright orange.

Another image shows what looks to be tape covering the bottom of the shoe's large heel.A man dubbed Australia's own Robinson Crusoe is said to be distraught after his best friend, a dingo named Polly, passed away.

David Glasheen was the high flying chairman of a mining company in the 1980s before a market crash led to him losing his fortune.

He decided to swap city life for isolation and has lived on Restoration Island in northern Cape York for the last two decades, with only his first dog Quassi and Polly for company.

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A man dubbed Australia's own Robinson Crusoe after living on a remote island for 20 years is said to be distraught after his best friend, a dingo named Polly, passed away (pictured)

Ten days ago Mr Glasheen found Polly's (pictured) body on the beach with foam around her mouth and two small bite marks

Quassi passed away two years ago after getting bitten by a taipan and Mr Glasheen, looking for a way to deal with the loss, formed a bond with the wild dingo.

Ten days ago, Mr Glasheen found Polly's body on the beach with foam around her mouth and two small bite marks, this time he believes it was a death adder judging by the size of the bite, reports news.com.au.

Alvaro Cerezo filmed Mr Glasheen's life as a castaway in 2017 for a documentary and said he is currently 'very sad right now because his two best friends passed away in a short period of time.'

Apart from his annual grocery shop to Cairns, Mr Glasheen lives on the island alone.

'The wild is pretty severe. It's a tough world. Things are forever going wrong, and you've just got to deal with it,' Mr Glasheen told News.com.au in 2017.

'You've got to work with the elements. People assume you turn the tap on and the water comes out. You start to realise it's not like that. You're in charge of all that here.'I am a retired newspaperman. I live in Poca, WV, with my wife of 44 years, Lou Ann. I grew up in Cleveland. Three kids. Grandfather.



Report all errors to DonSurber@GMail.comA father accused of stabbing and killing another man was picking up his children from his estranged partner's home when a brawl broke out between the pair.

Peni Ben Apikotoa was stabbed multiple times on Saturday night after reportedly being called to a home in Sydney's west by his friend, Cassie Sanders, who was allegedly being assaulted by Nathan Chatimba - her ex-boyfriend.

Chatimba's current partner, Catherine Barlow, told The Daily Telegraph the 31-year-old had gone to Ms Sanders' home in St Clair to collect his kids when he allegedly fatally stabbed Mr Apikotoa.

Peni Ben Apikotoa (pictured) was stabbed multiple times on Saturday night after reportedly being called to a home in Sydney's west by his friend

Nathan Chatimba, 31, is charged with murdering Ben Apikotoa at a St Clair property on Saturday night

Chatimba has been charged with murdering the 34-year-old, who has been described by his heartbroken family as 'kind, thoughtful and caring'.

Police allege Mr Apikotoa responded to the call for help after Ms Sanders was alleged attacked at the home.

A neighbour told Seven News he saw the men throwing punches before Chatimba allegedly pulled out a knife.

Cassie Sanders, (pictured left) was allegedly being assaulted by her ex-boyfriend Nathan Chatimba (right)

Residents claim the 31-year-old then left the scene before being arrested by police two hours later.

He briefly appeared at Parramatta Bail Court on Sunday and was denied bail. He will face court in October.

Chatimba appeared distraught as he was arrested by police.

Police allege Ben Apikotoa responded to a call for help from Ms SandersAn off-duty police officer is in hospital after he successfully fought off armed moped thieves despite being stabbed with a large knife.

The City of London officer remains in a stable condition on Sunday evening following the incident in Lewisham, south east London, on Saturday.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said the victim continued to try and stop the robbery, despite being stabbed with a 'large kitchen knife'. The suspects later made off without the moped.

Scotland Yard said the officer, 37, sprang into action when he saw a group of four males on mopeds attempting to steal another moped from a 21-year-old man at Maylons Road.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said the victim continued to try and stop the robbery, despite being stabbed with a 'large kitchen knife' in Maylons Road (pictured)

The suspects were armed with a large kitchen knife, but the unarmed officer intervened.

The spokesman said: 'During the confrontation the officer was stabbed in the leg, but despite this, he continued to confront the four suspects thwarting the theft of the moped until the suspects fled the scene.

'The officer was taken to a south London hospital where his injuries were described as not life-threatening or life-changing.'

The 21-year-old victim of the attempted theft was also assaulted by suspects and suffered bruising. His injuries are not life threatening.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police.The endangered orca who has been clinging onto her dead calf for more than two weeks and swimming for 1,000 miles, has finally let go of her baby.

The 20-year-old mother, known as J35 or Tahlequah, broke the hearts of watchers across the globe who were touched by the story of the grieving whale.

On Saturday she was spotted looking 'vigorous and healthy' following 17 days of swimming with her dead calf on her forehead in the Haro Strait off of the Washington coast.

'J35 frolicked past my window today with other J pod whales, and she looks vigorous and healthy,' Ken Balcomb, founding director of the Center for Whale Research, said to The Seattle Times.

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Grieving orca J35 also known as Tahlequah has finally let go of her dead calf, pictured above in foreground on Saturday swimming with her pod in Haro Strait off San Juan Island

The endangered orca clung onto her dead calf for a total of 17 days swimming for 1,000 miles precariously balancing her newborn on her forehead. The calf died July 24, pictured above

Experts at the Whale Museum on San Juan Island have been monitoring the whale since her calf died and say she was spotted 'vigorous and healthy' without the calf Saturday, pictured above grieving on July 24

The researchers say the orca and the rest of her pod are going through 'a deep grieving process'. The mother has been seen propping the dead newborn on her forehead and trying to keep it bobbing near the surface in the waters off the coast of Victoria, British Columbia

'The ordeal of her carrying a dead calf for at least seventeen days and 1,000 miles is now over, thank goodness,' he added.

He says she's lost two other offspring since she gave birth to a male calf in 2010 and losing her last calf 'may have been emotionally hard on her'.

'She is alive and well and at least over that part of her grief. Today was the first day that I for sure saw her. It is no longer there,' Balcomb said.

Despite her 17-day grieving period she showed no sides of 'peanut head' or malnutrition in an orca. Balcomb added that 'she's been eating' as a sign that she's healthy and doing well.

She nearly lost track of her pod after falling behind during her time of distress.

Orcas are highly sociable creatures that live in large groups known as pods, if she lost her group and became isolated, she would have suffered potentially life-threatening food shortage, experts warned.

Researchers have been monitoring the activity of a grieving mother orca over the last week, as she tows her dead calf's body through the Puget Sound, off British Columbia. The whale has now been carrying the body for seven days throughout the region, after it died July 24

Four and a half-year-old J50, also known as Scarlet and pictured above, was found emaciated and sick while with her mother on Wednesday and is being nursed back to health

Tahlequah was last spotted by researchers on Wednesday still carrying her dead Yong child off the coast of Victoria, British Columbia, according to Michael Milstein.

The Puget Sound calf was the first in three years to be born to the dwindling population of endangered southern resident killer whales.

There are only 75 of the mammals left.

She's remained under the watchful eye of experts at the Whale Museum on San Juan Island following the death of her calf last month.

'The baby was so newborn it didn't have blubber. It kept sinking, and the mother would raise it to the surface,' said Ken Balcomb, senior scientist with the Center for Whale Research on San Juan Island, which closely tracks individual whales.

'It is horrible. This is an animal that is a sentient being,' Deborah Giles, science and research director for the nonprofit Wild Orc said.

WHY SCIENTISTS THINK WHALES AND DOLPHINS MOURN Whales and dolphins have been spotted 'carrying' or caring for their dead young multiple times. These creatures could be mourning or they have failed to accept or recognise that the offspring or companion has died. Scientists still do not know if aquatic mammals truly recognise death and are looking to carry out more research on this issue. In 2016, scientists found evidence that whales and dolphins hold 'vigils' for their dead. They analysed several cases where mammals clung to the bodies of dead compatriots, and kept vigil over a dead companion. At the time, they said the most likely explanation was mourning. The study compiled observations from 14 events. They found mothers often carried their dead young above the water, often flanked by friends. In many cases, the dead offspring were decomposed, indicating they had been held for a long time. Advertisement

'It understands the social bonds that it has with the rest of its family members.'

'(The mother) is bonded to (the calf) and she doesn't want to let it go. It is that simple. She is grieving,' she added.

Whales and dolphins are known to express grief and even hold 'vigils' for their dead by clinging onto the lifeless bodies of their offspring for days to keep them safe from predators. Tahlequah's display was unprecedented, striking an emotional chord worldwide.

Soon after Tahlequah made headlines with her child carrying display, vets raced to save the life of another starving calf.

Four and a half-year-old J50, also known as Scarlet, was found emaciated and sick while with her mother on Wednesday.

On Thursday vets were monitoring the calf saying her condition is better than expected but she is terribly thin and severely malnourished.

'The reason J35 lost her baby and the others are losing their babies is there is not enough salmon. Hopefully we will do something about that,' Balcomb said.Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani insisted on Sunday that a central claim of fired FBI Director James Comey  one that could land the president in legal hot water  is completely false.

Comey wrote in a private memo following a February 2017 meeting with Trump that the newly minted president had asked him to tone down the investigative pressure on former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn. Not so, Giuliani claimed.

Flynn was bounced from the White House after just 24 days on the job, an event Trump has said was a consequence of Flynn's lies to the FBI about his pre-inauguration contacts with a now-former Russian ambassador.

Comey, however, has claimed the president asked him whether there was a FISA investigation into Flynn, and suggested he should go easy on the retired lieutenant general and consider 'letting Flynn go.'

'I was so stunned by the conversation that I just took it in,' he told a Senate panel in June 2017.

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Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani said Sunday on CNN's 'State of the Union' program that the president and later-fired FBI Director James Comey never discussed the idea of going easy on disgraced former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn

Trump and Comey met early in 2017 and the two men's recollections are different; Comey wrote his down in the car afterward

Comey has conceded in congressional testimony that Trump never ordered him to back off from investigating Flynn, who later pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI about his late 2016 contacts with Russia's then-ambassador Sergey Kislyak

Trump's exact words, according to Comey  who memorialized them on paper afterward  were: 'I hope you can see your way clear to letting this go, to letting Flynn go. He is good guy. I hope you can let this go.'

Giuliani said on Sunday that none of it ever happened.

'There was no conversation about Michael Flynn. The president didn't find out that Comey believed there was until about  I think it was February when it supposedly took place,' he said on CNN's 'State of the Union' program.

Democrats have seized on Comey's claim to the contrary as evidence that Trump obstructed justice by interfering with an intelligence investigation that could establish ties between the Trump transition and the Russian government.

Special Counsel Robert Mueller's lengthy probe into such purported but unproven links has been a consistent distraction for the Trump administration. And Comey's claims, made while he was working on a memoir that clobbered Trump, have escalated the tension.

But Giuliani noted Sunday that before Comey released his memo to the media through a third party, the former lawman assured senator sthat Trump and his team never obstructed his ongoing investigations.

'[The] memo came out in May [2017],' Giuliani said. 'And in between, Comey testified under oath: In no way had he been obstructed at any time.'

'Then all of the sudden in May he says he felt obstructed. He felt pressured by that comment, "you should go easy on Flynn." So we maintain the President didn't say that.'

What Comey said in his June 2017 congressional grilling is that 'I don't think it's for me to say whether the conversation I had with the president was an effort to obstruct.'

But he did concede that Trump's expression of 'hope' that Flynn, a decorated military officer, could save face, didn't constitute a criminal act.

'Those words are not an order,' Comey conceded.

The president has insisted in the past that he never 'asked Comey to stop investigating Flynn'; it matters because intervening in a criminal probe about the retired general coud be seen as obstruction of justice

Giuliani said last month during a Sunday broadcast of ABC's 'This Week' show that Trump 'didn't direct' Comey to fold his Flynn investigation during the fateful February 20176 one-on-one.

'He didn't direct him to do that,' Giuliani said then. 'What he said was, "Can you, can you give him a break?"'

Giuliani's interview Sunday isn't the first time the White House has disputed Comey's version of events.

Trump himself tweeted in December 2017, amid a digital tirade against his own Justice Department, that 'I never asked Comey to stop investigating Flynn.'

'Just more Fake News covering another Comey lie!'

Flynn had pleaded guilty a week earlier to a single count of lying to the FBI.A Ukrainian filmmaker imprisoned on a terrorism conviction has spent 90 days on hunger strike in a Russian jail and the prison system has contradicted claims that he is frail and underweight by his lawyer.

On May 14 Oleg Sentsov started a hunger strike at the high-security prison colony in Labytnangi where he is being held, demanding that he and 64 other Ukrainians who he considers political prisoners be released.

His lawyer Dmitry Dinze said this week that Sentsov has become increasingly frail, has lost 30 kilograms in weight, and now has a low hemoglobin level.

Oleg Sentsov is demanding that he and 64 other Ukrainians who he considers political prisoners be released

But the Federal Penitentiary Service said in a statement yesterday that Sentsov is being given a nutritious formula daily and 'as of today, no deficit in body mass or worsening of his health has been observed.'

The penitentiary service specifically refereed to the alleged 30 kilogram weight loss in the statement, saying 'this information does not correspond to reality.'

The service said it 'is taking all the necessary measures' to maintain Sentsov's state of health.

'The prisoner takes nutritional supplements to protect his heart and nervous system', it said.

'He does not require emergency hospitalisation, it said, calling his state of health 'satisfactory'.'

Sentsov, an opponent of Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea, was sentenced to 20 years in prison in 2015, on terrorism charges and sent to Labytnangi, in Russia's far north.

Oleg Sentsov, pictured as his verdict is delivered, has reportedly lost 30 kilograms in weight

His case has garnered international support, with Western nations campaigning for his release.

The statement Penitentiary Service's statement came after French President Emmanuel Macron raised Sentsov's situation with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in a phone call on Friday.

Putin promised 'to respond and quickly release details on Sentsov's health,' the French presidency said.

Sentsov's legal representative, respected rights lawyer Dmitry Dinze, said in a Friday interview that Sentsov is 'ready to die'.

Sentsov's mother has urged Putin to issue him with a pardon and the Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has discussed the possibility of a prisoner swap with the Russian leader, but supporters are losing hope that he will be released.

The US Embassy said Friday that it is 'seriously concerned' about Sentsov's health and called for Russia to release him and 'his fellow Ukrainian prisoners' on humanitarian grounds.Protestors took to the streets yesterday to demand that disgraced MP Andrew Griffiths stand down after he sent 2,000 explicit sexts to two bar workers.

Jessica Eaton, an international researcher, writer and speaker on the forensic psychology of sexual violence, organised the protest in Burton, Staffordshire, yesterday afternoon.

Ms Eaton was joined by Mr Griffith's former colleague Councillor Deneice Florence-Jukes, and Jaimi Shrive, women's officer for Burton Labour Party.

It comes after Mr Griffiths, Prime Minister Theresa May's former chief of staff, resigned as Minister for Small Business on July 13 when it was revealed he had been sexting barmaids almost 20 years his junior.

Protestors took to the streets of Burton, Staffordshire, yesterday to demand that disgraced MP Andrew Griffiths stand down after he sent 2,000 explicit sexts to two bar workers

Mr Griffiths, Prime Minister Theresa May 's former chief of staff, resigned as Minister for Small Business on July 13 when it was revealed he had been sexting barmaids almost 20 years his junior

Some of messages asked the women to beat each other, while he referred to himself as 'daddy'.

In one message he asked them to tie each other up, and boasted: 'I can be an evil b*****d when I'm turned on.'

The protest saw a crowd of people gather near to the entrance of Coopers Square shopping centre.

Ms Eaton said: 'It is really important that the Conservatives know that the attitude he has displayed is not acceptable.

'Victims who are experiencing this in their own relationship may be blaming themselves and we need to make sure people know that this type of behaviour is not acceptable in their own relationships as well.

'We need to keep publicising this message so he does not get away with it as people in their own relationships are going to think it is normal and not recognise it.

'For me it is about raising awareness and shouting the message. We demand better from him in terms of his attitudes towards women.

Jessica Eaton, an international researcher on the forensic psychology of sexual violence, said: 'We need to keep publicising this message so he does not get away with it as people in their own relationships are going to think it is normal and not recognise it'

She added: 'There are around 52,000 women in his constituency but there is one that really matters and that is his wife'

'There are around 52,000 women in his constituency but there is one that really matters and that is his wife.

'More than half of his constituents are women and I would certainly not feel comfortable talking to him as my MP.'

She added that it cannot stop because 'they are waiting for it to quieten down and disappear' before Mr Griffiths makes a return to public life.

Ms Shrive added: 'I just hope there is a clear message to Andrew Griffiths and everyone protecting him that we won't stand for it and won't stop until he is gone.'

Councillor Florence-Jukes, an independent who sits on East Staffordshire Borough Council, said: 'I felt it was important to come.

'We need to keep the message going that he is totally unfit to be the MP.'The wife of a gunman responsible for the deadliest mass shooting in Texas history says he tied her to their bed on the morning of the massacre, kissed her on the forehead and said 'I'll be right back'.

Devin Patrick Kelley, 26, opened fire during church services on the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs last November, killing more than two dozen people.

He was later found dead in a vehicle after he was shot and chased by two men who heard the gunfire at the church.

In a series of interviews with the San Antonio Express-News, his wife Danielle Kelley said her husband behaved strangely detached the morning of the shooting until he forced her into the bedroom where he bound her to the bed using rope, handcuffs and tape as their two-year-old son cried.

Devin Patrick Kelley, 26, opened fire during church services on the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs last November. His wife Danielle (right) says her husband tied her up the morning of the massacre

She said Devin told her he loved her, kissed their five-month-old daughter in her crib and told their son, 'I'll be right back.' He grabbed his rifle and two handguns, donned military-style tactical gear and body armor, then left.

Devin then went to First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs and killed 25 people, more than half of whom were children. Authorities put the official death toll at 26 because one of the victims was pregnant.

Danielle still uses her husband's surname, saying she's 'not going to be ashamed' of it.

Her adoptive mother, Michelle Shields, has said her son-in-law was controlling and abusive to her daughter, who often accepted the abuse.

'We all have our demons,' Danielle said.

Danielle and Devin met when she was 13 and he was 17. Both came from unstable backgrounds. Danielle said her biological parents had abused her before Child Protective Services removed her and Michelle Shields adopted her as a four-year-old. She said Devin told her about being bullied as a child.

After he joined the Air Force and married another woman, they corresponded through letters. He was court-martialed for fracturing his stepson's skull, served time behind bars, was kicked out of the military and divorced.

Devin and Danielle married in April 2014, when he was 23 and she was 19. She said he went with her everywhere.

'It was frustrating. But you would be surprised, when everything's gone, how much I miss it,' she said.

Kelley opened fire during church services on the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs (pictured above) last November, killing more than two dozen people

A memorial for the victims of the shooting, including 26 white chairs each painted with a cross and and rose, is displayed in the church in Sutherland Springs

Six months before the massacre, while living in Sutherland Springs, about 30 miles southeast of San Antonio, Devin grew more depressed, his temper grew shorter, and he grew less tolerant, she said.

'He was shutting down,' Danielle said.

In April 2016, he bought an assault-style rifle and gathered more than a dozen magazines capable of holding 30 rounds of ammunition each. He grew more reclusive.

When she persuaded him to attend church services, including at First Baptist, he would laugh during sermons. He became an atheist.

'Devin was sick. He lost who he was. Because the real Devin would've never hurt babies. He was a family person. He would never have hurt anybody. He lost touch of reality,' Danielle said.

After the shooting, he called his parents and told them to go to his house. He later frantically phoned Danielle, who put the call on speakerphone for his parents, who had untied her.

'I just shot up the Sutherland Springs church,' he said.

They pleaded with him to stop.

'He was like 'I can't. I've killed so many people - so, so many people,'' Danielle said. 'He kept saying how sorry he was.'

He told them he wasn't going to make it home, that he loved them. They told him the same. Then the call ended.Robert Tyson, 62, allegedly twice placed semen into the woman's water mug at the dermatology center where they worked in Tallahaseee

A Florida man has been arrested after he was caught on camera lacing a female co-worker's drink with semen.

Robert Tyson, 62, allegedly twice placed semen into the woman's water mug at the dermatology center where they worked in Tallahaseee.

The 37-year-old woman told police that she was drinking the water last month when she noticed a 'distinct taste and smell'.

After taking a closer look, the woman said she 'observed a white colored mucous substance floating atop the water'.

Police said surveillance footage from inside the office captured Tyson sneaking up to the woman's desk on June 26 and July 2 when she had stepped away.

The footage allegedly showed him pouring a substance from a specimen jar into her water mug.

The woman told police she thought he might have targeted her because of previous clashes about her management style.

Police said surveillance footage from inside the office captured Tyson sneaking up to the woman's desk on June 26 and July 2 when she had stepped away

She said Tyson had written numerous letters to the HR department saying he didn't think she was an effective office manager.

Tyson was fired after the surveillance video emerged.

He sent an email to the HR department on July 4 allegedly admitting to his actions.

Tyson wrote that he was 'repulsed at the thought of my action'.

'I put a couple of drops of semen in her water. Yes, semen. Why semen? Why put anything at all in there? I-DO-NOT-KNOW!!! I-JUST-DO-NOT-KNOW!!!' he wrote.

He later wrote that he was exhausted due to his work schedule.

Tyson was charged with two counts of misdemeanor battery.

He has pleaded not guilty and has been ordered not to have any contact with the woman.Former presidential adviser Omarosa Manigault Newman said Sunday she secretly recorded conversations she had in the White House, including her firing by chief of staff John Kelly in the high-security Situation Room. It was a highly unusual admission, which immediately drew fire from allies of the president.

'Who in their right mind thinks its appropriate to secretly record the White House chief of staff in the Situation Room?' Republican National Committee Chair Ronna Romney McDaniel tweeted.

'Secretly recording conversations in the Situation Room isn't just wildly inappropriate, it's a threat to our national security,' McDaniel added. 'If she broke federal law, she should be prosecuted.'

American Enterprise Institute scholar Norman Ornstein had a blunter question: 'What the hell was OMAROSA doing in the situation room?'

Parts of Manigault Newman's conversation with Kelly were played on the air during an appearance on NBC's 'Meet the Press' to promote her new book, 'Unhinged,' which will be released Tuesday.

SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO

Omarosa Manigault Newman may have broken federal law by recording John Kelly firing her in one of the most secure places in the White House, it has been claimed

Republican National Committee chairwoman Ronna Romney McDaniel, pictured in 2017, asked 'who in their right mind thinks it's appropriate' for a White House aide to make secret recordings in the ultra-secure Situation Room

McDaniel raised the possibility of criminal prosecution for Manigault Newman

A conference room is shown inside the Situation Room complex at the White House in May 2007

Zara Rahim, a former Hillary Clinton spokeswoman, put it bluntly and asked 'What the actual f*** is going on in the West Wing'

In it, she paints a damning picture of President Donald Trump, including claiming without evidence that tapes exist of him using the N-word as he filmed his 'The Apprentice' reality series, on which she was a contestant.

She said in the book that she had not personally heard the recording. But she told Chuck Todd on Sunday that, after the book had closed, she was able to hear a recording of Trump during a trip to Los Angeles.

'I heard his voice as clear as you and I are sitting here,' she said on the show.

But the other recording she discussed Sunday could prove equally explosive.

The Situation Room is a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility, or SCIF, and staff are not permitted to bring in cell phones or other recording devices.

Small lockers are positioned outside the door so aides can securely leave prohibited devices during critical meetings.

The onetime Trump-backer who is now his public nemesis on Sunday played her bombshell reocrding on 'Meet the Press'

Scholars from the left and right pounced on the lax security culture that allowed a former reality TV contestant access to the Situation Room

National security lawyer Bradley Moss told The Daily Beast on Sunday that '[p]rotocol absolutely dictates you place that phone into the lockers right outside the Situation Room. Ive put my cell phones in similar lockers at government facilities. Its non-negotiable.'

He said while White House visitors are screened, in-house staff operate on an honor system, which Omarosa 'clearly violated ... and it is clear she deliberately meant to do so.'

Zara Rahim, who dropped an F-bomb into her analysis of Omarosa's actions, is now in charge of communications for Vogue magazine

Zara Rahim, a former national spokeswoman for Hillary Clinton who now leads the communications team at Vogue magazine, said that 'Omarosa in the situation room is such an alarming visual to me I cant wrap my head around it. What the actual f*** is going on in the West Wing.'

Americans 'should be alarmed at a few things including the fact that she was in the Situation Room AND had an unsecured device in a SCIF,' she added. 'My god.'

Nonpartisan analysts, too, was aghast.

''[I]t is clear across the board that there is no security culture at the WH [White House],' tweeted Harvard Kennedy School of Government professor Juliette Kayyen.

'It begins with Trump's phone. That Omarosa did this is really not surprising. Security only as strong as leadership enforces.'

Kayyem is also a national security analyst for CNN.

In the recording played on air, and which Manigault Newman quotes in the book, Kelly can be heard saying she can look at her time at the White House as a year of 'service to the nation' and referring to potential 'difficulty in the future relative to your reputation.'

Manigault Newman said she viewed the comment as a 'threat' and defended her decision to covertly record it and other White House conversations, describing it as a form of protection.

'If I didn't have these recordings, no one in America would believe me,' she said.

The White House did not immediately respond to the tape, but President Trump on Saturday labeled his former communications aide a 'lowlife.'

The White House is slamming Manigault Newman's new book, 'Unhinged'

LISTEN - Audio of John Kelly firing Omarosa in the situation room over her 'integrity issues'

NBCUniversal Privacy Policy GEN. JOHN KELLY: Hi. OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: Hi there, how are you? JOHN KELLY: Who are you? FEMALE VOICE: Hi. OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: My assistant. JOHN KELLY: Could you leave us alone? FEMALE VOICE: Sure. OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: Hi. JOHN KELLY: I'm only going to stay for a couple of minutes. These are lawyers. We're going to talk to you about leaving the White House. It's come to my attention, over the last few months, that there's been some pretty, in my opinion, significant integrity issues related to you and use of government vehicles and some other issues. And they'll, they'll, they'll walk you through the legal aspects of this. But there is some, from my view, there's some money issues and other things, but from my view, the integrity issues are very serious. I'm stuck with my past experience and that is, when we hold people accountable in the military, I would, I compare what I see here at the White House and other issues that I've had to deal with and say what would I do to this, in this case if I was in the Pentagon dealing with a Marine or a soldier or something like that? And the issue that you may or may not have a full appreciation for, but I think you do, this would be a pretty high level of accountability, meaning a court-martial. We're not suggesting any legal action here. OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: That I -- that I did? JOHN KELLY: Just stay with me, just stay with me. Yep. That it would be a a pretty serious offense. So with that I'm just going to ask you -- these gentlemen will explain it. We'll bring a personnel person in after after they talk to you. But just to understand that I'd like to see this be a a friendly departure. There are pretty significant legal issues that we hope don't develop into something that, that'll make it ugly for you. But I think it's important to understand that if we make this a friendly departure we can all be, you know, you can look at, look at your time here in, in the White House as a year of service to the nation. And then you can go on without any type of difficulty in the future relative to your reputation. But it's very, very important I think that you understand that there are some serious legal issues that have been violated. And you're, you're open to some legal action that we hope, I think, we can control, right? So with that, if you would stay here with these gentlemen they'll lay this thing out  OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: Can I ask you a couple questions? Does the president -- is the president aware of what's going on? JOHN KELLY: Don't do -- let's not go down the road. This is a non-negotiable discussion. OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: I don't want to negotiate. I just, I've never talked -- had a chance to talk to you General Kelly so if this is my departure I'd like to have at least an opportunity  JOHN KELLY: No. OMAROSA: --to understand. JOHN KELLY: We can, we can talk another time. This has to do with some pretty serious violat -- integrity violations. So I'll let it go at that. So the the staff and everyone on the staff works for me, not the president. And so after your departure I'll inform him if he gets interested on, on where you may be. So with that I'll let you go and if gentlemen you could take it. MALE VOICE: Thanks. Yep. I'm really sorry we're here. SOURCE: NBC NEWS' 'MEET THE PRESS WITH CHUCK TODD' A conference room is shown inside the Situation Room complex at the White House  a signal-hardened place where recording devices and cameras are strictly prohibited Advertisement

White House counselor Kellyanne Conway also questioned Manigault Newman's credibility in an interview Sunday on ABC's 'This Week.'

'The first time I ever heard Omarosa suggest those awful things about this president are in this book,' she said, noting Manigault Newman 'is somebody who gave a glowing appraisal of Donald Trump the businessman, the star of the "The Apprentice," the candidate and, indeed, the President of the United States.'

Conway said that, in her more than two years working with Trump, she has never heard him use a racial slur about anyone.

Manigault Newman had indeed been a staunch defender of the president for years, including pushing back, as the highest-profile African-American in the White House, on accusations that he was racist.

But Manigault Newman now says she was 'used' by Trump for years, calling him a 'con' who 'has been masquerading as someone who is actually open to engaging with diverse communities' and is 'truly a racist.'

'I was complicit with this White House deceiving this nation,' she said. 'I had a blind spot where it came to Donald Trump.'Two pensioners are among six people arrested on suspicion of murder after a man's body was found at a flat in Rochdale.

Greater Manchester Police discovered the body of a man in his 50s at the property on Palatine Street at 10.30pm on Saturday after being alerted by paramedics.

A murder investigation was launched and two men, aged 49 and 43, and a 44-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of murder.

Two pensioners are among six arrested after the body of a man was found in a flat at Palatine Street, Rochdale (pictured)

A 70-year-old man and two women, aged 69 and 47, were also arrested on suspicion of murder today.

All six remain in police custody.

Detective Superintendent Debbie Dooley said: 'This is a fast-moving investigation and we now have a further three people in custody bringing the total number of arrests to six so far.

'However, our investigation does not stop here and we would continue to urge the public to get in touch with any information they have.

'You might have seen or heard something untoward or suspicious and have yet to come forward to police.

'Any information could prove vital in finding those responsible for this man's death.'

Anyone with information can contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 856 8797 quoting incident number 2204 of August 11 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.Martha McSally is widely considered a sane, mainstream Republican, especially in comparison with her two rivals for the Republican Senate nomination to replace Jeff Flake. Of course, compared to those two-- Kelli Ward and Joe Arpaio -- even Sarah Palin and Nero would be considered sane people... by some. But don't be fooled; Martha McSally is a Trump enabling rubber-stamp. Just look at her record,, on the Trump affinity tracker . FiveThirtyEight projects a score of 57.6 for someone representing AZ-02. Her 40.2 is the difference between McSally's actual and predicted Trump-support scores. She's right up there in the top dozen out of all 365 members of Congress. That's not exactly mainstream. In fact, thatserious congressional Trump enablement.

So she's running for the Senate now and the Republican Party establishment-- both in DC and in Phoenix-- is petrified she'll lose the primary to one of the two crazies, Ward or Arpaio, either of whom would probably lose the general to GOP-lite Kyrsten Sinema, Schumer's hand-picked candidate. Actually, the latest Emerson poll shows Sinema beating any of the three, but shows McSally doing less horribly than Ward or Arpaio.

Yesterday, Alex Isenstadt, writing for, reported that NRSC chairman Cory Gardner (R-CO) called Senor Trumpanzee and asked him to endorse McSally, even though the two crackpots are his natural allies and cronies and have more-- much more-- in common with him politically. Gardner and his staff (and, presumably, Miss McConnell are afraid that Arizona's right-wing voters (i.e., Republicans) will nominate one of the two unelectable candidates and cede the seat to Sinema in November. Now only Super-Trump can save the day (at least in the primary. In the general, if McSally is the nominee, he'll have to avoid Arizona like the plague). According to Isenstadt's sources Senor T "was non-committal and did not say yes or no to the request."

In an interview in May, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made clear that McSally would run strongest against Sinema, though he said he was unsure if the party would need to intervene on her behalf in the primary.





Its pretty obvious which of our candidates have a best chance of winning, he said.





If Arpaio or Ward wins the primary, it would also put GOP senators in the difficult position of choosing whether to endorse those candidates. Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME), for example, said Arizona is one of the few places she might campaign this fall for Republicans because she wont campaign against colleagues.





I will go campaign in states where there are open seats, like Arizona, she said in an interview last week. Asked about Ward and Arpaio, she replied: Let me rephrase that. I would campaign for Martha McSally."

While Republicans are eager for Trump to intervene, the president may be disinclined to do so. He has previously lavished praise on Ward, and he pardoned Arpaio of criminal contempt, who shares his hardline immigration views. Both candidates are closely aligning themselves with the president, though Arpaio is trailing badly and the White House is uncomfortable with Ward promoting a photo of her alongside the president as an implied endorsement, according to the Arizona Republic.

McSally is the frontrunner in the primary, yet she faces obstacles. A pro-Ward super PAC, Kelli PAC, has been airing ads calling McSally one of the most liberal Republicans in Congress.





Wards super PAC has been financed by Republican mega-donor Robert Mercer, himself a Trump ally who has given the group $800,000. Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) beat Ward in the 2016 primary by 11 percentage points.





At the same time, Democrats are attempting to meddle in the Republican primary and sink McSally. Red and Gold, a newly-formed Democratic group, has begun airing commercials assailing McSally for putting Washington over Arizona.A grieving father has issued a warning to others after his 18-year-old son hanged himself while trying to perform a dangerous sex act.

John Veilleux was stunned to find his son Alex hanging from a beam in the family's garage in Mount Vernon, Maine last week, his clothes in a pile on the floor.

'There he was,' Veilleux told WGME. 'Just disbelief.'

Veilleux cut him down and performed CPR, but was unable to save Alex's life.

John Veilleux, right, has issued a warning to others after he found his son Alex, left, hanging in the family's garage in Maine last week after the 18-year-old attempted a dangerous sex act

Veilleux initially thought Alex, who had recently graduated from high school and was planning to join the Air Force, had committed suicide, but his internet history later revealed he had been searching for information about auto-erotic asphyxiation

The 18-year-old had recently graduated from high school and had plans to join the Air Force, Veilleux said, adding: 'I don't think there was a day in Alex's life that he didn't laugh and smile.'

The father's first thought was that his son had committed suicide, but investigators searched Alex's internet history and found he had been looking for information about auto-erotic asphyxiation.

'They opened it up and it was opened on the page of the website showing how to do this,' Veilleux said of the dangerous practice, which refers to the act of strangling or suffocating oneself for heightened sexual arousal.

'I couldn't understand why he would do it,' he went on. 'I think he felt that he would be in control and he could experience this, this Utopia or whatever it is, this euphoric moment and he would be all set and he could get himself down off the ladder. But he succumbed to it by passing out and was not able to wake up.'

Veilleux showed the local TV station the garage where his son accidentally hanged himself in an effort to warn others of the dangers of auto-erotic asphyxiation

The father and son are pictured together on a family trip to Universal Studios in Orlando

Veilleux decided to speak out about his heartbreaking experience in hopes of preventing others from having to go through it.

'We do our best to teach our kids the dangers of drugs and alcohol and reckless driving and teen pregnancies and all of these things, but this was a new one to me,' he said.

'I'd never heard of it. If we had, Alex would be with us today because he and I would have talked about it. We talked about everything.'A car explosion in an upmarket Spanish marina caused panic after initial fears it was a terrorist attack.

Panicked tourists including parents with young children ran for cover after a reportedly Moroccan-plated Audi Q7 burst into flames in Puerto Banus near Marbella.

The area was packed with holidaymakers and Brits strolling by the expensive yachts and photographing themselves alongside the millionaire's cars at the time.

Tourists including parents with children ran for cover as an Audi Q7 burst into flames in a freak incident in Puerto Banus on the Costa del Sol

One local tweeted in the aftermath of the explosion: 'Possible terrorist attack in Puerto Banus.

'There's been an explosion and there's lots of ambulances in the area.'

Fears it was a terrorist attack were quickly ruled out.

It is believed an electrical short-circuit or the car battery overheating was the reason for the 'freak incident'.

Police were quickly on the scene along with firefighters who confirmed there had been no injuries.

Four people whose nationalities are not yet known are said to have cheated death by exiting the car in time. They are thought to be members of the same family.

The vehicle was entering the marina by the western entrance, near to an underground car park, designer stores and the four-star Park Plaza Suites Hotel.

One of the emergency response workers said: 'The marina was really packed with people at the time.

Port town Puerto Banus is a hit with tourists who take pictures along the luxury yachts and supercars that line the marina

'It's a real miracle no-one was badly hurt.

'The initial fear when the calls started coming in was that it could be terrorism-related but it very quickly became apparent this was a freak incident caused by a car problem.'

One worried Spaniard tweeted a photo of the burning car with plumes of black smoke rising from the flames into the air and said: 'My friend has just sent me this photo. It just missed her.'

The vehicle was completely gutted by the blaze, as footage from the scene taken by onlookers on their mobile phones showed.

The black smoke coming from the car could be seen from several different parts of Puerto Banus, which is around a 15 minute drive from the centre of Marbella.

A holidaymaker caught up in the drama said: 'We had a real scare. I heard the explosion and then saw people running from the marina towards the beach.

'Luckily I found out afterwards it was a car that had exploded and caught fire and the occupants were okay.'

One onlooker said: 'There was a family who when they saw smoke coming from the car fled the vehicle.

'Thanks God the only loss was that of the vehicle.'James Dylan Jordan, 24, was arrested after he did a striptease dance for Florida diners

As a Florida couple was dining at a Japanese steakhouse, they didn't expect to be offered something definitely off the menu - a striptease from another young diner.

The unnamed married couple was eating at Kobe Japanese Steakhouse in Clearwater on Sunday August 5, when 24-year-old James Dylan Jordan approached them for his bizarre act.

Jordan, from Dunedin, danced as he took his clothes off in front of the wife.

He was drunk as he launched his erotic act, according to the Miami Herald.

When the woman asked him to stop, he dramatically shifted his act.

He began to insult her then threatened to fight her husband, according to court records.

Jordan was arrested and placed in Pinellas County Jail on a charge of disorderly conduct in an establishment.

He was released on Monday on $150 bond.British and German governments have come together to appeal to churches worldwide to ring its bells in unison on Armistice Day to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War.

Thousands of bellringers at more than 3,000 towers including churches are expected to let their bells ring out on Armistice Day - the day the war ceased after more than four years of fighting.

And the joint project by the governments is now trying to encourage more church, military and other bells to be rung in unison on November 11.

British and German governments have come together to appeal to communities to ring their bells in unison on Armistice Day. Stock image of bellringers at St Paul's Cathedral

Speaking to the Observer, culture secretary, Jeremy Wright, said the project between the two governments 'would be an appropriate way to draw to an end, in sound, more than four years of commemorative events'.

He said: 'Bells will ring out across the world to replicate the outpouring of relief that took place in 1918, and to mark the peace and friendship that we now enjoy between nations,' he said.

'It will be a fitting culmination to our First World War commemorations. One hundred years on, we will come together to remember all those who lost their lives  regardless of nationality.'

Pictured, a stock image of an Armistice Day Service in Alrewas, Staffordshire

Previously, the US Centennial Commission made a similar plea for communities across America to take part in the celebrations.

On Armistice Day, bells countries which observe Grenwich Mean Time (GMT) and Central European Time (CET) are scheduled to ring their bells at at 12.30pm GMT and 1.30pm (CET).

While other countries in the rest of the world are invited to ring them at either 12.30pm GMT or 12.30pm local time.

Christopher O'Mahony, president of the Central Council of Church Bellringers, said the sound of bells pealing in the UK would change from a sombre and solemn 'half-muffled' one in early morning to a more celebratory tone, similar to a wedding, at 12.30. At midday we will take the muffles off the bells and at 12.30 it will be more about celebration. The national mood swings then to gratitude, gratefulness and thanks.'

Between 1914 and 1918 bellringing was limited as a result of regulations introduced under the Defence of the Realm Act.

Many men departing to the front-line also meant that church bells were not rung often.

As so many men were on the front-line on the day the war ended, bells were not rung well, according to accounts from the time.

The UK Government is also backing an initiative called Ringing Remembers,

The initiative aims to recruit 1,400 bellringers in time for Armistice Day, the same as the number lost in the war.A British mother jailed in Dubai for drinking on the plane out was met by her delighted family as she landed back in the UK.

The 44 year old, who was jailed for drinking a glass of wine on a flight to the popular tourist destination, was met by her partner Gary at Gatwick Airport.

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Dr Holman said: 'I'm just so relieved to be home and can't wait to be with my family, recover and rest.

'It feels amazing to be free and back in a safe country. I'm just looking forward to being with my family. I want to hold all of them together and never let them go.'

Dr Holman, a dentist, was driven back to her home in Sevenoaks, Kent for a private family reunion after the eight hour flight.

Her two eldest children, Suri, nine and Noah, eight, had been staying with her in Dubai when she received a phone call telling her she was free and accompanied her on the long flight.

Dr Ellie Holman's four-year-old daughter Bibi, who was jailed with her in Dubai for three days, ran into her arms

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Dr Holman said: 'I'm just so relieved to be home and can't wait to be with my family, recover and rest. It feels amazing to be free and back in a safe country'

Dentist Dr Holman was locked up in Dubai for drinking on the plane out (pictured after landing with children Bibi, Noah, and Suri, and partner Gary)

Dr Holman hugged and kissed her partner Gary as she emerged into the arrivals hall.Her four-year-old daughter Bibi, who was jailed with her in Dubai for three days, ran into her arms.

The mother-of-three stood in middle of arrivals hall clutching Bibi to her as others arriving of international flights stepped round her.

Dr Holman said: 'Its so nice to be home and see all my family. Im tired, but so elated.

As they left the terminal, Dr Holman was close to tears but smiled when Gary told her: 'Youve got a great tan.'

Earlier she had told MailOnline she had been left 'exhausted' by ordeal.

As she prepared to fly home for an emotional reunion with her family, she said she couldn't wait to be back in the UK.

'I haven't even begun to comprehend what's happened to me', she said.

'I've been running on adrenaline alone for the past month and I'm exhausted.'

The Kent-based dentist was told she could leave after a personal intervention by the country's ruler Sheikh Mohammed.

Hours before she left, Dubai Government officials offered a different version of events and denied the alcohol had played any part in the arrest.

Dr Holman said: 'Its so nice to be home and see all my family. Im tired, but so elated

Dr Holman hugged and kissed her partner Gary as she emerged into the arrivals hall

As they left the terminal, Dr Holman was close to tears but smiled when Gary told her: 'Youve got a great tan'

They also said she was held for less than 24 hours, but offered no explanation as to why she was given a blood test and shown her alcohol reading.

Dr Holman said she will address the statement issued by the Dubai authorities at a later time.

The Dubai statement is in direct conflict with what Dr Holman claims took place.

She said her ordeal began on July 13 after she flew to Dubai for a five-day break with her daughter Bibi.

She was involved in a dispute with an immigration official who told her to return to the UK as her visa was not valid.

In a tense standoff Dr Holman started to film the official who then demanded to know if she had drunk any alcohol on the flight.

When she told him she had red wine with her in-flight meal he said alcohol was illegal in the Muslim country and had her arrested.

Dr Holman is pictured receiving a kiss from her eight-year-old son Noah after being being released from a Dubai prison

Dr Ellie Holman and four-year-old daughter Bibi (pictured together) were allowed to return home after being locked up in a Dubai prison

Dentist Dr Holman, pictured with children (from left) Noah, eight, Bibi, and Suri, nine, said her ordeal began when she was surrounded by armed police after trying to film her argument with an immigration official when he claimed her visa had expired

She and her daughter spent several hours in a holding cell before being taken to a detention centre at the airport where they spent three days.

After her release Dr Holman went to stay with friends but was unable to leave Dubai as her passport was confiscated.

She had been warned it could be up to a year before her case was heard.

Her release came after the personal intervention of Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed, according to sources in the UAE.

He is said to have ordered her release after MailOnline's coverage of her ordeal and treatment was covered by media worldwide.

Dubai, which attracts over 14million visitors each year, is heavily dependent on tourism.

The publicity about Dr Holman's arrest for drinking a glass of wine could have had a deterrent effect on future travellers.

Dr Holman, pictured with son Noah, said conditions in the cell were 'filthy, foul-smelling and baking hot'

Dr Holman said her daughter Bibi, pictured, was inconsolable during the ordeal and she tried to comfort her by reading her books in the jail

Ms Holman said the experience had been 'devastating' for her children, pictured

She told Mail Online how the dispute over her visa quickly escalated with a 'rude and aggressive' immigration officer.

As her single-entry visa had expired he demanded she fly back to London immediately.

When Dr Holman refused as she and her daughter were tired from the long flight there followed a tense standoff.

It was then the immigration officer asked if she had been drinking and she admitted to having a glass of wine with her meal during the eight-hour flight.

Despite her protestations, she was marched off to a holding cell where her daughter was forced to urinate on the floor as guards would not let her use a toilet.

After being held for several hours Dr Holman provided a blood sample to Dubai authorities which came back with a reading of 0.04% - well under the UK drink drive limit.

With no legal representation and not allowed to speak with her family she and Bibi were taken to an airport detention centre where they spent three days.

Her partner Gary, pictured with their children. She told MailOnline how the dispute over her visa quickly escalated with a 'rude and aggressive' immigration officer

Dr Holman (pictured with her other daughter, Suri) was detained for drinking a glass of wine in an airport in the Arab state

They were held in a 'baking hot and foul smelling' room and she was forced to clean toilets and mop the floor.

With her traumatised daughter too terrified to leave her side she was forced to sleep in a canteen area where the lights were kept on 24 hours a day.

During their detention the pair did not eat and Dr Holman said she was unable to sleep during her enforced stay.

'The food smelled like rotting garbage and neither Bibi or I could face trying it. I stayed awake for the whole three days,' she said.

She claims they were also denied a pillow or a change of clothing and that Bibi was in a state of shock and refused to be comforted.

After her release Dr Holman was allowed to stay with friends but her passport was confiscated, and she was told it might take up to a year until the matter is resolved.

Her partner Gary flew from their home in Kent to Dubai to collect their youngest daughter.

The couple estimate they have lost over 30,000 in earnings and money spent on legal fees.

Dr Holman's release came after the personal intervention of Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed (pictured)

Emirates Airlines offers wine on flights from the UK to Dubai as standard practice (file picture)

Since her arrest Dr Holman's practice in Sevenoaks has been closed.

She praised the NGO Detained in Dubai for their help in securing her freedom.

'I can't thank Radha Stirling and her team at Detained in Dubai enough. Thanks to her I will be sleeping in my own bed.'

Dubai Government officials released a statement on Saturday night saying all charges against Dr Holman had been dropped and she was being deported.

Dubai's Attorney-General said the incident started when Ms Holman tried to enter the city with a Swedish passport, which had expired on June 10.

She then presented an Iranian passport, but was told she could only enter the United Arab Emirates with a new temporary visa that would allow her to stay for 96 hours which meant she would have to change her flights.

'Ms Holman refused angrily due to the additional payment fees the process would require, and proceeded to verbally insult the immigration and take photos of the officer via her phone,' said Attorney-General Esam Issa Al Humaidan in a statement.

'A legal claim was issued against Ms Holman with charges of profanity and photographing a government official at the border crossing, a restricted area.'

He said a decision was taken to drop the charges and deport the mother-of-three.The drug-dealer brother of a seven-year-old boy who died when his home was torched has been sent back to prison.

Samuel Urhie, 21, was arrested on Friday mere months after being released from jail as police continue to hunt those behind the suspected arson attack.

Relatives believe his brother Joel died days earlier after being caught in the crossfire of a gangland feud involving the older sibling.

Samuel Urhie (pictured) was arrested on Friday just months after being released from jail as police probe 'suspected arson attack' that killed his brother

Urhie had recently left the family home in Deptford, south London, fearing reprisals.

Police said his arrest and return to prison was not connected with the murder investigation into the tragedy that unfolded last Tuesday morning.

It came as two men arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the blaze were released under investigation yesterday.

The unnamed men, aged 21 and 29 from Lewisham, south London, were also questioned on suspicion of attempted murder and arson with intent to endanger life after being detained on Saturday morning.

Police are investigating whether the fire may have been started as part of a gangland feud but say they remain open-minded about the motive.

Relatives believe Joel Urhie (pictured) died after being caught in the crossfire of a gangland feud involving his older brother

Joels mother Sophie, 49, and 19-year-old sister Sarah escaped the inferno by smashing an upstairs window and jumping out.

Mrs Urhie is still being treated in hospital, while Sarah suffered minor injuries.

Witnesses have described how they were seen desperately pleading for help as the inferno ripped through the property with the young boy, who dreamed of being a fireman, still inside.

Urhie was released from prison in February after being jailed for four years and four months in 2016.

He had pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of cocaine and heroin with intent to supply.

The father of one was separately given an eight-month sentence for affray in 2016, and having criminal cash.

After being released, he is understood to have moved in to his mothers home but relatives said he left the area several weeks ago after being stabbed.

Urhie, who goes by the street Skeemz, has repeatedly described his life of crime online.

Last week social media pictures emerged of him raising his middle finger to the camera from his prison cell.

A Scotland Yard spokesman said: A 21-year-old man was arrested by police in Lewisham on Friday, August 10, on behalf of the Probation Service following an urgent recall to prison.Donald Trump's former attorney Michael Cohen is throwing cold water on a claim from a onetime White House aide that she saw the president eat a piece of paper in the Oval Office.

In her forthcoming book Omarosa Manigault Newman hints that Trump was trying to destroy a note Cohen handed him, in order to prevent archivists from collecting it.

'I saw him put a note in his mouth,' Manigault Newman writes. 'Since Trump was ever the germaphobe, I was shocked he appeared to be chewing and swallowing the paper. It must have been something very, very sensitive.'

Cohen mocked the idea Sunday on Twitter.

'To the many dozens of #journalists who called me, questioning @OMAROSA claim in her new book that @POTUS @realDonaldTrump took a note from me, put it in his mouth and ate it...I saw NO such thing and am shocked anyone would take this seriously,' he said.

Former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen (left) on Sunday contradicted a story that suggested the president chewed and swallowed a paper note from him rather than allow White House archivists to have it

'I saw NO such thing,' Cohen tweeted, 'and am shocked anyone would take this seriously'

Omarosa Manigault Newman told the story, and many others, in her book 'Unhinged' which goes on sale August 14

The Washington Post first reported on the odd claim in 'Unhinged,' which will be available Tuesday. At the time several White House aides 'laughed at the assertion and said it was not true,' the paper reported.

Cohen's legal troubles have tested his past loyalty to the president, leading some Washington-watchers to speculate that he might turn on his old boss by helping Special Counsel Robert Mueller with his lengthy Russia probe.

The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York is reportedly investigating him for bank fraud and campaign finance violations in connection with a six-figure hush money payout he made in 2016 on Trump's behalf to a pornographic actress. The woman, who goes by the stage name Stormy Daniels, had claimed she slept with the then-future-president a decade earlier.

Cohen's position  on the outside of the White House looking in, facing a lengthy prison term and the loss of his law license for making tapes of his clients  makes his dismissal of Manigault Newman's latest claim all the more remarkable.

Several other claims in 'unhinged' have already come under fire from inside Trumpworld.

Pollster Frank Luntz read in Omarosa's book that he had spread rumors about the existence of audio showing Trump using the n-word  something he quickly denied in public

Trump campaign spokeswoman Katrina Pierson is another of Omarosa's purported sources of information about the white-whale audio, but she too insists the author is lying

Kellyanne Conway's half-Filipino husband George dismissed as 'not credible' and 'absurd' an Omarosa story about Trump referring to him with racial slurs

Current and past White House officials have pooh-poohed her story about the president fighting with the head of the presidential mansion's household staff over his demand for a tanning bed in the residence.

There never has been one there, they say, and Trump never issued a request.

One former White House official employed in the West Wing while Omarosa was there told DailyMail.com on Friday that 'it never happened.'

'Are you kidding me?' asked the aide. 'If that were true, he would have tweeted about it by now and challenged Putin to get one.'

Manigault Newman has also claimed pollster Frank Luntz and Trump 2020 campaign spokeswoman Katrina Pierson each told her about the existence of outtake audio from 'The Apprentice' in which Trump used the 'n-word' to refer to African-Americans.

Both have said since Friday that it never happened.

George Conway, the Trump-skeptic husband of presidential counselor Kallyanne Conway, ridiculed another claim from the book on Friday, dismissing Manigault Newman's tale of the president using ethnic slurs against him.

Conway, who is half Filipino, said it was 'absurd all around' to think Trump would call him a 'flip' and a 'goo-goo.'

The author, who has swung from presidential booster to a hated mudslinger, also has told two different stories about whether she has heard the purported audio herself.

If Trump did indeed eat a piece of paper to keep it secret, it wouldn't be the first time he has made it difficult for the National Archives to keep complete records of his presidency.

Michael Cohen's apparent 180-degree turn from presidential insider to opponent makes his defense of Trump allthe more remarkable

Disputing Omarosa's claim that the president fought with the chief of the White House's household staff over installing a tanning bed in the presidential residence, a former coworker said 'it never happened'

Manigault Newman is on a full-court-press book tour and drawing fire every step along the way

A group of records management analysts in the Old Executive Office Building next to the White House has been tasked for more than a year with taping together documents that Trump rips up when he's done with them.

Armed with rolls of clear Scotch tape, the team sifts through large piles of shredded paper and puts them back together like a lissome jigsaw puzzle.

In some cases the president tears sheets once down the middle. In others he shreds them into confetti.

The Presidential Records Act requires the White House to preserve all communications that reach the president and send them to the National Archives.

That includes memos, letters, emails and papers  anything Trump touches.Britains next generation super-fast mobile broadband could be vulnerable to Chinese espionage when launched next year, a spy suggested yesterday.

Jeremy Fleming, head of eavesdropping agency GCHQ, said fifth generation mobile services, 5G, risk being hacked into by hostile states or terrorists.

He said new technologies will transform healthcare and create smart, energy-efficient cities. But they also bring risks that, if unchecked, could make us more vulnerable to terrorists, hostile states and serious criminals, he wrote in the Sunday Times.

Jeremy Fleming, head of eavesdropping agency GCHQ (pictured), said fifth generation mobile services, 5G, risk being hacked into by hostile states or terrorists

He added: The globalisation of technology is here and we need to learn to deal with it. Critical technologies  for example, in 5G  are increasingly likely to come from China.

Mr Fleming said the UK must take measures to limit the threat to national infrastructure.

His comments come after a report into Chinese firm Huawei  the worlds largest provider of telecoms  found the UK has only limited assurance that it poses no threat to national security.Buffer zones banning protests outside all abortion clinics could be introduced later this year, campaigners hope.

It comes after Ealing Council became the first in the country to create a 100-metre protest-free zone outside a Marie Stopes centre in West London.

The council used a Public Spaces Protection Order, typically used to tackle begging, after women visiting the clinic allegedly suffered sustained intimidation by pro-life protesters.

A cross-party campaign, led by Labour MP Rupa Huq, has been calling for similar zones across the country and Home Secretary Sajid Javid has promised an announcement next month.

A British Pregnancy Advisory Service spokesman said it was optimistic the Government will bring forward legislation.

Buffer zones banning protests outside all abortion clinics could be introduced later this year, campaigners hope (file photo)Getting lost while driving is a common cause of rows  but the target of our anger is now just as likely to be technology as a passenger.

Almost a quarter of motorists admit to having blazing 'rows' with their sat navs.

In a poll of 1,000 drivers, 23 per cent confessed to regularly shouting at their mapping device after it has taken them in the wrong direction.

Their main complaints were being directed into a traffic jam, sent down a dead end or routed farther than expected.

However 28 per cent said they would be 'completely lost' without their sat nav  even as little as a mile from home.

In a poll of 1,000 drivers, 23 per cent confessed to regularly shouting at their mapping device after it has taken them in the wrong direction. File image

The poll by Europcar UK found that 40 per cent of those questioned said they preferred using old-fashioned maps instead of a sat nav and 36 per cent said that if they got lost they would wind down their car window and ask a local.

Gary Smith, of the hire car firm, said: 'There's no doubt that the reliance on sat nav is increasing.

'And perhaps arguing with an inanimate device  rather than the passengers  is preferred.'

Richard Grant, of Hastings in East Sussex, said he had broken two sat navs and now relied on a map to find his way around.

'I'm not the calmest driver at the best of times and I always used to shout at my sat nav,' said the 35-year-old. 'I don't have one any more as I've broken the last two.

'One of them was so rubbish it always seemed to take me on the longest route and the other one kept shutting down.

'Both of them ended up in the bin after I threw them about in the car in frustration and now I just use a normal road map to find my way around.'

According to the AA Driving School, young drivers play dangerous games of 'beat the sat nav' to get to destinations quicker.This blog may be a labor of love for me, but it takes a lot of effort, time and money. For over 14 years and 30,000 articles I have been providing accurate, original news that would have remained unnoticed. I've written hundreds of scoops and sometimes my reporting ends up making a real difference. I appreciate any donations you can give to keep this blog going.Meghan Markle has been branded 'inhumane' by her half-sister in the escalating row over the treatment of the Duchess's father Thomas, who fears he will never see his daughter again.

Samantha Markle, 53, described the new royal bride as a 'greedy, arrogant, fake humanitarian' and warned that 'Harry is next' after Thomas Markle was allegedly frozen out.

Meanwhile Meghan's half-brother Tom Jr, who revealed he was devastated to miss out on the royal wedding, said it was 'selfish' and 'cruel' for the Duchess to turn her back on her father, the Mirror reports.

It came after Thomas Markle's latest explosive interview in which he revealed he had put the phone down on Prince Harry after the row over staged paparazzi pictures.

Samantha Markle (left) described half-sister Meghan as a 'greedy, arrogant, fake humanitarian' and warned that 'Harry is next' after Thomas Markle (right) was allegedly frozen out

Mr Markle, 74, did not attend the royal wedding after suffering a heart attack and said he had not spoken to the new Duchess of Sussex in months.

Last night Samantha Markle described Meghan's diplomacy skills as 'inhumane' as she savaged her half-sister for 'freezing out' her father.

She said: 'There would be no just reason for her not to want him in her life, as he was good enough to use to make her everything she is.'

Thomas Markle Jr said Meghan was 'abusing' her father's love calling the former actress's behaviour 'selfish, cruel even'.

He said he had wanted to 'say a few words' at the royal wedding, saying it 'hurt' that he was not given the chance to make a speech.

The 51-year-old said: 'It's heartbreaking to see how this has changed her and the devastation it has caused to my family.

Thomas Markle Jr (left) also criticised Meghan (pictured right with Prince Harry at the christening of Prince Louis) amid the escalating row over her father

'Anyone who saw Meg when she was growing up knew her and my dad were inseparable. Now it looks as though they may never speak again.'

Former lighting director Mr Markle has also spoken of his fears that he will never see his daughter again.

He told The Sun: 'I don't expect to see her or hear back from her and that's OK.

'All I was doing was saying things I wanted to say. I just want to re-establish the relationship with my daughter.

'I now want to go away on vacation somewhere and try to get some peace.'

Mr Markle, 74, made global headlines in May when he pulled out of walking his daughter down the aisle days before her wedding at Windsor, blaming a heart attack.

His shock decision came the day after it was revealed he had been colluding with a paparazzi photographer to pose for staged photos.

Thomas Markle (pictured in Mexico in March), 74, did not attend the royal wedding after suffering a heart attack and said he had not spoken to the new Duchess of Sussex in months

Though they have never met, Harry and Mr Markle had enjoyed a series of 'warm and chatty' phone conversations after Meghan told him of her romance with the Royal.

Among other things, they discussed what to do when news of the relationship became public  and Harry advised Mr Markle to avoid the paparazzi at all costs.

Mr Markle recalled: 'Harry told me that I should never go to the press. That it would end in tears. He said, 'They will eat you alive.' He was right.'

After the staged pictures came to light Harry and Meghan called Mr Markle when he was in hospital recovering from a heart attack. Mr Markle said the Prince told him: 'If you had listened to me this would never have happened'.

Mr Markle said he told Harry: 'Maybe it would be better for you guys if I was dead then you could pretend to be sad. Then I hung up.'

A month after the wedding he told Piers Morgan on Good Morning Britain he had discussed politics with Harry on the phone and claimed the Prince was open to Brexit.'

Meghan pictured with half-sister Samantha Markle who has criticised her treatment of Thomas

Mr Markle revealed he has not spoken to his daughter since the May wedding and that he felt he had been cut off as a punishment for staging the fake paparazzi pictures.

He has since claimed in a that his daughter looked terrified in her new role as a full-time member of the royal family and that she wore a pained smile.

Meghan's father also says that he was concerned his daughter may have read false reports that he faked his heart attack.

I dont know if she believes it or why she would believe it but its bull***t, like so much that has been written about me, Mr Markle said.Nine hours after former White House aide Omarosa Manigault Newman shocked the political world with an audiotape of her own firing made in the ultra-secure Situation Room, the Trump administration fired back at the former reality TV star.

'The very idea a staff member would sneak a recording device into the White House Situation Room, shows a blatant disregard for our national security  and then to brag about it on national television further proves the lack of character and integrity of this disgruntled former White House employee,' Trump's press secretary Sarah Sanders said in a dinnertime statement.

Manigault Newman gave the audio to NBC News, which broadcast it during its 'Meet the Press' interview with the explosive onetime Trump booster. It includes a voice identified as White House Chief of Staff John Kelly telling her that 'serious integrity violations' had left her without a job.

Kelly tells her in the audio that the issues surrounded money and the improper use of government vehicles. He can be heard denying a request for her to speak with president about her dismissal, which he said was non-negotiable.

Omarosa Manigault Newman secretly taped White House Chief of Staff firing her last December, and she recording in the ultra-secure Situation Room

Manigault Newman gave NBC News the recording on Sunday, opening her up to accusations of a national security breach

On the audio recording, Kelly is heard telling Omarosa that 'serious integrity violations' had left her without a job

A conference room is shown inside the Situation Room complex at the White House  a signal-hardened place where recording devices and cameras are strictly prohibited

Manigault Newman, nationally known by her first name 'Omarosa' since her days as a back-stabbing contestant on 'The Apprentice,' claimed Sunday while promoting her forthcoming tell-all book that she had recorded Kelly threatening her reputation while they spoke in the Situation Room.

'I think its important to understand that if we make this a friendly departure we can all be  you know, you can look at, look at your time here in the White House as a year of service to the nation,' the retired general said. 'And then you can go on without any type of difficulty in the future, relative to your reputation.'

The fired West Wing official said she viewed the comment as a 'threat' and defended her decision to covertly make recordings as a form of self-preservation.

'If I didn't have these recordings, no one in America would believe me,' she said Sunday

The Situation Room is known as a SCIF  a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility. Such rooms are hardened against electronic eavesdropping so classified information can be securely discussed inside.

Standard protocol prohibits cameras and recording devices. Lockers or cubbies are typically situated outside SCIFs to hold cellphones while their owners are inside. The Situation Room is no exception.

Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna Romney McDaniel raised the possibility of criminal prosecution for Omarosa if she broke federal law by making her secret recording

Omarosa's admission, a highly unusual one, immediately drew fire from allies of the president.

'Who in their right mind thinks its appropriate to secretly record the White House chief of staff in the Situation Room?' Republican National Committee Chair Ronna Romney McDaniel tweeted.

'Secretly recording conversations in the Situation Room isn't just wildly inappropriate, it's a threat to our national security,' McDaniel added. 'If she broke federal law, she should be prosecuted.'

The RNC's own Twitter account carped, 'Omarosa will clearly say anything to make a buck. Its obvious that no one should believe a word she says.'

National security lawyer Bradley Moss told The Daily Beast on Sunday that '[p]rotocol absolutely dictates you place that phone into the lockers right outside the Situation Room. Ive put my cell phones in similar lockers at government facilities. Its non-negotiable.'

He said while White House visitors are screened, in-house staff operate on an honor system, which Omarosa 'clearly violated ... and it is clear she deliberately meant to do so.'

LISTEN - Audio of John Kelly firing Omarosa in the situation room over her 'integrity issues'

NBCUniversal Privacy Policy GEN. JOHN KELLY: Hi. OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: Hi there, how are you? JOHN KELLY: Who are you? FEMALE VOICE: Hi. OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: My assistant. JOHN KELLY: Could you leave us alone? FEMALE VOICE: Sure. OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: Hi. JOHN KELLY: I'm only going to stay for a couple of minutes. These are lawyers. We're going to talk to you about leaving the White House. It's come to my attention, over the last few months, that there's been some pretty, in my opinion, significant integrity issues related to you and use of government vehicles and some other issues. And they'll, they'll, they'll walk you through the legal aspects of this. But there is some, from my view, there's some money issues and other things, but from my view, the integrity issues are very serious. I'm stuck with my past experience and that is, when we hold people accountable in the military, I would, I compare what I see here at the White House and other issues that I've had to deal with and say what would I do to this, in this case if I was in the Pentagon dealing with a Marine or a soldier or something like that? And the issue that you may or may not have a full appreciation for, but I think you do, this would be a pretty high level of accountability, meaning a court-martial. We're not suggesting any legal action here. OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: That I -- that I did? JOHN KELLY: Just stay with me, just stay with me. Yep. That it would be a a pretty serious offense. So with that I'm just going to ask you -- these gentlemen will explain it. We'll bring a personnel person in after after they talk to you. But just to understand that I'd like to see this be a a friendly departure. There are pretty significant legal issues that we hope don't develop into something that, that'll make it ugly for you. But I think it's important to understand that if we make this a friendly departure we can all be, you know, you can look at, look at your time here in, in the White House as a year of service to the nation. And then you can go on without any type of difficulty in the future relative to your reputation. But it's very, very important I think that you understand that there are some serious legal issues that have been violated. And you're, you're open to some legal action that we hope, I think, we can control, right? So with that, if you would stay here with these gentlemen they'll lay this thing out  OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: Can I ask you a couple questions? Does the president -- is the president aware of what's going on? JOHN KELLY: Don't do -- let's not go down the road. This is a non-negotiable discussion. OMAROSA MANIGAULT NEWMAN: I don't want to negotiate. I just, I've never talked -- had a chance to talk to you General Kelly so if this is my departure I'd like to have at least an opportunity  JOHN KELLY: No. OMAROSA: --to understand. JOHN KELLY: We can, we can talk another time. This has to do with some pretty serious violat -- integrity violations. So I'll let it go at that. So the the staff and everyone on the staff works for me, not the president. And so after your departure I'll inform him if he gets interested on, on where you may be. So with that I'll let you go and if gentlemen you could take it. MALE VOICE: Thanks. Yep. I'm really sorry we're here. SOURCE: NBC NEWS' 'MEET THE PRESS WITH CHUCK TODD' A conference room is shown inside the Situation Room complex at the White House  a signal-hardened place where recording devices and cameras are strictly prohibited Advertisement

President Trump branded Manigault Newman, a former communications aide, a 'lowlife' on Saturday. On Friday Sanders said the memoir was 'riddled' with lies.

Much of the controversy surrounding the book, titled 'Unhinged,' has centered on her claim that she has heard audio of the president referring to African-Americans with the 'n-word.'

She writes only that several people had told her of the existence of the tape, purportedly made through an open mic during an 'Apprentice' taping.

Two people to whom she has attributed that information, pollster Frank Luntz and Trump campaign aide Katrina Pierson, have both publicly denied it.

Beginning on Friday Manigault Newman insisted she had heard the outtake herself, but not until after her book was finished.

'It was confirmed what I feared the most: that Donald Trump is a con and has been masquerading as someone who is actually open to engaging with diverse communities, but when he talks that way, the way he did on his tape, it confirmed that he is truly a racist,' she said Sunday on NBC.

She said she felt used by Trump, who a year ago was under siege for his comments about a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville that ended with the death of a counter-protester.

Omarosa expressed regret for aiding and abetting Trump, saying, 'I was complicit with this White House in deceiving this nation.'

Counselor to the President Kellyanne Conway on Sunday rebutted Manigault Newman's claim that Trump used racially charged language in the White House.

'He never said that to us in the White House, and I certainly have never heard it. But why didnt she tell us at the time?' Conway asked on ABC. 'She said, "No, hes not a racist." She said, "I would not be there, and I wouldnt be there, none of us would be there if that were true".'

As the drama intensified Sunday, current and former White House officials flooded the airwaves to defend themselves and the president against the attacks coming from Trumpworld's newest apostate.

Omarosa Manigault Newman admitted Sunday that she was fired from the White House and did not resign as she claimed in previous interviews. She's seen here with her former boss, the president, in late 2015

Omarosa contradicted herself Friday in an NPR interview, claiming that she had personally heard the rumored recording of Trump using the racial slur; in the book, she writes that other people hed merely told her about the audio

Famed pollster Frank Luntz clobbered Omarosa for printing, without contacting him, an anonymous source's claim that he had once heard Donald Trump use the 'n-word'

Noted pollster Frank Luntz on Friday debunked a passage of the book where Omarosa claims she was told he had personally heard the rumored Trump 'n-word' audio.

'Im in @Omarosas book on page 149. She claims to have heard from someone who heard from me that I heard Trump use the N-word,' Luntz wrote. 'Not only is this flat-out false (Ive never heard such a thing), but Omarosa didnt even make an effort to call or email me to verify. Very shoddy work.'

Luntz continued: 'It seems like certain book publishers these days care more about getting a release out than getting the facts down. This is why people dont trust these exposes, which is especially bad for authors who actually are good and reliable.'

Manigault Newman said Sunday that aside from the N-word tape, she had never heard Trump use a racial slur.

'You know, I was in his presence when he said inappropriate things but he has never said the n-word in my presence. Ever,' she acknowledged.

She told Todd that Trump has 'probably' uttered the slur about her, too, 'because Donald Trump talks about everyone behind their back.'

'I am pretty certain that he's probably said some very derogatory things about me,' she asserted. 'In fact, yesterday, on this moment before Charlottesville, the anniversary of Charlottesville, instead of talking about how to unify the nation, he actually insulted me by calling me a "lowlife."

Omarosa charged: 'That is a man who is inclined to start racially charged engagement, and use race to kind of stir up his base.'

Conway told ABC on Sunday that she has 'never a single time' hear the president use a racial slur.

'I also never heard Omarosa complain that he had done that. And so the only thing thats changed is that shes now selling books,' the ex-campaign manager to the president said.

In a vicious assault on her former White House colleague, Conway compared Manigault Newman to Judas Iscariot, saying, 'I understand whether its 30 pieces of silver or a seven-figure book advance, people do change their loyalties and change their mind. But I would refer you to Omarosas own comments. Very glowing appraisal of this presidents work and this presidents work with respect to the African American community.'

Mangiault-Newman led the president's African-American outreach in 2016.

She claimed in a memorable video that fall that when if the former 'Apprentice' host won the the White House, 'Every critic, every detractor, will have to bow down to President Trump.'

After her dismissal, Manigault Newman had a change of heart, writing in her book that she witnessed him slip into a serious 'mental decline' that was not apparent to people around him who had not known him for as long as she had.

Instead of telling the truth about all the good President Trump and his administration are doing to make America safe and prosperous, this book is riddled with lies and false accusations. Its sad that a disgruntled former White House employee is trying to profit off these false attacks, and even worse that the media would now give her a platform, after not taking her seriously when she had only positive things to say about the President during her time in the administration.  White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders

They'd had a working relationship since Omarosa's appearance on the first season of 'The Apprentice,' dating back more than a decade to 2003.

In her 'Meet the Press' interview, Omarosa doubled down on the charge and lobbed grenades at former colleagues like ex-White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer.

She alleged that the president's cronies 'absolutely' bought the ex-White House aide's silence and tried to enter into a similar deal with her.

Spicer told DailyMail.com that he did not receive a paycheck from the Trump-supported America First PAC until June of this year, roughly 10 months after the conclusion of his White House tenure.

The former White House aide who's on a promotion tour now for his own book detailing his time working with Trump, 'The Briefing,' said he signed a contract for the manuscript in December.

America First said later in a tweet: 'Her compulsive lies are sick&sad! It's clear that what she was fired for in the first place(lack of integrity)is still running wild in her world of make-believe!'

Pierson also denied Manigualt-Newman's allegations from her, saying in a statement to DailyMail.com that she has 'never heard President Trump ever use the derogatory language that Omarosa claims' and that she 'never confirmed the existence of an alleged tape from "The Apprentice" to her as she said today.'

'Thats a complete fabrication by Omarosa,' she said in the comment that said Trump in her experience has always been respectful to persons of color. 'I feel pity for Omarosa as she embarrasses herself by creating salacious lies and distortions just to try to be relevant and enrich herself by selling books at the expense of the truth. "Unhinged," indeed.'

White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders took time away from vacation on Friday to say the book is 'riddled with lies' and Omarosa is 'disgruntled'

President Trump refrained from tweeting about his disloyal former aide on Sunday, with nothing on his schedule as a vacation at Bedminster, New Jersey, estate came to a close.

The White House fired a missile in Manigault Newman's direction on Friday following reporters that the book would accuse the president of uttering 'several' racial slurs.

'Instead of telling the truth about all the good President Trump and his administration are doing to make America safe and prosperous, this book is riddled with lies and false accusations,' White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement to reporters, throwing an unmistakably sharp elbow.

'Its sad that a disgruntled former White House employee is trying to profit off these false attacks, and even worse that the media would now give her a platform, after not taking her seriously when she had only positive things to say about the President during her time in the administration.'

Omarosa, who launched her famous-for-being-famous career on the strength of her pugnacious persona on 'The Apprentice,' became an outspoken Trump critic only after she left her spokeswoman job at the White House's Office of Public Liaison and began to shop for a book deal.

Because she has told contradictory stories about her knowledge of Trump's purported racial slurs, it's unclear whether she has knowledge of them at all.

She also writes that she personally witnessed the president using a pair of racial insults against senior aide Kellyanne Conway's half-Filipino husband George.

'Would you look at this George Conway article?' she quotes Trump as saying, according to The Guardian. 'F***ing FLIP! Disloyal! F***ing Goo-goo.'

George Conway dismissed the story as 'absurd.'

Omarosa made more pedestrian recordings of Trump on her own while she worked in the West Wing, but insists the white-whale tape is out there somewhere

Omarosa is launching a book tour, saying that she heard Trump denigrate Kellyanne Conway's half-Filipino husband (back row, right) with a racial slur

Mr. Conway immediately dismissed the racial-slur story as 'not credible' and 'absurd' on Thursday, noting that Omarosa was fired in December 2017, long before he became known as a persistent Trump critic

'The allegation is not credible, and indeed is ridiculous, particularly in light of the timing of her departure from the White HouseDecember 12, 2017. Its absurd all around,' he tweeted.

It wasn't until months later that he emerged as a steadfast and reliable Trump critic on Twitter despite his wife's loyalty and devotion to the president.

It's unclear what if anything might have set Trump off, but one of Mr. Conway's earlier rhetorical slaps may provide a suggestion.

In a June 2017 tweet the Yale Law School grad berated the president for defending his travel ban, and said it would make it harder for the Office of Solicitor General to find 5 Supreme Court justices to green-light it.

'These tweets may make some ppl feel better,' he wrote, 'but they certainly won't help OSG get 5 votes in SCOTUS, which is what actually matters. Sad.'

A year later the high court did side with Trump on the divisive issue, by a 5-4 margin.

Omarosa's spicy memoir includes other less incendiary but equally too-good-to-check anecdotes.

One is the charge that a tanning bed occupies space in the presidential residence at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, and that President Trump caused a stink when he demanded one.

The Washington Post reported Friday that Omarosa wrote about how Trump fought over a tanning appliance with Angella Reid, then the White House's 'chief usher'  a title held by the chief of the household staff.

Reid was dismissed in early May 2017, narrowing the timeframe in which the story could have unfolded.

NOPE: White House officials are disputing Omarosa's claim that the president fought with White House ushers to install a tanning bed in the presidential residence

Omarosa claims Lara Trump, the wife of Eric Trump, offered her a $15,000 per month campaign job after she left the White House, a position that she says came with an onerous nondisclosure agreement

But a former White House official employed in the West Wing during those months told DailyMail.com on Friday that 'it never happened.'

'Are you kidding me?' asked one former aide who worked alongside Omarosa. 'If that were true, he would have tweeted about it by now and challenged Putin to get one.'

The source, who requested anonymity in order to speak freely, called the outspoken former colleague 'Ponderosa,' a derisive combination of her name and the word 'ponderous.'

Separately, a current senior White House official told a 'New York' magazine reporter that 'there is no tanning bed in there,' and there has 'never been any request' for one.

Among the odder claims in 'Unhinged' is Omarosa's insistence that presidential daughter-in-law Lara Trump offered her a $15,000-per-month campaign job when she left the White House, along with an agreement not to talk publicly about Trump.

Omarosa describes that as a bid to silence her, but presidential campaign jobs typically come with such strings attached.

And she says she once saw the president chewing up a piece of paper after a meeting with lawyer Michael Cohen.

George Conway may have set Trump off with tweets like this on in June 2017, in which he berated the president for defending his travel ban and said it would make it harder for the Office of Solicitor General to find 5 Supreme Court justices to green-light it

The Conways are pictured during an October 30, 2017 Halloween event at the White House

'I saw him put a note in his mouth. Since Trump was ever the germaphobe, I was shocked he appeared to be chewing and swallowing the paper. It must have been something very, very sensitive,' she writes in an excert given to The Washington Post.

As with many of her more pointed stories, White House aides flatly dnied it to the Post.

Omarosa's unceremonious December 2017 firing will be a telling asterisk as she launches a media tour this weekend with an interview on the set of 'Meet the Press.'

White House Chief of Staff John Kelly threw her overboard after he learned she was using the White House's car service  meant for the use of outside VIP guests  as a personal pick-up and drop-off chauffeur for her daily commute.

She claims in her book that she was shown the door because senior aides believed she was close to getting her hands on an 'n-word' recording  even though her employment status would be of little consequence if she had found one.

According to Omarosa, she was contacted during the 2016 campaign by a source who claimed to have the recording.

'By that point, three sources in three separate conversations had described the contents of this tape,' she writes. 'They all told me that President Trump hadnt just dropped a single N-word bomb. Hed said it multiple times throughout the shows taping during off-camera outtakes, particularly during the first season of The Apprentice.'

In the book Omarosa describes how she and Ivanka Trump tried to rid the White House of leakers

Trump has been flattering of the former 'Apprentice' star in the past, while acknowledging her tough reputation

She herself appeared in that season but doesn't claim to have heard it.

'I need to hear it for myself,' Trump aide Hope Hicks said when she raised the issue, in Omarosa's telling, asking her over and over for progress updates. The white-whale recording never materialized.

'I was told exactly what Donald Trump said  yes, the N-word and others in a classic Trump-goes-nuclear rant  and when hes said them. During production he was miked, and there is definitely an audio track,' she writes now.

Rumors of a buried Trump 'n-word' recording predate his 2015 entry into presidential politics, and his case won't be helped by the infamous 'Access Hollywood' tape of him bragging that famous men like him can easily take sexual liberties with unwilling women.

Omarosa's personal smartphone recordings of Trump feature ordinary chatter, suggesting that she didn't witness him saying anything at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue that was explosive or damning enough to make news.

But the tell-all book will infuriate the president, who reacted with anger when it was revealed his former personal attorney Michael Cohen recorded some of their conversations.

Omarosa describes an attempt by herself and Ivanka Trump to rid the White House of leakers. Short-lived White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci led the effort.

'Along with his comms directorship, Scaramucci had a secondary job. He was apparently the hired hit man,' Manigault writes, according to the Daily Beast.

'Very low-key, Ivanka [Trump] went around to the original Trumpers, the loyal soldiers, and asked the team to compile a list of suspected leakers. I'd already said my piece about [deputy chief of staff] Katie Walsh directly to Donald, and she'd been let go. But Ivanka wanted a new list and, once she had it, she would give it to Scaramucci, so he could fire them all. The final list that was texted to me on July 22 had ten names on it.'

She lists those staff as: Vanessa Morrone, Lindsay Walters, Janet Montesi, Raj Shah, Kelly Sadler, Lara Barger, Ory Rinat, Kate Karnes, Michael Short, and Jessica Ditto.

A White House official with knowledge of situation alleged in comments to DailyMail.com that since Scaramucci needed to come up with a list of names, he arbitrarily chose staffers  no matter their seniority or access  who had worked at the Republican National Committee.

Not all of them were RNC alumni, however, including Ditto.

Scaramucci was fired after 11 days.

Trump has been flattering of Omarosa in the past, while acknowledging her tough reputation.

'Honest Omarosa: she won't backstab-she'll come at you from the front,' he tweeted on March 10, 2013.

And he wrote a few days earlier on March 3: 'I'll always like @Omarosa because she constantly defends me.'

Finally, on March 3 he wrote: 'Are people really afraid of @Omarosa. Would you be?'

In an exclusive excerpt obtained by DailyMail.com, Omarosa, 44, tells of the dread she felt while watching Trump's May 2017 interview with Lester Holt.

'While watching the interview I realized that something real and serious was going on in Donald's brain. His mental decline could not be denied,' she writes.

'Many didn't notice it as keenly as I did because I knew him way back when. They thought Trump was being Trump, off the cuff. But I knew something wasn't right.'

'For the Lester Holt interview, I watched it on a small TV in the upper press room (the lower press room was built on top of the old swimming pool and turned into the briefing room) by the press secretary's office,' she writes.

'Throughout this erratic and contradictory interview, I kept thinking, 'Oh no! Oh no! This is bad!

'Donald rambled. He spoke gibberish. He contradicted himself from one sentence to the next.'Prison bosses have been accused of wasting taxpayers' money after it emerged inmates have received more than 1million for lost or damaged belongings.

A total of 1.075million compensation has been paid over the last five years, for 13,023 claims including missing clothing, trainers and DVD players.

The lowest payout was just 57p for a 'lost or damaged TV magazine'.

Compensation paid in 2017-18 includes 10 for damage to tracksuit bottoms at Risley prison in Cheshire, 3 for a T-shirt in High Down, Surrey, and 150 for a stereo at Long Lartin prison in Worcestershire.

An inmate in Rochester, Kent, was repaid 5.25 after items bought at the prison shop were lost.

A prisoner in Elmley, Kent was also reimbursed for 20.80 after his tobacco went missing.

Prison bosses have been accused of wasting taxpayers' money after it emerged inmates have received more than 1million for lost or damaged belongings. Compensation paid in 2017-18 includes 10 for damage to tracksuit bottoms at Risley prison in Cheshire (pictured)

The 68.99 cost of a lost DVD player was also paid to an inmate at Ranby, Nottinghamshire. The cases involve 'authorised belongings' which prisoners can hold in their cell. Excess items can be stored locally at the jail or at a central depot.

The figures cover state-run prisons in England and Wales and were obtained by the Press Association under the Freedom of Information Act.

The number and value of payments went up in the last financial year despite a watchdog highlighting the problem.

Last year, then Prisons and Probation Ombudsman Nigel Newcomen called on jail bosses to 'get a grip' on the way property is managed.

The issue has also been flagged up by independent monitoring boards at several prisons, with one recent report saying the disappearance of property on transfer between establishments seems to be an 'intractable' problem.

Conservative MP Bob Neill, pictured, chairman of the Commons justice committee, said: 'Until prisons properly follow the clear guidance from the ombudsman, scarce resources, not to mention taxpayers' money, will continue to be wasted'

Conservative MP Bob Neill, chairman of the Commons justice committee, said: 'This issue has been raised at a number of our recent prison visits, so these figures do not come as a surprise.

'Property is a regular source of complaint to both the Prison and Probation Ombudsman and independent monitoring boards.

'Until prisons properly follow the clear guidance from the ombudsman, scarce resources, not to mention taxpayers' money, will continue to be wasted.

'Prisons need to sort it out to ensure that they have an adequate system for property recording.'

A spokesman for the Prison Officers' Association said: 'Prisoners often manipulate the system to make claims and the Prison Service needs to have a more robust attitude to compensation.

'We believe these claims are frivolous, unjustified and cost the taxpayer lots of money.'

An HM Prison Service spokesman said work was underway to 'prevent the causes of claims' and bring down the bill in future years.

She said: 'We successfully defend two thirds of all compensation cases brought against us by prisoners.'Grading of A-level and GCSE papers will be especially lenient this year to compensate for teething problems with the new exams.

Exam regulator Ofqual has said the marks needed for a pass will be set so no one is 'disadvantaged' by the changes.

It said grade boundaries  set after marking  will be positioned so roughly the same proportion of pupils will get good grades as in previous years.

This could potentially mean placing boundaries lower to compensate for poorer performance caused by teachers unfamiliar with the materials.

Exam regulator Ofqual said marks will be set so no one is at a 'disadvantage' by the new changes which meant hundreds of thousands of pupils acted as 'guinea pigs'

This year new A-levels and GCSEs have been sat by hundreds of thousands of pupils who will be acting as 'guinea pigs' following radical reforms to toughen up exams.

The changes were brought in by former education secretary Michael Gove following concerns over years of slipping standards under New Labour.

The new exams aim to bring performance in line with that of high-flying countries in Asia which are far ahead of the UK in many international league tables.

Yesterday critics warned that if the leniency continues there will have been little point in making the exams harder.

Alan Smithers, professor of education at the University of Buckingham, said: 'It's reasonable to recognise that the first people to take these exams will be guinea pigs and should get protection.

'But while it is reasonable to provide these protections for pupils for the moment, I would question how long they will be in place if they continue indefinitely, we will not get the full benefit of the reforms.'

Reformed A-levels include maths, geography, French, Spanish, Latin, PE and drama.

And reformed GCSEs include biology, chemistry, physics, geography, history, French, Spanish, PE, art and Latin.

The GCSEs will also be graded on a new scale, from 1 to 9, with the 9 equivalent to a high A*.

The new exams aim to bring performance in line with countries in Asia which are much higher than the UK in the international league tables

Cath Jadhav, a director of standards at Ofqual, revealed its grading strategy for this year in a series of blog posts.

She said: 'Student performance dips a little in the first years of a new qualification, because teachers are less familiar with the new specifications, and there are fewer support materials and past papers for students to use.

'Using statistics compensates for that dip, so that the 2018 cohort is not unfairly disadvantaged by being the first to sit these new qualifications.'

She said the results of the new A-levels will 'look similar' to last year, providing only that the 'ability make-up' of pupils has not changed.

This means a similar proportion of entries  26 per cent  will get an A or A*, while three quarters will be graded C or above.

At GCSE the proportion of entries previously getting a C or above  two thirds  will be graded 4 or above this year.

The bottom of grade 7 is equivalent to the bottom of the old A, and as before, 20 per cent should achieve this or above. Within this sub-group around 20 per cent again will get the top grade of 9.

This means the 9 grade  which Oxford and Cambridge will use to identify the very brightest pupils  will be much harder to get than the old A*.

However, some teachers are still worried the volatility of the reforms could mean pupils miss out on the results they deserve.

The changes were brought in partly because leading universities had complained pupils were arriving poorly prepared for the demands of degrees.

They also said they found it difficult to choose between thousands of applicants who had achieved straight As and A*s at GCSE and were predicted top grades at A-level as well.

A-level results come out on Thursday and GCSE results are out on August 23.

A Department for Education spokesperson said:

'We have reformed A levels to meet the expectations of universities and employers, and our new gold standard GCSEs are on a par with qualifications in the best education systems in the world. These reforms will ensure students have the knowledge and skills they need to succeed both in further study and in the workplace.

'Ofqual has been clear that the qualification standard for A levels remains the same, meaning a student who would have previously achieved an A grade would still do so in the reformed qualification. GCSEs are more rigorous and both teachers and pupils rose to the challenge of the new exams last year.

'Ofqual always ensures no student is disproportionately affected by changes to qualifications, as they do each year for any new exam. Since 2014 we have been working with the exam regulator and the exam boards to ensure teachers are prepared to deliver these changes.'Its the sort of secret that might leave Donald Trump red-faced  were it not for his famously orange complexion.

The US President keeps a tanning bed in the White House to maintain his very distinctive hue, according to a former member of his staff.

This is just one of a list of claims made by Omarosa Manigault Newman in a book lifting the lid on her former boss that threatens to reduce whats left of Trumps reputation to tatters  and could even destroy his presidency.

In Unhinged: An Insider Account Of The Trump White House, published next week, Manigault Newman claims Trump is a racist, bigot and misogynist

Manigault Newman also claims Trump repeatedly uses the racially offensive N-word, including on an occasion when he was taped, and has threatened to reveal the names of illegitimate children he has allegedly fathered.

In Unhinged: An Insider Account Of The Trump White House, published next week, Manigault Newman claims Trump is a racist, bigot and misogynist.

She recounts how Trump battled to have a tanning bed installed when he moved into the White House.

US President Donald J. Trump speaks beside former director of communications for the Office of Public Liaison Omarosa Manigault-Newman

This was despite objections from White House chief usher, Angella Reid, who served under President Obama and was the first black woman to hold the post. Ms Reid was sacked just months later.

White House sources said they have not seen a tanning bed in the building. If one is there, it may be in the basement.

Manigault Newmans book also alleges how Trump made a farcical effort to sell copies of his book Trump: The Art Of The Deal at his inauguration as President in January last year.

According to her, Trump suggested he was sworn in over the book instead of the Bible.

She recalls him saying: Omarosa, what do you think about me getting sworn in on The Art Of The Deal?

She then asked: Instead of the Bible? before Mr Trump supposedly replied: Yeah. The Art Of The Deal is a bestseller! Its the greatest business book of all time.

'Its how Im going to make great deals for the country. Just think how many copies Id sell  maybe a commemorative inauguration copy!

She told him to forget about it and writes that we laughed, he wanted me to believe he was kidding.

Mr Trump was sworn in using two Bibles; his own and one used at Abraham Lincoln's inauguration in 1861.

Manigault Newman, 44, met Trump in 2004 when she was a candidate on the American version of The Apprentice, which he hosted.

Omarosa Manigault, who was a contestant on the first season of Donald Trump's 'The Apprentice'

After his election she joined his administration as communications director for the Office of Public Liaison before leaving in January.

She says that during his time at The Apprentice Trump used the N-word multiple times and, according to three sources she knows, there is a tape to prove it.

She said: I was told exactly what Donald Trump said  yes, the N-word and others in a classic Trump-goes-nuclear rant - and when he's said them.

'During production he was miked, and there is definitely an audio track. Using the N-word was not just the way he talks but, more disturbing, it was how he thought of me and African-Americans as a whole.

The book also claims that Mr Trump behaves like a dog off the leash at events he attends without his wife, Melania.

White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said: This book is riddled with lies and false accusations. Its sad that a disgruntled former White House employee is trying to profit off these false attacks.Advertisement

NASA has finally sent a spacecraft on a mission to fly where no probe has ever gone before  into the sun's scorching outer atmosphere.

The probe took off at 3.31 ET (8.31 BST) this morning. It was initially set to launch at 3.33am ET (8.33am BST) yesterday, but poor conditions meant it was pushed back 24-hours.

The unmanned spacecraft is on an unprecedented quest that will take it straight through the edges of the corona, or outer solar atmosphere, just 3.8million miles from the sun's surface. Previously, the closest an aircraft had come to the sun was 27million miles.

Flying: At it's fastest spacecraft went travels at 119miles per second, pictured taking off

Taking off: The rocket launches its historic mission to the sun this moning

The United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket launches NASA's Parker Solar Probe to touch the Sun, from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida,

The Parker Solar Probe will venture closer to the Sun than any other spacecraft and is protected by a first-of-its-kind heat shield and other innovative technologies that will provide unprecedented information about the Sun

The Delta IV rocket, carrying the Parker Solar Probe, lifts off from launch complex 37 at the Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral this morning

The Delta IV rocket seen during a time exposure at the Kennedy Space Center this morning

The NASA spacecraft taking off this morning. By November it will reach Venus and begin its first orbit of the sun

The probe, pictured taking off in Florida, will reach temperatures of 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit (1,371C) when it comes closer to the sun than any spacecraft in history  but, behind its thick heat shield, it will only feel like a hot summer day, with this sheltered region maxing out at about 85F (29C)

The probe (pictured) will rely on a series of gravity assists from Venus to slow down its sideways motion, allowing it to get just 3.8 million miles away from the sun's surface

The $1.5billion (1.17billion) Parker Probe blasted off atop one of the most powerful rockets in the world.

It will eventually hit record-breaking speeds of up to 430,000 miles per hour as it completes 24 orbits of the sun over the course of seven years. At this speed, it would take two minutes to travel from London to New York.

While orbitting the sun, the craft will swing around Venus seven times, using the planet's gravity to push it closer and closer to our star with each pass; eventually, the Parker probe will get within 3.8 million miles of the sun's surface.

It will make its first fly past Venus in October, and is protected by a revolutionary new heat shield.

That will set up the first solar encounter in November.

It will be subjected to temperatures of roughly 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit (1,371C) when it comes closer to the sun than any spacecraft in history  but, behind its thick heat shield, it will only feel like a hot summer day, with this sheltered region maxing out at about 85F (29C).

Preparing to launch: The probe gets ready for take-off at T-minus one second this morning

Ready to go: The conditions are clear for the probe to take off this morning

The $1.5billion probe blasted off atop one of the most powerful rockets in the world in Cape Canaveral this morning

Blast off! The rocket launches on a unprecedented mission into outer space to reach to come closer to the sun than ever before

Launched: The rocket eventually took off this morning after a 24-hour delay. At it's fastest, it will reach speeds of 119 miles a second

We have lift off! The probe took off after a 24-hour delay this morning, it will be within 3.8 million miles of the sun

The $1.5billion (1.17billion) Parker Probe blasted off atop one of the most powerful rockets in the world

Into the sky! The probe will be subjected to temperatures of roughly 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit (1,371C) when it comes closer to the sun than any spacecraft in history

Yesterday the agency had until 4.38am in Florida (9.38am BST) to take off but a 'condition' meant they missed the window, leaving people disappointed around the world as they tuned into the livestream.

'At this time, our Parker Solar Probe launch team is in a no-go status as we await further details. Teams are investigating a condition.

'Today's window opened for liftoff at 3.33am ET and closes at 4.38am ET' they said.

They later said the vehicle was cleared for launch, and would take off at 4.28am.

The probe will rely on a series of gravity assists from Venus to slow down its sideways motion, allowing it to get just 3.8 million miles away from the sun's surface. This will put the Parker probe well within the sun's corona, which extends about 5 million miles above the surface. No spacecraft has ever ventured so close to the sun

The United Launch Alliance Delta IV heavy rocket with the Parker Solar Probe is illuminated ahead of launch at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station

United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket with the Parker Solar Probe onboard shortly after the Mobile Service Tower was rolled back this morning

But the Parker Solar Probe did not launch from Cape Canaveral until this morning atop a ULA Delta IV Heavy, already one of the most powerful rockets in the world, with a third stage attached.

This mission will require 55 times more energy than would be needed to reach Mars, according to NASA.

The probe will rely on a series of gravity assists from Venus to slow down its sideways motion, allowing it to get just 3.8 million miles away from the sun's surface.

As NASA engineer Bobak Ferdowsi pointed out on Twitter, that's the equivalent distance of just 4.43 suns positioned next to each other.

This will put the Parker probe well within the sun's corona, which extends about 5 million miles above the surface.

'We'll be going where no spacecraft has dared go before  within the corona of a star,' said project scientist Nicky Fox, of the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab.

'With each orbit, we'll be seeing new regions of the sun's atmosphere and learning things about stellar mechanics that we've wanted to explore for decades.'

NASA live-tweeted the failure to launch yesterday morning

The United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket with the Parker Solar Probe onboard is seen shortly after the Mobile Service Tower was rolled back in the early hours of yesterday morning

NASA counted down this morning to the launch of a $1.5 billion spacecraft that aims to plunge into the Sun's sizzling atmosphere and become humanity's first mission to explore a star

The $1.5 billion (1.17billion) Parker Probe (shown on left attached to the third stage rocket motor) will blast off atop one of the most powerful rockets in the world, eventually hitting record-breaking speeds of up to 430,000 miles per hour as it completes 24 orbits of the sun over the course of seven years

The corona, or the sun's outer atmosphere, is home to ultra-hot solar material and some of the most extreme events emanating from our star.

Here, material heats up to millions of degrees, NASA says.

Parker Solar Probe's unprecedented access to the corona will let it study the acceleration of solar wind up close, and observe the solar flares and coronal mass ejections that have rippling effects on space weather and communication systems down near Earth.

The craft is named for Dr Eugene Parker, who first predicted the existence of solar wind back in 1958, and is the only living person to have ever had a NASA mission named for them.

The probe is also towing the names of over 1.1 million people who signed up to have their names sent to the sun.

The Parker Solar Probe will launch from Cape Canaveral Saturday morning atop a ULA Delta IV Heavy, already one of the most powerful rockets in the world, with a third stage attached. Above, the massive rocket payload fairing can be seen with the mission emblems

Roughly 1,400 pounds of solar projection and science equipment are protected by an advanced heat shield, which uses a 4.5-inch thick carbon composite foam material between two carbon fiber face sheets. The probe can be seen above as it was lifted onto the third stage rocket motor

This and roughly 1,400 pounds of solar projection and science equipment are protected by an advanced heat shield, which uses a 4.5-inch thick carbon composite foam material between two carbon fibre face sheets.

'NASA was planning to send a mission to the solar corona for decades, however, we did not have the technology that could protect a spacecraft and its instruments from the heat,' says Adam Szabo, the mission scientist for Parker Solar Probe at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt.

'Recent advances in materials science gave us the material to fashion a heat shield in front of the spacecraft not only to withstand the extreme heat of the sun, but to remain cool on the backside.'

Parker Solar Probe's unprecedented access to the corona will let it study the acceleration of solar wind up close, and observe the solar flares and coronal mass ejections that have rippling effects on space weather and communication systems down near Earth

WHAT IS NASA'S PARKER SOLAR PROBE? The Parker Solar Probe (PSP) travelled seven times closer to the sun than any spacecraft before it Nasa's Parker Solar Probe (PSP) will travel seven times closer to the sun than any spacecraft before it by the end of its mission. It launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, atop a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket on August 12 2018. The probe flew to the sun's outer atmosphere to study life of stars and their weather events. It is hoped that PSP can help scientists to better understand solar flares - brief eruptions of intense high-energy radiation from the sun's surface that can knock out communications on Earth. Over the next five years the probe will continue to make new discoveries as it moves closer to the Sun, eventually making its closest approach in the year 2024, as it flies 3.9 million miles above the solar surface. The craft faces extremes in heat and radiation and will reach speeds of up to 430,000 miles per hour (700,000 kph) at its closest flyby of the star. The craft's kit includes a white light imager called Whisper, which will take images of solar waves as the craft propels through them at high speeds. To measure the 'bulk plasma' of solar winds - described by Nasa as the 'bread and butter' of the flares - a set of magnetic imaging equipment will also be stored on board. Advertisement

The historic mission will give us the best opportunity yet to study the star that holds up our entire solar system.

And, it's one of the last places within our stellar neighborhood that has yet to be explored.

'For scientists like myself, the reward of the long, hard work will be the unique set of measurements returned by Parker,' Szabo said.

'The solar corona is one of the last places in the solar system where no spacecraft has visited before. It gives me the sense of excitement of an explorer.'Motorbike rider Fabrice Miguet has suffered 'un-survivable' injuries following a crash at the Ulster Grand Prix, the Dundrod & District Motorcycle Club have confirmed.

The 49-year-old Frenchman remains on life support at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast after the crash on Saturday, but a statement released on Sunday confirmed that he will not survive the injuries.

It read: 'It is with much sadness that the Dundrod & District Motorcycle Club confirms that while Fabrice Miguet remains on life support, we understand that the medical expectation is that he has sustained injuries that are un-survivable.

Fabrice Miguet remains on life support with 'un-survivable' injuries following crash in Ulster

Two riders on the track at the Ulster Grand Prix this week. Neither pictured are Miguet

'The 49-year-old rider from Normandy, France, was taken to the Royal Victoria Hospital following an incident at the Joey's Windmill section of the course during the Superstock race at the Ulster Grand Prix on Saturday 11th August.

'Our thoughts are with Fabrice's family, team and many friends at this difficult time.'

As originally reported by Belfast Live, Miguet was involved in a shunt on the fourth lap of his race in Northern Ireland, which led to the race being suspended for an hour.

The Kawasaki/Optrimark Road Racing driver was a regular competitor in both the annual Ulster Grand Prix and the Isle of Man TT.

Miguet's crash was not the only incident at the meeting over the weekend. English rider Davey Todd was also left in hospital with suspected fractures, while Conor Cummins also slid off the track as poor weather saw the track conditions deteriorate.They've been an explosively on-and-off couple.

But it seems Ronnie Ortiz-Magro and Jen Harley are once again back together, if her Instagram Story is any indication.

The two Jersey Shore vets appeared reunited, together once again in a snap Jen posted to her account from Puerto Rico Friday.

Surprise! It seems Ronnie Ortiz-Magro and Jen Harley are once again back together, if her Instagram Story is any indication

In the photo, Ronnie, 32, wore a turquoise tank top, mirrored aviator shades and a backwards ball cap, while Jen rocked her own pair of massive geometric sunglasses.

Pictures that followed showed the couple enjoying their vacation together with their four-month-old daughter Ariana.

Indeed, one of the next images depicted the adorable tyke in a tie dye dress emblazoned with 'San Juan Puerto Rico' on the front alongside a picture of a heart.

Too cute! More pictures followed showing the couple enjoying their vacation together with their four-month-old daughter Ariana

Yet another image showed Ronnie watching his baby daughter enjoy a bottle of milk while lounging next to the beach.

Harley's caption for the sweet snap read 'living that beach life.'

The July 4th holiday was one of the last times Ronnie and Harley were seen together, and that reunification occurred right after Harley's arrest.

Hungry lady! Yet another image showed Ronnie watching his baby daughter enjoy a bottle of milk while lounging next to the beach

A photo of them enjoying the holiday came only a day after news that she would not be charged with domestic violence after she was arrested in Las Vegas for misdemeanor domestic battery when dragging Ronnie with her car.

The case was 'denied due to insufficient evidence,' a representative for the Clark County District Attorney's Office revealed.

Harley's attorney told E! News: 'I can confirm that the charges against Jennifer Harley have been dismissed. It is the District Attorney's policy to review each case to determine whether there is sufficient evidence or probably cause to prosecute a case.America has been gripped with what seems to be endless stream of heatwaves this summer.

So perhaps it's no surprise that Jaden and Willow Smith decided to escape to the sun with some surfing Saturday.

The children of Will and Jada Pinkett Smith hit the waves on Hawaii's Kauai island.

Beating the heat! Perhaps it's no surprise that Jaden and Willow Smith decided to escape to the beach on Saturday for some surfing

For the adventure, Jaden, 20, only wore a pair of navy blue board shorts festooned with stripes, which meant his impressive abs were on full display.

He wore a black and white checkered messenger bag across his chest, though he still opted to carry his phone and what appeared to be some snacks in his hands.

When the actual surfing got under way, he did don a black long sleeve swim shirt for some extra protection.

Sister Willow, 17, kept things simple in black triangle top and multi-print bottoms.

He must to crunches! For the adventure, Jaden, 20, only wore a pair of navy blue board shorts festooned with stripes, which meant his impressive abs were on full display

Smart lad: When the actual surfing got under way, he did don a black long sleeve swim shirt for some extra protection

The two looked like they were having a ball together as they both hauled colorful surfboards to and from the water.

Eventually it seemed Willow needed a break, and took a seat on the sand to check her phone.

Jaden appeared to enjoy himself, despite the fact that he has recently been coming to grips with the downside of being famous.

The Beyond Earth actor revealed people don't treat him like any other 'normal human' in an in-depth interview in Dazed Magazine's Autumn edition.

Nothing fancy: Sister Willow, 17, kept things simple in black triangle top and multi-print bottoms

Surf's up! The two looked like they were having a ball together as they both hauled colorful surfboards to and from the water

The actor and rapper spent all of his childhood in the spotlight, and revealed he spent a lot of time away from 'normal people' while he was growing up.

In the publication, Jaden explained: 'People treat me like I'm not a normal human so much, that you start to believe it, like, 'Am I not a normal human?'

'I didn't always get to hang out with normal people when I was young. So being older and being able to hang out with the big kids and play with normal people is fun'.

Jaden is an avid skater, and found solace in hanging out with other skaters similar to him, adding: 'When I go to skate parks, people are like, 'Oh s***, is that Jaden Smith?' for about the first five minutes. Then after that, it's totally fine and I'm another skater'.Thor star Chris Hemsworth celebrated turning 35 with a handful of friends and family on Saturday.

Taking to Instagram, the hunky Australian actor shared a tender shot of himself and actress wife Elsa Pataky as they posed in front of a festive birthday cake.

In the close-up shot, the actor looked bright eyed and shot the camera a half smile as he held-up a simple cake emblazoned with the words 'happy birthday'.

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'I'll now be playing Deadpool!' Chris Hemsworth celebrated turning 35 at home with his wife Elsa Pataky and their kids on Saturday, before leaving a hilarious message for Ryan Reynolds

His Spanish-born wife Elsa sat nestled on the couch next to him, flaunting her flawless complexion by going makeup-free for the occasion.

In true Chris style, he accompanied the post with a tongue-in-cheek caption, writing: 'Immediately after this shot was taken my son viciously attacked me from behind (due to his ninja training) and slammed my face into the flaming candles.'

'I'll now be playing [action star] Deadpool if [Ryan Reynolds] pulls the pin.'

Just joking! In true Chris style, he accompanied the post with a tongue-in-cheek caption, writing: 'Immediately after this shot was taken my son viciously attacked me from behind (due to his ninja training) and slammed my face into the flaming candles. I'll now be playing [action star] Deadpool if [Ryan Reynolds] pulls the pin'

Will he respond? Chris made sure to tag Ryan Reynolds (pictured) in the hilarious caption

'Let's be kids forever': Elsa shared a sweet snap of the pair from a holiday while wishing her handsome husband a happy birthday

The actor, who shares three children, India Rose, 5, and three-year-old twins Sasha and Tristan, received a slew of well-wishing messages from his family on his big day.

The actor's wife Elsa shared a cutesy snap of the pair while on holidays, with both herself and her hunky husband pulling quirky faces.

'Happy birthday to my biggest child! I love you to death. Let's be kids forever,' she wrote, under the snap before translating it to her native Spanish.

'I remember the first time I ever threw a knife at your head': Chris' younger sibling Liam shared a black and white throwback of the pair recounting a very brotherly story

Chris' brother Liam also took to Instagram to share a throwback snap.

Showing plenty of brotherly love, Liam recalled the famous childhood story of when he threw a knife at the Thor actor's head in a fit of rage.

'I remember the first time I ever threw a knife at your head,' the younger Hemsworth captioned the snap.

'You've come a long way from that scared little kid': Liam was obviously in good spirits when he shared a joke for his older brother's birthday

'I remember the first time I ever threw a knife at your head,' the younger Hemsworth captioned the snap.

'There was a look of pure fear in your eyes. You've come a long way from that scared little kid... Proud of you.

Liam, who is partnered with pop sensation Miley Cyrus, then got a little bit mushy in the sentimental post.

Love you heaps! Liam gave a sentimental ending to the post about his A-lister sibling

'You're my hero. Love you heaps and heaps.'

Meanwhile, older brother Luke kept things sweet and simple, sharing a snap of a doll of the action hero Thor.

'Happy birthday bro,' he begun, he then added: 'This is the best likeness I think... Uncanny.'Hollywood star Brad Pitt has told friends he fears his estranged wife Angelina Jolie will take their six children and move to London.

Hostilities between the couple erupted again last week when the Tomb Raider star lodged court papers saying Pitt had not paid any meaningful child support since their break-up two years ago  a claim he strenuously denies.

Pitt maintains he has paid her more than 1 million to support their children and lent her 6.25 million to buy a home.

Sources close to both sides say the pair have been at loggerheads for months. They cant agree on anything, a friend said. Theyre at each others throats again.

Hollywood star Brad Pitt has told friends he fears his estranged wife Angelina Jolie will take their six children and move to London (pictured together in 2015)

The source added: Its no secret that Angie would like to get full custody of the children and move abroad. Although she has physical custody, she cant move without Brads consent.

Brad does not want to have to fly eight or nine hours each time he wants to see his children. He is trying to keep the status quo.

Pitts lawyers called Jolies statement over child support unnecessary and described it as a thinly veiled effort to manipulate media coverage.

However, Jolies lawyer Samantha Bley DeJean insisted it was accurate. She said Jolie pays interest on the loan, adding: A loan is not, however, child support.Ewan McGregor and his new girlfriend Mary-Elizabeth Winstead were seen holding hands as they attended the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo last week.

The actor, 47, and his love, 33, who met on the set of drama Fargo put on an affectionate display as they sat in the stands, with their hands interlocked.

Mary looked chic for the event, clad in a mint green coat and matching scarf, with her hair teased into bouncy curls.

Affection: Ewan McGregor and his new girlfriend Mary-Elizabeth Winstead were seen holding hands as they attended the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo last week

Ewan put on a dapper display in a corduroy slate grey suit, paired with pastel blue shirt and bow tie.

His brown locks were styled in a quiff and he set off the spiffy ensemble with a pair of navy rimmed spectacles.

Cracking wide smiles as they watched Ewan's brother and ex-RAF pilot Colin read war poem, High Flight, the pair looked completely in love.

This marks the first time the pair have been seen in Ewan's native Scotland.

Over: Ewan split from his wife of 22 years Eve Mavrakis earlier this year (pictured in 2005)

This comes after Ewan admitted he has taken nine months off work to spend more time with his kids.

The actor shares children Clara, 22, Esther, 16, Jamyan 17, and Anouk, seven with his estranged wife Eve Mavrakis.

Mary Elizabeth was previously married to Riley Stearns.

Speaking to Christine Bleakley on Thursday's Good Morning Britain, Ewan revealed he stopped working after his latest movie Christopher Robin wrapped last November as he started to question why he was 'working to work'?

Prioritising his family:This comes after Ewan admitted he has taken nine months off work to spend more time with his kids.

After chatting about his new movie Christopher Robin, which sees Ewan take on the title role of Winnie the Pooh's faithful companion, Christine was keen to know if the actor has taken home any 'pooh-isms' with him.

'I've sort of adopted one of them,' he actor said. 'Since the moment we wrapped, I haven't worked since making this film last November.'

'I just took this time off, I needed to and I wanted to. I'm about to start something in September and I look back now and think "what have I done?" And I've done nothing really! But I've been really busy doing nothing!'

Time out: Speaking to Christine Bleakley on Thursday's Good Morning Britain, Ewan revealed he stopped working after his latest movie Christopher Robin wrapped last November

'That's a bit of a Pooh-ism really that nothing leads to the best something,' he quipped, adding that he's taken the time to see more of his family.

'In actual fact it's been brilliant having this time off I've spent a lot of time with my kids I've spent a lot of time doing things that I like to do like riding my old bike and tinkering with old cars.

'Things that I felt like I wasn't having any time to do and not really having a great deal of time.'

Drama: Ewan's comments come just weeks after his eldest daughter Clara, 22, lashed out at his girlfriend Mark Elizabeth Winstead (pictured in May 2017) in a social media attack

'I was thinking "what am I working for?" I was just working to work and I want to work to live.'

He ended the interview by saying we should all follow Poohs lead, laughing: 'More honey and more time doing nothing.'

Ewan's comments come just weeks after his eldest daughter Clara, 22, lashed out at his girlfriend Mark Elizabeth Winstead in a social media attack.

Clara has not been shy of airing her feelings on her parents' split after Ewan and his Fargo co-star Mary first went public with their budding romance in Los Angeles in November as he moves on from his wife of 22 years Eve Mavrakis.

Lashing out: Last month, a seemingly enraged Clara hit out in the comments section, as she penned: 'Most beautiful and talented woman on earth? (laughing faces) Oh man y'all are delusional. The girl is a piece of trash (smiley face) x'

From her verified Instagram account, the model took to the comments section of an image from a fan page for the actress, who was first spotted with Ewan in October, to lash out at the page administrators for calling Mary beautiful.

A seemingly enraged Clara hit out in the comments section, as she penned: 'Most beautiful and talented woman on earth? (laughing faces) Oh man y'all are delusional. The girl is a piece of trash (smiley face) x'.

MailOnline contacted representatives for Clara and Mary for comment.They were famous for their raunchy villa antics throughout the latest series of Love Island.

And Megan Barton-Hanson certainly set tongues wagging with boyfriend Wes Nelson after they were reportedly spotted slipping into the disabled toilets together while waiting for a flight at Southend airport on Friday.

According to The Sun, the stunning model, 24, and her nuclear engineer beau, 20, were seen by onlookers coming out of the loos almost 15 minutes later.

Curious: What were Love Island's Megan Barton-Hanson REALLY doing in a disabled loos as they waited for a flight out of Southend airport?

With their flight to Glasgow postponed for three hours, Meg and Wes found themselves with time to kill.

Onlookers told the publication that the showbiz couple slipped into the facilities, locked the door behind them, only to emerge separately minutes later.

An eye-witness video showed the couple riding the escalator back downstairs, with Wes heading to an duty-free shop before Megan joined him a minute afterwards.

Spotted: With their flight to Glasgow postponed for three hours, Meg and Wes found themselves with time to kill

Sources told the tabloid: 'There was a big, old coordinated plan there.

'They looked like they were scoping out the scene before they re-emerged.

'I can't possibly imagine what they could have been doing in there but they looked quite happy when they came out.'

There's no indication of what Meg and Wes were doing in the toilets - MailOnline have contacted their representatives for comment.

The sighting comes after it was reported Wes is set to rake in a whopping 300,000 from an exhaustive 56-date PA club tour across the nation as he cashes in on his success on the hit ITV2 reality show.

Tongues wagging: Onlookers told the publication that the showbiz couple slipped into the facilities, locked the door behind them, only to emerge separately minutes later

It was also projected that his former glamour model girlfriend Megan will also earn big, with projections that her new career direction will see her pocket 2million as she signs a number of lucrative new deals.

A source told The Sun Online of Wes's financial future: 'He is one of the most in demand acts from Love Island due to his success on the show and his cheeky chap nature and will earn well into the six-figure sum from his PAs alone, and thats ignoring any of the other branding endorsements he will also undertake.

'He's very likely to earn 300,000+ from his PA tour. In fact, Wes is so in demand that he is turning down appearances - most of his available dates have gone. Numerous brands are fighting to sign Wes up to big branding campaigns and endorsements.'

Success: The sighting comes after it was reported Wes is set to rake in a whopping 300,000 from an exhaustive 56-date PA club tour across the nation as he cashes in on his success

Wes, who jetted back to Mallorca last week for a booked appearance, revealed during Sunday night's Love Island Reunion show that he has stepped away from his nuclear engineer job as new opportunities and offers roll in.

When host Caroline Flack enquired about his job, the musclebound hunk smiled as he responded: 'About that... I'm just gonna see what opportunities there are other than my job and things.'

'But I am enjoying it and I spoke to work and I think they are alright with me,' he added. 'I think they understand that I might not be coming back in a hurry.'

Wes moved into Megan's flat in Southend as soon as they returned to the UK, and the pair are currently on the hunt for their own place.

After a turbulent run in the villa - which saw them disrupt many of their own relationships to be together - the pair placed fourth during the show's live final last week.Ruby Rose has deleted her twitter account after she received heavy backlash for being cast as lesbian superhero Batwoman in a new CW series.

As of Sunday, Ruby's Twitter account was no where to be found and instead landed viewers to a page that simply read: 'Sorry, that page doesn't exist!'

The starlet faced heavy criticism after she was cast in the role, including that she isn't a good enough actress and she isn't Jewish, unlike the character of Kate Kane in Batwoman.

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Deleted! Ruby Rose has deleted her twitter account after she received heavy backlash for being cast as lesbian superhero Batwoman in a new CW series

The starlet faced heavy criticism after she was cast in the role, including that she isn't a good enough actress and she isn't Jewish, unlike the character of Kate Kane in Batwoman.

Ruby, 32, took to Twitter on Thursday to respond to the outrage, writing: 'I wish we would all support each other and our journey.'

Is everything OK? As of Sunday, Ruby's Twitter account was no where to be found and instead landed viewers to a page that simply read: 'Sorry, that page doesn't exist!'

She continued: 'When women and when minorities join forces we are unstoppable... when we tear each other down it's much more hurtful than from any group. But hey I love a challenge.'

However, Ruby was specifically responding to a Tweet by one user, which was in fact supportive of the decision to cast her in the role.

The user had mocked the outrage, Tweeting: 'Queer women: Please cast out queer actors in queer roles! CW: *casts Ruby Rose* Queer women: This is an attack.'

Right of reply: Ruby, 32, took to Twitter on Thursday to respond to the outrage, writing: 'I wish we would all support each other and our journey'

Big break: Australian actress Ruby fulfilled her childhood dream this week after landing the groundbreaking role as a lesbian Batwoman in the new CW series

Wires crossed: One user had mocked the outrage, Tweeting: 'Queer women: Please cast out queer actors in queer roles! CW: *casts Ruby Rose* Queer women: This is an attack'

After Ruby's response, the Twitter user replied: ''When women and minorities join forces'... because apparently those are two separate groups with no overlapping members? You're telling me, a black woman, that women and black people should link up. BRUH.

The Twitter user added: 'And I guess I'm not allowed to make jokes because it's more painful when I do it which is a new level of white nonsense I've never seen before. And as a reminder, THE JOKE WASN'T MAKING FUN OF HER TO BEGIN WITH.'

Ruby then tried to clear up the confusion, Tweeting: 'Oh my word. I'm am very sorry it read that way. Truly... I responded to you because I agreed with what you said even if you wrote it in jest and I thought we were on the same page, so I was saying I just wish women and the LGBT community supported each other more.'

Confusion: After Ruby's response, the Twitter user replied: ''When women and minorities join forces'... because apparently those are two separate groups with no overlapping members? You're telling me, a black woman, that women and black people should link up. BRUH'

Back pedal: Ruby then tried to clear up the confusion, Tweeting: 'Oh my word. I'm am very sorry it read that way. Truly... I responded to you because I agreed with what you said...'

The actor later added: 'Again, apologies, I was writing to you, not paying or giving attention to any negative because I'm really happy and excited but commenting on that topic that my wish was we were all a little kinder and more supportive of each other.'

Ruby's casting as Batwoman is set to make her the first openly gay lead in a live-action superhero series.

The Orange Is The New Black actress took to social media to rave about the project.

Milestone: Ruby's casting as Batwoman is set to make her the first openly gay lead in a live-action superhero series

'The Bat is out of the bag and I am beyond thrilled and honoured,' the Australian starlet wrote on Instagram.

'I'm also an emotional wreck... because this is a childhood dream.'

'This is something I would have died to have seen on TV when I was a young member of the LGBT community who never felt represented on TV and felt alone and different.'

Daily Mail Australia has reached out for comment.She's known for her scene-stealing sense of style.

And Charli XCX put on yet another show-stopping display as she took to the stage at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia for Taylor Swift's Reputation tour on Saturday.

The Boom Clap hit maker, 26, teased her toned curves in a shimmering sheer crop top and matching joggers for her energetic display.

Scene stealer: Charli XCX, 26, looked ever the pop sensation in sheer co-ords and vibrant pink lingerie as she takes to the stage on Taylor Swift's Reputation tour gig Atlanta on Saturday

Underneath her scanty co-ords, Charli opted for an electric pink bralette and matching bottoms, which highlighted her taut abs and slender pins.

The Boys chart topper paraded around on stage as she belted out her hits for the packed-out crowd, and swept up her glossy chocolate mane into a retro up-do with vibrant pink hairbands.

Charli added a touch of glitter with layers of silver accessories, and injected another pop of bright colour with her striking fuchsia lip stick and manicure.

Chic: The Boom Clap hit maker teased her toned curves in a shimmering sheer crop top and matching joggers for her energetic display

Raise the roof: Underneath her scanty co-ords, Charli opted for an electric pink bralette and matching bottoms, which highlighted her taut abs and slender pins

The pop star is currently on tour with Taylor Swift and fellow pop darling Camila Cabello, with the musical threesome usually finishing the show with a high-octane performance together.

Charli's appearance comes after she was left rather red-faced when she admitted suffering a raunchy wardrobe malfunction just minutes into her supporting set at Arizona's University of Phoenix Stadium during Taylor's Reputation Tour show in June.

The brunette beauty seemingly took her energetic performance a little too far when she admitted to accidentally falling out of her crop top just seconds into her first song.

Perfect in pinkCharli added a touch of glitter with layers of silver accessories,and injected another pop of bright colour with her striking fuchsia lip stick and manicure

Show stopping: Charli's appearance comes after she was left rather red-faced when she admitted suffering a wardrobe malfunction just minutes into her supporting set in June

Jet-setting: The popular concert series will head to the US and Canada for a total of 31 shows, before reaching Australia and New Zealand in October

Making the embarrassing revelation on Instagram, Charli apologised to fans who may have seen more than they bargained for.

Writing on her Instagram story, she confessed: 'Omg my boob fell out song 1 can you believe it!!!! I think i saved it but I'm so so sorry if I flashed anyone I really didn't mean to I promise!!!!'

The popular concert series will head to the US and Canada for a total of 31 shows, before reaching Australia and New Zealand in October.

The fifth and final leg will take place in Japan, with the six-month tour finally coming to a close on November 21.He works hard to maintain his incredibly muscular physique.

And on Sunday, Hollywood star Hugh Jackman rushed to beat the City to Surf crowds on his way to an early-morning workout in Bondi.

The buff 49-year-old was captured glued to his phone while running up the stairs, dressed in a laid-back and casual ensemble for the fitness session.

Hunk in a hurry! Hugh Jackman, 49, was spotted in Bondi rushing to beat the City to Surf crowds as he headed to the gym on Sunday

Hugh sported a black hooded jumper emblazoned with the words 'Paddle The Nile' and a pair of loose-fitting grey track-pants.

To complete the sporty look, Hugh wore a pair of aviator sunglasses and held onto a white towel, a blue water bottle and his car keys.

The father-of-two has been making the most of his time since returning to Sydney last month, having enjoyed a shirtless swim at Sydney's Bondi Beach on Friday.

On a mission! The buff heartthrob was glued to his phone while running up the stairs, dressed in a laid-back and casual ensemble for the fitness session

Earlier this month, he was also spotted working out with his personal trainer Michael Ryan, who helped him transform Hugh's body for his role in X-Men.

But it hasn't been all work and no play for the actor, as he took time out of his busy workout schedule to attend Pink!'s Sydney concert this week.

Hugh took to Instagram on Sunday to share a cheerful snap taken backstage with the songstress as he wrapped his arm around her shoulder.

Back home! Hugh has been making the most of his time since returning to Sydney last month

'One of the best concerts I have ever seen! And, she's been sick all week. Inspiring,' he penned the caption of the post.

Pink then reposted the picture on her own Instagram account, captioning the post: 'Some people, if you can believe it, are even better in real life.

'This guy is one of those rare unicorns. and my daughter was damn happy too. #Repost@thehughjackman (sic)'Charlotte Dawson has posted a gushing tribute to her boyfriend Matthew Scarsfield after he narrowly avoided jail after punching a stranger.

The reality star, 26, shared a loved-up snap of the pair kissing passionately with their arms wrapped around one another, calling Matthew her 'cheekeh cherub'.

Matthew 26, was left 'sickened' in court hearing details of how he drunkenly landed a single blow to Daniel Jackson's bottom lip on April 2 this year, which may leave him with permanent scarring.

Tribute: Charlotte Dawson has posted a gushing tribute to her boyfriend Matthew Scarsfield after he narrowly avoided jail after punching a stranger

Charlotte wrote in the caption: Unbreakable... had a tough few months but with the bad there always comes the good babayy the rough with the smooth n all that....

'Cant wait for our next chapter now the only way is up my cheekeh cherub face love you forevs.'

This comes days after Sarsfield's appearance in court.

Sarsfield hit the aspiring actor without warning in an unprovoked attack, Wigan and Leigh magistrates heard.

Mr Jackson's female pal, who moments before the attack was approached by Sarsfield, described him as acting 'quite smarmy' and seemingly wanting to dance with her.

Court: The victim needed 15 stitches and has been left with a scar which could be permanent according to specialists (Pictured Charlotte Dawson posing with a coconut drink)

Prosecuting, Steve Woodman, said when she turned away and returned to her group, Sarsfield appeared at her side and rounded aggressively on the two men she was with, one of whom was Mr Jackson.

The 'out of the blue' attack in the early hours of the morning at Cafe Stella in Leigh, Greater Manchester left Mr Jackson needing 15 stitches.

It came months after second rower Sarsfield rekindled a romance with former Ex On The Beach star Miss Dawson who confirmed the news in December last year.

At the time, the daughter of late comedy great Les Dawson shared an Instagram message of the pair together along with the caption: 'Finders keepers.'

Sarsfield was sentenced to six months in prison which has been suspended for two years, as well as being handed a community order and hefty fine.

Defending, Shahid Ali said Sarsfield's family had recently received news about his mother and this may have affected his temperament that night.She's the exotic stunner who has enjoyed an endless string of magazine covers and lucrative modelling campaigns with brands like Maybelline and Gillette Venus.

But on Sunday, former Home and Away star Pia Miller, 34 insisted that her stunning good looks haven't given her an 'easier time' in life.

'I definitely havent had an easier time because I look a certain way,' she told Stellar.

'I havent had an easier time because I look a certain way!' Home And Away's Pia Miller has insisted that her beauty never gave her an advantage in life

'Who I am has nothing to do with how I look.'

The Chilean Australian beauty was first discovered at 14 after winning a modelling competition for Dolly Magazine.

After having her eldest son Isaiah at just 19, she went on to star in a string of campaigns for Myer, Qantas, Midas and Star Casino before turning her attentions to acting and landing her breakthrough role as Summer Bay copper, Katarina 'Kat' Chapman.

Stunner: Pia features in a chic editorial published in Stellar magazine this weekend

'The only reason I [pursued] modelling after having Isaiah was to provide for him!' After having her eldest son Isaiah (pictured) at just 19, she went on to star in a string of campaigns for Myer, Qantas, Midas and Star Casino

But Pia admitted to Stellar that stardom was never her dream.

'Fame was never the objective,' she told the magazine, 'the only reason I [pursued] modelling after having Isaiah was to provide for him.'

Meanwhile the beauty recently spoke about her engagement to entrepreneur Tyson Mullane, who popped the question in November 2017.

'I had no idea it was happening!' Meanwhile the beauty recently opened up about her engagement to entrepreneur Tyson Mullane, who popped the question in November 2017

And in an interview with TV Week Up Close last week, Pia admitted she wasn't expecting the proposal.

'(The proposal) was the biggest surprise, because Tyson sort of hid it behind my birthday celebrations, so I had no idea it was happening. But it was wonderful.'

Tyson will be Pia's second husband, after she was previously married to AFL player Brad Miller whom she shares an 11 year-old son, Lennox.She's been stunning audiences since the 90s.

And Salma Hayek made it clear she was still stunning as can be in a series of sultry swimsuit shots shared via Instagram Friday.

The 51-year-old thespian appeared sexy as ever in a dark blue swimsuit which expertly showcased her full cleavage.

Stunner: Salma Hayek, 51, showed off her fabulous figure in a sexy swimsuit Instagram Friday

Her bottoms featured double cut-outs on the hips for yet another sultry hint of skin.

Reaching over her head to adjust her dark locks, Salma flaunted her toned center and head-to-toe bronze.

Keeping shaded, she added a pair of dark sunglasses.

Sunny day: Keeping shaded, she added a pair of dark sunglasses

Nature: Another Instagram showed Salma enjoying the crystal clear ocean while snorkeling with husband Francois-Henri Pinault and a group of giant Manta rays

She captioned the shot with three simple wave emojis, letting the picturesque shot speak for itself.

Another Instagram showed Salma enjoying the crystal clear ocean while snorkeling with husband Francois-Henri Pinault and a group of giant Manta rays.

The photo was captioned with a grateful message, reading: 'So blessed to be surrounded by love, beauty and nature.'

#NoFilter: Days earlier the natural beauty looked age-defying gorgeous in the skimpy black bikini as she captioned it: '#nofilter #noretouching'

Days earlier the natural beauty looked age-defying gorgeous in the skimpy black bikini as she captioned it: '#nofilter #noretouching.'

Salma has been a staunch advocate for the #Metoo and Time's Up movements after speaking out about her personal experiences with disgraced film mogul Harvey Weinstein.

Last December Salma opened up about her own encounters with Weinstein in an emotional op-ed in the New York Times, revealing how his extensive propositions for sex lasted almost a decade.As musicians in the midst of international stardom, 5 Seconds of Summer are used to jet-setting around the globe.

And over the weekend, the 5SOS members were looking weary as they touched down at Brisbane airport ahead of their gig on Saturday night.

Clad in a leather jacket and looking every part the rockstar, Luke Hemmings was snapped holding hands of a mystery woman inside the terminal.

Getting a grip! Weary-looking Luke Hemmings (pictured) held hands with raven-haired stunner at Brisbane airport on Saturday... as the rocker and his 5SOS bandmates pose for photos with excited fans

The raven-haired stunner opted for casual chic attire for the outing, donning black tights, black boots and a shiny blue and white jacket.

She teamed this with a white cap, a grey oversized T-shirt and a large black leather handbag.

Meanwhile, Luke went for his trademark black attire, rocking a leather jacket, T-shirt, trousers and shoes all in the same shade, while a silver necklace hung from his neck.

Keeping it low-key: The woman kept things casual in tights, an oversized T-shirt and jacket

Trailing behind: The woman was snapped walking alongside and behind Luke in the terminal

Rockstar! Luke went for his trademark all-black attire, donning a leather jacket teamed with a shirt, trousers and shoes in the same shade

While Luke and his bandmates Calum Hood, Ashton Irwin and Michael Clifford were no doubt tired due to their hectic touring schedule, they graciously posed for photos with fans.

Several female fans looked ecstatic about crossing paths with their favourite musicians and made sure to make the most of the photo opp.

The Youngbloods hitmakers are currently making their way around Australia on their Meet You There tour.

Happy snaps! Luke joined bandmate Calum Hood to pose with excited fans

Selfie-obsessed: Michael Clifford also graciously let fans take photos with him

The boys, who shot to fame at early ages kicked off the tour in their hometown of Sydney, before heading to Brisbane on Saturday.

Next stop will be Melbourne on Monday before the She Looks So Perfect stars head to Adelaide for a performance next Thursday.

Rounding out the tour will be a gig next Saturday in Perth, Western Australia.She is the winner of the X Factor and a vocal sensation.

And Louisa Johnson looked sensational as she releases her first single since parting ways with Simon Cowell's record label Syco.

The Tears hitmaker, 20, flaunted her toned abs in a scanty white crop-top with lace detailing as she smouldered for famous fashion photographer Louie Banks

Onwards: Louisa Johnson looked sensational as she releases her first single since parting ways with Simon Cowell's record label Syco

She paired the tiny top with a pair of baggy matching cargo pants.

Her tresses were styled in a loose updo while her stunning features were enhanced with feline flicks of liner and a glossy peach lipstick.

Speaking about new track Between You and Me, Louisa sais: I love dance and club music, and Ive spent the summer recording some real bangers Im so excited for people to hear my new tracks.

Toned: The Tears hitmaker, 20, flaunted her toned abs in a scanty white crop-top with lace detailing as she smouldered for famous fashion photographer Louie Banks

New single: Her tresses were styled in a loose updo while her stunning features were enhanced with feline flicks of liner and a glossy peach lipstick

'I also love collaborating with acts like One Bit and Clean Bandit.Ive been having the time of my life out in Ibiza this summer recording new songs.

'I love the energy there, its all about music and good times.Working on the beach, with the sun blazing and a drink in my hand has provided so much creative inspiration!

The Best Behaviour hitmaker moved to Ministry of Sound after parting ways with Simon Cowell's label.

Moving on :The Best Behaviour hitmaker moved to Ministry of Sound after parting ways with Simon Cowell's label

Louisa took to Twitter to announced her separation from Syco and express her excitement for the future with Ministry Of Sound.

She wrote: 'Hi babiesssss. I've been working super hard and I just wanted to let you all know that Syco Music and I have deicded not to work together moving forward.

'I was genuinely a mutual decision and there are no hard feelings. Big thank you to Syco for everything they've done for me, I've had an actual blast!

Louisa took to Twitter to announced her separation from Syco and express her excitement for the future with Ministry Of Sound

'It's been so much fun and I'll always be grateful to Simon and the team for all their support. I'm excited to be releasing a single with @ministyofsound next month which is still part of the Sony family.

'You're gonna love this one guys.'

She reached number five in the UK charts with dance hit Tears, which was a collaboration with Clean Bandit and by far her most successful track.

Louisa debuted in the charts with her pop track Forever Young, which managed to treated number nine in the charts on Christmas Eve.

However this was seen as disappointing for an X-factor contestant as year after year they have topped the charts with their winner's singles.

Dance sensation: The star is known for her catchy pop hits

Louisa and Alexandra Burke are among a sizeable contingent of stars who have banded together to record a new rendition of the Beatles' 1967 classic With A Little Help From My Friends in aid of the NHS.

The single, under the supergroup name NHS Voices, was recorded at London's storied Abbey Road Studios - where the Beatles made much of their music - and produced by Timbaland and Jon Cohen.

Louisa said: 'I did this for all the amazing nurses and doctors who work tirelessly around the country for the NHS.

'It's so important for them to realise how much we appreciate their tireless work. I hope my singing on this record brings a little bit of joy to their day.'A new tour of the 90s pop supernovas has been hinted at for years.

But a Spice Girls reunion might have been all but killed off with the prospect of Mel B's forthcoming explosive tell-all autobiography, according to The Sun.

'After the book comes out, therell be no hope of the Spice Girls getting back together. Its going to dig up a lot of old dirt,' a source told the newspaper.

Who do you think you are? The Spice Girls reunion might have been all but killed off with the prospect of Mel B's forthcoming explosive tell-all autobiography, according to The Sun. Photo taken in April

The 43-year-old is allegedly set to detail several conflicts she had with her fellow band mates in the memoir.

One reported anecdote is an instance when Mel B -whose real name is Melanie Brown- asked cohort Victoria Beckham for some free dresses from her new clothing range.

The Stop hitmaker 'told her to pay for dresses, which went down like a lead balloon,' according to the newspaper.

The Spice Girls consisted of Mel B, Beckham, Geri Halliwell, Emma Bunton and Melanie Chisholm.

The group last performed together in 2012.

Stop right now, thank you very much: Victoria Beckham 'told her to pay for dresses, which went down like a lead balloon,' according to the newspaper. Seen here in June

The America's Got Talent judge finalized her long-running legal dispute with ex Stephen Belafonte on Monday.

Mel B has been ordered to pay the producer $350,000 in legal fees as the long running court battle between them finally came to a close.

And Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Mark Juhas also threw out both restraining orders that the warring couple had tried to slap on each other.

Instead the former Spice Girl, who showed up in court Monday in a cream-colored shoulder less dress and five-inch spike heels, and Belafonte reached a mutual agreement to stay at least 200 yards away from each other.

The couple - who share custody of their six-year-old daughter Madison - was also ordered to set aside $1.1million ($550,000 each) when they sell their $8million former marital home, to pay back taxes they owe for 2016.

The pair were married from 2007 - 2017.She revealed she was expecting in July.

And on Saturday Jersey Shore's Deena Cortese gave her 2million Instagram followers a look at her burgeoning baby bump.

The MTV persona, 31, was a vision of elegance in a paisley romper/robe number in the post captioned: 'My baby boy.'

Bumping along nicely: Jersey Shore's Deena Cortese gave her 2million Instagram followers a look at her burgeoning baby bump online Saturday

Cradling her belly, the soon-to-be mom looked ready for the journey ahead.

She paired her interesting frock with nude heels while styling her hair long and straight.

Deena Nicole and husband Christopher Buckner were married nine months ago and revealed their happy news July 2 along with a gender reveal.

Cameras were on hand for the couple's moment, capturing Buckner go absolutely crazy with joy when it turned out they are having a son.

Belly up! Cradling her belly, the soon-to-be mom looked ready for the journey ahead

Oh baby! The MTV persona, 31, was a vision of elegance in a paisley romper/robe number in the post captioned: 'My baby boy'

Cortese shared a video lip to her Instagram showing the moment blue smoke emanated from a brightly packaged parcel.

Her hubby jumps up and down waving his arms and legs before grabbing his wife in a huge hug and planting a big kiss right on her lips.

The 31-year-old brunette wrote in the caption: 'The moment we found out we were having a son (heart emoji) Chris reaction was everything!!!! Uhg I love you @cbuckner_ I cant wait to meet our son!'

It's a boy: Jersey Shore's Deena Cortese and husband Christopher Buckner discovered the gender of the baby they're expecting and their reaction was caught on camera a

Big moment: The MTV reality stars, who tied the knot last October, had a gender reveal party in a scenic location and shared the event with fans via Instagram

It's official: Blue smoke emanating form a prettily decorated box confirmed that Deena is pregnant with a baby boy

So happy: Buckner went crazy with joy when he realized he's going to have a son and jumped up and down waving his arms and legs before planting a smacker on his pregnant bride

The Jersey Shore castmember had earlier explained on social media that she had waited until her second trimester before confirming her exciting baby news.

'We Are truly blessed and our hearts are filled with so much joy and happiness,' she added.

The couple, who tied the knot in October 2017, have already picked out a name for their new arrival.

They shared: 'December can't come soon enough! Daddy and Mommy can't wait to meet you Christopher John you are going to be the most spoiled little boy ever!!!!'

Six months to go: Cortese, 31, is due to give birth in December

Even the dog joined in: The pair are clearly over the moon about expanding their family

Announcement: 'Now that we are safely into our second trimester.. us and our little monkey are ready to tell the world Our little family is growing!' Cortese wrote on social mediaAs one of the stars of Modern Family, Ariel Winter's spent plenty of time in front of the camera.

So it was no surprise that the actress looked like a natural in a seductive set of photos shared online Saturday.

The 20-year-old talent got pulses racing wearing a skintight leotard and thigh-high boots which crawled up her legs seductively.

Show off: Ariel Winter flaunted her figure while shooting a magazine cover

Of course Ariel was in full glam for the shoot.

Her hair cascaded down from her crown in a high ponytail which swept down towards her waist.

The Sofia The First voice actress played up her eyes with smoky shadow and a flick of winged eyeliner.

The photos were for an upcoming cover of Composure Magazine.

Winging it! The Sofia The First voice actress played up her eyes with smoky shadow and a flick of winged eyeliner

Fit! As evident from the images, Ariel's constant trips to the gym have certainly paid off. The star is seen heading out after a workout earlier this month, above

As evident from the images, Ariel's constant trips to the gym have certainly paid off.

The UCLA drop-out is spotted working out with her trainer Mack Fit or boyfriend Levi Meaden on a near-daily basis.

She often documents her gym time on social media.

The California native has been open about her struggle with trolls and even fiercely hit back at one cruel comment on her most recent bikini snap.

Brushing off the haters: The California native has been open about her struggle with trolls and even fiercely hit back at one cruel comment on her most recent bikini snap

She said: 'So I can't be proud of my body AND be seen as something other than a "piece of a**?" I have to pick one??'

Yet, the actress often leans on boyfriend Levi for support, who never fails to tell her she is beautiful, and helps to boost her confidence.

Speaking at Us Weekly last year, she said of her beau: 'Hes just the loveliest person, he loves me through thick and thin.She's the single mother-of-one who is set to be a contestant on the new season of The Bachelor.

And Dasha Gaivoronski, 32, looks very different compared to her days as a fashion and food blogger in her younger years, sporting more refined facial features in recent snaps on social media.

The Russian beauty has kept her long chestnut brown tresses styled straight throughout the years, however appears to have a much fuller pout in recent images.

 Slide me  My, how you've changed! Bachelor contestant Dasha Gaivoronski, 32, looks very different in recent photos compared to her younger years. Pictured left in 2018 and right in a throwback

A throwback snap of Dasha shows her wearing a lighter layer of makeup than usual, as her highly-defined brows are not as bold and lifted as they appear to be today.

Dasha's cheekbones now appear more prominent and as does her lately ample cleavage.

In one snap, the Adelaide-based personal trainer flaunted her very slender frame amid a picturesque beach backdrop, wearing skimpy blue bottoms and a racy triangle top.

Wow! Dasha's cheekbones now appear more prominent and as does her lately ample cleavage. Pictured left in 2018 and right in throwback snap

Luscious: The Russian beauty has kept her long chestnut tresses styled straight throughout the years, however appears to have a much fuller pout in recent images. Pictured in 2018

The stunner has added a bronzed glow to her skin and has a gym-honed muscular physique with leaner limbs and a curvy derriere.

Dasha has built an Instagram empire with over 332,000 followers and is a single mum raising her six-year-old son Leon on her own.

Should The Bachelor's Nick 'Honey Badger' Cummins fall for Dasha when the series premieres next month, it could mean he'll soon become a step-father.

Mum: Dasha has built an Instagram empire with over 332,000 followers and is a single mum raising her six-year-old son Leon on her own

Goddess: The stunner has developed a bronzed glow to her skin and a gym-honed muscular body with leaner limbs and a curvy derriere. Pictured left in throwback snap and right in 2018

Daily Mail Australia first broke news that Dasha would be competing on the romantic reality series back in March when she was snapped on date with Nick.

The pair were recently snapped frolicking in the ocean, with Dasha being identified by her distinctive cat tattoo that rests on her left shoulder.

The highly-anticipated season of The Bachelor premieres at 7.30pm on Wednesday August 15 on Channel Ten.They've been going strong since 2015 and have a baby on the way.

And Josh Brolin and wife Kathryn Boyd looked more in love than ever on Saturday as they cruised around LA on bicycles.

The Deadpool 2 actor, 50, used the bright summer day to soak in some sunshine, choosing to go shirtless while out with the soon-to-be-mom, who is 30.

No shirt, no problem! Josh Brolin showed off his shirtless physique while cruising around town on bikes with his expecting wife Kathryn Boyd Saturday

Josh showed off his muscular physique and all around tan in his minimal apparel.

He wore a pair of grey and black swim trunks slung low on his hips and beach-appropriate sandals on his feet.

The Milk actor tied a hoodie around his waist in case he was in need of an extra layer.

Brolin's salt and pepper hair was brushed out of his face and he kept his face cleanly shaven.

Bare minimum: Josh showed off his muscular physique and all around tan in his minimal apparel

Cover up: The actor tied a hoodie around his waist in case he was in need of an extra layer

Feeling plum: The former personal assistant/model looked alluring in a plum colored tank dress which hugged her expecting belly

Besides the W actor was his wife of two years Kathryn, 30.

Boyd, who was met Josh as his personal assistant, looked alluring in a plum colored tank dress which hugged her expecting belly.

She topped things off with a wide felt hat and sunglasses.

She also accessorized with a crescent moon necklace, upside-down cross earrings and plenty of bracelets.

Extra credit: She topped things off with a wide felt hat and sunglasses

California cool: He wore a pair of grey and black swim trunks slung low on his hips and beach-appropriate sandals on his feet

Kathryn is just weeks away from giving birth to she and Josh's first child together.

The actor already has two adult children from his first marriage to actress Alice Adair, which lasted from 1988 to 1994.

He was also wed to Diane Lane from 2004 to 2013, but the couple did not have kids.He's been dating shoe designer Jasmine Yarbrough for a year-and-a-half.

And on Saturday, it was clear that Jasmine's style had rubbed off on Karl Stefanovic, who was spotted rocking an edgy double denim ensemble as he celebrated radio star Tim Blackwell's birthday in Sydney's hipster suburb of Newtown, ahead of his own 44th birthday.

The Today host fit in perfectly with the stylish Newtown crowd in a distressed denim jacket and popped collar.

Trendy! Karl Stefanovic wore an edgy denim ensemble in Sydney's Newtown on Saturday, ahead of his 44th birthday

He accessorised with a trendy knotted bracelet, and kept the rest of his outfit simple with dark blue jeans, a belt, and a plain black T-shirt.

The morning show superstar was joined by a number of celebrity guests at the casual bash, including radio personalities Kate Langbroek and Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald.

Kate stood out in a tropical floral jumpsuit and gold ankle boots, which she accessorised with a soft purple faux-fur coat and a tartan bag.

Cool Karl! The Today host, 44, fit in perfectly with the stylish Newtown crowd in a distressed denim jacket and popped collar

Ladies man! Karl was joined by fiancee Jasmine Yarbrough (L) and radio personality Kate Langbroek (R)

Jasmine went for a much simpler style, sporting a casual white sundress and minimal makeup for a natural look.

Karl's younger brother Peter joined the guests inside the Continental Deli Bar Bistro in Newtown, where the main celebration took place.

The party comes after some bad news for the brothers, with the Today show recently suffering its worst ratings in four years.

No worries! The breakfast TV star kept the rest of his outfit simple with dark blue jeans, a belt, and a plain black T-shirt

Pucker up! Karl leaned in to give blonde beauty Jasmine, 33, a kiss on the cheek

Loved up: Karl and Jasmine didn't seem to care who witnessed their romantic PDA

One media analyst claims the lacklustre numbers are a product of unspoken tension between Karl and his co-host Georgie Gardner.

An insider told the Herald Sun on Wednesday, 'It was widely known that Karl and Georgie were not close and then when the Uber story came out it went worse'.

Back in March, Karl was heard complaining about Georgie in a speakerphone conversation with his brother, Peter, which was overheard by an Uber driver.

Bold! Kate Langbroek stood out in a tropical floral jumpsuit and gold ankle boots, which she accessorised with a soft purple faux-fur coat and a tartan bag

Strutting! Kate cut a stylish figure in the unique outfit as she pounded the pavement

In July, Karl admitted to TV Week that he considered throwing in the towel, after Ubergate made headlines and he suffered scrutiny about his engagement with Jasmine.

'There have been times when I've wondered if it's worth it,' Karl said.

Referring to his leaked 'Ubergate' phone conversation, the TV presenter insisted that reports of tension between himself and his colleagues are nonsense.

Simple: Jasmine went for a simple style, sporting a casual white sundress and minimal makeup for a natural look

Look who it is! Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald was also at the star-studded Sydney celebration

'Rumours about us [the Today show panel] are absolute rubbish. We spend a lot of time together and love each other's company,' Karl said.

Karl recently shut down rumours that he and Jasmine are planning to tie the knot on a private island in Fiji.

'That is definitely not true, but it's not a bad suggestion,' he told The Kyle and Jackie O Show.Anthony LaPaglia, 59, and his younger wife, Alexandra Henkel, 29, recently enjoyed a romantic European honeymoon after they tied the knot in Hawaii earlier this year.

And upon his return from the newlyweds' loved-up sojourn in Italy, the Australian actor has thrown his support behind gender equality in Hollywood.

Speaking to The Daily Telegraph on Sunday, the Without A Trace Star revealed: 'I have a 15-year-old daughter. I'm all for gender equality. Women should be paid the same as men. They usually do more work than a man, to be honest.'

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'Women usually do more work than men': Anthony LaPaglia, 59, (pictured) talks gender equality in Hollywood

The Rake star offered some words of wisdom to aspiring actors navigating the 'patriarchal' business.

'They don't teach kids how to navigate the business, but that would be a better class to teach than an acting class. To be fair, it's not just show business. We live in a pretty patriarchal society, so it's everywhere,' he said.

Anthony also shared his insights on the disgraced former movie mogul, Harvey Weinstein, 66.

The Without A Trace Star revealed: 'I have a 15-year-old daughter. I'm all for gender equality.' Anthony is pictured with his new wife, Alexandra Henkel, 29 (left)

'All that stuff going on in Hollywood has been going on since Hollywood was invented. The whole Harvey Weinstein thing has been going on for 30 years. Everybody knew about it,' he revealed.

Weinstein has been charged in New York with three cases of sexual assault. He has been accused by more than 70 women of sexual misconduct but has denied ever having non consensual sex with anyone.

It comes after Anthony enjoyed a romantic European honeymoon with his younger wife, Alexandra.

'Three months in, and they said it wouldn't last': Anthony LaPaglia's younger wife Alexandra Henkel shared a romantic tribute to the Without A Trace star last month

'I love this one': Alexandra also hit back at those who doubted their relationship would last because of their 30-year age gap. Pictured: Alexandra and Anthony in Puglia, Italy

Last month the blonde took to Instagram to share a touching tribute to her new husband, sharing: 'Three months in... and they said it wouldn't last. Love you bub.'

The couple, who have a 30-year age gap, exchanged vows in an intimate ceremony in Hawaii on April 28, one year after getting engaged.

Announcing the news on social media, the blushing bride wrote: '28.4.2018. The day I married the love of my life.'Earlier this week, it was reported she would replace Jennifer Hawkins as the face of Myer.

And Elyse Knowles has continued the upswing in her career, after she was named the ambassador for eco-friendly beauty brand Aveda on Sunday.

The American company released a written statement saying the blonde beauty's 'personal values align perfectly with Aveda's core brand values.'

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Another win! Model Elyse Knowles, 25, has been named as the new face of the eco-friendly beauty brand, Aveda, on Sunday with the brand saying it's 'proud' to partner with the beauty

The brand added it 'couldn't be prouder' to start its partnership with Elyse, calling her an 'inspirational role model.'

Elyse said she was 'proud to be partnered with a beauty company that goes above and beyond to making our world a more eco-friendly place.'

It comes after Sydney Morning Herald reported that Elyse will replace Jennifer Hawkins, 34, as the face of Myer.

Not just a pretty face: The brand added it 'couldn't be prouder' to start its partnership with Elyse, calling her an 'inspirational role model'

The publication reported that Elyse was prepared to do the same job at a 'fraction of the price,' which will see The Block winner take over from the leggy beauty.

Further to that, it claimed that Jennifer was earning an impressive $1.3 million a year for her Myer gig, while Elyse's contract is said to be worth $150,000.

On Saturday, a Myer representative told Daily Mail Australia that Jennifer's contract will terminate 'at the end of 2018'.

Proud! Elyse said she was 'proud to be partnered with a beauty company that goes above and beyond to making our world a more eco-friendly place'

'Jennifer will also be actively involved in our spring racing carnival campaign and Myer Fashions on the Field hosted across the Melbourne Cup Carnival,' the company said.

'We will update media in relation to Jennifer's contract with Myer in the coming weeks.'

Jennifer became the official face of Myer in early 2007, just three years after being crowned Miss Universe Australia.Charlie Brake and Ellie Brown of Love Island fame have insisted they are happily together, despite reports that their relationship is tumultuous.

And on Saturday evening the pair partied the night away in different countries as they stepped out for their first separate nightclub appearances.

Charlie, 23, was all over fellow Love Islander Alexandra Cane, 27, as they arrived at Gallery Nightclub in Maidstone, Kent for a joint booking.

Having fun: Charlie Brake was all over fellow Love Islander Alexandra Cane, 27, as they arrived at Gallery Nightclub in Maidstone, Kent for a joint booking

The brunette beauty looked sensational in a sheer white crochet pencil dress which flaunted her enviable curves and a pair of nude barely-there heels laced up her toned legs.

She maintained her modesty in the high-necked, long-sleeved frock with a skin-coloured leotard underneath.

Alexandra oozed glamour with a flawless make-up application, enhancing her natural beauty with a heavy dusting of bronzer and a pretty pink lip.

She styled her jet black hair extensions into voluminous waves and finished off her look with an opaque nude mani-pedi.

Joking around: The pair laughed and joked around as Charlie wrapped his arms around Alexandra, who couldn't stop beaming

Gorgeous: The brunette beauty looked sensational in a sheer white crochet pencil dress which flaunted her enviable curves and a pair of nude barely-there heels laced up her toned legs

Stunning: She maintained her modesty in the high-necked, long-sleeved frock with a skin-coloured leotard underneath

Let's go: After posing solo for photos outside the venue, Alexandra made her way inside with Charlie's arm draped over her shoulder

After posing solo for photos outside the venue, she made her way inside with Charlie's arm draped over her shoulder.

The millionaire reality star opted for a more casual ensemble, teaming a black slogan T-shirt with ripped skinny jeans featuring a bold white edge and a pair of black and white trainers.

The pair laughed and joked around as Charlie wrapped his arms around Alexandra, who couldn't stop beaming.

Poser: The millionaire reality star opted for a casual ensemble, teaming a black slogan T-shirt with ripped skinny jeans featuring a bold white edge and a pair of black and white trainers

All smiles: The pair looked in good spirits as they made their way inside the Kent nightclub

Flawless: Alexandra styled her jet black hair extensions into voluminous waves and finished off her look with an opaque nude mani-pedi

The former reality co-stars were joined by Frankie Foster, 22, who donned a similarly understated look, in light-wash skinny jeans, a black tee and white trainers.

Frankie's strolled into the Love Island bash in Kent with a male friend, but unlike his co-stars, didn't flash a smile.

While Frankie partied with his pals, his girlfriend, Samira Mighty, 22, made an appearance at Bar and Beyond in Chelmsford, Essex.

Joining Charlie, Alexandra and Frankie in Kent was Idris Virgo, 25, who cut a stylish figure in a dusty blue shirt left unbuttoned enough to display his gym-honed chest.

Fun times: Alexandra and Charlie couldn't stop laughing as they frolicked outside the nightclub in Kent

Looking sharp: Charlie stepped out without girlfriend Ellie who was in Belfast for a PA

Looking good: Charlie and Alexandra put on stylish displays for their public appearance

The boxer was in good spirits as she made his way to the Kent nightclub in a pair of black skinny jeans and pointed loafers, accompanied by a male pal.

Meanwhile, Charlie Brake's girlfriend Ellie Brown, 20, was in Belfast for her first public appearance without her beau.

The blonde beauty, 20, was in Ireland for a joint nightclub appearance with fellow Love Islander Kieran Nicholls, 25.

Stepping out: The former reality co-stars were joined by Frankie Foster, 22, who donned a similarly understated look, in light-wash skinny jeans, a black tee and white trainers

Moody: Frankie's strolled into the Love Island bash in Kent with a male friend, but unlike his co-stars, didn't flash a smile

Looking good: While Frankie partied with his pals, his girlfriend, Samira Mighty, 22, made an appearance at Bar and Beyond in Chelmsford, Essex

The reality star were joined for drinks by one of Ellie's gal pals before heading to the Belfast venue to do their meet and greet session.

Ellie and Charlie's first PAs without each other comes after the couple put on a united front during In an interview with ITN, as they addressed reports they were fuming with one another during the Love Island: Aftersun reunion show last weekend.

Asked what went on, Charlie, 23, stumbled over his words when trying to explain, saying: 'Couples do have their tiffs. And literally from day one we have not had one day where we havent woken up in the same bed together...'

Loving life: Joining Charlie, Alexandra and Frankie in Kent was Idris Virgo, 25

All smiles: Idris cut a stylish figure in a dusty blue shirt left unbuttoned enough to display his gym-honed chest

Stylish: The boxer was in good spirits as she made his way to the Kent nightclub in a pair of black skinny jeans and pointed loafers, accompanied by a male pal

With Charlie skirting around the issue, Ellie, 20, chimed in: 'Basically Charlie got too drunk and [I] was sober.'

She went on: 'He wasnt just in trouble with me. He was mortal drunk and that's not good when you're going on live TV.

'I was fuming, ITV were fuming, but were okay.'

Charlie had spent the day with fellow Love Island reject Frankie Foster - who is currently seeing Samira Mighty.

Tiff: Charlie Brake and Ellie Brown of Love Island fame have insisted they are happily together, despite reports that their relationship is tumultuous

They're fine! In an interview with ITN, the couple put on a united front as they addressed reports they were fuming with one another during the Love Island Aftersun reunion show last weekend

'Samira was fuming,' Ellie said, shedding light on the frosty atmosphere between both couples during the live broadcast of the reunion.

'Frankie held it together better than me,' Charlie added. 'Thats why I wasnt allowed to speak.'

Charlie was indeed told not to talk during the broadcast, which saw Caroline Flack catching up with several former Love Islanders.

Yet he retained that he and Frankie 'had an absolute ball that day' - which saw them turn up in identical shirts, much to the ITV producers' chagrin.

Spit it out: Asked what went on, Charlie, 23, stumbled over his words when trying to explain, saying 'Couples do have their tiffs. And literally from day one we have not had one day where we havent woken up in the same bed together...'

Going wild: Frankie Foster shared this picture of himself and Charlie ahead of the reunion show wearing matching shirts as he admitted they had been enjoying mid-day tequilas



Millionaire heir Charlie had allegedly threatened to embarrass his girlfriend live on air during the show, with a source telling MailOnline: 'Producers were forced to cut his microphone off after he threatened to embarrass her and walk off the show while it was being aired.

'The couple had also been filmed on their recent holiday to Monaco for a segment for the show, but bosses decided to cut that clip given the tense circumstances.'

They added: 'He had been out drinking tequilas with Frankie Foster earlier in the day and they turned up to the studios wearing the same shirt which was also posted on their social media accounts.

'Charlie and Ellie had a huge row. They looked incredibly frosty during the programme and everyone could see it.

'Things were so bad that they went home in separate cars after the wrap party later that night and Ellie looked like she was about to cry. Things aren't looking good.'

Bromance: Charlie shared this snap of himself and Frankie and Caroline Flack at the wrap party that evening - but there are no pictures of girlfriend Ellie on his grid from that night

Even a picture of the cast which was posted on social media showed them standing on opposite ends of the group and they were not pictured together at all at the wrap party, despite all the Islanders sharing lots of content on Instagram.

A show source told MailOnline: 'They did get separate cars but his mic wasn't cut. They just weren't spoken to on the night of the show, as not all of the couples were.'

In their ITN chat, the pair also revealed that they've been receiving odd messages via social media. One man has requested Charlie send him 'a pair of sweaty stinky socks' while another has contacted Ellie offering to whisk her away for a date to MacDonalds.

Of their newfound attention, Ellie said: 'People are constantly trying to tear us apart. And I take everything to heart. But Im 100 per cent sure I want to be with him.'

Over-compensating? The duo - who were axed halfway through the 2018 season of the reality dating show - were seen all over each other during a photo shoot recently

Defiant: The pair enjoyed a cosy date night on Tuesday, just hours after reports suggested they are on the rocks after a string of furious rows

They revealed that their families have met each other and bonded instantly, explaining that Charlie has plans to launch a footwear brand and Ellie wants to model lingerie for 'girls like me, who are short with no boobs'.

'It will be nice to have a bit of time away from one another because we want to miss each other,' Charlie reasoned.

When asked about the attention they might very well garner from members of the opposite sex while apart, Ellie insisted: 'He knows hes got nothing to worry about with me. And there's no point me worrying about stuff I can't control.'

The duo - who were axed halfway through the 2018 season of the reality dating show - were seen all over each other during a photo shoot the day before, with Ellie licking Charlie, on the cheek in an OTT display.

Opening up: In their ITN chat, the pair also revealed that they've been receiving odd messages via social media

Split up: The pair are set to be split for the first time this weekend, as Ellie heads to a personal appearance in Dublin, while Charlie has one in Kent

This follows reports from The Sun that Charlie had demanded Ellie leave his London home just days ago, after they took a trip to Monaco together for a supposedly romantic break.

A source told the publication: 'He chatted some other bird up on the flight home from Monaco. Ellie had a go at him. They got back to his flat and they had another argument.

'He went out for some drinks and he came back and chucked all her clothes out the window.

'She was living with him and was planning on making a serious relationship of it. But it doesnt look good for them.'She has been in the industry for more than two decades, having shot to fame in the first Fast and Furious film in 2001.

But Michelle Rodriguez only proved to be getting better with age on Saturday, as she showed off her envy-inducing figure during a yacht trip in Sardinia.

The actress, who turned 40 last month, set pulses racing in a skimpy white bikini as she soaked up the sunshine with friends on board.

Bikini babe: Michelle Rodriguez only proved to be getting better with age on Saturday, as she showed off her envy-inducing figure during a yacht trip in Sardinia

Topping up her tan: The actress, who turned 40 last month, set pulses racing in a skimpy white bikini as she soaked up the sunshine with friends on board

The Girlfight star sizzled in the trendy white two-piece, which drew attention to her tanned and toned figure.

The bottoms pulled into chic rope ties at the side, while the top secured into racer-back straps at the back, to leave plenty of her sun-kissed skin on show.

Styling her hair into loose waves and accessorising with round, mirrored shades, the screen star let her incredible physique take centre stage as she relaxed in the sunshine with friends.

Stunning: The Girlfight star sizzled in the trendy white two-piece, which drew attention to her tanned and toned figure

Little touches: The bottoms pulled into chic rope ties at the side

Striking: Meanwhile the top secured into racer-back straps at the back, to leave plenty of her sun-kissed skin on show

Leading lady: Michelle commanded attention with her figure as she relaxed with friends on board

Stunning: Michelle showed off her sensational figure, having turned 40 last month

First laughing and joking with her friends on deck, the star was then seen layering a stylish white kimono atop her look as they moored their yacht and headed for lunch on land.

Michelle has enjoyed a career in Hollywood spanning almost two decades, with prominent roles in the Resident Evil franchise, Machete Kills and James Cameron's Avatar.

However, she recently admitted it was her involvement in the hugely successful Fast & Furious films, playing Letty Ortiz, that truly cemented her star status.

Having a ball: The star laughed and joked with her friends on deck

Natural beauty: Michelle proved her naturally glowing complexion by forgoing make-up

Chilling out: The brunette proved to be completely relaxed as she soaked up the sunshine on board

Sizzling: Styling her hair into loose waves and accessorising with round, mirrored shades, the screen star let her incredible physique take centre stage

Sterling effort: She carried her essentials in a stylish silver tote

Speaking with The Daily Beast, the actress recently reminisced about appearing in the very first Fast and Furious film, made in 2001.

She recalled: 'I was just excited to be in the same room as objects that were blowing up and cars that were racing.

'To be around real racers and remember what it was like on the streets of Jersey at two oclock in the morning hoping that no cops would show up.'

Time for lunch: The star and her friends were then seen mooring their yacht and heading for lunch on land

A bit of all-white: Michelle layered a chic white crochet kimono and matching flares atop her swimwear

Confidence is key: She left the kimono undone to leave her figure on show

Boho babe: The trendy floor-length kimono billowed behind her as she walked

Relaxed: The brunette beamed for cameras as she headed for lunch

She added: 'Imagine - Im living the dream, I wasnt paying attention to the script. I thought, "Ill deal with it later."'

'Its been 14 years since Ive been the lead in a movie, since Ive carried a movie on my own,' she said.

'Ive just been so shocked by life in the last two years. Im going to open up. Ive kind of made myself a carcass of safety and Ive protected myself against playing the girlfriend or the girl who gets raped and THEN gets empowered, the girl who gets empowered and then dies theyre always taking the power away from the women.'

Her next film, cyberpunk thriller Alita: Battle Angel, is released in December.

Off on our jollies: They later resumed their sun session later on

Catching up: Michelle looked to be in good spirits as she caught up with friendsIdris Elba has sent James Bond fans into a frenzy with a cryptic tweet, suggesting he could be signing up to be the new 007.

The actor caused a huge stir on Twitter on Sunday after posting a selfie alongside the caption: 'my name's Elba, Idris Elba'.

The British actor, 45, is one of many stars to be linked to the role of James Bond, as speculation continues over who will take over from Daniel Craig when he leaves the franchise.

New role? Idris Elba has sent James Bond fans into a frenzy with a cryptic tweet, suggesting he could be signing up to be the new 007

His tweet comes just days after Bond producer Barbara Broccoli said 'it is time' for a non-white leading man to play the character.

Speaking with American filmmaker Antoine Fuqua on Thursday about who could next take on the role she said it 'will happen eventually' and Idris is a clear favourite.

There has been a lot of speculation surrounding the role, and Idris was first revealed to be a front-runner back in 2014 when leaked emails suggested he should be cast.

Front-runner? His tweet comes just days after Bond producer Barbara Broccoli said 'it is time' for a non-white leading man to play the character

In the correspondence, which was released during the massive Sony hack that year, the then-studio co-chair Amy Pascal said to a colleague: 'Idris should be the next Bond.'

But the actor has denied the claims on several occasions, and has also said that it's time for a woman to take on the role instead.

In January, the Luther star said producers should 'do something different' with the role and have a black or white actress take up the mantle of the spy franchise.

Iconic role: Speculation continues over who will take over from Daniel Craig after he leaves the franchise (pictured in Casino Royale in 2006)

Speaking to Vanity Fair, he said: 'It could be a woman - could be a black woman, could be a white woman,' he said. 'Do something different with it. Why not?'

Several actress have been tipped to play the Bond role in the past, with X Files star Gillian Anderson being shunted to the forefront of speculation after a fan tweeted a convincing poster of her as Bond in 2016.

Other actors whose names have been suggested to take over the role of 007 include McMafia star James Norton, Tom Hardy, and Poldark's Aidan Turner.

It was recently confirmed Daniel will return to his 007 role for fifth time, in the 25th Bond movie which is directed by Danny Boyle.

Surprise: Craig will return to the role one more time, which will undoubtedly stun fans as he stated three years ago that he would 'rather slit his wrists' than play Bond again

Universal Pictures also won the international distribution rights to the film, which will drop in the UK first on October 25, 2019.

Craig's return to the role will undoubtedly stun fans as he stated three years ago that he would 'rather slit his wrists' than take on the role once more.

EON Productions' Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli told Deadline this month: 'We are delighted to announce that the exceptionally talented Danny Boyle will be directing Daniel Craig in his fifth outing as James Bond in the 25th instalment of the franchise.

'We will begin shooting Bond 25 at Pinewood Studios in December with our partners at MGM and thrilled that Universal will be our international distributor. Production on the movie, which will land in the US on November 8, 2019.'

Speaking in 2015, when asked about returning to the role, Craig told the Guardian: 'Now? I'd rather  slash my wrists. No, not at the moment. Not at all. That's fine. I'm over it at the moment. We're done. All I want to do is move on.'Love Island fans are demanding refunds for the show's recent live event, which they claim was 'oversold' and 'chaotic'.

Love Island Live took place at London's ExCel on Friday, and saw viewers pay 35 for a meet-and-greet with this year's islanders, as well as host Caroline Flack.

However, disgruntled attendees have since vented their fury to Daily Star Sunday, after queuing for hours to meet winners Jack Fincham and Dani Dyer, to only be denied photos and a chance to chat to them.

Not happy: Love Island fans are demanding refunds for the show's recent live event, which they claim was 'oversold' and 'chaotic' (Jack Fincham and Dani Dyer pictured)

The paper claims the queues at the event - attended by thousands - were lengthy but to no avail, as many were later told it was too late to meet the 2018 cast.

It is even claimed fights broke out among those waiting, with one furious attendee blasting the show for hugely overselling the venue's capacity.

Anna Troth, who took a number of teenage girls to the event for a birthday, said: 'I have spent close to 100 to be here today and we haven't got a single picture.

'It was so crowded': Disgruntled attendees have since vented their fury after queuing for hours to meet the stars, to only be denied photos (Megan Barton Hanson and Wes Nelson pictured)

'The event was oversold. It was so crowded. So many people want their money back.'

She also claimed they queued for almost two hours to meet show winners Jack and Dani, but were only given a matter of seconds to meet and chat to them.

Despite purchasing 35 VIP tickets, which promised meet and greets with all the islanders, Anna added: 'They walked past and Jack was going to let us take a picture but we were pushed aside by one of the organisers who looked like security.'

Say cheese! Love Island Live took place at London's ExCel on Friday, and saw viewers pay 35 for a meet-and-greet with this year's islanders, as well as host Caroline Flack

'We were pushed aside': She also claimed they queued for almost two hours to meet show winners Jack and Dani, but were only given a matter of seconds to meet and chat to them

The event was organised to give fans the opportunity to meet their favourite 2018 stars, with the website promising: 'Get your best face ready for the ultimate selfie with your favourite Islanders.'

A spokesperson for ITV told MailOnline: 'Love Island Live allowed viewers to see a 60 min show with the Islanders hosted by Caroline Flack, and meet and greet some of their Islander favourites during a further 2 hour period.

'We have had overwhelmingly positive feedback and are sorry to hear some people were disappointed.'

The live event was attended by a range of series favourites, including finalists Megan Barton Hanson and Wes Nelson, Laura Anderson and Paul Knops and Josh Denzel and Kazimir Crossley, as well as Eyal Booker, Adam Collard and Dr Alex George.

Chaos: It is even claimed fights broke out among those waiting, who had paid 35 for a VIP ticket to not meet a single show star (Laura Anderson and Paul Knops pictured)

After bagging the title and 50,000 prize money, Dani and Jack proved to still be loved-up at the event, as they packed on the PDA in front of guests.

The pair had celebrated the brunette's 22nd birthday the previous day, with Jack joining her family and famous father Danny Dyer for a humble Indian takeaway at her home in Essex.

It is no wonder so many guests rushed to see the new reality stars, with the fourth series of Love Island the most successful to date.

The final last month drew in a whopping 3.6 million viewers for ITV2, marking the highest ratings in the channel's history.Advertisement

She's been having the summer of her life, jetting around the world for shoots and parties.

And Emily Ratajkowski looked on cloud nine on Saturday as she partied on board a yacht in Sardinia with hunky male model Jordan Barrett.

Gone Girl beauty Emily wowed in a very skimpy bikini as she larked around with shirtless Jordan and a group of friends on board the luxury vessel.

Friends all at sea: Emily Ratajkowski looked on cloud nine on Saturday as she partied on board a yacht in Sardinia with hunky male model Jordan Barrett

Show-stopping: Emily was the picture of glamour as she embarked on a photo shoot on board

The 27-year-old model chose a tiny grey and white polka dot two piece for her day at sea, which showed off her sizzling figure.

The thong-style drew attention to the brunette beauty's pert derriere as she broke out her best poses for her friends, and topped up her already glowing tan.

The halter neck top also highlighted the model's ample assets, while she accessorised with gold hoop earrings and her wedding and engagement ring from her February nuptials to producer Sebastian Bear-McClard.

Looking sensational: Gone Girl beauty Emily wowed in a very skimpy bikini as she larked around with shirtless Jordan and a group of friends on board the luxury vessel

Moving in the same circles: 22-year-old cover boy Jordan, who has been labeled 'model it boy of the new era' by Vogue, is best known for his close friendship with fellow model Bella Hadid

Eye catching: The thong-style drew attention to Emily's pert derriere as she broke out her best poses for her friends, and topped up her already glowing tan

Playful: The pair, who are close friends, laughed as they fooled around together on the boat

Catching up: They looked in good spirits as they soaked up the sunshine

Wine not: The pair shared a beverage as they relaxed

Indulging: The pair looked happy to be sipping on wine in the sunshine

Not to be outdone, Jordan showed off his own flawless physique in beige board shorts, adding layered gold necklaces to his tanned chest.

The 22-year-old cover boy, who has been labeled 'model it boy of the new era' by Vogue, is best known for his close friendship with fellow model Bella Hadid.

It seems like the rising star of the photography world likes to take photos of Emily as there were several Instagram stories added to his page on Saturday that showed off their yachting excursion and celebrity guest list.

Busty babe: The halter neck top also highlighted the model's ample assets as she posed

Professional: Emily certainly proved her model prowess on the yacht - even draping herself around the mast for a number of other sizzling shots

Work it: She struck a number of fierce poses for the camera

Skimpy: The bikini pulled into a single string at her hips, to leave her famously long and slender legs on show

Best angles: She later reclined on deck for more sizzling snaps

Chic: She accessorised with gold hoop earrings and her wedding and engagement ring from her February nuptials to producer Sebastian Bear-McClard

Whoosh! She looked slightly windswept at one point as she posed

Fast and Furious star Michelle Rodriguez also attended the hangout and made several appearances in Jordan's Instagram posts, too, even sparking dating rumors as they looked very comfortable and cozy together.

Emily, Jordan and Michelle were all in Italy to attend the Unicef Summer Gala.

Emily's husband Sebastian, a producer, did not seem to be present for the trip, having tied the knot with Emily during a surprise ceremony in late February.

The duo said their I do's at a New York City courthouse after dating for just a few weeks, with the model revealing the news on her Instagram stories just hours afterwards.

Done for the day: She later clambered down from her shooting spot, with her essentials in a quirky linen shoulder bag

Life's peachy: Emily's physique took centre stage during the outing

Flying solo: Emily's husband Sebastian, a producer, did not seem to be present for the trip, having tied the knot with Emily during a surprise ceremony in late February

Doing their bit: Emily and Jordan have instead joined Michelle Rodriguez in Italy to attend the Unicef Summer Gala

Happiest day: Emily enjoyed a holiday with friends after marrying producer Sebastian at a New York City courthouse in February, after dating for just a few weeks

Old friends: Us Weekly later revealed that Sebastian and Emily knew each other 'for years,' and that 'they were all in a friend group.' Adding that he wasn't a 'stranger'

Emily and Sebastian were first spotted together on Valentine's Day of this year, weeks after it was reported that she no longer lived with her boyfriend of three years, Jeff Magid.

Us Weekly revealed that Sebastian and Emily knew each other 'for years,' and that 'they were all in a friend group.' Adding that he wasn't a 'stranger.'

Sharing details of their engagement after just a few months of dating on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, she told the host: 'He proposed to me at Minetta Tavern [a French restaurant in New York City] and he didn't have a ring.'

Moving on: Emily and Sebastian were first spotted together on Valentine's Day of this year, weeks after it was reported that she no longer lived with her boyfriend of three years, Jeff Magid

Down time: However Emily appeared to be enjoying some time with her friends

Top up? The pair later took the bottle to the deck to top up their drinks as they chatted

Cheers! They sipped on their glasses in the sunshine

Still got it: Emily still managed to look glamorous despite the breeze

'He then took the paperclip that the bill was paid with and made me a ring, which I actually thought was really romantic.'

'We walked into Chinatown and bought an ounce of gold and he was like, 'We'll melt down the gold and make the rings'.'

Emily certainly proved her model prowess on the yacht - posing fiercely for cameras on board, and even draping herself around the mast for a number of other sizzling shots.

It takes two to tan-go: Jordan later helped Emily with her bikini

Helping hand: Jordan also helped Emily top up her sun cream

Eye-popping: Emily was certainly the picture of confidence in the skimpy swimwear

Struggles: However, despite being one of the most beautiful models in the industry, Emily recently admitted she still has 'bad days' in terms of confidence and self-esteem

'Here's someone who really doesn't give a s***': However, the newly-married star insisted she takes a leaf out of Kim Kardashian's books when she feels down in the dumps

Inspiration: She said: 'I think Kim Kardashian is actually an incredible feminist. I channel her when I'm having a bad day'

Although she is one of the most beautiful models in the industry, Emily recently admitted she still has 'bad days' in terms of confidence and self-esteem.

However, the newly-married star insisted she takes a leaf out of Kim Kardashian's books when she feels down in the dumps.

'I think Kim Kardashian is actually an incredible feminist,' the newly married model told Elle magazine for their June/July edition in Australia.

'I channel her when I'm having a bad day. I'm like, "Here's someone who really doesn't give a sh** what anyone thinks." I would like to be that person who is above it all, and she is that way.'

Wrapping up warm: Jordan then layered a jumper atop his swimwear as the sun went in

Off we go: The pair then treated themselves to a ride on a speed boat

Chilling: Emily beamed as they sped off into the sunset

Racy: The star later posed in her bikini for an Instagram video that she shared with followers on Sunday afternoonHe's the TV groom who's been reveling in the spotlight since finding fame on Married At First Sight in January.

And now Nasser Sultan, 51, has been spotted spending time with high-class escort Samantha X, 44.

The unlikely pair were pictured enjoying a lunch date at Sydney hot spot Flour Eggs Water in Surrey Hills on Sunday.

Scroll down for video

PICTURE EXCLUSIVE: Love At First Sight? MAFS' Nasser Sultan, 52, enjoyed a lunch date with 44-year-old high-class escort Samantha X

Although it looks like Nasser may have a little more romancing to do before he captures the heart of Samantha.

During their lunch, the blonde, real name Amanda Goff, pulled away to avoid Nasser's advances as he went in for a kiss.

It's no wonder Nasser's pulse was racing though, after Samantha dressed up in her Sunday best for the outing.

The former journalist showcased her perfect pins in a pair of skin-tight leather trousers, teamed with a striped top and tailored black jacket.

Smitten: Although Nasser may have to try harder after the former journalist pulled away when he went in for a kiss over lunch

Caught: The pair were all smiles as a friend later joined them inside

Third wheel: Samantha appeared grateful as the male friend gate-crashed the date

Nasser, however, opted for a more casual look.

He went for double denim with a pair of fresh white Adidas sneakers in a hope of impressing Samantha.

The pair were later joined by a male friend who third-wheeled on what appeared to be a date.

And although his attendance may have deterred any real feelings from blossoming, Sam and Nasser bid each other an affectionate goodbye before going their separate ways.

Perfect gentleman: Nasser held the door open for Sam as they left the Sydney hotspot

Hot stuff: It's no wonder Nasser's pulse was racing after Samantha dressed up in her Sunday best for the outing ...while he went casual in double denim

Samantha towered over the tiny TV star in her heels as she leaned down so he could plant a kiss on her cheek.

After she accepted the friendly gesture, the pair enjoyed a long cuddle on the street as the third person in their third party looked on.

When approached for comment by Daily Mail Australia, Nasser said: 'Samantha is a very beautiful and classy lady.'

Hands all over: The MAFS star made sure he left a lasting impression before the pair went their separate ways

The former journalist announced she'd returned to escorting last month.

Speaking to The Daily Telegraph, she confirmed she's back in business, gushing: 'I've decided to return to the job that I love because of that reason: I love it!'

'I met someone, I gave it my all. I grabbed the chance at love with both hands and I thought I'd found love finally. And then it ended.'

Samantha initially retired from her lucrative $5,000-per-night escorting career after falling in love with Channel Seven newsreader Ryan Phelan last year.

She added: 'I was in shock. It didn't work out. And now I'm back doing what I love.'

Living the high life: Samantha towered over the tiny TV star in her heels as she leaned down so he could plant a kiss on her cheek

'I'm back doing what I love': The former journalist announced she'd returned to escorting last month after splitting from Channel Seven newsreader Ryan Phelan

Nasser has also recently found himself single.

The MAFS star split from TV wife Gabrielle Bartlett while filming the social experiment, with their separation airing in March, and he's since been linked to both men and women.

When asked what sexual orientation he identifies as, he previously stated: 'Nasser is Nasser, why do I need to be anything?'

However, it appears that none of his attempts at love have worked out since the show and he's officially back on the market.Karl Stefanovic's mother and younger brother have shared childhood photos of the Today show host to celebrate his birthday.

The Channel Nine star, who turned 44 on Sunday, received well wishes in the form of throwback snaps from mum Jenny and brother Peter.

In one image, a young Karl cheekily grins at the camera, revealing an early glimpse at the show-stopping charisma that would one day turn him into Australia's biggest TV star.

Golden child! Karl Stefanovic beams in a childhood photo shared by his mother, Jenny, on his 44th birthday

'Happy birthday Karly,' wrote Jenny. 'Hope you have a great day. Love you always mum.'

In the second snap, the mischievous star strikes a pose in the backyard with little bro Peter by his side.

'The only time we ever did the weeding,' wrote Peter. 'Happy birthday to my big brother.'

Boys will be boys! In the second snap, the mischievous star strikes a pose in the backyard with little bro Peter by his side

The autumn of their lives: Karl, 44, and Peter, 36, are now grown up and working for Channel 9

Karl kicked off celebrations for his birthday in Sydney on Saturday.

He went to the trendy hipster suburb of Newtown with fiancee Jasmine Yardbrough and a number of celebrity pals, including Kate Langbroek and Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald.

The celebration is a welcome reprieve for the breakfast show host, who was rocked earlier this month by the news that Today had received its lowest ratings in four years.

Plummeting! Karl recently received some bad news after Today had its worst ratings in years

The Herald Sun claimed the breakfast show host was struggling to beat Sunrise rivals Samantha Armytage and David 'Kochie' Koch.

According to the publication, Sunrise has won the most weeks of the ratings year - 22 out of 23 - across the five-city metro.

Last week, a media insider told the Herald Sun that head honchos at Nine wouldn't be too happy with the ratings, but would understand why they are so lucklustre.

'It would be disappointing to be beaten so consistently but probably not totally surprising,' the insider said.Advertisement

She's rumoured to be entering the Celebrity Big Brother house on Thursday after agreeing a whopping 750,000 fee.

And Roxanne Pallett is keen to make the most of her time before entering the Channel 5 house, hitting Portugal this weekend for a romantic break with boyfriend Lee Walton.

The ex Emmerdale star, 35, looked gorgeous in a chic white bikini as she packed on the PDA with her handsome beau during a fun filled day in the pool.

Holiday time! Roxanne Pallett is enjoying a break in Portugal this weekend with boyfriend Lee Walton ahead of her rumoured appearance on Celebrity Big Brother next week

The soap star turned radio presenter showed off her stunning figure in a white halter neck bikini.

Her ample assets were highlighted by the bikini's flattering neckline, while the skimpy low-rise bottoms with tie detail emphasised the star's toned stomach.

Her collection of tattoos were also on show, with script under her bust on her left hip visible.

Kiss me quick: The ex Emmerdale star, 35, looked gorgeous in a chic white bikini as she packed on the PDA with her handsome beau during a fun filled day in the pool

It takes two! The two shared a passionate kiss in the pool before zooming down a water slide together

The brunette beauty slicked back her wet locks after a dip in the pool, while impressively her makeup was still looking flawless despite the splashing around.

Roxanne looked on cloud nine as she got cosy with her longterm boyfriend, who showed off his muscular physique in blue swimshorts.

The two shared a passionate kiss in the pool before zooming down a water slide together, with Roxanne seen laughing with delight.

Wow factor: The soap star turned radio presenter showed off her stunning figure in a white halter neck bikini

Close: Roxanne could barely keep her hands off her handsome beau who showed off his physique in blue shorts

The happy star has plenty to celebrate as it has been reported that she has agreed a 750,000 deal to enter the CBB house on Thursday.

According to a Celebrity Big Brother insider, the show's casting team have had their eye on Roxanne for some time, and have finally bagged her but for a hefty fee.

The former soap actress, 35 - who played feisty Jo Sugden in ITV soap Emmerdale - was left badly shaken after a horrific car crash last month, which saw her hit a wall at 40mph while driving a Formula 2 stock car.

Bit chilly? Roxanne put on an animated display as she dipped her toe in the pool as he laughing beau looked on

Cheeky! Lee kept a tight hold of Roxanne, cheekily catching the edge of her skimpy bikini top

She suffered two badly sprained wrists, bruising and concussion in the incident at the Hunmanby Raceway in North Yorkshire while filming a segment for her breakfast show on Minster FM.

A friend of the brunette beauty told the Daily Star: 'Roxanne is still dealing with the after-effects of what happened. But she's made of strong stuff and refuses to let it stop her going into CBB.'

MailOnline has contacted Roxanne Pallett's representatives, and Channel 5 declined to comment.

Will you miss me? The happy star has plenty to celebrate as it has been reported that she has agreed a 750,000 deal to enter the CBB house on Thursday

Roxanne says her boyfriend Lee kept her conscious during her horror crash. Recalling the day that ended in a near-tragedy, the emotional star told Good Morning Britain: 'It's something you never expect to happen to you. I'm so dosed up on painkillers even now and I'm numb and I'm glad I am.

'We were visiting a racing track, it was meant to be a fun afternoon. I just remember being excited and then realising very fast that the car was more powerful than me.

'And when I was revving to drive I didn't expect it to be so quick. I couldn't brake and couldn't turn it around the corner. I could see I was about to hit. And that was when I lost (it). I blacked out.'

In the money: According to a Celebrity Big Brother insider, the show's casting team have had their eye on Roxanne for some time, and have finally bagged her but for a hefty fee

As firefighters spent two hours cutting Roxanne out of the car. her Minster FM breakfast show co-host Ben Fry called Lee and told him to speak to her to keep her from losing consciousness.

'It was like time stood still. I remember waking up and feeling out of breath. I must have had my eyes closed. They said I lost consciousness for 30 seconds. They had Lee on the phone to me.

'I had this helmet on, I had this blocked up feeling like I had water in my head. I couldn't hear much or feel anything.

Recovering: The former soap actress, 35 - who played feisty Jo Sugden in ITV soap Emmerdale - was left badly shaken after a horrific car crash last month, which saw her hit a wall at 40mph while driving a Formula 2 stock car

'He was saying 'hold on, stay awake'. I just wanted to go to sleep. I couldn't feel my legs, as soon as I woke up, and my head. I think that's why they airlifted me.'

After leaving Emmerdale in 2008, Roxanne competed in Dancing on Ice (in 2009) and has starred in a number of movies, stage musicals and television series including Waterloo Road and Casualty.

Her rumoured Celebrity Big Brother stint will be part of a jam-packed summer of reality television appearances for the actress, having already filmed Celebrity Island for Channel 4.They recently enjoyed an idyllic Greek island break with his daughter.

And Lucy Mecklenburgh and her boyfriend Ryan Thomas looked adorable as they posed together for snaps at Adam and Scott Thomas' birthday bash at Manchester's Impossible bar on Saturday.

The former TOWIE star, 26, stunned in a chic white summer dress which featured eye-catching cold shoulders and pretty bell sleeves, while the former Coronation Street actor, 34, opted for a more casual look.

Cute couple: Lucy Mecklenburgh, 26, and her boyfriend Ryan Thomas, 34, posed together for snaps at Adam and Scott Thomas' birthday bash at Manchester's Impossible bar on Saturday

The cross-over neckline teased a hint of Lucy's ample cleavage, and the frock flattered her tiny waist, despite the skirt comprising layers of floaty ruffles.

Lucy flaunted her toned, tanned pins in a stunning pair of stilettos and draped the long chain strap of a chic black bag over her shoulder as she nuzzled her head into her boyfriend as they posed for photos.

Finishing off her look, the Celebrity Island star wore a pair of circular bold black drop earrings.

Lucy opted for a bronzed make-up look, adding a glamorous edge with false eyelashes, and styled her brunette tresses into subtle waves.

Stylish: The former TOWIE star stunned in a chic white summer dress which featured eye-catching cold shoulders and pretty bell sleeves

Stunning: The cross-over neckline teased a hint of Lucy's ample cleavage, and the frock flattered her tiny waist, despite the skirt comprising layers of floaty ruffles

Sharing a snap of herself in the dress, from Lucy's Boutique, the reality star captioned the Instagram post: 'Yeesss its Saturday night, cant wait to dance in my new dresss.'

Her boyfriend Ryan Thomas, 34, cut a casual figure in a pair of grey trousers featuring a subtle check print, which turned up at the cuff.

The former Coronation Street actor teamed the trousers with a plain black T-shirt and white trainers, and clutched onto a denim jacket as he posed for photos with Lucy.

Happy lady: Sharing a snap of herself in the dress, from Lucy's Boutique, the reality star captioned the Instagram post: 'Yeesss its Saturday night, cant wait to dance in my new dresss'

The couple seem to be well and truly back on track, and happier than ever, after a brief split last month.

The pair - who met while filming Celebrity Island with Bear Grylls in May 2017 - had a furious row after Lucy accused the father-of-one of getting close to a model on a night out in Manchester.

Ryan was said to have furiously denied the rumours and convinced Lucy to try again.

A source told The Sun at the time: 'Who knows what will happen long-term, but for now things they seem determined to smooth it over.'

All that glitters: Love Island's Amber Davies, 21, flaunted her washboard abs in a white crop top as she joinde Vicky Pattison, 30, for the party in Manchester

Hot stuff: While Amber remained solo, fellow TV personality Vicky made it a date night with her fiance John Noble as they made their glamorous entrance to the celeb haunt

Ryan is a dad to daughter Scarlett, nine, who he shares with ex-girlfriend of six years, former Coronation Street star Tina O'Brien, 34.

Lucy and Ryan were join by a host of soap and reality television stars at Ryan's twin brothers' 30th birthday bash.

Love Island star Amber Davies, 21, looked sensational as she flaunted her taut abs in a skimpy white crop top and shimmering gold slacks.

Showbiz pair: Amplifying her features with her wavy brunette tresses and smokey eye make-up, Vicky and John looked ever the power couple as they strode into the venue hand-in-hand

Girls night! The reality stars kept on rolling in as Goodman sisters Chloe (L) and Lauryn (R) enjoyed a night on the town with Celebrity Big Brother alum Jess Impiazzi (C)

Amber boosted her statuesque frame in a pair of glamorous nude lace-up boots and toted her belongings in a chic black quilted bag.

The reality TV star slicked back her glossy chocolate mane into a sleek pony tail, and injected a touch of shimmer with a delicate gold necklace.

Amber highlighted her natural beauty with nude make-up and lashings of mascara and she sauntered to the swanky venue.

Wonder in white: Ex On The Beach star Chloe drew attention to her endless stems in a flapper-inspired tassel dress paired with sky-high black heels

Smiles: Jess Impiazzi certainly garnered lots of attention in her cobalt blue mini-dress, with her eye-popping cleavage on full display in the lacy number

While Amber remained solo, fellow TV personality Vicky Pattison made it a date night with her fiance John Noble as they made their glamorous entrance to the celeb haunt.

The Geordie Shore star, 30, put on yet another stylish display in a sophisticated leopard-print jacket dress, which cinched in her minuscule waist.

Vicky teetered through the streets in a pair of classic black stiletto heels and clutched onto a chic matching hand bag.

Smitten: Corrie's Nikki Sanderson and Greg Whitehurst looked close as they posed

Chic: Nikki went braless in a plunging blouse and leather skirt

Amplifying her features with her wavy brunette tresses and smokey eye make-up, Vicky and John looked ever the power couple as they strode into the venue hand-in-hand.

John looked equally dapper in a cream jumper and white shirt, teamed with dark skinny jeans and charcoal suede boots.

The reality stars kept on rolling in as Goodman sisters Chloe and Lauryn enjoyed a night on the town with Celebrity Big Brother alum Jess Impiazzi.

PDA: Corrie's Jack P. Shepherd posed with girlfriend Hanni Treweek

Glamour: Amber Davies and Georgia May Foote looked impossibly glam at the bash

Ex On The Beach star Chloe drew attention to her endless stems in a flapper-inspired tassel dress paired with sky-high black heels.

Pining her icy blonde locks back into a high ponytail, while she accentuated her beauty with glossy nude make-up.

Chloe's sister Lauryn wasn't too far behind, as she threatened to spill out of her dangerously low cut LBD, and upped the ante with fishnet heels.

Hot couple: Dean Gaffney and girlfriend Rebekah Ward cosied up

Reality stars: Love Island's Katie Salmon and Vicki dazzled for the camera

The starlet injected a pop of colour with a vibrant red lip and dramatic eye make-up, while her ombre tresses fell past her shoulders in delicate curls.

Jess Impiazzi certainly garnered lots of attention in her cobalt blue mini-dress, with her eye-popping cleavage on full display in the lacy number.

The glamour model displayed her staggering stems in the skin-tight ensemble and posed in a pair of strappy metallic heels.

Jess framed her stunning features with glossy corkscrew curls as she opted for neutral make-up for the glamorous evening.They've been going strong since 2015 and have a baby on the way.

And Josh Brolin and wife Kathryn Boyd looked more in love than ever last Sunday as they strolled around Hawaii together.

The Deadpool 2 actor, 50, used the bright summer day to soak in some sunshine, choosing to go shirtless while out with the soon-to-be-mom, who is 30.

Pre-baby moon? Josh Brolin, 50, and wife Kathryn Boyd, 30, looked more in love than ever last Sunday while strolling around Hawaii together in barely-there attire just weeks before she's due to give birth to their first child together

Josh showed off his muscular physique and all around tan in his minimal apparel as they were all smiles as they walked around the shops in Kauai.

He wore a pair of grey and black swim trunks slung low on his hips and beach-appropriate sandals on his feet.

The Milk actor carried a white t-shirt in his hand in case he was in need of an extra layer.

Brolin's salt and pepper hair was brushed out of his face and he kept his face cleanly shaven.

Fit figure: Josh showed off his muscular physique and all around tan in his minimal apparel as they were all smiles as they walked around the shops in Kauai

Besides the W actor was his wife of two years Kathryn, 30.

Boyd, who was met Josh as his personal assistant, looked alluring in three different outfits throughout the day.

Josh stayed in his casual swim trunks but she first stunned in a tight, plain, black dress whose sheer material left little to the imagination.

Outfit change: Later in the day the actress went bra-less in white, cropped top that fully exposed her pregnant belly

Messy hair, don't care: The first time mom wore her blonde hair back into a high messy bun

The tank dress hugged her expecting belly and she tried to not expose as much with the help of a maroon, floral, flowing cover up.

She topped things off with sunglasses and flip flops.

The first time mom wore her blonde hair back into a high messy bun.

Styling: Kathryn's top was mostly sleeveless other than pieces of fabric wrapped around her arms

Summertime: The actress paired the cute cropped top up with a pair of cut-off Daisy Duke jeans

Later in the day the actress went braless in white, cropped top that fully exposed her pregnant belly and was mostly sleeveless other than pieces of fabric wrapped around her arms.

She paired that shirt with a Daisy Duke cut-off shorts.

That outfit wasn't much of a switch-up as the third one she wore that day, which consisted of a black, cropped, tank top with palm trees on it.

The stunner's tank showed off her stomach and was matched with a pair of black, cut off, jean shorts.

Growing family: Kathryn is just weeks away from giving birth to she and Josh's first child together

Kathryn is just weeks away from giving birth to she and Josh's first child together.

The actor already has two adult children from his first marriage to actress Alice Adair, which lasted from 1988 to 1994.

He was also wed to Diane Lane from 2004 to 2013, but the couple did not have kids.

Switching things up: The third outfit she wore that day consisted of a black, cropped, tank top with palm trees on it



Katie Price has reportedly attempted to sell her 150,000 pink horse box after she was given three months to pay off her debts, totalling 250,000.

According to The Daily Star, the former glamour model, 40, was 'snubbed by a horsebox dealer who offered her 90,000 for the vehicle', 60,000 less than its reported value.

A source told the publication: 'The horsebox is probably worth about 150,000 now but they know she is desperate. You cant blame them for trying to get a good deal on it.'

Financial woes: Katie Price has reportedly attempted to sell her 150,000 pink horse box after she was given three months to pay off her debts, totalling 250,000

The insider also reported that the large vehicle was originally worth nearly half a million pounds.

'It was worth around 400,000 when she bought it but like much of what she owns it has plummeted in value', they added.

MailOnline has contacted Katie's representatives for comment.

Up for sale? According to The Daily Star, the former glamour model, 40, was 'snubbed by a horsebox dealer who offered her 90,000 for the vehicle'

These reports come as the mother-of-five, who was once estimated to be worth 45million, was recently given three months to pay off her mounting debts in order to avoid being declared bankrupt.

Katie was not present at the High Court Roll's building in London on Tuesday, with her team submitting proposals for an individual voluntary agreement (IVA).

An IVA sees creditors paid back over an agreed period of time and her application will be heard in 12 weeks on October 30.

It was previously reported that the hearing could see her formally declared insolvent, even though she was once estimated to be worth 45million.

Troubles: These reports come as the mother-of-five was recently given three months to pay off her mounting debts in order to avoid being declared bankrupt

She is already thought to be selling her 2million West Sussex mansion, which she bought in 2014, as well as all of her beloved farmyard animals.

The glamour model is also reportedly hoping to sell the rights to her life story and cash in on the drama in order to pay off her colossal debts.

A source revealed to MailOnline: 'Katie would endorse a movie made of her life. There's certainly enough subject matter to support a good meaty storyline thriller!'

Katie has been bidding for months to stave off bankruptcy after her once-lucrative media empire began to fall apart last year, following the demise of her third marriage to Kieran Hayler, and the collapse of her businesses.

Heartbreak: Katie has been bidding for months to stave off bankruptcy, following the collapse of her businesses and demise of her third marriage to Kieran Hayler (pictured in 2016)

The TV personality split from the former stripper, 30, last summer, after his affair with the family nanny emerged.

She has since found love again with Kris Boyson, 29, who she met through her son Harvey's new fitness plan.

Despite only confirming their romance weeks ago, Katie and Kris have already holidayed in Bruges, Glasgow and now Thailand - with the star revealing she has finally found a man who 'ticks all the boxes'.

She told OK! in June: 'Hes a mans man. Hes got his own job, hes not false or fame hungry. In that respect, I think this is going to be a more normal relationship and less toxic.'Jack Whitehall will play a gay character in Disney's The Jungle Cruise.

The comedian, 30, who has previously starred in small cameo roles in Frozen and the upcoming Nutcracker and the Four Realms, will star alongside Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, 46, and Emily Blunt, 35.

In what is being regarded as a pivotal moment in Walt Disney's history, Jack will play Emily's gay brother in the film franchise.

Huge role: Jack Whitehall will play a gay character in Disney's The Jungle Cruise

A source told The Sun: 'This is a huge gig for Jack and has landed him his biggest ever pay cheque.

'But, more excitingly, he is playing a gay man - one who is hugely effete, very camp and very funny, its a dream role.

'Disneys always been incredibly supportive of the LGBTQ community, this latest script, set at a time when it wasnt socially acceptable to be gay, is another significant turning point.'

Star-studded line-up: The comedian, 30, will star alongside Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and Emily Blunt

Exciting: Earlier this week, the comedian took to Twitter to share a video of Dwayne talking about the film, set for release in 2019

Earlier this week, the comedian took to Twitter to share a video of Dwayne talking about the film, set for release in 2019.

He said: 'It's been years in the making and from the bottom of my heart we are all so honoured to bring this rich story and movie to life for all of you around the world

Now check this out in 1955 Walt disney imagined, designed and created the very first Jungle Cruise ride and how about this- Walt Disney himself was the first skipper for the very first Jungle Cruise ride.

Based on the ride: Johnson will play a boat captain who takes his sister (Blunt) and her brother (Whitehall) on a mission to find a tree believed to possess healing powers.

'It is with great honour and reverence that I get the opportunity to play this role and we can show you guys this story.

He added: 'Walt this one is for you buddy and world get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

'Welcome to Jungle Cruise.'

Johnson will play a boat captain who takes his sister (Blunt) and her brother (Whitehall) on a mission to find a tree believed to possess healing powers.

Storyline: 'Wild animals and a competing German expedition figure into the proceeding

Wild animals and a competing German expedition figure into the proceedings.

Jack's gay character role comes after Walt Disney's Beauty and the Beast 2017 release featured LeFou as a homosexual man.

In the lead-up to the nationwide premiere, it was revealed the character of Gastons manservant, played by Frozen alum Josh Gad, will have the first 'gay scene' in Disney's history.

Beauty and the Beast director Bill Condon has said of Gad's character: 'LeFou is somebody who on one day wants to be Gaston and on another day wants to kiss Gaston'.Love, Simon star Jennifer Garner donned a star-spangled black dress for Sunday services with her three children at the United Methodist Church in Brentwood.

The 46-year-old Golden Globe winner - was raised in a strict Methodist household in West Virginia - also wore matching sandals and large sunglasses as she clutched her morning to-go coffee.

The Llama Llama actress' six-year-old son Samuel looked cooler than his famous father Ben Affleck in blue shades, a matching T-shirt, black jeans, and New Balance Velcro sneakers.

Pray day: Love, Simon star Jennifer Garner donned a star-spangled black dress for Sunday services with her three children at the United Methodist Church in Brentwood

Raised in a strict Methodist household in West Virginia: The 46-year-old Golden Globe winner also wore matching sandals and large sunglasses as she clutched her morning to-go coffee

Jen and Ben's nine-year-old daughter Seraphina looked colorful in a teal sunhat, purple hoodie, blue shorts, and lavender sneakers.

The Daredevil co-stars' eldest, 12-year-old daughter Violet, wore her blonde hair in a low bun and she sported a striped top with skinny jeans and Birkenstocks.

Sunday marked National Middle Child Day, and Garner celebrated with a childhood snap of herself on a boat with her older sister Melissa and younger sister Susannah.

'Attention seeker. Melodramatic. Peacekeeper. Middle sister, now and forever,' the Denison University grad wrote to her 3.5M Instagram/Facebook followers.

Blue steel: The Llama Llama actress' six-year-old son Samuel looked cooler than his famous father Ben Affleck in blue shades, a matching T-shirt, and black jeans

Middle child: Jen and Ben's nine-year-old daughter Seraphina looked colorful in a teal sunhat, purple hoodie, blue shorts, and lavender sneakers

Bodyguard? The Daredevil co-stars' eldest, 12-year-old daughter Violet, wore her blonde hair in a low bun and she sported a striped top with skinny jeans and Birkenstocks

'#ihavethebestsisters': Sunday marked National Middle Child Day, and Garner celebrated with a childhood snap of herself on a boat with her older sister Melissa and younger sister Susannah

'#nationalmiddlechildday #ihavethebestsisters Also, #ilovemymiddlechild [Seraphina].'

The Once Upon a Farm co-founder's street sighting came two days after The Blast uncovered that the L.A. Superior Court is strongly urging her and Affleck to finalize their 2016 divorce.

'If you fail to take the appropriate steps in your case,' the legal document warned, 'the court may dismiss your case for delay in prosecution.'

And according to Us Weekly, Jennifer 'doesn't want [Ben's girlfriend] Lindsay Shookus around' their kids because 'he had an affair with her beginning in 2014' before their 2015 legal separation.

'The court may dismiss your case': The Once Upon a Farm co-founder's street sighting came two days after The Blast uncovered that the L.A. Superior Court is strongly urging her and Affleck to finalize their 2016 divorce (pictured June 2)

'#marchforourlives': According to Us Weekly, Jennifer 'doesn't want [Ben's girlfriend] Lindsay Shookus around' their kids because 'he had an affair with her beginning in 2014' before their 2015 legal separation (pictured March 24)

Garner will next star as grieving wife and mother Riley North in Pierre Morel's vigilante thriller Peppermint, which hits US theaters September 7 and UK theaters September 21.

'It was being in the hands of Pierre Morel, who famously directed Taken and he understands how necessary it is for the drama to be equal to the action. It was a great script and he was directing it and I loved the character and I was so glad I got to do it,' The Capital One brand ambassador told Flickering Myth in May.

'I think that the stakes are never higher then when your family is involved and while I fought a lot of bad guys in my day, and I've certainly had the stakes high in Sydney Bristow's life or in The Kingdom, this is the biggest combination of high, high drama and action that I think I've ever done.'Olivia Buckland has hit out at an online troll who called her an 'attention seeker' for throwing glitzy hen dos and bridal showers, ahead of her wedding to fiance Alex Bowen.

Taking to Twitter, the Love Island star, 24, branded the negative comment 'envious', as she insisted she's 'over the moon' with her upcoming nuptials.

The TV personality, who is set to tie the knot to her beau, 27, next month, revealed she hasn't stopped her engagement celebrations just yet as she revealed she will have a joint bash with Alex in Croatia next week, which she dubbed as a 'sten do'.

Bride to be: Olivia Buckland has hit out at an online troll who called her an 'attention seeker' for throwing glitzy hen dos and bridal showers, ahead of her wedding to fiance Alex Bowen

The reality star joined her pals, including co-stars Gabby Allen and Cara De La Hoyde, for sunrise workouts, lavish dinners and wild pool partys during her hen do in Mykonos in June.

In the tweet, the blonde beauty penned: '"two hen dos and a bridal shower, just get married already, attention seeker" LOL. This is the most envious comment Ive ever read.'

Olivia went on to defend her extensive list of celebrations: 'Talk to me when youre over the moon happy and engaged and wanna enjoy every single part of it before your married. LIVING MY BEST EVER LIFE.'

Excited: Taking to Twitter, the Love Island star, 24, branded the negative comment 'envious', as she insisted she's 'over the moon' with her upcoming nuptials (pictured with Alex, 27)

Sharing the details of her upcoming 'sten' party, she teased: 'Oh p.s - were going Croatia next week and Im gonna call that our sten do. So please boil your blood some more.'

Olivia's tweets come as Alex recently hit out at cruel body shaming trolls who made his partner cry over 'vile' comments about her weight.

The hunk took to Twitter last month to slam the 'disgusting bullies', after they called Olivia fat in a string of 'vile' comments online.

Living life to the fullest! The reality star joined her pals, including co-stars Gabby Allen and Cara De La Hoyde, for lavish dinners and parties during her hen do in Mykonos in June

Defend: In the tweet, the blonde beauty penned: '"two hen dos and a bridal shower, just get married already, attention seeker" LOL. This is the most envious comment Ive ever read.'

Revealing the bombshell had been left 'crying in his arms' by their words, Alex called for more to be done about cyber-bullying and trolling, due to its effect on mental health.

He wrote: 'Had liv crying in my arms this morning because of hurtful comments made by disgusting girls and elder women too f***ing disgrace saying shes put weight on and looks fat.'

'Well shes f***ing unreal and no one should be made feel like that. Bullies', before adding an angry emoji.

More fun: Sharing the details of her upcoming 'sten' party, she teased: 'Oh p.s - were going Croatia next week and Im gonna call that our sten do. So please boil your blood some more'

Cruel: Olivia's tweets come as Alex recently hit out at body shaming trolls who made his partner cry over 'vile' comments about her weight

After recovering from the hurtful comments, Olivia went on to thank her handsome fiance for sticking up for her, and warn her 473,000 followers of the dangers of social media.

Retweeting his message to her page, she wrote: 'Thank god I have this man. When I feel weak he is my strength. Im so lucky and he makes me realise the bigger picture.'

'I hate letting things get to me like that, but when your (slightly silly) insecurities are pointed out point blank its very difficult.

Smitten: The pair met on Love Island back in 2016, and became engaged in New York after a whirlwind six month engagement

'I woke up feeling insecure & a bit down, which happens. I read the comments & they got to me like never before I broke.

'However, I got the same comments the other day, whilst I was in an amazing strong mind, and they didnt faze me. We all have our moments, we need remember that.'

The pair met on Love Island back in 2016, and became engaged in New York after a whirlwind six month engagement.

They are set to tie the knot in just a matter of weeks, and recently confirmed they are releasing their own reality show Alex And Olivia Said Yes!, which will document their preparation for the wedding.

Speaking to MailOnline in May, Olivia admitted she never dreamed of meeting her Mr Right on a reality show.

Olivia said: 'Its the last thing I thought would happen. It is crazy to think that two years ago I was in a much different position to what I am in now. I was actually like "I hate men" when I went into the villa.'

Before joking of his input in wedding planning: 'I mean, he helps out with the decision making but he usually just sits there like "What is this?"She embarked on a new relationship with property developer David Grievson, three years after her divorce from David Walliams.

And Lara Stone and David's romance appeared to be going from strength-to-strength as they headed out for a shopping trip in Chelsea on Sunday.

The model, 34, looked in the throes of love as she strolled down the Kings Road holding hands with her beau.

Smitten: Lara Stone romance with boyfriend David Grievson appeared to be going from strength-to-strength as they headed out for a shopping trip in Chelsea on Sunday

Lara went make-up free for her outing, embracing a natural look and wearing her blonde hair pulled back from her face.

The Dutch beauty made the most of her statuesque frame, donning a pair of ripped denim shorts which showcased her lithe limbs.

She teamed the look with a grey star patterned hoodie and opted for comfort on her feet with a pair of rose gold Birkenstocks.

Leggy: The Dutch beauty made the most of her statuesque frame, donning a pair of ripped denim shorts which showcased her lithe limbs and opted to forego make-up for the outing

Loved-up: The model, 34, looked in the throes of love as she strolled down the Kings Road holding hands with her beau

David meanwhile was casually-clad in dark denim jeans, a green jacket and blue Vans.

Lara met London based Grievson through friends in January and was then seen with London-based David at Chanels Paris Fashion Week presentation in March.

Lara met David through mutual friends in January and was first seen with him at Chanels Paris Fashion Week presentation in March.

A source told The Sun at the time: Lara and David are really in love, their relationship has moved faster than expected but they seem completely besotted.'

Her relationship with the businessman is thought be her first serious relationship since she divorced husband David Walliams, 46.

Lara started dating the comedian and Britain's Got Talent judge in 2009, with the couple tying the knot in January 2010.

The former flames, who share their son Alfred, five, were married in a lavish ceremony at Claridge's Hotel in London in May 2010.

They went their separate ways for good in September 2015.Hailey Baldwin has jetted into her fiance Justin Bieber's native Canada.

And the couple couldn't have looked any happier as the pop star showed his other half around his haunts while grabbing iced coffee in his hometown of Stratford, Ontario.

Justin, 24, and Hailey, 21 - who previously dated in 2015-2016 - have been inseparable ever since they rekindled their on/off romance at Miami hotspot LIV on June 8.

Hometown visit: Pop star Justin Bieber, 24, was all smiles as he walked out of a coffee shop with his fiancee, IMG Model Hailey Baldwin, 21, in his Canadian hometown of Stratford, Ontario on Sunday

The Sorry crooner wore a long sleeved white shirt paired with a pair of pinstriped Just Don Orlando Magic shorts that cost around $500.

He wore his signature swooped blonde hair parted on the side and carried his cell phone and a straw in his hands.

His lady wore high-rise, ripped jeans with a cropped white tee. On top of that the beauty sported an over-sized pink and blue flannel.

Her blonde hair was pinned back into a high, tight bun and she appeared to be makeup free.

Getaway: The couple are currently visiting Bieber's hometown of Stratford in Ontario, Canada

The couple were visiting Bieber's hometown of Stratford in Ontario.

The daughter of Stephen Baldwin was in New York City on Saturday and was seen jetting off from the airport heading north to Canada to see Justin and his family.

The heartthrob proposed to Hailey on July 7 in the Bahamas.

He gave her an oval-shaped Solow & Company-designed diamond sparkler.

It was estimated to be between 6 and 10 carats and costing $500K.Over the years August has been the cruellest of months for the royals, from the humiliation of the toe-sucking escapades of the Duchess of York to the embarrassment of the squidgy tape which exposed the family to ridicule and confirmed the desperate state of Princess Dianas marriage to Prince Charles.

But this weekends revelations from the Duchess of Sussexs father in which he claimed he had been berated on the phone by Prince Harry while recovering in hospital from a heart attack, and had been told by his daughter that he would be unable to deliver a father-of-the-bride speech at their wedding, is fast turning into an existential crisis for the Queens family.

Even though it is impossible not to have some sympathy for Meghan who is finding adjustment to royal life hard enough, the tragedy of it all is that it is a crisis entirely of the Palaces making.

I have spoken to past and serving royal aides who believe the response and handling of the whole Thomas Markle affair has been both inept and feeble.

Thomas Markle (pictured near his home in Mexico) has revealed he hung up on Prince Harry

There is even some fellow-feeling for Mr Markle who clearly feels ostracised by his daughter and son in law.

Yesterday one figure said it was probably too late to get the retired TV lighting director back on side short of Meghan herself turning up on her fathers doorstep  and even that might not work now.

Quite how this situation has been allowed to unravel  and so publicly  is certain to dominate conversation at Balmoral where the Queen and other members of the Royal Family are gathering for their summer holiday.

Yesterdays claims from Markle make disturbing reading. In an interview with the Mail on Sunday, he said he had hung up on Harry during a heated telephone call a few days before the May wedding.

Although he accepted that the prince was right to reprimand him over his collusion with the paparazzi in which he staged photographs of him being fitted for a morning suit, he described the timing of the call as rude.

While admitting he lied to Harry about it, he added: There is a time and a place to say what he said but not when Im lying in hospital after a heart attack.

Perhaps more damaging was his revelation that Meghan told him there would be no room for him to make a speech at their Windsor wedding. Yet room was found for speeches from Harry, Meghan herself, Prince Charles and Prince William along with contributions from two friends at a later reception.

For the royals this is dangerous and unfamiliar territory. Even when Diana was provoking detrimental headlines there was rarely the sense that the Palace had completely lost control as there is today.

Markle emerges as a bitter but proud man who feels angry at the way he has been portrayed  Im no weirdo schlubby dad living in a shack in Mexico, he exclaims at one point  but also burning with injustice at how he perceives he has been treated by his daughter and Harry.

Markle, 74, made headlines when he pulled out of the wedding a few days before he was due to walk Meghan down the aisle at St Georges Chapel citing his health problems. (By coincidence, a decision which came 24 hours after his scheming with the paparazzi had been exposed.)

Mr Markle, pictured with his daughter, said he had not spoken to the new Duchess in months

At one stage he complains that while his ex-wife Doria, who did go to the wedding, had been treated with great dignity by officials, he had been afforded no such courtesies.

He claims, for example, that when the Queen gave the couple her formal consent in March, two representatives from the British consulate in Los Angeles arrived at Dorias home to present her with a copy of the official scroll bearing the Queens announcement.

No one came to my door in Mexico, he said. I would have liked the engagement announcement too. Petulant, perhaps, but understandable.

He also complained that he had not received a formal wedding invitation  not so unusual because as the brides father he was due to be part of the ceremony and his name was printed in the order of service.

His explanation was more prosaic. I would have loved to have had an invitation to put in a frame, he said sadly.

He claimed he even asked Meghan to invite all her half siblings and nieces and nephews  a suggestion she firmly rejected. And in the light of the constant attacks on her by wider members of the Markle clan over the past few months, it is a decision she may now regret.

All in all it is impossible to escape the conclusion that Kensington Palace and other courtiers responsible for the wedding arrangements blundered when it came to dealing with Mr Markle.

Yes, he was invited and Meghan had arranged fittings for a wedding coat and shoes. As I revealed last month, she told him just to get on a plane and everything would be arranged for him in London.

A Palace aide involved in the arrangements for Prince Williams wedding to Kate Middleton in 2011 certainly believes that the handling of Mr Markle has been inept.

The aide said: The perception is that he was treated very much as an afterthought. No one went to visit him when the answer would have been to have someone fly out from London and explain to him how things were going to happen.

Mr Markle did not attend the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan in Windsor (the couple are pictured together at the christening of Prince Louis at St James's Palace last month)

Even after he started talking to the media it was not too late. When Kates uncle Gary found himself in the newspaper spotlight [Gary Goldsmith was the focus of lurid headlines about alleged drug taking] he was brought into the fold, not excluded.

He was told he would be invited to everything but that if he felt inclined to speak out and give interviews, we asked that he let us know in advance so that we would be prepared. No one seems to have thought of that this time.

At one stage, after Markle gave his interview to TV presenter Piers Morgan in June, it was suggested that a leading public relations figure might act as a go-between. I understand, however, that when senior aides learned that the PR man was a former journalist, the plan was dropped.

Prince Harry does not trust the media and he would never have supported that idea, says a source. Frankly they should have been prepared to try anything by that stage.

The trouble stemmed from well before the wedding when there must have been an opportunity for Harry and Meghan to pay a private visit to her father. This was long before he started giving interviews.

The aide adds: I also think the Palace should have invited the whole Markle family; they wouldnt all have come and it would made them feel included and less likely to make the negative comments they have been making.

Another aide with years of experience at the heart of the Royal Family says: Its too late now for equerries or go-betweens to get to Mr Markle, its up to Meghan. She clearly loves him enough to have wanted him at her wedding so she needs to go and spend time with him.

Clearly there is an issue of trust  will he blab about everything to the next microphone put under his nose? But he didnt talk to the media for a long time earlier on.

I would be encouraging her to say to him, Daddy, you are part of the family, come and meet everyone and we will put something in place for you.

For now this latest Markle debacle is nothing short of a disaster for both Harry and Meghan  and for the royals. If, as Markle says, this was his last interview then maybe this is just the opportunity for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to take him at his word and get on that plane.

If they dont, I fear this domestic tragedy will unspool even further.She has been deleting the traces of her jailbird ex from her life since ending their two-year romance amid claims he was sexting other women from behind bars.

And Lauren Goodger showed Joey Morrisson exactly what he was missing as she shared a racy naked snap on Instagram on Sunday night.

However, the former TOWIE star, 31, who posed with her peachy derriere on full display, was inundated with comments from trolls who slammed her 'wide bum gap', telling her to 'put it away'.

Cheeky display: Lauren Goodger showed Joey Morrisson exactly what he was missing as she shared a racy naked snap on Instagram on Sunday night

Lauren, who was staying at The Curtain hotel in London, flaunted her hourglass figure in the steamy naked snap as she perched on the edge of her rose petal bath.

Gazing into the distance, the reality beauty wrapped her wet chestnut locks up in a fluffy white towel and opted for a glamorous make-up look.

In reference to her cheeky display, she captioned the shot: 'Lauren's Back' alongside a peach emoji.

'Put it away': However, the former TOWIE star, 31, who posed with her peachy derriere on full display, was inundated with comments from trolls slamming her 'wide bum gap'

The television's personality's naked photo caused quite a stir on social media, with some trolling her body confidence post, criticizing her 'wide bum gap'.

One wrote: 'Wide bum gap don't look right... showing that off turns my stomach , while another added: 'Looks like your about to take a massive s**t.'

Another keyboard warrior typed: 'What a bum hate how fake she is, had so much work done, used to be a rotter until she got rich!'

Body-shamed: The television's personality's naked photo caused quite a stir on social media, with some trolling her body confidence post, criticizing her 'wide bum gap'

Other fans accused Lauren of going a step too far, calling her an attention seeker.

One said: 'Jesus have you no respect for yourself?? Put it away, while another follower chimed: 'Lauren you have more to offer than just constant photos of yourself half naked. It's sad now that you're in your mid thirties.'

However others praised Lauren for her killer curves and 'empowering' photo, with one fan writing: 'Wow you look amazing!! Love this!! You're so beautiful and empowering'.

'I think you look fantastic' added another.

'Looking fantastic': However others praised Lauren for her killer curves and 'empowering' photo

Empowering: One fan wrote: 'Wow you look amazing!! Love this!! You're so beautiful and empowering'. 'I think you look fantastic' added another

Heartache: Lauren's cheeky display comes after she admitted she was planning a baby with her former flame Joey, as she opened up about her heartbreak at the end of their relationship

Lauren's cheeky display comes after she admitted she was planning a baby with her former flame Joey, as she opened up about her heartbreak at the end of their two year relationship.

The former TOWIE star confirmed she and Joey had gone their separate ways after she had discovered he had been contacting other women during their relationship.

Speaking in her Now! Magazine column, she said: ''I stuck with him and tried to help him get to the end of his sentence and he's treated me like this. You really think you know someone and realise it was all a lie.

Revealing her dreams of starting a family with Joey had been shattered, the brunette beauty said: 'I deserve a lot better than that. I think what hurt me most is that we were planning a baby.

Cheating: The former TOWIE star confirmed she and Joey had gone their separate ways after she had discovered he had been contacting other women during their relationship

'To be honest I had my suspicions, so I'm just glad I've found out now as it would have been even worse if he'd be out (of jail) and living with me.'

According to The Sun, Joey sent explicit photos to other women while he was in a relationship with Lauren.

Lauren was dating Joey for over a year having 'met' him when she picked up the phone at his sister's house while he was calling from prison.

After much back and forth over their status, which flitted from Lauren ending things to her insisting they will have a baby when he leaves prison, they were finally united in May when he was released from HMP Highpoint South prison.Left 'stranded and alone' in a foreign country thousands of miles from home, Married At First Sight's Tracey Jewel 'couldn't see a way out' of her terrible situation.

And in a worrying confession, the mother-of-one, 35, revealed on Monday she tried to end her life by 'overdosing' on medication in Berlin, Germany several weeks ago.

Tracey hit rock bottom in the days after her ex-boyfriend Patrick Kedemos dumped her while they were travelling across Europe - but fortunately doctors were able to save her following the suicide bid.

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Desperate: Tracey Jewel revealed on Monday she tried to end her life by 'overdosing' on medication in Berlin, Germany several weeks ago following the abrupt end of her relationship

In a tearful interview with New Idea, the former reality TV star said: 'I went into a head spin and I overdosed. I just couldn't see a way out of the current situation.'

'I've been trolled and cyber bullied relentlessly, pretty much all year [since MAFS],' she added. 'I'm not someone with a history of depression, but I started getting help in April because a psychologist said I might have post-traumatic stress disorder because of everything I'd been through.'

Eventually, Tracey's ex Patrick gave her money to pay for a flight back to Australia.

Suicidal: Tracey (left) hit rock bottom in the days after her ex-boyfriend Patrick Kedemos (right) dumped her while they were travelling across Europe - but fortunately doctors were able to save her following the suicide bid

Recovering: Following her arrival in Perth on Friday 3 August (pictured at the airport), Tracey was admitted to a mental health clinic. She said: '[My doctors] thought the best thing I could do was to have care to get better as quickly as possible'

Following her arrival in Perth on Friday 3 August, Tracey was admitted to a mental health clinic. She said: '[My doctors] thought the best thing I could do was to have care to get better as quickly as possible.'

The self-help author is believed to be currently living at her adoptive mother Jenny's house in Perth and is taking an extended break from social media.

Tracey also told New Idea that her biological daughter Grace, eight, does not yet know about her suicide attempt because she 'doesn't want to scare or upset her'.

Run out of options: Left 'stranded and alone' in a foreign country thousands of miles from home, Tracey (pictured on MAFS) 'couldn't see a way out' of her terrible situation

Late last month, a source close to Tracey confirmed that she split with her boyfriend Patrick, 45, while the pair were cruising around Europe together.

German police were called after an argument between Tracey and Patrick that took place on July 28, following the pair's arrival in Berlin.

The newly-single star was then forced to turn to the Australian embassy after she was left stranded and 'unable to pay for her own return flight home'.

Notorious: Earlier this year, Tracey became one of the most talked-about women in Australia when she was involved in a love triangle on Married At First Sight

'Things reached breaking point on Saturday night [July 28] when they had an almighty row - with Tracey moving into a separate hotel room to calm down,' the source said at the time.

'Patrick officially ended things and Tracey was then left to arrange her own return travel back home to Australia alone after they split.

'But she hadn't taken any money with her on the trip and was left stranded. The last friends heard she'd filed a complaint with the police was waiting for the Australian embassy to open on Monday so she could figure out what to do.'

Disaster! Tracey was paired with Dean Wells (left) on MAFS, but was left blindsided when he had an 'affair' with fellow contestant Davina Rankin. Pictured on their 'wedding' day

Patrick eventually gave Tracey money to fly home, telling Woman's Day last week that he 'transferred another $2,000 just to get rid of her'.

Earlier this year, Tracey became one of the most talked-about women in Australia when she was involved in a love triangle on Married At First Sight.

She was paired with Dean Wells on the 'social experiment', but was left blindsided when he had an 'affair' with fellow contestant Davina Rankin.

Scandalous: In the months after the show aired, however, Tracey emerged as one of the series' most controversial and divisive contestants. She has faced criticism for running an allegedly fraudulent competition, plagiarism and falsely implying she suffered from cervical cancer

In the months after the show aired, however, Tracey emerged as one of the series' most controversial and divisive contestants.

She has faced criticism for running an allegedly fraudulent competition, plagiarising content in her books and falsely implying she suffered from cervical cancer.

(Tracey has claimed her competition's winner was 'unable to take the major prize so it was redrawn'. She has also denied intentionally plagiarising anybody else's work. Regarding claims about her health, Tracey insists she never claimed to have cervical cancer and a since-deleted Instagram post that seemingly implied she did suffer from the disease was 'taken completely out of context' by fans and the media.)

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Tracey Jewel for comment.

If you, or someone you know, needs support please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.auShe is set to star alongside Jessica Alba in the upcoming drama LA's Finest.

But on Sunday, Gabrielle Union took a break from her busy schedule to attend the InStyle Day Of Indulgence bash in Los Angeles.

The actress, 45, flaunted her legs in a zippered plaid and striped dress in various shades of blue.

Pattern mixing: Breaking In beauty Gabrielle Union easily defied her 45 years in a zip-up shirt-dress featuring two different patterns, which was selected by stylist Jason Bolden

Gabrielle chose a thigh grazing look that featured two different patterns: blue and white stripes on one side with a plaid print on the other.

The stunner paired the look, which flashed a hint of cleavage, with a bright blue Cushnie handbag and white loafers.

Gabrielle styled her short brunette tresses sleek with a deep side part, opting for just a touch of makeup.

Also in denim at the festivities were 9-1-1 actress Jennifer Love Hewitt in her skinnies and Life Sentence star Lucy Hale in her high-waisted wide-leg jeans.

Gorgeous: The actress, 45, flaunted her legs in a zippered plaid and striped dress in various shades of blue, and carried a matching blue Cushnie handbag

Big Bang Theory's Kaley Cuoco was hands-down the worst dressed in a sheer white undershirt, denim cut-offs, and $295 blue Givenchy rubber slides.

The Mayor actress Lea Michele looked peachy in her Diane von Furstenberg maxi-dress while Good Girls stunner Christina Hendricks flaunted her eye-popping cleavage in a navy floral maxi-dress.

Riverdale starlet Camila Mendes chose a high-low ruffled pink floral frock and white lace-up shoes selected by stylist Penny Lovell.

Two blonde funnywomen opting for midi-length summery skirts were Pitch Perfect 3's Rebel Wilson and Overboard's Anna Faris.

Good genes: Also in denim at the festivities were 9-1-1 actress Jennifer Love Hewitt (L) in her skinnies and Life Sentence star Lucy Hale (R) in her high-waisted wide-leg jeans

Shower shoes: Big Bang Theory's Kaley Cuoco was hands-down the worst dressed in a sheer white undershirt, denim cut-offs, and $295 blue Givenchy rubber slides

Full-length femmes: The Mayor actress Lea Michele (L) looked peachy in her Diane von Furstenberg maxi-dress while Good Girls stunner Christina Hendricks (R) flaunted her eye-popping cleavage in a navy floral maxi-dress

In bloom: Riverdale starlet Camila Mendes chose a high-low ruffled pink floral frock and white lace-up shoes selected by stylist Penny Lovell

Belle: Kristen Bell looked glorious in green trousers and a white top

Look of the Irish : Outlander's Caitriona Balfe wore a fab pleated floral-patterned red skirt

Mann I'm Busy: Leslie Mann rocked a gorgeous white dress with snake skin shoes, while Busy Philipps matched her dress and shoes in pink

Breaking In beauty Gabrielle Union easily defied her 45 years in a zip-up shirt-dress featuring two different patterns, which was selected by stylist Jason Bolden.

Both Will & Grace funnywoman Debra Messing and Pretty Little Liars alum Shay Mitchell donned breezy blue mini-dresses for the relaxed soiree.

This Is Us actress Chrissy Metz showcased her legs in a cold-shoudler frilly black mini-dress and ballet flats selected by stylist Penny Lovell.

And Avengers: Infinity War's Elizabeth Olsen looked chic in a cinched chambray shirt, pleated white trousers, and brown mules selected by stylist Sarah Slutsky.

Hilarious honeys: Two blonde funnywomen opting for midi-length summery skirts were Pitch Perfect 3's Rebel Wilson (L) and Overboard's Anna Faris (R)

Leggy ladies: Both Will & Grace funnywoman Debra Messing (L) and Pretty Little Liars alum Shay Mitchell (R) donned breezy blue mini-dresses for the relaxed soiree

LBD: This Is Us actress Chrissy Metz showcased her legs in a cold-shoudler frilly black mini-dress and ballet flats selected by stylist Penny Lovell

Pressed pants: Avengers: Infinity War's Elizabeth Olsen looked chic in a cinched chambray shirt, pleated white trousers, and brown mules selected by stylist Sarah SlutskyLabor senator Kristina Keneally has described the investigation into her NSW colleague Emma Husar as distressing and is deeply unimpressed the allegations levelled against her were made public.

Ms Husar, a first term MP for the western Sydney seat of Lindsay, announced on Wednesday she would not be contesting the next election after being accused of bullying staff.

An investigation released days later cleared Ms Husar of allegations of lewd conduct and sexual harassment of employees, finding there was no need for her to resign.

However, the report did find she behaved unreasonably towards staff and there were grounds for further investigation into the alleged misuse of entitlements.

"I think it's been very distressing for everyone involved," Senator Keneally told Sky News on Sunday.

She said it was regrettable the allegations were leaked to the media and subsequently made public.

"What we want to have in these circumstances is due process and fairness and an opportunity for all people involved to put forward their concerns or respond to complaints if they are made," Senator Keneally said.Victorians as young as 16 will no longer need to go to a doctor to get a measles jab, under state government changes aimed at increasing vaccination rates.

Health Minister Jill Hennessy on Sunday announced the measles-mumps-rubella vaccination would be available at pharmacies, with the eligibility age lowered from 18.

"Nearly 90 per cent of us live just a short walk or drive from a pharmacy, so this will make getting vaccinated against the measles just as easy as the flu or whooping cough," she said in a statement.One of Queensland's remotest communities is fast building a reputation as a force in rodeo.

Located 140km from the Northern Territory border in the Gulf of Carpentaria, Doomadgee doesn't have a rodeo school.

With just 1500 residents it also doesn't have the population of cowboy-producing towns such as Mount Isa, Townsville and Warwick.

But bull rider Peter Gregory has a theory why his community is punching above its weight in the sport.

"I think it just comes natural," he told AAP.

"It starts with their great grandfathers and goes on and on. Just keeps going down the line."

Doomadgee is well represented at this weekend's Mount Isa Rodeo, Australia's biggest and richest rodeo.

Steer rider Edward Jupiter has competed, two months after travelling to Texas to contest the prestigious Youth Rodeo Association Finals .

Gregory, who competes on the elite Australian Professional Bull Riders circuit, is joined by his three sons, the youngest being 11-year-old poddy calf rider Peter Jr.

"We have seven buckles in our house, 20-something ribbons. One trophy," Peter Gregory Sr said.

"All my boys are going good. They all go good.

"I train my sons myself. I never sent them to rodeo school."

A dangerous sport that requires regular travel, rodeo's lure is more than financial for the Gregorys although there are thousands of dollars of prize money on offer.

"It builds a lot of young fellas' confidence," Mr Gregory said.

"All my boys, they all get switched on.

"I tell them not to get fear. I don't get fear myself. I don't feel anything about it. I just feel normal. It's just a lifestyle.

"I just ride bull. I just feel really good riding 'em and I like riding 'em."

The Mount Isa Rodeo concludes on Sunday.The NSW government is cracking down on dodgy operators in the freight industry who are cashing in on the plight of drought-stricken farmers.

NSW Primary Industries Minister Niall Blair on Sunday announced former NSW Farmers president and Corowa farmer Derek Schoen was appointed as integrity advisor to monitor the government's drought transport subsidy program and freight prices.

Mr Schoen will work as an independent advisor to monitor the price pressures faced by farmers because of increasing demand on stock feed.

Lifeline 13 11 14

beyondblue 1300 22 4636Penrith firebrand Jack Hetherington is facing the third suspension of his NRL career, despite having played just 12 matches.

The Panthers forward appears set to spend the next fortnight on the sidelines after being charged with a careless high tackle on AJ Brimson in Saturday's win over the Gold Coast.

Hetherington's only chance of taking the field before the last round of the competition is if he contests the charge at the judiciary.

He will be spend two weeks on the sidelines if he accepts an early guilty plea and will be rubbed out for three games should he fight the charge and lose.

Hetherington was sin-binned for the high shot.

The 22-year-old is set for a hefty stint out because of loading and carryover points as a result of his poor record - he has been charged five times over the past two years in the NRL, NSW Cup and under-20s.

He has already been suspended twice this year.

He was banned for dangerous contact on North Queensland's Shaun Fenson in round nine and then three weeks later he was sat out for another week for a leg pull on St George Illawarra's Paul Vaughan.A key federal senator blames hatred of the prime minister within the coalition party room for Malcolm Turnbull's "back-pedalling" on a deal to have a vote on voluntary euthanasia in both houses.

Senator David Leyonhjelm wants Mr Turnbull to honour his deal to guarantee a vote in both houses on legislation to lift a ban on the Northern Territory and ACT controlling their own euthanasia laws.

The Liberal Democrats senator said staff witnessed the deal which he says Mr Turnbull agreed to in return for his support for re-establishing the Australian Building and Construction Commission.

"He wishes there wasn't a deal and he'd like to ignore that fact that we did a deal," Senator Leyonhjelm told ABC TV on Sunday night.

"He has a problem with his own party. There are conservatives within his party who basically, they hate the prime minister more than they hate the opposition for reasons best known to themselves.

"They are looking for every opportunity to give him a hard time. He is very sensitive to that. They are social conservatives so he did not want to give them any ammunition."Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg is confident his coalition colleagues will back the National Energy Guarantee after the plan won in-principle support from the states and territories.

Several high-profile government backbenchers, including Tony Abbott and Barnaby Joyce, have threatened to scuttle the policy.

But Mr Frydenberg believes there is strong support in the coalition partyroom ahead of a crucial meeting on Tuesday.

"My colleagues have been briefed by the miners, the manufacturers, the farmers and the industry groups who say this is the only game in town to reduce people's power bills," he told the ABC on Sunday.

Mr Frydenberg unloaded on Labor states including Victoria for making "crass, calculating" last-minute demands to reshape the policy.

"This is politicking and posturing and what the sector wants is investment certainty," he said.

"We have to disassociate the crass short-term political calculations going on in Victoria from the long-term national interest."

Mr Frydenberg has rejected demands from the "spooked" Victorian government to have the proposed 26 per cent emissions reduction target set by regulation, rather than legislation.

He insists threats of blackouts are "absolutely real" should the states reject his plans.

The federal opposition wants a 45 per cent emissions reduction target and is calling for the setting to be reviewed sooner than 2024.

Labor senator Kristina Keneally said it was unclear how the target would be set and whether it would be able to be scaled up.

Senator Keneally said the opposition was willing to work with the government, but would not be handing it a blank cheque.Skilled migrants would be provided with incentives to settle in regional centres and cities other than Sydney and Melbourne under a new population policy to be signed off by federal cabinet.

The policy will go to cabinet within two weeks, and could even be considered on Monday, The Australian reports.

Citizenship Minister Alan Tudge said 87 per cent of skilled migrants currently settled in Melbourne and Sydney, cities struggling with population pressures.

"In other parts of the country we have mayors, or indeed state premiers crying out for more people, and they want their populations to grow and they have the jobs to support it," he told the ABC on Sunday night.

"That's why we are seriously looking at this question, to see whether or not we can provide further incentives for new arrivals to want to go to some of the smaller states, such as South Australia, and then perhaps further conditions upon visas to at least require that person to stay there for a few years where they hopefully will make it their home, and before they become a citizen."Beijing's retaliatory tariffs on US pork and beef are making them prohibitively expensive and Chinese importers are simply turning to other sources, a trend expected in other sectors as well

A key objective of President Donald Trump's trade war is to pressure Beijing to "buy American", but when it comes to millions of dollars of US meat imports, China may simply take its business elsewhere.

Beijing's retaliatory tariffs on US pork and beef are making them prohibitively expensive and Chinese importers are simply turning to other sources, a trend expected in other sectors as well.

"When the US prices go so expensive after the duties... we will source from other origins," said Zhang Lihui, Shanghai manager for global meat company PMI Foods.

The US exported around $140 million worth of pork, beef and related by-products to China in June, before tariffs kicked in, according to the US Meat Export Federation, about 10 percent of all US beef and pork exports

"Like for beef, we will buy more from Australia, we will buy more from South America, and maybe a little bit more from Canada."

PMI Foods has already ceased importing cuts of US pork meat into China after Beijing's tariffs -- imposed last month in response to Trump's initial duties on Chinese goods -- drove prices up.

- Shifting patterns -

Shifting trade patterns caused by the tariff battle will "definitely" benefit other countries at the US's expense, Zhang said.

"The Chinese market will certainly look for replacements," she said.

The outcome of the trade battle, spread across a range of sectors, remains hard to predict. But analysts warn that US exporters will lose significant China business.

The US exported around $140 million worth of pork, beef and related by-products to China in June, before tariffs kicked in, according to the US Meat Export Federation, about 10 percent of all US beef and pork exports.

China is clearly targeting imports of commodities such as meat, soybeans, wheat and petrochemicals that are easily replaced in the global market, said Julian Evans-Pritchard, a China economist with Capital Economics.

"That's the idea of tariffs: you are trying to hurt the other side while not hurting yourself too much," he said.

"I think (the trade war) could lead to some quite significant shifts in the flow -- which country getting what from where."

Costs of prime US beef cuts are already up 30-40 percent due to the trade war but Chinese and US suppliers are eating the losses themselves rather than pass them on to customers

The impact on prices of imports, however, will be largely negligible as "the global trade system is quite flexible," he added, and because suppliers on both sides will absorb much of the tariff costs themselves to maintain their exports.

That is the case with Lin Zhengu, chef and owner of Shanghai's upscale Stone Sal steak restaurant, which serves mainly high-end American and Australian beef.

Costs of prime US beef cuts are already up 30-40 percent due to the trade war, Lin said, but he and his US suppliers are eating the losses themselves rather than pass them on to customers.

"The only way we will switch to other (non-US) beef is if the gate is totally closed. For now, we still want to work with our suppliers and farms," he said.

- Filling the gap -

Trade experts say some of the most valuable US exports to China such as Boeing aircraft and American-made cars are threatened as China can instead import Airbus jets or autos from Europe and Japan.

Even US soybeans, seen as a key American leverage point due to the massive quantities China imports, might not be irreplaceable.

China is clearly targeting imports of commodities such as meat, soybeans, wheat and petrochemicals that are easily replaced in the global market

The head of Chinese state grain trading giant Cofco said it was looking at increasing imports of soybeans from Brazil, and other grains from places such as Ukraine and Russia.

Shanghai Xinshangshi International Trade Co, a major formerly state-owned Chinese food importer, brought in $40 million worth of US beef and pork in 2017 and had planned to raise that to $100 million this year.

But due to the trade war, its general manager Xu Wei is turning to Europe, Australia and South America instead.

"The gap will be filled very soon," Xu said.

"So for the trade war, if we Chinese importers still want to maintain our trade volumes, it would hurt the US suppliers and exporters the most."No room for neo-Nazis in the United States, Ivanka Trump tweeted on the anniversary of a deadly a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia

Ivanka Trump, President Donald Trump's daughter and a White House adviser, explicitly condemned "white supremacy, racism and neo-nazism" late Saturday in a manner her father seems reluctant to do.

The tweets come on the anniversary of deadly unrest triggered by a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. A similar far-right rally is scheduled for Sunday outside the White House.

"One year ago in Charlottesville, we witnessed an ugly display of hatred, racism, bigotry & violence," Ivanka Trump tweeted.

"While Americans are blessed to live in a nation that protects liberty, freedom of speech and diversity of opinion, there is no place for white supremacy, racism and neo-nazism in our great country," she said.

"Rather than tearing each other down with hatred, racism & violence, we can lift one another up, strengthen our communities and strive to help every American achieve his or her full potential!"

The tweets are notable because her father drew scorn after the Charlottesville bloodshed for initially avoiding any condemnation of the torch-bearing white supremacists who took part in that rally.

President Trump was roundly condemned for saying that there were "very fine people, on both sides" among the racists and the counter-protesters.

Two days later, after a firestorm of criticism, the president said: "Racism is evil and those who cause violence in its name are criminals and thugs, including the KKK, neo-Nazis, white supremacists, and other hate groups."

On Saturday the president issued a generic condemnation of racism in one of seven tweets of the day.

"The riots in Charlottesville a year ago resulted in senseless death and division," he wrote.

"We must come together as a nation. I condemn all types of racism and acts of violence. Peace to ALL Americans!"The wreckage of the plane was found in a heavily forested area on a mountain side in the Oksibil subdistrict

A 12-year-old boy is the sole survivor of a plane crash that killed eight people in mountainous eastern Indonesia, authorities said Sunday.

The Swiss-made Pilatus aircraft lost contact with air traffic control Saturday during what was supposed to be a flight of around 40 minutes in remote Papua province.

The wreckage of the plane was found in a heavily forested area on a mountain side in the Oksibil subdistrict on Sunday morning.

"Eight passengers were found dead and one was found alive," Papua military spokesman Lieutenant colonel Dax Sianturi said.

A 12-year-old boy was the sole survivor of a plane crash that killed eight people in mountainous eastern Indonesia

"At the moment the cause of the crash has not been confirmed," he told AFP, adding an investigation would be carried out by the national transportation safety committee.

The plane, which was owned by private charter company Dimonim Air, was carrying seven passengers and two crew.

Before the accident, villagers in nearby Okatem reported hearing a loud roar followed by an explosion.

Search and rescue teams walked two hours to reach the crash site and were still recovering the bodies late morning.

Indonesia relies heavily on air transport to connect its thousands of islands but has a poor aviation safety record and has suffered several fatal crashes in recent years.

Papua is a particularly difficult area to reach.

Five people died after a small plane crashed near Wamena in Papua province in July last year.

In August 2015, a commercial passenger aircraft operated by Indonesian carrier Trigana crashed in Papua due to bad weather, killing all 54 people on board.Long exposure photo released by NASA shows the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket with NASA's Parker Solar Probe aboard taking off from Launch Complex 37, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida on August 12, 2018

NASA on Sunday blasted off its first-ever spaceship to explore the Sun, the $1.5 billion Parker Solar Probe, on a strategic mission to protect the Earth by unveiling the mysteries of dangerous solar storms.

The launch of the car-sized probe aboard a massive Delta IV-Heavy rocket lit the night sky at Cape Canaveral, Florida at 3:31 am (0731 GMT).

The unmanned spacecraft's mission is to get closer than any human-made object ever to the center of our solar system, plunging into the Sun's atmosphere, known as the corona, during a seven-year mission.

The probe is guarded by an ultra-powerful heat shield that can endure unprecedented levels of heat, and radiation 500 times that experienced on Earth.

When it nears the Sun, the probe will travel at some 430,000 miles per hour (692,000 kilometers per hour).

That will make it the fastest ever human-made object, speedy enough to travel from New York to Tokyo in one minute.

"This mission truly marks humanity's first visit to a star," said Thomas Zurbuchen, associate administrator of NASA's Science Mission Directorate.

"We've accomplished something that decades ago, lived solely in the realm of science fiction," he added, describing the probe as one of NASA's "strategically important" missions.

Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket with the Parker Solar Probe aboard launching from the Mobile Service Tower at Launch Complex 37, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida on August 12, 2018

- Strange veil -

NASA has billed the mission as the first spacecraft to "touch the Sun."

In reality, it should come within 3.83 million miles (6.16 million kilometers) of the Sun's surface, close enough to study the curious phenomenon of the solar wind and the Sun's atmosphere, known as the corona, which is 300 times hotter than its surface.

Scientists hope this close encounter will give them a better understanding of solar wind and geomagnetic storms that risk wreaking chaos on Earth by knocking out the power grid.

These poorly understood solar outbursts could potentially wipe out power to millions of people.

A worst-case scenario would cost up to two trillion dollars in the first year alone and take a decade for full recovery, experts say.

Graphic on the Parker Solar Probe, which is set to become the first spacecraft to fly directly into the sun's atmosphere

"The Parker Solar Probe will help us do a much better job of predicting when a disturbance in the solar wind could hit Earth," said Justin Kasper, a project scientist and professor at the University of Michigan.

Knowing more about the solar wind and space storms will also help protect future deep space explorers as they journey toward the Moon or Mars.

- Heat shield -

A highly advanced heat shield just 4.5 inches (11.43 centimeters) thick was devised to keep the probe from melting.

The sunlight is expected to heat the shield to just around 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit (1,371 degrees Celsius).

Yet the inside of the spacecraft will stay at just 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

A rendering of NASA's Parker Solar Probe, the spacecraft that will fly through the Sun's corona to trace how energy and heat move through the star's atmosphere

The probe is set to make 24 passes through the corona, collecting data.

"The sun is full of mysteries," said Nicky Fox, project scientist at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab.

"We are ready. We have the perfect payload. We know the questions we want to answer."

- 'All I have to say is "Wow"' -

The spacecraft is the only NASA probe in history to be named after a living person -- 91-year-old solar physicist Eugene Parker, who first described the solar wind in 1958.

Parker watched the launch at Cape Canaveral, and said it was his first time seeing a rocket blast off in person.

"All I have to say is wow, here we go. We are in for some learning over the next several years," Parker told NASA television.

Scientists have wanted to build a spacecraft like this for more than 60 years, but only recently did the heat shield technology capable of protecting sensitive instruments become available.

Tools on board will measure high-energy particles associated with flares and coronal mass ejections, as well as the changing magnetic field around the Sun.

The first launch attempt on Saturday was postponed at the last minute due to technical problem related to a helium gas sensor on the rocket.

But Sunday's bid "went off like clockwork," said NASA launch manager Omar Baez.Police escort far-right demonstrators during a rally at Lafayette Park opposite the White House

A small white supremacist rally took place outside the White House on Sunday when only some 20 far-right supporters showed up, but they were massively outnumbered by counter-protesters.

Washington police closed streets and threw a ring of steel across a park where the rally was held to keep the demonstrators and counter-protesters apart.

The day appeared to end without major incident, though officers used pepper spray on rowdy anti-fascists a few blocks from the White House.

The tiny group of demonstrators trickled in from nearby Vienna, Virginia under heavy police escort at Washington's Foggy Bottom Metro station -- and were met by hundreds of counter-protesters screaming "Shame!" and "Get out of my city!"

Most of the demonstrators wore masks, prompting counter-protesters to taunt them as cowards for hiding their identity.

Heavy rain helped bring the so-called "Unite the Right 2" demo to an early end, hours before the scheduled finish of what had been billed as a "white civil rights rally" protesting, among other things, the social media shut down of some voices on the extreme right.

After marching to Lafayette Square in front of the White House, the group was driven in police vans back to a different Metro station outside of Washington.

"Behold the master race," one counter-protester mockingly yelled.

By the end of the day, only six individuals remained, protected from angry counter-protesters by a ring of police officers.

Counter-protesters gather in Washington ahead of the Unite The Right rally

"The US is for all of us, NOT just some of us," one counter-protester sign read, while another said, "Fighting Nazis: An American Tradition."

One year ago torch-bearing white supremacists in the first "United the Right" event marched through Charlottesville, Virginia in two days of chaos, chanting slogans such as "Blood and Soil" - the English version of a Nazi chant - and "White Lives Matter."

That event culminated with a man driving a car into a crowd of counter-protesters, killing a woman and injuring 19 people.

Some of the white demonstrators in Charlottesville carried guns, including assault rifles, but all firearms were barred from Sunday's rally.

On Sunday the demonstrator chants, if any, were drowned out by the counter-protesters.

"Pro-white" march organizer Jason Kessler, who wore a grey suit and no mask, told reporters that he was not a white supremacist but a "civil rights advocate for white people" and wanted to "tell the truth about Charlottesville," which he claimed was "sabotaged" by city officials.

In a video posted on the Politico website, Kessler said that many sympathizers failed to show up because they were "terrified that they are going to be attacked" by counter-demonstrators.

- 'Like Nazi Germany' -

Protesters march against the Unite the Right rally

"It would be a major mistake if we allowed fascists to just walk into the nation's capital and go in unopposed," said Kei Pritsker, 22, a volunteer with the Answer Coalition that organized the counter-protest.

The white supremacist movement is enjoying a sense of empowerment under President Donald Trump, Pritsker said.

Trump drew broad criticism immediately after last year's Charlottesville clashes when he appeared reluctant to condemn the extreme right-wingers -- many of whom have rallied behind him since his election.

About 20 white nationalists trickled in from nearby Vienna, Virginia -- under heavy police escort -- at Washington's Foggy Bottom Metro station

On Saturday, the president issued a generic condemnation of "all types of racism and acts of violence" via Twitter.

An African-American counter protester who only gave his name as Jim said that Trump has "emboldened" white racists.

"It was subtle, now it's not subtle, it's in your face. It's like Nazi Germany," he told AFP.Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan Abdul Aziz Kamilov met with the visiting Taliban delegation, officials said

A Taliban delegation travelled to Uzbekistan earlier this month to discuss the Afghan peace process and withdrawal of foreign forces, officials said Sunday, as fighting between insurgents and security forces raged near Kabul.

The meetings in Afghanistan's northern neighbour follow recent reports that the Taliban sent similar delegations to China, illustrating the group's rising ambitions to engage in independent talks with foreign governments as momentum for a peace settlement in the country builds.

The head of the Taliban's political office in Qatar Sher Muhammad Abbas Stanekzai met with Uzbek Foreign Minister Abdul Aziz Kamilov over a four-day period from August 6, and discussed the "prospects of the peace process in Afghanistan", the Uzbek foreign ministry said in a statement.

The Taliban said in a separate statement they discussed the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan, peace and "future national projects such as security for railroad and power lines".

Uzbekistan's special envoy for Afghanistan Ismatulla Irgashev also attended the meetings, officials said.

The talks follow an earlier trip to Uzbekistan by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in late March.

The move was welcomed by some in Kabul, where pressure is mounting to engage the insurgents and end the nearly 17-year-old war.

The Taliban have continued to push for direct negotiations with the US -- rather than the government in Kabul, which the insurgents see as illegitimate -- but have also attempted to build independent contacts with other governments.

"These kind of meetings are going to continue until the real talks begin," Sayed Ehsan Taheri, a spokesman for the Afghanistan High Peace Council, told AFP.

The Taliban have repeatedly rejected overtures from the Afghan government to join a peace process, as they intensify attacks across the country.

Late Thursday Taliban fighters launched a major assault on the provincial capital of Ghazni, just a two hour drive south of Kabul.

Anticipation had been mounting about the possibility of a government ceasefire announcement for the Islamic holiday of Eid-al Adha later this month.

An unprecedented truce in June brought fighting between security forces and the Taliban to a temporary halt, giving war-weary Afghans some welcome relief from violence.

The June ceasefire sparked hopes that an opportunity for peace talks between the government and Taliban may be opening.

Later in the month Washington indicated a change in its longstanding policy when US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the United States was prepared to "support, facilitate and participate" in talks, opening the way to militants to meet US officials in Qatar.

Pompeo also said the role of foreign forces in Afghanistan would be on the table.Destroyed buildings are seen on August 12, 2018 following an explosion that reportedly killed 12 people at an arms depot in a residential area in the Syrian town of Sarmada, Idlib province

An explosion at a weapons depot that toppled buildings in a rebel-held town of northwest Syria killed at least 39 civilians including a dozen children Sunday, a monitor said.

An AFP correspondent at the site in Sarmada in Idlib province near the Turkish border said the explosion of unknown origin caused the collapse of two buildings.

Rescue workers used bulldozers to remove rubble and extract trapped people from the flattened buildings, the correspondent said.

A civil defence source told AFP that rescue workers had pulled out "five people who were still alive".

But the death toll rose as more bodies were retrieved from the rubble, according to Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitoring group.

Three Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) members were also killed, apart from the 39 civilians, he said.

"The explosion occurred in a weapons depot in a residential building in Sarmada," said the head of the Britain-based monitor, which relies on a network of sources inside Syria.

But the cause of the blast was "not yet clear", Abdel Rahman added.

He said most of those killed were family members of fighters from HTS, an alliance led by jihadists from Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate, who had been displaced to the area from the central province of Homs.

A rescue worker carried the motionless body of a small child from the wreckage to an ambulance, the AFP correspondent said.

White Helmet rescue workers attempted to lift part of a floor of one of the buildings with a tall crane, as three young boys watched on in silence, perched on a rock.

Behind mounds of rubble, the facade of a building was scorched black, due to a fire after the blast.

- Bombing ramped up -

Most of Idlib is controlled by rebels and HTS, but the Islamic State jihadist group also has sleeper cells in the area.

Map locating the town of Sarmada in northern Syria where dozens, including children, were killed Sunday in an explosion at a weapons depot

The regime holds a small slither of southeastern Idlib.

In recent months, a series of explosions and assassinations -- mainly targeting rebel officials and fighters -- have rocked the province.

While some attacks have been claimed by IS, most are the result of infighting since last year between other groups.

Regime forces have since last week ramped up their deadly bombardment of southern Idlib and sent reinforcements to nearby areas they control.

On Friday, 12 civilians, three of them children, were killed in regime bombardment of the towns of Khan Sheikhun and Al-Tah.

President Bashar al-Assad has warned that government forces intend to retake Idlib, after his Russia-backed regime regained control of swathes of rebel-held territory in other parts of Syria.

On Thursday, government helicopters dropped leaflets over towns in Idlib's eastern countryside urging people to surrender.

The United Nations appealed the same day for talks to avert "a civilian bloodbath" in the province.

Jan Egeland, head of the UN's humanitarian taskforce for Syria, said: "The war cannot be allowed to go to Idlib."

Around 2.5 million people live in the province, half of them displaced by fighting in other regions of the country.

More than 350,000 people have been killed and millions displaced since Syria's civil war started in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.British writer V.S. Naipaul, considered one of the finest writers of his generation, was also an abrasive character

Tributes poured in Sunday for Nobel prize-winning author V.S. Naipaul, who has died aged 85, including from many of those who clashed with him.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said his death was a "major loss to the world of literature", despite the controversy he stoked.

One of the many writers he argued with, Salman Rushdie, also mourned his passing.

"We disagreed all our lives, about politics, about literature, and I feel as sad as if I just lost a beloved older brother. RIP Vidia," he tweeted.

Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul was born in Trinidad into a migrant family who left the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh as indentured labourers more than a century ago.

He won a scholarship to study at Oxford University and stayed in England the rest of his life, but travelled widely.

His books focused on the impact of colonialism around the world, blurring fiction with reality and elements of his own life.

Naipaul was best known for works including "A House for Mr Biswas", which partly drew on the experience of his father, and his Man Booker Prize-winning "In A Free State".

Considered one of the finest writers of his generation, he was also an abrasive character.

He once declared that he was without rival, dismissing many of his fellow writers -- and all female ones, who he said were "sentimental".

Naipaul increasingly raised eyebrows in his later years, in particular because of his views on religion.

He stirred controversy in India in 2004 by supporting the 1992 destruction of a mosque by Hindu zealots that led to nationwide riots.

A few years earlier, he provoked widespread outcry when he said Islam had a "calamitous effect on converted peoples" as it had enslaved and sought to eradicate other cultures."

"Sir VS Naipaul will be remembered for his extensive works, which covered diverse subjects ranging from history, culture, colonialism, politics and more," Indian PM Modi said on Twitter.

"His passing away is a major loss to the world of literature. Condolences to his family and well wishers in this sad hour."

The president of India, Ram Nath Kovind, added that his books were a "penetrative exploration of faith, colonialism and the human condition, in his home in the Caribbean and beyond".

"A loss for the world of letters and for the broader school of Indo-Anglian literature."

William Dalrymple, an author and historian who contested Naipaul's defence of Hindu nationalism in India, called him "a giant among us".

"Even if you disagreed with much that he wrote, particularly about India, you couldn't help be stimulated, influenced & catalysed by the brilliance of his laser sharp vision," he tweeted.A Palestinian protester uses a slingshot next to burning tyres along the Israel-Gaza border on August 10, 2018

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday demanded a "total" ceasefire from Gaza's Hamas rulers in his first public comments on another deadly flare-up between the two sides.

There have been efforts by UN officials and Egypt to secure a long-term truce between Israel and Hamas, though Israeli officials have not commented on them.

Since July, there have been three major flare-ups of violence.

"We are in the midst of a campaign against terror in Gaza," Netanyahu said at the start of a cabinet meeting. "It will not end with one blow.

"Our demand is clear: a total ceasefire. We shall not be satisfied with less than that," he added.

"Until now we have destroyed hundreds of Hamas military targets and with every round of attacks the Israel Defence Forces exact another heavy price from Hamas."

Netanyahu has come under political pressure to act more strongly against Hamas, though both sides are reluctant to start a fourth war between them since 2008.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during the weekly cabinet meeting in Jerusalem on August 12, 2018.

Israel has also sought an end to kites and balloons carrying firebombs over the Gaza border fence to burn Israeli farmland.

An informal truce reached on Thursday night has largely held despite the deaths of three Palestinians since then from Israeli army fire during border protests and clashes.

Thursday saw extensive Israeli air strikes in retaliation for the launching of more than 180 rockets and mortar rounds by Hamas and its allies beginning on Wednesday night.

Three Palestinians were killed in the Israeli strikes, including a mother and her 18-month-old daughter, while seven Israelis were wounded by Palestinian rocket fire as hundreds took refuge in bomb shelters.

It was one of the most serious escalations since the 2014 Gaza war and followed months of rising tensions.

At least 168 Palestinians have been killed since Gaza border protests and clashes began on March 30, with most succumbing to Israeli fire during demonstrations. Others have died in air strikes.

Over the same period, one Israeli soldier has been shot dead by a Palestinian sniper.Malian opposition leader and presidential candidate Soumaila Cisse was greeted by supporters on Monday as he arrived at his campaign headquarters

The United Nations and European Union called for restraint in Mali on Tuesday after the opposition candidate said he would reject the results of a presidential run-off.

Provisional results of the faceoff between President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, 73, and former finance minister Soumaila Cisse, 68, are expected on Wednesday, according to an official source.

The president's camp claimed Tuesday that he would be re-elected by a "comfortable" margin.

"We are calmly waiting for the official results which will be announced shortly by the competent authorities," the president's campaign manager Boukary Treta told a press conference.

Opposition leader Cisse said on Monday he would reject the results of the vote, which was marred by violence, low turnout and accusations of fraud.

He called on "all Malians to rise up... (against) the dictatorship of fraud."

"Responsibility for what is going to happen in this country lies with the president's side," he declared.

In New York, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres called on "all parties to remain calm through the conclusion of the electoral process" and avoid "incendiary rhetoric."

The EU mission called on candidates to "show restraint" and "avoid announcing their own result estimates before the results are published."

Cisse's team and other opposition contenders have repeatedly accused the government of fraud, including ballot-box stuffing and vote-buying.

"The fraud is proven, this is why there are results we will not accept," Cisse said at his party's headquarters in Bamako on Monday.

He said the computer programme his party uses to tally votes -- which had put him in the lead until then -- had been hacked.

His team also said half a dozen of their members were detained for two hours in a Bamako police station and their phones and laptops had been seized.

- 'Irregularities' -

The second round saw one election worker killed and hundreds of polling stations closed on security grounds, although this was still only a small percentage of the 23,000 stations nationwide.

Both the EU and the African Union (AU) said the election had not been badly impaired.

"Our observers did not see fraud but irregularities," EU mission chief, Cecile Kyenge, said. African Union (AU) election observers said the voting was carried out "in acceptable conditions," in a preliminary report published Monday.

The three main opposition candidates had mounted a last-ditch legal challenge to the first-round result, but their petition was rejected by the Constitutional Court.

Keita is a clear frontrunner in the vote. In the first round on July 29, he was ahead, with 42 percent against 18 percent for Cisse.

He had been fiercely criticised on the campaign trail for his handling of Mali's security crisis, but Cisse failed to rally other parties to his flag.

- Voters lukewarm -

Voter enthusiasm for the runoff -- a repeat of the 2013 battle that saw Keita come to power -- was poor. Turnout was just 22.38 percent, a local monitor called POCIM (the Mali Citizen Observation Pool) said.

Anecdotal evidence on Tuesday suggested his fierce rhetoric was not being matched by the public mood.

"The day after the vote, people are starting to forget the election," political analyst Souleymane Drabo told AFP.

"People are now preparing Tabaski," Drabo said, using the west African name for the Islamic festival of Eid-al Adha taking place next week.

"They need to buy a sheep. The election has already been pushed in the background."

Mali

Mali, a landlocked nation home to at least 20 ethnic groups where the majority of people live on less than $2 a day, has battled jihadist attacks and intercommunal violence for years.

Islamist attacks have spread from the north to the centre and south of the vast country and spilled into neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger, often inflaming communal conflicts.

The international community hope the winner of the election will strengthen a 2015 peace accord between the government, government-allied groups and former Tuareg rebels.Around 6,000 Rohingya refugees are now stuck in a narrow "no mans land" between Myanmar and Bangladesh while relying on international aid sent by Dhaka

Myanmar has asked Bangladesh to stop providing aid to 6,000 Rohingya stranded on the border between the two countries since a military crackdown prompted a mass exodus of the Muslim minority last year, the foreign ministry in Dhaka said.

The group refused to enter Bangladesh in the months during and after Myanmar's military campaign, which drove 700,000 other Rohingya across the frontier in an act the United Nations, United States and other western countries have condemned as ethnic cleansing.

They are now stuck in a narrow "no mans land" relying on international aid sent by Bangladesh.

Myanmar called for the aid to be halted in talks between Bangladeshi Foreign Minister A.H. Mahmood Ali and Myanmar's top diplomatic envoy, Kyaw Tint Swe, in Myanmar's capital Napyidaw on Friday, the foreign ministry said late Saturday.

"Myanmar particularly requested Bangladesh to stop providing humanitarian assistance to those people... and proposed to arrange supply of humanitarian assistance from Myanmar side," the ministry said.

Bangladesh made no commitment but "responded positively" to Myanmar's proposal to conduct a survey of the no mans land area, the ministry said.

A Myanmar minister on a visit to the strip of land earlier this year warned the Rohingya refugees that they will face "consequences" if they do not take up a Myanmar offer to return.

Dil Mohammad, a Rohingya community leader among the group on the border, told AFP the latest pressure from Myanmar to vacate the no mans land area would add to their hardship.

"There will be uncertainty whether Myanmar will regularly provide us with food and humanitarian assistance. If Bangladesh stops helping us from their side, we will have a huge problem," he said.

Kyaw Tint Swe, a minister in the office of Myanmar's de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi, also made a new pledge to speed up implementation of a repatriation deal agreed with Bangladesh in November.

Myanmar committed to taking the Rohingya back in that deal, but none have returned. Rohingya leaders say that those sheltering at overflowing refugee camps in Bangladesh will not go back until their safety is guaranteed.

The majority of Myanmar's Rohingya fled the country following a crackdown that started last August after attacks by Rohingya militants on police posts.

They have joined about 300,000 in camps around Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar district who fled earlier waves of violence in Myanmar.

Myanmar views the Rohingya as illegal migrants and has long denied them citizenship and basic rights, despite their long roots in the country's west.Indian PM Modi has described the situation in the Maldives as 'a matter of considerable international concern'

Indian leader Narendra Modi on Sunday called for greater democracy and the restoration of an independent judiciary in the Maldives ahead of a presidential election in September.

The Indian Ocean archipelago nation has been in turmoil in recent months, with strongman President Abdulla Yameen jailing or forcing into exile all of his main opponents.

Modi told the Times of India newspaper in an email interview that political developments in the Maldives "have been a matter of considerable international concern".

"We hope that (the) Maldives government will ensure early resumption of the political process and allow democratic institutions, including the judiciary to function independently in a fair and transparent manner," the Indian prime minister said.

"This will create (a) conducive environment for the presidential elections."

The election is scheduled for September 23 but the opposition has expressed fears that it could be delayed.

Yameen declared a state of emergency in February after the nation's top court ordered that MPs sacked by the president be restored and dissidents freed from jail.

The Maldives' chief justice and Supreme Court judges were subsequently arrested, along with Yameen's half-brother Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, who ruled the country for 30 years until 2008.

The European Union and the United States have expressed concern over the crackdown.

New Delhi's relations with the Maldives -- better known as an upmarket tourist destination -- have also become rocky and the tiny state's president has become closer to China in the past year.

India will hold its own national election in 2019, and Modi told the Times of India that he was confident of winning an even bigger majority despite a major opposition campaign.

Modi's right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) could face a united opposition alliance in the elections to the parliament's lower house.Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has said Iraq will reluctantly comply with US sanctions against its ally Iran

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has cancelled a visit to Iran, his press office said Sunday, as the premier came under strong Iranian criticism over his stand on renewed US sanctions against Tehran.

Abadi will still go ahead with a planned visit to Turkey on Tuesday but has scrapped the Iran leg of the trip "because of his busy schedule", his office said.

An Iraqi official had said Saturday that Abadi would visit both neighbouring Turkey and Iran to discuss economic issues.

According to Iraqi political sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, Iran initially agreed to the visit but changed its mind because it was unhappy about Abadi's remarks.

The premier said last Tuesday that Iraq -- which relies on neighbouring Iran as a source of cheap imports -- would reluctantly comply with US sanctions against Tehran that took effect the same day.

"We don't support the sanctions because they are a strategic error, but we will comply with them," said Abadi, whose country is an ally of both Tehran and Washington. "In general, sanctions are unjust."

On Sunday, Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's representative in Baghdad lashed out at Abadi as the Tehran visit was called off.

"These irresponsible remarks have already been condemned by many people. It's a disloyal attitude towards the honest position of Iran and the blood of the martyrs this country has spilt to defend the land of Iraq" against jihadists, said Moujtaba al-Hussein.

"We are saddened by this position which shows he has been defeated psychologically in the face of the Americans," he said.

The US sanctions were reimposed after President Donald Trump withdrew from a landmark 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers.

In Tehran, the foreign ministry was more guarded about a possible visit by Abadi.

A ministry spokesman said he had "so far not received any official news or information whatsoever about this trip", the semi-official ISNA news agency reported.Bui Tin had lived in exile in France since defecting in 1990 after decades in the Vietnamese military

A Vietnamese former colonel and revolutionary war hero who became disillusioned with the communist regime and defected, becoming one of its most vocal and influential critics, died in France at age 90.

Bui Tin passed away of kidney failure in hospital in a Paris suburb early Saturday, his friend and a relative confirmed, after several weeks of declining health.

"The hospital told me that Tin passed away after falling into a coma," close acquaintance Tuong An told AFP on Sunday. A relative in Hanoi also confirmed his death.

Tin, a former army journalist, had lived in exile in France since 1990 when he defected during a trip for a meeting organised by l'Humanite communist newspaper in Paris.

It was an unlikely twist of fate for a man who spent much of his life fighting for Vietnam's independence -- first from French colonial rulers and later from US-backed anti-communist fighters in the south.

He was just a teenager when, full of fervour, he joined the army aligned with Ho Chi Minh's revolutionary movement that would eventually expel the French in the epic battle of Dien Bien Phu in 1954.

Several other milestones would follow during his storied military career.

On April 30, 1975, he was among the first soldiers that entered the Presidential Palace in the former southern capital Saigon -- later renamed Ho Chi Minh City -- capping a long and bloody war that left some three million Vietnamese dead.

Tin worked as an army reporter during much of the war, and later said he met US navy pilot John McCain in the prison nicknamed the "Hanoi Hilton" where the American POW spent five and half years after his jet was shot down in the city.

The two men would meet again in 1991, when Tin testified to a US senate committee on POW and MIA affairs, at the end of which he famously hugged the man he once considered a foe.

"When I reached for his hand he responded by embracing me, which I didn't mind, as cameras recorded the moment for the next day's papers, which ran the picture with variations on the caption FORMER ENEMIES EMBRACE," McCain wrote in his 2002 book "Worth the Fighting For".

- Disillusioned -

As an army reporter, who later held top jobs at state newspapers, Tin spent much of his career brushing up with war heroes like General Vo Nguyen Giap but -- like Giap -- later became disillusioned with the cause he dedicated so much of his life to.

He believed the Communist Party had drifted from the ideals of the revolution's founding father -- calling its leaders arrogant and corrupt -- and once said the party "hides its misdeeds in the shadow of Ho Chi Minh".

He spent much of his time in France writing about politics and current affairs in his birth country and friends say he was a journalist, and activist, up to the day he died.

Days before he fell ill last month, his internet went down so he wrote an article by hand calling for multi-party democracy in Vietnam that he asked a friend to post.

"When I visited him in the hospital, he was very weak, but the first question he asked me was whether his article had been published or not," An told AFP.

"He was a real journalist until the end of his life."

He came under fire from fellow activists for his former ties to the communists, but An said he remained kind and tolerant even of his harshest critics, having dedicated his life to his political ideals.

"He lived for democracy in Vietnam," she said.

One of his relatives said the family did not pay much attention to his controversial political leanings -- which leaders in the one-party state are notoriously intolerant of -- and instead respected him as an elder and a leader.

"The family didn't take (his activism) too seriously, everyone has their own ideology," the relative said, requesting anonymity.

Born in 1927 near Hanoi, Tin was one of 10 siblings and leaves behind two children -- a daughter in Hanoi and a son in Canada.

Friends said a funeral service will be organised in France.Members of the Sikh community gather in Trafalgar Square in central London on August 12, 2018 to call for a referendum of the Sikh global community to establish India's Punjab state as an independent country

Hundreds of Sikh separatists and their supporters gathered in London's Trafalgar Square on Sunday to demand a referendum on an independent homeland to be carved out of India.

They brandished banners reading "Free Punjab, End Indian occupation", "Punjab Referendum 2020 for Khalistan" and "We will re-establish Punjab as an independent country".

The protest was organised by the US and Canada-based group Sikhs for Justice, and drew people from all over the world, many of them chanting "Khalistan".

The Indian government has expressed concern to London over the activity of expatriate Sikh separatists, who want to create a homeland of Khalistan in India's northern Punjab state.

The Foreign Office confirmed it discussed the rally with the Indian High Commission, but a spokeswoman told AFP: "Peaceful protest is a vital part of a democratic society."

Gurpatwant S. Pannun, legal advisor to Sikhs for Justice, said: "This is a peaceful, democratic campaign to give Sikhs the right to determine their own future."

Jas Singh, 26, a demonstrator from London, told AFP: "In India, anybody who speaks for a referendum gets picked up and put in jail."

There was a small counter-demonstration of about a dozen people singing and holding up signs saying: "We stand for one united India."Egyptian Brotherhood's supreme guide Mohamed Badie flashes a sign during a trial in Cairo on May 8, 2014

An Egyptian court Sunday sentenced to life in prison the Muslim Brotherhood's supreme guide, Mohamed Badie, and four other leaders in a retrial on accusations of inciting street violence, their lawyer said.

Defence lawyer Abdel Moneim Abdel Maksoud named the others as Mohamed el-Beltagi, Essam el-Erian, Safwat Higazi and El-Husseini Antar.

The Brotherhood was designated a terrorist organisation in Egypt in December 2013, after the military ousted Islamist president Mohamed Morsi in July of that year in the wake of mass protests against his rule.

"We will appeal the sentences within 60 days," the lawyer told AFP, adding that four other people were sentenced to jail terms of between 10 and 15 years.

The accusations date back to July 2013 when Brotherhood leaders and members marched in Giza, west of Cairo, in protest at Morsi's ouster.

The defendants were charged with terrorism, attempted murder, forming an armed group to attack citizens, and illegal possession of firearms.

Badie and the others were initially sentenced in September 2014 to life in prison, but Egypt's court of cassation cancelled the ruling and ordered the retrial.Firefighters are seen battling the so-called Holy Fire in Southern California

One of the fires scorching California Sunday moved in on a retirement community, prompting evacuation orders for thousands of people.

Residents of the Trilogy Glen Ivy community located between the Santa Ana Mountains and a major highway who have trouble driving in the dark were urged to leave immediately to escape the wrath of the Holy Fire, which has already burned through 22,714 acres (9,192 hectares) and is 41 percent contained.

The US Forest Service estimates that around 3,700 homes and structures have been evacuated, or around 11,120 people.

Nearly 1,500 firefighters -- supported by some inmates from a local jail -- are battling that blaze, as it spread to the north and east, prompting a new round of evacuations.

Across California, firefighters reported making significant progress against some of the huge wildfires raging across the most populous state, but were bracing for more of the soaring temperatures, dry air and gusty winds that have made their job so tough.

Some of the worst fires slowed over the weekend.

The so-called Mendocino Complex north of state capital Sacramento -- including the River and Ranch fires, which together form the largest blaze in state history -- burned 3,100 acres overnight, just one fourth the previous night's toll, according to local media.

The Carr fire in the north, which has destroyed more than 1,000 homes, grew only modestly overnight, as containment lines improved.

- Steep terrain -

A helicopter drops water on the Holy Fire burning southeast of Los Angeles

Their task was complicated by steep terrain making it difficult for fire trucks to approach. More than 25 aircraft were being used to drop water and fire-retardant chemicals.

Some 18 blazes are continuing to scorch wide swathes of California.

The Ranch fire, part of the Mendocino Complex, was 58 percent contained as of Saturday, while the River Fire was 92 percent contained, news media reported. The two blazes have devastated an area of more than 325,000 acres so far.

Authorities have charged a 51-year-old man, Forrest Gordon Clark, with multiple arson-related charges in connection with the Holy Fire.

A court set bail at $1 million for Clark, who has had repeated encounters with local police over the years.

Clark could face anywhere from 10 years to life in prison if convicted. He rejected the charges during an erratic court appearance, calling them a "lie."

He said he could easily afford bail and asked if he could pay it right away.US President Donald Trump, seen here at a Bikers for Trump event on August 11, 2018, has endorsed calls for a boycott of Harley-Davidson

US President Donald Trump endorsed calls Sunday for a boycott of tariff-hit Harley-Davidson over its plans to move production of its iconic American motorcycles out of the country.

"Many @harleydavidson owners plan to boycott the company if manufacturing moves overseas. Great!" Trump tweeted.

"Most other companies are coming in our direction, including Harley competitors. A really bad move!"

Trump has taken it personally since Wisconsin-based manufacturer -- once a presidential favorite -- announced on Monday it is moving some production out of the US.

Harley-Davidson was targeted with EU tariffs after Trump imposed stiff duties on European steel and aluminum.

An array of US companies have complained they are being hurt by the administration's tariff policies.

But Trump has treated the issue as a loyalty test.

"I've done so much for you, and then this," Trump tweeted earlier this week. "Other companies are coming back where they belong! We won't forget, and neither will your customers or your now very HAPPY competitors!"

Last year, Harley-Davidson announced it would build a plant in Thailand after Trump pulled out of the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade deal, which would have abolished tariffs on their motorcycles across 40 percent of the world's economy.

The company has repeatedly described the Thailand factory, along with other overseas production, as vital to its long-term need to boost foreign markets to make up for sluggish sales in the US.

In January, Harley-Davidson announced it would close its Kansas City, Missouri assembly plant and consolidate jobs in York, Pennsylvania.

"A Harley-Davidson should never be built in another country-never!" Trump said earlier on Twitter.Jason Downard wore a black T-shirt with the words "I am a former neo-Nazi, ask me questions" printed across it

Jason Downard became a white supremacist while serving prison time for his involvement in a drive-by shooting.

Nearly a decade later, the 28-year-old from Oregon came to Washington as neo-Nazis marched through the nation's capital and rallied outside the White House.

But Downard's message on Sunday was one of peace, not hate.

Wearing a black T-shirt with the words "I am a former neo-Nazi, ask me questions" printed across it, Downard said he was in Washington to try to encourage white supremacists to leave the movement.

"My message is for peace and love on all sides," Downard told reporters as he stood at Lafayette Square, a large public park on the north side of White House.

"We don't want violence to happen, so it's spreading the message that people can change and there is hope for people," he added.

He later gave a black woman who was at the protest a big hug.

Downard was one of hundreds of counter-protesters who headed into the US capital to try to drown out a small number of white supremacists that arrived in the afternoon.

Only about 20 of them turned out to the early part of the so-called Unite The Right rally.

Scores of police officers on foot and on motorcycles protected the extremists and escorted them from a metro station to the White House while counter-demonstrators yelled insults and jeered at them.

The Unite The Right rally was being held on the anniversary of a deadly protest in Charlottesville, Virginia that highlighted the growing boldness of America's extreme right.BRIDGEWATER, N.J. (AP) - The Latest on the new book by former White House staffer Omarosa Manigault Newman (all times local):

7:55 p.m.

Former White House staffer Omarosa Manigault Newman says she has concluded, after years of defending Donald Trump, that he is a bigot.

FILE - In this Feb. 16, 2017, file photo, Omarosa Manigault, then-director of communications for the White House Office of Public Liaison, center, speaks in the East Room of the White House in Washington, before the start of President Donald Trump's news conference. Omarosa Manigault Newman says she has concluded, after years of defending Donald Trump, that he is a bigot. She writes in a new book, "I had to go through the pain of witnessing his racism with my own eyes, and hearing it with my own ears, many times, until I couldn't deny it any longer."(AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais, File)

She writes in a new book: "I had to go through the pain of witnessing his racism with my own eyes, and hearing it with my own ears, many times, until I couldn't deny it any longer."

She also says she saw Trump behaving "like a dog off the leash" at numerous events he attended without his wife, first lady Melania Trump.

The accusation is among a long list of scandalous claims contained in her new book, "Unhinged," set to come out Aug. 14. The Associated Press purchased an early copy of the memoir, which the White House has already slammed as "riddled with lies and false accusations."

___

4:50 p.m.

Former White House staffer Omarosa Manigault Newman claims in a new book that she saw President Donald Trump behave "like a dog off the leash" at Mar-a-Lago events without his wife, first lady Melania Trump.

It's one of a long list of scandalous claims contained in her new book, "Unhinged," which is set to come out Aug. 14. The Associated Press purchased an early copy.

In the book, Manigault Newman also claims that after she turned down a "senior position" on Trump's 2020 campaign for $15,000 a month, which included a stringent non-disclosure agreement, she received a "flurry" of letters from attorneys representing the president telling her to "stay silent about Trump, or else."

The White House has already slammed the book as "riddled with lies and false accusations."

___

1:50 p.m.

The White House is slamming a new book by ex-staffer Omarosa Manigault Newman, calling her "a disgruntled former White House employee."

The Guardian newspaper reports that in the memoir, Manigault Newman labels Trump a "racist" and claims she's been told there are tapes of him using the N-word repeatedly while filming "The Apprentice" reality series on which she appeared.

White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders says in a statement Friday, "Instead of telling the truth about all the good President Trump and his administration are doing to make America safe and prosperous," Manigault-Newman's book is "riddled with lies and false accusations."

Sanders says, "It's sad that a disgruntled former White House employee is trying to profit off these false attacks." She's criticizing the media for giving her a platform.SPOKANE, Wash. (AP) - Ramsey and Amy Pruchnic lived in the Seattle area for five years before deciding they wanted to escape the Puget Sound rat race and move closer to family on the opposite side of the state.

Now they own their own businesses and live in a 1928 farmhouse on 10 rural acres they bought just south of Spokane, near the Idaho border, where they are raising three children and 18 chickens.

"The honeymoon phase of Seattle wore off," said Amy Pruchnic, 31, who just opened a specialty doughnut shop in a hip development downtown. "Why not work in a town like Spokane?"

In this photo taken June 8, 2018, craft donut shop owner Amy Pruchnic, right, talks with an employee at her busy new store in downtown Spokane, Wash. The state's second-largest city is booming these days thanks to a good economy and influx of new residents. (AP Photo/Nicholas K. Geranios)

The Pruchnics are among a wave of new residents in Washington's second-largest city, which is experiencing a growing population thanks to more jobs and an influx of people leaving larger West Coast cities.

They include young families like the Pruchnics - many in search of cheaper housing, easier commutes, good schools and a work-life balance - and retirees with disposable income.

"We are getting both ends of the spectrum," said Todd Mielke, chief executive of Greater Spokane Incorporated, the region's chamber of commerce. The trend is also visible in other midsize western cities like Boise, Idaho, as people flee soaring housing costs up and down the West Coast.

Spokane has long been known as a sleepy place with slow growth that chugged along in the shadow of much larger and richer Seattle, 280 miles (450 kilometers) west. But the country's economic recovery has finally trickled down to the city of nearly 220,000.

Spokane doesn't have a dominant employer like Boeing or Microsoft. But it does have a lot of smaller companies, plus a growing number of good-paying jobs in government, higher education and medicine. Fairchild Air Force Base remains the region's largest single employer.

It's good news for a city that suffered during the Great Recession.

"We've exceeded the job level at the peak of the last expansion," said Grant Forsyth, chief economist for Avista Corp., the region's electric and gas utility. "We have recovered all of the lost jobs and then some."

Numbers tell the story.

The Spokane Metropolitan Statistical Area, consisting of Spokane and adjacent Stevens and Pend Oreille counties, had 232,500 jobs in 2007, just before the recession. In March the area reported 244,700 jobs.

A big mystery project proposed near the Spokane International Airport was recently revealed to be an Amazon fulfillment center. The building will be more than 2.5 million square feet (232,300 square meters), have more than 1,500 full-time employees and cost $181 million. Construction has already started.

"Amazon will be one of the largest businesses in the Spokane region," Mielke said, and it might lure others.

Meanwhile, the Spokane metro area's population grew from 470,000 in 2000 to 556,000 in 2016. Throw in the 150,000 residents of adjacent Kootenai County, Idaho, and the combined statistical area has 710,000 residents.

The state estimated Spokane County added 7,270 residents in 2016, the most in nearly a decade.

The rising population has jolted the housing market.

The median sale price of a home in Spokane County was $240,000 in May, up $32,000 from May 2017, the Spokane Association of Realtors said. Demand for homes outstrips supply. Still, Realtor.com recently named Spokane first among "10 Affordable Midsize Cities."

Spokane is surrounded by large lakes, five ski areas, mountains and rivers, and outdoor recreation has always been a draw. It also has a lively nightlife and literary scene and lots of new upscale dining choices.

National Geographic Traveler magazine recently named Spokane one of 29 "Cities on the Rise," noting the region is "hipster friendly" and "caffeinated." Spokane has shown up on numerous other rankings of cool cities in recent years.

That has local newspaper columnist Shawn Vestal thinking it might be time for locals to retire the whole "Spokane doesn't suck" attitude when talking to outsiders.

"There's no reason to go around insisting that something doesn't suck when it truly doesn't suck," Vestal, also an award-winning fiction writer, opined.

Mielke said Spokane's secret weapon might be higher education. The area is home to Eastern Washington, Gonzaga and Whitworth universities, plus a large branch campus of Washington State University that includes one of the nation's newest medical schools. There are also two large community colleges.

Enrollment is growing rapidly. About 40,000 college students live in the immediate Spokane region, and more than 70,000 within a 100-mile (160-kilometer) radius, Mielke said, providing an educated workforce.

People in bigger cities are noticing.

The Seattle Times reported that in recent years more than 2,000 people per year move from King County to Spokane County. That's more than move to Phoenix or Portland, Oregon, the newspaper reported.

For the Pruchnics - trying to juggle jobs and children in the booming and crowded Seattle area - the move was a no-brainer.

Ramsey Pruchnic worked for Microsoft when the family lived in suburban Issaquah. Now he runs an advertising agency.

His wife looked around for a fun business to start and settled on doughnuts, despite no professional baking experience. Her shop, called Hello Sugar, is packed with customers - in yet another sign that Spokane is flourishing.

The Pruchnics have become ambassadors for their new home.

"We're trying to convince our friends in Issaquah to come over here," Amy Pruchnic said.

In this photo taken June 4, 2018, the downtown skyline is shown from the South Hill in Spokane, Wash. . The state's second-largest city is booming these days thanks to a good economy and influx of new residents. (AP Photo/Nicholas K. Geranios)Advertisement

Charlottesville was slowly returning to normal Sunday night after a weekend of high tension as the Virginia city marked the first anniversary of the white supremacist rally that ended in mayhem and death.

City workers were removing barriers put up to control crowds who remained mainly peaceful  and mainly angry at the massive police presence.

Around 1,000 cops, backed by the National Guard descended on the historic town to ensure there was no repeat of last years violence. They made just seven arrests, three on Saturday and four more Sunday. The most serious was of a Maine woman charged with spitting in the face of a protestor and carrying a hidden metal baton.

Police made four arrests in Charlottesville on Sunday. Chloe Lublin, 29, from Portland, Maine, faces the most serious charge of assault and battery and having a concealed weapon. Cops say she spat at a demonstrator and was then found to have a metal baton.

Two other arrests were made for disorderly conduct after a 29-year-old man saluted the Robert E. Lee statue and got in a fight with a 40-year-old woman. Another man was arrested for obstruction.

After a relatively calm morning, tensions rose around 2.15pm as dozens of cops massed at the Water Street junction with 4th Street.

Chants of We keep us safe,' 'Cville weve got your back' and 'whose streets? Our streets,' broke out from the crowd angry at the sheer number of cops in the town.

SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO

Local activists and community members took to the streets of Charlottesville, Virginia, on Sunday to mark the one-year anniversary of the death of Heather Heyer during the white-nationalist 'Unite the Right' rally

A group of about 60 demonstrators marched down The Mall in the historic Virginia city

Demonstrators formed a circle in the intersection where Heyer was killed and held hands as they said a prayer

Tensions peaked around 2.15 in the afternoon as protesters confronted the large police presence on the street

More than 1,000 members of law enforcement were dispatched to Charlottesville, prompting criticism from protesters

A protester stares at police officers in riot gear from behind a barricade in downtown Charlottesville

Police looked on impassively as several women openly taunted them. F**k the police, one yelled repeatedly.

'This is escalation. Wheres your de-escalation training?' a second woman shouted. 'Youre not welcome here.'

Within less than an hour later the crowds of protesters had almost entirely dispersed after the sky opened up and released a heavy downpour at around 3.30pm.

Sunday felt considerably more tense than the previous day which had ended with a march from the university campus into the town center. Minor skirmishes were reported on the march but it dispersed peacefully.

The Commonwealth of Virginia was placed under a state of emergency this weekend as law enforcement officials braced for demonstrations both in Charlottesville and 115 miles away in Washington, DC.

Hundreds of police officers, many wearing riot gear, have been patrolling the downtown area searching people as they entered.

Sunday was the second day that the historic city - home to the University of Virginia - was under virtual police search. Fewer stores and restaurants were open in the 18-block downtown area which had been cordoned off.

Several groups held impromptu memorial services at the site where 32-year-old Heather Heyer was mowed down by a speeding alleged Nazi sympathizer on August 12 last year.

The only protesters on view were anti-Fascists and people wearing Black Lives Matter t-shirts. No obvious white supremacists were to be seen.

A group of some 60 people were seen marching up The Mall to the spot on 4th Street where Heyer was killed. The few passers-by clapped them as they chanted anti-Fascist slogans.

Heather Heyer's mother Susan Bro attended a gathering around a makeshift memorial for her daughter

The heartbroken mother was seen embracing supporters in the intersection where her daughter was mowed down last year

At one point Bro addressed the crowd that had formed around the memorial, saying there's still 'so much healing to do'

Heyer's mother Susan Bro also made an appearance at the site of her daughter's death on Sunday.

Bro was seen embracing supporters and placing a bouquet of flowers on the makeshift memorial that has been set up in the 32-year-old's honor.

At one point, she asked the crowd to raise their fists in solidarity, saying theres still 'so much healing to do.'

She added that the city and the country have a 'huge racial problem' and that if its not fixed, 'well be right back here in no time'.

Bro also said the day was about more than just her daughter. She recognized the other victims of the attack, which injured dozens of people, and thanked the two Virginia state troopers killed in a helicopter crash for their sacrifice.

Lt Jay Cullen and Trooper-Pilot Berke Bates died when their helicopter crashed while deployed as part of the response to last years violence.

Earlier this morning a group of more than 200 people gathered at a park to protest racism, singing songs and listening to guest speakers.

Among the group was Courtney Commander, a friend of Heyer's who was with the 32-year-old when she was killed.

Commander told AP: 'She is with me today, too.'

On Sunday morning a peaceful group of demonstrators gathered in a Charlottesville park to protest racism

The more than 200 demonstrators at the park on Sunday morning were seen singing songs and listening to speakers

Among the group was Courtney Commander, a friend of Heyer's who was with the 32-year-old when she was killed last year

Demonstrators confront police at the intersection where Heather Heyer was killed last year in downtown Charlottesville

Bicycle police shove a demonstrator as they move through the heated crowd in the historic city's center

SWAT teams were also posted in downtown Charlottesville to keep an eye on possible threats during the demonstrations

A couple hug as they participate in prayers on Sunday afternoon at the intersection where Heather Heyer was killed last year

Mourners embrace each other at the gathering in honor of Heyer one year after the 32-year-old's tragic death

On Saturday night more than 200 anti-racist protesters marched from the university into Charlottesville town center after dark chanting and at times taunting police.

They unfurled a banner reading 'Last year they came w/ torches. This year they come w/ badges' and chanted: 'Why are you in riot gear? We don't see no riot here.'

Last year, 22-year-old Clara Carlson faced down a group of white supremacists who marched through campus, surrounding her and a group of friends. On Saturday night, she was angry at the police response to the student rally.

'The university administration just let white supremacists roll through grounds with their torches, and for us, they're afraid of us. They are afraid of us because we are demanding change from the university,' Carlson said.

Hundreds of anti-racist protesters marched from UVA into downtown Charlottesville chanting and taunting police Saturday

The calm atmosphere at Sunday's gathering was a stark contrast to one held the night before, pictured above

A group of anti-fascist and Black Lives Matter demonstrators march on the UVA campus after the rally on Saturday

Around 1,000 police and members of Virginia National Guard were deployed to the university city with one aim  to prevent a repeat of the events that ended in mayhem last year.

Cops made three arrests inside an 18-block security area set up in the center of the city of 47,000 people. One was for trespassing and one for drunkenness.

Police said the third man arrested was white-bearded 62-year-old John Miska, who was summonsed for buying razors  which were among the items banned in the area.

The march broke up peacefully shortly after 9pm and the demonstrators - mainly students - straggled back home.

Demonstrators carried a banner that read: 'Last year they came w/ torches, this year they come with badges', decrying the large police presence at the rally

Emily Filler attempts to stop police from advancing on students rallying on the grounds of the University of Virginia Saturday

Virginia State Police officers form a cordon at the University of Virginia, ahead of the 'Unite the Right' rally anniversary

Demonstrators march down Rugby Avenue near the University of Virginia campus one year after the Unite the Right rally

The anti-racist demonstration had dispersed by around 9pm Saturday night following a couple brief confrontations with cops

Although the day was calm, local resident John Miska was arrested for purchasing razor blades, which are banned items in the locked down downtown area

Last year, on August 12, hundreds of white nationalists - including neo-Nazis, skinheads and Ku Klux Klan members - descended on Charlottesville in part to protest the city's decision decided to remove a monument to Confederate Gen Robert E Lee from a park.

Violent fighting broke out between attendees and counterprotesters. Authorities eventually forced the crowd to disperse, but a car later barreled into a crowd of peaceful counterprotesters, killing Heyer and injuring dozens more. A state police helicopter later crashed, killing two troopers.

Heyer's mother, Susan Bro, told The Associated Press that she has been dreading the anniversary of her daughter's death for months. On Sunday afternoon, she plans to bring flowers to the spot where her daughter was killed.

Bro likened losing a child to standing in shallow water as waves roll continually in: 'You let the wave wash over, and you don't chase it. You let it go and you're OK until the next one comes. But today, I feel like high tide is in.'

The photo above shows the hundreds of white nationalists who descended on the UVA campus last summer sparking riots

Susan Bo (left, in Charlottesville on Friday) told counter-protesters to make sure they stay safe at Sunday's Unite the Right 2 event in Washington. Pictured right: Heather Heyer

Some 115 miles from Charlottesville in Washington, authorities are preparing for protests on a much larger scale as the principal organizer of last year's 'Unite the Right' event is scheduled to hold a so-called white civil rights rally, bringing with it a significantly higher number of counterprotesters.

Jason Kessler, principal organizer of last year's 'Unite the Right' who abandoned his bid to stage a similar anniversary event in Charlottesville, said in his permit application that he expects 100 to 400 people to participate in his event Sunday afternoon in Lafayette Park, in front of the White House.

President Donald Trump won't be there, though, as he is at his golf club in New Jersey.

The number of people at Kessler's event could be lower than his estimate and likely will be dwarfed by counterprotests.

Some leading figures in the U.S. white nationalist movement have said they won't attend or have encouraged supporters to stay away.

The National Park Service also issued permits for events organized by DC United Against Hate, New York Black Lives Matter and other groups.

Government and police officials in Washington have expressed confidence the city can manage the events without violence; the mayor and police chief have promised a massive security mobilization to keep protesters and counter-protesters apart.

Ahmed Mohamed writes a message on the ground of the alleyway where the community has placed a memorial for Heyer

Charlie Spearman, foreground, and Jae Em Cafico kneel at the memorial dedicated to Heyer on Saturday

Demonstrators listen to speakers on the campus of the University of Virginia in during a rally on Saturday afternoon

Supporters of white nationalist leader Jason Kessler arrive to take a subway to leave the area after a Washington, D.C. rally marking the one year anniversary of the 2017 Charlottesville protests

Kessler is seen above leaving the area while riding the subway and talking on his cell phone in Washington, D.C.

Supporters of Kessler are seen above riding a subway to leave the Washington, D.C. area on SundayCAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) - Embarking on a mission that scientists have been dreaming of since the Sputnik era, a NASA spacecraft hurtled Sunday toward the sun on a quest to unlock some of its mysteries by getting closer than any object sent before.

If all goes well, the Parker Solar Probe will fly straight through the wispy edges of the sun's corona, or outer atmosphere, in November. In the years ahead, it will gradually get within 3.8 million miles (6 million kilometers) of the surface, its instruments protected from the extreme heat and radiation by a revolutionary new carbon heat shield and other high-tech wizardry.

Altogether, the Parker probe will make 24 close approaches to our star during the seven-year, $1.5 billion journey.

Parker Solar Probe on a ULA Delta IV Heavy rocket lifts off from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. (Malcolm Denemark/Florida Today via AP)

"Wow, here we go. We're in for some learning over the next several years," said Eugene Parker, the 91-year-old astrophysicist for whom the spacecraft is named.

It was Parker who accurately theorized 60 years ago the existence of solar wind - the supersonic stream of charged particles blasting off the sun and coursing through space, sometimes wreaking havoc on electrical systems on Earth.

This is the first time NASA has named a spacecraft after a living person.

As Parker and thousands of others watched, a Delta IV Heavy rocket carried the probe aloft, thundering into the clear, star-studded sky on three pillars of fire that lit up the middle-of-the-night darkness.

NASA needed the mighty 23-story rocket, plus a third stage, to get the Parker probe - the size of a small car and well under a ton - racing toward the sun, 93 million miles (150 million kilometers) from Earth.

A Saturday morning launch attempt was foiled by last-minute technical trouble. But Sunday gave way to complete success.

It was the first rocket launch ever witnessed by Parker, a retired University of Chicago professor. He said it was like looking at photos of the Taj Mahal for years and then beholding the real thing in India.

"I really have to turn from biting my nails in getting it launched, to thinking about all the interesting things which I don't know yet and which will be made clear, I assume, over the next five or six or seven years," Parker said on NASA TV.

Among the mysteries scientists hope to solve: Why is the corona hundreds of times hotter than the surface, which is 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit (5,500 degrees Celsius)? And why is the sun's atmosphere continually expanding and accelerating, as Parker theorized in 1958?

"The only way we can do that is to finally go up and touch the sun," said project scientist Nicola Fox of Johns Hopkins University. "We've looked at it. We've studied it from missions that are close in, even as close as the planet Mercury. But we have to go there."

A better understanding of the sun's life-giving and sometimes violent nature could also enable earthlings to better protect satellites and astronauts in orbit, along with the power grids so vital to today's technology-dependent society, said Thomas Zurbuchen, NASA's science mission chief.

Parker, the probe, will start shattering records this fall. On its very first brush with the sun, it will come within 15.5 million miles (25 million kilometers), easily beating the current record of 27 million miles (43 million kilometers) set by NASA's Helios 2 spacecraft in 1976.

By the time Parker gets to its 22nd, 23rd and 24th orbits of the sun in 2024 and 2025, it will be even deeper into the corona and traveling at a record 430,000 mph (690,000 kilometers per hour). Nothing from planet Earth has ever gone that fast.

Even Fox has difficulty comprehending the mission's derring-do.

"To me, it's still mind-blowing," she said. "Even I still go, 'Really? We're doing that?'"

The 8-foot (2.4-meter) heat shield will serve as an umbrella that will shade the spacecraft's scientific instruments, with on-board sensors adjusting the protective cover as necessary so that nothing gets fried.

A mission to get up close and personal with our star has been on NASA's books since 1958. The trick was making the spacecraft compact and light enough to travel at incredible speeds and durable enough to withstand the punishing environment.

"We've had to wait so long for our technology to catch up with our dreams," Fox said.

___

The Associated Press Health & Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

In this photo provided by NASA, The United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket launches NASA's Parker Solar Probe to touch the Sun, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018 from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida. (Bill Ingalls/NASA via AP)

A Delta IV rocket, carrying the Parker Solar Probe, lifts off from launch complex 37 at the Kennedy Space Center, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018, in Cape Canaveral, Fla. The Parker Solar Probe will venture closer to the Sun than any other spacecraft and is protected by a first-of-its-kind heat shield and other innovative technologies that will provide unprecedented information about the Sun. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

The Mobile Service Tower is rolled back to reveal the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket with the Parker Solar Probe onboard, Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018, Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Fla. A last-minute technical problem Saturday delayed NASA's unprecedented flight to the sun. Rocket maker United Launch Alliance said it would try again Sunday, provided the helium-pressure issue can be resolved quickly. Once on its way, the Parker probe will venture closer to our star than any other spacecraft. (Bill Ingalls/NASA via AP)

A Delta IV rocket, carrying the Parker Solar Probe, stands on launch complex 37 after the launch was scrubbed at the Kennedy Space Center, Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018, in Cape Canaveral, Fla. The Parker Solar launch has been rescheduled for early Sunday morning. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

This photo provided by NASA shows the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket with the Parker Solar Probe onboard shortly after the Mobile Service Tower was rolled back, Friday, Aug. 10, 2018, at Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Fla. NASA is sending the spacecraft straight into the sun's glittering crown, an atmospheric region so hot and harsh any normal visitor would wither. Set to launch early Saturday, the Parker Solar Probe is as heat-resistant as a spacecraft gets, essential for exploring our star closer than ever before. (Bill Ingalls/NASA via AP)

A Delta IV rocket stands ready for launch at complex 37 at the Kennedy Space Center, Friday, Aug. 10, 2018, in Cape Canaveral, Fla. The Parker Solar Probe, scheduled for lift off early Saturday morning, is protected by a first-of-its-kind heat shield and other innovative technologies that will provide unprecedented information about our Sun. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

The tower structure for a Delta IV rocket rolls back for launch at complex 37 at the Kennedy Space Center, Friday, Aug. 10, 2018, in Cape Canaveral, Fla. The Parker Solar Probe, scheduled for lift off early Saturday morning, is protected by a first-of-its-kind heat shield and other innovative technologies that will provide unprecedented information about our Sun. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

In this Thursday, Aug. 9, 2018 photo, astrophysicist Eugene Parker sits between Johns Hopkins University project scientist Nicola Fox, left, and NASA's science mission chief Thomas Zurbuchen, during a news conference about the Parker Solar Probe at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. It's the first time NASA has named a spacecraft after someone who's still alive. (AP Photo/Marcia Dunn)

This July 6, 2018 photo made available by NASA shows the Parker Solar Probe in a clean room at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., after the installation of its heat shield. NASA's Parker Solar Probe will be the first spacecraft to "touch" the sun, hurtling through the sizzling solar atmosphere and coming within just 3.8 million miles (6 million kilometers) of the surface. (Ed Whitman/Johns Hopkins APL/NASA via AP)

This image made available by NASA shows an artist's rendering of the Parker Solar Probe approaching the Sun. It's designed to take solar punishment like never before, thanks to its revolutionary heat shield that's capable of withstanding 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit (1,370 degrees Celsius). (Steve Gribben/Johns Hopkins APL/NASA via AP)

In this Thursday, Aug. 9, 2018, astrophysicist Eugene Parker attends a news conference about the Parker Solar Probe named after him, at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Sixty years ago, the young astrophysicist proposed the existence of solar wind. Many were skeptical and told him to read up on it first "so you don't make these killer mistakes," he recalls. (Kim Shiflett/NASA via AP)

A United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy lifts off from Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. Aboard the rocket is the Parker Solar Probe on a mission to the Sun. (Craig Bailey/Florida Today via AP)

This long exposure photograph provided by NASA, shows the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket as it launches NASA's Parker Solar Probe to touch the Sun, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018 from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida. (Bill Ingalls/NASA via AP)

A Delta IV rocket, carrying the Parker Solar Probe, lifts off from launch complex 37 as seen during a time exposure at the Kennedy Space Center, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018, in Cape Canaveral, Fla. The Parker Solar Probe will venture closer to the Sun than any other spacecraft and is protected by a first-of-its-kind heat shield and other innovative technologies that will provide unprecedented information about the Sun. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

In this photo provided by NASA, The United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket launches NASA's Parker Solar Probe to touch the Sun, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018 from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida. (Bill Ingalls/NASA via AP)

A Delta IV rocket, carrying the Parker Solar Probe, lifts off from launch complex 37 at the Kennedy Space Center, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018, in Cape Canaveral, Fla. The Parker Solar Probe will venture closer to the Sun than any other spacecraft and is protected by a first-of-its-kind heat shield and other innovative technologies that will provide unprecedented information about the Sun. (AP Photo/John Raoux)HONOLULU (AP) - In this age of political rancor, Ed Case wants to bring bipartisanship back to Washington, D.C.

"I think voters want Washington to work again, that's the number one issue. Clearly that was my message and I think that accounts for much of the result of my race," Case said after he won the Democratic primary Saturday for the congressional seat representing Honolulu.

Case is likely headed back to Washington in this heavily Democratic state. He served a decade ago in Washington, before the current partisanship took hold.

Former U.S. Rep Ed Case, left, along with his wife Audrey Case, do last minute campaigning waving at passing cars, Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018, in Honolulu. Case is trying to succeed U.S. Rep Colleen Hanabusa, who is running for Hawaii governor. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)

Case said his message that politicians in Washington need to work together resonated with voters.

The 65-year-old fiscal conservative defeated five other major candidates including Lt. Gov. Doug Chin, who was the architect of Hawaii's legal battle against President Donald Trump's travel ban.

Case served in Congress from 2002 to 2007, giving him an edge in experience and name recognition. He ran unsuccessfully for the Senate and House in the years since he left Congress, then retired from politics five years ago to become an executive for a Hawaii-based hotel chain.

Case said he returned to politics because the government wasn't functioning and he believes he can help.

He will face Cam Cavasso, a former state representative who previously ran unsuccessfully for U.S. Senate, in the general election. Cavasso won the GOP primary Saturday night.

Case will have an enormous advantage in the general election, given the Democratic Party dominates politics in Hawaii.

Case said it's humbling to know that he gained the trust and confidence of so many voters. He expressed admiration for his opponents in the primary, adding he would reach out to those who didn't vote for him and ask for their support in the general election.

Other contenders were 29-year-old Kaniela Ing, a democratic socialist who hoped to follow in the footsteps of colleague Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York to score an upset victory.

The candidates spanned the political spectrum of Hawaii's Democratic Party.

Case represented the conservative end, expressing concern about the federal debt and deficits. He was a member of the Blue Dog Democrat caucus during his last stint in Congress.

Ing stood for the progressive wing. Ing and fellow candidate Beth Fukumoto, a 35-year-old former Republican and outspoken Trump critic, frequently spoke about the punishingly high cost of living in the islands and the need for reforms to help young people afford to stay in the state.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 47 percent of Hawaii's residents spend more than a third of their monthly income on rent. That's greater than any other state. About one-quarter of renters put half of their income toward housing.

Chin also focused on the cost of living, saying he would aim to secure federal dollars for affordable housing, make public colleges and universities more affordable and address climate change.

Despite his loss, Chin said he has more hope now than he did last year.

"A lot of it is because of the campaign experience and meeting so many people who don't want to take the country for granted and want to make the country a better place," he said.

The race attracted so many candidates because the incumbent, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa decided to challenge Gov. David Ige in the gubernatorial primary instead of run for re-election. She lost to Ige.

Sonia Lee-Gushi, who works in the health care industry and lives in Honolulu, said she thought Case deserved a second chance in Washington.

She also disagreed with the candidates who focused on how they would oppose Trump.

"I feel like they're just trying to get the vote of those who don't like Trump, which is not necessarily how we want to choose our leaders going forward," she said.

The winner of the general election will join a four-person Congressional delegation in Washington, D.C.

In Hawaii's other congressional district, U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, a Democrat, easily won the Democratic Party's nomination to represent rural Oahu and the neighboring islands. One of her challengers, Sherry Alu Campagna, criticized Gabbard for refusing to participate in debates even though she's argued in the past that candidates should debate to present their positions and be held accountable for their opinions.

She'll face Brian Evans, who ran unopposed in the Republican primary.

Former U.S. Rep Ed Case, left, along with his wife Audrey Case, do last minute campaigning waving at passing cars, Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018, in Honolulu. Case is trying to succeed U.S. Rep Colleen Hanabusa, who is running for Hawaii governor. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)

Guests at Hawaii Lt. Gov. Doug Chin's campaign party react to election results, Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)

Kaniela Ing, a candidate for Hawaii's 1st Congressional District seat, walks into a bar hosting his campaign party, Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)

Hawaii Lt. Gov. Doug Chin, a candidate for Hawaii's 1st Congressional District seat, greats guests at his campaign party, Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)BAMAKO, Mali (AP) - Malians voted Sunday in a runoff presidential election to determine if incumbent Ibrahim Boubacar Keita will remain in office in this sprawling West African nation threatened by rising extremist violence. He faced off against opposition leader Soumaila Cisse.

Sunday's polls had low turnout by closing amid attacks and threats of violence by Islamic extremists.

The chairman of Arkodia village in the north Niafunke commune in Timbuktu region was killed, four election workers were physically harassed and the polling station there was burned, according to the Citizen Observation Pool of Mali which had more than 2,000 observers. The organization reported several incidents Sunday.

Malian incumbent President, Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, wait to casts his ballot during the Presidential second round election in Bamako, Mali, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. Malians are voting Sunday in a second round presidential election with Boubacar Keita facing off against opposition leader Soumaila Cisse. (AP Photo/Annie Risemberg)

Two polling stations were burned in Keltamba and election officials were harmed by gunmen in Ngouma commune in central Mali, observers said.

In north and central Mali more than 50 polling stations had closed before noon because of the threats by extremists in those regions, the organization said.

In the polling centers covered by its observers, the organization said the participation rate was about 8.1 percent. It said 14.4 percent participated in Timbuktu, and only 4.8 percent in Bamako.

However, their observers did not cover all voting areas, and the election commission hasn't yet given its estimate of voter turnout.

In the July 29 first-round presidential vote, extremists killed three election workers and destroyed some voting materials.

Nearly 43 percent of voters made it to the polls last month and at least 671 polling stations were closed. Despite the relatively low turnout officials called the vote well-conducted.

Mali has grown more insecure since Keita beat Cisse in a second round election in 2013.

Malian authorities arrested three jihadists on Friday who said they were preparing to carry out an attack during the vote in Bamako, said Mali army spokesman Col. Idrissa Traore on Sunday.

Extremists are staging more bold attacks that have spread to central Mali, where both Islamic State and al-Qaida-linked militants are present. Deadly communal clashes between ethnic groups and accusations of heavy-handed counterterror operations have caused even deeper tensions and mistrust of the state.

Still, a second term for Keita, 73, seems likely. He received 41.7 percent of the vote in the first round from a field of 24 candidates and has gained endorsements from some other candidates.

Dressed in his traditional white boubou, Keita voted near his home in Bamako on Sunday.

"I hope that everyone will be very vigilant," he said, saying that any suspected attempts at fraud should be reported to police. "Ultimately this election must end as it should, with the celebration of democracy ... This is what we hope for in our hearts.

Cisse, 68, who placed second in the first round with nearly 18 percent of the vote, has blamed Keita for insecurity, violence and corruption. His opposition party also alleges there was voting fraud in July. Cisse has not received major endorsements from failed candidates but does have the backing of a popular spiritual leader Mohamed Ould Bouye Haidara.

"This time, I have a good feeling," Cisse has said.

His campaign director Tiebile Drame charged there were cases of stuffing of ballot boxes in several northern locations. However the constitutional court on Wednesday said it has registered more than 10 requests from the opposition over various anomalies in the first round, but most were declared inadmissible.

On Saturday, the opposition organized a march "to warn against the fraud."

Issa Namory Keita, a 57-year-old retiree, said he would vote for the incumbent, Keita.

"Unlike his challenger, my candidate knows the country well and it is he who has the solution to the problems," he said.

Another voter who was unrelated but with the same family name, Fanta Keita, said she will also vote for the current president.

"He is a man who loves his country, he is a worker who has opened several development sites and I hope he continues his work," she said.

Voter turnout trickled throughout the day and it expected to remain low. Some people have fled areas of violence until the vote is over.

In central Mali, attacks have become more frequent amid communal clashes as neighbors suspect one another of being recruited by extremist groups. Meanwhile, Malian soldiers in recent months have been accused of abuses, including extrajudicial killings, during counterterror operations.

On Wednesday, armed men attacked the Boni prefecture, according to a Malian security official who spoke on condition of anonymity because the official was not permitted to speak to the press. The armed men killed the prefect's secretary.

Malian authorities have tried to reassure the public and encourage them to go to the polls for the second round.

Residents in central Mali, however, have said they don't see the increased security. Many in the municipalities of Pignariba, Lowel-Gueou and Bara-Sara have said they likely won't be able to vote.

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Follow Africa news at https://twitter.com/AP_Africa

Observers watch as Malian incumbent President, Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, casts his ballot during the Presidential second round election in Bamako, Mali, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. Malians are voting Sunday in a second round presidential election with Boubacar Keita facing off against opposition leader Soumaila Cisse. (AP Photo/Annie Risemberg)

A man casts his ballot during Presidential second round election in Bamako, Mali, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. Malians are voting Sunday in a second round presidential election with incumbent Ibrahim Boubacar Keita facing off against opposition leader Soumaila Cisse.(AP Photo/Annie Risemberg)

Women queue to cast their ballot during Presidential second round election in Bamako, Mali, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. Malians are voting Sunday in a second round presidential election with incumbent Ibrahim Boubacar Keita facing off against opposition leader Soumaila Cisse.(AP Photo/Annie Risemberg)BEIRUT (AP) - An explosion in northern Syria killed at least 36 people Sunday and wounded many others, but the cause of the blast wasn't immediately known, opposition activists said.

The opposition-run Syrian Civil Defense, first responders also known as the White Helmets, said the blast occurred in the village of Sarmada near the Turkish border, killing 36 people and wounding many others. The explosion collapsed two five-story buildings, burying many of the victims, it said.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights put the death toll at 39, including 21 women and children.

This photo provided by the Syrian Civil Defense White Helmets, which has been authenticated based on its contents and other AP reporting, shows Syrian White Helmet civil defense workers with bulldozers work at the scene of an explosion that brought down a five-story building, in the village of Sarmada, near the Turkish border, north Syria, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. Syrian opposition activists say the explosion killed several people and wounded many others. The cause of the blast wasn't immediately known. (Syrian Civil Defense White Helmets via AP)

An opposition media collective known as the Smart news agency, said the dead included civilians as well as members of the al-Qaida-linked Levant Liberation Committee.

The Observatory said an arms depot in the basement of a building had detonated. It said the depot was run by an arms dealer close to the Levant Liberation Committee.

Meanwhile, Syrian government forces fighting rebels in Idlib province have sent more reinforcements ahead of a potential offensive on the last major rebel stronghold in Syria.

The pro-government Al-Watan daily said Sunday that huge military reinforcements have reached the outskirts of Idlib province as a preliminary step to launch a wide-scale offensive.

Quoting military sources, the paper said that troops have reached the northern countryside of the neighboring Hama province as part of military preparations to recapture Idlib province.

The expected offensive on Idlib comes after government forces captured major rebel strongholds earlier this year near the capital Damascus and in the southern provinces of Daraa and Quneitra.

The paper said that the battle would be "comprehensive" starting from Hama's northern countryside to the southern countryside of Aleppo, adding that the target of the battle is to seize Idlib City.

Government airstrikes on the province on Friday killed dozens.

Pro-government activists said on social media that the elite Tiger Force, led by Brig. Gen. Suheil al-Hassan, arrived in northern Syria to spearhead what they called the "Dawn of Idlib" operation.

This photo provided by the Syrian Civil Defense White Helmets, which has been authenticated based on its contents and other AP reporting, shows Syrian White Helmet civil defense workers at the scene of an explosion that brought down a five-story building, in the village of Sarmada, near the Turkish border, north Syria, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. Syrian opposition activists say the explosion killed several people and wounded many others. The cause of the blast wasn't immediately known. (Syrian Civil Defense White Helmets via AP)

This photo provided by the Syrian Civil Defense White Helmets, which has been authenticated based on its contents and other AP reporting, shows Syrian White Helmet civil defense workers extinguishing a fire at the scene of an explosion that hit a five-story building, in the village of Sarmada, near the Turkish border, north Syria, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. Syrian opposition activists say the explosion killed several people and wounded many others. The cause of the blast wasn't immediately known. (Syrian Civil Defense White Helmets via AP)JERUSALEM (AP) - Israel's prime minister has criticized the presence of Palestinian flags at a protest against a contentious new law defining the country as a Jewish state.

Benjamin Netanyahu told the Cabinet on Sunday that Palestinian flags "flying in the heart of Tel Aviv" was "conclusive evidence" that many protesters oppose Israel's existence, and proves the law is necessary.

Thousands rallied in Tel Aviv on Saturday against the contentious law. Some Arab protesters waved Palestinian flags and others held signs reading "equality." It was the second major protest against the law in recent weeks.

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses the weekly cabinet meeting in his Jerusalem office, Sunday, August 12, 2018. Netanyahu defended his government's decision to pass a contentious law defining Israel as a Jewish state in the face of protests by the country's Arab minority. Netanyahu said that Palestinian flags "flying in the heart of Tel Aviv" was "conclusive evidence" that many protesters oppose Israel's existence, and proves the law's necessity. (Jim Hollander/Pool via AP)

Supporters of the law say it enshrines the country's existing character as a Jewish state. But critics say it undermines Israeli democracy and sidelines the country's non-Jewish minorities. Approximately 20 percent of Israelis are Arab.

Israeli Arabs hold a Palestinian flag during a protest against the Jewish nation bill in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018. The recently passed law that enshrines Israel's Jewish character and downgrades the standing of Arabic from an official to a "special" language. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrives for the weekly cabinet meeting in his Jerusalem office, Sunday, August 12, 2018. Netanyahu defended his government's decision to pass a contentious law defining Israel as a Jewish state in the face of protests by the country's Arab minority. Netanyahu said that Palestinian flags "flying in the heart of Tel Aviv" was "conclusive evidence" that many protesters oppose Israel's existence, and proves the law's necessity. (Jim Hollander/Pool via AP)

An Arab Israeli Arab man holds a sign that reads "Equality now" during a protest against the Jewish nation bill in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018. The recently passed law that enshrines Israel's Jewish character and downgrades the standing of Arabic from an official to a "special" language. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses the weekly cabinet meeting in his Jerusalem offices, Sunday August 12, 2018. Netanyahu told the Cabinet on Sunday that Palestinian flags "flying in the heart of Tel Aviv" was "conclusive evidence" that many protesters oppose Israel's existence, and defended a contentious law defining Israel as a Jewish state. (Jim Hollander/Pool via AP)

A man holds a sign that reads "Justice in front of a poster showing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu " during a protest against the Jewish nation bill in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018. The recently passed law that enshrines Israel's Jewish character and downgrades the standing of Arabic from an official to a "special" language. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)

People march during a protest against the Jewish nation bill in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018. The recently passed law that enshrines Israel's Jewish character and downgrades the standing of Arabic from an official to a "special" language. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)MOSCOW (AP) - Leaders of the five countries along the Caspian Sea have signed a convention aimed at ending decades-long uncertainty over exploitation of its resources.

The agreement signed Sunday in Aktau, Kazakhstan, by the presidents of Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan, establishes rules for declaring each country's territorial waters and fishing zones. But the issue of how the seabed, which contains rich oil fields, will be delineated between the countries remains subject to further negotiations.

Iranian President Hasan Rouhani, according to the news agency Interfax, says "this issue will be settled additionally in the course of agreements between the relevant parties."

FILE - In this file photo dated Sunday, Jan. 17, 2016, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani gestures at the conclusion of his press conference, in Tehran, Iran. Leaders of the five countries along the Caspian Sea have signed a convention establishing rules for declaring each country's territorial waters on Sunday Aug. 12, 2018, and Iranian President Hasan Rouhani, according to the news agency Interfax, says "this issue will be settled additionally in the course of agreements between the relevant parties." (AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi, FILE)

The legal status of the Caspian Sea, the world's largest inland body of water, had been unresolved since the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union.CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) - The Latest on events marking the anniversary of violent white nationalist rallies in Charlottesville, Virginia (all times local):

4:55 p.m.

A group of about 30 white nationalists has marched to a park near the White House for what they call a rally in favor of white civil rights.

Demonstrators against racism march along city streets as they mark the anniversary of last year's Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

Thousands of counterprotesters are in the area, too, and jeered and heckled the white nationalists as they made their way down the street surrounded by police.

The demonstration and counterdemonstration come on the anniversary of last year's deadly gathering of neo-Nazis, skinheads, Ku Klux Klan members, and others in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Sunday's gathering is being led by the principal organizer of last year's "Unite the Right" event, Jason Kessler.

___

3:45 p.m.

A contingent of about 30 white nationalists is marching down a Washington street toward the White House surrounded by a protective bubble of police officers and vehicles.

Hundreds of counterprotesters are walking alongside the group but keeping on the sidewalks, many of them shouting and taunting the nationalists as they make their way to a park in front of the White House.

The demonstration and counterdemonstration come on the anniversary of last year's deadly gathering of neo-Nazis, skinheads, Ku Klux Klan members, and others in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Sunday's gathering is being led by the principal organizer of last year's "Unite the Right" event, Jason Kessler, who calls the demonstration a rally for white civil rights.

___

2:30 p.m.

More than 1,000 protesters are gathered in Freedom Plaza near the White House to rally against a white nationalist demonstration scheduled for later in the day.

The demonstration is being held on the first anniversary of a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, that turned violent and led to the death of a counterprotester.

Makia Green, who represents the Washington branch of Black Lives Matter, told Sunday's crowd that: "We know from experience that ignoring white nationalism doesn't work."

The counterprotesters plan to march to Lafayette Square in front of the White House, just before the arrival of the white nationalists. Police have erected a maze of barricades to keep the two sides apart.

The counterprotesters are expected to far outnumber the white nationalists.

___

2 p.m.

The mother of a woman killed when a car plowed into a crowd of counterprotesters at a white nationalist rally last summer has visited the site of the attack to mark the anniversary of her daughter's death.

Heather Heyer's mother, Susan Bro, embraced supporters Sunday in downtown Charlottesville. At one point, she asked the crowd to raise their fists in solidarity, and she laid flowers at a makeshift memorial.

Bro said there's still "so much healing to do." She said the city and the country have a "huge racial problem" and that if it's not fixed, "we'll be right back here in no time."

Bro also said the day was about more than just her daughter. She recognized the other victims of the attack, which injured dozens of people, and thanked the two Virginia state troopers killed in a helicopter crash for their sacrifice.

Lt. Jay Cullen and Trooper-Pilot Berke Bates died when their helicopter crashed while deployed as part of the response to last year's violence.

___

1:45 p.m.

A park across the street from the White House is already filling up with people who oppose a white nationalist demonstration that is scheduled to take place later Sunday.

The white nationalists are gathering in Washington on the first anniversary of their rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, that turned violent and led to the death of a counterprotester.

A stage has been set up in Lafayette Park and rap music is playing for a crowd of about 300, many of whom are carrying signs saying "Shut down white supremacy."

Uniformed police officers and a line of police barricades have cut the park in half, restricting the counterprotesters to the northern half, farthest from the White House.

A counterprotest organizer, speaking from the stage, said: "We will be here until these fascist forces are gone, however long that takes."

The white supremacist rally is scheduled to end at 7:30 p.m.

___

11:45 a.m.

More than 100 people are demonstrating against racism in downtown Charlottesville, marking the one-year anniversary of a violent white nationalist rally and protesting this year's ramped-up police presence.

The group began marching Sunday morning after a rally held at a city park and made its way toward downtown. Some marchers linked arms as they walked.

The group directed chants against police officers who were accompanying the march, including "cops and Klan go hand in hand."

Law enforcement officials faced blistering criticism in the wake of last year's rally for what was perceived as a passive response to the violence that unfolded.

A review by a former U.S. attorney found a lack of coordination between state and city police and an operational plan that elevated officer safety over public safety.

Demonstrators on Sunday chanted, "Will you protect us?"

___

9:20 a.m.

Dozens of activists and residents have gathered at a Charlottesville city park to protest racism and to observe the one-year anniversary of a rally by white supremacist that turned deadly.

The Rev. Seth Wispelwey is a founder of a group of clergy and lay people called "Congregate C-ville" last year. The group came together in direct response to white nationalists who gathered in Charlottesville for a "Unite the Right" rally on Aug. 12, 2017.

On that day, white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the city streets before a car driven into a crowd struck and killed 32-year-old Heather Heyer.

Wispelwey says the city's residents are still reeling from the violence that day, but he expressed hope that the anniversary can be a turning point.

___

This item has been updated to correct the spelling of Wispelwey in one instance.

___

A day after tensions between police and community activists nearly boiled over on the University of Virginia's campus, the city of Charlottesville plans to mark Sunday's anniversary of a deadly gathering of white supremacists with a rally against racial hatred. But 115 miles (185 kilometers) away in Washington, the principal organizer of last year's "Unite the Right" event will hold a "white civil rights rally," and police are preparing for counterprotesters.

Jason Kessler abandoned plans for a similar anniversary event in Charlottesville. His Washington permit application says he expects 100 to 400 people Sunday afternoon in Lafayette Park, near the White House.

But some leading figures in the white nationalist movement have said they won't attend or encouraged supporters to stay away. And the events likely will be dwarfed by counterprotests, for which permits also have been issued.

Groups protest in Freedom Plaza with the U.S. Capitol in the background, on the one year anniversary of Charlottesville's "Unite the Right" rally, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Demonstrators confront police at the intersection where Heather Heyer was killed last year as they mark the anniversary of the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. On that day, white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the city streets before a car driven into a crowd struck and killed Heyer. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

A demonstrator confronts police at the intersection where Heather Heyer was killed last year as they mark the anniversary of the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. On that day, white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the city streets before a car driven into a crowd struck and killed Heyer. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

A couple hold hands as the participate in prayers at the intersection where Heather Heyer was killed last year as they mark the anniversary of the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. On that day, white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the city streets before a car driven into a crowd struck and killed Heyer. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)NEW YORK (AP) - There's a food fight stretching from the shelves of your supermarket all the way to your front door.

Over the last few years a slew of companies have started selling meal kits that shoppers can order online and cook at home.

Walmart and Amazon.com both sell meal kits. Grocery chain Albertsons bought Plated, and Kroger bought Home Chef in a deal worth as much as $700 million.

This undated photo provided by Home Chef shows Home Chef CEO Pat Vihtelic, who spoke to The Associated Press about the rapid changes he's seen at his company and in the meal business in that time. (Home Chef via AP)

Meanwhile Blue Apron, the first meal kit maker to go public, has seen its stock fall from $10 to $2 amid competition from those companies and others like Purple Carrot, Marley Spoon and GreenChef.

Home Chef CEO Pat Vihtelic launched his meal kit company five years ago. Sales climbed from about $1 million in 2015 to $250 million last year. Vihtelic spoke to The Associated Press about the rapid changes he's seen at his company and in the meal business in that time.

Q: What is the meal kit business like now?

A: When we would ask the question "where else would you like to see Home Chef meal kits," over 50 percent of our customer base said they would like to see us on a grocery store shelf. Kroger obviously has a big click-and-collect business and they also launched a meal kit in over 500 stores called Prepared. They were seeing very similar things in that their customer base is also evolving and wanting to see groceries and meal kits wherever they are.

This partnership with Kroger allows us to be a solution for someone who's planning ahead for the next week but also for someone who's sitting in the driveway not sure what they're going to eat that night.

Q: What are the biggest challenges you've faced?

A: We've always been careful not to grow at any cost. We've always made sure that the economics of what we're doing are sustainable and make sense, and we're not acquiring so many customers that you overwhelm your distribution center. I think scale is going to be increasingly important. We've seen our costs come down quite a bit as we've grown.

Q: Getting more and better data from customers must be critical for you. How has that helped you solve problems?

A: The meal kit market has been a little more chef driven than customer or data driven.

What we did was we built an internal tool that we use and allows us to test our menus: the pictures themselves, the title of the meal, the general menu configuration, and get a really good idea of which meals are going to work with our customer base and which ones probably won't work.

We're wasting less than 1 percent of the food we produce, and a big part of that is because we have quite a bit of visibility into the demand for the meals we produce.

Q: How have your shipping and logistics operations evolved over the years?

A: A significant component of our profitability is how much ice we put into a box. We built an algorithm that looks at the zip code of each customer and makes prediction based on actual and forecasted weather how many ice packs to put in the box. It ensures the customer experience is great and the food does arrive safe and at a good temperature.NEW YORK (AP) - Pat Vihtelic is the co-founder and CEO of meal kit company Home Chef. He says one of his breakthroughs as a leader was repeatedly firing himself.

Vihtelic founded his company in 2013 and says it's gone from $1 million in annual revenue to $250 million in just three years as the meal kit industry grew rapidly. That culminated in the company's sale to Kroger in June.

In an interview with The Associated Press, Vihtelic explains why booting himself from jobs was critical for his company's success, and how Home Chef uses data to hone its business.

Q: What advice would you give your younger self about managing people or running a business? What did you learn from your early mistakes?

A: It's never too early to start building a world class team. It's easy in the early days to get completely overwhelmed with everything there is to do and a young founder might take on too much. There's a time when that's appropriate, but one of the best pieces of advice that I received was that I should be firing myself from the day to day and hiring the best people.

Q: What have you learned about problem-solving over the years? What are the keys to tackling your most difficult challenges?

A: For us I think it would come back to putting the customer first. It's easy to forget about the customer when you're in the middle of raising a bunch of capital or growing quickly, but at the end of the day that should be a consumer-facing company's north star.

Q: How much do you pay attention to your competition, and what do you try to learn from them?

A: It's easy to get distracted by what the competition is doing, but I think it's more important to have a sense of where we're going and where our customer wants us to go. For us, it's less of a focus on the competition and more of a focus on the customer.

Q: What key things can a manager do in terms of workplace culture that separate a mediocre business from a high-performing one?

A: I would say setting very clear priorities. We start from the top and basically state one organization wide goal that we work on for the next three to six months. And then under that goal we have objectives that would clearly define whether we're hitting that goal.

Q: How do you manage work-life balance?

A: I've got three girls under the age of four at home, so I've got a pretty busy home life. I think reminding yourself that you need to devote time to both and they're both very important. I always make it a point to get home for dinner, be home for bedtime and some of the more important moments. But it's a constant challenge for sure.He made the statement in his opening remarks at the 19th National External Affairs Conference, which took place in Hanoi on August 12th under the theme Activeness and creativeness for effective integration and sustainable development.

The biennial event was organised ahead the 30th Diplomatic Conference slated for August 12th  17th, bringing together 500 delegates from ministries, state agencies and departments of external affairs of 63 cities and provinces nationwide alongside heads of Vietnams diplomatic missions overseas.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh speaks at the 19th National External Affairs Conference which convenes in Hanoi on August 12. (Photo: VNA)



The foreign ministry and Vietnamese diplomatic corps in foreign countries are willing to help localities introduce investment opportunities and promote trade abroad to expand the market. At the same time, the localities will be assisted in verifying partners and settling trade disputes against the backdrop of Vietnam being a member of a number of new-generation free trade agreements, the deputy PM noted.

He added that the ministry and diplomatic corps also aim to help the cities and provinces promote their image and signature products and work together to protect the rights of Vietnamese citizens, particularly fishermen, overseas.

Minh urged the departments of external affairs across the country to act as a point of contact to strengthen external relations and enhance efficiency of international integration. They must contribute more to this work by providing advices to local governments and timely proposing solutions to remove barriers during the implementation of international and regional integration commitments, he stressed.

According to Director of the ministrys Department of Foreign Affairs of Localities Nguyen Hoang Long, the ministry and Vietnamese representative missions abroad have signed 420 agreements between Vietnams cities and provinces and foreign localities and enterprises between 2016 and 2018, an increase of 20.3 percent from the previous three-year period. The agreements have intensified friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and foreign partners and helped promote the image and potentials of the country and its localities.

Thanks to such efforts, Vietnams foreign trade in 2016  2017 hit USD775 billion, up 23.8 percent from that of 2014  2016, Long said. The FDI flow into the country over the last two years also rose by 34.9 percent to USD60.28 billion, compared to USD44.67 billion of the 2014-2016 period.

Since the 18th National External Affairs Conference in 2016, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has worked closely with cities and provinces to prepare applications for Vietnamese heritages to be recognised by UNESCO. Seven recognitions have been earned since then, bringing the total number of UNESCO-recognised heritages in Vietnam to 38.

The ministry has channeled many efforts into connecting Vietnamese overseas and cities and provinces nationwide to strengthen national solidarity, attract investment and raise funds for charity. The border localities have closely coordinated with the ministry in border management, contributing to the security and social order along shared border with China, Laos and Cambodia.

During the conference, delegates focused their discussion on several topics, including external affair work for local economic development, strengthening organizational structures of local foreign affair agencies, and reward system to encourage localities in fostering external relations./.BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP) - A former energy company executive from Vermont has a shot at becoming the nation's first transgender governor - but she says that's not the main reason she's running.

Christine Hallquist says that in the run-up to Tuesday's primary, people are finally beginning to pay attention to the race, but her status as a transgender woman isn't what's on their minds. Rather, she says, voters want to know what she can do to help them get higher-paying jobs, provide health care for their families and better educate their children.

So she's appealing to Vermonters with a progressive message that includes a livable wage, Medicare for all, free public college education and high-speed broadband access - even to those who live on remote back roads.

File - In this Feb. 21, 2018 file photo, transgender utility executive Christine Hallquist poses for a photo during an interview in Johnson, Vt. Hallquist is one of four Democrats seeking the party's nomination for Vermont governor in the Tuesday, Aug. 14 primary election. (AP Photo/Wilson Ring, File)

"That's how I want to be known in Vermont," Hallquist, 62, told The Associated Press in an interview at her Burlington offices. "Nationally, I want to be known as the first trans candidate."

It's working. The Victory Fund, a political action committee that backs LGBTQ candidates across the country, calls Hallquist a "game changer." If elected in November, Hallquist would become the first openly transgender governor in the country.

"Because she is open and authentic about the fact that she is transgender, that immediately takes away all the questions, all the whispers, and instead allows people to focus on her personality and what she wants to do," said Elliot Imse, communications director for the Victory Fund. "People are liking what they're hearing and that's what's really cool about Christine."

Roughly 200 LGBT candidates are expected to be on the November ballot across the country for state and federal office, the most ever, according to the Victory Fund. They include Alexandra Chandler, Massachusetts' first openly transgender candidate for Congress, and Kim Coco Iwamoto, who would be Hawaii's first transgender lieutenant governor if elected. Like Hallquist, both are Democrats.

In Vermont, home to independent U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders and the first state to recognize same-sex unions with its landmark 2000 civil unions law - a precursor to gay marriage - Hallquist's gender has not been an issue.

She's facing three other Democrats in Tuesday's primary: Environmental activist James Ehlers, dance festival organizer Brenda Siegel and Ethan Sonneborn, a 14-year-old boy taking advantage of a quirk in state law that doesn't require gubernatorial candidates to be of voting age.

Republican incumbent Gov. Phil Scott also faces a primary challenge of his own from Springfield businessman Keith Stern, who describes himself as a conservative running on financial issues.

As of Vermont's July 15 campaign finance filing, Hallquist had raised about $132,000, although she announced this week she was returning about $16,000 in corporate donations. Ehlers had raised just under $50,000, Siegel about $17,000 and Sonneborn $1,700. Scott, the incumbent, had raised almost $177,000, but a PAC supported by the Republican Governor's Association has raised more than $1 million to promote Scott's candidacy.

Hallquist didn't say how much money she felt she'd need to get elected, but assuming she wins the primary, she plans to start raising money for the general election the very next day.

"We do need to get some money, we do need to run some ads, that will be key," she said.

Typically, Scott would be virtually assured of re-election. No sitting governor has been defeated in Vermont since 1962.

But, as in much of the country, politics are different now. In April, Scott signed what for Vermont was historic - if mild by national standards - restrictions on gun ownership, angering his Republican base. His once sky-high popularity has waned, potentially leaving an opening for a well-funded Democratic challenger.

Hallquist moved to Vermont in 1976. In 1998, well before her gender identity transition from male to female, she went to work for the Vermont Electric Co-operative, becoming CEO in 2005. She was open about her 2015 transition and allowed news organizations to chronicle the change.

She quit her job at the co-op earlier this year so she could run for governor and represent the interests of rural Vermonters, something she feels Scott has been ignoring.

Hallquist said that 95 percent of Vermonters, regardless of their politics, care about the same things: whether their children can afford to live and work in the state, find jobs and afford homes.

"Vermonters are going to elect me on the platform. They are not going to elect me because of the fact that I'm transgender - that's the reality," Hallquist said, conceding: "Obviously, nationwide it's significant, the first transgender governor. It is pioneering."

In this Aug. 9, 2018 photo, Christine Hallquist, transgender candidate seeking the Democratic party nomination to run for governor of Vermont, walks with campaign aide David Glidden in Burlington, Vt. Vermont's state primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 14. (AP Photo/Wilson Ring)

In this Aug. 9, 2018 photo, Christine Hallquist, transgender candidate seeking the Democratic party nomination to run for governor of Vermont, speaks with supporter Asfar Basha in Burlington, Vt. Vermont's state primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 14. (AP Photo/Wilson Ring)

In this Aug. 24, 2017 photo, Ethan Sonneborn, of Bristol, Vt., poses for a photo. The teenager is seeking the Democratic nomination to run for governor of Vermont in the Aug. 14, 2018, primary election. There is no age requirement to run for governor of the state. (Glenn Russell/The Burlington Free Press via AP)

In this Aug. 24, 2017 photo, Ethan Sonneborn, of Bristol, Vt., poses for a photo. The teenager is seeking the Democratic nomination to run for governor of Vermont in the Aug. 14, 2018, primary election. There is no age requirement to run for governor of the state. (Glenn Russell/The Burlington Free Press via AP)

FILE - In this Feb. 8, 2016, file photo, Brenda Siegel, of Newfane, Vt., helps train volunteers to make phone calls for Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Bernie Sanders at his campaign headquarters in Keene, N.H. Siegel is seeking the Democratic nomination to run for governor of Vermont in the Aug. 14, 2018, primary election. (Kristopher Radder/The Brattleboro Reformer via AP, File)

FILE - In this April 11, 2018, file photo, Vermont Gov. Phil Scott speaks before signing a gun restrictions bill on the steps of the Statehouse in Montpelier, Vt. Scott faces a challenge by Springfield businessman Keith Stern in the Aug. 14, 2018, Republican primary. (AP Photo/Cheryl Senter, File)

This Aug. 10, 2018, photo shows James Ehlers, in Winooski, Vt. Ehlers is seeking the Democratic nomination to run for governor of Vermont in the Aug. 14, 2018, primary election. (AP Photo/Wilson Ring)

FILE - In this April 11, 2018 file photo, Vermont Gov. Phil Scott finishes signing a gun restrictions bill on the steps of the Statehouse in Montpelier, Vt. Scott faces a challenge by Springfield businessman Keith Stern in the Aug. 14, 2018, Republican primary. (AP Photo/Cheryl Senter, File)CAIRO (AP) - Egyptian authorities have detained another monk as part of their investigation into the death of an abbot in a monastery north of Cairo last month.

The state-run MENA news agency identified the 33-year-old monk by his monastic name, Valtos, and said Sunday that he is under police guard after an attempted suicide.

Word of the arrest came a day after prosecutors said a detained and recently defrocked monk, identified as Isaiah, confessed to collaborating with others to kill Bishop Epiphanius, abbot of St. Macarius Monastery. The bishop was found dead on July 29.

His funeral was attended by Pope Tawadros II, the spiritual leader of Egypt's Coptic Orthodox Christians, one the world's oldest Christian communities.HOUSTON (AP) - Thara Narasimhan, who hosts an Hindu radio program in Houston, has already given $1,200 to a Democrat running against Republican U.S. Rep. Pete Olson, who once drove around his solidly conservative Texas district with a "NEVER HILLARY" bumper sticker on his pickup. Her plans to donate even more bewilder friends.

"It's not the question of why I have to support a failing candidate," said Narasimhan, mingling at a fundraiser for Democrat Sri Kulkarni on a sweltering Texas summer night. "Unless you put some faith in it, you're not going to make it work."

The November midterms are on pace to shatter records for political spending. While more than $1 billion raised so far nationally is helping finance battlegrounds that are poised to decide control of Congress, restless donors aren't stopping there - they're also putting cash into races and places they never have before to help underdog Democrats.

In this Sunday, July 29, 2018, photo, Thara Narasimhan, left, talks with Democrat for Congress candidate Sri Kulkarni during a fundraiser in Houston. Narasimhan, who hosts an Hindu radio program in Houston, has already given $1,200 to the Democrat running against Republican U.S. Rep. Pete Olson. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Examples include: a district home to the Dallas Cowboys' stadium and held by the GOP since 1983; the South Carolina district of outgoing U.S. Rep. Mark Sanford; and a reliably Republican Southern California district that President Donald Trump won by 15 points.

All are places where Democrats are outraising their Republicans opponents - a feat that while perhaps not changing the conventional wisdom about their chances, is succeeding in giving their campaigns unusual viability. In Texas, 15 Democratic challengers running in Republican-held districts have so far raised at least $100,000. In 2014, only one cracked six figures.

The average cost of winning a House seat is more than $1 million. And in Texas, some candidates still lag substantially behind despite their early hauls in places where Republicans have been invincible.

But driving donors' eagerness to open their wallets to longshot candidates, supporters say, is a mix of anti-Trump enthusiasm and optimism following upsets like Democrat Doug Jones' last year in a Senate race in Alabama. Campaigns, meanwhile, say donors are simply responding to finally having better candidates in historically lopsided districts that previously attracted only fringe contenders who made little effort to professionally fundraise or run hard.

At a crowded house party in suburban Austin for Democrat MJ Hegar, Jana Reeves found a seat on a kitchen bench that was a long way from her own Hill Country home that isn't even in Hegar's congressional district. Hegar has raised more $1.7 million in large part due to a polished six-minute campaign ad called "Doors" that got attention online and enticed donors like Reeves to give her a hand.

"Even though it's hopeless? You know why?" Reeves said of the giving to Hegar and other Democratic challengers. "Even though maybe my paltry money can't do much, I still want to support these people in the deep red districts, because the Democrats (at party headquarters) aren't going to do it."

In few places is the surge of money more evident than in Texas. At the top of the ticket, Rep. Beto O'Rourke is outraising Republican Sen. Ted Cruz in a state where Democrats have not won a statewide race since 1994. Seven Democrats also outraised their GOP opponents between April and June in districts held by Republicans, bolstered by primary runoffs that forced campaigns to double down on fundraising.

Hegar is among the most successful. The military veteran is running against Republican Rep. John Carter, who was re-elected to an eighth term in 2016 by 20 points over a Democrat who only raised $16,000 total. Now she has the attention of Trump's campaign team, which last month announced it would financially help Carter along with roughly 100 other Republican House and Senate candidates.

For her part, Hegar doesn't inveigh against Trump while passing the hat: She didn't even mention his name while speaking to a living room of about 50 supporters at the Austin fundraiser. She said afterward that she understands Trump was motivating some of the donors but she preferred to talk to them about other issues.

"They want to fight against racism. They want to fight against bullying and intimidation and things like that. And they're labeling those things with a person's name," Hegar said. "I think it's more effective to fight against those themes."

Near Fort Worth, Democrat Jana Lynne Sanchez has raked in more than $358,000 and has campaigned through summer with more money than her heavily favored Republican opponent, Ronald Wright. They're both running to replace GOP Rep. Joe Barton, who represented the district for more than 30 years but abandoned plans for re-election after a nude photo of him circulated online.

Sanchez bemoaned the "fish fries and pancake breakfasts" that candidates used in the past to raise money and spends six hours a day on the phone, competing with a half-dozen campaigns that she said are "sucking up most of the money" from big donors. On her list of ways to spend that money: hiring a campaign manager who has previous flipped a Republican district.

"People who say, 'Money doesn't vote,' have never run a campaign," Sanchez said.

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In this Sunday, July 29, 2018, photo, Democrat for Congress candidate Sri Kulkarni, center, listens to supporters attending a fundraiser for him in Houston. Kulkarni is running against Republican U.S. Rep. Pete Olson. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

In this Sunday, July 29, 2018, photo, Thara Narasimhan, left, talks with Democrat for Congress candidate Sri Kulkarni during a fundraiser in Houston. Narasimhan, who hosts an Hindu radio program in Houston, has already given $1,200 to the Democrat running against Republican U.S. Rep. Pete Olson. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)BRENHAM, Texas (AP) - One of three women charged in the July 2017 hot-van death of a resident at a Southeast Texas center for people with developmental disabilities has been sentenced to probation.

The Brenham Banner-Press reports that Charlotte Washington was sentenced Thursday after her July 12 guilty plea to injury of a disabled person in the death of Amy Parrish. She had been charged with murder.

Under her plea agreement, Washington was given five years' probation. A 10-year prison term was suspended.

Authorities say workers at the Brenham State Supported Living Center found the 48-year-old Parrish unresponsive in the van parked outside the center. Brenham is 75 miles (120 kilometers) northwest of Houston.

Former workers Sylvia Platt and Lacreshia Miles still await trial on murder charges . They could face life sentences if convicted.

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Information from: Brenham Banner-Press, http://www.brenhambanner.comTOPEKA, Kan. (AP) - County election officials across Kansas on Monday will begin deciding which provisional ballots from last week's primary election will count toward the final official vote totals, with possibility that they could create a new leader in the hotly contested Republican race for governor.

Secretary of State Kris Kobach led Gov. Jeff Colyer by a mere 110 votes out more than 313,000 cast as of Friday evening . That was after late mail-in ballots were added to totals from absentee voting and ballots cast at the polls Tuesday.

County officials will review nearly 9,000 provisional ballots, given to voters at the polls when their eligibility is in question. Most counties start their canvass meetings Monday, but some will meet later this week and next. The counties have until Aug. 20 to finish.

FILE - In this Aug. 8, 2018, file photo, Kansas Gov. Jeff Colyer, left, alongside Lt. Gov. Tracey Mann, addresses the media at the Kansas Statehouse in Topeka, Kan., a day after his primary race against Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach. County election officials across Kansas are set to begin reviewing provisional ballots to arrive at final official vote totals in the tight Republican primary for governor. (Chris Neal/The Topeka Capital-Journal via AP)

With such a slim margin separating the candidates, the canvass will be closely watched. Colyer's campaign on Friday announced plans to have representatives in all 105 counties when provisional ballots are reviewed.

Attorney General Derek Schmidt already is anticipating the possibility of a lawsuit challenging the election results by Colyer or Kobach. He sent a letter to county election officials, reminding them to preserve "any paper files, notes, or electronic data related in any way" to the election.

Colyer has questioned whether Kobach was advising counties not to count some mail-in ballots, including those with missing or unreadable postmarks, even if they arrived by Friday, which Colyer said violates the law. He also said he heard reports that some unaffiliated voters - who by law can declare an affiliation at the polls and vote in a primary - were given provisional ballots instead of the regular ballots they were due.

In a letter Thursday to Kobach, Colyer wrote that circumstances "obviously increase the likelihood that one of the candidates may seek a recount, or even the possibility of litigation."

Kobach also flatly rejected Colyer's criticisms of the secretary of state's actions to date.

"As governor of Kansas, your unrestrained rhetoric has the potential to undermine the public's confidence in the election process," Kobach wrote.

Kobach on Friday stepped aside from his duties as the state's top elections official until the primary outcome is resolved, but Colyer argued that Kobach still has a conflict of interest because Kobach is handing his responsibilities to his top deputy, Assistant Secretary of State Eric Rucker .

The secretary of state's role in the actual counting of ballots is limited: His office provides guidance, compiles statewide vote tallies and provides general supervision.

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Jeff Boppre, who is serving two life sentences, has maintained for three decades that he was framed for the killings of Richard Valdez and his pregnant girlfriend, Sharon Condon, in a Scottsbluff home. The Nebraska judicial system has upheld his 1989 conviction numerous times.

But a renewed effort by Boppre's lawyers - coupled with a documentary reminiscent of the popular 2015 Netflix series "Making a Murderer" that explored a Wisconsin case - promise to bring fresh attention to Boppre's conviction.

This photo provided by the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services shows Jeff Boppre, who is serving two consecutive life sentences for the fatal 1988 shootings of two people in western Nebraska. Boppre is seeking to reopen the case by using new technology to identify fingerprints left at the crime scene. He has maintained his innocence for 30 years and believes he was framed. His request for courts to take another look at his case comes as a new documentary nearing completion calls into question his guilt. (Nebraska Department of Correctional Services via AP)

Producer Douglas Thornton with Middle West Studios said work began nearly a decade ago on what was intended to be a 90-minute documentary. It has ballooned into a series of seven to nine episodes set to wrap up late this year. The piece is being licensed to a TV network, though Thornton wouldn't say which one.

The work was never intended to prove Boppre's innocence, Thornton said, but it's clear he believes Boppre has been wrongfully convicted.

"The evidence does not - and never will - line up to Jeff Boppre," he said.

On Thursday, lawyers for Boppre, 55, and the Nebraska attorney general's office made arguments for and against analyzing fingerprints found at the crime scene - that did not match Boppre or the victims - using the new technology.

Latent fingerprint technology developed since Boppre's 1989 trial can make matches from low-quality fingerprints or even a single finger. Previously, investigators typically needed quality prints from all 10 fingers to make a match. The FBI has recently used the technology to identify human remains - some that had remained a mystery for more than three decades.

Lawyers in the Boppre case hope to use the technology to show that another man - John Yellowboy, a cousin of Condon's who is serving a prison sentence in Colorado for unrelated crimes - had been in the house and is the likely killer.

Backing this claim are defense affidavits from at least eight people who were associated with Boppre, Yellowboy and the victims. They include the affidavit of a woman who said she hid under a bed in the home as the killings took place and that she believed Yellowboy was the killer. Another woman says Yellowboy confessed to her.

Yellowboy is in prison in Canon City, Colorado, for convictions of kidnapping, first-degree sexual assault and robbery. Colorado prisons spokesman Mark Fairbairn said prison policy would not allow for Yellowboy to comment to a reporter. There is no attorney currently representing Yellowboy.

Boppre's lawyers contend that the new fingerprint technology is akin to the advent of DNA technology. A 2001 Nebraska law requires the state to test DNA evidence in cases where someone has already been convicted if it's likely to produce evidence that someone else committed the crime.

"Legally, constitutionally and ethically, the fingerprints should be analyzed," Boppre's attorneys argue in court documents. "The real question in this regard is, why not? What harm is done by doing a routine check of the fingerprints, the same as is done in literally hundreds of thousands of daily occurrences when an individual is arrested?"

Prosecutors argued in a one-page brief that Nebraska law doesn't "create a postconviction remedy."

"This case has been challenged before several judges in several courts over many years, and each time the conviction has been confirmed," the Nebraska Attorney General's Office said in a written statement.

Iowa attorney Thomas Frerichs, who joined Boppre's defense team about a year ago, said the ultimate goal of the defense team is to exonerate Boppre. He believes the evidence uncovered by attorneys and the documentary will prove Boppre is innocent.

Prosecutors remain unconvinced, noting that police found letters spelling out parts of Boppre's name written in grease on the floor and on a door near where Valdez's body was found. Investigators said Valdez wrote Boppre's name moments before dying.

Prosecutors said Boppre shot the couple during a night of heavy drug use, then tossed the gun near Gallup, New Mexico. Police said the gun was recovered with help from two acquaintances, Kennard Wasmer and William Niemann, who testified against Boppre.

Boppre has made several bids over the years to have his case reconsidered. All of his previous appeals have been denied, and the Nebraska Supreme Court upheld his conviction in 1993, 1997, 2004 and 2010.

In some of those appeals, Boppre said Wasmer and Niemann framed him for the killings and that Wasmer killed Valdez and Condon. Then, in 2010, Boppre said new evidence pointed to Yellowboy as the killer.SARASOTA, Fla. (AP) - A candidate for the Florida Legislature is being accused of lying about graduating from college and then producing a fake diploma after a website questioned her about it.

Miami University in Ohio told the Sarasota Herald-Tribune that Florida House candidate Melissa Howard attended the school but never graduated. The school also says the diploma she produced doesn't match those issued in 1994 or 1996, the years she has claimed she graduated, or any year.

The Republican businesswoman is running in the Aug. 28 primary. Her educational background was first questioned last week by the website Florida News Online.

She called the site's accusation false and said she traveled to Ohio last week to get the diploma at her mother's house. After she posted a photo of the diploma, the website briefly took down its story and apologized, but the university then said her claim was false.

"We have no such record of a degree," the university's lawyer, Robin Parker, said in an email to the paper.

Howard's diploma says she graduated with a degree in marketing - Parker says the university has never offered such a degree and that Howard's major was retail. Also, Parker said while the university president's signature is correct, another administrator's signature would not have appeared on the diploma.

Howard did not answer a call Sunday from The Associated Press. Her campaign consultant, Anthony Pedicini, told the newspaper in a text message Saturday that Howard's husband had a "cardiac event" and that she is "focused on her family - not fake news." Her campaign's Facebook page appears to have been removed.

Her opponent, Tommy Gregory, said in a text to the paper, "voters deserve nothing less than truth and integrity from their elected officials. Unfortunately, it seems that Melissa Howard has failed that test."AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - A.R. "Babe" Schwartz, a longtime liberal state senator with a reputation of being one of the most formidable orators in the Texas Legislature, has died at age 92.

His son, New York Times climate reporter John Schwartz, said his father died Friday in Houston after years of health problems.

A.R. Schwartz served in the Texas House from 1955 until 1960, when he won a seat in the Texas Senate. He remained in the Senate until losing his bid for re-election in 1980.

FILE - In this May 26, 2016, file photo, former Texas Senator A.R. "Babe" Schwartz smiles during the dedication ceremony for Babe's Beach, in Galveston, Texas. Schwartz, a longtime liberal state senator with a reputation of being one of the most formidable orators in the Texas Legislature, has died at age 92. His son, New York Times climate reporter John Schwartz, said his father died Friday, Aug. 10, 2018, in Houston after years of health problems. (Jennifer Reynolds/The Galveston County Daily News via AP, File)

The Galveston-born child of Polish immigrants championed civil rights, public education and care for the disabled. Schwartz also helped craft legislation that guaranteed public access to Texas beaches.

Born Aaron Schwartz, he was known in his family as "Baby" until age 14, when he demanded a change. He adopted the middle name "Robert" while serving in the Navy before World War II.

After his military service, Schwartz earned a University of Texas law degree, then plunged quickly into politics. After a failed race for the Texas House in 1950, he won Galveston's seat in 1954.

Then, as now, the Legislature was dominated by conservatives - then, by conservative Democrats. Outnumbered, liberals such as Schwartz used Senate rules to stop bills they considered unwise. Schwartz was especially vigilant for legislation he considered to be anti-consumer. One such bill he denounced on the floor as "a bill written by liars, cheats and thieves for the benefit of liars, cheats and thieves."

In 1979, his last session, he was a member of the "Killer Bees" who fled the state and deprived the Senate of a quorum to stymie legislation aimed at altering the state's presidential primary to benefit former Texas governor and Democrat-turned-Republican John Connelly.

After his 1980 defeat, Schwartz worked as a lobbyist in Austin into his 80s.BAGHDAD (AP) - Iran has cancelled a visit by Iraq's prime minister after he said that while he was opposed to renewed U.S. sanctions on Tehran he had no choice but to abide by them, an Iraqi official said Sunday.

Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi was to visit Iran and Turkey later this week. The official said the Turkey visit, beginning Tuesday, will go ahead as planned.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media. Government spokesman Saad al-Hadithi declined to comment.

Iran has maintained close ties to Iraq's government since the 2003 U.S.-led invasion toppled Saddam Hussein, Tehran's archenemy. Iraq has since forged close ties with Washington, forcing its government to delicately balance relations with both. Iraq has occasionally mediated between Iran and the United States and sponsored talks between the two.

Since taking office in 2014, al-Abadi has sought to project an image of independence from Iran while maintaining friendly relations.

But he appears to have angered Tehran by telling reporters last week that while he opposed the sanctions in principle, Iraq could not violate them and risk punitive action by President Donald Trump's administration.

"Can I, the prime minister of Iraq, endanger the interests of Iraqis just to take a stand?" he said. "We don't sympathize with the sanctions, we don't think they are appropriate and we don't interact with them, but we are committed to protect our people."

Last week the U.S. began restoring sanctions that had been lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, which Trump withdrew from in May.

The administration says the renewed sanctions are meant to pressure Tehran to halt its alleged support for international terrorism, its military activity in the Middle East and its ballistic missile programs.ISTANBUL (AP) - Turkey's finance minister said Sunday that the government has prepared "an action plan" aimed at easing market concerns that have led to a slump in the value of the nation's currency.

In an interview with the newspaper Hurriyet, Treasury and Finance Minister Berat Albayrak also said the government had no plans to seize foreign currency deposits or convert deposits to the Turkish lira.

"As of Monday morning, our institutions will take the necessary actions and will share the necessary announcements with markets," Albayrak was quoted as saying.

A man checks foreign currency exchange rates outside a currency exchange shop in an Istanbul's market, Friday, Aug. 10, 2018. A financial shockwave ripped through Turkey on Friday as its currency nosedived on concerns about its economic policies and a dispute with the U.S., which President Donald Trump stoked further with a promise to double tariffs on the NATO ally. . (AP Photo/Mucahid Yapici)

"All our precautions and actions plans are ready," he added, without elaborating.

Turkey was hit by a financial shockwave this past week as the lira nosedived 14 percent Friday over concerns about the government's economic policies and a trade and diplomatic dispute with the United States. The currency's value has fallen more than 40 percent since the start of the year.

Earlier, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned of drastic measures if businesses withdraw foreign currency from banks.

Speaking in the northeastern city of Trabzon on Sunday, Erdogan warned business executives to not "rush to banks to withdraw foreign currency."

He added that businesses should "know that keeping this nation alive and standing isn't just our job, but also the job of industrialists, of merchants."

During the speech, Erdogan reiterated his earlier claim that the crisis has resulted from "an operation against our economy conducted through exchange rates" and said Turkey would prevail.

People queue outside a currency exchange shop in an Istanbul's market, Friday, Aug. 10, 2018. A financial shockwave ripped through Turkey on Friday as its currency nosedived on concerns about its economic policies and a dispute with the U.S., which President Donald Trump stoked further with a promise to double tariffs on the NATO ally. (AP Photo/Mucahid Yapici)

A Turkish man leaves a currency exchange shop in Ankara, Turkey, Friday, Aug. 10, 2018. A financial shockwave ripped through Turkey on Friday as its currency nosedived on concerns about its economic policies and a dispute with the U.S., which President Donald Trump stoked further with a promise to double tariffs on the NATO ally. (AP Photo/Burhan Ozbilici)Cambodian Prime Minister and President of the Cambodian Peoples Party Hun Sen casts a ballot in Phnom Penh on July 29th

(Photo: AFP/VNA)



In the message, he wrote that the CPV Central Committee is delighted at the successful organisation of the sixth NA election that took place on July 29th in Cambodia, ensuring democracy, freedom, fairness, security and safety.

Trong expressed belief that with the support of the Cambodian people, the new Cambodian legislature and government will be set up soon to continue leading the Cambodian people overcome difficulties and challenges, successfully building Cambodia of peace, independence, neutralism, democracy, social progress and friendship with countries worldwide, especially neighbouring and regional countries./.NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) - President Uhuru Kenyatta urged Kenya's young people on Sunday to make citizen's arrests of those suspected of corruption, a vice that is endemic in the country.

Critics have called Kenyatta's regime the most corrupt of the four leaders that Kenya has had since gaining independence from Britain in 1963.

With Kenyatta in his second term after a disputed re-election victory last year, his administration has made a flurry of arrests of officials named in corruption scandals in recent weeks.

The president said in the western Kenya town of Kisii during festivities to mark International Youth Day that young people should not be afraid to arrest the powerful and take them to the police.

"The power is in your hands to end this vice in this country," he said.

Kenyatta's remarks were met with skepticism because he urged that those arrested be taken to the police. The police force is notoriously corrupt, and cases generally are pursued or dropped depending on who pays bribes demanded by officers.

An effort by the National Police Service Commission to weed out errant police officers that started in 2012 has been criticized for not doing enough to reform the 99,000-strong force, whose leaders admit corruption is widespread.

Kenyatta announced in June that the government would introduce lie detector tests for all heads of procurement and accounts in government ministries, departments and agencies, but that also was met with pessimism as many analysts questioned the reliability of the machines.

In 2015, Kenyatta declared corruption a national security threat and said revenue officers and custom officers would be vetted, but that has never happened.

Patrick Gathara, a political commentator and cartoonist, said the flurry of recent corruption arrests "is nothing new."

Very few people are prosecuted for corruption even though authorities say that graft siphons off up to a third of the government's budget, or nearly $6 billion a year.

Out 26 people charged with corruption over missing millions meant for the national Youth Service in 2015, 23 people were acquitted, Gathara said.

Now the authorities have charged 57 officials from the same department with alleged involvement in alleged theft of millions of dollar

"Measuring success against corruption simply using prosecutions is problematic as it doesn't address the systemic incentives for corruption. These incentives far outweigh Kenya's capacity to punish corruption," Gathara said.

He said the real focus should be on the administration's lack of policy proposals to seal loopholes that allow graft to occur.Jim Mattis has claimed he was never against Donald Trump's plan for a Space Force.

The Defense Secretary last year opposed moves in Congress to create a separate space service and wrote a letter to a fellow republican criticising the plan.

But on Sunday he insisted he is behind the idea and was only trying to establish a consensus about what the Pentagon's space problem is before recommending a way to fix it.

'I was not against setting up a Space Force,' he told reporters flying with him to Brazil to begin his first tour of South America as defense secretary on Sunday.

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis (right with Vice President Mike Pence during an event on the creation of a United States Space Force) has said creating a Space Force as a separate military service is the right way to reorganize the Pentagon's approach to space

Defense Chief Jim Mattis initially said a space force would add burdensome bureaucracy and unwanted costs

'What I was against was rushing to do that before we could define the problem' that needed solving.

This, he said, is why he pushed back against efforts in Congress to create a Space Force.

In a July 2017 letter to Ohio Republican Rep. Mike Turner, Mattis wrote: 'I do not wish to add a separate service that would likely present a narrower and even parochial approach to space operations.'

Mattis' comments Sunday were his first since Vice President Mike Pence announced on Thursday that the Trump administration would push for creation of the Space Force as a sixth, separate military service by 2020.

The Pentagon first will establish a Space Command to oversee and coordinate space operations and a Space Development Agency to accelerate the development and fielding of space technologies for the military.

It also will build up larger numbers of servicemen and servicewomen with expertise in space operations.

Trump said he wants a Space Force and signed a Space Policy Directive in June, pictured above, where he directed the Pentagon to create an independent military service branch

'We're in favor of war-fighting capability organized along the lines of what the president laid out,' Mattis said, referring to President Donald Trump's instruction in June that the Pentagon begin the process of creating a Space Force that would be 'separate but equal' to the Air Force, which currently manages most of the military's space operations.

Mattis said he has been discussing this with Trump and Pence since the first month of the administration.

Critics of making space a separate branch of the military say it would entail more bureaucracy and cost. Deputy Defense Secretary Pat Shanahan said on Thursday that the Pentagon does not yet know how much it will cost but that it would be in the billions of dollars.

Shanahan said the Pentagon would submit a legislative proposal for a Space Force early next year as part of its fiscal 2020 budget request.

Mattis was in Brazil to discuss a range of defense issues, including mutual security threats. Later in the week, he is scheduled to make the first visit to Argentina by a US defense secretary since 2005. He also will visit Chile and Colombia.CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) - The Latest on events marking the anniversary of violent white nationalist rallies in Charlottesville, Virginia (all times local):

6:50 p.m.

A group of about 150 to 200 anti-fascists is confronting police about a half-mile from the White House after a white nationalist demonstration broke up.

Journalists photograph a type of smoke grenade placed by Antifa-activists in the middle of 17th street during the "Unite the Right 2" rally in Washington, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. (Craig Hudson/Charleston Gazette-Mail via AP)

Antifa members, many of them wearing black masks, marched around downtown Washington on Sunday evening in the rain. In a tense scene, police shoved back the advancing counterprotesters, but it didn't appear any tear gas has been used.

The group had been separated earlier from the few dozen white nationalists who rallied in front of the White House on the anniversary of the violence in Charlottesville, Virginia. President Donald Trump is in New Jersey.

The white nationalists later packed into white vans and left, escorted by the police.

Antifa is shorthand for the far-left-leaning militant groups that resist neo-Nazis and white supremacists.

___

6:20 p.m.

White nationalists who marched on Washington and rallied at a park near the White House have left the area in white vans under a police escort.

The demonstration led by the principal organizer of last year's "Unite the Right" event in Charlottesville, Virginia, Jason Kessler, ended earlier than expected. Those marching with Kessler numbered only about 30, far fewer than the 100 to 400 he predicted in a permit for the demonstration.

Thousands of counterdemonstrators showed up to jeer and shout insults at the white nationalists as they made their way through Washington streets. Police kept the two sides separated during the march and the rally.

The white nationalists were commemorating last year's Unite the Right event in Charlottesville, which turned violent and deadly.

___

5:30 p.m.

The city of Charlottesville, Virginia, says four people have been arrested in incidents marking the anniversary of last summer's violent white nationalist rally.

Authorities said in a statement Sunday that two arrests stemmed from a confrontation near a statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee where a Spotsylvania, Virginia, man stopped to salute the statue and a Charlottesville woman confronted him and a physical altercation took place. Both face disorderly conduct charges.

Officials say a Charlottesville man who positioned himself in front of police motorcycle units also was arrested, as well as a Portland, Maine, woman following an altercation.

Police in northern Virginia's Fairfax County also reported the arrest of a man accused of spitting on state troopers providing security at a Metro station. The station saw increased ridership Sunday on the line into Washington, where a "Unite the Right" event drew counterprotesters.

___

5 p.m.

A few thousand people have converged on downtown Washington to counter a demonstration by about 30 white nationalists and denounce their racist views.

Police have been keeping the two groups separate as the white nationalists rally in Lafayette Park in front of the White House. No violence has been reported.

As it began to rain, a chant went up from the crowd: "It's hot, it's wet, but we aren't done with the Nazis yet."

The demonstration and counterdemonstration come on the anniversary of last year's deadly gathering of neo-Nazis, skinheads, Ku Klux Klan members and others in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Sunday's gathering is being led by the principal organizer of last year's "Unite the Right" event, Jason Kessler, who calls the demonstration a rally for white civil rights.

___

4:55 p.m.

A group of about 30 white nationalists has marched to a park near the White House for what they call a rally in favor of white civil rights.

Thousands of counterprotesters are in the area, too, and jeered and heckled the white nationalists as they made their way down the street surrounded by police.

The demonstration and counterdemonstration come on the anniversary of last year's deadly gathering of neo-Nazis, skinheads, Ku Klux Klan members, and others in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Sunday's gathering is being led by the principal organizer of last year's "Unite the Right" event, Jason Kessler.

___

3:45 p.m.

A contingent of about 30 white nationalists is marching down a Washington street toward the White House surrounded by a protective bubble of police officers and vehicles.

Hundreds of counterprotesters are walking alongside the group but keeping on the sidewalks, many of them shouting and taunting the nationalists as they make their way to a park in front of the White House.

The demonstration and counterdemonstration come on the anniversary of last year's deadly gathering of neo-Nazis, skinheads, Ku Klux Klan members, and others in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Sunday's gathering is being led by the principal organizer of last year's "Unite the Right" event, Jason Kessler, who calls the demonstration a rally for white civil rights.

___

2:30 p.m.

More than 1,000 protesters are gathered in Freedom Plaza near the White House to rally against a white nationalist demonstration scheduled for later in the day.

The demonstration is being held on the first anniversary of a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, that turned violent and led to the death of a counterprotester.

Makia Green, who represents the Washington branch of Black Lives Matter, told Sunday's crowd that: "We know from experience that ignoring white nationalism doesn't work."

The counterprotesters plan to march to Lafayette Square in front of the White House, just before the arrival of the white nationalists. Police have erected a maze of barricades to keep the two sides apart.

The counterprotesters are expected to far outnumber the white nationalists.

___

2 p.m.

The mother of a woman killed when a car plowed into a crowd of counterprotesters at a white nationalist rally last summer has visited the site of the attack to mark the anniversary of her daughter's death.

Heather Heyer's mother, Susan Bro, embraced supporters Sunday in downtown Charlottesville. At one point, she asked the crowd to raise their fists in solidarity, and she laid flowers at a makeshift memorial.

Bro said there's still "so much healing to do." She said the city and the country have a "huge racial problem" and that if it's not fixed, "we'll be right back here in no time."

Bro also said the day was about more than just her daughter. She recognized the other victims of the attack, which injured dozens of people, and thanked the two Virginia state troopers killed in a helicopter crash for their sacrifice.

Lt. Jay Cullen and Trooper-Pilot Berke Bates died when their helicopter crashed while deployed as part of the response to last year's violence.

___

1:45 p.m.

A park across the street from the White House is already filling up with people who oppose a white nationalist demonstration that is scheduled to take place later Sunday.

The white nationalists are gathering in Washington on the first anniversary of their rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, that turned violent and led to the death of a counterprotester.

A stage has been set up in Lafayette Park and rap music is playing for a crowd of about 300, many of whom are carrying signs saying "Shut down white supremacy."

Uniformed police officers and a line of police barricades have cut the park in half, restricting the counterprotesters to the northern half, farthest from the White House.

A counterprotest organizer, speaking from the stage, said: "We will be here until these fascist forces are gone, however long that takes."

The white supremacist rally is scheduled to end at 7:30 p.m.

___

11:45 a.m.

More than 100 people are demonstrating against racism in downtown Charlottesville, marking the one-year anniversary of a violent white nationalist rally and protesting this year's ramped-up police presence.

The group began marching Sunday morning after a rally held at a city park and made its way toward downtown. Some marchers linked arms as they walked.

The group directed chants against police officers who were accompanying the march, including "cops and Klan go hand in hand."

Law enforcement officials faced blistering criticism in the wake of last year's rally for what was perceived as a passive response to the violence that unfolded.

A review by a former U.S. attorney found a lack of coordination between state and city police and an operational plan that elevated officer safety over public safety.

Demonstrators on Sunday chanted, "Will you protect us?"

___

9:20 a.m.

Dozens of activists and residents have gathered at a Charlottesville city park to protest racism and to observe the one-year anniversary of a rally by white supremacist that turned deadly.

The Rev. Seth Wispelwey is a founder of a group of clergy and lay people called "Congregate C-ville" last year. The group came together in direct response to white nationalists who gathered in Charlottesville for a "Unite the Right" rally on Aug. 12, 2017.

On that day, white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the city streets before a car driven into a crowd struck and killed 32-year-old Heather Heyer.

Wispelwey says the city's residents are still reeling from the violence that day, but he expressed hope that the anniversary can be a turning point.

___

A day after tensions between police and community activists nearly boiled over on the University of Virginia's campus, the city of Charlottesville plans to mark Sunday's anniversary of a deadly gathering of white supremacists with a rally against racial hatred. But 115 miles (185 kilometers) away in Washington, the principal organizer of last year's "Unite the Right" event will hold a "white civil rights rally," and police are preparing for counterprotesters.

Jason Kessler abandoned plans for a similar anniversary event in Charlottesville. His Washington permit application says he expects 100 to 400 people Sunday afternoon in Lafayette Park, near the White House.

But some leading figures in the white nationalist movement have said they won't attend or encouraged supporters to stay away. And the events likely will be dwarfed by counterprotests, for which permits also have been issued.

Metro Police and Secret Service personnel are forced back by counter-protesters outside of the Pennsylvania Avenue security barrier on 17th street while attempting to escort attendees of the "Unite the Right 2" rally from Lafayette Park in Washington, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. (Craig Hudson/Charleston Gazette-Mail via AP)

White nationalist Jason Kessler talks during a rally near the White House on the one year anniversary of the Charlottesville "Unite the Right" rally, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Susan Bro, mother of Heather Heyer who was killed during last year's Unite the Right rally, embraces supporters after laying flowers at the spot her daughter was killed in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. Bro said there's still "so much healing to do." She said the city and the country have a "huge racial problem" and that if it's not fixed, "we'll be right back here in no time." (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

Mourners embrace each other as they remember Heather Heyer who was killed during last year's Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. On that day, white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the city streets before a car driven into a crowd struck and killed Heyer. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

A couple embrace as they participate in prayers at the intersection where Heather Heyer was killed last year as they mark the anniversary of the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. On that day, white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the city streets before a car driven into a crowd struck and killed Heyer. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

Demonstrators against racism march along city streets as they mark the anniversary of last year's Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

Demonstrators listen to speakers on the campus of the University of Virginia in during a rally marking the anniversary of last year's Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

An anti-fascist demonstrator marches on the campus of the University of Virginia during a rally marking the anniversary of last year's Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

A group of anti-fascist and Black Lives Matter demonstrators march in front of the Rotunda on the campus of the University of Virginia in anticipation of the anniversary of last year's Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

Charlie Spearman, foreground, and Jae Em Cafico kneel at a memorial dedicated to Heather Heyer who was killed during last year's Unite the Right rally, in Charlottesville, Va., Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018. The city of Charlottesville plans to mark Sunday's anniversary of a deadly gathering of white supremacists with a rally against racial hatred. (Craig Hudson/Charleston Gazette-Mail via AP)

Ahmed Mohamed writes a message on the ground of the alleyway where a memorial for Heather Heyer who was killed during last year's Unite the Right rally, is located in Charlottesville, Va., Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018. The city of Charlottesville plans to mark Sunday's anniversary of a deadly gathering of white supremacists with a rally against racial hatred. (Craig Hudson/Charleston Gazette-Mail via AP)

Emily Filler attempts to dissuade state police from advancing on students rallying on the grounds of the University of Virginia on the anniversary of the "Unite the Right" rally in Charlottesville, Va. Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018. The city of Charlottesville plans to mark Sunday's anniversary of a deadly gathering of white supremacists with a rally against racial hatred. (Craig Hudson/Charleston Gazette-Mail via AP)

Groups protest in Freedom Plaza with the U.S. Capitol in the background, on the one year anniversary of Charlottesville's "Unite the Right" rally, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Demonstrators against racism march along city streets as they mark the anniversary of last year's Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

Demonstrators against racism march along city streets as they mark the anniversary of last year's Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

Demonstrators confront police at the intersection where Heather Heyer was killed last year as they mark the anniversary of the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. On that day, white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the city streets before a car driven into a crowd struck and killed Heyer. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

A demonstrator confronts police at the intersection where Heather Heyer was killed last year as they mark the anniversary of the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. On that day, white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the city streets before a car driven into a crowd struck and killed Heyer. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

A couple hold hands as the participate in prayers at the intersection where Heather Heyer was killed last year as they mark the anniversary of the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. On that day, white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the city streets before a car driven into a crowd struck and killed Heyer. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

Susan Bro, right, mother of Heather Heyer who was killed during last year's Unite the Right rally, embraces a supporter after laying flowers at the spot her daughter was killed in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. Last year, white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the city streets before a car driven into a crowd struck and killed Heyer. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

A counterprotester is led away by police after being arrested in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. The group of protesters marked the one year anniversary of the Unite the right rally in Charlottesville. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

Susan Bro, center back to camera, mother of Heather Heyer who was killed during last year's Unite the Right rally, embraces a supporter after laying flowers at the spot her daughter was killed in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. Last year, white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the city streets before a car driven into a crowd struck and killed Heyer. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

Susan Bro, center, mother of Heather Heyer who was killed during last year's Unite the Right rally, and her husband, Kim, right, speak to supporters after laying flowers at the spot her daughter was killed in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. Bro said there's still "so much healing to do." She said the city and the country have a "huge racial problem" and that if it's not fixed, "we'll be right back here in no time." (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

Members of a SWAT team keep an eye on demonstrators marking the one year anniversary of the Unite The Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

Susan Bro, center right, mother of Heather Heyer who was killed during last year's Unite the Right rally, and her husband, Kim, center left, speak to supporters after laying flowers at the spot her daughter was killed in Charlottesville, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. Bro said there's still "so much healing to do." She said the city and the country have a "huge racial problem" and that if it's not fixed, "we'll be right back here in no time." (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

White nationalist Jason Kessler arrives at the Vienna metro station in Vienna, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. White nationalists are gathering in Washington on the first anniversary of their rally in Charlottesville. (AP Photo/Sait Serkan Gurbuz)

White nationalist Jason Kessler arrives at the Vienna metro station in Vienna, Va., Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. White nationalists are gathering there to travel to Washington on the first anniversary of their rally in Charlottesville. (AP Photo/Sait Serkan Gurbuz)

White nationalist Jason Kessler walks to the White House to rally on the one year anniversary of the Charlottesville "Unite the Right" rally, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Jason Kessler marches with other white nationalists to Lafayette Square during the "Unite the Right 2" rally in Washington, Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018. (Craig Hudson/Charleston Gazette-Mail via AP)BRIDGEWATER, N.J. (AP) - For years he dutifully carried out Roger Ailes' orders, earning himself the nickname "the Butler" at Fox News.

Now, Bill Shine is serving the same role under President Donald Trump.

The former news executive, who was formally brought into the White House last month as deputy chief of staff for communications, has yet to move into a permanent office or bring on his own staff. But he is already putting his mark on the West Wing, clashing with reporters, improving the production quality of White House events and trying to shape the message of an administration whose communication strategy has always seemed haphazardly dictated by tweet.

FILE - In this April 24, 2017, file photo, then-Fox News co-president Bill Shine, leaves a New York restaurant. For years Shine carried out Roger Ailes' orders, earning himself the nicknamed "the Butler" at Fox. Now, Shine is serving the same role under President Donald Trump. Shine has yet to select a permanent office or unpack his stuff. But he has been putting his mark on the West Wing (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan, File)

Shine is most often described by people close to the White House as a well-respected professional with the age and experience to be trusted by a president who is uniquely obsessed with his image and coverage.

"I think that Bill commands the respect that is needed on such a priority based on his management experience and knowledge of the media," said Sean Spicer, the former White House press secretary and communications director. Shine, he said, "entered the White House with the respect, maturity and experience that is more of a peer than a staffer."

After years working with and managing cable news stars with outsized egos, Shine understands how to work with someone like the president, including the most effective ways to offer guidance or pushback.

And unlike many failed hires who have entered the West Wing with guns blazing, threatening mass firings, Shine appears to have, at least so far, succeeded in not ruffling his colleagues' feathers - though he is widely expected to add his own staff and has been conducting interviews.

"He's about making sure we're moving in the right direction," said Mercedes Schlapp, the White House director of strategic communications, who said Shine is universally well-liked by senior staff and has eased, not increased, tensions.

But Shine's arrival also has coincided with a perceived escalation in friction with the press, including an incident last month when a CNN reporter was barred from covering an open-press event because Trump didn't like the questions she'd shouted earlier in the day, when she was serving as a representative of the television networks.

Kaitlan Collins said she was called into Shine's office, where Shine and White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders informed her she would not be welcome at the next event because they'd deemed her questions inappropriate. The move sparked immediate outcry from media groups and organizations, including Shine's former employer, Fox News.

Sanders disputed the idea that Shine was encouraging Trump's combative instincts with the press and said he wants to lower the temperature and find more ways to work with them.

"Bill is a great guy who is adding new perspective and expertise to the team. He is great to work with and a strong leader in the White House," she said.

But some who have worked with him saw the move as classic Shine.

Shine knows all the things that can rile up news organizations, said one person who knows both men and, like others, spoke on condition of anonymity to speak freely about their interactions.

Another person familiar with his work at Fox described him as a true believer in Fox's mission, saying his idea of good television is the opinionated, combative, personality-driven formula of Sean Hannity.

Trump's decision to bring Shine into the White House was not a surprise. His name had been floated for months as a potential White House hire, and he had worked for years for Fox News personality Hannity, one of Trump's closest confidants and most loyal cheerleaders.

Shine served as Hannity's executive producer, as well as the top executive for Fox's prime-time opinion programming and the morning hit, "Fox & Friends," and briefly as co-president of Fox after Ailes was ousted amid allegations of rampant sexual harassment at the network.

Shine left Fox last year amid questions over his own handling of harassment and discrimination allegations. Shine was never accused of direct wrongdoing but was considered vulnerable because of claims he looked the other way as charges of toxic workplace behavior piled up.

Throughout that time, Shine served as an ever-loyal lieutenant to Ailes - serving as the "executor" of his orders.

So far, Shine has focused on his expertise, working quietly behind the scenes to improve the production quality of Trump's made-for-TV events, including the announcement of the president's Supreme Court pick.

Shine, who the White House said was unavailable for comment for this story, understands the importance of visual images, as well as how events are going to play in the news, said Schlapp. "He thinks about the big picture and how it's going to play out."

He also appears to have ushered in a new - if temporary - era of discipline, with Trump taking reporters' shouted questions less frequently than he had before Shine's arrival.

Last month, Shine took the unusual step of informing a group of reporters gathered outside the Oval Office for a swearing-in ceremony for the new Veterans Affairs secretary that Trump would not be taking questions since he had spoken earlier in the day. While Trump often appears unable to resist the urge to engage, he walked straight out the door when the event was over, as Shine had forecast.

___

Bauder reported from New York.

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Follow Colvin and Bauder on Twitter at https://twitter.com/colvinj and https://twitter.com/dbauderLeading literary figures have paid tribute to British author and Nobel Prize winner Sir V.S. Naipaul following his death at the age of 85.

The writer, who penned more than 30 books over his lifetime, died peacefully at his London home, his family said.

Announcing his death on Saturday night, his wife Lady Nadira Naipaul said he had lived a life full of wonderful creativity and endeavour.

Naipaul was famously outspoken throughout his career, and notoriously fell out with author Paul Theroux, whom he had mentored.

But the pair later reunited, and Theroux spoke fondly of Naipaul as he paid tribute to one of the greatest writers of our time.

He told the Associated Press: He never wrote falsely. He was a scourge of anyone who used a cliche or an un-thought out sentence. He was very scrupulous about his writing, very severe, too.

Naipaul, whose books often dealt with colonialism and attacked religion, politicians and pillars of the literary establishment, also had a tense relationship with author Salman Rushdie, once describing the Ayatollah Khomeinis 1989 fatwa on Rushdie as an extreme form of literary criticism.

In a Twitter post, Rushdie conceded that the pair had disagreed all our lives, about politics, about literature, but added: I feel as sad as if I just lost a beloved older brother. RIP Vidia.

We disagreed all our lives, about politics, about literature, and I feel as sad as if I just lost a beloved older brother. RIP Vidia. #VSNaipaul  Salman Rushdie (@SalmanRushdie) August 12, 2018

In a statement to the Press Association on Saturday night, Lady Naipaul said her husband was a giant in all that he achieved, adding: He died peacefully surrounded by those he loved having lived a life which was full of wonderful creativity and endeavour.

The author was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001 for having united perceptive narrative and incorruptible scrutiny in works that compel us to see the presence of suppressed histories.

The Academy singled out his 1987 work The Enigma of Arrival, saying he created an unrelenting image of the placid collapse of the old colonial ruling culture and the demise of European neighbourhoods.

Naipaul was knighted in 1990, and won numerous other major writing prizes throughout his life, including the Booker in 1971 and the David Cohen British literature prize in 1993.

His 1961 novel, A House for Mr Biswas, is regarded by many critics as one of his most influential works.

The book was based on the life of his father Seepersad, who was a reporter for the Trinidad Guardian.

Naipauls books on Islamic fundamentalism  the 1981 work Among the Believers and the 1998 book Beyond Belief  were written after he travelled through non-Arab converted Islamic countries.

His attacks on the religion prompted leading English professor Edward Said to say: It is hard to believe any rational person would attack an entire culture on that scale.

In the 1990s, Naipaul concentrated on non-fiction, and it was in 1994 that his long awaited novel appeared, A Way in the World, an autobiography and a fictional history of colonialism, presenting stories from the times of Sir Walter Raleigh to the 19th century revolutionary Francisco Miranda.

There developed a decades-long friendship between Naipaul and Theroux, but in an angry and unforgiving book, Sir Vidias Shadow, Naipaul rejected Theroux.

The feud lasted until the pair finally buried the hatchet in 2011, when writer Ian McEwan persuaded them to shake hands at the Hay literature festival.

Theroux told the Associated Press that there had been a great satisfaction in reconnecting, adding: It took him a long time to make his mark, but when he did, it happened in a big way.

Naipaul  whose full name was Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul  was born in Chaguanas, Trinidad, and his family moved to the countrys capital, Port of Spain, when he was six.

It would later become the setting for his first novel, written in 1959 and titled Miguel Street.

In 1948 he won a government scholarship to read English at Oxfords University College, where he suffered a nervous breakdown.

The Duchess of Cornwall (centre) poses for a picture with former Man Booker Prize winners, including VS Naipaul, at a reception celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Man Booker Prize at Buckingham Palace, London.

He married Patricia Hale, whom he met at Oxford in 1955.

She died in 1996 and he went on to marry Lady Nadira, who was some 20 years his junior, shortly afterwards.

Last month, Naipauls 1971 work In a Free State was shortlisted for the one-off Golden Man Booker, which marked the 50th anniversary of the Booker Prize.The theft of an empty plane by an airline worker who performed dangerous loops before crashing into a remote island in Puget Sound in Washington state has illustrated the potential perils of airline or airport employees causing mayhem.

Video footage shows a 76-seater Horizon Air Q400 aircraft which was stolen from Sea-Tac International Airport carrying out large loops and other dangerous manoeuvres as the sun set on Puget Sound near Seattle.

The flight lasted about 75 minutes, and ended when the pilot, named by sources as Richard Russell, crashed into the small island after being chased by military jets. The two F-15C aircraft scrambled from Portland did not fire on the plane, authorities said.

Erroll Southers, a former FBI agent and transportation security expert, said: The greatest threat we have to aviation is the insider threat.

Here we have an employee who was vetted to the level to have access to the aircraft and had a skill set proficient enough to take off with that plane.

Mr Southers said the man could have caused mass destruction.

He said: If he had the skill set to do loops with a plane like this, he certainly had the capacity to fly it into a building and kill people on the ground.

Friends of Richard Russell talk to the media (AP)

Officials said the man had worked with Horizon for three-and-a-half years, and had clearance to be among aircraft. To their knowledge, he was not a licensed pilot, and he took the empty turboprop plane from a maintenance area.

It is unclear how Mr Russell attained the skills to carry out loops in the aircraft. Ground service agents direct aircraft for take-off and gate approach and de-ice planes, as well as handle baggage.

Horizon Air CEO Gary Beck said it was not clear how the man knew how to start the engine, which requires a series of switches and levers.

At a news conference, officials from Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air said they are working with authorities.

The site of the crash on Ketron Island (AP)

Brad Tilden, the CEO of Alaska Airlines, said: Last nights event is going to push us to learn what we can from this tragedy so that we can ensure this does not happen again at Alaska Air Group or at any other airline.

Investigators expect they will be able to recover both the cockpit voice recorder and the event data recorder from the plane.

Mr Russell could be heard on audio recordings talking to air traffic controllers, who tried to convince him to land the plane.

There is a runway just off to your right side in about a mile, the controller said, referring to an airfield at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

The turboprop plane was stolen from Sea-Tac International Airport (AP)

Oh man. Those guys will rough me up if I try and land there, Mr Russell responded, later adding: This is probably jail time for life, huh?

Later, Mr Russell said: Ive got a lot of people that care about me. Its going to disappoint them to hear that I did this  Just a broken guy, got a few screws loose, I guess.

Mr Russells family said in a statement that they were stunned and heartbroken.

They referenced the recordings and said it is clear Mr Russell, who went by the nickname Beebo, did not intend to harm anyone and he was right in saying that there are so many people who loved him.The Scottish Liberal Democrats have unveiled a plan to boost the teaching profession ahead of the partys autumn conference.

The proposals to be discussed in Dunfermline, Fife, on September 8 include a call for a new premium to attract teachers to schools in disadvantaged areas and retention bonuses for those who commit to posts in hard-to-fill areas.

The party wants one-year probationer contracts to be extended by an optional two years to help encourage graduates to take up posts in areas such as the Highlands and the north-east.

The Scottish Lib Dems said teachers should be at the centre of efforts to improve the education system (Dave Thompson/PA)

A guaranteed minimum level of support staff in every school and a pay rise for teachers are among the additional proposals.

If we're to get Scottish education back on track the SNP are going to have to trust teachers says @tavishscotthttps://t.co/41Sw4xnM6C pic.twitter.com/dO8sem39GQ  Scottish Lib Dems (@scotlibdems) August 10, 2018

The party has repeatedly called for an independent expert commission to re-examine teachers terms and conditions, similar to the 2001 McCrone review.

Education spokesman Tavish Scott MSP said: Teachers should be at the very centre of efforts to strengthen Scotlands education system and close the attainment gap.

Recent research, however, shows that 70% of Scotlands teachers do not feel valued and only a minority would recommend the career to others.

As the new term approaches there are almost 700 teaching vacancies in our schools and the first national strike over pay in a generation is on the cards.

The SNP asked to be judged on education and they have fallen well short.

Thats why Scottish Liberal Democrats are committing to put our trust in Scotlands teachers to restore Scottish education and make it the best again.

This is a clear and innovative plan for making sure teachers are in a position to give every child the best possible education.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: We value teachers highly and are providing 112 million this year to fund councils to maintain teacher numbers, including the last teacher pay award. SNCT pay negotiations for 2018-19 are underway for teachers and we continue to play our part in those discussions.

This Government is the first in the UK to lift the 1% public sector pay cap.

We have also taken action to reduce teacher workload by clarifying and simplifying the curriculum and removing unnecessary bureaucracy. Our education reforms seek to create new opportunities for teachers, in partnership with the teaching profession, to develop their careers.Boris Johnson has the potential to be a great prime minister, former Trump aide Steve Bannon has said.

The US right-winger, who masterminded Donald Trumps 2016 presidential election bid and joined him briefly in the White House as a senior adviser, also praised English Defence League founder Tommy Robinson as a force of nature.

Mr Bannon has spoken of his plans for an EU-wide movement to rally populist and nationalist voters for the European Parliament elections in 2019, and said he would be spending 70% of his time in Europe following the US mid-term elections in November.

Donald Trumps former chief strategist Steve Bannon claims he is ecstatic that the far-right leader Tommy Robinson has been released from prison and describes him as a force of nature like the rapper Kanye West https://t.co/tXTPMNbooD  The Sunday Times (@thesundaytimes) August 11, 2018

Speaking to the Sunday Times, he said that there was obviously a need for a more populist party in the UK and predicted that Ukip could revive as an electoral force thanks to grassroots Conservative anger at Theresa Mays Chequers plan for Brexit.

Mr Bannon is understood to have been in contact with Mr Johnson by text during a recent trip to the UK, when the US strategist sparked headlines by describing then-jailed Robinson as the backbone of Britain.

Former English Defence League leader Tommy Robinson (Joe Giddens/PA)

He insisted that the former foreign secretary had nothing to apologise for over his comments on the burka and should not bow at the altar of political correctness by doing so.

Noting that the notorious article in which he compared Muslim women in face veils to letter-boxes also made the case against a burka ban, Mr Bannon said that populist voters were able to separate the signal from the noise and understand Mr Johnsons true message.

I consider Boris Johnson someone who understands the physics in the ebb and flow of events. Those individuals are rare, said Mr Bannon.

He brushed aside suggestions that Mr Johnson was taking cues from President Trumps approach to politics.

Im not sure Boris is using the Trump playbook so much as giving the people what they want  authenticity, said Mr Bannon.

Boris just needs to be Boris  true to his nature and his calling  and I think he has potential to be a great prime minister, not a good one.

Mr Bannon said that his team was in daily contact with Robinson, who was freed from a 13-month prison term after judges quashed a contempt finding earlier this month, but now faces a fresh hearing on the same case which could see him returned behind bars.

Comparing him to the US rapper Kayne West, who has spoken in support of Trump, Mr Bannon said: Tommy is not just a guy but a movement in and of himself now.

He represents the working class and channels a lot of the frustration of everyday, blue-collar Britons He is a force of nature  like Kanye  not built to be managed.Home Secretary Sajid Javid has suggested that Jeremy Corbyn should quit as Labour leader following controversy over his visit to a cemetery in Tunisia containing memorials to PLO terrorists.

Mr Javid said that the leader of any other mainstream political party would have to go if they did the same.

If this was the leader of any other major political party, he or she would be gone by now https://t.co/q1oa07Rngd  Sajid Javid (@sajidjavid) August 12, 2018

Questions were raised over the 2014 trip after the Daily Mail published pictures of the Labour leader holding a wreath near the graves of some of those responsible for the massacre of Israeli athletes at the 1972 Munich Olympics.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn (Victoria Jones/PA)

Labour said that Mr Corbyn had already made clear he was paying his respects to the victims of a 1985 Israeli airstrike on Palestinian Liberation Organisation offices in Tunis.

But the Mail said its own visit to the Martyrs Cemetery had shown the pictures were taken in front of a plaque honouring the founder of Black September, which carried out the Munich atrocity, while the airstrike memorial was 15 yards away.

It quoted from Mr Corbyns own account at the time in the Morning Star, in which he said that wreaths had been laid not only at the memorial, but also on the graves of others killed by Mossad agents in Paris in 1991.

Coverage of my statement in the Mail article yesterday. #EnoughIsEnough https://t.co/gGwvzFtYwq  Jonathan Goldstein (@jonnysgoldstein) August 12, 2018

Responding to the photos, the chair of Jewish Leadership Council, Jonathan Goldstein, told the Jewish News: This man is not fit to be a Member of Parliament, let alone a national leader.

He has spent his entire political career cavorting with conspiracy theorists, terrorists and revolutionaries who seek to undo all the good for which our ancestors have given their lives. In so many ways, enough is enough.

And Mr Javid said in a tweet: If this was the leader of any other major political party, he or she would be gone by now.

Labour sources said that Mr Corbyn had already given a full explanation of his presence in the cemetery when the Tunis visit first hit the headlines during last years general election campaign.

The Labour leader said at that time: I was in Tunisia at a Palestinian conference and I spoke at that Palestinian conference and I laid a wreath to all those that had died in the air attack that took place on Tunis, on the headquarters of the Palestinian organisations there.

And I was accompanied by very many other people who were at a conference searching for peace.

The pictures emerged amid continuing controversy over Labours refusal to adopt in full an international definition of anti-Semitism, including a list of examples of anti-Semitic behaviour.

Three senior union leaders  from the GMB, Unison and Usdaw  have added their voices to calls from deputy leader Tom Watson for the full International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance text to be incorporated in its entirety into Labours new code of conduct on anti-Semitism.

Labour has launched a consultation with Jewish groups over the code, after protests that the version agreed by the partys ruling National Executive Committee omits four examples relating to criticism of the state of Israel.

There is absolutely no place for anti-Semitism in the Labour Party. We need to show just as much strength in opposing anti-Semitism as we do in opposing all racism and other forms of hate https://t.co/X86NYv1oKH  Paddy Lillis (@PaddyLillisGS) August 11, 2018

A Labour Party spokesman said: The code of conduct adopts the IHRA definition and expands on and contextualises its examples to produce robust, legally sound guidelines that a political party can apply to disciplinary cases.

The NEC upheld the adoption of the code of conduct on anti-Semitism, but in recognition of the serious concerns expressed, agreed to re-open the development of the code, in consultation with Jewish community organisations and groups, in order to better reflect their views.

Writing in the Sunday Mirror, shadow chancellor John McDonnell said: Both Jeremy Corbyn and I have made clear that racism and anti-Semitism have no place in the Labour Party.

Labour will resolve any outstanding issues within our party and get out there to assist the Jewish community in fighting anti-Semitism and racism.Nobel Prize winner Sir VS Naipaul died peacefully after reading a poem by Lord Tennyson, his friend Geordie Greig has said.

The editor of the Mail On Sunday, who will soon take over editorship of the Daily Mail, had been friends with the British author for 20 years and was with him at his bedside as he died at the age of 85.

Greig told BBC Radio 4s The World This Weekend that he rushed to be with the writer after a call from his wife Lady Nadira Naipaul.

Geordie Greig was with his friend when he died (Tim Ireland/PA)

He said: It was very moving. I got a call from Nadira to come round and it literally was at his deathbed.

Nadira talked about a poem by Lord Tennyson, Crossing The Bar, which had great resonance and meaning to him and I just turned on my phone and found it and we read it.

He added: He drifted off and it was peaceful and very, very sad but what a life, what an achievement, what a legacy.

The writer, who penned more than 30 books over his lifetime, died at his London home, his family said.

Announcing his death on Saturday night, Lady Naipaul said he had lived a life full of wonderful creativity and endeavour.

Naipaul was famously outspoken throughout his career, and notoriously fell out with author Paul Theroux, whom he had mentored.

But the pair later reunited, and Theroux spoke fondly of Naipaul as he paid tribute to one of the greatest writers of our time.

He told the Associated Press: He never wrote falsely. He was a scourge of anyone who used a cliche or an un-thought out sentence. He was very scrupulous about his writing, very severe, too.

Greig added that Theroux visited the writer shortly before he died.

Naipaul, whose books often dealt with colonialism and attacked religion, politicians and pillars of the literary establishment, also had a tense relationship with author Salman Rushdie, once describing Ayatollah Khomeinis 1989 fatwa on Rushdie as an extreme form of literary criticism.

In a Twitter post, Rushdie conceded that the pair had disagreed all our lives, about politics, about literature, but added: I feel as sad as if I just lost a beloved older brother. RIP Vidia.

We disagreed all our lives, about politics, about literature, and I feel as sad as if I just lost a beloved older brother. RIP Vidia. #VSNaipaul  Salman Rushdie (@SalmanRushdie) August 12, 2018

In a statement to the Press Association on Saturday night, Lady Naipaul said her husband was a giant in all that he achieved, adding: He died peacefully surrounded by those he loved having lived a life which was full of wonderful creativity and endeavour.

The author was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001 for having united perceptive narrative and incorruptible scrutiny in works that compel us to see the presence of suppressed histories.

The Academy singled out his 1987 work The Enigma Of Arrival, saying he created an unrelenting image of the placid collapse of the old colonial ruling culture and the demise of European neighbourhoods.

Naipaul was knighted in 1990, and won numerous other major writing prizes throughout his life, including the Booker in 1971 and the David Cohen British literature prize in 1993.

(Chris Ison/PA)

His 1961 novel A House For Mr Biswas is regarded by many critics as one of his most influential works.

The book was based on the life of his father Seepersad, who was a reporter for the Trinidad Guardian.

Naipauls books on Islamic fundamentalism  the 1981 work Among The Believers and the 1998 book Beyond Belief  were written after he travelled through non-Arab converted Islamic countries.

His attacks on the religion prompted leading English professor Edward Said to say: It is hard to believe any rational person would attack an entire culture on that scale.

In the 1990s, Naipaul concentrated on non-fiction, and it was in 1994 that his long-awaited novel appeared, A Way In The World, an autobiography and a fictional history of colonialism, presenting stories from the times of Sir Walter Raleigh to the 19th century revolutionary Francisco Miranda.

There developed a decades-long friendship between Naipaul and Theroux, but in an angry and unforgiving book, Sir Vidias Shadow, Naipaul rejected Theroux.

The feud lasted until the pair finally buried the hatchet in 2011, when writer Ian McEwan persuaded them to shake hands at the Hay literature festival.

Theroux told the Associated Press that there had been a great satisfaction in reconnecting, adding: It took him a long time to make his mark, but when he did, it happened in a big way.

Naipaul  whose full name was Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul  was born in Chaguanas, Trinidad, and his family moved to the countrys capital, Port of Spain, when he was six.

It would later become the setting for his first novel, written in 1959 and titled Miguel Street.

In 1948 he won a government scholarship to read English at Oxfords University College, where he suffered a nervous breakdown.

The Duchess of Cornwall poses for a picture with former Man Booker Prize winners, including VS Naipaul, at a reception celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Man Booker Prize at Buckingham Palace (PA)

He married Patricia Hale, whom he met at Oxford in 1955.

She died in 1996 and he went on to marry Lady Naipaul, who was some 20 years his junior, shortly afterwards.

Last month, Naipauls 1971 work In A Free State was shortlisted for the one-off Golden Man Booker, which marked the 50th anniversary of the Booker Prize.

Describing their friendship, Greig said: His prose was as sharp as glass but his kindness was as warm as sunlight, is what I found.

I met him 20 years ago and was as nervous and trepidatious as any journalist who went to see him, as his reputation was as being intolerant and grumpy and even sending journalists packing after a couple of questions as they were inadequately prepared to ask him questions and get answers he felt they deserved.

His wife saw me arrive at the door at his house in Wiltshire and said, Please be kind to Geordie and he was. It was a kindness that lasted 20 years and it was a friendship that went on through many different folds.Rector of Can Tho University Ha Thanh Toan (R) presents a gift to

visiting Japanese State Minister for Foreign Affairs Kazuyuki Nakane (Photo: VNA)



At a meeting on August 11th with leaders of Can Tho University in the Mekong Delta city of the same name, Nakane expressed his confidence in the establishments growth and educational quality.

He said Japan will support Can Tho University in its two projects on upgrading itself and technical support.

In the former project, the facility will receive training, scientific research, and technology transfer assistance in agriculture, fishery, and environment. The latter project will see support in forms of training capacity building in the three sectors; 19 training courses lectured by Japanese experts; and 18 slots for management training at top Japanese universities.

According to Pham Minh Duc, deputy head of the ODA management board at the university, the upgrading Can Tho University project consists of four units on human resources development, research, infrastructure building, and equipment purchase.

Regarding the Japanese support, nine Japanese universities and research institutes will help Can Tho University train candidates of 63 doctorate degrees and nine master degrees, as well as offer 91 short-term training courses. Meanwhile, the Japanese Government will sponsor its purchase of teaching equipment.

Can Tho University now houses the highest number of students compared with other Vietnamese peers, at 55,000.

In the Webometrics Ranking of World Universities, Can Tho University was ranked third in Vietnam, 57th in Southeast Asia, 701st in Asia, and 2,704th in the world./.A Chinese tourist died after he was attacked by a hippo when he was taking pictures on the shore of Lake Naivasha in the Rift Valley, just hours after a hippo killed a local fisherman in the same area, Kenyas wildlife authority said.

A second Chinese tourist was injured in the incident on Saturday night and received treatment in the local hospital in Naivasha, 91 kilometres (56 miles) south east of Nairobi, the Kenya Wildlife Service said in a statement.

In the same area, a fisherman was attacked by another hippo a few kilometres from the scene of the first incident where the Chinese died, a police official said.

There have been several deadly incidents involving hippos in the area this year (Steve Parsons/PA)

The man was bitten on the chest and his injuries were serious and he died minutes after he was retrieved from the lake, said Rift Valley head of criminal investigations Gideon Kibunja.

The deaths brought to six the number of people who have been killed by hippos around Lake Naivasha so far this year.

Wildlife service spokesman Paul Udoto said the circumstances in which the two Chinese were attacked are not clear.

He said attacks on tourists are rare because they are usually protected by guides.

Mr Udoto said hippos and lone buffalo pose the greatest danger to humans and there have been many attacks in which civilians and even rangers have lost their lives.The widows of Israeli athletes murdered by terrorists have said they were extremely disturbed by reports that Jeremy Corbyn took part in a wreath-laying ceremony near the graves of some of those responsible.

Ankie Spitzer and Ilana Romano, whose husbands Andre and Yossef were among 11 athletes taken hostage and killed at the 1972 Munich Olympics, warned the Labour leader that he would be judged by the company you keep.

And Home Secretary Sajid Javid suggested that Mr Corbyn should quit over the issue.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn (Victoria Jones/PA)

The Daily Mail published pictures of the Labour leader holding a wreath in the Palestinian Martyrs Cemetery in Tunisia, during a visit to the north African country in 2014.

If this was the leader of any other major political party, he or she would be gone by now https://t.co/q1oa07Rngd  Sajid Javid (@sajidjavid) August 12, 2018

Labour said that Mr Corbyn had already made clear he was paying his respects to the victims of a 1985 Israeli air strike on Palestinian Liberation Organisation offices in Tunis.

But the Mail said its own visit to the graveyard showed that the pictures were taken in front of a plaque honouring the founder of Black September, which carried out the massacre, while the air strike memorial was 15 yards away.

Mrs Spitzer and Mrs Romano told the Jewish News: We do not recall a visit of Mr Corbyn to the graves of our murdered fathers, sons and husbands.

They only went to the Olympic Games in order to participate in this festival of love, peace and brotherhood; but they all returned home in coffins.

For Mr Corbyn to honour these terrorists is the ultimate act of maliciousness, cruelty and stupidity.

And they added: Do not forget, Mr Corbyn, that you will be judged by the company you keep.

Responding to the Mail story, Labour sources said that Mr Corbyn had already given a full explanation of his presence in the cemetery when the visit first hit the headlines during last years general election campaign.

The Labour leader said last year: I was in Tunisia at a Palestinian conference and I spoke at that Palestinian conference and I laid a wreath to all those that had died in the air attack that took place on Tunis, on the headquarters of the Palestinian organisations there.

And I was accompanied by very many other people who were at a conference searching for peace.

Writing in the Morning Star at the time of the visit, Mr Corbyn said that wreaths had been laid not only at the memorial, but also on the graves of others killed by Mossad agents in Paris in 1991.

Coverage of my statement in the Mail article yesterday. #EnoughIsEnough https://t.co/gGwvzFtYwq  Jonathan Goldstein (@jonnysgoldstein) August 12, 2018

Mr Javid said: If this was the leader of any other major political party, he or she would be gone by now.

And the chair of the Jewish Leadership Council, Jonathan Goldstein, told the Jewish News: This man is not fit to be a Member of Parliament, let alone a national leader.

He has spent his entire political career cavorting with conspiracy theorists, terrorists and revolutionaries who seek to undo all the good for which our ancestors have given their lives. In so many ways, enough is enough.

The pictures emerged amid continuing controversy over Labours refusal to adopt in full an international definition of anti-Semitism, including a list of examples of anti-Semitic behaviour.

Three senior union leaders have added their voices to calls from deputy leader Tom Watson for the full International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance text to be incorporated in its entirety into Labours new code of conduct on anti-Semitism.

Labour has launched a consultation with Jewish groups over the code, after protests that the version agreed by the partys ruling National Executive Committee omits four examples relating to criticism of the state of Israel.

A Labour Party spokesman said: The code of conduct adopts the IHRA definition and expands on and contextualises its examples to produce robust, legally sound guidelines that a political party can apply to disciplinary cases.

The NEC upheld the adoption of the code of conduct on anti-Semitism, but in recognition of the serious concerns expressed, agreed to re-open the development of the code, in consultation with Jewish community organisations and groups, in order to better reflect their views.

Writing in the Sunday Mirror, shadow chancellor John McDonnell said: Both Jeremy Corbyn and I have made clear that racism and anti-Semitism have no place in the Labour Party.

Labour will resolve any outstanding issues within our party and get out there to assist the Jewish community in fighting anti-Semitism and racism.Rafael Nadal ended the fairytale run of Greek youngster Stefanos Tsitsipas to win his fourth Rogers Cup title.

Tsitsipas, appearing in his second ATP final on his 20th birthday, has been the break-out star in Toronto this week.

He knocked out four top-10 players in the shape of Dominic Thiem, Novak Djokovic, Alexander Zverev and Kevin Anderson en route to the final.

Rafael Nadal ended Stefanos Tsitsipas run in Toronto (John Walton/PA)

What a serving display .



In six service games, Nadal has dropped ONE point. The World No. 1 leads Tsitsipas 6-2, 3-1. #RogersCup #ATPMasters1000



How many will he drop in the whole match? 



Live Updates  https://t.co/bNWnTV2M83 pic.twitter.com/aTfD35Pcy7  ATP Tour (@atptour) August 12, 2018

However, Tsitsipas found world number one Nadal an obstacle too far as the Spaniard ran out 6-2 7-6 ( 7/4) winner.

Tsitsipas simply could not get close to Nadals serve until late in the second set, when a first break of the match forced a tie-break.

But 32-year-old Nadal, the 17-time grand slam winner, went on to triumph in the battle of the generations.

Nadal snatched a quick break in the third game with precision hitting from the baseline.

Absolutely punishing level from Nadal today! He storms through the first set 6-2 in the mens singles final 



After his wild run to the final, does Tsitsipas have enough left in the tank to push the World No. 1 to three? #RogersCup pic.twitter.com/bpjhBHZUBJ  National Bank Open (@NBOtoronto) August 12, 2018

A running backhand pass then secured a second break for Nadal, who raced into a 4-1 lead on his way to taking the first set.

Nadal broke again early in the second, only to tighten up as he served for the match allowing Tsitsipas to level at 5-5.

Tsitsipas then eked out a set point on the Nadal serve which the Spaniard saved with the help of a net cord.

Nadal came out on top in the tie-break, though, to wrap up his 33rd ATP World Tour Masters 1000 title and his first on hardcourts in five years.

Tsitsipas can at least console himself with a place in the worlds top 15 having become the youngest man to beat four top-10 players at the same tournament.TORONTO, Aug 11 (Reuters) - Canadian police charged a man in the shooting deaths of four people, including two police officers, and identified the civilian victims, who was killed in the eastern city of Fredericton, the latest eruption of gun violence in the country.

Police charged Matthew Vincent Raymond, 48, with four counts of first degree murder, according to a statement on Saturday, which identified the civilian victims as Bobbie-Lee Wright, 32, and Donald Adam Robichaud, 42. They did not release information about a possible motive or the weapon.

The four, including police officers Sara Mae Burns, 43, and Lawrence Robb Costello, 45, were shot at an apartment complex in Fredericton, a city of about 56,000 that is the capital of the province of New Brunswick.

Police said the officers responded to a report of shots fired early on Friday morning and found two civilian victims on the ground. Burns, who had served two years on the force and another two as an auxiliary officer, had three children. Costello, a 20-year veteran, left behind four children.

Canadian media quoted a cousin of Robichaud's as saying he was a local musician who had three children.

Gun laws in Canada are stricter than in the United States, but a proliferation of weapons has led to an increase in gun-related crimes in recent years.

Friday's shooting occurred three weeks after a gunman walked down a busy Toronto street, killing two people and wounding 13 before killing himself. (Reporting by Anna Mehler Paperny; Editing by Steve Orlofsky)The Estate Sector people in Sri Lanka would like to see Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe becoming President in this country in 2020 and would like to back him as a presidential candidate at the next Presidential Election, Minister of Estate Villages P. Thigambaram said today.

Minister Thigambaram said this at the opening of Indian-funded Mahatma Gandhi Puram Housing scheme in Nuwara Eliya last afternoon.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe who visited Talawakele during the Presidential Election in 2015 and pledged that estate sector people would be given lands of their own. That pledge has been fulfilled today and we will not forget Mr Wickremesinghe, the Minister said.

We would also like to see Mr Wickremesinghe contesting the next Presidential Election and becoming the President of this country, he said. (Yohan Perera reporting from Nuwara Eliya)The general public should take measures to prevent damages from strong winds, the Department of Meteorology warned a while ago.

There is a possibility of increase in the wind speeds to some extent over the Island and the general public to take adequate measures to prevent damages caused by strong winds, the department said.

In a report issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre at 1300 hours today it said fairly strong gusty winds up to 50 kmp/h could be expected in the Central mountainous areas of the Sabaragamuwa, Western, Southern, North-Western, North-Central and the Uva Provinces and in the Ampara and the Batticaloa Districts.

The department said that it expected that the strong winds may occur until Tuesday (14).

According to the forecast report valid for next 36 hours, showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Sabaragamuwa and Central provinces and in Galle, Matara and Kaluthara districts.

Several spells of showers will occur in North-western province and in Colombo, Gampaha and Hambantota districts. Fairly heavy falls above 75 mm can be expected at some places in Sabaragamuwa and Central provinces and in Kaluthara district," it said. (Thilanka Kanakarathna)US space agency Nasa has launched its mission to send a satellite closer to the Sun than any before.

The rocket carrying the Parker Solar Probe shot up into the sky from Cape Canaveral, Florida.

It came after a failed attempt the previous day, when a last-minute alarm caused the agency to miss its 65-minute weather window.

The probe is set to become the fastest-moving manmade object in history.

Its data promises to crack longstanding mysteries about the Sun's behaviour.

The probe aims to dip directly into our star's outer atmosphere, or corona.

It is travelling on board the Delta-IV Heavy rocket, which will hurl the probe into the inner Solar System.

The probe will zip past Venus in six weeks and make a first rendezvous with the Sun a further six weeks after that.

Over the course of seven years, Parker will make 24 loops around our star to study the physics of the corona, the place where much of the important activity that affects the Earth seems to originate.

The probe will dip inside this tenuous atmosphere, sampling conditions, and getting to just 6.16 million km (3.83 million miles) from the Sun's broiling "surface".

"I realise that might not sound that close, but imagine the Sun and the Earth were a metre apart. Parker Solar Probe would be just 4cm away from the Sun," explained Dr Nicky Fox, the British-born project scientist who is affiliated to the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory.

"We'll also be the fastest human-made object ever, travelling around the Sun at speeds of up to 690,000km/h (430,000mph) - New York to Tokyo in under a minute!" she told BBC News.The trade unions of the Railways Department had decided to call off their strike following a discussion with President Maithripala Sirisena, a top TU official said a while ago.

Locomotive Engineering Operators Union (LEOU) Secretary Indika Dodangoda said several trade unions had a meeting with the President this morning.

He said the President agreed to give a solution to their demand.

Mr Dodangoda said trains services would be operated from this afternoon.

Railway trade unions launched a sudden strike on Thursday (9) over several issues, including salary anomalies.Reconciliation was build up gradually in Sri Lanka with the movement of Southern people to the North and Northern people to the South, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said today.

Prime Minister Wickremesinghe expressed this sentiment during the opening of Mahatma Gandhi Puram housing scheme in Nuwara Eliya this afternoon.

Many Sinhalese from the South are increasingly visiting the North, especially the Nagadeepa Vihara and Naga Vihara, while many from the North are visiting the South particularly to see what Colombo looks like, he said.

These visits are gradually becoming a mode of reconciliation. Northern and Southern people are more reconciled today than in the past, the Prime Minister said.

He said programmes such as the Indian funded Suwaseriya paramedical care ambulance service and the Mahatma Gandhi Puram housing scheme would bring about equality to all communities in Sri Lanka.

We launched the Suwaseriya Ambulance service all over the country, while the Mahatma Gandhi Housing Scheme, opened today in Nuwara Eliya, had brought equality to all people in the estate sector.

People in the plantation sector did not have villages and a house of their own like other people elsewhere, he said.

However, they have begun to get their own villages and houses today. They did not demand a separate state like some in the North, who were provoked by the LTTE.

Estate sector Tamils only wanted citizenship and a land of their own. The late President J. R. Jayewardene granted citizenship to estate Tamils. We have given them the land of their own today.

However, we cannot stop at that. Therefore, the Government has decided to introduce Advanced Level science streams to schools in the plantation sector and had also planned to take over the dispensaries and hospitals in the plantations in order to upgrade them, the Prime Minister added.

Also, he said Enterprise Sri Lanka and Gam Peraliya programmes would also be launched in the estate sector soon.

Prime Minister then focussed on media.

There are several TV cameras here today. All of them except for two channels are going to criticise me, he said.

Mr Wickremesinghe said the present Government faced stiff criticism and even lost a Local Government election as a result of the tax hike.

He said taxes had to be increased to resolve the debt service issue. He said the Government had managed to get on with development work while resolving the debt service issue.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his speech said India would always like to see a peaceful and prosperous Sri Lanka.

This housing scheme, funded by India will take the Indo-Lanka friendship to new stride. India has provided a grant of $350 million for housing development in Sri Lanka. This is the largest grant India had given to any country, he said.

Also, he said Tamils in Sri Lanka could use Air India direct flights to Varanasi to come and worship Lord Siva in India.

Prime Minister Modi expressed these sentiments during his pre-recorded speech. (Yohan Perera reporting from Nuwara Eliya)On the Esala Poya day of 1778, two hundred and forty years ago Sangharaja Welivita Asarana Sarana Saranankara Thera departed from his life on earth. If not for this Thera there would have been no Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

Propagating and safeguarding Buddhism was no easy task as he was nearly beheaded by King Kirthi Sri Rajasinghe, for an alleged conspiracy, but saner counsel prevailed with the intervening of the Nilames at Malwatte Maha Vihara.

Trekking twenty kilometres on the Kandy - Murutalawa Road, I was invited by the Principal of Welivita Junior School D.R.W.B. Hennegama, where they had organised a Pirith ceremony in honour of the Sangharaja on the Esala Poya Day.

I took this opportunity to visit the birthplace and the temple where he lived and the Viharege, where he prayed, built by his mother for the Thera.

The sight of the Viharege made me wonder about the callous attitude of the Archaeological Department, where over for one year, the Viharege has been covered with zinc sheets leaving it open to inclement weather. The original paintings are fading away with the damage caused by rain while the nearby Buddha Statue has no arms. The original Sedent Buddha statue through some miracle remains intact.

The Viharege made me wonder about the callous attitude of the Archaeological Department Millions were spent, but the birthplace remained in the state of disrepair



The present incumbent Venerable Aluthgama Medananda Thera lamented that he had to plead with the Archaeological Department to erect a covering over the Viharege, so that rain would not further damage the building and its paintings.

The Thera also said that the former Governor of the Central Province Ms Nilluka Ekanayake allocated Rs. 700,000 to cover the roof of the temple where the Sangharaja lived.

They covered the roof with unsuitable roof tiles and as a result, the walls have been damaged due to the leaks in the roof.

Venerable Medananda Thera said that before long the entire Viharege may collapse and also the valuable paintings dated over two hundred years ago may be lost forever.



It is indeed a sorry state of affairs.

The Sangharaja was born at Tumpane in June 1698 of the Christian era, but the date of birth cannot be verified. The birth is referred to as the fifteenth year during the reign of Wimaladharma Suriya II on the seventh day in the dark half-moon of the month of Poson. Some say it is the 16th and others say it could be the 19th of June 1698

However, it is well known that Venerable Welivita was born in this remote village of Welivita named as Kulatunge Banda, whose father was known as Kiri Banda, a farmer. At the age of 12 years, this young Kulatunge Banda was entrusted to Venerable Suriyagoda Rajaguru to be ordained a monk at Suriyagoda in the now Yatinuwara electorate.



It is from here that he learned the fundamentals of Buddhism and went in search of an inner dimension of Buddhism at a time when there were no books or scholars to learn from.

Before he was handed over to Suriyagoda Priest, he meditated in a cave at Balane with an equally young boy. There are two rocks one above the railway line and one below.

They used the rock above to bath and the one below to live and meditate. Both could be located even today. The two caves are separated by the Kandy -Colombo railway track. But, unfortunately, even during the 2,500-year celebrations, no one took any notice to erect a sign to indicate that this Venerated member of the Sangha lived or meditated in this cave, nor in the places he visited to preach.



It is to his memory that Buddhism remains in this country, but little is said or done to remember him, not for the present generation, but for the future generations to come.

The fact remains that the birthplace of the Sangharaja should be made a National Monument or as the residents of the area point out that the entire complex, which includes the Cultural Centre, the Temple the Buddha-ge along with the surrounding premises where the Sangharaja and Kirthisri Rajasinghe had planted two Bo trees.

Thanks to the foresight of the then Minister of Cultural Affairs Lakshman Jayakoddy, a cultural centre was constructed and the entire area was demarcated as a holy site. Yet only the Pansala and the Viharege remain as protected monuments.

"Venerable Aluthgama Medananda Thera lamented that he had to plead with the Archaeological Department to erect a covering over the Viharege, so that rain would not further damage the building and its paintings."



There was a time when the officers of the State banished Venerable Asarana Sarana Welivita Thera without the knowledge of the King due to jealousy. The Thera was banished to Laggala and was also almost beheaded for an alleged crime against the King at Malwatte Chapter.

However, when a wisecrack Brahmin arrived in the Kandyan Kingdom with uncontested words and arguments against Buddhism, the King sought the help of Venerable Welivita.

The King was informed that the Thera had been banished to Laggala, whereon, the King sent his own Palanquin to bring back Welivita Thera to face the wisecrack Brahmin.

There is no doubt that Buddhisms renaissance commenced with the entry of Venerable Welivita Sri Asarana Sarana Saranankara as a monk, who later was bestowed the title of Sangharaja by King Kirthi Sri Rajasinghe.



During the celebrations of the 250th year of bringing Upasampada to Sri Lanka, millions was spent, but the birthplace remained in a state of disrepair It is time that the Government or the Archaeological authorities took action to preserve the Birthplace of this monk, without whom there would be no Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

The Sangharaja established the Silvatas Association the forerunner to this renaissance. It was a time when there were no monks who have had Upasampada and Welivita Saranakara was determined to bring Upasampada from Siam or present Thailand.



There had been Burmese monks who had come to Sri Lanka and performed Upasamapda on the banks of Mahaweli River at Getambe, but that too had faded away.

Welivita Saranakara was bent on bringing Upasampada and approached King Kirthi Sri Rajasinghe, through a Hindu, he arranged to bring Upasampada from Siam or present Thailand.

As a last resort, the King called upon a meeting at Poya Maluwa Vihare in Malwatte and selected the persons who should proceed on this errand to Siam (Thailand).

In this five were selected was Wilbagedera The Dutch released a vessel named Tharaka.

There were two ships which were sent on this mission, one was the ship supplied by the Dutch Tharka and the other was a Thai ship.



Wilbagedera travelled in the Thai ship while others travelled in the ship provided by the Dutch.

After the arrival of the Thai delegation headed by Elder Upali Thera, they stayed at Godapola before they proceeded to Kandy and at Godapola. The Siamese Priests taught the Sri Lankan Priests how to don the robe and the finer points of the Upasampada ceremony.

On the Poya day of 1753, the first Upasampada was held, firstly on a member of the Thai delegation and secondly on Mahanayake Kobbekaduwa and later on Welivita Asarana Sarana Saranankara Thera.



On this day, one member from the Asgiri Chapter received Upasamapda for the first time. There were five pupils of the Sangharaja and the first being Venerable Thibbotuwawe Sri Siddhartha Buddhrakitha Thera.

It is time that the government and Ministry of Buddhasana seriously viewed to Gazette this area as a Sacred area and restore its

forgotten glory.This is the second year that Hung Yen has organised a festival of this kind which attracted the participation of a number of local collectives and households, showcasing longan and other farm produce at 50 pavilions.

Hung Yen province is a large longan farming hub in northern Vietnam with over 3,800ha of longan at harvest time, mainly in Khoai Chau district and Hung Yen city.

It is expected that the province will reap over 41,000 tonnes of longan this year.

The festival also attracted a large number of domestic and foreign firms who visited pavilions to seek business opportunities. More than 100 orders have been signed at the event to sell nearly 3,000 tonnes of longanto domestic supermarkets and foreign markets including the US, China, Japan and the Republic of Korea.

Director of the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Nguyen Van Doanh, said that the districts of Khoai Chau, Kim Dong, and Tien Lu and Hung Yen city have established large farming areas that meet the VietGap standards, thereby ensuring food safety, clear origins, and higher valued added to the fruit.

According to local growers, this year has enjoyed a bumper harvest of longan with the total output estimated to increase by 30% over the previous year.

The festival will run until August 13.Related President Sisi inaugurates major projects in Upper Egypt's Beni Suef Egypt's PM stresses respect for Upper Egyptians following minister's controversial remarks Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi has arrived in Upper Egypt's Assiut to inaguraute the governorate's new barrage and hydroelectric plant, as part of a number of mega development projects he is set to open during the upcoming days.

The new hydroelectric plant includes 4 turbines to generate electricity and is the largest water project conducted on Nile River after the High Dam.

Spokesman for the presidency Bassam Rady said Saturday in statements to MENA that President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi is to inaugurate a number of major projects in Upper Egypt during the upcoming days including a number of projects in Sohag and Beni Suweif governorates.

Rady affirmed in a statement that the state puts the development of cities of Upper Egypt at top of its priorities.

The Spokesman noted that the government plans to carry out major development and infrastructure projects in Upper Egypt, which was embodied in the establishment of the higher authority for Upper Egypt development.

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Police forces received information that a group of terrorist elements were using an area of deserted land as a hideout, an interior ministry statement read

Egyptian police killed 12 "terrorists" in a shootout in North Sinais Al-Arish, a statement by Egypt's interior ministry read.

Police forces received information that a group of terrorist elements were using an area of deserted land as a hideout, the statement read, and were planning to carry out hostile operations.

The hideout was located in Malalaha" area, which is adjacent to Al-Arish police station road.

The raid was carried out based on intelligence obtained by the National Security Agency, which indicated that the suspects began shooting at police forces.

Four automatic rifles, a sniper rifle, ammunition and improvised explosive devices were found at the site.

The Supreme State Security Prosecution is conducting an investigation into the incident, the source said.

Earlier in August, the armed forces issued their 26th communique on recent developments in Operation Sinai 2018, a comprehensive military and police counterterrorism operation that began in February, announcing that in recent days they had killed 52 militants and arrested 49 others.

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The Supreme Guide of the outlawed Muslim Brotherhood group Mohamed Badie and eight leading members of the group were sentenced to life in prison on Sunday in a retrial for their role in deadly clashes in Giza following the ouster of Islamist president Mohamed Morsi in 2013.

The life sentence by a Cairo criminal court was handed down to Brotherhood leaders Mohamed El-Beltagy, Safwat Hegazy, Essam El-Erian and El-Husseini Antar. The court also sentenced Bassem Ouda, the former supply minister under president Morsi, to 15 years in prison.

The court also sentenced prominent Brotherhood figures Hisham Kamel, Gamal Fathi, and Ahmed Dahi to 10 years over charges of incitement to commit violent acts.

The incident, known in Egyptian media as the Bahr El-Azam case, stemmed from clashes on 15 July 2013 in Giza, which left dozens of people dead.

They were convicted of "inciting acts of violence, terrorism, and murder, forming groups to attack citizens, resisting authorities, and possessing ammunition and weapons to destroy state property."

Sunday's sentence comes nearly four years after a different court district sentenced 15 leading figures of the banned group in September 2014 to 15 years in prison over the clashes.

Nine out of the 15 MB figures appealed the verdicts, winning their appeals later, which led the Appeals Court to cancel the ruling and order a retrial in front of the Cairo Criminal Court.

The convicted leaders have the right to appeal the courts ruling.

Badie, the Brotherhood's leader in Egypt, as well as other Brotherhood leaders, have faced a barrage of trials since Morsi's ouster on charges ranging from terrorism to inciting violence, and have already received life sentences and the death penalty in other cases.

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Ibrahim Coban, codenamed Atakan Mahir, in Turkish list of most wanted terrorists, was neutralized in eastern Turkey

Turkish security forces neutralized a wanted PKK terrorist during a counterterrorism operation in the eastern Turkish province of Tunceli, the countrys Interior Ministry said Sunday.

MOST WANTED PKK TERRORIST

The word neutralized is used to imply that the terrorists in question either surrendered or were killed or captured.

Ibrahim Coban, codenamed Atakan Mahir, was a terrorist included in the Turkish Interior Ministrys red category of wanted terrorists, the ministry said in a statement.

The wanted list is divided into five color-coded categories, with red as the most wanted followed by blue, green, orange and grey.

In its more than 30-year terror campaign against Turkey, the PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S. and the EU -- has been responsible for the death of some 40,000 people.Guyana Amazon Warriors 141 for 4 (Ronchi 42, Ahmad 3-15) beat St Lucia Stars 138 for 7 (Simmons 45, Emrit 3-26, Tahir 2-23) by three runs



Ashley Allen - CPL T20 / Getty

Guyana Amazon Warriors preserved their unbeaten start to CPL 2018 in improbable circumstances in a three-run win over St Lucia Stars at Providence Stadium. The visitors found new ways to maintain their incredible streak of futility since ditching the Zouks moniker at the start of 2017, frittering away an almost-certain victory from a position of 113 for 2, chasing 142.

The Walton-Ronchi surge



Amazon Warriors' openers sped their way to a half-century stand in just 5.4 overs to give the hosts a superb platform. Chadwick Walton, in particular, was creative with his punishment, following up his first three boundaries with a scooped six over fine leg off Mohammad Sami to start the fifth over. The pair eventually added 54 in seven overs before Stars turned to spin to shift the momentum.

Qais of death





Legspinners have made a habit of striking on the first ball of their spells during this CPL, from Australia's Fawad Ahmed to Nepal's Sandeep Lamichhane. Afghanistan teenager Qais Ahmad followed in their footsteps at Providence on Saturday afternoon, beating Walton in flight after coming on in the eighth over to have the Jamaican stumped for 31.

Shimron Hetmyer, who produced a sparkling half-century a few nights earlier in Warriors' win over St Kitts & Nevis Patriots , was the next to fall to Qais. A thick edge on an attempted cut was held after a juggle by Andre Fletcher in the 12th over. The Afghan's third and best of the night came in his next over when he beat Shoaib Malik through the gate with a googly as the Warriors had been cooled down by the end of Qais' haul from 54 for 0 to 98 for 3.

Duguid, the bad and the ugly



Umpire Nigel Duguid had a night to forget, standing out in the wrong way for a pair of lbw decisions. The first came late in the Warriors' innings. Ronchi was holding firm on a sluggish wicket in spite of the damage done by Qais and was on 42 off 40 balls before the last delivery of the 16th over. Mark Chapman, who had been brought on to bowl for the first time of the night with his left-arm spin as Stars' eighth bowler of the night, speared a skiddy delivery into Ronchi's legs on a good length. The ball went straight on past Ronchi's pull and looked to be clearly going down leg stump but Chapman's appeal was upheld. With the anchor lifted, Warriors only scored two boundaries off the final four overs to claw to 141.

A far more egregious error was made early in the Stars' chase. A conservative start by Fletcher and David Warner saw them crawl to 28 for 0 at the end of the Powerplay. Imran Tahir came on for the seventh over and after a single by Fletcher, Warner got a full toss that he attempted to reverse sweep behind point. He edged the ball onto his glove as the ball trickled toward point with Ronchi more concerned about chasing after the ball to deny a single than supporting Tahir's appeal.

A stunned Warner then saw Tahir sprinting away toward the boundary as Duguid upheld the appeal. Not only had the ball never come close to striking Warner's pad, but the impact with his gloves appeared to be outside off stump as well with the ball's trajectory projected to carry well past off stump. The decision was compounded later in the over, when Tahir struck to trap Fletcher lbw, a straightforward decision, with a googly to leave Stars at 30 for 2.

Unlucky 13



Lendl Simmons bashed five sixes after coming in at first drop to give the Stars a much-needed boost in the middle order. The Stars' winless streak looked certain to end at 12 when Sherfane Rutherford spilled Simmons off a regulation chance on the cover boundary in the 16th off Sohail Tanvir and two balls later Simmons ended the over with a six to bring the equation down to 34 off four overs with eight wickets in hand.

Yet The Curse of the Zouks is looking very very real for the Stars, having given away the match from that position. Rayad Emrit 's spell in the death snuffed out the Stars, beginning with the wicket of Simmons three balls into the 17th over. Chapman's charge down the pitch to Chris Green's offspin failed on the first ball of the 18th as Pollard and Rahkeem Cornwall could manage just three singles off the rest of the over to leave 23 off the final two overs.

Emrit found himself on a hat-trick four balls into the 19th over when Pollard sliced to Jason Mohammed at extra cover and Cornwall was cleaned up by a yorker. Qais denied Emrit the hat-trick before slugging the final ball for a six over midwicket to leave 16 off the last over to win. Keemo Paul then yorked Kavem Hodge off the first ball to put Stars seven down before Mitchell McClenaghan scooped a six off his first ball over fine leg to make it ten off four. Two, one, two off the next three balls left Qais with a four to tie or six to win off the last ball. Paul fed him a thigh-high full toss on a middle-stump on silver platter, but Qais flubbed it to long-off for a single, taking Stars' winless streak to a baker's dozen.Today - July 6 2018 - we stand in solidarity with the people of West Papua in commemorating the 20th anniversary of the torture, rape, killing and disappearances of many children, women and men who gathered near a water tower by Biak Port in West Papua for a peaceful protest against the Indonesian Government.

On July 6 1998, the Indonesian security forces open fired directly on the peaceful protestors, killing five people, injuring four, with persons missing. Bodies -dead, alive and injured - were gathered up and taken away in military vehicles. Survivors were taken onto ships where torture and killings continued. Parts of their bodies were found floating in the see in the following days. The location of the remains of most of the dead are still unknown. Meanwhile those still alive were detained and tortured in military facilities.

The Biak Massacre occurred 20 years ago but subsequent Indonesian Governments have remained silent on the issue of unlawful killings and other human rights abuses by the Indonesian security forces, despite many reports confirming such atrocities that remain unexamined by the authorities.

Today, the Indonesian security forces continue to threaten West Papuans who speak out for justice and accountability. Just a few days ago, Amnesty International released its latest report entitled ...Dont bother, just let him die: Killing with impunity in Papua. The report highlights the ongoing systematic human rights abuses in West Papua carried out by the Indonesian security forces.

West Papua is the western half of the island of New Guinea, which borders independent Papua New Guinea. It became part of Indonesia following a discredited process known as the Act of Free Choice in 1969, and comprises the Indonesian provinces of Papua and West Papua. We use the term 'West Papua' to refer to the Indonesian provinces of Papua and West Papua, as a region with a common culture and identity. Its population of 3.6 million includes over 250 ethnic and language groups. The influx of hundreds of thousands of migrants from heavily-populated islands of Indonesia, however, means that indigenous Papuans are rapidly becoming a minority in their own homeland.

Papuan resistance to Indonesian rule and multinational exploitation of the rich natural resources of the territory have provided the backdrop to decades of widespread human rights abuses, environmental damage, violence and instability. While the Papuan people have yet to enjoy the right to self-determination, Papuan civil society continues to struggle for peace, justice, democracy and freedom.

We would like to invite you to join us in campaigning for justice and human rights for the West Papuans by demanding the Indonesian Government take responsibility for the Indonesian security forces actions as well as ending systematic human rights abuses in West Papua.

MOVIMENTU KONTRA OKUPASAUN TASI TIMOR (MKOTT)



Dili, 20 July 2018



Public Statement on the Prosecution Against Witness K and Bernard Collaery by the Australian Government



It is with great astonishment and sadness that on 28 June the Movimentu Kontra Okupasaun Tasi Timor - the Movement Against the Occupation of the Timor Sea - (MKOTT) learned that Australian Lawyer Bernard Collaery and former Australian Intelligence Officer Witness K have been charged for revealing the Australian Government spying on Timor-Lestes Cabinet Room during the negotiations about maritime boundaries and off-shore natural resources in the Timor Sea between Timor-Leste and Australia in 2004.



We are shocked that the prosecution of Bernard Collaery and Witness K was approved by the Australian Federal Attorney General, Christian Porter, which means that Mr. Collaery and Witness K are being prosecuted by the Australian Government. This prosecution reminds many in MKOTT of the prosecution they and their family members, friends and colleagues received from the Soeharto regime during the 24 years of Indonesian occupation.



Ironically, these Timorese were charged as terrorists by the Indonesian government and today, Bernard Collaery and Witness K are charged under the anti-terror law by the Australian Attorney General, their very own government. MKOTT is shocked that in this day and age, the Australian Government is doing what it thinks only the Dictator Soeharto was capable of doing during his reign.



Connect with ETAN







The Australian government eventually accepted the Conciliation process and declared its own readiness to negotiate a permanent maritime boundary with Timor-Leste in good faith. The charges against Witness K and lawyer Mr. Bernard Collaery now show that the Australian government had acted in bad faith, with the mere intention of discharging the international pressure brought about by the espionage case at the ICJ.



MKOTT strongly condemns the charges against lawyer Bernard Collaery and Witness K as politically motivated, which the movement regards as an attack on freedom of expression and an attack on democracy by the Australian government. This act on the part of the Australian government also shows that the government will use anything to advance Australias commercial interests in relation to its neighbors, even if it violates international law to deprive one of its poorest neighbors, and will crush anyone or anything stands on its way.





As a movement which strives for justice, human rights, good neighborhood and respect for international law, MKOTT:



1. Expresses its solidarity with Witness K and his lawyer Mr. Bernard Collaery as they struggle to make the Australian government aware that their bugging of the Timorese cabinet room was not only illegal but also infringed on Australias spirit and tarnished Australias proud image as a good and responsible member of the international community.



2. MKOTT calls on all the defenders of justice, human rights and international law in Australia and around the world to stand united in solidarity with Witness K and Lawyer Bernard Collaery against this prosecution.



3. MKOTT appreciates the willingness of Australian government to recognizing the right of the people of Timor-Leste to a permanent maritime boundary. MKOTT notes, however, that the charges against Witness K and Bernard Collaery will start to pollute this goodwill.



4. MKOTT calls on the Australian government not to criminalize Witness K and his lawyer Bernard Collaery, as doing so is an attack on freedom of expression and democracy.



5. MKOTT calls on the government of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to consider reviving the espionage case before the International Court of Justice should Witness K and his lawyer Bernard Collaery be criminalized by the Australian government. They are charged because they revealed an illegal operation against the government and the people of Timor-Leste.



6. MKOTT calls on the Australian government to stop using the Australian intelligence apparatus to spy on its neighbors for commercial gain, which is a clear breach of international law.



7. MKOTT applauds and support the stand of Federal Member of Parliament, Mr. Andrew Wilkie, who invoked his Parliamentary Privilege to let the public know about the prosecution against Witness K and Bernard Collaery.



8. MKOTT appreciates the members of the Australian Federal Parliament -- MP Andrew Wilkie, Senator Nick McKim, Senator Rex Patrick and Senator Tim Storer -- who requested the Australian Federal Police to investigate the legality of the Australian Spy Operation in the Timor-Leste Cabinet Room in 2004.



9. MKOTT calls on other Australian Federal Parliament Members and Senators from all the parties, particularly from the Labor Party who had opted the policy of respect to international law with regards to maritime boundary with Timor-Leste, to use their Parliamentary Privilege to reveal information in relation to the prosecution against Witness K and Lawyer Bernard Collaery to the public.



============

The Australian government had come under intense international scrutiny when the government of Timor-Leste brought the spying case before the International Court of Justice in December 2013. As an act of good faith the government of Timor-Leste dropped this case in June 2015, which paved the way for the conciliation process facilitated by the Permanent Court of Arbitration for the delimitation of a permanent maritime boundary between the two countries.The Australian government eventually accepted the Conciliation process and declared its own readiness to negotiate a permanent maritime boundary with Timor-Leste in good faith. The charges against Witness K and lawyer Mr. Bernard Collaery now show that the Australian government had acted in bad faith, with the mere intention of discharging the international pressure brought about by the espionage case at the ICJ.MKOTT strongly condemns the charges against lawyer Bernard Collaery and Witness K as politically motivated, which the movement regards as an attack on freedom of expression and an attack on democracy by the Australian government. This act on the part of the Australian government also shows that the government will use anything to advance Australias commercial interests in relation to its neighbors, even if it violates international law to deprive one of its poorest neighbors, and will crush anyone or anything stands on its way.As a movement which strives for justice, human rights, good neighborhood and respect for international law, MKOTT:1. Expresses its solidarity with Witness K and his lawyer Mr. Bernard Collaery as they struggle to make the Australian government aware that their bugging of the Timorese cabinet room was not only illegal but also infringed on Australias spirit and tarnished Australias proud image as a good and responsible member of the international community.2. MKOTT calls on all the defenders of justice, human rights and international law in Australia and around the world to stand united in solidarity with Witness K and Lawyer Bernard Collaery against this prosecution.3. MKOTT appreciates the willingness of Australian government to recognizing the right of the people of Timor-Leste to a permanent maritime boundary. MKOTT notes, however, that the charges against Witness K and Bernard Collaery will start to pollute this goodwill.4. MKOTT calls on the Australian government not to criminalize Witness K and his lawyer Bernard Collaery, as doing so is an attack on freedom of expression and democracy.5. MKOTT calls on the government of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to consider reviving the espionage case before the International Court of Justice should Witness K and his lawyer Bernard Collaery be criminalized by the Australian government. They are charged because they revealed an illegal operation against the government and the people of Timor-Leste.6. MKOTT calls on the Australian government to stop using the Australian intelligence apparatus to spy on its neighbors for commercial gain, which is a clear breach of international law.7. MKOTT applauds and support the stand of Federal Member of Parliament, Mr. Andrew Wilkie, who invoked his Parliamentary Privilege to let the public know about the prosecution against Witness K and Bernard Collaery.8. MKOTT appreciates the members of the Australian Federal Parliament -- MP Andrew Wilkie, Senator Nick McKim, Senator Rex Patrick and Senator Tim Storer -- who requested the Australian Federal Police to investigate the legality of the Australian Spy Operation in the Timor-Leste Cabinet Room in 2004.9. MKOTT calls on other Australian Federal Parliament Members and Senators from all the parties, particularly from the Labor Party who had opted the policy of respect to international law with regards to maritime boundary with Timor-Leste, to use their Parliamentary Privilege to reveal information in relation to the prosecution against Witness K and Lawyer Bernard Collaery to the public.============

Timor Sea, Boundaries & Oil see also



Become an ETAN Sustainer, make a pledge via credit card here Background | Take Action | News | Links | What You Can Do | Resources | Contact ETAN Store | Estafeta | Images | Home | Timor Postings | Search | Site Index | Follow ETAN sYou know what I like most about my job?

Pretty much everything.

OK, that is a lie.

I dont much care for it when I get chewed out for something we had in the newspaper, or for something we didnt have in the newspaper.

And I guess I am not very fond of writing stories about tragedies, accidents and other maladies.

However, most of the time I really like working on creating a newspaper each and every week.

I enjoy talking to people about what is going on and then writing their story and sharing it for all to see.

And, once in a while, I get to do something pretty cool things, meet some interesting people and then tell about it.

My job can be a lot of fun once in a while.

Take last week on Tuesday morning. After an early morning Chamber of Commerce Ambassador meeting, which was followed by a tour of the new Chamber office, welcome center, museum building, I happened to notice something going on in Giant Park at the base of the Green Giant statue.

The guys from Blue Earth Light and Water were getting ready to put the Relay for Life T-shirt on the Giant.

So, I ambled over and said hi to Roger Davis and started talking to him about the chore of putting a massive shirt on a 55-foot tall giant.

He asked if I wanted to go up in the bucket and find out first hand how it is done.

Sure, I said, not really thinking it through. I am ready to do just about anything to get a great photo.

So, they made me promise not to sue if I fell out of the bucket and then put the heavy harness on me. I mean, how do these guys work with this thing on?

Then it was crawl into the bucket with a heavy harness and a camera around my neck. There are no steps inside the bucket and not much to grab onto outside the bucket. I managed to get in without totally embarrassing myself. I think.

Then Roger and the two bucket operators, Cole Richardson and Ryan Foster, started telling me how the last time they did this the bucket broke and plunged to the ground.

They were worried that the new repair welds might not hold with two people in the bucket at the same time.

Ha, ha, very funny, I said.

So there I am in the bucket built for one with Cole and a giant-sized T-shirt. Going up. And up. To above the Giants head, about 65 feet up, I think.

The view was great. I got a birds eye view of the new Chamber building under construction. Or should I say a giants eye view. At least with the building under construction the Giant gets something to watch each day. Otherwise, you know, it could get a little boring for him.

I got to pat the Giant on his nose and he seemed OK with it. At least he had a great big giant smile on his face the whole time.

Im not sure many people can say they have patted his nose. Maybe when he was flat on his back when he arrived by truck before he was lifted into place. And maybe that guy who gave him a new paint job a year or two back.

By the way, we checked the Giant all over and did not see any hail damage.

It did not take very long for Cole and Ryan to get that shirt on the Giant. One works from the front, one from the back, and they seemed to know what they were doing.

They mentioned it was not the first time they had done it. They are pros.

Then it was back to the ground, with a little bump along the way so Cole could say he wondered if the bucket was giving way.

Ha, ha, again.Category Select Category Apparel/Garments Textiles Fashion Technical Textiles Information Technology E-commerce Retail Corporate Association Press Release

SubCategory Select Sub-CategoryGWA Hygiene, a Stralsund, Germany-based medical technology startup, raised 2.5m in funding.

Backers included The High-Tech Grunderfonds, MIG Fonds and business angels.

The company intends to use the funds to establish a sales organization.

Led by Founder and Managing Director Maik Gronau, GWA Hygiene has developed NosoEx, a monitoring system for measuring hand hygiene. The IoT system can be integrated into the infrastructure of the health facilities. For this purpose, the existing disinfectant dispensers are equipped with sensors. The software can then be used to see how the disinfection figures for each station, donor and occupational group are developing.

The system has already passed the practical test and is used in around 70 wards in 10 hospitals and GWA is in talks with 50 other hospitals and hospital operators.

A Europe-wide roll-out is also in preparation.

The startup was founded in 2015 and now has 21 employees. In addition to Gronau, Tobias Gebhardt, Dirk Amtsberg, Marcel Walz and Daniel Neuendorf are among the founding partners.

The NosoEx system is currently being used by a double-digit number of customers in the DACH region.

FinSMEs

12/08/2018An Egyptian prosecution ordered on Sunday a four day detention of a monk pending investigations into his alleged involvement in last month's murder of Bishop Epiphanius, the head of the Monastery of Saint Macarius in Wadi El-Natroun.

Bishop Epiphanius was found dead inside the monastery on 29 July under what the church described as suspicious circumstances.

An Alexandria prosecution ordered the detention of monk Faltaous El-Makary for "conspiring with others" to murder Bishop Epiphanius, according to state-owned MENA news agency.

Faltaous reportedly confessed to conspiring to kill the bishop with recently defrocked monk Isaiah El-Makary, who has also been detained on Saturday.

Following the murder of the bishop, Faltaous attempted to commit suicide, and is currently being treated in Cairo's Anglo American Hospital for injuries sustained in the suicide attempt.

Isaiah was defrocked last week after an investigation by the monastic affairs committee of the Holy Synod, the highest decision-making body in the Coptic Orthodox Church, revealed that he had committed actions unbecoming of a monk.

Isaiah was released from the monastery by Church decree and ordered to go by his former, non-monastic name of Wael Saad Tawadros.

The Church had previously stressed that the monk was not dismissed from his position due to the investigations into the murder of Bishop Epiphanius, and that he had been investigated and sanctioned previously by the Church for breaking monastic rules.

Following the death of Bishop Epiphanius, the Holy Synod issued new decrees prohibiting monks from using social media, appearing on media outlets, and building non-sanctioned places of worship.

The decrees also included a one-year freeze on the process of initiating new monks, and a three-year suspension of the ordination of monks as priests and archpriests.

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After old rumors that actor Idris Elba will be the next James Bond gained new life earlier this week, the man himself has responded on social media to apparently dismiss them.

Elba, who has been in the public conversation to take the role of 007 after Daniel Craig wraps up with Bond 25, took to Twitter to respond to the firestorm of chatter about him being cast as the next actor to play the iconic role.

On Sunday, the star posted a series of cryptic tweets in which he poked fun at the idea. The first was a heavily filtered selfie of the top half of his head with the caption, my name is Elba, Idris Elba.

Hours later, the star got even more vague, first sharing an image of the rap group Public Enemy followed quickly by one of their lyrics, Dont Believe The HYPE... While this seems like the 45-year-old stars way of putting the idea of him playing Bond to bed, its hard to tell for sure.

As previously reported, director Antoine Fuqua discussed the possibility of his casting during a conversation with producer Barbara Broccoli who said it is time for a non-white actor to play the iconic character. Fuqua allegedly said the move will happen eventually and Elba is reportedly the first choice to take on the role.

Idris could do it if he was in shape. You need a guy with a physically strong presence. Idris has that, Fuqua said.

The star was previously rumored to take on the role in 2014 following the hack into Sony Pictures emails. However, the star addressed the rumors in a very similar tongue-in-cheek way on social media at that time as well.

Isnt 007 supposed to be handsome? he wrote over a less-than-flattering selfie. Glad you think Ive got a shot! Happy New Year people.

Craig has portrayed the character since his 2006 debut in Casino Royale. Since then hes played the titular character in four films not including the upcoming Bond 25, which is widely expected to be his last.Kanye West on Saturday denied he was stumped on Jimmy Kimmel Live! when the host asked the rapper about his support for President Trump.

West took to Twitter to address reports that he was stumped during his Thursday night appearance when host Jimmy Kimmel asked the rapper why he thought Trump cared about black people. The host was echoing Wests infamous comment in 2005 when he said former President George W. Bush didnt care about black people.

West appeared to take a long pause before Kimmel suggested to go to commercial break. When they returned, West didnt answer the question.

The 41-year-old rapper tweeted Saturday that he wasnt given a chance to answer the question.

On Jimmy Kimmel we had a great time having a dialogue. Im reading that I was stumped by a question. Let me clarify the click bait. I wasnt stumped. I wasnt given a chance to answer the question, West said.

The question was so important I took time to think. And then I was hit with the lets go to commercial break. That interview showed strong personalities with different opinions having a civil conversation, he tweeted in a second post.

KANYE WEST DEFENDS HIS SUPPORT FOR TRUMP: 'LIBERALS CAN'T BULLY ME'

West said earlier in the segment he would not be bullied by those on the left because he supported the president.

Just as a musician, African-American, guy out in Hollywood, all these different things, you know, everyone around me tried to pick my candidate for me, the Chicago rapper told Kimmel. "And then told me every time I said I liked Trump that I couldnt say it out loud or my career would be over; Id get kicked out of the black community because blacks -- were supposed to have a monolithic thought, we can only, like, we can only be Democrats and all.

West has maintained his vocal support for Trump since the 2016 presidential election.

On Saturday, West said there was no hard feelings between him and Kimmel despite their differing views.

I was so happy when I saw Jimmy walk out in the Yeezys. That was an olive branch. He lead with love. I appreciate Jimmy and his team. You guys are Jedis. much love, West tweeted.

Fox News' Gerren Keith Gaynor contributed to this report.Mark Hamill had a very successful acting career thanks to his role in the Star Wars universe. However, that doesnt mean that the star is a beacon of good sense, as proven by his recent reveal about advice he gave a young Arnold Schwarzenegger.

The 66-year-old star recently revealed on Twitter that he once gave some deeply misguided advice to Austrian actor and former governor.

Arnold Schwarzenegger asked me for advice when he was just starting out. I told him to lose his accent for a wider range of roles & to change his last name since no one could pronounce it, Hamil confessed. He did the opposite & became one of the biggest stars EVER#TrueStory

The Terminator star himself responded to the reveal with and absolved the star in an incredibly polite tweet of his own.

Your advice was absolutely correct under any normal circumstances, Schwarzenegger said. And those were the rules back then. I just happen to be a rule-breaker.

As fans will note, Schwarzenegger is known today for both his trademark accent as well as his last name, which is notoriously difficult for Americans to pronounce or spell. However, it seems that the 71-year-old Predator star is letting Hamill off the hook noting that his rise to fame and prominence was about as unpredictable as it gets.

Hamill has been making waves on the social media platform in recent weeks thanks to his politically charged tweets. He most recently suggested that Donald Trumps star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame be replaced with that of his late Star Wars co-star, Carrie Fisher.A Texas restaurant was forced to shut down its social media accounts on Saturday after it received backlash for posting a photo of Jeff Sessions during the attorney generals visit to the Houston chain.

The fury against El Tiempo Cantina began when the restaurant posted a picture Friday of owner Rolando Laurenzos son and Sessions. The chain wrote in the caption that it was an honor to serve the attorney general, who was in Houston to meet with law enforcement officers on crime and illegal immigration.

Fans quickly condemned the post and lambasted the restaurant for serving Sessions. Some people urged customers to boycott the restaurant while others sent death threats to Laurenzo and the staff.

"I felt like it was a slap to the community that supports the restaurant and that backs up the restaurant and that works for the restaurant," Houston resident Gilma Aguirre told ABC13.

The post was taken down and Laurenzo wrote an apology, saying the picture does not represent us supporting [Sessions] position, Houston CultureMap reported.

El Tiempo does not in anyway support the practice of separating children from parents or any other practices of the government relative to immigration. The posting of a photograph of the Attorney General at one of our restaurants does not represent us supporting his positions, Laurenzo wrote in a Facebook post before the restaurant's account was deactivated.

Laurenzo said the restaurant did not know it would be serving Sessions and the staff was focused on serving great food and giving great customer service.

The man came to dinner and he was served without us even thinking about the political situations, Laurenzo wrote. It was posted without review or approval by ownership and this has led to everyone jumping to conclusions that somehow we are involved in this political matter. We dont approve of anyone separating parents and children.

Despite the explanation, the restaurant appeared to deactivate all its social media pages as of Saturday due to the backlash.

Laurenzo told KHOU11 that it was a mistake for the restaurant to post the photo.

In retrospect, it was a mistake because it angered so many people," Laurenzo said. "We have gotten so many complaints and comments. And threats, death threats. This has been extremely shocking to our family.

He also told ABC13 he decided to delete the social media accounts because people were insulting the restaurant and his family in dramatic fashion.

"People are insulting us in such a dramatic fashion, and we feel like we don't deserve it," the restaurant owner said. "At least temporarily I had it taken down because I don't want to be insulted, my children to be insulted, my family to be insulted."A Montana man who was accused of filling his water cup with soda at a fast food restaurant has been arrested and charged with multiple misdemeanors and a felony.

Missoula Police Public Information Officer Travis Welsh says police were called to the scene on Thursday around 2:30 pm after Daniel Stine started a fight with a restaurant employee.

VIDEO OF VIOLENT MCDONALD'S BRAWL IN ILLINOIS MAY LEAD TO ARRESTS, POLICE SAY

The 48-year-old had allegedly tried to fill a water cup with soda at a restaurant and was confronted by an employee who told him he would have to pay for the soft drink, Welsh said to KGVO.

"When confronted by an employee who informed him that he had to pay for the cup of soda he refused and left out one of the entrances," Welsh said, KGVO reported. "The employee followed him, told him that he was not welcome back then he turned and came back towards the employee and tried to kick that person before walking away again."

Stine had fled the restaurant when police arrived, but officers spotted him entering another restaurant nearby and followed him into the restroom where he had gone to hide.

BROTHERS WHO BRUTALLY ATTACKED MCDONALD'S EMPLOYEE 'WILL BE DEALT WITH,' THEIR MOTHER SAYS

According to police officers, once authorities found Stine in the bathroom the man began to resist arrest and officers shocked him with a stun gun.

"The officers were able to make entry to the bathroom, however, when they did and confronted the man, rather than comply with their instructions he approached them in what appeared to be an aggressive manner," Welsh said. "The officers attempted to take control of him physically and that's when he began to resist and fight with the officers and had to be tased to comply to the officer's instructions."

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Stine was arrested and booked with four misdemeanors including resisting arrest, criminal trespass and disorderly conduct. He was also charged with felony robbery for the incident and is being held on an additional $50,000 bond.

This comes two weeks after a brutal beat down happened in a McDonalds when a woman tried to fill her water cup with soda.A German man called police after a baby squirrel would not stop following him around, officers said.

The distraught man called Karlsruhe emergency services on Thursday and claimed he was being chased down the street by the small rodent, The Guardian reported.

Police in the southeastern German town responded to the call and found the squirrel running after the unidentified man. However, soon after police arrived on the scene, the squirrel abruptly gave up its pursuit and laid down and fell asleep, the publication reported.

The squirrel has fallen asleep in fright, the police write-up said.

GREEK CAT SANCTUARY HIRING CARETAKER TO LIVE ON ISLAND, SUPERVISE 55 CATS

After investigating the incident of rodent harassment, police officers figured the tiny animal had likely become separated from its mother and followed the man around in search of a new home.

The man didnt know what to do and so he called the police. He was certainly feeling a bit threatened."  Christina Krenz

It often happens that squirrels which have lost their mothers look for a replacement and then focus their efforts on one person, said Christina Krenz, a police spokeswoman, to The Guardian.

Krenz said, The man didnt know what to do and so he called the police. He was certainly feeling a bit threatened, adding that squirrels can become very persistent, not just running behind someone, but entirely fixated on them. It can be pretty scary.

Officers took the small suspect into police custody, and then eventually turned him over to an animal rescue center. Two other baby squirrels were reportedly also brought to the animal rescue center that day  though only one of them appeared to have had a run-in with the law.

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS

According to the police write-up, though the squirrel was turned over, he will not be forgotten by officers anytime soon.

A squirrel will be our new mascot, said the police write-up.NEW You can now listen to Fox News articles!

Candidates supported by President Trump did well in a special congressional election in Ohio and in primaries Tuesday, although some races remained too close to call. But the anti-Trump media did their best to paint the outcome of the voting as bad news for the president.

Journalists worked hard to spin a pro-Democratic narrative before the voting. For example, CNN anchor Don Lemon said Republicans are people who will lie, steal, and cheat, lie to their mother, lie to themselves about what's right of this country, about truth and facts. Neutral objective journalism, right?

Journalists also talked a lot about a blue wave and a major sign of trouble for Republicans before the votes were counted. Politico wrote of Democrats surging. Sort of like what they predicted back in 2016 when they said President Hillary Clinton would be occupying the Oval Office in January 2017.

They were wrong this time, too.

That didnt stop the typical spin. CNBCs John Harwood used Twitter to say winning was a sign the GOP was going to lose in November. He retweeted a comment saying, its hard to remember when so many victories were such a bad omen going into November. Harwood even claimed the GOP has a corruption problem in mid-term elections.

Election season makes people say stupid things. Thats why Democratic socialist media darling Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez compared a request that she debate to catcalling. The Daily Wires Ben Shapiro made the invitation and even offered to pay $10,000 to her campaign or a charity of her choosing.

The result was just the latest public relations disaster for the lefty candidate. (You know its a bad move when even The New York Times makes you look bad for your comment.)

Incredibly, Washington Post media columnist Margaret Sullivan gave a one word support of Ocasio-Cortez, writing simply: Preach. Apparently, even asking a liberal millennial woman to debate is now a #MeToo moment.

One final point about the medias post-election distortions. Its widely known and little reported (now) that midterms are typically bad for the party in power. Heres NPR back in 2014 explaining: History tells us that midterm elections are bad  sometimes very bad  for the party that controls the White House.

So, yes, the rules say the GOP is supposed to lose seats in Congress in November. But journalists want to treat the voting as a referendum on President Trump and not politics as usual. Its almost like theyre whistling past the graveyard of their predictions. Maybe thats why Don Lemon is now thanking politicians who even watch CNN.

2. Are They Press or Suppress? Imagine the news coverage if the son of a popular evangelical pastor was arrested for training children to be school shooters in an underground desert compound. Imagine what would happen if the remains of a dead child were also found at the site. And envision that the father had been an unindicted co-conspirator in a terrorist trial.

Journalists would turn it into the crime of the century. With good reason.

Only that wasnt the story. One of the people arrested was the son of Brooklyn Imam Siraj Wahhaj, an unindicted co-conspirator in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, according to The New York Post. The Islamic connection was so uncomfortable for the press that ABC and CBS censored it entirely for two straight nights.

CNN tried the same lack of disclosure. CNN, for example, did not mention the words Muslim or extremist in a Tuesday article about the discovery of the 11 missing children, wrote The Daily Callers Amber Athey

CNN also got flamed by Twitchy for not referring to occupants of the compound as extremist of the Muslim belief. That reference was actually removed from a story.

3. Journalists Are Neutral? The news media now face more allegations of liberal bias than ever before. Naturally, journalists want to fend off that criticism, especially from President Trump, with calm, rational journalism.

Nahhhhhhh.

Instead, a Boston Globe editor is trying to organize the press into one mighty super PAC (Sen. Marco Rubio, this Buds for you!) against the president  to prove its not biased.

Marjorie Pritchard, deputy managing editor for the editorial page of The Boston Globe, got commitments from 70 different newspaper editorial pages to do what they would do anyhow  attack President Trump.

The newspaper's request was being promoted by industry groups such as the American Society of News Editors and regional groups like the New England Newspaper and Press Association, according to The Associated Press.

And the proposal suggested editorial boards take a common stand against Trump's words regardless of their politics. Because fighting the president of one political party isnt politics, apparently.

4. NBC? Them, too: So much for NBC clearing NBC of sexual misconduct allegations. Mediaite is reporting that NBC has another firestorm getting ready to strike  this one courtesy of the Daily Beast.

Heres the Mediaite take: The story involves varying allegations against senior NBC News executives, and relates to alleged misconduct from years ago as well as more current allegations against network brass. One source told Mediaite that executives at NBC News are panicked by the reporting. NBC News did not provide comment.

On its own, that might be bad. But context matters and NBC has been embarrassed by #MeToo revelations. Think back to the Variety report that cost Today host Matt Lauer his high-paying network job.

Variety reported: As the co-host of NBCs Today, Matt Lauer once gave a colleague a sex toy as a present. It included an explicit note about how he wanted to use it on her, which left her mortified.

That story got worse: On another day, he summoned a different female employee to his office, and then dropped his pants, showing her his penis. After the employee declined to do anything, visibly shaken, he reprimanded her for not engaging in a sexual act.

The Peacock Network also passed on the sexual misconduct investigation by contributor Ronan Farrow that has had extensive impact throughout the industry. NBC also dropped the contract of political analyst Mark Halperin after sexual misconduct allegations against him surfaced.

Media outlets like Esquire continue to dig through the disastrous way NBC has handled such situations. These latest claims could further undermine the networks waning credibility.NEW You can now listen to Fox News articles!

The left versus far-left competition thats broken out among Democrats in the aftermath of Hillary Clintons loss to Donald Trump in the 2016 presidential race was evident in the Hawaii Democratic primary Saturday.

In the solidly Democratic state, where Republicans rarely win any elections, Gov. David Ige won the Democratic gubernatorial nomination, making him a heavy favorite for re-election.

Ige, who had the backing of some of the island states most powerful unions, was able to turn back a challenge from retiring U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, who gave up her House seat for a second time to make an unsuccessful bid for statewide office. She led in early pre-election polls against Ige but he staged a comeback.

Hanabusa was, arguably at least, the farther left of the two candidates. But both she and Ige promised to stand up to President Trump if elected.

And both Ige and Hanabusa endorsed the efforts of a U.S. district judge in Hawaii to block the presidents efforts to impose a ban on travel to the United States by people coming from a group of countries thought to be a haven for terrorists and anti-American activities.

With all precincts reporting, Ige had 51 percent of the vote, compared with 44 percent for Hanabusa. The remaining votes went to four minor candidates.

Republicans nominated state House Minority Leader Andria Tupola to run against Ige. She won 56 percent of the vote against two opponents but is given little chance of beating Ige in November.

For the U.S. Senate, Democratic incumbent Maizie Hirono had no primary challenger and is heavily favored to win re-election in November over Ron Curtis, who won the GOP primary with 23 percent of the vote over seven other candidates.

President Trumps ability to turn his supporters out for a preferred candidate may be more of a threat to their march to majority than the Democrats believe.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, a nationally prominent progressive Democrat who represents the states 2nd Congressional District, crushed two opponents to win her partys nomination for another term with 84 percent of the vote. Republican candidate Brian Evans faced no challengers for his partys nomination for the seat.

In the 1st Congressional District, Ed Case  a solidly pro-business Democrat  emerged as the winner with 40 percent of the vote over six other candidates to win his partys nomination for the House seat that Hanabusa is vacating.

The factionalism among Hawaii Democrats is hard to follow for anyone who doesnt live there. The economic, racial, and ethnic diversity create strange alliances within the Democratic Party.

It is hard, therefore, to imagine that supporters of outgoing Lt. Gov. Douglas Chin, who finished second to Case in the Democratic congressional primary with 25 percent of the vote, getting behind Republican Cam Cavasso ahead of the November election, even though Case is far out of the mainstream of Democratic Party politics.

From a local perspective that might be a sensible strategy. Let the GOP have the seat for two years then win it back with a progressive who will serve for 10, rather than let Case have it for the foreseeable future.

But that doesnt work in the current national environment and in the battle for control for the U.S. House. With most analysts predicting the Democrats will take control in the November election as the result of an anti-Trump backlash, every seat counts.

Maybe. But Michael Barone, who for years literally wrote the book on U.S. congressional elections (The Almanac of America Politics), says that predictions of Democrats winning a House majority and making Rep. Nancy Pelosi of California speaker again may be premature.

In a commentary he recently penned for the Rasmussen polling newsletter, Barone stressed that voter resistance to one-party control of the federal government may be whats driving things.

Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama all faced a Congress controlled by the opposite party for much of their presidencies. That could be the voters way of ultimately forcing a compromise between the factions in Washington, or  believe it or not  voters may actually prefer gridlock.

Split ticket voting, as Barone and others have documented, has been on the decline for some time. Its one of the reasons the two parties are so polarized. Each believes it has a strong base of support, and that data support that conclusion.

But President Trumps ability to turn his supporters out for a preferred candidate may be more of a threat to their march to majority than the Democrats believe.A fiscally conservative Democrat soundly defeated five other high-profile opponents to represent Honolulu in Congress on Saturday, including the architect of the state's legal challenge to President Trump's travel ban and a follower of Democrat socialist Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

The results in the deeply liberal state were yet another blow to Ocasio-Cortez and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, who have increasingly tried to take their message mainstream ahead of the November midterm elections, only to see their preferred candidates come up short.

Former Congressman Ed Case, a 65-year-old fiscal conservative, overcame Lt. Gov. Doug Chin, who as attorney general took the Trump administration to court over a ban on travel to the United States from several countries in the Middle East. The measure, which has since been upheld by the Supreme Court, was initially ruled unconstitutional by a Hawaii federal judge.

After his loss Saturday, Chin praised "people who don't want to take the country for granted and want to make the country a better place."

DEMOCRATIC SOCIALIST TORCH-BEARERS FLAME OUT NATIONALLY, DESPITE HIGH-PROFILE ENDORSEMENTS

Case also took down 29-year-old Kaniela Ing, a democratic socialist who hoped to follow in the footsteps of colleague Ocasio-Cortez of New York to score an upset victory. Ing, a state representative, had Ocasio-Cortez's endorsement, and the Bronx socialist candidate had stumped for him.

Overall, Case received 47,482 votes, or 40 percent of the total, compared to 25.5 percent for Chin, and only 6.3 percent for Ing.

"Two weeks before my race, I was polling 35 points down," Ocasio-Cortez said Thursday during a major campaign event for Ing, which local reports said was one of the biggest in the state's history. "And we changed that in two weeks because we were talking to people who hadnt been excited about the political process before."

Hawaii's high taxes and surging homelessness put a dent in enthusiasm for establishment Democrats in the deep-blue state, leading some analysts to predict Ing would have performed better. But his loss, like the primary defeats last week of populist Michigan gubernatorial hopeful Abdul El-Sayed and congressional candidate Fayrouz Saad, as well as Kansas House candidate and former Sanders staffer Brent Welder, left Ocasio-Cortez's followers empty-handed.

Case will face Cam Cavasso, a former state representative who previously ran unsuccessfully for U.S. Senate.

Meanwhile, Hawaii Gov. David Ige won the state's Democratic primary Saturday in his bid for a second term, overcoming a tough primary challenge and fierce criticism after state officials sent out a false inbound missile alert earlier this year and left it uncorrected for more than 30 minutes.

Ige defeated U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, who gave up her seat in Congress to run for governor. Ing took 51.4 percent of the vote with 119,310 ballots, compared to Hanabusa's 44.4 percent.

The incumbent in November will face state Rep. Andria Tupola, who won the Republican gubernatorial primary.

Officials mistakenly sent a warning of an imminent missile attack, promising THIS IS NOT A DRILL, to cellphones, radios and televisions on Jan. 13. Hanabusa used the false alarm as a key campaign cudgel against Ige.

But the governor's handling of the Kilauea volcano's latest eruption, which destroyed more than 700 homes and displaced thousands, as well as devastating flooding on Kauai, may have improved his stature.

Also, Ron Curtis will face off against incumbent Sen. Mazie Hirono in the general election as the Republican Party's nominee to represent Hawaii in the U.S. Senate. Hirono, who was first elected to the Senate in 2012 and became the first Asian-American female senator, is widely expected to win in November.

Other primary vote-tally updates

In Washington State, there was some good news for Democrats: It's looking more likely that the race for Washington's 9th Congressional District will have two Democrats on the ballot in November, as votes continue to be counted from last week's primary.

WATCH: WASHINGTON CONGRESSIONAL CANDIDATE AIMS TO BE THE NEXT OCASIO-CORTEZ

After King and Pierce Counties updated their ballot counts Friday night, Democrat Sarah Smith was 2,582 votes ahead of Republican Doug Basler, a significant jump from her 196-vote lead the day before. If her lead holds, she'll advance along with Democratic incumbent U.S. Rep. Adam Smith, who has represented the progressive district that includes part of Seattle for more than two decades.

Adam Smith, the heavy favorite in November, secured about 49.3 percent of the vote, compared to Sarah Smith's 25.5 percent.

Under Washington's primary system, all candidates appear on the same ballot and the top two vote getters advance to the general election, regardless of party. Washington is a vote-by-mail state and elections officials will continue tallying ballots next week.

Sarah Smith was recruited to run by Brand New Congress, the same group that backed Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who defeated incumbent Rep. Joe Crowley in New York's Democratic primary this summer.

Also in Washington, another race where votes were still being tallied is the 8th Congressional District, where Democrat Kim Schrier is maintaining her lead for the second spot in hopes of advancing to the general election.

Schrier, a pediatrician, increased her lead in updated returns Friday over attorney Jason Rittereiser. Republican Dino Rossi, a former state lawmaker who had unsuccessful runs for governor and the U.S. Senate, advanced Tuesday to the November election.

KOBACH RECUSES HIMSELF IN KANSAS AS VOTE-COUNTING CONTINUES IN TIGHTH RACE

The two are seeking the seat left open by long-time incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Dave Reichert, who is retiring. The seat has been held by Republicans since it was created in the early 1980s. The district is among about two dozen across the country that are held by Republicans but whose voters chose Hillary Clinton over Donald Trump, making it a critical potential pickup for the Democrats trying to gain control of the House for the first time since 2010.

And in Kansas, the counting of the last ballots in the tight and contentious Republican primary for governor will stretch out over the next week and still might not settle the race.

Trump-backed Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach leads Gov. Jeff Colyer by 110 votes out of 313,000-plus cast after late mail-in ballots from all 105 counties were added Friday to totals from advance voting and ballots cast at the polls Tuesday.

The state's 105 counties still must review nearly 9,000 provisional ballots and determine how many of them were cast in the Republican primary  and how many will be counted. They have until Aug. 20 to finish that process and certify their local results.

Fox News' Amy Lieu and The Associated Press contributed to this report.The co-chair of the Democratic National Committee, Rep. Keith Ellison, was accused of emotional and physical abuse by an ex-girlfriend who said: "You know you did that to me."

Ellison responded to the allegations Sunday, issuing a brief statement that said, "I never behaved in this way."

The allegations surfaced Saturday night from Karen Monahan after her son alleged in a Facebook post that he had seen text messages from Ellison threatening her and video of the congressman screaming obscenities at her as he dragged her off a bed by her feet, The Associated Press reported.

"My brother and I watched out mom come out of pure hell after getting out of her relationship with Keith Ellison," 25-year-old Austin Monahan said.

On Sunday, Karen Monahan said that what her son posted was the truth.

"Every statement he made was true. @keithellison, you know you did that to me," she tweeted.



Karen Monahan did not respond to a request from The Associated Press asking for copies of the video or text messages.

"Karen and I were in a long-term relationship which ended in 2016, and I still care deeply for her well-being," Ellison said. "This video does not exist because I never behaved in this way, and any characterization otherwise is false."

The allegations come days before Democratic voters choose between Ellison and other candidates in a Tuesday primary for attorney general.

Ellison posted photos to his Twitter account showing him posing with Monahan.

Earlier on Sunday, Ellisons rivals in the race for attorney general demanded that he respond to the allegations, WCCO-TV reported.

Matt Pelikan and former Minnesota House Speaker Debra Hilstrom called the allegations troubling, the station reported.

Another candidate in the race, former Ramsey County Attorney Tom Foley, said the allegations were serious, according to the station.

If there are records and video of his interaction with the victim, those materials also should be turned over to law enforcement for immediate investigation, he said.

The station reported reaching out to Austin Monahan and left a message on the cell phone believed to be his that was not returned.

Hilstrom said in a tweet that Austin Monahan tagged her with his post. She then shared it with her followers.President Trump's personal attorney Rudy Giuliani slammed as an "idiot" a New York Times reporter during an interview Sunday on Fox News' "Media Buzz," saying it should be apparent that even honest clients run a major risk of falling into a so-called perjury trap if they agree to meet with federal investigators.



The Times' Nicholas Confessore argued on MSNBC this week that Giuliani's concerns that Trump might be charged with lying to investigators if he met with Special Counsel Robert Mueller's team revealed that "the president's story is wrong, it's a lie."



Giuliani unloaded on Confessore, saying prosecutors often aggressively pursue perjury charges even where the underlying truth of the matter involved is unresolved, and that it would be "malpractice" to ignore that threat.



"I don't know if he's deliberately being like that or if he's a complete moron, Giuliani said. "The reality is, you can be accused of perjury when you're telling the absolute truth. Let me give you an example for that idiot -- which I attribute, really, to the malice of the New York Times."



Giuliani then offered an extended hypothetical to illustrate his point.

WATCH: GIULIANI TELLS HANNITY MUELLER PROBE IS NOT LEGITIMATE



"I didn't come to your house last night," Giuliani said to host Howard Kurtz, by way of example. "You're lying, and you say I did come to your house. They put me under oath and I say, I didn't come to Howie's house last night. But they elect to believe Howie, even though Howie lied about it twice. I have no control over that. That's what they did to Martha Stewart. And since that case, all of us lawyers have been very careful."

In 2004, Stewart was convicted of conspiracy, obstruction and perjury charges after a judge threw out the securities fraud case against her, which was widely considered the more substantial legal issue. And former MLB superstar Barry Bonds was convicted of obstruction of justice for allegedly giving an incomplete answer on a grand jury questionnaire, but that conviction was overturned in 2015.

Both episodes have been cited as high-profile examples of so-called perjury traps, in which prosecutors secure convictions for lying or telling half-truths without being able to prove any underlying offense.

Giuliani said the hypothetical was similar to the questions surrounding Trump's purported conversation with former FBI Director James Comey concerning National Security Adviser Michael Flynn.

Giuliani said Sunday that Trump would testify that he did not speak to Comey specifically about giving Flynn a "break" for the purpose of obstructing the Russia probe, which matches Comey's sworn testimony. But, Giuliani suggested, that hypothetical Trump testimony could still be contested at trial by Comey or others, leading to a plausible prosecution for perjury.



Despite "hysterical" media coverage, Giuliani said he still expects the Mueller probe to wind down by September.



Giuliani added that many in the media don't fully understand how to follow the Trump team's legal arguments, which he said often involve hypothetical situations that are not intended to be admissions of guilt. Giuliani's comments earlier this year that the president legally might be able to pardon himself were widely interpreted as a suggestion that Trump was seriously considering the possibility.

Still, despite what he characterized as unfair coverage, Giuliani said it's necessary to address the Mueller probe in the court of public opinion by continuing to make regular media appearances. He compared the public to "our grand jury."

"The reality is, this is not a court case," Giuliani said. "The president can't be indicted. They've acknowledged that."

Police in Massachusetts were dispatched to deal with a shocking discovery Saturday after a resident found a boa constrictor beneath the hood of a car.

Someone called authorities about the jawdropping find after spotting the large snake while checking the cars fluids, the Stoughton Police Department said on Facebook.

MASSIVE PYTHON SLITHERS UP AUSTRALIAN MANS HOME IN SHOCKING VIDEO

So you collect your thoughts, check your own pulse, and call your local neighborhood police department and relay what you have found, police said. It gets dispatched and the brave officers, without having ever gone to snake charming school, head off to capture this fire breathing dragon.

Multiple police officers, in addition to an animal control officer, arrived at the scene and managed to safely remove the snake from its hiding place, police said.

SNAKE EATS PIGEON ON BUSY LONDON SIDEWALK AS HORRIFIED CROWD WATCHES

No one was hurt during the capture, which police quipped was done without assistance from their supervisor who was hiding as far as he possibly could from this incredibly dangerous mission.

Animal control took custody of the reptile, which "will be properly cared for," police said.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.Several Andean flamingos at a reserve in Gloucestershire, England, have laid eggs for the first time in over a decade, a British conservation charity announced last week.

The Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT) shared the news about the birds from WWT Slimbridge in a Thursday press release.

The rare flock of Andean flamingos at WWT Slimbridge have become foster parents to chicks from their near-relatives, Chilean flamingos, after the hot spell triggered them to lay their first eggs since 2003, it said.

Six Andean flamingos laid nine infertile eggs, the WWT added.

However, the birds will still be able to practice their parenting skills.

MASSACHUSETTS POLICE CAPTURE JAW-DROPPING BOA CONSTRICTOR FROM UNDER CAR HOOD

Unfortunately none of the eggs were viable, so with the Andeans in full parenting mode we gave them Chilean chicks to bring up as their own, Mark Roberts, aviculture manager at Slimbridge, said in a statement. Its great motivation and enriching for the birds.

The WWT says its been years since the birds reproduced.

ILLINOIS FAMILY DESTROYED AFTER DOG MISTAKENLY EUTHANIZED: HOW DID THIS HAPPEN?

The flock last successfully bred in 1999 and, interestingly, one of the chicks that hatched back then is currently nesting, the trust notes.

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology offers details about the species reproduction rates online, the Washington Post points out.

Breeding rates are consistently low, and it is estimated that the species suffered a population decline between the '70s and '90s, present estimates are that only 38,000-39,000 individuals exist, making this the rarest species of flamingo, it says.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.Microsoft issued an ultimatum to a social network that it provides cloud services for after a user there posted comments threatening Jewish people with ritual death by torture.

Either Gab had to remove the offensive post, or Microsoft would terminate the sites access to its cloud service known as Azure. The content incites violence, is not protected by the First Amendment and violated its own policies, Microsoft said, reports the Washington Post.

The demand from Microsoft is the latest incident as tech companies grapple with how to police hateful, abusive content and disinformation, while striking the right balance of facilitating a free expression of ideas.

In the weeks after the 2016 presidential election, Facebook was slammed for not taking Russia's use of its platform more seriously; since then, CEO Mark Zuckerberg and his colleagues have beefed up the site's election security monitoring and made the removal of hate speech and fake accounts a bigger priority.

SNAPCHAT SURGERY: DISTURBING TREND OF PATIENTS WANTING TO LOOK 'FILTERED' SEEN BY DOCTORS

We believe we have an important responsibility to ensure that our services are not abused by people and groups seeking to incite violence against others, Microsoft said in a statement to the Post.

Although Gab did not respond to an email from the publication seeking comment, Andrew Torba, the founder of Gab, wrote in a post that the social network is seeking a new hosting provider and considering how to build our own infrastructure.

Unlike Facebook, Apple and YouTube, most cloud-hosting services tend to be less visible to the broader public and have taken more neutral stances in the debate thus far and dont have teams of fact-checkers and content moderators to scan for issues.

Like its peers, Microsoft Azure provides the technical architecture to host websites without regard to their topic or purpose  so long as their makers are not engaged in illegal activity or intending to violate the rights of others, according to the companys acceptable use policy. Other cloud providers, such as Google and Amazon, maintain similar rules on what is considered appropriate to save on their own servers.For tourists soaking up the sights of Rome, the Trevi Fountain is a popular location for a quick selfie.

But the scenic spot descended into chaos on Wednesday night when a fight between two women erupted into a brawl so wild that police were forced to attend.

It all began when a 19-year-old female tourist from the Netherlands and a 44-year-old Italian-American traveler wanted to snap selfies in the same position. This occurred during a time of day when the light makes the fountain a perfect backdrop.

Italian newspaper La Repubblica reported that the duo exchanged heated words as they both jockeyed for the perfect angle at the historic site.

Soon, fists were flying and family members jumped in, turning the argument into a brawl that four police officers had to break up.

Eight people were reportedly charged over the fight, which resulted in bruising.

It comes just days after officials announced plans to make tourists walk past the Trevi Fountain on a designated pathway, in a bid to address out of hand overcrowding at the monument.

Read the rest of the article at news.com.au.Security forces pulled the bodies of three suspected militants from the wreckage of a building in a central Jordanian city on Sunday following a shoot-out in which at least four security personnel were also killed, the government said.

In a huge security operation, Jordanian forces laid siege to the building in a residential part of Salt on Saturday night in a search for those responsible for a bomb attack on Friday on a police van.

The police vehicle had been maintaining security near a music festival in the majority Christian town of Fuhais, near the capital Amman and 15 kms (about 10 miles) from Salt.

Four security personnel were killed during the operation after the suspected militants sought sanctuary in the multi-storey building in Salt, a hillside city, the government said.

The side of the building partially collapsed, possibly because of a blast from a suicide bomber inside, a security source said.

Security forces had seized automatic weapons in a "continuing operation," government spokeswoman Jumana Ghunaimat told Reuters.

No group has claimed responsibility for Friday's attack in Fuhais on the van in which one policeman was killed and six others were injured.

Militants from Islamic State group and other radical jihadist groups have long targeted the US-allied kingdom and dozens of militants are currently serving long prison terms.

King Abdullah, a Middle East ally of Western powers against Islamist militancy who has also safeguarded Jordans peace treaty with Israel, has been among the most vocal leaders in the region in warning of threats posed by radical groups.

Several incidents over the past few years have jolted the Arab kingdom, which has been comparatively unscathed by the uprisings, civil wars and Islamist militancy that have swept the Middle East since 2011.

It was not clear how many militants fled into the building which is in a busy residential quarter of the city. But five had now been rounded up in addition to three earlier, security sources said.

Part of the building was blown up by the militants, according to Ghunaimat and a security source said it was believed a suicide bomber had blown himself up causing its partial collapse.

Ghunaimat had earlier said search and rescue operations were being conducted to ensure no civilians were being held hostage in what was left of the building.

"The building in which the terrorist cell was found is about to fall and will be demolished to prevent a sudden collapse," Ghunaimat added.

The shoot-out also injured at least twenty people, including women and children living in the area. They had been taken overnight to a main hospital in the capital, a medical source said.

Prime Minister Omar Razzaz set up a "crisis cell" bringing top security and government officials to coordinate the large scale security operation deploying hundreds of forces.

The security forces were investigating if the militants were part of a wider sleeper cell network of Islamist radicals that had planned a series of attacks, an official source said.

Jordan said this year that it had foiled an Islamic State group plot that included plans for a series of attacks last November on security installations, shopping malls and moderate religious figures. It arrested the suspects.

Security forces have been extra vigilant with warnings that sympathisers of Islamic State group could launch revenge attacks after the militants were driven out of most of the territory they once controlled in Syria and Iraq.

Intelligence officials and some experts believe widening social disparities and a perception of widespread official corruption is fuelling a rise in radicalisation among disaffected youths in a country with high unemployment and growing poverty.

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Virgin Atlantic passengers fainted on a sweltering plane that was ultimately cancelled - before their replacement flight was diverted to the wrong country in a string of nightmare delays.

Travelers, including families returning to London from Disney World in Florida, were left in the lurch when their transatlantic flight to Gatwick was cancelled over the busted air-conditioning two days ago.

But Friday's replacement flight ended in chaos when the aircraft - which should have landed in London at 8: 10am - was diverted to Shannon in Ireland after reports of smoke in the cabin.

Just one of the desperately tired passengers, Tony Redfearn, told The Sun Online how those on the plane were now desperate to get home as the trip to London extended to at least 30 hours.

Describing the first, ultimately cancelled, flight, Tony said, "We sat on the tarmac for two hours before they cancelled the flight. They told us there was no air-conditioning on the flight and we had to get off. Paramedics had to enter the plane and remove passengers who had fainted due to the heat with the broken air-conditioning."

The flight was full of hundreds of passengers, including many families who had visited Disney World Orlando, Tony said.

And today's flight is the final straw for many, who are still waiting in Ireland for the plane to take them on the final leg of their journey.

Describing today's flight, Tony said, "Nobody really knows what happened, it was all happening in the cockpit.

"The pilots were really professional, they didn't say anything to panic us but you could tell they were worried, he added. "They were quite calm about it."

Tony, an entrepreneur who had travelled to the US for a 10 day holiday, added travelers were "resigned" to the long haul journey home.

He said, "I live in Cornwall so I've got a four hour drive out of Gatwick after this."

Tony claimed two pilots and a crew member had to be checked for smoke inhalation after it landed this morning.

Another passenger said they could smell smoke, added, "Everyone just wanted to know what was going on but the flight crew were brilliant. They went out of their way to make sure that everyone was OK."

Fellow passenger Paul Albrecht, who lives in Florida, said, "The first thing that alerted me to something happening was the flight staff were sent to their post, they were all stood around and you know something's not right.

"Nothing was said probably for an hour and a half then they informed us there had been smoke in the cabin," he said.

He said the pilot told passengers he had made a mayday call during the flight, adding, "It was obviously extremely serious."

Paul, 59, said his two week holiday to England had now been delayed.

The Airbus A330-300 jet was about an hour west of Ireland when the crew declared a mayday and requested permission to divert to Shannon.

The VS1050 aircraft was met by emergency vehicles as it arrived.

This article originally appeared on The Sun.Anniversary events organized in Charlottesville, Va., were ongoing Saturday, in recognition of one year passing since a Unite the Right rally there turned violent.

On the days itinerary were several remembrance events, including a morning of reflection and renewal, a poetry session, and an appearance by University of Virginia President James Ryan, who was on deck to speak. A Rally for Justice was also scheduled in the evening.

There was a significant police presence in the city in anticipation of the day's events, with hundreds of people arriving by the afternoon, according to the city.

Some activists began chanting at police officers, however, upset over the amount of law enforcement there.

"Why are you in riot gear? We don't see no riot here," activists said.

Roughly 200 protesters relocated their group to a different area of the college grounds, which was done because they didn't want to be "caged" in their original spot, Kibiriti Majuto, a coordinator for UVA Students United, told The Associated Press.

Majuto argued that officers hadn't been "on our side" last year.

AIRBNB THREATENS TO BAN USERS PARTICIPATING IN 'UNITE THE RIGHT' RALLY

The first Unite the Right rally was held on Aug. 12, 2017. White nationalists arrived in Charlottesville to demonstrate against the removal of a statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee. The rally turned violent as protesters clashed with counterprotesters, ultimately resulting in the death of Heather Heyer, 32.

Heyer was killed when a person drove a car through a crowd of counterprotesters.

Heyers mother, Susan Bro, told The Associated Press that shed been dreading the first anniversary of her daughters death and compared losing a child to standing in shallow water as waves repeatedly roll in.

You let the wave wash over, and you don't chase it. You let it go and you're OK until the next one comes, she said. But today, I feel like high tide is in.

TRUMP CALLS FOR UNITY, CONDEMNS ALL TYPES OF RACISM ON ANNIVERSARY OF CHARLOTTESVILLE PROTEST

Earlier Saturday, authorities established concrete barriers and metal fences and police were searching bags at checkpoints.

Three men were taken into custody by police around the secured perimeter, accused of trespassing, possessing prohibited items and being drunk in public, the city said in a news release.

President Trump marked the anniversary in a tweet earlier Saturday. In it, he called for unity and condemning all types of racism and acts of violence.

The riots in Charlottesville a year ago resulted in senseless death and division. We must come together as a nation. I condemn all types of racism and acts of violence. Peace to ALL Americans! he tweeted.

Saturdays events in Charlottesville precede a planned white civil rights rally set for Sunday in Washington, D.C. The demonstration was planned by Jason Kessler, who also organized last years rally.

Fox News Adam Shaw and The Associated Press contributed to this report.Crews battling the flames of the so-called Holy Fire tearing through Southern California are steadily making progress, as containment nearly tripled within a day, officials said Saturday.

Although it reached more than 21,000 acres, the blaze is now 29 percent contained, up drastically from just 10 percent on Friday, according to the Twitter account for the Cleveland National Forest (CNF).

Several areas in Lake Elsinore also had their evacuation orders lifted Saturday, specifically Horsethief Canyon, Rice Canyon and McVicker Canyon, the agency said. Some road closures remained, however.

ARSON SUSPECT CALLS CHARGES A LIE AS CALIFORNIAS HOLY FIRE GROWS

The public is asked to use caution when re-entering the affected area, the CNFs tweet said. Heavy equipment and firefighters will continue working in the area. Residents should stay alert and be prepared for changing conditions.

Aircraft have made several flights, dumping water and fire retardant to protect Lake Elsinore and other foothill communities as the flames sweep through the dense, bone-dry brush of the Cleveland National Forest. The Holy Fire began on Monday.

BATTLING 18 BLAZES, CALIFORNIA MAY FACE WORST FIRE SEASON

Authorities arrested a suspect earlier this week  Forrest Gordon Clark, 51  he is accused of deliberately starting the fire. He appeared in court on Friday, although his arraignment was postponed, and he called his arson charge a lie, The Orange County Register reported.

Clark also reportedly made several outbursts and claimed his life was being threatened.

Fox News Amy Lieu and The Associated Press contributed to this report.A body discovered in a column outside a California supermarket Saturday is possibly a man who led police on a chase and escaped their grips earlier this week, reports said.

Authorities made the grisly discovery after they were called to WinCo Foods in Lancaster Saturday around 2:40 p.m. The manager of the store reported smelling a strong odor from the column, Los Angeles Sheriffs Department Lf. John Corina told KABC.

The store manager initially believed it was a sewage leak and called a plumber, who broke off a piece of the column and discovered a leg and a shoe.

Police are working to recover body and identify the individual, but said they believe the remains belonged to a man who deputies were chasing last Monday. Corina told the news station deputies were attempting the arrest a man who they believe was driving a stolen vehicle.

NEVADA INMATE LINKED TO 1984 HAMMER KILLING COLD CASES IN COLORADO

The man got out of the car, ran into the supermarket and onto the buildings roof.

"He got out of the car, ran in, ran up the steps...and somehow got on the roof, and last I heard he got away. They shut the whole thing down," witness Henry Oliver told KABC.

Police thought the man had escaped on Monday after they didnt see any signs of him on the roof.

"He may have gotten inside there and somehow gotten down the column, trying to hide from the deputies and then couldn't get out," Corina said.

Its unclear how the man died. A coroner will determine the exact cause of death.

"It's been over 100 degrees up here every day. I cant imagine being inside that column and just baking. It's a strange development, and if he died that way, it's a horrible way to die," Corina said.More than 100 people gathered at a Charlottesville city park Sunday for a rally on the anniversary of the clashes in Charlottesville that left three people dead  the start of the protests and rallies in the Virginia city and Washington, D.C., where participants of the white civil rights rally is expected to be met with groups of counterprotesters.

Protesters and police officers clashed on the street where 32-year-old Heather Heyer was killed a year ago during the violent Charlottesville demonstrations between the white nationalists and counterprotesters. A memorial also sits on the street, which has been renamed in honor of Heyer.

The demonstrators, who gathered in Washington Park earlier in the morning, marched to Heather Heyer Way about a mile away. Some marched while linking arms.

Chants such as Old Jim Crow, new Jim Crow, this racist system has got to go and "cops and Klan go hand in hand" were heard from the group. Police officers on motorcycles were seen moving behind the demonstrators, a sign of the increased security in the city to prevent another violent and deadly day.

In Washington, D.C., counterprotesters gathered in Lafayette park across the street from the White House ahead of the white civil rights rally," a demonstration by the white nationalists.

The event was organized by Jason Kessler, the principal leader of last years Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville that drew hundreds of white nationalists to protest the citys decision to remove a monument to Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee from a park.

Last years events escalated when a man plowed into a crowd of counterprotesters, killing Heyer. Two state troopers also were killed when their police helicopter crashed.

CHARLOTTESVILLE EVENTS MARKING ONE YEAR SINCE VIOLENT PROTEST

Kessler wrote in his permit application that he expects 100 to 400 people to turn out for the rally in front of the White House on Sunday. He initially tried to stage a similar event in Charlottesville, but later abandoned the idea.

Some leading figures in the U.S. white nationalist movement have said they won't attend or have encouraged supporters to stay away.

The white civil rights rally is expected to also draw counterprotests throughout the city. The National Park Service issued permits for events by DC United Against Hate, New York Black Lives Matter and other groups, which could lead to more than 1,500 participants.

President Trump marked the anniversary earlier Saturday, saying in a tweet: "The riots in Charlottesville a year ago resulted in senseless death and division. We must come together as a nation. I condemn all types of racism and acts of violence. Peace to ALL Americans!"

Demonstrations began on Saturday in Charlottesville where more than 200 protesters, including students and anti-fascists, took to the streets amid heavy police presence. The high security incited anger in many protesters who questioned why they were surrounded by police in riot gear compared to last years events.

"Why are you in riot gear? We don't see no riot here," activists chanted Saturday evening.

CHARLOTTESVILLE PASTOR: HATE ISN'T A POLITICAL ISSUE AND OTHER LESSONS FROM ONE OF OUR DARKEST DAYS

Kibiriti Majuto, a coordinator for University of Virginia Students United, said the students moved to another part of the schools campus because they didn't want to be "caged" in the area of the planned rally. Majuto said police "were not on our side" last year when white supremacists surrounded left-wing activists on the rotunda.

Two people were arrested for disorderly conduct on Saturday, a citys spokesperson said. NBC News correspondent Cal Perry also encountered violent protesters who attempted to grab the crew's camera and hurled foul comments at them.

"F--- you snitch ass b----. F--- you," one protester screamed at Perry that was caught on camera.

WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT BELOW

On Aug. 12, 2017, hundreds of torch-bearing white nationalists descended on Charlottesville for the Unite the Right rally. The event was met with a group of counterprotesters that led to fighting between the two groups. Authorities at the scene forced the group to separate until a driver sped into the counterprotesters.

Heyer's mother, Susan Bro, told The Associated Press that she has been dreading the anniversary of her daughter's death for months. On Sunday morning, she plans to bring flowers to the spot where her daughter was killed.

Fox News' Jenny Buchholz and The Associated Press contributed to this report.On the first anniversary of the Charlottesville protests, which turned deadly in clashes between white nationalists and anti-fascists on opposing sides of whether to keep a statue of Confederate General Robert E. Lee in the Virginia city, a group of persistent activists is fighting to protect the controversial statues.

The United Daughters of the Confederacy (UDC), a 124-year-old organization, issued a rare public statement after the Charlottesville riots last summer:

We are grieved that certain hate groups have taken the Confederate flag and other symbols as their own, the UDCs president general, Patricia M. Bryson, wrote following the August clashes that resulted in the death of counter-protester Heather Heyer and the brutal beating of DeAndre Harris.

However, while Bryson insisted that the UDC condemned anyone who promotes racial divisiveness or white supremacy, she argued that the Confederate ancestors honored by these memorials were and are Americans.

In the year since the riots, more than 30 cities across the United States have removed or relocated Confederate statues and monuments amid an intense, ongoing debate about race and history.

Bryson issued a call of her own a year ago: Join us in denouncing hate groups and affirming that Confederate memorial statues and monuments are part of our shared American history and should remain in place.

Activists who want to see the statues removed disagree.

There is no Silent Sam without black blood, without violence towards black people, Maya Little, who defaced a Confederate soldier statue in May on the University of North Carolinas campus, said.

Little continued: I would say all that blood is on their hands. And it will continue to be until they take a standuntil they... make an effort to take these monuments down and to be a part of actual racial equality, racial justice.

The UDC is a group of older women who gather on Confederate Memorial Day to lay wreaths of boxwood and sing renditions of Dixie to honor the estimated 260,000 Confederate soldiers who died in the Civil War, but they also have taken action to preserve Confederate statues.

As memorials have been taken down and streets or schools have been renamed, the Daughters have fought back with lawsuits aimed at stopping the removal of rebel monuments from public spaces.

The national UDC, headquartered in Richmond, Va., did not respond to a request for comment from the Associated Press. In its heyday around World War I, the group had about 100,000 members. But in a 2000 speech, its then-president estimated there were 25,000 members across 700 chapters in 32 states.

I dont know if weve got one more generation left in it, historian Karen L. Cox, author of "Dixies Daughters: The United Daughters of the Confederacy and the Preservation of Confederate Culture," told the Associated Press.

Despite shrinking numbers, the group still has influence.

When Vanderbilt University decided to change the name of Confederate Memorial Hall, the Daughters Tennessee Division sued for breach of contract. In 2016, the UDC won a $1.2 million judgmentthe current-day value of the $50,000 donation the group made toward construction of the dormitory back in 1935.

Last August, after the San Antonio City Council voted to remove a Confederate soldier monument from Travis Park, the local UDC chapter sued, claiming that it owned not only the monument but the ground beneath it. That case is pending.

In her post-Charlottesville statement, Bryson said the UDC was saddened that some people find anything connected with the Confederacy to be offensive. But rather than publicly joining the fray, she said, the Daughters, like our statues, have stayed quietly in the background, never engaging in public controversy.

Little says the Daughters need to stop acting as if theyre the victims: Being silent in the face of racism or violence is complicity in those acts.

Littles criminal vandalism trial is scheduled for October. In June, the UNC office of student conduct charged her with violating the honor code by stealing, destroying or misusing property.

Meanwhile, Silent Sam still stands on the University of North Carolinas campus.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.A garbage truck driver drank two beers and ate a chicken salad sandwich  which his lawyer claims may have absorbed the alcohol  before he struck and killed an Australian tourist in New York City on Friday, police said.

Felipe Chairez, 44, faced several charges including driving while intoxicated after Madison Jane Lyden was struck by a garbage truck and killed. The 23-year-old tourist was riding a rental bike just before 5 p.m. Friday near Central Park when she swerved to avoid an Uber that went into the bike lane, police said.

As she was avoiding the car, Chairez slammed the sanitation truck he was driving into Lyden, police said.

She was taken to the hospital with severe body trauma and later pronounced dead.

Chairez remained at the scene and admitted to police he drank two beers before he got behind the wheel, the New York Post reported, citing court documents. Authorities also found three empty beer cans inside the truck.

INDIANA MAN ACCUSED OF MURDERING, EATING DEAD EX-GIRLFRIEND DEEMED COMPETENT FOR TRIAL

During his arraignment Saturday, Chairezs lawyer provided a bizarre explanation on why his client may not have been drunk driving.

If he had a chicken salad sandwich, the alcohol may have been absorbed by the lunch he had, lawyer Kenneth Ware said in court.

Police said Chairezs blood-alcohol level when the fatal crash happened was between .04 and .06.

Lyden grew up in southern Tasmania and is the daughter of a couple known to support local charities, news.com.au reported. She worked as a swim instructor, lifeguard and receptionist. She was in New York City on vacation with friends.

Her grieving father told Southern Cross News that she spoke to his daughter the day before her death.

She had only spoken to me the previous day, or the day before, and said Dad, can you believe your little girl is in New York City? the father told the news station. And for her to be taken from us in such a horrific way is gut wrenching. Words can't describe how heartbreaking this is.An Indiana man accused of raping, killing and eating parts of his ex-girlfriends dead body is now mentally competent to stand trial, a state psychiatrist said Thursday.

Joseph Oberhansley, 35, of Jeffersonville has been committed at the Logansport State Hospital since October, when a judge ruled that he wasn't competent to stand trial for the 2014 killing of girlfriend Tammy Jo Blanton.

Prosecutors allege Oberhansley broke into the Jeffersonville home of Blanton in September 2014, and that he raped her, fatally stabbed her and ate parts of her body.

"This matter has been going on for four years now, and it's high time that the victim's family saw justice done," Clark County Prosecuting Attorney Jeremy Mull told the Courier Journal after the hearing.

The letter from the psychiatrist filed with Clark County Circuit Court noted that Oberhansley's competency has been restored since he was committed there last October to undergo competency restoration. In some of his early court appearances after his arrest, Obserhansley had outbursts in court and said his name was Zeus, WAVE3 reported.

ACCUSED CANNIBAL DEEMED 'INCOMPETENT' FOR TRIAL, JUDGE SAYS

Oberhansley's attorneys requested in court Thursday to have a month to talk with him and form an opinion on his competency. During the hearing, Oberhansley spoke up, telling the judge he needed to fire his attorneys, according to the Courier Journal.

"They're trying to control my thoughts," he said in court. "They're trying to control my mind."

Judge Vicki Carmichael told him he needed to work with his attorneys, and scheduled another hearing on Sept. 21 to discuss the matter.

Prosecutors have previously said they will seek the death penalty for Blanton's killing. Before his arrest in 2015, Oberhansley was free on parole for a previous killing when he was a teenager, according to WAVE3.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.Police inspecting a tractor-trailer in Indiana made a stunning find last week: a million dollars' worth of marijuana hidden inside fresh lettuce, officers said.

State troopers offered details about the Wednesday incident in a news release.

This morning at 7:32, a tractor-trailer traveling eastbound on Interstate 70 was stopped for a routine commercial vehicle inspection near the 41 mile marker, they shared.

WOMAN, 81, BUSTED SMUGGLING $870G OF HEROIN ACROSS US-MEXICO BORDER, COPS SAY

State police said a trooper spotted several criminator indicators when the search was going on.

A search of the trailer yielded 260 pounds of hydroponic marijuana concealed within the legitimate load of fresh lettuce, they noted, explaining that comes to an estimated value of $1 million on the street.

Two Florida men -- Jorge Blanco-Diaz, 33, and Adan Labanino Delacruz, 40 -- were nabbed and charged with dealing marijuana, Fox 59 reports.

The Putnam County Jail told Fox News on Sunday that both men bonded out on Thursday, with bond set at $10,005 for each suspect.Police in Jacksonville, Fla., were searching for a suspect after a mother of three boys was fatally shot Friday morning while she ordered food in the drive-thru lane of a local McDonalds.

Jamie Marie Roque, 32, of Jacksonville, died about an hour later at a hospital, the Florida Times Union reported. She had been shot at least once, the report said.

Roques aunt, Rose Mary Lopez, told the newspaper that Roque was devoted to her sons  two of whom are autistic. She also cared for her mother.

She was a beautiful person. She loved life and her family, Lopez said. She was all about her kids and her mom, who has lost it over this.

Jacksonville police Sgt. Marc Musser said witnesses described seeing a heavy-set black man flee in a white four-door car after the shooting.

Detectives were also checking footage from security cameras in the area in a bid to identify the suspect, he said.

Click here for more from the Florida Times-Union.A Nevada inmate who was convicted of attacking a couple with an ax handle is now linked to the 1984 killings of four people who were beaten with a hammer in two separate attacks in suburban Denver, authorities said.

Alexander Christopher Ewing, 57, was identified as the suspect in the deaths of Patricia Smith  killed on Jan. 10, 1984  and Bruce and Debra Bennett and their 7-year-old daughter Melissa, who were found dead on Jan. 16, 1984, police announced on Friday. Ewing, who has a criminal history dating back to 1979, has been serving a 70-year sentence in Nevada Department of Corrections.

Ewing was linked to the cold cases more than 30 years later after DNA evidence tied the convict to the murders.

Make no mistake, DNA is what brings us here today, district attorney George Brauchler said, according to the Denver Post.

TEXAS GIRLS COLD CASE DISAPPEARANCE COULD BE SOLVED AFTER RAISING SUBMERGED CAR

In 1984, Smith was eating lunch when she was beaten with a hammer and raped in her condo in Lakewood, Colo. A hammer was located at the residence. Detectives at the time saved the carpet underneath Smiths body and collected hair and fiber samples at the scene. Swabs of the attackers semen left on Smith was also taken and saved.

Six days later, the Bennetts were attacked at their home in Aurora in a similar style. Melissa and her 3-year-old sister, Vanessa, were beaten with a hammer and raped. Vanessa, now 38, survived the attack and endured several operations and physical therapy.

Detectives working in that case collected the girls comforter and also cut the carpet where Melissas body left. They took swabs of Melissas body to collect the killers semen, Denver Post reported.

In 2001, investigators began gaining traction on the cases when the first set of DNA evidence from the comforter and Bennetts carpet sample were uploaded to an FBI database. A year later, prosecutors filed charges against a John Doe suspect in the Bennett murders.

The Colorado Bureau of Investigation developed a DNA profile in the Smith killing that matched the Bennett case in 2010. And in July, under a 2013 state law that allows DNA sampling of inmates, Nevada authorities swabbed the inside of Ewing's cheek and entered the results in the national database. A routine search of databases showed a possible DNA match to Ewing.

The news "sent a chill through my spine," said John Camper, director of the Colorado Bureau of Investigation.

HOW DNA ANALYSIS TECHNOLOGY IS UNLOCKING COLD CASES

Prosecutors are asking Ewing to be extradited to Colorado where he could face the death penalty. The inmate has been in prison since the 1984 after he escaped police custody while being transported in Kingman, Ariz. He entered a home and severely beat a woman and her husband. Police arrested Ewing two days later.

Ewing was interviewed by Colorado investigators last week after the DNA match to the 1984 crime scenes. When Ewing was shown a photo of Smith from the murder scene, he "jumped back in his chair" and stared at it, the documents state.

"Alex Ewing appeared shocked and when confronted about his DNA being found at the scene of the murder, he said, 'There's got to be a mistake,' and provided no explanation of how his DNA may have been at the scene," Detective Clayton Fuller wrote in an arrest affidavit in the case.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.Four women filed suit against Nike, claiming the company fostered a culture of unequal treatment and sexual harassment.

The class-action lawsuit, filed Thursday in the U.S. District Court in Portland, is one of the first to hit the footwear and apparel company since a number of complaints about pay disparities and bullying became public earlier this year.

Nike parted ways with at least 11 executives in March and April.

Laura Salerno Owens, an employment lawyer at Markowitz Herbold in Portland, told the Oregonian the executive purge was too little, too late. Nike has a real good-old-boys culture, she said.

Women came into the company paid less than men, then they are ranked more harshly and, as a result, got smaller raises and bonuses. I think Nike wants to say that Just a couple people were responsible for the problem and we've gotten rid of them. But we know that's certainly not the case.

The Oregonian published a lengthy piece about the companys former brand president, Trevor Edwards, Nikes troubled culture and why he was the first to go in last spring's executive purge.

'TRUMP 2020' FLAG ATOP FERRY LEADS TO SUSPENSIONS OF 2 STATE WORKERS

The plaintiffs accuse Nike of violating the Federal Equal Pay Act; the Oregon Equal Pay Act; and the Oregon Equality Act. However, they don't ask for specific monetary damages. Rather they seek a court order requiring Nike to pay its employees fairly without regard to gender.

Last month, the companys top human resources executive, Monique Matheson, acknowledged that Nike had failed to promote enough women.

She wrote to staff to say the company wants to create a culture of true inclusion. As part of our plan, we need to improve representation of women and people of color.

The memo, obtained by the Wall Street Journal, added: While weve spoken about this many times, and tried different ways to achieve change, we have failed to gain traction  and our hiring and promotion decisions are not changing senior-level representation as quickly as we have wanted.

The numbers don't lie, Salerno Owens told the newspaper. On a global scale, currently 77 percent of Nikes leadership team are men; 71 percent of its vice presidents are men; and 62 percent of its directors and senior directors are men."

Salerno Owens added: I've represented more than 50 Nike employees, and their experiences have been consistent with the plaintiffs.' The more senior the job title, the smaller the percentage of women.A single ticket sold at a supermarket in Staten Island, N.Y., won Saturdays Powerball jackpot worth more than $245 million, lottery officials said Sunday.

Saturdays winning numbers were: 5, 43, 56, 62, 68, with the Powerball 24, and PowerPlay, 2x.

Advance Newspapers reported the location of the winner, citing information from the New York State Lotterys website.

A secondary prize of $2 million was awarded to a winner in Florida and a tertiary prize of $1 million to a winner in Georgia, the report said.

Powerballs jackpot hasnt been hit in over seven weeks, NJ.com reported.

Saturdays jackpot winner will reportedly receive a payment of $147 million before taxes.

Next Wednesdays lottery win resets to $40 million.

The Powerball lottery is played in 44 states in addition to D.C., the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. A $2 entry ticket provides a one in a 292 million chance of winning.

Winners are announced before 11:00 p.m. eastern on Wednesdays and Saturdays.Two North Carolina state workers have been disciplined for flying a large Trump 2020 flag atop an Outer Banks ferry last month, according to reports.

The ferry division of the North Carolina Department of Transportation said in a statement Friday that the workers who flew the flag violated state law, the Oracoke Current reported.

No matter ones political affiliation, putting any sort of campaign material on a state-owned vessel is not appropriate, the statement said, according to the paper. The crew member and captain of the ferry involved in this incident have been issued seven-day suspensions without pay for unacceptable personal conduct."

The DOT investigated after being shown a photo of the Trump flag flying aboard MV Frisco, which runs between Oracoke and Hatteras, the paper reported.

A spokesman for the ferry division, Tim Hass, said the MV Frisco made only one run with the Trump flag, WRAL-TV reported.

The Raleigh News & Observer reported in July that Catherine Mitchell shared a photo of the flag on the North Carolina Ferry System Facebook page.

I love our ferries. I love our ferry personnel. This does not make me happy, her post said, according to the paper. Im sorry, but is this legal? How would the person who flew this flag feel about a Hillary Clinton flag instead? I thought that government services were supposed to serve everyone and not be political.Hundreds of counterprotesters, including Antifa, confronted a group of white-nationalist demonstrators Sunday at the so-called "Unite the Right II" march toward the White House -- and many pushed back as officers tried to clear the area in the evening, triggering scuffles.

A passing thunderstorm forced the far-right demonstrators to break down their rally stage in Lafayette Park near the White House prematurely, but as police escorted them from the area, reports of Antifa resistance emerged. Some 200 anti-fascists, many of them wearing black masks, confronted police about a half-mile from the White House as officers shoved them back, The Associated Press reported.

Other reports suggested counterprotesters hurled fireworks as police tried to clear the way for "Unite the Right" activists to leave the park. Eventually, many of the Antifa members packed in to vans as police escorted them away.

At a news conference Sunday evening, Metropolitan Police Chief Peter Newsham said one man was arrested in connection with the protest. Newsham identified the man as 44-year-old John Mulligan of Pennsylvania and said he pepper-sprayed another man in the face at approximately 5 p.m., around the time the white nationalist demonstrators left Lafayette Park. The chief said Mulligan was carrying a slingshot, stones and large pieces of glass when he was apprehended.

Newsham praised his officers for showing "professionalism" and "class" when dealing with protesters on both sides and said "we did not see any violent confrontations that we have seen in other cities."

Hours earlier, the white nationalist rally participants -- a couple dozen in all, according to estimates -- gathered at a subway station in northern Virginia and traveled into the nation's capital via train before disembarking in Foggy Bottom near the George Washington University campus. Police officers cleared a path through the counterprotesters for the group to march through on their way to Lafayette Park outside the White House. The far-right rallygoers marched in the middle of the street, surrounded by a phalanx of police, while counter-protesters heckled them from the sidewalks on either side.

While the far-right group held its rally in Lafayette Park, Antifa and Black Lives Matter protesters marched in the surrounding streets. At one point, an eruption of smoke emerged near the Eisenhower Executive Office Building next to the White House.

When the far-right group arrived at Lafayette Park, another large crowd greeted them with boos, cries of "shame," and chants of "Nazis go home" and "you are not welcome here."

"Unite the Right" organizer Jason Kessler said he expected 100 to 400 people to participate in the Lafayette Park event. However, their numbers appeared to be far fewer than that.

Some leading figures in the U.S. white nationalist movement said they would not attend or encouraged supporters to stay away.

By mid-afternoon, more than 1,000 people had gathered in Freedom Plaza, also near the White House, to oppose Kessler's demonstration. The counterprotesters planned to march to Lafayette Square just before the arrival of the white nationalists.

Makia Green, who represents the Washington branch of Black Lives Matter, told Sunday's crowd that: "We know from experience that ignoring white nationalism doesn't work."

Earlier this month, Facebook stunned and angered counterprotest organizers when it disabled their Washington event's page, saying it and others had been created by "bad actors" misusing the social media platform. The company said at the time that the page may be linked to an account created by Russia's Internet Research Agency -- a so-called troll farm that has sown discord in the U.S. -- but counterprotesters said it was an authentic event they worked hard to organize.

Sunday marks one year after the original "Unite the Right" rally in Charlottesville, when hundreds of white nationalists  including neo-Nazis and Ku Klux Klan members  descended on Charlottesville in part to protest the city's decision to remove a monument to Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee from a park.

Violent fighting broke out between attendees and counterprotesters in 2017. Authorities eventually forced the crowd to disperse, but a car later barreled into the crowd of peaceful counterprotesters, killing 32-year-old Heather Heyer and injuring dozens more. A state police helicopter later crashed, killing two troopers.

This weekend was much quieter in Charlottesville. On Sunday morning, a crowd of more than 200 people gathered in a park to protest racism and remember Heyer. The group sang songs, and speakers addressed the crowd.

Authorities in Charlottesville confirmed that four people had been arrested, including a man and a woman who got into a fight after the man saluted the Lee statue.

Martin Clevenger, 29, of Spotsylvania, Va., and 40-year-old Veronica Fitzhugh, 40, of Charlottesville, were arrested on one count each of disorderly conduct and later released on a summons.

Another Charlottesville resident, 42-year-old Jesse Beard, was arrested on one count of obstruction of free passage and was released on a summons. Chloe Lubin, 29, of Portland, Maine, was arrested on charges of misdemeanor assault and battery, disorderly conduct, obstruction of justice and possession of a concealed weapon. Authorities said Lubin spit in one demonstrator's face and clung on to another demonstrator as police tried to arrest her. She was later released on an unsecured bond.

On Saturday night, University of Virginia students and other activists briefly confronted police over the heavy security presence at a rally. They unfurled a banner reading, "Last year they came w/ torches. This year they come w/ badges" and chanted, "Why are you in riot gear? We don't see no riot here." More than 200 marched to another part of campus, where many shouted at a line of officers.

Fox News' Peter Doocy and Sarah Tobiankski in Washington and The Associated Press contributed to this report.The wife of the shooter in last year's Sutherland Springs church massacre in Texas was tied to her bed on the day of the tragedy, she said in an interview.

Danielle Kelley, 23, told the San Antonio Express-News she was helpless to stop her husband, Devin Patrick Kelley, 26, from killing 26 people and wounding 20 others in November.

It was the first time she was speaking publicly about the events leading up to the massacre, the newspaper reported.

She said her husband forced her into the bedroom as she screamed and cried in protest. Their 2-year-old son, Michael, watched his father bound his mother with rope, handcuffs and duct tape, the report said.

"No matter what, I will love him," Danielle said of Devin. "Even though he went off and ruined more people's lives than I could ever imagine."

Devin's behavior became more erratic in the six months before the massacre at First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, about 30 miles east of San Antonio, the report said.

She said he was abusing his anxiety medication and was "shutting down." Five years earlier, he had escaped from a psychiatric hospital while serving in the U.S. Air Force.

"Devin was sick. He lost who he was. Because the real Devin would've never hurt babies. He was a family person. He would never have hurt anybody," Danielle said. "He lost the touch of reality."

She said she hopes that in sharing her story, she would help those struggling to seek help and counseling.

The church massacre was the deadliest church shooting in modern U.S. history, and reportedly the deadliest mass shooting of any kind in Texas history.

After fleeing the church, Devin Kelley was shot twice by a civilian, then crashed his SUV. He was found in the vehicle with multiple gunshot wounds, including what authorities said was a self-inflicted blow to the head.

Danielle said she has plans to get a tattoo that would read "I will carry you with me, 'til I see you again."

She said it's about the 26 victims.

"I feel awful," said Danielle, tears filled her eyes while she clutched a blanket, according to the report. "Because nothing I can ever say will ever, ever, ever mend anyone's heart."

"I feel awful. ... Because nothing I can ever say will ever, ever, ever mend anyone's heart."  Danielle Kelley, wife of shooter Devin Kelley

She said her tattoo would also be in memory of her husband Devin Kelley.

Fox News' Nicole Darrah and Robert Gearty contributed to this report.Authorities in Minnesota made an unlikely rescue on Saturday when they came across a group of women who were stranded on a lake clinging to an inflatable rainbow unicorn.

The Chisago County Sheriff's Office said on Twitter that officers were driving along the Fish Lake, near Stark, Minn., when they came across the women on the large unicorn.

The two officers initially wanted a photo, but later realized the group was stuck in the lake's thick weeds, according to FOX9.

As one deputy filmed, another grabbed a rope to throw and eventually pulled in the stranded women.

ARMY RECRUITERS BRAVE STORM TO SAVE AMERICAN FLAG TOPPLED BY STRONG WINDS

"With a handful of laughs and some mad rescue roping skills they were pulled back to the dock!" the sheriff's office said on Twitter.

The agency said in a subsequent post that the rescue of the unicorn showed they were an "equal opportunity help provider."Two police officers were among the four people shot and killed Friday morning in the Canadian city of Fredericton, New Brunswick, police said.

The suspect taken into custody has been identified as Matthew Vincent Raymond, 48. He was charged with four counts of first-degree murder at an arraignment Saturday morning, the Globe and Mail reported. Raymond was hospitalized with gunshot wounds after a confrontation with police, authorities said.

The suspect is due to appear in court Aug. 27, the report said.

The slain officers were identified as Sara Mae Helen Burns, 43, and Lawrence Robert Costello, 45, officials said during a news conference.

Burns had been on the force for two years before previously serving as an auxiliary officer for another two years, police said. She leaves behind a husband and three children.

Costello was a 20-year veteran of the police department and leaves behind a partner and four children, police said.

On Saturday, authorities identified the two slain civilians as Donald Robichaud, 42, and Bobbie Lee Wright, 32. A Facebook post by Wright earlier this month said the pair were in a romantic relationship, the Globe and Mail reported.

Fredericton police responded to calls of shots fired around 7:10 a.m., Deputy Police Chief Martin Gaudet said. After arriving to the scene, officers saw two civilian victims on the ground before getting shot themselves.

Earlier Friday morning officials tweeted to caution residents to avoid Brookside Drive due to an "ongoing incident." Later, police confirmed four people had been killed. It was not immediately clear what caused the shooting.

Police urged residents to stay in their homes and lock their doors at the time of the incident.

Residents told CBC News the gunshots sounded like popping noises.

"With the tempo, it might've been a gunshot. It was sort of like a pop, pop, pop, pop," resident Robert Didiodato told CBC News.

Didiodato said people were staying inside their homes and following the department's instructions.

CTV News spoke to a woman who was escorted from her residence in the area and she told the station she heard what appeared to be gunshots. The media outlet reported police were talking to residents in the area asking what they heard or witnessed.

David MacCoubrey, who lives in Fredericton, said he heard about 20 shots and was hiding on his kitchen floor.

"I'm on my floor," he told the Associated Press in a phone interview. "The cops have come through my place. They have searched all the apartments in the building. It sounded like it started in the courtyard area."

MacCoubrey said police have been searching the buildings, and hes been sitting away from windows.

Travis Hrubeniuk said his fiancee had just left for work around 7:45 a.m. local time when he began hearing a steady stream of sirens.

Hrubeniuk said residents have been advised to stay inside with their doors locked. The quiet residential neighborhood, which has houses, grocery stores, a church and an elementary school, is the last place Hrubeniuk said he expected to encounter a dangerous situation.

"This is the first time I've even heard of any serious crime or violent crime in this city," he said.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted his condolences following the incident.

"Awful news coming out of Fredericton. My heart goes out to everyone affected by this morning's shooting. We're following the situation closely," the prime minister wrote.

Fredericton has a population of about 58,000 and is located just northeast of Maine. The city is the capital of New Brunswick.

Fox News' Elizabeth Zwirz and the Associated Press contributed to this report.All nine people aboard a Japanese search and rescue helicopter that crashed into the central mountains were confirmed dead Saturday, authorities said.

The Bell 412EP helicopter carrying seven local rescue workers from the Gunma prefecture and two from a flight service company lost contact about an hour after takeoff Friday and crashed.

Prefectural officials said the last person aboard was retrieved Saturday and pronounced dead.

The helicopter was on a two-hour flight to monitor the opening of a mountain trail. The prefecture said it canceled Saturday's event due to the accident. It wasn't clear what caused the crash.

An investigation continued Saturday at the mountainside crash site, where debris of the helicopter was scattered and trees torn down apparently from the impact of the fall.

Japanese media quoted witnesses as saying the helicopter was flying extremely low in foggy weather before the crash. The GPS data sent from the helicopter indicated it was making a turn a minute before the transmission stopped, Kyodo News reported. It said the helicopter was not carrying a flight data recorder.

Prefectural officials said the helicopter, which was about 20 years old, had its engine repaired in April but had no abnormality since it resumed operations in June.An Albanian man suspected of killing eight of his relatives was arrested Saturday after a 12-hour manhunt during which he sent taunting messages via Facebook to the countrys prime minister.

Albanian State Police said Ridvan Zykaj, 24, had confessed to shooting cousins and other family members with a Kalashnikov gun, sparking a frantic search to find him.

While on the run, the 24-year-old challenged Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama on Facebook to find him, Sky News reported.

Zykaj is accused of killing his great-uncle, the great-uncle's wife and two sons, and other members of their extended family on Friday.

Local media reported that it took place at a family lunch, where one of the victims accused Zykaj of stealing their turkeys, according to Reuters.

Authorities said his capture was complicated because he was a shepard and knew the area of southern Albania well.

After he was arrested, he told police they were late, according to Sky News.

Zykaj is accused of killing more than two people, a charge that could lead to life imprisonment.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.next Image 1 of 2

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An explosion in northern Syria killed at least 36 people Sunday and wounded many others, but the cause of the blast wasn't immediately known, opposition activists said.

The opposition-run Syrian Civil Defense, first responders also known as the White Helmets, said the blast occurred in the village of Sarmada near the Turkish border, killing 36 people and wounding many others. The explosion collapsed two five-story buildings, burying many of the victims, it said.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights put the death toll at 39, including 21 women and children.

An opposition media collective known as the Smart news agency, said the dead included civilians as well as members of the al-Qaida-linked Levant Liberation Committee.

The Observatory said an arms depot in the basement of a building had detonated. It said the depot was run by an arms dealer close to the Levant Liberation Committee.

Meanwhile, Syrian government forces fighting rebels in Idlib province have sent more reinforcements ahead of a potential offensive on the last major rebel stronghold in Syria.

The pro-government Al-Watan daily said Sunday that huge military reinforcements have reached the outskirts of Idlib province as a preliminary step to launch a wide-scale offensive.

Quoting military sources, the paper said that troops have reached the northern countryside of the neighboring Hama province as part of military preparations to recapture Idlib province.

The expected offensive on Idlib comes after government forces captured major rebel strongholds earlier this year near the capital Damascus and in the southern provinces of Daraa and Quneitra.

The paper said that the battle would be "comprehensive" starting from Hama's northern countryside to the southern countryside of Aleppo, adding that the target of the battle is to seize Idlib City.

Government airstrikes on the province on Friday killed dozens.

Pro-government activists said on social media that the elite Tiger Force, led by Brig. Gen. Suheil al-Hassan, arrived in northern Syria to spearhead what they called the "Dawn of Idlib" operation.President Uhuru Kenyatta urged Kenya's young people on Sunday to make citizen's arrests of those suspected of corruption, a vice that is endemic in the country.

Critics have called Kenyatta's regime the most corrupt of the four leaders that Kenya has had since gaining independence from Britain in 1963.

With Kenyatta in his second term after a disputed re-election victory last year, his administration has made a flurry of arrests of officials named in corruption scandals in recent weeks.

The president said in the western Kenya town of Kisii during festivities to mark International Youth Day that young people should not be afraid to arrest the powerful and take them to the police.

"The power is in your hands to end this vice in this country," he said.

Kenyatta's remarks were met with skepticism because he urged that those arrested be taken to the police. The police force is notoriously corrupt, and cases generally are pursued or dropped depending on who pays bribes demanded by officers.

An effort by the National Police Service Commission to weed out errant police officers that started in 2012 has been criticized for not doing enough to reform the 99,000-strong force, whose leaders admit corruption is widespread.

Kenyatta announced in June that the government would introduce lie detector tests for all heads of procurement and accounts in government ministries, departments and agencies, but that also was met with pessimism as many analysts questioned the reliability of the machines.

In 2015, Kenyatta declared corruption a national security threat and said revenue officers and custom officers would be vetted, but that has never happened.

Patrick Gathara, a political commentator and cartoonist, said the flurry of recent corruption arrests "is nothing new."

Very few people are prosecuted for corruption even though authorities say that graft siphons off up to a third of the government's budget, or nearly $6 billion a year.

Out 26 people charged with corruption over missing millions meant for the national Youth Service in 2015, 23 people were acquitted, Gathara said.

Now the authorities have charged 57 officials from the same department with alleged involvement in alleged theft of millions of dollar

"Measuring success against corruption simply using prosecutions is problematic as it doesn't address the systemic incentives for corruption. These incentives far outweigh Kenya's capacity to punish corruption," Gathara said.

He said the real focus should be on the administration's lack of policy proposals to seal loopholes that allow graft to occur.Police in Manchester, England, are still searching for a suspect in a mass shooting they are investigating as attempted murder.

The incident unfolded in the Moss Side, an inner-city area, around 2:25 a.m. Sunday. An estimated 10 people, ranging in age from 12 to their 50s, were wounded  mostly with pellet-wounds to their legs, indicative of a shotgun discharged at close range, according to police.

Four people remained hospitalized while eight others have since been discharged.

The wounded were part of a crowd celebrating after the end of a two-day Manchester carnival in Alexandra Park commemorating the 70th anniversary of the arrival of the Windrush generation  a group from the Caribbean who came to England to fill a labor shortage on a passenger liner called the Empire Windrush.

Footage posted online in the immediate aftermath of the attack showed alarm and confusion as the crowd rapidly dispersed.

Officials have not yet identified a motive for the attack and the investigation was ongoing.

However, weve got to be clear, it would be obvious to any particular person that discharging a firearm in a large crowd like this is completely reckless, the chief superintendent of the Greater Manchester Police, Wasim Chaudhry, said at a news conference Sunday afternoon.

Greater Manchesters deputy mayor for crime praised the police for their swift action as well as the local people who have responded quickly to say this doesnt reflect the Moss Side of 2018.

MANCHESTER BOMBER WAS RESCUED FROM LIBYA YEARS BEFORE CONCERT SLAUGHTER, REPORTS SAY

Its an individual, an idiot, who was messing around with a firearm and you cant tar a whole community because of some idiotic behavior, Pat Kearney, a local Labor councilor, responded.

The shooting came amid a nationwide spike in violence across Britain, as officials have grappled with how to suppress the escalating crime rates, which includes an increase in knife-related crimes by 16 percent in the past year, homicides up by 12 percent and a robbery bump of 30 percent.

U.S. WITHDRAWAL FROM IRAN DEAL HELPING WIND DOWN YEMEN WAR, OFFICIALS SAY

In May of last year, a terrorist attack at an Ariana Grande concert at Manchester Arena killed 23 people and wounded more than 130 others. Salman Abedi, a British citizen who hailed from Libya, detonated a vest of homemade explosives in the attack.Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen vowed that no one can obliterate Taiwans existence on Sunday amid pressure from China to stamp out references to the island.

China has long claimed the self-ruled democratic island as its own, but it has stepped up a campaign more recently as it tries to assert Chinese sovereignty by ordering foreign companies to label Taiwan as a part of China.

Also, Reuters reports that China also has been whittling down the number of countries that recognize Taiwan, now just 18, with Burkina Faso and the Dominican Republic switching relations to Beijing this year.

Speaking before her flight to Los Angeles, where she will spend one night prior to visiting Belize and Paraguay, Tsai struck a defiant tone.

In going abroad, the whole world can see Taiwan; they can see our country as well as our support for democracy and freedom, Tsai said, reports Reuters. We only need to be firm so that no one can obliterate Taiwans existence.

China, which believes Tsai wants to push for Taiwans formal independence, has already complained to the United States about her American stopovers, which include Houston on her way back.

Although Tsai says she wants to maintain the status quo with China, she will also be looking to reaffirm Washington-Taipei ties and to shore up support ahead of local elections in Taiwan in November amid renewed pressure from Beijing.

During her U.S. stops, Tsai will also meet with business representatives to discuss how Taiwan could drum up investment and procurement with the U.S.

Washington has no formal ties with Taiwan but is the islands strongest ally and sole foreign arms supplier.

Tsais stopovers come as China and the United States are engaged in a trade war, adding to Beijings irritation with Washington.The United States gave Turkey a deadline until last Wednesday, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday, to release an American pastor being tried by a Turkish court.

The case of Andrew Brunson, an evangelical Christian, is one of a series of disputes that lies at the heart of deteriorating ties between the two NATO allies.

Speaking to supporters in the Black Sea coastal city of Trabzon, Erdogan revealed details of negotiations held last week between the two countries, saying Washington had threatened sanctions if Turkey refused to release the pastor.

A Turkish court has transferred Brunson to house arrest after almost 20 months in jail. Frustrated with his continuing detention, Washington sanctioned two Turkish ministers and then doubled tariffs on Turkish steel and aluminium imports.

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GA English on Sunday : Sunday news in brief

Bonn/Region Endless offers of help in Siegburg, the Bad Godesberg tunnel being closed, the meteor shower visible in Bonn also on Sunday night, and a rather unusual type of wedding in Rheinbach - here is our Sunday news in brief.

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After Siegburg fire: Endless offers of help

SIEGBURG. Seven houses were so extremely damaged in the Siegburg fire last week that they were left inhabitable, 20 people lost their homes. An especially organised help hotline was busy for hours, everyone wanted to help. 400 people called and offered to donate items. The city council also created a donation spot in a former school (Haufeld) and spread the word on social media about the possibility to drop off donations there. There is a special Facebook group called Brandopfer Siegburg und Umgebung if you want to help.

Traffic in Bonn: Godesberg tunnel closed - what does that mean?

BAD GODESBERG. Faster than expected, the preparations for the restoration of the Bad Godesberg tunnel have already been finished on Friday night. In the next one-and-a-half years both sides of the tunnel have to be updated regarding fire protection. 30 new ventilation flaps will be installed, to provide a suction area for developing smoke in case of a fire and to buy people time to escape from the tunnel and make their way to safety. The contracted companies will work in a two-shift-roster. The estimated cost for the restoration is approximately 8.5 million Euro. Theres no prognosis yet on how the rush-hour traffic will be able to cope on Monday morning or when everyone returns to school after the holidays - when 40,000 cars are passing Bad Godesberg daily.

Starry, starry night: Heres how you can spot the shooting starts on Sunday night

BONN/REGION. This weekend the annual prolific meteor shower called the Perseids will be visible again, also in Bonn. About a hundred shooting stars can be spotted per hour. From 10pm onwards you can see them looking up at the sky in a North-Easterly direction. Due to the new moon, there will be no moonlight disturbing the observation.

Unusual wedding: Lord Mayor Raetz marries couple under water in Rheinbach

RHEINBACH. Rheinbachs Lord Mayor Stefan Raetz followed a not very common wish on Saturday afternoon. He married a couple in the public diving pool Monte Mare - under water. He put on a diving masl, flippers and an oxygen tank - because the happy couple, Viktor Reich and his wife Agnieszka, are passionate divers, and they wanted to tie the knot under water. And they did - in the 10-meter-deep pool in the Monte Mare.Nigerian Man Beaten Mercilessly For Sleeping With His Benefactors Girlfriend In Kenya (Video)

bohlah at 12-08-2018 05:08 PM (3 years ago) (m)

A young Nigerian man simply identified as Ikenna Modestus, has been captured on camera as he was brutally attacked and battered by angry mobs for allegedly sleeping with his benefactors girlfriend in Nairobi, Kenya.

A young Nigerian man simply identified as Ikenna Modestus, has been captured on camera as he was brutally attacked and battered by angry mobs for allegedly sleeping with his benefactors girlfriend in Nairobi, Kenya.

The video clip has been trailed with mixed reactions and criticisms from Nigerians on social media as many people blasted the benefactor who served the young man jungle justice, while others blamed him for eating his masters food.



The video clip has been trailed with mixed reactions and criticisms from Nigerians on social media as many people blasted the benefactor who served the young man jungle justice, while others blamed him for eating his masters food. Watch the video below; Nigerian man, Ikenna Modestus, battered for sleeping with his benefactors girlfriend in Nairobi, Kenya A post shared by Instablog9ja (@instablog9ja) on Aug 12, 2018 at 6:54am PDT

Post Reply I have been reporting on latest news from Nigeria for almost 10 years now. I report on every possible news area I come across, but always ensure my reports are compiled with dignity and fact to uphold my personal values and duty as a journalist Posted: at 12-08-2018 05:08 PM (3 years ago) | Addicted Hero

osarobo62 at 12-08-2018 05:36 PM (3 years ago)

(m) good for him.... He think say na Anambra im dey . Idiot of a boy!!! Posted: at 12-08-2018 05:36 PM (3 years ago) | Hero Reply

Nottingham at 12-08-2018 08:25 PM (3 years ago)

(m) if it is consensual there is no need for this since the lady is matured enough to choose whom to sleep with. it should be a sign for you to stay or quit the relationship. what if the girl lured him into this. friendship is different from marriage. what would have happened if this guy is as powerful as you are or not your boy? he did what many commenting here would have done though they may call him idiot. Posted: at 12-08-2018 08:25 PM (3 years ago) | Upcoming if it is consensual there is no need for this since the lady is matured enough to choose whom to sleep with. it should be a sign for you to stay or quit the relationship. what if the girl lured him into this. friendship is different from marriage. what would have happened if this guy is as powerful as you are or not your boy? he did what many commenting here would have done though they may call him idiot. Reply

slimber at 12-08-2018 11:14 PM (3 years ago)

(f) Is she under age nah waaa they should be the lady too nah Posted: at 12-08-2018 11:14 PM (3 years ago) | Hero Is she under age nah waaa they should be the lady too nah Reply

osarobo62 at 13-08-2018 12:15 AM (3 years ago)

(m) Quote from: Nottingham on 12-08-2018 08:25 PM if it is consensual there is no need for this since the lady is matured enough to choose whom to sleep with. it should be a sign for you to stay or quit the relationship. what if the girl lured him into this. friendship is different from marriage. what would have happened if this guy is as powerful as you are or not your boy? he did what many commenting here would have done though they may call him idiot.

there are one million and one available girls on the prowl, why sleep with you friend's own Posted: at 13-08-2018 12:15 AM (3 years ago) | Hero there are one million and one available girls on the prowl, why sleep with you friend's own Reply

Nottingham at 13-08-2018 12:43 AM (3 years ago)

(m) Education is the key to some knowledge. Putting this guy in this condition will never justify the act. Every girlfriend is open to do anything till marriage. So what would have happened if the guy is a senator or even police officer? Posted: at 13-08-2018 12:43 AM (3 years ago) | Upcoming Education is the key to some knowledge. Putting this guy in this condition will never justify the act. Every girlfriend is open to do anything till marriage. So what would have happened if the guy is a senator or even police officer? Reply

Nottingham at 13-08-2018 12:45 AM (3 years ago)

(m) He should have chosen from the million girls you have. Remember the girl was never forced Posted: at 13-08-2018 12:45 AM (3 years ago) | Upcoming He should have chosen from the million girls you have. Remember the girl was never forced ReplyBelarus on Friday released the last two independent journalists detained in raids this week over alleged illegal access to a state news agency, their editors said.

In all, eight journalists have been released as suspects in a criminal probe after being held overnight and questioned by investigators.

The ex-Soviet country led by authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko raided journalists' homes and workplaces from Tuesday to Thursday over allegations of illegally accessing information from the state-run news agency BelTA.

The last to be released on Friday were Paulyuk Bykowski, a correspondent for Germany's public international broadcaster Deutsche Welle, and the editor-in-chief of Belapan news website Irina Levshina,

Bykowski told Radio Liberty /Radio Free Europe during the raid at his home on Wednesday that he had not taken an interest in BelTA's news wire for many years and had nothing to do with the case.

"I have the status of a suspect," Bykowski said, adding that he hopes to receive accreditation to continue working for Deutsche Welle.

As she walked free, Levshina said she had been treated decently by staff in the detention centre on Thursday, "who it seemed to me understand the complete absurdity of what's happening," Belapan reported.

She emerged after being questioned for two hours by investigators.

The journalists said they had to sign agreements not to disclose details of the case.

Analysts say the detentions and seizures of computers are an attempt to control the few remaining independent media outlets in the country led by Lukashenko since 1994.

Belarus has said the case is not political and has "nothing to do with issues of press freedom".

DeutW on Wednesday sent a message of protest to the Belarusian ambassador to Germany.

The detentions have prompted criticism from the Council of Europe and Journalists without Borders, while the US embassy in Belarus called for the journalists' immediate release.

They are accused of "unauthorised access to computer information for reasons of personal gain" for allegedly accessing state news agency BelTA without a subscription.

If found guilty, they face up to two years in prison.

Belarusian media reported that BelTA provides free access to its materials 15 minutes after they are made available to clients.

"The overall task of the security chiefs is to scare people and increase self-censorship in order to more fully control the media sector," said Belapan's political analyst Alexander Klaskovsky.

While the state already controls television and radio, "the era of online media has given the leadership the feeling that they are losing the levers of influence," he said.

Among the media sites targeted, news portal Tut.by is particularly widely read, Klaskovsky said.

Investigators said Tut.by's editor-in-chief Maria Zolotova failed to carry out her duties as a manager, a criminal offence that carries a sentence of up to 5 years.

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The leaders of the five states bordering the resource-rich Caspian Sea signed a landmark deal on its legal status on Sunday in the Kazakh city of Aktau, easing regional tensions and potentially facilitating lucrative oil and gas projects.

Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia and Turkmenistan signed the agreement on the status of the inland sea, which has been disputed since the collapse of the Soviet Union rendered obsolete agreements between Tehran and Moscow.

The host, Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev said before the signing that the leaders were "participants in a historic event."

"We can admit that consensus on the status of the sea was hard to reach and not immediate, the talks lasted more than 20 years and called for a lot of joint efforts from the parties," Nazarbayev said.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin, whose country was seen as driving the deal, said the convention had "epoch-making significance" and called for more military cooperation between the countries on the Caspian.

Sunday's summit was the fifth of its kind since 2002 but there have been more than 50 lower-level meetings since the Soviet breakup spawned four new countries on the shores of the Caspian.

The deal goes some way to settling a long-lasting dispute on whether the Caspian is a sea or a lake -- which means it falls under different international laws.

While the convention refers to the Caspian as a sea, provisions in the agreement give it "a special legal status", Russian deputy foreign minister Grigory Karasin told Kommersant daily earlier this week.

The Kremlin has said the convention keeps most of the sea in shared use but divides up the seabed and underground resources.

Iran, who ended up with the smallest share of the sea under the terms of the convention, is viewed as a potential loser in the deal.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called the convention "a major document" Sunday but noted that it does not bring an end to all disagreements over the sea.

"Today we have a framework for actions in the Caspian Sea which was not the case before," Rouhani said in comments translated into English.

"But there are other issues to deal with in other meetings."

Nevertheless, Rouhani hailed a stipulation in the convention that prevents non-Caspian countries from deploying military forces on the sea.

"The Caspian Sea only belongs to the Caspian states," he said.

The draft agreement, briefly made public on a Russian government portal in June, refers to the Caspian as a sea but the provisions give it "a special legal status", Russian deputy foreign minister Grigory Karasin told Kommersant daily.

It is the Caspian's vast hydrocarbon reserves -- estimated at around 50 billion barrels of oil and just under 300 trillion cubic feet (8.4 trillion cubic meters) of natural gas in proved and probable reserves -- that have made a deal both vital and complex to achieve.

Any deal will "expand the field for multilateral cooperation" between the five states, said Ilham Shaban, who heads the Caspian Barrel think tank.

But some are likely to view it as more of a breakthrough than others.

Energy-rich but isolated Turkmenistan is particularly excited and President Gurganguly Berdymukahmedov has called for annual Caspian Sea Day celebrations from Sunday onwards.

Turkmenistan could benefit from a concession allowing the construction of underwater pipelines, which were previously blocked by the other states.

Nevertheless, analysts caution that Turkmenistan's long-held plan to send gas through a trans-Caspian pipeline to markets in Europe via Azerbaijan is not necessarily closer to becoming reality.

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The Egyptian Real Estate Tax Authority has released a booklet outlining the conditions for exempting privately owned homes from real estate taxes, according to a statement by the Ministry of Finance.

The booklet states that private residential units with a net rental value less than EGP 24,000 annually, as well as homes valued at less than EGP 2 million pounds, qualify for exemption.

The owner of a residential unit and their family are exempted upon presenting the ownership contract, public utilities document and a photocopy of the national identification card.

The booklet clarifies that a family in this case should consist of a father, mother and their underage children.

Last week, Egypt's Minister of Finance Mohamed Maeet extended the deadline for paying real estate taxes without late fees from 15 August until 15 October.

According to the website of the ministry's Real Estate Tax Authority, property owners, but not tenants, must pay the tax on any non-empty land. The tax amounts to 10 percent of the annual rental value of the property.

Tax evaders will be fined between EGP 1,000 and 5,000 (approx. $55 - $280) and are required to pay the equivalent of the tax in compensation.

Violators, including those who submit fake documents or abstain from submitting necessary exemption documents, will be fined between EGP 200 and 2,000 (approx $11-$112).

Since its introduction in 2008, the implementation of property taxes in Egypt has been repeatedly postponed in recent years, but is now deemed crucial to curbing a widening state budget deficit.

Property taxes are expected to bring in around EGP 5.4 billion in additional government revenues in the 2018/19 fiscal revenues.

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After your account is created it will ask you to either add a subscription for online access or click on the print subscriber button. Click the print subscriber button header and it will open a dropdown, now click on get started. The page will reload and you will be prompted to enter an account number and a zip code.

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The account number and zip code are easily available on your most recent issue of the High Plains Journal or Midwest Ag Journal in the address fields as is shown here. Sometimes the account number has extra zero's in front of it, just ignore those.Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue state, has dragged Adams Oshiomhole, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to court.

The Governor is demanding N10billion as damages for comments Oshiomhole made against him after he left the APC for PDP.

Ortom in a letter by his lawyer, Samuel Irabor, accused Oshiomhole of making astonishing, unsubstantiated, wild and wide allegations relating to the issue of allocation and payment of salaries, security votes expenditure and the insecurity in Benue State.

It read in part: It is the aggregate of your allegations that our client has confessed to sharing Benue State money with party leaders and that despite collection of bail out and Paris Club refund monies.

Irabor quoted the former Edo Governor as saying Gov. Ortom has not and is not paying salaries the vicious circle of poverty in Benue State has been deepened under Gov. Ortom.

He added: By deducible analysis, it is also your allegation that our client is responsible for the killings in Benue State specifically the unfortunate killing of 2 Catholic priests and their parishioners in Mbalom community which sad event occurred on the morning of 24th April, 2018.

It is noteworthy that in the entire web of false accusations that you weaved against our client, you could not bring yourself to mention a single Benue person or any other person for that matter from whom you sourced your false narratives. For the records, the principles of law grounding liability for defamation and libel do not exculpate tale bearers from liability for the reason that the tales they bear are not original to them.

It is the complaint of our client that the false and offensive publication has deeply injured his reputation by portraying him in literal, unequivocal and unambiguous terms as a dishonest, fraudulent and violent person who has not only diverted the various intervention fund meant for salaries and arrears by sharing same with party leaders but is also an accomplice to the killings in Benue State.

It was in this parlous state that the Samuel Ortom led administration applied for the said #69 billion as bail out funds but it received #28 billion of which #12.5 billion was meant for the state and the balance of it was meant for the Local Government Areas. After carrying out staff verification, the State paid 4 months arrears for January 2015  April 2015 and was able to save #1.6 Billion as a positive consequence of the verification exercise. Unfortunately the #1.6 billion saved from the verification exercise was garnished by the workers of Taraku Mills Ltd who had earlier secured judgment at the National Industrial Court before our client became Governor.

On the issue of Paris Club refund, the expenditure profile by the Benue State Government is also in the public domain as our client in the spirit of transparency, probity, honesty and accountability has variously engaged the Benue people through several interactive sessions entailing phone-in programs vide the state media. The records show that the 1st tranche of Paris Club refund amounting to #12.7 billion was received in December, 2016 and used in facilitating 2 months salaries across board. The 2nd tranche came in June 2017 amounting to #6.4 billion and was also used to offset salary, pension and gratuities while the Benue State Government in agreement with the Labour Congress in Benue State took an overdraft of #8 billion in anticipation of the 3rd tranche which was also utilized to settle indebtedness to workers.

Irabor then made the following demands: A letter of retraction/apology addressed to our client in respect of the false, defamatory and libelous statement made against him in the sponsored press conference herein complained of.

That the said retraction/apology be simultaneously published in the Sunday edition of 10 National Dailies circulating within Benue State as well as a paid advertorial to the same effect on the prime time beats of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Channels Tv, TVC News, African Independent Television (AIT), Independent Television (ITV) Benin, Radio Nigeria, Radio Benue and Harvest FM, Makurdi.

An undertaking not to indulge in any such false publication against our client in future.

Payment of #10,000,000,000.00k (Ten Billion Naira) only to our client as punitive, general, exemplary and aggravated damages.

We have our clients express instruction that the terms above be met within 7 days of receipt of this letter. It is the further instruction of our client that in the event of any failure, refusal or neglect to conform to the terms set out above, he would be left with no option than to commence appropriate legal proceedings against you in the law Court.Manchester City have been unbeaten in their last nine opening Premier League fixtures while Arsenal are still without a win in their last five league meetings with Manchester City. Although they have only managed 2 wins in their last 12 meetings with the reigning champions.

Arsenal are now under a new Manager who is known for his attacking nerves in Unai Emery. He also has brought in new players but would they have really grasp his philosophy?

Would he be able to guide the Gunners to victory against a side that amass a record 100 points last season in his first official match?

This we shall find out at 7;45pm on Sunday when the match starts.Samsungs latest and baddest Galaxy, the Note 9, might be the companys most impressive Note device to date but a poll from PC Mag shows that consumers are more interested in Apples upcoming 2018 iPhone lineup.

The survey comprised of 1,555 participants, with 42 percent of them replying that they are more interested in Apple unveiling its 2018 iPhone lineup next month. At 21 percent, almost half of the participants who took part in the poll were more interested in the Galaxy Note 9.

Googles mighty Pixel series might win a lot of accolades for its camera performance, but only 7 percent o the poll participants are interested in it. Other notable Android flagships that have failed to garner interest of even 5 percent of the poll participants include the LG V40 and the OnePlus 6T.

The PC Mag polls sample size is too small and a bit too technically inclined. Nonetheless, given that Apple sells almost 100 million units of its latest iPhone every year compared to Samsungs 5-10 million units for its Galaxy Note series every year, its not surprising that more consumers are interested in seeing how the 2018 iPhones turn out to be.

The Galaxy Note 9 is also largely based on the Galaxy S9 which was launched by Samsung in March. Thus, its obvious that the hype around the Note 9 is considerably lower than that for Apples upcoming iPhones. The Note 9 is also a very big device and its whole S Pen appeal is limited to a niche set of audience. None of this undermines the fact though that consumers are more interested in the 2018 iPhones than the Galaxy Note 9 or for that matter, any other Android phone in the market.

[Via PC MagCommand & Staff College Quetta Jobs 2018 for Professors

Latest Command & Staff College Education Posts Quetta 2021 Command & Staff College Quetta, Pakistan Army, Government of Pakistan required applications from experienced candidates for the posts of Assistant Professors.

How to Apply on Command & Staff College Job Advertisement

Apply as per details in job advertisement. In some cases, you may apply online at vacancies after registering at https://www.jobz.pk online.

Note: Beware of Fraudulent Recruiting Activities. If the employer asks you to pay money for any purpose including processing to shortlisting, do not pay at all and report us using our contact us form. Apply as per instuctions & dates mentioned in official job ad. Govt jobs cannot be applied online here. Error & omissions excepted.Join Pakistan Navy as Sailor C-2018 S

Latest Pakistan Navy Navy Posts Karachi 2021 Pakistan Navy Karachi, Government of Pakistan required applications from Pakistanis Nationals and Unmarried candidates join Pakistan Navy as Sailors (Naval Police, Marines, Naib Khateeb, Steward, Musician, MTV Drivers, Sanitary Worker, IT Software, Mechanical Engineering and Weapon Engineering).

How to Apply on Pakistan Navy Job Advertisement

Apply as per details in job advertisement. In some cases, you may apply online at vacancies after registering at https://www.jobz.pk online.



Official Website: www.paknavy.gov.pk/

Note: Beware of Fraudulent Recruiting Activities. If the employer asks you to pay money for any purpose including processing to shortlisting, do not pay at all and report us using our contact us form. Apply as per instuctions & dates mentioned in official job ad. Govt jobs cannot be applied online here. Error & omissions excepted.Mirpurkhas Sugar Mills Jobs 2018 for General Manager

Latest Mirpurkhas Sugar Mills Limited Management Posts Mirpur Khas 2021 Mirpurkhas Sugar Mills Private Limited, Pakistan required experienced candidates for the posts of General Manager Steel Plant and Senior Project Manager.

How to Apply on Mirpurkhas Sugar Mills Limited Job Advertisement

Apply as per details in job advertisement. In some cases, you may apply online at vacancies after registering at https://www.jobz.pk online.

Note: Beware of Fraudulent Recruiting Activities. If the employer asks you to pay money for any purpose including processing to shortlisting, do not pay at all and report us using our contact us form. Apply as per instuctions & dates mentioned in official job ad. Govt jobs cannot be applied online here. Error & omissions excepted.